Step into the enchantment of this special corner of southern Mexico – Oaxaca – known as the traditional heart of Mexico.
Meet Oaxacan artists in their home workshops and watch excellent demonstrations of the famous glossy black pottery by Doña Rosas’s grandson and the hand-woven wool rugs still made from natural dyes by the renowned Velasquez family. Additionally, the famous wooden alberijes (hand-carved “nightmare” animals) are produced in these artistic villages. You will be convinced these are the best Mexican folk artists around.
Walking the ancient pathways of the Mixtec and Zapotec people through the pyramids at Monte Albán and Mitla will take you back to an older world. Monte Albán, a major ceremonial center and one of Mexico’s greatest archaeological treasures, is on par with Teotihuacan and Tikal.
Savor the famous moles, chocolate, dried beef dishes, and rose petal or prickly pear ice cream. Shop in the exotic native markets and put on your apron for a hands-on cooking class.
Oaxaca is considered the best city in colonial America and among the top 10 most visited regions in the continent. Moreover, Trip Advisor’s 2010 Travelers’ Choices Awards ranked the city of Oaxaca #1 in Culture and Sightseeing Vacations for the Caribbean and Mexico combined!
Check into your hotel, plant your feet, and unpack your bags as you immerse yourself in the Oaxcan culture. Travel by foot or by van for the day’s activities and excursions in and around the city. Experience a kaleidoscope of archeological treasures, rich cultural traditions, world famous folk art, and a wide variety of regional cuisine. Book your trip anytime of year and enjoy the temperate climate of Oaxaca.
Steep yourself in the colorful life of Oaxaca at the Hostel de la Noria. This hotel is located just two blocks from the Zocalo (main city plaza), and remains in character with Oaxaca’s splendid architectural style. Culture permeates the rooms with touches of Spanish and Mexican fair. You will enjoy the fine atmosphere alongside important amenities such as private baths, cable TV, radio, and telephones.
Put on your apron for an exciting change of pace as you learn to cook an authentic multi-course meal, typically including a traditional mole. From shopping at the market to sitting at the dinner table you will enjoy the full experience of creating and eating your own Oaxacan dish.
Encounter the most important archeological site of the Zapotec culture. Brimming with captivating and intricate mosaic fretwork, you are sure to be amazed by the beautiful craftsmanship of the polished stones that are skillfully fitted together without mortar.
Best known for its “barro negro” pottery or black clay pottery, Coyotepec is the world’s capital for these unique creations. Enjoy a tour of this folk-art community that has been producing pottery for close to 2,000 years. While traditional pottery creation has experienced little change over the centuries, modern processes have undeniably improved the quality and beauty. Of these, the most popular change has proved to be a certain polishing technique, created by Doña Rosa in the 1950’s, responsible for the shiny black look of the beloved “barro negro” pottery.
Step into history and visit this grand archeological site, once the capital city of the Zapotec people for over a millennium. Just six miles east of the present-day capital in the central section of the Valley of Oaxaca, Monte Albán overlooks much of the valley, offering countless breathtaking views both inside and outside the pyramid site.
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Arranged around your personal interests, preferences, and schedule.
It was the best trip ever!
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