The classic Mexican holiday sweeps you up in waves of golden sand, turquoise water and spectacular sunsets. This irresistible beach destination lies between the postcard-perfect Caribbean coast and the world-class resorts and vibrant nightlife of the Pacific Coast. But its tropical charms tend to overshadow the extraordinary culture, traditions and history of Mexico.
By all means, begin your getaway at the beach, but after reading this, you might be tempted to venture inland! Our passionate Mexico travel experts have listed three of the top historical and cultural gems that are worth going beyond the beach to experience.
Savour the Gastronomical History of Oaxaca
Food is a big part of Mexico’s traditions, and Oaxaca is regarded as the culinary capital of the country. From addictive street snacks (antojitos) to the intense chilhuacle (cacao flavoured chillies), to century-old classics like Tamales Oaxaqueños and Sopa de guías (squash soup spiced with onion, garlic and a local wild herb, chepil), your taste buds are in for the adventure of a lifetime. With a wealth of delicacies to enthral food enthusiasts, Oaxaca (pronounced Wah-hah-kah) definitely deserves a couple of days on your Mexico holiday itinerary.
To experience the best of what this sprawling southwestern Mexican state has to offer, go on a personalised tour that immerses you in the culture and history of Oaxaca. From local traditions and crafts to archaeological sites such as Mitla and Monte Alban, the region will enchant you. The iconic annual Day of the Dead celebrations and the eccentric Noche de Rábanos (Night of the Radishes), which is dedicated to the carving of oversized radishes are special occasions you can plan your trip around.
Our local expert can arrange a traditional Oaxacan cooking class for you. Guided by a Zapotec woman, you’ll begin with a visit to the market to pick out fresh ingredients. Full of brightly-dressed locals selling fresh produce, chorizo (spicy sausage), cecina (thinly sliced pork steak), chapulines (fried grasshoppers) and handcrafted goods, you’re in for a sensory extravaganza.
After a shot or two of tejate, a non-alcoholic maize and cacao beverage, accompany your chef-guide to her authentic Oaxacan kitchen to hand pound spices and learn how to slow cook a dark, velvety, smokey Mexican legend, mole. This five-hour class will leave you with a full stomach, new friends and generational recipes as souvenirs to carry back home.
Marvel at the Mayan Ruins in Uxmal
If you’ve booked a beach holiday in Tulum or Cancun, why not take a small detour and go on a memorable journey back in time? While the Yucatan Peninsula is renowned for its breathtaking beaches, it was once an important part of the ancient Mayan civilisation. The Mayans were one of the world’s most advanced and influential cultures from AD 250 until the late 17th century. The magnificent ruins of this once mighty empire make this region a must-visit destination for history aficionados.
A tailor-made tour takes you from the well-preserved Mayan ruins of Tulum and Chichen Itza to the lesser known but equally alluring UNESCO World Heritage Site of Uxmal. After an early breakfast at the lovely Hacienda Temozon retreat, set out to admire some of the finest specimens of Mayan Puuc architecture, the Nunnery Quadrangle, House of the Turtles, Pyramid of the Magician and House of the Governor.
After exploring Uxmal, head over to Kabah, which is just 20 minutes away by road. This is the domain of Chaac, the Mayan God of Rain, who peers out at you through the over 250 masks that make up the facade of El Palacio de Los Mascarones (Palace of the Masks).
Explore History, Art and More in Mexico City
The largest Spanish-speaking city in the world, Mexico City is a heady blend of history, culture, tradition and modernity.
Delve into the heart of the history of Mexico with a curated tour that begins by checking into the luxurious Las Alcobas in the posh Polanco district. The hotel is surrounded by trendy restaurants, fabulous museums and chic art galleries. Take a picture with Rodin’s famous sculpture, ‘The Thinker’, at the entrance of the Soumaya Museum before heading in to admire its collection of 66,000 works of art that span a staggering 3,000 years. The imposing Palacio de Bellas Artes is another great place to get an insight into the vibrant art and culture of Mexico.
Shop up a storm at the open-air, glamorous Antara Polanco shopping mall, or stroll down Avenida Presidente Masaryk, known as the Champs-Élysées of Mexico. After indulging in some retail therapy, spend a few hours at the elegant Parque Lincoln, a masterpiece of urban symmetry or the iconic Chapultepec Park.
Just a few blocks away from Polanco, our guide will introduce you to the bohemian neighbourhood of Roma. A private tour is a great way to feel the spirit of this popular barrio. The rebirth of Roma after the devastating 1985 earthquake is a story of grit and gumption that defines the contemporary culture of Mexico. Explore Roma’s artistic lineage by visiting iconic museums like Museo Frida Kahlo, Museo Nacional de Antropología and MUAC (Museo Universitario Arte Contemporaneo).
Book a table at Pujol, which is regarded as one of the world’s best restaurants, or enjoy a chic meal with ingredients sourced from sustainably-run farms at the minimalist, yet trendy Meroma. Roma’s nightlife is a revelation. Over shots of tequila and mezcal with friendly chavas (local chaps) at some of the liveliest bars in the country, you’ll make indelible memories for a lifetime.
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