Discover the splendor of Oaxaca, Mexico
Oaxaca is the capital and located right in the center of the state of Oaxaca. With the pleasant climate and natural attractions, a visit to Oaxaca holds a variety of features for everyone to enjoy. Situated in the southeastern part of Mexico, the state of Oaxaca is bordered on the south by the Pacific Ocean. It features everything from sandy beaches to 10,000-foot. mountaintops.
An exceptional place to visit
With its remote location and restful atmosphere, Oaxaca is on the list of top ten locations to visit. Stay in the city and make day trips and tours to all the interesting sites. There you will find remnants of ancient civilizations, enjoy sunbathing on the beach, or hike into the mountains. Take nature trips of all kinds and enjoy the fabulous foods that everyone raves about.
Since the city of Oaxaca is situated in the middle of the state, it enjoys a mild temperate climate that is spring-like all year long. Temperatures are pleasant, varying from 60 degrees in the winter to 78 degrees in the summer. Presently there are about 250,000 people living in the city and about three million in the state of Oaxaca.
Special features found in Oaxaca
If you enjoy the exceptional cuisine, you can take home the recipes and techniques. Cooking classes are available with expert chefs. They will teach you centuries-old methods to capture the flavors that make the food so appetizing. Take a museum tour to several art galleries and enjoy a wine reception at the conclusion of the trip.
Visit Mercado de Abastos, the largest and most colorful outdoor market in Mexico. The market is open every day, but Saturday is the market day when all the handcrafts are displayed. You can also visit the Temazcal, or sweat bath for a relaxing and healing treatment. Many of these baths are opening up as people are turning to healing through indigenous medicine. The sweat baths have been a tradition in the country for many years.
On Friday nights at the Santa Catalina monastery, now the Camino Real Hotel, (www.camino-real-oaxaca.com/ ) see the Guelaguetza. This is an extraordinary presentation of dances from the seven regions of Oaxaca. Exquisite costumes and a brass band present a thrilling evening of local folklore and tradition. It is held in the 16th century chapel of the old monastery.
Sites to see in Oaxaca
The state of Oaxaca is home to many varieties of flora. The Botanical gardens feature about 1,300 varieties of plants right now with plans to gather and display about 700 more. It is located at the site of the orchard for the old monastery.
The Santo Domingo Church (www.go-oaxaca.com/sights/domingo.html ) is considered one of the most beautiful churches in the world. It is the seat of the Dominican Order in Oaxaca dating from the 16th century. For a relaxing Sunday afternoon, visit the Zocalo for a concert by the State Band.
At the Museum of the Cultures of Oaxaca, you will find valuable artifacts from the Mixtec and Zapotec times. The Museum of Contemporary Art is in a 17th century house with outstanding architecture. There are 13 rooms for displays and conference rooms for workshops, book presentations, and concerts.
The Oaxacan Cultures Museum displays archeological, historical, and cultural exhibits. Included in the history rooms you will find political, religious, and military sides of the Oaxacan culture. In the nearby villages you will find archeological sites that have uncovered artifacts from ancient civilizations.
Places to visit near Oaxaca
Monte Alban (www.advantagemexico.com/oaxaca/monte_alban.html ) is only about six miles from Oaxaca and has uncovered rich artifacts from the Zapotec times. This city was founded about 500 years before the birth of Christ and was an important city until about 750 AD. It was the center of their worship and holy ground for their people. Visit the museum to see the ceramic and sculpture collections. At the Aztompa market you may buy handmade pottery. At the Mitla archeological site, you will find many fine geometric mosaics decorating the palace walls.
If you would like to purchase genuine handmade crafts and pottery, there are several villages that are known for their own creations. San Bartolo Coyotepec is famous for its black pottery made in the technique of the Zapotecs. You can watch demonstrations of the process of making bowls and pots. San Martin Tilcajete is known for its expert woodcarvings in the shapes of animals and mythical beasts. At Ocotlan you can observe talented blacksmiths who make extraordinary cutlery and unusual swords.
Discover natural beauty
Oaxaca is also close to many naturally attractive areas. The state is crossed by three different mountain chains, which create many natural wonders to see. Beautiful waterfalls are nearby, such as Le Guacamaya, which is 50 feet high. A little farther away are the Hierve La Agua and Apoloa falls, more than 160 feet high. A longer trip will take you to La Esmerelda and Las Regarderas, which are both breathtaking waterfalls.
South of the city you will find many beautiful beaches and lagoons on the Pacific Ocean. This is the perfect spot to enjoy all the water sports. You can take part in all your favorites including boating, fishing, swimming, skiing, and diving. Or, explore the many grottoes and caverns formed in the limestone terrain.
Celebrations and comfort
Throughout the year, there are festivals celebrated to honor patron saints and other special people or notable political dates. These festivals include many activities, parades, pageants, ceremonies, costumes, and fireworks. The Day of the Dead Celebration is an important day to remember loved ones and is observed with many special traditions.
Oaxaca boasts fine hotels with features to make their guests comfortable. The Camino Real and the Casa Oaxaca are downtown and are rated five-star hotels. They offer restaurants, bars, pools and Internet access. A few blocks from downtown are Hotel Victoria and Hostel de La Noria, four-star hotels with the same options. Holiday Inn Oaxaca and Mision de La Los Angeles are in town but offer lower rates.
When you visit Oaxaca, you will find interesting and delightful places to visit. From ancient artifacts, to stunning natural beauty, to grand festivities, there are always fun things to see and do. Enjoy the beautiful weather and indulge in delicious foods as you explore and take pleasure in your favorite activities.