Dreaming about Tulum? Here’s why you’ll love Oaxaca

There’s something special about Oaxaca, Mexico (pronounced WUH-HAH-CUH), Tulum’s undiscovered, just as dazzling cousin, that is not to be missed. This still under the radar destination recently earned a #2 spot on Travel+Leisure’s 2018 list of the World’s Best Cities.

Here’s what you need to know about the little state with a big punch!

Located in southeastern Mexico, Oaxaca state is known for its rich culture, diverse population, and warm, inviting locals. Oaxaca is home to the UNESCO World Heritage sites of Oaxaca City and Monte Albán, as well as the archeological sites of Mitla, the beach ports of Puerto Escondido and Costa Chica, and the Mexican central valley mountain range. Visitors to Oaxaca can expect to be greeted by a little bit of everything.

How to get there

From the US, direct flights to Oaxaca City are available out of Houston, TX and Dallas, TX. If you’re already in Mexico, you can grab a connecting flight from Mexico City, Cancun, or Guadalajara. For VIVA LA LENGUA: OAXACA, you’ll be flying from Mexico City into Oaxaca.

Where to stay

While there are many lodging options in Oaxaca, including centrally located hotels, bed and breakfasts, and homestays, for VIVA LA LENGUA: OAXACA, we’ll be doing a hybrid stay. We are renting a home for participants, and pairing with Oaxacan families for meals such as breakfast, and intercambios.

Here are 3 ways to jump into Oaxacan culture!

Head to the Zocalo

The zocalo (or town square) is the center of action of Oaxacan life. From sunrise and well beyond sunset, the zocalo is the center of Oaxacan life! There you will find food carts, assorted vendors, friends catching up, and people out for a stroll. You can sample grasshoppers, nieves, Oaxacan chocolate and more!

Learn more about indigenous culture

The indigenous culture of Oaxaca is rivaled by few other states in Mexico. Over 50% of the country’s indigenous population resides in Oaxaca state, and about 50% does not speak Spanish, but rather an indigenous language. Of the 16 indigenous ethnic groups recognized, the most populous include the Zapotec, Mixtec, and Mazotecos.

Try some mezcal!

Oaxaca is notorious for its mezcal production, there is even a common saying in Oaxaca, “Para todo mal, mezcal. Para todo bien, también” (for everything bad, mezcal. For everything good also)! You can try some on one of our tours or grab a trago (shot) in the Zocalo.

What else would you like to know about Oaxaca? Let me know in the comments!