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Oaxaca, Mexico
Mexico is a great destination for all types of traveller. It's an enticing mix of old and new, predictable
yet surprising, busy but remote - and it's all these things put
together that make it such a fascinating destination to visit.
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Separated from Mexico City by the mountains of the Sierra Madre,
Oaxaca is worlds away from the chaotic sprawl of the capital. Take
some old colonial charm, add a little Aztec flavour, mix it up with
some real oaxaqueño spirit…and you've got the charming
city that is Oaxaca. Basking in a pleasant climate year-round, life
tends to buzz around the zócalo, or main square, a mass of
craft stalls, paper stands, balloons and bands. Sit under one of
the finely carved archways and take it all in - and where better
to try the chilli and chocolate mole sauce, or the local delicacy
of chapulines (that's fried grasshoppers to you and me).
Plus points
Attractive colonial city
Pleasant spring-like climate
Language exchange programme
Craft workshops run by locals
Usually one student per family
With its strong indigenous presence the ambience is both relaxed
and energetic, the blend of cultures setting a tone which is conventional
yet cosmopolitan.Located 300 miles to the south-east of Mexico City,
and within 4 hours of the beautiful Pacific Coast, Oaxaca is also
a good point from which to explore other parts of Mexico. The nearby
ruins of Monte Albán, the ancient Zapotec capital, hold true
Oaxaca's status as one of the most important archaeological zones
in Mesoamerica. Art lovers will find plenty of interest in San Bartolo
Coyotepec, a local village popular for its unique black pottery,
and Teotitlán del Valle, one of Mexico's most famous weaving
villages where a fine selection of high-quality rugs and multi-coloured
blankets can be picked up in the market.
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