oaxaca city, mexico

it had been a dream of ours to go to oaxaca, but it was starting to feel like it might not fit in with our current plan [we were still in colombia and were meeting kyle's parents in mexico city, in about 5 days]. when katrina offered to have us stay with her and to show us around, though, we realized it was an opportunity we couldn't pass up [even if it did feel a little rushed].

oaxaca is one of those places i could dedicate a lot of time to – known for its mild climate, rich culinary traditions and of course the mecca of all things mezcal, we really only scratched the surface. most of our time was spent in oaxaca city exploring the town, tasting mezcal, trying as much food as we could and enjoying katrina's beautiful apartment. we also explored the surrounding area when we toured the small village the mendez family lives in [read more about that, here]. 

some quick favorites:

• don't feel like walking? bicibella is a fun bike rental  
• casa carmen is a cool hotel in town to explore 
• mercado 20 de noviembre OG market to wander - find dona vali and try her mamilas - a traditional snack that is magical. (also visit central de abastos market)
• cafe el volador is a great place for morning coffee and people watching in town
• la biznaga or zandunga for lunch or dinner – try the traditional mole negro
• oaxaca botanical garden beautiful cactus garden showcasing all of the local flora of the region
• zocalo the big famous church in the middle of town
• casa oaxaca brunch or lunch place with huge patio and great traditional oaxacan food
• itanoni traditional place for breakfast – no frills and full of locals

for mezcal:

• mezcaleria in situ mezcal sipping bar
• la mezcaloteca learn a ton about mezcal and do a tasting from 5-10PM [reservations accepted]
• los danzantes mezcal and food with a nice outdoor patio

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