Oaxaca City, MexicoDiscover the Best of Oaxaca City
Summary: Discover the charm of Oaxaca City with our guide to the city's top attractions, culinary hotspots, and vibrant nightlife. From outdoor adventures to cultural experiences, we'll also help you find the best recreational activities to enjoy, and offer advice on making lasting connections with the friendly locals.
Welcome to Oaxaca City! If you're planning to move to Oaxaca City, congratulations on taking the first step towards a new adventure. While there are many things to think about before you leave, such as visas, housing, and transportation, it's important to remember that once you arrive, the fun really begins. In this article, we'll introduce you to some of the best sites, restaurants, and nightlife that Oaxaca City has to offer, as well as provide tips on recreational activities and making friends in Oaxaca City.
Oaxaca City, the capital of the state of Oaxaca in Mexico, is a vibrant and culturally rich destination that offers a variety of attractions for tourists and locals alike. The city is known for its well-preserved colonial architecture, colorful markets, and a thriving arts scene. Some of the must-visit sites in Oaxaca City include:
1. Templo de Santo Domingo: This stunning 16th-century church and former monastery is a prime example of Baroque architecture and features intricate gold-leaf decorations and beautiful frescoes. The adjacent Museo de las Culturas de Oaxaca houses a vast collection of pre-Hispanic artifacts, including the famous Mixtec treasure from Tomb 7 at Monte Albán.
2. Monte Albán: Just a short drive from Oaxaca City, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of the most important archaeological sites in Mexico. The ancient Zapotec capital features impressive pyramids, tombs, and plazas, offering a fascinating glimpse into the region's history.
3. Mercado Benito Juárez and Mercado 20 de Noviembre: These bustling markets are the perfect places to sample local cuisine, shop for handicrafts, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Oaxaca City. Don't miss the chance to try tlayudas, mole, and Oaxacan cheese.
4. Jardín Etnobotánico de Oaxaca: This beautiful botanical garden showcases the diverse flora of Oaxaca and offers guided tours that provide insight into the region's unique ecosystems and traditional uses of plants.
5. Museo Textil de Oaxaca: This small museum is dedicated to the textile traditions of Oaxaca and features a stunning collection of weavings, embroideries, and other textile art from the region.
Oaxaca City's restaurant and nightlife scene is as diverse and vibrant as its cultural attractions. The city is famous for its culinary traditions, and visitors can find a wide range of dining options, from street food stalls to high-end restaurants. Some of the most popular restaurants in Oaxaca City include:
1. Casa Oaxaca: This acclaimed restaurant offers a contemporary take on traditional Oaxacan cuisine, with dishes like mole negro and tlayudas. The rooftop terrace provides stunning views of the city and the Templo de Santo Domingo.
2. Los Danzantes: Located in a beautifully restored colonial building, Los Danzantes offers a sophisticated dining experience with a menu that highlights local ingredients and flavors. The restaurant also has an extensive mezcal selection.
3. La Biznaga: This popular eatery is known for its creative fusion of Oaxacan and international flavors, as well as its lively atmosphere and colorful decor. The menu features dishes like duck tacos and chile relleno stuffed with goat cheese.
4. Itanoni: This casual restaurant is dedicated to preserving and promoting the culinary traditions of Oaxaca's indigenous communities. The menu focuses on dishes made with heirloom corn, such as tlayudas and tetelas.
As for nightlife, Oaxaca City offers a variety of bars and clubs where visitors can enjoy live music, dance, and sample local mezcal. Some popular spots include La Mezcalerita, a lively bar with a wide selection of mezcals and craft beers; Café Central, a popular venue for live jazz and other music performances; and Txalaparta, a rooftop bar with stunning views of the city and a laid-back atmosphere.
Oaxaca City offers a variety of recreational activities for visitors to enjoy, from exploring the city's rich cultural heritage to engaging in outdoor adventures. Some popular activities and places to experience them include:
1. Hiking and birdwatching in the Sierra Norte: The nearby Sierra Norte mountain range offers a variety of trails for hiking and birdwatching, with stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The ecotourism center at Cuajimoloyas is a popular starting point for exploring the area.
2. Cycling and mountain biking: Oaxaca City and its surrounding areas offer numerous opportunities for cycling and mountain biking, with trails suitable for all skill levels. Local tour operators, such as Coyote Aventuras, offer guided bike tours and rentals.
3. Cooking classes: Oaxaca is famous for its culinary traditions, and taking a cooking class is a great way to learn about the region's unique ingredients and techniques. Schools like Casa Crespo and La Cocina Oaxaqueña offer hands-on classes that teach visitors how to prepare traditional Oaxacan dishes.
4. Art workshops: Oaxaca City is known for its thriving arts scene, and visitors can participate in workshops to learn traditional crafts like pottery, weaving, and printmaking. The Oaxaca Cultural Navigator and Taller Rufino Tamayo are two popular places to take art classes.
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Insider Tips from Expats in Oaxaca City: Making the Most of Life and Connections
"Expats in Oaxaca City, often join various clubs and activities to meet new people and immerse themselves in the local culture. Many participate in language exchange groups, where they can practice their Spanish and help locals improve their English. Others join cooking classes to learn about traditional Oaxacan cuisine, or art workshops to explore the city's rich artistic heritage.Outdoor activities are also popular among expats in Oaxaca City. Many join hiking or cycling clubs to explore the beautiful landscapes surrounding the city. Others participate in yoga classes or wellness retreats, which are plentiful in the region.Expats also meet people by volunteering in local community projects. This not only allows them to give back to their new home, but also provides opportunities to interact with locals and other expats. Some expats also find networking opportunities through local business groups or coworking spaces.Cultural events, such as festivals and concerts, are another great way for expats to meet people in Oaxaca City. The city is known for its vibrant cultural scene, and attending these events can provide opportunities to mingle with locals and other expats.Finally, many expats meet people simply by frequenting local cafes, markets, and restaurants. These are great places to strike up conversations with locals and fellow expats, and to immerse oneself in the daily life of the city," said one expat living in Oaxaca City.
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"Life for expats and digital nomads in Oaxaca City is vibrant and culturally rich. The city is known for its colonial architecture, lively markets, and world-renowned cuisine, offering a unique blend of indigenous and Spanish influences. The cost of living is relatively low, making it an attractive destination for those looking to live comfortably on a budget. The city is also home to a growing community of expats and digital nomads, making it easy to find like-minded individuals and build a social network. There are numerous co-working spaces and cafes with reliable internet, catering to the needs of remote workers. Despite being a smaller city, Oaxaca has a lot to offer in terms of entertainment and leisure activities. There are numerous art galleries, museums, and cultural festivals to enjoy. The surrounding area is also rich in natural beauty, with opportunities for hiking, bird watching, and exploring ancient ruins. While Spanish is the main language spoken, many locals and businesses also speak English, making it easier for expats to navigate daily life. However, learning some basic Spanish can greatly enhance the experience and allow for deeper connections with the local community. Safety can be a concern in certain parts of Mexico, but Oaxaca City is generally considered safe, especially in the areas where expats tend to live. As with any location, it's important to stay informed about local conditions and take common-sense precautions. Overall, life for expats and digital nomads in Oaxaca City offers a unique blend of cultural immersion, affordable living, and a supportive community," commented an expat living in Oaxaca City.
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About the Author
Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International
and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University
with a BA in International Business and German.
Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.
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