Family Cultural Adventure in San Cristobal de las Casas

San Cristobal's Soul: A Day of Discovery

Today was all about immersing ourselves in the heart of San Cristobal de las Casas. From the moment we stepped out of OYO Hotel La Luna, Templo de Santo Domingo de Guzman, I knew we were in for a day filled with cultural richness and vibrant experiences. The crisp mountain air and the colorful colonial streets were the perfect backdrop for our family adventure.


Discover comfort and convenience at OYO Hotel La Luna, located near Templo de Santo Domingo, perfect for exploring Chiapas' rich history and natural beauty.
Our day began with a delightful breakfast at Chef Claudia Sántiz. The aroma of freshly brewed coffee and traditional Chiapanecan dishes filled the air. I decided to try the *mote con chicharrón*, a hearty corn stew with pork cracklings, while Umar opted for the *huevos rancheros*. Aisha, ever the adventurous eater, surprised us by enjoying a *tamalito dulce*, a sweet corn tamale. The food was not only delicious but also a fantastic introduction to the local flavors.


Experience authentic Mexican cuisine at Chef Claudia Sántiz in San Cristóbal de las Casas, where every dish tells a story of flavor.
After breakfast, we made our way to the Catedral de San Cristóbal de las Casas. The cathedral's striking yellow and orange facade stood majestically against the clear blue sky. As we approached, I couldn't help but marvel at the blend of Baroque, Moorish, and indigenous influences in its architecture. The intricate details and the sheer grandeur of the building were captivating. Inside, the cathedral was a haven of peace and tranquility. The soft glow of candlelight illuminated the ornate altars and the beautiful religious paintings that adorned the walls. It was a truly awe-inspiring experience.


Discover the stunning Catedral de San Cristóbal de las Casas, a cultural icon blending indigenous and colonial history in the heart of Chiapas, Mexico.

Travel is more than seeing sights; it is a change that goes on, deep and permanent, in the ideas of living.

Next, we strolled over to the Zócalo de San Cristobal de las Casas. The main square was bustling with activity. Locals and tourists alike gathered to soak in the lively atmosphere. Street vendors offered an array of colorful handicrafts, and the air was filled with the sounds of music and laughter. Aisha was immediately drawn to a group of children playing with a handmade wooden car, and soon she was right in the middle of the fun. Umar and I took a moment to sit on a bench, watching the world go by and enjoying the vibrant energy of the square.


Explore the vibrant Zócalo de San Cristobal de las Casas, a cultural hub filled with colonial architecture, local flavors, and lively community events.
For lunch, we decided to try Restaurante TULUC, known for its traditional Chiapanecan cuisine. The restaurant had a cozy and inviting ambiance, with rustic wooden tables and colorful decorations. We ordered a selection of dishes to share, including *sopa de pan* (bread soup), *tasajo* (dried beef), and *chiles rellenos*. Each dish was bursting with flavor and gave us a true taste of the region's culinary heritage. Aisha particularly loved the *sopa de pan*, declaring it her favorite meal of the trip so far.


Experience authentic Mexican cuisine at Restaurante TULUC in San Cristóbal de las Casas – where every meal is a celebration of flavor.
In the afternoon, I was eager to do some shopping at Boutique Arte Sandía. I had heard so much about the local artisans and their incredible craftsmanship, and I wanted to find some unique souvenirs to take back home. The boutique was a treasure trove of beautiful handmade items, from intricately embroidered textiles to hand-painted ceramics. I found myself drawn to a vibrant *huipil*, a traditional Mayan blouse, and after a bit of bargaining, I was able to purchase it for a reasonable price. I also picked up a few small wooden toys for Aisha, knowing she would cherish them.


Explore Boutique Arte Sandía for unique handicrafts and art that embody the vibrant spirit of Chiapas in San Cristóbal de las Casas.
As the day drew to a close, we made our way to La Viña de Bacco for dinner. This restaurant, known for its cozy atmosphere and delicious Italian cuisine, was the perfect place to unwind after a busy day of exploring. We started with a bottle of local wine and some *bruschetta*, followed by *pasta carbonara* for Umar and *risotto funghi* for me. Aisha opted for a simple *margherita pizza*, which she devoured with gusto. The food was comforting and satisfying, and the ambiance was warm and inviting.


Experience exquisite tapas and fine wines at La Viña de Bacco in the heart of San Cristóbal de las Casas.
Reflecting on the day, I felt a deep sense of connection to San Cristobal de las Casas. The city's rich cultural heritage, its vibrant local life, and its warm and welcoming people had truly captured my heart. I was grateful for the opportunity to share this experience with my family, and I knew that the memories we made today would stay with us for years to come.

As we walked back to our hotel, the sounds of the city slowly faded away, replaced by the gentle chirping of crickets. I couldn't help but feel a sense of anticipation for tomorrow's adventures. We plan to visit the Reserva Ecológica y Jardín de Orquídeas Moxviquil and the Museo de los Altos de Chiapas Ex Convento de Santo Domingo. I am particularly excited about the prospect of exploring the Moxviquil Ecological Reserve and Orchid Garden, as I have a keen interest in botany and conservation. Umar is looking forward to visiting Museo de los Altos de Chiapas Ex Convento de Santo Domingo and learning more about the history of the region. And after our day of exploration, we are planning to visit Pipiripau for a relaxing evening drink.

Back at the hotel, as Aisha drifted off to sleep, I couldn't help but smile. Today was a perfect blend of cultural immersion, family bonding, and delicious food. San Cristobal de las Casas had welcomed us with open arms, and I was eager to see what tomorrow would bring.

Today was a reminder of why we embarked on this journey in the first place. Traveling is not just about seeing new places, but about experiencing new cultures, connecting with new people, and creating lasting memories with loved ones. And as I drifted off to sleep, I knew that San Cristobal de las Casas had given us all of that and more.

I am so glad that we decided to come to San Cristobal de las Casas for our family vacation. It is a place that I will always remember fondly, and I hope to return someday soon. This trip is also a good opportunity to disconnect from my job as an Administrative Assistant back in Markham and recharge. I feel refreshed and ready to tackle whatever challenges come my way when I get back home.

Tomorrow, we will continue our exploration of San Cristobal, venturing into its natural beauty and delving deeper into its history. I can't wait to share those experiences with you all as well!