Family Cultural Adventure in San Cristobal de las Casas

A Warm Welcome to San Cristobal

Our family's cultural adventure in San Cristobal de las Casas has officially begun! After a long journey from Toronto, with a layover in Mexico City, we finally arrived in this charming city nestled in the Chiapas highlands. The air is crisp and cool, a welcome change from the late summer heat we left behind in Canada. I am excited to share every moment of this immersive experience with you all.

Our day started with a delightful breakfast at El Secreto. The restaurant lived up to its name, tucked away and offering a fusion of flavors that beautifully blended modern and traditional Chiapan cuisine. Aisha particularly enjoyed her hot chocolate, while Umar and I savored the local coffee. It was the perfect start to our exploration of San Cristobal.


Experience authentic Mexican cuisine at El Secreto in San Cristóbal de las Casas—where tradition meets flavor in every dish.

With our bellies full and spirits high, we ventured to the Museo del Ámbar. Housed in a beautiful old building, the museum was a treasure trove of information about amber. We learned about its origins, how it's formed, and the fascinating creatures sometimes trapped inside. Aisha was particularly captivated by the displays of insects preserved in amber, sparking her curiosity about prehistoric times. The museum wasn't overly crowded, which allowed us to take our time and truly appreciate the exhibits.


Explore the captivating world of amber at Museo del Ámbar, a must-visit destination in San Cristóbal de las Casas for art and nature lovers.

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

After the museum, we strolled through the Artesanías Kuxul de Chiapas, a shop brimming with locally made crafts. The vibrant colors and intricate designs of the textiles caught my eye. I picked up a few small souvenirs, supporting the local artisans and bringing a piece of Chiapas back home with us. The shop was a feast for the eyes, showcasing the rich artistic heritage of the region.


Explore the vibrant world of women's fashion at Artesanías Kuxul de Chiapas, where tradition meets modernity in every unique garment.

For lunch, we indulged in the authentic flavors of Chiapas at BELIL SABORES DE CHIAPAS. The restaurant was bustling with locals and tourists alike, a testament to its popularity. We tried several traditional dishes, including sopa de chipilín and tasajo, each bursting with unique flavors. Aisha even surprised us by trying (and enjoying!) a spicy salsa. This culinary experience truly immersed us in the local culture.


Savor authentic Mexican cuisine and artisanal chocolates at Belil Sabores de Chiapas in San Cristóbal de las Casas.

As the afternoon wore on, we made our way to Restaurante el Fogón de Jovel for dinner. The restaurant, known for its traditional Chiapas cuisine since 1987, offered a cozy and inviting atmosphere. The marimba music playing in the background added to the ambiance, making it a truly memorable dining experience. We savored every bite of our meals, reflecting on the day's adventures and planning for tomorrow's explorations.


Experience authentic Mexican cuisine at Restaurante el Fogón de Jovel in San Cristóbal de las Casas - A must-visit destination for food lovers!

Even though we didn't find any specific local events happening today, we were able to see evidence of the city's rich heritage and vibrant traditions just by walking around. The colorful buildings, the indigenous people selling their wares, and the lively atmosphere all contributed to a sense of cultural immersion. San Cristobal de las Casas is known as Chiapas' cultural capital.

The weather today was pleasant, with warm temperatures during the day and a cool breeze in the evening. September in San Cristobal is generally warm and humid. We were prepared for the occasional rain shower, but thankfully, the weather cooperated, allowing us to fully enjoy our outdoor activities.

As I sit here writing this, reflecting on our first day, I am filled with anticipation for what tomorrow holds. We plan to visit Casa Na Bolom and Museo Mesoamericano del Jade. I’m particularly excited about Casa Na Bolom, as I've read so much about its history and its connection to the indigenous communities of Chiapas.

Before I sign off, I must mention that I did forget to pack a power adapter, a rookie mistake! Thankfully, Umar managed to find one at a local shop, saving the day. It's a good reminder that even the most seasoned travelers can overlook the essentials. And I wish I had a travel guidebook to hand, but I am sure we will manage fine without one.

Overall, our first day in San Cristobal de las Casas was a resounding success. We immersed ourselves in the local culture, savored authentic flavors, and created memories that will last a lifetime. I can't wait to share more of our adventures with you all!

Goodnight from San Cristobal!