Solo Exploration in San Cristobal de las Casas

A Monday Meander Through San Cristobal

As my time in San Cristobal de las Casas nears its end, I wanted to soak up every last bit of this vibrant city. Today was all about exploring the local scene, diving into the culture, and enjoying the simple pleasures that make this place so special. It's amazing how quickly a place can feel like home, even when you're miles away from everything familiar.

My day began with a hearty breakfast at LA PEREGRINA COCINA YUCATECA. I was excited to try Yucatecan cuisine. Having lived in Berlin for so long, I've become quite the foodie, always eager to sample new flavors and regional specialties. I opted for the *huevos motuleños*, a dish I had read about that consists of fried eggs served on tortillas with black beans, cheese, and plantains. It was the perfect way to start the day, fueling me up for a day of exploration. The restaurant itself was cozy and inviting, with colorful decor that immediately put me in a good mood.

With a full stomach, I set off to explore the Descarga San Juan De Dios. I had read that it was a bustling marketplace where locals gathered to buy and sell everything from fresh produce to handmade crafts. I love wandering through markets; they offer such a unique glimpse into the daily lives of the people who live here. The air was filled with the sounds of vendors calling out their wares, the scent of spices and fresh flowers, and the vibrant colors of textiles and produce. I picked up a few souvenirs for Max and me, including a beautiful hand-woven scarf and some locally grown coffee beans.


Explore the cultural heart of San Cristóbal de las Casas at Descarga San Juan De Dios, a historical landmark rich in tradition and local charm.

The best journeys answer questions that in the beginning you never thought to ask.

Next on my list was Casa de Piedra. I was intrigued by the name, which translates to Stone House, and eager to see what it was all about. I discovered that there are actually a couple of places with that name here. One is a rental cottage. The other is listed as an attraction. Since I couldn't find much information about either, I decided to simply wander in the general direction and see what I found. I ended up stumbling upon a beautiful colonial-style house with a stunning stone facade. Although I couldn't go inside, I admired it from the outside, taking a few photos to remember its beauty. It was a reminder that sometimes the best discoveries are the ones you don't plan.


Experience the unique charm of Casa de Piedra, a historic holiday home in San Cristóbal de las Casas, offering comfort, culture, and a hint of the supernatural.

By lunchtime, I was ready for another culinary adventure. I headed to Restaurante Las Pichanchas, known for its traditional Chiapanecan cuisine and cultural performances. I decided to try the *cochito horneado*, a slow-roasted pork dish that's a regional specialty. The meat was tender and flavorful, and the accompanying sauces added just the right amount of spice. What made the experience even more special was the live music and traditional dances that took place while I ate. It was a truly immersive cultural experience that I won't soon forget.


Experience authentic Chiapas cuisine at Restaurante Las Pichanchas in San Cristóbal de las Casas – a feast for your senses.

After lunch, I decided to do some shopping at Liverpool Express. I know it's a chain store, but I needed to pick up a few essentials that I had forgotten to pack, like a portable charger. The store had a surprisingly good selection of items, and I was able to find everything I needed quickly and easily. It was a welcome convenience after a day of exploring more off-the-beaten-path destinations.


Explore Liverpool Express in San Cristóbal de las Casas for a unique shopping experience featuring clothing, electronics, and local treasures.

As the day wound down, I decided to treat myself to a cocktail at Ginger Lab. I had heard rave reviews about their creative cocktails and unique atmosphere. The bar had a cool, laid-back vibe, with dim lighting and eclectic decor. I ordered one of their signature drinks, a concoction of mezcal, ginger, and lime. It was the perfect way to end the day, sipping on a delicious cocktail while reflecting on all the wonderful experiences I had had. The bartender was super friendly, asking me a few questions about my preferences and then surprising me with a custom-made drink. It was a unique and memorable experience that I would highly recommend to anyone visiting San Cristobal.


Discover a vibrant cocktail bar in San Cristóbal de las Casas, offering unique drinks and delicious pizza in a lively atmosphere.

For dinner, I ventured to Bangcook Tailandés. I was in the mood for something completely different, and I had heard good things about this Thai restaurant. I ordered the green curry with seafood, and it was absolutely delicious. The flavors were authentic and complex, and the seafood was fresh and perfectly cooked. It was a welcome change of pace from the traditional Mexican food I had been eating, and it reminded me of some of my favorite Thai restaurants back in Berlin.


Discover authentic Thai cuisine at Bangcook Tailandés in San Cristóbal de las Casas—where every bite transports you to Thailand.

Before heading back to the hotel, I made a final stop at Ginger Lab for one last cocktail. The atmosphere was even more lively than before, with a mix of locals and tourists enjoying the music and drinks. I struck up a conversation with a friendly couple from Argentina, and we shared stories about our travels and experiences. It was a reminder that travel is not just about seeing new places, but also about connecting with people from different backgrounds and cultures.

As I walked back to Hotel Sombra del Agua, I couldn't help but feel grateful for the experiences I had had today. San Cristobal de las Casas has a way of captivating you with its charm, its culture, and its people. I'm already looking forward to tomorrow, my last day here, when I plan to visit Chiapas Desconocido and take a free walking tour. I want to make the most of my final hours in this magical city, soaking up every last bit of its beauty and charm. I know that I will be leaving with memories that will last a lifetime.


Discover the charm of Hotel Sombra del Agua, a historic Chiapas gem offering elegance, tranquility, and modern amenities for all travelers.

“The journey, not the arrival, matters.” These words by T.S. Eliot perfectly encapsulate my feelings about this trip. It's not just about reaching a destination, but about the experiences you have along the way, the people you meet, and the things you learn about yourself and the world around you.

Tomorrow marks the end of my solo exploration in San Cristobal de las Casas. I plan to visit Chiapas Desconocido and join a free walking tour to delve deeper into the city's history and culture. I'm also looking forward to trying Maya Pakal Restaurant for breakfast, BELIL SABORES DE CHIAPAS for lunch, and Restaurante Sabor a mi for a farewell dinner. Before heading to the airport, I'll do some last-minute souvenir shopping at Boutique Jonatan & Gabriela and enjoy a final drink at Brown Blue. It's going to be a bittersweet day, but I'm determined to make the most of it.

Until tomorrow!