Family Adventure in the Heart of Oaxaca

First Impressions of Oaxaca

Oaxaca, a city I’ve long dreamt of visiting, finally welcomed my family and me with open arms. As a Colombian-Canadian, I’ve always been drawn to places rich in culture and history, and Oaxaca promised an experience that would resonate deeply with my soul. After our flight from Toronto, with a brief layover in Mexico City, we arrived at Hotel Camba, our home for the next week. The hotel's charm and convenient location immediately set a positive tone for our Oaxacan adventure. Today was all about immersing ourselves in the heart of Oaxaca, and I couldn't wait to see what the city had in store for us.


Discover comfort and convenience at Hotel Camba in Oaxaca, a charming base for your adventures with free Wi-Fi and tour assistance.

Our first stop was the iconic Zócalo, the main square, also known as Plaza de la Constitución. The energy there was palpable. Street vendors were setting up their stalls, locals were chatting, and the sounds of a distant band tuning their instruments filled the air. Sofia, my daughter, was immediately captivated by the colorful atmosphere. Isabella, ever the observer, took in the architectural details of the surrounding buildings, a blend of colonial and indigenous styles.


Experience the vibrant culture and rich heritage of Oaxaca at Zócalo, the city's lively central plaza that celebrates tradition and community.

We strolled around the square, admiring the Guelaguetza Festival decorations and the vibrant energy of the city. It felt like stepping into a postcard, the kind that makes you want to stay forever. There wasn't a specific event taking place, but the atmosphere itself was festive enough. A street performer was juggling with diablos, captivating the crowd with his skills. Sofia, of course, wanted to try, and after a small donation, she got a quick lesson. Her attempts were hilarious, and even though she didn't quite master it, her laughter was contagious.

For breakfast, we chose Casa Oaxaca el Restaurante, and it was an excellent introduction to Oaxacan cuisine. The rooftop setting offered a stunning view of the city. I opted for the huevos rancheros, while Isabella tried the traditional Oaxacan breakfast. Sofia, always a bit picky, went for the pancakes. The flavors were incredible, a perfect blend of spices and fresh ingredients. The service was attentive, and the ambiance was relaxed, making it a perfect start to our culinary journey. It reminded me of the flavors I grew up with in Armenia, Colombia, but with a unique Oaxacan twist.


Discover authentic Oaxacan flavors at Casa Oaxaca el Restaurante—where tradition meets innovation in every dish.

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

Next on our list was the Museum of Cultures of Oaxaca, Santo Domingo, housed in the former convent of Santo Domingo. The building itself is a masterpiece of Baroque architecture. Inside, the museum offered a comprehensive overview of Oaxaca's history, from pre-Hispanic times to the present day. The Mixtec treasures from Tomb 7 at Monte Albán were particularly impressive. Sofia was fascinated by the ancient artifacts, and Isabella, with her teacher's eye, made sure Sofia understood the significance of each exhibit. I was impressed by the museum's dedication to preserving and showcasing Oaxaca's rich cultural heritage. It was a poignant reminder of the importance of understanding and respecting different cultures.


Explore the Museum of Cultures of Oaxaca – a cultural treasure trove showcasing Oaxaca's rich history and vibrant traditions.

After the museum, we wandered down the Andador Turístico, a pedestrian street lined with shops, galleries, and cafes. It was a sensory overload in the best possible way. The street was bustling with activity, and the air was filled with the aroma of street food and the sounds of music. We stopped at several artisan shops, admiring the colorful textiles, intricate wood carvings, and unique ceramics. I was particularly drawn to the alebrijes, the brightly colored folk art sculptures of fantastical creatures. We bought a small one for Sofia, a vibrant little dragon that she immediately named Fuego, Spanish for fire.


Discover the vibrant Andador Turístico in Oaxaca, where culture, cuisine, and history come together in a picturesque promenade.

For lunch, we decided on Los Danzantes, enticed by its reputation for modern Oaxacan cuisine. The restaurant's ambiance was contemporary and stylish, with a beautiful courtyard setting. We started with a selection of mezcal cocktails, each one unique and flavorful. I tried the mole tasting plate, a symphony of flavors that showcased the complexity of Oaxacan cuisine. Isabella opted for the vegetarian options, which were equally impressive. Sofia, surprisingly, enjoyed the quesadillas with grasshoppers, a local delicacy. The presentation was exquisite, and the service was impeccable. It was a culinary experience that we won't soon forget.


Discover the exquisite flavors of Oaxaca at Los Danzantes, where traditional cuisine meets contemporary elegance in every dish.

In the afternoon, we visited La Casa de las Artesanías de Oaxaca, hoping to find some authentic souvenirs. The shop offered a wide variety of high-quality handicrafts from all over Oaxaca. We spent hours browsing the different rooms, each dedicated to a specific craft. I was impressed by the skill and artistry of the local artisans. We bought several items, including a hand-woven rug, a set of ceramic dishes, and a traditional Oaxacan dress for Sofia. It felt good to support the local economy and bring home a piece of Oaxaca with us.


Discover the essence of Oaxacan culture at La Casa de las Artesanías, where exquisite handicrafts and vibrant art come together in a unique shopping experience.

As the day drew to a close, we made our way to Pitiona for dinner. The restaurant is known for its innovative Oaxacan cuisine and its stunning views of the city. We started with the ceviche, which was incredibly fresh and flavorful. For the main course, I tried the tasting menu, which featured a selection of the restaurant's signature dishes. Isabella opted for the duck enmoladas, while Sofia, again surprising us, went for the tlayuda, a large, crispy tortilla topped with beans, cheese, and meat. The flavors were bold and complex, and the presentation was artistic. It was the perfect ending to a perfect day.


Experience the essence of Oaxacan cuisine at Pitiona, where tradition meets innovation in every delectable dish.

As we walked back to the hotel, the city was alive with music and laughter. The air was cool and crisp, and the stars were shining brightly overhead. I felt a sense of contentment and gratitude. Oaxaca had exceeded my expectations. It was a city of vibrant culture, rich history, and delicious cuisine. It was a place where the past and the present coexisted in harmony. It was a place that had captured my heart.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore the Zona Arqueológica de Monte Albán and the Jardín Etnobotánico de Oaxaca. I'm particularly excited about Monte Albán, as I've always been fascinated by ancient civilizations. I'm also looking forward to visiting La Mezcaloteca in the evening, to sample some of Oaxaca's finest mezcals.

As I reflect on our first day, I realize that Oaxaca is more than just a destination; it's an experience. It's a place that awakens the senses, challenges the mind, and nourishes the soul. And I'm so grateful to be sharing this experience with my family. Even though I forgot my portable phone charger and Spanish phrasebook at home, the day turned out to be perfect. It’s a reminder that sometimes the best travel experiences are the ones that are unplanned and unexpected. Now, it’s time to recharge and get ready for another day of adventure in this magical city.

I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings. Good night from Oaxaca!