Family Adventure in the Heart of Oaxaca

Farewell, Oaxaca!

As our Oaxacan adventure draws to a close, I wanted to dedicate this final blog post to a day brimming with art, history, and, of course, incredible food. It’s hard to believe our family adventure is already at its end. It feels like just yesterday we were landing in Oaxaca, ready to explore everything this vibrant city has to offer. While I'm looking forward to returning home to Toronto, a part of me will forever remain captivated by the charm and spirit of Oaxaca.

Our last day in Oaxaca started, as many do, with the promise of delicious food. We headed to El Olivo Gastrobar for breakfast. The January air was crisp, but the anticipation of a hearty Oaxacan breakfast kept us warm. Isabella was particularly excited, as she had read rave reviews about their traditional chocolate con leche. Sofia, ever the adventurous eater, was eager to try the memelas. As for me, I was looking forward to a strong Oaxacan coffee to prepare for a day of exploring. The restaurant was bustling with locals and tourists alike, a testament to its popularity.

The atmosphere at El Olivo was cozy and inviting. The aroma of freshly baked bread and simmering sauces filled the air, making our stomachs rumble in anticipation. Isabella savored her chocolate con leche, declaring it the best she’d ever had. Sofia devoured her memelas, a thick corn tortilla topped with black beans, cheese, and salsa, with gusto. I enjoyed a robust cup of Oaxacan coffee, which provided the perfect jolt of energy. The staff was friendly and attentive, making us feel right at home. It was the perfect start to our final day.

With our bellies full and spirits high, we set off to explore the Centro de las Artes de San Agustín (CaSa). It was a short drive from the city center, offering a glimpse into the Oaxacan countryside. As we approached, the former textile mill turned art center stood majestically against the clear blue sky. The transformation of the old factory into a space for artistic expression was truly inspiring. I could feel the history and creativity emanating from its walls.


Explore contemporary art and culture at the Centro de las Artes de San Agustín, a vibrant hub in the heart of Oaxaca's artistic landscape.

Inside, we were greeted by an array of contemporary art exhibitions. Sofia was immediately drawn to the vibrant colors and bold strokes of a local artist's paintings. Isabella was fascinated by the intricate details of a sculpture made from recycled materials. I was captivated by the thought-provoking messages conveyed through photography. The center also offered workshops and programs, inviting visitors to engage with the creative process. It was a hub for art enthusiasts and casual visitors alike. We spent hours wandering through the halls, admiring the diverse artistic expressions and learning about the region's rich cultural heritage.

Art is not what you see, but what you make others see.

After immersing ourselves in the art scene, we were ready for lunch. Zandunga Sabor Istmeño was our chosen destination, known for its traditional regional flavors. The restaurant exuded the vibrant spirit of downtown Oaxaca, with colorful pottery, textiles, and paintings adorning every wall. It was a feast for the eyes as well as the palate. We started with the garnachas, masa cakes topped with tender shredded beef and pickled cabbage. The crispy plantains stuffed with queso and crema were a delightful combination of tropical and savory flavors. Sofia opted for a tamal, while Isabella and I shared a generous platter featuring a variety of standout dishes. Each bite was a celebration of Oaxacan cuisine, a testament to the region's culinary heritage.


Experience authentic Oaxacan cuisine at Zandunga Sabor Istmeño – a culinary journey filled with vibrant flavors and rich traditions.

With the afternoon sun beginning its descent, we made our way to the Auditorio Guelaguetza. As we approached, the beautiful soaring auditorium stood majestically on Fortine Hill, overlooking the city. The climb up the many stairs was a bit challenging, but the panoramic views of Oaxaca were well worth the effort. I could imagine the vibrant Guelaguetza festival unfolding here, a celebration of Oaxacan culture and traditions. Although the auditorium was quiet on this day, I could still feel the energy and excitement that permeated its walls during the annual event.


Discover the Auditorio Guelaguetza, where Oaxacan culture comes alive through vibrant performances and unforgettable festivals celebrating the region's rich traditions.

The Auditorio Guelaguetza is more than just a venue; it's a symbol of Oaxacan pride and heritage. The Guelaguetza festival, held in July, brings together representatives from different regions of Oaxaca to showcase their unique dances, music, and costumes. It's a vibrant display of cultural diversity and a celebration of the state's rich traditions. While we were unable to attend the festival during our visit, being at the Auditorio Guelaguetza gave me a sense of the event's significance and the importance of preserving Oaxacan culture.

As the day drew to a close, we decided to indulge in one last Oaxacan experience: mezcal. We ventured to Los Amantes Mezcalería, a renowned establishment known for its impressive selection of the smoky spirit. The atmosphere was intimate and inviting, with dimly lit corners and a knowledgeable staff eager to guide us through the world of mezcal. I opted for a tasting flight, sampling different varieties and learning about the agave plant from which it is derived. Isabella, not a big fan of strong spirits, decided to try a mezcal-infused cocktail. Sofia, of course, stuck to her usual lemonade.


Experience the essence of Oaxaca at Los Amantes Mezcalería, where artisanal mezcal and local culture converge in a vibrant setting.

The mezcal tasting was an eye-opening experience. I discovered the nuances and complexities of this traditional Oaxacan spirit, appreciating the craftsmanship and dedication that goes into its production. The smoky flavors danced on my palate, leaving a warm and satisfying sensation. Isabella enjoyed her cocktail, a refreshing blend of mezcal, lime juice, and agave nectar. It was the perfect way to end our final day in Oaxaca, a toast to the memories we had made and the experiences we had shared.

For our final dinner, we chose Las Quince Letras Restaurante, known for its authentic Oaxacan cuisine. The restaurant was cozy and inviting, with a warm ambiance that made us feel right at home. We started with the memelas, thick corn tortillas topped with black beans, cheese, and salsa. For our main courses, Isabella ordered the mole negro, a rich and complex sauce made with chili peppers, chocolate, and spices. Sofia opted for the tlayuda, a large, crispy tortilla topped with beans, cheese, and meat. I decided to try the chapulines, toasted grasshoppers seasoned with chili and lime. It was an adventurous choice, but I wanted to experience the full range of Oaxacan flavors.


Experience authentic Oaxacan cuisine at Las Quince Letras Restaurante in Oaxaca de Juárez - a true culinary gem offering rich flavors and warm hospitality.

The meal at Las Quince Letras was a culinary masterpiece. The mole negro was rich and flavorful, a testament to the chef's skill and dedication. Sofia devoured her tlayuda, declaring it the best she had ever tasted. The chapulines were surprisingly delicious, crunchy and savory with a hint of spice. The service was impeccable, the staff attentive and knowledgeable. It was the perfect way to end our culinary journey through Oaxaca, a celebration of the region's gastronomic delights.

As we walked back to Hotel Camba, the streets of Oaxaca were alive with music and laughter. The air was filled with the aroma of street food and the sounds of conversation. I couldn't help but feel a sense of gratitude for the experiences we had shared as a family. Oaxaca had exceeded my expectations, offering a blend of culture, history, and cuisine that was both enriching and unforgettable. I knew that we would carry these memories with us long after we returned home to Toronto.


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

Our Oaxacan adventure has come to an end, but the memories we've created will last a lifetime. From exploring ancient ruins to savoring local delicacies, Oaxaca has captivated our hearts and souls. As we prepare to leave this enchanting city, I can't help but feel a sense of gratitude for the experiences we've shared as a family. Oaxaca has exceeded my expectations, offering a blend of culture, history, and cuisine that is both enriching and unforgettable. I know that we will carry these memories with us long after we return home to Toronto. Perhaps we'll even try our hand at making mole negro, bringing a taste of Oaxaca to our Canadian kitchen. Until next time, Oaxaca!

Tomorrow, we begin our journey back to Toronto, filled with memories of vibrant markets, ancient ruins, and the warmth of the Oaxacan people. This trip reminded me how important it is to step outside of our comfort zones and immerse ourselves in different cultures. I encourage all of you to consider Oaxaca for your next family adventure. You won't be disappointed.

Adios, Oaxaca! Until we meet again.