Family Cultural Adventure in Oaxaca

A Monday of Exploration and Taste

Today was a day of venturing slightly outside the familiar city center of Oaxaca, and it was a delightful mix of art, history, and, of course, incredible food. Priya, Aarav, and I set out with a sense of excitement, ready to immerse ourselves in the rich tapestry of this region. It’s days like these that make me appreciate the decision to become an immigration consultant, as it allows me the freedom to explore the world and share these experiences.

Our first stop was the Centro de las Artes de San Agustín, or CaSa as it's known. It's located in an old textile factory, a transformation spearheaded by the renowned Oaxacan artist Francisco Toledo. The setting alone was worth the trip – the architecture blending seamlessly with the natural beauty surrounding it. As someone who appreciates history and culture, I found the story of the factory's conversion into an art center fascinating. It felt like walking through a living, breathing piece of art, with the echoes of the past resonating in 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.
We spent a good few hours wandering through the various exhibits. The installations were thought-provoking and showcased a diverse range of artistic expressions. Aarav, surprisingly, was quite engaged, asking questions about the different techniques and the stories behind the art. It's moments like these that make traveling with family so rewarding, seeing the world through his curious eyes. Priya, with her keen eye for detail, was particularly impressed with the way the art incorporated elements of Oaxacan culture and history.

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

After soaking in the artistic vibes at CaSa, we were ready for lunch. Oaxacalifornia was our chosen spot, and it did not disappoint. The restaurant had a laid-back, inviting atmosphere, and the menu was filled with tempting Oaxacan specialties. I opted for the mole negro, a classic Oaxacan dish, while Priya chose the tlayuda, a large, crispy tortilla topped with various ingredients. Aarav, ever the adventurous eater, went for the chapulines, or grasshoppers. He was a bit hesitant at first, but after trying one, he declared them surprisingly delicious. It’s always a joy to see him embrace new culinary experiences.


Experience authentic Mexican seafood at Oaxacalifornia - where fresh ingredients meet vibrant flavors in every dish.
With our bellies full and our spirits high, we set off for our next destination: the Zona Arqueológica de Atzompa. This archaeological site, located on a hill overlooking Oaxaca, offered a glimpse into the ancient Zapotec civilization. The climb up to the site was a bit challenging, but the panoramic views from the top were well worth the effort. As we explored the ruins, I couldn't help but marvel at the ingenuity and skill of the Zapotec people. To think that this city once thrived here, centuries ago, was truly humbling.


Explore the ancient ruins of Zona Arqueológica de Atzompa, a serene archaeological site rich in Zapotec culture and breathtaking landscapes.
Priya, who has always been interested in archaeology, shared her knowledge about the Zapotec culture and the significance of the site. Aarav, armed with his travel guidebook, pointed out various architectural features and tried to decipher the ancient glyphs. It was a family history lesson, brought to life by the stones beneath our feet. The January weather was perfect, not too hot, making our exploration all the more enjoyable. I made sure to apply sunscreen, remembering the portable phone charger and reusable water bottle we had forgotten at home.

Following our historical immersion, a bit of retail therapy was in order. We made our way to Oaxaca Collective, a shop that showcases the work of local artisans. I was on the lookout for a unique souvenir to take back home, something that would remind me of our time in Oaxaca. The shop was filled with beautiful handicrafts, from intricately woven textiles to colorful pottery. Priya was drawn to the embroidered blouses, while Aarav was fascinated by the alebrijes, the whimsical wooden creatures that are a hallmark of Oaxacan art. I finally settled on a hand-painted ceramic plate, its vibrant colors capturing the essence of this region.


Explore the vibrant artisan products at Oaxaca Collective, a home goods store showcasing the rich culture of Oaxaca.
As the sun began to set, we made our way to El Asador Vasco for lunch. This restaurant, known for its Basque-inspired cuisine, offered a welcome change of pace from the traditional Oaxacan fare we had been enjoying. The atmosphere was cozy and inviting, and the staff was friendly and attentive. I ordered the grilled steak, cooked to perfection, while Priya chose the seafood paella. Aarav, once again, surprised us by opting for the chorizo, which he devoured with gusto. It was a satisfying meal, a perfect way to end a day of exploration and discovery.


Experience the essence of Spanish cuisine at El Asador Vasco, where exquisite grilled dishes meet warm hospitality in Oaxaca.
Our final stop for the day was La Toscana for dinner. After a day filled with Oaxacan culture, we decided to switch things up with some Italian cuisine. The restaurant had a warm and inviting atmosphere. We ordered a pizza to share, and it was delicious. It was the perfect way to end a busy day of exploring.


Experience authentic Italian cuisine at La Toscana, where every dish tells a story amidst the vibrant culture of Oaxaca.
Reflecting on the day, I realized how much Oaxaca has to offer. From its vibrant art scene to its ancient ruins and its diverse culinary delights, this city has something for everyone. And as we prepare for our final full day in Oaxaca, I'm already looking forward to what tomorrow holds. We plan to visit Benito Juárez National Park and Parque Ciudad de las Canteras, followed by a relaxing evening at Zapotec Mixology Bar. It’s going to be another day of adventure, and I can’t wait to share it with my family.

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

As I sit here, writing this blog post, I'm filled with a sense of gratitude. Gratitude for the opportunity to travel, to experience new cultures, and to share these moments with my loved ones. And as a Mauritian who has made Canada his home, I'm reminded of the importance of embracing diversity and celebrating the richness of human experience. It’s these values that I try to instill in Aarav, hoping that he too will grow up to be a global citizen, open to the world and all its wonders.

And now, it’s time to rest and recharge, ready for another day of Oaxacan adventures. Goodnight from Oaxaca!