Family Cultural Adventure in Oaxaca

A Day of Reflection and Artistic Discovery

Today in Oaxaca was a beautiful blend of spiritual contemplation and artistic exploration. From the serene Basilica de Nuestra Señora de la Soledad to the vibrant Museum of Contemporary Art and Oaxaca Cultures, the city revealed its many layers. Priya, Aarav, and I embraced the day, eager to soak in the rich culture that Oaxaca so generously offers. It's days like these that remind me why we chose Oaxaca for our family adventure – a place where history, art, and faith intertwine so seamlessly.

Our day began with a delightful breakfast at El Biche Pobre. It was a cozy spot, the kind of place where locals gather, and the aroma of traditional Oaxacan cuisine filled the air. I opted for the *caldo de pollo*, a hearty chicken soup, while Priya enjoyed some *tlayudas*. Aarav, ever the adventurous eater, surprised us by trying (and loving!) a *chapulines* taco – grasshoppers! He declared it tasted like crunchy, seasoned popcorn. This was a great way to start the day and fuel up for the adventures ahead.

From there, we made our way to the Basílica de Nuestra Señora de la Soledad. The basilica is only six blocks from the Zocalo, and a national jewel of great traditional and religious importance. As we approached, the sheer scale of the basilica was striking. Its Baroque facade, dating back to 1690, exuded a sense of timelessness. Inside, the atmosphere was hushed and reverent. The gold-tinged interior sparkled, especially above the altar, creating a mesmerizing effect. Priya, with her deep spiritual roots, was particularly moved by the experience. We lit candles and took a moment to reflect on our blessings and the journey that brought us to this beautiful place.


Discover the exquisite beauty and cultural richness of the Basilica de Nuestra Señora de la Soledad in Oaxaca, a must-see landmark for every traveler.

Visiting sacred spaces allows us to connect with something larger than ourselves, fostering a sense of peace and understanding.

After the tranquility of the basilica, we ventured into the Museum of Contemporary Art and Oaxaca Cultures (MACO). Housed in a beautifully restored 17th-century mansion, the museum itself was a work of art. As we wandered through the galleries, we were surrounded by a diverse collection of contemporary Mexican art. The innovative exhibitions seamlessly wove together traditional Oaxacan culture with modern artistic expressions. Aarav was particularly fascinated by a series of sculptures made from recycled materials, sparking a conversation about sustainability and creativity.


Explore the vibrant artistic landscape of Oaxaca at the Museum of Contemporary Art and Oaxaca Cultures, where tradition meets modernity.

Priya and I appreciated the museum's thoughtful curation, highlighting both established and emerging artists. It was inspiring to see how Oaxacan artists are pushing boundaries while staying true to their cultural heritage. The museum also had a display of family shields on its facade. Overall, MACO was a place of integration of regional traditions and contemporary global culture.

For lunch, we decided to try Ancestral Cocina Tradicional. The restaurant has a cozy atmosphere and spectacular decor. We started with some *sopa de guias*, a traditional squash soup, followed by *mole negro* with turkey – a Oaxacan staple. The flavors were rich and complex, a testament to the region's culinary heritage. Aarav, always eager to learn, peppered our waiter with questions about the ingredients and preparation methods. It was a delicious meal enjoyed by all.


Discover authentic Oaxacan flavors at Ancestral Cocina Tradicional – where every dish tells a story.

As the afternoon waned, we sought a little refreshment at El Espacio: Cocktail, Mezcal & Agave Bar. Tucked away on a quiet street, this bar exuded a cozy and creative vibe. The bartenders were true mixologists, crafting both traditional and innovative cocktails. I opted for a mezcal tasting, sampling different varieties of the local spirit. Priya enjoyed a refreshing *agua de jamaica*, while Aarav sipped on a non-alcoholic fruit punch. The bar also had rotating artists and expositions, adding to its charm.


Discover the vibrant cocktails and rich mezcal culture at El Espacio, a must-visit cocktail bar in the heart of Oaxaca, Mexico.

For dinner, we chose El Olivo Gastrobar, drawn in by its reputation for Mediterranean cuisine with a Oaxacan twist. The restaurant had a terrific decor and pretty ambiance, making us feel relaxed. We shared some tapas, including *croquetas de jamón* and *patatas bravas*, before indulging in the *pescado a la talla*, a grilled fish dish marinated in Oaxacan spices. The flavors were a delightful fusion of Mediterranean and Mexican influences. I even tried their White Russian riff called El Gran Lebowski.


Experience the best of Spanish cuisine at El Olivo Gastrobar in Oaxaca – where tradition meets innovation in every dish.

Before heading back to Hotel Camba, we took a leisurely stroll through the city center. The streets were alive with music and laughter, as locals and tourists alike enjoyed the warm evening air. We stopped to admire the Santo Domingo Cultural Center, its facade illuminated against the night sky. We also saw many people enjoying the street art.


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

As we walked, we discussed our plans for tomorrow. We're planning to visit the Ex-Convento de Santo Domingo and Mercado 20 de Noviembre. We're also hoping to pick up some rugs and textiles at Galería Fe y Lola Rugs & Textiles.

Today was a day of contrasts, from the solemnity of the basilica to the vibrancy of the art museum. It was a day of discovery, as we tasted new flavors and learned about Oaxacan culture. Most importantly, it was a day of connection, as we shared these experiences as a family. As I reflect on our journey so far, I am filled with gratitude for the opportunity to explore this beautiful corner of the world with my loved ones.

I'm also grateful that we decided to come to Oaxaca in January. According to Mexico News Daily, January is a peaceful time to visit Oaxaca with mild, breezy days and cool evenings. We've definitely been enjoying the weather.

Back at the hotel, Aarav was already fast asleep, dreaming of grasshopper tacos and colorful sculptures. Priya and I sat on the balcony, sipping tea and listening to the sounds of the city. As the stars twinkled above, I couldn't help but feel a sense of contentment. Oaxaca, with its soulful sanctuaries and artistic havens, had captured our hearts.

I'm looking forward to sharing more of our Oaxacan adventure with you tomorrow! Until then, *adiós*!