Family Adventure in San Cristobal de las Casas

Discovering San Cristobal's Soul

Today was a beautiful blend of history, culture, and gastronomy in San Cristobal de las Casas. From exploring ancient architecture to indulging in local cuisine, every moment was a vibrant experience that deepened our appreciation for this charming town. It’s days like these that remind me why we embarked on this family adventure in the first place.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Restaurante La Lupe. The aroma of freshly brewed Chiapan coffee filled the air as we settled into our cozy spot. I ordered huevos rancheros, while Aisha opted for the traditional tamales. Zayn, of course, chose the familiar comfort of pancakes. The food was delicious, setting a perfect tone for the day ahead. It's amazing how a simple breakfast can be so fulfilling, especially when shared with loved ones. This place is known for serving authentic Mexican dishes, and I could tell that everything was made with fresh, local ingredients. Aisha particularly enjoyed the salsa bar, where she could sample a variety of homemade salsas.


Experience authentic Mexican cuisine at Restaurante La Lupe in San Cristóbal de las Casas - where every dish tells a story.

After breakfast, we strolled towards Casa De La Sirena, a landmark that dates back to the 16th century. As we approached, I couldn't help but admire the colonial architecture, adorned with intricate sculptures. The name, derived from the mermaid sculptures on its facade, adds a touch of mystique to its rich history. I learned that it was built by Diego de Mazariegos, a conquistador, and later passed on to Andrés de Tovilla. The kids were fascinated by the mermaid figures, and Aisha and I appreciated the historical significance of the building. It's moments like these that make history come alive for Zayn, far more than any textbook ever could. We took some family photos in front of the Casa, capturing the essence of our exploration.


Explore Casa De La Sirena, a stunning historical landmark in San Cristóbal de las Casas, where culture and architecture unite.

Exploring San Cristobal is like stepping back in time, where every corner tells a story of resilience, culture, and vibrant community spirit.

Next on our itinerary was the Iglesia de San Cristóbalito. The church sits atop a hill, and the climb up was quite the workout, especially at this altitude. I think I miscounted the steps, but it was well worth it. The views from the top were breathtaking, offering a panoramic vista of San Cristobal. The church itself was small but charming, with a serene atmosphere that invited reflection. Zayn was excited about reaching the top and kept pointing out different landmarks he recognized from below. Aisha enjoyed the peaceful ambiance, taking a moment to light a candle and say a prayer. I appreciated the blend of physical activity and spiritual enrichment that this visit offered. It reminded me of some of the temples back home in the Maldives, perched on the coast, offering solace and stunning views.


Discover the charm and spiritual beauty of Iglesia de San Cristóbalito, a captivating Catholic church in the heart of San Cristóbal de las Casas, Chiapas.

For lunch, we decided to try Bangcook Tailandés, a Thai restaurant that came highly recommended. It might seem odd to eat Thai food in Mexico, but we were curious to see how the flavors compared to what we're used to in Toronto. The restaurant was cozy, with a vibrant atmosphere that made us feel right at home. We ordered a variety of dishes, from Pad Thai to green curry, and each one was bursting with authentic Thai flavors. Zayn, surprisingly, loved the spring rolls. Aisha and I were impressed by the quality and attention to detail in the dishes. It was a delightful culinary detour that added an unexpected twist to our day. I made a mental note to try and recreate some of these dishes back home, adding a Maldivian twist, of course.


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

In the late afternoon, we took a leisurely stroll through the city, soaking in the sights and sounds of San Cristobal. The streets were bustling with activity, vendors selling colorful textiles, and locals going about their daily lives. We stopped by a local market, where Aisha bargained for some beautiful handmade scarves. Zayn was fascinated by the vibrant colors and intricate patterns of the textiles. I enjoyed watching them interact with the local artisans, learning about their craft and the stories behind their creations. It's these authentic cultural exchanges that make our travels so rewarding.


As the sun began to set, we headed to CALACA CASA DE MIXOLOGIA for a pre-dinner drink. This bar is known for its unique cocktails and lively atmosphere. I ordered a margarita, while Aisha tried a local Chiapan drink. Zayn, of course, stuck with juice. The drinks were expertly crafted, and the ambiance was perfect for unwinding after a long day of exploring. We chatted about our favorite moments from the day, laughing and reminiscing about our adventures. It's these simple moments of connection that make our family trips so special.


Discover the vibrant flavors of Chiapas at Calaca Casa de Mixologia, where grill meets innovative mixology in a lively atmosphere.

Dinner was at Casa de Willy Restaurante, a place known for its traditional Mexican cuisine. The restaurant had a warm and inviting atmosphere, with live music playing in the background. We ordered a variety of dishes, including mole poblano and enchiladas, each one bursting with flavor and authenticity. Zayn particularly enjoyed the quesadillas. Aisha and I savored every bite, appreciating the rich culinary heritage of Chiapas. The service was excellent, and the staff made us feel like part of their family. It was the perfect ending to a day filled with cultural immersion and culinary delights. I was so full but I felt like I needed some pozole, as I saw someone mention they had it here.


Discover authentic Mexican flavors at Casa de Willy Restaurante in San Cristóbal de las Casas—where tradition meets taste in every dish.

As we walked back to Hotel Helvérica, the cool evening air was a welcome contrast to the warmth of the day. The streets were quieter now, but the city still felt alive with a sense of magic. We reflected on our experiences, feeling grateful for the opportunity to explore this beautiful corner of Mexico with our family. Tomorrow, we plan to visit Museo Jtatik Samuel and Casa Mazariegos Recinto Histórico. I am looking forward to another day of discovery and adventure in San Cristobal de las Casas. The thought of more historical exploration excites me, especially knowing we'll uncover more about the local culture and traditions. It's experiences like these that make our family trips so worthwhile, creating lasting memories and deepening our appreciation for the world around us. Good night from San Cristobal!


Experience the heart of San Cristobal de las Casas at Hotel Helvérica, offering cozy accommodations, delightful dining, and convenient access to local attractions.