Family Adventure in San Cristobal de las Casas

A Day Immersed in San Cristobal's Soul

Today was a day of diving deep into the heart of San Cristobal de las Casas. From exploring historical landmarks to savoring the local cuisine, every moment was filled with vibrant experiences that truly captured the essence of this charming town. It’s amazing how much history and culture can be packed into a single day, leaving you with a profound sense of connection to a place and its people.

Our morning began with a delightful breakfast at Restaurante TULUC. The aroma of freshly brewed coffee and the promise of traditional Mexican flavors was the perfect way to start the day. I opted for the *huevos rancheros*, while Aisha enjoyed the *chilaquiles*. Zayn, of course, went for the *hotcakes*, a familiar comfort amidst the new culinary landscape. The atmosphere was cozy and inviting, setting a positive tone for our explorations. I remember when I first arrived in Toronto, how much I missed the familiar tastes of home. It's these little comforts that make a place feel like yours.


Experience authentic Mexican cuisine at Restaurante TULUC in San Cristóbal de las Casas – where every meal is a celebration of flavor.

Fueled and ready, we headed to the Museo de San Cristóbal MUSAC - Palacio de Gobierno. The museum is housed in the former municipal building, a beautifully restored space that tells the story of San Cristobal through various exhibits. Despite some initial local resistance to its establishment, the MUSAC now stands as a symbol of the city's modern face. We wandered through the halls, admiring the artwork and learning about the history of the region. Zayn was particularly fascinated by the old photographs, pointing out the differences between the past and present. Aisha appreciated the architectural details, noting the blend of neoclassical, Tuscan, and Roman Doric styles.


Discover Chiapas' artistic and historical treasures at Museo de San Cristóbal MUSAC, an inspiring art and heritage museum in San Cristóbal de las Casas.

After the museum, we decided to venture slightly off the beaten path to Castillo Zavaleta. This place is shrouded in mystery and local legends. Built in 1978 by Jorge Zabaleta Ramos, the castle stands out with its gothic design, a stark contrast to the colonial architecture of San Cristobal. It’s said that Zabaleta was fascinated by medieval European castles, inspiring him to create his own. Over the years, the castle has been a hotel and event space, but it has been abandoned for quite some time and is rumored to be for sale. As we approached, the weather seemed to mirror the castle's somber atmosphere; the sky, usually a bright blue, was now heavy with clouds.


Explore Castillo Zavaleta, a historical castle in San Cristóbal de las Casas, offering stunning views and a glimpse into Chiapas' rich cultural heritage.

The echoes of the past resonate deeply within these walls, whispering tales of ambition, dreams, and perhaps, a touch of the supernatural.

Exploring the grounds, we couldn't help but feel a sense of intrigue. Zayn was thrilled, imagining knights and dragons, while Aisha and I were drawn to the stories surrounding the castle. Some locals say that the owner, Jorge Juan Zavaleta Ramos, was known as “The Vampire of San Cristobal,” and that his body disappeared from his tomb. Whether these tales are true or just local lore, they certainly add to the castle's allure. The architecture was fascinating, with its gothic arches and imposing structure. It was easy to see why Zabaleta was so captivated by European castles. I could not help but think about the contrast between this architecture and the architecture of my childhood home, and how both have their own unique stories to tell.

For lunch, we chose Restaurante Las Pichanchas, known for its traditional Chiapaneco cuisine. The restaurant is a vibrant and colorful space, offering a true taste of Chiapas. We sampled several regional dishes, including *butifarra*, local cheese, and *Jacuane tamales*. The flavors were rich and authentic, providing a delicious insight into the local culinary heritage. As we ate, we were treated to a live performance of traditional folk dances, adding to the festive atmosphere. Zayn was particularly enthralled by the dancers, clapping along to the music and trying to imitate their steps.


Experience authentic Chiapas cuisine at Restaurante Las Pichanchas in San Cristóbal de las Casas – a feast for your senses.

In the late afternoon, we decided to take it easy and unwind at Soul Barra Bistro. This cozy bar offered a relaxed ambiance, perfect for sipping on some refreshing drinks. I opted for a local craft beer, while Aisha enjoyed a *margarita*. Zayn, of course, had his usual juice. The bistro had a laid-back vibe, with comfortable seating and friendly staff. It was a great spot to people-watch and soak in the local atmosphere.


Discover the lively Soul Barra Bistro in San Cristóbal de las Casas, where vibrant drinks and a welcoming atmosphere await every visitor.

As the day drew to a close, we had dinner at ASIARICO Japon a Corea. I know it may seem strange to have Japanese/Korean food in Mexico, but we were curious to try it. Plus, Zayn has been asking for sushi for days! The restaurant offered a unique fusion of flavors, blending Japanese and Korean culinary traditions. We ordered a variety of dishes, including sushi rolls, ramen, and Korean BBQ. The food was delicious, and the presentation was impressive. Zayn loved the sushi, devouring every piece with gusto. Aisha and I enjoyed the ramen and BBQ, appreciating the subtle nuances of the flavors. I must admit, it was quite a welcome change from the steady stream of Mexican food we have been enjoying. It reminded me of the diverse culinary scene in Toronto, where you can find cuisine from almost every corner of the world.


Experience the fusion of Japanese and Korean flavors at ASIARICO in San Cristóbal de las Casas - where culinary tradition meets modern dining.

Before heading back to Hotel Helvérica, we took a leisurely stroll through the streets of San Cristobal. The town was alive with activity, as locals and tourists alike enjoyed the cool evening air. The temperature was perfect, hovering around 70°F. We passed by street vendors selling handicrafts, musicians playing traditional music, and families enjoying ice cream. The atmosphere was warm and inviting, making us feel right at home.


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

As I reflect on today’s adventures, I am struck by the richness and diversity of San Cristobal de las Casas. From its historical landmarks to its culinary delights, this town has so much to offer. Tomorrow, we plan to explore the Grutas Del Mamut and the Diocesan Historical Archive []. I am excited to uncover more of San Cristobal's hidden gems and share them with you all. I think I will pick up a guidebook tonight, now that I remember that I forgot to pack it!

Until then, *adiós*!

P.S. I am so grateful to be able to share these experiences with my family. Traveling with loved ones makes every moment even more special. I am also grateful for Aisha's keen eye and Zayn's infectious enthusiasm. They both bring so much joy to my travels.

P.P.S. I heard that there are some interesting events happening in San Cristobal soon, including the Trail San Cristóbal 4ª Edición. Maybe we will check it out!