Family Adventure in San Cristobal de las Casas

Threads of Culture, Flavors of Life

Today was a deep dive into the heart of Chiapas culture, a vibrant tapestry woven with threads of history, artistry, and culinary delight. San Cristobal de las Casas continued to enchant me and the family with its rich heritage and warm hospitality. It's amazing how much you can learn and experience in a single day when you open yourself up to the local culture.



Our day began with a delightful breakfast at Jardines de San Cristóbal. The ambiance was lovely, and Zayn was immediately captivated by the beautiful garden. I enjoyed a traditional Mexican breakfast, while Aisha opted for something lighter. Zayn, of course, wanted pancakes, which they happily provided. It's these small, accommodating gestures that make traveling with family so much more enjoyable. I think that sometimes traveling with family, especially with young kids, can be daunting, but seeing Zayn experience new things makes it all worthwhile. It reminds me of my childhood in the Maldives, exploring the islands and discovering hidden gems.


Experience authentic Mexican flavors amidst stunning gardens at Jardines de San Cristóbal in San Cristóbal de las Casas.

Fuelled up and ready to explore, our first stop was the Museo de los Altos de Chiapas Ex Convento de Santo Domingo. This historical site is an architectural marvel, showcasing the indigenous interpretation of Baroque art. Wandering through the halls, I was struck by the collection of art spanning from the 17th to the 19th centuries. The museum is housed in the former Santo Domingo Convent, a stunning colonial building that has served various purposes throughout its history, including as a military barracks during the Mexican Revolution. Aisha, with her nursing background, was particularly interested in the building's history as a place of healing and community. Zayn, surprisingly, was engaged by the exhibits, especially the stories of the Spanish conquest and the evangelization of the region.


Discover the cultural richness of Chiapas at the Museo de los Altos de Chiapas, showcasing art, heritage, and tradition in a historic convent.

The richness of a culture is best understood through its art and traditions.

Adjacent to the Museo de los Altos de Chiapas is the Centro de Textiles del Mundo Maya. This museum was a true highlight, celebrating the intricate and vibrant textile traditions of the Mayan world. As someone who appreciates cultural preservation, I was deeply impressed by the museum's mission to research, conserve, and promote Mayan textiles. The collection features over 2,500 pieces from Chiapas and Guatemala, showcasing the incredible skill and artistry of the indigenous weavers. Aisha was particularly fascinated by the traditional weaving techniques and the symbolism behind the designs. Zayn, ever curious, was intrigued by the colorful threads and patterns, and he even tried his hand at a small weaving demonstration. The museum beautifully illustrates how these textiles are not just garments but living stories, passed down through generations.


Explore the colorful world of Mayan textiles at the Centro de Textiles del Mundo Maya, a cultural gem in San Cristóbal de las Casas.

Leaving the museum, we strolled through the streets of San Cristobal, soaking in the atmosphere. The vibrant colors of the buildings, the bustling markets, and the friendly faces of the locals create an atmosphere that is both captivating and welcoming. We stopped by Artesanias de los Altos de Chiapas, a charming shop featuring a stunning array of traditional garments and handcrafted items. I was immediately drawn to the woven shawls and embroidered blouses, each piece reflecting the artistry of local artisans. Aisha found a beautiful hand-embroidered blouse for her mother, while Zayn picked out a small, colorful toy. Supporting local artisans is important to us, as it helps preserve their traditions and ensures a sustainable livelihood for their communities. As we browsed, I couldn't help but think of my own heritage in the Maldives, where traditional crafts are also an integral part of the culture.


Discover the rich cultural heritage of Chiapas at Artesanias de los Altos de Chiapas, a treasure trove of traditional clothing and handmade crafts.

For lunch, we ventured to Te Quiero Verde, a vegan restaurant that came highly recommended. As someone who enjoys exploring global cuisine, I was curious to see what vegan Mexican food had to offer. The restaurant had a cozy and inviting atmosphere, and the menu was full of creative and delicious-sounding options. Aisha and I shared a vegan burger and a pasta dish, both of which were bursting with flavor. Zayn opted for a vegan quesadilla, which he devoured in minutes. It's always a win when we find a place that caters to both our dietary preferences and Zayn's picky palate. I never thought I would enjoy vegan food this much, but it's a testament to the creativity and skill of the chefs here. The experience reminded me of the diverse culinary scene in Toronto, where you can find food from all corners of the world.


Discover delicious vegan cuisine at Te Quiero Verde in San Cristóbal de las Casas—where flavor meets sustainability in every bite.

In the evening, we decided to try ASIARICO Japon a Corea for dinner. This restaurant offers a unique fusion of Japanese and Korean cuisine, which piqued my interest. The restaurant was lively and bustling, with a mix of locals and tourists. We ordered a variety of dishes, including sushi, ramen, and Korean BBQ. The food was delicious and flavorful, and it was a fun experience trying new and different combinations. Zayn, surprisingly, enjoyed the sushi, which he usually avoids. It's moments like these that make traveling with family so rewarding. Sharing new experiences and expanding our horizons together is what it's all about. I've always been fascinated by the intersection of different cultures, and ASIARICO Japon a Corea perfectly embodies this concept.


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

As we walked back to Hotel Helvérica, the city was alive with music and laughter. I couldn't help but feel grateful for the opportunity to experience this vibrant culture with my family. San Cristobal de las Casas has a way of captivating you, drawing you in with its rich history, stunning landscapes, and warm hospitality. It's a place that I know we will never forget. The Flower Moon is approaching on May 12, and the anticipation for experiencing its beauty in this magical place is growing.


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

Tomorrow, we're planning to explore the Parque Ecoturístico Rancho Nuevo and El Arcotete. I've heard that these natural wonders are not to be missed, and I'm excited to immerse ourselves in the stunning landscapes of Chiapas. Before we head out for a day of adventure, we plan to have breakfast at Restaurante Miura. And, if we have time, I'd love to check out La Popu Mezcalería.

San Cristobal continues to surprise and delight us at every turn, and I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings. The vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, and warm hospitality of this charming town have captured our hearts, and I know that we will cherish these memories for years to come.

And, perhaps, I will even learn how to weave on a traditional Mayan loom!