Cultural Family Adventure in San Cristobal de las Casas

A Day of Cultural Immersion

Today was a day dedicated to diving deep into the heart of Chiapas's rich culture. San Cristobal de las Casas is proving to be a treasure trove of history, art, and traditions, and I couldn't wait to explore it all with my family. From historical houses to vibrant textile centers and lively mezcalerias, every corner held a new discovery.

Our day began with a delightful breakfast at Cocoliche. The restaurant had a cozy atmosphere, and the menu offered a fusion of flavors that was both familiar and exciting. I opted for a traditional Mexican breakfast while Vikram chose something with a more international flair. Anika, of course, went for pancakes – a classic choice that never fails to bring a smile to her face. Fuelled up and ready to go, our first stop was Casa Na Bolom.


Explore the rich heritage of Chiapas at Casa Na Bolom, a cultural center offering a museum, gardens, and accommodations in San Cristóbal de las Casas.
Casa Na Bolom is so much more than just a museum; it’s a cultural center dedicated to preserving the traditions of the Lacandon people. Founded by Frans Blom, an archeologist, and his wife Trudy, a photographer, the house has become a hub for indigenous culture and conservation. As we walked through the rooms, we were transported back in time, surrounded by artifacts, photographs, and stories of the Lacandon Maya. Anika was particularly fascinated by the old photographs, asking endless questions about the people and their way of life. The gardens were beautiful, a peaceful oasis in the middle of the city. It's amazing to know that the proceeds from Casa Na Bolom go towards supporting the local indigenous community.

To truly appreciate a culture, one must immerse oneself in its history, traditions, and the stories of its people.

Next on our itinerary was the Centro de Textiles del Mundo Maya.

Explore the colorful world of Mayan textiles at the Centro de Textiles del Mundo Maya, a cultural gem in San Cristóbal de las Casas.
This museum, located in the Ex-Convento de Santo Domingo, showcases an impressive collection of handwoven textiles from across Mexico and Central America. As someone who appreciates art and craftsmanship, I was in awe of the intricate designs and vibrant colors. Each piece told a story, reflecting the unique cultural identity of its creators. Anika, with her keen eye for detail, was captivated by the patterns and the techniques used to create them. It was a wonderful opportunity to learn about the artistry and skill involved in textile production, and how it represents the culture today.
For lunch, we headed to Restaurante el Fogón de Jovel, known for its traditional Chiapan cuisine.

Experience authentic Mexican cuisine at Restaurante el Fogón de Jovel in San Cristóbal de las Casas - A must-visit destination for food lovers!
The restaurant itself is set in a beautiful colonial house, adding to the authentic atmosphere. The staff, dressed in traditional clothing, greeted us warmly and made us feel right at home. We ordered a variety of dishes, including tamales, mole, and chiles rellenos, each bursting with flavor and spice. It was a true culinary journey through the region, and we savored every bite. I learned that El Fogón de Jovel was founded with the aim of showcasing the true gastronomy of the region. It was evident in the care and attention given to each dish, and the pride with which it was served.

As the day drew to a close, we decided to experience the nightlife of San Cristobal. We ventured to La Popu Mezcalería, a lively bar known for its extensive selection of mezcal.

Discover the flavors of Mexico at La Popu Mezcalería, a vibrant grill and bar in the heart of San Cristóbal de las Casas.
The atmosphere was buzzing with energy, and the music created a vibrant backdrop for our evening. Vikram and I sampled a few different types of mezcal, each with its own unique flavor profile. I appreciated the opportunity to learn about the production process and the history behind this traditional Mexican spirit. Anika enjoyed a refreshing agua fresca while we soaked in the ambiance. The bar had a cozy atmosphere with live music. The staff was friendly and welcoming, making us feel like locals.

Santo Nahual was our choice for dinner.

Discover the vibrant flavors of Mexico at Santo Nahual, where authentic cuisine meets warm hospitality in San Cristóbal de las Casas.
This restaurant is set in a historic building dating back to 1528, adding to its charm and character. The menu featured a mix of international and Mexican dishes, and we opted for a few local specialties. The sopa de chipilin was a particular highlight, a flavorful and comforting soup that warmed us from the inside out. The lasagna de berenjena and the salmón santo nahual also came highly recommended. With live music and a beautiful setting, it was the perfect way to end our day.

Tonight, as I reflect on our adventures, I feel a deep sense of gratitude for the opportunity to experience the culture of Chiapas. San Cristobal de las Casas has captured my heart with its vibrant traditions, stunning landscapes, and warm hospitality. Tomorrow, we plan to explore Andador Eclesiástico De San Cristóbal and Zócalo de San Cristobal de las Casas. I'm also looking forward to breakfast at Maya Pakal Restaurant, lunch at TierrAdentro Restaurante and dinner at Restaurante Las Pichanchas (San Cristóbal). A visit to EskarabajoMx is also on the cards. I can't wait to see what other treasures await us in this magical city. For now, it’s time to rest and recharge, ready for another day of exploration and discovery.