Cultural Family Adventure in San Cristobal de las Casas

A Day of Discovery in San Cristóbal

Today was all about immersing ourselves in the vibrant heart of San Cristóbal de las Casas. From the bustling markets to the stunning architecture, every corner held a new discovery. It’s days like these that remind me why I love to travel – the chance to experience a culture so different from my own, to taste new flavors, and to connect with the spirit of a place.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Maya Pakal Restaurant. Vikram and I both ordered the traditional Chiapaneco breakfast while Anika opted for something a little more familiar – pancakes. The restaurant had a cozy atmosphere, and the staff were incredibly welcoming. It was the perfect way to fuel up for a day of exploring. I enjoyed the blend of local flavors and comfort food.

With our stomachs full and spirits high, we set off towards the Andador Eclesiástico De San Cristóbal. This pedestrian street is a hub of activity, and I was immediately captivated by the colorful buildings and lively atmosphere. The street buzzes with a lively energy, a mix of locals and tourists all drawn to its unique charm.


Explore the vibrant Andador Eclesiástico De San Cristóbal, a cultural gem filled with artisan shops, delicious cuisine, and historical landmarks in Chiapas.

As we strolled along, we passed numerous shops selling everything from handcrafted textiles to intricate amber jewelry. I couldn't resist stopping at EskarabajoMx, a shop recommended to me by a fellow travel blogger, where I found a beautiful hand-woven scarf. Anika was thrilled with her purchase of a small, brightly painted wooden toy. It's these little souvenirs that bring back such vivid memories later on.

The best journeys answer questions that in the beginning you didn't even think to ask.

The Andador Eclesiástico is more than just a shopping street; it’s a journey through the city’s history and culture. The architecture is a mix of colonial and indigenous styles, reflecting the diverse heritage of San Cristóbal. We paused to admire the Arco del Carmen, a beautiful Moorish-style arch that once served as the entrance to a 16th-century convent.

Continuing our walk, we eventually arrived at the Zócalo de San Cristobal de las Casas, the city’s main square. The Zócalo was bustling with activity. Street vendors were selling everything from local snacks to handmade crafts. We sat on a bench for a while, soaking in the atmosphere and watching the world go by. Anika was fascinated by a group of children playing with a colorful kite.


Explore the vibrant Zócalo de San Cristobal de las Casas, a cultural hub filled with colonial architecture, local flavors, and lively community events.

I couldn't help but reflect on how different this was from our life back in Brampton. Here, life seemed to move at a slower pace, and people took the time to connect with each other and their surroundings. It was a welcome change from the hustle and bustle of city life. I made a mental note to try and incorporate some of this laid-back attitude into our daily routine back home.

For lunch, we decided to try TierrAdentro Restaurante. I had read about their commitment to using local and sustainable ingredients, something that is very important to me. The restaurant itself was charming, with a cozy interior and friendly staff. The food was delicious, and I especially enjoyed the mole, a traditional Mexican sauce made with chili peppers, spices, and chocolate. Vikram opted for a vegetarian dish, and Anika enjoyed a simple but tasty quesadilla.


Experience authentic Mexican cuisine in a cozy atmosphere at TierrAdentro Restaurante in San Cristóbal de las Casas.

After lunch, we spent some more time exploring the Zócalo, taking photos and admiring the architecture. The square is surrounded by historic buildings, including the Municipal Palace and the Cathedral. The cathedral is particularly impressive, with its ornate façade and towering bell towers. I was struck by the contrast between the grandeur of the colonial architecture and the vibrant energy of the indigenous people who were selling their wares in the square.

As the afternoon wore on, we decided to head back to our hotel for a bit of rest. The altitude here in San Cristóbal can be a bit tiring, so we wanted to make sure we were rested for dinner. Plus, Anika was starting to get a little cranky, and I knew she needed a nap.

In the evening, we ventured out again for dinner at Restaurante Las Pichanchas. This restaurant is known for its traditional Chiapan cuisine and lively atmosphere. As soon as we arrived, we were greeted by the sounds of a marimba band, which immediately put us in a festive mood.


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

The restaurant was decorated with colorful murals and traditional crafts, creating a truly immersive experience. We ordered a variety of dishes to share, including cochito chiapaneco (roasted pork) and mole enchiladas. The food was delicious, and the portions were generous. Anika particularly enjoyed the plantains, which were sweet and savory.

During dinner, we were treated to a performance of traditional Chiapan dances. The dancers were dressed in colorful costumes, and their movements were graceful and energetic. It was a truly captivating experience, and I felt grateful to be able to witness such a vibrant expression of local culture.

As the evening drew to a close, we walked back to our hotel, feeling tired but happy. Today had been a whirlwind of sights, sounds, and flavors, and I felt like we had truly immersed ourselves in the heart of San Cristóbal. It was a day that I will cherish for a long time.

Tomorrow, we’re planning to explore the Parque Natural El Encuentro and Grutas Del Mamut. I’m excited to see more of the natural beauty that this region has to offer. We'll start the day with breakfast at El Secreto before heading out to explore. I'm also looking forward to trying some local spirits at Clover Irish Pub in the evening.

Before drifting off to sleep, I thought about how lucky I am to be able to share these experiences with my family. Traveling with Vikram and Anika is always an adventure, and I am grateful for the memories we are creating together. I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings.

It's interesting to see how San Cristóbal embraces its traditions, especially with events that celebrate the local culture. I read that there are often festivals and artisan markets that showcase the region's heritage. It makes me appreciate the efforts to preserve and share these traditions with visitors like us.

I am also mindful of the social issues that affect many communities in Mexico, including the indigenous populations in Chiapas. It's important to support local businesses and initiatives that promote fair trade and sustainable development. By being a responsible traveler, I hope to contribute to the well-being of the communities we visit.