Condesa: The Chic Heart of Mexico City

• HelloHola
  [oh-lah]
• GoodbyeAdiós
  [ah-dee-ohs]
• YesSí
  [see]
• NoNo
  [noh]
• Please/You're welcomePor favor/De nada
  [por fah-vor/deh nah-dah]
• Thank youGracias
  [grah-see-ahs]
• Excuse me/SorryPerdón/Lo siento
  [pair-dohn/loh see-ehn-toh]
• How are you?¿Cómo estás?
  [koh-moh ehs-tahs]
• Fine. And you?Bien. ¿Y tú?
  [byen. ee too]
• Do you speak English?¿Hablas inglés?
  [ah-blahs een-glehs]
• I don't understandNo entiendo
  [noh ehn-tee-ehn-doh]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseMe gustaría ver el menú, por favor
  [meh goo-stah-ree-ah behr ehl meh-noo, por fah-vor]
• I don't eat meatNo como carne
  [noh koh-moh kahr-neh]
• Cheers!¡Salud!
  [sah-lood]
• I would like to pay, pleaseMe gustaría pagar, por favor
  [meh goo-stah-ree-ah pah-gahr, por fah-vor]

• Help!¡Ayuda!
  [ah-yoo-dah]
• Go away!¡Vete!
  [veh-teh]
• Call the Police!¡Llama a la policía!
  [yah-mah ah lah po-lee-see-ah]
• Call a doctor!¡Llama a un doctor!
  [yah-mah ah oon dohk-tohr]
• I'm lostEstoy perdido
  [ehs-toy pair-dee-doh]
• I'm illEstoy enfermo
  [ehs-toy ehn-fehr-moh]

• I'd like to buy...Me gustaría comprar...
  [meh goo-stah-ree-ah kohm-prahr]
• I'm just lookingSólo estoy mirando
  [soh-loh ehs-toy mee-rahn-doh]
• How much is it?¿Cuánto cuesta?
  [kwan-toh kwehs-tah]
• That's too expensiveEsto es muy caro
  [ehs-toh ehs mwee kah-roh]
• Can you lower the price?¿Puede bajar el precio?
  [pweh-deh bah-har ehl pree-syoh]

• What time is it?¿Qué hora es?
  [keh oh-rah ehs]
• It's one o'clockEs la una
  [ehs lah oo-nah]
• Half past (10)Y media
  [ee meh-dee-ah]
• MorningMañana
  [mah-nyah-nah]
• AfternoonTarde
  [tahr-deh]
• EveningNoche
  [noh-cheh]
• YesterdayAyer
  [ah-yehr]
• TodayHoy
  [oy]
• TomorrowMañana
  [mah-nyah-nah]
• 1Uno
  [oo-noh]
• 2Dos
  [dohs]
• 3Tres
  [trehs]
• 4Cuatro
  [kwah-troh]
• 5Cinco
  [seen-koh]
• 6Seis
  [says]
• 7Siete
  [syeh-teh]
• 8Ocho
  [oh-choh]
• 9Nueve
  [nweh-veh]
• 10Diez
  [dyehs]

• Where's a/the...?¿Dónde está...?
  [dohn-deh ehs-tah]
• What's the address?¿Cuál es la dirección?
  [kwal ehs lah dee-rehk-syohn]
• Can you show me (on the map)?¿Puedes mostrarme (en el mapa)?
  [pweh-dehs mohs-trar-meh (ehn ehl mah-pah)]
• When's the next (bus)?¿Cuándo es el próximo (autobús)?
  [kwan-doh ehs ehl proh-ksee-moh (ow-toh-boos)]
• A ticket (to ....)Un boleto (para ...)
  [oon boh-leh-toh (pah-rah)]

Condesa originated in the late 19th century as a fashionable neighborhood, designed by the urban planner Carlos de Sigüenza y Góngora. It was initially intended as a residential area for the upper class, reflecting European architectural styles. The neighborhood's design featured wide boulevards, ornate facades, and green spaces, which were influenced by the European trends of the time.

During the 1920s and 1930s, Condesa experienced a cultural renaissance marked by the Art Deco movement. Many buildings were constructed in this style, showcasing geometric shapes and vibrant colors. The area became a hub for artists, writers, and intellectuals, contributing to the cultural identity of Mexico City, with figures like Diego Rivera and Frida Kahlo frequently seen in local cafés.

The Mexican Revolution (1910-1920) had a profound impact on Condesa's development. As the conflict reshaped the political landscape, many affluent families fled, leading to a decline in the neighborhood's status. However, this period also allowed for the influx of diverse communities, enriching the cultural tapestry of Condesa and paving the way for its eventual revitalization.

By the mid-20th century, Condesa faced urban decline, with many buildings falling into disrepair. However, in the late 20th century, a wave of urban renewal began, driven by both government initiatives and private investment. This revitalization included the restoration of historic buildings and the establishment of parks and cultural venues, making Condesa a desirable place to live once again.

Today, Condesa is celebrated for its vibrant cultural scene, characterized by a mix of traditional and contemporary influences. The neighborhood is home to numerous art galleries, theaters, and music venues, as well as a diverse culinary landscape. Events such as the annual 'Festival de las Culturas Amigas' highlight the neighborhood's role as a cultural melting pot, solidifying its status as one of Mexico City's most dynamic areas.

Condesa is easily accessible from various neighborhoods in Mexico City. The nearest metro stations are Chapultepec (Line 1) and Tacuba (Line 7) which connect to major transit lines. Taxis and rideshare services like Uber are widely available. Public buses also service the area, with routes that connect to popular spots such as Roma, Polanco, and downtown. If arriving from the airport, consider taking a taxi or an airport shuttle for a direct route to Condesa, which typically takes around 30-45 minutes depending on traffic.

Condesa is a pedestrian-friendly neighborhood, making walking one of the best ways to explore its charming streets, parks, and cafes. The neighborhood is well-served by the Metro, with Chapultepec and Sevilla stations nearby. Biking is also popular; consider renting a bicycle from the Ecobici system, which has numerous stations throughout the area. If you prefer public transport, local buses and microbuses run frequently. Taxis and rideshare services are another convenient option for longer distances or late-night travel.

Condesa is generally considered a safe area for tourists, but standard precautions should still be observed. Avoiding poorly lit streets at night and being aware of your surroundings is advisable. Areas with higher crime rates include some parts of Iztapalapa and Tepito, which are far from Condesa but should be noted if traveling across the city. Keep your belongings secure and avoid displaying valuable items in public.

In case of emergency, dial 911 for police, fire, or medical assistance. The nearest hospitals are Hospital ABC and Hospital Español. It's advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses. For minor health issues, there are pharmacies throughout Condesa where you can purchase over-the-counter medications. Keep a list of emergency contacts handy, including your country's embassy.

Fashion: Do wear comfortable, casual clothing suitable for walking. Don't wear overly flashy jewelry to avoid attracting unwanted attention. Religion: Do respect local customs. If visiting a church, dress modestly. Public Transport: Do give up your seat for the elderly or pregnant women. Don't engage in loud conversations or phone calls on public transport. Greetings: Do greet with a friendly 'Hola' and a smile. A handshake is common. Eating & Drinking: Do try local street food and visit traditional markets. Don't drink tap water; always opt for bottled water.

To experience Condesa like a local, immerse yourself in its vibrant café culture by spending time in its many coffee shops or bakeries. Visit Parque Mexico for a stroll or to enjoy outdoor yoga sessions. Engage with locals by attending neighborhood events or visiting local art galleries. Don't miss the chance to try traditional Mexican breakfasts such as chilaquiles or tamales in local eateries. For nightlife, explore the many bars and clubs, but be mindful of local noise ordinances.

Condesa is known for its Art Deco architecture and lush green spaces. Key sites include Parque España, Parque México, and the many murals and street art adorning the buildings. The neighborhood is also home to various cultural events throughout the year, including art walks and food festivals. Be sure to check local listings for events during your visit to get a taste of the local culture.