Huatulco Art and Oaxaca

Oaxaca: The World’s Best City for Art Lovers

In the 2023 Travel + Leisure World’s Best Awards, Oaxaca de Juárez, commonly referred to as Oaxaca, was named the best city in the world. This recognition is a testament to the city’s vibrant culture, beautiful weather, and its thriving art scene, making it a must-visit destination for art lovers. Oaxaca’s deep connection to pre-Columbian culture and its unique blend of Indigenous, Spanish, and contemporary Mexican influences create an unforgettable experience for travelers. In this article, we will explore the best aspects of Oaxaca for art enthusiasts, from places to stay to cultural attractions and, of course, the flourishing art scene.

Discovering Oaxaca’s Artistic Charm

Oaxaca’s art scene is a testament to the rich cultural tapestry of the region. The city seamlessly combines traditional and contemporary art forms, reflecting the deep artistic roots of Oaxaca. As you explore Oaxaca’s art galleries, artisan markets, and the vibrant streets, you’ll discover the essence of Mexico’s creative spirit.

Where to Stay

Oaxaca offers a wide range of accommodations to suit every traveler’s preferences. Whether you prefer a luxurious hotel, a historic convent-turned-hotel, or a boutique stay in the heart of mezcal country, Oaxaca has it all.

• Hotel Casa Santo Origen: If you seek modern boutique beauty, Hotel Casa Santo Origen is the perfect choice. Just 15 minutes from the city center, each of its eight suites is uniquely named after a region in Oaxaca, with local art adorning the interiors.

• Quinta Real Oaxaca: For a more old-fashioned charm, check into Quinta Real Oaxaca, a 16th-century nunnery that seamlessly combines history with modern amenities. The property offers views of courtyards, Oaxacan streets, and a serene garden pool.

• Casa Silencio: If you want to immerse yourself in mezcal country, Casa Silencio is a top pick. Located an hour outside Oaxaca, this upscale sanctuary boasts multilevel guest rooms, a spa, Michelin-caliber cuisine, and even a working distillery for those interested in the native spirit.
  
  

Exploring the Art Scene

Oaxaca’s art scene is a blend of tradition and innovation, and there are countless ways to immerse yourself in its artistic offerings.

Downtown Oaxaca: Start by exploring the city center and downtown, where you can leisurely stroll through markets and savor local delights like “pan de yema con chocolate.” Take a moment to soak in the vibrant atmosphere in one of the plazas, where you might chance upon a colorful calenda (street procession) celebrating various local events.

Hierve el Agua: Beyond the city, Hierve el Agua is a natural wonder worth visiting. These calcareous rock formations resemble frozen waterfalls clinging to cliffs. Established hiking trails lead you right to the edge of the cascades, and early birds can enjoy the human-made pools without the crowds.

Monte Albán: Monte Albán, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offers a glimpse into ancient history. Built by the Zapotecs, Indigenous people who settled in the region as early as 800 B.C.E., the site features a well-preserved terraced pyramid and other pre-Columbian artifacts. It’s a treasure trove of history and culture.

Mezcal Experiences: No visit to Oaxaca is complete without exploring its mezcal heritage. Mezcal, a distilled agave spirit, is deeply rooted in Oaxacan traditions. You can visit palenques (farm distilleries) and mezcalerías (mezcal bars) to appreciate the craftsmanship and complexity of this spirit. Don’t miss Mezcalería In Situ, El Distilado, Selva Oaxaca, and the rooftop of Puro Burro, founded by agave expert Asis Cortes.

Oaxacan Beaches: Oaxaca’s extensive coastline offers numerous beach getaways. Puerto Escondido is a popular choice, known for its cerulean surf and thriving beach scene. Mazunte is another option, featuring a Mexican Turtle Center dedicated to preserving these beloved reptiles. For those seeking adventure, Zipolite offers powerful waves for surfers and stunning sunsets over the cliffs. Snorkelers can explore the protected coral reefs in Huatulco National Park.

Shopping in Oaxaca

Oaxaca is a haven for shopping enthusiasts, with small boutiques and markets offering a wide array of handmade goods.

• Mercado 20 de Noviembre: This bustling market offers everything from sandals and bags to homeware and more. Don’t miss the “Pasillo de Carnes Asadas,” where you can enjoy fresh, grilled meats.

• Artisan Communities: Venture beyond the city to artisan communities like San Martín Tilcajete, San Bartolo Coyotepec, and Teotitlan del Valle. Here, skilled artisans create exquisite wooden figurines called alebrijes, intricate black pottery, and vibrant textiles.

• Mercado de Abastos: Foodies can explore Mercado de Abastos, where you can book a tour with local guide Omar Alonso to experience a true taste of Oaxaca. This is where locals shop for ingredients during festivals.

• Mezcal Shopping: Mezcal lovers can visit Mezcaleria Cuish for both tastings and the chance to purchase bottles.

Savoring Oaxacan Cuisine

Oaxaca’s culinary scene is world-class, offering a wide variety of dishes to explore as you wander the city’s streets.

• Mercado 20 de Noviembre: This bustling market is famous for its diverse food stalls, featuring baked goods, pastries, and a dedicated aisle for roasted meats. Try the “Pasillo de las Carnes Asadas” for freshly grilled meats.

• Restaurante Casa Oaxaca: For a sit-down experience, make a reservation at Casa Oaxaca’s restaurant, led by chef Alejandro Ruiz. Don’t miss the tableside guacamole and classic Oaxacan dishes like mole negro and coloradito.

• Origen: Origen, helmed by Top Chef winner Rodolfo Castellanos, is one of the city’s top-rated restaurants. Try the grilled octopus and chicharrones.

• El Lechoncito de Oro: If you’re looking for a late-night treat, El Lechoncito de Oro is an institution, serving seared pork tacos covered in crispy pork rinds and spicy salsa verde.

• Bar La Giralda: For a refreshing michelada, stop by Bar La Giralda, where they use pasilla chiles in their base. The more you drink, the more botanas (snacks) appear.

Choosing the Best Time to Visit

Oaxaca’s climate varies depending on t
he season and region, but it is generally pleasant and sunny year-round. The rainy season from May to September offers lush landscapes and fewer crowds, while July can be crowded due to the Guelaguetza festival. Early November marks the start of the dry season, extending through April, and is an excellent time to experience Día de los Muertos celebrations.