A Tale of Two Cities
With its vibrant culture, world-renowned cuisine, and a host of luxurious experiences, Mexico has endless appeal. And, while the turquoise waters and glamorous retreats of the Yucatán and Baja Peninsulas are favorites for a reason, the country’s charm extends far beyond its stunning coastline. Here, we’ll shine a light on a different side of Mexico – a dreamy dual-destination getaway that pairs the cosmopolitan energy of Mexico City, the nation’s cultural and creative heartbeat, with the ancient allure of Oaxaca, the culinary crown jewel.
Oaxaca: Culture & Cuisine
Best Airport for Private Travel: Xoxocotlán International Airport (OAX)
Set in the foothills of the Sierra Madre, Oaxaca is one of Mexico’s most captivating regions. Despite its growing popularity, it remains remarkably authentic – and therein lies its beauty. The city of Oaxaca is steeped in history, bursting with color, and blessed with an extraordinary culinary heritage. At the same time, the wider state enchants with its tapestry of ancient Zapotec and Mixtec ruins, mezcal-producing valleys, indigenous villages, and surf-friendly stretches of Pacific coastline. In short, it's paradise.
Beyond the Map:
You can easily while away days exploring the cobblestone streets and colorful colonial architecture of the city’s historic center. Shop the artisan markets, stroll through the Ethnobotanical Gardens, and marvel at the bustling Zócalo Plaza and nearby Templo de Santo Domingo. Private tours with knowledgeable local guides are a great way to bring the region’s fascinating history to life.
Beyond the city, highlights include the breathtaking petrified waterfalls of Hierve el Agua, where the views are especially striking at sunset, and the UNESCO-listed Monte Albán archaeological site, once the seat of the Zapotec empire. The region is also dotted with artisan villages, each dedicated to a craft passed down through generations. Among them is picturesque Teotitlán del Valle, a community of master weavers that is well worth a visit. And, of course, your time in Oaxaca wouldn’t be complete without discovering its famous agave-based spirit: mezcal. Head to Casa Silencio, a lauded eco-distillery, and enjoy a tour, tasting, and the chance to distil your very own, one-of-a-kind bottle.
Culinary Trails:
It won’t take long to see why Oaxaca is Mexico’s undisputed culinary capital. Traditional eateries serve time-honoured dishes, markets brim with fresh ingredients and the irresistible aroma of sizzling street food, and an ever-growing list of acclaimed restaurants adds contemporary flair to the offering. It’s a veritable treasure trove of flavours and delights.
For delicious home-style cooking, gravitate to the markets – especially the meat hall at Mercado 20 de Noviembre. As for the city’s top restaurants…where to begin? Casa Oaxaca, Nois, and Crudo are standouts, as is the unique Catarán. With just one table, it’s the perfect spot for an intimate dinner for up to ten guests. Or, for an authentic, hands-on experience, sign up for a private cookery class; Casa Crespo or Que Rico es Oaxaca provide inspirational tutelage.
Stylish Stays:
Nestled in the tranquil foothills, yet conveniently located only 15 minutes from the city centre, the eight-room Hotel Casa Santo Origen offers privacy, impeccable service, and high-end comforts. For those who prefer to be in the thick of the action, Hotel Escondido offers sumptuous suites in the city centre. Or, for a truly exceptional stay, a night or two at Casa Silencio combines bold architectural design with immersive cultural experience in the heart of mezcal country.
Mexico City: Style & Spirit
Best Airport for Private Travel: Toluca International Airport (TLC)
Situated high on a plateau in central Mexico, this cosmopolitan capital is an intoxicating playground for the discerning traveler. Grand plazas echo with the sounds of mariachi bands, historic streets reveal hidden treasures, and vibrant neighborhoods offer endlessly diverse entertainment.
Beyond the Map:
Experiencing the city’s eclectic neighborhoods is a must. Roma Norte hums with creativity, its mural-lined streets offering an array of hip restaurants and galleries. La Condesa, by contrast, provides a calmer, more elegant vibe, with leafy parks and chic cafés. The upscale area of Polanco, known for its designer stores on stylish Masaryk Avenue, is the place to be for luxury seekers.
The city is also home to many celebrated cultural institutions, with a private tour of the Frida Kahlo Museum, the National Art Museum, or the contemporary gallery Kurimanzutto being particularly special. For those eager to venture beyond the metropolis, a hot air balloon ride or a helicopter charter over the ancient Teotihuacán Pyramids tops the list.
Culinary Trails:
From divine street food stalls to off-the-beaten-track taquerías and sprawling markets, Mexico City’s culinary scene is a feast for the senses. With so much choice, it pays to utilize some local expertise, and most top hotels can arrange private tours to ensure you experience the very best of the city’s tantalizing offerings.
At the other end of the scale is the impressive selection of Michelin-starred restaurants. With its seasonal tasting menu, Pujol presents an exquisite range of dishes featuring indigenous ingredients, masterfully crafted by Enrique Olvera. Meanwhile, Quintonil – frequently
ranked among the world’s finest restaurants – is another must-visit for gastronomes.
Stylish Stays:
An array of plush hotels vie to attract Mexico City’s many well-heeled guests. Partly housed in a former colonial mansion, yet oozing modern sophistication, Casa Polanco offers an effortlessly cool base close to high-end shops and fabulous restaurants. Alternatively, the hacienda-style Four Seasons, ideally located near the trendy neighborhoods of Polanco and La Condesa, feels like an oasis of tranquility despite its central location. Or, if you fancy sweeping city views, opt for the Ritz-Carlton. Situated across the 37th to 47th floors of one of the capital’s tallest skyscrapers, it offers lavish accommodation and outstanding views of Chapultepec Park and the lively Mexico City streets.
Fly Private with Air Partner
With just a 1-hour flight between them, Oaxaca and Mexico City make the perfect pairing for a dual-destination escape. Best experienced during the dry season from November to April, you can expect sun-drenched days and comfortable temperatures of 25 - 30°C – ideal for discovering everything these magical Mexican cities have to offer.
