After a restful night in Mexico City, we boarded a bus from the TAPO terminal bound for Oaxaca de Juárez (Oaxaca City), nestled 1,550 metres above sea level in the beautiful mountains of the same name. The journey offered a welcome contrast to the chaos of the capital.

Upon arrival, we were instantly charmed by Oaxaca’s bright, lively atmosphere. Although our Airbnb didn’t quite meet expectations, the city itself more than made up for it with its captivating colonial architecture, warm and friendly people, and perfect weather.

Mornings in Oaxaca followed a lovely routine: we would start the day at a local café with aromatic coffee and delicious cakes. By lunchtime we were exploring the city’s vibrant culinary scene, squeezing into bustling markets or small cafeterias to enjoy local specialities like rich mole sauces and refreshing fruit juices.

The food markets were a sensory feast. Colourful stalls overflowed with fresh produce, exotic spices, artisanal cheeses, and traditional street foods such as tlayudas (giant crispy tortillas) and chapulines (fried grasshoppers — a local delicacy). Every visit felt like stepping into the true heart of the city.

Afternoons were dedicated to exploring. We wandered through the serene **Botanic Gardens**, admiring the incredible variety of cacti, and visited the **Museum of Culture** housed in a beautifully restored old convent. Even with limited exhibitions open, the collection of ancient artifacts was fascinating.

One of the highlights of our stay was a trip to **Monte Albán**, the impressive ancient Zapotec city perched on a mountain overlooking the valley. The panoramic views, grand plazas, carved stelae, and astronomical observatory left a lasting impression.