One of my favorite Mexican Christmas traditions is Las Posadas. In this tradition, the biblical passage in which Mary and Joseph search for shelter in Bethlehem is re-enacted each evening for the nine nights leading up to Christmas. In my neighborhood, a posada is held on a different street each night. One family will host […]
Oaxacan Handicrafts and Folk Art
A piece by Angélica Vásquez of Santa Maria Atzompa, Oaxaca Oaxaca is known for the variety and beauty of its handicrafts. Oaxaca’s diversity is reflected in its popular art: pottery, woodcarving, weaving, basketry, candle making, embroidery, and many more crafts are practiced here. Collectors from all over the world come to Oaxaca to purchase the […]
Monte Alban: Capital of Zapotec Civilization
Located on a mountaintop some 4 miles to the southwest of Oaxaca City, the archaeological site of Monte Alban, along with the historical center of Oaxaca City, was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1987. This ancient place is less well known than some of Mexico’s other archaeological zones, such as Chichen Itzá and […]
Santo Domingo Church and Cultural Center in Oaxaca
Oaxaca is well known for its gastronomy, archaeological sites, fiestas, and handicrafts, but many visitors are surprised by Oaxaca’s impressive colonial architecture. Oaxaca’s cathedral, La Soledad church, and the Santo Domingo church and former convent are all excellent examples of Oaxacan religious architecture from the colonial period, but Santo Domingo is the most outstanding. Considered […]
Enjoying Mexico’s Natural Areas
Mexico is among the world’s top five most biodiverse countries. This phenomenal biodiversity is due to Mexico’s highly varied topography and its geographic situation — it’s located where the Nearctic and Neotropical ecozones meet, so it has species which are endemic to both zones. Accordingly, there is also a huge array of ecosystems in Mexico. […]
Guelaguetza: Celebrating Oaxacan Culture
Living in Oaxaca I have had the opportunity to witness many of Oaxaca’s cultural expressions and the Guelaguetza is one of the liveliest and most joyful of them. The Guelaguetza is a festival which is celebrated in Oaxaca in the month of July, but the meaning of “Guelaguetza” goes far beyond the actual festival. The […]
Huatulco: Green Destination
Huatulco has been one of my favorite beach destinations since my first visit in 1997. Since then, several of the large resorts have changed name and ownership, there are new paved roads, hotels, shops, and tourist amenities, but the area maintains a laid-back feel, the beaches are as clean and beautiful as before, and the […]
