Tailor-Made Mexico: The Essence of Mesoamerica

Home to palm-fringed beaches, fiesta fireworks, frantically vibrant cities, and delectable chili-spiced cuisine, Mexico is synonymous with summer getaways, thumping parties and amazing comfort food. Mexico City’s cultural draws range from underground clubs and street art to world-class galleries and museums, not to mention the UNESCO-listed neighbourhood of Xochimilco, whose canals pay homage to the days of the Aztec Empire. Another Aztec relic is the city of Teotihuacán, home to many of the most significant pyramids on the continent, best seen during a hot air balloon ride at sunset. On top of pre-Columbian gems, Mexico boasts historic colonial-era cities like Oaxaca and Puebla. Wherever you go, the outdoors beckons you, with historical, cultural and natural wonders waiting to be found around every corner.

With nine days in Mexico, you can get to know the nation’s capital, bygone civilisations, superb gastronomy and amazing locals. While it would take a lifetime just to scratch the surface of this diverse and vibrant nation, you can explore Mexico City, Teotihuacán, Puebla, Oaxaca, and much more by following our suggested itinerary.

Mexico at a Glance

In most of Mexico’s major cities, attitudes towards the LGBTQ+ community are friendly and welcoming. Same-sex relationships are legal, as are same-sex adoption and marriage equality in many states. LGBTQ+ people can live openly without fear of discrimination in many neighbourhoods of cities such as Puebla, Puerto Vallarta and Mexico City. Pride events take place throughout the country, with around 350,000 attending the festivities in the capital every year. Mexico City’s gay district is Zona Rosa, where you’ll find over 50 LGBTQ+ bars and clubs. Outside of the capital, Oaxaca is one of the most gay-friendly places in Mexico, home to a large LGBTQ+ community and same-sex wedding ceremonies, plus attractions ranging from pre-Columbian ruins to the Sierra Madre mountain range. You can also feel safe, welcome and comfortable in Puebla, which established the National Day Against Homophobia in 2017. It’s worth remembering that many small towns and rural places in Mexico hold conservative Catholic attitudes. Displays of affection might be best kept private.

With its globally lauded beaches, art, gastronomy, nature and ancient cities, Mexico is an amazing place to visit at just about any time of the year, though winter can see many seasonal closures, particularly in the more remote areas. The high season runs from December to April, when the humidity is low and temperatures are an inviting 25 degrees Celsius, though high demand for attractions, tours and hotels is often reflected in the prices. Visiting during the low tourism season in summer (May to August) will be easier on your wallet, but you’ll have to put up with high temperatures and humidity. Summer is, however, the best season for scuba diving.