Evening. Ill get into the list of a few places I really enjoyed below, but my biggest piece of advice would be to go for street food, local markets, and try everything especially the mole! A delicious restaurant serving traditional food at affordable prices. Is Oaxaca Safe? (2023) The Truth About Oaxaca Safety - Cultures Traveled This video is not intended to provide mental health treatment and does not constitute a client/facilitator relationship. Most mezcal is made in Oaxaca state. After two trips to this wonderful city, Ive put together this guide on a few things I wish Id known before travelling to Oaxaca. US embassy in Dublin warns visitors to Ireland to avoid walking alone Never promote yourself as a tourist or a traveler and dont flash gadgets or goods if you can avoid it. All the intel you need to inspire your first trip. [Updated for 2023]. Travel Mexico Solo - Best Mexico Travel Blog in 2023 Its that simple! Either use cards for emergencies only, or take cash out at trusted ATMs. First-timers guide to the Oaxaca Coast - Lonely Planet You can find out more about which cookies we are using or switch them off in settings. Solo Female Travel in Oaxaca - Meet Locals and Travelers - Travel Ladies To help alleviate your confusion, its pronounced wa-HAH-kah. Stephen was sick one of the days we were in Oaxaca, so I had to walk the streets of Oaxaca alone. What to Know Before Traveling to Oaxaca for the First Time - sightDOING Learn how your comment data is processed. Oaxaca City. All rights reserved. Is Oaxaca Safe for Travel? World Nomads provides travel insurance for travelers in over 100 countries. Xoxocotln International Airport or take a bus. No part of this site may be reproduced without our written permission. Out of everywhere in Oaxaca city, I probably ate here the most and highly recommend it! Call us in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries) from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays). On average, theres some great finds for $25-50 a night. Sea-Tac Airport just set a passenger record. Wait times are soaring This region is known for its dangerous highways, as it has some of the highest numbers when it comes to driver warnings issued. Its the mass arrival of nesting olive ridley turtles, a phenomenon that happens around the full moon from July to January and unlike anything Ive ever seen. Got two hours? Travel insurance is a must for every trip to make sure youre covered in unexpected situations. ATM cards are useful. This would be a great stay if youre looking for a community of women and want your privacy in a comfortable room. Youll find that the cheaper tours are more focused on larger production facilities and are more about the drinking rather than the learning process, so choosing a tour really depends on your budget and what youre looking to get out of the experience. Oaxaca | Spending Christmas ALONE in Mexico's most BEAUTIFUL city Sure, room rates are pricier this time of year, but the citys impressive array of lodging options caters to all budgets, from affordable hostels and guesthouses in spacious old homes to brilliant B&Bs and non-franchise boutique hotels in the heart of the historic center. You cant visit Oaxaca without trying ALL the food, so to start you off drooling, here are a few recommendations forwhat to eat in Oaxaca: This list barely touches the surface of all the amazingOaxaca food there are so many more delicious things that you should try (includingchapulines fried grasshoppers for the brave!). The easiest way to search for and book buses in Mexico is with BusBud where you can easily compare options and use a platform in English. Its 2 hours outside of Oaxaca city. Chances are high t Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Most are prone to overpriced cocktails, but their ambiance is worth it for at least a one time experience. In January 2022,. But more than a stopover, this city is a must-visit. A cozy, homey restaurant with delicious mole and tlayudas. We also share information about your use of our site with our social media, advertising and analytics partners. Mexico Is Oaxaca Safe? If you disable this cookie, we will not be able to save your preferences. You'll need a passport for international travel, a driver's license if you're renting a car, and credit or debit cards (but always carry cash as some businesses do not accept plastic). Not only is it safe, but its also very easy to explore on your own. Violent crimes, especially against tourists, are rare. You can find me in IG Leticia.djarquin. Look no further than the delectable mole tamales at Tamales de San Agustn Yatareni or the tender pork tacos at the wildly popular Lechoncito de Oro. Get to the heart of Oaxaca with one of our in-depth, Dont have a lot of time for travel? The state is popular with Mexico culture travel, and Oaxaca City is known as the Foodie Capital of Mexico, so don't miss out on all the amazing Oaxacan food. Read more about me here! We are using cookies to give you the best experience on our website. The Oaxaca Coast is a safe place to travel overall. Oaxaca: Part 2 | Paperchasers Forget just trying food, why not learn how to make it too. If you want an easy way to visit, consider taking a tour. Always wear clothing with zip-up protection. "Traveling Alone to Oaxaca? See What Happened on my Crazy - YouTube 19 Tips for Travelling to Oaxaca, Mexico - Rebecca and the World The US State Department currently has no travel restrictions in place for Oaxaca City, and surrounding areas such as weaving village Teotitln del Valle, the remote mountain towns of the Sierra Norte and most of the coastal region are considered safe by Mexican standards. 35 reviews 37 helpful votes Traveling Alone 9 years ago Save Is it safe to travel alone as a female in Oaxaca? This, The former capital of the Zapotec people is today an illustrious ruin, but for over a thousand years it served as the second-largest ceremonial site in, Legendary 3.5km-long Zicatela is the best-known surfing spot in Mexico courtesy of the tempestuous surfing waves of the Mexican Pipeline. We loved starting the day off at these cafs: There are so many great restaurants in Oaxaca for lunch or dinner it can be hard to decide believe me, I had a lot of FOMO during our time in Oaxaca. For those who make the journey, the reward is multifold paradisiacal beaches, world-class surfing swells and snorkeling from the shore, as well as nesting turtles and whale watching. Whale watching is best from December to March. The beach fills with countless more turtles, as far as the eye can see: a landscape of turtles, like slow-moving rocks, pulling themselves through the sand, digging nests with their flippers and at long last, laying their ping-pong-ball-shaped eggs. Delicious Mole Poblano - a specialty of Puebla, Mexico. Unique & Best Things to Do in Oaxaca City - Packing up the Pieces Oaxaca state is the 10th largest in Mexico, with a population of almost 4 million. If youll be staying in smaller villages, take out larger sums of cash at one of the airports or in the bigger towns so you dont end up in a bind. Domestic flights within Mexico also tend to be pretty affordable especially if traveling light. I may earn a small commission from any purchases made. Staying anywhere in the historic center of Oaxaca is the most ideal. The use of prehispanic ingredients is a most in the cooking process. Choose Your Accommodations Wisely Santo Domingo Church is a central point in the city; there are hundreds of accommodations nearby. They call it Oaxacan gastronomy and its a renowned art. Mexico City To Oaxaca Flight. the chance to wander the pools of Hierve el Agua. Pay the price thats asked and whats fair, as people are usually just trying to make a living. Its one of theprettiest places to visit in Oaxaca, but when I went, I made the mistake of booking a cheap day trip and was rewarded with some low-quality mezcal tastings and only a short time at the actual waterfalls. Check out my Mexico Destination Page here for information on visas, health requirements, currency, outlets, and more. You'll need it for the Museum of Oaxacan Cultures, housed in the beautiful monastery buildings adjoining the Templo de Santo Domingo. To truly experience everything that Oaxaca City and the surrounding region has to offer, plan to visit Oaxaca forat least three days but you could easily spend a week here. Ive spent quite a bit of time at Puerto Escondido, and you should also consider Huatulco, Puerto ngel, Zipolite, Bahia de Tembo or Mazunte for some beach time. These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. This website uses cookies to give you the most relevant experience by remembering your preferences and repeat visits. First, they provide a comfy place to kill time on a cold, rainy day. In the city you can find this smokey drink almost anywhere but a popular place for cocktails and tasting is La Mezcalerita. This liquor is also made of agave but its far more complex, with a smoky flavour (read more in this article about what is mezcal). Its no secret that I have a huge crush on Oaxaca, Mexico. Oaxaca has an international airport, Xoxocotln International Airport (OAX). Like all of Mexico, Oaxacasfascinating and tumultuous historystretches back thousands and thousands of years. A former expat, I've lived in Australia, Papua New Guinea, Argentina and the United States. You can use the app to find free USD assistance. It's 4 hours to Puebla, 6 hours to Mexico City, or about ten hours by bus from San Cristobal de las Casas . Check availability for Casa Angel here. Drink plenty of water and avoid alcohol. While Mexico may be known for tequila, in Oaxaca, itsmezcalthats the drink of choice. Its the most ethnically diverse states in Mexico which means a variety of cultures contribute to the traditions, the food, and more. I recommend wandering where feels right, but definitely dont miss the Centro Historico Plaza. With all its museums, art galleries, uniquely savory cuisine and intoxicating nightlife, you may never want to leave the city, but trust us when we say day trips enrich the overall experience. But, if its all too overwhelming and youd like a local to show you what, where and how to eat, thenbook a food tourwith Omar ofOaxacking. This is where I stayed for my first week and the vibes were immaculate. I ACKNOWLEDGE THE WURUNDJERI AND BOON WURRUNG PEOPLE OF THE KULIN NATION AS THE TRADITIONAL OWNERS OF THE LANDS AND WATERWAYS OF THE AREA I LIVE ON. A. Theres a lot of free thing to do in Mexico or experiences you can do on your own. At first sight, your enchanting streets drew me in. Book a table at Selva for artisanal cocktails made with Oaxacan ingredients. Most restaurants and hotels serve purified water. Oaxaca state is the 10th largest in Mexico, with a population of almost 4 million. When shopping in Oaxaca, prices are fixed in most stores. From interesting street art to public squares full of activity, here's how to experience what Oaxaca has to offer for free. YourOaxacaroad trip starts here: 5 ways to explore Mexican culture, The quest to reviveOaxacascenturies-old mountain trails one hike at a time, The best places to visit inMexicofor culture, cuisine and cenotes, A first-timer's guide to the Oaxaca Coast: Everything you need to know before you go, When to visit Oaxaca for festivals, food and fun, The best places to visit in Mexico for culture, cuisine and cenotes, Make a meal of Mexico: the best foods to plan your trip around, Get off the beaten path at these 10 incredible places in North America, Oaxaca on a budget: how to eat and get cultured for less, Our guide to Oaxacas coolest neighborhoods, Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information. Oaxaca or Guanajuato traveling alone? - Southern Mexico Forum I love exploring new cities and countries to find the best things to do, see and eat. Oaxaca city is the capital of the state and has a population of just over 250,000 people. . The quick answer: Yes! Oaxaca de Jurez is full of impecable food. Simply click on one of the images below to save this post to Pinterest. A post shared by Food Feels (@food_feels). Watch on SoIs Oaxaca a Good Fit for you? A good place to start is theMuseo de las Culturas de Oaxaca(Oaxaca Culture Museum). When traveling though Oaxaca state, you'll likely begin in Oaxaca City otherwise known as Oaxaca de Jurez. This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible. If you're traveling to Oaxaca, whether on your own or with a friend or partner, . Pack for a beach vacay flips flops, a couple swimsuits, casual street clothes, a billed hat. However, you may visit "Cookie Settings" to provide a controlled consent. So, without further ado, heres my Oaxaca travel guide with some handy travel tips! ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. There really is an incredible amount of things to do in Oaxaca, and I dont want you to miss out on any of it! Belieive it or not, Oaxaca is known by visitors as one of the safest states and cities in the whole country. Beyond city limits, traffic is usually light but expect a fair share of poorly maintained roads with a slew of potholes and unmarked speed bumps. From Oaxaca City, bank on a journey of six to seven hours in a rental car or eight to nine hours in an often-packed camioneta (passenger minivan). Alternatively, if you foresee a boozy DIY romp, you can always leave the driving to a taxi for about M$500 each way. Dorm beds are $18-25 a night. Stay in the loop! For ecotourism outings in the nearby Sierra Norte mountains, bring a heavy jacket. Is Mexico Safe To Visit? Travel In 2022 - Forbes Ive seriously never eaten so much food in four hours (a siesta was needed afterwards) but it was a great introduction to the tastes of Oaxaca. Despite the much-publicized news about Mexico's drug-related violence, Oaxaca remains a relatively safe place to visit. Ask anyone, tourists or locals alike, where is the best place to visit in Mexico? Exploring Oaxaca de Juarez. Flights to Mexico are typically cheapest to Mexico City, Cancun, Puerto Vallarta, Monterrey and San Jose del Cabo. Drop your questions in the comments section below. This is information only and not a recommendation to buy travel insurance. All female guesthouse: I didnt stay here but as a solo female traveler it did draw my attention on Airbnb. However if youre looking for a cheaper option for only travel medical emergency insurance, I suggest Safety Wing. As solo travel expert Ciara Johnson puts it, however, safety while traveling alone is never guaranteed especially for women. Necessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly. The heart of the, Zipolite's beach is huge, running for a good 1.5km and dispatching massive waves. Welcome, I'm Shelley . A 15-mile-stretch of curlicue coastline, with nine bays and a whopping 36 beaches,Bahas de Huatulco is by no means plain, but it is the easiest section of the Oaxaca Coast to explore. Oaxaca and all along the Riviera Maya has, according to the U.S. advisory boards, the lowest advisory warning in Mexico. Solo travel creates an incredible opportunity to see more of the world on your own time. Youll be close to all the action and almost everything I mention will be in walking distance. In general, tourists in Mexico rarely get caught up in disputes between rival drug gangs and that's especially true for Oaxaca, a state that has been mostly spared from the violence. Do carry plastic for resorts and high end hotels, car rentals and to buy airline and first-class bus tickets. Spend the day with me! Of course theres crime in Oaxaca like in every part of the world. You might also like:YourOaxacaroad trip starts here: 5 ways to explore Mexican cultureThe quest to reviveOaxacascenturies-old mountain trails one hike at a timeThe best places to visit inMexicofor culture, cuisine and cenotes. Travel Advisory Update for Mexico - U.S. Embassy & Consulates in Mexico World Nomadsoffers simple and flexible travel insurance. At this point, you might say I'm a Mexpert! Here are a few that we visited on our trip, all of which celebrate Oaxacan flavours and ingredients. They look deceptively close on a map, but in reality, because of the winding roads through the mountains, its a 5- to 7-hour journey by car or bus. You can take a bus here and stay overnight or take a day trip. I was solo in san Miguel de Allende and Guanajuato. Like most places in the world, though, petty thefts can happen, so only carry what you need, leave your valuables locked in your hotel and avoid flashing expensive phones and jewelry. This way if you also travel alone, you can better have an idea of what to expect. Welcome to my channel BeComing Nyrell-if you like this content please consider subscribing. Some people who are prone toaltitudesickness do have issues in Oaxaca, but for most people it wont be an issue. The Oaxaca Coast also boasts some of the best surfing spots in the country Chacahua and Barra de la Cruz have point breaks peeling for hundreds of meters. Buses in Mexico are most easily booked and cheapest on BusBud. Oaxaca City Travel Guide25 Things to Do in Mexico's Culinary Capital In my opinion, you cant miss this site on your Oaxaca trip. At the center of the state in every way stands beautiful, colonial Oaxaca city, an elegant and fascinating cultural hub. Spend half a day atMonte Albn, which dates back to 500BC. If you do get a stomach bug Hospital Reforma is a decent option with 24-hour medical attention. Its about a 3 hours bus ride from Oaxaca City. You can search for coverage here. A light jacket is always useful for cool evenings and air-conditioned buses. If you're heading for Oaxaca's sublime tropical coast, take a swimsuit, flip-flops, loose-fitting clothes, and insect repellent. Booking.com is the way to go when search for hotels in Mexico because they typically offer free cancellation with plenty of affordable to more luxurious stays. 40 Amazing Places to Visit in the United States: Beaches, Cities, National Parks and More! Mexico Travel Advisory