Mexico City, or "DF" to many Mexicans, is an entire trip of its own. I am a little self-conscious about making a post for this because this was simply a planned 24-hour stopover on my way from Denver, Colorado to Quito, Ecuador. I realize that one day and night can't possibly do any justice to this immense city, with its incredibly varied neighborhoods and rich local life. But this was my first time in the capital city so I simply did the best I could with the 24 hours I had available and which I will share here. 

Semana de Los Muertos

 

We were fortunate enough to arrive in Mexico City the week of Dia De Los Muertos. Okay that part was a bit intentional I'll admit, because DDLM is probably my favorite holiday. I had always considered Dia De Los Muertos to be on November 2nd, as I've usually seen it celebrated in the U.S. But on this trip I learned that Mexico City hosts a full week of festivities surrounding this very important holiday, with each day dedicated to a different group oeople that have passed. There is a specific day to honor deceased children, for example.

What I love about this tradition is its focus on positively celebrating the life of the deceased, instead of the solemn mourning we often see, and I'd prefer the same after I "sign off". I'd like to pause and acknowledge that I am writing as an outsider here, not a Mexican native. As I have no personal ties to this holiday or culture, I realize my understanding of its significance is shallow at best. 

 

 

 

Staying at the Four Seasons was definitely been out of budget this trip, but that doesn't you can't still enjoy the grounds. We stopped here a couple times for a break while in the area. They have a cafe, shops, available bathrooms, and a lovely outdoor seating area full of lush greenery. There was a live band starting up just as we were leaving and several tourists were enjoying brunch on the patio. This whole outdoor area appears to be open to the public so why not soak up a little luxury for free? 

 

 

 

 

Travel Tip: Free 'sips' of luxury - You don't always have to stay at expensive hotels to get a taste of their luxurious atmosphere. Some famous hotels have art exhibits, courtyards, notable views, or fancy seating areas that anyone can enjoy for free. The key is to walk in with confidence and act like you belong, because you do! 

 

  

 

 

There is a beautiful and enormous forested park right off Paseo de la Reforma, where the parade had been held. There were plenty of vendors selling goods, but also some beautiful DDLM ofrendas featuring flowers.  

 

Then there is a climb up towards the Chapultepec "Castle" at the top of a hill. We did the full walk up to the castle, but didn't end up entering since we had so little time to spend in the city. This park is huge and could easily have been a full day or weekend of its own with walking, shopping, beautiful views, and a gorgeous castle to explore at the top. For that I would recommend pre-purchasing tickets as well if possible, as the line was quite long when we were there (though it was also a holiday).

 

 

 

 

 

 

But the castle is just one of the many sights this enormous forest park in the heart of the city has to offer. Bosque de Chapultepec also hosts a zoo, an artificial lake with paddle boats, restaurants, a nature preserve, multiple museums, and Mexico's national cemetery! This would be a great trip for families, but definitely leave more than just a few hours for this one, which was all I had this particular trip. 

 

Key Attraction: Chapultepec Park & Chapultepec Castle

 

 

 

 

Despite arriving at the end of October, I had apparently already missed the big Dia De Los Muertos parade along Avenida Paseo de la Reforma. But some of the incredible art that was featured in the parade was kept along the Avenue so we were unexpectedly treated to a rather impressive outdoor art gallery instead.

 

Angel of Independence Monument

For me this monument wasn't really a destination of its own, but it is certainly a notable and famous landmark you can't miss as you're walking along the Avenida Paseo de la Reforma. El Ángel de la Independencia is an enormous statue in the middle of the avenue honoring Mexico's independence. 

 

Lunch at Taqueria El Califa

El Califa is a local chain with decent tacos and lots of options. I was also pleasantly surprised to find vegetarian options as well, which is often difficult in Mexico. I would generally rather eat street food and support small local vendors instead, but I let myself get too hungry and this place was the most convenient option at the time!

Flight to Ecuador (MEX - IUO AM684) 

 

Follow me to Ecuador! (new post coming soon)