Ely Cathedral: An Architect’s Guide to this wonderful piece of architecture
This original structure was completed by 1189 however the construction of the cathedral would span centuries.
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MEXICO
BACKPACKING MEXICO
Mexico has such a rich deep history, it is full of friendly people home to stunning landscapes and coasts. It has cool cities that are massive (like Mexico City) and smaller (like Oaxaca) and lets not forget tacos, tequila and mezcal. Whether you are flying into Mexico City, or crossing into Mexico from Belize you will be met with a plethora of things to do and a lot of places to uncover and explore.
Mexico City
Spanish
Pesos
OUR MEXICO BACKPACKING JOURNEY
BACKPACKING MEXICO
WE HAVE TWO ROUTE OPTIONS FOR MEXICO
ROUTE 01: CANCUN TO BELIZE
ROUTE 02: MEXICO CITY TO PUERTO ESCONDIDO
ROUTE 01 - Arriving into Cancun the Yucatan region is truly spectacular you get to explore Holbox, Chichen Itza the dreamy Caribbean coast. You also get the bohemian Tulum, all the cenotes and the Mexicans really know how to throw a party be it jungle beach or town.
ROUTE 02 - Arriving into Mexico City is a polar opposite experience to Cancun but the city is incredible. Here you get a some beautiful architecture, a gritty party vibe, fantastic food and more museums than you can shake a stick at. Its a culturally enriching destination and as you work your way down to the west coast you get to experience everything from an urban metropolis to mountain trails, smaller vibrant towns famous for something (like mezcal) The best part is, Mexico is pretty easy to transit using public transport. Lets get into this magical country.
ROUTE 01
TAKE ME TO 0.6. CHETAMUL TO BELIZE (Caye Caulker)
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ROUTE 02
TAKE ME TO 0.7. MEXICO CITY AIRPORT
TAKE ME TO 0.10. TO OAXACA (We are building it)
TAKE ME TO 0.11. TO SAN CRISTOBAL DE LAS CASAS (We are building it)
TAKE ME TO 0.12. SAN JOSE DEL PACIFICO (We are building it)
TAKE ME TO 0.13 PUERTO ESCONDITO (We are building it)
0.1.
CANCUN AIRPORT
Welcome
Arriving Into Cancun
Immigration at Cancun International. This is relatively easy, on a UK passport, you will need to fill out a green tourist card. You may need to confirm where you are staying so make sure you have this in your memory. You will be asked how long you would like to stay in the country (always ask for the maximum) 180 days) The immigration officer will take the majority of the forms before giving you a section (DO NOT LOSE THIS SECTION)
cancun-international-airport-map
San Francisco BART Map
cancun-airport-map-Terminal 2
Rental Car Location
cancun-international-airport-map
San Francisco BART Map
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Maps Wallet
Option 01
Buses are going to be your best travel option across Mexico and they are easy to use. If you are spending a night or two in Cancun then you need terminal 2 and are just 50 minutes away for 130 pesos. If you are looking for island paradise and want Holbox, head to Chiquilá from Cancun bus terminal (2h30mins and 360 pesos) before grabbing the Holbox Express 220 pesos. Or if you want to head straight to Tulum you have a three hour bus ride from the airport.
Option 02
The alternate option is to jump in a taxi. These can get to Central Cancun in around 30 - 40 minutes and will not cost the earth if there is a group of you travelling together, they are quite intimidating when you walk out the airport but talk to a few and ask for the price. If you know Spanish, now is a good time to start using a bit.
Option 03
A final option is a shuttle, these can be pre booked through companies like Happy Shuttle, but again a better option when sharing.
50 minutes later
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BACKPACKING CANCUN
Cancun is synonymous for large all inclusive style resorts, you can find a party and a golden beach here and you can also access the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef, the second-largest coral reef system in the world. As a backpacker, this area may not be your jam, but Cancun is a great place to transit due to the cost of flights. Check out our blog post backpacking 101 for tips on getting a good international flight deal.
0.2.
Eat
Seafood
Drink
Cocktails
Do
Diving
Party
Travel
Walk
Taxi
Stay
Hostels
Hotels
Time
1-2 Days
Where To Stay In Cancun
Cancun is a tourist destination that has all inclusive hotels from wall to wall, I would advise spending minimal time in Cancun. For a backpacker it does not offer adventure, nonetheless lets look at some hostels!
Maya Monkey - Dorms £22 p/n
The Maya brand has positioned itself as a 'luxury' hostel. What to expect is a clean environment and facilities, beds with curtains and lockers. Bars on site and bike hire. You can be fairly certain of a nice stay.
Nomads Hotel Hostel & Rooftop Pool - Dorms £9 - £12 p/n
Nomads have two locations in Cancun, both locations are known as 'party hostels' I would highly recommend ear pugs. If you want to meet backpackers, you will find them at these Hostels.
Selina Cancun Laguna Hotel Zone
Selina has positioned itself as a hostel that caters to the digital nomad. Having stayed in a good number of Selina, they can be hit and miss on cleanliness. The atmosphere in a large number can simply non existent. Cancun Selina does not rate high but I am yet to stay in one that is 'terrible'. The price point on food and drink is always expensive, so keep this in mind! Check out our post on the Selina brand for a quick look at which we would suggest checking out during travels through Central and South America.
Cancun
Hotel Zone
Cancun
Snorkeling
What To Do In Cancun
Playa Tortugas
Perhaps the easiest way to have fun in Cancun is to head to a beach, pull on some swim ware and grab the snorkel mask.
Nomads Hostels
For a party nomads are a good place to meet backpackers who have usually just arrived into Mexico, the hostel has a bit of a party vibe so make sure you have earplugs!
To Holbox
or
HOLBOX
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Backpacking Holbox
Pronounced 'holbosh' this island is car-less and the epitome of paradise.
Pristine, white-sand beaches with crystal-clear turquoise waters. The island's coastline stretches for miles, providing plenty of opportunities for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports. Holbox is part of the Yum Balam Flora and Fauna Protection Area, a protected natural reserve. The island is home to diverse ecosystems, including mangroves, wetlands, and lush tropical vegetation. It's a haven for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts.
0.2.
Eat
Seafood
Pizza
Drink
Smoothies
Do
Walks
Bird watch
Relax
Travel
Bicycle
Golf cart
Stay
Hostels
Time
2-3 Days
Cancun
Ado Bus Terminal
Getting to Holbox
From Cancun take a bus to Chiquilá (2h30mins and 360 pesos) before grabbing the Holbox Express 220 pesos.
This will land you in Holbox dock were you should be able to proceed on foot to your hostel of choice. Lets look at some of the options for where to stay in Holbox.
Where To Stay In Holbox
Tribu Hostel - Dorms £19-22 p/n
Chilled vibes and just off the beach, evening activities and large fully equipped kitchen with a terrace dining area. Hammocks in the garden and a hostel bar with live show. A great choice for a relaxing stay
Che Holbox Hostel & Bar Adults Only - Dorms £21 - £25 p/n
If you want a very clean environment Che is your place. A big hostel on Holbox that offers a bar, a pool, yoga sessions. Evenings tend to revolve around the bar but a good place to meet people and have some fun.
Barco Verde Hostel Dorms - £20 p/n
A friendly welcome and within 200 metres of Playa Holbox and 2.3 km of Punta Coco. A shared kitchen is on site. Rooms have private bathrooms and air conditioning.
Tribu Hostel
Break Out
Holbox
Coast Line
What To Do In Holbox
Punta Coco
Visitors to Punta Coco often go to relax, swim, sunbathe, and enjoy the serene surroundings. It's also a great place for birdwatching. Holbox is home to numerous bird species, including flamingos and pelicans. Due to its remote location, there are limited facilities at Punta Coco, so it's a good idea to bring your own snacks, drinks, and shade if you plan to spend a significant amount of time there.
Bird Watching
Explore the island's mangroves and lagoons to spot a variety of bird species, including flamingos, pelicans, and herons.
The Main Town
The main town of Holbox is a charming place with colorful buildings, shops, restaurants, and bars. Stroll through the streets, enjoy the local cuisine, and shop for handmade crafts.
Playa Mosquito
Playa Mosquito is less crowded compared to some other beaches on Holbox, thanks to its somewhat remote location. It offers a more serene and peaceful atmosphere, making it perfect for those seeking a tranquil beach experience.
Horse Back Riding
There are opportunities on this beautiful island for a horse back trip usually during sunrise or sunset hours and through the mangroves budget circa £65 per person.
Where to Eat In Holbox
Roots Pizza
Known for its wood-fired pizzas, Roots Pizza is a popular spot for those craving a taste of Italy. They offer a range of pizza options, including vegetarian and vegan choices.
Mandarina
Tropical ambiance, serving fresh seafood and Mexican dishes. It's a great place to try ceviche or other seafood specialties.
Holbox
Beach
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Luuma
Vegetarian and vegan-friendly restaurant think salads, wraps, smoothies with fresh ingredients.
El TacoQueto
If you're in the mood for Mexican street food, El TacoQueto is a good choice. They serve tacos, burritos, and other Mexican favorites in a casual setting.
Casa Nostra
Italian restaurant with a romantic ambiance and candlelit tables make it an excellent choice for a special evening.
Time for Tulum
or
TULUM
0.3.
Backpacking Tulum
Tulum has become a bohemian town, it is close to the well-preserved costal Mayan ruins, has a laid-back atmosphere, and eco-friendly tourism. The town has been made vibrant through street art and murals. Tulum is also a great base for exploring the cenotes or heading out to jungle parties. You can also consider doing a day tour to Chichen Itza. You will find a lot of backpackers here as well as holiday makers but if you are beginning your backpacking in Mexico, Tulum is a fantastic start place to settle you into the backpacker lifestyle.
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Eat
Vegan
Street Tacos
Drink
Smoothies
Coffee
Modelo
Tequila
Cocktails
Do
Cenotes
Beach
Party
Explore
Travel
Bus
Collectivo
Bicycle
Walk
Stay
Hostels
Time
3-5 Days
Where To Stay In Mexico
Tulum
Street Art
What To Do In Tulum
Explore the Streets
The central road through Tulum also acts as the main street front, you will find shops and bars but you will also uncover fantastic street art.
Visit the Cenotes
With hundred of cenotes in and around Tulum its a great place to grab a bike and peddle across to go and see these otherworldly environments.
Hit the Beach
A laid back beach day is a great option, just a 15 minute bike ride away the beautiful Playa Pescadores awaits with its golden sand and warm blue waters.
Visit the Ruins
One of the last cities built and inhabited by the Maya civilization and on the beautiful coast line. Not the most well preserved ruins you will see in Mexico, but still worth a trip, especially if coupled with a beach day. For maps and more check the blog post below.
Hostels
As Tulum becomes more popular the hostels, hotels and air BnBs are popping up giving a good amount of choice. Lets have a look at a couple of hostels with big reputations.
Mamas Home - Dorms TBC p/n
This place is currently undergoing a transition and moving to a new location last checked (October 2024). Having stayed in Mamas Home, I hope the new place offers the same as the old, a good breakfast around a very social banquette style table along with bike hire and great staff. We will keep an eye on it but for now two other options to consider are as follows:
Maya Monkey - Dorms £13-20 p/n
A modern, big, but clean and tidy hostel with all your 'mod cons'. Nice beds with privacy curtains. Location is between places, halfway between Tulum and the beach so you will need a bike or a taxi in the evenings. Not all options come with breakfast but it can be included for a small additional cost, which in this location would be a good idea.
Che Tulum - Dorms £18-25 p/n
Che is though of as a bit of a 'party hostel' especially in Bacalar. A similar offering to Maya as a more modern hostel with mod cons but located in Tulum, a more expensive price point compared to some, a good place to meet new people.
Mamas Home
Hostel
Where To Eat In Tulum
El Bajon Vegan Tacos
A tiny place with great vegan tacos at a fair price point.
El Vegetariano Mar y Tierra
A larger menu a great spot for the vegetarians
Raw Love Town
This place not only has great food and smoothies, the coffee is also fantastic.
La Hoja Verde
Refined Vegan and vegetarian food.
Don Cafeto
A more traditional experience, with meat options this place will give big portions at a good price, less thrills more hearty.
El Bajo
Restaurant
Batey
Tulum
Where To Drink In Tulum
Batey Mojito & Guarapo Bar
A new bar in the area it provides live music and makes claim to the best mojito in Tulum
Mezcaleria Amores
A more traditional bar with a good drink selection and seating/ standing that spills out over the streets
Straw hat
Think spring break as a rooftop bar! Cheap drinks and loud music.
Naná Rooftop Bar
For a more classy evening Nana has a more modern design and bigger cocktail selection.
To Chichen Itza
or
Back To The Bus Stop
If you are in and around Quintana Roo, you should take the opportunity to pop over to the Yucatan and check out the Iconic Chichen Itza. This will put you into the depths of mass tourism but the site is an incredibly well preserved example of Mayan Architecture and is also a UNESCO site. Just a couple of hours from both Tulum and Cancun, lets take a look at this increadible site.
CHICHEN ITZA
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0.4.
Backpacking Chichen Itza
Chichen Itza is one of Mexico's most famous and iconic archaeological sites, renowned for its well-preserved Mayan ruins and historical significance. Located in the Yucatán Peninsula, Chichen Itza was once a major city in the Maya civilization and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.
Eat
Take Lunch
Drink
Water
Do
Photography
Travel
Bus
Stay
Day Trip
Time
1 Days
chichen-itza-maps 02
chichen-itza-maps
San Francisco BART Map
chichen-itza-maps-03
Rental Car Location
chichen-itza-maps 02
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Maps Wallet
Day Trip To Chichen Itza
On your own from Tulum (2023)
Chichen Itza is just past Valladolid and directly accessible from the Tulum Ado bus terminal. Check the bus times on Bus Bud but during the week generally you could do the following.
First Bus Leaving: 9:17am Arriving 11:17am
Cost £16
Last Bus Home Leaving 16:00 Arriving 19:45
Cost £16
This would give you a good three - four hours to walk around and explore chicken Itza.
Chichen Itza
Yucatán
Chichen Itza
Yucatan
Tickets Weekdays
Adults (13+): $614 MXN
Mexican Citizens: $272 MXN
Locals (Yucatan ID): $90 MXN
Tickets Friday and Saturday
General Admission: $708 MXN
Sunday
General admission: $450 MXN
Opening Times
Chichen Itza is open from Monday to Sunday from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm
*Last entry is at 4:00 pm
Day Trip (Third Party)
If you want to put your feet up and have a full day with no worries about then the other option is to take a day trip. These often last a full day (12 hours) but with day tours you also get additional stops! In the case of Chichen Itza, tours will stop off at cenote Saamal and the town of Valladolid, if you have a good guide you will also be able to add knowledge to your arsenal.
For just the trip (no tour guide) then costs can come in similar with some operators like Viator offering trips from around £70.
Hostel Day Trips
Always check reviews before going, the final way to navigate this is to check if your hostel offer day trip. From experience, hostels tend to be very geared around a 'fun trip' its just not in their interest to let backpackers down, so booking through the hostel can be the best way to have a relaxing day.
Valladolid
Plaza
To Bacalar
or
Back To The Bus Stop
Once you have had your feel of Tulum, the next natural stop is Bacalar, 3 hours down the road head back to Tulum Centro Bus station purchase a ticked for around £18 jump on the bus and enjoy the Mexican scenery.
BACALAR
0.5.
Backpacking Bacalar
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The Bacalar Lagoon is the town's primary attraction and is famous for its crystal-clear waters that display various shades of blue, hence the nickname "Lagoon of Seven Colors." The different hues of blue are created by the varying depths of the lagoon and the reflection of the sunlight. Bacalar is a quiet town during the day but comes alive in the evening with sunset booze cruises or DJ sets at hostels. It is also a good stop before heading across to Chetamul for a boat crossing to Belize. Make sure you have your ear plugs with you for this town.
Eat
Seafood
Drink
Cocktails
Shots!
Do
Water activities
Walk the town
Party
Los Rapidos
Travel
Walk
Taxi
Stay
Hotels
Time
2-3 Days
Where to Stay In Bacalar
There are two main hostels here, one is Che and the Other Yak. Both are party hostels. There are other hostels available, but from their reviews, they can be 'hit and miss'. If you want a more chilled stay and have a group of friends, an Airbnb might be the best option (expect to pay around £50 a night). I would happily go back to Che if that is something to go by! Lets look at Che and Yak.
Che Bacalar Hostel & Bar dorm £8-12 a night (2 night stay min)
Clean and comfortable, the hostel has a nice kitchen and some beautiful views. It has breakfast options, a pool and when not in party mode a fairly laid back vibe! If you do stay here capsules are not too much more per night giving you a double bed. As with all party hostel, expect noise, take a good set of earplugs! You will meet people here easily especially if you do a sunset booze cruise.
The Yak Hostel
A popular place for backpackers. This place is right on he lagoon. It is also home to an iconic party usually on Wednesday, where you can paint yourself in neon paint and get your rave on. If you are staying here, the dorms are a bit dated and like Che you will need some good ear plugs! You cannot take your own drinks in, and reviews suggest it is not the easiest place to meet new people unlike Che which was!
Che Bacalar
Hostel
Pier Sunrise
Lagoon
What To Do In Bacalar
Sunrise Over the Lagoon
If you have not partied the night away (or if you are still up) The sun rises over the lagoon. Head down and sit on one of the piers for a beautiful way to start your day.
Cenote Azul
Just up the road is cenote Azul, surrounded by lush jungle vegetation, you'll feel like you're in a tropical paradise. Cenote Azul has several jumping platforms of varying heights, allowing you to leap into the refreshing waters below. A nice way to spend an afternoon with fellow backpackers.
Find youself a group, jump in a taxi and head to Los Rapidos for a really fun activity. You can swim, float, or tube in the lagoon, allowing the gentle current to carry you along. It's a relaxing and enjoyable experience, especially on a sunny day.
This is a must in Bacalar, get your swim wear on and start your evening by partying hard.
SUP/ Swim/ Float in the lagoon
After a night of party, get down to the lagoon and hire yourself an SUP or just go for a swim.
Like Tulum, Bacalar has some really beautiful street art, head out during the day to explore the streets near and around Che and Yak to find some awesome pieces.
Party
The evenings in Bacalar are synonymous with partying.
Los Rapidos
Bacalar
Where To Eat In Bacalar
Spectacular Japanese sushi, Nao has you covered, the drinks menu is just as good as the food and the setting is gorgeous, just off the lagoon, higher price point but not overly expensive.
For cheap local tacos this place on the central square is a very popular choice!
Modern fresh food including smoothies and veggie burgers.
Empanadas, ceviche & fish tacos, another one on the lagoon and a little more expensive but very highly rated and close to both Che and Yak.
La Burguesía del Pueblo
On the main square highly rated highly recommended hearty burger joint with big cocktails and big shakes
Where To Drink (Other than Che & Yak)
I Scream Bar
just off the main plaza in the center of Bacalar, I scream can start as a casual night but get pretty wild. If Yak or Che are on a quite night then this is the place to go.
Music, cheap beers and food a good places to spend a casual evening.
Xolo Itzcuintle taco bar
Much the same as La Catrina, cheap beers food and nice for a casual evening.
I Scream
Bar
To Belize
or
CHETAMUL
0.6.
Backpacking Chetamul to Belize (Caye Caulker)
From Bacalar the traditional route for backpackers is to head down to Chetamul before crossing by boat to Caye Caulker. Caye Caulker is a small, laid-back island located off the coast of Belize in the Caribbean Sea. Known for its relaxed atmosphere, stunning beaches, and vibrant marine life, Caye Caulker is a popular destination for travelers seeking a tropical paradise.
The Ferry
Departing 3:30pm the boat from Chetamul will arrive into Caye Caulker around 5:45pm with San Pedro Belize Express (click below).
With Water Jets International (click below) you can leave at 10am to get to Cay Caulker just after midday.
Both options cost around $77.00 US.
Arrive early to the dock as you will have exit forms to sort and you may have to pay the exit tax (PESOS$534.00).
Once you are all done jump on the boat for a 90 minute journey to San Pedro where you will have to do you immigration forms for Belize.
Once everyone from your boat has completed the immigration process you will be go to go for the final 30 minutes of the journey to get to Cay Caulker Dock.
Where Next
or
MEXICO CITY
0.6.
Mexico City Airport
Benito Juarez
Welcome
mexico-city-airport-map
San Francisco BART Map
Mexico City Airport Map
mexico-city-airport-map
San Francisco BART Map
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Maps Wallet
Arriving Into Mexico City
Fill out your tourism form and make sure you ask for longer on your time stayed then you need. Top tip, if you can speak Spanish in immigration it goes a long long way. The Mexicans tend to be able to speak English but will really appreciate the effort! You will get a green form (DO NOT LOSE THIS FORM) and you may well need to put down the address of your first accommodation stop. Passing through this airport several times, the staff always seemed quite friendly so hopefully you will have a smooth transition through the airport.
Arrivals come out on the South West near the Terminal de autobuses into a confusing circular road formation. Lets get to the centre of this beautiful city.
Bus
If you want to take on public transport then the bus station is directly at the exit of terminal 2. Bus are regular and around 35 Pesos (less than £2!) but will take you around 50 minutes to get to the city centre. SO if not in a rush and wanting to save some money this is definetly the best option.
Uber
Much quicker, and not overly expensive if you have arrived into Mexico City super early or super late and just want to get to your accommodation then this is the best option. You can sit back and relax and take in the city. Make sure you message your driver with the exit dorr you are at because they are split over two levels and it is a long walk back into the airport down a set of stairs (or up) if you are at the wrong level!
20 minutes later
0.7.
Backpacking Mexico City
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If you are going to Mexico City you are in for a treat. This city has the most museums of any city in the world (over 150). A rich history of art and architecture, a nightlife that will keep you up until sunrise, and incredible food that will keep you fueled for your stay. The city is fantastic, but struggling. Built on a drained lake it is quickly sinking into the silty ground below! So it is important to see this city whilst it is still in good(ish) shape.
Just outside the city the UNESCO site of Teotihuacan is a must visit location for all explorers.
Eat
Tacos
Street Food
Drink
Mezcal
Tepache
Tequila
Do
Architecture
Museums
View points
Party
Travel
Walk
Uber
Bus
Stay
Hotels
Time
3-5 Days
Where To Stay In Mexico City (Historic Center)
Lets start in the city center here with options for Roma/ Colonia Condesa after. If you want to be in the thick of Mexico City then the historic center is a the place to be. extensive beautiful buildings, live music, extensive culture this city is wonderful, so lets look at some hostels.
Hostel Mundo Joven Catedral £20 p/n
No thrills basic hostel with a basic breakfast and a nice rooftop bar, ear plugs are a must, especially if you are on one of the upper floors as the bar tends to have the music pumping until early hours! The drinks are not cheap but you are in a beautiful spot directly opposite the Mexico City Metropolitan Cathedral. For £20 a night to be so central is a treat! (click house below for home page). Beds are not overly private, could use curtains
Casa Pepe Hostal Boutique Ciudad de México
£20-25 with female only dorms
Casa Pepe's is one you will hear on the travel trail and has a reputation of being a good hostel in Mexico city. You will find it to be slightly more expensive than other hostels but is in a fairly central location. There is a roof bar here and the hostel offers all the usual excursions as well as yoga practice as an added plus, Casa Pepe does offer free activities too (House below for the home page). Book through the home page for much better prices (£17-20).
Hostel Mundo
Roof Bar View
Viajero Mexico
Hostel
VIAJERO MEXICO CITY £10 p/n 14 bed mixed dorm
Viajero in Medellin is one of my favorite hostels, if that one is anything to go by then you should be in safe hand here two. You can get a bed for as little as £10 a night daily activities are on offer. No rooftop bars but a nice courtyard and the location is very central.
Suites DF Hostel £10-12 with Female only dorms
(Experience prices are good)
Cheap as chips because its a bit outside the center (around a 10-15 minute walk) but nice bathrooms and a small social courtyard that will have you speaking to your fellow backpacker in no time. The hostel offers activities like 'wrestling experience' and street food experiences that are usually much more competitive in price. Even if staying elsewhere I would check their website to compare you excursion cost and offering. (click on the house below for a link to their homepage.
Colonia Condesa/
Roma
La Condesa is a more upscale and residential neighborhood compared to Roma but both areas are known as the more boho/hippie areas of the city.
Roma has a wide range of restaurants, cafes, bars, and shops.
La Condesa has a strong focus on culture and the arts, with numerous art galleries, theaters, and cultural centers. Parque México and Parque España are two beautiful parks in the neighborhood, providing green spaces for relaxation and outdoor activities. We would reccomened two places (both in La Condesa)
Casa Pancha £26-31 with Female only dorms
(boutique hostel)
If you are looking for a very comfertable stay in a beautiful hostel then look no further! At Casa Pancha you will be able to get a good nights sleep in a comfy bed right in the
Casa Pancha
Hostel
Black Obsidian
Carving
What To Do In Mexico City
Introduction
There is so much to see and do in this city we will cover a lot more in blog posts, but lets look at the big ticket/ bucket list/ you should not miss this .... sort of things!
Teotihuacan Pyramids & Lady of Guadalupe
Naturally the pyramids are a massive draw, but why not couple them up with Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe for a look at a modern cathedral. Booking a day trip of both will include stopping off at Lady Guadalupe a brief look around before heading to a jewelers near Teotihuacan to look at the use of black oxide a taste of Mezcal, before heading to the pyramids, then a spot of dinner before heading home.
Historic Center Walking Tour
The architecture in Mexico's historic center varies from Aztec, to colonial to modern. Styles include art deco, art nouveau, baroque, its so varies and rich a walking tour is essential.
Tepache Tasting
Some walking tours offer Tepache tastings, a fermented beverage made from the peel and the rind of fruit. It is sweetened and served cold, big on flavour but low on alcohol and must try whilst in Mexico City.
Palacio de Bellas Artes
This building is beautiful inside and out. Not open every day but worth a visit to see some contemporary art in a beautiful interior.
Mirador Torre Latino
Naturally the pyramids are a massive draw, but why not couple them up with Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe for a look at a modern cathedral. Booking a day trip of both will include stopping off at Lady Guadalupe a brief look around before heading to a jewelers near Teotihuacan to look at the use of black oxide a taste of Mezcal, before heading to the pyramids, then a spot of dinner before heading home.
Catedral Metropolitana
CDMX
Museo Nacional de Antropología
If you want to get really deep into the history of Mexico, this is undoubtable the best place to do it. It is vast however, pace yourself and take it slow! There is a cafe here that will allow you to get some food and have a break as your brain absorbs the information. If you get here at opening I highly reccomend coupling your day with a visit to Chapultepec Castle which is with in walking distance away and in a beautiful park.
Chapultepec Castle
Naturally the pyramids are a massive draw, but why not couple them up with Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe for a look at a modern cathedral. Booking a day trip of both will include stopping off at Lady Guadalupe a brief look around before heading to a jewelers near Teotihuacan to look at the use of black oxide a taste of Mezcal, before heading to the pyramids, then a spot of dinner before heading home.
Museo Antropologia
Mexico
To Puebla
Usually we would put something in here about where to eat and where to drink, but given the size of Mexico we are going to leave it to dedicated blog posts. This being the case lets get over to the next city down the road Puebla.
Book your tickets on the Ado website, jump in an Uber to head to:
Terminal de Autobuses de Pasajeros de Oriente
Puebla is just two and a half hours down the road and has a lot to offer.
PALACIO DE BELLAS ARTES
2 hours
30 minutes later
PUEBLA
0.8.
Backpacking Puebla
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Puebla was founded in 1531 by Spanish colonists and is known for its well-preserved colonial architecture. It played a significant role in Mexican history, particularly during the Mexican War of Independence and the Battle of Puebla in 1862, where Mexican forces defeated the French, an event celebrated on the 5th of May. You do not need long in Puebla but it is a great stopping point for exploring markets and architecture before heading on down to Oaxaca. If you are a hiker then the nearby Popocatépetl and Iztaccihuatl Volcanos are
Eat
Local Cuisine
Drink
Coffee
Do
Architecture Tours
Explore Markets
Nights Out
Hike Volcanoes
Travel
Walk
Stay
Hotels
Private Rooms
Time
2 Days
Where to Stay In Puebla
The great thing about Puebla is you will be able to find super cheap accommodation that is pretty comfortable! Perhaps because they do not have the footfall that Mexico City does! But either way lets look at your options in Puebla.
Casa Pepe £15-18 standard dorm
Probably the best option to meet people in Puebla and get immersed in the city. You will have a comfortable stay, a more social atmosphere and friendly staff.
Casa Vee Yuu
If you are on a budget then Casa Vee Yuu is a good option. A no thrills hostel but with a nice common area and roof area. Slight disadvantage. Some dorms are a walk across the open courtyard to get to the showers or toilets, but a great central location.
Casa Pepe
Hostel
Catedral de Puebla
Puebla
What To Do In Puebla
Explore the Cathedrals
If you have not partied the night away (or if you are still up) The sun rises over the lagoon. Head down and sit on one of the piers for a beautiful way to start your day.
Visit The Templo de Santo Domingo
Just up the road from the Catedral de Puebla you will find what is regarded as one of the finest examples of Baroque architecture in Mexico. Not only this inside you will find the Capilla del Rosario or Chapel of the Rosary, one of the finest chapels in the world. Adorned with gold leaf and featuring intricate sculptures depicting scenes from the life of Christ and the Virgin Mary. The chapel's interior is covered with gilded stucco work and polychrome decoration. Inside you will also find the Rosary Portico, an elaborately carved arch that frames the entrance.
Find youself a group, jump in a taxi and head to Los Rapidos for a really fun activity. You can swim, float, or tube in the lagoon, allowing the gentle current to carry you along. It's a relaxing and enjoyable experience, especially on a sunny day.
Adjoined to Puebla city, Cholula is home to the Santuario de la Virgen de los Remedios. A church atop a hill with a beautiful outlook. Just a little further east and you will find Cerro Zapotecas. Take a backpack and your hiking boats as you will plenty of trails to keep you busy.
Parque Nacional Iztaccíhuatl - Popocatépetl
Finally, guided tours are available for trekking the volcano, however if you want to take it on alone click below for a link to All trails where you will find numerous trails for you to get stuck into.
Oaxaca coming soon
or
Markets
Puebla
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