Why Spring Travelers Should Flock To Mexico City – Quaint Neighborhoods, Rich Culture and Delectable Cuisine Abound in Mexico’s Capital
A cultural mecca where vibrant history and tantalizing entertainment collide, Mexico City is the ideal destination for travelers planning a getaway this spring. An easily accessible destination, more than 50 direct flights travel to Mexico City each day from international locations. U.S. and Canadian cities connect to Mexico City via nonstop service operated by Delta, Aeromexico, United Airlines, Air Canada and American Airlines among other carriers. And, once you arrive, the opportunities are limitless. Beautiful accommodations, breathtaking attractions and engaging people, culture and history await visitors of all backgrounds and interests.
Mexico’s capital delivers mesmerizing neighborhoods fit for every lifestyle. While there are over a dozen distinct neighborhoods – each with their own personality and attractions – here is a snapshot of the varieties to be found from neighborhood to neighborhood within the sprawling city limits:
Centro Historico
For a glimpse into Mexico City past and present, visitors can stroll through the heart of the capital, the Centro Historico neighborhood, a UNESCO world heritage site featuring notable landmarks and streets that have evolved over the years. Here travelers will find prominent examples of the city’s history in the iconic architecture and layout.
The main plaza, Zocalo – the second largest in the world – is the perfect starting place for exploration around this neighborhood and the city as a whole. Don’t miss the 16th century constructed cathedral; Mexico’s seat of Government, Palacio Nacional; or the ancient ruins of the Aztec’s most important temple, Templo Mayor.
Roma and Condesa
An essential part of the city’s cultural and gastronomic life, the adjacent Roma and Condesa neighborhoods are home to Mexico City’strendy and creative. The area overflows with diverse dining options and alluring nightlife possibilities; as well as varying architectural styles and bold design. Whether strolling past immaculately tended public gardens and art deco architecture, grabbing coffee at a sidewalk cafe or perusing one of the many clothing and design stores, the Condesa neighborhood appeals to visitors seeking chic culture and style in a relaxed setting.
With its fascinating history and creative residents, the Roma neighborhood has numerous art and design galleries can be found along the popular street Calle Colima, delighting enthusiasts with a curated selection of fine art.
Reforma and Chapultepec
With quaint cafes, historic architecture and intriguing museums dotted throughout the area, the Reforma – Chapultepec area is the perfect stay for arts and culture enthusiasts. Chapultepec is commonly known as one of the most dynamic green spaces on the planet and is filled with museums well as zoological gardens and three sprawling lakes.
Paseo de la Reforma is a grand leafy boulevard which showcases the city’s French influences and most recognizable monuments. On Sundays from 9-2pm, Paseo de la Reforma is car-free, allowing visitors and locals alike to ride bikes or walk in the street and discover a more intimate view of the charming neighborhood. Also, with Roma, Condesa and San Miguel Chapultepec neighborhoods nearby, staying in this area ideally positions visitors within reach of top galleries and emerging spaces of new young artists.
Polanco
Within close distance to Reforma and Chapultepec by car is one of the city’s main and most prestigious business districts: the Polanco neighborhood, which serves as home to a range of Mexico’s most important businesses and embassies. Balance business and leisure with retail therapy due to your proximity to designer shopping such as Ferragamo, Hermes and Christian Dior, and the Antara Polanco Shopping Center, which houses high-end shops, restaurants and cantinas.
For a glimpse at how the landscape of Polanco has changed, walk along Miguel de Cervantes Saavedra where you’ll find the Soumaya Museum and Jumex Museum. Inside the Soumaya Museum, visitors will find featured collections spanning the fifteenth through twentieth centuries, while more contemporary works are displayed throughout the new Jumex Museum across the street.
San Angel and Coyoacan
To sample some other flavors of Mexico City, head south to the San Angel and Coyoacan neighborhoods, where wide streets, ancient churches, plazas and distinguished museums serve as a perfect setting to unwind. Museo Frida Kahlo, a must-see attraction, is located at Coyoacan, offering visitors an opportunity to see the environment where she grew up and then shared with Diego Rivera in some periods of their life together.
Xochimilco
Also situated in the southern region of Mexico City, Xochimilco is another one of Mexico City’s four UNESCO world heritage sites. This borough of the capital city features hundreds of colorful boats, called trajineras that float along the canals of Lake Xochimilco. Popular for weekend outings, family get togethers and celebrations, colorful gatherings are held here. Once used for transporting goods, these gondolas are now primarily utilized for tourism and are available for various group sizes. There are many different ways to exploreXochimilco, including an intimate ride with a relaxing picnic past pristine gardens and the famous island of dolls.
Mexico City (March 24, 2015)/PRNewswire/ – For more information on travel to Mexico City’s various neighborhoods, visit http://mxcity.mx/en/.
Mexico City is the country’s premier tourism destination, welcoming more than 12.5 million visitors a year. The ancient capital offers a vibrant, contemporary culture that combines pre-Hispanic, colonial and modern influences that span nearly seven centuries. With more than 150 museums and more than 180 galleries, 30 distinct archaeological and historic sites, the city is a mecca of fine art and treasures that speak to its vast history. The Mexico City Tourism Promotion Fund (Fondo Mixto de Promocion Turistica del Distrito Federal) supports and enhances city tourism. For more information and daily updates please visit/follow us on Facebook (www.facebook.com/MexicoCityLive) and Twitter (@MexicoCityLive).
Media Contact: Lauren Lane, +1 (212) 445-8303, llane@webershandwick.com
