Oaxaca
Best months:
March to October

Oaxaca

Mexico
LAST UPDATED 07/01/2008
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introduction

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Local_Profil: Locator map for the state of Oaxaca within Mexico; 04-07-2007

Oaxaca is one of the 31 states to the west, of Mexico and is located in the southern part of the country. The largest city in the state has the same name. Oaxaca contains more speakers of indigenous languages than any other Mexican state and is the historic home of the Zapotec and Mixtec peoples.

surfing

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Anney Marie: The town of Puerto Escondido; 2006

Home of Puerto Escondido and an array of other spine tingling beach break mix masters. By all means surf the well known breaks for the rep factor but when that all gets a bit painful, you can find a similar wave only a short drive away with half the crowd if you are unlucky, none if your luck is in.

Plus: World class beach breaks and spots, consistancy, surf all the year, water temperature, low budget, uncrowded waves, barrels - loads of them!
Minus: lots of crowded lineups, unsafe area for tourists and travellers, lot of possible sickness.

travel

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ROBERTO DAN: Aeromexico Boeing; 2 February 2007

To make the most out of your journey, try to travel primarily by car, plane or bus. Toll roads can be relatively costly, but they are the best (much faster and better maintained), if you choose to go by car. Just note that near the borders with the US and Guatemala there are several checkpoints operated by the Mexican Army searching for illegal weapons and drugs. Also it's not recommended to drive at night time. Chances of hitting an animal at night time are usually much higher than during the day, so drive carefully.

Plane is a good option, as you can manage to get ridiculously cheap fares if you book in advance. If you have to go by bus, try to take the bus called DIRECTO, they are the express ones.

where to stay

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Hajor: Looking west along Calle Morelos, Cd de Oaxaca, January 2004

Rates can go up significantly during the high season and rooms are alot harder to book. National holidays and religious holidays are very busy.

Budget Hostels can be found for around 70 Peso /7 USD per night.

  • Casa de las Bugambilias - Nine-room bed and breakfast. Free long distance calls to many destinations including USA, Canada, and Western Europe (exception of mobile phones). Free Wireless internet and guest computer. Prices starting from $65-$115USD per night.
  • Casa de los Ángeles - A small and intimate family-run guest house providing bed and breakfast. Convenient, quiet location, excellent food and warm hospitality. Rates from $29 USD per night.
  • Casa de Mis Recuerdos - A small bed and breakfast with a lovely courtyard and delicious meals. Most rooms are on the street so it could be very noisy. Prices from $50-$100USD per night.
  • Hacienda La Noria Hotel - Online reservation with instant confirmation on their website, prices from $60USD.
  • Hacienda Los Laureles - A historic 5-star hotel with 23 rooms and suites, traditional Mexican architecture, a world-class spa and a gourmet restaurant on site.
  • Hostal de La Noria - located at the center of Oaxaca City. Well known for its distinct, personalised service. Prices start from US$120.
  • Las Mariposas - Family-owned hotel and Bed & Breakfast, only 2 blocks from the Santo Domingo church. There are rooms off the back of the courtyard which are extremely quiet. Prices at $45USD/night for a studio with a small kitchen during high season; includes breakfast.

what to pack

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Flashdance: A pair of very simple Moroccan flip flops; 25 May 2007

Most of the region has middle latitude rainy climates with mild dry winters and hot summers. So pack accordingly.
Pack some basic toiletries so that you do not need to spend unnecessary money to purchase these basics. You may want to just buy a travel pack and bring it.

Trainers, loose clothing - everything for the hot weather. Definitely take along some bug repellent spray, good sunscreen, a hat  and sunglasses! And take a good protection for your camera from the sad and rain.
A small backpack makes a good carryon bag and will be useful in daily life. Women: remember to take a good flat pair of shoes.... And for everybody: pair of comfortable walking shoes will be great for walking. 

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