It’s been 20 years, but we are finally headed back to the colonial city of Oaxaca, a place recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site. Set in a mile-high, mountain-rimmed valley 300 miles southeast of Mexico City, Oaxaca City blends Old World tradition with vibrant native cultures. It is famous for its historic Zócalo (marketplace), baroque architecture, museums, folk art galleries and culinary traditions, as well as nearby artisan villages and magnificent archaeological sites. During this weeklong ed-venture we’ll be staying in a four-star, boutique hotel — Casa Conzattii, once the home of Don Cassiano Conzatti an Italian botanist and naturalist whose namesake park lies just across the street. Nestled in the secluded historic district, we are within walking distance of the Zócalo, the 18th century church of Santo Domingo de Guzmán and its Museo de las Culturas, the Jardín Etnobotánico and numerous restaurants and shops.
Daily motorcoach excursions into the countryside will take us to such magical places as Teotitlan del Valle, the home of Zapotec weavings; San Martín de Tilcajete for fantastical alebrijes (woodcarvings); San Bartolo de Coyotepec and a demonstration of black pottery construction; and to Monte Albán, a sprawling pre-Columbian ruin once the center of Zapotec society. Other surprises are planned, including a cooking demonstration, a visit to a mezcal palenque (distillery) and plentiful opportunities to sample all seven mole sauces.
Cost includes accommodations, ground transportation in Oaxaca, guide services, admission fees, tours and most meals. Airfare from Tucson is not included, but we will let you know the best flight options.
$3200 members (per person/double occupancy) | $525 single supplement
A $500 deposit will secure a spot in what is going to be a very popular excursion.