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About this trip
Join cultural enthusiast, Mija Matriz and mezcal aficionado, River Hawkins, in the magical city of Oaxaca de Juarez, Oaxaca, Mexico. We'll enjoy the vibrant culture of this diverse and ancient region of Mexico.
Here’s the thing about Oaxaca… it’s absolutely enchanting! The food is unique and delicious, the culture is deep, rich and festive, the people are beautiful and there is art everywhere! Street art, murals, architecture, textiles and clothing, contemporary art, sculpture, pottery, you name it. And of course, this is the home of mezcal, the elixir of the gods. Oaxaca is a feast for the senses and food for the soul. I dare you not to leave inspired!
During our tour we’ll explore the city and neighboring villages delighting in folk art studios, cultural museums, ornate cathedrals, ancient archaeological sites, vibrant village markets as well as learning about Oaxaca's sacred agave spirit, mezcal.
We'll be staying at the wonderful Casa Colonial, a classic hacienda near the center of town with lovely gardens, a fantastic art collection, serene library, beautiful dining room and amazing staff.
Mija and River are a sister & brother team. Artists and Mexican American on their mothers side, they grew up in central California. River now lives in Charlottesville, Virginia and Mija lives in Eugene, Oregon. While their mother's family is from the northern Mexican state of Sonora, when Mija traveled to Oaxaca many years ago, she immediately felt a deep connection to culture. She's traveled back many times, bringing friends and family, developing a love and relationship with the area. She wants to share the beautiful culture of Oaxaca with everyone she knows. Help her fulfill this mission!
River Hawkins is an owner of The Bebedero, a wonderful modern Mexican restaurant and bar in Charlottesville. It’s also one of the few mezcalerias in the U.S. Before the Bebedero, River managed the bar of a boutique resort in Yelapa, Mexico. During this time, and since then, he’s toured agave fields and mezcal & tequila distilleries all over Mexico. He’s passionate about sharing all he’s learned about agave spirits as well as the unusual accouterments he’s discovered in his travels. River offers tequila & mezcal tasting classes all over the U.S.
Terms and Conditions
DEPOSITS & PAYMENT
Your $500 deposit is non-refundable and holds your place. Final non-refundable payment is due September 1st, before the start of the trip. Please be committed to this trip when you sign up. Failure to make your final payment by the due date may forfeit your deposit and your place.
CANCELLATION POLICY
We only offer refunds if the tour is cancelled because of government imposed restrictions due to the pandemic.
INSURANCE
We recommend acquiring travel insurance for this trip. If you do not already have an insurance agent, we recommend www.travelinsure.com
What’s included
- LodgingWe'll stay at the fabulous Casa Colonial, with a lovely collection of folk art, a lush garden, a lovely library sanctuary and the most wonderful staff anywhere.
- MealsAll your meals as described in the itinerary. We'll explore everything from home cooking to 4 star restaurants. Most dietary restrictions can be accommodated. Contact us if you have severe allergies.
- GuidesOur guide is Pablo Marsch, born and raised in Oaxaca and a tour guide most of his life. Even among other tour guides, he's known as one of the best.
- TransportationTransportation throughout the trip is included as well as transportation to and from the airport or bus terminal.
- Mezcal ClassOur first evening will be spent learning about and tasting agave spirits in a class with River before we head out to all the mezcalerias and palenques.
- Admission FeesAdmission to all museums, activities and events.
What’s not included
- AirfareYou will be responsible for your flights to Oaxaca city. There are multiple flights from Mexico City. Dallas (American), Houston (United) & LA (Volaris) also have direct flights.
- Tips & GratuitiesIncluded for meals out. Not included for hotel staff and our tour guide. Please consider tipping staff and our tour guide for their service.
- Laundry
- Personal ShoppingWe suggest bringing at least $500-$1,000 for personal spending. There are many wonderful arts, beautiful clothes and bottles of delicious mezcal to purchase.
Available Packages
Available options
Itinerary
There are some direct flights to Oaxaca through Los Angeles and Houston, otherwise you’ll go through Mexico City which is a big airport and customs can take a while so give yourself some time between your connecting flights. Give us your flight information and we’ll send a driver to pick you up at the airport in Oaxaca and bring you to Casa Colonial. Since people will be getting in at different times, we’ll have a light meal at the Casa that evening.