This was my second trip on the art venture with Jewel and Mija. I cannot recommend them more highly. Both Jewel and Mija are fun and accessible and find the most amazing places and people for us to visit and learn from. They clearly love the artisans and people of Mexico and sharing their love with us. I was with a group of about 15 women on this last trip and we all bonded with both Jewel and Mija and each other. I would not be surprised if we all end up coming back together next year. I will certainly be there… Thank you to both of you.

Casa Colonial was perfect, food was delish! Tours we took to other areas were educational and awe-inspiring. Oaxaca City was amazing! I cannot think of a single thing that I was dissatisfied with! Jewel and Mija are such kind, warm and inclusive souls; they really are committed to giving the best experience/program. If you can go, GO!

The trip that Jewel put together was wonderful. This was my second time traveling with her and each time the experience has been rich, varied, and deeply meaningful. She brings together amazing artisans and creatives for the group to visit, interact with, and be inspired by. Her trips are filled with joy too. She attracts interesting people who are open and eager to be immersed in the culture. I will travel with Jewel again, without a doubt. A deep bow of gratitude to Jewel and Mija for a wonderful trip in Oaxaca.

This was my first planned/guided tour (by that I mean planned/executed by anyone other than me) and it was perfect. Small enough that I didn’t feel like some tourist/brief interloper, Mija and Jewel were incredibly knowledgeable about the area and the subject matter that they took us to meet, see, and understand. The pace was great too - days out exploring combined with studio/slower paced days.

I recently joined Jewel Murphy and Mija Matriz's exploration in Oaxaca for the 2nd time, and it was, once again, a 5-star experience. Both Jewel and Mija are deeply knowledgeable and passionate about the art and culture of the region. They make a great partnership, expert at finding and connecting with authentic talented artists and craftsmen to create a unique and exciting experience every year. Mija is a gifted artist and teacher who brings out the joy and beauty of each group members' art-making in our studio at Casa Colonial. Together, Jewel and Mija create a great chemistry for the group and the adventures. The Casa is a warm embrace of a hotel, with lovely attentive staff and fresh delicious home-cooking. I couldn't ask for a better stay in Oaxaca.