Michelle and Stefan, owners of Sanctuary Goods downtown Sioux Falls, kicked off the first of our Adventures Unveiled series at Great Outdoor Store, taking us to Southern Mexico! With connections growing up visiting his family, Stefan provided local insight on the do's and don'ts. Together, they shared the experience of the bustling cities they visited and jungle escapes plus provided a salsa and mezcal tasting!
On their trip, they traveled through Oaxaca City and Puerto Escondido, Mexico. A region offering a mix of culture, history, farming and coastal landscapes. Oaxaca City is known for its vibrant colonial architecture and rich culinary scene, making it a haven for history and food lovers! You can stroll through busy markets sampling local delights like tlayudas, mole, and mezcal or explore the historic centers! These two toured the Santo Domingo cathedral in Zocalo square, with walls covered in gold and built of ancient volcano stone, and took a day trip to the ancient ruins of Monte Albán, known for it's stairs and 360 view of the city!
From Oaxaca City, they took the scenic route to Puerto Escondido on the Pacific coast, stopping to enjoy the natural springs at Hierve El Agua, one of Mexico's most astounding natural wonders, famous for its petrified waterfalls! There's a small fee for the springs but the locals say it's worthwhile. Not pictured but worth mentioning are the food and drink carts in the region, their favorite being a cart offering freshly ground cane sugar, where they grind it right in front of you, paired with local Mezcal and lime juice. Puerto Escondido is famous for Playa Zicatela's powerful waves, attracting surfers from around the world annually for the Quiksilver surf competition. If you're like these two and aren't looking to catch the gnar and want a more relaxed experience, La Punta offers calmer waters. The beach gives options for travelers to rent a table for the afternoon, lounge on the beach for free, take a horse tour, or go for a day hike! Beyond the beaches are endless attractions, like tours of the bioluminescent waters of Manialtepec Lagoon or dolphin and turtle watching.
Oaxaca's diverse landscapes, from highland valleys to golden beaches, offer something for every traveler. Whether you're savoring authentic Oaxacan cuisine, discovering ancient Zapotec ruins, or soaking up the Pacific sunsets, Southern Mexico promises a perfect blend of adventure, culture, and relaxation.