Short answer: you’ll need both – but cash is still king in Oaxaca 💰 Card payments are becoming more common, especially in Oaxaca City, but cash is still very much part of daily life here. If you arrive expecting to pay with card everywhere, you’ll quickly run into situations where it simply isn’t an option….
Hierve el Agua is one of the most unforgettable day trips from Oaxaca City. This surreal natural site features petrified waterfalls spilling over a cliffside and mineral-rich pools you can swim in — all with sweeping mountain views. Just 1.5 hours from the city, it’s one of Oaxaca’s must-see attractions and combines geology, hiking, swimming,…
Mexican slang is everywhere — and if you’re visiting Mexico, you’ll hear it constantly. This guide covers the most common slang words and expressions used in everyday Mexican Spanish. From markets and street food stands to taxis and everyday conversations, Mexican slang words are used far more than “textbook” Spanish. And if you translate them…
If you’ve eaten quesadillas, tlayudas, or empanadas in Oaxaca, chances are you’ve already fallen in love with Oaxaca cheese – known locally as quesillo. Stretchy, mild, and perfect for melting, it’s one of the most famous foods in the state and a big part of everyday cooking here. I’ve lived in Oaxaca City for over 10…
A really interesting piece of news came out of Oaxaca this week – and if you’re into history, archaeology, or ancient cultures, this one is worth knowing about. Archaeologists have just announced the discovery of a Zapotec tomb that’s around 1,400 years old, dating back to about the year 600 AD. It was found in San Pablo Huitzo,…
Yes – Oaxaca is one of the safest destinations in Mexico for tourists. Millions of people travel here every year without issues, and for most visitors, safety is not a major concern. I’ve lived in Oaxaca City for over 10 years and have never been robbed, pickpocketed, or felt unsafe. Like anywhere in the world,…
Oaxaca isn’t just famous for eating — it’s one of the best places in Mexico to cook real Oaxacan food. From smoky moles to fresh tortillas and market-fresh ingredients, Oaxacan cuisine is deeply traditional and hands-on. For that reason, taking a cooking class here isn’t a tourist gimmick. Instead, it’s one of the best ways…
Oaxaca hides some truly beautiful beaches that are perfect for traveling on a budget. Here are a few of the best options. If Oaxaca has already won you over with its history, art, and food, 2026 is a great year to explore its coastline. The beaches of Oaxaca have become some of Mexico’s most attractive…
Pottery is everywhere in Oaxaca. You’ll see it in markets, kitchens, workshops, and stacked outside homes in nearby villages. Some of it’s decorative, some of it’s meant to be cooked with, and almost all of it is still made by hand using techniques that go back generations. This isn’t factory-made souvenir stuff — it’s part…
Street food is everywhere in Oaxaca. It’s cheap, filling, and part of daily life here — not something saved for weekends or special occasions. If you’re visiting, you don’t need a long checklist or a food tour to eat well. You just need to know what to look for and what’s actually worth trying. These…