Why Mexico City
Mexico City, the stunning capital of Mexico, has been the venue for some of the most significant events in Latin America. Many Americans moved to the city during the pandemic due to the lower cost of apartments and housing, which helped its growth. The city’s continued growth is evident in events like Zona Maco.
Zona Maco is an annual art fair and festival that showcases Latin American art and design. The event has grown from just a few attendees to having thousands in 2023. Such events are a testament to why Mexico City is becoming one of the most popular destinations to live in and visit.
Mexico City has a rich history predating Spanish colonisation. Before the Spaniards arrived, the city was located in the middle of the river, connected by channels. Initially named Tenochtitlan by the Aztec communities, it was one of the world’s biggest and most advanced indigenous cities.
The Spaniards, envious of the Aztecs, took control of the city in 1521, raided and changed its name to Mexico because it was easier to pronounce in Castellano. However, the city continued growing. Today, it is a central hub for art, design, culture, food, and almost everything. Here are some reasons why Mexico City is becoming one of the most popular destinations worldwide. Some of the reasons might surprise you.
Food
Mexico City, also known as “el D.F.”, is renowned for its diverse culinary scene, making it a foodie’s paradise. The city offers various dining options, from street food to fine dining. If you plan to visit, you should check out casual taco spots like Taquería Orinoco and El Vilsito, which have been serving delicious, affordable food for decades. On the other end of the spectrum, you have Pujol, one of the best restaurants in the world, offering an exquisite omakase experience that has been reviewed countless times. With such a wide range of culinary offerings, Mexico City is a must-visit destination for food lovers.
Neighbourhoods
Mexico City is known for its beautiful neighbourhoods, which are entirely walkable. The city is home to some of the most stunning parks in the world. One of the more popular neighbourhoods is Condesa, a favourite among North American digital nomads. It is famous for its art-deco architecture and parks like Parque España and Parque México. Dog owners will love the neighbourhood, filled with dog-friendly parks, hotels, and outdoor cafes. Suppose you're travelling with your furry friend. In that case, you must visit the Andaz Mexico City Condesa hotel, an entire rooftop area devoted to dogs called the Wooftop Beer Garden & Canine Club.
Another fun neighbourhood to explore is San Rafael. Although it had fallen hard, it has recently reemerged as an artistic hub. The area's 19th-century mansions are now competing with new art galleries. One such gallery is the Galería Hilario Galguera, which opened in 2006. It showcases some of the best contemporary Mexican and international art. The gallery, created by Hilario Galguera and Rosa María Ortega, is a must-visit spot to expand your perception of what Mexico City offers.
Hotels
The city boasts a diverse range of properties that are worth investing in. The Andaz Mexico City Condesa is a new addition to the Condesa neighbourhood that features a lovely blend of art-deco and minimalistic/contemporary design. The building was constructed on an old federal structure, with the interior decorated with art-deco and 1970s touches. Upon entering the hotel, the lobby creates a tunnel-like effect that leads to a massive open-air courtyard.
Additionally, the hotel offers a beautiful dog rooftop, perfect for furry friends. The Cabuya Rooftop restaurant and Derba Matcha Café are also great dining options. Although it may be tempting to stay in, visiting the nearby Parque México for an afternoon stroll is highly recommended.
Museums
Several museums are available to visit in Mexico City, including the Frida Kahlo Museum and the Museum of Anthropology. The Museum of Anthropology is a favourite among visitors because it presents prehispanic history fun and innovatively. You'll even learn about the architecture of Aztecs and other indigenous groups. The Frida Kahlo Museum is a beautiful cobalt-blue building, and the Palacio de Bellas Artes, known for its art nouveau and Art Deco architecture, is a sight to behold even from the outside.
