Culinary Exploration of Xochimilco and Trajinera Ride
Head out to explore the picturesque borough of Xochimilco, known for its ancient network of canals flanked by lush greenery. Saunter around the local market in search of fresh produce and ingredients for your meal as you take in the sights, sounds and aromas of the place. Interact with the vendors before making your way to the private kitchen of a local resident to hone your culinary skills. Enjoy cooking a traditional two-course meal using regional recipes and relish the fruits of your labor as you savor the dishes and enjoy a non-alcoholic beverage. After lunch, step into one of the colorful trajineras or gondolas that dot the picturesque canals. Sit back and relax as you glide along the water passing by pre-Hispanic manmade agricultural islands known as chinampas. (Half Day; Meal Included: Lunch and non-alcoholic beverage; Fitness Level: Easy. It is recommended that you have a light breakfast as you will be sampling food items during the market tour.)
Gastronomical Journey Through Colonia Roma
Traverse the vibrant neighborhood of Colonia Roma in search of exotic flavors to tantalize your taste buds in this walking tour. This erstwhile upscale neighborhood is now the hub of hipster subculture in the city. Accompany your local expert through the serene streets of this historic area that is home to trendsetting restaurants and eateries. Walk past the lovely squares and elegant fountains as your guide leads you to seven different restaurants to sample the best in Mexican cuisine. Stroll past quaint specialty food shops and ethnic diners as you get valuable insight into the area’s rich culinary past. Listen to your guide narrate interesting anecdotes about the beautiful mansions and its famous residents. (Half Day; Shared Activity; Fitness Level: Easy. Please wear comfortable footwear as there is quite a bit of walking involved in this activity.)
A Date with Frida, Diego & Dolores
Begin your day at La Casa Azul, the birthplace and home of Frida Kahlo. An extension of her vibrant fashion style and Mexican heritage, the bright blue house with yellow floor features myriad decorations. Browse through the space littered with folk artifacts and souvenirs. Witness her bed topped with a mask containing her ashes, and her airy studio that overlooks a garden patio with a small pyramid. Later, head to Anahuacalli Museum, a large volcanic-rock-and-glass building that showcases the works of Diego Rivera. Spread across three floors, marvel at his expansive private collection of pre-hispanic art and culture that showcases local gods, daily life, and the heavens and murals and paintings that depict Mexico’s working class. Enjoy panoramic cityscape views from the rooftop before you head out for your next stop. Reach the delightful Dolores Olmedo Museum, nestled amid lush gardens of Mexican native plants. Walk across the grounds admiring the residents of the complex – alluring peacocks and hairless Precolumbian Xoloitzcuintli dogs. Expect to see Talavera pottery, woodcuts, book illustrations, elaborate ofrendas, gilded colonial wooden figurines, masterpieces in ceramic, copper, and lacquer, plus a collection of pre-Columbian Colima dogs! (Full Day; Private Activity & Transfer; Fitness level: Easy; Notes: Closed on Mondays or due to private events, Wear comfortable clothes and walking shoes.)
