Turkish food in Mexico City

The opening of Mexico City’s first (that we know of) Turkish restaurant is welcome news.After living in London with a Turkish Cypriot boyfriend and eating a wide variety of turkish cuisine this was a place that i really wanted to try out.

Istanbul- a comfortable little place with an outdoor seating area a few blocks north of Reforma.
The small appetizers are the specialty here and the restaurant offers over 150 varieties of "Meze" , although only 7 or so are featured at any given time— the menu changes throughout the year.

A dozen main dishes are on the menu, including kebabs and grilled meats - mostly lamb, which is unusual in Mexico. There is also fish and everything is served with salad and rice.(I love turkish rice so this was a real treat too)

Desserts such as the dried apricots in caramel sauce, served with home-made ice cream or baked rice pudding are real pleasers.
This is home-style food, its not fancy and most importantly - it is undoubtedly authentic. Prices are reasonable, and the service is friendly.

Istanbul Turkish Cuisine

Río Pánuco 163, Colonia Cuauhtémoc
Tel. 5511-2482
Open daily 11:30-1AM
$200-250 per person

http://www.istanbulturkishcuisine.com/index.html

Mercado Medellín

For those visiting the city be sure to pass by the Mercado Medellín night market to see the Christmas market at full pace. Stands line the east side of the market and besides offering Christmas trees feature decorations of all kinds from mexican handmade decorations the other "made in China" variety.
But even better, are the puestos which open after dark and remain in service until midnight. These offer a variety of antojitos (little nibbles or starters) from pozole to enchiladas to sopes. Jolly diners fill long picnic tables set up in the street. There is warm punch to wash it all down and flan or buñuelos with honey for dessert.

The Mercado Medellín is located between Monterrey and Medellín, Coahuila and Campeche in the Colonia Roma. If you arrive by Metrobus, get off at Campeche and walk east. Nearest metro station is Chilpancingo. Open seven days a week until past midnight. The night market will be there through December 23rd.

Mexico at Christmas

Everywhere you turn at christmas in Mexico there are piñatas of all forms, sizes and colors, as well as candles for the posadas, nochebuena flowers, better known as poinsettias, and figurines made of wood, ceramic or paste for the nativitys
Very shortly after the fiesta for Our Lady of Guadalupe ends, the preparation for the Christmas season begins. The first of nine posadas is held on December 16.

These are fiestas, which represent Joseph and Mary's arduous pilgrimage on their way to Bethlehem, and there are nine posadas, from the 16 to the 24 of December,because they symbolize Mary's nine months of pregnancy.
The whole community is organised for the posadas . Beforehand they decide which and how many houses will not offer a place where Mary and Joseph can stay, and where they will finally find shelter, and break thepiñata. The community also decides how many posadas they will have. Some only hold one or two of them during the season.
The posada begins with the procession of the pilgrims.

At the head is Joseph, holding Mary's hand as she rides on the donkey. Sometimes, instead of having someone dress up as Mary and Joseph, and ride a donkey, a couple of neighbors carry a nativity scene.

Following them are all the neighbors, carrying candles and singing traditional songs to ask for posada, a place where they can stay. At the end of the trip through the streets of the neighborhood they reach their final destination. Doors open and the big party begins!
The piñata is strung up and everyone gets ready to break it! The children are blindfolded so it is harder to break! One by one the children try to break it, while they are hitting it, the rest of the people sing the traditional song for breaking the Piñata .
Afterwards people will enjoy the food prepared such as tamales, buñuelos, churros and hot chocolate.

During the Christmas season there are Pastorelas, which are theatrical representations of the shepherds on their way to honor baby Jesus. They must follow the star in the East to get there, but there will be many obstacles, set by the devils, for them to overcome. The pastorelas are comedies of course, and display a traditional sense of humor. Sometimes the characters even get to deliver political jokes, which the audience obviously enjoys!

Los Reyes Magos
All Mexican children anxiously wait for January 5, because this is when the Three Kings arrive with gifts for them! In Mexico city many children go to the Alameda park to see the Reyes Magos and ask for gifts and also in many shopping centres there will be the 3 kings talking to children.

In the afternoon, family and friends gather to share the "Rosca de Reyes" , which is a traditional wreath-shaped bread that is made only during the first days of January. Although the name indicates that it should be round, the Mexican “rosca de reyes” generally has an oval shape due to the need to make cakes larger than 30cm across for larger parties. For luxurious decoration, Mexican people use tanned and fig fruit, quinces, cherries, etc.; which besides from making it pretty, enriches its flavor.
The Rosca is served with hot chocolate and tamales.

Hidden inside the rosca is a figurine of the Baby Jesus. The baby Jesus, when hidden in the bread, represents the flight of Jesus, fleeing from King Herod's evil plan.

Each person cuts a slice of the rosca, and whoever gets the baby figurine has to invite everyone present to a new party on February 2, Candelaria day.
On February second, Candelaria day, the many Baby Jesus figurines are taken from the nativity scene to the church to be blessed. Practically all the markets will restore, paint and dress these dolls for the occasion. The nativity scene is then put away on this date until the next year when the new Christmas season begins.

Worlds largest Christmas Tree - Mexico City

If you are coming to Mexico city for Christmas then you are in for a treat.Mexico City has been certified by Guinness World Records as having the world’s largest Christmas tree. The tree stands 110.35 meters high, has a diameter of 35 meters and weighs 330 tonnes.
The tree was lit on december 5th and will stand as a city decoration for 36 days.
Mexico City Mayor Marcelo Ebrard headed the tree-lighting ceremony, during which the Shola Cantorum orchestra and the Mariachi Gama Mil band played Christmas music.
The tree stands on Reforma and is pretty hard to miss so if you are in town - go check it out.

Do´s and Don´ts in Mexico City

Do : Shop at the Ciudadela !

http://www.laciudadela.com.mx/

La Ciudadela is a large market located on Balderas and fairly close to the Bellas artes area. It is one of the last remaining markets in the city where you can buy real mexican "artesania" straight from the Artisan.

The market sells everything and anything is a real treat for anyone wanting to shop for all this Mexican whilst in the city. Although the market is not the cheapest, it is not overpriced and you will find maybe things there that are hard to come by in the City.

Reasons to shop at the Ciudadela :Not only is the Ciudadela completely wonderful but it is also under threat as local officials are wanting to turn the markets land into a development of office buildings due to its prime location. Check out our video about the market to know more and learn about the markets wonderful history.

Don´t miss out on the Oaxacan tin decorations to be found at the market - they are our favourite!

Do : Ride the Metro !

Mexico citys Metro is one of the best Metro systems in the world we think ! The metro is spacious, cheap, quick and very efficient ! Dont worry if you miss a train as there will always be another one within a few minutes and there are stops all over the city making it a very easy way to cut out the traffic and get to various points around the city. We suggest that you get a map of the metro and plan your journey beforehand but at MX$2.oo a ride its a steal - so we say give it a go !

Reason to use the metro : Its cheap and fast and using public transport in the city instead of taking a taxi will not only help in a small way towards reducing pollution but also if more visitors start using pubic transportation it will help the public image of the city transportation!

Do : Take a walk on Reforma at night

Reforma at night is one of the best places to walk and take in the city. Generally around the angel and up to Chapultepec park you will find exhibitions on Reforma to look at which always makes the walk a little more interesting. You will find people sitting and talking on the many benches, people walking there dogs and many people going home from a long day at work. Reforma is generally quite safe and has many people and police in the evening and into the night so safety should not be a problem before midnight

Do : Take the Turibus at night

The safest way to see the city at night is with the Turibus night tour which really is unmissable. You see the city as it calms down for the evening and as its people come out to play. Take a look at the turibus website for timings.

Do : Visit the National Anthropology Museum ( Museo Nacional de Antropología )

The beautiful musuem located infront of Chapultepec park just off the end of Reformas main stretch is not one to be passed by. The musuem can easily fill up a whole day for Musuem enthusiasts and is a favourite with lovers of modern architecture too!

Do: Make time to watch the Voladores de Papantla (Dance of Papantla's flyers)

Who perform outside the anthropology musuem daily. This really is going to be a show that wows visitors from outside of the country and is a great peice of Mexican national hertitage.

For more information about the Voladores de Papantla check out : tp://voladoresdepapantla.com/index_eng.htm

Do : Take a trip to see the Pyramids at Teotihuacán

Take the chance to see the Pyramids whilst you are in Mexico. The pyramids are a must see if you are visiting and are located just 40kms outside of the city. Any tourist information spot will give you info on tours going to the site and you can also take a local coach from the North Bus terminal close to Lindavista.

Tip : Get there early to beat the heat and the flock of tourists for better photo opportunites!!

Do : Go eat Ice-Cream in Coyoacán

One of Mexico citys prettiest neighbourhoods is also home to lots and lots and lots of Ice cream parlours !

Take a walk into Coyoacán where located around the square you will find the stores selling some delicious ice-cream. We recommend trying a scoop of Tequila and Mango ! Yummy !

Coyoacán is also the home of many great art centres and also the Frida Kahlo museum - we know that you will love this quiet and tranquil neighbourhood !!

*Tip : Beat the crowds and go on a weekday - if you like the buzz of the market go to Coyoacán on weekends were an arts market is held saturday and sunday until late at night - but we warned, the crowds are HEAVY !!

Do : Go to the Cinema in Mexico city !

Maybe going to the cinema is the last thing that you would want to do went visiting somewhere new but we think that the city has some of the worlds best cinemas - clean, comfortable, cheap and if you really want luxury, the city has V.I.P cinemas complete with leather recliners and waiter service ( and its so worth the extra ten dollars) So if its raining or you have a spare few hours - we recommend that you try out one of our fabulous cinemas!!

Do : Wear your sunscreen

Mexico citys pollution adds heavily to the UV problem and the sun on some days can be very strong so if you are planning to be out and about in the city - slap on the sunscreen otherwise you might find yourself getting burnt.

Do : Be good !

This may seem a little bit silly but STICK TO THE RULES. A very large number of visitors each year are arrested in Mexico for Law Breaking. If you come to Mexico, our laws apply to you to!

Don´t : Take Taxis all the time !!

If you want to waste hours in the back seat of a taxi go ahead but try to use taxis as little as possible in the city. You will save money and see far more with public transport and walking!

Don´t : Eat on the street

Although eating on the street is not overly unsafe - visitors might get an upset stomach from street food and medicine is not always the cheapest in the city.

Don´t : Hire a car !

We get lots of emails asking about car hire in the city and we recommend that its never a good idea for visitors.

The traffic is heavy, the city is sprawling and has many intricate one way systems to follow. Hiring a car is a sure-fire way to get lost in the city so dont think about it unless its a must or you are planning on travelling outside of DF.

Don´t : Go out with large amounts of money or valuable items

This may seem like an obvious one but unless you are going to the National palace which requires Passport I.D for entrance, you shouldnt be carrying your passport or any personal items with you when touring around. Take a photocopy !

If you are going out shopping, take your money with you divided into smaller notes so that no oe sees you taking out large amounts from your wallet!

Don´t : Be tempted to go to the downtown black market areas

Markets like Tepito are famous for cheap and black market goods - you can really find anything around the area of La Lagunilla but we dont recommend that you go alone without a local who knows the area. Yes, the area is not very safe - but the main safety concern is that the market is so large that if you dont know your way you can very easily get lost.

Don´t : Change money in Mexico city airport

The exchange rates generally are a little better compared to what you will find around reforma or at your hotel but it is far SAFER to change money downtown. Criminals have been known to target tourists changing money at the airport terminals.

Hosteria La Bota - Mexican "Kitsch" at its finest

Most definatley one of our favorite places to sit and have a beer, Michelada style, in the City...

"Hostería: La Bota,” a restaurant-bar with traditional Mexican and

Spanish menu as well as: Tapas & Pizza. The atmosphere is laid back and friendly and it will be a feast for the eyes and pure pleasure for any lovers of all things "Kitsch"

Hosteria La Bota is located on Calle Regina between Bolivar and 5 de Febrero - Centro Historico

Cheap Travel Tips - Mexico City on a budget

Forget anything you have heard about Mexico City. It is home to a vast network of chic museums, top-notch restaurants and trendy nightclubs.
What is even better is that the city is also a great distination for budget travel!

With just a few pesos you can get up close with world-renowned art inside the cities centuries-old buildings, wander through Aztec ruins in the heart of the city, and sip cocktails on rooftop bars where DJs play the latest international music.Its true !


On weekends, you can take free dance and martial arts lessons in the parks infront of Bellas Artes and close to the artisan market closeby at Balderas. You can even try tango classes in the Condesas Parque Espana around 12 midday. You can ride a bike every Sunday to the cities main square, the Zócalo, when Reforma is shut to traffic for people to ride bikes,scooters, walk thier dogs and rollerblader. Reforma and the area opens again to traffic at around 2pm.
You dont have a bike in Mexico you say ?! No problem !! Mexico city will lend you one for free !! Just go to one of the Bike rental stands located on Reforma close to "El Angel" and leave your i.d and off you go !!


Getting around:

Get on the Turibus, a double-decker bus that gives you a bird's-eye view while taking you to all the attractions for about US$12, and depending on where you want to go - for two pesos, the metro is a steal and is relatively safe for travellers.

Must-sees: With tons of museums, you can easily overdose on art in DF. Topping the list are the awe-inspiring murals by Diego Rivera and other Mexican legends in the Palacio de Bellas Artes, which also has temporary contemporary exhibits and a stunning performance called the Ballet Folklorico showcasing the country's traditional dances. Guided tours run twice a day at Bellas Artes and are FREE ! Closest metro stop is Bellas Artes

From Bellas Artes walk down Francisco Madero Street to the Zócalo,the second largest city square in the world with impressive colonial buildings, including a 1596, blue tile-covered mansion which is today the most famous branch of Mexican chain "Sanborns".

Off the Zócalo is the Palacio Nacional, or National Palace, where Mexican muralist Diego Rivera painted the entire history of Mexico on its walls. It's free to get inside and there are english speaking guides to explain the artwork. From the Palacio nacional you get great views of the square so dont forget your camera!!. Dont forget to take your passport though as you will need it to get inside. Photocopies will be accepted.

On the other side of the Zócalo is the Metropolitan Cathedral, the oldest in the Latin America and also one of the largest.

Behind the cathedral, the Centro Cultural de Espana, funded by the Spanish Embassy, has extensive contemporary art exhibits and a cafe with very good tapas, mostly under $5. On Thursday nights, DJs play at the rooftop cafe.

Prehispanic ruins: The city is full of ruins. One of the best is the Templo Mayor, or Great Temple, a site squashed between businesses and government buildings off the Zócalo. Workers discovered the Aztec ruins in the mid-1970s. The Aztecs are believed to have built the temple in the 1300s. The ruins include a wall of stone skulls representing the human heads the Aztecs used to put on display after sacrificing people to the gods. The entrance fee is less than $3. Better yet, on Sundays the museum is free. If you're still craving more history, hit the National Museum of Anthropology in Chapultepec Park - which is a truely wonderful musuem. Traditional mexican "flyers" can be seen outside the museum also which is something not to be missed !

Neighborhoods: La Roma and La Condesa are hubs of hipness and worth a day of strolling, stopping for Chiapas-grown coffee and people-watching in one of the funky cafes, or checking out the many art galleries is always a good afternoon spent. There are also plenty of boutiques of young designers who mesh colorful embroidered Indian fabrics into chic dresses, skirts and shirts. Start at Galeria OMR off the Rio de Janeiro plaza and wander down Orizaba Street to Alvaro Obregon. Then head to Parque Mexico. Check this bilingual list of galleries:
www.arte-mexico.com/galeries.htm.

Surviving the city: If the noise of cars and traffic gets too much, you can find a little calm wandering through the 550-acre Chapultepec Park one of the worlds largest urban parks with its lake and zoo. The zoo is free and has some animals that you may not have seen before. You can also visit the free Botanical Gardens, of Mexico's National Autonomous University. The cactus-and-maguey-studded gardens are set among lava outcroppings - once again, dont forget your camera !

Night life: Mama Rumba in La Roma (close to condesa) is a sure bet to boogie away the night. On Wednesdays and Thursdays, the $4 cover charge also includes free salsa lessons before 10 p.m., when the live Cuban band kicks in.

Traditional cantinas throw in sizable appetizers, almost a meal in themselves, with $3 beers. Try the 1928 Cantina La Guadalupana in Coyoacan, where Diego Rivera and Frida Kahlo drank tequila. For the cutting-edge side of Coyoacan, visit La Bipolar. Owned by young mexican actor Diego Luna, the bar offers marlin tostadas and walls covered in plastic crates.It really is something else.

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Lucha Libre, Mexico's masked wrestling spectacular, is a must for lovers of kitsch. On Tuesdays, hit the small, traditional Arena Coliseo for the best two-hour show $2.50 can buy, or go for the glitzy televised productions at Arena Mexico, where tickets run between $4 and $13. Be sure to pick up a cheap mask of your favorite hero outside and cheer the loudest that you can. Note that a general rule is that photography is not permitted inside.

Food: Tacos are our favourites, but so is the vast variety of other kinds of dishes available in Mexico city that you should give something else a go. There's no better place than the capital to get a sampling of Mexico's diverse food.We seem to be really into fusion and sushi at the moment.

La Tecla in Roma (Durango 86-A, Colonia Roma) is one of the most affordable places to try Nouveau Mexican food, such as duck enchiladas with mango sauce. Meals are generally under US$10.

Another good bet is long standing restaurant "La Sandia" which was recently revamped by new owners and a menu including mouth watering Chiles Rellenos - breakfast or lunch is under US$20. (Avenida Río San Ángel 86 Inbetween Revolución and InsurgentesColonia. Guadalupe Inn)

For breakfast if you are wanting something reliable and simple try Los bisquets de Obregón - a favourite with branches all over the city and the first located at Álvaro Obregón esq. Mérida in the colonia Roma. Dont forget to try the "Bisquets" which are like a scone but ten times better!!

If you want to spot a Mexican celebrity whilst staying in the city, stop at Frutos Prohibidos y Otros Placeres (forbidden fruits and other pleasures), an outdoor corner cafe with a long list of great fruit smoothies, salads and wraps in the Condesa.

Shopping:

The Ciudadela market at Balderas has a large variety for traditional crafts, its not the cheapest but its the best in the city and although it is known to some in the city as "the tourist market" - it really is very good and has a great history. It's open every day and you will most probably see alot of tourists in this area. For more upscale art, try the saturday market in San Angel.

If you read Spanish, pick up a copy of Chilango magazine or Donde Ir magazine for articles and reviews of whats going on.

Edificio de Correos

Edificio de Correos - The post office building ..
When most people visit the city they cant imagine why i tell them to go to the post office building , yet they are always blown away by the architecture and the stamp murals.
All you need is about 20 minutes to see what the building has but it really is not to be missed.


Address: Calle Tacuba 1 y Eje Central LAizaro CAirdenas Mexico City 06060
Tel: +52 5 5102999

Plaza de las Tres Culturas

Plaza de las Tres Culturas - (the Square of the three cultures )
This is perhaps the one of the most important sites in Mexico City and showcases Mexicos unique cultural heritage. With modern, colonial and aztec building coming together in one place.
In pre-Columbian times it was the centre of the city of Tlatelolco, whose people sided with the Spanards against the Aztecs of Tenochtitlan (mexico city). In colonial times, there was an important church here. Then in 1968, the area was the focus of a horrifying government massacre in the run-up to the Mexico City Olympics. Hundreds are thought to have died, many of them local residents caught up in the crossfire. There is now a monument to the dead in the square, with a beautiful poem by Rosario Castellanos. Anyone interested in the history of the city should check out the square.


Address : Eje Central esquina Eje Uno Norte Mexico City Mexico

San Jacinto Plaza

San Jacinto Plaza
This plaza is in the San Angel part of the city and Diego Rivera's house is also nearby. The pretty and colourful park is not very large but is a good bet for anyone that would like to see something "traditional" in the city.The plaza is a good place to relax and listen to one of the many musicians that play in the area.
On weekends artwork is sold in the plaza and there are a number of good restaurants dotted around too.

We recommend that you check it out !

Address : Between Miramon Cda. Santisima, Dr. Galvez, Mexico City 01910

Free ! Free tours and things to do in the City

A day in the park...Chapultepec Park is home to a castle, zoo and a large lake - and its Free !

Address : Bosque de Chapultepec (Closest metro stations are Chapultepec and Auditorio)

Free Tour...Of the Archaeological Zone & Templo Mayor Museum are on Saturday mornings at 9 AM . The tour lasts generally for around three hours.

Address : Flagpole at the Zócalo - Saturdays at 9am - (Closest Metro Station is Zócalo)

Take a walk...Historic Centre Walking Tour is an Organised walking tour of Zócalo and Historic centre on sundays at 10am.

Address : Tourist information at the Historic Centre

Market Shopping - one of the best things to do on weekends is visit the Coyoacan market that is held in and around the square - You can take the metro to Coyoacan station and from there walk the ten minutes or so to where the Market is held.
*Note that it is always very busy on weekends !

Bellas Artes - The theatre has two guided tours every day which are free to the public. The theatre is explained and is a great oppurtunity to take a photo of the beautiful Tiffany curtain.

Address : Bellas Artes

San Fernando Cemetery - Maybe a cemetery doesnt sound like too much fun, buts its more of a Cemetary - Museum
It is free to go in and inside you can see plenty of graves and tombs from well known characters from Mexican history, from the revolution and presidents too. The two most interesting are the ones of Benito Juarez and Vicente Guerrero.This cemetery also has a small room where they show the characters and a little history of the revolution and the first constitution.

Address : Guerrero, 39
06010 México

Palacio Nacional - The national palace is the government building located in the Zócalo which is free to the public to enter and offers great views over the square and also holds artwork by Diego Rivera.
*Note that entrance is free but a form of I.D must be shown by mexican nationals and Passport must be shown by foriegn visitors - PHOTOCOPIES NOT EXCEPTED

Address : Avenida Pino Suarez, Corregidora esquina Guatemala - Zócalo

ITS ALL FREE !!

Horse Racing in Mexico City

Hipódromo de las Américas is a thoroughbred and quarter-horse race track in Mexico City, that had its inaugural meeting on March 6, 1943.
It is located approximately four and one-half miles from the downtown district, on Lomas de Sotelo and is operated by Grupo CIE.
Races are frequent and facilities include the original club-house and grandstand, restaurants and seating for 20,000.
It is the home of the Mexican Derby, and many prominent jockeys have ridden there over the years.

The Race track is a good way to spend the afternoon especially if you come to mexico during "rainy" season as the races are run come rain or shine !

Hipódromo de las Américas
Av. Conscripto
Tel : 5557-4100



http://www.hipodromo.com.mx/

Update Coyoacan Market

The weekend markets at Coyoacan were suspended following a dispute over taxes paid by local residents in the area.

THE MARKETS ARE NOW BACK ON AT COYOACAN ON SATURDAYS AND SUNDAYS

Culture Shock

I bought a very interesting book in London called "Culture Shock - Mexico" .

It details things that as a mexican, i found rather amusing - its definately a good read for anyone wishing to do business in Mexico or planning on staying here for a while. The book covers sbjects that help the reader understand things that they might see or by confused by whilst in Mexico, tips on mexican ettiquette and customs etc, a quick summary of mexican history, its characters and the things that have shaped who and what we are today.

It is not a guidebook. It is a hybrid - perfect for anyone that wants to explore deeper here and take a trip off the beaten path especially.

Especially useful, are the tips on how to recognise a good Mexican restaurant, how to address people in social situations, and other "Mexicanisms" such as various slangs which you may be confused by if you speak "spanish".

Mexican Etiquette Tips

Are you the type of person who can't seem to get anywhere on time? Well, if going to a person's home in Mexico, you're in luck! Showing up early or even showing up on time is sometimes considered rude. Arriving about 30 minutes late is appropriate. However, in business situations, it's smart to be on time, even if you are kept waiting by your Mexican business associates.

Below we have put together a list of Mexican etiquette to help you out on your trip!

1. What to wear

1. DON'T wear shorts if you wish to blend in. Aside from beaches and northern areas, shorts are seldom worn by Mexicans.
2. DO dress nicely for business situations. A suit and tie is fine, and women may also wear conservative dresses. In very hot regions, it's acceptable to wear lighter clothing, but don't wear overly casual clothing, such as t-shirts or flip-flops.
3. DO dress smart-casual for social occasions or going out in the city.
4. DO take off sunglasses and hats if entering a church.

2. Food/Drinks

1. DO rest your wrists on the edge of the table while dining.
2. DON'T sit until told where to sit.
3. DON'T begin eating until your host does.
4. DO understand that only men give toasts in Mexican culture.
5. DO indicate that you are finished eating by putting your knife and fork across your plate with the prongs going downwards and the handles facing right.
6. DO leave a little bit of food on your plate when you are done.If you finish, the host may think that you want more or were not satisfied as strange as that seems!
7. DO go with the flow. Unless you are REALLY not keen on the proposed plan, go with the flow.
8. DO say thank you after an evening out. Your mexican friend will appreciate it!

3. Tipping / Money

1. DO tip in the same fashion that you are used to at home although in Mexico city more restaurants will ask you if you want to "close" your bill or include a tip.
2. DON´T put the money on the counter when paying for things, put it into the cashiers hand

4. Giving and Accepting Gifts

1. DON'T give red flowers (negativity) or marigolds (day of the dead!!!!) However, white flowers are considered uplifting. Sweets or chocolate are always well received too!
2. DO open a gift upon receipt when someone gives you one.
3. DON´T WORRY - Gift wrapping does not follow any particular protocol
4. DO react enthusiastically when given a gift, even if you don´t like it!

5. Greetings

1. DO shake hands upon meeting someone even if its for the first time.
2. DO follow the lead of who you are greeting. Hugs are often shared among friends, as well as a light kiss on the cheek for women, even if its for the first time. If you go to someones home, make a point of saying "Hello" to everyone even if you dont know them!!
3. DO Wait until invited before using a Mexican's first name

6. Visiting Someone's Home

1. DO be fashionably late! Thirty minutes late is appropriate.
2. DO bring flowers or sweets for your host. Mexicans love this!
3. DO thank the host for having you over. They will probably reply that it was no trouble but if you dont make a point to say thank you then they probably wont invite you again!!

7. Business

1. DO make an appointment at least two weeks in advance and confirm a week before. Confirm the meeting one last time upon arriving in Mexico.
2. DON'T be late! However, your Mexican business associates may be late. Mexicans have a very relaxed view of time, but as a foreigner, you should make the effort to be on time.
3. DO be patient. Negotiations may proceed very slowly.
4. DO have written material translated to Spanish.
5. DO hire an interpreter if your spanish is not good!
6. DO expect haggling and prepare accordingly

8. Communication

1. DO understand that "estúpido" is considered a bad word in Mexico, and it means much worse than "stupid."
2. DO say "salud!" when someone sneezes. To not do so is considered rude.
3. DON´T respond to any wolfwhistling or anyone on the street that may try to attract your attention
4. DO try to speak in Spanish. Even an attempt to communicate with broken Spanish will be warmly appreciated and seen as a sign of interest and respect
   
5. DON´T "Ok" us. The U.S. hand sign for ‘ok’ (a circle with your thumb and forefinger) is considered vulgar in Mexico.

Hotels - Sheraton Maria Isabel Hotel and Towers

The Maria Isabel Sheraton is located right on Reforma infront of "El Angel" - the perfect location for anyone visiting the city. The neighbourhood is safe and with the US Embassy being the hotels closest neighbour, there is always a large police presence in the street at all times. The is a few shops in the lobby selling jewellery and gifts, post cards and also mexican art. Mexico cities first starbucks is also located infront of the Hotel for early morning coffees with a late closing time.





Being part of the Starwood group means that the hotel is also Pet friendly !





Good Points about the Hotel


*Price - Good for business travellers and people on vacation


*Location - right on Reforma, the views from the rooms over the city are amazing


*Room Size - All rooms are large and have good bathrooms with large baths and showers


*Bars and Restaurants - although a little overpriced the food from the hotel restaurants are great ( we recommend the "Amichi" salad)


*Starbucks - the staff at the starbucks infront of Maria Isabel generally speak english and are really friendly and always happy to help


*Sanborns - There is a sanborns located on the corner outside the hotel which is open till around 11pm for any emergency buys and ofcourse with pharmacy


*Money - the foreign exchange rate at the hotel is generally very good

*Room Service - staff are excellent





Bad Points


*Staff - apart from the Bell Boys, the other staff are not the nicest - If you have any problems, the Management team are not the best to deal with. If you speak any other languages than spanish and english you may also have problems as the staff dont seem to have a wide knowledge of foriegn language

*The pool - the swimming pool is small and is usually overcrowded with few sun loungers leaving people without anywhere to sit.

*Room Service - expensive and can sometimes be very slow

*Suites - the top floor suites are not great - small and outdated

*Old and outdated hotel

*Bathroom - dont wake up too early otherwise you might find that the water isnt very hot for your morning shower !


*Internet - the hotel rooms all have internet which is expensive and problematic


*Noise - although the windows in the rooms are "sound proofed" - the rooms can be noisey. The hotel sits on one of Mexico Cities principle avenues and traffic starts early in the morning (4am sometimes) and major demonstations frequently take place infront of the hotel due to the american embassy being close by

*Reforma is closed for cars for a large part of sunday to allow people to walk and ride bicycles so dont expect any taxis and Do expect LOTS and LOTS and people outside on the streets


*Traffic - if you are in a hurry, leave early, traffic infront of the hotel is always terrible

I lived in the Hotel whilst i was moving house - i hated the hotel but found the location so great that i stayed for almost six months. Walking on reforma at night is great. If you have to stay in this neighbourhood whilst in the city, i would suggest one of the other hotels like the Presidente or if you must stay at a starwood property, the Sheraton at Centro Historico or the W at Polanco are far nicer hotels.

The insiders guide to an English Speaking Mexico

http://www.insidemex.com/

Inside Mex is a great website for the english speaking - full of great articles and up to date information about what is going on in Mexico.

Learning "Mexican"

International house offers spanish classes for foreigners combined with cultural/social activities which could make your stay in the city far more interesting and if you are travelling alone - you will for sure meet some friends to enjoy your time in the city even more.
There is a lot to do and see in Mexico City!
International House organises a daily social programs which includes Mexican cooking classes, dancing classes, socialising with Mexican students as well as various excursions to museums and sites around the city.
There are several opportunities to practice different sports. The activities in the school are included in the course fee. Excursions outside the school have a small extra fee.


http://www.ihmexico.com/eng/espext4.htm

Learning Spanish in DF

Many people come to Mexico to learn Spanish and although Mexico is maybe not the best place to learn "Spanish" - it sure will be Fun .... we assure you though that anyone taking Spanish classes should maybe also take "Mexican" classes if you intend on staying in the city for a long time.....

There are lots and lots of Spanish schools in the city - below we have posted links to some of the best based on price and location.

http://www.fridaspanish.com/languageschools.htm

http://www.ahm.edu.mx/

http://www.cactuslanguage.com/en/languages/spanish/mexico/mexico_city.php

http://www.ihmexico.com/eng/espext1.htm

Nihao - Learning Chinese in DF

Nihao is one of Mexico cities best Mandarin Schools - anyone wanting a chinese connection or to take a language course in the city should contact :

NIHAO México
Paseo de la Reforma 369Torre B,
Piso 3Colonia Cuauhtémoc
06500 México, D.F.
Tel (55) 502-502-22

Bulldog Cafe

Wether in the City or at the Beach - Bulldog cafe is a favourite chain with Mexicans, with 3 cafes located in DF, Puebla and Cancun.

Bulldog in Mexico city known commonly as El "bull" is located at Rubens #6 Esquina con Av. Revolucion, Colonia. Mixcoac.

The cafe is famous for its rock and roll atmosphere and since its creation in 1992 many famous bands have played there.

If you are visiting the city or are a fan of the Mexican / Latin American alternative music scene there is a chance that you can catch a good show at the Bull.

We suggest checking there website for show dates etc.

http://www.bulldogcafe.com/mex.html

Hostel Catedral

Founded in the year 2000 Hostel Catedral is the biggest hostel in Latin America and probably the best around the world. Receiving more than 55,000 thousend guests per year from all over the world.


The location is superb, behind the Metropolitan cathedral and only a few steps from the zocalo (main square).Less than five minutes walking from the subway station and with the best view of the city from the top roof bar.


A good bet if you are looking for a well located and reasonably priced stay in Mexico city.




Continental Breakfast Buffet Included - Dorms- Private Rooms- Private Suites- Internet Access - Web Access in Lobby - WiFi in Room - WiFi in Lobby - Guest Kitchen - Fax Service - Postal Service - Card Phones - Hot Tub - Cable TV - DVD`s - Common Room - Outdoor Terraced Area - Linen Included - Security Lockers - Reading Light - Key Card Access - Washing Machine/Dryer - 24 Hour Security - Towels Hire - Bicycle Parking - Bar - Restaurant - Iron/Ironing Board -Tours Desk - Luggage Storage - Elevator - 24 Hour Reception

Address : Republica de Guatemala Num.4 Col. Centro Historico CP. 06020. Mexico City

Coldplay - Live in Mexico City

Coldplay bring the Viva la Vida tour to Foro Sol on the 6th and 7th of March 2010.

www.ticketmaster.com.mx

El Cascanueces - The nut cracker

El Cascanueces - the nut cracker will come to Mexico city again this year at the Auditorio Nacional from the 16th - 23rd of December complete with live orchestra.

Ticket prices range from mx$180-500.00

Closest metro : Auditorio

www.ticketmaster.com.mx

Upcoming Events - Joaquín Cortés

Joaquín Cortés





Auditorio Nacional - México, DF 3rd Febrary 2010 (wednesday) 20.30

The amazingly talented, classically trained ballet and flamenco dancer from Spain will perform in Mexico City at the Auditorio Nacional this coming february.

Tickets for the show range from mx$350.00 - mx$1,350.00

See www.ticketmaster.com.mx to book tickets.

Upcoming event in Mexico City - Dralion - Cirque Du Soleil

Dralion - Cirque Du Soleil

When: Dec 13, 2009 (Sunday)
Where : Gran Carpa Santa Fe - Mexico City

Gastronomica La Sandia - Great Food at "La Sandia"

Gastronomica La Sandia
La Sandia Restaurant - Mexico City


La Sandia ( the watermelon ) is a great little spot a little off the beaten tourist trail but not to be passed by if you are in the city and looking for a nice breakfast or lunch.
Open all week long, a small restaurant with a relaxed atmosphere and very attentive service, the food is varied and the menu features international cuisine,salad bar and a wide selection of different "chiles rellenos" which are not to be missed.
A really great little place with very reasonable prices - breakfasts and lunches for under mx$200.00 per person.



Tel. 56624583

Avenida Río San Ángel 86-B Inbetween Revolución and Insurgentes
Colonia. Guadalupe Inn

Closest Metro station : Miguel Ángel de Quevedo

GERMAN CHRISTMAS MARKET

Mezcal und Glühwin en der Weihnachtsmarkt / Mezcal y Vino en el Mercado Navideño

THE GERMAN CENTRE IS RUNNING A GERMAN CHRISTMAS EXHIBITION TOWARDS THE END OF NOVEMBER

Mexico City - Lomas de Santa Fe

German Centre, Avenida Santa Fe #170
www.germancentre.com.mx

Del 23 al 25 de Noviembre, 2009 11:00 a 18.00 horas
Lobby del German Centre
MÚSICA ARTESANÍAS REGALOS ESFERAS BUFANDAS GLÜHWEIN Y MÁS

Shopping - Artisan Market in Mexico City

Many tourists hoping to buy some real mexican artisania will find themselves coming to the Ciudadela which is located close to Balderas metro stations not far from the centre of town. Here you will find everything you wish to buy including metalwork, jewelry,pottery,leather products and many many tradtional mexican arts and crafts that you may have not seen before. The market is easily accessible and you will find many tourists and mexicans alike in the area buying presents and items for the home. However the Ciudadela has a history and a story to be told which might make your visit a little more interesting.
The market is where cultural groups from around Mexico distribute their crafts to visitors,other parts of the country and the world. These artists and have developed and maintained this space for more than 40 years. The land the Ciudadela occupies has been threatened with demolition, to convert the area into a government office building.

The Ciudadela's craftspeople are organizing so the eviction might be prevented. They are working to educate people about valuable cultural and artistic work that is done every day in the market.

The Ciudadela offers artwork made of wood, cloth, glass, paint, metal, pottery, and embroidery. You can purchase paintings, scultures, typical and traditional costumes, along with thousands more items. The market sells crafts from the entire country, and members of at least 10 indigenous groups live there, including the Triquis, Tzeltales, Tzotziles, Huicholes, Mixtecos, Purépechas, Tlapanecos, Otomíes, Zapotecos, Nahuas and Mazahuas. These cracts people count on the Ciudadela space for art production as well as sales, employing more than 1200 craftspeople.

For more than 40 years the Ciudadela has been a hub for the world-wide distribution of Mexican crafts, and the market has also been a necessary stop for any tourist in Mexico City. During this time the knowledge of the artisan's craft has been passed from generation to generation, and they continue with this work to this day.

Video: Alive in Mexico Podcasts

www.aliveinmexico.org

The Alive in Mexico Podcasts are a series of Video podcasts about the real life happenings of Mexicans throughout the country but many of the videos feature on events in Mexico City. The podcasts are funded through viewer donations and are really very interesting and worth watching.

You can find the podcasts in the Itunes podcasts directory named "Alive in Mexico" and also some of the series has been posted on Youtube for viewers.
Here I have posted a few of the episodes which are in Spanish with English Subtitles.
Enjoy!

*Viewer caution is advised due to language and nudity in the final video.

Trying some new food in Mexico

When most people think about mexican food, they think "burritos" but real mexican food (not tex-mex) is diverse and almost every state has there own style of cooking. Don´t leave Mexico City without trying the following:

• Tacos al pastor

Perobably the best tacos you will eat are Tacos al pastor (shepard style). The started in Mexico city and are thought to have been a take on the kebab served by many lebanese in Mexico. The pork is marinated in spices and chilis and the tacos are served usually with onions, cilantro (coriander) pineapple, guacamole and lime on a small tortilla.

• Pozole

Pozole is a famous mexican stew or soup made from hominy and pork with various garnishes, very ppular in the state of Guerrero.

• Quesadillas

Everyone in Mexico eats Quesadillas wether for breakfast or a light evening snack. Tortillas are filled with chihuahua or oaxaca cheese, folded and cooked until melted and usually served with a spicey green salsa. A favourite especially with kids. My favourites come from a stand behind the sanborns on paseo de las palmas in Lomas de Chapultepec where many people go for a quick lunchtime snack.

• Chilaquiles

Chilaquiles are a poplur dish to eat at breakfast or at brunch. The crunchy tortilla squares are topped with spicey green salsa, refried breans,cheese, sour cream and often chicken.

• Huevos Rancheros

Mexican scrambled eggs including chili, pepper and tomato.

• Arrachera

You can find Arrachera houses and takeouts all over serving this marinated beef.

• Micheladas

This is a "prepared beer", popular in Mexico since the 1940s and comes in a few ways but most commonly is a mix of beer, tomato juice, chili, worchester sauce, lime and salt.

• Huaraches

Originating in Mexico city in the 1930s, Huarches take there name from the sandal shaped masa. Huaraches are a fried corn base with various topping which you can find all over the city.

• Tamales

A "tamal" is a mix of corn dough with a filling either sweet or savoury which is steamed in a corn husk. In Mexico city the "torta de tamal" is popular, which is a tamale of your choice in a fresh white bread bun and is filling enough as a small meal on the go or for breakfast. Many latin american countries have something typical to the tamale but it is estimated that over 1000 versions with various fillings are to be found in Mexico.
Mexican Tamales that you find in the USA are usually not very good and its hard to find places that make Tamales in Europe so don´t forget to try one whilst you are here.

Mexico City Metropolitan Cathedral

The Mexico City Metropolitan Cathedral (Catedral Metropolitana de la Asunción de María) is the largest and oldest cathedral in the Americas and a must see for visitors to Mexico City.

It is situated atop the former Aztec sacred precinct near the Templo Mayor on the northern side of the Plaza de la Constitución (Zocalo) in downtown Mexico City and can be reached by Metro and Taxi very easily.

The cathedral was built in sections from 1573 to 1813 around the original church that was constructed soon after the Spanish conquest of Tenochtitlán, eventually replacing it entirely. Spanish architect Claudio de Arciniega planned the construction, drawing inspiration from the many gothic styled cathedrals in Spain.

The cathedral has four facades which contain portals flanked with columns and statues and also a bell tower containing a total of 25 bells. The tabernacle, adjacent to the cathedral, contains the baptistry and serves to register the parishioners. There are two large, ornate alters, a sacristy, and a choir in the cathedral.

Fourteen of the cathedral's sixteen chapels are open to the public. Each chapel is dedicated to a different saint or saints, and each was sponsored by a religious guild. The cathedral is also home to two of the largest 18th century organs in the Americas.

Over the centuries, the cathedral has suffered damage. A fire in 1962 destroyed a significant part of the cathedral's interior. The restoration work that followed uncovered a number of important documents and artwork that had previously been hidden. Although a solid foundation was built for the cathedral, the soft clay soil it is built on has been a threat to its structural integrity. Dropping water tables and accelerated sinking caused the structure to be added to the World Monuments Fund list of the 100 Most Endangered Sites. Reconstruction work beginning in the 1990s stabilized the cathedral and it was removed from the endangered list in 2000.

This area of town is generally very busy but with many points of interest you could spend most of the day here in this area. Metro access is by the zocalo or bellas artes a short walk away.

*Kids always seem to love the ruins that are covered by perspex on the floor outside too