In the 15th century, the Chapultepec Forest in Mexico City was laid out by aqueducts that carried water from the streams to the baths and temazcales (a steam bath). At that time, it was the greenest area in the basin.
These springs supplied Tenochtitlan and provided water to Mexico City until the beginning of the 20th century. Archaeological studies found that ahuehuete and ahuejote trees were used for the construction of the pools, canals and aqueducts. Signs of those enormous trees can still be seen next to these buildings.
Archeologists have also discovered rocks engraved with figures of rulers, dates, and symbols that refer to passages of history. A monolith with the effigy of Moctezuma carved on the hill stands out. Since 2018, researchers have been conducting an exhaustive study in the area after finding three outstanding vestiges:
- Fragments of a colonial aqueduct (12km) carried water from Santa Fe (west of the city) to Alameda Central (downtown).
- Two branches led to the water at the foot of the Chapulín hill-to the Moctezuma Baths.
- Segments of three recreational-medicinal ponds were built in the 1870s to convert the forest springs into European-style public baths.
Welcome LGBTQ+
Mexico City, a vibrant and diverse metropolis, welcomes travelers with a rich tapestry of neighborhoods, each offering a unique city flavor. As visitors plan their stay, it’s essential to consider the budget, attractions, inclusivity, and LGBTQ+ offerings. Whether they’re drawn to historic charm, stylish ambiance, or the vibrant LGBTQ+ scene, Mexico City has something for everyone.
To mention a little history about Mexico City’s innovation towards this segment, in December 2009, the Legislative Assembly of the Federal District (ALDF) approved Equal Marriage, and on November 23, 2015, the local government signed a declaration in which Mexico City is recognized as a “Friendly City” with the LGBTQ+ community. Mexico City was also named a Queer Destination by the Mexico City Secretary of Tourism, Nathalie Desplas Puel.
It is a declaration to the national and international community that Mexico City is a welcoming destination since it has demonstrated that it is a progressive city with clear progress in recognizing the human rights of all people without distinction.
The abundance of accommodation options in a sprawling metropolis like Mexico City can be overwhelming. Here’s a breakdown of some neighborhoods to help visitors make the right choice:
Condesa and Roma Norte: Stylish and Affordable
Condesa and Roma Norte top the list for those seeking a blend of style and affordability. These neighborhoods boast many dining and drinking options and exciting shops featuring local designers’ work. The tree-lined streets and numerous small parks make them ideal for strolls day or night.
Centro Histórico: Immersed in History
Travelers with a penchant for Mexico City’s oldest historic attractions should consider staying in the Centro Histórico, the city’s historic center. While the area may be quiet after dark, its proximity to significant landmarks adds historical charm to your stay.
Polanco: Upscale and Chic
For a truly upscale experience, Polanco is the go-to neighborhood. Dotted with shops showcasing international designer brands and restaurants helmed by award-winning chefs, Polanco caters to those with a taste for the finer things.
Zona Rosa: LGBTQ+ Nightlife Hub
If proximity to vibrant LGBTQ+ nightlife is a priority, travelers should consider staying in or near the Zona Rosa. This lively neighborhood comes alive after sunset, offering various bars, clubs, and entertainment options.
Drink Mexican Whiskey, Vodka and Gin
On the outskirts of Mexico City is a brand-new Mexican whiskey, vodka, and gin distillery. In Tlalmanalco, State of Mexico, on the east exit of the CDMX, the pub is home to the Destilería San Patricio, where you can eat, drink, and listen to Celtic music, including bagpipes.
Milpa Alta Route: Sustainable Agriculture
This multifaceted gastronomic experience showcases the ingredients and flavors of Mexican culinary heritage while taking you behind the scenes at La Ruta de Milpa Alta. The project connects rural fields south of Mexico City, working with local families to revive sustainable agricultural techniques and uphold the farming lifestyle as a noble way to earn a living.
Chinampas and Axolotls in Xochimilco
Led by the environmental education and conservation non-profit Reeduca, this meaningful experience takes you back to Mexico City’s pre-colonial past. In a gondola-style traditional boat, explore the back channels of Xochimilco, a hidden natural oasis that feels far removed from the bustling megalopolis.
Mexico City’s Historic Center, Murals and Cantinas
Unveil seven centuries of society in Mexico City’s historical center, decode captivating murals, hear the stories about the artists, and feel like a local at your guide’s favorite cantina. With David’s unique grasp of the capital’s culture, this is a fantastic opportunity to get under the skin of one of the world’s most dynamic cities.
Mexico City’s trendy districts, Roma and Condesa, receive a lot of love and attention from travelers, and rightfully so. However, the recent opening of the city’s hottest new luxury property, Hotel Volga, is bringing new intrigue and refreshed excitement to Cuauhtémoc —the buzzing and walkable microcosm of Mexico City’s vibrant, sophisticated whole.
Colonia Cuauhtémoc is a cultural and economic hub just north of Roma and Condesa, adjacent to the energetic Avenida Paseo de la Reforma, and encompassing the historic Juarez neighborhood, which is enjoying a recent revival with new creative minds emerging and gorgeous new businesses opening in old nostalgic structures. As one of the oldest boroughs of Mexico City, Cuauhtémoc is home to the city’s oldest sights and religious buildings and the newest, most modern skyscrapers – including the Mexican Stock Exchange, the Historic Center, and Zona Rosa. Much of Mexico City’s international population lives and works in this lively subset, and the area has grown steadily in recent years with a wave of new independent shops, art galleries, restaurants, and bars opening throughout the business district.
The ultimate neighborhood guide
Cuauhtémoc is a vibrant and cosmopolitan area near Mexico City’s downtown. Within a few steps, you will find elegant, stylish, casual, and diverse restaurants, trendy and musical bars, and prestige museums.
New: Elora Restaurant—A new elevated dining experience curated by the famous restauranteur Edo Kobayashi Elora Restaurant is highly regarded as his foray into Mediterranean cuisine. The inspired menu features dishes and flavors with Spanish, French, Italian, and Greek origins that acquire new, creative nuances from being made with the highest-quality Mexican ingredients.
Best: Bella Aurora (World’s Best Female Chef 2023) Husman Bistro, Casa del Fuego, Taquería Gabriel, Izakaya Sushi and Chetito.
Bars
New: Minos—A new underground music lounge with a dark, intimate vibe reflecting its name, “—Minos,” which is Greek for “cave.” With a maximum capacity of 70 people and a pre-reservation requirement, MINOS is one of the most private and exclusive new venues to enjoy exceptional craft cocktails and electronic house DJ sets (vinyl and digital).
Three bars ranked in the prestigious 50 Best Bars:
Shopping
Loos Blues is a unique Japanese and Mexican vintage boutique featuring men’s and women’s fashion as well as vinyl records, zines, and books.
Casa Fusión is a showroom that hosts independent Mexican design stores, delicious food and dessert stations, themed weekend markets, a cultural theater, and a gallery.
Carla Fernández – Consciously designed womenswear featuring modern and androgynously seductive cuts crafted in indigenous fabrics.
Casa Caballería – Artfully edited collections of dapper menswear ranging from street to formal styles, locally made leather shoes, and lines from up-and-coming Mexican designers.
Utilitario Mexicano – Artisanal home décor made in small independent workshops across Mexico City that reinterprets traditional domestic items.
Art Galleries and Museums
Arredondo/Arozarena—Gallery hosting incredible exhibitions of Mexican and international artists, known for displaying contemporary art's voice and relevant discourses.
Ethra Gallery—This gorgeous antique home has been transformed into an art gallery that hosts international exhibitions and is home to a sculpture by Pedro Friedeberg.
Mucho—The Museum of Chocolate showcases beautiful desserts and educates visitors on the nutritional benefits of chocolate and its rich history in Mexico.
Estela de Luz & Centro de Cultura Digital—This digital arts center hosts different exhibitions that evoke the senses through digital experiences and often hosts concerts, film festivals, experimental theater, radio broadcasting, and art installations.
Landmarks: Angel de la Independencia, Diana Cazadora
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