Oaxaca, Oaxaca Capital city of the state of Oaxaca City Map to the northwest Tlaxiaco, Oaxaca to the west Monte Albán to the east Hierve el Agua Mitla to the northeast Cuajimoloyas to the south San Bartolo Coyotepec Huatulco Ocotlán de Morelos Puerto Escondido San José del Pacifico Santo Tomás Jalietza San Martin Tilcajete Zaachila Santa Ana Zegache Main Index City Map of Oaxaca Airport Best of Oaxaca, Oaxaca Currency Hwy 131 Hwy 175 Indigenous Language Map Legal Resources Mail Telephone Calls Transportation Oaxaca Facts Real Estate Living in Mexico Missing Persons Weather The Zócalo Visitors' Comments Forum About • Home • Search What's New?

City of Oaxaca as seen from Monte Albán

February 3-24, 2017. Art Exhibition of artists Robert Cenedella and Jeff Tocci, Porfirio Diaz #413, Oaxaca, Mexico. More information. Sunday, February 19, 2017   from 10 am to 6 pm, at the "Circulo Gastronómico Oaxaqueño" 5 de Mayo 306, corner Curtidoria, Antiguo Barrio de Jalatlaco, in the City of Oaxaca. a few blocks from Santo Domingo and ADO bus station. Gastronomy, Talks, Textiles, Traditions, Music, Market, lottery, Photography, Crafts, Exhibitions and more Italian Culture. Please note that this page may be updated periodically. If you are revisiting this page checking for updated information, you will probably need to use your Refresh or Reload button on your web browser to see the current version. Otherwise you may be viewing cached material on your hard drive.

Oaxaca is the capital city of the state of Oaxaca and is located near the center of the state in a high mountain valley (5100'), with a population of about 250,000. The climate is springlike during most of the year with warm days and cool evenings. The region is generally arid with a rainy season beginning about July and lasting until October. The photo at right was taken in October of 2002. There are an amazing number of points of interest both within and near the city such as cathedrals, museums, parks, concerts, restaurants featuring Oaxaca's famous cuisine, archaeological sites, crafts villages, etc. With its large population, the city supports modern medical facilities with a full complement of specialists.

Oaxaca is rich in history and culture. The urban center was known as Huaxyacac in the Nahuatl language until 1532 when the Spanish gave it the name Nueva Antequera. The zócalo (main square) is the heart of the city and has been so since 1529. On the south side of the zócalo is the former state government building, now a museum; on the north side is the Cathedral of Oaxaca which dates from 1535. The thick stone walls are designed to withstand the earthquakes of the region. To the northwest is Alameda de León. A number of cafes surround the zócalo and sitting at a sidewalk table and watching the activities in the square is a popular pastime.

The zócalo is also the site of frequent political rallies and protests, which turned deadly in 2006. I will use the location of the zócalo as a reference to describe the locations of other points in the city. See also this article about the zócalo by Stan Gotlieb.

There are numerous attractions within a few miles of the city. There are villages known for their pottery, weaving, embroidery, and wood carvings, there are breathtaking natural areas, and archeological sites that provide a glimpse of Oaxaca's past civilizations.

Although the name of this web site is called the The Pacific Coast of Mexico, the city of Oaxaca is not on the coast. It is only 147 miles (237 km) from the city to the coast, but the road crosses the Sierra Madre del Sur, making this an 8-hour drive. Nevertheless, hwy 175 is a world class drive through gorgeous tropical forests and I highly recommend it for the adventurous traveler. Another option is to fly to the coast. Many travelers combine the city of Oaxaca with a trip to the coast, so I now include the city here. The city of Oaxaca and surrounding area have so much to offer that you can't see it all in one trip. You will be back. If you have already been, please leave us a message in the Visitors' Comments Forum.

Hotels • Hoteles

The busiest times in Oaxaca (when rates are higher and reservations are required) are Christmas & New Year's, Easter (2 weeks), Guelaguetaza (week of the next to last Monday in July), and Día de los Muertos (one week before and after November 1).

• Budget • Económico
  • Casa Angel Youth Hostel (951) 514-2224 (Mexico). Tinoco y Palacios 610. Centro (down the hill from the auditorio). US$11 and up. info@casaangelhostel.com. (3/11)
  • De Ciertos Oaxaqueños Abasolo #213. 3 blks E & 4 blks N of the NE corner of the zócalo. (951) 516-7448 (voice/fax). Email: marostra@yahoo.com. Common restroom, internet, laundry. US$20 double, $26 with breakfast. (10/10)
  • Hostal Pochon Callejón del Carmen #102, 10 blks NNW of zócalo. (951) 516-1322. Dormitories and private rooms, kitchen, internet, cheap long distance telephone calls. English, French, Spanish spoken. US$7 and up per person. Email: hostalpochon@yahoo.com.
  • Hotel Posada 5 de Mayo. US$28 and up for a double. (10/10)

• Moderate • Módico
  • Hotel Anna Sofía 5 de Mayo #104. US$54 for a double. (10/10)
  • Hotel Aurora Bustamante #212. 2 blks S of SE corner of the zócalo. (951) 516-4145, 516-3447. US$35 double. Recommended but stay away from room 27 (sewage smell coming from shower drain). (10/05)
  • Hotel Azucenas Prof. Martiniano Aranda #203 @ Mariano Matamoros. Wi-Fi. US$55 double. (951) 514-7918, 514-9380 (fax). Email: office@hotelazucenas.com. Photo (2/11)
  • Hotel Monte Albán Alameda de León #1. 1 blk W of the NW corner of the zócalo. (915) 516-2777. Somewhat noisy. Guelaguetza (Oaxacan folk dances) daily at 8:30 pm. (10/02)
  • Posada Catarina 4 blks SW of the zócalo. Parking, accept credit cards. US$47. (1/03)
  • Casa Machaya Sierra Nevada 164. (951) 132-8203. Bed and breakfast on hillside with kitchen and patio. Wi-Fi. oaxacadream@hotmail.com. (1/06)
  • Hotel Francia 20 De Noviembre #212. (951) 516-4811, 516-4120, 516-4251, (800) 215-3390 (toll free in Mexico). 60 rooms. One block from the zócalo. reservaciones@hotelfrancia.com. (3/07)
  • Hotel Las Mariposas (951) 515-5854. Bed & Breakfast and Studio Apartments. ventas@lasmariposas.com.mx. (9/08)
  • Hotel Oaxacalli Fandango Jesus Carranza 118, corner of Porfirio Diaz. 6 blks N & 1 blk W of the NW corner of the zócalo. (951) 516-8060, 501-0153. hoteloaxacalli@yahoo.fr. US$60 for a double. Photos. (10/08)
  • The Olive Independencia #807. (951) 516-7177. New restaurant, good food, nice wines, reasonable. Recommended. (3/06)
  • Los Olivos Calzada Maldero #1254. (951) 514-2074, 501-0955, 501-0954, 514-2225 (fax). Vegetarian restaurant, spa, breakfast included. US$60 double. (10/02)
  • Paredor Santa Domingo de Guzman just north of Santa Domingo Cathedral. US$55. Recommended. (2/12)
  • Hostal Santa Rosa Trujano #201. 1 blk W of the SW corner of the zócalo. (951) 514-6715. TV, telephones, restaurant, parking. US$36. (1/03)
  • Hotel Señorial on the zócalo, west side. Portal de las Flores #6. (951) 516-3933. Small pool. US$41 (1/06)
  • Posada Yagul Av. Juárez #106. 3 blks E & 1-1/2 blks N of the NE corner of the zócalo. (951) 514-3694. US$44 double. Email: hposadayagul@oaxaca.com. (10/02)
  • Real de Antequera Av. Hidalgo #807. 1/2 blk E of the NE corner of the zócalo. (915) 516-2885, 516-4020 (fax). TV, fan, telephone, restaurant. US$40 for a double. (10/02)
  • La Villada Inn Felipe Angeles #204. (951) 518-6217. Bed & breakfast with pool, restaurant, bar, internet access, tours, transportation. photo Email lavilladainnhotel@hotmail.com.

• Expensive • Caro
  • Aitana Sabino Crespo #313, 6 blocks NW of the zócalo. (951) 514-3788, 514-3839, 514-3884, 516-9856 (fax). Restored 17th-century building. 23 rooms.
  • Casa Murguía (951) 199-7026. Centro, east of Av. Juaréz. Spacious, deluxe bungalows with private patios surrounding large swimming pool. Four night min. stay. casamurguia@mac.com (6/12)
  • Camino Real 5 de Mayo #300. (951) 516-0611. 1 blk E and 4 blks N of NE corner of the zócalo. Located in a beautiful former convent. Pool. Hosts many conventions, can be noisy, busy.
  • Casa de Sierra Azul Hidalgo 1002. 2 blks E of the NE corner of the zócalo. (951) 514-7171, 514-8359, 514-8412. Email: sierrazul@prodigy.net.mx. Converted 19th century mansion. US$117 for a double (10/02)
  • Casa Oaxaca García Vigil #407. 4-1/2 blks N of the NW corner of the zócalo. Restaurant Alejandro. Email: casaoax@prodigy.net.mx. Restaurant Review by Alvin Starkman. (01/11)
  • Hacienda Los Laureles (951) 501-5300. Hidalgo #21. San Felipe del Agua. 2.5 miles from the zócalo. Pool, handicapped-accessible, spa, health center, medical facilities, massage, safe deposit boxes, 24-hour room service. enquiry@hotelhaciendaloslaureles.com. (7/07)
  • Holiday Inn Díaz Quintas #115. 10 blks N of the zócalo. (951) 512-9200. Air-conditioning, TV, computer connection.
  • Hotel Gala Bustamante #103. Located 1/4 blk S of the SE corner of the zócalo. (951) 514-2251, (800) 446-2922 (U.S. & Canada). US$64 double (10/02).
  • Hostal de la Noria Av. Hidalgo 918. 2 blks E of the NE corner of the zócalo. (951) 514-7844, 516-3992 (fax). Email: hostal@lanoria.com. air conditioning, restaurant. Double start at US$90 low season, US$110 high season. (10/02)
  • Hotel San Pablo 2 blks E and 1/2 blk N of the NE corner of the zócalo.
  • Hotel Señoral Miguel Cabrera. On the zócalo, west side. Somewhat noisy. US$60 double. (10/02)
  • Rancho Pitaya (951) 199-7026. Guerrero #3, Rojas de Cuauhtemoc, 8 miles SE of Oaxaca. Deluxe accommodation. Excellent horseback riding, cycling, hiking and birding. Breakfast and dinner included. horsebackmexico@mac.com (6/12)

Restaurants • Restaurantes

A sampling of Oaxacan foods from Altos Teranova

Oaxaca is a large city with numerous restaurants and is well-known for its regional cuisine. Only a sampling of some of the preferred restaurants can be listed here.
• La Aceituna Calzada Maldero #1254, in Hotel Los Olivos. (951) 514-2074, 501-0955, 501-0954, 514-2225 (fax). Vegetarian restaurant.
• Altos Teranova located on the east side of the zócalo, upstairs. Somewhat formal with a good view of the square.
• El Andariego Av. Independencia #503, in Parador San Miguel. (951) 514-9331. Oaxacan cuisine.
• Casa Oaxaca / Alejandro García Vigil #407. 4-1/2 blks N of the NW corner of the zócalo in the Hotel Casa Oaxaca. Upscale, reservations required, our favorite of the Food of the Gods dine-around. Email: casaoax@prodigy.net.mx. Restaurant Review by Alvin Starkman. (01/11)
• La Biznaga Garcia Vigil, #512, (951) 513-1800. Nice courtyard setting, unique well-seasoned dishes and good mixed drinks, Oaxaca's best margarita. Wireless internet. Recommended. See Review. (8/07)
• Burger King on M. Alcalá. See commentary by Alvin Starkman.
• Caldo de Piedra Located just outside Oaxaca on the highway to Santa María el Tule. Serving traditional Oaxacan soups prepared by dropping heated stones into freshly prepared bowls of ingredients. Recommended. See review.
• El Ché CLOSED Two locations, downtown next to Santo Domingo convent 5 de Mayo #413, and in Colonia Reforma. Known for its Argentinean beef.
• Café Café Located on Tinoco y Palacios. Popular with locals. Courtyard with fountain, sometimes live music. Soups, salads, crepes and sandwiches.
• La Catrina de Alcalá M. Alcalá #102, 2 blocks N of the zócalo. Regional Oaxacan food and continental cuisine with a Mexican flare. Recommended for fine dining. See Review. (5/09)
• Comedor Familiar Los Almendros 3ra Privada de Almendros #109. (951) 515-2863, 515-8331. Home-style Mexican cooking. Review.
• Como Agua Para Chocolate CLOSED (951) 516-2917. Hidalgo #612, on the second floor overlooking the Alameda at the Catedral. Large portions, fine dining, slow kitchen.
• Cafe Los Cuiles Antonia Labastida #115. Located at Plazuela Labastida, one block south of the Iglesia Santo Domingo. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Free wireless internet. Email: cafe_los_cuiles@hotmail.com Web: www.cuiles.com (4/06)
• Casa de Cantera (951) 514-7585, 514-9522, 515-3768. Located at Dr. Federico Ortiz Armengol No. 104, La Resolana, Col. Reforma. Guelaguetza (Oaxacan folk dances) daily at 8:30 pm. Call for reservations. casadecantera_2@prodigy.net.mx,casadecanterta_2@hotmail.com (1/09)
• Casa Oaxaca Café Restaurant Garcia Vigil #407 and 2 other locations. (951) 514-4173. Mexican novelle cuisine. Chef Alejandro Ruiz is known for his fish dishes. Reservations recommended. Review.
• Los Danzantes Macedonio Alcalá No. 403-4, 4 blks N of NE corner of the zócalo. (951) 501-1184. Fusion cuisine. Unique and impressive decor. Recommended for romantic dining.
• Decano 5 de Mayo. 1 blk E and 3 blks N of the NE corner of the zócalo. Restaurant & bar. Good margaritas, 2 for 1 on Wednesdays.
• El Faro Jasminez #222B, Colonia Reforma. Monday to Saturday 9am - 10pm. Bar and extreme cuisine, Oaxacan style. See review by Alvin Starkman.
• La Fonda de Sto. Domingo 5 de Mayo #411. 1 blk E & 5 blks N of the NE corner of zócalo. (951) 514-8924. Email: fondasantodomingo@hotmail.com. Oaxacan cuisine. (10/02)
• Fonda Mexicana on 20 de Noviembre. Close to the markets and caters to locals. Recommended for their comida corrida.
• Hamburguesas al Carbón Av. Universidad (Plaza del Valle). Recommended. (2/11)
• La Jacaranda on Garcia Virgil. Good Mexican food.
• Mambo Italiano Small restaurant located on Calle Jalisco #109 in San Felipe. Pastas, pizza, soups, salads. Good service. Recommended. (5/15)
• La Olla (951) 516-6668. Calle Reforma #402. Mon – Sat, 8 am – 10 pm. Bistro-style restaurant, healthy, flavorful. See review by Alvin Starkman.
• Marco Polo Pino Suarez. 4 blks E and 8 blks N of the NE corner of the zócalo, across from Parque Paseo Juárez. Oaxacan cuisine cooked in an outdoor wood-fired oven. (10/02)
• El Mirador Carr. Internacional KM. 3 S/N, Cerro del Fortín, Oaxaca. (915) 516-5820. Located just up the road and across from the Auditorio Guelaguetza with a beautiful view of the city and surrounding mountains. Mexican food, live music, moderately priced. Review by Alvin Starkman. (2/06)
• El Portal de la Soledad On the zócalo, east side upstairs above Terranova. El Portal is my favorite of the zócalo restaurants, elegant, Oaxacan, reasonable, good service, recommended. (2/04)
• La Primavera On the zócalo, west side. This is Oaxaca writer, Stan Gotlieb's favorite of the zócalo restaurants. GPS 17°03.68N 96°43.54W. (1/06)
• El Quince on Acala. Good Mexican food.
• Suchi Express Kinsui (915) 515-0075, 501-4030. Tuesdays at Naranjos #100, Thursdays at Murguia #104. Japanese cuisine. (10/02)
• Restaurante el Tigre Small roadside eatery located on hwy 190 on the way to Mitla and Hieve el Agua. See Review.
• El Topil Plazuela Labastida #104B, on the south side of Labistida Park. Traditional Oaxacan cuisine.
• La Toscana 5 de Mayo, No. 614, del barrio Jalatlaco. Located several NE from downtown. (951) 513-8742. Italian seafood. Attractive setting with tables located among pools of water. Best martinis.
• Trattoria Garcia Vigil #416. 5 blks N of the NW corner of the zócalo. (915) 514-0252. Italian food. (10/02)
• Veracruz Margen Izq. Del Rio Atoyac #250, Col El Pilar. (951) 512-7610. Seafood. Recommended. See review by Alvin Starkman.
• Vieja Lira Trattoria & Pizzeria Calle Reforma 502, Centro Oaxaca. 516-1122. Italian restaurant and pizzeria. 1-11 pm. Review (5/15)
  
• Zicanda García Vigil 409-A. 4-1/2 blocks north of the NW corner of the zócalo. (5/15)

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Cuisine of Oaxaca • El arte culinario de Oaxaca

The cuisine of Oaxaca is so significant that it gets its own section. Fueled by a rich diversity of available ingredients and cultures, Oaxaca draws visitors from all over the world to sample its foods, participate in the many cooking classes, browse its colorful markets, and document the subject on film and in print. The mountainous tropical setting provides multiple growing environments for both cool weather and warm weather crops and has also served to isolate and nurture multiple cultures. The proximity to the Pacific Ocean enables the inclusion of seafood. And finally, the sprawling markets present the fresh ingredients to the households and restaurants of the city.
• A Taste of Oaxaca, Mexico in Toronto Chef Pilar Cabrera prepares to take Oaxacan cuisine on the road with a visit to Toronto, Canada.
• Oaxacan Chef Sets City of Toronto Ablaze A report on Chef Pilar Cabrera's culinary tour in Toronto, Canada.
• Children's Cooking Classes Chef Pilar Cabrera offers summer cooking classes for children. An Article by Alvin Starkman.
• Cooking Classes - Casa de los Sabores (951) 516-6668. Pilar Cabrera conducts classes in English and Spanish. Read a review by Alvin Starkman. info@casadelaossabores.com. (3/11)
• Cooking Classes - Casa Crespo Crespo #415. 4-1/2 blocks north and 3 blocks west of the NW corner of the zócalo. (951) 514-1102. Daily 4-hour classes begin at 10am with an additiona class Friday at 3pm. Classes include a visit to a local market. US$60 per person. casacrespo@go-oaxaca.com. (4/07)
• Cooking Classes - Casa Sagrada Located in the village of Teotitlan del Valle. (951) 516-4275. Weekly half-day classes, weeklong immersion classes. info@casasagrada.com (4/07)
• Cooking Classes - Cocina con Nora (951) 515-5645. Aldama 205, Barrio de Jalatlaco, in downtown Oaxaca. Email: misrecue@hotmail.com. See article Cocina con Nora by Alvin Starkman.
• Cooking Classes - La Casa de Mis Recuerdos Pino Suárez #508. (951) 515-5645. Cooking classes and cultural tours by Oaxquña Nora Gutierrez, from US$65. misrecue@hotmail.com (4/07)
• Cooking Classes - Seasons of my Heart 044 (951) 508-0469. Rancho Aurora, AP#42 Admon.3, Oaxaca, 68101. Classes are 1/2-day and longer by Susana Trilling. info@seasonsofmyheart.com. (4/07)
• Slow Food and Mezcal an article on the slow food movement and mezcal production in Oaxaca by Alvin Starkman.
• Culinary Tour Story Success of Oaxaca Culinary Tour Suggests More Gastronomic Opportunities for Visitors to Southern Mexico, article by Alvin Starkman.
• Food of the Gods Festival Annual tour in October, but unfortunately no longer offered. Gourmet dining, lectures, tastings, cooking classes.
• Food Vocabulary Help with translations of food terminology.
• Ice Cream and Exotic Fruit Tasting Some photos from this Food of the Gods Festival event.
• Ice Cream of Oaxaca Ice cream is very popular in Oaxaca and there are a wide variety of tropical fruit and nut flavors are available.
• Lavandería Automática Murguia #307. (951) 512-9020. Laundramat.
• Menus Some help with reading menus.
• Mezcal in Oaxaca an in-depth article on the production and varieties of Mezcal in Oaxaca.
• Mezcal: ProMéxico Promotes an Article by Alvin Starkman.
• I Say Miracle Whip, You Say Mayonnaise an article on the popularity of mayonnaise in Mexico by Alvin Starkman.
• Moles of Oaxaca Oaxaca is known as the home of the 7 moles. Mole is a complex paste made up of nuts and spices.
• Molinos: Visit the Local Molino (mill) in Oaxaca for a Cooking Class an article by Alvin Starkman.
• Mushrooms in Oaxaca and article by Alvin Starkman.
• Oaxaca Culinary Tours (951) 132-8203. Custom culinary tours taylored to your group of 6 - 15 people. Options include demonstration of the making of traditional tamales, chocolate, aguas frescas, cheese chorizo, or tejate. Cooking classes conducted by Pilar Cabrera, tours of marketplaces, fine dining experiences, home-cooked dining experiences, and mezcal production are more possibilities. See www.oaxacaculinarytours.com. (1/11)
• Pulque in Matatlán Abraham Cortés García carries on the family tradition of pulque production. Article by Alvin Starkman.
• Overeaters Anonymous (951) 540-8137. Colón #518, on the SW corner with Manuel Doblado. Mondays 5:30pm, Wednesdays 12 noon. English.
• Recicado from the Mixteca Alta an article by Alvin Starkman on the production of recicado (similar to Mezcal).
• Recipes by Pilar Cabrera A collection of recipes by Oaxacan cooking structor, Pilar Cabrera.

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Markets and Shops • Mercados y Tiendas

• 20 de Noviembre Market 2 blks S of the SW corner of the zócalo. Occupies the interior space of the city block just south of the Juárez Market. Baked goods and more.
• Central de Abasto 10 blocks W of the zócalo. Large, crowded market.
• Chocolate Street 3 blks S of the SW corner of the zócalo. Mina is informally known as Chocolate Street because of several chocolate-making companies located there. Various types of chocolate and moles are available at Soledad Chocolate, Chocolate Mayordomo and others.
• Benito Juárez Market 1 blk S of the SW corner of the zócalo. Occupies the interior space of a city block with entrances on all sides; formerly the square of the marquis. Meat, produce, clothing and much more. A must-see.
• Mercado de la Merced or Mercado Democracia on Insurgentes, 8 blocks east of the zócalo, between Morelos and Murguía.
• Mujeres Artesanas de las Regiones de Oaxaca 5 de Mayo. 1 blk E and 2-1/2 blks N of the NE corner of the zócalo. Large selection of Oaxacan crafts. (10/02)

Tours • Excursiones

• Expediciones Sierra Norte (951) 514-0601. Hiking, biking ecotours. Web: www.sierranorte.org.mx
• Lescas Tours Family-operated. Tours of Oaxaca City and neighboring areas; airconditioned transportation. English, Spanish, Italian, French and German spoken. Custom tours available. lescastour@yahoo.com (9/03)
• Oaxaca Birding Tours (951) 524-4371. Cuauhtemoc # 5, Teotitlán del Valle. Birding and cultural tours across the State of Oaxaca guided by Roque Antonio Santiago. oaxaca_sparrow@hotmail.com. Recommended. (7/14)
• Fredy Carrizal Bird watching tours. fredymar@prodigy.net.mx. (12/08)
• John Forcey Birding tours in the Oaxaca area. jforcey@hotmail.com. (6/09)
• Horseback Mexico Riding Adventures (951) 199-7026 (Owner, Mary Jane Gagnier). Murguia #403, centro. Owner-guided horseback riding tours, from 1/2 day tours in the Valle de Tlacolula to week-long expeditions in Valle de Tlacolula, Cañada & Sierra Norte regions of the state of Oaxaca. Well-cared for and well-trained horses for all levels of riders. Accommodation also available. horsebackmexico@mac.com (6/12)
• Mezcal Educational Excursions of Oaxaca Day tour with federally licensed authority Alvin Starkman visiting small, rural, artisanal palenques (distilleries) to learn, sample, and take photographs. Purchase mezcal at a fraction of normal prices. Web: www.mezcaleducationaltours.com. Email: mezcaleducationalexcursions@hotmail.com. (4/15)
• Mezcal tasting and dining tour offered by Alvin Starkman and Jon McKinley October 2 - 10, 2009.
• Oaxaca Culinary Tours (951) 132-8203. Custom culinary tours taylored to your group of 6 - 15 people. Options include demonstration of the making of traditional tamales, chocolate, aguas frescas, cheese chorizo, or tejate. Cooking classes conducted by Pilar Cabrera, tours of marketplaces, fine dining experiences, home-cooked dining experiences, and mezcal production are more possibilities. See www.oaxacaculinarytours.com. (1/11)
• Pablo Gonzales Bird watching tours. 044 (951) 134-7391. (12/08)
• Tourismo Panorámico de Oaxaca Independencia #308F. (915) 514-7543, 514-3132, 512-5475 (fax). Guided tours of Monte Albán, Mitla, Tule, Coyotepec, etc. English, French, German, Spanish, and Italian spoken. Email: panorami@prodigy.net.mx. (10/02)
• Tours en Oaxaca M. Alcala #201. 1 blk N of the NE corner of the zócalo. (915) 516-9625. Tours to Monte Albán, Mitla, Tule, Huatulco, Coyotepec, etc. English, French, Spanish, & Italian spoken. Email: continental-istmotours@hotmail.com.
• Tranvía del Recuerdo Doblado #210. (915) 516-5375. Trolley car tours of the historical district. (10/02)

Spanish Language Schools • Excuelas de Español

• Amigos del Sol Libres #109. (951) 514-3484 Email: amisol@terra.com.mx
• Academia Vinigulaza Abasolo #209. (951) 514-6426. Email: info@vinigulaza.com
• Becari M. Bravo #210. (951) 514-6076 Email: becarioax@prodigy.net.mx
• Laura Andrea Olachea spanishclassesoaxaca@yahoo.com. Private lessons from beginner to advanced, Latin American Literature. Can assist with live-in arrangements with a Mexican family. See testimonial.
• Centro Linguistico y Cultural de Oaxaca (CELCO) Malcedonio Alcala #803. (951) 503-0809, 503-0811, 513-9296 (fax). Email: celco@spersaoaxaca.com.mx. One reader gives a recommendation and mentions the beauty of the facility. See the article, World Class Museum Opens in Oaxaca.
• Instituto Cultural Oaxaca Avenida Juarez #909. (951) 515-3404, 515-1323, 515-3728. Email: info@icomexico.com
• Solexico Language and Cultural Center Abasolo #217. (951) 516-5680 (voice/fax) Email: oaxaca@solexico.com

Celebrations • Fiestas

Note that some celebrations such as Easter, Guelaguetza, and Christmas are so popular that accommodations will be scare. Arrangements should be made months in advance.
• Día de los Reyes Magos (Day of the Three Kings, Epiphany). January 6. This is the end of the Christmas holidays and the day that children receive their gifts. A rich, twisted bread with a doll hidden inside called roscas de reyes is sold.
• Día de la Candelaria February 2. Traditionally, parties are given by those who find the rosca dolls in their bread from the previous Día de los Reyes Magos celebration. Stands in the Abastos market sell the crowns, robes and accessories for the dolls.
• Carnival The Tuesday before Ash Wednesday, usually in late February. Celebrated with dances and other festivities.
• Paseos de los Viernes de Cuaresma (Lent) Early each Friday during Lent, university students at El Llano Park, choose a beauty queen.
• Birthday of Benito Juárez March 21. A national holiday honoring the former President of Mexico, a Zapotec born in Guelatao, Oaxaca. See Benito Juárez.
• Semana Santa (Holy week) The week ending with Easter Sunday, which is the first Sunday after the full moon on or after March 21. Woven crosses are sold in the markets and plazas. On Holy Thursday, visits are made to the seven houses or churches, with altars set up for La Dolorosa (Our Lady of Sorrows). Chía seeds sprouting out of clay animals symbolize the Resurrection. Other decorations use flowers and leaves of the maguey plant. On Good Friday, the Crucifixion is reinacted. On Easter Sunday the Resurrection is celebrated with masses at midnight Saturday and at 6:00 a.m. Sunday morning.
• Humánitas Festival 1st week in May, in downtown Oaxaca and central valley towns. Each year the event showcases the music, dance, costume, food of a different country, a state in Mexico, and region of Oaxaca. For example in 2009 it's Spain, Puebla, and the Mixteca.
• Día de la Santa Cruz (Day of the Holy Cross) or Día del Albañil (Day of the Masons). May 3. University of Oaxaca students dress up and celebrate in various ways such as breaking egg shells filled with confetti on the heads of bystanders. Small crosses are placed on buildings under construction.
• Cinco de Mayo May 5, a national holiday. Commemorates the Mexican victory over French troops in the battle of Puebla on May 5, 1862.
• Vela Ismeña (Isthmus Gathering), Starts around May 10. A week when Oaxaca residents who come from the isthmus of Tehuantepec celebrate in a series of public and cultural events, ending with a Mass in the Santo Domingo church. Tehuantepec women in festive costumes parade through the streets of Oaxaca.
• Lunes del Cerro (Guelaguetza Dance Festival) The weeks of the two Mondays following July 16. Held in a large hillside amphitheater overlooking the city. Dancers representing the many native cultures of Oaxaca perform in colorful costumes. A popular, heavily-attended event.
• Día de la Independencia (Independence Day) September 15 & 16. Military parades and reenactment of the Grito or call for independence from Spain in 1810.
• Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) November 1 & 2. A festive rather than mournful event celebrating departed loved ones. Cemeteries are cleaned and decorated; offerings of favorite foods are prepared for the departed. See Photos by Michelle Mengel.
• Día de Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe (Virgin of Guadalupe Day) December 12, national holiday. The Virgin of Guadalupe is the patron saint of Mexico. She appeared to the Indian Juan Diego on the hill of Tepeyac in the early 16th century and became the beloved saint of the Indians all over Mexico.
• Christmas season begins December 16. The calenda of la Virgin de Soledád (Oaxaca's patron saint) takes place around the zócalo. This calenda is filled with cultural and religious expressions of the indigenous people from the seven regions of Oaxaca. There is a solemn procession and then the famous and colorful Danza de la Pluma is performed outside the Basilica de la Soledad. December 16 also marks beginning of the nine days of posadas.
• December 17 Fireworks in front of Soledad Basilica.
• Virgin of la Soledad (Virgin of Solitude) December 18. - La Virgen de la Soledad is the patron saint of Oaxaca. The celebration includes mañanitas, rosary at dawn, convite, calenda, religious activities, carnival, regional dances, food fair, street fair, music, and fireworks. Music and fireworks begin at 4:00 AM; at 6:00 AM is the Promenade to the markets 20 de Noviembre, Benito Juárez and IV Centenario and to the zócalo. Activities continue throughout the day, including visits to the padrino's house and a return to the church at 1:00 or 2:00 AM.
• Noche de Rábanos (Night of the Radishes). December 23. Takes place in the main zócalo. The celebration dates from colonial times and features figures crafted from parts of the radish plant.
• December 24 The ninth Posada. Groups from all over Oaxaca gather in the zócalo to celebrate the arrival of Christmas night. Before arriving at the zócalo, each posada will proceed to the home of the madrina (god-mother) who will provide a statue of the child Jesus for the local parish's nativity scene. After a parade around the zócalo and through Oaxaca, celebrants return to their churches to prepare for the 'Misa de Gallo' (mass of the rooster), the first worship celebration of the Christmas feast.
• Noche del Pedimento (Night of the Petition) December 31. This celebration takes plan on a hill near Mitla at a tiny chapel where a cave represents the entrance to the other world, symbolized by the mouth of the jaguar god. People come with small models to petition favors from the god(s): cattle, houses, farms, automobiles, wives, good health, and even cash.
• Nieve, Mezcal & Gastronomy Festival in Tlacolula Annually at the end of Easter celebrations. At this time, it's customary for friends, family and compadres to gather and enjoy homemade nieves, and sometimes aguas frescas [fresh fruit juices] as well as a variety of local fruits marinated in vinegars in Tlacolula de Matamoros, a 30 minute drive from the city of Oaxaca.

Transportation • Transportación

City of Oaxaca taken from the air   More Photos

• Aero Vega Alameda de León No. 1, across from the cathedral.
• Aero Vega Flight Salz Weir reports on his flight from Oaxaca to Puerto Escondido on Aero Vega.
• Aerotucan flies daily between Oaxaca-Huatulco and Oaxaca-Puerto Escondido. Departs Huatulco at 10:00 am. The return flight departs Oaxaca at 9:00 am. About US$240 round trip (2/10).
• Car Rental: Alamo (951) 511-6220, 514-8534. 5 de Mayo 203A.
• Car Rental: Budget (951) 515-4445. 5 de Mayo 315.
• Car Rental: Europcar (951) 516-9305. Plazuela Antonia La Bastida 104-A. Not recommended.
• Car Rental: Hertz (951) 516-0009. 115 Antonia Labastida. Recommended.
• The Drive from Oaxaca to Puerto Escondido Road trip report by Alvin Starkman.
• Estrella del Valle (951) 501-0288. Armenta y Lopez #721, Centro, in front of la Cruz Roja. Daily bus service to Huatulco, Mexico, Puebla, Puerto Escondido, and Pochutla.
• Flight to Huatulco Webmaster, Tom Penick, records his February 2008 flight from central Texas to Huatulco in a Piper Arrow, including some photos taken over Oaxaca.
• Flight to Oaxaca Webmaster, Tom Penick records his February 2011 flight from central Texas to Oaxaca in a Piper Arrow.
• Highway 131 is the highway connecting Puerto Escondido to Oaxaca city.
• Highway 200 is the coastal highway connecting the oceanfront towns.
• Insurance: AHA Insurance   (855) AHA-5384 (toll free in U.S. and Canada). Auto, homeowners, medical insurance for U.S. and Canadian citizens in Mexico. Medical insurance for Mexican citizens traveling outside of Mexico.
• Motorcycle Diary an article by Alvin Starkman.
• Motorcycles, Scooters, and Surviving an article by Alvin Starkman.
• Puerto Escondido Bus Schedule This is the schedule for departures from Puerto Escondido including bus and van service to Oaxaca City.
• Oaxaca to San Cristóbal and Palenque A driving tour by Alvin Starkman.
• Rules of the Road in Oaxaca Who will you be sharing the road with? An article by Alvin Starkman.
• Driving Laws Newly Enforced in Oaxaca an article by Alvin Starkman.
• Should I Rent a Car in Oaxaca?, an article by Alvin Starkman.
• Transportes Aeropuerto Oaxaca Alameda de León #1G, acorss from the cathedral. Open M-Sat 9-2 and 5-8. (6/09)
• Xoxocotlan International Airport Oaxaca's international airport with nice restaurant, bank, ATM, gift shop.

Points of Interest Within the City • Puntos Interesantes Dentro de la Ciudad

Zócalo, NW corner

• Alameda de León City park directly in front of the Catedral and next to the zócalo.
• Aqueduct 8 blks N of the NW corner of the zócalo.
• Auditorio Guelaguetza Large amplitheater where annual Guelaguetza dances are held in July.
• Basilica de la Soledad 1 blk N and 5 blks W of the NW corner of the zócalo. Built in 1692, baroque style, holy site of the Soledad virgin, patron saint of Oaxacans. In front of la Soledad is Socrates Square where there are several stands selling Oaxacan ice cream.
• Calle Macedonio Alcalá a photo journey down Oaxaca's "walking street" by Diana Ricci.
• La Casa de la Ciudad (951) 516-9648. Porfirio Díaz #115 at Morelos. Yellow building. This is the city museum and is open from 9am to 8pm, free of charge. Recommended.
• Catedral The Cathedral of Oaxaca is located on the north side of the zócalo. Construction began in 1535. Baroque style with a basilical ground plan. Built of green stone. Undergoing extensive renovation at this time (October 2002).
• Macedonio Alcala Theater 1 blk E and 1 blk N of the NE corner of the zócalo. Construction completed in 1909, imperial style with renaissance influence.
• San Felipe Neri church located 2 blks NW of NW corner of the zócalo.
• Church of San Francisco located in the souther part of the city, Churrigueresque style by architect Felipe de Ureña.
• Santo Domingo Church 5 blks N of the NE corner of the zócalo.
• Socrates Square 1 blk N and 5 blks W of the NW corner of the zócalo. Located in front of the Basilica de la Soledad. There are several stands here selling Oaxacan ice cream.
• Touring Oaxaca's Art Galleries An article by Alvin Starkman
• Zócalo Central square occupying one square block, dating to 1529. An important gathering place for tourists, locals, protestors, concerts, etc.

Museums • Museos

• Centro Fotográfico Alvarez Bravo M. Bravo and García Vigil. 4 blocks N of the NW corner of the zócalo. Open 9:30 am to 8 pm daily except closed Tuesdays. www.antecamara.com.mx.
• Monte Albán Located at the archaeological site. (951) 516-1215. Open daily 8 am - 5 pm.
• Museo de Arte Contemporáneo Alcalá #202, 2-1/2 blks N of the NE corner of the zócalo. (951) 514-2228. Open 10:30 - 8:00 pm daily except closed Tuesdays. www.arts-history.mx.
• Museo Belber Jiménez Matamoros 307. Large collection of 20th century Mexican silver, pottery and clothing. Large gift shop.
• Museo de Filatelia Reforma #504, 2 blks E and 6 blks N of the NE corner of the zócalo. (951) 516-8028. Stamp museum. Open 10 am - 7:30 pm daily except closed Mondays. www.mufi.org.mx.
• Museo Del Palacio South side of the zócalo in the former government building. Museo de los Pintores Oaxaqueños.
• Museo Rufino Tamayo Morelos #503, 1-1/2 blks W and 2 blks N of the NW corner of the zócalo. (951) 516-4750. Prehispanic art. Rufino Tamayo (1899-1991) was a Zapotec artist. Open 10:00 - 3:00 pm Sundays. Open 10:00 - 2:00 pm and 4:00 - 7:00 pm other days except closed on Tuesdays.
• Museo de Sitio Casa Juárez García Vigil #609, 6-1/2 blks N of the NW corner of the zócalo. (951) 516-1860. The museum is housed in the home of the former leader, Benito Juárez, and contains an archeological collection of the Mixtec and Zapotec cultures. Open 10 am - 5 pm Sundays, and 10 am - 7 pm other days except closed Mondays.
• Centro Cultural Santo Domingo (Biblioteca Francisco de Burgoa, Museo de las Culturas). Located in Ex-Convento de Santo Domingo, 6 blks N of the NE corner of the zócalo. (951) 516-2991, 516-3721. The 16th century ex-convent houses an enormous collection of pre-Columbian and colonial artifacts, including items retrieved from Monte Albán. Adjacent botanical garden. Open 10:00 - 7:30 pm daily except closed Mondays. See an essay by Stan Gotlieb, A World Class Museum Opens in Oaxaca.
• Oaxaca's Art Museums and Galleries an article by Alvin Starkman

Nearby Communities • Pueblos Cercanos

• Arrazola Located 10 kilometers from the city. Artisans here carve unusual figures from copal wood, which are painted in bright colors. These are known as alebrijes.
• Santa María Atzompa Town located 5km NW of Oaxaca, known for its green glazed pottery.
• Cuajimoloyas Mountain village 2 hours from Oaxaca known for its annual mushroom festival.
• Cuilapan de Guerrero Located 12 kilometers from the city. Exconvent, temple, and large open chapel of Gothic architecture built by the Dominicans. Site of the execution of General Vicente Guerrero 2/14/1831.
• Guacamaya Ecotourism in Oaxaca: Arroyo Guacamaya, Ixtlán District, Sierra Norte, an article by Alvin Starkman.
• Hierve el Agua Located 45 kilometers on hwy 190, then 27 kilometers on hwy 179, then fork right and continue 6 kilometers. Spring and pools with stalactites of salt and carbonate. Lodging, restaurants, swimming pools, restrooms, distillery, local crafts made from palm leaves.
• Mihuatlán Sheila Clark explores Mihuatlán
• San Bartolo Coyotepec Located 13 kilometers south of the city on hwy 175. Home of artisans who make black pottery.
• San Juan Analco "Lucifer Enchained", an article by Richard D. Perry on artwork in the San Juan Analco church.
• Santa Maria El Tule Located 10 kilometers NE of the city on hwy 190. El Tule is a 2000 year old cypress tree, 40 meters high.
• San Martin Tilcajete Located 23 kilometers from the city off of hwy 175. Artisans here carve unusual figures from copal wood, which are painted in bright colors. These are known as alebrijes.
• Ocotlán de Morelos Located 30 kilometers from the city on hwy 175. 16th century exconvent and Dominican temple which was recently restored with the financial help of artist Rodolfo Morales. Paintings of Morales are exhibited at the late artist's home. Market on Friday with many handicrafts.
• Restaurante El Patio A review by Alvin Starkman on El Patio in Tlacolula, Oaxaca.
• San Andrés Huayapam 10km north of Oaxaca. Gilded Lace describes the main altarpiece in the Huayapam church in this article by Richard Perry.   Also, a large collection of orchids can be found at Orquideario La Encantada, a 15-minute cab ride from the zócalo in Oaxaca. 9am to 6pm, weekends and holidays too. $50 pesos. Contact oencantada@hotmail.com. (7/10)
• Women potters of San Marcos Tlapazola, Oaxaca an article by Alvin Starkman. San Marcos Tlapazola is 25 miles east of Oaxaca.
• Santo Tomás Jalieza Located 25 kilometers from the city on hwy 175. Local artisans create embroidery work and weavings which are sold in a local market. 16th century church. Restrooms.
• Teotitlan del Valle Located 27 kilometers east of the city off of hwy 190. Oldest village in the valley of Oaxaca. Residents weave rugs and tapestries dyed with natural colors.
• Tlacochahuaya Located 21 kilometers from the city off of hwy 190. 16th century convent in the Baroque style with a 17th century organ.
• Tlacolula Located 35 kilometers SE of the city on hwy 190. Site of a 17th century temple built by the Dominicans. Market on Sunday. Mezcal.
• Tlaxiaco Town of 7700, 120 km northeast.
• Zaachila Located 16 kilometers south of the city. Site of the Zaachila Zona Arqueológica.
• Santa Ana Zegache Located 10 kilometers NW of Ocotlán de Morelos. This article by Richard Perry focuses on the village church, with its brightly painted facade.

Nearby Archaeological Sites • Sitios Arqueológicos Cercanos

• Dainzu means place of cactus. Located 22 kilometers SE of the city on hwy 190. Partially excavated Zapotec archeological site.
• El Cerrito Unrestored archaeological site not open to the public. Located at Santa Inés Yatzeche, west of Ocotlan.
• Lambityeco Located 32 kilometers SE on hwy 190. Zapotec archaeological site dating to around 700 B.C.
• Mitla Located 45 kilometers SE of the city on hwy 190. Mitla means place of the dead. Zapotec archeological site built around 100 B.C. and occupied until 1521 when the Spaniards arrived. Handicrafts market and artisan shops nearby.
• Monte Albán Located on a hilltop 10 kilometers from the city. Founded around 500 B.C. by the Olmecs and later overtaken by the Zapotecs and rebuilt. Museum, library, cafeteria, restrooms. Gold artifacts found at Monte Albán are on display in the Regional Museum in Oaxaca and in Mexico City.
• Yagul Located 38 kilometers SE of the city on hwy 190. Yagul means old tree or stick. Zapotec archeological site dating to about 700 B.C.
• Zaachila Located 15 kilometers south of the city. Archaeological site of the last capital of the Zapotec empire. Market day on Thursday.

Medical • Médico

The city of Oaxaca is the only population center in the state of Oaxaca that is large enough to support a full complement of medical specialists. People come to Oaxaca from all over the state to seek medical attention. The list below is an important resource that you, the reader, provide to the community by submitting listings, recommendations, and updates for me to list here, tom@tomzap.com.
• Dentist: Daniel Tenorio. (951) 516-2613 or 0834. Reforma 400, Centro. (12/09)
• Dermatologist: Rosa Martha Chavez Figueroa. (951) 503-0123. (12/09)
• Doctor: Ear, nose & throat: Rodrigo Castro. (951) 514-0431; 513-6664. Crespo 810, Centro. (12/09)
• Doctor: Family Doctor & Paediatrics: Enrique Robert Garcia. (951) 515-3459. Priv. Monte Albán 12, Col. Reforma. (12/09)
• Emergency: Cruz Roja. (951) 514-8965; 516-4809. Armenta y Lopez 700, Centro. (12/09)
• Gastroenterologist: Luciano Tenorio. (951) 501-0477. Abasolo 213, Centro. (12/09)
• Gynecologist: Victor Tenorio. (951) 514-2889. Abasolo 215, Centro. (12/09)
• Hospital: Clínica Hospital Carmen. (951) 516-2612 or 0027. Abasolo 215, Centro. Private hospital. (12/09)
• Hospital: Clínica Hospital Molina. (951) 514-0401. Garcia Vigil 317, Centro. Private hospital. (12/09)
• Hospital: Hospital Regional de Alta Especialidad de Oaxaca. (951) 551-0285, 143-1529, 143-1530. Aldama S/N Paraje "El Tule" San Bartolo Coyotepec, Oax. C.P. 71256. Nice, modern facility with quality staff. Recommended. psantiago@hraeoaxaca.gob.mx. (3/10)
• Hospital: Hospital General. (951) 515-3200 or 1300. Calz. Porfirio Díaz 400, Col. Reforma. Public hospital. (12/09)
• Hospital: Hospital Reforma. (951) 516-0989 or 6090. Reforma 613, Centro. Private hospital. Good obstetrics department (2/10)
• IMSS (951) 515-6021. Porfirio Díaz #141. Public hospital. (12/09)
• Insurance: AHA Insurance   (855) AHA-5384 (toll free in U.S. and Canada). Auto, homeowners, medical insurance for U.S. and Canadian citizens in Mexico. Medical insurance for Mexican citizens traveling outside of Mexico.
• ISSSTE (951) 515-3067 or 2202. A medical facility for government employees only. Gerardo Varela #617, Lomas del Crestón (12/09)
• Medical and Dental Treatment and Coverage in Oaxaca, Mexico, an article by Alvin Starkman.
• Obstetrician Dr Victor L. Terorio Vasconcelos. (951) 514-2889. He has rooms at the Clínica Reforma, speaks perfect English, and has an ultrasound machine in his office. Recommended. (2/10)
• Optomologist: Gabriela Rendón. (951) 516-3840. Garcia Vigil 305, Centro (12/09)
• Periodontist: Alba Tenorio (951) 516-2613 or 0834. Reforma 400, Centro. (12/09)
• Plastic Surgeon: César Mayoral Figueroa. (951) 515-2563 (wife is the dermatologist)
• Plastic Surgeon: Dr. Filiberto Fajardo. (951) 513-8921, 515-3715. Circuito la Cascada #1|03, Fraccionamiento la Cascada. Can do laser tattoo removals. (9/10)
• Rheumatologist: Dra. Imelda Garcia Olivera. (951) 501-1927. Guerrero #304-4. (6/09)
• Rheumatologist: Dr. José Antonio Pérez Díaz. (951) 514-4864. Av. Juárez #601. (6/09)
• Severe illness specialist: Juan Carlos D'Avila. (951) 516-4468. (recently moved) (12/09)

  Help keep this information current. Email tom@tomzap.com with updates.

  Ayúdenme a mantener ésta información al día. Envía tus actualizaciones por e-mail a tom@tomzap.com.

Real Estate • Bienes Raices

• Tierra Oaxaca (951) 520-4200. Licenciado Verdad #119C, Col Centro. Real estate sales and rentals. todd@tierra-oaxaca.com.

Miscellaneous • Misceláneo

• Acquainted With the Night Review of a film documentary by Alvin Starkman. An examination of how humanity explores, embraces and attempts to protect the night.
• Alcoholics Anonymous Calle Rayon 303B (just east of Calle Fiallo). AA meetings Mondays and Thursdays 7pm to 8pm; Wednesdays and Saturdays at 9am. English-speaking. (2/19)
• Art: Galeria Arte y Vidrio de Oaxaca Valdivieso 116, east of the Zócalo. Art glass gallery. Classes in slumping and fusing glass are given at their studio in Etla.
• Article: Antiquing In and Around Oaxaca an article by Alvin Startman.
• Article: Am I paying staff too much? Thoughts on the value of paying hospitality staff more than the going rate by Alvin Starkman.
• AOKSYSTEM on Las Rosas. Computer repair. Honest, reasonable and humble.
• Article: Architectural Works of Felipe de Ureña in Oaxaca an article by Richard D. Perry.
• Article: An August Day in Oaxaca an article by Garry Caplan which gives a feel for conditions in the City of Oaxaca in light of the 2006 protest activity. August 31, 2006.
• Article: Baseball at its Best an article about baseball in Oaxaca by Alvin Starkman.
• Article: Casa de Cortés article by Richard D. Perry on the historic Oaxacan residence of the Spanish conqueror Hernán Coreés.
• Article: Exploring Oaxaca Information by Oaxaca resident Ron Mader, with emphasis on ecotourism. See also, the bilingual round-table discussion series, Oaxaca Options.
• Article: Barbacoa, an article on the preparation and presentation of roasted goat for special events by Alvin Starkman.
• Article: Burger King on M. Alcalá a commentary on the opening of a Burger King in the Historical District by Alvin Starkman.
• Article: Ceramicist Angélica Vásquez Cruz an article by Alvin Starkman.
• Article: Chango Mezcalero Oaxacan Clay Spirits Container Has a Curious History in San Bartolo Coyotepec, an article by Alvin Starkman.
• Article: Death of an Infant a story of death and the merging of divergent religious customs in Oaxaca by author Alvin Starkman.
• Article: Digging a Well in Mexico The process of having a well dug by hand in Mexico, an article by Alvin Starkman.
• Article: Enrique Flores: Philanthropic Oaxacan artist has the golden touch an article by Alvin Starkman.
• Article: Erotic art of Gerardo Navarro Gómez an article by Alvin Starkman.
• Article: Exploring Etla Excursions to Etla, Guelatao, Trinidad de Ixtlán, Natividad, Teotitlán del Valle, Hierve el Agua, Nochixtlán, Santiago Apoala, and a chance encounter with artist Toledo by Sheila Clarke.
• Article: Filming a Documentary in Oaxaca an article by Alvin Starkman.
• Article: Fiona Dunnett Canadian artist residing in Oaxaca, whose images of self and death in Oaxaca are muted with comic style and collage. An article by Alvin Starkman.
• Article: Found Objects as Art Alvin Starkman discusses procuring the odd Oaxacan object for use as art.
• Article: Fundación En Vía a non-profit micro-finance organization that accepts donations of time, expertise and modest sums of money from tourists visiting Oaxaca in order to promote small businesses owned by women. Article by Alvin Starkman.
• Article: Gilberto Arreortua, Mitla guide an article by Alvin Starkman on Gilberto Arreortua Jimenez, a federally licensed tour guide working at the Mitla archaeological zone.
• Article: Green Housing Projects Principles of universal design and cohousing, as well as economic necessity, spur green housing project in Oaxaca, Mexico, for aging North Americans, an article by Alvin Starkman.
• Article: ¡Hey Compadre! An article on the function of a "compadre" by Alvin Starkman.
• Article: Hospitality Industry in Oaxaca an article by Alvin Starkman
• Article: Letters from Oaxaca Articles from resident writer Stan Gotlieb.
• Article: Oaxaca 2006 Protests an article by Tom Penick on the 2006 protest events and aftermath in Oaxaca City.
• Article: Oaxaca Teachers' Strike 2006 an article by Garry Caplan.
• Oaxaca Teachers' Strike 2006 Photos Protestors battle against Federal Police, photo record.
• Article: Historic Organs of Oaxaca an article by Richard D. Perry.
• Oaxaca Times Local newspaper in English. Classified section lists a number of apartments for rent.
• Article: Mexico’s Mezcal: Local, National and Global Significance an overview of Mezcal making in Oaxaca by Alvin Starkman.
• Article: Manuel Reyes, sculptor, painter and renaissance man from the Mixteca Alta, Oaxaca, an article by Alvin Starkman.
  
• Article: Money and Exchange: A Primer An article on the use of credit cards, ATMs, and cash in Mexico by Alvin Starkman.
• Article: The Oaxacan Shoeshine An article about the shoeshine on the street by Alvin Starkman.
• Article: Powerful Penal Reform Talks Held an article by Alvin Starkman.
• Article: Rug Weavers of Teotitlán del Valle an article by Alvin Starkman.
• Article: Rural Mezcal Production an article by Alvin Starkman.
• Article: Sculptor Armando Ramírez an article by Alvin Starkman.
• Article: Stormy Weather an article on life in the rainy season in Oaxaca by author Alvin Starkman.
• Article: Traveling Light to Oaxaca? An article exploring the idea of bringing unneeded articles along on your visit to give to those in need, by Alvin Starkman.
• Article: Traveling to Oaxaca with Children an article on finding activities in Oaxaca that children will enjoy by author Alvin Starkman.
• Article: Weekend in Oaxaca an article by Alvin Starkman.
• Article: The Veria Network's Under the Sun series: Review of the Oaxaca, Mexico, episodes an article on Oaxaca film documentaries by Alvin Starkman.
• Article: A rich wood carving tradition in Oaxaca, Mexico, article by Alvin Starkman
  
• Bakery: Pasteleria Bamby (bakery) on Porfirio Diaz a couple of blocks from Independencia. Great selection. Recommended.
• Best of Oaxaca Best restaurants, best businesses, best professionals, according to the readers of tomzap.com.
• Birds of Oaxaca Oaxaca is probably the best state in Mexico for birdwatching. A list of birds and some additional resources.
• Book: The Zapotec and the Mixtec, a Historic Novel an excerpt from the introduction of a novel in progress by Maru Eibich.
• Book Review: Oaxaca, Cuna y destino de la Civilización Americana by Juan Arturo   Review by Alvin Starkman.
• Book Review: Mexican Folk Art From Oaxacan Artist Families book review by Alvin Starkman.
• Library: Oaxaca Lending Library Pino Suarez 519. (951) 518-7077. Open Mon-Fri 10am to 2pm and 4pm to 7pm, Saturdays 10am to 1pm, and closed Sundays and National Holidays. Books, videos, audio tapes, rading rooms, coffee, classes, tours, wireless internet and more. Email: library@oaxlibrary.com.
• Oaxaca Calendar by Margaret Barclay. Events calendar for Oaxaca City.
• Web site for the State of Oaxaca.
• Tourist Assistance: Departamento de Asistencia Turística Murguia #206, a block and a half east of M. Acalá. (951) 516-0123, 516-0984 (fax). Assistance for tourists, many brochures available.
• Overeaters Anonymous (951) 540-8137. Colón #518, on the SW corner with Manuel Doblado. Mondays 5:30pm, Wednesdays 12 noon. English.
• Post Office 1 blk N and 1 blk W of the NW corner of the zócalo.
• Road to Microondas el Crestón A scenic road up into the mountains.
• SERBO Sociedad para el Estudio de los Recursos Bióticos de Oaxaca. A civil organization interested in the preservation and study of biotic resources in Oaxaca. http://serboax.org/
• Tattoos: Dermografics 044 (951) 119-8642 (cell). Calle de Crespo #106, Centro Histórico. Kaireddyn Orta. casadeldolor@hotmail.com. (9/10)
• Tattoo Artists in Oaxaca an article by Alvin Starkman.
• Temazcal in Oaxaca and article on the traditional massage by Alvin Starkman.
• Service: Centro de Servicios Yescas on Huzares. Refrigerator repair. Recommended for their efficiency and service.
• Service: Sara Starkman Translations   English/Spanish translations. www.sarahstarkmantranslations.com. sarah_js86@hotmail.com. (6/11)
• Weddings in Oaxaca Classic, modern, alternative, gay. Celebration and banquets around the city of Oaxaca. Email: oaxaca@equis-o.com. (1/08)
• Zócalo Magazine: The Jaguar Speaks Oaxaca's Art & Literary Online Magazine www.zocalomag.com.
• U.S. Consulate (951) 514-3054, 516-2853. Macedonio Alcala no. 407, interior 20.
• Visitors' Comments Forum Public discussion of Oaxaca and neighboring areas.

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The Pacific Coast of Mexico www.tomzap.com Tom Penick:  tom@tomzap.com