CDMX: Mexico City

Mexico city’s cultural existance has been getting a lot of attention as of late. A sprawling city that has been criticized for its crime is suddenly back on the map as a must-visit and there is good reason for it: it’s rich cultural heritage, ancient civilizations, incredible art scene, booming financial center, religious pilgramage sites, and total culinary hub. Its no surprise that with so much going on, 21 Million people call this city home.

Arriving Landing in Mexico City is exactly what you would expect for such a large city - an overwhelming amount of people fighting for you attention to transport you. There are airport cabs that are a bit more expensive than if you take a walk past the first exit and find the taxi stand. People warned me about cabs taking advantage of tourists so I went with the airport cab.

Getting around uber. I can’t even begin to explain how incredibly easy it was to get around. Its safe quick and the cheapest option!

We stayed at Downtown Mexico, in the Historic center. Its an incredible 17th century palace turned designer hotel.

Activities there is so much to DO...and eat! Prioritizing your schedule will be the most difficult challenge of your visit.

The most memorable experience I had was taking a hot air balloon ride over the pyramids. An early morning Uber ride from the Historical Center gets you up with the sun and the most breathtaking views. Afterwards, enjoy lunch in the market in San Martín de las Pirámides and then walk the grounds of the pyramids before heading back to the city center. Traffic can be bad so plan for this taking most of your day. There are so many incredible museums in the city. For the best artists of the moment, check out the galleries in the Roma neighborhood (Specifically OMR), Frida Kahlo’s blue house is a beautiful glimpse into her life, and make sure to visit the extrodinary Palacio de Bellas Artes. Other sites not to be missed are the Zócalo, where you can visit the largest cathedral of the Americas - Metropolitan Cathedral, and The “floating gardens” of Xochilmilco which have been made a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

You could spend days walking the streets but don’t miss walking around the Condesa where trendy boutiques and restaurants line the streets for the stylish creatives.

Tap the globe to See the full story online For a list of restaurant recommendations plus more pictures.