Out of all the countries we visited across South and Central America, Mexico had the best value, and most diverse range of Airbnb experiences available. From bustling markets, to more unique experiences like bee-keeping. Airbnb was a great resource when we had a few hours to kill in a place and were looking for things to do in Mexico.
1. Taste & Explore Local Markets – Mexico City
What a great way to become acquainted with the food and culture of Mexico! This experience was one of the first things we did when we arrived in Mexico City.
Our day started at Mercado La Merced (the main food market), where we toured the different mole and michelada stands, as well as the fresh food and dehydrated chilli stalls. Here, we tried some delicious quesadillas, mole, horchata, tacos with chorizo and steak. We visited the “El Rey de Piña” and sample fresh pineapple juice, with a complimentary shot of tequila (how’s that for hospitality!)
Next, we caught a bus to Mercado Sonora (witch market) where the locals go to buy spells and other magic. There are many stores selling spell candles (veladoras), that can help you achieve love, protection, money or spiritual cleansing. We wandered through aisles of herbs, potions, and charms. The air was thick with the scent of incense.
Lastly, we finished at Mercado de San Juan. Our guide explained the differences between mezcal and tequila, and we had the opportunity to taste a variety of mezcal samples, and…insects! We’ve heard of wine and cheese pairings, but we weren’t as excited by the prospects of insect pairings, however we did try a few ants, and even a cricket.
As we wrapped up our tour, we felt not only satiated by the incredible food but also enriched by the cultural insights we had gained. These markets were more than just places to buy food; they were vibrant centers of community life, each with its own character and charm. Our day of tasting and exploring was a memorable introduction to Mexico, leaving us eager to experience everything Mexico had to offer in the weeks ahead.
2. Tamale Tasting – Oaxaca
Everyone in Mexico knows that Oaxacan tamales are made a little bit different. Our market guide in Mexico City said that the Oaxacan tamales have a slightly sweeter and wetter dough. So what better way to experience this then by booking a tamale tasting! This Airbnb experiences was hosted in a small restaurant by Sonia, who spoke Spanish and English. Shortly after arriving, Sonia gave us a plate five savoury tamales, and two sweet tamales. As we ate, she explained the flavours, the origins and even provided us some insight into her family’s mole recipe. Amazingly, Sonia caters to a variety of different dietary requirements. We were painfully full by the time we left (seven tamales is a lot) this is definitely something you want to skip breakfast for!
For anyone visiting Oaxaca, this experience is a must-do. It offers a chance to not only taste authentic Oaxacan cuisine but also to connect with the people and traditions that make it so special. The whole experience only cost us $34AUD (2023) making it a great value way to immerse yourself in the food and culture of regional Mexico.
3. Yucatán Cooking Class – Merida
If you must do one thing in Mexico, let this cooking class be it. This is the kind of experience that will live in your dreams forever.
The tours starts at Hotel Merida Santiago. Our first guide, was a Dutch expat names Jan, who took us through the Santiago district and local market to purchase all the ingredients and explain the history of the food and the local area (Yucatán).
After buying our ingredients we went back to the hotel, and met our friendly chef, Maria Jose. Before booking this experience, we knew that Sopa de Lima was a dish unique to Yucatán, and we requested this at the time of booking. But it was this and so much more. We prepared six dishes: Sopa de Lima, Queso Empanadas, Valladolid sausage, Citrus Salad, Guacamole and Flan Napolitano.
Maria offered us some wine as we sat down to enjoy the food we had created. Everything was mind-blowingly delicious, and were were so full by the end that heading home was our only option. Don’t make any post-cooking class plans.
Overall the tour and class was about 4 hours, and cost $180AUD (2023), but the experience? Absolutely Priceless. Our chef Maria, also sent us a copy of traditional recipes to recreate at home.
