Southern Mexico is home to one of the country’s most diverse and vibrant tourist treasures. Oaxaca, a state that blends ancestral tradition with adventure and relaxation destinations, has set its sights on the Colombian market. During the recent Anato Tourism Showcase, where the destination boasted an impressive stand and the presence of more than 30 tour operators, Mariel López Villatoro, Undersecretary of Tourism for the State of Oaxaca, spoke about the qualities that make this place a must-see.
“Oaxaca is located in southern Mexico. We are a state very rich in gastronomy, very rich in nature, very rich in folklore,” López Villatoro began explaining. This richness is embodied in the Guelaguetza, an event that the Undersecretary describes as “the greatest multiracial celebration of the people of Oaxaca and the greatest cultural festival in all of Latin America,” which will be held on Monday, July 20 and 27.
While the capital city of Oaxaca is a renowned heritage city with impressive archaeological sites, the state offers a geographical contrast ideal for tourists seeking to disconnect. “In Oaxaca, we not only have culture, we also have sun and beaches,” emphasizes the official.
The Oaxacan coast shines with two very different tourist gems. On one hand, Puerto Escondido, a paradise for lovers of surfing, waves, adventure, and nightlife. On the other, Huatulco, a self-sustaining and family-friendly destination, famous for its nine bays and 36 beaches with calm waters, ideal for birdwatching and connecting with nature.
For the discerning tourist, the palate is also rewarded. The state boasts a world-class culinary scene: “We also have specialty restaurants, restaurants listed in the Michelin Guide, both in Oaxaca and in Puerto Escondido and Huatulco,” highlights the undersecretary.
One of the major milestones Oaxaca is celebrating this year is the consolidation of its land infrastructure, a factor that radically changes the traveler’s experience. “About a year and a half ago, a superhighway connecting Oaxaca City with the Oaxacan coast was inaugurated,” explains López Villatoro. What was once a winding, almost seven-hour journey now allows you to reach Puerto Escondido in just two hours from the capital, and Huatulco in an additional hour.
For travelers departing from Bogotá, Cali, or Medellín, getting there is extremely easy. Air connectivity is guaranteed through airlines like Viva and Aeroméxico, taking advantage of the overnight flights that arrive in Mexico City early in the morning. “Our first flight to Mexico City is at 7:00 a.m., then at 8:00 a.m., and then at 9:00 a.m. So you have no excuse not to visit our beautiful state,” he assures.
Safety is a priority for the state, and the numbers back it up. “It’s very important for me to tell you that Oaxaca is the fifth safest state in the country,” the Undersecretary emphasized, guaranteeing that there is close coordination between state and federal agencies to ensure the safety of tourists.
Finally, with the major sporting events coming up in Mexico, Oaxaca is positioned as the perfect complementary trip. López Villatoro gave a nod to the Colombian fans who will be traveling to support their national soccer team in Guadalajara: “We know there will be a week between matches, and I think it would be perfect for them to visit any of these three main tourist destinations, since we have direct connections from Guadalajara to Oaxaca City, Puerto Escondido, and Huatulco.”
With 570 municipalities representing “570 reasons to visit” the state, the Undersecretary’s final invitation to Colombians is direct and compelling: “Visit Oaxaca; you will be amazed by everything we have to offer, and let me tell you that we are the cultural heart of Mexico.”
Source: mexico.reportnews.la
