MEXICO CITY
SUPÉR TIP: PUBLIC TRANSPORT, UBERs are affordable in CDMX and the city is massive, do yourself a favor and avoid the headache.
STAY: LA CONDESA (NEIGHBORHOOD), Wide, tree-lined avenues, stately art nouveau mansions and well-maintained art deco apartment buildings give chic La Condesa a distinctly European vibe. Hipsters walk dogs in shady Parque España, and young professionals browse the fashions in cutting-edge boutiques. Chic sidewalk cafes, trendy international bistros, and casual taquerias dot the area. At night, posh bars and clubs fill with a younger crowd.
STAY: LA ROMA (NEIGHBORHOOD), The center of Mexico City's culinary and artistic zeitgeist, Roma Norte is home to bicycling hipsters and increasing numbers of young professionals. Its leafy central avenue, Avenida Álvaro Obregón, is lined with eclectic eateries, sidewalk bars and refurbished mansions, one of which houses Casa Lamm cultural center. Foodies descend on Mercado Roma for cool international food stalls, and street art lines the avenues.
STAY: HYATT REGENCY, Beautiful hotel located in the financial district, stay here when you're traveling for business.
STAY: CONDESA DF, Beautiful design-forward hotel with a rooftop pool and bar. The moment you enter this beautiful boutique hotel, you uncover their modern take on traditional Mexican elements.
EAT: YOSHIMI, Favorite Japanese restaurant in Mexico City. High quality and nearly authentic Japanese food served next to a zen garden.
EAT: CONTRAMAR, An institution in CDMX where locals still frequent, fantastic seafood, and ceviches. Stay away from the pasta.
EAT: PUJOL, Inspiring cuisine inspired by Mexican ingredients and heritage, make a reservation to indulge at this Michelin restaurant.
EAT: QUINTONIL, Can't get a reservation at PUJOL? QUINTONIL is a great alternative; beautiful interior and food. Opt for a la carte versus the tasting menu.
EAT: HAVRE77, If you're craving an Aperol Spritz or a well-executed cocktail, check out this millennial pink hued restaurant in CDMX. French-influenced menu is expertly executed.
GO: SOUMAYA, Two things to note immediately, the entrance is free, and the architecture is breathtaking. The highlight is the massive sculpture collection situated on the top floor.
GO: THE BLUE HOUSE, Though it may seem like a cliche, the Frida Kahlo museum takes you far beyond the unibrow. This museum is full of interesting facts, art, and a hodgepodge of Frida's personal trinkets. SUPER TIP: make sure to buy your tickets in advance via online to avoid the long lines.
GO: SABADO MERCADO, Though frequented by tourists, the market is full of local artisans scattered throughout the market. Great place to buy souvenirs, just make sure you're not getting the "tourist prices."
DO: PRIVATE TOUR, Book a private tour to go see the Teotihuacan and Guadalupe Shrine; affordable prices and private transport included.
DO: CASA LUIS BARRAGÁN, The former residence of architect Luis Barragán in Miguel Hidalgo district, Mexico City.