GirlGI | Girl Gone International Issue 9 | Page 20

Chocolate Xocolatl was originally made into a beverage by indigenous people in Latin
America. Today, Oaxacans are famed for their homemade hot chocolate, prepared in
hot water or hot milk and with a hint of cinnamon. For a combination of traditional
creations and gourmet variations, visit The Oaxacan Coffee Company.
Understand the culture Oaxaca is home to 48% of Mexico’s indigenous groups, and
this makes the region a mosaic of diversity. Templo Santo Domingo is a temple converted into a museum which will guide you on the history of Oaxaca before and after
the Spanish conquest. Understanding the Spanish conquest is an important context
to understand the current situation in Oaxaca and Mexico in general.
A much required stop Going to Mexico without stopping at one of its markets it’s like
visiting Italy without trying the local food! If you want a glimpse at what the local
produce is in terms of food, crafts and clothes, then add this to your itinerary. Oaxaca
city’s main market is divided in sections ranging from beautifully embroidered clothes
(including the traditional huipil, a square shaped blouse with colourful handmade
flowers), handcrafted sandals called ‘huaraches’ ( the most comfy shoes you will find
for this weather!), the famed mescal (cousin of tequila, but more local), and a pavilion
with fruits, vegetables and ready-to-eat meat called cecina.