There is small talk… and then there is deep, intimate conversation. Small talk gives you an impression, but intimate conversation results in knowing and understanding and friendship.
If you want to feel Mexico’s heartbeat and to see into its soul, you will have to leave the iconic beach resorts of the masses and travel inland to its award-winning (and less visited) Colonial cities and villages. It is in the highlands, west of Mexico City, that you will find the “old country” with its cobblestone streets, colorful architecture, local recipes, siestas, and artisans. It is also where you will leave the small talk behind and engage in the deeper conversations that result in knowing.
Here are five authentic and gorgeous stops Niteo makes along the colonial loop of Mexico’s heartland that lets the traveler experience authentic Mexico.
1. Morelia
Plaza Morelos in Morelia features the city’s hero of independence and namesake, Jose Maria Morelos.
2. San Miguel de Allende
San Miguel de Allende was voted “The World’s Best City” by Travel+Leisure in 2017. Readers rated cities in 86 categories (read the full T+L article)
3. Santa Clara del Cobre
Niteo travelers have some fun after a copper pounding demonstration in Santa Clara del Cobre. Eighty-two percent of Santa Clara’s population is employed in the traditional copper artistry and the town boasts 250 registered copper shops.
4. Patzcuaro
A group performs the “Dance of the little old men” (“Danza de los Viejitos”) in Patzcuaro’s central park. Patzcuaro is charming and though it is vibrant in local activity, it maintains the small town pace.
5. Guanajuato
Guanajuato was founded in 1559 and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The city’s basilica painted in deep yellow and red is a magnificent centerpiece to the skyline!
You guys do a terrific job of opening up cultural experiences for ordinary people. First time travelers never have to figure it out for themselves. Good job!
Thanks, Tony! We sure appreciate your supportive feedback. We love to see people discover and embrace new things.