Interested in traveling to Mexico but don’t know where to start? Whether you’ve got a flight already booked, have a destination in mind, or want to plan your first Day of the Dead trip, our travel consultation service will help you get the clarity you need before you head to Mexico.

Let's jump on a call!

• We’ll schedule a 60-minute call over Zoom or phone where we’ll determine what you’re looking to get out of your dream trip to Mexico, and which location would be the perfect match for your visit. 
• Already have your flight and hotel booked? No problem, we'll discuss your wish list of items for your vacation and discuss how we can make those dreams happen.
• Once you purchase this service, we'll send you a Calendly link with a questionnaire so you can book at your own convenience.
• Please make sure to come prepared with questions to make the most of your time with us.

First time visiting Mexico?

• We recommend booking a trip to Oaxaca, San Miguel de Allende, or Mexico City!

*PLEASE NOTE:

We have a 24-hour window for canceling or rescheduling calls.

We specialize in the following locations:

• Guanajuato
• Merida
• Mexico City 
• Oaxaca
• Puebla
• San Miguel de Allende
• Taxco

There are so many amazing restaurants to try in Oaxaca, but after traveling there 2-3 times a year for the last 4 years, I’ve managed to edit the list down to my absolute favorites!

Our 50-page detailed guide includes restaurant suggestions for the following:

• Food Checklist 
• Food Glossary 
• Cocktails
• Breakfast & Coffee
• Lunch
• Dinner
• Desserts & Sweet Treats
• Off the Beaten Path

Details:

Our guide formats to the digital device of your choice including iPhone, iPad, MacBook, or Desktop computer.

It also includes a check list of must-try foods, directory information with addresses and phone numbers. Details on how to book reservations and additional notes for your reference. We've also included a food list glossary, which gives more context behind some of Oaxaca’s most traditional dishes.

Once you purchase the guide, we will send you a separate email for how to access it so make sure to provide us with the appropriate email address at check out. Please also give us 24 hours to process and fulfill your orders as we do not have the option to automate our digital guides yet.

Here’s what customers are saying about our Oaxaca Restaurant Guide:

PHOTOS BY:  ERICA CONNOLLY 

Join us in Oaxaca for a once-in-a-lifetime experience (and our 5th group trip!) to learn more about:

• Indigenous Zapotec culture
• Traditional Oaxacan Cuisine
• Magical Surrounding Towns

Details:  This boutique trip is designed to be an intimate and submersive cultural experience. Luisa values each and every relationship she has developed with locals in Oaxaca and this trip will introduce you to many people in her community she considers like family. If you want an authentic look into Oaxaca and you love artisan craft, food, culture, and adventure then this is the trip for you.

About Luisa (your trip planner!) : Luisa is a Mexican-American journalist who has worked for both national and local news stations. She left the news world to launch her own company, Mexico In My Pocket. Mexico In My Pocket's mission is to show people a side of Mexico often overlooked in the media. By the end of this trip, you're guaranteed to fall in love with Mexico and you'll want to start planning your next adventure to this amazing part of the world.

About Rubén (your guide!): Rubén Vasquez will be your tour guide during this trip. Luisa has been working with Rubén since 2021 and values and trusts his insight as a local Oaxaqueño. Rubén has joined Luisa on all of her trips to Oaxaca and knows every artisan she works with personally. He is a proud Oaxaqueño who truly cares about showing more people all of the beauty that Oaxaca has to offer and Luisa is proud to partner with him for our February 2026 "Best of Oaxaca" trip.

Trip Dates & Pricing:

DATES | February 2-8, 2026

TRIP PRICE | Starting at $3500 per person

Double Occupancy Room (two queen beds) = $3500 per person | $1750 DEPOSIT DUE TODAY 

Single Occupancy Room (one king bed) = $4000 per person | $2000 DEPOSIT DUE TODAY

PAYMENT: To secure your spot, you'll need to submit your 50% deposit via Zelle (free of fees) or credit card (3% processing fee). We also offer monthly payment plans, thanks to our partnership with Affirm. For more details on payment plans, email luisa@mexicoinmypocket.com.

HOW TO JOIN | To join this trip, you must submit an application and be approved. Once you are approved, pay the non-refundable deposit via credit card or Zelle and send us back the signed Terms & Conditions agreement. If you are purchasing online, select your accommodation (single or double occupancy) by using the drop down menu.

If you do not submit payment within 5 days, you will forfeit your place and we will offer it to the next applicant in line.

*APPLICATIONS CLOSE JUNE 27*

SPOTS AVAILABLE |  12 spots only.

The remaining payment is due on December 1, 2025. Up until that day, you can give up your trip spot at any time; however, you will forfeit the non-refundable deposit.

Itinerary & Overview: 

DAY 1: WELCOME TO OAXACA CITY. Since we'll all be arriving to Oaxaca City this day, the first half of the day will start as a free day. Take this opportunity to do sightseeing, visit the market, textile museum, and/or Santo Domingo. In the evening, we'll have dinner at one of our favorite Oaxacan restaurants. Get ready to savor mole, fresh corn tortillas on a comal, and a chocolatito de agua.

DAY 2: WELCOME TO TEOTITLAN DEL VALLE. We're headed to the village which is famous for its Zapotec rugs and floral candles. We'll meet the artisans and learn more about both of these beautiful crafts.

DAY 3: WELCOME TO SAN MARTIN TILCAJETE We'll head to the land of the alebrijes (Oaxacan spirit animals) where local artisans will conduct a reading and tell you exactly which spirit animal you are. Make sure to pack pesos!  

DAY 4: WELCOME TO OCOTLAN & SAN ANTONINO We'll head to Ocotlan early in the morning and visit world famous Master Artisan Sculptor Jose Antonio Garcia. Also known as “Manos Que Ven” (Hands That See). Antonio lost his eyesight in his fifties due to cataracts. In spite of going blind, he continues to create life-sized sculptures of mermaids and statues of his wife and muse, Maestra Santa Reyna Teresita. 

DAY 5: MOLE COOKING CLASS WITH TRADITIONAL OAXACAN COOK FEATURED IN VOGUE MAGAZINE Head to Etla for a mole cooking class with Luisa's friend Mimi and her son Charlie. Mimi is a traditional Oaxacan cook who will teach us recipes which have been passed down four generations.

DAY 6: MEZCAL TASTING & DINNER AT WORLD-RENOWNED RESTAURANT: We'll head to Xaaga to meet with master artisan and palenquero Fernando Lucas. Fernando will give us a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to make a genuine, true mezcal from Oaxaca. Plus, we'll get to sample 7 different types of mezcal, including his special flavors: cempasuchil, chocolate, passion fruit, and more! After, we'll head to a world famous restaurant located in a private home!

DAY 7: DEPARTURES & GOODBYES You're officially ready to explore Oaxaca on your own! Some of you will extend your trip (for an additional charge), while others will head back to your casitas. The choice is yours!

Note: The trip itinerary starts at 6 p.m. local time on February 2.

What the Trip Includes:

• 6 nights at City Centro Hotel by Marriott in Oaxaca, which includes a rooftop pool! (For more details, send an email to luisa@mexicoinmypocket.com).
• Transportation to and from airport.
• Meals at world-renowned Michelin-star rated restaurants.
• Breakfast on your own. 4 hearty brunches/ lunches. 2 dinners at Michelin-star rated restaurants. Note: On nights when dinner is not included, you may be full from late lunches and only want a light snack in the evening. This scheduling also allows for free time so you can explore Oaxaca City, shops, and restaurants on your own. Luisa will also provide a personal guide to her favorite shops + restaurants.
• Activities mentioned on itinerary.
• Spanish & English translation.
• Private driver to surrounding areas. 
• Mezcal palenque visit + tasting with mezcal expert.
• Visit artisan studios and learn about the craft.
• Tips for all meals, drivers, and activity guides.
• Cooking class with traditional Oaxacan cook.
• Sorpresas I can't share on here with you, but that you'll enjoy!

What the Trip Does Not Include:

• Alcoholic beverages.
• Airfare and/or other means of travel to/from Oaxaca
• Packing materials
• Incidental expenses
• Required travel insurance
• Meals not listed in itinerary
• Extra excursions or events you plan on free day

REVIEWS:

To read more reviews, click here.

"A week in Oaxaca with Luisa and Mexico In My Pocket was the best way to dive deep into the soul of the region. She connects the group with the spirit of Oaxaca by granting access to homes, shops, and stories of local artisans and chefs. Luisa has carefully taken the time to cultivate relationships with so many locals, which in turn opens the door to experiences for her groups that would be difficult to access without her." - Erica Connolly, Dallas Texas.

"On our trip to Oaxaca, I could tell that Luisa really put her heart and soul into showing the city and people she loves so much. She put together an incredible trip that felt so personally connected to the land and culture. Not only was it an honor to join on my first trip to Mexico, but it was so moving to witness American Mexicanas connect to their own roots. Luisa is truly creating such a unique and beautiful space that I haven't seen offered anywhere else." - Brit Alveno, Northfield, Minnesota

"My trip with Luisa and Mexico In My Pocket was nothing short of magical. I am a seasoned solo traveler and there is no way I could have created this experience on my own. The relationships Luisa has cultivated and the effort she puts into her planning is analogous to the artisans she highlights. The through line is passion. The food I experienced, the beauty I witnessed, and the people I met were extraordinary. I'm leaving Mexico with a full heart." - Shannon Velasco, New York City

"Luisa, words can't explain how much I appreciate the experience you curated for all of us. I have traveled a lot, especially to Latin American countries, but never have I ever felt so immersed in a culture. Because of you, I got to meet so many inspiring local artisans and powerful girls in our group. I admire how you, using your own actions and words, help create a more holistic and colorful picture of a highly stigmatized country like Mexico. Now I can proudly and wholeheartedly say, Mexico is also in my pocket." - Stella Sun, China

"I always heard that Oaxaca is the heartbeat of Mexico. As a Mexican-American, I needed to visit this magical place. As a non adventurous person, traveling to Oaxaca, on my own was not happening. Then comes Luisa / Mexico In My Pocket and plans this immersive, stress free trip and it was finally my chance! This trip, was exactly that! I don't know how she did it, but she brought together a group of strangers on the trip of a lifetime! This trip was filled with a deep understanding of Oaxacan culture, food, and art, in a safe, stress free environment. The bonus, unexpected friendships, a lifetime of memories and a deeper understanding of myself. Can't wait to join her on the next adventure!" - Rosie Fregozo, San Mateo, California

"Memorable doesn't even begin to describe my trip with Luisa to Oaxaca. She created a trip that allowed me to experience the beautiful artisans and culture of this region. I'm so happy to share this experience with the people that went with us. I cannot thank Mexico In My Pocket enough for this moment in my life." - Anna Bass, Houston, Texas

INQUIRIES:

For more details, including our hotel accommodations, cancellation policy, terms and conditions, please email luisa@mexicoinmypocket.com. 

*TO APPLY: CLICK HERE.

PHOTOS BY:  ERICA CONNOLLY 

Join us in Oaxaca for a once-in-a-lifetime experience designed for you and your bestie.

During this immersive journey, you’ll deepen your understanding of:

• Indigenous Zapotec culture

• Traditional Oaxacan cuisine

• Magical surrounding towns and artisan communities

This boutique trip is intentionally small and thoughtfully curated to offer a meaningful, immersive experience. Luisa values each relationship she has built with local artisans, cooks, and guides in Oaxaca, and this trip introduces you to many people she considers part of her extended community.

If you’re drawn to artisan craft, food, culture, and adventure—and you’re seeking an authentic way to experience Oaxaca—this trip is for you.

About Luisa (Your Trip Planner)

Luisa is a Mexican-American journalist who has worked for both national and local news stations. She left the news world to launch Mexico In My Pocket, a company rooted in her mission to show a side of Mexico often overlooked in mainstream media.

Through thoughtful storytelling and community-centered travel, Luisa creates experiences that connect travelers to the heart of Mexico. By the end of this trip, you’ll not only fall in love with Oaxaca—you’ll likely find yourself dreaming about your next adventure in Mexico.

About Rubén (Your Local Guide)

Rubén Vásquez will be your guide throughout the trip. Luisa has worked with Rubén since 2021 and deeply trusts his insight as a local Oaxaqueño.

Rubén has joined Luisa on every Oaxaca trip and personally knows each artisan and community partner featured in the itinerary. He is passionate about sharing the beauty, history, and traditions of Oaxaca, and Luisa is proud to partner with him for this June 2026 Bring Your Bestie Trip.

Trip Dates & Pricing

DATES
June 29 – July 6, 2026

PRICING

• Early Bird: $2,500 per person (6 spots available)

• 50% Deposit: $1250

• General Admission: $2,950 per person (6 spots available)

• 50% Deposit: $1475

SPOTS AVAILABLE: 12 total (intimate group)

*Rooming Note:
This trip is designed for best friends, sisters, or chosen family traveling together. All accommodations are shared rooms with two twin beds per room. Solo travelers are not accepted for this trip.

Payment Details

To secure your spot, a 50% non-refundable deposit is required.

Payment options:

• Zelle (no processing fees)

• Credit card (3% processing fee)

• Monthly payment plans available via Affirm

For payment plan details, email luisa@mexicoinmypocket.com.

The remaining balance is due April 30, 2026. Up until that date, you may release your spot; however, the non-refundable deposit will be forfeited.

How to Join

This trip is application-based.

To join:

1. Submit an application

2. Receive approval

3. Submit your non-refundable deposit

4. Sign and return the Terms & Conditions agreement

If purchasing online, select your accommodation (single or double occupancy) using the dropdown menu.

If payment is not submitted within 5 days of approval, your spot will be released to the next applicant.

Applications close March 31, 2026.

DAY 1: Welcome to Oaxaca City

Arrivals & Slow Beginnings

As everyone will be arriving into Oaxaca City throughout the day, the first half of the day is intentionally free. Take this time to settle in, wander the city, and begin soaking in the magic.

We recommend visiting Templo de Santo Domingo and exploring the surrounding shops and galleries. 

In the evening, we’ll gather for our welcome dinner at one of our favorite Oaxacan restaurants in the city, known for its Isthmus-style cuisine and warm, festive atmosphere.

Meals: Dinner included (1 alcoholic beverage per person)

DAY 2: Welcome to Monte Albán

Ancient History & Panoramic Views

Today, we visit Monte Albán, one of the most important archaeological sites in Mexico and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Built atop a flattened mountaintop, Monte Albán was once the political and ceremonial center of the Zapotec civilization.

During our guided tour, you’ll learn about Zapotec cosmology, rituals, and daily life — all while taking in sweeping views of the Oaxaca Valley.

Lunch and dinner are on your own. A curated restaurant guide will be shared ahead of the trip so you can explore our favorite spots.

Meals: Breakfast included / Lunch & Dinner on your own

DAY 3: Welcome to Teotitlán del Valle

Textiles, Tradition & Craft

We head to Teotitlán del Valle, a village renowned for its Zapotec rugs and traditional craftsmanship.

Here, we’ll meet local artisans and learn about the process behind natural dyeing, weaving, and the cultural symbolism woven into each piece. We’ll also visit artisans who create traditional floral candles, another beautiful and meaningful Oaxacan craft.

We recommend eating lunch before this tour. You will depart Oaxaca City at 1:00 pm and return in the early evening.

Meals: Breakfast included / Lunch & Dinner on your own

DAY 4: Welcome to San Martín Tilcajete

Alebrijes & Spirit Animals

Today we visit the land of the alebrijes — Oaxaca’s vibrant, hand-carved spirit animals.

Local artisans will guide us through the symbolism behind alebrijes and conduct a reading to help you discover your own spirit animal. You’ll also see the carving and painting process up close.

Please be sure to bring pesos for artisan purchases.

Meals: Breakfast & Lunch included / Dinner on your own

DAY 5: Free Day - Choose Your Own Adventure

Option 1: Stay in Oaxaca City

Enjoy a slow morning followed by shopping and museum visits around the city. Luisa will provide a list of her favorite shops and cultural stops. 

Some options include visiting Mercado Benito Juárez, Mercado 20 de Noviembre, or heading to Barrio de Jalatlaco to explore its colorful murals. We can also connect you with a local photographer if you’d like to schedule a special photoshoot with your bestie.

Option 2: Hierve el Agua

Join Rubén for a guided visit to Hierve el Agua, famous for its petrified waterfalls and mineral pools.

This is a full-day excursion with an early morning departure at 7:00 am. We’ll return to Oaxaca City in the late afternoon, around 3:00–4:00 pm.

Transportation included.
Mandatory local guide: $35 USD per person (must be scheduled and paid in advance).

A traditional Oaxacan breakfast is included and features eggs prepared on a comal, chocolatito, quesadillas, and more.

Option 3: Mole Cooking Class in Etla

Join Luisa’s friend Mimi and her son Charlie for a hands-on mole cooking class.

Mimi is a traditional Oaxacan cook whose recipes have been passed down through four generations and featured in Vogue. You’ll learn techniques, stories, and flavors that make mole such a sacred dish.

$95 USD per person (must be scheduled in advance).
Transportation included.

Meals: Breakfast included / Lunch depends on selected option / Dinner on your own

DAY 6: Farewell Dinner

A Special Goodbye

We’ll close our journey with a farewell dinner at one of our favorite Michelin-recognized restaurants in the city.

Expect deeply flavorful moles, fresh corn tortillas cooked on a comal, and a final chocolatito de agua to toast an unforgettable week.

Meals: Dinner included (1 alcoholic beverage per person)

DAY 7: Departures

Hasta Pronto

Departures from Oaxaca City. Some guests may choose to extend their stay (for an additional cost), while others head home — the choice is yours.

Meals: Breakfast included 

What the Trip Includes

Accommodations

• 6 nights at El Diablo y La Luna B&B in Oaxaca (shared accommodations with two twin beds per room), including a small rooftop pool
  (For accommodation details, please email luisa@mexicoinmypocket.com)

Meals

• Daily breakfast is included at El Diablo y La Luna B&B

• 1 group lunch

• 1 welcome dinner at a highly rated restaurant

• 1 farewell dinner at a Michelin-recognized restaurant

• One alcoholic beverage per person included at select group dinners

This schedule also allows for free time to explore Oaxaca City independently. A curated restaurant and shopping guide will be shared ahead of the trip.

Transportation

• Round-trip airport transportation to and from Oaxaca City International Airport (only applicable for the official start and end dates).

• Private driver for excursions to surrounding towns

• Transportation for all included activities

Experiences

• Guided visit to Monte Albán

• Artisan studio visits and workshops

• Cultural experiences outlined in the itinerary

• Spanish & English translation throughout the trip

Support & Extras

• Tips for all included meals, drivers, and activity guides

• Thoughtful surprises along the way

• On-the-ground coordination throughout the trip

What the Trip Does Not Include

• Alcoholic beverages (unless explicitly stated)

• Airfare or transportation to/from Oaxaca

• Packing materials

• Incidental expenses

• Required travel insurance

• Meals not listed in the itinerary

• Extra excursions or events selected on free days

• Any meals or activities not explicitly listed above

Reviews

“A week in Oaxaca with Luisa and Mexico In My Pocket was the best way to dive deep into the soul of the region. She connects the group with the spirit of Oaxaca by granting access to homes, shops, and stories of local artisans and chefs.”
— Erica Connolly, Dallas, Texas

“Luisa really put her heart and soul into showing the city and people she loves so much. The trip felt personally connected to the land and culture, and it was incredibly moving to witness American Mexicanas connect to their roots.”
— Brit Alveno, Northfield, Minnesota

“My trip with Luisa and Mexico In My Pocket was nothing short of magical. I’m leaving Mexico with a full heart.”
— Shannon Velasco, New York City

“Luisa created a deeply immersive, stress-free experience that allowed us to connect with local artisans, the culture, and each other. The unexpected friendships were the bonus.”
— Rosie Fregozo, San Mateo, California

“Memorable doesn’t even begin to describe this trip. I’m so grateful to Mexico In My Pocket for this moment in my life.”
— Anna Bass, Houston, Texas

Inquiries

For more details, including accommodations, cancellation policy, terms, and conditions, please email luisa@mexicoinmypocket.com.

Important Booking Terms:
This is an application-based, shared-room group experience (two twin beds per room; no solo travelers). All payments are non-refundable. Comprehensive travel insurance with medical and trip interruption coverage is required. Full Terms & Conditions apply and must be signed prior to travel.