Mexico’s Pueblos Mágicos (Magic Towns)
Valentin Borriello
New York, NY
Luxury & Adventure Travel Specialist
As a Luxury and Adventure Travel Specialist, I curate extraordinary journeys that seamlessly blend elegance, comfort, and sophistication with thrilling, unforgettable adventures.
With an unwavering commitment to excellence, I design bespoke...
As a Luxury and Adventure Travel Specialist, I curate extraordinary journeys that seamlessly blend elegance, comfort, and sophistication with thrilling, unforgettable adventures.
With an unwavering commitment to excellence, I design bespoke travel experiences that cater to the discerning tastes and adventurous spirits of my clients. Whether it’s an opulent island getaway, an exclusive cultural immersion, or an adrenaline-fueled trek through mountain ranges, I ensure every detail is meticulously planned and executed.
My professional understanding of high-end destinations, combined with a passion for outdoor exploration, allows me to offer unique experiences that are both luxurious and awe-inspiring. With an extensive network of elite contacts, I provide access to the world’s most exquisite accommodations, dining, and exclusive activities. I strive to anticipate and fulfill the unique expectations of each client, creating seamless and unforgettable travel experiences from start to finish.
By offering personalized service, exceptional attention to detail, and a passion for both luxury and adventure travel, my goal is to transform your travel dreams into reality.
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1-347-659-4470
Last October, I embarked on a three-week journey through Mexico’s enchanting Pueblos Mágicos (Magic Towns) and historic cities.
Beginning in Guadalajara, known for its rich cultural heritage, I immersed myself in the birthplace of mariachi music and strolled through its vibrant plazas. From there, a short ride took me to Tequila, where the agave fields and distilleries provided an in-depth look at Mexico’s most famous export. I visited the famous Cuervo Distillery as well as some smaller ones where I could learn more about the history, production methods of this flavorful spirit. Tequila comes in different quality levels and a good tequila is different from those generally known by the public. Much more flavor and is tasted slowly.
Next, I headed to Zacatecas, a colonial gem with its striking pink stone buildings. A ride on the “teleferico” (cable car) offered panoramic views, and exploring the city's mining history was a highlight. One of the most incredible things I did there was taking a small train taking me and my fellow visitors under the mountain to an abandoned silver mine transformed into a huge nightclub. It is one of the two of this kind existing the in the world and a real fun experience.
My journey then took me to Guanajuato, a town known for its colorful houses stacked on hillsides and labyrinthine streets, where I explored the city's rich history, including its ties to the Mexican War of Independence. October is also the month of the famous Festival Internacional Cervantino where artists from all over the world get together to perform in all kind of art forms from opera to ballet to theater to music. One of the most original experiences is following an actor through the narrow streets while they tell stories the ways ancient troubadours did. A real treat.
San Miguel de Allende followed. There I wandered through art galleries and enjoyed the vibrant atmosphere of this artistic haven. The architecture here was captivating, and each corner of the city seemed to have its own story to tell. The town is changing rapidly and being adapted to foreign visitors, that was my impression, the good side is more infrastructure and options but prices are also going up. Still the San Miguel de Allende that is a UNESCO site, is magical and definitely worth visiting.
Morelia followed, with its majestic cathedral and colonial charm. The town center is easily visited on foot and where one can admire its buildings from the 17th and 18th centuries made of local pink stone. A ideal place to spend a few laid back days.
I continued to Taxco, the silver capital of Mexico, with its steep cobblestone streets and dazzling jewelry shops. Its white buildings and charm made Taxco a special place to visit.
I then went to Puebla which introduced me to exquisite Talavera pottery and the city's iconic mole poblano (an absolute culinary must). Its baroque architecture and the nearby Cholula pyramid (the largest monument ever built) offered a perfect blend of history and culture.
From there, I journeyed south to San Cristóbal de las Casas, where I spent time exploring indigenous markets and soaking in the mountain views. The place has a special atmosphere and one spends more days than originally planned which happened to me. From there a very beautiful visit is the Sumidero Canyon that can be reached by car or with an organized excursion. A lot of travel agencies offer it.
I concluded my adventure in Oaxaca, a city full of life, flavor, and tradition. The lively markets, delicious street food (especially the tlayudas and mole), and vibrant cultural scene made it the perfect finale to my three-week odyssey.
This journey through Mexico's Pueblos Mágicos and historic towns was a vibrant exploration of the country's heart and soul. Each destination was a tapestry of history, culture, and breathtaking beauty, leaving me with unforgettable memories.