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Oaxaca is located 340 miles southeast of Mexico City, Oaxaca
and it's surrounding valley sits on an arid highland plateau some 5,000
feet above sea level.
Despite its population of 450,000, Oaxaca City's pace is
relaxed, unpretentious and friendly. Its immaculate downtown streets are
lined with baroque colonial architecture dating from the 16th century.
The city's treasures include perhaps Mexico's most splendid church, some
of its finest museums, and dozens of well preserved municipal and
religious buildings from the colonial era. The climate is spring-like
and pleasant year round.
There are over 4,000 known archaeological sites, of which
only about 800 have been surveyed. The area's main attractions are the
majestic sites of Monte Albán, Mitla, and Yagul. Each lies within a 25
mile radius of Oaxaca City.
(Note: Visitors should be aware that Oaxaca is one of the poorest
states in Mexico. Some outlying, remote villages should be visited only
with an experienced guide, as residents may have a healthy suspicion of
strangers.)
Literally thousands of tiny villages dot the surrounding
hillsides and valleys. Some 16 distinct language and cultural groups
(speaking over 200 dialects) have survived. In fact the majority of the
state's 3 million inhabitants are non-Spanish speakers!
Lodging and dining in Oaxaca are remarkably affordable.
Whatever the region lacks in resort elegance, it more than makes up
for with its quaint inns and comfortable hotels. Native cuisine is
outstanding, and the region is home to Mezcal, a fiery native liquor
similar to tequila.
The weather in Oaxaca is temperate, with the following average
temperatures:
Spring: 25° C (77 °F); Summer: 22° C (72 °F); Autumn:
22° C (72 °F); Winter: 16 °C (61 °F).
Video Tour of Monte Alban
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