La Mezcalina: Your Guide to Nearby Cancun Adventures

Being in Cancun's Hotel Zone means proximity is relative. While La Mezcalina itself is a destination for its impressive mezcal selection and craft cocktails, the real draw for many is its location. From here, you can reach many excursions via a short taxi ride or, in some cases, a brisk walk along the main boulevard.

Understanding travel times is key to maximizing your day, whether you're heading south towards the Mayan ruins or out to sea. This area is designed for convenience, with tour operators frequently picking up guests from major hotels and resorts nearby, making La Mezcalina a practical starting point for further exploration.

For a taste of the authentic Oaxaca City experience, start with the mezcal tasting at La Mezcalina itself. Beyond that, consider a visit to the Mercado Benito Juárez, a bustling market where you can haggle for local crafts and sample chapulines, the region's famous grasshoppers.

For a more refined culinary journey, Casa Oaxaca offers innovative Oaxacan cuisine in a beautiful courtyard setting. If you're seeking traditional mole, El Cardenal is a reliable choice, serving up classic dishes in a formal atmosphere. Don't miss the chance to explore the ethnobotanical garden at the Jardín Etnobotánico de Oaxaca, a serene escape showcasing the region's diverse plant life and its cultural significance.

Finally, for a truly immersive experience, take a short trip to the artisan village of Teotitlán del Valle, renowned for its handwoven Zapotec rugs.

Most tours that pick up from the Hotel Zone will have designated meeting points at nearby resorts or can arrange a pickup directly. A short taxi ride is usually sufficient to reach most departure points or tour operator offices within the zone. For instance, reaching the marina for a catamaran or yacht charter will likely take less than 15 minutes by taxi from La Mezcalina.

Longer excursions, like those heading further south to Tulum or Chichen Itza, often include transport from your hotel, so confirm this when booking. Walking is feasible for some local attractions but less practical for organized tours departing from further afield.

Most visitors know about the main attractions, but the real magic of Oaxaca City often happens in the smaller, less-advertised corners. For instance, after a late night at La Mezcalina, seek out a street vendor selling esquites, corn kernels simmered with chili, lime, and mayonnaise.

You'll find them often near the Zócalo after 10 p. m. Also, many locals prefer to buy their artisanal chocolate not from the tourist shops, but from small producers in the Mercado de Abastos, where the quality is often superior and the prices more honest.

It's worth the detour if you have time.