Wandering in Oaxaca

Rest, exploration, and rooftop reflections

After a much-needed 12-hour rest at Hotel Casa Antigua, I felt rejuvenated and ready to explore more of Oaxaca. This charming hotel, housed in a restored 19th-century building, offered rooms centered around a tranquil interior courtyard. Located just two blocks from the central Zócalo Square, it served as an ideal base for exploring the city.

Following a late and unhurried start to the morning, I continued exploring the Centro district, focusing on the area surrounding the Templo de Santo Domingo de Guzmán. The streets were alive with activity, and I took my time visiting local cafés and small boutiques. My walk eventually led me to Sabina Sabe, a renowned bar and restaurant named after the Mazatec medicine woman María Sabina. Celebrated for its extensive mezcal selection, Sabina Sabe offered a variety of compelling cocktails that highlighted Oaxacan ingredients. The space featured a series of intimate rooms adorned with paintings by Alejandro Magallanes, creating a uniquely Oaxacan ambiance. Notably, Sabina Sabe had been recognized on North America’s 50 Best Bars list, ranking No. 20 in 2022 and No. 22 in 2023.

As evening approached, I returned to Hotel Casa Antigua and made my way to the rooftop terrace, a peaceful setting that was ideal for writing, working on personal projects, and practicing Spanish. From the vantage point of the roof, I had the opportunity to watch small but notable fireworks light up one of the distant hillsides. The combination of quiet productivity and the city’s celebratory displays made for a memorable conclusion to my second day in Oaxaca.