By: Sima Morrison
Mexico City is an unexpected jewel to add to any traveler’s destination hotspots. It boasts a short non-stop 3 hour and 13 minute flight from Los Angeles, but upon arrival most would expect to enter a ring of brown and smokey clouds that rival any city's pollution. Instead, the sky brings forth limpid views of a sophisticated metropolitan hub. With this preconceived assumption of enormous smog levels, I was surprised to discover that this innovative city began an initiative 10 years ago to plentifully add more green spaces, gardens and planters scattered throughout the urban metropolis. Much more to my surprise, I found an artists sanctuary that possesses Parisian vibes with a European-esque energy, and where the Tequila and Mescal flow freely. Tastings are easy in this affordable city with the US Dollar being strong against the Mexican Peso. On top of the fine beverage selection, I can safely say I ate my way through Mexico City. With some of the freshest organic farm to table ingredients, fish and corn tortillas, I was hooked the moment the guacamole hit my lips. Interestingly, I typically do not eat grains but in Mexico City I chose to indulge in baskets of corn tortillas, and I surprisingly never felt sick. The sensation of nirvana can only be described as finding unprocessed corn and grains! Most noteworthy, I found a place that rivals most others in kindness, hospitality and elegance. The energetic atmosphere is molded by gracious people that welcome foreigners with warmth, making Mexico City a treasured and truly recommended destination.
Lodging
Four Seasons Hotel Mexico City
This luxurious hotel is steps from Chapultepec Park and the popular neighborhoods of Condesa and Polanco. Clean and accommodating, the Four Seasons prides itself on having top of the line service, restaurants, and bars. Turn off the white noise of the city and take a stroll around the garden courtyard or receive a pre-hispanic holistic massage. As an added bonus, you can receive a complimentary third night with every two consecutive paid nights.
Paseo de la Reforma #500, Colonia Juarez, Mexico City, 06600 Mexico | 52 (55) 5230-1818
Condesa df
Before I brag about the killer margaritas and mojitos from their trendy rooftop deck bar, I must praise this hotel for its authentic, chic atmosphere. Condesa df is a boutique hotel with contemporary and bohemian vibes that is ideal for the young hip traveler. With the rooftop overlooking a viridescent park, make sure to spend time checking out those calming views.
Av. Veracruz N.102, Col. Condesa, 06700 Mexico DF, Mexico | 52 (55) 5241 2600
To See
Teotihuacan Pyramid
One of the 7 Wonders of the World, this is the major attraction most people from across the globe come to Mexico City for. The powerful energetics are almost indescribable here. Walking amongst the 3 pyramids, sun, moon and serpent, transcended me to a different dimension of consciousness. The vibrations clear space and help set intentions, which are beneficial when entering another culture’s community. Please observe with most spiritual gatherers dressed in white.
55800 San Juan Teotihuacan de Arista, State of Mexico, Mexico
Espacio Escultórico
Circling around ancient, petrified lava beds next to the National Autonomous University of Mexico, this historic land art masterpiece is a cross between sideways pyramids and a concrete colosseum. Surrounded by stunning sculptures, this meditative site has blossomed into a sanctuary for artists. Come here to eat lunch, find oasis away from the chaotic metropolitan energy amongst this fire pit of craggy rocks and recall the early Mesoamerican site of the pyramid of Cuicuilco.
Centro Cultural Universitario, Mario de La Cueva, Coyoacán, Universitaria, 04510 Ciudad de México
Museo Frida Kahlo
This stunning museum memorializes one of the greatest artists and feminists in history, Frida Kahlo. The vivid colors and vibrant textiles make this museum burst with intense energy. Be prepared to soak in the rich authentic Mexican art and culture, as you enliven your creative juices.
Londres 247, Col. Del Carmen, Coyoacán Mexico City
Museo Estudio Diego Rivera
Frida Kahlo’s lover and prominent painter, Diego Rivera is a visionary artist who established the mural movement in Mexico. Inside this museum, you will find both social realism and modern art that is both realistic and deeply intriguing. His potent work is scattered amongst the geometric buildings with both permanent and temporary exhibits.
Av. Altavista esq. Diego Rivera, Col. San Angel Inn, Del. Álvaro Obregón, Mexico DF, CP 01060
Museo de Arte Moderno
Both a historic retrospective and modern prospective, this museum is a cultural institution in Mexico City. This is a must add to your list. Immerse yourself in truly innovative and exceptional works of art and escape the metropolis for just a few quiet hours. Be sure to time your visit, as Sunday’s are free!
Paseo de la Reforma s/n, Bosque de Chapultepec I Secc, 11560 Ciudad de México
Restaurants
Contramar
The most “New York” style restaurant in the city, Contramar is fast-paced, loud and an excellent hot spot on weekend nights. The overall vibe is sleek and polished and their phenomenal food is over the top. Order fresh market seafood or just simply ask for some of their legendary guacamole and salsa with homemade warm corn tortillas and you will be a happy camper. Best yet, the pricing is extremely reasonable for significant portions.
Durango 200, Colonia Roma, Delegation Cuauhtémoc, CP. 06700 Ciudad de México | 52 (55) 5514 9217
Zanaya
One of my absolute favorites, Chef Tonatiuh Cuevas from Oaxaca creates authentic southern Mexican dishes with artisanal produce. Their freshly baked tortilla chips and lobster tacos had us going back for not seconds, but thirds. Make sure to also order their traditionally inspired margaritas and ask their exceptional service to sweeten them with honey.
Paseo de la Reforma 500 Juárez 06600 Ciudad de México, CDMX Mexico | 52 (55) 52-30-18-06
Rosetta
In honor of International Women’s Day, we chose to dine a female-owned restaurant, finding delicate Italian inspired meals created by Chef Elena Reygadas. This gorgeous restaurant is nestled into a grand Colonia Roma townhouse, creating an elegant atmosphere with high ceilings and indoor trees. Dietary restrictors will find solace, as almost everyone can find something on their menu. Request a table in the main dining room and order their Minestrone Soup without the pasta, Beet Salad to compliment and one of their many selections of local wines.
Colima 166, Roma Nte., Ciudad de México | 52 (55) 5533 7804
Quintonil
Located in the ritzy, world famous Polanco District, this prestigious restaurant must be booked months in advance. Chefs Jorge Vallejo and Alexander Flores use their edgy young attitudes and contemporary approaches to Mexican Cuisine to create an upscale masterpiece. All the food is farm to table and seasonal and is garnished so beautifully, its hard to actually dig in. I recommend the prefixed 10 course menu as an affordable option amongst the table.
Newton No. 55, Polanco, Polanco IV Secc, 11560 Miguel Hidalgo | 52 (55) 5280 1660
LA OTILIA Gluten Free Bakery
An angel sent down from heaven guided us to stumble upon this female-owned gluten free bakery, which became our official spot of choice during our trip. Adorable, cozy and quaint, there is a treat for the young and old. Great service intertwined with delicious gluten free, dairy free and raw options, as well as, delightful coffee, tea, and latte sections. We loved being able to make our own tonics, wile ordering raw paleo friendly pie slices.
Valladolid 76 A, Roma Norte, 06700 Ciudad de México | 52 (55) 5207 2546
Photo Credit: Nitsa Citrine
Sima Morrison, founder of House of Citrine, is a vibrant soul with a potent zest for life and the beauty in its simple pleasures. As a holistic nutritionist, Sima has made it her life's journey to experience, to empower, and to explore the synergy between the mind and the body. She manifests her vision through her online journal, designing recipes and cultivating conversation in the sharing of health, wellness, and inspiration. Sima lives with an open heart and views being in service to others as her most important calling, practicing compassion and helping people to heal past trauma. She is a certified Kundalini yoga instructor and meditation facilitator.