Mexico City is practically next door and boasts a rich history and vibrant culture, and if you haven’t been there yet it’s easy to see what you’re missing and start making plans for a vacation visit.
www.allaboutmexicocity.com
Get acquainted with the city’s layout with the set of maps at All About Mexico City and take a look at “All About” under the “Index” heading or a quick profile of the city and some of the things to see and do. Be sure to read “Frequently Asked Questions” for basics on such things as credit cards and cell phones, and then browse their suggestions for activities and side trips, and a brief directory of tour providers.
www.mexicocity.com.mx/mexcity.html
Another all-around guide is Guia Virtual de Mexico City, whose overview of the city includes history and a list of some of the major feasts and holidays, with links to details on some of the spots where the events are held. Be sure to browse through “Attractions” for descriptions of Chapultepec Forest and other major spots to see. And if you’re not booking a hotel room through your local travel agent or your favorite chain, they provide a directory arranged by area of the city.
www.wcities.com/en/city/95/city.html
You might be more interested in the accommodations arranged on a scale from “very expensive” to “inexpensive” at Wcities along with their detailed guide to city history and “Recommended Tours.” Click on “Visiting the City” for details on everything from castles and canals to outdoor recreation and things to amuse your kids.
www.go2mexico.com
Click on Mexico City on the map at Mexico Travel Guide and read about landmarks including Chapultepec Park, or the Templo Mayor, the huge archaeological site that started with the discovery of an eight-ton stone carving.
www.guide2mexico.com/cities/mexcity/mcindex.htm
There’s more detail on these and other sights to see at Guide 2 Mexico along with general tips on visiting Mexico. But some of the Web links will take you to pages only in Spanish, and a couple of others are dead ends.
www.fodors.com/miniguides
Look for Mexico City at Fodor’s online miniguides and check out their suggestions for five-day and 10-day visits, and for side trips. Get your taste buds working by clicking on “La Cocina Mexicana.” And you might want to delve into “Shopping” for tips on finding gifts, leatherwork and antiques.
www.visitmexico.com
If you have time, don’t neglect the rest of the country. The Mexico Tourist Board is full of information on spots ranging from Acapulco to Xalapa, and categories it calls “Unique Experiences” and “Vacation Theme,” where you’ll learn about nature vacations, archaeological zones and colonial cities.
Roger Petterson, Associated Press
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