OAXACA

Now on to Oaxaca Mexico. What a downright special place Oaxaca is. When people ask me inevitably about traveling I usually get the question, "What was your favorite country?", to which I will typically respond that my favorite country is Mexico. Mexico has everything you could ever want within the country. The beaches, mountains, deserts, waves, food, nightlife, culture. Shall I continue? But the follow up question is usually, "Well okay then, what was your favorite part of Mexico?". To that question I have a quick and easy answer. It is Oaxaca. With an honorable mention to the peninsula of Baja California. Oaxaca is just an amazing place. It is unique, with a rich historical culture and an endless amount of fun to be had and things to do. It's a place I think of often, and I will return to many times.  ​ Oaxaca is many things. But as of late it has really become something of a backpacker's paradise. With a bustling hostel scene throughout the country and a number of destinations extremely well suited to the lifestyle of the backpacker, Oaxaca is just a perfect storm. While Oaxaca is in the country of Mexico, you could have a properly amazing few weeks backpacking through just the state of Oaxaca. It's large, diverse, with beaches, large towns, diverse food and just a plethora of amazing things everywhere.    The state boasts relatively unanimously considered, the best food in the country. With Oaxacan food being a sought-after cuisine in its own right. You will find food a food mecca in Oaxaca City.    Oaxaca has arguably the best waves in the country. Whether you are going to be searching for monsters in Zicatela or hidden gems to the south, if you are here for surfing you will have one of the best trips of your life.    The beaches in Oaxaca are some of the best in the country as well. Large, sprawling white sand beaches, amazing sunsets daily, and clean blue water. The over 500 kms of coastline offer something new and beautiful around each turn.    The mountains of San Jose del Pacifico are one of the most special places I have had the opportunity to visit. Nestled high up in the Oaxacan mountain range, they are a magical and holy place. With cold climates at night. Something that I will imagine you as well will be shocked to know of its existence in this country. This country that carries with it so many predispositions and stereotypes, just waiting to be broken at each turn.    The people are lovely and kind. Oaxacans are welcoming, they are fun-loving and warm. The backpackers and travelers gracing the state are also lovely, kind, fun, and adventurous.    In short, Oaxaca is fucking amazing.