BeatRoute Magazine BC Edition - February 2020

TRAVEL
MEXICO CITY
EXPLORE THE
SPRAWLING METROPOLIS
WHERE TRADITION AND
CUTTING EDGE CONVERGE
By KATHERINE MCFARLANE
Mexico City, the seventh largest city in the
world, is almost impossible to get to know
in one lifetime. A city deserving of multiple
visits, its rich cultural history permeates every
aspect of life; the cuisine, the architecture,
and the sounds; all distinctively Mexican, yet
welcoming to anyone open to discovery.
The city has evolved into a vibrant cultural travel
destination thanks in large part to its dedication to urbanism
and an abundance of thoughtful public spaces, an inventive
and modern culinary scene and a long tradition of influential
contemporary art that will satisfy travelers looking for
something beyond a typical resort vacation.
Music is an ever-present part of daily life in the city.
Traditional Mariachi music is ubiquitous in any tourist area and
you will hear modern Latin pop and rock on the radio, spilling
into the streets from every car, store and bus you pass.
The city is a major touring market for artists and has
become home to a number or large-scale music festivals
such as The Corona Capital and the newest addition of
Ceremonia Festival, last year, drawing top tier international
artists such as Rosalia, Kaytranada, and Massive Attack
alongside local talent. Toronto label Arts & Crafts, ahead of
the curve, even set up an outpost in the city in 2008.
DESTINATIONS
Frida Kahlo Museum
The Blue House
Calle Londres 247,
Colonia Del Carmen
The house where the world’s most
famous Mexican artist was born
and died is an essential experience
for any fan of contemporary
culture and anyone who ever
went to art school. Located in the
historic Coyoacán neighbourhood
and close to the amazing artisanal
Mercado de Coyoacan (Ignacio
Allende, between Malintzin and
Xicoténcatl), the museum is one
most popular places to visit in the
city. Book your tickets in advance
online, you’ll still have to wait, just
not as long!
Canals of Xochimilco
Calle del Mercado 133, San Jerónimo
Xochimilco, the Venice of Mexico,
is a truly unique experience. Rent a
boat by the hour, be serenaded by
live Mariachi bands and order freshmade
food and drinks from boats
floating right beside you. Equal parts
relaxing and floating party!
Parque Mexico
Av. Mexico, Cuauhtemoc,
Colonia Hipódromo
Speaking of thoughtful public
spaces, this park is one of the most
beautiful and relaxing refuges from
the hustle and bustle of the city.
Situated in La Condesa, a charming
and walkable neighborhood with
many Art Deco buildings. Take a loop
around lush Amsterdam Avenue and
imagine your potential new life as a
resident of Mexico City!
Casa Luis Barragan
Calle General Francisco Ramirez 14
It’s impossible not to be moved
by this masterpiece of modernist
architect and pioneer of emotional
architecture, Luis Barragan’s
house and studio. A UNESCO
World Heritage Site, it’s extremely
popular and limited spots are available
for the English tour, so book
online ahead of time.
Museo Jumex
Avenida Miguel de Cervantes
Saavedra 303, Miguel Hidalgo
One of the largest private collections
of contemporary art in Latin
America, Museo Jumex features
some of the heaviest hitters in the
contemporary art world. Housed
in a striking building designed by
British architect David Chipperfield,
it is a work of art itself.
30 BEATROUTE FEBRUARY 2020