Zapotec woman with Jaguar Helmet Monte Alban, Oaxaca

Colonial Oaxaca

Liking that Blessing!

The Blessing of the Animals
Explore the Magic of Oaxaca, Mexico
Aug. 24 - Sept. 2  2016
$1350  9 nights

An experience to delight the senses, to fill the heart, and to surround yourself with the unique, creative, vibrant cultures of Oaxaca, Mexico.

It's a delight to offer this tour to Oaxaca, the place where I first began leading cultural tours many years ago.    When I revisited Oaxaca last year, my time coincided with Oaxaca's Blessing of the Animals, a joyous gathering of  Oaxaca’s beloved pets and their people in honor of San Ramón de Nonato, keeper of animals, patron saint of women in labor and also of persons falsely accused.  The pets come in their best attire, some wear outfits which match their peoples.  The church plaza fills with dogs, cats, birds, goats and more species who peacefully await  their blessings and receive their dousing of holy water without complaint.  Bystanders can anticipate a small shower of holy water as well.  The marimba orchestra plays traditional Oaxacan music, while people and their pets bond in the celebration -- living proof  that interspecies harmony  exists and can fill the human heart with love and hope.  See more photos from the blessing of the animals from Luisa's blog.

Oaxaca is the name of both the colonial city of Oaxaca and the state of Oaxaca itself.  Oaxaca city is renowned as the "culinary capital of Mexico" especially known for it's variety of moles.  Mole is a complex sauce combining many different herbs and spices (included cacao, chocolate). Empanadas, tamales, sopas, peanuts with roasted garlic, highly addicting  handmade ice cream and tiny, spicy grasshoppers are among the many delicacies. 
And then there's the mezcal, Oaxaca's unique fermented alcoholic beverage, known as an aid to digestion and intoxication.


Oaxaca features art galleries, museums, cathedrals, musicians, artisan and food markets, outdoor coffee shops ringing the zocalo, and  an enchanting walking street. And then there's the mezcal, Oaxaca's unique fermented alcoholic beverage, known as an aid to digestion and intoxication.


In easy proximity to the city are Oaxaca's magnificent Zapotec and Mixtec archeological sites as well as  pueblos specializing in handwoven wool rugs; black, green and and natural pottery; alibrijes, the fantastical wood carvings that Oaxaca is famous for; handmade clothing; engraved cutlery and traditional indigenous life.

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The mountains around Oaxaca offer natural wonders as well, including the mineral falls of Hierve de Agua, where the group will spend the day swimming, hiking or just appreciating the natural wonder of this location. 

Hands-on group learning experiences are an important part of BFGT's travel program , providing an opportunity to directly learn from local teachers and artisans and invariable to share laughter and culture.  In Oaxaca, the group will participate in a cooking class, have an evening to learn to basics of salsa and practice pottery with a potter in a villages of potters. 

"I have been on two tours with Dr.  Wisechild in Oaxaca, Mexico. Dr. Wisechild was committed to sustainable practices, living lightly, respecting and learning from local people, and having fun. All of
the tours were interesting and well organized. I learned a lot, had many experiences with local people including local artisans and cultural
workers. . .When last minute opportunities arose she could change plans to incorporate them into our time which enriched our
experience. She excelled in creating a group experience which honored each person."   more

     ~  Marianne Twyman, MD  USA

CHECK OUT THE ITINERARY BELOW!

What's included:

BFGT Tours is committed to supporting local communities while providing the best possible cultural adventure opportunities. 

Accommodations: The tour includes nine nights of accommodation in a comfortable, clean and friendly family-owned hotel with WIFI and within walking distance to the Oaxaca city center.  Tour price is based on double occupancy; single accommodation is available for an additional fee.

Food: Normally Includes two meals a day .. Lunch or dinner can include 1 alcoholic beverage.  Meals not covered are * in itinerary

Guides, workshops and entry fees:  All guides, workshop and enterance fees for group excursions are covered in tour costs.

Transportation: All group transportation costs except pickup and return from the airport are included.  BFGT uses a combination of private and public and locally-owned tourist transportation.

Don't miss this unique opportunity to explore the flavors of Oaxaca and to fill your heart with joy!

Registration.