Mexico City is elevated, expansive and enriched by modern commerce and ancient culture. The capital is 8,000 feet (2,400 meters) above sea level in some spots. Its nearly 9 million residents are spread across 571 square miles (1,478 kilometers)—more land mass than Berlin and Chicago combined. The city is Mexico’s center of politics and finance and, with more than 150 museums and plenty of galleries, a robust music scene and fascinating Aztec ruins in the city center, it’s also rich in art, culture and history.
Mexico City is set to host the Conferencia GBTA 2019, one of Latin America’s largest business travel meetings, from March 19-21.
Know before you go
Time zone – Central Standard Time (UTC – 6 hours)
Currency – Mexican peso (MXN) (US$1=MXN$19.15)
Language spoken – Spanish
Airport: Mexico Airport (MEX), officially named Aeropuerto Internacional de la Ciudad de Mexico Benito Juarez, is about 8 miles east of downtown.
Getting around: Look for authorized sitio taxis outside of both MEX terminals, and ask your hotel to order one for you once you’re in the city. Make sure the taximetro meter is on. The Metro is a quick way to get around the large and crowded city. Cars in each train are reserved for women and children only. A one-way ride is MXN$5 (US 26 cents). Download this app to plan your route.
Ridesharing is also prevalent in the city. Try Uber or Cabify. Or download the Ecobici app for an ecofriendly way to explore. It syncs with Mexico City’s government bike rental system to show bike stations and availability all over the city.
Accommodations
Hyatt Regency Mexico City
Campos Eliseos No. 204 Polanco Chapultepec; Ph: +(52 55) 5083 1234
The Hyatt Regency is situated in Mexico City’s most exclusive neighborhood. Just steps from Auditorio Nacional, Museo de Antropología and Chapultepec Park, the location is central to authentic art, shops, restaurants and nightlife.
Hyatt House Mexico City/Santa Fe, Prol. Vasco de Quiroga No. 4001, Santa Fe Cuajimalpa; Ph: +52 55 5282 1234
Suitable for single night visits or month-long stays, the Hyatt House Mexico City/Santa features residentially inspired guestrooms and suites. Amenities include free Wi-Fi, free breakfast buffet, outdoor pool and patio and evening food and drinks at H BAR.
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Workspaces
El 3er Espacio has Wi-Fi and basic office essentials. The space also features a terrace, perfect for an outdoor break. A day pass costs MXN$250/day (US$13.05).
Alternatively, at The Pool, MXN$350/day (US$18.27) plus tax will buy you access to Wi-Fi, a room for video calls, an onsite café and free coffee.
These local cafes also provide workspaces:
In the airy space of Blend Station, you’ll find good coffee and food to keep you fueled, plenty of outlets and a range of seating options to get work done.
El Pendulo is a local bookstores/café chain offering a full menu and cool atmosphere. Some locations feature pretty terraces.
Sights you shouldn’t miss
For the history buff, check out Mexico City’s historic center, built around Plaza de la Constitución, more commonly known as El Zócalo. It has been the place for public gatherings since the days of the Aztecs. Visit the nearby National Palace, the Metropolitan Cathedral and ancient Aztec ruins of Templo Mayor.
Check out the city’s urban forest with a stroll through Chapultepec Park. The nearly 1,700-acre green space is nicknamed the “lungs” of Mexico City. Spend the day wandering or direct your steps to the National Museum of History or the free zoo.
Food & drink
Taqueria Orinoco is a little pricier than your average street taco, but it’s worth it. It’s open late, so you can enjoy fresh salsa and delicious tacos well into the evening.
Pujol was named to the World’s 50 Best Restaurants list in 2018. The dishes change by season and are rooted in traditional Mexican techniques and ingredients. A signature dish features mole that’s been aged over 1,000 days.
El Moro will satisfy your sweet tooth. It’s been making traditional churros for more than 80 years and now has several locations around the city. Visit the original in the Centro Histórico neighborhood for old-school charm and 24-hour service.
