The state of Oaxaco is as Mexican as Mexican can be, a place of bright colours, vibrant, endless fiestas, unique foods, astounding archaeological sites and an innovative crafts and art scene. It is a bastion of indigenous culture – wander the streets of cities, towns and villages of the region and you’ll hear age-old languages that have been spoken here since long before Europeans arrived.

Covered in thick forest, with a tropical Pacific coast and the Sierra Norte Mountains, at the heart of Oaxaco is its capital city of the same name. Popular with locals and visitors alike, it is a wholly colonial city, full of beautiful Baroque architecture to admire, but also retains native roots to create a fascinating fusion of the two. As well as admiring plenty of grand buildings, take the time to stroll the atmospheric cobbled streets, seeking out small galleries, excellent restaurants and craft stores to browse.