spending ten days or just a weekend in Oaxaca - The top activities and unique experiences: Spend a day strolling Oaxaca City's cobblestone streets and stopping in trendy cafes, mezcal shops, artisan cooperatives, and art galleries. Tour the Zapotec ruins of Monte Alban, trek the mountain paths of the Sierra Norte, or surf the world-class swells off Oaxaca's coast. Revel in the blur of parades, fireworks, and friendly locals inviting you to view their ofrendas (altars) during Oaxaca's legendary Day of the Dead celebration - The best local flavours: Indulge in steamy pozole from a street stand, try traditional mole negro, or snack on fried grasshoppers. Visit a mezcal distillery to sample the smoky spirit and explore the fields of spiky agave, or satisfy your sweet tooth with a frothy espuma - Local insight: Mexico City writer and former Oaxaca dweller Cody Copeland shares what inspires him about the region - Full-colour photos and detailed maps throughout - Helpful background on the landscape, culture, history, and environment, plus tips on health and safety, how to get around, and a handy Spanish phrasebook