Positioned in a protected valley in the southwest of the country, it’s a colorful colonial city full of charm, and rich in culture and tradition. A place where festivals are given with great gusto and food (including street food) is considered an art form.

The city hosts some of Mexico’s biggest Día del los Muertos (Day of the Dead) celebrations and is also the birthplace of mole, the complex and flavorful sauce that’s revered in much of Mexican cuisine.

Oaxaca State is the most diverse and indigenous region of Mexico where some 17 different languages, including Spanish, are still spoken. This rich heritage reveals itself in the vibrant costumes and handicrafts both in the state’s capital city of Oaxaca and in the surrounding artisanal villages where weekly markets are staged.

Within the old city, life revolves around the lively Zocalo (Plaza de la Constitución de Oaxaca), the main, tree-lined square. It’s an easy, kid-friendly place to wander around and, apart from the odd spot of political activity, it’s safe to visit (make sure to check with your Embassy before traveling).

If you’re planning your first vacation in Oaxaca with kids (one of my favorite places to visit in Mexico) here are my top recommended things to do, along with recommendations for where to eat and where to stay on your Oaxaca vacation.

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1. Explore the Ancient Ruins of Monte Alban

It’s hard not be to wowed at Zona Arqueológica de Monte Albán, a UNESCO World Heritage site just outside of Oaxaca City. This ancient Zapotec capital sits on a flattened hilltop 400 m high with spellbinding 360-degree views over the city, the valleys and the Sierra Norte mountains beyond.

Meaning ‘White Mountain’, Monte Alban is the second largest ceremonial site in Mesoamerica, out-sized only by Teotihuacan near Mexico City. But quite why this site was chosen, and what for, puzzles archaeologists.

Located on a tall, steeply walled plateau, it has no water source. It was not used for habitation, nor is there any evidence of it having been used for strategic or military purposes. Yet its ruins are extremely old. The first known buildings at this archaeological site date between 1000 – 800 BC.

Be sure to allow a few hours for this stop in your Oaxaca itinerary. You’ll want to take your time visiting these fascinating ruins of temples, pyramids, tall stepped platforms, underground tunnels, an observatory, and a ball court. And don’t miss the hieroglyphs — those found here are some of the most ancient writings in all of Mesoamerica. (Click for map.)

2. Test your Taste Buds at the Market

The Mercado 20 de Noviembre (The 20^th November Market) is the largest, and one of the busiest markets in the centro histórico (old city) and a wonderful place to experience day-to-day life in Oaxaca. Rows of lively stalls vie for attention selling all manner of goods from bootleg Disney T-shirts to traditional Mexican dresses.

But it’s the food stalls that are the most fascinating. Baskets of crunchy grasshoppers flavored with chili peppers sit alongside towers of chicharon, large squares of fried pork fat that’s a favorite national snack.

You’ll find bowls of mole paste, bags of dried chili peppers and tall, metal urns housing various flavors of ice cream. Some stalls offer communal seating where you can enjoy your tamales or chilies rellenos accompanied by a local mariachi singer.

It might not be what you eat at home, but traditional Oaxacan cuisine is definitely worth trying. Address: 20 de Noviembre, Centro, Oaxaca (Click for map.)

3. Visit the Botanic Garden: Jardin Etnobotanico de Oaxaca

One of our favorite activities when we visited Oaxaca with kids was our tour of the Jardín Etnobotánico de Oaxaca (The Ethnobotanic Gardens of Oaxaca). The gardens are located behind the Santo Domingo Cultural Centre in grounds that were once owned by the church and later occupied by the Mexican army.

The land nearly became a luxury hotel and car park. Fortunately, Oaxaca artist Francisco Toldeo had other ideas. He designed a beautiful garden that showcases the diverse range of flora native to Oaxaca, the most bio-diverse region in Mexico. The gardens were opened in 1988.

Access to the gardens is by tour only and the tours are two hours long. My children loved this tour. Our guide was informative and knowledgeable as he shared the story of each plant. Join English tours Tuesday, Thursdays and Saturdays at 11am. Spanish tours are held daily at 10am, 12pm and 5pm. (Click for map.)

4. Measure Oaxaca’s Big Tree (AKA El Arbol del Tule)

It might not be the tallest tree in the world but El Árbol del Tule (the Tree of Tule) is certainly the widest. Boasting a circumference of 54 meters, the ‘Big Tree’ resides in the church grounds in the small town of Santa Maria del Tule. It weighs over 600 tons and looks like half-a-dozen or so trees growing together in close proximity.

El Arbol is an Ahuehuete Cypress estimated to be over 2,000 years. Among the oldest living trees in the world, you’ll find it on the UNESCO tentative list of World Heritage Sites. Address: The Big Tree is located approximately 6 miles (9km) east of Oaxaca. (Click for map.)

Where to Stay in Oaxaca with Kids: El Diablo y La Sandia

The best way to enjoy Oaxaca is to stay within walking distance of the Old Town. We really enjoyed El Diablo y La Sandia, a welcoming, five-bedroom B&B that’s both wallet- and family-friendly.

All rooms open onto a bougainvillea filled courtyard where a semi-open air kitchen is available for guests to use (always handy if traveling with young children).

The bedrooms small but cozy bedrooms suit families perfectly, especially those who plan to spend their days sightseeing. Room rates include an excellent breakfast, the only meal served at the hotel.

Just as well, then, that you’re in one of the culinary capitals of Mexico! For more information on staying at El Diablo y La Sandia, click here to see my detailed review. (Click for map.)

Or if you prefer to find a family-friendly vacation rental in Oaxaca, check here.

Where to Eat in Oaxaca with Kids: Casa Oaxaca

Often referred to as the The Land of the Seven Moles, foodies delight in Oaxaca. Moles aside, don’t miss the caldo de piedra, otherwise known as ‘stone soup’. And one of the best places to enjoy this local specialty? Casa Oaxaca, with a lovely roof terrace overlooking Santo Domingo (plus high chairs and free wifi).

Stone soup uses an old, indigenous method for heating soup broth: extremely hot stones. A waiter will come to your table and place burning hot stones into a delicious bowl of tomato-based broth.

Watch as the liquid sizzles and bubbles up; the stones cook the soup almost instantly. Theatrics aside, it’s also very tasty. Take care if dining with children not old enough to know not to stick their fingers on burning hot stones!

Address: Garcia Vigil 407, Centro. (Click for map.)

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SaveAn earlier version of this post was first published July 22, 2016. It has since been updated and revised.

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San Cristóbal de las Casas, the cultural capital of this wonderland state and a perfectly preserved colonial town, sits nestled among pine forests. Characterized by cobbled streets, citrus-colored houses and an imposing yellow cathedral, it’s ideal as a weekend escape or a base for exploring farther afield. It’s also an easy place to explore as a family. If you’ll be visiting San Cristobal de las Casas with kids, here are four family-friendly things to do, along with one recommended place to stay and  eat while there.

The 411 on San Cristobal de Las Casas with kids.

Please note that San Cristóbal and the other areas in Chiapas were badly affected by the earthquakes in September 2017. The area is very much open to visitors now, however, but be aware that there may still be some disruption.

Activity 1: Wander the Streets of San Cristobal de las Casas

A pedestrian zone just perfect for wandering afoot as a family.

A pedestrian’s paradise, you could easily spend a day wandering Cristóbal de las Casas aimlessly. What makes this easy (and enjoyable) with kids are the two “pedestrianized” streets, Anador Eclesiastico and Anador Guadalupano. These long, wide, paved paths brim with cafes, bars and restaurants. You’ll also find dozens of boutiques selling the beautiful embroidery for which Chiapas is famous.

At the heart of town is the zócalo, also known as Vincente Espinoza Park. This central, shady square sits opposite the mustard yellow Cathedral of San Cristóbal or Catedral de San Cristóbal. The zócalo is a great place for kids to run off steam while you grab a seat on one of the wrought iron benches. Things get busy come dusk when musicians perform, families gather, and local vendors sell everything from cups of freshly sliced fruit to Disney balloons and bubble shooters.

Activity 2: Shop, Shop, Shop!

A sampling of textiles for sale in San Cristobal de Las Casas, Mexico.

Chiapas is a veritable Aladdin’s Cave of handicrafts and folk art. Discover its celebrated pottery, amber work, and world-famous embroidery and weaving up close. San Cristóbal’s streets are home to plenty of upmarket boutiques selling brilliantly woven huipiles, the traditional tunics worn by local women, along with jaguar sculptures, delicately decorated lacquered gourds, and amber jewellery.

What’s much more fun for kids, however, is a trip to the artisan market that sits outside the 16th-century Templo de Santo Domingo. This permanent market is bursting with stalls selling locally made goods. It’s a great place for children to practice their bartering skills and spend their allowance. Among the aisles you’ll find embroidered shirts and shawls, jewellery, leather sandals, local candy, and my favorite: brightly colored stuffed animals hand-stitched out of wool.

Activity 3: Visit the Local Villages  

A mayan village in Chiapas, Mexico.

Dozens of Mayan communities pepper the countryside surrounding San Cristóbal, each well worth a visit. Chiapas is home to one of the largest indigenous populations in Mexico and life in these local villages is very different to the big towns and cities. Two of the closest (and most visited) villages to San Cristóbal are San Juan de Chamula and Zinacantan.

These communities remain steeped in tradition and life remains much the same as it was hundreds of years ago. Societies are patriarchal, education is not prioritized, and girls marry from as young as 12-years-old. And chruches practice a mixture of Catholic and Mayan beliefs. A local guide is invaulable for your visit.

You’ll also want to visit a weaving cooperative, get to see tortillas being made and try the local brew, pox (not for kids!). This might not be the most kid-friendly activity in the world, but it is definitely educational and a fascinating insight into a unique way of life. Find out more: http://www.explorandochiapas.com.mx/

Activity 4: Meet the Crocodiles

Geologic wonders await on a day trip from San Cristobal de Las Casas with kids.

Chiapas is home to dozens of natural wonders and you don’t have to go far from San Cristóbal to find them. One of the most popular is the Cañón del Sumidero (Sumidero Canyon), a dramatic river gorge that sits some 37 miles (60 km) from San Cristóbal.

The best way to enjoy the canyon, and to witness the towering limestone cliffs, is by boat. River cruises run regularly along the Grijalva River past whimsically-named scenic highlights. Watch for Cueva de Colores (the Cave of Colors) and Cascada Arbol de Navidad (Christmas Tree Waterfall). It’s a fun trip for kids with lots of opportunities to spot crocodiles sunning themselves on the rocks.

The area surrounding the gorge is a national park, home to ocelots, spider monkeys, anteaters, and more. There are four docks for tour boats; we recommend heading to Chiapa de Corzo.

1 Great Place to Stay: Hotel Provincia

Centrally located Hotel Provincia is a great option for families visiting San Cristobal de Las Casas with kids

There are some beautiful boutique hotels in San Cristóbal, but this is the kind of town where you are out and about all day. That’s why I recommend you save your pesos and book a room at Hotel Provincia instead. This is a great family-friendly, mid-range option located in the center of town, just a few minutes’ walk from the cathedral.

Homey and welcoming with cozy rooms and a pretty, bougainvillea-filled courtyard, it’s the perfect place to come back to at the end of a busy day of sightseeing. The room rate includes a traditional (and tasty!) Mexican breakfas. Find out more: www.hotelprovincia.com 

1 Great Place to Eat: TierrAdentro

Black and white Zapatista photos and memorabilia line the walls at TierrAdentro.

On January 1, 1994, locals from the indigenous towns around Chiapas rebelled against the Mexican government led by Subcomandante Marcos of the Zapatista Liberation Army or Ejercito Zapatista de Liberacion Nacional. Their issues included healthcare, education, and land distribution. Ultimately, their revolt was quickly quashed.

Today the Zapatistas have largely withdrawn to their communities. However, you can catch a glimpse of the movement and people at TierrAdentro. This café, restaurant, and cultural center sits in the center of San Cristóbal. The menu features standard Mexican fare and the food is tasty. But what you really come for are the large black and white Zapatista photos and memorabilia that line the walls. Added bonus? Take advantage of the small play area for kids. Find out more: See TierrAdentro Cafe on Facebook

For more ideas on what to do in San Cristóbal with kids, see A Weekend in San Cristóbal de las Casas, Mexico.

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It’s both the dramatic location and the lake itself (it’s the deepest in Central America reaching depths of 340 meters / 1,115 feet) that continue to wow visitors. Few places boast such crystal-clear skies, such brilliant sunshine and such breath-taking views as Lake Atitlán. The best way to explore the lake is by boat and you can spend days crisscrossing the waters visiting the lakeshore towns.

If you’ll be visiting Lake Atitlán with kids, here are 4 great things to do along with 1 great place to stay and 1 great place to eat while you are there.

Activity 1: Discover the Lake

Explore more with boat rides to the many lakeside villages at Lake Atitlan.

El Lago de Atitlán is the star of the show and you’re guaranteed to fall under its spell whether you choose to hit the waters or simply admire them from the lakeshore. There are a number of ways to explore Lake Atitlán including scuba diving and kayaking, but the best way to get a feel for the lake, and its villages, is by boat.

Water taxis ferry folk across the cobalt waters from morning to night, and from village to village. There is no official timetable (not that we could find, anyway!), rather the taxis wait until they are full before they head off. A better option for cruising the lake with kids is to hire a private boat or book a tour. Hiring a boat is easy to do and you’ll find any number of “captains” down at the docks offering day tours of the lake; most include stops at the villages of San Juan La Laguna, San Marcos La Laguna and Santiago.

Remember to negotiate the price before you take your seat! Find out more: https://www.atidivers.com (scuba diving), http://kayakguatemala.com (kayaking) 

Activity 2: Learn to Weave

Visit a lakeshore village weaving cooperative to learn more about Guatemala’s glorious textiles.

Guatemala is world famous for its incredible textiles and weaving techniques. At the village of San Juan la Laguna you can learn all about this traditional art in a fun, hands-on way that kids will love. This small lakeshore town is home to a number of weaving cooperatives established by the Tzutujile Mayan people to both preserve their art and to create a sustainable income.

Demonstrations take visitors through the entire weaving process, from preparing the cotton to dying the thread and weaving using a traditional back strap loom. Particularly fascinating for kids is the part that details how different fruits, vegetables, plants, and herbs are used to dye the cotton. There’s a shop on site and all profits are injected right back into the community. Find out more: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/San_Juan_La_Laguna

Activity 3: Fly Through the Air  

Fly through the jungle with a zip line adventure during your stay at Lake Atitlan with kids.

Although the waters of Lake Atitlán are the main attraction there are activities on dry land to keep kids busy, too. The Atitlán Nature Reserve (Reserva Natural Atitlán) is well worth a visit for its butterfly garden, its walking trails and its zip lines. Fly through the air above waterfalls and canyons with spellbinding views of forests, volcanoes and the shimmering lake waters. There are two circuits and both are suitable for kids; children can choose to fly solo or go in tandem with a guide.

If that all sounds too extreme, then the reserve is home to three main hiking trails that wind through coffee groves, across hanging bridges, and past monkeys! You may even spot a coati if you’re lucky; this South American mammal is closely related to the raccoon family. Find out more: http://Atitlánreserva.com/wp/en/welcome/

Activity 4: Get Cooking

To get a real taste of Guatemalan cuisine and an insight into local life try a cooking class with Lake Atitlán Cooking School run by Anita. This half-day class is a wonderful way to learn about village life and local flavors. Best of all, it’s very kid-friendly. The class starts with a trip to the local market to choose ingredients. Then head back to Anita’s home to begin prepping dishes.

Our kids were involved from the get-go (even choosing our menu) and were responsible for most dishes from prepping the tamales to making potato pancakes. At the end of the class you get to sit down and enjoy your lunch. For us it was one of the best meals that we had in Guatemala! Find out more: http://kayakguatemala.com/mayan-kitchen-cooking-classlake-atitlan-guatemala-culinary-recipes/

1 Great Place to Stay at Lake Atitlan with Kids: Hotel Atitlán

Great views from family-friendly Hotel Atitlan.

The villages surrounding lake Atitlán are full of backpacker hostels and spiritual retreats that can only be reached by boat. For somewhere a little more family-friendly head to Hotel Atitlán. It’s located just outside the town of Panajachel, one of the few villages accessible by road (and your first point of call when arriving from Antigua). This 60-room hotel sits directly on the lake shore.

All rooms come with unobstructed water views, and a balcony from which to enjoy them. The swimming pool and Jacuzzi overlook the lake, making for a magical sunset-watching spot. The hotel is also well-known for its gardens, which are beautifully maintained, a riot of color, and home to oodles of birds. Find out more: http://www.hotelAtitlán.com/default-en.html

1 Great Place to Eat at Lake Atitlan with Kids: Mr. Jon’s

Authentic Guatemalan cuisine? Not so much. But really tasty breakfasts? Absolutely.

If it’s local fare that you’re after, better book a cooking class (see above!). Be warned that the majority of restaurants in Panajachel cater to foreign taste buds. That’s not to say the foodie scene is not good, however; there are lots of yummy eateries to choose from. Our favorite was Mr Jon’s, home to some of the best breakfasts in town.

This is the place to come for stacks of buttermilk pancakes, bottomless coffee and the perfect poached eggs with homemade hollandaise sauce. The décor is simple (if not a little sparse) but the food more than makes up for it. Find out more: http://www.mister-jon.com

For more recommendations for family vacations in Guatemala, see the Guatemala with Kids Family Destination Guide. You might also like The 411 on Guatemala’s Antiuga with Kids.

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But it’s not just the buildings that are picture-worthy. Antigua’s location is just as commanding. Located 1,500m above sea level, the town is flanked by a number of dormant and active volcanoes. The most active is Volcan de Fuego, which sits to the west of Antigua. Don’t be surprised if it spews smoke while you are there! If your family is Guatemala-bound, here are 4 great things to do, 1 great place to stay, and 1 great place to eat while visiting Antigua with kids.

Activity 1: Get Your Hands Messy at the ChocoMuseo

Chocolatey hands-on fun awaits at Antgua’s Choco Museo.

A favorite activity with kids is the 40-minute ‘Bean to Bar’ workshop held at the ChocoMuseo. Located very near the main plaza, this museum offers a number of fun, hands-on classes but it’s the introduction to chocolate that’s the most kid-friendly (even our 21-month-old took part!).

Led by a charismatic guide, children get a quick snapshot of chocolate production. They discover the origins of the cacao beans and its significance in Maya culture. Then they get to see how chocolate is made today. The best bit of the class, however, is when the kids are let loose to make their own chocolatey creations. Bowls of melted chocolate, plastic molds and a variety of sprinkles and toppings are placed on the communal worktop and children are invited to create. It’s a lot of very messy fun.  Website: https://www.chocomuseo.com/english/our-locations/antigua-gua/

Activity 2: Shop for Crafts at the Artisan Market

Souvenir shopping at the Mercado de Artesanias while visiting Antigua with kids.

Located to the west of town is the colorful artisan market (Mercado de Artesanias). It’s a lively place, packed to bursting with stalls selling all manner of crafts. There are piles of traditional embroidery, walls lined with hundreds of bright wooden masks and watercolor paintings of the town and surrounding area. You’ll also find plenty of “Guatever” and “Guat’s Up” t-shirts, which make fun presents. My kids enjoyed wandering the narrow aisles and picked up a small painting each. As always in crowded spaces, keep a close eye on your belongings. Click here to see it on the map.

Activity 3: Find Your Mayan Birth Sign

Pendants with Mayan birth signs at the Jade Museum, Antigua.

The Mayan Calendar (or Tzolk’in) is built upon 20 “Day Signs.” Mayans believe(d) that the day sign of one’s birth shapes a person’s destiny and personality traits. Discover what the future holds for you with a visit to the Jade Museum. Here, you can look up your birth date according to the Maya calendar and discover your corresponding sign. My kids quickly found that their signs were that of the “B’atz” (Monkey) and the “Tijax” (Fish). It’s a fun activity for kids and they can also buy a jade pendant engraved with their birth symbols to take home.  Website: http://jademaya.com/

Activity 4: Ride up Pacaya Volcano

Exploring the volcano on horseback.

Pacaya Volcano lies 19 miles (30 kilometres) southwest of Antigua and is the most family-friendly of Antigua’s smoking mountains. Amazingly, it first erupted some 23,000 years ago! Fortunately, however, the last major eruption was 2010. Travelers wanting to visit a volcano may get their wish here, though restrictions may apply at the time of visit.

Horseback rides and hiking tours are available so that visitors can see the main cone of the volcano. If traveling with children, then horseback is definitely the easiest way to enjoy this activity. The tours journey through cornfields, forests and old lava flows towards the top and, if you’re lucky, you may get the chance to stop and roast marshmallows over lava vents.

1 Great Place to Stay: Hotel Cirilio

Antigua’s lovely little Hotel Cirilio.

Located on the outskirts of town, this lovely little hotel rose up from the remains of an old church. There are only six rooms here, two with two queen beds, which work well for families. There’s a lovely central swimming pool, a pretty garden and a cozy living room. Yet what really sells Hotel Cirilo is the staff. Service is stellar and nothing is too much trouble. The other highlights are the open fireplaces in each bedroom, which came in handy on a chilly December evening. The only downside is the restaurant. It serves an excellent breakfast but falls short on lunch and dinner. Fortunately, Antigua is home to lots of good eateries. Website: www.hotelcirilo.com

1 Great Place to Eat: Arrin Cuan

Pick an outdoor table at pretty Arrin Cuan for Guatemalan cuisine with volcano views.

For a taste of Guatemala, head to Arrin Cuan, a restaurant specializing in traditional local food. The setting is really pretty with tables overlooking a grassy courtyard and the volcanoes beyond. There are also indoor dining rooms but get a table outside if you can. The menu is extensive and, unless you’re familiar with Guatemalan cooking, somewhat confusing. Not to worry; the staff is very friendly and will help you decipher the dishes on the menu. What’s more, there is also a separate kids’ menu.

Tip: One thing to remember, the flavors in Guatemalan cuisine are very subtle compared with some Latin American countries so if you like your spice you might want to pack your Tabasco. Website: www.arrincuan.com

For more ideas on what to do in Antigua with Kids, see our feature at Globetotting.com.

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The post Antigua with Kids – Guatemala Family Vacation Guide appeared first on Family Travel 411.

Until, that is, the 1930s when foreign artists, lured by the blue skies, beautiful architecture and cheap cost of living, began to move in. These days, San Miguel continues to attract foreigners, particularly Americans, and the town is home to a large expatriate community.

This really is a fairy tale city dominated by the fantastical pink church, Parroquía de San Miguel Arcangel. Ochre and rose-colored colonial homes line narrow cobbled streets and on almost every corner you’ll discover a café or restaurant, gallery or boutique.

The pace of life is pleasantly slow, interrupted only by church bells chiming. Just be prepared for some hilly streets! If you’ll be visiting San Miguel de Allende with kids, here are my recommendations of 4 great things to do, 1 great place to stay, and 1 great place to eat.

Activity 1: Have Fun at the Toy Museum

Toy Museum at San Miguel de Allende, Mexico.

Your first stop when visiting San Miguel de Allende with kids must be Museo La Esquina, the city’s fantastic toy museum. El Museo is the work of Angélica Tijerina, an independent collector who began amassing toys as a child. But these are not your average toy store playthings. Over the years Angélica has accumulated over 1,000 unique Mexican folk toys.

The collection is housed over three floors within a coffee-colored colonial home, and includes train sets and doll houses, puppets and Mariachi bands and an entire corner dedicated to toys relating to Lucha Libre, Mexico’s traditional wrestling. Toys are created from wood, fabric, clay, papier-mâché, corn husks and more.

It’s a really fun place to enjoy with kids and, if you’re lucky, your visit may coincide with a children’s workshop or class held with local artisans. There’s also a very good toy shop on the ground floor.  www.museolaesquina.org.m

Activity 2: Tour the Streets on a Trolley Ride

Tour the city by vintage motorized trolley. First stop–the waterworks!

San Miguel’s cobbled streets are steep and little legs soon get tired. A better way to get a feel for the city is to climb aboard a trolley bus for a tour of the main streets and surrounding areas. Stops along the way include El Chorro, the town’s bougainvillea-filled outdoor waterworks and public laundry, and a lookout point with a picture perfect view of the city.

If you speak Spanish, then you’ll enjoy the on board commentary that explains a little bit about the history of San Miguel. The best seats on this antique-looking trolley bus are in the open-air section at the back, so hop on quickly!   www.operatur-imperial.com/tranv%C3%ADa.html

Activity 3: Walk on the Wild Side

El Charco del Ingenio at San Miguel de Allende.

On the outskirts of the pretty city streets is El Charco del Ingenio, an 88-hectare botanical garden and nature reserve. This untamed sanctuary celebrates the region’s diverse flora and is a wonderful place to wander. Winding dirt pathways lead through wetlands, past canyons and alongside a colorful array of cacti. Various lookout points afford some impressive views, including one over the eponymous canyon and freshwater spring.

There is a dedicated Children’s Garden where exhibits, such as the Scent and Touch Labyrinth, encourage kids to connect with nature. One tip, arrive early before it gets too hot and remember to bring water with you. Plan a treat stop at the small café next to the entrance.   www.elcharco.org.mx

Activity 4: Admire the Pink Church

La Parroquia de San Miguel Arcángel

The dusty pink church, La Parroquia de San Miguel Arcángel, is San Miguel de Allende’s most recognizable symbol. Its gothic spire towers above the city skyline and its position, in the heart of town, makes it impossible to ignore. Upon closer inspection, you may feel like you’ve seen this church before. And for good reason.

Originally built in the 17^th century, the church was given a facelift by a Gaudi-inspired architect in the late 19^th century. Hence the resemblance to La Sagrada Familia in Barcelona, Spain. Take a wander inside and then stop for a rest in El Jardin, the shady square opposite.   www.facebook.com/sanmiguel.org.ar

1 Great Place to Stay: Rosewood

View from the Rosewood, a great hotel option when staying in San Miguel de Allende with kids.

The handsome Rosewood hotel sits south of El Jardin, the main city square, at the bottom of a steep cobbled street. It’s a beautiful hotel, reminiscent of a traditional hacienda, with huge rose-tinted colonial-style buildings. This is the hotel to book if you want to indulge yourself. The rooms are luxurious, the restaurants are superb and there’s an excellent kids’ program that includes such activities as T-shirt decorating, piñata-making and painting lessons.

However, one of my favorite things about this hotel is the Luna Rooftop Tapas Bar. It’s best enjoyed at dusk with a margarita in hand when you can watch the sparkling lights illuminate the town.   www.rosewoodhotels.com/en/san-miguel-de-allende

1 Great Place to Eat: Cumpanio

You can eat very well in San Miguel de Allende. However, there’s one place that we returned to time and again (almost daily, in fact!) and that was Cumpanio. This restaurant and bakery became our breakfast go-to and it never disappointed. The chilaquiles were superb and the crepas de chicharrón (pancakes with pork crackling) were delicious.

But what kept us coming back for more were the pan dulce, literally “sweet breads” or pastries. In addition to traditional baked goods such as croissants and cinnamon rolls, Cumpanio produces Mexican staples such as conchas (a type of sweet bun that looks like a shell) and the most mouth-wateringly delicious cream-filled doughnuts. Needless to say, my kids loved this place! Cumpanio is also open for lunch and dinner.   http://cumpanio.com

For more help planning your trip, follow this link for our comprehensive guide to San Miguel de Allende with kids at Globetotting.

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Though originally built by the Portuguese in the late 1500s, the Dutch later fortified Galle extensively. Many of the original buildings remain, including historic churches, ancient mosques and 18^th-century merchants’ houses. Today, the narrow streets brim with cool shops, boutique hotels, and buzzy cafés–and it’s a wonderful place to simply wander.

Far from just a tourist town, however, Galle Fort is still a living, breathing, working community, which only adds to its appeal. If you’re planning a Sri Lanka family vacation and paying a call to Galle, these are my top 4 recommended activities to do while you’re there, along with 1 great place to stay and 1 great place to eat during your family’s visit.

Activity 1: Walk the Walls

Walk the walls at sun set or with an animated tour guide when you visit Galle, Sri Lanka with kids.

The best way to get a feel for Galle Fort is to wander the ramparts that surround the town. From the lighthouse you can walk clockwise all the way to the bastions that face the new part of town. You can do this at any time of day but I would recommend taking a stroll at sunset and mingling with the locals.

A handful of resident daredevils occasionally hurl themselves off the town’s defensive walls into the waters below. If you do watch them perform their acrobatic tricks, be prepared to donate some rupees.

Juliet Coombe, a British writer living in Galle, offers fun 90-minute walking tours of the Fort according to different themes. There’s a Meet the Artists tour as well as a range of culinary walks. These can be booked at the Serendipity Arts Café.

Activity 2: Release Baby Turtles

Take your tykes to the turtles!

The southern coast of Sri Lanka in the Galle District is the major nesting habitat for five species of sea turtle; the Olive Ridley turtle, Loggerhead turtle, Green turtle, Hawksbill turtle, and Leatherhead turtle. A number of local turtle hatcheries  protect these creatures and they can be found along the coastal road, from Bentota onwards.

The hatcheries are nothing fancy (don’t come expecting a high-tech aquarium!) but they perform extremely valuable conservation work and it’s well worth stopping by a turtle farm at least once. Kids can learn about the dangers turtles face, conservation efforts in place as well as meet turtles. Visit at the right time and they may even be allowed to help release baby turtles into the ocean – an amazing, once-in-a-lifetime experience! Click here to visit the Sea Turtle Farm online.

Activity 3: Learn to Surf

Year round surfing and kid-safe swells await on Sri Lanka.

Surfers flock to Sri Lanka for its consistent swells and uncrowded line-ups. Because of the island’s two seasons, it’s almost guaranteed that you’ll find barrels and breaks somewhere; try the the south west coast between November and March and the east cost from May to September.

But Sri Lanka is not just for pro surfers, it’s a great place for beginners to learn, too. Weligama, just south of Galle, is a sheltered bay home to small, kid-friendly waves all year round. There are a number of local surf schools where you can book a lesson or simply rent a board. You’ll find the surf schools neatly positioned under the trees at the right side of the bay.

My kids were really little when we visited Weligama so we didn’t get the chance to surf ourselves, but the following surf schools come highly recommended: Surf ‘n Lanka and Surf Discovery/Sri Lanka Surf School.

Activity 4: Catch a Game of Cricket on your Sri Lanka family vacation

Catch a cricket match at Galle on your visit to Sri Lanka with kids.

It’s safe to say that Sri Lanka is cricket crazy. The British sport first found its footing in the area then called Ceylon, when it became a British colony in 1802. It didn’t take long for the game to take off and today it’s the most popular sport in the country. No fewer than eight grounds have been used to host international cricket matches. Not bad for a small island.

The Galle International Stadium first opened in 1829 as a horse-racing track. However, it quickly transformed into an oval of emerald green. Today it’s one of the prettiest Test grounds in the world with view of Galle Fort from the stadium. If you fancy catching an “over” or two, then check the schedule for matches. If you can’t get tickets, then join the locals and watch from the fort ramparts. Click here to check for upcoming matches.

1 Great Place to Stay in Galle with Kids: Apa Villas

Stunning and family-friendly Apa Villas.

There are plenty of chichi boutique hotels within Galle’s walls, but if visiting Galle with kids then I recommend staying just outside the fort at Apa Villas. Located in the small village of Thalpe, just 8km and a short auto-rickshaw ride away from Galle Fort, this is a wonderful family-friendly option.

Apa Villas is positioned on a private strip of beach. The property splits into three villas that house seven individual suites. These well-appointed suites open onto a private terrace where all your meals are served. That’s the other great thing about staying here, the food is absolutely delicious! Beyond the veranda you’ll find a grassy lawn, dotted with spindly palm trees, and the blue ocean beyond.

Although the current is too strong to swim here, there is a lovely 25m-infinity pool on site instead. Click here to read my detailed review of Apa Villas, and find out more at the official site for Apa Villas at Thalpe.

1 Great Place to Eat in Galle with Kids: Pedlar’s Inn Cafe

Pedlar’s Inn Cafe at Galle, Sri Lanka.

With the arrival of more and more boutique hotels in Galle, so too has the restaurant scene exploded. Expect to find lots of good places to eat and drink within the fortified walls. We became quick fans of Pedlar’s Inn. This café claims to be the first coffee shop to open inside the fort and is almost always busy – be prepared to wait for a table.

Food is a mixture of local favorites and Western staples, and there’s even an ice cream bar, which made our kids happy! Best of all, the service is great and always comes with a beaming, Sri Lankan smile. Click here for the Pedlars Inn site.

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