Planning a trip to Oaxaca in early May. Any recommendations

[LuckyLib]

for restaurants, hikes, side-trips,artifact shopping?

[wiggs]

1. Was there two summers ago...

Restaurants: El Naranjo (also sign up for cooking lesson....). Authentic cuisine of Oaxaca with clever updates

Side trips: Definitely check out the nearby ruins at Monte Alban (take a guided tour)...highlight of our trip

Have fun! I assume you're asking about the City of Oaxacad...

[spindrifter]

2. Oaxaca is a fantastic

place to visit! One of the most interesting things to do there is take colectivos (vans) to some of the craft villages. You have probably seen some of the outrageously painted carved animals. You can see them and buy direct from people who make them in the village of Arrazola. Another village specializes in black pottery (San Bartolo Coyotepec). Spend time on the plaza watching the most amazing balloon vendors. Often there are folk dancers in fantastic clothing. Take a cooking class. If you have time, you can do a home stay and learn (more) Spanish. The market is huge and always a great place for people watching. Check out the Thorn Tree postings on Lonely Planet's website. People generally have good tips and many are posting on-site. Buen viaje!

[LuckyLib]

3. Gracias! I've lived in Ecuador and Mexico, but have not been to

this part of Mexico before. Looking forward to a great trip, all women, celebrating a birthday! Thanks again for the tips.

[spindrifter]

4. I may have time to get some more

info for you. One of my co-workers spent a month in Oaxaca last summer doing a homestay and language class with her high school-age daughter. There is a hotel that we stayed at not far from the plaza that was pretty interesting. We also stayed at Las Golandrinas, but I thought it was not as conveniently located as the other place.
Where did you live in Ecuador? My daughter spent a quarter in Quito as part of her school program and we have been several times. Her friend is going to be teaching at the American School in Guayaquil this coming school year.

[wiggs]

5. We stayed at Las Golondrinas too

...and liked it a lot. You are correct, though, about not being as close to the Zoccolo as ideal. Also stayed at Hostal de la Noria. While not as inexpensive and authentically Oaxacan as LG, it was perfect for us and well located. Really good bar there too.

The many museums are worth checking out.

The central market is great.

An odd recommendation: when we were there, a new gelateria opened up just off the Zoccolo with excellent, authentic gelato. We went by at least twice per day.