Mexico City

One of the largest metropolitan areas in the world, and the largest in the Western Hemisphere, with a population of over 22 million people, nearly the total population of the entire country of Canada, far more sophisticated and European than strangers might realize, with a strongly beating faith-filled heart, beautiful people, music, food, art, gardens, and the miracle of roses in December.

Stay at - The Marquis Reforma

Go shopping - Street market in the Zona Rosa (Londres 154), gift shops at La Villa, San Angel. There's a marvelous shop near Hacienda de los Morales with antiques, artwork and sculpture that's a don't miss on my visits to Ciudad de México.

Eat at - San Angel Inn, Calle Diego Rivera 50
Fonda el Refugio, Liverpool 166, Zona Rosa (fabulous for lunch, great lollipops finish the meal)
Hacienda de los Morales, Cómo Llegar Vázquez de Mella 525

Be aware - Many restaurants have dress codes that require women to have their arms covered. In the nicer restaurants, men will be in business suits and ties, and women smartly dressed.

Take side trips to - the pyramids at Teotihuacán if you must, Puebla

Be sure to visit - La Villa de Guadalupe/Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe
Zócalo, Diego Rivera Murals
Xochimilco Floating Gardens
Chapultepec Park

Best time of year to go - Feast days in December, 8-13th, or any other Marian feast days. If you are there for the feast days in December, don't miss the Mañanitas a la virgen de Guadalupe on the night of December 11th at the Basilica de Guadalupe. Weather can be lovely late winter through early summer, and again in the fall, but is temperate year-round.

Best things to buy - Religious articles, Guadalupana, art, sculpture, clothing, local folk art, silver.

Best indulgence - Dinner at San Angel Inn surrounded by monastic gardens in the company of statesmen. If you're very brave, try street food in front of La Villa de Guadalupe, but choose wisely. Spend an afternoon being serenaded to on the canals in Xochimilco, and get a private vessel if you're able.

Fly into - Mexico City (MEX)

Transportation - I recommend getting a private car and driver if possible. If you take taxicabs, have the concierge at your hotel arrange them. The Zona Rosa is very walkable.