It’s safe to say most of us are happy to put 2020 behind us, but it appears that Mexico City may have all the more reason to celebrate 2021. President Andrés Manuel López Obrador says it will be a year of greatness and independence. Greatness, because the city celebrates 500 years since its inception, and independence because it marks two centuries of freedom from Spain. And while coastal destinations like Cabo continue to be a magnet for tourists, you might want to change your plans to include a trip to Mexico City as well. Here’s why!

Mexico City — Where History Meets Modern Hot Spots

Known for its ancient pyramids, colorful neighborhoods, and mouth-watering street food, Mexico City has so much more to offer to anyone looking for sensation and adventure. From pampering your taste buds at some of the world’s finest restaurants to sailing down an ancient canal and listening to a live mariachi band, you can immerse yourself in the city’s culture and richness at every corner.

Something for Every Traveler

When you arrive at the Xochimilco waterways where the Aztecs cultivated and transported crops, you’ll be charmed by the long and colorful line of beautiful Mexican trajineras (gondolas) just waiting to take you on an adventure. If you love history, you’ll fall in love with the mysteries of Teotihuacán, a city the Aztecs found after it had been abandoned for over a century.

How about getting lunch at La Gruta? It’s a restaurant based inside a cave where you can enjoy flavorful dishes made with local ingredients and pre-Hispanic culinary techniques. It’s the perfect meal after climbing the 250 steps to the top of the famous Pyramid of the Sun.

Not a fan of sightseeing? No problem. Mexico City can please any traveler. Just head down to the trendy Roma Norte neighborhood and you’ll find all the vibrant entertainment spots you need!

The world is full of amazing destinations, and all of them come with their own little quirks and eccentricities. For many countries, cities, and towns across the world, these quirks come in the form of murals and artwork that have been painted on buildings. This is so much more than just ‘graffiti,’ though. These murals are absolutely breathtaking, and many people travel across the globe just to see them in the flesh.

La Mamie de Valparaíso – Valparaíso, Chile

Chile is home to some of the best street art that the world has to offer, and that’s one of the many reasons why art lovers choose this destination as their vacation spot. One of the most famous murals in this country can be found in Valparaíso, where it has been adorned on a beautiful pink house. Created by world-renowned artists Ella and Pitr, this mural features a lovely-looking grandma who watches over everyone that walks by.

Beyond Crisis – Leysin, Switzerland

It’s not very often that you see a mural painted onto the hillside, but that’s exactly what Beyond Crisis is all about. This giant mural covers a whopping 3,000-square-kilometers and was created by Saype – who is known across the world for his impeccable work. Located within the Swiss Alps, this mural depicts a young girl as she sits on the ground and holds a chain of people in her hands in the act of solidarity. However, what’s even more amazing about this mural is the fact that it’s best seen from above. The shot is incredible when you can see the mural, the mountains, and the civilization below.

These murals are just a small selection of those that can be found around the globe. Every city comes complete with its own murals, and it’s down to you to try and find them so you can marvel in their beauty yourself.