Mexico City, which can trace its history back to the Aztecs in 1325, is one of the most important economic hubs in Latin America. The greater city area is home to more than 21 million people, making it the most populous city on the continent. Economic reforms have boosted competition recently, with food, tobacco, construction and financial services among its main industries.
Sleeping
The InterContinental Presidente Mexico City is a well-regarded business hotel located in the main upscale urban district of Polanco. Other options in the district include the boutique Las Alcobas and W Mexico City. Also consider the Four Seasons Hotel Mexico City or the Gran Hotel Ciudad de Mexico in the historic heart of the capital city.
Eating
Contramar in La Roma is known for its seafood and traditional service – booking is essential and the restaurant is only open for lunch. Raíz Cocina de Estaciones offers Mexican food that is ever-changing depending on what is in the market. Restaurant Nicos is considered by many to be the best restaurant in Mexico City. Though unassuming in its décor, the food is great.
After Hours
Limantour is a temple to modern cocktails, with designer drinks using fresh herbs, flowers and rare foreign spirits. It has two locations, in Roma and Polanco. For views of Mexico City, visit Area Bar which belongs to Hotel Habita and has its own rooftop pool and lounge area. For a taste of the Mexican craft-beer scene check out the relaxed Tasting Room in Roma Norte.
Getting Downtown
Authorised ‘Taxi de Sitio’ provide a safe and comfortable service. Alternatively, the Metrobus offers seven routes into the city and costs 30 pesos (approx £1.15) per ride. The metro underground network, with its 12 lines, is cheap and modern.
Must-see-sights
Pay a visit to the opulent Palacio de Bellas Artes to see its marble performance hall and museum with murals by Diego Rivera. The National Museum of Anthropology houses artefacts from as far back as the ancient Maya civilization. Further afield, take an excursion to the Pyramid of the Sun. in nearby Teotihuacan.
Getting there
Both AeroMexico and British Airways operate a daily service from London Heathrow to Mexico City. United, American, Iberia and Delta, among others, operate one-stop services from Heathrow. Air Europa operates two services a day from London Gatwick via Madrid.
Further information
For further information on meetings and events and visiting Mexico, go to visitmexico.com, email uk@visitmexico.com or call 020 7488 9392.
