Los Angeles International (LAX) is 20 miles west from downtown LA down the I-110/I-105, though there is also a subway available. Typical flight times are around four hours to Oaxaca Xoxocotlan (OAX). The airport is just south of town, and taxis are parked in front of the terminal to take you to Oaxaca quickly and cheaply.

Attractions and tips

Known for its many Zapotec and Mixtek ruins, the region around the Oaxaca town is a mecca for people interested in the pre-Columbian inhabitants of Central America. Highlight of any trip is of course Monte Alban, the site of the ancient Zapotec capital and possible one of the most important archaeological sites in Latin America, on par with Machu Picchu.

In this vein, visitors are also recommended to visit some of the many museums in town, such as the Museo de las Culturas de Oaxaca or the Rufino Tamayo Museum of Pre-Hispanic Art, both of which have must-see exhibitions. Besides the ancient wonders, Oaxaca also has some lovely Spanish buildings, such as the Templo de Santo Domingo de Guzman, one of the oldest churches in Mexico.

Oaxaca is warm all year round, so visitors need only to pack lightly. The town's hotels are mostly found in the small center, close to all the important attractions.