pollybenedict

Hi there:
I'm honing my itinerary and timing:
I hear markets in and around Oaxaca are especially lively and colorful in the lead up to Day of the Dead days. This year Day of Dead falls on Wed, Thurs. Fri. Wondering if the Wed, Thurs, Friday markets will be open on these Day of Dead days--or are markets closed/vendors with family? And if SatAbastos market and Sun Tlacolula market are open on days immediately following the holiday (11/3-11/4)... I originally thought 6-7 days in Oax was a good target. If it's best to experience Sat/Sun Oaxaca markets before DoD, that means 8-9 days. I'm probably over thinking this.

My current plan:
DF: 5 1/2 days: arr Fri aft/depart Thurs early am.
Puebla/Cholula 2 days thurs/Fri.
Oaxaca 8 1/2 days Sat-Sun (surrounding Dia de los Meurtos) .

Should I borrow a day from DF or Oax and add to Puebla/Cholula? I could add Sat to Puebla (depart Sat night) OR cut DF to 4 1/2 days. Also. leaving Puebla-I thought I should go in daylight to take in the scenery en route to Oax, but if I leave in early evening, I get more time to explore Puebla. Okay, or keep it in the day? I also might take the microfinance tour-that happens only on Thursdays and Saturdays so I'll have to see how that fits into the plan. Many thanks for any insights.

baldone

Stick to your itinerary.

emd3

The people who sell goods in the markets spend the days selling, and the nights at the cemetery. They have to make a living. Don't worry, markets will be open as usual.

pollybenedict

Thank you. Of course! I don't know where I picked that up about the markets, but clearly that makes sense.

I'm exhausted re-reading my posts! You guys are troupers-thank you so much for your help. I really appreciate the guidance.

emd3

You need a full day to do a good self guided waking tour of Puebla. And a half day to get to and back from Cholula, and if you are going on market day, you'll want more time.

Actually, if it was me, I would consider knocking a day off of Oaxaca to add to Puebla. THat would give you a full day walking tour in Puebla, a day in Cholula, and a half day to wander Puebla.

I love Oaxaca but 7.5 days (as opposed to 8.5) there is enough IMO.

pollybenedict

Thanks. Appreciate the insights on this-I've changed my mind daily about this part. There is so much to do in the DF, I think I've decided to stay thru Wed night and depart super early Thurs.

The Oaxaca microfinance tour is offered on Sat and Thurs only. Thought it would be good at the top of the trip on Sat to immerse myself early, but that limits my Puebla time to Thurs/Fri. So I could opt for the Thurs afternoon group if available. That would give me the Sat in Puebla/Cholula.

A friend raved about Paradour SM in Oax-due to lucky opening I can stay for some of the trip. I think I recall from your trip report you stayed there as well and liked it. Reviews indicate they are helpful in recommending good on the spot tours (and steer you from ones that aren't good) so I probably find an early guided thing through them. And I have few hours with a guide for a visit to the villages on Monday-not Linda, she must be booked, but another whose name is often listed in the forum. Thanks a million-your advice is so helpful.

pollybenedict

Hi emd, a quick follow-up. I'm still trying to remain in one hotel for my entire stay in Oaxaca. Space opened at Paradour for first part and i'm hoping something will shift. Do you recall if the hotel has working internet connection in the rooms? Some reviews suggest otherwise and management didn't confirm when I sent an email inquiry.
Thanks

emd3

We had good Internet reception in the room at Parador San Miguel. We loved that hotel. And their restaurant should not be missed for comida meal. Very good food. location can not be beat. We had good natural light in the room, bc we requested a rm in the back where it is more quiet. I recall some people said in reviews that they didn't Have enough natural light in their room.

pollybenedict

Great news. Thanks so much for the heads up on the room. I'll inquire about a room in the back if that's where you had light and wireless connectivity. I know Internet can be fickle in old buildings - one reviewer said he left because of no connection in his room. Fingers crossed since I have to work while there. So glad you loved the place. I'm definitely splurging here compared to my DF and Puebla hotels, but it certainly looks and sounds swell.