I recently returned to Oaxaca. All is safe and well there now. Our experience was greatly enhanced by our excellent tour guide, Juan Montes-Lara.We spent two full days with Juan, visiting Monte Alban and the many wonderful crafts towns outside Oaxaca. Juan personally knows the artists and took us to the workshops of some fabulous, renowned artists who are not on the usual tourist bus tour route. He speaks fluent English and is most personable and pleasant to be with. His contact info is: (951) 170 3239 650-208-0616 and [email protected].

Correction to Juan's cell phone number: 951)170 3239

Just starting to think abaut a trip to the area. Abouthow much does he charge per day? I assume he also drives you around.

We also just returned from a fabulous trip to Oaxaca. We (there were five of us friends) have developed a friendship with an excellent, very fluent guide who enriches our visits. In fact, we have had Antonio Zarate guide us on two previous trips. His email address is:

[email protected]

His website is:

www.oaxacaguideservice.com

Antonio is very fun to be with, personable, professional and knowledgeable, and takes great pride in providing a comfortable, safe trip. He has a comfortable van or a smaller car for trips.

He can help plan outings and make recommendations, based on your interests. On Oct. 31 he took us to two cemeteries so we could participate in the Day of the Dead celebrations. We particularly enjoyed learning about traditional healing medicines and techniques including the Temezcal, (sweat lodges).

We highly recommend Antonio.


Connie

I am planning a trip to Oaxaca in April with my family (2 teenage daughters). We are not Disney travelers and seek an authentic experience. My Spanish is rusty but both girls are studying Spanish. I would like to hire a reliable and amiable guide to revisit the ruinas and little craft villages I first saw in the 70's by 2nd class bus (when a bit more adventurous). Can you give me an idea of what your guide charges for a day?
I have not located a hotel yet in Oaxaca that has room available. Any ideas? I would also like to go to the coast for a day or two on the beach and welcome suggestions.
Muchas gracias!

Hi ky -

I can't help with a guide, but I really liked the Casa del Sotano when I was there 2 years ago.

My suggestion for an A+ guide and wonderful highly educated man is Florencio Moreno [email protected]
I have known him for many years and when I take groups to Oaxaca he makes the trip fabulous! It would make it an unforgettable experience for you.