Hi all, I'm mapping out the a path through Tabasco and Veracruz in order to visit Olmec sites at La Venta (Tobasco), San Lorenzo Tenochtitlan (Veracruz), and Tres Zapotes (Veracruz). While Coatzacoalcos seems to be conveniently in the center of them all, I've been told repeatedly to avoid going there.

For La Venta, it seems Villhermosa is a good base, but open to other recommendations. For the other two, I was considering Tlacotalpan or Catemaco, but know little of these towns or their reputation. Would traveling in the region by bus or rental car be a better idea?

pathsunwritten—Can’t help much except to say that if you base yourself in Villahermosa, the Parque Museo La Venta in the city was well-worth a visit for some Olmec sculptures found there amongst other reasons.