Xochimilco - the Venice of Mexico

Xochimilco is located on the south side of the city, about 45 minutes to an hour from the cultural centre. This place is famous for the canal network built by the Aztecs in the 15th century. Today, you can hire a boat called a Trajinera to ride along the canals. A boat costs 600 pesos per hour, which works out at about £25 but this is before tips are taken into account. A boat ride in Xochimilco is a vibrant experience and I absolutely loved it! Mariachi bands are in competition to try and get on your boat to serenade you or to give you a party. Don’t bother getting them to come onto your boat, just enjoy the cacophony of sound as you make your way along the waterway. All along the canals, you’ll find people making and selling food and drink, which the likes of fresh tortilla and tacos being made. But you can bring your own food, drink and even music systems if you wanted the complete party experience. This canal is a real feast to the senses with so much going on both on the water, within the islands and on the mainland. Whilst on a cruise, you can ask to stop to take in some of the sights on the islands like this cool garden centre. And if you need the bathroom during the trip, make sure you have some coins with you - you have to pay to pee! I found the best way to enjoy this cruise along the canal was just to sit back and enjoy the unique sights and sounds on display. #vacation #travel #mexico #cdmx #xochimilco