MEXICO WEDDING PLANNER - (Page 17)

Oaxaca Hacienda Los Laureles The Experience: One of the world’s dreamiest locations, with bursts of color and culture from every viewpoint, some of Mexico’s tastiest fare...and the bays and beaches of Huatulco just about six hours away. Weather: Due to its location in Mexico’s high central plateau, Oaxaca is known for its “eternal spring”—is ideal a climate description as one could hope for an unforgettable wedding. Evenings are cool and most rainfall comes in July and August. The Big Day: While not as big as Mexico City or the Riviera Maya, Oaxaca is every bit as organized for a destination wedding, be it in its historic center or surroundings, or on the grounds of an elegant hotel. This is, after all, one of Mexico’s most colorful and culturally rich destinations, and weddings prove no different. One grand tradition here is a Oaxacan calenda: a lively procession—often a precursor to a bigger parade—with lanterns, music and people in giant paper mache doll costumes that can be dressed up as a bride and groom. Hacienda Los Laureles, in Oaxaca’s San Felipe del Agua zone, is just 10 minutes away from the Historic Center and one of its visitors’ favorites for a number of reasons. It’s a casually elegant hotel with just 23 rooms and suites furnished with true Mexican ﬂair, embraced by beautiful gardens and old cypress trees and framed by surrounding mountains. Built in the 19th century, the hacienda features a solarium and a temazcal for pre-ceremony cleansing of body and soul (the hotel’s Petit Spa offers a variety of yummy treatments as well). Here, the running theme is serenity—an ideal place in which to relax and wed. Given that this hacienda pays special attention to its plants and ﬂowers, couples’ best bet is to have a lovely ceremony in the garden, followed by an intimate reception inside or out. For about $88 pp, the reception can include a Oaxacan-style menu featuring local delicacies such as regional pumpkin soup, chicken in black mole and fruit pudding, or any number of other dinner options (they can arrange for the couple, or up to two people, to try the menu of their choice before they ▼ May 2010 M17

Table of Contents for the Digital Edition of MEXICO WEDDING PLANNER

Los Cabos
Puerto Vallarta & Riviera Nayarit
Acapulco
San Miguel de Allende & Guanajuato
Morelia
Cuernavaca
Oaxaca
Yucatan
The Mexican Caribbean
You're Invited
Getting There

MEXICO WEDDING PLANNER