Destination Mexico: The Southern Region

Aug 24, 2022

“What is straight? A line can be straight, or a street, but the human heart, oh, no, it's curved like a road through mountains.”

―Tennessee Williams, A Streetcar Named Desire

Be it for the cuisine, the architecture, or the fact that the southern states are home to many of the country's indigenous people, the South of Mexico is a region marked by its deep culture. The south consists of states like Oaxaca and Chiapas and is considered to be the most linguistically diverse in the country, with hundreds of native languages still spoken there today. The unassuming beauty alongside the extensive assortment of lowkey venues found throughout the region lends itself as the perfect backdrop for couples choosing to forgo large-scale nuptials in favor of a culturally diverse, intimate affair or what the industry refers to as a micro wedding.

Oaxaca

Considered the culinary capital of Mexico, Oaxaca is so much more than its vibrant gastronomic scene; from its mystical ancient ruins to its penchant for larger-than-life celebrations, this southern state is the ideal destination for couples yearning for adventure or for those who appreciate outdoor venues and rustic motifs to say "I do".

Photo Credit: Caleb Bennett

The birthplace of corn and squash, Oaxaca deserves a spot on every foodie's bucket list for one main reason: the street food. While Mexico City is world-renowned for its abundance of fine dining establishments that host Michelin star chefs, there is nothing better than the eclectic markets that line the streets of Oaxaca; dishing out everything from barbacoa tacos and poultry stuffed tamales to Oaxacan hot chocolate - a local treat made from a cacao and almond paste that is mixed with spices like cinnamon and sugar. For an authentic experience, make sure to visit Mercado 20 de Noviembre - one of the area’s most popular street markets. The prime locale for couples whose love language is food, there is a myriad of catering companies who would love nothing more than to bring the richness of Oaxacan cuisine to your celebration of love.

Photo Credit: Filip Gielda

Mezcal is another critical aspect of the Oaxacan culinary experience. In fact, the state is known for having some of the best in the world as the land is brimming with fruit-bearing agave fields. Searching for a unique way to entertain your guests? Incorporate the Oaxacan delicacy by hosting a tour of a mezcal distillery, traditionally called a planeque. On top of ceremonial tastings, almost all distilleries afford you the opportunity to meet the “maestros mezcalerosare", or masters of mezcal - a role that is taken on by the families that have been bringing forth the beverage for years, passing the knowledge down from generation to generation.

Photo Credit: Marlon Michelle

Venues & Lodging in Oaxaca

What would be a better backdrop for your special day than a romantic resort that inspires you to fall in love all over again? Whether you’re dreaming of a traditional ceremony or a chic, lavish affair, Vivo Resorts will make every moment spent on their secluded sands a special one. Located on the shores of Playa Palmarito, the resort is home to a beautiful outdoor event venue, Gran Palapa, which has a capacity of 180, can accommodate meals for an extra cost, and offers excellent views from every seat of the house. Put the stress of a destination wedding in good hands and let the soft swell of the waves set the soundtrack to the biggest day of your life.

Chiapas

Steeped in Mayan heritage just east of Oaxaca, Chiapas is the country's southernmost state as well as it's most serendipitous. With misty, cool mountains and thick steamy jungles, the state is a natural wonder all on its own and almost entirely forested, a stark difference from what comes to mind when you think of Mexico. Though more obscure than the popular vacation spots nearby, those who are truly in the know flock to Chiapas to escape the crowds, connect with nature, devour delicious delicacies, and explore the ancient ruins or the colorful colonial architecture that makes the state as full of character as it is.

Photo Credit: Tess Broker

Associated with Guatemala during the colonial era, the state only became part of Mexico in 1824, shortly after the country gained independence. To many though, Chiapas is considered to be the past and the future of Mexico - it has captivating pre-hispanic elements alongside new innovations and enterprises. In the present day, Chiapas is far from grandiose, but unlike the densely populated, resort-riddled cities on the coasts, there is a deep, almost familial, sense of community on every corner of this charming state.

Photo Credit: Jon Ducoing

From the beaches and mountains to the rainforests, the beautiful natural landscape is enough for most, but as a state that is full of culture and rich in tradition, it has quickly become one of the most magical places to get married. Whether you have ties to the culture or are simply captivated by Mexico's Indigenous heritage, a wedding in Chiapas offers lovebirds a bewitching blend of ancient and modern culture that is different from anywhere else in the world.

Photo Credit: Lorraine Mojica

Venues & Lodging in Chiapas

Just minutes from downtown, the Marriott Tuxtla Gutierrez Hotel provides easy access to Zona Dorada, San Cristobal, and Plaza Crystal for shopping and the picturesque Sumidero Canyon for scenic dwellings - curating the perfect environment for wedding parties who share a love of exploration. Accommodating to all, the hotel is home to several smaller event spaces to hold your close-knit reception or for couples with a longer guest list, there is a designated space for more sizeable weddings that can seat up to 800. On that note, an exclusive group rate is offered by booking 10 rooms or more, so you can focus more on your special and less on your bank account. High-speed wifi may be a rarity in the primitive region but affords your guests the opportunity to capture and share every precious moment and the skilled staff will be delighted to treat your loved ones to a delicious dinner specially crafted from the extensive catering menu. Even better, the luxurious on-site spa is the perfect place to pamper your wedding party before the big day, making the property a sort of one-stop shop for all you could possibly need.Nestled high in the Sierra Madre de Chiapas mountain range, Hacienda Valentino is a new boutique hotel in San Cristobal de las Casas - a wonderfully diverse "Pueblo Magico" full of architecture, quaint neighborhoods magnificent and unique churches, and vibrant squares and plazas. The hotel is within easy walking distance of the Historic Center which is full of great restaurants, local crafts, and interesting stores. Just outside of San Cristobal is abundant nature including waterfalls, caverns, lakes, forests, hiking, and little towns that specialize in different local crafts, from pottery to textiles. Altogether, Hacienda Valentino is a great spot for couples who want the best of both worlds.