Building a traveling sisterhood in Mexico City

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During the pandemic I was bored. Like out of my mind bored. So I signed up for all and any interesting online events that crossed my eye. One of those events was WITS, Women in Travel Summit, organized by Wanderful*. This particular event was for creators. We virtually attended talks and seminars, met with tourism boards, and explored various destinations across Canada and the USA. Through this experience, I learned more and more about Wanderful* – a travel community created by women for women. A traveling sisterhood if you must. This sisterhood is not just for travel creators, but for all who like to travel, no matter their age, gender, or preferences, this community is inclusive, everyone is welcome. So I joined.

Note: See some stories that came out of WITS are here.

Palacio de Bellas Artes seen from the Sears cafe across the street.

It has now been two years and there have been many fun chats, travel events, and learning opportunities. As a member you have access to an active online community, hosting network, job listings, a wide range of resources, and in-person events, both educational and just for fun. But best of all, you become connected to hundreds of women around the world.

With my own travel plans having kind of exploded this year (between Quip and this blog) I have not been able to attend the spring conferences and parties but I made plans for November well in advance. Last week a group of us gathered in Mexico City for a global meetup, travelers and creators alike.

It is not your typical group trip, you are free to explore on your own and make your own plans. A few of the activities were organized by the local chapter lead, thank you Pam. Pam showed us her favourite parts of Mexico City and shared thought starters for where we can go on our own. A few people already knew each other from past events, a few groups formed, but overall we were fluid and that fluidity is nice. You can choose to go solo, join others, or put your plans out to the group. It’s a fun way to see a new place while sharing tips, meeting people, and letting the city guide you along the way.

Our five days in Mexico City flew by way too fast but we had a great time. I am certain I will see some of the lovely ladies again, if not in my home town then at another Wanderful event.

Learn more about the two types of memberships Wanderful offers here* and maybe we will meet soon 🙂

And here’s how it went: Mexico City in pictures

Traditional Mexican Catrina sculpture, oversized

Día de Muertos is a huge, week-long celebration in Mexico City. I missed most of it but did catch the last day of the installations at the Zócalo square, the main square in the historic center. Here a wide circle of traditionally dressed Catrinas was standing tall representing each region of Mexico. Each Catrina was accompanied by an Ofrenda (an altar) that people could get close to for a deeper personal connection.

The ofrenda for Mexico City featuring a lucha libre stage

Mexico City ofrenda was representative of a Lucho Libre rink, one of the runner setups in the square. As a group we also got to go to a Lucho Libre fight this weekend, it was a very energetic, fun experience!

Two traditional Mexican Catrina sculpture, oversized

On the outskirts of the Zócalo square were a few groups of traditionally dressed performers from Chichimecas, Aztecas, and Mexicas. They were dancing and offering spirit cleanses to everyone in need of a spiritual cleanse.

Traditional dancer performing in the Zócalo square. Dressed in feather crowns with painted faces and elaborate outfits.

The ofrendas are present everywhere around the city and beyond – in city squares, churches, our hostel, and of course people’s homes.

Flower ofrenda on the floor of a city square

One of the optional day excursions was a visit to Teotihuacan. During the visit we learned about ancient civilizations, climbed pyramids, and walked the Avenue of the Dead. Must-visit I would say.

Teotihuacan ruins, large pyramid with steps

Teotihuacan ruins, steps that go up and over to the pyramid behind them

Teotihuacan ruins, close up on pyramid showcasing faces

A local vendor gave us a demonstration of how all these amazing bright colours were made with natural ingredients. Just look at how bright they are, and they last for centuries!

A woman pointing at a cacti with a bug infestation on it which can be used for making natural red colouring

A woman drawing a red circle on a white envelope

And on an early morning Sunday, we ventured out to Xochimilco where we cruised the canal on traditional trajineras. Our group went out early morning to avoid the crowds while enjoying a lovely lunch made by Picnixhic.

A table set for breakfast with fruit plates and coffee cups

Mexican boat, called trajinera with the title "margarita" on it, colourful decorated

Male vendor selling flower crowns on a trajinera

Female vendor making corn cups on a trajinera

Mariachi band on a trajinera, further away

Most of our group stayed in Selina Downtown Mexico City*, a well-known hostel chain. This was my first time staying in a hostel and while I did learn hostels are not for me I had a great time because I was in great company.