Jan 27 - Feb 3, 2025
Starting at
2,849
Mexico
Mexico City: History, Art, Culture and Politics
Program No. 13964RJ
Immerse yourself in the cultural heart of Mexico and learn from experts as you explore renowned museums and national monuments while gaining insight into its neighborhoods and politics.
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Activity Level:
Keep the Pace (25)
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Feb 17 - Feb 24, 2025
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Starting at
2,849Activity Level:
Keep the Pace (25)
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Jan 27 - Feb 3, 2025
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On Your Feet (1)
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Activity Level:
On Your Feet (1)
DATES
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Nov 3 - Nov 11, 2025
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8 days
7 nights
18 meals
7B 6L 5D
1
Arrive Mexico City, Check-in, Registration, Welcome Dinner
Mexico City, D.F.
2
Orientation, Lecture & Historical Center, Templo Mayor
Mexico City, D.F.
3
Anthropology Museum; Alameda Central
Mexico City, D.F.
4
Teotihuacan Archaeological Site, Basilica de Guadalupe
Mexico City, D.F.
5
Mexican Art, Chapultepec Castle, Diego Rivera’s Mural
Mexico City, D.F.
6
Coyoacan, Frida Kahlo Museum, Bazar de San Angel,
Mexico City, D.F.
7
Mexican Muralists, Fine Arts Palace; Ballet
Mexico City, D.F.
8
Program Concludes, In Transit From Program
Mexico City, D.F.
At a Glance
Embrace and explore Mexico City as it showcases all facets of Mexico’s national character. In a place where many public buildings are built from the stones of Aztec temples, past and present are inextricably linked, so that around each modern street corner is another opportunity to delve into the history of Mexico. Ballet folklórico, mariachis and a cosmopolitan mix of museums and neighborhoods adorned with the art of the great muralists illustrate the story of Mexican antiquity alongside pre-Aztec pyramids and colonial squares.
Activity Level
Varies by date
Varies by date. On Your Feet: Walking up to one mile daily over varied terrain. Keep The Pace: Walking up to 2.5 miles daily. Elevations of 7,200 feet.
Small Group
Love to learn and explore in a small-group setting? These adventures offer small, personal experiences with groups of 13 to 24 participants.
Best of all, you’ll…
- Trace the history of Mexico City with local historians and in a variety of museums.
- Study the life and work of Frida Kahlo and Diego Rivera in museums and exhibitions.
- Explore quaint and historic neighborhoods like Coyoacán and San Ángel.
General Notes
Dates with an On Your Feet Activity Level are eight nights to allow for a more relaxed pace.
Featured Expert
All trip experts
María Teresa Peniche
Maria Teresa Peniche, who prefers to be known simply as “Teri,” is a highly regarded addition to Geronimo’s Road Scholar staff. Teri pursued a career in higher education, preparing school curriculums designed as well as teaching English in secondary education. After retiring, Teri’s vast knowledge of Mexico’s history and culture paved the way towards her becoming a Group Leader. Blessed with a caring disposition and a great desire to share her love of her country, Teri’s capacity for sharing her considerable knowledge is unrivaled.
Please note: This expert may not be available for every date of this program.
María Teresa Peniche
View biography
Maria Teresa Peniche, who prefers to be known simply as “Teri,” is a highly regarded addition to Geronimo’s Road Scholar staff. Teri pursued a career in higher education, preparing school curriculums designed as well as teaching English in secondary education. After retiring, Teri’s vast knowledge of Mexico’s history and culture paved the way towards her becoming a Group Leader. Blessed with a caring disposition and a great desire to share her love of her country, Teri’s capacity for sharing her considerable knowledge is unrivaled.
Haydee de Hoyos
View biography
Originally from the northern state of Sonora, Haydee de Hoyos learned English through her interest in American television, especially “Sesame Street.” Her affinity for American culture led her to pursue a career in the travel industry with a degree in tourism and business form the University of Guadalajara. Haydee has worked for Geronimo for more than 20 years and served as a Group Leader on programs focusing on art, culture, history, the environment and Mexican cuisine, developing an encyclopedia of knowledge of all things Mexico.
Suggested Reading List
(5 books)
Visit the Road Scholar Bookshop
You can find many of the books we recommend at the Road Scholar store on bookshop.org, a website that supports local bookstores.
Mexico City: History, Art, Culture and Politics
Program Number: 13964
Mexico City: A Cultural and Literary Companion
Daily Life in Ancient and Modern Mexico City
The Course of Mexican History
A Concise History of Mexico
History of the Conquest of Mexico
While we make every effort to ensure the accuracy of our published materials, programs are typically advertised more than a year prior to their start date. As a result, some program activities, schedules, accommodations, personnel, and other logistics occasionally change due to local conditions or circumstances. Should a major change occur, we will make every effort to alert you. For less significant changes, we will update you during orientation. Thank you for your understanding.
Duration
8 days
7 nights
What's Included
18 meals (
7B, 6L, 5D
)
4 expert-led lectures
11 expert-led field trips
1 performance
An experienced Group Leader
7 nights of accommodations
Taxes and customary gratuity
Road Scholar Assurance Plan
Day
1
Arrive Mexico City, Check-in, Registration, Welcome Dinner
Location:
Mexico City, D.F.
Meals:
D
Stay:
Hotel NH Mexico City Centro Histórico
Activity Note
Hotel check-in from 3:00 p.m.
Afternoon:
After arriving at the hotel, checking in, and getting your room, take some time to unpack, freshen up, and relax.
Dinner:
In the hotel restaurant, we’ll enjoy a welcome buffet dinner featuring Mexican and international cuisine with a variety of salads, soup, main dishes, and dessert, plus coffee, tea, fruit water, water; other beverages available for purchase.
Evening:
At leisure. Continue getting to know your fellow participants, settle in, and get a good night’s rest for the days ahead.
Day
2
Orientation, Lecture & Historical Center, Templo Mayor
Location:
Mexico City, D.F.
Meals:
B,L,D
Stay:
Hotel NH Mexico City Centro Histórico
Activity Note
Walking up to 2 miles throughout the day; flat terrain, busy sidewalks; periods of standing up to 1/2 hour at a time.
Breakfast:
At the hotel, we'll enjoy a buffet featuring Mexican and international cuisine including a variety of hot dishes, bread, pastries, yogurt, fruit, plus coffee, tea, juice, water.
Morning:
Orientation: 8:30 a.m. The Group Leader will greet everyone and lead introductions. We will review the up-to-date program schedule, discuss roles and responsibilities, logistics, safety guidelines, emergency procedures, and answer questions. All transportation will be provided via bus unless specified otherwise. An instructor will conduct all sessions in the classroom; a certified expert will lead field trips and excursions. Periods in the schedule designated as “Free time” and “At leisure” offer opportunities to do what you like and make your experience even more meaningful and memorable according to your personal preferences. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions. Program activities, schedules, personnel, and indicated distances or times may change due to local circumstances/conditions. In the event of changes, we will alert you as quickly as possible. Thank you for your understanding. Next, we’ll be joined in our private meeting room by our instructor. The focus of our first lecture today will be on famous Mexican muralists. Leaving the hotel, we’ll walk to The Templo Mayor, which was the site of the main temple of Tenochtitlan and regarded as the center of the world by the Aztecs. It was dedicated to Huitzilopochtli, the god of war, and Tlaloc, the god of rain and agriculture. After seeing the ruins, we will then walk to the Templo Mayor Museum, which holds some 7,000 pieces recovered during excavations of the site.
Lunch:
At a local favorite restaurant, we’ll have a 3-course plated lunch with fruit water, coffee, tea, water; other beverages available for purchase.
Afternoon:
After lunch, we will walk to the San Ildefonso School Museum, known locally as the Antiguo Colegio de San Ildefonso. Currently a cultural center in downtown Mexico City, the college is the most important of the many founded by the Jesuits in the late 16th century, offering both a secular and religious education until the expulsion of the Jesuits from all Spanish territories in 1767. The building was renovated in the 1990s to serve as a public center and to promote local culture, businesses and a museum. Back at our hotel, we will have our social hour with an opportunity to know more about our fellow travelers.
Dinner:
At the hotel restaurant, we’ll enjoy a buffet dinner featuring Mexican and international cuisine and dessert, plus coffee, tea, water; other beverages available for purchase.
Evening:
At leisure.
Day
3
Anthropology Museum; Alameda Central
Location:
Mexico City, D.F.
Meals:
B,L,D
Stay:
Hotel NH Mexico City Centro Histórico
Activity Note
Walking up to 1.5 miles throughout the day; periods of standing and walking in museum up to 1 hour; flat terrain, city sidewalks.
Breakfast:
Hotel buffet.
Morning:
We will meet with our instructor to receive the first in a series of lectures on the history of Mexico City. Founded as Mexica-Tenochtitlan by the Mexica people in the early 14th century, it is commonly referred to as Tenochtitlan. According to Mexica mythology, they were signaled by their principal god Huitzilopochtli to build their home where they saw an eagle resting on a cactus with a snake in its beak. For nearly two centuries, the city prospered and expanded as the capital of the Aztec empire, until falling to Spanish conquest in 1521. Next, we’ll head to the exhibition rooms of one of the most visited museums in México accompanied by our local expert, the Museo Nacional de Antropologia, or the National Museum of Anthropology. Built in the 1960s, this large and prestigious museum houses over 52,000 pieces in 23 exhibition rooms. Among its collections are pieces from the Teotihucans, Toltecs, Mexicas, Mayans, and other cultures. One of the most important items we will see is the Aztec Calendar carved in stone.
Lunch:
At the Anthropology Museum restaurant, we will have a 3-course plated lunch with fruit water, plus coffee, tea, fruit water, water; other beverages available for purchase.
Afternoon:
After lunch, we will have some time to explore the museum independently. Then, we'll set out for our field trip continuing to explore more of México City: The Alameda, Museo Mural Diego Rivera. Once the Aztec market, the Alameda was dedicated as a greenspace by Viceroy Luis de Velasco on the western edge of the city in 1592. The park became the blueprint for the traditional Mexican park, inspiring others around the country. We will make a stop at the Museo Mural Diego Rivera to admire the famous mural "Sueño de una Tarde Dominical en la Alameda Central," or "Dream of a Sunday Afternoon in the Alameda Central." Painted between 1946 and 1947, the 51-foot-long mural depicts famous individuals and events in Mexican history. We’ll then return to the hotel.
Dinner:
At a local restaurant, we’ll have a plated 3-course meal with coffee, tea, water; other beverages available for purchase.
Evening:
At leisure
Day
4
Teotihuacan Archaeological Site, Basilica de Guadalupe
Location:
Mexico City, D.F.
Meals:
B,L
Stay:
Hotel NH Mexico City Centro Histórico
Activity Note
Getting on/off a bus; driving about 30 miles, approximately 1.5 hours one-way. Walking up to 2.5 miles throughout the day; periods of standing; dirt paths.
Breakfast:
Hotel buffet.
Morning:
Departing the hotel via bus, our field trip will begin with a visit to the Basilica de Guadalupe where we will learn about the old and new Basilica, as well as the Capuchinas Convent, and stand on the Atrio of the Americas. The basilica is the most visited sanctuary in Latin America housing the miraculous image of Our Lady of Guadalupe. While here, we’ll also learn the story of St Juan Diego and the apparition of the Virgin Mary in 1531. Originally the site of a shrine to a mother goddess, the conquistadors destroyed the chapel and adapted the location into the parish, eventually building the Old Basilica that was completed in 1709. Due to a sinking foundation, the New Basilica was constructed next to it from 1974 to 1976 creating a dichotomy of old and new. Our field trip will continue to the Teotihuacan Pyramids and its archaeological site where our local expert will introduce us to Teotihuacan and how it became the sixth largest city in the world between 150 BCE and 450 CE. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the pyramids are the centerpiece of the holy city that once hosted a population of at least 125,000 people. Some of the most famous temples include the Temple of the Plumed Serpent and the Pyramids of the Sun and the Moon.
Lunch:
At a local restaurant, we will have a buffet meal featuring a variety of salads, soups, main dishes, and dessert, plus coffee, tea, fruit water, and water; other beverages available for purchase.
Afternoon:
We’ll then return to the hotel to continue our lecture series on the history of México City, focusing on the colonial period as the capital of New Spain.
Dinner:
Tonight's dinner is on your own. This meal has been excluded from the program cost. Group leader can make suggestions.
Evening:
At leisure.
Day
5
Mexican Art, Chapultepec Castle, Diego Rivera’s Mural
Location:
Mexico City, D.F.
Meals:
B,L
Stay:
Hotel NH Mexico City Centro Histórico
Activity Note
Walking up to 1.5 miles total throughout the day; periods of standing in museum, flat terrain. Getting on/off a bus; driving about 35 miles each way, approximately 1.5 hours total.
Breakfast:
Hotel buffet.
Morning:
Setting out via bus, we'll ride to the Chapultepec Castle one of the best museums in Mexico City. This is the only castle that housed royalty in North America. It is a place that has as much historical significance within its walls as the building itself does. Having been an imperial and presidential residence. The Castle houses the National History Museum.
Lunch:
At a local restaurant, we’ll enjoy a delicious 3-course meal with water included; other beverages available for purchase
Afternoon:
Continue our ride to the Carcamo de Dolores Museum, is a hydraulic work built by the engineers Eduardo Molina Arevalo, Guillermo Torres, and the great Muralist Diego Rivera, between 1943 and 1951. Diego Rivera painted the Water, Origin of Life mural. Diego Rivera painted more than 200 square meters, which are underwater, being the only underwater mural in the world. After returning to our hotel, we will have the last presentation in our series of lectures, this time covering Mexico XX century.
Dinner:
On your own to enjoy what you like.
Evening:
At leisure
Day
6
Coyoacan, Frida Kahlo Museum, Bazar de San Angel,
Location:
Mexico City, D.F.
Meals:
B,L,D
Stay:
Hotel NH Mexico City Centro Histórico
Activity Note
Walking up to 2 miles total throughout the day; flat terrain. Getting on/off a bus; driving about 22 miles, approximately 1.5 hours roundtrip. Extent and duration of walking and other activities during independent exploration according to personal choice.
Breakfast:
Hotel buffet.
Morning:
Setting out via bus, we’ll ride to the neighborhood of Coyoacán. Once an independent village on the shore of Lake Texcoco, Coyoacán welcomed the Spanish and served as the headquarters of Hernan Cortes and the conquistadors. Its name comes from a Nahuatl word of which the exact meaning is unknown but most likely means “place of coyotes.” While here, we’ll visit the Frida Kahlo Museum, also known as Casa Azul, with our expert. The museum is housed in the building where Kahlo spent most of her life and was donated, along with its contents, to be a museum in her memory by her husband Diego Rivera. Here, we will admire many exhibits for Frida’s work, as well as some personal items that are on display. The museum displays works of art by the couple and other artists, in addition to displaying the lifestyle of Mexican artisans and bohemians in the first half of the 20th century. We will also be able to enjoy some of Diego Rivera's work and, during some time for independent exploration after visiting the museum, you can walk on the beautiful gardens on the property.
Lunch:
At a local restaurant in San Angel, we'll enjoy a 2-course meal, plus lemonade, coffee, and water; other beverages available for purchase.
Afternoon:
After lunch, we will walk through the neighborhood of Colonia San Angel and visit the Bazar del Sabado where local artists show and sell their work. With a local expert, we’ll see much of Mexico’s native art. We’ll then return to the hotel.
Dinner:
At a local restaurant, we’ll have a 3-course plated meal, plus coffee, tea, and water; other beverages available for purchase.
Evening:
At leisure.
Day
7
Mexican Muralists, Fine Arts Palace; Ballet
Location:
Mexico City, D.F.
Meals:
B,L,D
Stay:
Hotel NH Mexico City Centro Histórico
Activity Note
Walking up to 1.5 miles total throughout the day; periods of standing in museum; flat terrain.
Breakfast:
Hotel buffet.
Morning:
We'll set out for our field trip to the Palace of Fine Arts (Palacio de Bellas Artes) was built in the place of the first National Theater of México in the early 1930s. Here, we will have the opportunity to enjoy a presentation of the Ballet Folklorico of Amalia Hernandez. This piece reflects the various genres and art forms from across the country through both dance and music. After the performance we will explore the marvelous interior. Primarily a combination of Art Nouveau and Art Deco styles, the grand building is divided into a main hall with smaller exhibition rooms, the theater, and the institute's offices. On the way to the restaurant, we will walk to Casa de los Azulejos, or House of Tiles; this is an 18th-century mansion known for its exquisite blue and white tilework from the state of Puebla. Our next stop is the Postal Palace, also known as Main Post Office. Built in the early 20th century by the original architect of The Palace of Fine Arts, the building features a variety of architectural styles creating a unique masterpiece. We'll move on to the Palace of Iturbide for today’s final stop. Constructed between 1779 and 1785, the palace was a prominent count’s wedding gift for his daughter featuring three floors, a mezzanine, and two fortified towers. The Palace has been renamed the Palacio Cultural Banamex to promote the culture of México City
Lunch:
At a local restaurant, we'll enjoy a buffet meal featuring a variety of salads, soup, main dishes, and dessert with water, fruit water, or tea included; other beverages available for purchase.
Afternoon:
Free afternoon, Group leader can make suggestions.
Dinner:
We will walk to a local restaurant for a 3-course meal, plus coffee, tea, and water; other beverages available for purchase. The Group Leader will review the program and discuss airport transfers for when the program concludes. The remainder of the evening will be at leisure. Prepare for check-out and departure in the morning.
Evening:
At leisure. Prepare for departure in the morning.
Day
8
Program Concludes, In Transit From Program
Location:
Mexico City, D.F.
Meals:
B
Activity Note
Hotel check-out 12:00 Noon. See your program’s Transportation Information regarding transfers. Driving about 5 miles, approximately 1/2 hour to airport.
Breakfast:
Hotel buffet.
Morning:
After checking out of the hotel, and depending on your flight information, transfer to the airport. This concludes our program. If you are returning home, safe travels. If you are staying on independently, have a wonderful time. If you are transferring to another Road Scholar program, detailed instructions are included in your Information Packet for that program. We hope you enjoy Road Scholar learning adventures and look forward to having you on rewarding programs in the future. Don’t forget to join our Facebook page and follow us on Instagram. Best wishes for all your journeys!
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MEALS
18 Meals
7 Breakfasts
6 Lunches
5 Dinners
LODGING
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Participant Reviews
Based on 69 Reviews
Sort By:
learned a lot about the complexity and depth of mexico. highly recommend visiting mexico city with geronimo travel— local guides were great!
— Review left December 3, 2024
Haydee, Abby, and Lorena were all highly skilled guides, and very smart managers—knowledgeable, tactful and tireless. This trip was packed with stellar destinations—I got to see everything I’d always wanted to see in Mexico City. Food, lodging, and transportation were terrific, as were our fellow travelers. The lectures on Mexican history, art, and politics were as entertaining as they were meaningful. Highly recommended!
Pam, Flagstaff, AZ
— Review left December 3, 2024
Mexico City is a fantastic Road Scholar trip. I learned a lot about the history of Mexico.
— Review left November 30, 2024
My wife and I had hesitated to travel to Mexico as we don't speak Spanish and had heard too many horror stories in the US media about our neighbors being unsafe. Yet I was aware that Mexico City was a sprawling culinary and culture capital—a world-class city just across the border. Most organized trips dip into the City for 2 or 3 days and then move on to a beach resort, but we love to immerse ourselves in cosmopolitan hubs like London, Paris, Vienna, Rome, and Hong Kong, so why not give the same treatment to Mexico? Road Scholar to the rescue: they offer a well-curated 8-day immersion in the rich diversity of this metropolis, fanning out day by day to discover different cultural treasures representing as many historical eras, from pre-Columbian to contemporary. We came back enthused, impressed, and humbled: unlike the US, where we erroneously suggest history began in 1492 or 1619, we discovered on this trip that the history of sophisticated civilizations in the land we call the Americas goes back thousands of years—and continues to thrive today!
— Review left November 23, 2024
My Road Scholar tour of Mexico City sights was wonderful.
— Review left November 13, 2024
This is a great way to learn more about Mexican and American History as they do go hand-in-hand. The lectures are amazing and the team leaders always watch out for you. There is nothing like seeing the murals in-person, whether that is ancient murals or those from the famed trio! You will not regret going.
— Review left October 31, 2024
Mexico City is a beautiful and fascinating first-rate city. I tried new dishes I hadn't eaten before and learned about history and art that I will continue to research on my own.
— Review left October 22, 2024
We cannot recommend this program more highly. It exceeded my expectations by far. We learned so much and experienced so many surprises. This is what I love about traveling--the unexpected experiences and the opportunity to open your mind and think about things in a different way. One of the best RS trips ever!
— Review left October 1, 2024
The historical and cultural tour of Mexico City was fantastic. This city is a jewel and Road Scholar made sure we saw every one of its unique spots. The tour guides gave wonderful explanations of each site. And did I mention the city is very safe? Don't miss this tour!
— Review left May 1, 2024
This program was everything I was hoping for, and more. Splendid!
— Review left April 27, 2024
This was a terrific week of learning in Mexico City. The staff was welcoming, the lecturer was compelling, the sites were incredible, and the other participants were pleasant and respectful. I look forward to another Road Scholar trip soon.
— Review left April 4, 2024
Wonderful educational and eye opening experience
— Review left March 28, 2024
This trip was flawless. If there were any hiccups, we didn't know about them because they were handled by the Group Leader and her team. This was a great way to see Mexico City. We could never have managed it so well on our own. The scheduling and logistics were impressive.
We enjoyed everything about this trip. The whole program tied together, from ancient history to modern day. The lectures on art and political history were both entertaining and informative. They gave us a good appreciation for what we saw during the day. The walking tours and site visits were just right to give a flavor of the city and the country.
The introduction to classic Mexican cuisine in the different restaurants was lovely.
The other travelers on our trip were interesting and interested. It was a great, easy group to be with.
We expect to return to see more of Mexico.
— Review left March 2, 2024
The trip to Mexico City was fantastic and exceeded my expectations. The group leader, Beatriz, did an excellent job. The schedule was well planned and I learned much. Highly recommend this trip for anyone wanting to learn about Mexico. The Ballet Folklorico was a great way to end the trip!
— Review left February 20, 2024
If you have not been to Mexico, or know only a little about it, go on this tour! It is a first-rate introduction to a fascinating country that is right next door.
— Review left February 14, 2024
The Mexico City trip was an eye-opener. There was so much to do and see that was amazing. The art, history, and culture must be experienced to fully appreciate Mexico. What you see on social media is NOT the Mexico you experience by being there.
— Review left February 8, 2024
Fantastic program! Lorena was a wonderful tour leader and the itinerary was perfect: Ballet Folklorico, Anthropology Museum, Frida's Blue House and the Pyramids -- every day was fun and interesting.
— Review left February 7, 2024
This RS program is the ideal blend of education and experience. The presenters were interesting and informative, the tour leaders were caring and capable, and Mexico City is a lively and fascinating place. Plus, there is a focus on the various foods of Mexico—an essential part of the country’s culture. We saw and learned so much. Just go!
— Review left February 6, 2024
Road Scholar programs are always great, but my recent trip to Mexico City was outstanding -- the history, the culture, the art (Rivera, Orozco, Siqueiros and Kahlo!), and the FOOD -- BRILLIANT! Muchas gracias Road Scholar!
— Review left January 31, 2024
If you are looking for a comprehensive understanding of Mexican history, culture, and politics, this course is an outstanding opportunity to learn! Experts are available throughout the course to advance your understanding of Mexico, to develop your appreciate for Mexico City as one of the most important cosmopolitan centers of the world, and expose you to the people and places that make Mexico City such a special place!
— Review left January 27, 2024
\What a breath of fresh air it is to visit Mexico and specifically Mexico City.
— Review left December 28, 2023
This was a wonderful introduction to Mexican art, history, and culture--and to the spectacular architecture and art of Mexico City itself.
— Review left December 8, 2023
Mexico City, the homw of wonderful museums, murals, and more history that you can discover with Road Scholar.
— Review left December 8, 2023
Loved our week of learning on this integrated trip to Mexico City. The Lectures and guides were incredible. I learned about art and history of Mexico from a completely new perspective! I want to return and explore more.
— Review left November 15, 2023
I thoroughly enjoyed this experience in Mexico City! Mexico is a treasure and our leaders opened it up to us.
— Review left October 30, 2023
Run, don’t walk to experience this program. Teri, Lorena, Alma & Beatrice were amazing hosts/educators and I learned so much. I’ve made friends and I am already planning another trip to Mexico. The hotel was wonderfully located, the food wonderful and we were well taken care of. Thank you Road Scholar!
— Review left October 26, 2023
The Mexico City: History, Art, Culture and Politics trip is well worth taking.
— Review left September 27, 2023
I saw everything I wanted to see and learned about a great city!
— Review left May 23, 2023
Excellent introduction to Mexican History from the Mexican perspective, covering all the information I did not learn in High School.
— Review left May 19, 2023
You will see many of the places you want see during your week in Mexico City. The hotel is centrally located, a small bus takes the group to remote sites, the meals are very good, and the other participants bring their curiosity which adds tremendously.
— Review left May 19, 2023
This was a terrific trip that exceeded even my high expectations. The lectures were a high point for me and added greatly to the experiences. There is a lot crammed into this week but I wouldn't have wanted to miss any part of it.
— Review left April 6, 2023
This was an excellent trip. The activities were educational and fun and well paced. The restaurants were well chosen. The guide Arturo and assistant guide Roberto were friendly, kind, knowledgable, and extremely helpful. The hotel was OK, but could have had more amenities (like a luggage rack or bar of soap). But all in all, I highly recommend it.
— Review left April 2, 2023
Mexico City is a wonderful, sophisticated city full of incredible resources and educational experiences. It is a "must visit"! Having knowledgeable guides is essential to getting the most out a a visit.
— Review left March 30, 2023
My second Road Scholar program was as informative and well organized as the first. I learned a great deal about our neighbors to the South. Their history and culture are beautiful and fascinating
— Review left March 29, 2023
First, I would like to give high praise to our team of guides and instructors who were so kind and patient during our tour. To me, the highlights were the trips to the Aztec museum near the central plaza, the visit to the Sun and Moon "pyramids", and the Diego Rivera and Frida Kahlo Museum. The ballet at the Opera House took my breath away and it's not what you expect when you hear the word ballet. You have to see it to believe it. I've posted a blog on our trip https://marcnobletrips.blog/explore/mexico-city-history-art-culture-and-politics/.
— Review left March 1, 2023
The Mexico City: History, Art, Culture and Politics experience is superb. The entire week was delightful: the interesting lectures, the beautiful murals, and visits to the principle sights of the city. The Anthropology Museum is world class and the pyramids are a must see. To top it all off, we saw the colorful, impressive Ballet Folkloric at the Palacio of Bellas Artes. I cannot wait to get back to Mexico.
— Review left February 23, 2023
Thus was my very first trip with Road Scholar and I would recommend it to anyone who loves travel loves experiencing our world and learning with new people, and enjoys the challenge of physical exercise.
— Review left February 21, 2023
I would never have been able to see Mexico City like this on my own — an awesome experience and totally worth it!
— Review left February 13, 2023
Excellent Tour! The two Trip Supervisors were Friendly, Organized and Very Helpful. The Educator was an Engaging and Well-Informed Teacher. She was creative and imaginative in her teaching style. I looked forward to each session with her. The Guide was equally engaging and well-informed. Paco was very easy to be with and learn from. Paco was patient, knowledgeable and funny. This Team was the best a traveler could hope for! The Hotel was in a good location and the set-up (rooms/lobby/staff/restaurant) were efficient. The Hotel Restaurant Food was of average quality. The Restaurants we visited were interesting and the food was varied and nicely prepared. The wonderful places we visited in Mexico City will be never forgotten memories!
— Review left November 1, 2022
This was an outstanding program. Extremely well-organized. I would definitely recommend it!
— Review left September 27, 2022
An excellent way to see Mexico City and surrounding areas and to understand the history of Mexico.
— Review left May 13, 2022
What a great introduction to this very cosmopolitan, European-like city, in our own hemisphere! If you think you've seen Mexico because you've been on a cruise or at the beach resorts -- you have a surprise coming. This is a city of museums, archaeological ruins, music and dance performances, and great shopping.
— Review left March 30, 2022
Very informative and worthwhile ...
— Review left March 25, 2022
What a great trip with excellent leaders and teachers. There is so much to learn and see in Mexico City. Road Scholar provided a very enjoyable way to do it. Bravo!
— Review left March 22, 2022
Mexico City with Road Scholar offers a trip of wonderful experiences with outstanding historical sites, tree lined streets, great art, and delicous foods. The people of city were welcoming to their world of multi-cultural events. Road Scholar does an excellent job exposing you to the highlights of the city.
— Review left February 28, 2022
I was reticent about going on a group tour because the only one I ever experienced before (Not RS) seemed to be focused on eating and shopping. Road Scholar provided the type of trip I need- active and full of learning. I enjoyed the people in the group who wanted the same type of experience.
— Review left February 26, 2022
This is a fantastic tour with an emphasis on local anthropology and archeology, murals, and so much great food. Maria Teresa and Beatriz did an incredible job of managing the logistics and making everyone feel so welcome. There is so much to see and do in Mexico City.
— Review left February 18, 2022
Viva Mexico
— Review left February 15, 2022
A great introduction the Mexico City. I'm encouraged to go again.
— Review left November 23, 2021
History, Art. Culture and Politics of Mexico City Program immerses participants in experiences of historical significance affected by cultures of the world over thousands of years. It is rich in customs of a romantic people, music, archeology and outstanding political and cultural art, architecture and graphic details of its cultural past. We learned much by attending this tour.
— Review left March 5, 2020
If, like me (before participating in this program), you have never visited Mexico, you should seriously consider taking this trip. The week spent here will grearly enhance your understanding and appreciation of our neighboring nation. The staff, lecturer, and guide are all first rate. The itinerary includes a high percentage of the area's top cultural, artistic, and historic attractions. And you will learn first hand that most of the concerns that some people have about visiting Mexico are invalid, or at least overblown.
— Review left March 4, 2020
This is an excellent program. I would highly recommend it. The morning lectures by Alma Roura were superb;I learned a lot from them and they enhanced the program. The field trips were all very good and Paco is as very good guide. Our program coordinator, Beatriz Villegas kept us all organized. This is a very active trip with lots of stairs and uneven walking surfaces,. With that in mind, you can't go wrong with this program.
— Review left March 3, 2020
This tour covers the highlights of Mexico City with excellent guides. Nice group of lifelong learners. Well located hotel but just adequate food. However, the overall experience was very positive.
— Review left March 3, 2020
This is an active trip with multiple opportunities to learn about Mexican history,art and culture. Loved it! The guides were all excellent and the variety of field trips was wonderful.
— Review left March 1, 2020
This program was busy, active, lots of urban walking at a reasonable pace. Mexico City is very large, oozing history out of every pore, good Mexican food, wonderful staff and accomodation. I feel I learned a lot about Mexican pre-history, art and recent history/politics. I have been to Mexico a number of times and I came away from this trip feeling that I learned a lot and developed a deeper affection for the country and its people.
— Review left February 27, 2020
This week in Mexico City was jam-packed with learning opportunities and field trips to the sites that are on most peoples' wish list when visiting - Teotihuacan, Frida Kahlo's Blue House, National Museum of Anthropology, Templo Mayor, Diego Rivera and others' murals, plus many more. We were so well taken care of by our tour leaders Arturo and Arturo, our tour guide Paco, and our lecturer Alma. They were so darn nice on top of being well organized and knowledgeable. What a great value for the money!
— Review left February 3, 2020
This was my first Road Scholar trip and my first trip of many I hope to take as a solo traveler. I was a little anxious In case I ended up as the only single in the group. I am thrilled to say it was about 50/50 couples and singles, and I got to become friends with some amazing people who were friendly and willing to share their experience with me. And I learned from the experienced ones in the group that that is usually the case. I couldn’t be happier about it.
— Review left January 22, 2020
Another winner for Road Scholar. The Geronimo guys, Arturo and Arturo and Cosme are all just great. They took great care of us and really made sure we were having a great time. Alma Roura is a jewel and helped so much with my understanding of our amazing neighbor to the south. They were all so appreciative of our visiting and a chance to display their wonderful city. Great food, nice hotel, great location, convivial group...a wonderful trip.
People do need to realize that there is a lot of walking and standing on marble and concrete, so assess your abilities realitically. Further, to enjoy Teotihuacan, being able to climb stairs certainly helps. Also, realize that Mexico City is at 7000+ feet, so if you are prone to altitude sickness, aka mountain sickness, be aware of the possibility and plan accordingly. But the city and the country offer so much, it is all well worth the effort. Viva, Mexico!
— Review left December 2, 2019
This program is an immersive experience in Mexico City, which is an exciting, vibrant world-class city with a rich history and multifaceted culture, wonderful architecture, outstanding archaeological sites, and beautiful art.
— Review left November 27, 2019
This was a fabulous trip. I learned so much about Mexican history and culture. The staff was extremely helpful. Mexico City is a vibrant, beautiful place and I highly recommend it.
— Review left November 26, 2019
Mexico City is an amazing, vibrant and beautiful city that is full of surprises. This is a trip not to be missed! Road Scholar provides 5 lectures, daily outings to historical sites, knowledgable guides and very good accommodations. Participant safety is paramount; we were met at the airport upon arrival and put in a cab for departure back to airport. This group is very well organized and it shows. I highly recommend this tour as it clearly puts in perspective the pre-columbian history, European & US invasions as well as 20th century art & culture. Many of us have been to the beautiful resorts in Mexico; don't miss the heart of the country. I gained an understanding of Mexico from their perspective. This culture has a richness that needs to be experienced!
— Review left November 25, 2019
This program is a fascinating introduction to the arts and history of a great city.
— Review left November 18, 2019
We had a MARVELOUS time on this trip and are so grateful to Terri, Arturo, Rafi and Alma for their absolute devotion toward making this top-notch experience educational, comfortable and exciting. We fell in love with Mexico and Mexico City by seeing it through the eyes and experiences of these local experts/citizens/educators who shared their knowledge with love and pride. We were inspired to continue to study the language and history after our return and are planning to book a trip to San Miguel de Allende...hopefully with Arturo. A BIG thank you to everyone that made this adventure so fun and exciting!
Linda Bunting-Blake
— Review left June 11, 2019
Rafi and Alma were wonderful, and many of us wanted more time with Alma about the history and culture. We would have met 30 minutes earlier to do that.
Beto and Rafi both lifted our spirits and had enthusiasm throughout the day. Rafa knows so much and is a great person!!!
My husband and I both were disappointed in the food. We had hoped for more of the great regional variation in food in Mexico, but we had a lot of repetition of similar things. For out of the Centro Historic you have to use the restaurants that are available and mostly they were good or ok. I liked buffets where there was choice. It would have been great to have at least 3 dinners on our own with recommendations of VERY GOOD restaurants close by. We bought a book and got good recommendations of restaurants, went before the trip and made restaurant reservations before we flew, and we stayed a day late. Other people said they wished they had done the same. We had great meals at Limosnares and Azul Historic (1 1/2 blocks from the hotel) in an amazing space with lots of regional excellent food. We greatly enjoyed (as did others from the trip who also went along) having drinks at the bar at the top of the fantastic hotel looking at the Zocalo. People should know about these things. Many of the people on this trip were experienced travelers and wanted some really good regional food. In Palm Springs at the film festival 2 or 3 meals were on your own but the Road Scholar staff took everyone who wanted to go together to a specific restaurant. This could be done in Mexico City so that inexperienced people would feel ok about getting to the restaurant.
I really enjoyed seeing and hearing about the things we saw, and the people on the trip were great!!!
— Review left May 15, 2019
The history, art, and culture of Mexico City is amazing. You can only scratch the surface in a week but the Road Scholar trip covers a lot and whets your appetite for a return.
— Review left May 14, 2019
This tour had great variety and was well planned to give us all a taste of many aspects of Mexico City. I especially enjoyed all the art.
— Review left April 20, 2019
Mexico City was the perfect Spring Break Getaway. The weather in March was fabulous, the history of Mexico city is mesmerizing, the cuisine of the area is unique, and the hospitality is very welcoming.
— Review left March 25, 2019
I have participated in three Road Scholar programs (1 within the US and 2 international). This was undoubtedly the best of the 3 programs in my estimation. Although the others were very good. The staff for this program was excellent in every respect. The capstone component for me was the understanding of the history of Mexico through its peoples, their cultures and art that has contributed to the evolution of present day Mexico. This information was effectively conveyed in lectures, fieldtrips, discussions with the group leaders and among the other participants. Our fellow participants were like-minded individuals who were not only delightful to travel with but were also individuals who were excited to learn and contributed their individual opinions, interpretations, and facts, which further enhanced this program for me. As the relationship between the US and Mexico remains strained and politicized, I would recommend this program to anyone who genuinely wants a more accurate understanding of this intriguing nation and it's people.
— Review left March 25, 2019
My wife and I recently returned from the Mexico City History,Art, Culture and Politics program.It was outstanding from beginning to end.We couldn't have had a better travel experience. The group leaders Arturo, Roberto, Paco and Alma were top notch, most caring and professional. Mexico City is a vibrant city with much to see and do.
Mark
Class of 2018
Brooklyn, N.Y.
— Review left March 24, 2019
