Mexico City: Design with a Side of Mezcal
Modern in Denver Magazine
THE SUMMER VACATION
Once upon a time, jetting off to some colorful corner of the world for a well-deserved vacation required outside help and more than a little tedious legwork. From meeting with travel agents to sifting through piles of outdated brochures, there was a lot of toil that needed to happen before a would-be explorer actually got a chance to, well, explore. No longer. Now, the world is at our fingertips, with everything a voyager needs — maps, tips, photos, recommendations, local secrets — just a click away. The only ingredient left is inspiration.
That’s where we come in.
Everyone’s idea of a perfect vacation is different. Trekking a Patagonian ridgeline? Throwing some chips on a Monte Carlo table? Simply digging your toes into the beach, cold drink in hand? There’s no right answer. Which is why we’ve gathered a list of dream vacations from some of the sharpest, most creative minds in our community — to spark your inner adventurer. In the following pages, you’ll encounter our vacation muses’ trips, each unique, detailed and thrilling in its own way. From high-octane adventures to culture-soaked reposes, there’s something here for travelers of all stripes.
Bon voyage.
Abigail Plonkey – Founder/Chief Experience Curator at Maximalist
I recently traveled to Mexico City where I made an effort to live like a local by staying in an Airbnb instead of a hotel, and hit the streets on foot exploring food markets, dive bars and artisanal shops as well as local art and architecture.
Mexico City is one of those places that fascinated me from day one. The people are kind and welcoming, and there’s no shortage of cafés, parks and inspiring design. The food scene was out of this world — a melting pot of different influences from coastal fresh fish and ceviche to pozole and handmade pasta. The “menu del dia” at rooftop bar La Azotea was a perfect way to experience the food with views for days. You see more Mezcal cocktails than margaritas, and I discovered my new favorite cocktail: the Mezcal Aperol Spritz. I ordered it at Cicatriz, a hole-in-the-wall bar with a friendly neighborhood vibe. They even shared the recipe with me!
Anyone who appreciates architecture and design will love wandering the La Condesa neighborhood. Peppered with Art Nouveau and Art Deco architecture around every corner, it’s like stepping into a European city. The Frida Kahlo Museum inspired me as a designer; it was surreal to stand in Frida’s home and see how she lived and created her art. And if you enjoy Denver’s RiNo Art District, you must explore the murals, markets and eclectic boutiques in the Roma district.
As a creative, I’m inspired by experiences where I can immerse myself in the local culture, art, design, fashion and food. I’ve learned that making connections and talking to the locals can lead you to an insider’s guide to the city you may never have expected — and one you’ll never forget.