Try these suggestions to enjoy a different kind of posada
We are finally a few weeks away from celebrating the long-awaited Christmas, and, for Mexicans, the holidays are not only limited to December 24 and 25. If there is a «modern» tradition that we have carried with us for generations, it’s the Winter holidays, and December is famous for its posadas. The posadas are festivities that have been celebrated in Mexico since colonial times. Its origin is religious, representing the pilgrimage of Joseph and Mary on their way to Bethlehem. Curiously, before the arrival of the Spaniards, the Aztecs celebrated the arrival of Huitzilopochtli during the month of «panquetzaliztli» (equivalent to December), and these festivities lasted around 20 days. The fusion between both customs did not take long to occur, and today we have the punch and the songs and moments with our loved ones that are unique and unforgettable. Customs change depending on the generation experiencing them. Therefore, even though we know that posadas are more often held in homes, we love the idea of experimenting and finding new spaces for our posadas, somewhere we can feel in complete harmony. Start by finding a setting that represents you, somewhere you can be yourself and demonstrate all your traditions. Remember that the more amenities available, the better things will work out. In that sense, a private reservation at a restaurant or hotel terrace is a great and intimate way to celebrate your traditions. Why not try something different? That way, this year’s posada will be something to remember. Food is essential. Not only does it bring people together, but it is also a way of showing affection. We have always believed that letting someone cook for you is better than spending all day cooking. Hiring a caterer is simple and offers countless possibilities for all tastes. Don’t forget the dessert! Having something sweet and warm at the end of the dinner will surely bring about stories and good memories. Finally, if you want to try different types of ambiance, after singing the traditional Christmas posada songs, you can play some classical music in the background or even folk songs that remind you of people who are no longer around. If you like more modern music, why not give it a try? In the end, there is no rule for celebrating in our country and, maybe, that is part of its charm.
Concerts return to the city
What’s better than enjoying a good show? Mass concerts have returned to the city, and Mexicans are excited to experience these special moments again. As always, FlowSuites has excellent advice for those who are seeking the best city experience. Here is a list of the most anticipated concerts for the rest of the year. The Kooks – November 16 That’s right. The British indie rock band returns to Mexico to offer one of the best concerts of the year. Originally from Brighton, the band is known for songs like «Naive» and «She Moves in Her Own Way,» which touch our hearts with teen nostalgia and guitar chords. If you are an indie lover and want to spend an evening with your partner, this concert will surely bring out emotions with each song. The date is November 16 at the Teatro Metropólitan. Coca-Cola Flow Fest – November 27th Coca-Cola Flow is ready to rock the stages again in its 2021 edition, especially for those who missed dancing to urban genres at full volume. This year, the festival will feature notable headliners Ozuna and Wisin y Yandel, Jhay Cortez, Farruko, El Alfa, Myke Towers, and Rauw Alejandro, among other personalities. Of course, the genres to dance to will be based on reggaeton and trap with slight tones of pop. If you want to have a day full of energy, don’t miss this unforgettable event that will take place on November 27 at the Autodromo Hermanos Rodriguez. Mon Laferte – December 7th and 8th The Chilean singer who conquered our hearts returns to Mexico to present her latest material, «1940 Carmen», an album unlike any other and focusing on female empowerment, very characteristic of Mon. Both dates are designed for you to sing at the top of your lungs and have a perfect romantic experience in the company of your loved ones. Without a doubt, this is one of the most anticipated concerts, especially for the outpouring of feelings that will surely bring a tear or two to your eyes. Celebrate December with this concert and attend the Teatro Metropólitan on December 7 or 8. Marc Anthony – December 10 Finally, one of the most anticipated events for salsa fans. Marc Anthony will be in town to make us dance until dawn with his colorful and joyful songs. Marc is one of the most outstanding Latin music performers in America. We always welcome his charisma with open arms, especially if he delivers hits to dance with a partner. Prepare your shoes and body because this date will be unique and perfect for you and your loved one. Don’t forget that FlowSuites is your best choice if you are looking for lodging.
Three important celebrations and cultural events you must experience when you travel to Mexico
We believe that one of the most incredible things about being Mexican is that we have so many celebrations a year. We just can’t get enough of the party. Important dates represent a legacy from our ancestors and an opportunity to spend time with the people close to us. If you are a person who is still not familiar with our culture, we think you will want to travel to Mexico during these dates to experience the majesty of our celebrations: Day of the Dead – November 1 & 2 Very few people have not heard of our famous Day of the Dead. This date is perhaps the one that draws the most attention from travelers because it is a solemn time of year, but with traditions throughout the country. The influence of the Aztec empire can still be felt in different Mexican festivities and traditions, and their respect and love for those who have passed away created the modern Day of the Dead tradition. We believe that the dead are still among us, and the city is filled with marigold flowers and altars with photos of our deceased loved ones, accompanied by candles and offerings. Paseo de la Reforma comes alive with the fantastic Day of the Dead parade, an event not to be missed if you visit Mexico City at this time of the year. La Guelaguetza – Mid July. The Guelaguetza is a celebration that takes place in the city of Oaxaca that began as a ritual performed for the gods in pre-Hispanic times. At dawn on the first Day of the Guelaguetza, the chirimiteros (music bands) play the mañanitas in various temples of Oaxaca. The local people take it as a signal to go to the emblematic Cerro del Fortin, where the whole celebration occurs. Nowadays, it is a celebration that lasts for days, with plenty of food and drinks and activities for all ages. Las Posadas – Mid to late December Spending Christmas in another country is lovely, especially if it is like in Mexico where, in addition to the traditional dinner, we enjoy previous celebrations such as the posadas. The posadas are a series of festivities that have been held in Mexico since colonial times. The Posadas represent the pilgrimage of Joseph and Mary on their way to Bethlehem. They are religious in nature, but for those who want to enjoy the party, the guava punch, the traditional piñata and the romeritos are the perfect combination for an enjoyable time.
WHAT YOUR FAVORITE PLACE IN TOWN SAYS ABOUT YOU
Do you enjoy drinking, learning, or sunbathing? Your weekend routine also speaks volumes about who you are. Some people believe that personalities are found in spaces, so finding a particular «type» of people in bars, museums, or restaurants is possible. Have you ever wondered what your personality type is? We have created a list that may prove helpful to find your lesser-known side; learn more about it below. Museums in Mexico City You are an incredibly romantic and sophisticated person. You constantly imagine yourself living in a time that is not your own. You enjoy visiting historical places every time you go on vacation. You have a unique intelligence, and you most likely charm anyone who meets you with some curious facts. If you are staying in Mexico City, our hotel in Condesa will be ideal for you. It is located in an elegant area with Porfirian-era architectural landmarks. Cafeterias You are a person who enjoys talking; you have a thousand stories you want to tell everyone, and you enjoy the little details. You have an old soul and surely enjoy old movies, as well as elegant places. Polanco will become one of your favorite areas the next time you visit the city, thanks to its coffee shops and bookstores. Bars and restaurants Your thing is to enjoy the company of your friends. You have a strong and extroverted personality and always end up being the life and soul of the party. You like to eat well and usually have one or more bottles of wine decorating your home. You love the nightlife, so every time you go on a trip you like to ask about the trendiest places. We believe that our hotels in Polanco and Condesa will suit you best as they are close to many trendy bars and restaurants. A walk in the woods You love road trips and taking artistic photographs. If you go on vacation, you always choose places with lots of nature and outdoor activities, indicating that you have a very centered and relaxed personality. You like to be with family and friends. Still, you are also a person who enjoys solitude, and you are not afraid to venture out into the world on your own; in fact, it gives you a better perspective on things. A nightclub You don’t have to be asked twice because you love to party until the sun comes up. Few people dare to enjoy life as much as you do, and your favorite place is likely to be on the dance floor. You are open-minded, dreamy, and daring. You love meeting new people, and you could even be said to have a flirtatious personality. Which type of personality suits you best?
How many museums are there in Mexico City?
Mexico City is one of the cities with the most museums in the world. We are second only to London, according to the Local Tourism Secretariat. Fundamental pieces of our history are preserved here for society, whether it is the legacy of the conquests or what we keep from our ancestors. Our museums are not limited to natural history or classical paintings, which distinguishes us from the rest of the world. We have curiosities such as the Antique Toy Museum, the Museum of Light, and even the Perfume Museum. Every corner of Mexican streets holds a secret, but exactly how many museums are there? There are a total of 170 museums and 43 galleries in the capital. Creativity and legacy are strongly present in painting, sculpture, drawing, lithographs, engraving, object art, ceramics, talavera, antique furniture, and textiles. In fact, every weekend, there is something new to do, thanks to a cultural heritage that surprises any visitor. These «temples of knowledge» are perfect for visiting on the weekend: Sundays are the days when most of these museums do not charge admission. The best thing is that these museums are supported by various institutions such as the Federal Government or non-governmental associations such as Grupo Carso. The most famous museum is the Soumaya, located in Polanco. And which one is the best of them all? The truth is that we cannot choose; however, we have some recommendations if it is your first time in Mexico City: the National Museum of History, Chapultepec Castle, the National Museum of Anthropology, the ruins of the Templo Mayor, the Museum of the Palacio de Bellas Artes, the Museum of Modern Art and the National Museum of Art. The experience will be truly unforgettable in each one, mainly because of the great interest that we Mexicans show to those who seek to know and learn more. What about you, do you have a favorite museum?
Celebrations of Mexican national holidays and new traditions in every part of the country
Mexico is a land of contrasts with strong cultural and religious ties. Visitors who look around are rewarded with a constant parade of “Mexican Moments” that reveal both new and old Mexico. Mexicans like to celebrate, and the younger generations, in their quest to preserve traditions get a little creative to satisfy their festive needs. As we are already in September and some of us are vaccinated, some of us have come up with ideas to make this celebration different. It seems that the word «different» is still in our system, mainly because we all know that we are still in the process of adaptation. That being so, what’s new for Independence Day? Many young people will take advantage of the long holiday weekend to go out of town. Some visit their relatives and others organize a get-together and a party that could last up to three days. Now, we all know that Mexicans enjoy celebrations. However, it is true that, unlike older people, young people prefer to spend September 15 with friends… and not so much with their families. Nevertheless, the pride of being Mexican does not seem to disappear. New generations may not be as excited about learning to prepare elaborate dishes such as pozole. Still, they do carry with them an identity that makes them proud. For example, Mexican-themed tattoos have become increasingly popular, such as lottery cards, a Frida Kahlo painting, or even Huichol art designs. We are talking about unconventional traditions that also express a deep love for Mexico. One thing we have also noticed is that many people prefer practicality. Instead of cooking for hours and preparing drinks, people are better off going to restaurants that offer the same atmosphere. Some establishments even hire mariachis for a few evening hours. Either way, everyone will have a great time singing Luis Miguel or Juan Gabriel’s classics. The best part is, these activities also save on cleanup. Finally, something that is not so new but is becoming more popular is the meetings in bars and terraces, such as the one we have at FlowSuites Condesa. We can adjust it to perfection for you to enjoy the open space with a seasonal cocktail. If you are one of those who prefer meetings with more intimate people, this is the perfect option for you. Contact us to personalize your event.
Interesting facts and new effects on vaccinated people: What are the changes?
We are at a completely different point in the pandemic compared to last year. The lines to get certain vaccines, while seemingly endless, are worth the effort for most of us because they protect us from the virus and its side effects. Interestingly, one of the biggest obstacles standing in the way of ending the pandemic is not related to medical or logistical issues but the lack of information about covid-19 vaccines. In part, this type of «fear» relates to the side effects that vaccines can cause since, although they may not be catastrophic, there is some misinformation about them, especially as they have not been thoroughly studied. That being the case, what are the new side effects I need to be aware of? While there is no need to worry, it is important to be informed about the possible effects of certain vaccines. Knowing what changes may occur in your body is very important, even if they are not dangerous. For example, the European Medicines Agency (EMA) recently found three new side effects on Pfizer and Moderna. These are a mild allergic skin reaction, glomerulonephritis (mild inflammation in the kidneys), and nephrotic syndrome (loss of some proteins). These types of side effects are not dangerous and pose no threat to your health. They are simply reactions that eventually disappear or aggravate some other condition you may already have; nevertheless, such cases are extremely rare. EMA resident Felix Drexler, M.D., recently released a new study on the Pfizer/BioNTech and Moderna vaccines. He found just a handful of cases of joint pain, myocarditis (mild inflammation in the heart tissues that is treatable), and some reddish skin lesions that disappear with specific treatment. The benefit of knowing all this is that it allows doctors to continue to do their research. One must understand that there will always be the possibility of side effects from any vaccine, not just the Covid-19 vaccine. The only thing left for us to do is to be socially responsible and get fully vaccinated as soon as possible, bearing in mind that, should there be any side effects, they are treatable, and specialists are already aware of them.
Vaccination for youth aged 18 to 29 is overflowing. Will everyone get vaccinated?
We have all heard about the new vaccination dates for younger people; in fact, certain municipalities have already approved those between 18 and 29 years of age to receive their COVID-19 vaccination. The truth is that the youth did not wait long, and by midday on Tuesday, July 27, crowds like never before were already in more than one district. Moreover, many young people resorted to photoshopping and exchanging proof of residency to obtain the Sputnik vaccine run out by Thursday, July 29, and replaced by AstraZeneca. Crowds showing up for vaccines made the news and brought up the question: will there be enough vaccines for everyone? On Friday, July 30, Claudia Sheinbaum, the Mexico City Mayor, informed in a press conference that she would ask the National Vaccination Program to speed up the corresponding doses in the rest of the city districts. The truth is that there are still enough vaccines in Mexico for many people, even people outside the 18 to 29 range, to be protected against this virus. However, some people are not all following the rules and are getting ahead of themselves during the process. For example: «On Wednesday, July 28, 28,859 people were expected to be vaccinated in the Miguel Hidalgo district; however, 54,143 showed up, a difference of 25,275 people between 18 and 29 years of age. In Benito Juarez, 28,035 people were expected on the same day, and 53,637 people turned up, a difference of 25,602. In Gustavo A. Madero, 111,152 people were expected, but 145,569 people arrived, a difference of 34,417.» This information is from Forbes magazine and is a clear example of how a high number of people bypassing the vaccination rollout and showing up in other districts for fear that the vaccines will run out. The reality could not be further from the truth. All projections for the city’s total vaccination have been carried out; in fact, the vaccination target for the elderly has not been met, which means that there are still plenty of vaccines available. In Mexico, as in many other countries, ensuring that a large percentage of its population becomes immune to the virus continues to be a priority, and the necessary measures are under implementation.
Father’s Day: because they also deserve a break
It’s crazy to think about what gift to buy for our fathers because, since we are young, we see them as beings who «have it all.» However, the reality could not be further from the truth. We must keep in mind that our beloved dads, as wise as they may be, are also human beings who need to be reminded of how much we love them. This week we wanted to think of something perfect for our parents to have the best celebration. We planned a whole day and came up with our favorite ideas, so you can get inspired and treat them with what they need the most: time and affection. Let us start with appearance. We know that more and more men are concerned about their physique. However, dads may forget that they should also treat themselves to a little pampering from time to time because of work or family. We suggest starting the day with a visit to La Logia, one of the most popular and manly barbershops in La Condesa. This place is perfect for any man who wants a new look or just a moment of relaxation. Plus, they sell gift packages that your dad will definitely love. After the grooming, it’s time to eat something delicious. We know that dads love to eat, that’s why we recommend Cambalache, one of the best Argentinean grills we have ever known. Our favorite branch is in Polanco and has the best cuts of meat and empanadas. We suggest you try their suckling pig along with an excellent glass of red wine. In the evening, you can enjoy a drink on a terrace and watch the sunset. We suggest you read our previous articles to find suggestions on different terraces located in Polanco and Condesa where you can celebrate dads on their day. Remember that all these gifts would be nothing without the love you can express to your dad. Hence, besides a day full of emotions, the most important thing is for you to be there and show him how much you care about his well-being.
Long-awaited concerts in Mexico City
The most exciting news regarding the return of our old life is that the concerts are back on the bill again. Thanks to the wait, event calendars are getting fuller and fuller, and it’s time to enjoy shows the way we used to. Let’s go back to nostalgia and scream at the top of our lungs with the list of events we have prepared for you. This time we have a personal selection of the concerts that will take place in Mexico City. We are sharing it so you can plan your trip should you be coming from other states of the country or abroad. Odisseo at the Pepsi Center Odisseo is a Mexican rock band officially formed in early 2010. Their music specializes in triggering the feelings of all of those who consider themselves «die-hard romantics.» On June 5th, they will be performing at the Pepsi Center WTC, in a night where the hits «Los imanes» and «Días de Fuego» will be the highlights of the night. If you like rock, this night is perfect for you. If you are coming from out of town and don’t know where to stay, our Hotel FlowSuites WTC is within walking distance. A-HA at the Auditorio Nacional The international band that brought the worldwide hit «Take on me» to fame will finally come to Mexico for a night full of eighties nostalgia. If dancing and synthesizers are your things, you won’t want to miss this great event. The date will be August 11 at the Auditorio Nacional, located in Polanco V section. And to make your night unforgettable, you can stay at our hotel FlowSuites Polanco and have a few drinks in the restaurants and bars in the area. Willie Colón at the National Auditorium And for those who are salsa fans, the same venue will host an unforgettable night full of surprises. Willie Colón will perform on June 18 and will sing all the hits we already know. An evening that will be full of emotion, ideal for you to go with your favorite dance partner. Polanco Jazz Festival Finally, we have a special suggestion: one of our favorite festivals. The Polanco Jazz Festival is an event that has brought together the best jazz performers from around the world in one place. It will take place on June 12 at the Angela Peralta Theater. We highly recommend it, as it is an event you can enjoy with your family or partner. Don’t hesitate to look for your nearest FlowSuites Hotel and stay with us.