What's the dress code?
The dress code for our wedding is...drumroll please...Festive Semi-Formal/Cocktail! *Update: We realize to some this falls under cocktail attire so we've included that terminology clarify. Please see below description and pintrest board for best guidance.*This means we are going to dress up and have fun with it. Think festive colors and prints, tassels, texture, and interesting details. Dinner jackets, yes. Ties are both welcome and not required, go with what feels right. Leave the sneakers and blue jeans at home unless they make your outfit fabulous. White and off-whites are for Matt & Thalia unless it's a dress shirt (don't be scared to wear a colorful shirt though!). Red is fully accepted and dare we say, even encouraged. Above all we want you to feel comfortable and confident for the shaking of butts on the dance floor! Wardrobe changes for the dance party after dinner are welcome, if you're into that kind of thing. Think disco vibes and sparkles ✨✨
TEMP:
Bring a jacket or shawl as it cools off after sundown in Oaxaca. See weather section below. SUN:
Sunset will be at 7pm and there will be shade at both venues, but protect that skin of yours ;) SHOES:
We will mostly be on patios, but there will also be some dirt paths and perhaps gravel to walk on. Please wear what you can be comfortable walking and more importantly, dancing in! Block heels are your friend. You are also welcome to bring an extra pair of shoes, or go barefoot, for dancing. Feel free to bring a bag with what you need. TIPS:
1. look into rental services like Rent the Runway who usually offer your first months at a killer discount. You can rent some gorgeous outfits for a very reasonable price and cancel afterwards. Using this link your first month is 40% off. 2. See our Pintrest board below for inspo and more hints on color palette ;) keep scrolling on the box for more
Bring a jacket or shawl as it cools off after sundown in Oaxaca. See weather section below. SUN:
Sunset will be at 7pm and there will be shade at both venues, but protect that skin of yours ;) SHOES:
We will mostly be on patios, but there will also be some dirt paths and perhaps gravel to walk on. Please wear what you can be comfortable walking and more importantly, dancing in! Block heels are your friend. You are also welcome to bring an extra pair of shoes, or go barefoot, for dancing. Feel free to bring a bag with what you need. TIPS:
1. look into rental services like Rent the Runway who usually offer your first months at a killer discount. You can rent some gorgeous outfits for a very reasonable price and cancel afterwards. Using this link your first month is 40% off. 2. See our Pintrest board below for inspo and more hints on color palette ;) keep scrolling on the box for more
What's the weather like?
Oaxaca City has two contrasting seasons: warm, dry winters and wet, mild summers. July-September is the rainy season. By late October everything is fresh and green and there is very little chance of rain, although it's still possible. Since Oaxaca City is at about 5,000 ft elevation the temp drops after the sun goes down.
UPDATED 10-9-23:**This year there is a good chance it could rain so bring an umbrella & mosquito repellent
WEATHER UPDATE
We have recently learned that this year the rainy season in Oaxaca is wetter and lasting longer than usual, which means more mosquitoes. As weather gets warmer and wetter, there has been an uptick in cases of mosquito borne illnesses, including dengue, throughout areas of the Americas. This includes Oaxaca, Costal Mexico, and expanding areas of the US including California, Florida, Arizona, Texas, New York, even northern New Mexico has seen an influx of these mosquitoes this year. Though there's an increase, it is still rare. There have been no travel warnings issued about this by either the CDC nor the US Dept. of State. We wanted to let you some extra precautions we are taking:
- Keeping bug spray on our person and being vigilant, especially during the day (when those particular mosquitos are out) and in verdant areas
- Bolstering immune system before and during travel (ie. extra hydration, vitamins C, B, D, zinc, antiviral herbs, superfoods, stress management, good sleep). We do this anyway for travelCurrently this is where the weather stands: Expect temps in the mid/low 70s during our ceremony, in the mid/low 60s by end of dinner, and mid 50s late at night on our big day. A quick double-check before packing your bags is always wise as the weather has been different than usual and fluctuating.~Bring a shawl or jacket and an umbrella to our wedding (and adventure day).
Are kids allowed?
As much as we love your kids, we respectfully request adults only.
Water
It's especially important to stay hydrated while traveling in Oaxaca due to stressors like unfamiliar microorganisms and altitude (5,000 ft). WATER IS NOT POTABLE OUT OF THE TAP. Most hotels have filtered water in a jug in your room or at the restaurant where you can refill. The good Air bnbs provide a "garrafón de agua filtrado" which is a large water cooler jug of filtered water, we like to request this with our host ahead of time. Many restaurants have water trucks fill up large tanks of purified water, so if you see them filling from a faucet it is not necessarily unfiltered. Restaurants serve filtered water as locals generally don't drink the tap water, but when in doubt we carry our own or order a bottle of water.
TIPS we recommend:
- Bringing a large water bottle in luggage (empty of course) to take water out while exploring to stay hydrated. Plus can be filled up once through airport security to stay hydrated on the plane.
- Another game-changer is to bring a Lifestraw water bottle, or something similar that can be used to purify non-potable water on the go.
- Use filtered water to brush teeth.
- In the markets, stick to fruits that are peeled, such as mango, pineapple, etc. And food that is cooked thoroughly in front of you.
- Vendors are usually very mindful about using purified water in their drinks and for washing vegetables and garnishes. But, if you are more sensitive or concerned about getting sick avoid cold un-bottled drinks, raw meat, salads, and vegetables & fruit that have not been peeled.
How to not get 'td' in oaxaca
Montezuma's Revenge is a cheeky phrase for the common Traveler's Diarrhea or "TD" in Mexico. It is important to note that TD happens all over the world, not just in Mexico. In Oaxaca, it's often due to different microorganisms and types of food our bodies are not used to encountering. We eat and drink most everything in Oaxaca and have been fine when practicing preventative measures.~We highly recommend doing something to support your body's integration of new microorganisms before & during your time in Mexico. Here's some strategies that are widely used, we love oregano, although there are many other approaches:
- Ahead of your journey (a week to a few days) begin to take Oregano oil capsules (or A.D.P. emulsified oregano, which is softer on tummy), Apple Cider Vinegar tablets, and/or probiotic support. A fave is Saccharomyces Boulardii from Biotics Research Labs. Available online or at St. Francis Health Center in Santa Fe.
- Keep up the regime of support 1-2 x a day while in Oaxaca. Refer to label.
- If start to feel nausea or rumbly tummy, activated charcoal tablets help to detox. Take them independent of any other supplements and medication. Or take something else that helps with constipation and digestion. Refer to label.
while there...
- Start light and with things you are already used to eating, slowly introduce new foods.
- Do not over-eat. Try to pace yourself, especially in the beginning, to give your body a chance to recalibrate.
- In the markets, stick to fruits that are peeled, such as mango, pineapple, etc, and food that is cooked thoroughly in front of you.
- Vendors are usually very mindful about using purified water in their drinks and for washing vegetables and garnishes. But, if you are more sensitive or concerned about getting sick avoid cold un-bottled drinks, raw meat, salads, and vegetables & fruit that have not been peeled.
safety
TRAVEL ADVISORIES
Oaxaca state is (at time of writing) under an "exercise increased caution" advisory, as is most of the country. Since more people have been left without work due to pandemic-response shutdowns, Oaxaca centro has experienced slightly increased theft, but it is still considered a safe part of Mexico.
In general, you should feel safe in Oaxaca. It is important to stay attentive, just as you would in other places you’re exploring. It’s recommended to:
Oaxaca state is (at time of writing) under an "exercise increased caution" advisory, as is most of the country. Since more people have been left without work due to pandemic-response shutdowns, Oaxaca centro has experienced slightly increased theft, but it is still considered a safe part of Mexico.
In general, you should feel safe in Oaxaca. It is important to stay attentive, just as you would in other places you’re exploring. It’s recommended to:
- Always take a taxi late at night – Important* see section "getting around" below. Walking in very well lit streets with lots of people okay earlier in the evening. It’s not recommended to walk alone at night.
- Avoid using your cell phone on the street– This is one of the easiest ways to expose yourself to crime in Oaxaca. When thieves see this vulnerability, they have been reported to pull up beside on a moto. The passenger takes your phone from your hands and the driver speeds away before you’ve had time to contemplate what just happened. Instead, step inside the doorway of a business if you need to use your phone for a moment.
- Take precautions when using ATMs – Always withdraw money from an ATM during the day. Try to use ATMs within a bank. Stand-alone machines can be more easily manipulated with hacking devices. Do not carry much cash with you at any given time. You can also use a money belt.
- When in markets have your bag in front of you and in sight.
- Don’t flash valuables – It’s best to leave flashy jewelry and watches at home. Yes, you can wear jewelry in most places, just be sensible.
- Mind your alcohol intake – It can be easy to overindulge when you’re in an exciting new place and tasting strong mezcals (seriously, it can sneak up on you!) But it’s important to remain alert, especially when you may not know your surroundings well.
- Don’t leave drinks unattended – This is a safety rule everywhere in the world. And always a good reminder.
- If you are robbed, don’t resist – Violent robberies are rare in Oaxaca but it’s certainly not worth getting hurt over.
getting around
Renting a car is really not necessary and is more trouble than it's worth for most. The historic city center (el centro) is where most of our festivities will be taking place with group transportation arranged for anything outside that area. It is very walkable (*see SAFETY section above) and there is a high concentration of shops, museums, restaurants etc. in the centro. If going out of town, get a driver that way you will have a safe way home, they are reasonably priced. We can help if you need. It is considered safe to hail YELLOW taxis in the northern part of el centro. But to make sure you get an authorized driver some recommend the following:
- Use the app DiDi Rider (like Uber) there are also some Uber drivers in Oaxaca but its new
- Ask hotels or restaurants to call you a cab
- Call a taxi service, english speakers not guaranteed:
+52 951 511 2077 (Taxi Quinta Real)
+52 951 515 6575 (Taxi 5 Febrero) - Text a trusted taxi driver via WhatsApp. Many drivers will give you their card after you've ridden with them. Download WhatsApp and you can text them for free (data rates apply) to pick you up.
+52 951 398 8829 (personal number of Hugo Salazar, recommended by our wedding planner)
+52 951 425 7098 (personal number for Valentine, recommended by friends)
+52 951 425 7098 (personal number for Valentine, recommended by friends)
Money
Most banks impose a daily limit while you are traveling and/or freeze your card when used outside of the country. It is a good idea to call them and credit card companies and let them know your travel dates. Also understand foreign transaction fees for your cards. Mexican Pesos are the local currency. Sometimes abbreviated to MXN and also sometimes they use "$" confusingly. Currently the exchange is about USD x 18. A simpler conversion is to multiply USD by 20 to get an idea or divide MXN by 10, and then again by 2, although this will underestimate costs of things. There is an ATM at the airport and a cash conversion kiosk although we have found many times the rates are better to simply withdraw at ATMs. There are ATMs around where you can withdraw money, choose ones inside banks as the stand-alones can have foreign devices and steal your info. Most shops & restaurants in the centro take credit cards. It is wise not to walk around with too much cash on you and to instead withdraw when needed. It is also wise to leave a credit card or two in your hotel lockbox in case you lose one while out exploring. ~Having a dummy wallet and/or a money belt is a good idea, see SAFETY section above.
TIPPING
Like the hospitality industry in the US, many working in hospitality in Mexico make modest salaries and rely on tips to supplement. Generally here's some guidelines, see link below for more specifics:
-10-20% for restaurants and guides.
-Bars: leave about 20 pesos (~$1) per drink unless with a big crazy group, tip 10-15%.
-Taxis not necessary unless you want to round up to a whole number or they helped with your bag give them 20 pesos or so.
-20-50 pesos for the bellhop who helps with luggage, more if going up lots of stairs.
-About the same amount per night for housekeeping at your hotel.
See this guide for more info
TIPPING
Like the hospitality industry in the US, many working in hospitality in Mexico make modest salaries and rely on tips to supplement. Generally here's some guidelines, see link below for more specifics:
-10-20% for restaurants and guides.
-Bars: leave about 20 pesos (~$1) per drink unless with a big crazy group, tip 10-15%.
-Taxis not necessary unless you want to round up to a whole number or they helped with your bag give them 20 pesos or so.
-20-50 pesos for the bellhop who helps with luggage, more if going up lots of stairs.
-About the same amount per night for housekeeping at your hotel.
See this guide for more info
language
Oaxaca is a diverse state with 16 different indigenous languages spoken, although Spanish is common. It is estimated that about half of people speak Spanish as a second language after an indigenous language. English is also spoken widely in the historical center, albeit with limited vocabulary. It might be a good idea to have an app or little travel book if you don't have basic Spanish, but not necessary for exploring the centro.
tips for downloads:
- The Google Translate App is great, in addition to the classic search functions, you can scan menus, signs, etc in the app and it will translate them automatically for you.
- Word Reference App for more adventurous speakers. This gives you context on how to use words, regional use differences, all conjugations, etc. a great language app.
*download Spanish for offline translations when you don't have wifi or service
phone service
When dialing or texting a number in Mexico you must first put the country code: +52Most people in Oaxaca use WhatsApp to communicate via text. Free, but be up to date on your carriers data fees or use wifi.
Google Maps (or some similar map service) is very useful while exploring. Most phone companies allow data usage in Mexico either free or for a reasonable charge, but ask your carrier and get very clear about how to do this before leaving so you don't come home to a big bill or get caught unawares. Another option is to not use phone service and instead travel with your phone on airplane mode and use WiFi to communicate via WhatsApp and iMessage. Additionally, it is a good idea to download a google map of Oaxaca onto your phone so you can see where you are on the map without service or wifi. Oftentimes phone companies throttle service (slow it down after a data usage threshold's been surpassed) so it's good to have a backup. You are not able to search the map without WiFi or service, but can mark your hotel and other favorite spots ahead of time to see those and view your location.
Passports, visas, & Covid testing
(At time of writing) there are no Visa requirements to enter Mexico. A good rule of thumb is to make sure your passport will not expire within 3 months of entering a foreign country. Please check the US Dept. Of State's website for changes to this (unlikely) and for travel advisories. LEAVE YOUR PASSPORT IN A LOCKBOX OR SAFE PLACE where you're staying, not on your person while out exploring.
COVID TESTING
Currently there are no requirements for testing to enter Mexico or return to the US. We will be following the pandemic as we get closer and will update you of any changes in Mexico. We also suggest checking this page a couple months prior. Currently some places still require masks but that may change by October 2023. We chose outdoor venues for both the ceremony and reception to reduce the chances of cancellation & exposure, but also because the weather is lovely and so is nature. We will determine if testing is necessary for our event closer to the date.
Currently there are no requirements for testing to enter Mexico or return to the US. We will be following the pandemic as we get closer and will update you of any changes in Mexico. We also suggest checking this page a couple months prior. Currently some places still require masks but that may change by October 2023. We chose outdoor venues for both the ceremony and reception to reduce the chances of cancellation & exposure, but also because the weather is lovely and so is nature. We will determine if testing is necessary for our event closer to the date.
OUTLETS & ELECTRICITY
"The Mexico power outlet is Type A and Type B, which is the same type of plug used in the United States and Canada. The difference between Type A and Type B power plugs is simply the number of prongs [type A has two and type B has three]:
For this reason, it’s a good idea to [ask your accommodation if they have type B plugs if you need one for a hairdryer, let's say. ] ...[or] bring a plug Type B to Type A plug converter just in case the three hole electrical plugs in Mexico are not available. Additionally, you could also use a power strip.
Mexico Voltage and Frequency
The electricity in Mexico has a standard voltage of 127V and a standard frequency of 60 Hz, which is the same as the United States and Canada. This means that if your electronic device is made for use in North America, it will work normally in Mexican electrical plugs without needing a voltage converter. " more here
