Querétaro is home to about 1 million people, and is just 3 hours northwest of Mexico city and has its own airport. (I flew ORD-IAH to QTO.) It’s also Mexico’s second-largest wine producing region and a great spot for solo travel. Querétaro is known for pink stone streets and beautiful historic monuments. Here are 5 reasons Querétaro should be on your travel bucket list and when to go.
Otehlia Travels
Cultivating one-of-a-kind
travel experiences that build community through culinary & cultural immersion
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Otehlia Travels offers one-of-a-kind small group travel experiences and travel planning services that support local communities and inspire real, cross-cultural connection. Our hosted trips are organized by Otehlia Travels, and work directly with local licensed tour guides, businesses, restaurateurs, and transportation services in each country, focusing on women-owned businesses and industries. Our focus is on strengthening our communities through immersive culinary and cultural experiences that take you off the tourist trail. What adventure is calling your name?
Off menu mexico City
Oct 1-7, 2026
Experience not-just-touristy food and culture in and around Mexico City with local guides! Women only, 8 spots
Día de Muertos, Oaxaca
Oct 29-Nov 5, 2026
Experience Día de Muertos with locals, plus more of Oaxaca! Co-ed, 8 spots
OFF Menu OAxaca, Mexico
Nov 18-23, 2026
Our original Oaxaca tour for women only featuring the food and culture of Oaxaca. 10 spots
Oaxaca Women’s Wellness
Nov 24-29, 2026
It’s Friendsgiving! Spend Thanksgiving with other women and explore the beauty of Oaxaca while nurturing your spirit. Women only, 6 spots
Off menu Puerto Rico
April 15-23, 2027
On this small group trip you will get to know the gorgeous, and less tourist-filled center of the island. This is the “real” Puerto Rico, nestled among coffee farms, lush mountains, waterfalls, local agriculture and yes, even a vineyard! Optional San Juan extension to enjoy the coastal classics – beaches, history and rainforest.
oFF MENU Costa Rica
May 28-June 6, 2027
Most people travel to the Pacific side of Costa Rica, but what about the Caribbean side? You’ll encounter stunning pristine beaches, sunrises and sunsets, macaws flying overhead, and cultural influences from the Indigenous, Afro- Caribbean and Hispanic communities. The food and cultural richness is like no other!
We do all the things…
On a food tour you expect to enjoy your sense of taste. Otehlia made sure all senses were heightened! The smells of food, beach, jungle. The sights: lush plants, lovely water, animals particularly the fish when snorkeling. The sound of the birds, waves, sea breeze, even a howler monkey! Not only eating the local food, helping make it while learning about the culture behind it. Super fun tour! SO glad I went!
Julia P.
Recent Blog Posts
Here are 6 top places and hidden gems to explore around Jayuya, Puerto Rico. From white sand beaches to lush mountains and stunning waterfalls, and from vineyards to coffee farms, there is so much to explore. Jayuya is a great starting point, central on the island and close to all of these must visit spots.
Here are three tourist activities I recommend doing in Mexico City (and how to make the most of your visit.) Sometimes popular tourist attractions are not worth the hype – or are overcrowded. But knowing when and how to enjoy them can make all the difference! Also, what isn’t the right activity for someone may end up being your favorite experience. Here are my recommendations.
But one thing I often realize, is that when I’m home in the US, I feel in a state of heightened anxiety, and social media constantly reminds me of the dangers of travel, regardless of what is actually happening. I try to limit news and just … be. The same goes when I travel. I make decisions based on research, with the intent to be safe and aware. And then I go with an open mind, faith and a belief that generally people all over the world are curious, goodhearted and want connection and conversation.
