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Oaxaca is a charming, walkable city known for its strong arts scene, rich culture, and affordability. Many reviewers praise it as an underrated destination for digital nomads, with reliable internet and plenty of work-friendly cafes. The food stands out as a top highlight, with multiple people citing it as the best in Mexico, especially local specialties like mole and mezcal. The city is also described as safe, peaceful, and family-friendly with plenty of child-focused amenities. Its small-town feel makes it highly livable, despite lacking big retail centers or malls.
There’s a vibrant social and creative atmosphere, thanks to its active arts and food scenes, rooftop dining spots, street art, and even local dance classes. The clean streets (with some exceptions) and affordable cost of living make Oaxaca appealing for long-term stays. However, several reviewers noted issues such as political protests occasionally blocking traffic and past problems with garbage collection. These issues didn’t significantly affect the overall experience, but are worth being aware of.
Overall, Oaxaca is highlighted as a highly livable, cultural, and budget-friendly city ideal for remote workers, families, and creatives alike.
AI-generated summary of reviews
Loved this city! It is not big although has great nightlife, coworkings, amazing streetart and is quite cheap. Although, when I visited in December 2021 they had problems with garbage removal.
3 years ago
Oaxaca is a charming little city full of history and culture. The internet here is strong and reliable and there is a cafe for work from seemingly on every street in El Centro. The food is by far the best in all of Mexico; be sure to try all seven different moles and find your favorite. The only minor downside is that there is are frequent political protests which often block the traffic outside the historical center. However, I never once felt unsafe there. Oaxaca is also the mezcal center of Mexico try "pechuga" which is distilled across a turkey imparting a distinctive umami flavor. I will definitely return to Oaxaca!
3 years ago
Oaxaca is probably the most underrated city for digital nomads in all of Mexico, or maybe I just stayed in the right neighborhood. I stayed in Jalatlaco, a foodie district and I can say that I am blown away by the experience staying in Oaxaca. Oaxaca is full or arts, artisans and creatives. It still has the small town feel but everywhere you look, theres art everywhere and these little piece of details brings a great touch of what could have been a regular town. It doesnt have any malls, but this place is highly livable and walkable. At night, there are salsa dance class in the neighborhood, coffee culture and did i say arts? Oaxaca is the most charming underrated city I have ever been in Mexico! I can easily see myself staying for 6 months in this place each year.
3 years ago
Oaxaca is one of a kind. It's a gorgeous city, incredible culture and the best mexican food around. It's cheap, clean, walkable and has quick wifi. I fell in love with this city. In my opinion, it has a Chiang Mai vibe except smaller and cleaner.
4 years ago
Oaxaca is magical! Tons of cute cafes, rooftop restaurants with gorgeous views of mountains and cathedrals, cheap, beautiful.
4 years ago
Oaxaca is a city of arts, in its style, vibe and people it attracts. It has a wonderfully peaceful and relaxed atmosphere. I was here for a few months and really enjoyed it. I am more a business type of guy but if I'd be more relaxed I could image spending a few years here.
5 years ago
I disagree greatly with Oaxaca not being family friendly in the pros and cons - it's extremely family friendly! There's a free children's Museum, a children's library, plenty of indoor play spaces, lovely playgrounds and the culture itself loves kids.
5 years ago