Chaya B&B: A charming oasis in Mexico City's bustling Downtown
Prior to traveling to a big city, like Mexico City with the littles, it was about viewing this trip as discovering the world through their eyes. I have lists for every city that I have been, and plan on visiting, labeled with everything from must see art pieces, to restaurants and bars, and mouthwatering bakeries. I knew that we would be walking for majority of this trip, while utilizing UBER, when need be. The joy of bringing the little ones on these adventures, is of course being able to show them the beauty of travel, new cultures, cuisines, and the like. I also do realize that if something on ‘the list’ doesn’t get checked off on this trip, there will more than likely be a second, or even third visit back. This post marks our first series for family travel in Mexico City.
Giovanni is at that age where you will most likely get 20 questions about how long a certain flight will be, or how come he can’t eat copious amounts of sugar, after he takes a bite of something “healthy”. Camila on the other hand, is just now stringing sentences together, and appreciates anything with color that captures her eye, or then again anything that her brother is currently holding onto.
Before even leaving the airport in Tijuana, I knew that Mexico City with the littles would be a one of a kind adventure, and indeed it was that and more. As a family, we had an incredible time, and these two were in awe by it for the entirety of the trip.
We touched down in Mexico City, and grabbed an UBER, to our home for the next few nights, Chaya B&B Boutique. We strolled through Alameda Central, with luggage in hand, and headed straight for the entrance to the Barrio Alameda building where Chaya B&B is located. As soon as you enter, a beautifully lit indoor courtyard greets you with boutique stores, ice cream and coffee shops, and even a mezcal bar. I knew that we would be back down, to explore every corner of this space, and of course dine on some bites, so up the flight of stairs we went, to check into our digs. We were immediately greeted with a smile, and shown down the outdoor deck to our room. Strands of twinkle lights, free hanging hammocks, bright white paint, and overflowing amounts of greenery lead you to your door. We walked into the minimally furnished, gorgeous room, set with crisp white bed linens, warm wooden interior touches, and even a little coloring area setup for the kids. We set down our belongings, and stepped out to discover the communal dining area, and little gift shop on property. Breakfast is included in your stay, which varies from chilaquiles, baked egg dishes, fresh fruit, and assorted pan dulce. For a bit later in the day, they offer a ‘Happy Hour’, with cocktails, as well as Valle de Guadalupe wine, craft beers, and mezcal for your enjoyment. The whole space is truly special, and I love the entire design aesthetic behind it. You will notice one of a kind pieces from travels, that represent the true beauty of Mexico
First things first, as the late afternoon greeted our rumbling stomachs, we jetted back outside to grab some tacos al pastor. You know, when in Mexico City. Chaya is located just a short two minute walk from the stunning Palacio de Bellas Artes. Giovanni pointed in awe, and asked when we could step inside. That will come later on in this series of family travel posts. It’s so serene to be able walk down a tree lined park, let alone have these gorgeous monuments on the way to grabbing food.
We strolled into ‘El Huequito’, and ordered tacos faster than we could blink. I don’t think I’ve ever seen the kids inhale tacos quite like that. We couldn’t go without ordering the ‘especial.’ Al pastor pork piled high, drenched in salsa, and served with several tortillas. I still think about those every day.
We walked around the surrounding areas, but decided to tuck back into Chaya before the sun began to set. It was the perfect opportunity to let the littles unwind, cruising the little outdoor areas, and asking to be lifted in and out of the hammocks countless times. We grabbed the little bistro table right next to our room, Antonio poured himself a mezcal, and I enjoyed a glass of wine. With views of the beautiful mustard colored surrounding buildings, the sounds of the city, and the twinkling of the lights, it truly was a great way to spend our first night in Mexico City.
Chaya B&B Boutique
Doctor Mora #9, Barrio Alameda's 3rd Floor
Col. Centro, Del. Cuauhtémoc, C.P 06050
México D.F.
Tel. +52155129074
info@chayabnb.com