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PUEBLA
With over 3,000,000 people, Puebla is Mexico’s fourth largest city in population. Puebla has been declared a Patrimony of Humanities City by the UN due do the exquisite intricacy in house, mansion, and church construction.
LOCATION:
At an elevation of 7,000 feet, Puebla is located 80 MI east of Mexico City.
HISTORY:
Puebla City was founded by the Spanish in 1531. Puebla was the first colony to have a glass factory and textile mill and the second to have a hospital. Wealth came to Puebla in the way of ceramics and tile, still in evidence today. Talavera ceramic was brought to Spain by the Moors in the 8th century and has remained a practice, and tradition, ever since. Several military defeats have been evident here. First by the Americans in 1847 and then by the French in 1862. But perhaps the most important, and most remembered, is when over two thousand Mexicans conquered a French army over three times its size, in 1862. The date of this feat, May 5, is celebrated every year with a spectacular fiesta, as well as being a national holiday. Puebla was also one of the cities that Pope John Paul II chose to visit in his on his tour of Mexico in 1978.
WEATHER:
Generally Puebla sees mild, spring like temperatures all year round.
ACCOMMODATIONS:
Accommodations range from luxurious to simple in Puebla. The Hotel Camino Real Puebla offers deluxe rooms with antique art, elegant d?or and amenities such as a jewelry store, travel agency, car rental outlet, and a business center. The majority of hotels have at least one restaurant and many include a lobby bar. Expect rates to range from US$52 to US$300. All hotels accept major credit cards.
RESTAURANTS:
Hotels generally have a restaurant located on the premises; the one at the Meson Sacristia de la Compania comes highly recommended. Dining establishments are pretty typical, with a few gourmet places to choose from. For those unaccustomed to Mexican foods, there is a Sanborn’s and a VIP in town.
NIGHTLIFE:
Expect to find mariachis playing daily at the Plaza de Santa Ines as well as live music at the Plaza de los Sapos. Around this plaza you will find a few popular bars and restaurants. At La Batalla there is a live rock band that plays every weekend, expect to see patron dancing in the aisles and in between tables. There are a few dance clubs in Puebla, but the majority are located away from the downtown area, El Zoo being the most popular disco. The majority of the clubs charge a cover charge, which is usually around US$3-$5.
SHOPPING:
Since Puebla is home to Talavera ceramics, you’re likely to find an abundance of shops and store selling this pottery, which can get pretty expensive. There are several stores that carry traditional handicrafts and gifts as well as some shops selling foods, clothing and everyday essential items. A few of the hotels have small boutiques and gift stores located in side.
CUISINE:
Restaurants in Puebla offer an eclectic mix of cuisine, however the most abundant is regional, such as the famous mole, green poblano chili as well as various sweets. You will come across several restaurants offering Mexican, Italian, and even Japanese cuisine.
SERVICES:
Banks: Bank hours are generally 9am to 5pm, Monday to Saturday as are money exchange desks. The majority of banks have 24 hour ATM’s.
Internet: The Cyber Caf?offers access for approximately US$3 per hour.
Transportation: Puebla is teeming with taxicabs and public buses. Buses run from 6am to 11pm and cost just US$0.30 per ride. Due to a noise and pollution ordinance, to protect historic buildings, buses don’t run in the streets nearest the plaza. Taxis are available at hotels, taxi stands or by flagging them down.
SURROUNDING AREA:
Cholula: Approximately 10 minutes, 15 km, away from Puebla, Cholula used to be a large city as well as the religious capital of Mexico. The Pyramid of Cholula, the largest in the world, covers forty-six acres of ground.
Tlaxcala: This small city, capital of the state of Tlaxcala, is located 30 km north of Puebla. Once a prosperous city, it has largely been passed by in the way of development. However, it has been restored to its original colonial splendor. Tlaxcala offers a laid back, relaxing atmosphere. |
