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Meeting and City Guide
IBA Annual Conference Mexico City 2024 September 15-20, 2024
Welcome to Mexico City There are few places in the world like Mexico City, where the echoes of long-ago history harmonize with the pulsating energy of modern life. Originally established by the Aztecs in 1325 as Tenochtitlan, this metropolis has evolved into a dynamic cultural hub, seamlessly intertwining Aztec heritage, colonial allure and contemporary vitality. Strolling through the city’s streets, you can see the Templo Mayor as it stands in silent homage alongside the Metropolitan Cathedral and sleek skyscrapers. The historic Zocalo, the beating heart of the city, serves as a living testament to its profound history, and the lively neighborhoods of Polanco, Roma and Condesa feature a wealth vibrant cafes, upscale dining and chic boutiques that mirror the city’s effervescent spirit. Mexico City’s cultural landscape offers a treasure trove of places to see, touch and experience the surrounding history and culture. Among the more than 150 museums are the world-renowned National Museum of Anthropology, the intimate Frida Kahlo Museum and the cutting-edge Museo Jumex. Don’t miss the chance to immerse yourself in the richness of local traditions, music and culinary delights, which combine to create an exhilarating experience for visitors seeking a perfect blend of history, culture and excitement.
Arts and Entertainment Events Mexico, a land rich in history, culture and art, boasts a diverse array of arts and entertainment events that captivate locals and visitors alike. From ancient traditions to contemporary exhibitions, the country’s artistic tapestry reflects its vibrant heritage and creative spirit.
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CASTILLO AND BOSQUE DE CHAPULTEPEC: Bosque de Chapultepec, also known as the lungs of Mexico City, is another sight you shouldn’t omit from your Mexico City itinerary, as actively exploring this vast forest is highly encouraged. Filled to the brim with top museums, the Castillo de Chapultepec is a particular highlight – once the backdrop for scenes in “Romeo + Juliet,” it is now a humble Museo Nacional de Historia and former royal residence.
MONUMENTO A LOS NIÑOS HÉROES FRIDA KAHLO EXHIBITION: As the birthplace of the iconic artist Frida Kahlo, Mexico pays tribute to her indomitable spirit through exhibitions that showcase her art and life. Museums such as the Museo Frida Kahlo, also known as Casa Azul, offer a glimpse into the world of this enigmatic painter. MUSEO SOUMAYA: Named after founder Carlos Slim’s late wife, Soumaya Domit, the Museo Soumaya (Plaza Carso) is a glittering architectural treat amid unremarkable business blocks in the center of Polanco. Rising from the ground like a silver geometric dream, it’s filled with plenty of artwork from the European Old Masters and even has some 20th-century Mexican pieces.
MUSEO NACIONAL DE ANTROPOLOGÍA: Although the Museo Nacional de Antropología is also located in the aforementioned Bosque de Chapultepec, it more than deserves an entry of its own – given that it’s Mexico’s most-visited tourist attraction. Housing a truly jaw-dropping number of artifacts, relics and temporary exhibits related to the Mesoamerican history of Mexico, it will leave everyone from history buffs to the casual observer impressed. PIRÁMIDES DE TEOTIHUACÁN: Located just outside the city in the state of Mexico, the mysterious Pirámides de Teotihuacán are accessible and impressive. Climb the Pyramids of the Sun and the Moon, then marvel over the lengthy Avenue of the Dead – but don’t forget to bring water and sunblock.
MONUMENTO A LA REVOLUCIÓN: If you wander down Paseo de la Reforma at any point in your Mexico City visit, which you should, you’re bound to stumble across the Monumento a la Revolución. This towering triumphal arch – the largest in the world – houses the remains of Mexican Revolutionaries Pancho Villa and Lázaro Cárdenas, as well as a viewpoint and excellently curated museum.
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Museums Mexico City is home to some of the world’s most historic and culturally significant museums – more than 150 in all – featuring works in a range of mediums from some of the most accomplished artists and artisans.
SOUMAYA MUSEUM www.museosoumaya.org/ One of the most iconic museums in Mexico City, with the largest private collection by Auguste Rodin.
MUSEO NACIONAL DE ANTROPOLOGÍA www.mna.inah.gob.mx/ The current headquarters of the National Museum of Anthropology was inaugurated on Sept. 17, 1964, and for more than five decades has fulfilled the mission of researching, conserving, exhibiting and disseminating the most important archaeological and ethnographic collections in the country. Since its inception, this icon of urban architecture of the 20th century was designed to be more than a repository, but also a space for reflection on the rich indigenous heritage of our multicultural nation.
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CASTILLO DE CHAPULTEPEC https://mnh.inah.gob.mx/ The history of the museum dates back to 1825, the year in which the first president of Mexico, Guadalupe Victoria, ordered the formation of the first National Museum. Its history continues on Dec. 4, 1865, when Emperor Maximilian of Habsburg decreed the creation of the so-called Public Museum of Natural History, Archaeology and History, based in the old Mint. In 1867, this museum was divided into four sections: Natural History, Antiques, History and Art. By 1890, the History section already had five rooms, divided into: Franciscans, Viceroys, Cortes, Conquest and Independence. In 1910, the Natural History collections were separated to form the newly opened Natural History Museum on Chopo Street. Later, in February 1939, President Lázaro Cárdenas, ordered that the historic Castle of Chapultepec become the headquarters of the National Museum of History. Work on readapting the building to incorporate between its walls and columns one of the richest and varied collections of the enormous cultural heritage of our country lasted five years, until the museum opened its doors to publicize the history and art of Mexico on Sept. 27, 1944.
Restaurants If you are looking for restaurants that offer not only a spectacular meal, but breathtaking views of landscapes and vistas, then Mexico City is the place for you.
LING LING MEXICO BY HAKKASAN A sophisticated restaurant located inside the Hotel St. Regis, in a skyscraper with terrace, where Asian food, sushi and cocktails are served. TOLEDO ROOFTOP https://toledorooftop.com This is one of the coolest rustic rooftops in La Juárez, ideal for the best selfies amid plants and wooden tables. Under the bamboo, the sound of colliding glasses mixes with the rays of the sun illuminating frozen rosé wine bottles. Our waiters are enthusiastic for you to spend the best possible time with friends and family or as a couple. In the kitchen, our chef executes the “Bajamed” menu – created by Oscar Valdez, who was inspired by Mediterranean cultures and Asian influences – without overlooking our great Mexican cuisine.
NUEVE NUEVE RESTAURANT www.nuevenueve.com.mx/galeria Fancy Mexican cuisine. ROSANEGRA https://rosanegra.com.mx/es#mod_ concepto-HOME RosaNegra Restaurant is a space that radiates freedom and serves as a tribute to Latin American cuisine. Gastronomic traditions from countries such as Peru, Argentina, Colombia, Brazil and, of course, Mexico, make the menu an eclectic combination with authentic and daring flavors. The architecture is designed and decorated in a unique style by architect Jorge Borja, winner of the Versailles Architecture Prize 2017 awarded by UNESCO. The resident DJ livens up and complements the festive yet sophisticated atmosphere through the mix of contemporary music with Latin touches that he selects every night.
TERRAZA GRAN HOTEL https://granhoteldelaciudaddemexico.com.mx/es/terraza The restaurant and bar La Terraza Gran Hotel offers the most spectacular panoramic view of the historic center, as well as diverse and delicious options of authentic Mexican cuisine with a variety of national meat cuts. www.hklaw.com | 5
Bars Whether you’re in the mood for the simplest cerveza or the most elegant wine, Mexico City has a wealth of drinking establishments that feature something for every taste and style.
WINE BAR BY CMB www.winebarbycmb.com/ For producers, professionals and wine lovers, the Wine Bar by CMB offers a space for exploration and meeting. Periodically, the venue coordinates tastings, master classes and promotional events on regions around the world that allow you to learn trends, styles and labels. MAISON ARTEMISIA www.maisonartemisia.com An elegant and contemporary bar with live music, wormwood, mezcal and a menu of classic and creative cocktails. LICORERÍA LIMANTUR https://limantour.tv Legendary cocktail bar offering drinks and snacks in an elegant two-story terrace space.
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CARLOTA REFORMA www.ritzcarlton.com/es/hotels/mexrz-theritz-carlton-mexico-city/dining The new Sky Bar in Mexico City, where art and luxury merge in a timeless and exclusive place with iconic city and Chapultepec Castle views from the 38th floor. Our mixology proposal with signature cocktails invites you to discover a unique concept, while the rhythm of the music will connect you with endless stories. CASA PRUNES, BAR DE COCTELERÍA www.instagram.com/casaprunes Probably the bars attended by F. Scott Fitzgerald, Ernest Hemingway or Ezra Pound were like this: armchairs and velvet periqueras, super-elegant glassware designed for each drink and, in the background, the bar from where mixólogas prepare your drinks. This vibe will make you feel like you’re in the 1920s due in part to the fact that Casa Prunes is located in the house of the same name and was built in 1916, so the art deco style is maintained.
Cultural Experiences Mexico City’s mix of heritage and historical significance makes it home to a wealth of cultural events that celebrate a wide range of passions.
PUEBLA, CHOLULA & TONANTZINTLA https://discoverpuebla.net/cholula-mexicotravel-guide/ Cholula is a city and district located in the metropolitan area of Puebla, Mexico. Cholula is best known for its Great Pyramid, with the Iglesia de Nuestra Señora de los Remedios sanctuary on top, as well as its numerous churches. The city itself is divided into 18 neighborhoods or barrios, each with a patron saint.
GALERÍA OSCAR ROMÁN www.galeriaoscarroman.mx EL ZOCALO https://mexicocity.cdmx.gob.mx/ venues/plaza-de-la-constitucion-thezocalo/?lang=es
XOCHIMILCO www.fodors.com/world/mexico-andcentral-america/mexico/mexico-city/ experiences/news/a-complete-guide-tovisiting-mexico-citys-xochimilco This is a pleasant walk through the most touristy area, where you will find a festive atmosphere, live music, food and drinks. In addition to observing Xochimilca customs, you will be able to experience beautiful green landscapes and cordial treatment.
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