During my recent immersive week-long journey to Mexico City, I had the extraordinary opportunity to delve into the vibrant tapestry of sustainable and community-driven tourism facilitated by six businesses participating in a newly launched Tourism Recovery Programme. This initiative, spearheaded by the collaborative efforts of TUI Care Foundation and enpact, has been instrumental in providing support and mentorship to local enterprises, aiming to revive the tourism sector in the aftermath of the pandemic.
The range of experiences offered by these businesses, all recipients of the programme’s backing, highlighted the program’s commitment to promoting small-scale, sustainable travel and fostering impactful connections with local communities. From organic-only wine bars to agricultural excursions and tours infused with indigenous cultural perspectives, it became evident that the positive impact of the programme was palpable.
Engaging with passionate business owners, each with their own narrative and unique offerings, reinforced the transformative power of travel. As I delved into the ethos of these enterprises, it became clear that they were not merely providers of services; they were catalysts for positive change, weaving narratives of sustainability, cultural preservation, and community empowerment.
While some businesses specialize in day trips within Mexico City, others, like Trueke, demonstrated a comprehensive understanding of the country, curating tailor-made itineraries that seamlessly blend iconic attractions with authentic, traditional experiences. For those contemplating a journey to Mexico City, these enterprises beckon as potential contributors to an enriching travel experience, promising to imbue your trip with joy and meaningful connections.
Unveiling the Tourism Recovery Programme
At the heart of this transformative endeavor is the Tourism Recovery Programme, a collaborative venture between TUI Care Foundation and enpact. TUI Care Foundation, distinct from the well-known TUI Holidays, brings its expertise in sustainable tourism, while enpact, a Berlin-based organization, specializes in nurturing entrepreneurs and supporting ecosystem growth.
The programme extends its support through networking opportunities, mentorships, and training, providing essential tools for local operators to navigate the challenges of the ‘post-pandemic’ world. Beyond skill development, the programme has infused vitality into these enterprises by offering an initial financial boost of €9000, courtesy of GIZ, a German development agency commissioned by the German Federal Ministry for International Cooperation and Development. This financial injection aimed to alleviate the immediate impact of the pandemic on tourism companies, allowing them to weather the storm while simultaneously nurturing their long-term capabilities and expanding into new markets through mentorship, training, and networking initiatives.
For a more in-depth exploration of the Tourism Recovery Programme, you can find additional information here.
Embarking on Gastronomic and Cultural Journeys
Cacti Cuisine, Touring the Nopal Route with Ruta Páak’am
While many businesses in the programme had a pre-existing presence in the tourism or volunteer space, the Ruta Páak’am team took a distinctive approach. Rooted in product production, the Nopal (Prickly Pear Cactus) cooperative, led by Alfonso, invites travelers to venture beyond the usual tourist paths and immerse themselves in a full-day itinerary of gastronomy and culture along the Nopal Route.
The journey commences at a newly constructed facility where an expert in cacti provides insights into this unique plant species, focusing particularly on edible Nopals. Language barriers are effortlessly overcome with the provision of a translator. Participants have the opportunity to personally harvest and prepare the plants, culminating in a family-style cooked meal featuring delicious Nopal-based dishes.
The tour encompasses visits to a Mole factory in a renowned production town and a spiritual ceremony within the crater of an extinct volcano, offering a rich tapestry of experiences that extends beyond conventional tourism boundaries.
Trueke, Tours with a Community Twist
Trueke Tours, founded by Karen Steiner, embodies a commitment to balancing iconic attractions with local, community-focused experiences. Karen’s background in an NGO supporting communities affected by natural disasters has facilitated extensive connections across the country, enabling Trueke to craft multi-day itineraries that provide a deeper, more intimate exploration of Mexico.
Despite having only a day trip arranged with Trueke, the experience remained true to their promise. A morning balloon flight over the ancient Teotihuacan pyramids was followed by an immersion into a small village. In a personal encounter, I enjoyed a home-cooked meal in the living room of Ericka and her husband Rafaela, providing a glimpse into the authenticity and intimacy that defines Trueke’s tours.
While my itinerary couldn’t accommodate a Temazcal ceremony – a traditional sweating ceremony in an igloo-shaped lodge – due to pandemic-related restrictions, it hinted at the profound cultural experiences woven into Trueke’s offerings.
Seeking Another Side of the City with Manos a la Tierra
Founded by Mayra Jiménez, Manos a la Tierra initially operated as an NGO focused on conservation and ecological projects. Recently expanding into tourism, the organization sees this dual engagement as a win-win. Travelers connect with nature and communities, while the funds raised from tours expedite the expansion of conservation initiatives.
My day trip with Manos a la Tierra offered a unique perspective on Xochimilco, a UNESCO-listed site known for its colorful trajineras boats and historic significance as agricultural land. Venturing into the Protected Natural Area of San Gregorio Atlapulco, I witnessed the ancient Chinampa technique, where floating gardens served as farmland. In the company of David, a Chinampa farmer, I learned about this historic farming method dating back to the Aztecs, navigated serene canals, and marveled at migratory birds soaring above the lakes.
Exploring Local Flavors with Sabores Mexico Food Tours & Loup Bar
Mexico’s gastronomy is renowned globally for its richness and diversity. Sabores Mexico Food Tours, guided by the enthusiastic Grace, offers three distinct half-day tours in Mexico City, each dedicated to savoring the city’s culinary treasures. Traversing the Colonia Roma neighborhood, known for its grand buildings and intriguing history, the tour focuses on small, inventive cafes and restaurants showcasing lesser-known, regional cuisine.
Accompanying this culinary journey is Loup Bar, another beneficiary of the Tourism Recovery Programme. Situated in Roma, this intimate venue boasts an organic wine menu featuring local Mexican reds, sparkling Italian wines, and imports from the country of Georgia. The food menu complements the wine selection, emphasizing organic and eco-friendly ingredients, spanning from traditional Mexican staples to French-inspired fare.
Finding Respite in Creative Abodes – Casa Jacinta
Nestled in the artistic enclave of Coyoacán, Casa Jacinta, a boutique guest house, radiates the creative spirit permeating the neighborhood. Operated by a family of artists encompassing painters, writers, and sculptors, the guest house not only provides a tranquil retreat but also reinvests profits into supporting local artisans.
A brief sojourn in Casa Jacinta became an immersion into the artistic ambiance of Coyoacán. From modern, art-adorned rooms to a verdant garden ideal for reading, the guest house epitomized a serene sanctuary after explorations in the bustling city.
In conclusion, my exploration of these businesses participating in the Tourism Recovery Programme unveiled a tapestry of experiences that transcended traditional tourism paradigms. From gastronomic journeys and cultural immersions to intimate encounters with local communities, each enterprise demonstrated a commitment to sustainable practices and community impact. As these businesses navigate the post-pandemic landscape with the support of the programme, they not only contribute to the revitalization of Mexico City’s tourism but also embody the transformative potential of travel in fostering positive change.
