A Trip to Morelia

Hello, my fellow readers; I recently took my first trip to Morelia, and I wanted to share tidbits with you if you decide to visit.

I thought driving from Mexico City to Morelia would be a challenge; first, because I am terrified of Mexican highways and second, heading to an unknown place, but I was so wrong. The road was very relaxed, and I didn't feel unsafe at any moment. On our way to Morelia, we stopped for lunch at a barbacoa place called "El Carnalito," which loosely translates to "The Buddy." That was the best barbacoa I've ever had!  

After lunch, we continued our four-hour journey to the beautiful Hotel de la Soledad. We made it to Morelia on a Sunday evening. To my surprise, the streets were packed with people, teenagers with their skateboards and bikes, couples sharing snacks and holding hands, and every storefront open for business. 

The first thing that caught my eye was the stunning architecture of the 17th and 18th-century buildings surrounding the city, especially the famous aqueduct, known for its limestone construction and 253 arches. The aqueduct was built in 1785; this public infrastructure brought drinking water to the city during a two-year drought and provided work for the region's indigenous people. 

When we finally arrived at the hotel, I was awestruck at the beauty of the place. 

Hotel de la Soledad is a spectacular building with a lot of history. It has been in the hands of several owners throughout the years, and it has gone through several name changes. Most importantly, in 2016, Hotel de la Soledad underwent a complete redesign. They have become one of the best hotels in Morelia, with several international recognitions and awards. 

If you ever find yourself in Morelia, I highly recommend staying at Hotel de la Soledad. You will find that the hotel's location is within walking distance to many shops and restaurants. Here are some of the places you must try.

• Marogui, located inside Hotel de la Soledad. They serve delicious breakfasts, including chilaquiles and regional dishes. Their dinner menu offers a wide variety of dishes and flavors. Their Tarasca soup was by far one of the best soups I've ever had. 

• La Conspiración de 1809, located in Morelia's Historic Downtown. This place was once the home of one of the main conspirators that fought for Mexico's Independence. One of the best dishes I tried was the mole with guajolote (turkey), and their street corn appetizer was to die for!

• Visit "Elotes La Cerrada" to try delicious corn in a cup with all the fixings and sauces they offer. 

• Restaurante San Miguelito is an exciting restaurant; the decor and ambiance is colorful, filled with artisanal art and decorations everywhere you look. There's a room dedicated to St.Anthony with about 700 statues of the Saint. The interesting part is that all the statues are turned upside down. In Latin American culture, it is said that by turning St.Anthony upside down, you can ask him to help you find true love. IDK about all that! But what I can tell you is that the food there is outstanding! The one thing you must try is their avocado water. And no, it doesn't taste like avocado. It is a refreshing drink with chili powder on the rim. 

My trip was very memorable; I can't wait to return and continue tasting the dishes and flavors Morelia offers. 

 Have you ever been to Morelia? If so, let me know what places you recommend!