Oaxaca, Mexico | Pug Seal
Luxury Family Travel in Oaxaca:
A Parent’s Getaway at Pug Seal Hotel
When you’re parents of two, the idea of a quick escape feels almost like a luxury in itself. For our recent trip, we chose Pug Seal Oaxaca, a boutique hotel that perfectly blends history, design, and warmth. We stayed for three nights and four days, and it turned out to be the ideal balance of rest, exploration, and indulgence.
Why Pug Seal Oaxaca Was Our Perfect Choice
Located right in the heart of the city, Pug Seal Oaxaca puts you within walking distance of the main attractions — the cathedral, the botanical garden, traditional cobblestone streets, and the best restaurants in the center. The hotel itself is a beautifully restored old house, where colonial architecture meets modern design. We loved how every hallway had its own charm, with vibrant colors, cozy corners, and eclectic details that made the space feel both luxurious and homey. Our room was sleek and modern yet warm — the kind of place where you can actually relax after a day of exploring.
Must-Visit: Jardín Etnobotánico de Oaxaca
One of Oaxaca’s treasures is the Jardín Etnobotánico, and trust me, it’s worth prioritizing. Unlike a typical park, you can only visit on a guided group tour (tickets must be purchased in advance). The tours last about one hour, and they’re surprisingly engaging, even if you’re not a plant expert.
The garden showcases the incredible diversity of plants native to Oaxaca and explains their cultural, medicinal, and ecological importance. You’ll see everything from towering cacti to delicate flowers, and the greenhouse inside is a highlight: lush, peaceful, and beautifully curated.
Of course, one of the most famous photo spots is the mirror pathway framed by tall cacti. It’s the shot everyone wants for Instagram, but be prepared: time is limited, and if the group is crowded, it’s hard to get that “perfect” picture. Still, even with a bit of chaos, the beauty of the garden makes the visit more than worthwhile. It’s a place that combines aesthetic beauty with cultural depth, and it left us with a deeper appreciation for Oaxaca’s natural heritage.
Dining Experiences in Oaxaca (Parent Heaven!)
If there’s one thing Oaxaca guarantees, it’s unforgettable food and staying at Pug Seal made it easy to experience the best of the best:
Casa Oaxaca: A must-visit restaurant for traditional Oaxacan flavors elevated to fine dining. Walking there from the hotel made our night feel effortless.
Levadura de Olla: Known for its tomato salad with nearly eight local varieties, this spot celebrates seasonal, regional ingredients.
Boulenc: A legendary bakery and café directly across the street from the hotel, a major win since the lines can get long if you arrive late.
Criollo: One of our absolute favorites of the trip. We went for lunch and were blown away by the vibe, the flavors, and the soulful cooking.
Exploring Oaxaca Together
The city itself feels like it was designed for strolling. Colorful houses, artisanal textiles, catrinas, and street life create a constant sense of discovery. Every walk brought us something new, whether it was a tucked-away gallery, a market stall, or a street performance.
Though this was a “mom and dad getaway”, we couldn’t help but notice how family-friendly Oaxaca is compared to other destinations like San Miguel de Allende. The streets are flatter, the spaces wider, and many of the restaurants are single-story houses, making them easier to navigate with a stroller. It’s definitely a destination we’d return to with the kids.
Final Thoughts
Our stay at Pug Seal Oaxaca was more than a hotel experience; it was the perfect backdrop for reconnecting, exploring, and indulging. If you’re looking for a getaway that combines luxury, culture, and authenticity, this is the place to be.
Whether you’re planning a romantic escape or thinking of bringing the kids along, Oaxaca offers the perfect mix of tradition, design, and modern comfort. And Pug Seal makes it all feel like home.
