Where to Buy My Book in Mexico City

                                   NOW AVAILBLE AT 

                                UNDER THE VOLCANO BOOKS
                                               CELAYA 25
                                        COLONIA CONDESA 
                       Open Monday through Saturday, 11am to 6pm
                                 http://underthevolcanobooks.com

Art Galleries Unite in San Miguel Chapultepec

Much has been written about the burgeoning contemporary art scene in Mexico, but it can sometimes be frustratingly hard to find. Art galleries are scattered around the city, and there is no comprehensive gallery guide. 

Several annual international art fairs have helped raise the ante, especially Zona MACO and The Material Art Fair, both of which include galleries from all over the world. 

And now, in a rare show of solidarity, several galleries and assorted art spaces in San Miguel Chapultepec are hosting concurrent openings this Saturday, April 25. This neighborhood has been gaining strength as the 'Mini-Chelsea of Mexico City', especially since the appearance a few years ago of the ultra-hip Kurimanzutto Gallery.

Calling itself the Ruta de Gallerias, the event includes such other notables as Galería Nina Menocal, Galería de Arte Mexicano, and the Casa Luís Barragán. For a full program and a map (of dubious quality, but it will get you around) see their website.

           http://www.rutadegalerias.com

ABOVE IT ALL: Rooftop Venues in Mexico City

The third edition of my guidebook 'Mexico City: An Opinionated Guide for the Curious Traveler' will be out later this week…you'll be hearing from me about that soon. Meanwhile, I will be posting excerpts from the new edition here. Here's the first installment. 

ABOVE IT ALL: Rooftop Venues in Mexico City

With street life being so intense, it can be a great relief to head upwards and relax in a rooftop bar or restaurant, many of which afford spectacular views of the city.

Several restaurants overlook the colonial splendor of the Zócalo, Mexico City’s massive main plaza. Try Puro Corazón (Monte de Piedad 11, 6th floor), or Restaurant El Mayor (Republica de Argentina 15, corner of Justo Serra) where you can contemplate the remains of the Templo Mayor.

Sears Café (across from the Palacio de Bellas Artes) On the 8th floor of art-deco Sears store you’ll find a small café with a balcony overlooking the Palacio and its lovely manicured gardens.

Isabel la Católica 30, Located in a smartly remodeled colonial building, this new complex includes the Hotel Downtown & several restaurants and shops. The top floor terrace is a great place for a drink; you can use the pool for the price of a drink.

Miralto (41st floor of the Torre Latinoamericana.) This is as high as you can get in the Centro for a drink or a meal. On a clear day the views are astounding.

Hotel Condesa DF (Avenida Veracruz at Parque España, Colonia Condesa), the chic and trendy rooftop terrace is a great place for a drink, especially in March when the jacaranda trees are in bloom.

Bellini (Word Trade Center, Colonia Napoles) is the city’s only revolving restaurant. It’s tacky, but fun.