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Casa de Chiles 15 Sep 2010

16Apr

I only have 100 pesos

In a city known for its vibrant energy, endless shopping options, and constant movement, a different kind of consumer experience is quietly redefining how people buy, sell, and connect. This April 2026, the beloved bazaar “I only have 100 pesos” returns to Mexico City, proving that creativity, community, and style do not need to come with a high price tag.

More than just a market, this event has become a cultural phenomenon — a small but powerful act of resistance against excessive consumption. In a world where value is often measured by cost, this bazaar proposes a radical idea: everything available costs 100 pesos or less.

A bazaar where ingenuity matters more than money

“Solo Tengo $100 Pesitos” — which translates to I Only Have 100 Pesos — is not simply a catchy name. It reflects a philosophy. The project was born from the desire to make design, art, and unique objects accessible to everyone, regardless of budget.

After more than a decade of evolving across different cities in Mexico, the bazaar has found fertile ground in Mexico City. Its return to CDMX feels inevitable, fueled by a growing community of independent designers, small entrepreneurs, and curious visitors who believe that an object’s worth is not determined solely by its price.

At a time when personal finances demand creativity and conscious decision-making, the bazaar offers an alternative form of consumption — one that embraces intention without sacrificing aesthetics or individuality.

A universe of discoveries under 100 pesos

Walking into the bazaar feels like opening a drawer filled with unexpected treasures. Over 100 local brands gather under one roof, transforming the space into a playground for discovery.

Visitors can explore:

Vintage clothing with stories from another era
Handmade jewelry crafted in small workshops
Independent beauty and makeup brands
Artistic stationery and notebooks
Decorative objects and plants
Reused or rescued fashion pieces ready for a second life

Here, new creations coexist with recycled finds. Handcrafted items sit alongside carefully restored pieces, each carrying its own narrative. A pair of earrings might feel like a hidden designer gem, while a notebook might inspire someone to start a new project, journal, or dream.

What makes the experience truly unique is the price limit itself. Knowing that nothing exceeds 100 pesos turns shopping into a creative exercise: What can I discover with just a small budget? The constraint shifts attention away from spending power and toward imagination, curiosity, and personal taste.

More than a market: a culture of exchange

Although it resembles a traditional market at first glance, “Solo Tengo $100 Pesitos” functions more like a living ecosystem. Ideas circulate as freely as products. Designers meet buyers face-to-face, stories are shared behind each object, and consumption becomes more human and transparent.

The bazaar actively supports local commerce while encouraging sustainable practices such as reuse, upcycling, and mindful purchasing — values increasingly embraced by urban communities seeking alternatives to fast fashion and mass production.

The atmosphere also plays a major role in its appeal. Expect music, food options, relaxed social areas, and a welcoming environment designed for exploration rather than rushed transactions. Visitors often spend hours browsing, chatting with creators, and discovering unexpected finds.

It is shopping transformed into an experience — one built around connection rather than urgency.

The luxury of accessibility

Ironically, the true luxury of this bazaar lies not in exclusivity but in accessibility. By limiting prices, the event democratizes design and creativity, allowing visitors to access original pieces without compromising their personal economy.

Despite the affordable prices, quality remains central. The bazaar has earned a strong reputation for its careful curation. Organizers select vendors who offer well-made, stylish, and original products, ensuring visitors leave with items that feel meaningful rather than disposable.

This balance between affordability and thoughtful design has turned the event into one of Mexico City’s most anticipated alternative shopping experiences.

Four floors of inspiration

This edition promises an even richer experience. The bazaar will occupy four full floors, each filled with distinct proposals and creative concepts. Visitors are encouraged to arrive with time to explore every corner, since discoveries often appear where least expected.

A terrace space will also be open, offering a place to rest, socialize, and enjoy the relaxed atmosphere that has become a signature of the event.

Another feature that attendees love: the bazaar is pet friendly. Guests are welcome to bring their dogs along, making it an ideal weekend plan with friends, partners, or family — a casual outing that often ends with several shopping bags but surprisingly little spending.

A different way to consume in CDMX

In a vast metropolis like Mexico City, where countless experiences compete for attention and money, “Solo Tengo $100 Pesitos” proposes something refreshingly simple: consume with intention, support local talent, and rediscover the joy of finding something special without overspending.

The event reminds visitors that value does not always lie in luxury branding or high prices. Sometimes, 100 pesos are enough to take home something beautiful, useful, or meaningful — along with the satisfaction of supporting creativity and community.

For anyone who enjoys treasure hunting, discovering independent talent, or simply experiencing a different side of the city’s cultural scene, this bazaar deserves a place on the early-May agenda.

📅 Dates: May 1, 2 & 3, 2026
📍 Location: Enrique Rebsamen 203, Narvarte Poniente, Mexico City
⏰ Time: 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM
🎟️ Admission: Free entry (all products priced at 100 pesos or less)

Whether you arrive with curiosity, a tight budget, or simply the desire to explore, one thing is certain: at “Solo Tengo $100 Pesitos,” creativity proves that less can truly be more.

20Mar

Quintonil: an evening at the World’s No. 3 Restaurant

Some restaurants feed you. Others change the way you think about food entirely. Quintonil, tucked quietly into a residential street in Polanco, did the latter — and we are still thinking about it months later.

We visited in December, one of those perfect Mexico City evenings when the air is cool enough to make you glad you brought a jacket but warm enough to walk slowly and enjoy the city. We had booked weeks in advance — Quintonil doesn’t leave room for spontaneity — and we arrived with high expectations. What we didn’t expect was how completely those expectations would be exceeded.

No. 3 in the World. In our Neighbourhood.

Let’s put that number in perspective for a moment. Quintonil currently holds the No. 3 position on the World’s 50 Best Restaurants list — sitting alongside restaurants in Copenhagen, Paris and New York that people fly across continents to visit. And here it is, less than 15 minutes from Casa de Chiles, on a quiet Polanco street with a facade so discreet you could walk past it without a second glance.

That modesty is deliberate. From the moment you step inside, Quintonil makes clear that the focus is entirely on what arrives at your table — not on impressing you with chandeliers or theatrical flourishes. The dining room is elegant but human in scale. The service is warm and knowledgeable without ever feeling stiff. You feel immediately that you are in good hands.

The Food

Chef Jorge Vallejo’s tasting menu is a love letter to Mexico — not the Mexico of tourist menus and predictable combinations, but a deeper, more complex Mexico of heirloom ingredients, indigenous techniques and produce sourced directly from farmers across the country. Around 98% of everything on the plate is Mexican — a philosophy that sounds simple but requires extraordinary knowledge and relationships to execute at this level.

The meal unfolds as a series of revelations. Dishes arrive that look almost too beautiful to disturb — and then you take a first bite and understand that the beauty is entirely beside the point. What matters is what happens next: flavours that are simultaneously ancient and startlingly new, textures that surprise you, combinations that make you put down your fork and simply sit with what just happened.

Corn — the soul of Mexican cuisine — appears in forms you have never imagined. Native herbs and wild ingredients bring bitterness, brightness and depth in equal measure. Sauces carry histories. Every course feels like a conversation between the kitchen and the land.

We are not food critics. We are hosts who love this city and love sharing it with our guests. But we know when something is exceptional. And this was exceptional.

A moment with Jorge Vallejo

At the end of the meal, Jorge Vallejo came out to greet the tables — and this, perhaps, surprised us most of all. Here is a chef at the absolute summit of his profession, running one of the three best restaurants on the planet, and he is warm, approachable, genuinely curious about his guests. We had a quick photo together — a moment we almost didn’t ask for, not wanting to impose — and he couldn’t have been more gracious. No performance, no distance. Just a person who clearly loves what he does and loves sharing it.

It reminded us of why we love hosting. At its best, hospitality is simply about making people feel welcome. Jorge Vallejo has built one of the world’s great restaurants on exactly that principle.

Our advice to You

If you are staying at Casa de Chiles, Quintonil is not optional. It is one of those experiences that belongs on a very short list of things you will remember for the rest of your life. Book your table the moment you confirm your travel dates — reservations fill weeks in advance. Go hungry, go curious, and go without your phone in your hand. Be present for every course.

You are staying two blocks from Reforma, minutes from Chapultepec, in one of the world’s great cities. And fifteen minutes away, Jorge Vallejo is doing something extraordinary with Mexican cuisine.

Don’t miss it.

Practical details: Reserve via OpenTable well in advance. Smart casual dress. Budget for a special evening — it is worth every peso.

23Nov

10 facts about Mexican Revolution

More than 115 years have passed since the beginning of the Mexican Revolution, yet this historic conflict continues to spark curiosity and inspire debate. What began as a movement to overthrow Porfirio Díaz—who had held power for 35 years—rapidly evolved into one of the most transformative social and political upheavals in Mexico’s history. Although Díaz oversaw a period of modernization, it came at a high social and economic cost, paid largely by the most vulnerable communities and the political opposition silenced under his regime.

The revolution erupted in northern Mexico and quickly spread across the entire country. Beyond the battles, political struggles, and iconic leaders, the revolution is full of stories and details that many people have never heard. Here are 10 intriguing facts that shed new light on Mexico’s most important revolution.

1. A Revolution that announced its own start date

Surprisingly, the Mexican Revolution is the only major uprising in world history that publicly announced the exact date and time it would begin. The call to arms was detailed in the Plan of San Luis, written by Francisco I. Madero. In this document, Madero invited the Mexican people to rise against Porfirio Díaz on Sunday, November 20, at 6:00 p.m. The announcement was a bold and unprecedented move—one that would ignite the first sparks of the revolution.

2. The mystery of Madero’s middle name

For many years, it was widely claimed that Francisco I. Madero’s second name was Indalecio. But no official record ever validated this belief. His baptism certificate reveals his real name: Francisco Ignacio Madero—in honor of his parents’ devotion to Saint Francis of Assisi and Saint Ignatius of Loyola.

Despite his role as president, Madero was affectionately nicknamed “Pingüica” because of his short height. He was also deeply committed to spiritualism, earning him another title in the press of the time: “the madman who communicates with the dead.”

3. The most iconic photograph of the Revolution

One of the most famous images from the Revolution captures Pancho Villa and Emiliano Zapata seated in the National Palace on December 6, 1914. The photograph, taken by Agustín Víctor Casasola, immortalized the moment when the two revolutionary leaders briefly shared power after a celebratory banquet. Today, the original image is preserved in the National Museum of Photography in Pachuca.

4. Emiliano Zapata was not poor

Although Emiliano Zapata is often portrayed as a destitute peasant, the reality is more nuanced. Zapata actually came from a family of comfortable means. He enjoyed refined tastes, including French cuisine and cognac—details that contrast sharply with his popular image as a humble campesino.

5. Women who fought, led, and spied

Women played a crucial and often overlooked role in the revolution. Many supported the troops by cooking, cleaning clothes, caring for the wounded, and protecting children. But some women went far beyond traditional roles.

One extraordinary figure was Colonel Carmen Amelia Robles Ávila from Xochipala, Guerrero. Known as “Coronel Robles,” she disguised herself in men’s clothing and fought with exceptional skill in both horseback riding and weapons. Other women became spies, infiltrating enemy lines; soldaderas rode atop train cars, while prostitutes traveled inside them.

6. The poet vice president: José María Pino Suárez

Mexico’s vice president during Madero’s government, José María Pino Suárez, was not only a politician but also a passionate poet. He fell deeply in love with his wife, María Casimira Cámara Vales—whom he courted with serenades and poems. After Pino Suárez was assassinated during the Decena Trágica, Maruca was devastated. She sold her belongings to support her children and lived a long life until receiving the Belisario Domínguez Medal in 1969 at the age of 92.

7. A German spy at the heart of the Revolution

Félix A. Sommerfeld, a German double agent, became one of Madero’s closest allies. He worked simultaneously with U.S. and German intelligence and built a sophisticated network of informants along the U.S.–Mexico border. Sommerfeld is considered one of the pioneers of Mexico’s intelligence services.

8. Jack London: chronicler of the Revolution

Celebrated American author Jack London, known for White Fang and The Call of the Wild, was also a journalist who covered the Mexican Revolution. A committed socialist, he was drawn to the struggle and even dedicated one of his most famous stories, “The Mexican,” to the cause—a tale about a young boxer who donates his prize money to support the revolutionaries.

9. The real Adelita

La Adelita, one of the most beloved revolutionary songs, was composed by Sergeant Antonio Gil del Río for Adela Velarde Pérez of Durango. At just 13 years old, Adela defied her parents and joined the revolutionary nursing corps created by Doña Leonor Villegas de Magnon. Leaving behind a life of comfort, she devoted herself to caring for the wounded aboard medical trains.

10. A bullet in bar La Ópera

In Mexico City’s historic center, the famous cantina La Ópera still displays a bullet hole in its ceiling—fired by none other than Pancho Villa during a visit in 1914. The bar, originally opened in 1876, remains a living witness to the revolution’s turbulent past.

The Mexican Revolution is far more than a series of battles—it is a collection of human stories, contradictions, and unforgettable characters. These ten facts offer just a glimpse into the complexity and richness of a movement that forever reshaped the nation.

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bread

22Nov

Bread Fair 2025

In the heart of Mexico City, a warm and comforting aroma is set to take over the capital. The Bread Fair 2025 is arriving with an irresistible promise: two days dedicated to one of the greatest everyday joys in Mexican culture—pan dulce. Organized by the Secretaría de Turismo de la Ciudad de México, the Secretaría de Desarrollo Económico, the Cámara Nacional de la Industria Panificadora y Similares de México (Canainpa), and the Alcaldía Tlalpan, this event is a true tribute to the art, flavor, and heritage of Mexican breadmaking.

Whether you’re a devoted concha lover, a fan of the buttery cuernito, or someone who can never resist a warm bolillo, this fair promises a celebration that blends gastronomy, culture, and family-friendly fun.

When and where is the Bread Fair 2025?

Mark your calendar, because this delicious celebration takes place on:

Saturday, December 6 and Sunday, December 7, 2025
Location: Plaza del Bolero, on Moneda Street, near Francisco I. Madero, in Alcaldía Tlalpan, Mexico City
Nearest Transport: Metrobús Fuentes Brotantes (Line 1), just a 10-minute walk from the venue

The central location and easy access make it a perfect weekend plan for families, foodies, and anyone who appreciates the comforting scent of freshly baked bread.

What makes this Fair so special?

At its core, the Feria del Pan is a gathering of passion and tradition. The event brings together more than 45 exhibitors, ranging from long-established bakeries to innovative gourmet and artisanal concepts. It’s a unique chance to explore Mexico’s enormous breadmaking tradition all in one place.

A feast of flavors

Visitors will find an impressive variety of baked goods, including:

Conchas
Cuernitos
Orejas
Chocolatines
Garibaldis
Mantecadas
Artisan sandwich loaves
Baguettes
Bolillos

Whether you prefer something classic or want to taste something new and inventive, this fair has it all. It isn’t just a market—it’s a true fiesta of pan dulce.

More than tasting: a chance to learn

Beyond the gastronomic experience, the fair offers workshops and talks dedicated to breadmaking techniques, bakery traditions, and the evolution of artisan baking in Mexico. It’s a chance to connect with bakers, hear their stories, and learn what makes their creations unique.

The event also features musical performances, adding to the warm and festive atmosphere. And best of all—admission is completely free, making it accessible to anyone who wishes to be part of this sweet celebration.

Why you shouldn’t miss it

The Bread Fair is more than an event; it’s a sensory journey through one of the most beloved elements of Mexican cuisine. Here’s why attending is truly worth it:

1. Celebrate a deeply rooted Mexican tradition

According to Canainpa, Mexico is home to over 54,700 bakeries, with 2,800 to 3,000 located in Mexico City alone. The sheer number speaks volumes about how deeply bread is woven into everyday life—from morning conchas to evening bolillos.

2. Discover innovation and creativity

While traditional favorites will always have a special place, the fair also highlights artisan recipes, gourmet fusions, and local specialties that showcase the evolution of breadmaking in CDMX.

3. A perfect plan for the cold season

There’s nothing more comforting on a crisp December day than freshly baked bread paired with a warm drink. The fair even includes designated areas where visitors can enjoy coffee, hot chocolate, or atole with their chosen treat.

4. A family-friendly cultural outing

This is not just about buying bread—it’s about cultural heritage. You’ll find music, storytelling, hands-on workshops, and the shared joy of discovering new flavors together. It’s an experience that brings community, gastronomy, and Mexican identity together beautifully.

Tips to make the most of your visit

Bring cash, as not all exhibitors may accept cards.
Arrive early for the best selection and a quieter experience as the fair fills up quickly.
Pair your pastries with a hot beverage—there are areas dedicated for this!
Ask for local specialties or “items of the day,” since many bakeries bring exclusive creations just for the event.
Attend workshops and talks—great for learning techniques or hearing stories from master bakers.
If visiting with children, identify shaded or resting areas to take breaks.
Take some bread home and extend the celebration beyond the fair.

A celebration of flavor, tradition, and community

The bread Fair 2025 in Mexico City is much more than a large-scale pastry market. It’s a tribute to Mexican culture, creativity, and the simple joy of breaking bread with others. Whether you’re drawn by nostalgia, curiosity, or pure love for pan dulce, this event offers something special for everyone.

For concha enthusiasts, for artisan bread explorers, for families seeking a meaningful December outing, and for anyone wanting to reconnect with a cherished piece of Mexican identity—this fair is the perfect place to be.

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21Nov

A Mexican became Miss Universe

In a night full of glitz, glamour, and unexpected drama, Fatima Bosch of Mexico has been crowned Miss Universe 2025 in Bangkok, ending what has been one of the most scandal-filled pageant seasons in recent memory. At 25 years old, Bosch’s victory is already being hailed as iconic, not just for her poise and beauty, but for the dramatic events that led up to her crowning.

The road to the crown was far from smooth. Earlier this month, Bosch walked out of a pre-pageant event after a Thai official publicly berated her in front of dozens of contestants. She was threatened with disqualification for herself and anyone who supported her. This bold move instantly made headlines around the world and quickly positioned Bosch as a figure of courage and principle. Supporters, including the Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum, praised her as “an example of how we women should speak out” against aggression.

The controversy didn’t end there. Just a week later, two judges resigned amid accusations of rigging. Lebanese-French musician Omar Harfouch alleged that an “impromptu jury” had pre-selected finalists ahead of the final night, while former French football star Claude Makelele resigned citing “unforeseen personal reasons.” Although the Miss Universe Organization denied any wrongdoing, the resignations added fuel to an already heated debate about fairness and transparency in the pageant.

Amid the turmoil, fans and social media commentators were quick to speculate that Bosch’s win may have been influenced by her earlier walkout. “Next year, whoever walks out will win,” one fan joked online, while another suggested, “They had to crown her to make up for injustice earlier to save Miss Universe!” Regardless of speculation, Bosch’s grace, strength, and radiant spirit undeniably captured the hearts of viewers worldwide, as the Miss Universe Organization celebrated on social media.

The pageant itself was not without its own mishaps. During the preliminary evening gown round, Miss Jamaica fell on stage and had to be stretchered out of the theatre. Thankfully, organisers confirmed she was unharmed and received proper medical attention, though the incident became a viral sensation across social media platforms.

Despite the turbulence, the final night proceeded with intensity and elegance. Miss Thailand Praveenar Singh took first runner-up, Miss Venezuela Stephany Abasali placed third, followed by Miss Philippines Ma Ahtisa Manalo and Miss Cote d’Ivoire Olivia Yace, rounding out the top five. Yet it was Bosch’s presence, confidence, and ability to handle the controversies with dignity that truly dominated the headlines.

The behind-the-scenes tension highlighted the differences between the Thai and Mexican factions overseeing Miss Universe this year. The Bangkok events were organized by Nawat Itsaragrasil, founder of Miss Grand International, known for his bold social media presence and high-profile organizing style. Meanwhile, the Miss Universe Organization has been run from Mexico under businessman Raul Rocha, a relatively new leadership team brought in just before this year’s pageant.

Ownership of Miss Universe has changed hands several times in recent years. Thai media mogul Anne Jakrajutatip had previously acquired the pageant from US-based Endeavor in 2022, making sweeping reforms to promote inclusivity—allowing transgender women, married women, and mothers to participate, and removing the age cap for contestants. She also sought to monetize the brand through merchandise, from bottled water to branded bags. However, her entertainment company, JKN, filed for bankruptcy in 2023 due to liquidity problems, and she resigned as CEO before this year’s pre-pageant events, replaced by Guatemalan diplomat Mario Bucaro.

All of these dynamics—the leadership shake-ups, walkouts, judge resignations, and viral social media moments—paint a picture of a pageant struggling to maintain relevance while navigating modern scrutiny. Yet, for Fatima Bosch, it was the perfect stage to shine. Her victory, Mexico’s fourth Miss Universe crown, is being celebrated as a triumph of resilience, courage, and grace under pressure.

While opinions remain divided, there is no denying that Miss Universe 2025 will be remembered not only for the stunning finale but for the extraordinary drama leading up to it. Bosch’s walkout, in retrospect, was more than a protest—it became a defining moment that cemented her place in the history of beauty pageants worldwide.

In the end, Miss Universe 2025 proved that in the world of pageantry, beauty may open the door, but courage and integrity keep the crown.

Blog
star night, unam

20Nov

Drone show at UNAM

Mexico City is preparing for one of the most magical and inspiring nights of the year. The Instituto de Astronomía of the National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM) has officially announced all the details for the highly anticipated Noche de las Estrellas 2025 — an event that brings science, culture, and wonder together under the night sky.

Taking place on Saturday, November 29th, this year’s edition, titled “Entre estrellas y átomos” (Between Stars and Atoms), promises an unforgettable experience at Las Islas in Ciudad Universitaria. Best of all, the event is completely free and open to visitors of all ages who want to learn, explore, and celebrate the universe.

But the most breathtaking highlight of the night will undoubtedly be a massive drone show, a spectacle that is quickly becoming one of the most impressive forms of modern visual art. For astronomy lovers, families, and curious minds alike, this year’s Night of the Stars is shaping up to be a celebration like no other.

A tribute to Julieta Fierro: honoring a scientific legacy

One of the most meaningful moments of the event will be a posthumous tribute to Julieta Fierro, one of Mexico’s most influential astronomers and science communicators. Fierro, who passed away on September 19th at the age of 77, leaves behind a remarkable legacy in scientific research and outreach.

Her work inspired generations of students and astronomy enthusiasts, and her efforts to bring science to the general public made her a beloved figure both inside and outside UNAM. The homage planned for the Night of the Stars will be a heartfelt opportunity for the community to remember her brilliance and impact.

Organizers have encouraged attendees to come prepared for the tribute, adding another emotional layer to this already special night.

What to expect at the Night of the Stars 2025

If you’re planning to attend — and you absolutely should — here is everything you need to know.

📍 Location

Las Islas, Ciudad Universitaria (UNAM)
A central and iconic space on campus, perfect for hosting thousands of visitors.

📅 Date

Saturday, November 29, 2025

⏰ Schedule

The event will run from 3:00 PM to 10:00 PM, giving visitors an entire afternoon and evening filled with science-focused experiences.

Throughout these seven hours, attendees will enjoy:

Interactive workshops for children, teens, and adults
Science demonstrations and hands-on activities
Astronomy talks led by UNAM specialists
Live concerts and cultural performances
Telescope stations for stargazing
Special programming in honor of Julieta Fierro

Whether you’re a student, a family with young explorers, or simply someone who loves the mysteries of the cosmos, there is something here for everyone.

The most anticipated moment: a free drone show at CU

Among the many activities planned, the university community is especially excited about the spectacular drone performance that will close the event.

The official invitation describes it beautifully:

“We will close the Astronomy celebration with a golden finale. Enjoy a stellar runway: a cosmic dance with colorful 3D figures performed by 250 drones over Ciudad Universitaria, UNAM.”

Drone shows have become a modern alternative to fireworks, offering a safe, sustainable, and incredibly artistic way to illuminate the night sky. With 250 synchronized drones creating luminous 3D formations, the performance promises to be one of the most mesmerizing experiences ever seen at Ciudad Universitaria.

And, as with all Night of the Stars activities, admission is completely free.

Prepare for a weekend full of stars

The Night of the Stars is one of Mexico’s most beloved science events, bringing together enthusiasts, researchers, families, and dreamers. This year, with its combination of interactive activities, a heartfelt tribute, and a dazzling drone show, UNAM is offering a truly extraordinary evening.

If you’re in Mexico City at the end of November, mark your calendar and don’t miss this celebration of astronomy, knowledge, and community. Bring your curiosity, your sense of wonder, and maybe even a blanket to sit on — the stars, both in the sky and on the ground, will be waiting for you.

19Nov

First satellite-tracked Monarch butterfly

The annual migration of the Monarch butterfly is one of nature’s most breathtaking spectacles—a delicate yet determined journey spanning over 4,000 kilometers from Canada and the United States to the mountains of central Mexico. This year, the iconic voyage has reached a historic turning point. On November 12, the Secretaría de Turismo de Michoacán (Sectur) confirmed the arrival of the first Monarch butterfly equipped with a satellite transmitter to the Monarch Butterfly Biosphere Reserve, marking an unprecedented advancement in the scientific study of this species.

The butterfly, identified as MW026, is part of the Proyecto Colaboración Monarca, an international initiative using cutting-edge technology to monitor Monarch migration in real time. This breakthrough not only deepens our understanding of their routes and behavior but also reinforces global conservation efforts for a species facing increasing environmental challenges.

The journey of Monarch MW026: a route captured in real time

The story of MW026 begins on September 27, in Lawrence, Kansas (USA). Researchers from Monarch Watch released her into the wild fitted with a lightweight 60-milligram solar microtransmitter developed by Cellular Tracking Technologies (CTT). From that moment, the butterfly’s incredible trek unfolded step by step:

Crossing Oklahoma and Texas

MW026 fluttered south through Oklahoma and Texas, reaching Mexico sooner than expected. Her transmitter first signaled from Tamaulipas, near the El Cielo Biosphere Reserve, marking her official entry into Mexican territory.

Through San Luis Potosí and the Sierra Gorda

Her journey continued across lush valleys and rugged mountains, passing through Río Verde (San Luis Potosí) and into the Sierra Gorda of Guanajuato, areas known for their rich biodiversity and important ecological corridors.

Hundreds of kilometers closer

On November 7, MW026 was detected in Querétaro, specifically in Juriquilla and San José el Alto, demonstrating the remarkable endurance of these small yet resilient travelers.

Approaching the finish line

Just a day later, on November 8, signals placed her in Temascalcingo, State of Mexico, edging closer to her final destination.

Historic arrival in Michoacán

On November 9, MW026 reached Ocampo, Michoacán, landing in the celebrated El Rosario Sanctuary, located within the Monarch Butterfly Biosphere Reserve. This arrival marks the first successful record of a satellite-tracked Monarch completing its journey to Mexico.

A breakthrough for science and conservation

Roberto Monroy García, head of Sectur, emphasized the significance of this milestone. Never before had a Monarch butterfly fitted with a transmitter completed its migration into Mexico. This achievement signals a transformative moment in conservation science.

The project is led by David La Puma of Cellular Tracking Technologies (CTT) and supported by organizations across Canada, the United States, and Mexico. Its primary goal is to strengthen trinational conservation strategies, ensuring that the Monarch’s thousands-of-kilometers-long route remains protected for generations to come.

By tracking MW026’s path with unprecedented precision, scientists can identify critical habitats, migration bottlenecks, and environmental threats—knowledge essential to safeguarding the species amid climate change, habitat loss, and declining milkweed populations.

Monarch season in Michoacán 2025–2026: what to expect

Each year, millions of Monarch butterflies escape the cold of the north and seek refuge in the oyamel fir forests of Michoacán and the State of Mexico, where they hibernate until spring. The 2025–2026 migration season is already underway, and early signals like the arrival of MW026 suggest a promising and vibrant year.

Key dates for visitors and enthusiasts

Mass arrival:
The majority of Monarchs typically reach Mexico between November 8 and November 20.
Sanctuary opening:
The official opening of the Monarch sanctuaries for the public will take place on November 21, 2025. Visitors can explore sites such as El Rosario, Sierra Chincua, and Piedra Herrada, where the orange-and-black wings fill the sky in stunning displays.
Peak season:
The most spectacular concentrations occur between December and January, when millions of butterflies cluster in the trees, creating a magical, almost surreal atmosphere.
Season closure:
By mid-February, the butterflies begin to awaken. In early March, they embark on their journey back north, completing one of the most astonishing migration cycles in the natural world.

A symbol of hope for the future

The successful tracking of Monarch MW026 is more than a scientific achievement—it is a symbol of hope. It demonstrates what can be accomplished when technology, passion, and international collaboration come together in service of nature.

As we prepare for another breathtaking season in the forests of Michoacán, the story of MW026 invites us to appreciate the fragility and strength of these extraordinary butterflies. Their journey, now illuminated like never before, reminds us of our responsibility to protect their world—and, ultimately, our own.

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halloween, lady gaga

9Sep

Island of the Dolls

Xochimilco, a UNESCO World Heritage site in southern Mexico City, is famous for its labyrinth of canals, colorful trajineras, and floating gardens. But among the lush vegetation and serene waterways lies one of the capital’s eeriest and most fascinating places: La Isla de las Muñecas, or The Island of the Dolls.

This surreal site is home to nearly 3,500 dolls hanging from trees and scattered across the vegetation. Over the years, their bodies have been deformed by humidity, dirt, and time. The result is a haunting spectacle where dolls without eyes, with missing limbs, or burned faces hang motionless, watching visitors float by.

Unlike other tourist attractions, these dolls were not placed there for entertainment. Instead, their presence is tied to a chilling legend that has transformed the island into a cult site for ghost stories and urban myths.

The story of Don Julián and the Spirit of the Drowned Girl

The legend begins in the 1950s with Don Julián Santana, a local farmer and canal caretaker. According to neighbors, Julián discovered the body of a young girl who had drowned near his home. Shortly after, he claimed to feel her presence and feared her spirit haunted the area.

To protect himself and appease the spirit, he began hanging dolls on the trees surrounding his home. Over time, he collected thousands of discarded dolls, rescuing them from garbage heaps, canals, and neighbors’ offerings. For Julián, each doll was a way to honor and calm the wandering souls of those who had drowned in the canals.

But his obsession grew darker. Julián claimed the dolls began whispering, laughing, and even crying at night. Visitors described the figures as unsettling, with some appearing strangled or nailed to walls, their glassy eyes seeming to follow anyone who passed.

The legend took a tragic turn in 2001 when Don Julián was found drowned in the same spot where he had once discovered the girl. Since then, visitors whisper that his spirit lingers on the island, guarding his macabre sanctuary.

Urban myths and paranormal encounters

After Julián’s death, the island became a magnet for ghost stories. Locals and tourists alike tell tales of visitors who mocked the dolls only to face accidents or even death afterward. Others claim that touching the dolls brings bad luck or triggers unexplained events.

Despite the fear, or perhaps because of it, visitors continue to add their own dolls to the collection. Each new figure adds to the surreal and unsettling atmosphere, blending tragedy and devotion with art and folklore.

Even celebrities have fallen under the island’s spell. Lady Gaga reportedly rented a trajinera to film her music video “The Dead Dance,” directed by Tim Burton, on the island. Whether for art or thrill, the appeal of La Isla de las Muñecas is undeniable.

How much does it cost to visit the Island of the Dolls?

Beyond the legends, travelers quickly discover another reality: the visit comes with a price tag. If you’re planning a trip, here’s what you need to know:

The Trajinera Ride

The only way to reach the island is by trajinera, the traditional flat-bottomed boat of Xochimilco. Contrary to popular belief, the fare is not charged per person but per boat.

Official rate: $750 pesos per hour (set by the Xochimilco authorities).
Capacity: Up to 18 people per boat.

Because the island is in a remote part of the canals, a round trip takes between 3.5 to 5 hours. That means the minimum cost of the trajinera is about $2,625 pesos.

The entrance fee

Once you arrive, there is a second cost: the entrance to the island.

Price: $70 pesos per person.
Purpose: This fee is collected by the family that maintains the island and helps preserve its eerie charm.

Total Example Cost

If you travel in a group of 10 people, the breakdown looks like this:

Trajinera: $2,625 pesos
Entrance fees: $700 pesos (10 x $70)
Total: $3,325 pesos, or roughly $332.50 pesos per person.

When shared among friends, the experience becomes both affordable and unforgettable.

Why you should visit

La Isla de las Muñecas is not for the faint of heart. It is a place where Mexican folklore, tragedy, and mystery intertwine. The silence of the canals, the weight of the legends, and the sight of thousands of lifeless eyes staring from the trees make it one of the most unique experiences in Mexico City.

Whether you go seeking paranormal thrills, cultural history, or simply a surreal adventure, visiting this island forces you to confront questions about life, death, and the stories we tell ourselves to explain the unexplainable.

For some, it is a haunting nightmare. For others, it is a masterpiece of folk art. For all, it is unforgettable.