Hierve el Agua, Oaxaca, Mexico, 2024
Gracias a Mario – A new friend from CDMX for taking this photo!
Hola! I’m Daena, a heart-centred traveler with a deep respect for the beautiful people, vibrant cultures, rich histories, and breathtaking landscapes of Mexico. My journey with this incredible country began in 2008. A dear friend invited me to visit her, her family, and her homeland in Zacatecas and Michoacán. Since then, Mexico has woven itself into the fabric of my life in ways I could never have imagined. I’ve wandered through 10 other states and explored over 35 cities and towns (so far!). Each has added a new chapter in my ongoing Mexico love story.
While Mexico has become a significant part of my life, I was born in Toronto, Canada with ancestors from England, Germany, Poland, and Austria. For over 15 years, I’ve dedicated my career to working with Indigenous youth and communities, and nonprofit organizations in Canada. I hold a PhD in Sociology from the University of Alberta in Edmonton, Alberta. I am deeply grateful for the teachings and experiences I’ve gained through my work and with community. They have not only enriched my understanding of the world but have also strengthened my commitment to following the leadership of Indigenous people across the globe and healing, with the goal of making the world a better place for generations to come.
I’ve learned that Mexico is a place where the ancient and the modern dance together, where every region has its own distinct cultures and flavours, and where the warmth of the people makes even the most unfamiliar places feel like home. From the bustling mercados of Mexico City to the serene beaches of Oaxaca, every corner of Mexico holds magic. My connection to Mexico is about the relationships I’ve made with the people and the lands I’ve met along the way. Mexico has welcomed me with open arms, shared their stories with me, and allowed me to feel its magic.
My mission is to share this magic with you. I hope to inspire you not only to explore Mexico’s stunning landscapes and savour its incredible cuisines but to build a relationship with the country and its people. I want to encourage a reciprocal love —one where we give as much as we receive. Whether it’s through learning about Indigenous Nations and traditions, trying a new language, supporting local artisans, or simply taking the time to listen to the stories of those you meet, there are countless ways to feel Mexico’s magic.
Here, I’ll be sharing my favourite places, my most cherished memories, and the lessons I’ve learned along the way. I believe that travel is not just about seeing new places — it’s about our own healing, forming meaningful connections, and understanding the world in a richer, more nuanced way. And there’s no place that has taught me this more than Mexico.
So, come along with me as I continue to explore, discover, and celebrate Mexico. Whether you’re planning your first trip or your fiftieth, I hope my experiences will inspire you to fall in love with Mexico, just as I have.
Bienvenidos a México! Welcome to my journey. Thank you for being here!
Places I’ve Travelled
📍Guanajuato (San Miguel de Allende)
📍Hidalgo (Grutas Tolantongo)
📍Jalisco (Guadalajara, Puerto Vallarta, Tlaquepaque, Yelapa, Zapopan)
📍Mexico (Mexico City)
📍Michoacán (Morelia, Pátzcuaro)
📍Nayarit (Chacala, Sayulita, San Pancho, Lo de Marcos)
📍Oaxaca (Puerto Escondido, Mazunte, Zipolite, Huatulco, San Jose del Pacifico, Oaxaca de Juárez, San Pablo Villa de Mitla, Santa María del Tule)
📍Puebla (Puebla, Cholula, Zacatlán de las Manzanas, Chignahuapan)
📍Querétaro (Querétaro, Tequisquiapan, Peña de Bernal, Pinal de Amoles)
📍Sinaloa (Mazatlán, El Quelite, La Noria de San Antonio)
📍Veracruz (Heroica Veracruz, Orizaba, Xico, Xalapa, Chachalacas, Coatepec)
📍Zacatecas (Fresnillo)
My Wish List (Sneak Peak!)
💫 Mérida, Yucatán
💫 San Cristobal de las Casas, Chiapas
💫 Cuetzalan del Progreso, Puebla
💫 Tepoztlán, Morelos
