Exploring Mexico with Hands On Travel: A Two-Week Journey in Visual Language

Traveling is more than just sightseeing—it’s about immersing in culture, history, and community. From January 18 to 31, I led a two-week Deaf-friendly tour across Mexico with Hands On Travel, making history come alive through sign language.

Mexico City: Where History Comes Alive

Our adventure began in Mexico City, where we explored Bosque de Chapultepec and its historic Chapultepec Castle. We admired the Palacio de Bellas Artes and honored Benito Juárez, Mexico’s first Indigenous president.

A highlight was Xochimilco, where a Deaf rower guided us through the canals. At Casa Azul, we experienced Frida Kahlo’s artistic world before visiting Diego Rivera’s studio.

San Miguel de Allende & Guanajuato

In San Miguel de Allende, we admired Parroquia de San Miguel Arcángel and visited a Deaf school selling handmade crafts. Guanajuato welcomed us with underground streets and panoramic views from El Pípila viewpoint. At Callejón del Beso, we learned of its romantic legend and explored the Universidad de Guanajuato.

Oaxaca: Art, Chocolate, and Ancient Civilizations

Oaxaca enchanted us with indigenous markets, alebrijes, and mezcal tasting. At Arte Textil, a Deaf-owned weaving workshop, we witnessed generations of craftsmanship. A chocolate-making workshop let us roast and grind cacao before exploring Monte Albán, an untouched Zapotec city with breathtaking valley views.

Puebla: Battles and Pyramids

In Puebla, we visited Fort Loreto, where the Battle of Puebla inspired Cinco de Mayo. At Cholula, we stood atop the world’s largest pyramid by volume, hidden beneath a Spanish church.

Back to Mexico City: Honoring Its Legacy

We concluded with the Metropolitan Cathedral and the Mexican flag ceremony at Zócalo before enjoying stunning views from Torre Latinoamericana.

Unforgettable Moments & Connections

Beyond history, this trip was about connection—tasting street tacos, dining in a cave, and finding treasures in mercados. Each day brought new discoveries, and each night, gratitude.

Reflecting on this journey, I see why I love what I do—creating spaces for Deaf travelers to explore the world on their terms, in their language. Mexico gave us memories to cherish, and we left a part of ourselves in its story.

Until next time, Mexico—¡nos vemos pronto!