Trajineras in Xochimilco

Xochimilco lies 28 km south of Mexico City. With its network of canals and artificial islands, it testifies to the efforts of the Aztec people to build a habitat in the midst of an unfavourable environment.

This is one of very few surviving Aztec areas in Mexico and is quite popular with Chilangos (slang for people who live in Mexico City) and tourists alike. In Xochimilco, flower-decked boats carry visitors through water canals (sort of a Mexican Venice).

Mariachi bands and trinket sellers will offer their services and goods. If you agree to have a show from one of the bands, they'll hook their 'trajinera' (punt) to yours for the duration of the show. The other vendors can be a bit overbearing because there are so many of them, however. They will offer linens, scarfs, broideries, carpets, pinatas, glass crafts, etc. Also, some will prepare food to sell, or sell beer. The latter can be a life saver as it gets really hot during summer.

Xochimilco is a UN World Heritage site.