Editor's Note: This post was revised November 28th, 2017, to include updated Aeromexico routes.
As many Canadians have by now experienced numerous Mexican resort cities through decades of all-inclusive packages and non-stop charter flights, there is increasing interest in mixing in a more cultural experience with the usual beach time. While many have visited the country’s ancient Mayan ruins throughout the Yucatan Peninsula, few have yet to delve into Mexico’s current urban culture, best represented in the country’s capital, and Aeromexico hub, Mexico City.
So, why not combine the two?
By offering free stop-overs in Mexico City enroute to or from Cancun, Aeromexico is hoping to give travellers the very best of this dynamic and beautiful country.
Aeromexico
Almost 10,000 seats per week. That’s how much Aeromexico has investing in Canada by increasing its number of flights into the Great White North. Sticking with the ‘big three’ rather than expanding its network, the airline added flights to its current routes between Mexico City and Vancouver, Toronto and Montreal. Those not living in the major Canadian hubs, fret not - connections can be made from almost anywhere in Canada using Aeromexico’s partner airline, WestJet.
Last year, Vancouver sun-seekers saw an additional 3 flights per week added, bringing the total to 10 weekly high-season departures. Montreal saw 4 new weekly flights, elevating its total to 11 per week during peak season, while Toronto now offers 8 non-stoppers weekly.
As Mexico’s national carrier, Aeromexico is well connected too. Their network includes almost 50 destinations within Mexico itself and a further 17 destinations throughout Central and South America, as well as select Caribbean destinations.
One checked bag, along with a carry-on, is included free of charge on all flights, and in cases where customers are simply connecting through Mexico City on to Central and South America (except Brazil), two checked bags are carried free of charge.
As a founding member of SkyTeam, Aeromexico frequent flyer members (Club Premier) can collect points to redeem with any of the 20 SkyTeam member airlines.
On-board Comfort
Canadian flights are operated by Aeromexico’s Boeing 737-800 aircraft in a 3-class configuration, offering Economy, AM Plus (Premium Economy) and Clase Premier (Business Class). Starting at a $50USD per direction surcharge, guests who purchase an AM Plus seat can expect priority check-in, baggage handling and boarding, as well as a more spacious seat for a more enjoyable flight.
Those booked in Clase Premier recieve SkyTeam’s Sky Priority benefits with access to Salon Premier Airport Lounges throughout Mexico prior to boarding. In the air, Clase Premier guests enjoy Wi-Fi (on select flights), in-seat power outlets and USB ports, seat-back entertainment, an amenity kit and superior in-flight dining.
In an innovative and unique program, Aeromexico invites eligible Economy Class customers to name their price to upgrade to Clase Premier. After purchasing a ticket, simply register a bid online and if a seat is available prior to departure and the bid acceptable, an upgrade is granted.
As a full-service scheduled airline, warm Mexican hospitality starts the minute you board. All international service includes a complimentary meal. All flights, even domestic, offer a wide selection of non-alcoholic drinks, and after 11AM, a selection of beer – and of course, Mexico’s most famous spirit, tequila!
So, who will love this service compared to the ease of a non-stop charter flight? Hopefully, many. Anyone who’d like to see North America’s largest city, for one, as there are no charters serving Mexico City. Got a little more or less than a week off? Perfect. With frequent service, travellers can embark on a holiday of virtually any length, versus the limited 7 or 14-day options most charters offer. Need a flexible ticket? No problem. Unlike charter airlines, Aeromexico’s tickets are changeable for a fee.
Mexico City
Sixteen boroughs and over 250 colonias, or neighbourhoods,contain the sprawl of North America’s most populated city, punctuated by the massive Zocalo in Centro Historico, the world’s third largest public square, and a great place to start exploring. The country’s capital is experiencing a subtle renaissance of sorts, spurred on by a renewed interest in modern Mexican art, film and especially its burgeoning culinary scene.
The city is electric and buzzing, and relatively safe, given its sizable population. An astounding 26 million people live in the region, about 10 million of which in Mexico proper. For the most part, Mexico City has escaped the country’s well documented cartel driven violence, which shouldn’t stop anyone from visiting.
Immediately, you’ll notice how cosmopolitan and liberal the city is. It also has the largest number of museums in the world, ahead of New York, London and Paris. As a tourist, chances are you will be staying in or visiting one of the following districts.
Trendy San Angel, with its cobblestone streets, upscale boutiques and a bevy of restaurants, is most popular for its outdoor art market and laid-back style.
Colonial Coyoacan is known for its interesting museums, and its eclectic, counter-culture attitude. Here is where you’ll find the Frida Kahlo Museum (or Casa Azul), her lifelong home.
Condesa and Roma are home to many of the city’s most popular shops, restaurants, bars and cafes, perfect for an afternoon or an evening out.
Hotels, embassies, clubs and restaurants line the streets of Polanco, one of the city’s more affluent areas.
Looking for a break from the local food? Zona Rosa (or Reforma, as often called) houses the city’s Korea-town as well as catering to the local LGBT population with cafes, nightclubs and numerous other entertainment venues.
Ancient Aztec irrigation canals line the streets of Xochimilco, giving it the nickname of Mexican Venice. Cruise the town aboard brightly coloured boats along with Mariachi bands, floating bars and taquerias.
Beach Time!
Although Mexico City has hugely improved its air quality, a breezy beach town is always a welcomed treat. And it doesn’t have to be Cancun, as outlined, either. Sub Cancun for Puerto Vallarta, Los Cabos, Ixtapa, Cozumel or Huatulco. The point is flexibility and options and a more comfortable flying experience no matter where you choose to go.
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Take your next Mexican vacation to the next level and opt for the all-encompassing experience of combining one of the world's most exciting cities with a relaxing tropical sojourn. Who said you couldn't have it all?
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