In Mexico, one of the foremost minds behind this art is Mario Schjetnan. “If you want to develop a new site or area, you should start with a park,” is one of his more popular quotes. Schjetnan understands that we are both nature and architecture, and that without nature, architecture can become detrimental to our health.

An icon of landscape architecture, Schjetnan has left an indelible mark on the history of the discipline in Mexico, starting with his first project in 1979: the legendary Tezozómoc Park, inspired by the ancient Lake Texcoco. Schjetnan views open spaces as a “human right” and a means to “improve livability in the poorest sectors of Mexico and Latin America, promoting social justice and urban equity, while enriching the wealthiest areas.”

A journey through the work of Schjetnan

Environmental awareness, cultural memory and quality of life all converge in the work of Mario Schjetnan. He studied architecture at the National Autonomous University of Mexico and earned a Master of Landscape Architecture from the University of California, Berkeley. In 1977, he co-founded the Urban Design Group with architects José Luis Pérez, Irma Schjetnan (his wife) and Letty Pérez. The firm has designed numerous parks in Mexico, Latin America, the Middle East, China and the U.S.

To illustrate the breadth of his influence on Mexican urbanism and architecture, he served as the first director of urban and housing design at INFONAVIT, the Mexican government’s social housing institution, in 1972, overseeing projects in 110 Mexican cities and producing approximately 100,000 housing units.

His most significant works include projects that conserve essential ecosystems, such as the restoration of Chapultepec Forest, Xochimilco Ecological Park and Copalita Eco-Archaeological Park. He has also created remarkable urban parks on reclaimed industrial sites, including La Mexicana Park and Bicentennial Park in Mexico City.

For instance, Tezozómoc Park recreates the lake that once surrounded Tenochtitlán in pre-Hispanic times and now serves as a sanctuary for birds and the unique axolotl. The Xochimilco Ecological Park is associated with restoring the productive chinampa area, a pre-Hispanic method of cultivating floating terraces, earning recognition as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. Additionally, the Copalita Eco-Archaeological Park is invaluable for archaeological and environmental conservation on the beaches of Oaxaca.

Likewise noteworthy is Itzicuaro Park in Michoacán, a groundbreaking example of landscape architecture due to its dual function as an ecological and productive space. It is based on five bodies of water that sequentially treat wastewater, with areas allocated for the commercial cultivation of trees, plants and vegetables.

A multi-award career

Mario Schjetnan has undoubtedly impacted contemporary Mexican landscape architecture, and his influence transcends borders. According to The Cultural Landscape Foundation, Schjetnan “belongs to a generation of landscape architects, architects and urban planners who recognized the environmental impacts of urban development and its consequences for life on the planet.”

This year, Schjetnan and the Urban Design Group received the Cornelia Hahn Oberlander International Landscape Architecture Award. This biennial award, established in 2014, aims to increase visibility, understanding, appreciation and dialogue surrounding landscape architecture. Schjetnan and the Urban Design Group are the first Latin Americans to receive this honor.

Additional accolades include the Holcim Foundation Award in 2008 for the Itzácuaro Park project, which created new job opportunities for community farmers, installed an effective flood control system and revitalized a heavily polluted drainage channel. He was also awarded the Sir Geoffrey Jellicoe Award, the highest honor from the International Federation of Landscape Architects, in 2015, and the Elise and Walter A. Haas International Award in 2019, which recognizes Berkeley alumni living abroad who have achieved career success.

Mario Schjetnan’s work is guided by an unquestionable talent and a philosophy that unites humans and nature. His creations resonate with numerous sensitivities, dignifying cultural heritage and emphasizing the power of imagination, as well as the beauty and healing properties of nature, while respecting its balance.

Ana Paula de la Torre is a Mexican journalist and collaborator for various outlets, including Milenio, Animal Político, Vice, Newsweek en Español, Televisa and Mexico News Daily.

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In 2013, they discovered an extraordinary artisan piece featuring a penguin wearing a hat in a local market and were amazed by the artisan’s choice to adorn a bird she had never seen. 

This moment inspired them to create Pingüino.

Pingüino embodies an aesthetic concept that showcases Mexico’s inherent magical realism. As defined in the 1920s by German art critic Franz Roh, magical realism emerges when the extraordinary intertwines with the everyday — an experience evident in the daily life of Mexico through its art, music, crafts, and vibrant festivities, says Prieto. 

“We Mexicans have a unique way of looking at life. I can’t really explain why, but we tend to create in unexpected ways,” she says. “For instance, we might find a piece of marble, and suddenly someone has transformed it into an improbable marble popsicle. There’s something very spontaneous, natural, naïve and playful about it.” 

Fernández shares a complementary perspective: Mexican creativity also stems from necessity, he says. 

“It’s about finding solutions, navigating precarious situations and achieving much with little. In folk art, this creativity is related to the possibilities offered by the materials at hand, reflecting our impressive biodiversity,” he reflects.

Pingüino throughout Mexican villages

Five years after founding Pingüino, Prieto and Fernández now collaborate with 100 artisans and workshops in dozens of towns across more than 14 states. They have visited numerous craft fairs and competitions, including Original, which brings together master artisans from across the country.

Pingüino’s aesthetic universe is influenced by Mexico’s nature and its people, inspiring a remarkable variety of folk art. 

Prieto, for instance, expresses her enchantment with artisan towns in Michoacán. 

“For me, this state is a journey from Ocumicho to Cuitzeo. It feels like an unreal territory. Capula also captivates me. I think Michoacán is one of Mexico’s richest folk art regions, featuring metalwork, leatherwork, claywork, feather art, toys, vines, fibers and textiles. I find it fascinating,” she says.

Fernández recalls a memorable place in Guerrero. 

“San Agustin Oapan is a beautiful town with exceptionally friendly people, but the journey there can be chaotic, contrasting sharply with the peace and beauty of the town itself.”

Reinvention and preservation of an artisan lifestyle

“There is something mysterious about folk art in this country,” Prieto says, noting an invisible thread connecting the varied expressions of the genre. “I believe Mexico possesses a distinct aesthetic element: From the friezes of Mitla to the textiles of Tzintzuntzan, both share a similar type of abstraction, albeit from different time periods. Many scenes depict everyday life, such as fishing or women working with corn, illustrating the daily realities of countless people that continue even today.”

“In Mexico, there’s an abundance of materials, pigments and colors. There is also a need for innovation, which brings these pieces to life. A figure that a family started working with years ago can evolve into something entirely new, or people can create new forms of folk art inspired by the political or social context,” Fernández adds.

However, despite the vibrancy that exists in Mexico’s folk art, both creators observe that, overall, artisan production in the country is declining, with many younger generations not continuing in the trade. This is why fairs like Original and initiatives like Pingüino — which practice horizontal and fair trade principles — are vital for fostering, honoring and hopefully encouraging appreciation for Mexico’s fabulous ancestral aesthetic universe.

You can find Pinguino’s galleries in three locations in the Juárez, Condesa and Roma Norte neighborhoods, as well as online.

Ana Paula de la Torre is a Mexican journalist and collaborator for various outlets, including Milenio, Animal Político, Vice, Newsweek en Español, Televisa and Mexico News Daily.

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Recent data indicates that the wellness real estate (RE) market in Mexico is projected to see an estimated annual investment of US $16.418 billion for 2025, with sustained growth of 13.7% per year.

These homes feature holistic environments and designs that promote the physical and emotional well-being of the people in residence. Especially in Mexico’s vacation hubs, you can find increasing numbers of well-appointed new builds on the market with plenty of these wellness features and amenities.

In Mexico, the primary wellness real estate standard is the WELL Certification, created and overseen by the International WELL Building Institute. This standard considers comfort factors like air quality, water quality and lighting, as well as amenities aimed at sustaining mental health and physical fitness. 

Where are the wellness-friendly locations in Mexico?

Certain locations in Mexico are closely linked to wellness tourism destinations, such as the Riviera Maya on the Yucatán Peninsula. However, the trend can be seen throughout the country. 

If you’re looking for a full-time home or vacation property you can retreat to and recharge, here are some properties offering wellness-focused features and amenities:

Reserva Escondida Torre Nogal, Mexico City

Mexico City is a vibrant, culturally rich metropolis. But it also can be exhausting! What if you could enjoy all that Mexico’s capital has to offer — and then come home to your own private nature sanctuary? 

This pet-friendly luxury residential tower is located northwest of Mexico City in the heart of the Zona Esmeralda, surrounded by 3 million square meters of protected woodlands and spectacular views of the beautiful Parque de los Ciervos, which features walking trails next to wildlife habitats. 

The property has multiple options for relaxation, entertainment or both. All apartments have access to terraces, and the site features a paddleball court, massage room, lush gardens and even its own cinema.

More info can be found here.

Project KAANA

If you dream of being right on the beach, KAANA, in the heart of Cancún’s hotel zone, is an excellent choice, surrounded by the vibrant electric blues of Nichupté Lagoon — a natural reserve with a unique system of seven lakes — and stunning views of the Caribbean Sea. With all its relaxing amenities, including a yoga area, a gym, a massage room, a pool and a steam room, this 12-story luxury residential development is like a stay at a luxury Cancún hotel … but surrounded by all your own stuff.

Located 15 minutes from Cancún International Airport, this property has EDGE (Excellence in Design for Greater Efficiencies) sustainability certification, which means at least a 20% savings on your average prices for energy and water. 

For more information, click here.

Love Tulum

This oasis of best ecological practices and innovative architecture gives you the best of both worlds — located in the heart of Tulum’s jungles but with easy access to town nearby. With a blend of private and communal spaces, the Love Tulum residential development easily fosters a sense of community and designs spaces to encourage mental peace.

The property’s communal spaces were built with natural materials such as Super Adobe and were designed to be organic and integrated with nature. Examples include its large palapa designed for events and ceremonies and the walkable trails on the property that lead to pristine cenotes. Fractal architecture and bioconstruction are everywhere here. 

You can purchase single-family plots ranging from 1,000 to 2,000 square meters, but to preserve the area’s integration with the natural environment, you are allowed to build on only 25% of each plot, so this is for folks who are committed to living surrounded by nature.

For more information, click here.

Libera, multiple locations 

This chain of residential developments has properties on the Yucatán Peninsula in Tulum, Mérida, Celestún, El Cuyo and Sisal. This is where to go if you want to live in the quietude of nature while still having access to activities that’ll keep you entertained. 

This developer was also the first real estate company in the country to receive the Environmental Quality Distinction from Mexico’s Federal Attorney General’s Office for Environmental Protection (PROFEPA).

While Tulum remains the classic jewel of the Mexican Caribbean, it’s worth considering Libera’s other properties on the Peninsula that are in less overdeveloped locations: 

• There’s Cuyo, for example, an up-and-coming gem offering more privacy and stunning sea views. 
• Celestún is a “pink paradise,” a sanctuary of estuaries, flamingos and mangroves. 
• Sisal provides low property development amid gorgeous, mostly untouched Caribbean beaches.

But all four developments are designed to equally blend into their surrounding landscapes, and each has facilities meant to help you enjoy the surrounding environment and enjoy outdoor activities. Go swimming in a beautiful cenote, practice meditation in the onsite Zen park, have a mini-adventure with family in the onsite camping area and give Fido some quality time in each development’s pet park. 

If you enjoy exploration and connecting with nature, this place is worth checking out. 

Learn more about it here.

Desarrolladora ECO-GM

This is another property located in the heart of the jungle, 35 minutes from Quintana Roo’s beaches and just 25 minutes from Cancún International Airport and the Maya Train. 

If you love conservation, Hakuna is one of their projects that preserves over 60% of its green spaces and protects the local ecosystem. Here you’ll find eco-friendly technologies and amenities that enhance the living experience, all while fostering sustainable growth and generating long-term value. 

If you enjoy making friends with your neighbors, Hakuna’s amenities are great for promoting a tight-knit community, with a camping area, landscaped walking paths — including orchards — a pet park and an outdoor gym. Meaning, there are plenty of opportunities to meet the people living around you.

For more info, click here.

Hogares Eco Sustentables de Mexico

Are you looking for modernity and comfort in a more urban setting? Hogares Eco Sustentables de Mexico creates residential options throughout the country where alternative energy technologies are already built in. Rather than polluting energy sources like gas and coal, its homes feature solar and other sustainable energy technologies. 

Many buyers will likely be interested in the developer’s properties in Mexico City and the greater metropolitan area, but it also has properties in up-and-coming urban settings like Salina Cruz, Oaxaca — one of Mexico’s main port cities and an entry point to the Istmo de Tehuantepec. 

If you prefer an urban design approach that integrates technology, innovation and environmentally friendly energy efficiency, Hogars Eco Sustentables’ offerings may appeal to you. 

For more info, click here.

Vinte

If you are looking for a “green life” but want to settle somewhere other than Mexico City or the Yucatán Peninsula, then you owe it to yourself to explore Vinte. This developer has a strong presence in many states — everywhere from Mexico City, Hidalgo, Estado de México, Nuevo León, Puebla, Querétaro and Quintana Roo.

Recognized as an innovator in sustainable housing, Vinte has the highest number of EDGE-certified properties in Mexico. This company promotes green mortgages, has created zero-energy houses and offers homes with zero-gas hybrid technology. Their projects also include spaces that encourage interaction with nature and the community, including green spaces, playgrounds, bike paths, multipurpose playing courts, pet parks, clubhouses and even baseball and soccer fields that are ideal for families with young children.

For more info, click here.

Ana Paula de la Torre is a Mexican journalist and collaborator for various outlets, including Milenio, Animal Político, Vice, Newsweek en Español, Televisa and Mexico News Daily.

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“It teaches us that progress doesn’t mean abandoning identity or memory,” says sculptor José Dávila, one of the artists behind “The Poetic Dimension: James Casebere and José Dávila,” a new exhibition at the Sean Kelly Gallery in Los Angeles inspired by Barragán’s oeuvre and that explores the emotional resonance of his architecture. 

The exhibition runs until November 1.

Casebere is known for constructing meticulously crafted models that he then photographs. He says Barragán infused a modernist sensibility into his work while incorporating Mexican vernacular. He admires the colors, textures and materials Barragán used. 

“The architect created an experience of space and time in designs that were no longer cold and distant. He developed a language rooted in place,” Casebere says.

At this particular moment in world events, Casebere says he finds Barragán’s work particularly healing, a “peaceful sanctuary of privacy and calm.” 

“This exhibition is not just a presentation of works. It is a conversation,” says Dávila, who is known for his sculptures that balance tension and gravity with a distinctive elegance.

The physical vs. the imagined: A dialogue between two artists

Although Dávila’s artworks are sculptures and Casebere‘s are photographs, Barragán’s influence looms over both artists’ work. 

“It is a dialogue, but it is also about silence,” says Dávila. “His sculptures are propositions rather than statements. Casebere builds models of imagined spaces and photographs them in a way that makes them feel inhabitable, even though they are constructions. His work creates a tension between what is real and what is imagined.” 

“In contrast, my sculptures insist on their physicality. They are objects negotiating gravity, fragility and resistance. The materials depend on one another to remain upright,” Dávila reflects.

Casebere’s photographs recreate the iconic spaces of Barragán’s architectural creations: Gilardi House, the Gálvez House and the architect’s home and studio in Mexico City. 

“I hope to evoke some of the same feelings Barragán transmits, like peace and quiet. I do this by using color and texture to create spaces that emphasize the materiality of the sculptures and the contrast between the organic,” Casebere says. “It is a physical, gravitational work, and I think the combination works interestingly in these times.”

“What interests me is how these two approaches resonate with each other when combined,” Dávila says. “[Casebere’s] photographs point to a kind of architecture of memory, while my work explores the presence of forces in real time and space. Together, they reveal the poetic dimension where matter and imagination converge.” 

Inspired by  Barragán’s work

When Casebere speaks about Barragán’s work, his voice sounds vibrant. He identifies with the architect’s goals, values and the atmosphere of his architecture. 

“In many cases, I try to encapsulate it in my work,” he says. 

The artist is amazed by the patience and sustained attention to spatial relationships and one’s movement within Barragán’s buildings, as well as the way he adapts cultural history and values without being eclectic. 

The architect adapted Mexican experiences, color, texture and materials into a modernist vocabulary, Casebere says. He also emphasizes Barragan’s deep relationship with nature. 

“There’s a contrast between simplicity and the structure of organic formations in the natural environment,” he says.

On the other hand, Dávila admires Barragán’s ability to work with immense emotional weight. 

“His ability to create an atmosphere that feels both grounded and transcendent moves me deeply,” he says. “He trusted silence, proportion and atmosphere. In that sense, I see him not only as an architect but also as someone who sculpted space itself.” 

“His clarity resonates with my own search: how to do the most with the least and how to bring intensity through restraint. How to avoid speed and prefer a slow pace. Architecture as an introspective search rather than an open spectacle,” he argues.

Both artists evoke elemental aspects of Barragán’s universe, such as the fact that architecture can be simultaneously physical and emotional. This legacy brings serenity, calm intensity, sensuality, memory and movement through space and colors into their work. It also encompasses the links between the inside and outside of spaces and light. 

“Absence can be as powerful as presence. Silence can convey meaning,” Davila says. “In the shadow of Barragán’s legacy, the works aim to let silence speak.”

Ana Paula de la Torre is a Mexican journalist and collaborator for various outlets, including Milenio, Animal Político, Vice, Newsweek en Español, Televisa and Mexico News Daily.

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These five designers shared similar philosophies regarding handmade items, fair trade, local production, local design and female collaboration. Thus, Redonda was born. In Spanish, redonda is the feminine form of “round,” alluding to a circular shape. According to its founders, this term serves as a metaphor for various feminine issues, including the womb, the menstrual cycle and the Earth, which is often viewed as feminine in many indigenous cultures.

“In Redonda, you’ll find only projects with ethical practices and unique designs. You’re not just buying crafts to resell. You’re investing in original designs. There’s a comprehensive process involving the communities that is more thoughtful and elaborate. It encompasses design, work, collaboration, communication and connection. This is a circular project — another nod to the essence of Redonda,” explains Melissa Ávila, one of the Mexican designers involved in this initiative.

The design in Redonda

“Redonda is an autobiographical space for clothing and objects. We are five women with five distinct visions. Each of us has our own studio and a solid, well-established brand,” shares Ávila, who also runs M.A Studio.

The group includes Karim Molina of Ayres, a studio that creates utilitarian objects using natural materials such as volcanic stone, marble and natural leather, all crafted entirely by hand. There’s also Andrea García-Cano Turner from Casa Norte, who specializes in interior design and curates unique objects. Ávila is known for bringing art objects like sculptures and carpets to life in “a celebration of modernism, tradition and design.” Carla Qua of Agnes Workshop creates embroidered clothing using natural dyes. Lastly, Cristina Domínguez of Mina Studio is an artisanal leather designer from Guadalajara, Jalisco. All of them collaborate with artisans under a fair trade model, presenting a unique aesthetic.

“We clicked immediately. Our values align closely, and we place a high value on teamwork. While conflicts inevitably arise, we listen, decide and act as a group,” Ávila notes.

Redonda has unintentionally crafted a new aesthetic identity. The recently opened showroom, located in the heart of Mexico City’s Roma neighborhood, is an interior design proposal that honors Mexico’s historical, natural and artisanal roots while showcasing the beauty of the materials, design and craftsmanship.

The future is collaboration

One of the core tenets of this project is the belief that women should unite to support one another. “The future is collaborative,” says Ávila. “All the women in Redonda have created incredibly sensitive proposals. We all work with artisans and are deeply committed to new practices and collaborations.” It’s a circular dynamic, as the name Redonda suggests.

Redonda also exemplifies collaboration in the Mexican design scene, demonstrating how it can be harnessed to realize a common dream in the business world, which is often associated with competition. “In Redonda, the private and public spheres intertwine to build an authentic, autobiographical and pluralistic material culture,” per the project’s mission statement.

Ana Paula de la Torre is a Mexican journalist and collaborator for various outlets, including Milenio, Animal Político, Vice, Newsweek en Español, Televisa and Mexico News Daily.

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Iztapalapa is home to at least one-fifth of Mexico City’s population. That makes it the second most populous district, with nearly 2 million inhabitants as of 2020. Yet, it suffers from issues related to poverty, inequality and insecurity, as well as a chronic lack of basic services. Therefore, the relatively new Yancuic Museum, built in 2015, represents progress by the city government. Both in terms of cultural offerings and social impact in an area that has long been characterized by low public investment.

Admission is free at the museum, whose name is derived from Nahuatl and means “new.” It’s part of Mexico City’s “Let’s Build a City” government program, one of the aims of which is to diversify the capital’s cultural offerings. 

Iztapalapa, it should be noted, boasts a rich cultural and historical heritage. Founded by the Culhuas in 670 AD between the northern foothills of Cerro de la Estrella and the shores of Lake Texcoco, it is also the site of the famous New Fire ceremony (Huizachtecatl). This Mexica ritual marks the end of a 52-year cycle and the commencement of another, symbolizing the renewal and continuity of life.

What makes the Yancuic Museum so special?

Opened in 2024, the Yancuic Museum features a distinctive aesthetic that can be appreciated from every angle. Its façade resembles a large piece of unfolded origami, characterized by big open windows that integrate indoor and outdoor spaces. The museum appears to expand, creating an enchanting atmosphere, particularly at night, thanks to its luminous design.

Yancuic is dedicated to environmental care and Nahua cosmogony. Thus, there is a wide variety of outdoor spaces. The entire ground floor is a public space, where, according to the museum, “A plaza extends into the museum, so access is through a diffuse boundary: A forest of wall columns that lead from the public lobby into the interior of the building.”

Additionally, the exhibition areas are interconnected by double-height spaces, providing sweeping views of Cerro de la Estrella, Cerro de la Mina and Volcán Tetlalmanche (commonly known as Cerro de Guadalupe). Visitors can also appreciate the vast territory inhabited by nearly two million people in the municipality. The museum showcases four exhibition halls designed to raise awareness about climate change, focusing on worldview, dialogue and action, ecosystems and biodiversity, and crisis and resilience, respectively.

There is also a bookstore run by the Fondo de Cultura Económica (FCE). Named Julieta Fierro, after the Mexican scientist, it offers around 20,000 titles across various subjects.

Awards and achievements

The Yancuic Museum covers an area of 20,000 square meters and consists of five floors, accommodating up to 5,000 visitors per day. According to the Secretary of Culture of Mexico City, it has welcomed over 214,000 visitors since February 2025.

This project stands out not only for its social impact but also for its architectural and aesthetic qualities. It gained initial recognition when architects Carlos Rodríguez Bernal, Laura Sánchez Penichet, Mara Gabriela Partida Muñoz and Héctor Mendoza Ramírez, along with Boris Bezan, presented it at the 2015 National Architecture Competition. It won first place.

The museum also received the Gold Medal at the 18th National Biennial of Mexican Architecture in 2024. This is organized by the Federation of Architects’ Associations of the Mexican Republic. It’s one of the most prestigious architecture awards in Mexico.

Set against an endless sea of concrete, the Yancuic Museum stands as an oasis. Visitors are welcomed with four enormous sculptures of the white-tailed deer, Mexican wolf, jaguar and axolotl. These are made from recycled materials by ‘El Volador’, a collective of artists, designers and builders based in Iztapalapa. Yancuic is, definitely, an architectural gem that enhances the cultural significance of this historical but relegated area of Mexico City.

Ana Paula de la Torre is a Mexican journalist and contributor for Milenio, Animal Político, Vice, Newsweek en Español, Televisa and Mexico News Daily.

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According to the latest World Tourism Barometer from the UN World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), Mexico, featuring some of the world’s busiest airports, is currently ranking as the seventh most visited country in 2025. So, if you’re thinking about buying a vacation property for yourself or to rent out as a business investment, one thing you’ll want to consider is how close your purchase is to an airport.

To give you an idea of the possibilities out there, let’s take a look at some examples of excellent real estate investment options you can find within an hour of an international airport in some of Mexico’s most popular destinations.

Baja California Sur

This two-bedroom, two-bathroom apartment is an example of what’s available in the heart of San José del Cabo‘s desirable hotel zone, directly in front of stunning Costa Azul beach. It boasts the kind of tourist-friendly amenities you’ll want to look for in this sort of property, such as a common area with an exquisitely designed pool, breathtaking views, a gym and a tennis court. Spanning 158 square meters (1,700 square feet) in a prime location, this is a perfect example of an excellent investment property candidate you can rent out or resell easily.

A bit further out from the heart of the action, consider El Tezal, one of Cabo San Lucas’s most desirable residential areas. It’s a convenient half hour from Los Cabos International Airport. Here, there are properties like this competitively priced 128-square-meter (1,377 square feet), two-bedroom, two-bathroom apartment with fantastic beach views.

Quintana Roo

Quintana Roo has the blockbuster tourist destination of Cancún, of course, but you might also consider Cozumel, where you can find beachfront apartments like this 190-square-meter (2,045 square feet) standout, located on Cozumel’s west side — which sees little sargassum — close to Cozumel International Airport. It offers stunning views, tennis courts and excellent common areas, including a dining room, a gym and a pool. Are you seeing a pattern? These are the amenities to find in a place you plan to rent out to vacationers.

In addition to having quick access to Cozumel International Airport, you can easily access Cancún International Airport from Cozumel as well, via a one-hour ferry ride.

Playa del Carmen, located an hour from Cancún International Airport, is one of the cities in the Mexican Caribbean with the highest added value. Property prices here can naturally get steep, so if you’re looking for something a bit more affordable, look outside the hotel zone for something like this two-bedroom, two-bathroom apartment, located closer to where full-time residents live but still a taxi ride away from the heart of the party.

This modern property spans a more modest 89 square meters (957 square feet) but still includes a pool, gym and grill area in the complex. Located just 10 minutes from the beach and surrounded by picturesque, lush vegetation, this is the kind of destination popular with vacationers who want a quieter beach getaway not surrounded by partiers.

Yucatán

Situated in the heart of lovely, safe downtown Mérida, this sort of home has significant added value. With amenities like a lovely lap pool, high ceilings, a blend of colonial and modern architectural styles and a spacious living room, this two-bedroom property is an excellent option for investment, for living in yourself full-time or for use as a vacation home. It’s also located less than one hour from Mérida International Airport.

Have you heard of Chelem, a fishing village not far from Mérida that’s becoming a more popular destination with expats? For those who like a quieter vacation or retirement destination, Chelem’s beautiful beaches, friendly locals and chill vibe is still a place you can find an ample, reasonably priced apartment like this four-bedroom, four-bathroom, 185-square-meter beauty right in front of the beach. It also includes a jacuzzi, a garden, a large terrace and an infinity pool with sea views in the common areas. The property also offers 24-hour security and even a bar.

Chelem appeals to folks who like to rent a beach house rather than stay in a resort. The town provides the charm of interacting with locals, but you won’t lack basic everyday services like supermarkets. It’s an acceptable 48 minutes from Mérida International Airport.

Jalisco

It’s still possible to find affordable luxury in the charming beach town of Sayulita, like this exceptional though tinier 60-square-meter apartment (645 square feet) with a view of the ocean, yet just an hour from Puerto Vallarta International Airport.

Here you can still find spectacular views of the ocean and the surrounding jungle. This development, for example, features its own infinity pool and beautifully designed common areas, which include a pool, restaurant and bar.

In Puerto Vallarta, there are still opportunities to be found like Casa Muñeca, a 4,232-square meter (45,552 square feet) home in the downtown. This sort of property — which embodies rustic colonial Mexican charm with its traditional adobe walls, high ceilings and talavera tiles — is the kind of property that vacation renters looking for a traditional, more authentic Mexico experience will love.

Of course, you’ll pay a lot more for a property like this — closer to U.S. prices — but with three bedrooms and details like stunning views of the sea, a picturesque rooftop palapa, and a mother-in-law apartment on the ground floor, this property in PV’s Gringo Gulch neighborhood could be considered part of the city’s cultural heritage.

For more affordable options, there’s the town of San Juan Cosalá, just a half hour from the popular expat haven of Chapala and a mere 9 kilometers outside of Ajijic. Here you can find properties like Casa Trinidad, a 350-square meter (3,767 square feet), four-bedroom, five-bathroom home with a pool sited on a 717-square-meter (7,717 square feet) lot. Part of an exclusive development of eight luxury homes that share gardens and recreational areas, it’s a reasonable 50 minutes from Guadalajara International Airport.

Mexico City

And finally, yes, you can still find great properties in the heart of Mexico’s capital, for far less than you’d pay for a condo in many comparable U.S. or Canadian metropolitan hubs.

This 10-apartment development, for example, located in the iconic Santa María La Ribera neighborhood, features two- and three-bedroom apartments with a throwback California Mission-style facade but with updated, modern interiors. Located in the central Cuauhtémoc borough, one of Mexico City’s most valuable areas, it’s the kind of property that you’ll always be able to rent or simply enjoy whenever you visit.

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Her goal was to create art and artistic decor objects for different spaces using these traditional materials.

The result of her work toward this goal is the M.A Estudio initiative, a studio that brings sculptures, carpets and other art objects to life, celebrating modernism, Mexico’s traditions and design. 

“The magic of M.A. [Estudio] is that it was born intuitively, without overthinking, and evolved through exploration and experimentation,” Ávila told Mexico News Daily as she sat recently down to discuss her Mexico City studio.

One of Ávila’s primary objectives is to foster collaborative projects while preserving traditions and honoring artisanal heritage and processes. So M.A Estudio operates on a collaborative model based on building long-term relationships with traditional artisans. 

“To me, fair trade implies a 360-degree approach: It must be fair to those who create, produce, sell and buy it. It must be viable and functional for everyone,” Ávila said.

M.A Estudio emphasizes the value of handmade items and the traditions that produce them. 

“We love artisan processes, not just working with artisans. We cherish everything related to crafts, handmade work, artisan culture and traditional processes.” 

 

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For Ávila, handmade processes are intimately tied to the earth and to culture. They highlight identity, natural resources and the region in which they were created.

Long-term relationships with artisans

Since its inception in 2017, one of M.A Estudio’s strengths has been its long-term collaboration with five artisan families based in regions known for their rich artisanal traditions, including Oaxaca, Chiapas, Guerrero, Puebla, Michoacán and Mexico State.

When it comes to the creative process, Melissa maintains an open mind. While she designs most pieces, certain series are created in collaboration with artisans. 

“The studio is a space where I envision us all fitting together, so we are open to new collaborations and techniques. There is always a spirit of transformation, and we are adaptable to meet evolving needs,” she said.

The GEEL series is one such collaboration: It was designed with members of the Michoacán Purépecha community known as the Zipiajo. The series features a technique that smooths clay using materials like mud, fine black sand and red earth, known as charanda, for its final finishing touches. 

“Many other collections feature my designs, which artisans appreciate, allowing us to create prototypes together. Sometimes, I’m hired by associations, NGOs and other institutions to mentor artisan groups,” Ávila explained.

Values make the difference

It’s important to avoid generalizing or romanticizing Mexico’s artisan sector, Ávila said, while also  supporting the community and recognizing its complexities 

“Mexico has an abundance of talent. It is a vast country and we must continue to seek ways to promote this heritage,” she said.

M.A Estudio also provides opportunities for creators to design their own products and produce them with the handmade team, giving them access to a stable income. They can rely on M.A Estudio for the entire design and production process.

“For me, the future is collaborative at any level,” Ávila said. 

She is pleased to observe a growing public interest in understanding where products originate, she said. 

“The goal for us as consumers is to become more aware of our purchases, to comprehend their origins and to acknowledge their impact on the planet and the people who create them,” she said.

With its unique designs, created using ethical practices, M.A. Estudio departs from the common practice of merely reselling handicrafts, instead integrating a thoughtful design process that is deeply connected to communities. The result is a stunning collection that brings joy and elegance to spaces.

You can find full links to their work here.

Ana Paula de la Torre is a Mexican journalist and contributor for Milenio, Animal Político, Vice, Newsweek en Español, Televisa and Mexico News Daily.

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Real estate industry trade shows in Mexico have played a crucial role in this boom by providing investors with one-stop shopping for the essential information they need to make informed investing decisions.

Today, we share some of the most relevant real estate expos being held in Mexico each year, arranged from the oldest to the most recently established.

If you’re looking to invest in real estate in Mexico as a home for yourself or as a business opportunity — whether on the individual or large scale — attending one of these trade shows can give you a leg up on knowing the property investment landscape. In many cases, you can also network with the companies, banks and government figures you may need to know in order to invest in real estate in Mexico.  

The Real Estate Show

Considered one of the most important events in the real estate sector in Mexico and Latin America, this expo was established in 2004 and has served as a key meeting point for experts, investors and developers in Mexico for over 20 years. 

Created by ADI, it just had its 2025 event this month, featuring speakers including academics, government representatives and sector experts.

Smart City Expo LATAM

Recognized as the most important forum for promoting smart cities in Latin America, this annual event, while not strictly a real estate expo, is a great platform for discovering innovative real estate businesses promoting environmentally responsible solutions and efficient resource and waste management. It’s also good for networking with a wide array of key players throughout Mexico and internationally who are interested in building smart cities.  

This expo, which took place in Puebla earlier this month, brings together mayors and experts from over 300 cities worldwide, along with companies, institutions, academics and thought leaders. 

Expo Real Estate

This industry conference features insights from political analysts, bank directors, corporate executives, academics, politicians and urban planning experts and attracts 5,000 visitors each year. 

Typically a two-day intensive event, it features around 100 stands and over 400 investment opportunities in Mexico, the U.S., and Latin America. It also includes workshops and more than 100 speakers, usually held in February. 

Nuevo Leon Real Estate Summit 

One of the most important real estate events in the industrial center of northern Mexico, the NL Real Estate Summit brings together leaders and experts from academia, the private sector and public services, attended by the most important figures in housing development and industry promotion. 

Organized by the National Chamber of the Housing Development and Promotion Industry (CANADEVI) in Nuevo León, it’s a popular event within this sector. 

Expo Tu Casa Total

With over 80 exhibitors, this expo is targeted more toward individuals seeking to buy a home or apartment in Mexico to live in, or perhaps buy and rent out as a small business opportunity. It offers numerous opportunities to purchase houses, apartments or plots of land from real estate companies based in Mexican states with some of the highest projected capital gains opportunities. 

The event, being held this year at the World Trade Center in Mexico City in July, attracts at least 9,000 visitors annually.

Attendees can enjoy conferences led by experts, exclusive promotions and personalized consultations.

Expo Cihac

With 35 years of history, this annual event, taking place in October 2025 at Mexico City’s Banamex Center, covers the entire construction, architecture and interior design industry, hosting over 500 national and international exhibitors. If you’re planning to develop properties in Mexico, this is the ideal place to find all components involved in a construction project, as well as engaging conference events. 

Discover a variety of furniture, construction equipment, outdoor furnishings, appliances, and installations, among other offerings. 

Expo Invierte

2025 marks the Invest Expo’s ninth edition. This more intimate industry event will showcase over 30 exhibitors presenting information about the most promising real estate investment destinations in Mexico — locations promising annual capital gains of 11%, including Nuevo León, Jalisco and Mérida. 

Last year’s event in Monterrey, Nuevo León, attracted 2,500+ visitors. The next edition will be held this November 20 and 30 at the World Trade Center in Mexico City.

Expo Urbanismo 

Although relatively new, this event has quickly become a hotspot for industry figures and investors interested in southeastern Mexico.

Featuring more than 50 real estate developers, architects, builders, and materials suppliers, the Urbanism Expo is where investors can browse strategic opportunities for development in Mérida, Yucatán and the rest of southeastern Mexico. It also provides a valuable opportunity to learn about market trends, establish connections and discover new business prospects.

Expo Vivicon

This fair takes place in Guadalajara, Jalisco, focusing on housing, construction and design. Typically held in June, Vivicon is an excellent venue for those looking to build, remodel, decorate or purchase homes. This year saw the event’s fourth edition, with more than 120 exhibitors. 

The event is targeted mainly at residential development, with many of the major housing developers in Mexico represented. It’s an ideal location to find investment opportunities, expand your professional network, and attend workshops and conferences.

Expo Negocios Inmobiliarios 

The Real Estate Businesses Expo (EXNI), in its 12th consecutive year, is organized by the real estate magazine, Inmobiliare. Taking place in October 2025, this will be a proudly zero-emissions event taking place at the iconic Camino Real hotel in Mexico City. 

Why attend? This trade show is not only a hub for real estate offers in Mexico but also a forum for discussing and addressing challenges in the pursuit of a modern, sustainable real estate market. Workshops and over 60 exhibitors will also feature prominently.

Some other great events worth a mention:

• Expo Casa y Jardín, where you will find everything you need for the construction and design of your house and garden.
• The Real Estate Tech Expo, which focuses on real estate technology and showcases the latest innovations in as AI property valuation, e-contract systems, brokerage and marketing support, property management tools and more.

The post Want to buy property in Mexico? Check this guide to Mexico’s real estate expos first appeared first on Mexico News Daily

According to the Mexican Association of Tourism Developers (Amdetur), vacation property ownership in Mexico is expected to be one of the fastest-growing segments of tourism this year, with an estimated 6% increase. Mexico is expected to have around 785 vacation ownership developments by the end of 2025. 

So, where are the new and rising spots? The ideal places for a vacation home base and a smart investment? Read on to find out.

Compostela, Nayarit

This charming Pacific colonial town, about 30 kilometers from Tepic, is known for its beaches, but it is also home to the impressive lake, El Molino, which is an important ecological reserve home to wild boar, deer, chachalaca, chana, peacock and quail. It’s also a culinary destination for many Mexicans due to its fresh seafood and many food festivals throughout the year. Compostela offers scuba diving, snorkeling, kayaking, parachuting, paragliding, hang gliding, ultralight flying and zip-lining, as well as biking. 

In recent years, there has been an increasing real estate development activity, especially in the town of El Monteón around the popular lakeside La Mandarina resort area, which is also less than 5 kilometers from Nayarit’s beautiful beaches.

Valladolid, Yucatán

This charming colonial city, also known as “The Pearl of the East,” this Magical Town quickly becoming one of the most visited places in the state of Yucatán. Surrounded by countless attractions — pristine cenotes you can swim in, a colorful historic downtown filled with restaurants and colonial architecture, traditional Mayan beekeeping farms, nearby archaeological sites and the stunning Coloradas (a series of pools whose high salt content gives them an intense pink color). 

Valladolid is also one of the most important and fast-developing areas for real estate in Yucatán, thanks to its accessibility from the Cancún and Tulum international airports and its proximity to major archeological sites like Chichén Itzá. According to the report Forecast for the Real Estate Market in Valladolid, Yucatán (2024–2025), this location is set to become a leading destination for real estate investment in the coming years. 

Land in Valladolid will remain a cornerstone of this growth, thanks to factors such as rising land values and government incentives to build new eco-friendly tourism infrastructure between 2024 and 2027.

Cadereyta, Querétaro

This beautiful Magical Town is renowned for its gastronomy, particularly the Querétaro Wine and Cheese Route. In Cadereyta, you’ll find a wealth of traditional local dishes to sample, including barbacoa de carnero, nopal dishes, local versions of pulque — a traditional Mexican alcoholic beverage that dates back to the pre-Hispanic era — and local sweets.

Fans of outdoor activities can explore Cadereyta’s Grutas La Esperanza caves or hike to impressive waterfalls like Velo de Novia in the nearby community of Maconi. Caderetya also attracts mountain bikers and sky divers, thanks to its breathtaking scenic landscapes, and folks intersted in lesser-known Mexican archaeological sites nearby, such as the Ranas y Toluquilla archeological zone, believed by INAH to date back to A.D. 400. 

Luxury housing developments such as La Capilla Residencial offer a potential home base for repeat vacationers or a rental property for Cadereyta’s growing tourism. Located in the heart of Querétaro’s five Magical Towns, it offers promising capital appreciation, security and comfort. 

Orizaba, Veracruz 

Surrounded by forests and the spectacular snow-capped peak of Orizaba, this is one of the most colorful and picturesque cities in Mexico, with an iconic cable car that reaches the Ecoparque Cerro del Borrego, its botanical garden and the Iron Palace designed by Gustave Eiffel. 

According to real estate experts, a high demand for housing is expected in Veracruz, particularly in Orizaba, which has become one of the state’s most visited places in recent decades. It’s a perfect place for vacationers interested in outdoor activities like hiking.

Tlaxcala city, Tlaxcala

A few months ago, Mexico News Daily dedicated an entire article to discussing what makes Tlaxcala city one of the best places to live or invest in Mexico. Among its advantages is that the state of Tlaxcala has become one of the safest in the country. It’s also one of the cheapest. 

Tourists come to this capital city — only 90 kilometers from Mexico City — for its colonial ambiance and its historic and archeological sites, particularly Cacaxtla, known for its well-preserved murals. Tlaxcala city is also rapidly becoming a foodie haven for those interested in Mexico’s ancestral cuisine.

All these factors have driven tourism in Tlaxcala city up by 42% just between 2022 and 2023. And in 2024, the real estate sector grew by between 10% and 15%, according to Israel Moreno Carpinteyro, president of the Tlaxcala section of the Mexican Association of Real Estate Professionals (AMPI). Property values in the state also registered an annual increase of 14.7% during the first quarter, making Tlaxcala city the place to invest in a vacation property while the prices are still low.

Sisal, Yucatán

Sisal, on the northwest coast of Yucatán, is a day trip’s ride from the more popular Mérida, with its own treasures to offer: Known for hosting the El Palmar Ecological Reserve, this area is famous for pink flamingo sightings and its turquoise waters and beautiful beaches. 

Thanks to its reserve, Sisal remains well preserved. It was officially named a Magical Town in 2020, which has generated significant interest from area real estate investors. It should be noted, however, that there is controversy among residents regarding the promotion of sustainable and orderly development. If you decide to invest in vacation property here, you’ll want to do so responsibly.

Atlixco, Puebla

Known as the “city of flowers” due to the richness of its fields, Atlixco is filled with tradition and history.  In recent years, it’s become the most visited city in Puebla, rated as one of the best tourist sites in Mexico in 2024, according to Booking.com. Located just 25 kilometers from the capital, Atlixco is also one of the most affordable of Mexico’s Magical Towns in which to buy property.

Atlixco has several water parks for family vacation fun in spring and summer, an abundance of flower markets famous across Mexico, the Indigenous Huey Atlixcáyotl harvest festival every September, and the Cerro San Miguel, where you can take in sweeping, panoramic views of Atlixco and its surrounding valleys. 

Thanks to these attractions and more, Atlixco’s Airbnb market in 2025 is stable and growing, with the city attracting 1.2 million tourists per year. According to the property investment site, airroi.com, the year-on-year revenue increase in Atlixco’s short-term rental market was 3% between June 2024 and May 2025, making this historic city a promising place to invest in vacation property.

Finally, special mentions go to:

• Mascota, Jalisco, a beautiful colonial town located near the Western Sierra
• Mineral de Pozos, Guanajuato, another gorgeous colonial town surrounded by old mines that got international attention in 2021 when it hosted the Mexico selection of the prestigious wine competition, Concours Mondial de Bruxelles.
• El Oro, Hidalgo, also a colonial mining town that’s enveloped by a forest known for welcoming migrating monarch butterflies.

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