In part two from Zacatlán—a Pueblo Mágico tucked in Mexico’s apple-growing highlands—David sits down with Angelica Herrera, owner of Casa Madera, to unpack the region’s soul-warming cuisine, misty canyon scenery, and adventure options that have long made this town a beloved escape for Mexicans. Expect talk of apple fairs and parades, glass-balcony waterfall viewpoints, and rustic-modern stays perched right on the cliff’s edge.

• Barranca de los Jilgueros (Canyon Viewpoints) – A sweeping cliff panorama that often fills with morning fog—one of Zacatlán’s signature sights.
• Waterfalls Circuit –

Cascada San Pedro: Close to town and easy to reach.

Cascada Las Brisas: Features a glass lookout balcony with dramatic canyon views.

Cascadas de Tulimán: A towering, multi-drop fall and a local favorite for hikers.

• “Piedras Mágicas” Off-Road Route – Rugged forest outcrops and stone columns reached by razor/ATV or 4×4; otherworldly rock formations and riverborn springs tucked in the woods.
• Caves & Ziplining – Guided cave treks through underground rivers plus zipline runs over the canopy—easy to pair with a waterfalls day.
• Apple Culture – Cider tastings, apple wines, and seasonal specialties echo the town’s heritage (and make great souvenirs).

• Best months: April–June for clear skies and fresh mountain air.
• August: The beloved Feria de la Manzana (Apple Fair)—parades, performances, and yes… people on floats tossing apples into the crowd. Bring quick reflexes and a sense of humor.

• Casa Fernández – A local favorite for regional flavors and inventive plates (look for the mole lasagna and excellent cocktails).
• Casa Orno – More international leaning (handmade pastas, wood-fired touches) at fair prices.
• Mi Viejo Pueblito (at Casa San Miguel) – Charming courtyard setting for Puebla-style comfort food.
• Apple Everything – Try pan con queso (cheese bread served at the start of many meals), tlayoyos (stuffed corn-dough triangles with salsas, cheese, and crema), plus ciders and apple liqueurs from local producers.

• Casa Madera – Cliff-edge, rustic–modern boutique with minimalist design and 180° canyon views that often float on a sea of fog. Perfect for “slow mornings, big views.”
• Casa San Miguel – An 18th-century home turned boutique hotel (spa, temazcal, cowork, onsite restaurant). Central, atmospheric, and lovingly restored.
• Montra Glamping – Design-forward domes and tiny-home chalets on the ridgeline, plus a spa—ideal for a cozy, Instagrammable mountain escape.

• Easy pairing with Mexico City – Zacatlán is about 2–3 hours by car from CDMX and pairs beautifully with a capital-city itinerary for a deeper, non-beach look at Mexico.

Zacatlán trades surf and sand for mist, moss, and mountain air—with hearty Puebla cuisine and adventure at the doorstep. It’s the perfect counterpoint to Mexico City: creative, calm, and proudly local.

In this episode, David takes listeners deep into the misty mountains of Puebla, to a town that feels worlds away from Mexico’s sun-soaked coasts. Zacatlán—known for its apple orchards, clockmakers, and cobblestone charm—is a creative and cultural haven just two hours from Mexico City.

Joined by Eirick Rodríguez, General Manager of Casa San Miguel, David explores the town’s fascinating blend of history, nature, and craftsmanship. From 18th-century architecture to caves, waterfalls, and local cuisine that redefines mole, Zacatlán offers an authentic slice of mountain Mexico few travellers ever experience.

• Zacatlán de las Manzanas – The mountain town where mist meets creativity and tradition.

• Local Art & Architecture – How community mosaics and colorful alleyways celebrate regional pride.

• Adventure in Nature – From ziplining and waterfalls to mysterious rock formations like Piedras Mágicas.

• Boutique Hotels & Glamping – Why design lovers and nature seekers alike are discovering Zacatlán.

• Apple Cider & Mole Lasagna – A taste of how local flavors blend Mexican roots with culinary innovation.

Casa San Miguel – A beautifully restored 18th-century home turned boutique hotel in the heart of town. With 16 rooms, a spa, temazcal, coworking space, and on-site restaurant, it blends history with contemporary comfort.

Mantra Glamping – Perched in the hills above Zacatlán, this stylish glamping retreat features transparent domes, modern chalets, a spa, and panoramic views of the canyon below. Ideal for travelers looking for something a little different—and deeply relaxing.

Piedras Mágicas – Hidden deep in the forest and accessible only by 4x4, this surreal natural formation of gravity-defying rock pillars feels straight out of Avatar or Pandora. A magical experience in every sense.

Grutas Karmidas in Zapotitlán de Méndez – A thrilling cave hike about an hour and a half from Zacatlán, where visitors walk through an underground river surrounded by stalactites and stalagmites. A must for adventure travelers.

El Callejón del Hueso – Known as the “Bone Alley,” this colorful street is lined with mosaic art created by local residents. The tradition began when an artist from the U.S. introduced the technique, sparking a local art movement that now adorns many homes.

Zacatlán Clockmaking Heritage – Visit workshops where clocks have been handcrafted for over a century. The first monumental clock in Latin America was built here, and today, Zacatlán exports them across the country—including to Mexico’s Tren Maya project.

Town Center & Apple Culture – Stroll through the cobblestone streets, sip apple cider from local producers, and enjoy bakery-fresh pan de manzana (apple bread) as church bells echo through the mist.

Casa Fernandez – A great spot for local dishes and artistic atmosphere. Don’t miss the lasagna de mole—a creative twist on a classic, blending pasta, beef, and rich mole sauce.

La Chichipinga - a great place for the traditional take on Mole.

Apple Cider Tastings – Try Zacatlán’s locally made cider, a crisp and refreshing symbol of the town’s heritage.

Zacatlán’s story is as layered as its landscapes. Once influenced by French settlers after a 19th-century battle in the region, the town still carries traces of European style in its architecture and artisan traditions. Its identity, however, remains deeply Mexican—rooted in community, craft, and...

In this episode, Tim and David explore Johannesburg—South Africa’s largest city, economic powerhouse, and cultural capital. Locals call it “Jozi” or “Joburg,” and it’s often the first stop for travelers heading on safari or deeper into the continent.

While many visitors simply pass through, Johannesburg rewards those who linger. With stylish neighborhoods, fascinating history, vibrant art districts, and world-class hotels, it’s a city that reflects both South Africa’s past and its modern rebirth.

Tim shares insights from over a dozen visits, while David reflects on his first-time experience exploring the city’s complex history and vibrant spirit.

• Gateway to Africa – Why Johannesburg is the ideal international arrival hub for safaris and South African adventures.

• Neighborhoods with Character – Exploring Melrose Arch, Sandton, Rosebank, and Maboneng—each with its own personality.

• History & Healing – Visiting Soweto and the Apartheid Museum to understand South Africa’s profound transformation.

• Dining & Design – From chic rooftop restaurants to local cafés and culinary walking tours.

Apartheid Museum – A powerful, immersive experience that chronicles the rise and fall of apartheid through interactive exhibits, film, and photography. One of the most moving museums in the world.

Soweto Township – Visit Nelson Mandela’s former home (now a museum), see Vilakazi Street—the only street in the world to have housed two Nobel Peace Prize winners—and witness the heartbeat of South African history.

Maboneng Precinct – Meaning “Place of Light,” this creative district transforms old warehouses into art galleries, record stores, and cafés. One of the few areas perfect for a leisurely walk and people-watching.

Rosebank & Sandton – Upscale districts known for luxury shopping, outdoor cafés, and vibrant nightlife. Rosebank feels like a small urban village, while Sandton is Joburg’s gleaming business center.

The Gautrain – A sleek, high-speed train connecting OR Tambo International Airport to Sandton and Rosebank. Safe, scenic, and the best way to arrive in style.

Melrose Arch Marriott Hotel – A walkable, modern hotel surrounded by restaurants, shopping, and nightlife. Features a great pool, spacious M Club Lounge, and even a paddle (padel) club next door.

The Leonardo Hotel – One of Africa’s tallest buildings, offering sweeping views of the city skyline. Each room is a full suite with kitchen and living area. Don’t miss the rooftop lounge—or the champagne vending machine.

The Houghton Hotel – Set in a leafy, tranquil neighborhood, this elegant retreat features jacaranda-lined streets, a central pool garden, and spacious rooms that feel like a city oasis.

Four Seasons Hotel The Westcliff Johannesburg – Perched on a hilltop overlooking the city’s parks and skyline. Expect classic Four Seasons luxury, serene views, and the acclaimed restaurant Flames.

Radisson Blu Sandton – A reliable, stylish business hotel in the heart of Sandton. Great patio, walking distance to shopping centers, and ideal for repeat travelers seeking convenience and comfort.

Marble (Rosebank) – Upscale dining with a focus on wood-fired South African ingredients. Expect top-notch steaks, seafood, and local wines.

Saint (Sandton) – Italian-inspired fine dining from the team behind Marble. Known for its grilled dishes and exceptional bone marrow appetizer.

La Parada (Melrose Arch) – A lively Spanish tapas restaurant perfect for evening...