Sombreros, burritos, maracas and tequila. A killer combination for a tex-mex party, we’d be the first to agree. But certainly not the best that Mexico itself has to offer. Fact is, with stunning scenery, beautiful beaches and laid back locals, Central America’s largest country has all the best holiday ingredients in abundance – and we’ve hit on the perfect way to get you an authentic taste of its fiery flavour.

The life and soul of oaxaca

Our first tip: leave the frenetic pace of Mexico City behind and head south to Oaxaca. Set high in the Sierra Madre del Sur mountains, this is one of the country’s most diverse and culture-rich regions. Stay at the Art Hotel Casa Oaxaca and Toast your arrival with a glass of Mezcal, the local fire water, or take the soft option and go for a mug of hot chocolate – there’s so much cocoa stored on Mina St that it literally scents the air. By night the squares of Oaxaca come alive with local musicians and food stalls and the fiesta buzz is inescapable.

Meet the cloud people of sierra norte

Hungry for culture? Musty museums just don’t cut the mustard. Venture further afield to explore the sprawling ancient ruins of Monte Alban and one of Mexico’s most mystical burial grounds at Mitla. Much more appetising than your average history lesson. Looking for adventure? Journey into the sky with a guided trek deep into the Sierra Norte Mountains to meet the ‘cloud people’. This isolated indigenous group lives high in villages shrouded by clouds. Watch as shadowy silhouettes emerge through soft mist and feast with these locals before bedding down for the night. Jaunts down the pub will seem distinctly unspectacular after this.

Unwind on the pacific coast

Wash off from your dusty trek in the turquoise sea at Puerto Escondido. Famed internationally as a surfing mecca, this ‘Hidden Port’ is the perfect place for a celebratory cocktail. Should surfing prove too strenuous, rent a boat to check out marine turtles and porpoises and access otherwise-inaccessible shores. At night enjoy fresh seafood in local restaurants before showing off your tan in one of the towns’ many relaxed bars.

Chocolate-scented streets; shots of Mezcal with friendly locals; dining under the stars as clouds curl beneath you; and relaxing on deserted beaches with a fresh fruit cocktail. This is the real Mexico and our perfect recipe to whet your holiday appetite – far better fare than a soggy fajita at your desk.