The city of Puebla and neighboring Cholula make for a lovely long weekend.
Cholula is the home of Tlachihualtepetl, the Western Hemisphere’s largest pyramid, which doesn’t get as much recognition as other sites because it has not been completely excavated. It has tunnels that take you into the pyramid as opposed to just over it.
You might want to bring an extra bag for souvenirs. Talavera pottery, which is what you think of as Mexican pottery, is from Puebla. Another special item to bring home would be mole, the sauce that combines chilis and chocolate into a magical melange. Many restaurants sell packages that would be safe to pack in a checked suitcase.
Getting to Puebla
Puebla has a regional airport but you’re likely to find that Mexico City (MEX) is a better gateway. Check cash prices before you book award tickets. If you want to use miles, Delta partners with Aeroméxico, which flies nonstop from a dozen U.S. gateways. United and American also offer good coverage for as low as 15,000 miles each way for American and 17,500 miles each way for United in economy. Once you get to Mexico City, the easiest and most comfortable route to Puebla is via the Estrella Roja bus. The two-hour ride is a breeze.
Where to stay in Puebla
IHG and Marriott both have properties where I’d gladly stay in Puebla. The Marriott Puebla Hotel Meson del Angel is a Category 2, which costs 12,500 Marriott points per night or 50,000 points for five nights as the fifth night is free.
The InterContinental Presidente Puebla looks lovely and is 25,000 IHG Rewards points per night with the complimentary fourth night using the IHG Rewards Club Premier Credit Card.
More info at thepointsguy.com
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