An evening view of Taxco, a city at the heart of Mexico's silver trade. Photo / <a href='https://www.123rf.com/profile_belikova'>belikova - 123RF</a>
Briar Walsh indulges her passion for Mexico and Mexican artisans, by visiting annually and bringing back to New Zealand a selection of handpicked artisan homeware.
1. BEST PLACE TO GET A COCKTAIL
The best margaritas ever are at Todos Santos Inn, Baja California — a wonderful historic hacienda in beautiful Baja.
2. BEST FISH TACOS
Marlin Tostadas, Lampuga Condesa, Mexico City. Melt-in-your-mouth delicious.
3. BEST PLACE FOR SHOPPING
It's enormous and Mexico City offers great variety from modern malls to artists' markets.
4. FUN THING TO DO
Cycling to the Tulum ruins archaeological site.
5. THE BEACH YOU HAVEN'T HEARD OF
La Pastora, Baja Sur. Fabulous surf and stunning sandy beach.
6. BEST ACCOMMODATION
Try The Red Tree House in Condesa, Mexico City. The best hospitality you could wish for plus a great breakfast to set you up for a day exploring Mexico City.
7. BEST JEWELLERY
Silver from Taxco, Guerrero, which has a long history beginning well before Spanish colonisation.
8. BEST SCENERY
Copper Canyon and the village of El Fuerte. Check this beautiful area by train or zip-rider.
9. BEST PHOTO OPS
Jorge Marin's Wings of Independence in Chapultepec Park, Mexico City. This incredible sculpture celebrates Mexican independence and encourages interaction.
Spots in Central Auckland and Piha pose a high risk of illness to swimmers this summer.