Well to tell you the truth I’ve only spent alot of time in the city of Oaxaca, and this was before all of the strikes and the mini-wars that have been going on.

First off I’d advise not going right now (to Oaxaca City), you’d probably be extremely dissapointed since any of the tourist attractions are gone or have been closed. Its a very sad time and hopefully they’ll get it all settled in the near future. But to answer your questions,

If you’re in a big city talking to some cab drivers or hotel managers there is a really good chance of them speaking english, but headed out towards the more rural parts you’ll probably need some help. You may come across someone though who does understand english, and then the fun begins! Haha

There are many many things you can do while you’re there. If you do venture to the city of Oaxaca check out the Zocalo (public square) but again I’ll have to warn you I’m not sure if anything is still there or not.
As for the state of Oaxaca, in July they have this amazing festival called the Guelaguetza that features all types of dances from across the state. This is world famous and I definitely recommend going. Also if you’re into Archaeological types of things you should check out Monte Alban which was the capital city of the Zapotec people until they were killed out.

And as for your beach question, I can’t give you a true answer as how I’ve never been to the beach from Oaxaca. I suppose it would be a very long car/bus ride to the Pacific. If you want to head to a nice Pacific beach try Acapulco. I’m sure that they are fluent in english there.

I really hope I was able to answer your questions and I hope you have a safe and fun trip!

Hi clearskies,
I went to Oaxaca as the political tensions were rising. That being said, I had a blast and am glad that I got out when I did. Just so you know, when I left the beach on a bus to get back to the Oaxaca city airport, the teachers protesting group was blocking off the city from busses with force. (As in there were trees down across the road, barells on fire on the road, and men with sticks and tires on the road at 4 am.) I just wanted to be honest with you. I’m glad I left when I did. I’m not sure exactly how toxic or dangerous the situation is now b/c I havent been keeping on top of the news. i know a few months ago an american journalist was killed, but it could be cooler tensions by now. Check the us state department’s website.

1)English: I know 25 words of spanish and if I did it again, I would have tried to know more before I left. I met fellow travelers and relied on them for spanish skills.

2)Beaches: I went to Puerto Escondido, which was awesome. I can’t recommend it enough. I found a hostel that was like a big family for 4 days. The beach is good, good parties and good people. I cant remember the hostel name right now, but I can look into it if you are interested. I hear that Mazunte was great. Some beaches are for surfers, but there are slower paced ones too.

3)Best destinations near oaxaca city: Monte Alban, El Tule, Hierve el Agua, Teotitlan and Mitla.

Hi there:

It’s fairly easy to get around without Spanish. Many people speak English—especially
those providing services. Knowing some basics is useful and respectful, however.

The beaches from Oaxaca City are 6-12 hours away. Puerto Escondido is close and in
proximity to nice, smaller beach towns like Mazunte.

Oaxaca is gorgeous. Spend time in the city. There are a number of ruins sites: Monte
Alban, Mitla, etc. The Sierra Azul outside of Oaxaca is gorgeous. And don’t miss the
beaches! It is easy to access these places on your own or through a tour company.

In response to the other two replies, I was there this fall, too. It was stressful, but the situation is much, much better. I know that because I have friends who live there currently.

I would go in a second.
Have a great time. I love it there.

Heather

I can’t offer any advice regarding the current political situation but I can tell you that I was there some years ago and absolutely loved it and would happily go back again only it’s not quite so easy from Europe.
As for beaches, the nearest is Puerto Angel, a six hour bus ride. It’s a beautiful gem of a place; at least it was when I was there. I much preferred it to Puerto Escondido, that’s not to knock Puerto Escondido it’s just that I preferred the more relaxed atmosphere of Puerto Angel.