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Spring weather is slowly making its way to the U.S., but if you desperately need sunshine, this flight deal's for you. Right now, American, Delta, Interjet, and Volaris are running discounted routes from 18 U.S. cities to Oaxaca, Mexico, where the current temperature is 70 degrees Fahrenheit—yes please. Normally priced over $550 round-trip, fares are currently as low as $243 and are available in May and June, as well as August through March 2019 (including Día de Los Muertos and Thanksgiving, but excluding Christmas and New Year's.) But as always, you have to book fast—these low prices usually expire within a day or two. And you don't want to miss out on Oaxaca's legendary mezcal scene.
For your stay, Traveler editor-in-chief Pilar Guzman has a few key picks: There's the Quinta Real Oaxaca, a 16th-century convent-turned-hotel with private courtyards where you can take a break from the bustling city streets. Or, there's Los Amantes, a boutique hotel with more modern, artsy vibes. Once you're checked in, hit the shops—the city is in the midst of a female-led artisan revolution, from fashion designers to artists. We love Studio Xaquixe, where you can find beautiful hand-blown glassware, from bottles to shot glasses, and Lanii, for embroidered shirts and hand-woven bags. After a long day spent exploring, grab a cocktail at La Mezcaloteca. Even if you're new to the smoky agave drink, the bartenders will give you the rundown on its history—and more importantly, how you should drink it.
How to book: Low fares are available from Baltimore, Charleston, Cleveland, Columbus, Dallas, El Paso, Hartford, Houston, Jacksonville, Little Rock, Los Angeles, Miami, New York City, Pensacola, Richmond, San Diego, Shreveport, and Tulsa, according to Scott's Cheap Flights, who found the deal. To find the best available travel dates, head to Google Flights and use their calendar tool—the lowest fares will be highlighted in green. Be aware that some of the flights offered are basic economy, like on Interjet, and have certain stipulations (only carry-ons, no picking seats) for their low-fare flights, so read all the fine print before you book.
