El dia de los muertos is a Mesoamerican holiday celebrated Nov. 1–2. The holiday is widely thought to be Mexican in origin, but it is also celebrated in Central American countries such as Guatemala, El Salvador and Honduras. Far from celebrating death, the festivities are held to commemorate the lives of dead ancestors.
In central and southern regions of Mexico, it is common to see huge altars full of offerings for deceased relatives. This includes fruit, alcohol and flowers for the weary spirits to enjoy with their families.
Traditions vary from region to region, but the holiday is hugely important. For visitors the spectacle is incredibly impressive, bursting with color and the joys of life.
It is interesting to see how the celebration of the lives of ancestors is different to the solemn commemoration that takes place in other cultures. In Guatemala, for example, family members will drink alcohol as they visit the tombs of their family members. Climbing on the tombs is not seen as offensive as it is in other countries, and thousands of people visit special events such as the flying of giant kites in the village of Santiago Sacatepequez.
If you are in Mesoamerica Nov. 1–2, it is worth looking out for Day of the Dead celebrations, which provide a fascinating window into local culture and traditions.
Read This Next
#TrazeeTravel
Insta FeedDestinations / North America
Oct 22, 2026Stay in This Restored 1920s School Campus
In Fayetteville, West Virginia, you can now stay in what was once the town’s high school and middle school, thanks to the opening of Hill Hall Hotel. The 40-guestroom boutique property stretches out over the 1923 high school and Mid-Century middle school buildings, retaining some of the original architecture and layout, while updating amenities to meet modern travelers’ needs.
Sponsored Content
The Province That Surrounds Seoul — And Outshines It
Skip the Seoul Crowds. The Real Korea is in Gyeonggi.
Destinations / Europe
Oct 21, 2026Ease Into Autumn with Anantara’s European Wellness Retreats
Anantara Hotels & Resorts welcomes travelers to an autumnal escape with a collection of wellness experiences across its European properties. From hot mindful yoga and meditation to signature treatments like a Monoi Oil Body Wrap, these immersive retreats let guests unwind and rejuvenate as the seasons fade into one another.
Surveys
Oct 21, 2026Business Travel Bigger Than Ever, According to New Hotels.com Study
While just a few years ago, the travel industry may’ve been worried about business travel returning to its pre-pandemic numbers, according to a new Hotels.com study, that worry is no more. Business travel is back — and even more, it’s busier than ever for some travelers.
Sponsored Content
Taiwan: Whatever Your Pleasure
Taiwan’s wealth of offerings ensures travelers find destinations, activities and amenities to suit all interests.
Destinations / North America
Oct 21, 2026Massive Resort Planned for Florida’s Forgotten Coast
Known as Florida’s Forgotten Coast, this stretch of the Florida Panhandle is often overlooked for more well-known destinations in the state, such as Panama City Beach, Miami and Tampa. But the region’s quiet and laid-back atmosphere slowly draws travelers wishing to escape the crowds and high prices of Florida’s other cities, and one hospitality brand just announced plans to bring a 55-acre resort and community to the area.
ShareThis