If a rich dose of cultural heritage tempts your travel appetite, then visiting a destination where Día de Los Muertos is celebrated might add a new dimension to your worldview. From intricate ofrendas to colorful papel picado, the holiday’s traditions are both beautiful and impactful.  

Today, Angie Orth welcomes Lauren Cocking and Mathew Sandoval. Cocking is a Mexico City–based freelance travel writer who has written extensively about traveling in Mexico and Day of the Dead for publications such as The Independent, Fodor’s, and Culture Trip. Sandoval is an Arizona State University professor who has extensively researched Day of the Dead and its influence on pop culture and tourism. 

You’ll hear how Día de los Muertos is celebrated in the United States and Mexico. We’ll take a deep dive into the cultural and historical traditions that have influenced the holiday as well as the important role of honoring ancestors while also celebrating life. You’ll discover the roots of popular traditions like sugar skulls, face painting, and pan de muerto.

What You’ll Learn:

• (2:05) The cultural origins of the holiday
• (5:39) Traditional elements you’ll see, hear, and smell 
• (10:51) Respecting the culture as a visitor
• (13:29) Where to experience Día de Los Muertos  
• (20:51) How Disney’s Coco measures up to reality

Connect with:

Mathew Sandoval: 

https://mathewsandoval.com

Lauren Cocking:

https://www.laurensarahcocking.com

Connect with AAA:

Book travel: https://aaa-text.co/travelingwithaaa 

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