Feedback
Lynda takes the cake when it comes to tour guides! Her passion for Mexican (and all other) history and culture is apparent from the minute you meet her, and her enthusiasm, humor and the organized way she presents information makes it fun to learn. We had already booked a private full day tour of Teotihuacan through another website for the day after our tour with Lynda. Sadly, that guide wasn't even in the same universe as her. We spent the day lamenting how much more we would have learned and how much more fun we would have had with Lynda. She really goes above and beyond. Book her. I promise you won't regret it!
Denise Rankin Cincinnati, OH
My friend and I had a fantastic time on our tour of the Teotihuacan Pyramids with Lynda - it was truly one of the best highlights of our trip. She was extremely knowledgeable, charismatic, and fun to be around. On the ride there, she gave us a comprehensive history (about as well as she could have in only an hour) of Mexico and was able to communicate the information effectively with an entertaining spin. We then spent around three hours at the Pyramids and, the whole time, we were fed information and were able to have an awesome experience. We then drove home and learned even more Mexican history while we drove. We cannot recommend Lynda enough - hopefully others are able to have as great of an experience as we did.
Best, Joe Simon
Thank you for a most memorable day today, one of our best in Mexico. Your knowledge, presentation and passion for your subject, today the Walking Tour of San Angel, are amazing. We will see you next year!
Georgina Ratcliff from Canada
We spent our first day in Mexico City with Lynda as our guide through the Museum of Anthropology. This experience set us up for the rest of our time in Mexico City giving context to the other historical sites we visited. When we recognized something from the museum in another setting, we secretly thanked Lynda for her insights and tutelage. We highly recommend Lynda’s services to you.
Susan and Bill from Seattle, WA
Lynda’s visual organization of historical time was such a helpful tool as she “laid the table” for us at the Anthropology Museum. We really appreciated both her depth of knowledge and the way she conveyed it. She is so articulate; it was a pleasure to listen to her. We had a terrific experience with you! I love how you structure whatever it is you’re explaining!! I’m a visual learner as well and it really works for me. Plus, you are just so articulate and fluid, it’s a pleasure to listen to you! … She has a deep knowledge of the architecture, art, history and current cultural and political forces at play in the city. From in depth explanations of many noteworthy buildings to the politics of the early muralists to the environmental forces at play today Lynda engaged us and delighted us.
Nancie Schwarzman Berkshire Hathaway Home Services New England Properties, Greenwich, CT
Thank you, Lynda! I love the way you can share your passion and knowledge about Mexico!You have no idea, how idea, how much I always enjoy your tours. They help me so much get to know, appreciate, and love this amazing country! I am really very grateful for what you do! Thank you,
Chiara (ex-pat living in Mexico City)
Since joining The International Women’s Club of Mexico City I have been taking cultural tours with historian, Lynda Martinez, who is a “walking library” and someone who can excite you about the history and culture of some of the simplest looking buildings and artifacts. She brings small groups to “pueblos magics” in a cca. 2hr radius of Mexico City besides walking tours covering various areas (and more often than not some off-the-beaten path points of interests) of CDMX and the treasure within. Tours can range from 3 hours to full day depending on the destination but she always provides rich, dynamic content many times complemented with a fun activity. This Monday we visited the magic town, Acolman, that is known as the “cradle of the piñatas”. Walking the passages of Acolman's monastery that's dating back to the 1500's we learned about the 3 P's: Piñata, Posada, Pastorela . Lynda Martinez del Campo (understandmexico.net) left us in awe about the fascinating history of Acolman, the amalgamation of native and spanish rituals and stories that even explain our modern-day traditions, like recognizing Santa Claus on December 6th. We all came home with our hand-made treat, our very own piñata, we made with the guidance of a 4th generation piñata design master. A fun day all around!
Zsuzsanna from Budapest, Hungary” or from San Jose, CA
While my husband and I had an understanding that Mexico City had a long history, we knew very few of the details. We had only one day available to tour, but on that day Lynda was able to give us a great overview and provide remarkable detail to the story of the City. We learned some surprising facts and were able to not only hear the story, but see, smell and feel it so that it will stay with us always. We had no idea what we wanted to do or see when planning the day, so Lynda took over and the outcome was perfect.
Deb and Don Hinsvark (2022)
Lynda is incredible! She set a positive tone for our trip with her deep knowledge, “insider secrets,” and good humor. We spent two days with her touring the center of town (zocalo) and the Museum of Anthropology. We were worn out but she just kept us going including with scenic stops at rooftop cafes (that we would have never found) and terrific restaurant suggestions. From the first moment we started emailing until we left, Lynda gave us fabulous suggestions and advice. We will use her next time again!
Monica Adler Werner from Chevy Chase, MD (2022)
(FEEDBACK ON MAGICAL MEXICO ARMCHAIR ZOOM TALKS DURING COVID-19 QUARANTINE) Thank you for finding a way to help us still discover the treasure that is Mexico during this strange year! I know it was a tremendous amount of work, but you gave us something to look forward to and much to think about each week.
Rhonda Jones, expat from Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
(FEEDBACK ON MAGICAL MEXICO ARMCHAIR ZOOM TALKS DURING COVID-19 QUARANTINE) I just wanted to say how much I enjoyed your talk! It definitely gave me a boost for the day. After so many weeks of just puttering about at home, I had forgotten all the wonders and things that I love about this city and country. I feel that your talk arose me out of my comatose state and renewed my love for Mexico. I think it put a smile on many faces, gave us inspiration for future trips, and provided some illuminating facets to some Mexican cultural quirks! It was a bit like going to an awesome team-building event at work ... makes you feel good ... the trick is to keep that feeling going once you've got back to your desk the next day to face the usual routine!
Zoe Smith, expat in Mexico City (June 4, 2020)
(FEEDBACK ON MAGICAL MEXICO ARMCHAIR ZOOM TALKS DURING COVID-19 QUARANTINE) What a wonderful gift you gave us today with your amazing talk. The content, the pace, the images and your enthusiasm were all spot on. In a way, I’d say that the format, rather than diluting the impact of your guided tours, somewhat enhanced it. I think that you have just opened a wonderful vein with lots of potential, and I would encourage you to maintain these Zoom talks even after we go back to the new normal. In a world when now almost anyone can be an influencer or internet “celebrity” without any solid foundation or much study or preparation, it is so refreshing coming across someone like you, who takes the time and has the will to study and prepare for their audience. Thank you so much for being so professional, so generous and so enthusiastic. I hadn’t felt so close to Mexico in the last seven months (when I moved back to the UK), than I felt during the two hours in which you made me travel back to my own country with your delightful and insightful talk - a big thank you from the bottom of my heart!
Jorge Cobos, Mexican banker residing in the United Kingdom (June 16, 2020)
(FEEDBACK ON MAGICAL MEXICO ARMCHAIR ZOOM TALKS DURING COVID-19 QUARANTINE) Lynda, I have to say I'm absolutely STUNNED, AMAZED, at how knowledgeable you are! I learn so much during your talks. And it does make me nostalgic for Mexico! Your lectures have been a real joy, as I revisit a country I was happy in, learning so much more and "traveling" with your help! The amount of information you convey is stunning and makes the talks so very special.
Camille Grosdidier, ex-VOA reporter & broadcaster based in Washington, D.C. (July 2, 2020)
(FEEDBACK ON MAGICAL MEXICO ARMCHAIR ZOOM TALKS DURING COVID-19 QUARANTINE) I just wanted to be sure that I thanked you from the bottom of our collective hearts for your outstanding tours in Mexico City and beyond. We were completely spoiled by you. I think we particularly appreciated your willingness to let us know what archaeologists and anthropologists don’t know rather than just making up or repeating much-told stories. I had the interesting experience of seeing Monte Alban twice in 3 days with two different guides, and so I really realized how not-quite-adhered to facts they were — or at best, they were working with alternative facts. Thank you again from me and my whole group. Abrazos fuertes,
Omie Kerr (2020)
(FEEDBACK ON MAGICAL MEXICO ARMCHAIR ZOOM TALKS DURING COVID-19 QUARANTINE) I am very much enjoying your talks! You are by far the most knowledgeable historian, cultural guide, and professional who triangulates multiple data sources and evidence bringing it into the best and most engaging narrative! And the most trustable source in the country on Mexican culture and history!
Victoria Alexeeva, expat living in Mexico City
(FEEDBACK ON MAGICAL MEXICO ARMCHAIR ZOOM TALKS DURING COVID-19 QUARANTINE) Yesterday's talk was absolutely wonderful! Love the way you provided the broader context leading up to the actual "conquest," and the sketch of Cortes (so young!) gives the whole enterprise a (for me) unexpected twist. And especially appreciate the way you close with the quote at the Three Cultures Plaza about it being not so much a victory or defeat, but the birth of a new race (or something like that). Just the kind of perspective that the world could use about now.
Janette Lever, expat living in Mexico for 45 years
(FEEDBACK ON MAGICAL MEXICO ARMCHAIR ZOOM TALKS DURING COVID-19 QUARANTINE) Thank you Lynda for the fantastic Zoom presentation you put together for new parents of the American School Foundation of Mexico City. The information you shared with us was relevant and insightful, and people were just delighted with the format and style. We have gotten many messages of appreciation and positive feedback! I look forward to future collaborations to introduce newcomers to this magical city and help them have a positive and exciting transition.
Valeria Castillo American School Foundation Coordinator of New Families Committee
(FEEDBACK ON MAGICAL MEXICO ARMCHAIR ZOOM TALKS DURING COVID-19 QUARANTINE) Thank you so much for a most memorable afternoon. Your skillfully researched talk has brought challenge to what (over the years) I’ve learned about the life and art of Frida Kahlo. I very much appreciate your mode of presentation. You made a complex subject both understandable and enjoyable. I wish you could have been one of my college art instructors (but then, you were not yet born when I was in college).With kind regards,
Marlene Miller, Tucson, AZ
(FEEDBACK ON MAGICAL MEXICO ARMCHAIR ZOOM TALKS DURING COVID-19 QUARANTINE) Me encantó tu conferencia. La verdad es que das mucha información y detalles súper interesantes que no teníamos ni idea que existían. Se nota tu gran preparación, la verdad es que felicidades pues es súper interesante oírte y aprendemos mucho. Ojalá y puedas seguir con estas conferencias pues las haces súper amenas. Lynda tienes facilidad para explicar. Ojalá y sigas dando las conferencias, pues es una gozada oírte. Voy apuntando y ya tengo mi lista de nuevos lugares que visitar en cuanto se pueda.Te mando muchos saludos,
Elda Avila Resident of Mexico City
(FEEDBACK ON MAGICAL MEXICO ARMCHAIR ZOOM TALKS DURING COVID-19 QUARANTINE) Loved your mural talk. Inspired me to pick up a couple of kindle books on Mexican artists. Thanks. Looking forward to your next talk on museums!
Karen Ashby Mexico City
(FEEDBACK ON MAGICAL MEXICO ARMCHAIR ZOOM TALKS DURING COVID-19 QUARANTINE) Your "Breaking the Chains" talk really was fascinating. It put so much in perspective for me. We have been to Dolores Hidalgo, visited the granary, etc., but that was just a "piece" of history, and when I visit these historical places, I don't see the "whole picture". Your talk gave me a timeline of history that really helps! Thanks!
Shari Elmer
I was part of your tour group from the British Council last Sunday morning and I just wanted to write and say a huge thank you for the tour. It was packed full of fascinating insight and information, and really gave me a very colourful picture of Mexico City that I wouldn't have got otherwise. I have been trying to remember as much as I can (which is impossible!) to tell my family. Thank you again for the wonderful tour. All the best,
Paul Braddock, Keynote Speaker at British Council Conference Mexico City (2020)
If you are a cultural explorer and like to dig deep into the country you are visiting, then I couldn’t recommend a better guide than Lynda Martinez. This was our second private group tour with Lynda and it certainly won’t be the last. Whether your interest is in archaeology, history, visiting cosmopolitan Mexico City or remote indigenous Indian societies, she will expertly guide you through these experiences with unflagging energy and a wry sense of humor. Lynda opened our eyes and our hearts to the states of Tabasco and Chiapas where we visited ancient Mayan ruins, a cocoa plantation, beautiful textile artisans, saw local wildlife in natural habitats and jaw-dropping scenery.
Understand Mexico offers the traveler a deeper appreciation for this country’s fascinating cultural traditions and history. Thank you, Lynda!
Brenda Gottlieb, The Sisterhood of the Traveling Tribe, The Woodlands, Texas (2020)
Lynda Martinez del Campo is the best tour guide I ever have met. Lynda’s tour is remarkable because she is an exceptional communicator who, at the outset, establishes a knowledge foundation for everyone in her tour. She then builds upon this foundation by seamlessly weaving and distilling her extensive knowledge of anthropology, archaeology, architecture, art, culture, and history to create a luminous tapestry of Mexico’s glorious past and present. I am profoundly grateful for the opportunity to learn from her and delighted to recommend her most enthusiastically.
Richard Coorsh, Retired U.S. resident and budding Mexico aficionado
Lynda, la mejor guía de México para la gente curiosa y con ganas de aprender! Mi esposo, hija de 13 años y yo visitamos México en Mayo de este año (2018). Lynda nos sirvió de guía en el Museo Nacional de Antropología y en Teotihuacan. Fue una experiencia maravillosa, no hay libro que transmita el entusiasmo y la pasión que tiene Lynda por la historia de México y todas sus maravillas culturales. Su forma de explicar es muy didáctica y amena, no me canse de escucharla ni un minuto! Mi hija de 13 años, con su capacidad de atención típica de una adolescente, hizo gran conexión con Lynda también! Me encantaría conocer más de México de la mano de Lynda, seguro regresaremos a México y sin duda Lynda será nuestra guía otra vez!Lynda, the best guide in Mexico for people that want to learn! My family and I visited Mexico in May of this year (2018). Lynda was our guide for the National Museum of Anthropology and Teotihuacan. It was an awesome experience, there is no book that could ever convey the enthusiasm and passion that Lynda has for Mexican history and all its cultural wonders. Her way of explaining is very didactic and enjoyable, never got tired of listening, not for a minute! My 13 year old daughter, with her typical teen attention span, created great rapport with Lynda as well. I would love to learn more about Mexico with Lynda, we will be back and she will be our guide for sure! Gracias mil, te recomendaremos a todos nuestros amigos que decidan descubrir las maravillas de México!!! Abrazo!
Ileana
Thanks so much for a truly unique experience. I learned so much yesterday. Most important, as I've told you, from you I have learned to LOVE Mexico. For that I am deeply grateful. Paz y Bien
Frank, Retired Priest and full-time resident of Mexico City
Bravo Lynda! We're very grateful to you for sharing your insight, humor and thorough knowledge. We did not plan to pester you with questions about anthropology, geology, botany, agriculture, ethnography, geography, history, politics, iconography, crystallography, tool making, food preparation, clothing design, religion...but you kept answering everyone! And "I don't know" was very seldom the answer. We promise to reconnect next time we travel to Mexico. Best regards from Omaha, Washington DC, San Francisco & Los Angeles.
Bern Smith, Chris Powell, Bess Touma, Laurie Touma
Melissa Yanis - a shamefully delayed message to you as you and your family have been on our minds. As you are officially our favorite redhead in Mexico City, and the most gifted guide we’ve ever come to know, I wanted you to know that we are ever so grateful for the magic you created for us during the 48 hours we had free to explore your exquisite city. We enjoyed every moment with you and were amazed at the sheer expansiveness and depth of your knowledge on all subjects from art to history to science etc… You truly made Mexico City come to life for us, whether we were traveling through its ancient origins or its modern-day happenings. We can’t thank you enough!
I cannot stress enough my satisfaction about every detail. The choice of hotels made a huge difference in our ability to endure the very busy program. The structure and the order of the program are also two major success factors. The handouts, the explanation both on bus and on-site were really magnificent and added huge value to the site visits. The organization of the whole trip to Chiapas and your taking care of every tiny detail was really impressive given the huge number of details and the ambition of the program. I am sorry I cannot provide any criticism which could better help you improve the quality of similar trips in the future but I am really satisfied and happy I made this trip with you. Any tiny inconvenience I normally tolerated considering the context of having multiple tastes within the group and the nature of the jungle itself, but absolutely nothing to do with your organization. Let me thank you yet again for the wonderful experience and please let me know about every future activity you are planning. Have a great day
Nouran Hakam (Egyptian Embassy, Mexico City)
Thank you, thank you for the wonderful trip to Chiapas and Tabasco!!
It was picture-perfect, even the mosquitoes and rain didn´t bother us.
Sharing with us your knowledge about the historical facts of the places we visited was an enriching experience. I enjoyed all the places visited and Palenque and the Sumidero Canyon were amazing. Especiales saludos!
Rita Rodriguez
What a marvelous experience I had when I was part of a personal tour of the Museum of Anthropology under the guidance of Lynda Martinez del Campo. It was an amazing trip through art and history and culture that made so many long dead things seem vibrant and brimming with life. The day after that tour I went to see the Rivera murals-thanks to what I learned at the museum the murals told their lively stories clearly and boldly. I'm quite sure that much of those stories would have been lost to me were it not for the fine presentation the day before.
Donna Devlin (Freehold, New Jersey)
De verdad fue un agasajo la espléndida conferencia sobre nuestro pasado pre-hispánico. La disfruté mucho y además es recordatorio y aprendizaje, lo cual nos enriquece ya que a veces este tema lo dejamos para después pues queremos saber otras cosas del exterior. Gracias por tus maravillosos conocimientos que gentilmente compartes con nosotros. Desde luego esperamos verte pronto y además agendar una nueva conferencia o bien un paseo a algún lugar que nos recomiendes. Con el cariño de siempre
Juliana Jasso Ortiz (Coordinadora de Actividades Culturales, AFPNU México)
How can we begin to thank you first for your knowledge and second for you imparting every bit of history/culture/lifestyle/politics/humor to us! We had a whirlwind two days with you.... We were in capable hands from the moment we started corresponding until you met us and drove us in style to the Anthro Museum and more and more and more. Yes, I might want to return to Downtown Mexico for a meal and another shop through the boutiques.....You are the ultimate mensch and you white-gloved Benny and myself ... we will definitely keep in touch and to top it all the photos are fabulous. xoxoxoxo
Susan and Benny from Philadelphia
Thanks so much for a super tour today. You pitched it just right for the youngsters, who greatly enjoyed their time this morning, and were genuinely surprised at what they learned. They can now return home better educated than when they first arrived. Plus, they will be able to inform their friends and family, who believe Mexico is just a land full of cacti, sombreros and margaritas, of what the country has to offer!! I hope to see you on one of your future tours before long.
Janet C from London, GB
Thank you Lynda, we really enjoyed your tour! Visiting a new area is more enjoyable when we understand some of the history and culture, and to put the sites we see into context! We really appreciated your extensive knowledge of history and geography, and how you linked that to current events. We also appreciated seeing places we would probably not have found on our own. We look forward to another visit to Mexico City! Best
Pat L, CA
“Tour Guide” is such an understatement. “Professor and Tour Guide” is a better description, but that too is incomplete. Lynda’s factual knowledge of Mexican history, culture, museums, and important sites is indeed encyclopedic. But when accompanied by her passion, boundless energy, articulate delivery, and well-organized approach, the result is a fabulous tour - informative, memorable, fun, and over before you know it. Don’t hesitate. Best,
John Shore Photography
We had the privilege to visit Lago de los Reyes Aztecas on April 27 and the Museo Antropologico on April 30. We are a Swiss couple and both visits were arranged by our relative Barbara Aparicio who has been living in Ciudad de México for 16 years. We just wanted to thank you once again for both tours. With all your interesting comments and your immense knowledge of the country and its culture you made both visits unforgettable. All the best!
Kathrin and Remo
I wanted to thank you for ANOTHER fabulous tour. Everyone was so thrilled and excited about our Zocalo adventure that they are returning for the pyramids and the Anthropology Museum. Walking through the neighborhood and having you relate Mexico's history through the architecture, the churches, the gorgeous Post Office.........and of course the Palace of fine Arts with the Diego Rivera murals. What a great , thorough, and super enjoyable lesson! And, we started out with a modern-day street demonstration! You pulled it all together for us. As you know, I travel the world, and source out guides for my own travel business. As I have said before, you are indeed one of the very best! Looking forward to our next sightseeing adventure!
Katey Hartwell (Named Top Travel Specialist for 14 years! 2000 - 2013 Conde Nast Traveler Magazine) Travel Experts A Virtuoso Agency
Lynda's historical tours were simply the most interesting part of my trip to Mexico City. I met her by accident in the Anthropology Museum and she kindly agreed to give me a tour of Tlatelolco and Downtown Mexico. Both tours took several hours but I lost track of time since the explanations she gave were immersive and rich. Pyramids, churches, murals, human sacrifices, volcanos - all numerous features of Mexican culture intertwined. It is easy to fall in love with Mexico City thanks to this amazing storyteller!
Egevany Kirsanov, MD, Russia-USA
For our first time to such a megalopolis as Mexico City, my husband Brian and I wanted a good orientation. We were woefully undereducated about Mexico's past, so we also hoped for an overview of history. Luckily I came across Lynda's blog while reading up before the trip and reached out to her about her guide service. Her speedy reply immediately confirmed I'd found the right person. She helped me figure out how to make the most of a brief tour, and picked us up early on our first full day in the city. In only a few hours she managed to pack in an abundance of information – historical, cultural, and even culinary. We got so much out of our time with her, and out of the places we visited. Seeing the famed Diego Rivera murals, for instance, wouldn't have been nearly as enlightening without having Lynda there to interpret what we were looking at. Lynda went above and beyond, helping my husband with some suggestions for how to spend our anniversary night (which we took, and were excellent). Landing in a huge, new city with a lengthy, complex, and fascinating history can be overwhelming, but we got exactly what we wanted and needed in our morning with Lynda. I highly recommend her.
Dana McMahan food / travel / fitness writer BodyByBourbon.com
Two months after being in Mexico City, my memories are still quite vivid and that is because of Lynda Martinez del Campo. Her vast knowledge and expertise on everything made each one of our tours fascinating and relevant. Lynda has that special talent that can make us relate to Mexico's long, intricate history - I truly felt like I was reliving the country's past. She presented such detailed accounts of all the artifacts at the National Museum of Anthropology and when we went to the Pyramids, she brought the Teotihuacanos alive. Connecting us to the present was always wild and fun: sampling the food and feeling hand-woven fabrics were moments all made indelible by Lynda's guidance. Can't wait to go back for another fabulous whirl in and around Mexico City with the best guide in the world!
Abby Lubby, Professional Writer, New York
Lynda consistently delivers a high-quality historical interpretation of Mexican culture. When people ask me if I have a tour guide in Mexico, I reply, "No - I have the absolute best historian anyone can hope for." Lynda's extensive knowledge of Mexican history along with her passion evokes excitement and an appetite for learning. I can honestly say that you will not regret making the decision to have Lynda as your guide.
Lorena Patterson, President of Red GlobalMX, Raleigh, North Carolina
Lynda was the ideal tour guide - well-prepared, knowledgeable, charming, and organized. Everything worked out beautifully, from the on-time arrival of the bus, to the coordination of our travels, to the earphones provided so that she could explain things to our group in places where she could not talk loudly. I will be using her services next year for all of our tours in and around Mexico City.
Barbara M. Ingber, Assistant Director of Community Outreach, VCU Globe: A Global Education Living-Learning Community, Virginia Commonwealth University
Lynda's tours are wonderful. She manages to tailor her tours to the level of group participants, whether it is children, business people, visiting tourists or history/cultural buffs. Her knowledge of Mexico is impressive and she imbues each tour with enough history and cultural facts to satisfy anyone. And best of all, she ties in what she talks about with what we can see every day when we live here. I heartily recommend Lynda's tours!
Jane C, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
Thank you for the wonderful 3 tour series of the Anthropology Museum, Lynda! I purposely waited to visit the museum until I could go on your tours because I knew that the collection was too vast to properly see and appreciate on my own. I'm so glad I waited. Your tours were simply amazing and incredibly informative. I learned so much! Your enthusiasm for Mexican culture is contagious and your depth of knowledge is astounding. Thank you for making ancient history come alive. Looking forward to future tours with you!
Nina Smith, US Expat living in Mexico
“Thank you for the brilliant day you spent with me and my business partner and the folks from Daimler at the end of June. Honestly, you were a delight to be around. I meant it when I said, YOU were the museum. I was so impressed by your knowledge, and your passion for your subject. You reminded me what it's like to listen to a total professional.” Cheers, Mark Horstman Manager Tools USA
I’m writing to thank you for the presentations you have offered at Palm Beach County Library System. Each talk you have given includes a great number of fascinating stories about Mexican culture and traditions, with interesting and clear explanations of Mexico’s historical roots in Europe and Indigenous culture. You thoughtfully put together these narratives with beautiful images. We commend your engaging and dynamic presentation skills in both English and Spanish. Please accept our sincere gratitude for providing such fantastic educational opportunities to our community. Sincerely,
Marjorie Lear, Multicultural Outreach Librarian, Palm Beach County Library, Florida
Lynda has a deep skill set of comprehensive knowledge of the history of Mexico that goes back to its pre-Hispanic years. She is able to take you back in time, and then bring you up through the ages of Mexico with all its glory and pain. While many tour guides tell you stories through rosy-colored lenses, Lynda relayed history that was unabashed, with energy permeated with passion. Lynda will carry you on an intense tour that will leave you astonished.
Gary Tyson, Chief of Police, Siler City, North Carolina
Lynda is an outstanding tour guide! She is not only a walking encyclopedia but she truly does bring history to life! Lynda makes the perfect marriage between a deep knowledge of Mexican history and culture with the understanding of US culture and therefore presents things in a way that is relevant and entertaining to US travelers. I would highly recommend Lynda. I could listen to her for hours!
Angelina Schlavone, Owner - Full Circle Interpreting
“I'd be terribly remiss if I did not specifically mention Lynda, the best tour guide I have ever had, and by a long shot! You are going to think that I am being hyperbolic, but quite honestly, I have never met a guide of this high a level, who knew how to "synthesize" information into understanding. Her command of history, anthropology, linguistics, and so on has amazed me, and made my city visit today unforgettable. I must come back.”
Charles Fadel, Founder & Chairman, Center for Curriculum Redesign curriculumredesign.org Visiting scholar, Harvard GSE and MIT ESG
THANKS, Lynda! When my wife and I first heard we had a tour of Mexico City planned at 9:00 am we said, “Oh boy!” Well, let me say that we loved it and you made it exciting! You are very passionate about the city and kept us on our toes the whole time. Can’t wait for the next one! See you in 2016 !!!
Marc McEver, Olathe Ford Lincoln, Olathe, Kansas
“Thank you again for the wonderful tour of the Zocalo! My parents were limited on time, but I wanted to make sure that they got a taste of Mexico City. Your extensive knowledge of Mexican history and culture is amazing and you gave them the perfect amount of information without being overwhelming. My parents will definitely be back and look forward to another tour!”
Leigh-Ann Bravo, U.S. Expat
I would like to express our thanks to you for your program …. (which) was very informative and well-prepared. The patrons who attended commented on how much they learned … Thank you again for providing the community with such valuable information.
Jayme Bosio, Palm Beach County Library System, Florida
The tour with Lynda at the Anthropology Museum was as amazing. We explored upstairs and learned all about the current existing indigenous populations of Mexico. I was amazed to learn about the cultural differences, how you can tell which crafts are from which areas, why different crafts are so important to the people, how and why they evolved, and even how each area embroideries with different colors and styles! I had no idea that you can sometimes "read a story" in the pictures that are embroidered. I left wondering why I had just wasted a week on the beaches of Cabo, when I could have gone and explored one of the many more primitive areas available to all of us here. As always, I highly recommend Lynda's tours!
Gracias, Jeanne Devenport, Phoenix, Arizona
- I have known Lynda for over 10 years. The wealth of her knowledge every time I go on one of her tours or events never ceases to amaze me. Not only is Lynda a very educated and eloquent speaker, but her enthusiasm is contagious. It makes you want to learn and see more of Mexico! Lynda is a very flexible person who is constantly inventing new ways to present and share her knowledge with people and not only does custom tours, but donates her valuable time to charities such as Charity Coalition. We have had many very successful events thanks to Lynda and are grateful to her for her commitment to our cause. Because of her professionalism, thoroughness and conviction, she has an impeccable reputation and an extensive following in our community.
Francesca C. D'Agata, Ex-President and Founder of Charity Coalition, A.C., Mexico City.
“I just wanted to drop you a note and again express my thanks for our wonderful day trip to Chapingo. I very much appreciate the guidance and assistance that you provided in my efforts to see the superlative art of Diego Rivera in situ, as it were. I am back home in Oregon now after spending an incredible three weeks in Mexico. It has been an experience that I shall never forget. Once again, many heartfelt thanks for the part you played in making my journey an unqualified success. I wish you good fortune (and good weather) in all your future endeavors. Viva Mexico!”
Kevin Frostad, Gresham, Oregon USA
Your tour of the Centro Historico District was an enormously good foundation for additional walking and museum trips that we took. Since it was a Monday, we weren't able to visit many museums, but you found so many interesting places for us to see. Throughout the tour, you gave us a huge amount of information but we never felt overloaded. We will be sure to come back to take more tours with you on future trips! Thanks so much.
Prue and Frank Beidler, Lake Forest, Illinois
As an ex-pat, going on six years here in Mexico City, I have come to know the city well. But some of the most enriching and interesting time spent has been on the talks and tours that Lynda Martinez del Campo coordinates and leads. An absolute wealth of information (including facts, figures, dates, and local trivia), Lynda keeps all her participants intrigued, informed, and entertained. Every event has been well worth the cost -- experiences that I won't soon forget after leaving this amazing country.
Sharmila Sachever
“Thank you, Lynda, for the Chapultepec Castle tour. I really enjoyed it. I can't wait to take my family back and tell them everything I learned. For those of you who have not taken one of Lynda's tours or if you have family coming in town and want to take them on an amazing tour, Lynda is great. I have gone on several of her tours and she is always absolutely wonderful. On every tour she has amazed me with her vast knowledge of history and culture. At any point, she can direct you to more resources or books about the topic at hand. She is always up on the latest research and historical discoveries. Really truly, this woman is amazing!”
Natalie Wiesehuegel
“THANK YOU for organizing such a fantastic tour to the archaeological site of Teotihuacán on the weekend. Our tour guide Lynda was wonderful! I had been to the pyramids a few times before (including with a guide), yet I learned more in the first five minutes of this tour than on all of my previous visits combined.”
Ali Perkins
“Lynda, thank you so much for your informative and enthusiastic tour of the Anthropology Museum last week. The clarity of your explanation of the museum layout and the explanation of pre-classical, classical and post-classical was great. Our trip to Mexico City has inspired us to dig a lot deeper into the history of these interesting cultures."
Sharon and Tom Moffatt, Richmond, VA
“I hadn't been on a tour with Lynda for a while and I'd almost forgotten how good she is. She brings Mexico's history alive and we were drawn into the lives of the peoples who inhabited the area around the great Pyramids. I had a visitor from California and she enjoyed every minute of the tour. There was also a nice gathering at a nearby restaurant afterward where we could ask further questions of Lynda, plus get to know each other better. Great excursion!”
Bobbye Trotter
“I want to thank you again for the incredible tour of Mexico's highlights. The group was impressed by your incredible wealth of knowledge and also thrilled to hear such a comprehensive history of Mexico compressed into one day's activities. I learn something new from you each time I hear one of your tours--especially true this time at the museum. I look forward to seeing you again next year! Best wishes.”
Melissa Edwards Smith, Director of Global Leader Programs at Center for International Understanding, University of North Carolina
“For nearly four years Lynda has been the sole tour guide used by the Fulbright Commission in Mexico to guide US Fulbright-García Robles grantees on tours to Teotihuacan, the Centro Historico, the Anthropology and National History museums, and other notable sites in and near Mexico City. Lynda's professionalism, in-depth knowledge of Mexican history and concise presentation style allowed our groups to make the most out of limited time and, year after year, our Fulbright grantees evaluated her very highly, making her an asset to our programs. Lynda is truly an outstanding tour guide and one that any individual or group looking for a native English speaker should feel confident using.”
Tim Wright, former Program Officer for US Grantees at the US-Mexico Commission for Educational and Cultural Exchange, the Fulbright Commission in Mexico
“Thank you. Last night's talk was, as with all your talks and tours, completely and utterly fascinating and your enthusiasm is so infectious. Helping to understand Mexico that little bit more, with all its layers, is so rewarding.”
Fran Madsen, British ex-pat living in Dubai
“Thank you very much for allowing Congressman Roy Blunt and several U.S. Embassy staff to tour Chapultepec Castle and museum. The castle was exceptional and the tour that you gave us was extremely informative and interesting. The entire experience was a highlight of Congressman Blunt's trip. Your effort ensured that Congressman Blunt left Mexico with a much greater understanding and appreciation of Mexican history and culture.”
Antonio O. Garza Jr., Former U.S. Ambassador of the United States of America to Mexico
“Many many thanks for the wonderful visit you gave us in the Museum (of Anthropology) last week. It was probably the first time that I had the impression that I really understood something about the early cultures in Mexico, and I found your way of presenting them fascinating. If there is one thing I regret, then it is to have been in your company only two hours rather than at least two days!”
Best regards and again tons of thanks,
Philippe Baechtold Director of Patents and Innovation Division World Intellectual Property Organization
“We won't let another day go by without thanking you and letting you know how much we enjoyed the enlightening and wonderful tour of both the Museum of Anthropology and the Castle. You made it so interesting and easy during the three hours at the museum. We certainly would like to continue discovering more of the museum with you the next time we come back to Mexico for another visit with our family.” Again, many thanks and hope to see you soon. Sincerely,
Chiqui and Neil Pryor
“Your tour was above all expectations. You are knowledgeable, well-prepared, intelligent, interesting, and you handled the group very well. Least to say that you had more energy than the whole group. It was amazing! ”
Juana Inés Abreu
“Thank you for having made my FIT course in Mexico such a success. I appreciate how you provided us with options and how you adapted to any changes. I am looking forward to another of your well-informed and organized sessions through Mexico City. My group was totally motivated to learn more about the history and culture of Mexico. You are definitely a teacher because of the way that you handled the students' levels of knowledge and how their questions were patiently addressed. You managed to seduce their attention and stimulate their interest in exploring more about the topics and appropriating the material. You are truly an ambassador between the two cultures. I love how well-balanced and yet passionate and caring you are about your work. You love people.
I would recommend you to anyone wanting a solid tour of Mexican culture and customs. Gracias por todo.”
Pilar Blanco, Professor and Coordinator of the Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT) Foreign Language Study Abroad Program
“On behalf of the staff of the Center for International Understanding, and the entire travel group, I want to extend a heartfelt thanks to you for your expert knowledge and patience during our visit with you in Mexico. I know that I speak on behalf of all the participants when I say that the time we spent with you was both interesting and enjoyable. Although we spent only a short time in Mexico, we feel that we learned a great deal because you were so gracious in sharing your time and thoughts with our group.”
Meredith Henderson, Program Manager, Center for International Understanding, University of North Carolina
“I thought your tour was perfect. I could have listened for another few hours, but given my diverse group, I thought it was just right. I’d been to the Zocalo area several times before, but your tour made the experience much richer…. I am going to recommend to my successor who knows nothing about Mexico, that he started his tour of duty here with a history lesson from you through the mural.”
Sue Heinen, U.S. Embassy, Mexico City
“I have been on a number of Lynda Martinez's tours in and around Mexico City. She is one of my favorite tour guides and I would highly recommend Lynda to anyone. She gives the most fascinating tours of anyone here in Mexico. She is well-read, highly informed and an encyclopedia of information concerning Mexican history and culture both past and present. Experiencing one of Lynda's tours is like stepping back in time and reliving the exciting cultural aspects that Mexico has to offer. It is also like being in a time warp .......she manages to blend the old with the new, making each tour an exciting combination of the past that is relevant to the present. I am always amazed at how much Mexican history I learn in such a unique way that I am never bored. I would consider anyone lucky to experience the "sights and sounds of Mexico" through Lynda's eyes.”
Lisa Thornton, Howey in the Hills, Florida
“Lynda, thank you very much for the educational and fun guided tour you gave us to the Anthropology Museum. It gave my English friend the right background to better understand the pre-Columbian history of Mexico at a high level and coherent way, making the most out of our visit to the Mayan and Aztec pyramids. For me, as a Mexican, it was not only a good refresher, but also a very interesting way to look at things from a different perspective.”
Jorge Cobos, VP Financial Institutions Risk Manager, Bank of America, London
“Many thanks for the terrific tour you gave us on our visit to Mexico City. The time we spent with you viewing the Diego Rivera murals was an absolute highlight for us. Your enormous fund of knowledge – and the enthusiasm with which you share it – made it possible to understand those works of art, and the history which they represent, in a way which would not have otherwise been possible for us.”
Susan and Scott Feldman, Glencoe, IL
"Since moving to Mexico City just a couple of months ago, Lynda has become an instrumental component to learning the history and customs of my new community. Lynda's presentations are packed full of history, however, she has a wonderful ability to "tell the story" without losing the audience's attention. She is very open and flexible to taking your questions and willing to tailor her tours to your interests. I highly recommend Lynda. You will not be disappointed!"
Tricia Pohlman, US Expat
We were lucky to find Lynda's website the day before we landed in Mexico City, and even luckier that she was able to squeeze us in on short notice! On our three-hour tour of the Zocalo, Lynda provided a wealth of knowledge about the history, politics, religion,and culture of this fascinating city. She came prepared with all sorts of maps and handouts and was quick to answer any and all questions. Best part: she led us into many unassuming-looking buildings, which we never would have thought to enter on our own. These housed former palaces which have been repurposed as hotels and boutiques but still feature their beautiful original architecture, as well as many murals. While we continued touring the city on our own, we often found ourselves saying "too bad we're not seeing this with Lynda!" I would heartily recommend Lynda's tours for anyone visiting Mexico City and its surroundings! Thanks again - you really enhanced our visit to MC :)
Bonnie and Sandy Roskes, Washington D.C.
Lynda is a fabulous and well-informed guide and longtime resident of Mexico City. She enriched our visit and was very attuned to our group needs. Two moms and two 16-year-old girls, she kept the tour moving and diversified it with stops that all four of us enjoyed immensely. Would happily book another tour with her when we hopefully get to return to this AMAZING city.
Francesca Goodwin
I lived in Mexico City for several years and have visited the Museum of Anthropology innumerable times, often with tour guides, but I never understood it as well as I did after a recent tour with Lynda Martinez. She has organized her tour in a way that provides context for the otherwise often overwhelming number of beautiful items within the museum. I had brought a group of eight friends to learn about Mexico (beyond the beaches), and all of them told me over and over again how thoughtful, clear, and fascinating Lynda's tour of the Museum was. Next time I come, I intend to take as many of her tours as we can.
Omie Kerr
We 2 couples arrived in Mexico City last month, knowing next to nothing about the city, its rich history, its culture, its importance and its excitement. Lynda began with the physical, the foundation and built upon it with extraordinary organization, clarity and not a little humor. Her knowledge is deep, her interest and pride in her city broad and her ability to show the grandest architecture, the smallest bakery, the beautiful art and the contemporary hum born of the mix of indigenous and Spanish culture left us with a true, if brief education, and a desire to spread the word that Mexico City is as wonderful as she thinks it is. Thank you for our 3 days - we’ll be back!
Sheryl Markman, Chicago
Lynda is the perfect guide for Mexico City. She's smart and knowledgeable, well-organized yet flexible and fun to be with on a city tour. She addressed our interests and energy levels in the most professional manner yet we considered her a friend by the end of our four-day visit. Marc and I can't stop talking about our trip to Mexico City. Thank you for making it so special and wonderful. With warm regards,
Cindy Levine, Chicago, Illinois
What a marvelous experience I had when I was part of a personal tour of the Museum of Anthropology under the guidance of Lynda Martinez del Campo. It was an amazing trip through art and history and culture that made so many long dead things seem vibrant and brimming with life. The day after that tour, I went to see the Rivera murals-thanks to what I learned at the museum the murals told their lively stories clearly and boldly. I'm quite sure that much of those stories would have been lost to me were it not for the fine presentation the day before.
Donna Devlin, Freehold, New Jersey
How can we begin to thank you first for your knowledge and second for you imparting every bit of history/culture/lifestyle/politics/humor to us! We had a whirlwind two days with you....from the moment we started corresponding until you met us and drove us in style to the Anthro Museum and more and more and more. You have given us roots and also wings to fly on our own....so away we go.... You are the ultimate mensch and you white-gloved Benny and myself....we will definitely keep in touch and to top it all the photos are fabulous. xoxoxoxo
Susan and Benny, Philadelphia, PA
Thanks so much for a super tour today. You pitched it just right for the youngsters, who greatly enjoyed their time this morning, and were genuinely surprised at what they learned. They can now return home better educated than when they first arrived. Plus, they will be able to inform their friends and family, who believe Mexico is just a land full of cacti, sombreros and margaritas, of what the country has to offer!! I hope to see you on one of your future tours before long.
Janet C from London, Great Britain
Thank you, Lynda, we really enjoyed your tour! Visiting a new area is more enjoyable when we understand some of the history and culture, and to put the sites we see into context! We really appreciated your extensive knowledge of history and geography, and how you linked that to current events. We also appreciated seeing places we would probably not have found on our own. We look forward to another visit to Mexico City! Best,
Pat L, CA
“Tour Guide” is such an understatement. “Professor and Tour Guide” is a better description, but that too is incomplete. Lynda’s factual knowledge of Mexican history, culture, museums, and important sites is indeed encyclopedic. But when accompanied by her passion, boundless energy, articulate delivery, and well-organized approach, the result is a fabulous tour - informative, memorable, fun, and over before you know it. Don’t hesitate. best,
js, John Shore Photograph
Lynda is quite an incredible guide with a wealth of knowledge that enabled us to more fully understand the context as well as the detail of what we were seeing. We have booked two private tours due to the timing of family from England visiting. Both have blown us away. There is so much to learn when it comes to Mexican history, and Lynda brings it to life!
Dominique Wenninger, British Ex-pat living in Mexico City
You are the most gifted guide we’ve ever come to know. I wanted you to know that we are ever so grateful for the magic you created for us during the 48 hours we had free to explore your exquisite city. We enjoyed every moment with you and were amazed at the sheer expansiveness and depth of your knowledge on all subjects from art to history to science etc. You truly made Mexico City come to life for us, whether we were traveling through its ancient origins or its modern-day happenings. We can’t thank you enough! xo
Melissa, Fred and Jared (Manhattan, NY)
Lynda takes the cake when it comes to tour guides! Her passion for Mexican (and all other) history and culture is apparent from the minute you meet her, and her enthusiasm, humor and the organized way she presents information makes it fun to learn. We had already booked a private full day tour of Teotihuacan through another website for the day after our tour with Lynda. Sadly, that guide wasn't even in the same universe as her. We spent the day lamenting how much more we would have learned and how much more fun we would have had with Lynda. She really goes above and beyond. Book her. I promise you won't regret it!
Denise Rankin Cincinnati, OH
My friend and I had a fantastic time on our tour of the Teotihuacan Pyramids with Lynda - it was truly one of the best highlights of our trip. She was extremely knowledgeable, charismatic, and fun to be around. On the ride there, she gave us a comprehensive history (about as well as she could have in only an hour) of Mexico and was able to communicate the information effectively with an entertaining spin. We then spent around three hours at the Pyramids and, the whole time, we were fed information and were able to have an awesome experience. We then drove home and learned even more Mexican history while we drove. We cannot recommend Lynda enough - hopefully others are able to have as great of an experience as we did.
Joe Simon
Thank you for a most memorable day today, one of our best in Mexico. Your knowledge, presentation and passion for your subject, today the Walking Tour of San Angel, are amazing. We will see you next year!
Georgina Ratcliff from Canada
We spent our first day in Mexico City with Lynda as our guide through the Museum of Anthropology. This experience set us up for the rest of our time in Mexico City giving context to the other historical sites we visited. When we recognized something from the museum in another setting, we secretly thanked Lynda for her insights and tutelage. We highly recommend Lynda’s services to you.
Susan and Bill from Seattle, WA
Lynda’s visual organization of historical time was such a helpful tool as she “laid the table” for us at the Anthropology Museum. We really appreciated both her depth of knowledge and the way she conveyed it. She is so articulate; it was a pleasure to listen to her.
We had a terrific experience with you! I love how you structure whatever it is you’re explaining!! I’m a visual learner as well and it really works for me. Plus, you are just so articulate and fluid, it’s a pleasure to listen to you! … She has a deep knowledge of the architecture, art, history and current cultural and political forces at play in the city. From in depth explanations of many noteworthy buildings to the politics of the early muralists to the environmental forces at play today Lynda engaged us and delighted us.
Nancie Schwarzman, CT
Thank you, Lynda! I love the way you can share your passion and knowledge about Mexico! You have no idea, how idea, how much I always enjoy your tours. They help me so much get to know, appreciate, and love this amazing country! I am really very grateful for what you do! Thank you
Chiara