Many travelers associate Mexico with sun-soaked beaches, bustling big cities and historic small towns. But for music lovers, this vast and diverse nation can also be a great place to learn new skills as a DJ or musician.
As one of the largest countries in Latin America, Mexico has long been one of the dominant players in the region’s music production, and it’s also home to some of the hemisphere’s most celebrated DJs. Mexico’s music scene is decidedly diverse, with variations that range from classic rock to cutting-edge electronic sounds.
The good news for music-obsessed travelers is that it’s increasingly easy to indulge musical interests while on vacation, with choices that range from brief workshops to expert-guided recording studio sessions and longer-term classes. Even wannabe DJs and musicians with no experience can find guidance as they learn the ropes and make their musical dreams a reality.
Whether you’re a novice or a pro when it comes to music making, multiple Mexico properties offer on-site lessons or experiences.
Credit: 2024 Andaz Mexico City CondesaBeats on the Coast of Mexico
Several hotels in Mexican beach destinations offer immersive programs for music lovers. In Los Cabos, for example, Hard Rock Hotel Los Cabos is home to Music Lab, where guests can sign up for programs such as Jam Band, which allows groups of up to five to play instruments or be vocalists under the watchful eye of a “Rock Specialist.” The experience is included in the all-inclusive room rate.
Music fans who are even more serious about exploring their talents, meanwhile, can reserve studio time at Hard Rock Hotel Los Cabos for $59 per hour, giving them the ability to record their musical creations to share with the world. Nearby, Hotel El Ganzo is particularly good for more advanced DJs and musicians; its underground recording studio — reached via a trapdoor in the lobby — is available for private rentals.
On Mexico’s Caribbean coast, Hard Rock Hotel Riviera Maya stages musical experiences similar to those offered by its West Coast counterpart (including Jam Band), with offerings such as DJ classes and Rock Tube, a program that provides guest with an edited music video documenting their performing talents.
Also in the Riviera Maya is Tulum DJ Academy, where aspiring DJs can take in-depth, individual classes. Those who complete an entire two-week course can record a set, and the school even arranges for graduates to spin at a local music venue while being recorded. The basic package includes 10 classes, an audio set recording, two hours of studio time practice and certification.
Travelers looking for a musical vibe in a smaller-scale setting may want to consider booking a stay at El Triangulo, a creative arts center and retreat in Mazunte, located on Oaxaca’s Pacific coast. The property features ecologically designed accommodations, as well as a recording studio equipped with a variety of gear and equipment, including guitars, keyboards and drums. El Triangulo even has its own eponymous record label and has hosted DJ retreats in the past; according to management, it may do so again in the coming months.
W Mexico City hosts events that highlight electronic music producers and DJs.
Credit: 2024 W HotelsDJ Experiences in Mexico’s Interior
Considering its vibrant nightlife, it’s no surprise that Mexico City is a great place to enjoy the talents of great DJs — and to learn from them, too. Andaz Mexico City Condesa for example, offers the DJ Experience, a class during which a DJ teaches the basics of electronic music and mixing equipment and shows participants how to mix their own music. The activity takes place on the hotel’s rooftop, and the price includes three cocktails. Guests can also upgrade their experience with JBL headphones, canapes and a one-hour open bar for an additional fee.
Fans of cutting-edge music in Mexico City can also appreciate the talents of the DJs who grace the stage at properties including the Hotel Volga and its Minos Sound Room, a cool subterranean venue with an extensive cocktail menu. And the W Mexico City hosts W Happenings, a series of hip events that often include electronic music producers and DJs from around the world.
Just outside the city of Oaxaca, meanwhile, is Studio Uno, located near the state’s capital. The facility offers live recording and mixing and production services, and it provides courses and workshops for music fans of varying experience levels.
