Although visitors to Tehuantepec are often just passing by, the city has plenty to offer those who choose to linger. Located in the south eastern state of Oaxaca, Tehuantepec comprises 15 districts each with a patron saint that is honoured during annual “Velas” or celebrations – many of which occur during the summer. The old customs of the indigenous Zapotec people have been maintained and the Zapotec language is still widely spoken. The women of the city are especially captivating; these “Tehuanas” (meaning “women from the Isthmus”) have long inspired artists, such as Frida Kahlo. They run the local markets and are known for their strong personalities and their brightly coloured traditional dress.