Reflections on time in Mexico
When River was one year old Liz and I took him down to Mexico for a few months. Liz was working on her PhD research and the boys got to tag along to experience the rich culture and take in the sights. We spent the first month in Mexico City , D.F. as it’s known, living in a small apartment in the massive metropolis. We toured the different districts, visited museums, explored the markets, consumed amazing foods and experienced various cultural festivals.
Here are a few photos from our adventures- you can click on the images to enlarge:
One of my favorite areas in D.F. is an area just south of the city called Xochimilco (zo-chi-meel-co) where the historic “Chinampas” or floating gardens were created around the 12th century. The floating gardens were built on ancient lake Xochimilco and now the area is an extensive network of canals with beautifully landscaped gardens and vibrant markets throughout. You can charter the colorful Traijinera boats for a small charge and enjoy food, beverage and live music from other trajineras navigating the canals.
We spent the rest of our time living in Guanajuato, a beautiful colonial city in Mexico’s central highlands famous for it’s productive silver mines, abundance of spectacular churches, and for it’s role in the Mexican War of Independence.
Guanajuato is located in a small valley surrounded by spectacular mountains on all sides. The streets are cobbled and most of the car traffic is contained in underground tunnels making it a very pedestrian friendly city and especially nice for exploring with a one year old. Guanajuato is a great university town also known for the Festival Internacional Cervantino to honor Miguel de Cervantes, the author of Don Quixote.
I recommend that you take a trip over to San Miguel de Allende if you’re ever in the state of Guanajuato. It’s another quaint colonial town with tons to explore and enjoy. I particularly liked the hot springs just outside of town and the views from the mesa above town.
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