The drive from Mazatlán to Guadalajara took me from sea level to the mile high city. Initially, I rode the coast past endless farms with fields of everything imaginable. People were selling onions, oranges, and other vegetables along side the roadside stands. I drove past beautiful rows of green crops up against the backdrop of steep mountains. I would eventually have to cross these steep peaks. The highway rose sharply and became very curvy. I had to use all of my skills to push “the beast” into beast mode in order clear the summits. It was a difficult drive in a car barely capable of doing 65mph on a flat road. Needless to say, I was very happy to roll into the valley, as I immediately started seeing the fields of blue agave, which are used to make tequila. Everything is tequila in this part of Mexico and it is a large source of revenue. Guadalajara is not overly pretty on the surface, as it is just a very large city attempting to become modern; however, it has a great pulse. The old historical center was my target with its maze of churches, colonial buildings, and people selling every imaginable trinket. This seems to be where young and old come to enjoy seeing and being seen. Starbucks next to buildings several 100’s years old. I saw many interesting people and decided to actually ask them if I could take their picture. I had never done this before but found it rewarding. It made me put down fear of approaching strangers and provided me some human interaction. I posted the pictures on Facebook. This city is moving from the past to the future as Mexico comes out of its 3rd world status. The older generation were still wearing the traditional plain clothing and woven hats, while the younger kids had the plugs in their ears and wore the latest trendy styles. I met a guy, who told me about this artist colony outside of town. I ordered a Uber and was on my way with one of the angriest and most aggressive drivers I have ever met. In the end, I allowed him to drop me off at the wrong place just to get out of car. I walked the final 1.5KM relieved to be alive. The town of Tlaquepaque is a picturesque town built around a small church and plaza. There is a 4-5 block pedestrian walk lined with all sorts of galleries. Anyone who really knows me, they understand that this is my element and where I feel most comfortable. In-and-out of art galleries looking at every human expression imaginable is where I find my inner peace.
From Arizona to Panama Canal 