Oaxaca is pronounced wah-HAH-ka to just get that out in the open and upfront. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with its’ indigenous populations, rich traditions, and pre-Colombian ruins that makes it one of the most unique places in the Americas. So that is what the books say, and, I will stand by that assessment. On the surface, the old colonial buildings that lined the streets were just simple and rather plain. They were not ornate or overwhelming with detailed work. They were painted different colors; so, you knew where one building started and another ended. Thick stone walls with heavy plaster made up the facade of most of the buildings outside of the ornate churches and government buildings, which seemed to dominate their homely neighbors. To look down the street, it just seemed like a normal town in Mexico, albeit, a little cleaner. There were several different squares with the obvious church anchoring the one side and open markets nearby. There was a hustle in the air, but it was relaxed. It all seemed normal until i walked though a (any) archway of one of these “plain buildings”. Any archway would open into a courtyard with fountains, opened and closed ceilings, hand painted walls, and gardens. Each doorway became another world within itself and the noises of the world disappeared. Thus, it is the “hidden” city that holds the uniqueness that make it one the greatest gems of the world. This is one very special city and I explored as much as I could. Wandering was the order of the day, which was easy due to the grid pattern. The city was teeming with art galleries on the scale of Santa Fe. This is where most of the great artist of Mexico show off their skills and visions. This is where I struck gold and (probably) spent way too much money. I am sure MFL will be happy with our new collection(s). Anyhow, the restaurants were plentiful and all very creative. The downside of not speaking Spanish is less communication regarding menus. I was lost and just ordered by price! I figured it must be better, if it cost more(?). I was right most of the time and did not have a bad meal. What I want to convey about this city is the people. Since I started this trip, I have noticed the people were getting more friendly the further south I went. Well, this is where they all live! The people are so friendly and love to talk about the city with much pride. They are really happy to live there and be a part of atmosphere. It is this common sense of pride that makes the city special for people that visit here. I just felt safe, welcome, and a part of it all. I have been a lot of places in the world, but feel like this is truly one special place. It is not apparent unless you scratch the surface but it is worth the effort. I give this a thumbs up for Tina and Geeta to visit, but I will still place it on the same pedestal with San Miguel de Allende. All and all, Oaxaca was part of this trip that I will always remember. I now start a two day drive to Guatemala and have no idea what to expect. I just expect to have more memories. I pick Rick Staelin up early next week and cannot wait to have a conversation in English.
From Arizona to Panama Canal 