For the love of Mexico

 

There are so many things going around about staying away from Mexico. Granted Mexico is going through some intense political troubles right now. Mexico’s economy is typically dependent on the United States’ and now that things are hurting us it is definitely trickling down and causing havoc to our neighbors. Hopefully as things change Mexico will pull itself out of its problems. If you choose not to visit that is your choice but I would not write off the country all together, especially not FOREVER?

Mexico has so many things to offer from a wonderful Latino Culture to great food wonderful sights and genuinely gentle generous people. Like anywhere else Mexico has its bad areas and as a general rule most people know just to stay away from those areas. There are quaint little pueblos and small towns jam pack full of sights and activities that are as safe as anywhere. Being a half Mexican myself, I must admit I speak from tad bit biasness. When traveling in Mexico it always helps if you speak Spanish, it will open so many more doors and the people are more inclined to go out of their way mainly because it is easier in their native tongue, rather than struggling trying to figure something out in another language. Mexican people are honored and flattered even when you try. It is no different from you experiencing someone asking for help here in the United States in another language, it is frustrating and you want to help but you can not. I think we should keep this in mind always and not take for granted that everyone speaks English when in Rome you do as the Romans do, correct? 

My grandfather was born in a town called Saltillo which is about 90km west of Monterrey. The town used to be nicknamed the Athens of Mexico, but now days it is known as the Detroit of Mexico mainly due to its economic growth through the automotive industry. It is the 20th largest city in the country and one of the wealthiest. The Mexican populations have voted it the best city to live in Mexico. The city’s elevation is 5200ft making it cooler and windier than its neighboring city Monterrey. It takes about 15 minutes to get from the airport to the town square where there are cathedrals and meandering streets to satisfy your taste for something new. West of the downtown plaza is the Alameda Zaragoza Park that has a large lake in the shape of the Mexican Republic. The colonial center of the city is built with pink marble giving the city’s architecture a distinctive flair. The Mirador is a great place to get panoramic views of the city. There are two world class museums to tantalize your intellectual side. The city is limitless in giving you an environment fit for any traveler. For your own safety always be aware of your surroundings, keep your eyes open, keep a low profile and always try to blend in with the locals. Pay attention to the hotel workers where you stay and if they say do not go somewhere then heed their words. 

This is just one city in Mexico worthy of your time. There are countless others and what they all have to offer are as diverse and beautiful as the other. Let’s not give up on Mexico yet. I have been to many countries that people told me not to travel to because it was not safe, and most of the time I went and experienced no problems at all. Everything is relative to what your use to. You can be the judge; you go and decide for yourself.