Mexico

Mexico, Truly the place that keeps giving

Embarking on our Central American journey, we began in Mexico—a top destination for North American tourists and a gateway for European travelers. Our route was quite the trek: Manchester to Paris, Paris to Mexico City, Mexico City to Cancún, and finally, a bus and ferry to Isla Holbox. By the time we reached our hotel, we were exhausted and crashed immediately.

Isla Holbox: Beach Bliss and Taco Discoveries

We spent the first few days lounging on the beach, indulging in local cuisine, and savoring $1 tacos. There's a well-known taqueria on the main strip that's a tourist favorite—great value and delicious food. We loved it so much we went back the next night, but it was packed and didn't offer beef tacos. Determined to satisfy our taco craving, we wandered a bit and found a local taqueria just around the corner. Not only was it cheaper, but the build-your-own beef tacos were outstanding. My girlfriend loaded hers with onions, while I crafted monstrous creations.

Our last evening on the island was spent sitting on the pier, watching a mesmerizing sunset. Unbeknownst to us, this was a local tradition, and we felt a deep sense of community sharing the moment with people from all walks of life.

Valladolid: Cenote Surprises and Colonial Charm

The next day, we traveled from Isla Holbox to Valladolid, a beautiful city rich in history. As an avid swimmer, I was thrilled to discover a cenote right in the heart of town—Cenote Zaci. Staying in a lovely B&B run by an attentive couple, we were just a 10-minute walk from this natural wonder. The cenote was unlike anything I'd seen before: a stunning cave with clear waters teeming with fish. It was here that I began teaching my girlfriend how to swim, making the experience even more special.

During our stay, we also explored the historic center, characterized by its colonial-era architecture, including the town hall, cathedral, and a central plaza lined with shops. In this plaza, we discovered elote—a corn lover's dream snack. While our budget was tight after Holbox, and the food in Valladolid wasn't particularly memorable, the sweet treats and beef sandwiches for breakfast were delightful highlights.

Chichen Itza: Ancient Wonders

A major highlight was visiting Chichen Itza, the renowned Mayan ruins. We joined a tour led by a guide from a university sponsored by the Mormon Church, which piqued our curiosity. He shared insights into ancient Mayan history, their predominantly vegetarian diet, and demonstrated the fascinating "clap trick." Positioned at a specific spot, a clap would echo through the temple, mimicking a bird's call—a truly captivating experience.

Bacalar: Lagoon Serenity

Our journey continued to Bacalar via an ADO bus—a 10-hour trip that reminded us of Mexico's vastness. The stunning lagoon, with its varying shades of blue, was breathtaking. Our hotel, conveniently located by a wharf, allowed us to sunbathe and swim directly in the lagoon for a modest fee of $5 USD per person. The locals are serious about preserving the ecosystem, so fizzy drinks and sunscreen are discouraged.

We dined at Mr. Taco, a casual spot offering average food and drinks but with an uplifting atmosphere—perfect for hanging out with friends or a partner. For exceptional local tacos, Taco Loco was the place to be, bustling with satisfied customers. Our days in Bacalar were spent indulging in delicious food and soaking up the sun.

We also embarked on a tour that delved into the area's surroundings and underwater tunnel systems. One particular spot, Cenote Negro, was notably dangerous; swimming there is discouraged due to strong currents that could pull you under.

On our last night, we enjoyed more tacos at the central plaza and witnessed some local drama—a visibly intoxicated young man attempted to ride a friend's motorbike but was promptly stopped by the police. Ever the curious observer, I took a few strolls past the scene, pretending to be lost, and saw the young man's mother giving him a stern lecture—a memorable slice of local life.

Other notable treats included freshly made ice pops—mango and chili was an unexpectedly delightful combination—and a milkshake spot serving thick, creamy chocolate shakes.

Merida: Chasing the Sun

Facing an approaching storm, we booked a last-minute flight to Merida to stay ahead of the weather. After what felt like an endless bus ride, we arrived and checked into Hotel Mexico—a budget-friendly choice. Opting for a street-side room, the noise subsided at night, and we quickly acclimated.

We explored the local market in search of food, though it was challenging as most meat dishes were pork-based. Another highlight was visiting a cenote. Getting there was an adventure: squeezing into a crowded colectivo, followed by a leisurely tuk-tuk ride with an elderly driver who, despite his slow pace, was warm and friendly. Arriving 30 minutes before closing, we practically had the cenote to ourselves. I continued teaching my girlfriend to swim, and she made impressive progress. The return trip was equally memorable, aboard a bus reminiscent of the Knight Bus from Harry Potter, complete with a towering gear shifter. The combination of a quirky bus driver, worn yet comfortable seats, and lively Mexican tunes made for an unforgettable journey.

Mexico City: A Brief Encounter

After our time in El Salvador, we returned to Mexico City for a brief overnight stay before our next flight. The city's vastness was mind-boggling. Our hotel was near the airport we arrived at but quite a distance from the one we needed the next day. Venturing out for

Puerto Escondido : A Paradise
Continuing our Mexican adventure, we flew to Puerto Escondido—a standout highlight of our trip. There, we met a wonderful couple with whom we spent most of our days, sharing delicious brunches and enjoying each other's company. I even had the joy of teaching my girlfriend to swim in the sea using the skulling technique.

For my birthday, my thoughtful partner booked us into an incredible eco-hotel. The place boasted a refreshing swimming pool and a charmingly sassy cleaning lady who managed to be both warm and stern—a delightful character who added to our experience. One of the most memorable activities was a boat tour where we witnessed numerous dolphins leaping through the waves and even spotted whales surfacing for air. These encounters with marine life left us in awe and became cherished memories.

Mexico City: A proper go

Our journey concluded with a return to Mexico City before heading home. This time, we stayed in a high-rise tower, giving us ample opportunity to explore the city's vibrant offerings. We visited the Biblioteca Vasconcelos, an architectural marvel where bookshelves appear to float, creating a mesmerizing visual effect. Navigating the public transport system proved adventurous, and we delighted in visiting a renowned bakery, satisfying our shared passion for baked goods.

On our final night, we experienced the electrifying spectacle of Lucha Libre wrestling—a surprise birthday treat from my girlfriend. Our guide, a passionate fan and practitioner of the sport, shared her enthusiasm, and we hope to see her achieve professional success someday. Despite feeling under the weather and needing a brief rest, I managed to return in time to catch several thrilling matches. The energy and excitement of the event were unlike anything we'd ever experienced.

Reflecting on our travels, Mexico stands out as a favorite. Its rich diversity, delectable cuisine, and warm-hearted people make it a destination I'd highly recommend to anyone considering a visit to this vibrant part of the world.