Mexico City six years later

Hello everyone, while I'm not quite in the Southern hemisphere I figured this would be as good as a place as any to write about my travels in Mexico City!

Mexico City holds a very special place in my heart. It was here, six summers ago that I fell in love with Latin America. As a curious 17 year old I made a personal vow to never lose touch with Latin America and the Spanish language. So far, I have kept that promise.

Six years later, I see Mexico through slightly different eyes. Of course I am older and have accumulated more life experiences. In the grand scheme of things, the city is equally exciting. I'm a sucker for the colors, smells, faces and general chaos that makes up this Latin American metropolis. I am no less in awe of the architecture and still feel I don't truly comprehend the size of this place.

Yet, there are many things that look and feel really different than last time. For one, I feel surprisingly comfortable and safe. The obvious reason is that I have more experience traveling and living abroad. I also speak Spanish and have more confidence in my ability to speak to people and maneuver the city.

Also, I have really noticed this time just how incredibly friendly people here are. I'm sure it is in part because I can speak Spanish and therefore have had an easier time developing relationships. I speak to people in the street which I would never have dreamed of doing five years ago. However, I now have more places to compare. In my other travels I have always encountered nice people but this trip I am feeling something more intense from Mexicans. There is a true warmth that radiates from MOST people that I meet. Street vendors are not overly aggressive, people are always willing to help when you ask and in general they always want me to feel welcome.

Tomorrow or the next day I will blog a bit about some of the things we have seen in the past few days. I am having a blast traveling with my brother. He is the best travel partner I could ask for! Besos, hasta manana!