Before I came to Mexico, I had a vague idea of what it was like: drug cartels, corruption, traffic, non-drinkable water, and femicide. Well, these were the things that the media have shown us. Heck, these were things that my family and friends said Mexico was like. Inevitably, these were ideas that I was lead to believe Mexico was.
A street photograph of Centro Historico in Ciudad de Mexico.
But let me tell you this; Mexico is, undoubtedly, one of the most beautiful countries I have ever been to. It is plain and simple. The people are hospitable, the food are amazing, and the culture is just so rich! Never have I been in a country where you will be greeted with smiles from strangers on the road, or a city with so much historical buildings and museums every square mile! Mexico is a country so rich in culture, people, and history. Not once have I heard that in the news, to be quite fair. So before I came here, I had no idea this country would be this beautiful. I was amazed, and it got me so excited!
A photograph of myself in Centro Historico in Ciudad de Mexico.
As a person who admires and enjoys going to museums and learning about culture, Mexico is surely the place for me. In my free time, museums or the cinema are my go-to spots. When I was living in New York, I would always go to the Metropolitan Museum of Art in Manhattan. Then when I was living in Bulacan, I would always drag my friends with me to the National Museum of Art in Manila. There is just something so special about museums, and being surrounded by art and beauty that just excites me! Is it just me, or do other people feel the same way too?
The exterior details of the Palacio de Bellas Artes.
Anyway, even before I came here, I knew that there would be some similarities between Mexico and the Philippines. First, being former colonies of Spain. Second, Mexicans and Filipinos both have ridiculously long names. Third, our history is pretty frickin’ similar. I could go on and on, but I think you get the picture.
A street photograph of Avenida Cinco de Mayo in Ciudad de Mexico.
But what sets Mexico apart?
A photograph of churros I got from a local street vendor at Centro Historico in Ciudad de Mexico.
The thing that sets Mexico apart, is that, Mexicans are just so proud of their heritage, they love their country, and they love being Mexicans! This is a trait that I hope Filipinos have. Because usually when I meet a fellow Filipino on the road, I get too excited about being able to speak Tagalog. But then I get disappointed, because no Filipino wants to speak Tagalog. It is English, or nothing. Which sucks, extremely. Now imagine walking along Intramuros, but everything is so intact and the architecture is well-maintained and well-taken care of; that is what Mexico looks like. At least, that is what Mexico looks like to me.
A street photograph of Zocalo in Ciudad de Mexico.
As somebody who has a degree in Media, I have never been one to believe everything it [media] shows. Yes, it sure does help people see what is happening in various countries. The media, and the internet are, probably, two of the most helpful inventions of the century. But trust me when I tell you to not believe everything that you will see in both. Because it does not fully show the true colours of everything. It could be one-sided, controlled, or biased. So do not believe everything the media says. Let us not be gullible and judgmental, because you might be surprised.
A photograph of myself by the Catedral Metropolitana de Mexico.
Like Morocco, Mexico is a country that keeps on surprising me…in a good way. It has been such a thrill to be here, and sometimes, I still cannot believe that I am here. You know, that this is my life. Everything is so surreal, and I am so grateful to be here.
A photograph of myself along Avenida Cinco de Mayo in Ciudad de Mexico.
Mexico, it has been only three weeks and I cannot wait to see more of you.
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If you have the time, go check out Mexico Walking Tour, a company that provides different walking tours around Ciudad de Mexico. I booked a free walking tour with them, and it was so informative and, well, it is free! You only need to tip. Check them out by clicking HERE.
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Thank you for the warm welcome, Mexico, it is as if I am home. Muchas gracias, I cannot wait for more.
“The Lord will be king over the whole earth. On that day there will be one Lord, and his name the only name.”
Zechariah 14:9 NIV
2 Comments
Gabriela Colindres
February 26, 2020 at 15:39I´m so glad to see México City through the foreign eyes. You are very welcome any time !
Danica Tanjutco
February 26, 2020 at 17:49I loved Mexico City so much, and thank you!