I really felt like I experienced the real Mexico today. Four villages, two protests, two carnivals, food and of course shopping. All with a lot of color and noise.
Our first stop was in a very traditional village called Quiroga. It is best known for its crafts at a very reasonable price and its carnitas, pork tacos. I joined Janet and her son Jose to try the tacos. Only after eating them did Jose tell me the curse that hits those who eat the carnitas. No details but enough to say I did avoid the bathrooms so thankfully hope I missed the curse.
It was time to stroll the streets, explore the crafts and the candies and see the first parade - people marching, band playing and just generally lots of joy and excitement.
Back in the van where I was the only non Spanish speaker, we headed off to Tzintzuntzan. There are ruins here but we only saw them from a distance. Enough time to see a very old church colourfully decorated and admire the fun woven trinkets.
Then it was a short ride to reach our boat which would take us to Janifzio, an island in the middle of the late. The big claim to fame here is the statue of their hero who helped gain independence. He stands tall at the top of the island. I decided not to climb the steps up but wander below on the interesting streets until I stumbled upon the festival.
The coloured things in all the hair - confetti from inside the coloured egg shells that they throw at each other - you might see bags hanging from the waists. This is all in celebration of 40 days before Easter. What a fabulous display of color, music and clearly pure enjoyment. I did snap many phots but I am going to share the parade of my group arriving. It says it all!
The final stop of the day was a total contrast. It was a calm peaceful town called Patzcuaro. I loved this little town and that was simply from walking around the main square.
It was back to Morelia. Once again lovely Mexican people took me under their wing and made sure I add a great time, even if I didn’t understand everything. Thank you Janet and Jose.
No comments:
Post a Comment