Mercado Juarez’s Dangerous Flavors, Textures and Aromas

Baskets for sale at the Mercado Benito Juarez, Oaxaca, Mexico

My visit to the Benito Juarez market started in a dangerous way. Squeezing through the diminutive alleys, lit by dim light bulbs and clogged with a multitude of shoppers, bear the risk of breaking something or being patted down TSA style.  Moreover, the alleys were blocked with dry Jamaica flowers, clay jars and flower pots.  [...]

Callejon de los Sapos: Splash of Color in Puebla

Scene from the alley

The term “Disneyesque” is used to describe places that are surrounded by an aura of perfection. There is an area or “barrio” in Puebla which tends to be described with such a term.  Its name even resembles a fairy tale land.  Locals know it as the “Callejon de los Sapos” or “Alley of the Frogs.”  [...]

El Parian: A Market with an Interesting Name

Puppets

  My affection for markets is well-known.  I just can’t get enough of stalls with goods piled high, artisans offering unique crafts, ethnical or organic food samples, musicians and visitors filling their colorful bags with all sorts of acquisitions.  The festive atmosphere has a positive effect on me. Now, markets are as varied as grains [...]

Playa del Carmen You Surprised Me

White Sands, Playa del Carmen, Mexico

Playa del Carmen really surprised me.  I stopped here because it is the closest town to Xcaret.  My initial plan was to arrive late to Playa del Carmen, visit Xcaret the entire following day and then move on to Tulum. But, I was faced with a grave problem.  I just liked Playa del Carmen too [...]

Concepcion de Ataco, El Salvador

The famous cats of Diconte and Axul

Concepcion de Ataco is a town situated in the western mountain ranges of El Salvador.  It is located in the department of Ahuachapan across the popular Flowers Route (Ruta de la Flores). You don’t have to use the full town name.  Everybody knows the place by Ataco.  To me, this is the most beautiful town [...]

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