tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-37088687132635650392012-02-16T01:54:06.518-06:00Life in Mexico City and journeys beyondNancynoreply@blogger.comBlogger1611100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3708868713263565039.post-65438204298154878662008-12-27T15:55:00.000-06:002009-01-05T17:51:48.110-06:00

SIERRA GORDA, Queretaro--We've been through this kind of harrowing journey before. The kind where in order to get to the destination we've had to drive through hours of sharp twists and turns, climbing higher and higher along Mexico's mountainside. Each time has been an adventure, but this time was definitely the most scenic.Perhaps the other times (on a bus with a weak stomach and in the back of

Nancynoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3708868713263565039.post-66873818840292623982008-12-26T16:57:00.001-06:002009-01-05T15:24:29.118-06:00

JALPAN DE SERRA, Queretaro--While Mexico celebrated their Revolution Day on Nov. 20, we watched the revelers from the restaurant balcony of our hotel. There was dancing and parades all around to commemorate the 1910 revolution that put revolutionaries such as Emiliano Zapata and Pancho Villa on the map. It is believed that painter and activist Frida Kahlo, who was actually born in 1907, would

Nancynoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3708868713263565039.post-80109762122956871212008-12-24T11:00:00.000-06:002008-12-24T11:00:00.437-06:00

SAN MIGUEL DE ALLENDE, Guanajuato--This city is definitely worth a visit for it's amazing cathedral and beautiful architecture. Mariachis hang out in the main plaza and fountains and smaller plazas called plazuelas appear in every other corner. It was reminiscent of one of my favorite cities in Mexico--Guanajuato City. Although I didn't order the best food around town, some good old-fashioned

Nancynoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3708868713263565039.post-33143889819531607192008-12-15T11:20:00.004-06:002008-12-23T21:41:58.263-06:00

I've been so behind in blog posts, but I have a good reason. Jeremy and I haven't stopped moving in weeks. It's been hectic, chaotic, but also amazing and inspiring because we've seen some spectacular things along the way. Before the year 2008 ends, I want to share the adventures we've had in the last couple of weeks. SANTA JULIA CHILDREN'S SHELTER in GUANAJUATO--The little girls here have been

Nancynoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3708868713263565039.post-68852451376832143202008-11-10T15:20:00.002-06:002008-11-10T15:43:58.470-06:00

When we were in Puebla for Dia de los Muertos we couldn't help but notice how lucky Puebla newspaper reporters are to work in this beautiful historic building. (Disclaimer: OK, I know there are a million other beautiful things in Puebla but keep in mind that the Flores-Schwartz reporting team joined forces with our friends and media colleagues Brendan and Joy, who have also at one time or another

Nancynoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3708868713263565039.post-84915806836584666572008-11-07T11:49:00.003-06:002008-11-07T12:31:34.717-06:00

photos by jeremyTaxi driver outside Belize bus station gives us the "thumbs up."While in Belize a few weeks ago, the Obama fever was evident across this Central American country. Since Belize's economy heavily depends on American tourists and the Belizean dollar is tied 2-1 to the US dollar, it is no wonder people there also craved a change. We talked to several locals before the election who

Nancynoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3708868713263565039.post-19456814591528441342008-11-05T15:05:00.003-06:002008-11-05T15:32:02.352-06:00

photo by jeremyFor the past two years, we've celebrated Dia de los Muertos at home in the DF. And while the local festivities are beautiful and lively, this time we ventured out to the nearby city of Puebla with some friends to enjoy the awesome food, altars and cemeteries of this colonial city.photo by jeremyPuebla is also known for its fabulous Talavera design. Check out this water fountain!The

Nancynoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3708868713263565039.post-49873496447516695152008-10-29T17:42:00.004-06:002008-10-30T11:07:33.867-06:00

photos by jeremyThe view from the Belize-Caye Caulker ferry. CAYE CAULKER,Belize--After working hard on the mainland, it was time to discover why most visitors skip Belize City and head straight to the neighboring islands. Our time was limited, so we chose to go to the closest island. After an hour-long ferry ride, we landed in the tiny but lively Caye Caulker. In the 1960s, a fierce Hurricane

Nancynoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3708868713263565039.post-33748456906609285582008-10-28T14:37:00.003-06:002008-10-28T16:24:20.021-06:00

SOMEWHERE IN THE BELIZE JUNGLE--After a successful interview with the country's Prime Minister Dean Barrow, we treated ourselves to checking out Belize's incredible jungle animal life at a nearby sanctuary. Just like Belize's people, it's wildlife is full of diversity with exotic animals from spider monkeys to mountain cows.Seeing a toucan up close had to be one of the most amazing sights on the

Nancynoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3708868713263565039.post-31971002961248467702008-10-27T11:30:00.009-06:002008-10-27T18:03:01.814-06:00

image lonelyplanet.comBELIZE CITY--Before our trip I had read all about the rich ethnic diversity here. Even though I knew what to expect, actually seeing so many people of unique backgrounds come together in a small country of about 300,000 was so refreshing and unlike any other Central American country. photos by jeremyBelizeans are mostly made up of: Mestizos, who are people of mixed Spanish

Nancynoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3708868713263565039.post-6944659190417610972008-10-24T17:11:00.003-06:002008-10-24T17:58:56.796-06:00

TULUM,Quintana Roo-- It's an overwhelming feeling to be in the middle of indigenous archaeological ruins and try to take in the meaning of centuries worth of history. The first time I went to Teotihuacan, the enormous Aztec ruins on the outskirts of Mexico City, and climbed on top of the Pyramid of the Sun, it was definitely an out-of-body experience. Though the archaeological ruins in Tulum are

Nancynoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3708868713263565039.post-76032479720097482422008-10-23T17:23:00.003-06:002008-10-23T18:33:40.917-06:00

We've been traveling like crazy the last couple of weeks. But yesterday we came back to the megalopolis safe and sound after some interesting, weird, awesome, uncomfortable and fun experiences. That's the joy of being on the road. Our journey began in the Yucatan Peninsula (near Cancun)....TULUM, Quintana Roo--The first time I saw the small beach town of Tulum was during Hurricane Dean last year

Nancynoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3708868713263565039.post-27674418110984828542008-10-07T15:18:00.004-06:002008-10-07T17:13:04.907-06:00

MORELIA, Michoacan--Glamorous actors/actresses, style and flashing bulbs were no exception at this fabulous red carpet. As a newbie to the scene, I admit there were times when I was star struck. I mean, come on, I've been following some of these celebrities since their novela days, others opened my eyes to the possibilities in Mexican cinema.As the stars strutted their stuff down the 200-

Nancynoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3708868713263565039.post-90939907861041551112008-10-03T22:30:00.003-06:002008-10-03T23:29:36.613-06:00

Yes, I admit it. I'm a documentary film junkie. I have been for a long time. But since we moved to Mexico City, I also became a Mexican film junkie. It has been my dream to attend the Morelia Film Festival (Mexico's version of Cannes) and surround myself with other weirdos who talk about cinematography, who research Mexican directors and dream about one day producing my very own documentary.This

Nancynoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3708868713263565039.post-9061709310391638222008-09-29T13:12:00.006-06:002008-09-29T16:34:07.651-06:00

We've been atop a few huge towers that overlook impressive skylines-- including Seattle's Space Needle and San Antonio's Tower of the Americas--but by far the coolest we've been to is the Torre Latinoamericana in Mexico City.It's history, views from almost 600 feet, and interesting museum make it a must-see in the city.a Wikipedia photoSure, the Torre now sits in the middle of the bustling

Nancynoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3708868713263565039.post-37516750440518050592008-09-19T13:55:00.005-06:002008-09-19T14:43:23.174-06:00

It was the summer of 2003, and I had just graduated from college. My eyes were set on my new destination for the next three months--St. Petersburg, Flordia, where I was to learn everything about journalism as a fellow with the Poynter Institute. I sold most of my junky college belongings, stashed the rest at my parent's and then-boyfriend Jeremy's house and packed the rest in my reliable Toyota

Nancynoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3708868713263565039.post-86636684785228118242008-09-16T17:35:00.003-06:002008-09-16T18:11:06.818-06:00

It's been a Flores-Schwartz tradition to head down to our neighborhood plaza for 16 de septiembre festivities. We were joined by some of our friends this time for food, drinks and silly Independence Day hats.

Nancynoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3708868713263565039.post-37079248103737543312008-09-11T11:00:00.005-06:002008-09-11T11:37:13.360-06:00

As promised, here's more news from the Island of Mexcaltitan. This is the island city that some historians believe is behind the founding of Mexico.To check out my photo slideshow, click on the title link above. To check out Jeremy's story, copy and paste this link:http://www.coxwashington.com/reporters/content/reporters/stories/2008/30/2008/09/01/MEXICO_AZTLAN31_COX.htmlThese white herons or "

Nancynoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3708868713263565039.post-11974051417714926972008-09-09T07:00:00.002-06:002008-09-09T07:00:01.365-06:00

I'm loving straight-talking chef Anthony Bourdain's memoir "Kitchen Confidential." Inspired by his love of all things meat, here's a video clip from his street food tour of Piedras Negras, Coahuila, my hometown's sister city across the border. If you attended my wedding, then you passed through or even spent the night in this culinary heaven. Here are some fab quotes from his book:"No one

Nancynoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3708868713263565039.post-10341996426234685092008-09-08T10:00:00.010-06:002008-09-08T13:54:36.355-06:00

SEGUIN, Texas--No smog. No traffic. No worries. At my Tia Rosa and Tio Ruben's ranch-style life in rural Texas, it's all about family and home cooking. These Boston city boys discovered they were a little bit country after all.My Tio Ruben prefers the tranquility of his almost five acres of land to the city life any day.

Nancynoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3708868713263565039.post-50662015695930705552008-08-30T07:00:00.000-06:002008-08-30T07:00:00.820-06:00

OBRAJUELO, Guanajuato-- During the morning hustle and bustle, we noticed women all over town carrying small pails. We later found out that those pails were full of reduced-price milk. It turns out that the town's rich landowners who still have a working hacienda in the middle of town sell milk to the national milk company Alpura. Every week, the landowners reward their workers with cheap milk

Nancynoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3708868713263565039.post-22161615092822090712008-08-29T20:59:00.002-06:002008-08-29T21:27:44.593-06:00

OBRAJUELO,Guanajuato--My hubby decided to call himself "Jeremias" shortly after moving to Mexico because, well, it was just less painful than having to constantly spell out his name or have it badly mispronounced time after time. And forget about saying Schwartz. So it was extra special that after more than two years of living in Mexico my hubby finally met a "tocayo" or namesake. We couldn't

Nancynoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3708868713263565039.post-51992458403924384962008-08-20T15:20:00.003-06:002008-08-20T15:47:12.715-06:00

ISLA DE MEXCALTITAN, Nayarit--When shrimp is the livelihood of a village, it becomes as important as the beloved Virgen de Guadalupe. A sign above a family's front door says,"May God shine a light on my path."People here dried shrimp on the sidewalks of their home. The technique, a local historian told us, came from Chinese immigrants who came to the island in the 1920's. Today, the island has

Nancynoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3708868713263565039.post-10257065956040564872008-08-12T12:32:00.002-06:002008-08-12T13:04:30.204-06:00

I'm always on the hunt for new Latin funk/rock/pop/electronica and hip-hop bands (Most English language music does not do it for me). I recently saw this Latina.com video from the Alternative Latin Music Conference in New York and decided that you, too, should keep your hips shaking. Geo, this one is para ti.

Nancynoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3708868713263565039.post-70456500540451334622008-08-11T10:43:00.003-06:002008-08-11T11:31:24.585-06:00

SANTIAGO DE IXCUINTLA,Nayarit--The beautiful murals in this city tell the story of how the Aztecs left their native Aztlan to found the Aztec empire of Tenochitlan (present day Mexico City). Great controversy surrounds the mystery of where Aztlan is really located, whether it is a mythical place or not. Historians have pointed to Texas, California, New Mexico and other places throughout Mexico as

Nancynoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3708868713263565039.post-9276830082401589672008-08-07T11:39:00.003-06:002008-08-07T11:58:59.988-06:00

NAYARIT RIVIERA HIGHWAY (near Chacala)--Driving through the mountainous jungle-like landscape, I noticed a tree I've never seen before with HUGE hanging fruit. From the highway, it looked like something the size of a watermelon dangling from the branches. Later, we passed miles and miles of fruit stands on the highway selling the mysterious fruit with signs calling it "Jaka."photos by

Nancynoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3708868713263565039.post-78537984475031735202008-08-04T22:26:00.002-06:002008-08-04T22:36:01.816-06:00

Here are some gorgeous and cool things we've spotted as we work our way up the Mexican Pacific Coast. photo by jeremy Sunset in Nuevo Vallarta, NayaritIguana crossing the cobblestone road in Chacala, NayaritFishing boat parked in exclusive beachfront property

Nancynoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3708868713263565039.post-21634043443395403452008-08-03T23:34:00.002-06:002008-08-03T23:47:56.738-06:00

PUERTO VALLARTA--It was refreshing to arrive in this coastal city and not feel disgusted as I've felt before in other beach cities like Cancun. Sure there are resort hotels and tons of weathly expats who are retiring in luxury condos, but the main difference is that there is an escape. PV has a history, has a culture and has lifelong residents. One woman we interviewed said it best "Puerto

Nancynoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3708868713263565039.post-31345191472639522522008-07-30T10:57:00.003-06:002008-07-30T11:44:07.967-06:00

SAN LUIS POTOSI, SLP--The Centro Historico or historic downtown, of this city of about 730,950 residents, is filled with beautiful churches and colonial buildings from its mining heyday. Gold, silver, lead and copper can be found in the surrounding mountains. During our trip we couldn't get enough of SLP's traditional dish of enchiladas potosinas, which are spicy, soft red tortilla tacos filled

Nancynoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3708868713263565039.post-6259343364729453612008-07-29T11:48:00.003-06:002008-07-29T12:21:34.755-06:00

SAN LUIS POTOSI, SLP--The first time I came to this city (about five hours north of Mexico City and about 13 hours south of the border--by bus) I was about three years old. It was my cousin Minerva's quinceañera and a big family affair. My grandma, other cousins, sisters, aunt and mom all rode the bus from the Texas border down to my Tia Paula's hometown.Though Jeremy and I briefly passed through

Nancynoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3708868713263565039.post-12872080800836717742008-07-28T12:40:00.002-06:002008-07-28T12:57:48.368-06:00

CD. HIDALGO, Michoacan--In the most humble of homes is where I find that laughter fills every room. The Gutierrez family not only opened their home to us but also their hearts. Despite every obstacle and every sacrifice they've made, their family remains united. They have moved back to their hometown after years in Atlanta.The adjustments have been hard for the kids in the family who have spent

Nancynoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3708868713263565039.post-4823241672168074212008-07-25T11:30:00.002-06:002008-07-25T11:56:47.493-06:00

Morelia at nightphoto by jeremyFor it's lush countryside with dramatic views and beautiful colonial cities, Michoacan is definitely a state that has it all. Every time we come to Michoacan we are in awe of its beauty, not to mention it's the home of the original La Michoacana paleteria, which has the best ice cream and paletas that I've ever tasted in Mexico.Taking a road trip through Michoacan

Nancynoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3708868713263565039.post-81217216203093195152008-07-22T13:46:00.002-06:002008-07-22T14:32:56.201-06:00

After staying put in Mexico City for about a month and a half, this past weekend we dusted off our suitcases and began another travel cycle. At least that's what we call it because our travels seem to happen in waves. Sometimes it feels like we are never home, and other times we can't wait to leave the city. We began by revisiting a small town south of Mexico City called Tepoztlan, where we spent

Nancynoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3708868713263565039.post-45245613440348779312008-07-15T11:49:00.002-06:002008-07-15T12:03:20.546-06:00

It's nice to have a full house, especially when it's filled with old friends. Last week some of my college pals took a 4-day break from their two-week Mexico vacation to come visit. There were many late-night domino games, ghost stories and tons of laughter.Lupi (left) and Lupe (right) show off their lucha libre poses. Later that night, they both sang along with the bar's mariachi band. And yes,

Nancynoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3708868713263565039.post-80761603480316117562008-07-07T17:31:00.002-06:002008-07-08T13:38:27.248-06:00

This summer marked the second anniversary of Mexico's turbulent presidential elections. Jeremy and I arrived to live in Mexico City in the midst of the madness. The country was divided, its citizens were exhausted by an emotional and long campaign season, and mega-marches and rallies for leftist candidate AMLO (as locals call him) occurred nonstop. We basically lived in the Centro Historico or

Nancynoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3708868713263565039.post-56487689496834798992008-07-01T12:09:00.002-06:002008-07-01T12:46:54.191-06:00

Often when we travel for work we get the opportunity to visit places that are sometimes not on maps, that rarely get a tourist, that are hidden in the mountains or in indigenous communities sometimes off-limits to the average traveler. We've been fortunate to see the realness of Latin America through its rural communities and talk to those whose lives do not revolve around the beaten path.It is

Nancynoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3708868713263565039.post-14640934972702720512008-06-26T10:24:00.002-06:002008-06-26T11:08:33.867-06:00

A few months ago we were in San Marcos, Guerrero, and starting chatting with this elder at his house about life, work and struggle.

Nancynoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3708868713263565039.post-73139229519232535252008-06-19T10:48:00.003-06:002008-06-19T10:56:33.995-06:00

While many U.S. malls display hot sport cars inside their stores with cute girls handing out information, our neighborhood grocery store Mega took a more practical approach.Two ordinary looking men tried to lure customers to buy a new taxi painted in the new regulation colors--gold and red. Soon all Mexico City taxis are supposed to look like this.

Nancynoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3708868713263565039.post-19294656363386721902008-06-13T12:22:00.003-06:002008-06-13T12:39:57.556-06:00

BEJUCOS, Estado de Mexico--On most days you can catch el Sr. Carbajal riding on horseback through his steamy hometown. He said he's never owned a car and never will. A car doesn't go where el Sr. Carbajal needs to go--through the mountainous campos of the Tierra Caliente region. While most male residents of Bejucos migrate to the United States, el Sr. Carbajal says he's never had a desire to

Nancynoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3708868713263565039.post-21530612036615720562008-06-11T10:06:00.002-06:002008-06-11T10:20:16.353-06:00

LUVIANOS, Estado de Mexico--We stumbled upon a hidden huarache factory here that distributes these traditional handcrafted leather shoes throughout the country. The woman who runs the makeshift factory expanded the business with remittances that her sons send her from Austin, Texas.

Nancynoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3708868713263565039.post-63876535414525534862008-06-09T14:54:00.002-06:002008-06-09T15:13:03.078-06:00

LUVIANOS, Estado de Mexico--Jeremy tries on a sombrero in the Tierra Caliente region, where a lightweight, bendable hat is not only traditional but also necessary. Hat makers use palm leaves to weave an intricate and high quality sombrero that costs about $1,500 USD.It takes months for one hat to be completed, and then lasts a lifetime. But for campesinos or farmers who work the land for a living

Nancynoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3708868713263565039.post-61495772193759152032008-06-07T13:46:00.004-06:002008-06-07T14:41:34.558-06:00

It's amazing what foods you begin to miss when you've been away for awhile. While I was living in Michigan, I craved breakfast tacos. While living in Florida, I missed Mexican Coca-Cola, and in Mexico City I longed to hear my bowl sing "Snap, Crackle, Pop!"I'm not sure why. I was never a huge fan, but I guess you always want what you can't have. On trips back to the States, I always had to have

Nancynoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3708868713263565039.post-14703077422418440502008-05-27T11:01:00.002-06:002008-06-07T14:59:07.033-06:00

OLYMPIA/SEATTLE-- For the last leg of our trip, we met up with my aunts who live in Olympia. As soon as we got to their house nestled between a lake and the woods, I understood why they have chosen Washington as their home for so many years.They graciously took us to all the surrounding hot spots. We even got a chance to check out Jeremy's beloved Red Sox beat the Seattle Mariners at Safeco Field

Nancynoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3708868713263565039.post-71030406824277262062008-05-24T10:49:00.002-06:002008-05-24T11:22:35.081-06:00

SOMEWHERE IN OREGON-- We've covered a lot of ground in the last couple of days, and we are driving into Portland today. The drive has been amazing. We've seen everything from the world's largest trees to mountains, rivers, the Pacific Ocean, vineyards.....and so much more. But a trip is not complete without also getting a chance to see the quirkiness that makes us want to keep seeing more. Here

Nancynoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3708868713263565039.post-65326019331330391782008-05-23T05:00:00.001-06:002008-05-23T07:38:02.905-06:00

My cousin Margarito feeds the livestock in his Tracy, CA ranch.California's beautiful rolling hills make the drive much more enjoyable.I spotted this tree at a Farmer's Market on the way to Sacramento.

Nancynoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3708868713263565039.post-65718490272674106672008-05-22T21:06:00.003-06:002008-05-22T21:21:22.749-06:00

NEAR TRACY, CA--As we whiz by northern California, inching our way up to Seattle, we've noticed solar panels and wind mills covering the mountainside of the west coast. It's refreshing to see all these alternative energy sources especially because I don't think that a road trip through my native Texas would look like this.These wind mills provide energy for Los Angeles. But they have also been

Nancynoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3708868713263565039.post-30770611337620716832008-05-20T19:53:00.001-06:002008-05-21T20:37:03.169-06:00

SAN FRANCISCO-- Jeremy and I are taking a little break from the megalopolis to explore northern California and the Pacific Northwest. We've been on the move a lot during our road trip, but this time we are on VACATION! We were just discussing how a road trip is a perfect vacation for us because in the last couple of years both of us have gotten so used to always being ready to pick up and go.

Nancynoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3708868713263565039.post-75537880905310400662008-05-14T17:59:00.006-06:002008-05-15T14:41:10.314-06:00

photos by jeremyMONTERREY--Aside from it's famous and delicious cabrito, there's a new reason to love this city--the Paseo Santa Lucía. It's the Mexican version of the San Antonio Riverwalk. In fact, the Monterrey design is based on the Texas model. But unlike the Riverwalk, the Paseo Santa Lucía (which opened last year) does not feel claustrophobic or way too plastic. It connects the downtown

Nancynoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3708868713263565039.post-20376737796939474742008-05-09T12:23:00.004-06:002008-05-09T13:38:46.023-06:00

Forty years ago Mexico City hosted the Summer Olympics--Mexico 68. And just as violence and concerns over China's human right's record are being protested and examined before the Beijing Summer Olympics in August, Mexico, too, faced scrutiny after one of the worst tragedies in its modern history. Ten days before the 1968 Summer Olympics the Mexican army and police massacred an estimated 300

Nancynoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3708868713263565039.post-63637449084430509212008-04-30T15:09:00.003-06:002008-04-30T15:26:58.274-06:00

SAN MARCOS, Guerrero-- A judge prepares for a long night of cockfighting.A man behind us at this palenque snoozed while we waited almost three hours for the cockfighting to begin at the Feria San Marcos, near Acapulco. We were working on a story, and though I felt like the only woman there, I wasn't. In fact, a few mujeres were peppered in the sea of male faces. And more surprisingly, children of

Nancynoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3708868713263565039.post-74431695169360121982008-04-24T10:59:00.003-06:002008-04-24T11:28:41.787-06:00

photo by marisol flores (my big sis)A few months ago we discovered an awesome ice cream shop in the magical town of Tepoztlan that has everything from spicy to cactus-flavored ice creams. While taking a walk with my sister through our Coyoacan neighborhood, we stumbled upon the same ice cream chain called Tepoznieves. This shop's awesome decor and unique flavored treats make it a new must-stop on

Nancynoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3708868713263565039.post-84929756741356092842008-04-23T15:05:00.000-06:002008-04-23T15:05:04.214-06:00

photos by jeremyMy sister Marisol explored the megalopolis last week when she was here on vacation. From an Aleks Syntek concert to an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour of TV Azteca, we left no stone unturned. We even met Frida.

Nancynoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3708868713263565039.post-69296752095137377252008-04-23T14:58:00.002-06:002008-04-23T15:03:50.969-06:00

Just imagine doing your banking here. The nation's treasury at the Palacio Nacional in downtown Mexico City blew us away.

Nancynoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3708868713263565039.post-72477445293445624662008-04-22T12:18:00.002-06:002008-04-22T12:38:02.704-06:00

corn, beans, tabacco, cacao beans, cotton, tomatoes, green tomatoes, peanuts, tuna, maguey, avocados, pineapple, chewing gum, chico zapote fruit, mamey tropical fruit, black and white sapote, papaya, chiles, yucca and jicama vegetableI found this homage to Mexican foods below a Diego Rivera mural at the Palacio Nacional.Viva Mexico!

Nancynoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3708868713263565039.post-42112918070415351242008-04-22T12:12:00.002-06:002008-04-22T12:15:23.146-06:00

While taking in the amazing scenary at Mexico City's Palacio Nacional, I spotted this cat snoozing. What a life!

Nancynoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3708868713263565039.post-58714382421904667162008-03-24T11:04:00.003-06:002008-03-24T11:31:01.039-06:00

Just a few souls hang out at a usually lively plaza by our neighborhood.At first there is a sense of relief as hundreds of Chilangos leave the megalopolis for Semana Santa or Holy Week break. No traffic, no pushing and fighting to get a seat on the metro. Suddenly everything becomes tranquilo. But as the week goes on relief turns into a sense of eeriness. Streets that are usually elbow to elbow

Nancynoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3708868713263565039.post-84794286572834247792008-03-19T11:05:00.002-06:002008-03-19T11:15:51.072-06:00

TECOMATE,Guerrero--Just minutes after someone harvested some coconuts for us from a palm tree, one of our guides quickly took care of business. Here he shakes the coconuts to listen to the water inside, which tells him whether the coco is ripe. He then cut a little hole into the coco where the water comes out. The results? Delicious clear and almost carbonated coco-soda tasting water.

Nancynoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3708868713263565039.post-41779240276549863482008-03-17T12:21:00.004-06:002008-03-17T12:31:07.563-06:00

TECOMATE, Guerrero-- I've got to say that small towns in Guerrero have a lot of loose pigs and piglets running around. One time we had to hit the brakes in the car and wait until a family of pigs crossed the road. But the funniest moment had to be when the pig in the picture went for a swim later on the beach shore. Ah, it's good to be a pig in Tecomate.

Nancynoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3708868713263565039.post-10329778594981002222008-03-14T10:48:00.003-06:002008-03-14T11:16:11.903-06:00

SAN MARCOS, Guerrero-- I didn't even realize when I snapped this photo that an armed official was on board this Coca-Cola delivery truck. Apparently, many Coca-Cola delivery guys were being assaulted when they drove into some towns in the area. So from now on, private security accompanies drivers on every Coke stop.

Nancynoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3708868713263565039.post-75827923756324539582008-03-13T10:46:00.003-06:002008-03-13T11:25:41.155-06:00

TECOMATE, Guerrero-- On our way to this town on Mexico's Costa Chica, which is home to most of the country's Afro-Mexican population, we saw Rigoberto. Rigoberto was walking on a long, unpaved road in the scorching sun carrying this iguana and a device used to snatch coconuts from palm trees.We were in a minivan traveling with a group of migrants who we were writing about. They explained that

Nancynoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3708868713263565039.post-72075013444021247252008-03-12T12:57:00.002-06:002008-03-12T13:23:45.942-06:00

ACAPULCO,Guerrero--Though we were here on assignment and couldn't frolic in the beach like the other vacationers in our hotel, it certainly made views like this more rewarding after a 10-hour work day.I was also glad that Acapulco wasn't as repulsive to me as Cancun. Maybe it was because we spent most of our time outside the tourist zone, where there are neighborhoods in rough shape and humble

Nancynoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3708868713263565039.post-21274776123269707402008-03-11T14:13:00.003-06:002008-03-12T12:56:40.832-06:00

EJIDO MODELO, Jalisco-- As we walked through the neighborhoods of this lively little town, I noticed most of the clotheslines were filled with children's clothes. These tiny pair of pants were hanging on a line on the street. The people of the town were all jokesters, always laughing and poking fun at people with a big smile.

Nancynoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3708868713263565039.post-24589289132053653292008-03-10T12:33:00.002-06:002008-03-10T12:46:50.380-06:00

SAN MARCOS, Guerrero-- We traveled to this town near Guadalajara to meet and interview migrants who have worked in the Atlanta area. What we didn't expect was that the local television station Cable Costa wanted to air a story about us coming to town!Jeremy's flawless interview in Spanish aired that night on the 8 o'clock news. The anchor didn't even attempt to pronounce Schwartz and instead my

Nancynoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3708868713263565039.post-83178509416154069422008-02-27T14:07:00.008-06:002008-02-27T15:00:30.803-06:00

photo by jeremyTEPOZTLAN, Morelos--This dramatic entryway greets some lucky homeowner here. Tepoztlan is just south of Mexico City and is a popular weekend destination for Chilangos (Mexico City residents) who want to leave the hustle and bustle of the megalopolis behind. Jeremy and I treated ourselves to a Valentine's weekend here, and then didn't want to leave. Officially recognized as a "

Nancynoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3708868713263565039.post-79040006192448999412008-02-26T12:31:00.003-06:002008-02-26T13:16:34.636-06:00

EL ARBOLITO,Queretaro--We visited the Ramirez family house while in Queretaro to interview their 16-year old son, who used to help tourists poach rare cactus species in the desert. The family no longer encourages this and their son Alvaro now runs a greenhouse to protect these species. These haystacks rested on the Ramirez family property.

Nancynoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3708868713263565039.post-11837950250140254052008-02-25T12:16:00.003-06:002008-02-26T11:28:29.152-06:00

CADEREYTA, Queretaro--Growing up along the Texas/Mexico border, I've been lucky enough to see different species of the Maguey plant, which many times is used to produce Mexican liquors like mezcal. But never in my life have I seen the plant flower like this. This species is commonly known as the Century Plant because it takes about that long for it to flower. Seeing it up close was amazing. The

Nancynoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3708868713263565039.post-66918465289066753622008-02-19T13:23:00.003-06:002008-02-19T13:41:39.361-06:00

photo by jeremyBERNAL, Queretaro-- On our way back to Queretaro City, we stopped to visit this "magic town" which has the world's third-largest monolith. Many believe that the giant rock has mystical powers because of its strong magnetic energy. Curiously, Bernal residents tend to live long lives. I must admit that while there I felt tingly, and as if I were being pulled up from the ground.

Nancynoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3708868713263565039.post-6958801174187340532008-02-13T18:01:00.000-06:002008-02-14T18:03:05.101-06:00

After some HTML-induced headaches, I finally present a redesign of my blog in order to bring you bigger and better photos. Enjoy!

Nancynoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3708868713263565039.post-10177944807992534642008-02-13T17:51:00.001-06:002008-02-14T18:00:30.359-06:00

EL ARBOLITO, Queretaro-- The Ramirez family recently celebrated their daughter's quinceañera (15th birthday) at their house in the dusty desert of Queretaro. Remnants of that special night still hang a few days after the fiesta. It must have been some party.

Nancynoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3708868713263565039.post-60282412641820795542008-02-13T15:48:00.000-06:002008-02-14T18:09:27.342-06:00

EL ARBOLITO, Queretaro-- Children in this tiny town enjoy the playground in front of their one-room school building.

Nancynoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3708868713263565039.post-72101235437556059942008-02-04T12:37:00.000-06:002008-02-04T13:03:57.467-06:00

The Christmas holiday season is now officially over in Mexico. Yes, it's just now coming to an end! Feb. 2 was Dia de la Candelaria, which represents the day that baby Jesus was presented at the Temple in Jerusalem. In Mexico City that means that people take baby Jesus dolls to church and have them blessed and dressed in nativity scene clothing. It also marks the day that faithful can take down

Nancynoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3708868713263565039.post-34643216183050376102008-01-30T12:36:00.000-06:002008-01-30T13:10:16.405-06:00

photo by El UniversalMexico City broke records last May when New York artist Spencer Tunick gathered more than 18,000 nude Mexicans to pose for a photo shoot. People have a love/hate relationship with Tunick's work, but regardless of anyone's opinion, Tunick stirred political and social issues in a conservative country with a not-so-conservative capital. I got to check out Tunick's work, which

Nancynoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3708868713263565039.post-8900850590713062862008-01-28T18:38:00.000-06:002008-01-29T10:38:56.078-06:00

It is not unusual to be walking down the streets of Mexico City and see people wearing paper masks, covering their mouths and noses (like surgical masks). The first time I saw someone here wearing one I thought maybe they had a severe case of asthma or something. Soon I learned that it is not only people with serious respiratory problems who wear these, but people who are being cautious and want

Nancynoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3708868713263565039.post-59354774090981718382008-01-22T15:10:00.000-06:002008-01-22T15:43:58.098-06:00

Just when I thought my days of battling with Mexico City bureaucrat-types were over-- I may have to prepare myself for another round. I'm about to enter the scary world of the Mexican tax system. I'm shuddering just thinking about the process. Getting anything official done in Chilangolandia is a nightmare. I'm still not over the days when I came home in tears after dealing with never-ending red

Nancynoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3708868713263565039.post-36847853013595838852008-01-15T12:58:00.000-06:002008-01-15T13:27:22.584-06:00

I've always been a big fan of The Lion King, from the movie to the soundtrack. I became an even bigger fan when I went on an African safari in Kenya and saw firsthand the amazing landscapes and wildlife that inspired animators. In fact, these animators spent months of research in Africa in order to translate African animal life as well as its culture into an accurate animation. So when the The

Nancynoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3708868713263565039.post-25853241820536909812008-01-09T14:18:00.000-06:002008-01-09T14:59:14.791-06:00

I began this blog at about this time last year in Nairobi, Kenya. What a difference a year makes. Since mid-December East Africa's most economically stable nation has been the center of post-election turmoil and bloody violence. News reports have estimated more than 500 deaths. Just a year ago I joined representatives from around the world and gathered in Nairobi for the World Social Forum, where

Nancynoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3708868713263565039.post-71934362984696396232008-01-08T23:43:00.000-06:002008-01-09T14:04:34.760-06:00

After a long holiday hiatus, I'm finally back in the megalopolis and ready to blog in 2008. Here are some of the highlights of our hectic, but fun Texas vacation. My niece Micaela wears her Christmas monkey headphones at my parent's house in Eagle Pass, Texas.I had to compare the size of my hands with those of everyone's favorite Spur Manu--before a game in San Antonio.This was the first year

Nancynoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3708868713263565039.post-57222052015248987452007-12-13T16:19:00.000-06:002007-12-13T16:32:55.425-06:00

Christmas time in Mexico City is clearly marked when poinsettas, or noche buenas, begin popping up everywhere. After all, poinsettas are native to Mexico. It's a busy time for flower vendors who sell on the street because the noche buenas are in huge demand and can go for anywhere from $1- 10 dollars, depending on the size. We decided to buy a few and put them on our window sill, which is

Nancynoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3708868713263565039.post-84621469378657721452007-12-12T11:42:00.000-06:002007-12-12T12:56:34.279-06:00

Millions of pilgrims have arrived in the megalopolis today for perhaps the most important religious holiday in Mexico--Our Lady of Guadalupe Day. The Virgen de Guadalupe is often called the "Queen of Mexico" because of nation's devotion to her. Celebrations here began earlier this week as devotees from all over the nation and U.S. made the trek to the Basilica and Tepeyac hill, where she first

Nancynoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3708868713263565039.post-88030522315657653432007-11-30T12:00:00.000-06:002007-11-30T12:32:05.951-06:00

CUATRO CIENEGAS--It was an unlikely place to find vineyards. But aside from the amazing flora and fauna, people of the Chihuahuan desert also produce a "vino artesanal." That means, like many of the species that are endemic to the area, the wine produced there cannot be found anywhere in the country or abroad. The wines are not mega-produced and they still use old traditions and techniques to

Nancynoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3708868713263565039.post-73414738004334076842007-11-26T15:05:00.000-06:002007-11-26T15:18:26.864-06:00

CUARTRO CIENEGAS--We found ourselves in the middle of a salt swamp while checking out the biodiversity here. A lake in the area had dried up, leaving behind a salty muck. A local biologist took Jeremy to the middle of the salt swamp, where tiny shrimp were still swimming around. When I first jumped out of the car I stepped into the mud-like stuff and quickly started to sink. Luckily, I was pulled

Nancynoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3708868713263565039.post-8739070163795864722007-11-19T23:55:00.000-06:002007-11-20T00:15:42.382-06:00

CUATRO CIENEGAS--In many small towns in Mexico you are not likely to find a very environmentally conscious community. Things like trash cans around town can be hard to find. Heck, even in the D.F., where 20 million people live, it can be hard to find a trash can when taking a stroll. So it was refreshing to see that having one of the 13 wonders of Mexico in your backyard does help motivate

Nancynoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3708868713263565039.post-74686392287747126602007-11-18T23:22:00.000-06:002007-11-19T23:51:30.192-06:00

As soon as we got off the bus in the northern Mexico city of Monclova, Coahuila, it felt like home. Northern Mexico accents, pickup trucks, dusty roads, cowboy hats and boots---I definitely wasn’t in Mexico City anymore. It was strange being here and not being on a family trip or something, after all my home Home is only about 150 miles north on the Texas/Mexico border. Before we get there for

Nancynoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3708868713263565039.post-55061646002286717292007-11-15T15:53:00.000-06:002007-11-15T15:57:23.077-06:00

(photo by my bro-in-law raul fuentes)After a two-month traveling hiatus, we are finally going to our second home--the Mexico City airport. Goodbye D.F., we are off to breathe some clean air in Coahuila.

Nancynoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3708868713263565039.post-90883924298294675422007-11-14T13:10:00.000-06:002007-11-14T13:34:34.801-06:00

We got up to an abrupt start early this morning when we had a furry creature break into the house in a creative way. I was still asleep when I heard a loud rustling of leaves right in the bedroom. "The chimney!" I cried. Before we knew it, there was a big thud. A squirrel dropped about 25 feet from our roof all the way down to our chimney, and landed right in the middle of our bedroom. I don't

Nancynoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3708868713263565039.post-13494756422305672232007-11-08T17:44:00.000-06:002007-11-08T18:49:34.169-06:00

People trapped on rooftops, looting and dehydrated victims--sound familiar? The comparisons between Katrina and the flooding of Tabasco--a gulf coast state in eastern Mexico are eery. About 80% of the entire state is under water, and this tragedy is being described as one of the worst disasters in modern Mexican history.Yet, there seems to be little interest about this horrible situation in the

Nancynoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3708868713263565039.post-31522220632732170802007-11-04T14:31:00.000-06:002007-11-04T15:12:22.504-06:00

The sign reads, "It's not Halloween, it's Dia de Muertos."As the two holidays mesh more and more into one giant celebration south of the border, many Mexicans want to make it clear that the two holidays HAVE NOTHING TO DO with the other. Dia de Muertos (as Chilangos call it) celebrates death and honors its loved ones who have died. There are no goblins, witches or ghouls in the celebration.

Nancynoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3708868713263565039.post-80488521134729632902007-10-29T11:44:00.000-06:002007-10-29T12:05:03.139-06:00

Though we've been to the artist market, Bazar Sabado, in San Angel a couple of times, we keep discovering more great things about it-- Apple and Habanero meat sauce! This weekend we ventured over with our friend Joy, who took this awesome photo of us in front of an antiques store. It's been nice to stay off the road for awhile and enjoy Mexico City. But at the same time, we've gotten so used to

Nancynoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3708868713263565039.post-81765051668001713472007-10-23T10:47:00.000-06:002007-10-23T11:19:48.654-06:00

It was almost like being in a surreal world when we found ourselves in the actual home of a famous Mexico City musician and big-shot EMI record executive. Camilo Lara, of the band called Instituto Mexicano del Sonido (Mexican Institute of Sound), meshes traditional Mexican beats with electronica, ska, rock, etc. Camilo invited us to check out the making of his first music video--which will be

Nancynoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3708868713263565039.post-86430035661109766392007-10-22T12:26:00.000-06:002007-10-23T11:33:56.529-06:00

In all it's urban-ness this megalopolis of about 20 million, stays true to its traditions.

Nancynoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3708868713263565039.post-44754535669181039822007-10-12T16:17:00.000-06:002007-10-12T16:31:56.422-06:00

Are you a new bride but don't know how to please your husband's hungry belly? Well don't worry, this new recipe book advertised outside of one Mexico City boutique store will solve all of your newlywed worries. I saw this sign a few months ago and thought, "What year is it?"When it disappeared from the sidewalk one day I thought someone finally came to their senses. But today on my way back home,

Nancynoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3708868713263565039.post-65805017509470157932007-10-09T09:40:00.000-06:002007-10-09T09:59:40.462-06:00

This is Alonso's first year playing on probably the best little leagues in Mexico City. His parents invited us to see him play this weekend. I not only saw the game, but all the parent drama that goes on as their little ones run from base to base. Most of these high-class moms wore their heels to the game, and we even saw one dad escorted by his two military bodyguards. The good thing is that all

Nancynoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3708868713263565039.post-91468383228383181202007-10-08T15:23:00.001-06:002007-10-08T15:30:35.153-06:00

It's playoff time in baseball world, and that meant nothing to me before married life. Now, it means that my hubby has turned into "October Guy" -- a crazy, frantic, nervous, but lovable Red Sox fan.

Nancynoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3708868713263565039.post-25758503413878945872007-09-27T12:31:00.000-06:002007-09-27T12:36:49.053-06:00

In Mexico City, we are surrounded by mountains that we can never see because, sadly, the smog is just so thick. So we never get tired of incredible views, like of this volcano, in Antigua, Guatemala.

Nancynoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3708868713263565039.post-66638156600786469922007-09-26T12:25:00.000-06:002007-09-27T12:29:19.640-06:00

This sundial near downtown Antigua, Guatemala, gave us the exact time.

Nancynoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3708868713263565039.post-15578532637855080742007-09-24T11:50:00.000-06:002007-09-24T12:11:59.738-06:00

Jeremy cruises through the milpa crops in the Guatemalan Highlands, near Panajachel.

Nancynoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3708868713263565039.post-51877933800892882482007-09-17T18:14:00.000-06:002007-09-19T18:24:36.791-06:00

We got back to Mexico City just in time to celebrate Mexican Independence Day. And, what a party it was. It is a great weekend to be in the megalopolis. We started the night by heading to downtown Coyoacan for the famous Grito de Independencia with our friend Sarah from Guatemala. Then, we ended the night at a goodbye party for another friend who will leave Mexico soon. Of course, Jeremy and I

Nancynoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3708868713263565039.post-75499908247095560322007-09-14T09:11:00.000-06:002007-09-19T09:30:37.738-06:00

LAGO DE ATITLAN, Guatemala-- Strong, warrior women surrounded the Highlands of Guatemala. We were fortunate enough to visit these indigenous communities along the Lake of Atitlan, with its breathtaking volcanoes perfectly visible from almost all points of the villages. In our visit there, I couldn't help but notice that these fierce women, struggling every day to survive, were also soft and

Nancynoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3708868713263565039.post-12876300500893773652007-09-12T17:41:00.000-06:002007-09-17T17:48:14.344-06:00

ANTIGUA, Guatemala--I remember hopping into a taxi in San Jose, California, this past June and thinking, "Oh my God, this feels like I'm in a big ol' boat." When it comes to taxis in Mexico and Guatemala, bigger is not always better.

Nancynoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3708868713263565039.post-76071639117829082732007-09-10T13:20:00.000-06:002007-09-10T13:32:57.138-06:00

ANTIGUA, Guatemala-- It seems like the World Wide Web sneaks in almost every crazy nook throughout Latin America. As reporters on assignment, we are always looking for places where we can hook up to the Internet during our travels. We've seen some interesting set ups along the way. Here's one place where you can get a haircut, and then check your e-mail.

Nancynoreply@blogger.com0