Change of Plans

Mexico was a good experience—for a while. I’m glad I came here and saw the places I’ve visited, met the people I’ve become friends with, learned a basic level of Spanish, had new experiences and have grown from them.

Before I set out for Mexico, I was worried about a few things, such as the heat, the sun, insects, scorpions, snakes, tropical diseases, tap water and food safety, cartel activity, crime and violence. I didn’t encounter scorpions or snakes, nor have I seen any crime, violence or cartel activity except from afar through the news and social media. On my bus ride from Mazatlán to Guadalajara, I encountered state police, who searched us passengers, except I didn’t know that they were police since I didn’t understand any Spanish at the time and they didn’t wear any identifies, just black clothes and combat wear. That was probably the most nerve-racking experience I’ve had, which was actually quite tame—the concern sprang solely from my inability to understand what was going on. 

 I did encounter giant cockroaches, micro ants, and tiny geckos in my house; the cockroaches were by far the worst, but I survived and handled all those experiences. I got sick with paratyphoid, which wasn’t pleasant, but also not the end of the world. 

The heat was intense in the summer, and I did not enjoy that. But in the mountains, it was quite pleasant. In the fall, the temperatures at the coast were ideal, and now in the winter, it’s almost chilly in comparison. Who would have thought I’d be wearing jeans and sweater in Mexico and still be slightly cold at night. 

The sun has been tough. It burns me, not surprisingly given my complexion. It keeps me in the house during much of the day, and I hop from shade to shade when I’m out walking. I don’t enjoy this part of Mexico, and it’s a year-round reality.

I’ve seen several towns and cities now, and several beaches, and I feel like I’ve seen the general idea of Mexico. It’s not that I’m not interested in seeing more, and I’m sure I will eventually do just that, but I don’t feel the need to travel the country right now. I crave other experiences. 

So, I’ve decided to make the jump to Europe, mainly Eastern Europe where the costs of living are more affordable. I’m starting in Romania, so watch out for my first post from Bucharest in a couple of weeks. There is lots to see in Romania, and I’m looking forward to European spring weather, culture and different food.