This weekend we went to Veracruz, which is a costal city on the gulf to join the Carnaval celebrations. It was an interesting trip to say the least. I felt like we were getting real Mexican culture there, because there were lots of tourists, but they were all from D.F. (Mexico City/Districto Federal) or other parts of Mexico. We went to this restaurant that a taxi driver took us to, and it was really good. With two drinks an appetizer, and seafood for everyone, it only cost us about $50 USD for four of us! We had no idea what anything was because it was all different types of fish/styles that we had never heard of, so we all just ordered. I ended up with a whole fish, head, eyes and all (see picture)! It was absolutely delicious! It had a chili/lime sauce on it. I think it was a type of trout, but I am not sure.
The festivities for Carnaval (Mardi Gras) were fun, basically just a lot of drinking in the street (1.5 liter of beer for $1.5 USD) and music. It was however a little scary, and seemed dangerous, so we made sure to keep alert the whole time. We had several people ask us if we wanted to buy drugs, and several fights broke out, at which point everyone starts running, so we ran! There was also a whole lot of military/police presence, which here in Mexico could be good or bad. We also went to the beach, which wasn't the best beach I had been to, but it was still fun. The sand was almost black, and they had restaurants/ tables and people serving you right on the beach! Overall it was fun but definitely a learning experience!
For Semana Santa (Spring Break) I think we are planning on flying to Puerto Vallarta or Acapulco, and renting a car to drive all the way down the coast to Oaxaca and Chiapas. I am really excited to see those two states, because they are supposed to be beautiful, and very 'Mexican' We will see how this pans out, but I think it sounds like a good plan!
Remember to see my pictures at gallery.me.com/grantpduncan
Love everyone!
