el 24 de marzo 2022
This trendy and very tidy barrio with the tricky name is one of the oldest neighbourhoods in Oaxaca, and what a wonderful place to walk this morning.
Not every part of this city is filled with street art and charm like this. Some areas we walked through later in the day are downright gritty and crowded and filled with the daily struggle of folks trying to make a living.
But attention and money have poured into upscale Xochimilco. The tumbledown old aqueduct that used to bring water from the mountains to the city has been beautifully restored. We noticed just today a neglected public fountain that had garbage in it a few years ago, is being rejuvenated and will soon be back in use.
Much of the city is being painted and spruced up as tourism is jumping in recent years. And thanks to the UNESCO Heritage designation traditional architecture is protected.
Walking under fluttering flags guarantees a happy mood and leads us to french toast and coffee at Chepiche, our favourite courtyard restaurant, large enough that the tables have always been socially-distanced.
Although the pandemic doesn't seem to be an issue, a sign reminds people it's not over - Don't greet with a handshake or a kiss - is one of the directives.
We passed a welcoming bench on the cobblestone street. The message is tricky to translate but here's my best shot.
