Two Perspectives: Guanajuato
Written by Bessie and Kyle on Friday, March 28, 2008 in Mexico
Feelin' happy
Guanajuato is a gem of Central Mexico, and I hope I can come back here some day. It's roots are as a mining town; I read that 20% of the world's silver came from the mines here. Some cities could easily get washed-up after its economy peaked, but not Guanajuato. This town's middle name is charming and it feels more like a old European city than someplace in Mexico. Check out some pictures, you may barely believe it if you didn't see it.Feelin' happy
Under the Action
One thing that is so unique about Guanajuato is it's underground street system. Basically, old mine shafts run everywhere underneath this city, and they have since turned them into roads - think Lower Wacker Drive. Not only is this fantastic for getting underneath traffic jams, but it's also incredibly charming and almost exotic.
Over the Action
The city is situated in a valley like many cities in Mexico and Central America, but the heights here are very accessible and make for fantastic views. Whether we climbed staircases or winding streets and alleys, the views of the colorful houses dotting the surrounding mountains made the climb well worth it.
In the Action
The entire downtown colonial area is a UN World Heritage Site, which is a prestigious status to have, and it deserves it. It's a very social, accessible, and affordable city with intriguing architecture and surprises around every corner. The way I understand it, Vicente Fox was governor of this state and resided here before he became president, and the city was well treated and is well preserved.
The Market here is 99 years old and going strong. The thing that sets this market apart from others is the old, dramatic building is set in. I felt like I went back in time walking through the doors. Kyle and I ate our way through eating ceviche, shrimp cocktail, manges & strawberries dipped in chocolate with gummy bears, and a strawberry shake all for less than $7. I'd do it again tomorrow...
Traveling through central Mexico, I've learned that all colonial cities are not made equal.
Comments on "Two Perspectives: Guanajuato"
That's beautiful. I agree with all you said about the European flavor. It's like another world. Do these people love their festivities or you just follow them around? HaHa..........simply Amazing.
Both! Mexicans love to celebrate and join together for interesting street celebrations, and lucky for us, they don't mind us follow along too much!
Scenery, buildings, subway streets, stairways, colors, people, culture, entertainment, fooooooood, night life, peace and happiness... WOW... Why would you ever leave this paradise???!!! Thanks for all of the work you put into yet another awesome video. Thanks for sharing it all with us. :>)
That's a good question. We left this place for San Miguel de Allende which was a major disappointment. Oh well, I guess that's how it goes.
What a marvelous place. Thanks for the vicarious thrills!
Yeah Bessie - you guys are in Guanajuato (or were)!!! Now you know why I'm going to retire there. Isn't it awesome! I miss it so much!
Cuidate mucho!
That's a good idea. Can we retire when we are under 30? Anyone want to monitarily support us in this endeavor?
Aww yeah!!!! Hi Kim!!! Guanajuato was awesome. Somehow I forgot or didn't know you were there. That place is awesome!
Wow! A couple of months has Not diminished the Glow of your experience in Guanajuato! You seem to REALLY enjoy the Celebrating (and Food and Drink) of this culture --- how WONDERFUL! I bet these festivities go hand-in-hand with Work Hard/Play Hard. Life is its own reward! So glad you both enjoyed this so much!! - And I'm not One Bit jealous. Well.....maybe just a Little : )
Guanajuato is pronounced "wanawato".
Nope. When a 'u' is after 'g', it is a hard 'g'. For instance, Guatemala is not pronounced 'watemala' and guacamole is not 'wacamole'. While we're not perfect, in this case, our pronunciation is correct.
Wow! You are right. That view is great! That is a cool looking city. There's Kyle again, making me wish I could be sampling the awesome food and treats you guys have been eating.
by Uncle Bob at March 31, 2008 09:34 AM