Where do I begin. The checkin allowed me to leave my bags in a secure room for 3 hours while I went out and discovered the exceptional neighborhood that I landed in. I told my host Homi that I would give him 10 Stars if I could. The place was immaculate, perfectly appointed, quiet, amazing location - 10 doors to the Laundry. 15 doors to a roasted chicken take out stand, 1 block from a 1 square block mall. Food Vendors EVERYWHERE. The nicest people in this colonia, made me want to live here for the rest of my life. The area, apartment, people at the apartment, and everything else made me want to stay. But I could not. The last morning, I walked around the entire area, said hello to so many people that I will honestly miss until I return. The sweetest exchange was from 2 elderly men that were absolutely precious in their responses to my broken spanish - which indeed improved by staying here. Will I return, yes. But for a MONTH next time. I cannot believe how 9 short days here made me realize that Mexico has everything to offer and some of the most sincere, honest, compassionate, loving people as well. Everything in Mexico City was a surprise too. I thought it was a dangerous place, but NO. It was complete, relaxing, full of surprises around each corner to delight the senses. Even seeing the controversy over the Bella Arte exhibit was a pleasure to be around. The Transportation system is secure more than Bart in the SF Bay area. I felt better than in my home of San Francisco. Really!!!! I compare it to our daily view of crime on the Bart system involving many different kinds of pelple. all trying to find their place in the Bay Area. The reality hit me when I came home that Mexico is where I want to live. But until then I am a changed man forever. I will only assist the people from Latin America, specifically, those that travel the distance to get here only to find a job that puts them in economic slavery until something releases them from it or they return home to their wonderful country Mexico. For the last 20 years, I have traveled to and from Mexico to Guadalajara, Tlaquepaque, and now Mexico City has stolen my heart and soul.
The apartment was such an exceptional value, that I cannot imagine being able to live in such a wonderfully appointed place for so cheap. The 24 hour concierge man, was the gentlest kindest person in all his dealings with everyone. I enjoyed talking to him and explaining my feelings for Mexico in my broken Spanish. But I think he understood. So, Value Value Location Location Recuperation and did I say LOCATION. He was correct in saying that everything is here to make your trip to Mexico City a rewarding one. Oh and please take care of this beautiful place so when I return for a month or two, I can have nice appliances , a wonderful kitchen to cook in, a bathroom with almost unlimited hot water if you adjust it just right, 10 Stars is correct. Its beyond anything that I have seen anywhere in Mexico. I am content in realizing I found my place and colonia to live in. But I must perfect my Spanish. Thats all that matters, is to be able to speak clearly, commicate well, and love the people of Mexico and recieve their blessings and healing. It was a trip beyond my imagination to create. I needed something to restore my belief in mankind after the turn of politics for the USA. I will not discuss that here, but its a mis representation of Mexico in the EXTREME.
Oh and I found an ORGANIC SUSTAINABLE Coffee shop called La Salvacion. Run by some of the kindest, gentlest people as well. It is located at N. 132 Avenida Marti. Go there. Support them in their quest to spread the news of delicious coffee and chocolates and other things Mexican.
My heart is filled with the joy and completness of the BEST trip in 20 years to Mexico City.
Thats all I can think of for now.