Guanajuato, Mexico, June 2021

In June 2021, I finally fulfilled a long-time dream—I travelled to Mexico. It had always been on my list, and now, at last, I had the chance to explore its vibrant culture, history, and incredible landscapes.

The trip was divided into three parts:
• Mexico City, where I spent three days discovering its rich history with the help of a local guide.
• Aguascalientes, where I was hosted by my dear friend Carlos (Charly) and his family.
• Guanajuato, a city so beautiful that I instantly fell in love with it.

And, of course, along the way, I fell completely in love with Mexico.

Mexico City – A Capital of Contrasts

My journey began in Mexico City, a place where pre-Hispanic history, colonial grandeur, and modern energy all blend together. To make the most of my time, I hired a local guide, who gave me an incredible insider’s view of the city.

Over three days, I explored Mexico City’s iconic sites, including:
• Zócalo – The historic heart of the city, surrounded by the grand Metropolitan Cathedral and the National Palace.
• Templo Mayor – The remains of the Aztec capital of Tenochtitlán, a powerful reminder of the city’s indigenous roots.
• Chapultepec Park and Castle – A green oasis in the heart of the city, with stunning views and deep historical significance.
• Coyoacán – The bohemian district famous for Frida Kahlo’s Casa Azul, where I learned more about her fascinating life.
• Teotihuacán – Just outside the city, I visited the ancient pyramids of the Sun and Moon, standing in awe of their scale and mystery.

Each day in Mexico City felt like a journey through time, from pre-Columbian civilizations to Spanish colonial rule and modern urban life.

Aguascalientes – A City of Warmth and Tradition

After Mexico City, I flew to Aguascalientes, a city less known to tourists but full of charm, history, and vibrant culture.

Aguascalientes is famous for:
• The San Marcos Fair (Feria Nacional de San Marcos), one of the biggest and most famous festivals in Mexico.
• Its well-preserved colonial centre, with beautiful churches, plazas, and historical buildings.
• Its deep-rooted bullfighting and artistic traditions, reflected in its museums and cultural institutions.

But what made this visit truly special was staying with my dear friend Carlos (Charly).

A Heartwarming Reunion with Charly

Charly and I first met in Bangkok, where he was my first Spanish teacher, and our friendship has remained strong ever since. But what makes him even more special to me is that, during our time in Bangkok, he was incredibly supportive of Tahir and our efforts to help him gain freedom.

Now, in Aguascalientes, I had the pleasure of meeting his Thai-born wife and their two wonderful children, along with his mother and siblings, who treated me like family. Their warmth and hospitality made this part of the trip particularly special.

Charly and his family showed me around Aguascalientes, and we explored some of the city’s most charming spots:
• Plaza de la Patria, the city’s main square, surrounded by colonial-era buildings.
• Templo de San Antonio, a stunning church that blends Baroque, Neoclassical, and Gothic architectural styles.
• Jardín de San Marcos, a peaceful park at the heart of the city, perfect for a stroll.

Aguascalientes felt genuine and welcoming, a city filled with local pride and a deep sense of tradition.

Guanajuato – A City to Fall in Love With

One of the most unforgettable moments of the trip was visiting Guanajuato, a place that took my breath away.

With its colourful houses cascading down the hills, narrow alleys, underground tunnels, and grand colonial architecture, Guanajuato felt like stepping into a dream. It had a unique artistic and historical charm, with its deep connections to Mexican independence and cultural heritage.

Walking through the famous Callejón del Beso (Alley of the Kiss), wandering through vibrant plazas, and soaking in the atmosphere of its lively cafés and markets, I knew that this was one of the most beautiful cities I had ever visited in the Americas.

Reflections on an Unforgettable Trip

This trip to Mexico was more than just a holiday—it was an experience filled with history, deep friendships, and the joy of discovering a country that completely captivated me.

From the grand history of Mexico City to the warmth of Aguascalientes and the magical charm of Guanajuato, every moment felt special. And above all, being reunited with Charly and his family made it all the more meaningful.

I left Mexico knowing one thing for certain—I would be back.

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