It’s still hard to fathom that you can sit on a jet for 2 1/2 hours and step off into a very different world in Zacatecas, Mexico, with a different language, money, architecture, food, customs and history.
In the city of Zacatecas—in the state of the same name—you are surrounded by incredible late 1700s and early 1800s architecture, cobblestone streets, umpteen beautiful old churches, shady, inviting plazas and parks all thronged with locals and tourists.
Even in our short, one-week visit, my wife Sarah and I developed a list of favorite restaurants, stores and plazas that we have frequented since 2008. Thanks to our longtime friend Flavia—who owns a house there—we have developed a great relationship with the place.
The International Folk Dance Festival—which we have visited several times over the years—featured day and evening performances of dance and music from around the globe and all over Mexico.
From the delicious camarones al mojo de ajo (shrimp with garlic) and shrimp cocktail at Restaurante Mariscos La Plata, to the Cuban sandwiches at Sanborns and the fabulous gorditas at Gordita Doña Julia — each within walking distance from our hotel — our week was filled with fine food.
Our room at El Méson de Obito Hotel, right in the center of town, served as a perfect launching spot for much of our journeys on foot through town. Throw in a couple cheap cab rides and a roundtrip bus journey to Guadalupe that made getting around so easy.
The festival finale sent a river of color, rich music and dramatic dancing that flowed along the main drag of downtown Zacatecas. Of course, the sidewalks were packed with thousands of people who offered plenty of encouragement. Even a brief shower that swept through did not dampen the spirits and enthusiasm.
