Monday, a holiday in Mexico City. That means no museums are open. But that’s okay there’s plenty to do.
We have a time slot scheduled at the Luis Barragan house. He is an influential architect of the 20th century, the Frank Lloyd Wright of Mexico, a Pritzker prize winner. His house is in a working class neighborhood of Mexico City and looks like all the other houses on the street but inside it’s a different story. He loves the play of color and light and is famous for his staircase that looks like it is not supported. On his patio, no furniture. On the tour with us were architectural students from around the world.
But before that we meet Alvaro who’s spending another day with us. We want to go to the Opera to see the Deigo Rivera murals but it’s closed for the holiday so we walk around the area. Roy wants to buy a special calendar that is very famous for its artistic style and is sold across the street from the Opera.
We visit the “Blue Tile House” which was built by an influential family in the 18th century of blue and white tile from Puebla. It became the first Sanborns, the famous Mexican department store and remains as it’s flagship store.
We see a famous TV comedian filming a show on the streets.
There’s so much to take in. We’ve been to more churches than on any other trip. The one we’re seeing today is sinking, as is Mexico City; the reason being is that Mexico City is built on what was a lake. We take in some street sites and head over to the Luis Barragan house.
There’s one slight problem. I don’t feel good. It’s not so much the food. I think it has to do with the altitude. I can’t drink enough water. My calves hurt. I’m a little nauseous. I’m never sick on holiday. But I’m a trooper and make it to the Luis Barragan house and then take a taxi back to the hotel.
It’s a great hotel to be sick in. I slide under the white goose down comforter, the Roman shades go down electronically and I sleep for about 4 hours, unfortunately missing the rest of day.
After getting some sleep I feel better. I don’t want a big meal so the concierge suggests a restaurant which we thought was called Boulevard. But when we get to where he has directed us we realize it’s Buddha Bar – from NYC. It’s great. We order more than we can eat. The portions are enough for four people and the manager tells us he’ll cancel the rest of our order.
So, here are some pictures of Mexico City. We loved it and could have spent a few more days but it’s on to Zihautenejo for the rest of our adventure.
See you at the bar…..
