Chiapas Day 1: An Intro to San Cristobal de las Casas

After a short flight from Cancun to Tuxtla Gutierrez, a 30min taxi ride to the bus station and an hour bise ride along a curvy mountain road, Frida and I arrived in San Cristóbal de las Casas just as the sun was beginning to set. I snapped this photo of the cathedral from a taxi on our way to our hostel, Rosco Backpackers. 

San Cristóbal de las Casas is one of Mexico's Pueblo Mágico's - or magical villages. It is 7,200 feet above sea level, nestled in a valley surrounded by hills and forests in the state of Chiapas. It is known as the cultural capital of Chiapas. As I walked the streets, it was easy to see why. Home to indigenous tribes, bohemians, and a myriad of expats that fell in love with the city and decided to call it home, San Cristobal is full of artists and musicians, vibrant colors, delicious food, and a serenity that is only found in valleys.

 I loved meandering thru the cobblestone streets, gazing up at wrought iron terraces and red clay rooftops, and photographing the doorways, houses, and street signs that came in every color, shade, and nuance of the rainbow. 

     

I immediately fell in love with this beautiful city, loving the vibrant colors, myriad of arts, and of course the amazing street food. The zocola and streets are full of cafes, shops, street vendors, and musicians. As the sunset and the weather dropped, we continued to walk the streets, soaking in the sounds, smells, and beauty of San Cristobal. 

So much to be thankful for

 After our trek, visit to Machu Picchu and Jordan's epic LAPT-Peru tournament, we flew home for Thanksgiving. After living so far away from our loved ones for the past few years, these holidays are treasured moments. The highlight was seeing my two adorable nieces, Skylar and Aleli. Skylar is a robust child, full of energy, life, and spunk. She is also, by far, the most stubborn child I have ever met! Aleli is more laid back. She takes in her environment, analyzing her surroundings with the most beautiful blue eyes you have ever seen. But then, all of a sudden, her face will light up with a gorgeous, heart-breaking grin. It's amazing to watch my siblings - now parenting with patience, grace, and above all, laughter. Spending these few precious days with my family fills my heart with pride, joy, love, and gratitude. I can only hope that when its Jordan's and my turn to become parents, we have 1/10 the character, wisdom, and fortitude as Deidre and Alex and Jesse and Kellye.