We've left the steamy plains of the Yucatan and ventured up into the mountains in the south of Mexico to the city of Oaxaca (pronounced wa-HA-ka), the capital of the state of the same name. At an elevation over 5000 ft (1550 m) the weather is fantastic, with bright sunny skies and highs in the low 80s F (upper 20s C), low humidity and cool nights conducive to sleeping. This is one of the most indigenous states thanks to the isolating effects of the rugged terrain, and is known for its native cultures and crafts. But the natives here aren't the Maya we saw in the Yucatan; they are Zapotecs, Mixtecs, and several others. There is also an abundance of colonial architecture in Oaxaca city.
Oaxaca has only a quarter to a third the population of Mérida, but it is still a good sized city and, like Mérida, boasts a wonderful central plaza, or zocolo. This is the heart of the city where huge Laurel trees shade a constant buzz of activity from concerts to political protests to people just hanging out. This is our favorite plaza that we've seen in Mexico so far.
Deborah's Sweet Adeline's singing buddy Nancy has now joined us for part of our stay here. She's been here before several years ago and speaks a fair bit of Spanish, so it will be fun to explore this beautiful city with her for the next week.
The Zocolo
Hanging out.
An amazing number of shoe shiners ply their trade in the zocolo. I resisted the urge to have them shine my sandals.
The cathedral is adjacent to the zocolo.
Lunch with grandma.
The zocolo is a good place to enjoy a free Sunday concert.
Or not.
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