Hello From Cuernavaca - The Most Intense Day Of My Trip Part II
Below is a MRR and PLR article in category Travel Leisure -> subcategory Vacations.
Hello From Cuernavaca: The Most Intense Day of My Trip (Part II)
The Santa Maria area, once an independent village, is now a poorer neighborhood of Cuernavaca. It’s nestled among ancient, inactive volcanoes, giving the region its unique landscape, complete with more than 70 ravines shaped by erosion.
Our adventure began when we parked the car and hiked down a barranca (ravine) with a river running through it. Many houses in Cuernavaca’s ravines lack permits, sewers, and access to the city’s water system. Residents often tap illegally into the power supply. The government struggles to address this, as rehousing is not a feasible option.
Cuernavaca once had a railroad, abandoned about a decade ago. The tracks were removed and sold, leaving behind a corridor now occupied by settlers without building permits. Again, the government has limited options for intervening.
At the bottom of the barranca, we encountered a local family doing laundry by the river. Without washing machines at home, this task is an all-day affair for them, involving washing by hand and drying clothes on lines strung between trees.
Ruben, my guide, explained the region’s diverse climates and ecosystems, ranging from temperate to coniferous zones, rich with various flora and fauna. We navigated around roots and rocks by the river, where crystal-clear water is channeled through long rubber pipes to nearby homes due to the lack of a city water supply.
During our hike, we passed two trout farms cultivating fish for the market. After about 45 minutes, we reached a cascada?"an enclosed mountain wall where water usually cascades down?"but it was dry this season.
Turning back, we stopped at the first trout farm to meet Javier, the owner. Despite the lack of road access, he manages a trout business and runs a restaurant, carrying supplies and fresh trout in and out on foot for 1.5 kilometers. Javier’s passion for his work is evident, despite the physical demands.
Interestingly, Javier hails from an urban business family but chose this remote life. He has found his niche in the lush Barranca de Santa Maria.
On our way back, we saw the family finishing their laundry and Ruben kindly asked if they would pose for a photo; they agreed. They spoke of the exhausting full-day laundry process, having to carry everything to and from the river.
As we returned to Ruben’s car, the sunset cast a serene glow over the landscape. Ruben mentioned that environmental interest in Mexico is still emerging. In Mexico City, home to 25 million people, only four stores sell tents and outdoor gear. Sports like football and baseball are more popular, and litter remains a common sight in nature areas.
Ruben’s love for nature sparked after a trip to Canada’s West Coast. He noted that while Mexico is a paradise for bird-watchers, locals show little interest.
After our 1.5-hour hike, Ruben dropped me downtown for dinner. On the way, he pointed out the oldest church in Latin America, built in 1525. I dined at the renowned Marco Polo Restaurant opposite the cathedral. Though the balcony seats were full, I enjoyed a delicious Stracciatella Soup and a simple Ensalata Mista in the courtyard.
Afterwards, I strolled past the lively Palacio de Cortés and caught a bus back to my lodgings, where I shared stories of my packed day with my host Cinthia's family.
Reflecting on the day, I marveled at how much I managed to experience. This was certainly one of the most rewarding days of my trip.
You can find the original non-AI version of this article here: Hello From Cuernavaca - The Most Intense Day Of My Trip Part II .
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