Sat on that comfortable air conditioned coach; I stared out of the window at everything we passed. One of my favourite things about travelling is to experience and witness different cultures, different locations, different lifestyles. I stretched out my legs and replied “No thank you” to the offer of a free, on board can of chilled Corona. We were on route to one of the seven wonders of the world; Chichen Itza. 

This holiday was all about relaxing. An all-inclusive sunny summers holiday to Mexico with a couple of day trips to separate the long days of sun bathing, playing in the pool and partying at the foam party on the Beach. I’m more used to exploring and road tripping than I am to kicking back with unlimited food and drink, however this break was very much needed. Despite how much it was needed, I still very much craved authenticity and seeing ‘real life’.

This was one of the day trips and so I wanted to take full advantage of my window seat and observe anything I could about the people of Mexico. 

As we drove through the states of Quintana Roo and Yucatan I became glued to the window. 

Although some of the journey was on the Highway with only the forest to look at either side; we also passed many municipalities which is what truly grabbed my attention. One of the first things I noticed which made me smile was a small handwritten billboard which was placed in the central reservation and read ‘THE FOREST BELONGS TO ALL, TREAT IT KIND’. I smiled at how inclusive this statement made me feel, it felt like an invitation to explore, to look around but to keep it how you found it. Fair.

One thing which is impossible to miss in Mexico is the vast amount of stray dogs. The majority appear malnourished and in poor health, slow to move with bones sticking out. It’s upsetting. Especially as an owner of two beautiful dogs; it’s awful to see and really pulls at your heart. Immediately I wanted to pack up all of my belongings (and my dogs) and move to Mexico with the pure intention of rescuing as many strays as possible. Not sure that’s the most practical idea ever, unfortunately. However I did notice a number of dogs interacting well with humans, a small girl led one on a harness while playing with a puppy, another was walking next to a man who pet him on the head, others were walking in and out of houses freely as though they owned the house. After reading a bit into the dog situation in Mexico I am aware that in 2018 it was estimated that 70% of dogs in Mexico are strays. Reading blogs I am also aware that there are many kind people who care for these dogs along with charities who fight for them to be re-homed, neutered or spayed and allowed to live. It’s always reassuring to hear and read about genuine kindness in the world.

Along the route the number of roadside stands, and souvenir shops was unbelievable; especially as they all sold the same items – dreamcatchers, textiles, ceramic models, hammocks, plants, wooden furniture. I remember thinking that I wasn’t sure how these places could afford to run as there’s identical shops only a few feet away and no tourists in sight.

The journey and what I observed made me feel grateful. It brought me crashing down to reality that I really am privileged to be able to visit the places that I visit. Yes, I work hard and I scrimp and save to afford the odd trip away but that’s more than some people could even dream to do.

It wasn’t long until we arrived at our destination and I was sad that the journey was over. It was an opportunity to look out of the window and into the world of some of the people of Mexico, it was just a shame I couldn’t interact with and learn a little bit more about them and their culture.

There’s always next time I suppose.