I'd like to begin this blog by clarifying that something labeled "First class" does not mean that it is better. We were told by a friend in Veracurz that taking the luxury bus ADO from Veracruz to Oaxaca was much safer and comfortable than local buses. With a strange sense of assurance, we bought a ticket and boarded the bus. A few hours later, we woke up as the bus screeched to a halt to avoid crashing into a vehicle ahead. But things got worse! Our bus driver decided the stress was too much for him and lit up a cigarette. We being in the front row got to share it with him. Also, here´s a tip, want to save time while driving your bus? Well simply down your beverage and you can use the cup as your own portable urinal. What do you do when it´s full? Why throw it out the window, of course. As if these things weren´t enough, this glorious chauffer must have thought that our full sized travel coach was an Indy car as he careened down the highway at high speed and continually swerved in and out of traffic. The latter almost resulted in a head on collision with a tractor trailer truck. On the upside, we got to our destination 2 hours early and were wide awake.

Oaxaca is abound with charm and character. It´s cobblestone streets, colorful markets, and colonial churches make it among the most beautiful towns in Mexico. While here, we´ve been busy visiting local markets, Catedral de Santo Domingo, Mitla ruins, Teotitlan weavers, a mezcal distillery, Mayordomo Chocolate factory, Hierve El Agua petrified waterfalls, and strolling around the beautiful streets.

A few lessons from Oaxaca:

1) Grasshoppers (chapulines) are tasty, especially with chili and lime. Note: Flossing afterward is necessary as the tiny legs often get stuck in your teeth.

2) Mezcal…ummmm. Tequila´s older brother is made out of the Agave plant by indigenous peoples in the area and can hit you like a rock!

3) Cheese & Chocolate were perfected here (although a bit biased, Adam still thinks Vermont Cabot is king). We have indulged in both, sparing all costs (particularly those to our bodies).

4) Watch out for flying fireworks! Shooting fireworks near and around crowds is common during celebrations. We found this out as paper bulls decorated with fireworks were paraded about in celebration of a Saint. Although we ducked for cover, the crowd seemed to enjoy and get a thrill out of this.

5) Dia de los Muertos is Coming! Although it is celebrated Oct 31-Nov 1 throughout Mexico, Oaxaca goes all out and festivities have already begun.