Mexico on my mind

MANILA, Philippines - It’s one of the most visited countries in the world. At about 23 million tourists annually (2012 figures according to the United Nations World Tourism Organization), Mexico is second only to the United States as the most visited destination in the Americas.

Most Filipino travelers here have yet to discover Mexico. It’s not a top-of-mind destination for many. As for Pinoys who have made the US or Canada  their home, there are many, I’m sure, who have discovered the delights of this country just across their border.

It’s a pity because Mexico and the Philippines share a common history, both having been colonized by Spain. Traveling to this country, one feels a certain kind of affinity with the Mexicans that you don’t get when visiting our next-door neighbors in Southeast Asia.  Their affability and warmth could outdo our famed Filipino hospitality.

I am fortunate to have gone thrice; the first two were because of my work as a journalist , but this third trip — this one was magical. My traveling companion is an avid student of the ancient Maya culture and a trip to the Yucatan Peninsula was a must-do for him before he dies.

The Yucatan Peninsula is on the southeastern side of Mexico, fronting the Caribbean Sea.  And this part of the country, best of all, is not covered by any US travel advisory.  So you can be assured that your travel to this part of the country will be completely safe.

But what we saw on this trip was a period even before the Spanish came to conquer Mexico.

Where pyramids rose in the middle of the jungle and their inhabitant were to mysteriously disappear leaving behind many unanswered questions to this very day. It was fascinating to see the Maya up close through the art they left behind. And to soak in their belief about going with the flow of the universe. Photos by Ces Oreña-Drilon