WHERE IS MEXICO CITY, ANYWAY??

Left the hot humid Pacific coast the other day for a smooth 5-hour bus ride to cooler, drier Mexico City (altitude 5.000 ft.). Interesting thing about Mexican buses is they video every passenger in case of drug smuggling, thieves, or just going over a cliff. Subway ride into town, little boy mesmerized --- we are first gringos he's ever seen or talked to. Stayed one night at online $33 Hotel Principal but too stuffy (see Pat wedged in) in more ways than one. Switched today to a $33 hostel (see lobby with big greenish mural) room with big breakfast and other advantages.

We are in the exact exciting middle of the axis of Mexico City's past, present, and future. The pedestrian mall runs between the country's biggest park and the country's government/cathedral/historic plaza. Walking is strenuous but every turn is spectacular ----- and somehow familiar.

Mexico City is in Europe! Statues and fountains on every block. All the central streets are lined with baroque or colonial or classic Euro buildings, right to the bustling sidewalks. Could be Paris, Berlin, Madrid, etc.

Mexico City is in China! The mobs on the streets are young, middle class, and rush in every direction to spend money.

Mexico City is in Puerto Vallarta, Key West, Toronto, or anywhere else with street performers. Best in show here is a great rendition of Eddy Scissorhands.

Mexico City is in New York City! There are hundreds of shops lined up buying and selling gold ("oro"), silver and jewellery. Just like Manhattan.

Mexico City is in Rome! The interior of the main cathedral has a magnificent gilded throne, just like St. Peter's basilica where the Pope hangs out.

Did I say Mexico City is like New York City? Check out the office building that's a ringer for the Empire State. All they need now is a King Kong ----- get Disney on the phone!