Postcard from Mexico City

“Culture consists of connections, not of separations: to specialize is to isolate.”— Carlos Fuentes

They call Paris “The City of Love.” Possibly true, possibly a marketing ploy. But it got me thinking, what if there is a ranking system for such a place? A place filled with life and love and laughter in public. A place where colonial beauty meets urban grit. A place as vast as its loud, full of excitement and passion. And not necessarily in a romantic way, but in a human way where the culture allows for public expression. Needless to say, as a photographer, this place is paradise. If there were an actual ranking system for a city of love category, this would sit among my top list.

And yet, amid the mayhem, regardless of where you find yourself, you will be sure to find a cobblestone alley that leads into a historic church and plaza. And voila, in an instant, the noise from the cars and markets turns into bird chippers and church bells. The city is known for having some of the most museums in the world, but truthfully, my museum is on the streets. History is everywhere, from massive public squares to small-scale urban parks, being used by the public rather than sitting off-limits on display. But would you expect anything less of the oldest city in the Americas?

Perhaps I am simply a stray dog, but I cannot help it. Each day, I clock in more than 10 miles of walking where I explore a new neighborhood. It feels like I have only scratched the surface of this massive city. Leaving a place as exciting as here often comes with a sense of melancholiness. But this time, I know I will be back to explore and learn more about this city and its culture. After all, Mexico City, my city of love, deserves to be shared with my loved ones.