Day 11
After a 3:30 AM wake-up to catch our flight to Oaxaca, I was in the center of town before 10 am. With a brief nap to rejuvenate, I headed out to the Zócalo (the main square). Known for their challenging pedestrian experience, I was surprised to feel right at home walking through town. I did have to remind myself that only in NYC can you stand several feet off the curb and expect to not get run over. The streets were bustling with vendors and consumers enjoying food, drink and artisanal crafts. The Zócalo was much of the same, but with a beautiful central gazebo and a couple small fountains.
What took me by surprise was the large presence of political banners on the side of the Zócalo closest to City Hall. Here groups were raising awareness for various causes using banners up to 10 by 20 feet in size. There were also booths set up to answer questions and pass out flyers related to the issue on the banner. To attract attention, one group had music playing through large loudspeakers and a tent. This overt and visual style of communicating information might be something I could build on back in Brooklyn.
I enjoyed a snack and two meals today in Oaxaca: a squash blossom empanada from a street cart, a comida corrida, which is a set menu offered in the middle of the day including drink and dessert, and a cena, a small meal in the evening. In addition to both meals being delicious, I was impressed by the formality and professionalism of the people who served me food. At the street cart, I was offered a small stool to sit on while I enjoyed my meal and when finished was told that it had been a pleasure to serve my food. Both at lunch and dinner, the restaurant male and female waiters were wearing black pants, a white dress shirt and a black vest. The service was prompt and pleasant, even anticipating needs before I realized I had them. Waiters were ready and willing to help elderly and babies without judgment. The food was prepared with care, even very inexpensive items. It was really so pleasant.