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Huatulco

Editor’s Letter

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By Jane Bauer

“What we call Man’s power over Nature turns out to be a power exercised by some men over other men with Nature as its instrument.”
C.S.Lewis

Dominion or Delusion?

Imagine the center of the Earth—a churning core of fire, hotter than the surface of the sun. Around it, layers of rock, compressed over millennia, hold the planet together. Some of these rocks are laced with gold, silver, and lithium, elements we’ve deemed valuable. Others, we grind into dust beneath our feet without a second thought. Wrapped around all of this is water—vast, deep, and ancient—carving its way through rock, evaporating into clouds, raining back down in an endless cycle.

And then, there’s us.

We exist only on the thinnest layer, a mere film on the surface of this massive, breathing planet. And yet, we draw lines across it, dividing land into nations, waters into territories, air into controlled space. We claim mountains, rivers, even the empty sky, labeling them with deeds and mineral rights. We build economies, establish laws, and enforce rules over something that will never truly belong to us. We convince ourselves we have dominion over the Earth.

But then, the Earth shrugs. An earthquake swallows a city. A hurricane flattens a coastline. A volcano erupts, spilling molten rock as if to remind us where the true power lies. We scramble to rebuild, to reinforce, to regain control, as if control was ever ours to begin with.

Why do we do this? Why is dominion our highest ambition?

What if we saw this endless striving for control not as strength, but as a kind of weakness? What if the leaders who seek to control land, resources, and people weren’t admired for their power, but pitied for their delusion? What if, instead of fighting for dominance, we embraced the simple fact that we are just another part of this planet—not above it, not rulers of it, but made from the same dust as everything else?

Because, in the end, we are not conquerors of rock and water and fire. We are rock and water and fire. And the sooner we recognize that, the sooner we might learn to exist in harmony with the world, rather than constantly trying to claim it.

This month, our writers look at mining in Mexico, one of our earliest efforts to dominate the earth, but one that largely created the modern Mexican economy while filling affluent jewelry boxes. We need to ask at what cost?

See you next month!

Huatulco

The Political Art of José Guadalupe Posada

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By Jane Bauer

Most people know this image but don’t know its significance—La Calavera Catrina. La Calavera Catrina serves as a critique of Mexico’s upper class. Created around 1910, this skeleton, dressed in a fancy European-style hat, mocks the Mexican elite who sought to adopt European customs while neglecting their own cultural roots. The image later became a symbol of Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead), representing the idea that wealth and social status are fleeting.

The artist, José Guadalupe Posada (1852–1913) was a Mexican illustrator and printmaker known for his politically charged and satirical caricatures. His work, often featuring calaveras (skeletons), critiqued the social and political inequalities of his time. Through his art, Posada gave voice to the struggles of the working class and exposed the corruption of the elite, making his work an enduring symbol of Mexico’s revolutionary spirit.

The Role of Satire in Posada’s Work
Born in Aguascalientes, Mexico, Posada began his career as a printmaker and political cartoonist. He honed his skills in lithography and engraving, producing thousands of illustrations for newspapers, pamphlets, and broadsides. His ability to blend humor with biting social commentary made his work highly influential, particularly during the turbulent years leading up to the Mexican Revolution (1910–1920).Posada’s caricatures often depicted the stark class divisions in Mexican society. He used skeletons—an iconic element of his work—not only as a reminder of mortality but as a way to strip away superficial differences and highlight universal human conditions. By portraying both the rich and the poor as calaveras, he revealed the absurdity of class hierarchies and the inevitability of death, which rendered all distinctions meaningless.

Another significant piece, Calavera of Don Quixote, reimagines Miguel de Cervantes’ literary hero in contemporary Mexico. In this print, Don Quixote is in battle, much like the poor struggling against the oppressive forces of industrialization and political corruption. Posada’s use of the famous character serves as a metaphor for the struggles of the underprivileged against an unjust system.

Posada’s influence extended far beyond his lifetime. His work inspired generations of Mexican artists, including Diego Rivera, who prominently featured La Catrina in his mural Sueño de una Tarde Dominical en la Alameda Central (Dream of a Sunday Afternoon in the Alameda Central). Rivera and other members of the Mexican Muralism movement admired Posada’s ability to blend art with social criticism, using visual storytelling to advocate for political change.

Today, Posada is celebrated not only for his artistic talent but also for his fearless critique of class disparities. His calaveras remain a powerful reminder of Mexico’s history of social struggle, and his legacy endures in the country’s cultural consciousness. Through his bold and unflinching work, Posada continues to speak to issues of inequality, reminding us that the fight for justice is eternal.

Huatulco

Editor’s Letter

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By Jane Bauer @livingfoodmexico

Class, race, sexuality, gender and all other categories by which we categorize and dismiss each other need to be excavated from the inside.

Dorothy Allison

This month our writers explore the class system. As humans, we love to categorize. We name things, sort them, put them in their proper place. It’s how we make sense of the world, how we navigate complexity. We do this with plants and animals, with time and space, and, of course, with people. We build systems, hierarchies, and classifications—some useful, others arbitrary, and some deeply entrenched in power and history.

Lately, I’ve been thinking about this as I care for my mother, who has dementia. She was once an avid birdwatcher, able to name and identify countless species at a glance. Now, those names are slipping away. She no longer calls the kiskadee by name, no longer distinguishes between a flycatcher and a warbler in the way she once did. And yet, she still sees the birds. She watches their movements, listens to their calls, notices the shimmer of their feathers in the morning light. In some ways, she is experiencing them more purely, freed from the constraints of classification. It reminds me of Shakespeare’s famous question: would a rose by any other name smell as sweet? While naming things helps humans to make sense of the world, it is also a way that we create divisions between ourselves and the world.

Mexico has long been a place of rigid social categories. The casta system of colonial times assigned people value based on their ancestry, with Spanish blood at the top and Indigenous and African heritage ranked below in an elaborate taxonomy of race and class. Those classifications may no longer be law, but their impact lingers. Social class in Mexico today is still a structure of division—one shaped by wealth, education, and skin color, as well as deeply ingrained perceptions of worth. The categories may have changed, but the impulse to sort people into hierarchies remains.

And yet, what if we let go of the names? What if, instead of seeing people through the lens of class, we focused on their essence—their kindness, their resilience, their humor? What if we paid attention to the qualities that matter, rather than the labels that confine? My mother may no longer remember the names of birds, but she still finds joy in watching them. Perhaps there’s something to learn from that.

See you next month,

Jane

Huatulco

Editor’s Letter

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By Jane Bauer

“Perhaps travel cannot prevent bigotry, but by demonstrating that all peoples cry, laugh, eat, worry, and die, it can introduce the idea that if we try and understand each other, we may even become friends.” – Maya Angelou

There are a few questions I hear all the time from people traveling to Mexico that drive me absolutely crazy. I get it: people have questions, and the media has done its part to paint a very specific, often inaccurate picture of what to expect in Mexico. But still, these questions speak to outdated assumptions and biases that need to be addressed.

The first one: Can I drink the water? Is the ice safe? We tackled this topic in our water issue back in November, but here’s the short answer—yes, you’ll be fine if you stick to bottled or filtered water, which is the norm. This isn’t the mystery it used to be. Restaurants and hotels understand their clientele, and they’ve adapted accordingly.

The second one, and maybe the most infuriating: How much should I expect to pay for something? Specifically, the cost of a ride from the airport. Whenever I’ve traveled—whether it’s Paris, Chicago, or anywhere else—I’ve never thought to research what a taxi ride should cost to my hotel. The mere act of asking seems rooted in the assumption that you’ll be scammed in some way, which is not only offensive but also highlights a lack of trust and understanding of local culture.

And finally: Is Mexico City safe? Whether I’m talking about how much I love CDMX, how my daughter is thriving there, or asking if someone managed to visit, the knee-jerk response is often a concern for safety. Let’s be clear: Mexico City is one of the most dynamic, exciting, and culturally rich cities in the world. Of course, like any large city, it has its issues—use your street smarts, just as you would in New York, Toronto, or Berlin.

In this issue, we’re diving into all the reasons Mexico City is so special, there are so many things to see, do, and experience. So, if you’ve ever hesitated to explore this extraordinary city, let this be the nudge you need.
Plan a layover in CDMX the next time you travel or even a weekend getaway – you won’t be disappointed and may even discover your new favorite destination.

See you next month,

Jane

 

Huatulco

Things to See and Do in Mexico City

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By Jane Bauer

1. Soumaya Museum
One of the best museums in the world, its iconic, futuristic design, covered in hexagonal aluminum tiles, houses over 66,000 artworks. The museum features diverse collections, including pre-Hispanic artifacts, European art, and modern Mexican works. Admission is free, making it accessible to all. Named after Carlos Slim’s late wife, it’s a must-visit destination for art, history, and design enthusiasts.

2. National Museum of Anthropology
Considered one of the finest museums in the world, this is an essential stop to truly understand Mexico’s rich cultural and historical tapestry. Its impressive architecture leads to exhibits that showcase pre-Columbian civilizations, such as the Aztecs, Mayans, Olmecs, and Toltecs. The iconic Aztec Sun Stone and intricate Mayan artifacts are highlights. Set aside plenty of time to wander through its spacious halls and lush courtyards..

3. Zócalo (Plaza de la Constitución)
The heart of Mexico City, the Zócalo, is one of the largest city squares in the world and a hub of Mexican history and culture. Visit the Metropolitan Cathedral, which blends baroque and neoclassical styles. Don’t miss the National Palace, home to Diego Rivera’s monumental murals depicting Mexico’s history. The square comes alive during festivals and events, such as Día de los Muertos and Independence Day celebrations.

4. Frida Kahlo Museum (La Casa Azul)
Located in the charming neighborhood of Coyoacán, this museum is a tribute to the life and work of iconic Mexican artist Frida Kahlo. The “Blue House,” where she was born and later lived with Diego Rivera, is filled with her personal belongings, artwork, and fascinating memorabilia. The lush garden and bright blue walls create an intimate setting that provides insight into her artistic and personal world.

5. Teotihuacán Pyramids
Just a short drive from the city, the ancient city of Teotihuacán is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most significant archaeological sites in Mexico. Walk along the Avenue of the Dead, climb the Pyramid of the Sun for a breathtaking view, and explore the Pyramid of the Moon. The site’s history remains mysterious, with roots that predate the Aztecs, who later adopted and revered it.

6. Roma and Condesa Neighborhoods
Known for their bohemian vibe, these trendy areas offer charming streets, Art Deco architecture, boutique shops, art galleries, and excellent restaurants and cafes.

7. Vasconcelos Library
This “Megabiblioteca,” is a stunning blend of architecture and literature. Designed by Alberto Kalach, its futuristic structure features floating bookshelves, lush gardens, and open spaces that inspire creativity. Housing over 600,000 volumes, it’s both a cultural and architectural marvel. Named after philosopher José Vasconcelos, it’s a haven for book lovers and a symbol of Mexico’s dedication to knowledge and innovation.

8. Palacio de Bellas Artes
This cultural gem is an architectural masterpiece, combining Art Nouveau and Art Deco styles. Inside, the main hall is adorned with a Tiffany stained-glass curtain, and the upper levels house murals by renowned Mexican artists like Diego Rivera. The venue hosts performances ranging from ballet to opera, making it an epicenter for the arts. Even if you don’t catch a show, the building is worth visiting for its beauty alone.

9. San Juan Market (Mercado de San Juan)
Food lovers won’t want to miss this iconic market, famous for its wide variety of gourmet and exotic foods. You’ll find everything from fresh seafood and high-quality meats to exotic ingredients like edible insects. It’s a great place to try authentic Mexican dishes or even sample international flavors. The lively atmosphere and bustling stalls make it a feast for the senses.

10. Torre Latinoamericana
Once the tallest building in Mexico City, this iconic skyscraper is a testament to the city’s resilience, having withstood several major earthquakes. Head to the observation deck for stunning panoramic views of the sprawling metropolis, especially beautiful at sunset or after dark when the city lights twinkle. There’s also a café and a small museum to enjoy while you take in the sights.

7. Vasconcelos Library
This “Megabiblioteca,” is a stunning blend of architecture and literature. Designed by Alberto Kalach, its futuristic structure features floating bookshelves, lush gardens, and open spaces that inspire creativity. Housing over 600,000 volumes, it’s both a cultural and architectural marvel. Named after philosopher José Vasconcelos, it’s a haven for book lovers and a symbol of Mexico’s dedication to knowledge and innovation.

8. Palacio de Bellas Artes
This cultural gem is an architectural masterpiece, combining Art Nouveau and Art Deco styles. Inside, the main hall is adorned with a Tiffany stained-glass curtain, and the upper levels house murals by renowned Mexican artists like Diego Rivera. The venue hosts performances ranging from ballet to opera, making it an epicenter for the arts. Even if you don’t catch a show, the building is worth visiting for its beauty alone.

9. San Juan Market (Mercado de San Juan)
Food lovers won’t want to miss this iconic market, famous for its wide variety of gourmet and exotic foods. You’ll find everything from fresh seafood and high-quality meats to exotic ingredients like edible insects. It’s a great place to try authentic Mexican dishes or even sample international flavors. The lively atmosphere and bustling stalls make it a feast for the senses.

10. Torre Latinoamericana
Once the tallest building in Mexico City, this iconic skyscraper is a testament to the city’s resilience, having withstood several major earthquakes. Head to the observation deck for stunning panoramic views of the sprawling metropolis, especially beautiful at sunset or after dark when the city lights twinkle. There’s also a café and a small museum to enjoy while you take in the sights.

Huatulco

The Snake on the Mexican Flag

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By Jane Bauer

The Mexican flag is a symbol of pride that’s steeped in history and meaning. Its design is bold and unforgettable: three vertical bands of green, white, and red, with the Mexican coat of arms front and center. While the colors have their own stories, it’s the coat of arms that really draws you in—a golden eagle perched on a prickly pear cactus, clutching a snake in its talons and beak. This powerful image tells a story that’s deeply tied to Mexican identity, blending mythology, history, and nature.

The snake on the flag isn’t there by chance; it’s an essential part of the founding myth of Tenochtitlán, the ancient capital of the Mexica people. According to legend, the god Huitzilopochtli told the Mexica to build their city where they saw an eagle eating a snake while perched on a nopal cactus. This vision supposedly appeared in the middle of a lake, a divine sign for them to settle there. In 1325, they established Tenochtitlán on an island in Lake Texcoco, which eventually became the heart of the Aztec Empire. Today, the site of that legendary city is Mexico City, one of the most vibrant and sprawling cities in the world.

The eagle and snake image is loaded with symbolism. The eagle, a predator of the skies, stands for strength, power, and the heavens. It’s often seen as a symbol of the sun, which was central to Mesoamerican beliefs. The snake, on the other hand, is more complex. In many cultures, snakes symbolize fertility, rebirth, and transformation because they shed their skin. In Mesoamerican traditions, the snake is also tied to the earth and the underworld, representing wisdom and duality. When you put the eagle and snake together, they embody the balance of opposing forces: heaven and earth, life and death, the divine and the human.

So, why is the snake being eaten? Some say it represents good triumphing over evil or chaos being brought under control. Others think it reflects the Mexica’s ability to survive and thrive in a tough, competitive world. Whatever the interpretation, the image speaks to Mexico’s history of struggle and resilience, from the rise of the Mexica to the challenges the country faces today.

The inclusion of this imagery on the flag ties Mexicans not just to their indigenous roots but also to the natural world. The nopal cactus, with its bright green paddles and red fruits, is native to Mexico and a key part of the country’s environment and cuisine. By placing the eagle and snake on the cactus, the story becomes firmly rooted in the land itself, blending a heavenly vision with earthly reality. It’s a reminder of the deep connection between the people and the place they call home.

Over the years, the flag’s design has changed to reflect Mexico’s shifting political and social landscape. But the core image of the eagle, snake, and cactus has stayed the same, showing just how enduring and powerful it is. During the fight for independence in the early 1800s, the flag’s colors took on new meanings: green for independence and hope, white for unity and faith, and red for the blood of those who fought for freedom. Combined with the coat of arms, the flag became a unifying symbol for a diverse nation carving out its identity.

Today, the Mexican flag is more than just a national emblem; it’s a source of pride for Mexicans everywhere. The story of the eagle and snake is a reminder of the importance of resilience, adaptability, and staying connected to our roots. It’s a visual story that captures the complexity and beauty of Mexico—a country shaped by myth, history, and the strength of its people. Flag Day in Mexico is celebrated on February 24th.

Huatulco

Editor’s Letter

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By Jane Bauer

He that has been bitten by a snake is afraid of a rope.
Edward Albee

As we step into the Year of the Snake, it feels like the perfect time to reflect on the power of shedding—letting go of what no longer serves us. Snakes, with their ancient ability to shed their skin, have long been symbols of transformation and renewal. And in this upcoming year, I find myself asking: How can we, like the snake, release what holds us back and make space for growth, healing, and the things that truly align with who we are becoming?

In Mexican culture, the snake carries a deep and powerful meaning. On Mexico’s flag, the eagle grips a serpent in its beak while perched on a cactus. This image isn’t just about the nation’s founding—it’s about balance, transformation, and the struggle that leads to wisdom. The snake here is not just a symbol of danger; it’s also a symbol of the great god Quetzalcoatl, the feathered serpent who represents life, knowledge, and the cycles of nature. It reminds us that sometimes, our greatest victories come from the struggles we face, and that embracing change—however uncomfortable—can lead to deeper wisdom.

Compare this with the serpent in the Garden of Eden. In this story, the snake is often seen as the tempter, the one who introduces sin into the world. But, in reality, temptation is a catalyst for change. It’s a break from the old way, a shift that forces us to reconsider, to evolve. Just as the snake sheds its skin to reveal something new beneath, we too can let go of old beliefs, outdated habits, and things that no longer serve our growth. In this Year of the Snake, I think it’s time to ask ourselves: What are we still holding onto that no longer serves us? And not only personal habits, but about the larger mindset we’re living in. Our culture of overconsumption, greed, and constant striving has disconnected us from what truly matters. We’re so focused on acquiring more—more stuff, more money, more distractions—that we’ve forgotten the peace and wisdom that comes from living more simply, from living in harmony with nature. What if we decided to shed that?

What if we let go of the pursuit of more and started reconnecting with the earth, with each other, and with the deeper parts of ourselves that are calling for attention? The snake’s ability to shed its skin is a powerful reminder that, sometimes, we need to let go of the superficial layers in order to reveal what’s underneath—the authentic, the raw, and the life-giving.

So let’s take a cue from the snake and shed the old patterns and return to nature, to what’s real, and to the deeper, quieter truths that sustain us. By letting go of what no longer serves us, we make space for renewal—both in our lives and in the world around us. Because, in the end, shedding isn’t a loss. It’s the beginning of something new.

See you in February,

Huatulco

Protecting Corn

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By Jane Bauer

Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum recently announced plans to constitutionally safeguard non-genetically modified (non-GMO) white corn, highlighting its critical role in Mexico’s biodiversity, agriculture, and cultural heritage. The proposed amendment seeks to enshrine protections for native corn varieties, reflecting the nation’s commitment to preserving its agricultural legacy.

Sheinbaum’s announcement comes shortly after a trade dispute panel ruled that Mexico’s restrictions on U.S. genetically modified (GM) corn imports violated the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). Despite the ruling, Sheinbaum expressed confidence that Mexico’s Congress will legislate a ban on planting GM corn by early 2025. “With the help of Mexico’s Congress, we are going to reverse this resolution because very soon, in February, they are going to legislate, I am sure, that you can’t plant genetically modified corn,” she stated at a recent public event. She emphasized the need to protect Mexico’s biodiversity, declaring, “Without corn, there is no country.” Corn holds a special place in Mexican culture and cuisine, serving as the foundation of traditional foods like tortillas, tamales, and pozole. Revered since pre-Hispanic times, it is deeply intertwined with Mexico’s identity, mythology, and daily life. Mexico is home to 59 native varieties of corn, many of which are cultivated in regions like Oaxaca, a hub for traditional farming practices and biodiversity. This reverence extends to native corn varieties, which are seen as a treasure to be preserved for future generations.

While Mexico imports significant quantities of GM yellow corn from the United States for livestock feed, the proposed constitutional amendment underscores the need to balance trade obligations with safeguarding Mexico’s agricultural heritage and ensuring the survival of its native corn varieties. The potential ban on GM corn planting would not prevent imports of GM varieties but aims to shield native crops from contamination and protect the cultural significance of corn. Critics of GM crops argue that their safety for human health and the environment remains unproven, while proponents highlight their utility in disease resistance and productivity.

The current impasse stems from a February 2023 presidential decree that banned the use of GM corn for tortillas and dough, advocating for alternatives in industrial production for human consumption and animal feed. Sheinbaum’s proposed measures seek to uphold this vision.
Source: Reuters

Huatulco

Editor’s Letter

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By Jane Bauer

We are created in water—amniotic fluid is about 98% water. Throughout our lives, water will continue to pull us, not just through thirst, but through longing. Most of us harbor a desire to be near the ocean, a lake, or a river. A swim in a body of water is curative.

Water holds deep spiritual significance across religions, symbolizing purity, life, and renewal. Yet, despite its sacredness, we often fail to honor it. In Christianity, water is central to baptism, representing cleansing and rebirth. In Hinduism, sacred rivers like the Ganges purify the soul and aid in achieving moksha (liberation). Islam incorporates water in wudu (ritual washing) before prayers, signifying spiritual and physical cleanliness. In Judaism, water plays a key role in mikveh rituals, symbolizing purification and transformation. Indigenous traditions often view water as a sacred element, honoring its life-giving properties through ceremonies. Across faiths, water connects humanity to the divine, symbolizing rebirth, healing, and spiritual connection.

Water is the lifeblood of our planet, yet we often fail to treat it with the respect it deserves. The world’s water supply faces critical threats from pollution caused by human activities. Industrial waste, such as dyes and chemicals from fast fashion production, contaminates waterways. Agricultural runoff from large-scale farming operations, particularly those supporting beef production, introduces chemicals into water systems. Single-use plastics, like bottles and packaging, clog waterways and create garbage patches spanning over 1.6 million square kilometers—an area more than twice the size of Texas—disrupting marine ecosystems and harming wildlife. In 2023 alone, approximately 70 operational oil spills and 10 significant tanker spills released thousands of tonnes of oil into the environment, compounding the degradation of vital water sources. These issues underscore the urgent need for collective action to protect and preserve this essential resource​.

We are contaminating ourselves with the clothes we buy, the plastic we throw away, and the cars we drive. The pollution we cause through everyday actions harms our own well-being. Water, the essence of our existence, is being poisoned by our neglect.

We are told we are living in the age of self-love, but often this is interpreted as indulging in the material—buying that trinket or satisfying our fleeting desires. “You deserve it” has become the anthem of our time. But does indulging our egos really lead to fulfillment? Does this kind of self-love align with our deepest needs?

As we approach one of the most wasteful seasons of the year, I urge you to pause and reflect. Does indulgence serve as true self-love? Nature owes us nothing. Instead, we are deeply in debt—to the water, the wildlife, and the air we breathe.

We are water—our bodies, our lives, depend on it. When we protect water, we protect ourselves. Real self-love begins with responsibility. Repairing the harm we’ve caused to the Earth, especially its water, is the greatest gift we can offer ourselves and future generations.

As we move into the new year, let’s commit to being better stewards of the water that sustains us. Happy Holidays, and see you in 2025!

Huatulco

A Project with Vision

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By Jane Bauer

It was an honor to spend Sunday, October 28th in the communities of Xadani and Zimatan with Melanie Petelle, providing vision tests and distributing over 100 pairs of reading glasses.

The experience was not only rewarding but also eye-opening in more ways than one. Witnessing the gratitude of people receiving their first pair of glasses was a powerful reminder of how something as simple as a pair of reading glasses can significantly impact a person’s quality of life.

I can relate to this experience personally—when I first started needing reading glasses a few years ago, I was surprised by how much they improved my daily life. Today, I carry them with me everywhere.

For so many, clear vision can be a luxury they cannot afford, and the act of giving back, even in small ways, can make a world of difference. According to the World Health Organization, over 2.7 billion people globally suffer from uncorrected poor vision.

For many individuals, basic tasks like reading, driving, or even recognizing loved ones can be a struggle. The good news is that the solution is often simple and inexpensive—just like the vision tests and glasses distributed in Xadani and Zimatan.

By offering such services, we can help reduce the strain caused by poor vision, improving not just the ability to see clearly but also the overall well-being of these communities. This initiative is a beautiful example of how we all have gifts, whether they be professional skills or the ability to contribute our time and resources, that can be shared to help others. It reminds us that small acts of kindness and service can have a profound, lasting impact.