The Colors of Mexico

Anyone living in a northern clime during this time of year knows how black and white the world can be. Snow is pretty but stark, trees are bare, and the sky is overwhelmingly gray. One country to the south, things look dramatically different; a feast for the eyes in a rainbow palette of living color. This was the sensory experience most overwhelming and welcome as we stepped off the plane and continued through our week in Mexico. I had forgotten what it's like to see flowers, sapphire blue sky and lush green plants. And the impossible turquoise blue of Caribbean waters. It was shocking at first but quickly became heaven.

Xel-Ha

We went snorkeling in Xel-Ha ("Shell-ha"), the worlds largest natural aquarium directly connected to the Caribbean sea but cradled by reefs. The translucent aqua blue of the water gave way to a whole world of colorful fish, including my favorite the Parrotfish.

Tropical flora and fauna abound, bursting with livid greens, reds, pinks, and yellows. It was so nice to see living greenery outdoors, basking in the sunshine. Flowers that are only available through florist shops and greenhouses here flourish outside in the tropical climate. Bright pink bougainvillea vines scale crisp white adobe walls.

Mexican Folk Art

I now understand the inspiration behind great Mexican folk art. There's such a reverence and celebration of the natural world in Mexico. It's part of their culture, their daily lives, and their Mayan identity. I look at this piece and it reminds me of all the colors and things I love about Mexico. Click here to read an ex-pat's blog post about the old Museo de Arte Popular that was located in Cancun but moved to Xcaret. And if you'd like to see a lot more folk art in person, come over to our casa! - l.o.d.