As snow sweeps across the northern part of the continent, Mexico enjoys a privileged position south of the Tropic of Cancer. Temperatures are cool in the sierra, warm and pleasant along the coasts. This is a good time to explore a Caribbean beach with Elisa Velazquez's article Beyond Spring Break: Cancun Has Something for Everyone.
For those who dream of living in Mexico, Rita Pomade returns with a review of Mexico - The Trick is Living Here, an e-book packed with practical advice. We especially liked the section on cultural sensitivity and etiquette. The book's author, Julia Taylor, lives and works in Cuernavaca. She is also a regular contributor to Mexico Connect.
Taylor takes January readers to the hotlands of Morelos with a visit to Zacatepec, Morelos, complete with photos.
Fulbright Scholar Samantha Raneri describes Maseual Siuat Xochitajkitinij, a cooperative of indigenous women in Puebla's Sierra Norte. She tells of their struggles and triumphs in Yohualichan, Puebla: A Small Town, but a Mighty Force in Cultural Conservation.
For many of us, life in Mexico bears similarities to that of the southern U.S.A. Jenny Mcgill invites us to a "pig party" in Talpa de Allende and shares the recipe for her Mexicanized version of Mexissippi Style Crackling Cornbread.
Linda Abbott Trapp continues her series on the Ornamental Plants and Flowers of Tropical Mexico with the Triangle Palm, Yucca and Thunbergia. Her original photos reveal the breathtaking beauty of their blossoms.
Long-time Mexico resident Beldon Butterfield spins an incredible story with The Horse Show and How to Shoot Straight. Based on a true-life experience, this is an excerpt from his newest novel The Line/La Línea. Combining action, intrigue and romance, this thriller captures the essence of Mexico's drug trade during the 1980s.
Naturally, this month's issue has some practical tips for residents and visitors alike. Doctors Robert and Curtis Page warn beachgoers about Water Safety in Baja. Their sound advice can be applied anywhere.
Did you know that fluctuating exchange rates can have a tremendous impact on the purchase price of real estate in Mexico? But there's a way to lock in a favorable rate. Canadians will find Thomas Wight's explanation of what to look out for and how to protect yourself especially useful as he shares tips many buyers are unaware of.
In addition to all these articles, our regular columnists write about topics as diverse as a British couple's adventures on a shoestring budget, handicrafts in Oaxaca and how to keep honeybees happy. Then there's the Lake Chapala real estate market, a superb treatise on Mesoamerican religion for the history buff, and a complete explanation of cuts of beef and how to shop for them. How's that for breadth and depth?
Reading about sunny Mexico is a wonderful way to spend a winter day. Enjoy!
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