Things I LOVE about Puebla:
1. People are very, very nice and polite. Despite living in a big city (Puebla is Mexico’s 4th most populous city), people greet each other on the street, when boarding the bus, at restaurants, etc. I’ve experienced this in smaller towns, but I don’t see it as often in urban settings.
In the four weeks I’ve lived in Puebla, I’ve never witnessed anyone being rude to another person, not even bus drivers who drive like crazy people. New Yorkers who ride the subway, take note!
2. The food is delicious! You will always find memelas, tacos al pastor, tacos árabes, chalupas, cemitas and other great street food no matter where you go. I’ve gained like 10 pounds, but my heart and belly are very happy.
3. The center is beautiful! The large cathedral, fountains, manicured lawns, colorful buildings, painted ceramic tiles and cobblestone streets make Puebla a stunning city day and night!
4. I love food markets and Puebla’s many markets do not disappoint. On my way to the school, I walk across Mercado Hidalgo smelling everything from freshly-made corn tortillas to guavas on the fruit stands. I love observing the vendors, listening to the loud noises and browsing different stands. The only thing I don’t like about the markets is seeing the meat- everything from whole chickens to pig’s heads makes me look away.
5. Puebla is safe (knock on wood!). I’ve traveled to other places where people were regularly robbed, but I feel pretty safe here. I don’t worry about taking out my phone to take a picture or bringing out money to purchase things on the street. I have common sense and take precautions, but I’m grateful that I’ve never felt targeted or in danger.
Things I dislike about Puebla (and Mexico in general):
1. Drivers suck. They speed, turn right when they’re not on the right lane, change lanes every 30 seconds, honk, tail gate… imagine them doing all the things you learned not to do in driver’s ed.
2. Pedestrians do not have the right of way. Crossing a busy street is scary, and cars will not stop. Thankfully, 11 years of jaywalking in New York prepared me for Puebla.
3. People are not punctual. I know Mexicans and other people of color have a reputation for being late, so I shouldn’t be too surprised. Still, it surprises me when an 11am meeting turns into 11:30am. I have agreed to meet various people at various times, and I always end up waiting around for at least 15 minutes. Before I leave my house, I know the other person will probably be late, but I am a punctual person and like to be on time. Most days, I just carry a book so I can read while I wait.
Trails And Travels 