One of the most colorful ethnically and biodiverse states in Mexico, Oaxaca, offers up over 16 indigenous languages. Zapotec, the largest indigenous group, manifests 64 dialects. Touring the ethnobotanical jardin emphasized the biodiversity of the area including native varieties of squash, beans, avocados, maize and chilis plus a variety of new cactus similar to species around Tucson, such as the Oaxacan agave.

It was a dynamic week exploring La Galleria de Alebrijes, El Museo de Textiles, Mercado 20 de Noviembre, Mercado de Benito Juarez, Jardin Etnobotanico, savoring street food, enjoying the colorful activities and music of El Zocolo and daily wander abouts.

An invitation from a woman teaching a writing workshop in Oaxaca (met at Spanish school) to an evening reading of her student’s accomplishments rounded out the week and provided another opportunity to interact with expats and visitors.

Spanish Magic (http://www.oaxacaspanishmagic.com), celebrated their 15^th anniversary started by maestra, Flor, and it was a night of celebration.

Muscica, bailando, comida, conversacion, energia positivo y un buen tiempo. The women know how to party – I am definitely at the right school.

I feel quite safe wandering about solo. The bad sidewalks and topes seem to present the most danger. Oaxaca is a cash economy and toilet paper in non-negotiable – do not put it in the toilet. Y la familia who owns the hostel loves me so much they just lowered my weekly rate from 4500 pesos a week to 4000 (paid in cash of course). La vida es buena!