Tlaquepaque

Sedona has a charming shopping area designed after the famous artisan town "Tlaquepaque" near Guadalajara, Mexico.  The Spanish architecture, bubbling fountains, mature trees creating the dappled light and lots of unique shops make it a pleasant place to spend the afternoon.

"Tlaquepaque"     © Kathy Dunham 2010

Artsy Restrooms

Are you a Mona Lisa or a Leonardo da Vinci?  If you can't figure out which bathroom to use based on those clues the male -female symbols should help.  This is the most creative use of "potty" signage I've seen in a long time.  And it wasn't in Italy.  It was at a cliff side restaurant in Cabo San Lucas.  Don't you just love those colors?

"Artsy Restrooms"    © Kathy Dunham 2009

Guadalajara Centerpiece

While taking a walking tour in Guadalajara, Mexico, I came upon this simple centerpiece at a local courtyard restaurant. I think it's the bright colors that attracted me. They are so happy and festive.

"Guadalajara Centerpiece" © Kathy Dunham 2009

Mexican Bath Time

Pigeons taking a bath have been the subject for many of my photos. I don't plan it that way, I just seem to come upon them and naturally take pictures. These lovelies were in Puerta Vallarta enjoying the warm sun on a December afternoon.

"Mexican Bath Time" © Kathy Dunham 2009

Chinese Influences

While visiting the old fort in Acapulco I came upon this beautiful display of Chinese artifacts. The display was meant to show the influence of the Chinese trade in the early days of shipping in and out of Acapulco. The stunning colors of the silk embroidery floss along with the other items made a striking statement.

"Chinese Influences" © Kathy Dunham 2008

Gregorio the Weaver

During our stop in Huatalco, Mexico, we met this delightful weaver plying his trade. He was smart, setting up his loom right outside his shop for all to see. He was gracious as he explained the history of the designs that originated with his tribe further inland. The wool is from the sheep they raise; hand carded, combed, dyed and spun, mostly by his mother.


“Gregorio the Weaver” © Kathy Dunham 2008

Mexican Spur

The museum at the fort in Acapulco held many treasures. Among them this beautifully crafted spur. There was only one, don't know where the other one was. Would that make it difficult to ride a horse with only one spur on??? Inquiring minds want to know.

"Mexican Spur" © Kathy Dunham 2008

The Colors of Huatulco

Huatulco is a verrrrry small cruise ship port on the southern coast of Mexico. Noted for it's eight beautiful bays, this area is great for snorkeling. Or shopping if you don't want to get wet. The buildings are painted wonderful, bright colors. Lots of fun with vendors always trying to get you to buy.

"The Colors of Huatulco" © Kathy Dunham 2008

Fuerte de San Diego

Acapulco in the sun. But instead of beaches and cliff divers we decided to visit the old fort. Thank goodness it was just across the street from where our ship docked. Originally built in 1776, it was hit by a major earthquake in the 1800s and rebuilt. Not an exciting fort, as forts go, but filled with wonderful historical "stuff". I'm sure it gets missed by a lot of visitors.

"Fuerte de San Diego" © Kathy Dunham 2008

Dia de los Muertos

While strolling through Cabo San Lucas we came upon a very upscale "bar". It wasn't the drinks that caught our attention but these intricate ceramic statues of Dia de los Muertos figures. They were exquisitely done in wonderful colors and with a sense humor. This celebration in recognition of the deceased is held on November 2nd, but you can find figures similar to these all over Mexico any time of the year.

"Dia de los Muertos" © Kathy Dunham 2008

Lucy with "Mexican Barbies"

Four dollar... four dollar.... and I could have my own Mexican Barbie. Lucy was cute and for only two dollars, she posed for me on our walk in Cabo San Lucas. Then she offered to sell me a clay whistle for $3. I graciously declined.

Lucy with "Mexican Barbies" © Kathy Dunham 2008

All Ashore

This seagull didn't know it was time to get off the ship. We've spent all day at sea enjoying cool temps and a little sun in the late afternoon. Tomorrow we'll be in Cabo San Lucas. Margarita time!!!!

"All Ashore" © Kathy Dunham 2008