It’s finally happened. I’m in love. Some of you have been waiting a long time for this announcement, so I’m happy to share. The love of my life embraces people from all over the world, speaks many languages, always has something interesting to share and loves back unconditionally. Yes, it’s la Ciudad de México, or CDMX for short.
After taking the metro to another neighborhood (and a quick stop at a bakery, of course), I rented a bike and hit the road. At first, I thought I had accidentally joined a road race. Bikers were zooming down the street and traffic was being diverted. I had no choice but to follow them and soon realized I was not in a race, just participating in one of Mexico City’s wonderful traditions.
Three Sundays a month, streets are closed throughout the city for bikers, runners, and a few brave souls on rollerblades. The routes cover dozens of kilometers from the north to the south of this sprawling city. Imagine biking down Fifth Avenue in New York City. For four hours, I was able to bike down tree-lined avenues with sidewalk cafes and on major city thoroughfares. I rode through neighborhoods I had visited on my first day and discovered many new areas.
At each intersection, riders were greeted with safety workers who held up “Alto” (stop) or “Siga” (proceed) signs to keep us from running into crossing traffic. While stopped, they made announcements (next Saturday is El Dia Mundial de la Bicicleta and there will be a special biking event with even more roads closed to traffic); encouraged us and reminded us to be safe (stay to the right; finish before 2:00 when the roads open up to traffic again); looked out for our welfare (if you’re tired, take a rest); and told jokes (if you’re not tired, pedal with more force).
I found my way back to the bike rental place just a few minutes after 2:00, exhausted and ready for lunch. I was having such a good time I hadn’t even stopped to eat. I guess when you’re in love you don’t ever feel hunger.
Dancing and Capoeira
I stopped to observe some riders who got off their bikes to dance. Music was playing and a stage was set up with aerobics and zumba instructors leading the routines. Not far from there, I saw a Brazilian capoeira group performing in the streets.
A Silent Protest
I came across these young people in masks and holding large screens displaying some of the horrors of the meat industry. I spoke with one of their representatives for some time and learned that they are from Anonymous for the Voiceless, an animal rights organization that uses protests to raise awareness of what “food” animals experience. It was a powerful protest and drew lots of attention to an important issue.
More City Scenes
Elaine
April 16, 2018 at 06:49
Wow! What a wonderful event to stumble upon. What an exciting day.
Tim Flanagan
April 16, 2018 at 21:45
It was great. Felt like the whole city was coming together.
Lori Liguori
April 16, 2018 at 07:44
Awesome, Tim! Fabulous pictures……excellent adventure!
Tim Flanagan
April 16, 2018 at 21:46
Thanks, Lori! It’ll be hard to top that day.
Kathy
April 16, 2018 at 08:15
I liked reading your post. I bet you felt like a kid again. Everyone looks so happy.
Tim Flanagan
April 16, 2018 at 21:47
That’s right. I didn’t hear a single complaint all day. It was quiet and calm, but there were people everywhere.
Laurie Hartnett
April 16, 2018 at 09:07
What an amazing city! And an amazing day! I loved seeing the joy on people’s faces 🙂
Tim Flanagan
April 16, 2018 at 21:48
Thanks for reading, Laurie. Everyone was having fun.
LInda Wight
April 16, 2018 at 09:25
What a wonderful day! My pictures were a little clearer, so I was able to see more details. You sound so happy and free., and it was clear to see the reason. It puts a smile on my face. Thank you Tim.
Tim Flanagan
April 16, 2018 at 21:48
Glad you got to experience some of the joy I felt riding around!
Sheila Ackley
April 16, 2018 at 10:38
Awesome! Thanks for sharing your beautiful pictures and for sharing your adventures! I hope you have an amazing time! Be safe! ❤️
Tim Flanagan
April 16, 2018 at 21:49
Thanks for reading, Sheila. Don’t worry, I’ll be back, even though I’d like to stay longer.
Deidre
April 16, 2018 at 11:37
WOW! What a wonderful day you just had and I can see why you are in love! Pure joy riding the streets and such beauty in the historic buildings and beautiful faces.
Sounds like a perfect vacation and nothing like riding a bike to bring you back to that feeling of freedom. Enjoy!
Tim Flanagan
April 16, 2018 at 21:50
Not having hills also helped. It was fun!
Rosie
April 16, 2018 at 19:24
A picture speaks a thousand words! You had quite a wonderful day!
Tim Flanagan
April 16, 2018 at 21:51
Yes, and it all happened unplanned. This city is full of surprises.
Marika heughins
April 16, 2018 at 21:03
I’m so happy for you Tim!!!
Tim Flanagan
April 16, 2018 at 21:53
<3
Sara
April 17, 2018 at 07:31
What a terrific tradition. I’m jealous of you traveling again. Got to get back out there!
Tim Flanagan
April 17, 2018 at 22:22
You’re doing a great job of it while at home! We’ll cross paths again I’m sure.
Vicky Ann Deledda
April 20, 2018 at 22:46
You write an amazing tale . I’ll read any of your future books. And I would have danced!
Tim Flanagan
April 21, 2018 at 21:34
You would have been on stage!