Lessons Learned- First trip to Mexico

My travels are the real inspiration for starting Casa Buen Amigo. I remember the first time my husband suggested that we travel to Mexico, I had my apprehensions because of all the stories you hear in the US.  But I agreed and soon we were on a plane to Mexico. While the memories are filled with laughter, discovery, and cultural immersion, there are certainly a few things I wish I had done differently. Join me as I reflect on my adventures south of the border and the lessons learned along the way.

1. Capture Every Moment: One regret I have from my trip is not taking more pictures. I mean not posed Instragm level pics but more the real “us” picture. From the colorful streets of Mexico City to the breathtaking ruins of Chichen Itza, there were countless photo-worthy moments that slipped through my fingers. At that time I thought I was taking away from the moment but in hindsight, I realize the importance of documenting my travels not just for myself but to show others what I had experienced.  So take a picture, even if it is dorky and you don't look your best, it is you at the moment and it should be remembered. 
2. Write Down My Experiences: In the whirlwind of new sights and sounds, I failed to properly journal my experiences. So many people asked me for recommendations or where they should go when I came back.  My brain fog made me forget so many places and names and I think I realized that I should have written some of it all down.  So step one get a notebook. Step two, write it down. Step three, share with others. 
3. Pack Lighter: As a chronic over-packer, I brought far too many clothes for my trip to Mexico. In reality, I found myself wearing the same few outfits over and over again. Not to mention there are laundry places throughout the city that are relatively cheap with quick turn around. Lesson learned: prioritize versatility and comfort when packing for travel, and embrace the freedom of a lighter suitcase. Oh and maybe go crazy and leave the curling iron at home.  Wild hair, don’t care travel is the best. 
4. Explore Different Restaurants: I have always been scared of the hole in the wall.  But I realized in Mexico and in many other countries these are the gems.  So step outside your comfort zone.  Try different things before you make judgment. I am still a work in progress in regards to the brain tacos.   
5. Embrace Quality Time with My Husband: Perhaps my biggest regret is not fully appreciating the opportunity to explore Mexico with my husband. As a Mexican native, he was eager to share his culture, heritage, and favorite spots with me. Looking back, I realize how much his love and enthusiasm enriched my experience, and I wish I had been more present and attentive to our time together. It was amazing to see where he came from and it explained so  much of him to me.  I spent too much time on our itinerary and booking all the right things, that I didn’t realize that the best experience was seeing the pride he had showing me his homeland and meeting his family.  Lesson learned. 

In hindsight, my first trip to Mexico was not just a journey of discovery but also a journey of self-reflection and growth. We hope that Casa Buen Amigo continues our journey.  It has not been easy or simple to open this endeavor but we fully feel it is worth it. So start your travels and explore the world.  You don’t have to do it perfectly,  you just have to start even if it is in your own town.  Explore different things, keep an open mind, don't overthink it, and most importantly enjoy the people you are with.