Each year I make the trek to this classic Mexican town. You may get tired of me writing about it, but I don’t get tired of going there.
Shannon on the pasajera
Since I need to pay the taxes on my property, I use it as my “city” fix…although that gives a false sense of its size and scope. It’s a town of about 21,000 whose residents seem to spend a lot of time in its center.
Shannon, my long-time travel friend went with me again this year. We climbed the steep stairs from the bus and
Heading to el centro
began the hot and dusty descent toward the business and cultural center. Signs advertising gold hang from the shops along the way. The centro is very compact. The historic iglesia, the municipal offices, the mercado and the gold market surround the zócalo.
We love the sleepy, yet bustling, affect of Petatlán. Because there are no tourists, all of the activity is at a local pace. The town is crowded with people doing their shopping but no one is gawking (except at us).
Where but in Mexico do we find piñatas in the Sanctuary?
earthquake damage
Located on the highest point is its Sanctuary of the Padre Jesus de Petatlán, We had heard of its damage in the April, 2014, earthquake and were worried about its condition but it had been beautifully restored.
Down the side steps from the church is a produce-lined street leading to the back of the Mercado, 
a building which houses the meats, clothing, and food counters serving breakfasts and lunches. (Petatlán’s signature goat 
tacos/tamales are found on a side-street leading away from the zócalo on the other side.)
A yummy snack along the way.
The insiders know that Petatlán is also THE place to buy gold and silver at reasonable prices. The kiosks face the steps leading to the front of the church.
Shrimp! Get your camarones!
We were hot and tired by the time we finished our errands so were searching for a place with air-conditioning. We happened upon the corner restaurant 
where we ate last year. The waiters were a new and charming addition to the place…or perhaps they were the same men with makeovers…
The Pollo Asado was still delicious and served with a new and unique menu item: Root Salad, a tasty potato salad with equal amounts of potatoes and carrots mixed with a lime mayonnaise. Yum!
We caught an old-style bus on the way back and enjoyed the individuality of the decor. On to the pasajera with its assorted passengers and back to Barra de Potosi.
It’s a great life.
Hasta pronto…
Life in a Mexican Village 