San Cristobal is a small town in southern Mexico in Chiapas State. Famous for having many indigenous communities in the surroundings, San Cristobal was in a recent history the heart of a revolution: Zapatistas.
Indeed, this part of Mexico benefits from a luxurious nature. The culture there is amazingly beautiful and all communities live (or survive) surrounded in a growing capitalism. In Chiapas, land accaparation is hot topic… The most media-friendly example is Coca-Cola company which takes over most of the land and water resources. In Chiapas, mineral water is more expensive than Coke while tap water is not drinkable. A huge issue which shows how crazy is our world!
We spent 15 days in San Cristobal de las Casas and we think we could stay few years.
First of all, we found a home… and friends. This is exactly what we love with long travel. One never knows what is going to be the next step. When we booked in Corazon Corteza, we were far away thinking of meeting Sarahi and Dario. This young Mexican couple (mix of Chiapas and Mexico City) was just about opening their hostel. They designed and built all the furnitures. Everything is made of palette and love. We were seduced. Atmosphere is great. We had such beautiful moments there.
Amigos, we cannot wait to meet you again!
The city is beautiful. Remains of an old colonial and historic city, architecture is nice and many buildings have already been renovated. Walking around is pure happiness and one more time… San Cristobal has its own atmosphere.
The town is a mix of arts and alternative trends. As you may know, we love that! First of all, art we saw was just beautiful. It makes everyone thinks. Many people (mexican and foreginers, young and less young) came to San Cristobal and stopped. They stopped longer than expected and decided to create, share ideas. From what we saw, San Cristobal became something like a laboratory for new ideas, for alternatives. Ideas are all around, getting ready to travel the world. That’s fucking great !
San Cristobal is also unique for everyday situation. Communities living around in the mountains come every day in the market to sell their production. This market is incredible. Such a life! So many different products. So many people (seller / buyer / tourist). San Cristobal is undoubtedly the economic place in the region. At some point, we were unfortunately disappointed to observe that communities are not benefiting yet of all tourism incomes… but positive initiatives seem to be on their way and we hope to see more and more eco responsible initiatives which will make everybody develop and sustain equally.
San Cristobal, please change only for better and hope to see you soon again with our beautiful Ernest! With no doubt, he has special connection with you 😊
Few pictures of the "Dia de los muertos", one important festival in Mexico
We are Ela & David, 2 citizens of the world. In quest of a new way of living, more respectful from the environment and the Humans, we travel slowly to discover new cultures, to look for inspirations and with a wish of sharing. Want to know more?
