Monday, February 15, 2010

caffeine, confetti, and carnaval.

This weekend's adventure took me to Veracruz. It is a coast city that rests on the Gulf of Mexico. While the weather wasn't exactly beach weather, we did not mind. For there are two other things that Veracruz is known for that we got to experience...

1. Carnaval!
Comparable to Mardi Gras, Carnaval is a weeklong party that leads up to the first day of Lent. It wouldn't be complete without masks, confetti, and alcohol. Carnaval is most known for the celebration in Rio, but all latino countries celebrate. We were informed that Veracruz is THE place to go in Mexico. So that's where we went. On Friday night we attended a coronation of the Carnaval Queen. Once announced, confetti and fireworks were released like crazy! On Saturday was the big "desfile" (parade). We had a fun time watching dancers and ridiculously glittery costumes stroll on past the beach backdrop.
Side note: there was also an event called "Extranos del Noche." It was here that we had a great time watching transvestites strut around the streets complete with heels the size of pencils, the most unrealistic butt-enhancers I've ever seen, and volumized hair that puts "bump-its" to shame.

2. Lechero!
Mmmmm... this is for all my coffee-loving followers. Lechero is a drink that is specific to Veracruz. While I'm usually a tea drinker myself, Seattle has changed my tastebuds so that I am able to enjoy a cup of coffee every now and then. I figured this was an experience to not pass up. When you order a lechero, your "mesero" (waiter) will bring out a glass cup with a shot of espresso at the bottom. Then another mesero comes around with a huge silver kettle of steaming milk. Because a lechero is supposed to have foam, these meseros are taught to pour the milk from unbelievably high distances. Thus, they end up pouring the milk while the kettle is above your head! Add some sugar (ok, quite a bit for me) and you have yourself a hot tasty drink.

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