[2016 Mexico - Mexico City] The incredible Red Tree House

We're staying at the Red Tree House this trip. It looks like a private home, and I didn't find the red tree until after dark.

Four nights later, we booked our next trip with them too, because it was such an enjoyabl experience. I've traveled extensively and never really asked much for hotels, as long as it's clean, good location, it's good enough for me. The red tree is located in the high-end Condessa district, kind of like the West Loop in Chicago. There are tons of restaurants, the metro is close as well, though we didn't make use of it at all this time. What makes the Red Tree even more special is the staff. Everyone, including the owner, were super-friendly and seem genuinely interested in getting to know everyone staying at the hotel. It's like staying at your favorite Mexican uncle's home!

We start each day with fresh breakfast: churros, coffee, fresh fruits & juices, and made-to-order special Mexican dish. We've tried chilaquiles, quesadilla and enchiladas, all were delicious. Every afternoon a new container of juice awaits you on the kitchen counter. Every evening, there's happy hour where everyone seems to attend. Guests chat freely with one another, and the superior host, Greg, actually makes sure people from the same cities are introduced to each other! 

[2016 Mexico - Mexico City] Mexico city's cherry blossom season

Mexico City, or DF, is a city I've never considered visiting. All thanks to the US for portraying Mexico as this terrifying country where people constantly get kidnapped or killed. It did not help when Mr. Kimchi's brother said: "we're poor, don't expect us to pay ransom." when we spoke of our travel plans. Needless to say, I was less than enthusiastic when he suggested this as our next vacation spot, despite the fact that it was tripadvisor's No. 1 spot to visit for 2016. However, research before the trip warmed me up to the city, and I've always been fascinated by the colorful skulls, so I promised myself I'd bring one home this trip. Still, I had my reservations, so I ended up leaving my big camera at home. Please bear with my iPhone pic quality.





 We took an extra early flight. At first sight, I was intrigued by the purple trees interspersed between the regular looking green trees. Turns out, these purple trees are full of beautiful blossoms and are called Jacarandas. They're kinda like DF's cherry blossoms, and we were here at the perfect time of the year. Pretty as they may look, they are about as treacherous as banana peels, as I can personally attest, so walk carefully around them!