A Journey Through Oaxaca: My Life in Puerto Escondido

In this episode of the Slow English Podcast, the host invites listeners into her recent travel experiences in Mexico, specifically focusing on the vibrant state of Oaxaca and the coastal charm of Puerto Escondido. The narrative serves as both a language learning tool and a personal travelogue, detailing the simple joys and routines that define her life while traveling.

The Vibrancy of Oaxaca City

The journey began in Oaxaca City, a location the host describes as "vibrant with color and life." She expresses a deep appreciation for the region's geographical diversity, noting that it offers the "full package"—ranging from mountains and rivers to beaches and cities. A major highlight of the city was the street art; she was particularly "very impressive" by the "insanely hard work" artists invested into the murals lining the streets. Her time in the city was also marked by culinary delights, specifically an "almond cream croissant" and a "chocolate-filled croissant" from a hidden alleyway coffee shop, which she described as "scrumptious."

Embracing Coastal Life in Puerto Escondido

Upon arriving in Puerto Escondido, the host was immediately struck by the natural beauty of the area. She describes the ocean view from their apartment as "magnificent" and "phenomenal," emphasizing her sense of privilege in being able to witness such scenery. The city is defined by its lush vegetation, with flowers hanging from trees and bushes everywhere. She also introduces listeners to the local "guijes," small lizards that create a unique, endearing sound throughout the city, adding to the charm of their month-long rental cabin.

Daily Routines and Mindfulness

The host provides an intimate look at her daily habits, which reflect a commitment to mindfulness and health. Her mornings typically involve a structured routine: brushing teeth, checking emails, and reviewing her "to-do list." A recurring theme in her narrative is her passion for smoothies, often blending spinach, peaches, and bananas, and her love for "avocado toast." She emphasizes the importance of movement, noting that she takes time to "inhale deeply and exhale all of the air" and stretch her back and legs before starting her workday.

Finding Beauty in the Smallest Things

Central to the host's philosophy is the idea that "it's so important to find the beauty in everything," even the "smallest things." This is evident in her daily pilgrimage to the beach, regardless of whether she feels tired, angry, or busy. She cherishes the "mixture of green and blue" found at the coast. Whether she is grabbing "frozen yogurt with grapes and strawberries" or enjoying "the best fish tacos," she finds contentment in these simple, grounded experiences.

Grocery Shopping and Practical Realities

The host also shares the more mundane aspects of her life, such as grocery shopping at "Chivrawi." She candidly admits that she gets "grumpy when I'm hungry," necessitating early trips to the store to keep her mood in check. Her shopping habits reveal a preference for fresh produce like avocados and a desire for sweet treats like cookies, while highlighting the reality of travel costs—noting that fruits like "peaches and grapes and kiwis" can be quite expensive. The trip to the store is also a sensory experience, specifically walking through the "detergent aisle to smell that amazing smell."

Through these personal anecdotes, the host not only practices the English language but also inspires her listeners to appreciate the slow, rhythmic beauty of daily life and the importance of finding joy in one's immediate surroundings.