Happy Bastille Day!

I know this is supposed to come early in the story, but I just might be able to help someone out here (this could be for you, Esmé). San Miguel is very casual. I actually did a pretty darn good job of packing for this month-long trip. But that’s almost the same as packing for 2 weeks, I think. In a nutshell, bring one or two of everything. It’s warm in the daytime and can get quite cool some nights. We went through a heavy rainy cold period for about five days. So having a second pair of long pants that were drying out while I wore the other was greatly appreciated.

 

Underwear, whatever you need, but in my case I need armor (read bra) which I usually neglect in favor of little camisoles, but in this culture, out of respect, I don’t think you want to reveal too much.

2 capri length pants, one dressy, one utilitarian, both neutral colors (black or khaki)

1 long micro fiber pants like Chicos which wad into a ball and still look great

one dancing skirt

one pair cotton knit gaucho pants (unnecessary, but nice for a change)

5 or 6 solid color T-shirts (some of them dressy)

2 pair dancing shoes (I should have settled on one, either the dance sneakers or the heels)

2 pair short socks; 1 pair regular athletic socks

sandal/shoes, the hi-tech waterproof variety that are good for wading thru flooded streets

step-in sandals for at home (you know, to use as slippers)

rain poncho (mine is only rain resistant; rain-proof would be much better)

silk or very light weight sweat pants for lounging

Lotions and cosmetics and toiletries – sample-sized like Clinique gives away

Sunblock; visor or hat; shades. All are essential.

Swimming suit if you plan to swim (and there are pools here). And a swim cap which is required.

 

Be sure to bring a back pack for day or overnight trips.

And all-important is what you wear on the plane down:

Jeans, long sleeve t-shirt, light indoor jacket, outdoor leather jacket, athletic socks and sneakers.

 

I also brought books and my iPod; be sure to leave room in your suitcase for purchases made in Mexico. Don’t bother bringing an umbrella, you can buy a cheap one here of the need arises. It’s supposed to rain only an hour each day in the rainy season (now), as it did today and most days. I think that pretty much covers it. We have use of the washing machine here and the clothesline.

 

If you’re going to check luggage under the plane, be sure you bring a carry-on bag that will supply your family for a couple days, in case the bags are delayed or, god forbid, lost. International travels have gotten more restrictive and this time my laptop counted as my carry on. Oh yeah, I brought my laptop and my current writing project. Haven’t glanced at that project.