#mexico gained independence from spain on september 27 so if it was ever going to be that that would be the day

[pennyserenade]

i love being mexican. i know i say that a lot but its because i really fucking love that i'm mexican

[aphspain-pure]

Spanish Gold in Moscow

@hetaliamondaychallenge September 28: “Chaos isn’t meant to be understood”. 

Category: Fanfic. 

Pair: RusSpa (Russia x Spain).

Words: 2.073.

Genre: Historical, Drama, angst, shounen-ai. 

Note(s): During the Spanish Civil War (1936-1939) the Sencond Spanish Republic was completely ignored by Europe, while the fascist that had rebealed were helped by some militar forces. Spain was basically used as a test game of the military armament and strategy before the 2WW. The only country that gave real help to the Republic was the USSR. To finance the war, the government spent all the Spanish gold. 

1938

With an absolute ill look in his face, Spain, who still liked to considerate himself as the Second Spanish Republic, moved his gaze to the door that opened a few seconds before.

Nations could perceive other nations in a certain rate, so he wasn’t really surprised when the other entered the room; he had sensed him from far away, knowing he was leading to his position. Weary eyes without the so-called typical Spanish shine looked at the other, a little smile crossing his feverish face.

- Buenos días, Rusia.

Right in front of him, heavy, enormous and clearly powerful, the actual leader of the giant Union of Soviet Socialist Republics, Russia, stared back at him with his famous sweet smile. Spain didn’t have known him till a pair of centuries ago, but he knew about this certain characteristic even before personally meeting him. He heard from France, England, Prussia, Austria and even Denmark about this “gentle look monster” that was so big and terrifying in the east.

Anyway, Spain didn’t have really hated this guy even once; he was actually grateful for his performance during the Napoleonic wars, though. If it wouldn’t have been for the Russian forces, France’s troops wouldn’t have retired from his vital territory and he wouldn’t have regained his independence. He sighed, trying to get rid of the thoughts of the past.

He was now, currently, going to lose his independence against his own people, in the middle of the worst civil war he had ever have –and Spain was certainly a country that had endured quite some civil wars-.

A strong ache tortured his mind while he suffered a new wave of deaths. Every time his people died, his body would burn and a painful sensation split him in two. They were dying at that very moment, out there, in the valley of the Ebro, killing each other in a battle that had been going on for months. He nearly cried, but couldn’t afford doing it in front of the power that was standing over there, staring at him with a complicated look in his eyes.

After a few moments, Russia, still smiling even if Spain’s looks were terrible, spoke with a calmed voice. – How are your wounds? –he had asked.

A quick smile was formed in the Spaniard’s mouth, quite ironic.

- Well, my right arm has grown up again, so I can’t complain.

Russia stared at the renewed arm, where a few days ago only a stump could have been appreciated. They, nations, received wounds just like humans but their bodies weren’t actually the same. If they were cut, they would recover; if they lost blood, after resting for a while they’d be up again; if they were burn till ashes, they would start to be reborn just like a Fenix. If they were killed, they wouldn’t die.

Only another nation could kill one.

Even if Spain had lately started to question if a nation could kill itself, just like how he was feeling during these days in which he thought he was actually going to be destroyed by his own people.

Russia’s hand reached him and touched his back. He jumped for a moment, sored. He then relaxed, looking far away and not giving attention to the hands that touched his still bleeding injuries. 

When a certain happening was so bad, so traumatic, that it gave the nations nearly-coma state, the injuries would still remain bleeding some time. Sometimes it lasted days, sometimes centuries. Those were produced by the bombing, the Biltz, in Guernica, and they still bleed after a year.

He trembled, just by remembering it. The hand in his back made him shiver in pain, but it was the most comforting thing he could afford to have those days, so he didn’t say anything.

Then, he gained composure and faced the other.  - What are you doin’ here, anyway? I thought you were going back at your place for some bureaucracy stuff.

Russia remained silent.

That silence made Spain worry.

He didn’t hate Russia at all. He was nice to him, and every time they had met he could only see a true innocence behind the brute and scary dude everyone saw. He liked him quite a bit, and he lately, during his few peaceful years with a Republic, found out that he was such an intelligent and interesting chat partner. Thanks to the leftist ideology of his government the relations with the Soviet Union had been pretty good, so they had become nearly friends at this point.

He even had became the only nation helping him in this suicidal situation.

During civil wars Spain, normally, stayed apart and watched his people decide his fate. He disliked choosing between his beloved people, so que stayed aside.

This time, he couldn’t.

He had seen what happened with Italy after the Great War. The fascism grow up and ate Ita-chan and Romano completely. The brutality that came with it made Spain shiver from his position in the neighbour peninsula. He didn’t recognise his cute Italian brothers with those black shirts and that dark look in their face. Then it expanded to Germany and developed into the National Socialism, which happened to be even worse. A virus was expanding all over Europe and even reached his brother, Portugal.

Spain could have seen it coming. He even spoke with a few general of the army and old requetés, he tried to create a flexible government just to evade the incoming clash. But it was all in vain.

The military coup happened, and while it wasn’t effective, war broke out.

It may be pathetic coming from a country that used to be a world power but, this time, Spain feared his people. That’s why he stayed with the republicans. That’s why he suddenly started dying from the insides.

And while Spain was in that desperate situation, Europe didn’t mind at all and, trying to avoid a Second World War, signed a No Intervention Pact in which 27 countries swore not to intervene in his civil war. That had broken Spain’s heart, who found himself suddenly isolated and left apart, left to die alone. It was even worse when, even if knowing it, the United Kingdom looked away while the Nazi Germany and Mussolini’s Italy broke that pact and helped the rebels. He couldn’t believe England’s coward attitude.

But it was kinda worst when he watched his closest friends actually attack him, help the fascist rebels.

First, the Italian brothers; then, Germany, Austria and Prussia under the name of the Third Reich. Portugal also attacked the Republic by sending his Viriatos and even the American self-proclaimed Hero’s Ford Company sent help to destroy him. All his old friends were against him. He, on the other hand, only received some fusils from Mexico and a few airplanes from a very scared France, who refused to send more help. The only one who lent him it’s power was the Soviet Union, or preferably Russia.

He still remembered when he had met Romano in the site of Toledo. Romano had been excited, he spoke about autarchy, about having a great colonial empire, and about things such as war being the way through the future. His golden eyes sparkled when he had, for the first time in centuries, hugged Spain.

If you join us I promise we’ll bring this to an end.  –he had whispered, while speaking about how great it was being a fascist country.

He had been then, suddenly, pulled apart by a giant body that happened to be his ally, Russia, who looked at Romano with electric violet cruel eyes. Spain could have said something to stop a conflict, but, when he looked at Roma, he couldn’t longer see his cute tomato-like crybaby. In the past Romano would have cried and call him to save him but, then, he held his gaze prideful, strong and dangerous in front of the terrible Russia.

A bombing had made them react and, when he came to himself, he was with the International Brigades heading to Madrid.

Remembering all of that made him feel sick and hided half of his face while looking at the floor with a tired smile.  

He suddenly had an urge to vomit, but he managed to stay calm and recover a moment later. – Sorry, I beg you excuse me. My house is total chaos now, no, wait… EUROPE is a total chaos now, haha…! I don’t understand how or why, but it makes me think things a way too much.

- Chaos isn’t meant to be understood.

That statement made Spain stay quiet and, then, he looked with his nearly dead green eyes at the other.

- I’m going to ask again, Russia. –he said, this time, cautious-. Why are you here?  

- You haven’t paid me to help you lately.

And if he had frozen before, this time Spain had lost all the blood of his veins.

He started sweating. He wanted to cry, but he couldn’t.

- Y-yeah, I-I know… It’s just that all the gold that I’ve been keeping in my reserves has been already taken to Moscow, so I-I…

Russia’s voice was sweet but cold as ice. – You’re not going to pay for my services.

The Spaniard’s eyes opened at his full.

- No! Don’t even think ‘bout that! I’ll pay, I swear it! It’s just that, right now, my people are starving, we don’t have armament and the industry it’s all stopped. I can’t now but, when we win, I’ll return what I owe! A-and I’ll even make it double…! I’ll work hard, I swear. But, now, with all my old gold gone, I…

- So you’re not paying.

The calmed voice made Spain feel like if he were to hyperventilate. He felt like crashing. Like glass about to break.

- I’m not. –he confirmed then.

The taller man stood up, and Spain followed him, clearly desperate.

- Y-you can’t leave me, Russia! If I don’t have your help I’m lost! –after hearing those words the Slavic turned around and faced him, with his so-typical smile in his face.

- So you’ll pay me?

The brunette looked away, clearly ashamed. – I have… nothing to pay you with. B-but I promise..!

- Нет. You can pay me. –response that took an ¿hah..? out of Spain. Russia laughed in a calmed way and then, explained. – Even if you don’t have anything you still possess your body, da?

And Spain’s eyes darkened.

Ah, true. Nation prostitution.

It had been a while.

It used to be so common in the past that he didn’t know why he felt so surprised when Russia suggested it. It may have been ‘cause Russia is fairly younger than himself, or ‘cause the times have changed. He had been so accustomed to it even when he was a child that it wasn’t so much of a surprise finding out that some new power wanted to take advantage of his position to appeal to this. Spain could easily remember when he was forced to be Rome’s or the Islamic Empire’s sex-boy, or even Turkey’s or France’s. Well, he had also been like that with some nations; but, well, let he who is without sin cast the first stone, and he was also a sinner after all.  

He looked back at Russia and sighed. – Is this old damaged body worth all the gold I could have had afford to pay you weeks before? –and Russia’s aura became surprisingly pink, just like a happy kid’s.

- And much more! I’m happy so I’ll help you.

And leaned forward to kiss Spain’s forehead. Spain rised an eyebrow, but let him be, anyway. He needed help and Russia was eager to help him only receiving some affectionate touches here and there in return. There were worst things he could have had to do.

Another wave of pain drove him crazy sored and let himself drown in the straw bed he had been using before. He took a deep breath. 

Then, when the fever started to be stable again, spoke directly to Russia.

- Well, then, how about a quickie? I have to go back to the battlefield in 30 minutes and I think I could come back quite worse than now, ha ha. –he had laughed, with his shiny –and now tiny- smile.

Russia smiled back, getting rid of his Soviet general military hat while getting closer to the sun-burned skinned nation. He sat, and grabbed the other’s cheeks with a gloved strong hand. That tranquil smile crossed his happy face.

- Let me tell you this is going to be a payment in instalments.

[wanderonwardsvanessa]

With nearly 22 million inhabitants, most first-timers are going to need a guide to Mexico City. Also known as ‘CDMX’ (Ciudad de México) there’s an undeniable heartbeat that you just have to experience for yourself! Did I mention there’s NO BAD FOOD in Mexico City? From the littlest street vendor, to some of the most incredible high-end restaurants, your soul and stomach will be thanking you for making it down south to Mexico.

In this guide to Mexico City, you’ll learn about:

Brief history of Mexican history & culture

Accommodation & Neighborhoods

Food & Tour Recommendations

Safety

FREE Google Maps Guide

As a 2nd generation Mexican-American, this was a particularly special experience for me because I got to explore my heritage on my own terms. So much of Mexican culture is diluted in North America to ‘make room’ for American culture, which is such a shame. I loved the vendors in the streets, the fresh-made corn tacos, and the general warmth and trusting nature of Mexicans in Mexico. I am determined to show you a side of Mexico that unfortunately never makes it to the headlines of FOX News. It’s time to display the true nature of Mexico for all to enjoy.

A Brief History

Mexico City has always been the cultural renaissance capital of Mexico, but it does have a dark past. 5 centuries ago, CDMX was actually a chain of lakes, filled with canals that people used for goods, food, and general transport. For centuries, Teotihuacan (now the Aztec ruins north of Mexico City) was the capital of an impressive Aztec empire that spanned across Central-American all the way to the borders of Guatemala.

When the Spaniards arrived in 1519, all of the native Mexican inhabitants were turned into second-class citizens after just two years (Lonely Planet, 2019). Then disease struck and the native population shrank dramatically from 1.5 million to just 100,000 in just 1 century. From this immense loss of life, Nueva Espana was born as the capital of the Spanish new world.

It wasn’t until September 27, 1821 that Mexico gained independence from Spain and then, present-day Mexico City was born. From then on, Mexico started to accumulate wealth and with it, a variety of issues with corrupt leaders/dictators along the way. However, like most countries with a complicated past, the people continued to thrive and create incredible traditions, culture and ways of making the most out of not much. Today, Mexico is a vibrant cultural and food hub. In fact, in 2010 UNESCO designated traditional Mexican cuisines as ‘cultural treasures’ and in my opinion, there is NO BAD FOOD in Mexico; at all.

For a more indepth experience dive into Mexican history, I would recommend that you do a ‘Free Walking Tour‘ through the Historic Center of Mexico to learn more.

Culture

Mexican culture is VIBRANT! This is expressed in the wonderful colors and delicious cuisine that covers the streets of CDMX. I wanted to include a few nuggets about Mexican culture stood out to me in particular in my guide to Mexico City.

Mexicans are always on the MOVE. Many people endure up to 2-hour commutes (one-way) every day so food and consumer culture reflects this. You’ll see multiple food stalls and businesses along the roadside or even in the middle of the road! Food is shaped and organized to be consumed whilst on the go and this is to make life easier for the average busy commuter.

Mexicans are so sociable. When the sun is out (like it is normally), all of the parks, main squares, and playgrounds are covered in people. They bring food, drinks, and are always willing to share. For that reason, loads of people bring trinkets to sell or services to provide and advertise them with booming voices. This is cheap and effective marketing in my opinion and I saw lots of business being done.

The hospitality is quick and efficient. Whenever we wanted anything (restaurant recommendations, Mexican candy, a car for the day, etc), it magically appeared in seconds. If it wasn’t quite what you expected, that’s okay because they have 3 other options! We were never troubling anyone; they were just taking pride in their job.

There’s no ‘scamming’ or bartering culture. Coming from China, I was ready to negotiate till the bitter end, but I never had to. Throughout the markets, I was constantly being given a fair price or the prices were clearly labeled for all to see. Even though my Spanish is nothing to write home about, I was still treated fairly by all vendors and I was honestly blown away. It’s way more relaxing to shop in the mercados this way versus in the Souks of Marrakech or the markets of Beijing, where I’m so used to negotiating.

Accommodation

There are a few popular neighborhoods to consider staying in when visiting CDMX. In this guide to Mexico City, I’ll give you a few options based on what type of experience you’re looking to have.

Historic Center – Touristy

If you want to be in the mix of it all, definitely stay in the Historic Center of CDMX. This will give you walkable access to the most famous historical buildings, significant plazas and parks, and you’ll be in the heart of the political scene. There are incredible local and upscale restaurants scattered along the streets of the Historic Center so you won’t need to learn during your time there if you really don’t want to. I’ve included loads of things that are in walking distance in my Google Maps guide to Mexico City.

I would recommend Hotel Punto MX during your time in the Historic Center. The location is absolutely unbeatable. We easily walked to every major historical point of interest and we felt quite safe the entire time. Nearby are incredible local restaurants with thousands of positive reviews so we never had a bad meal; not even once. The amenities are all brand new, with luxury accessories – such as an indoor jacuzzi 😉 – that made it such a relaxing place to call home whenever we returned from a long-day of sightseeing. The staff and customer service was unparalleled as they had wonderful and accommodating staff members that spoke multiple languages. Anything that we might have needed would be delivered to us after a few seconds, which was basically MAGIC.

Details:

3.5 Star Hotel

85£ – £100 ($110-130) per night

Restaurant, concierge, gym

Book Hotel Punto MX NOW!

Condesa – Trendy 

Condesa is where all of the cool kids are. With almond-milk lattes and vegan eateries, Condesa is where the rich and trendy go to live their best lives. It’s a quiet, affluent neighborhood with families walking their pedigree dogs and pushing their upscale prams. It doesn’t entirely feel like the ‘real’ Mexico City, but rather, a bit like SOHO in Manhattan.

If you plan to stay in trendy Condesa, I would actually recommend that you book an AirBnb whilst you’re in the neighborhood for the best experience. The houses are lush and often empty for long periods of time as many international families live here. Be sure to use my FREE £34 Airbnb credit when booking! 

Coyoacán – Cultural

Home to the Frida Kahlo Museum, Coyoacan is a hidden cultural gem amidst the noise. The little neighborhood is super colorful (great for Instagram!) and has a wide range of local culinary options that are INCREDIBLE, local, and affordable. This is where you get to see the REAL Mexico and all of it’s splendor with normal families, living normal lives. I’ve included the best local joints in my guide to Mexico City that can be found in Coyoacan.

We called H21 Boutique Hotel our home during our time in Coyoacan. The owner – Cristian – and his wonderful sister run the hotel together and their attention to detail and attentiveness is spectacular. We were able to bond immediately during our short stay with them and this is what’s so beautiful about boutique hotels. You can see exactly where your money is going and customer service tends to be unparallelled.

As for the amenities, this was the most carefully curated suite that I’ve ever had the pleasure of staying in. The interior design was breathtaking; with each detail a representation of Cristian’s personal style complemented with mementos from the surrounding neighborhood. Even the delightful Mexican candy that awaited us every afternoon was curated from a local shop down the road. These are the special details that I fall in love with every time I say in a boutique hotel.

Details:

3 Star Hotel

~£100 ($130) per night

Concierge, luxury amenities, personalized experience

Book H21 Boutique Hotel Now!

Food Tours

With Mexico being a UNESCO-recognized food hub, an organized food tour is your BEST BET to sample the street food safely and most efficiently. Bonus: you’ll be taken to multiple mercados (or markets) so you’ll be able to do some sightseeing along the way!

My Recommendation: Eat Like a Local MX

I cannot recommend Eat Like a Local MX enough!! It is a women-owned food tourism company that focuses on sustainability and creating social programs for the children in the mercados that you’ll visit. Honestly, I do a lot of traveling (duh) and this was the most incredible sustainable food tour that I’ve been on because of the variety of food, knowledge of local vendors and their family history, and the diversity of each food type. I ate just over 15 tacos during the 3 hour tour, along with multiple sweets, small appetizers, and local delicacies…. like bugs 😉

On a personal note, I enjoyed my time with Eat Like a Local MX immensely because our ethos are so similar. They focus deeply on paying their guides and vendors a fair wage whilst establishing a deep relationship with each person. We heard wonderful stories about the history of each vendor’s speciality, how younger generations have assumed the responsibility of the stalls, and how Eat Like a Local MX is sponsoring classes for the vendors and their children to learn English. By supporting Eat Like a Local MX, you are supporting these communities in a meaningful way.

Safety

Despite much of Mexico’s recent bad press, Mexico City has been able to largely distance itself from the drug war and the streets feel safe and welcoming. In any major city, you need to be careful with your personal items and to stay aware of your surroundings, but I’m happy to report that I actually felt way more safe on the streets of CDMX than in London. I think this was because everyone was so friendly on the street. We never had a single rude or aggressive person approach us.

3 Safety Tips:

Pickpockets are your ‘biggest concern’ in CDMX so I used a little lock on my backpack, which worked perfectly.

Take Uber everywhere in the city. It’s quite affordable and the safest/easiest way to get around.

If you’re going to tourist hubs outside of the city, have your hotel book a private cab that will wait around for you. We booked a cab for 6 hours to Tenochtitlan and it cost us about 1500 pesos or $80 USD.

Google Maps Guide

Mexico City, Mexico: A Guide to the Best Food, Neighborhoods, and Culture With nearly 22 million inhabitants, most first-timers are going to need a guide to Mexico City. Also known as 'CDMX' (Ciudad de México) there's an undeniable heartbeat that you just have to experience for yourself!