I was exhausted as the van pulled up to my hotel in Mazatlan, Mexico. While the plane ride was shorter than many international flights from Los Angeles, I am discovering that all the airport sitting and preparing makes for a tired day of travel — especially when the day started a 6AM. Still I managed to keep an eye on the road and the surrounding buildings. Home Depot, Starbucks, and Taco Bell compete with Tacos Arnoldo and dozens of interesting roadside eateries and other businesses. I am reminded that places like Mazatlan grow and change and still manage to keep its essence as it’s clear from the crowd of people eating at Tacos Arnoldo.

Tomorrow, I will listen to the Secretary of Mexico Tourism discuss (with simultaneous English translation) what’s next for Mazatlan and the world of tourism. Expect a report on this meeting tomorrow evening.