The drive from Angangueo to Mexico City is about 120 miles and takes about 4 hours. I had 2 more days before meeting my friend, CY, in Mexico City, and I did not want to have to leave at oh-dark-thirty to meet her flight at noon.
I looked at places in between and chose Toluca, the capital city of the state of Mexico. My choice was made when I read about a place called the Cosmovitral, a converted Art nouveau market, now a botanical garden and stained glass exhibit.
As I arrived in Toluca, the streets were filled with people in futbol jersies and waving flags. When I arrived at my hotel I discovered that the Toluca futbol team was playing in the finals that night in Toluca! (Probably why it was hard to find a hotel room!)
I know little about futbol. I have never been a fan. For me, the game takes too long, the players all seem to be honing their acting skills, and I don’t understand the strategy.
But what the hell!?! I’m here, so I walked to the stadium to see the spectacle.
It was packed and crazy. I thought about getting a ticket, but… See above paragraph. However, these people were so invested I decided to find a bar in the evening where I could watch the game.
I went to Cosmovitral next. It was fantastic!!
I spent nearly an hour exploring, relaxing, and people watching. Entry fee? $15 pesos – less than a dollar!
In the evening I found a place with a TV and watched Toluca, a definite underdog, WIN after overtime and penalty kicks. I was biting my nails with everyone else.
The next day, my wanders in the city were curtailed by preparations for a fan appreciation parade with the team and festivities at the stadium. The excitement was contagious!
Toluca was a great stop. I stumbled across so much wonderfully random stuff. And I really enjoyed the futbol. ⚽ I might have to start following the Toluca team!
Wow, Kaddee. I love Cosmovitral. love getting your posts. Julie