Oaxacan Life: Part Two-- Mi Casa Bonita!

Mi calle, Rufino Tamayo...cobble-stoned, ancient....a dream, to be sure! This is the view looking south, toward the center of town--with the stone aqueduct--known as Los Arquitos, or "little arches"--on the right. Apparently, the aqueduct dates back to the 1700's and was used to supply the town's water all the way up until 1941. 


Looking north, toward the hills, and San Felipe de Agua, source of the water that supplies the town of Oaxaca. Mi casa is up a little ways on the right hand side. 

 

I really lucked out when it came to searching for an apartment to rent long-term. I was traipsing all over Oaxaca, responding to a Facebook marketplace page replete with rentals, when I just happened to stumble upon a crumpled "for rent" sign hanging from the gate of a residence I would pass frequently on my excursions (from my Airbnb) into the main part of el centro historico. My first reaction was amazement that ANYTHING would be vacant in this gorgeous--and most desirable--part of town. The next thought was, "It will surely be way too expensive for my budget." Then finally, "Oh, what the heck, it is at least worth checking out!" And so it was that I dialed the number posted and got connected with Lulu, the owner, who didn't speak a lick of English. In my halting Spanish, I did my best to inquire what, exactly, was available? Size, price? She proceeded to pass the phone to her lovely young son, Jose, who spoke impeccable English. He told me that it was a one bedroom and they were asking 8,000 pesos. "OK!" was my enthusiastic response. "I want to see it!" 

So the appointment was made for the next day... and it was instant love! Clearly Lulu put both heart and soul into her complex, which consists of 4 units: 2 one-bedroom apartments and 2 three-bedroom apartments. It was a one bedroom that was available. It was SO perfect! Nestled behind the other units, it was quiet and peaceful (a serious rarity in ANY city in Mexico!), tastefully and simply furnished, clean and inviting. After having looked at a dozen other places prior to this one, I knew I had found my new home!

I have now been here in "Lulu Land", as I call it, for one full month. I have slowly been acquiring some odds and ends to add to the decor, as well as items to enhance the kitchen's rather sparse supply of utensils and such. I like the uncluttered feel, the color scheme, the simplicity of everything here. I miss a few of my items stored back in the U.S.--mostly, my Vitamix and spices. (Everyone uses Osterizers here---utter crap compared to a Vitamix! And spices...very limited, unfortunately.)  But overall I am settled, content and grateful. 

Oh, and as for that 8000 peso rental amount? Sounds like a lot, doesn't it? It actually IS---by Oaxacan standards--for an apartment. (I have one friend paying 5,000, and another, only 3,000!) However, considering the size and location, it is a fair deal, to be sure. Especially when you consider that, by U.S. standards, it is the bargain of a century: about $430 U.S.! What's more, electric, gas and water are all included... yes indeed, I am truly fortunate!  



After entering the solid gate that keeps the complex secure from the street, one sees the two large units in the front. Colorful and well-maintained, the style is quite classically Mexican--love it!!! 


Even the steps leading up to my humble one bedroom unit are pretty!


My living room...cozy and comfy! 


My favorite Mexican art: bark paintings! And my latest acquisition for my living room. 


The kitchen is small, but I make it work. How do you like the colorful assortment of tiles over the stove top?! 


The colorful, mounted poster advertising a past "Fiesta de Los Muertes" was quite a find: 100 pesos, waiting for me at a small "bazaar" my neighbors were hosting! 


My sweet little dining area, doubling as my "office" where I teach English online. Admittedly, not much of a view out my window! I frequently eat my meals on the terrace instead. 

My lovely little bedroom with my VERY comfy bed! 


I can catch bits of afternoon sun on my small balcony--cooler than the bright--and quite warm--terrace above. 


La terraza: enough space for a small party... someday! 

Best part of la terraza: A 360 view of the city and hills, and absolutely perfect place to sip coffee and enjoy the show in the sky! Never-ending are the magnificent cloud formations and gorgeous sunsets! 
















Next post: Dealing with yet more dentistry-- a GOOD experience overall! 

Comments

  1. JeanneFebruary 13, 2021 at 10:00 PM

    I love your place Sheri! Totally worth the 8000 pesos with all the amenities and your art on the walls is so cool. Glad you stumbled upon Lu-Lu land :-)

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Sheri G. (AKA Supriya)May 12, 2021 at 1:41 PM

      Thanks Jeanne! It was an amazing find, and truly is "home sweet home"!

      Delete

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