The Dark Rose's Traces

  This Christmas season has strongly evoked memories of my early childhood, especially after spending so many recent Christmases away from home. The holiday spirit of 2025 has been heavily influenced by a Stranger Things Season 5 vibe. In preparation for the "grand finale," my cousins and I stocked up on snacks and drinks. We got out our mixtapes, VHS cassettes, Walkmans, and Nintendo consoles, all while decked out in retro 80s gear. What began as a simple idea for an Instagram photo for Stranger Things fans evolved into a truly enjoyable process, particularly as we revisited cherished items from our childhood. I recall my childhood Christmases as superb. Growing up in Mexico, I had the unique experience of celebrating twice: Christmas Eve with my large Mexican father's family, and Christmas Day with my British mother's side. The atmosphere during these holidays was rather cheerful, filled with laughter, fun, delicious food, and incredible gifts. On Christmas Eve, bec...

Despite being stoned, we were still coherent enough to walk back to the hotel after finally leaving the party. We chose an unconventional route: the beach! Honestly, if I had been sober, I wouldn't have done it—especially now that I've seen firsthand how dangerous the beach can be at night in Mexico. The blood moon appeared brighter than ever, a breathtaking scene hovering above us. I stared, trying to absorb one last magical, weed-infused moment. That's the final memory I have of our walk back. After that, I only recall collapsing onto my bed and waking up with a pounding headache the following morning. Though my head screamed protests from the late-night escapade, I didn't let it put off my run on the beach. I saw Jorge completely passed out on his bed. I stepped onto the balcony in my running clothes, barefoot, and treated the beach and ocean like my own backyard—sand-kissed feet, I launched into a sprint. While Zipolite's beach isn't as long as Puerto Escond...

  The scene buzzed: a central bar, a DJ spinning an eclectic mix—reggae to oldies—to a lively crowd. He seemed utterly lost in his music, looking pretty baked and oblivious to us. Jorge and I navigated to the well-stocked bar, eager for beers. It even offered a snack bar, a welcome sight for any appetite. Beers in hand, we found our sandy spot, settling in to observe the vibrant crowd. They danced, drank, laughed, and embraced their own highs. A few swayed gently in hammocks, pictures of pure relaxation. It struck me then: it had been an eternity since I’d felt such profound calm. Glancing up, a red moon hung above us, an enigmatic alignment that felt strangely fortunate on my birthday. Being away for my 33rd birthday was, frankly, a welcome escape. Jorge, thoughtful as ever, planned this trip, letting me completely sidestep the annual family spectacle: the arguments, the overblown drama, the unpleasant faces, and the general chaos. Honestly, my best birthdays were always in childh...

Jorge had secured an exceptional hotel deal—a place that is likely quite expensive now, but was a steal back then. Our room was on the first floor and featured a balcony that opened directly onto the beach. The moment I stepped onto the balcony, I was captivated by the magnificent view: the ocean stretching out before us and the broad, golden sand. I distinctly remember the overwhelming sense of gratitude. Here I was, essentially backpacking along the Oaxaca coast and enjoying this incredible place and view for next to nothing. It made me realize how much wealth people would spend—endless money—to attain this very scene, and yet it was still bestowed upon me through grace. In comparison to Puerto Escondido, Zipolite is quite small but quaint—I love it! You cannot get lost in this place. Everything is so conveniently close. The food market, together with the most famous hotels and hostels, are all situated close to one another. It displays various gourmet cafés and restaurants, most of ...