The Revenge of Montezuma - La venganza de Moctezuma

Hello everyone!

In just under a week spent in Mexico City, I have already unwittingly experienced the culinary pitfalls of the country. I didn't think much of it when, on Thursday of my first week, I went to the local market with a work colleague on his recommendation. The market was colorful and beautiful - and delicious. I was particularly recommended the fish stand - so I had a sort of fried fish with guacamole and a shrimp taco. Both were really tasty, but I ended up paying much more for the experience than just 60 pesos: 2 days later, I was flat in bed with severe headaches, body aches, fever, and chills. At least I could financially manage the doctor’s visit: the medical examination at the consultorio cost a whole 3 euros. Large pharmacies always have a doctor in a separate building next door that you can visit, in addition to selling medications. After describing my symptoms, the doctor asked me if I had eaten street food. I confirmed this. When the doctor further asked if I had eaten fish, I confirmed that too. The doctor almost smiled - we both realized what was probably responsible for my complaints (stupid fish taco).

At least: after taking the antibiotic, getting plenty of sleep, and drinking a lot, I am back on the road to recovery and feeling better again.

Just unfortunate with the food choice - or were higher powers involved? My roommate José said that in Mexican folklore, an illness due to bad food is also called the Revenge of Montezuma - Spanish: la venganza de Moctezuma. The expression goes back to the Aztec ruler Montezuma - or Moctezuma. He supposedly pronounced a curse when the Aztecs were conquered by the Spaniards, stating that all intruders in his land would feel his revenge.

And to this day, especially superstitious residents of Mexico attribute many stomach ailments to the curse.

Whether it's a curse or not - I'm glad I'm feeling better, and I can finally return to work at the embassy next week.
And the lesson is also learned: no more shrimp tacos for me ;-)

In that sense: Until next time-

Your David

P.S.: at least the food looked good