Monday, November 20, 2006

Water, water, everywhere but not a drop to drink


So, I'm guessing you already know not to drink the water here in Patzcuaro. Why? Well, there's lots of different theories, includng but not limited to:

1) Tap water in Patzcuaro, like tap water in other parts of Mexico, is home to many and various single-celled organisms, which, as a group, are generally considered to be parasites. Although some locals have built up a tolerance to these parasites, visitors often experience 'Montezuma's Revenge' - which can include Diarrhea, Stomach cramping, Nausea, Light-headedness and/or Fever.

2) Tap water in Patzcuaro is contaminated with sewage water because the pipes run very close together and can mingle or there are damaged and ick just gets in via the soil. Montezuma's Revenge or other ill effects result.

3) Tap water in Patzcuaro just doesn't task good. It probably won't kill you, but it may taste like chlorine or metals (from the old pipes).

I'm not sure what the right answer is, but I'm willing to pay $17 pesos a liter to have purified, tasty water delivered to my door every few days.

There are two major water companies that deliver water in a large jug (called a "garrafon") a few times a week to your door and are also available for special deliveries:

Agua Ciel - a Coca-Cola product -

Agua Santorini - 01-800-2373-734

Wednesday, November 1, 2006