In case of earthquake

Mexico City was built on the dried lake of Texcoco - some of the city's foundations are not over solid ground, but on a spongy wet mass which amplify the effects of seismic activity elsewhere.

Some are wondering if the city is due for a big shock - the last big earthquake was 25 years ago and left 10-thousand people dead.

A worrying sign is the banners installed recently by Civil Defense around the city, telling people to be prepared.

Day of the Dead

Out of all celebrations and fiestas in Mexico, the "Dia de los Muertos" is by far, the most original and creative.

For most westerners, death is no joke.

But in Mexico, the surreal country par excellence, the Grim Reaper is a cottage industry that employs hundreds of thousands in any number of jobs; from selling the "cempasúchil" - a local bright yellow flower, to selling the "pan de muerto" - a very sweet loaf that is only baked during the weeks before the 2nd of November.

And everywhere you turn, you will see colourful images, prints, ornaments, garlands and papier mache puppets of all shapes and sizes celebrating Death and the Macabre. Truly, a very photogenic, unique and bizarre celebration worth the airfare ticket to Mexico.