A Russian Travel Blogger Says Mexico Reminds Him of Home — But Not in a Good Way

For Russian travel blogger Alexander, Mexico brings back memories of his homeland — and not necessarily the pleasant ones. In a recent post on his personal blog, the traveler described the country's streets as feeling “like you're in some Russian courtyard.”

What triggers that déjà vu? Stray dogs. According to Alexander, the sight of homeless dogs roaming city blocks is so common in Mexico that it barely registers. “Dogs on the street aren't an event. They're just part of the background,” he writes. “They lie in the shade. They cross the road. Sometimes they follow you for a few blocks. Sometimes they just watch you walk by. I remember this feeling from Russia.”

He notes that while the animals are rarely aggressive, their presence still points to a deeper issue. “The fact that animals live on the street is an indicator. It shows how the system works. It shows how well city and national authorities address problems,” Alexander explains.

The blogger is careful not to idealize either country. He acknowledges that both Russia and Mexico are making progress — through spay-and-neuter programs, shelters, and other initiatives. “If we're being honest, the problem still exists. And it's visible,” he says.

Alexander's observations follow another Russian traveler's recent remark about Mexico: “Surviving is already a celebration.” That tourist described the country as beautiful and generous with experiences — but also demanding and unpredictable.