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Writer's picturePata de Perro MX

Letter from our founder

My creative coach has advised me a lot to write more about myself, what I do, my motivations, and my experiences as a guide, as a Mexican living outside of Mexico, reflecting on my past tours, on what I feel and make others feel, what I've learned in the past, what I’m learning now, and what I envision for the future. I don't know, it doesn't seem like a bad idea to me; it seems interesting and sparks my curiosity since I've never written formally or publicly, creatively. I can read, speak, and communicate well, but I lack experience in writing, and just like a child learns to walk, I'll take my steps and learn from falls until I get good at it. 


Welcome to my world of Pata de Perro, I'm Gabriel Talavera, an architect turning guide, and I'm thrilled to share my journey, passions, and the soul of my beloved city with you. 

My story begins in the vibrant streets of Mexico City, where I, a curious 'pata de perro,' roamed without a fixed agenda, creating stories, and enjoying spaces with every step. This term encapsulates the essence of my tours - a journey that's not just about places but about moments, connections, and cultural exploration.



Photo: Advertising of our first walking tour in 2012


Originally an architect, I found a new calling in unveiling the beauty and history of my city to others. Thus, Pata de Perro was born in the year 2012. Starting from scratch, one morning tired of my 9-5 job, I showed up outside a local bed and breakfast offering private tours. What began as a modest venture has now become a reflection of my personality and heart. As a person, I enjoy sharing my culture, what I love about the city, its streets, food, and events, and introducing its people and characters.  I like to treat my city with respect, to give it its due honor, to show it as it is, honest, rough on the edges, yet sweet and kind once you feel comfortable as if it were your home.


I’ve been asked many times why the tour company is called “Pata de Perro”, the term is used to describe someone who when traveling goes without a fixed route, creating stories, and having good conversations with the people who are part of that travel, trip, or experience journey. Like a good 'pata de perro,' I move around Mexico City with curiosity, confidence, openness, and grace. Guiding is not just a profession for me; it's a soul-nourishing experience. I like being a guide because I believe that when people travel, they can share these same values with strangers, and make us all more human and kind. Through shared values of exploration and adventure, we break down barriers, fostering empathy, respect, and open-mindedness, realizing that we can find interesting similarities regardless of our origins, beliefs, or ideological inclinations.


Over the years, Pata de Perro has become part of my identity. I've shared my favorite taco spots, wrestling matches, and Sunday market adventures with countless guests. These shared experiences have forged friendships, leaving me with a soul enriched by the diverse stories of those who have wandered alongside me. I have always enjoyed connecting with my guests (as I call my clients) and showing them what I am passionate about, and what I like, and enjoy about my city and culture. I have many fond memories with many people on my tours, taking them to my favorite taco spots, wrestling matches, and even the Sunday market for giant micheladas and quesadillas! I like connecting with my guests, introducing them to new people, teaching them things they will find interesting, and recommending other experiences for them to explore independently. I have made many friends this way and have found great satisfaction in doing so. 


As I share this snippet of my journey, I'm excited to announce that Pata de Perro will return in the summer of 2024 with a flourish of new guided walking tours and special multi-day experiences. The anticipation is palpable, and I can already visualize the vibrant tapestry of moments we'll create together.


Thanks for reading and see you soon!


- Gabriel 


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