Page 47 - MDOS2_Final

MI CASA ES TU CASA

My host, Laura and her brother, Jose, were very warm and amiable. T ey
were not familiar with Malaysia but showed interest to know more about
Malaysia. Our f rst meeting went so well, so we decided to meet again. Laura
and Jose live on a ranch about three kilometres from the city and invited me
to stay there during the weekends. On my part, I invited them to attend
events organised by the Embassy.

T e f rst event they attended was the Malaysian National Day reception. I
was so happy to see the whole family present. I acknowledged them in my
speech and referred to them as my Mexican family. After that day, we grew
closer and I accepted their invitation to visit their ranch. It was my f rst visit
to a ranch, which I enjoyed very much. From then on, whenever there was
a long weekend, I would go to the ranch and experience ranch life while
enjoying delicious Mexican dishes.

For me, this is a unique and special experience – to have a Mexican foster
family. I felt blessed to have met them. Soon, I became the envy of my
colleagues who wished to have a foster family like me. Until today, I am still
in contact with Laura and Jose. T ey also came to Malaysia to attend my
son’s wedding.

Annual Trips Organised by the Ministry of Foreign Relations
Every year, the Ministry of Foreign Relations organises a trip for ambassadors
to visit a dif erent state. T e Ministry, together with the state, will host an
interesting programme for the ambassadors. During one of the trips, we f ew
in the president’s of cial jet, which was a special experience for me.

During these trips, we would be briefed on the state’s economic development
and opportunities and taken to touristic sites to enjoy cultural performances
and popular cuisine from that region. T e Ambassadors always look forward
to the annual trip. It was an excellent opportunity to see beautiful places and
a fun outing with colleagues away from Mexico City.

Trip to Guadalajara
In conjunction with a tourism conference, the Ministry of Tourism
organised a trip to Guadalajara. As part of the programme, we visited an
agave (pronounced as ‘agavey’) farm and a tequila factory. Upon arrival, we

45