Frequently Asked Questions:
Who is David Haun?
In a few weeks, I will celebrate 61 years. I am teaching myself foreign languages and enjoy physical activities. Three times a week, I bicycle 13 miles around Austin’s Town Lake. The other 3 days, I exercise with an hour of NIA's Whole Body Movement.
However, most of you know me and my reputation from 5 1/2 years on eBay, with my collection of Fine Crafts and my 100% Positive Feedbacks. But, I have another life: For the past 35 years, I have been the "David" in Steven*David Fine Jewelry and have participated in and collected Crafts from Art Festivals around the world: from Hawaii’s Crater Festival to the People’s Market in Frankfort, Germany; Or Sausalito’s Music Festival to Florida’s Coconut Grove Festival. I still collect Fine Crafts at these Festivals and continue my collection with fine Crafts in Mexico.
After visiting Mexico for the past 45 years, I currently make about five visits a year. Friends and collectors have asked me, “Take me with you.” And I thought, “Why not?” I visit markets, studios and meet Artists, and you and other collectors are welcome to join me. I want to share the enjoyment of meeting the local artists, eating in their homes or local restaurants, and experiencing the markets.
My goal is to offer you a safe and hassle free adventure into the Art of Oaxacan Crafts.
No tour will ever be canceled.
How do I get myself to Oaxaca?
Getting to Oaxaca is very easy; and, flying is the easiest. Continental flies from Houston, non-stop to Oaxaca, twice a day. Tickets are available for July, 2006.
American Airlines flies directly into Mexico City from several cities around the States. Several connecting flights easily connect to Oaxaca.
Mexico City’s airport is not difficult to maneuver.
It’s not really that big, and the walk to Mexican Airlines is short.
Everything is spotless and seems to be constantly cleaned, right under your feet. There are relaxing bars and several great restaurants.
English is spoken everywhere.
Will I need a US Passport?
Yes! For sure! Homeland Security, you know!
New or renewal, allow about 2 weeks for delivery.
Do I need to speak Spanish?
One suggestion is to go to the library for Language CD’s or Tapes.
Mexicans love to hear visitors speak their language, even if it’s poorly.
If you go 5%, they will meet you 95%. Simple greetings, like “Buenos dias!” or just an “Hola!” meaning “Hi!” will enamor you to the locals.
However, you don’t need to speak Spanish.
Do I need and how do I get Travel Insurance?
Yes, Travel Insurance, like any insurance, is very important. Many companies offer Trip Insurance. You will need one that offers Trip cancellation, interruption and delay, Emergency medical treatment or evacuation, Lost, stolen or damaged baggage or travel documents, and Luggage delay. Click above on INSURANCE for links and information.
How do I pay for The Art of Oaxacan Crafts Tour?
Deposit Payment is easy by using either a personal check or credit card. Instructions are in RESERVATIONS! We will gladly hold your reservation without fees for 7 days before deposit is requested. Final payment requested 8 weeks before start of tour.
Prices were quoted this year and may raise after Jan. 1, 2006. Prices may fluctuate until deposit locks in price. Payment of deposit now will ensure 2005 prices.
How in the heck do you get all your treasures home?
Flying just isn't what it used to be!
Carry two of the largest hard suitcases you can beg, borrow or eBay. Of course, these have weight limits and are to be checked at the airlines. Purse or handbag has weight limit, too, but can be large. Find a large brief case, because, at present, there is no weight limit on it.
Shipping services to United States are very easy to arrange. Galleries often provide shipping services. The Mexican Post Office offers MEX-POST to the US. This service is slightly expensive, but the boxes will arrive home in a few days, unopened and un-damaged. I have shipped boxes of the wooden alebrijes, which were light and easy to pack. The package arrived home before I did!
How many spaces do you have?
There will be a limited number of spaces, mostly limited by the size of the van. Preferred size is 6 to 10 collectors, but tour can be flexible. No tour will be canceled.
How do I dress?
The fashion police are not patrolling Oaxaca. Dress casual! And, in layers. Start with a good pair of comfortable, “broken in,” walking shoes. Expect occasional, light, evening showers, so bring a waterproof windbreaker or jacket. Afternoon sun will be bright, so carry a hat. Use sunblock. Take the chill out of the evening with your jacket. Shorts are not worn by many adults in Mexico, except at the beach.
Is there a Laundry?
Laundry is usually returned "same day." Bring less clothing, and plan at least one laundry. Use dirty laundry as padding for your collections.
Worry mostly about your shoes. Can you wear them all day?
Forget fashion and go for comfort. I wear Docker slacks and Polo shirts, both "wash and wear." You are on vacation and comfort is everything.
How do I exchange my dollars for pesos?
Money-Exchange Offices are numerous and set their rates about mid-morning. They offer better exchange rates for American dollars (cash) than the lower rated Traveler Checks. Some banks offer exchange services, too. Exchange rates vary between banks and a quick walk-around will find the best. ATM machines are everywhere and offer the BEST exchange rate anywhere. You should expect a transaction fee. Some USA banks have Mexican banks as affiliates and offer FREE ATM usage. Bank of America is affiliated with Mexico’s Serfin Bank, which saves transaction fee. Check your bank.
Notify all your debit/credit banks that you will be in Mexico.
Is there Internet service in Mexico?
There are dozens of “Internet Cafes” around Oaxaca, all with High Speed Internet access.
Cost is less than a US dollar an hour.
How can I call home?
Several easy methods: Phone Stores have rows of phone booths, where calls are completed in a quiet booth. Pay after call is complete!
Phone booths that use prepaid cards are on every corner.
Phone cards are sold everywhere in Mexico. US calls are easy.
I use a Sam’s Club, AT&T, PrePaid, Phone Card and offer a great rate to US. Other Phone cards work, but you must have Mexico’s 800 Access phone number, different from US 800-number.
I don't smoke, but my friend does. Will either of us be happy?
Nirvana is not part of the guarantee. Besides, happiness is in the mind of the beholder,
or something like that.
Our B&B requests no smoking inside your bedroom and dinning areas, Outside of most rooms are singing birds in cages, under flower draped, patio areas where smoking is permitted. In Mexico, like the US, smoking is not allowed on public transportation.
Bars allow smoking; stores don't. I noticed American brands for sale in stores.
What if I don’t want to “walk” on the Walking Tours?
Don’t worry! Cabs are available and are safe. However, you might enjoy an afternoon “siesta,” or nap, instead of more shopping. It’s your vacation and it's all optional!
What about an earthquake in Mexico?
What about an earthquake anywhere? According to Doug Copp, don't ever crawl under anything. Simply lay next to the bed or next to the couch! Never under the bed, nor under the couch! Copp's "TRIANGLE OF LIFE" tells why the safest space is not in a doorway, but NEXT to an object, and the thicker the better. Read his 10 Step Program for remaining alive through an earthquake in Mexico, or ANYWHERE.
