If you're looking for a Mexico adventure this year that combines all the modern conveniences of the big city and the beauty and charm of the villages in the Mexican countryside, then I have the perfect vacation plan for you!Located some 17 hours by bus from McAllen, Texas is the beautiful colonial capital ofthe state of Veracruz ...Xalapa. Appropriately known as the "city of flowers", this bustlingmetropolis of some 300,000 , is home to some of Mexico's  interesting Museums. Xalapaboasts its own symphony and ballet, exotic gardens and lakes and perhaps the most beautifulplaza in all  of Mexico -- Plaza Juarez -- complete with an incredible view of snow-capped"Pico de Orizaba". Hop aboard a street car on wheels in downtown Xalapa and take a tour of this fascinating city. Xalapa combines its rich Spanish and Indian  cultures with many of the modern shoppingconviences of an American city. Shop in the old mercado downtown or visit Walmart, Costco, Sears, Home Depot or the new "Plaza Las Americas" which would rival any American mall in size and beauty. If its night life your after, Xalapa will most likely remind you of San Francisco with itsup and down streets and bevy of coffee houses...many of which feature Americanmusic ranging from Oldies to Folk and Blues.  Perhaps the best of these is Cafe Lindo, located downtown...just a block from the Capital building. Theres a great variety of Hotels ranging from the Hotel Acapulco about $13 per night to the Maria Victoria, about $70 per night. One of the great things about Xalapa is its proximity to a number of fascinating villages.One of these is the small town of Actopan located just one hour by bus from Xalapa. Actopan sits on a beautiful river of the same name that comes cascading out of a mountaincliff. The river located in an incredibly lush mountain valley offers some exciting rafting for both professional rafters and novices. Its waters are very shallow, cool andfast moving. Many restaurants line the riverside, the best of which, is the Catan. Thisestablishment, located in the city limits of Actopan, comes complete with a mini-zoofeaturing a huge alligator, peacocks, raccoons and more. The town has two hotels ranging in price from $10 to $25. If your looking for tranquility and beauty, spend a night in Actopan. Other places of interest near Xalapa include; Noalinco, known for its fine leather goods and Xico, home to a gorgeous waterfalls depicted in the movie "Romancingthe Stone." I guarantee your visit to Xalapa will be one of the most exciting and unforgettablevacations you'll ever have. --Tex Mexico