Mexico City is so massive that it’s entirely possible to go years without (re)visiting certain parts of it.

That was exactly my case with Tlalpan—a neighborhood full of history and small-town charm, located in the southern part of the city.

I first got to know it years ago, when I had just moved to this sprawling capital. Since then, I hadn’t had the chance to walk around its center again, so this was the perfect excuse to load up one of those delicious rolls of Agfa Vista 200 I scored on eBay—dated 2008.

The seller had a good reputation and said the film had been refrigerated all this time, so I loaded it into my beloved Leica IIIF and, after a twenty-minute Uber ride, I arrived in the heart of Tlalpan.

The first thing that greets you is a small plaza, where a lovely kiosk acts as the main attraction. People gather around it to chat or simply relax.

One charming thing about Tlalpan’s center is that its main attractions are just off to the sides.

One of them is the “Fressac” House-Studio, a sort of old mansion now converted into a cultural space.

Another is the Parroquia de San Agustín, which features a medium garden and several areas you can walk through and explore.

Tlalpan is a magical neighborhood—it feels like a small town trapped inside a metropolis. The architecture, street markets, and traditional food make it a great spot for anyone looking to experience a more authentic, less touristy slice of the city.

I didn’t explore beyond the very center—as it was one of those legendary hot days—but I hope this little taste gave you a sense of this corner of the world.

📷 Tech Specs

  • Camera: Leica IIIF
  • Lens: Canon ƒ/1.8 LTM
  • Film: Agfa Vista 200 (expired 2008, shot at ISO 160)
  • Developed by: Foto Hércules, Mexico City
  • Scan: Home scan with Plustek 8100

🎞️ About Agfa Vista 200

Maybe I’m going blind. Or maybe shooting mostly black and white has dulled my sensitivity to color.

Honestly, I don’t see a big difference between Agfa Vista 200 and, say, Fuji 200 or 400.

I’m starting to think most consumer-grade films are pretty similar—aside from obvious standouts like Kodak Gold, which has that unmistakably warm tone.

That said, I liked the Agfa. The tones were pleasant, and I wouldn’t mind having it in my regular lineup. But it’s yet another film that’s no longer being made. And with Fuji still around, I won’t be missing it much.

It did its job—photos came out great—but I don’t think it’s worth going through the trouble and cost of importing more from Europe.

One thing that I definitely liked was the 24+3 exposures. Sometimes, feels like 36 can be too much.

🤩 Bonus: The Favorites

The funny thing about this photowalk is that I got my favorite pics while walking around the center and had nothing to do with Tlalpan itself.

Who doesn’t love…

  • bicycles posing in a perfect and cozy location?
  • old cars with plenty of style?
  • red motorcycles?
  • shots from bridges?

As usual, thanks for reading, from your Mexican friend, Rick.