Checking off goals in Guatemala

Crossing the border from Mexico to Guatemala with Oli the German surfer and Shaun the round-the-world-motorbike rider was hardly a breeze as so many people were trying to "help" or rather get something from us, but alas we crossed and made our way to a little village in the mountains where the locals were excited to see tourists coming for the night. The following day I jumped on a local bus and arrived at the very tranquil Lake Atitlan. Living expenses are low here which draws a lot of people for the purpose of language study. I found a nice guest house with a magnificent view and deck, perfect for passing lazy afternoons so, having completed my list of goals for the year, I decided to stick around and check a couple off the list; a Spanish class and volcano numero uno... Pictures below: Studies show if you write goals/ideas down on paper, you're more likely to complete them. I was proud to finally display my list in tangible form. Studying hard but not without a little break for some sunshine! The view from my deck, always beautiful.

Bienvenidos a Mexico!

After an introductory period to the Mexican culture and attitude in Baja, it was finally time to embark to the mainland. The "trucker" ferry had few people and mostly cargo carrying or receiving semi-trucks. After a 16-hour cruise across the Sea of Cortez, Mazatlan was a welcome site with all its authentically Mexican wonder. From there it was due south for beach, surf, cacti-based moonshine and more. Having little expectations of the Mexican landscape, I was pleasantly surprised and awed by it's lush green vegetation, long stretches of picturesque coastline and rocky headlands. The Mexican people are overwhelmingly friendly and pleased to help in any way. Camping is easy, food is cheap, waves are rolling, beer is cold and smiles are all around. There were some warnings about traveling through the state of Michocoan given its current state of civilian unrest, but the coast doesn't seem to be as involved and there weren't any problems driving there, at least during daylight hours. In fact, it was perhaps the most beautiful drive as it hugs the coast all the way through. Some of my favorite spots include: In Jalisco- El Tuito (southeast of Puerto Vallarta) a quaint town with artists and moonshine (Raicilla), Mayto for its secluded beach; In Michocoan- La Ticla for waves and tranquillo factor; In Oaxaca- Chacahua for big smiles and friendly folk (see Roy below, a charming fisherman on the "island"). And don't miss the mezcal in Oaxaca either...