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Mexico and Costa Rica
  • Vicki Hunter
Oct – Nov 2023

Mexico and Costa Rica

Food, sun, and Cenotes Read more
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  • Trip start
    October 5, 2023
    Vicki HunterMexico and Costa RicaTraveler
    Our first Mexican food. But BEWARE of the red chilli sauce
    Our room

    Mexico here we come

    October 5, 2023 in Mexico ⋅ ⛅ 33 °C

    Thur 5th Oct: After a very long tiring flight - 4 hrs to Toronto, then 4 hrs wait, then 4 hrs to Cancun, we arrived to a very warm and sticky 31°C - I think time to stick all the jackets in the bottom of the bag. Went and picked up our little Nissan March rental car, where they tried to sell us about US$500 more insurance. First time we have booked a car through a third party, Discover Cars, and we paid for insurance with them. But apparently if we have an accident we have to pay it then claim back from Discover Car. The rental places rather you had insurance directly with them. We decided not to pay extra, therefore had to do a US$8000 deposit on Doug's credit card as it was in his name, however his credit card is no longer valid as TSB has just switched from Visa to Mastercard. We tried using my card but when he realized it wasn't Doug's said no, so we put some money on our joint BNZ credit card as the limit on it was only NZ$8000 and Doug used his card. After all that fluffing around they used my BNZ credit card, which he had already done the transaction on after all. Anyway we got our car and was soon on the highway for 1.5 hrs drive south to Tullum. The accommodation I had booked back in July got canceled last week so I had to find somewhere else, and we were certainly pleased with Bufo Alvarius. A little tropical paradise just of the main road heading down to the beach. A simple room, but has the all important air conditioning, and at NZ$27/night wonderful value compared to USA, Canada and Chile. It was about 4.30pm and we were both pretty jaded - brought back memories of those post night shift feel. We really knew it was best not to sleep now, but the bed was right there calling our names. Ended up having only a quick 20 minute rest, which was good. Decided to go for a walk down to the beach, about 2 kms away. About 2 kms the road continued to the right, with a smaller side road to the left. We went right, however it was all fenced off with resorts etc and after walking another 1.2 kms without finding access to the beach and now being dark we returned back to Bufo Alvarius, stopping at their little restaurant for our first Mexican dinner - tacos. Yum, however Doug learnt the hard way, don't dip the corn chip in the chilli sauce 🔥🔥🔥. After dinner it was a quick dip in the pool, then a shower before happily retiring to slumber land.

    Fri 6th Oct: Enjoyed our well needed sleep until 9.30, then got up and went in search of a Scotiabank to withdraw some Mexican Pesos. It wasn't to far away (~1.5 kms), but they couldn't connect to my bank so have to try again later. Then to a supermarket to get breakfast and lunch supplies. Since it was after midday when we got back to our accomodation we didn't bother with breakfast and just had lunch. Afterwards we had another attempt at getting to the beach, only to get all the way down there in the scorching heat to find you have to pay MX$58 as it is a National Park, and since we were playing it safe by not taking wallet or anything with us we just had to turn around and walk the 2 kms back. So instead we had a relax by the pool and ended up talking to an expat NZer from Timaru who has lived here for the past 2 years for most of the afternoon. The accommodation is based at a Healing Sanctuary, which does detox treatments etc using the poisonous venom from a frog from the Amazon, and a toad that only emerges from underground 2 months of the year. It was interesting hearing about what they do, but at NZ$500 we won't be partaking. In the evening we went back to Scotiabank to try withdrawal some money, and was success this time. We then wandered down the main street, which was a mixture of mainly tourist market type shops and bars and restaurants. It was after 9 pm with the tummies rumbling that we finally stopped at a street food vendor and had a "mexican pork sandwich" for dinner. It was then back to our room for showers and bed.    Read more

  • Vicki HunterMexico and Costa RicaTraveler
    View of the coastline from the Ruins
    Waiting out the downpourThe Tulum RuinsA wet soggy start to viewing the ruinsNeat palms and trees on this little track at the ruinsYucatan Squirrel- no where as cute as the ones in CanadaTropical MockingbirdBlack Spiny-tailed IguanaA Speckled Racer SnakeSnorkeling tripDoug SnorkelingOne of three Stingrays swimming aroundSome of the reefParadise BeachOops I think someone forgot to shift this boatDoug swears he was just trying to photograph me in the water - Tui anyone?

    Exploring Tulum

    October 7, 2023 in Mexico ⋅ ⛅ 31 °C

    Sat 7th Oct: Well it wouldn't be a tropical paradise without tropical rain, and that is what greeted as when the alarm went off at 7 am. We were going to the Tulum Mayan Ruins this morning, and wanted an early start to beat the heat and crowds. They were only 2.2 kms away so we decided to walk even though it was very wet. Once we got to the entrance we did take shelter for 10 or so minutes waiting for another big downpour to pass. We then found out that you have to go to the ticket booth at the entrance and pay the National Park fee of 58 pesos (~NZ $5.80), once you have the wristband you can pass the guards and walk 500 m down the road, where you can go right towards the beach, or left where you pay another entry fee of MX$90 to visit the ruins. Once we got that sussed, we then wandered around the ruins for about 15 minutes before the rain stopped. I think we enjoyed finally seeing the beautiful coastline and animals such as the Yucatan Squirrel and iguanas more than the ruins, maybe we should had got a guide to give us a better understanding of them. Once we had seen them all - wasn't a very big site, but pleased we went early because it was certainly getting busy, we headed for the beach. It really was what you would expect from a carribbean beach, blue clear water, white sand, we just weren't expecting the water to be as warm as it was - apparently 30.5°C at the moment. As we were walking along the beach back towards town, we were approached to see if we wanted to do a snorkeling trip out to the reef, about 1 km from the shoreline. We just keep saying no thanks until I thought we should at least find out abit more, so as we went to go pass a boat getting loaded with some guests we found out it was MX$250 for about 1 hour, and good chance of seeing stingrays and turtles. We thought what the heck let's do it, so we joined the 4 others on the boat. After a short ride we first stopped below the Ruins for a photo, then out at the reef where we immediately saw 3 rays swimming around the boat. With mask and snorkel on, in we went. Wasn't alot of reef or fish, but we did see a turtle, who at times swam so close to us, unfortunately Fiona's old waterproof camera that she gave me wasn't so waterproof and had stopped working at this stage. Back at the beach we continued walking towards town, until Playa Paraiso or Paradise Beach where we stopped under a palm tree and each took a turn at having a swim. Soon after here, the sandy beach turned into a rocky shoreline so we headed up to the road to continue our walk back to our hotel, passing a snake on the way, which Doug tried to shoo off the road before it got ran over by the approaching truck. Once back it was immediately into the pool to rinse of the salt. Then to the supermarket to get some bread for lunch and we slipped in a pre-mix Pina Colada as the cocktails in the bars and restaurants are so expensive, about NZ$15 - 20 each. Our 1 litre costed $9. After lunch and with the sky still overcasted, but the bugs biting in full force we retired to our a/c room - Doug for a siesta and me to type up this. Headed back to the main street where we found a street vendor last night selling 7 tacos for $5, the vendor next to him was 5 tacos for $5, his queue waiting was alot smaller but 2 extra tacos is worth the wait.Read more

  • Vicki HunterMexico and Costa RicaTraveler
    Cenote Azul
    Fish spaBeautiful palms surround Cenote AzulThe water was just so clearContemplating the 3.5 m jumpThe greenery around Cenote Azul gave it such a serene feelBlack spiny iguanaBasiliskA juvenile Yucatan Jay. The white is moulting and will turn black and beak with change to blackCenote Taak Bi Ha

    Tulum Cenotes

    October 8, 2023 in Mexico ⋅ ☁️ 27 °C

    Sun 8 Oct: Today's experince is the main reason we came to Mexico and especially the Yucatan Peninsula - cenotes. Cenotes are natural swimming holes formed when limestone collapses revealing a hidden pool of water. There are over 6000 cenotes on the Yucatan Peninsula, and about 200 around Tulum ranging in entrance price of about NZ $3 to $80. So the hardest part is trying to decide which ones to go to. After reading through blogs etc we choose to visit Cenote Azul (45 mins north) and Taak Bi Ha (30 mins north) today. Again we got up at 7 am to try and avoid the crowds, so we reached Azul about 8.30 am and were the first ones there. We were initially keen on doing closed in or cave type Cenotes, and Azul is an open cenote surrounded by beautiful jungle, and I'm so pleased we decided to still do it. It was gorgeous - crystal clear water and the setting was just so serene especially before the crowds came. Also enjoyed seeing the birds and lizards in the jungle. Doug had a sighting of some strange animal, and got a bit of a unclear video of it, we think it was a Central American Agouti. I started to take some photos with my camera, when one of the workers motioned that wasn't allowed. I was a bit perplexed, as there were no signs saying no photos, but he obviously had no English so I wasn't able to get an explanation - just waited for him to go and was a bit more discreet until people started arriving and all were busy taking photos with their cellphones, so I thought it mustn't have been a rule. However when we stopped at the entry to Cenote Dos Ojos probably the most well known cenote, on the way to Taak Bi Ha there was a sign saying if you want to take camera in you have to pay MX$300 pesos (NZ$30) as it is "professional equipment", so that probably explains why at Azul he didn't like me using the camera, I will just have to get with the times and just use a cellphone or I will be classed as a professional photographer 🤔. Anyway back to Azul, we had a wonderful 3.5 hrs swimming, water was a lovely refreshing temperature (about 24°C), snorkeling - quite amazed at the number and size of the fish in it, getting nibbled by the fish feeding of our dead skin, jumping of the 3.5 m bank, enjoying the sun, and watching the crowds especially those getting the courage to do the jump in. Our first Cenote experience and it more than lived up to our expectations. So we left just after midday for Cenote Taak Bi Ha. You have to drive down the side road which leads to the very popular Dos Ojos, but they have a barrier at the start of the road, making you go into the information and ticket area, which also makes you think that Dos Ojos is the only option, but at 400 pesos for 2 of the ponds or 800 pesos to also have a guided trip into the "bat cave", and also having to wear life jackets all the time we were not that keen. So Doug went back in asking about Taak Bi Ha, and was told yes that was ran by a Mayan Community and you accessed it down the same road. So we headed there and again was so pleased with our choice. Still not cheap at 350 pesos each or NZ$35 but it was so wow and so totally different to anything we have done before. It's small entrance just below the ground surface leads to a staircase down in to the most incredible limestone cave, complete with stalactites, hanging vines and bat's and the most incredible clear water. We thought Azul was clear until we saw this. It really was just wow wow wow. Spent a couple of hours there, and as we were getting ready to leave, they were bringing a whole lot of gear down and setting it up for a wedding ceremony, which would be just amazing. Got back to Tulum about 4.30 pm, certainly clean after all our swimming but also hungry as we hadn't had lunch, so decided to go to the supermarket to get a baguette to have an early dinner. Also brought a waterproof pouch for Doug's cellphone so we can use that in future for some water shots. Great day, and a busy night sorting the over 500 photos.Read more

  • Vicki HunterMexico and Costa RicaTraveler
    1A bit of fun on the steps of one of the ruins
    Coba RuinsPre covid you use to be able to climb this PyramidTrees once again trying to take over the ruinsDoesn't take long for large puddles to form. It was completely dry when we went in for lunchNacho lunch

    Coba

    October 9, 2023 in Mexico ⋅ ☁️ 33 °C

    Mon 9 Oct: What a thunderstorm we had last night, probably the loudest thunder we have ever heard, although didn't see much lightning. It was tempting to stay at Tulum but we really need to carry on exploring more of the Yucatan Peninsula, so we were up at 7 am, to leave for Coba, and another Mayan Ruin. This was quite a big site, at one stage, around 400 - 600 AD the city had over 50,000 inhabitants, and it was abandoned around 1550 when the Spanish conquered the area. Since then the jungle has taken over most, with only pockets of ruins unearthed, so there was quite a lot of walking between ruin sites, most people seem to hire bikes to explore or even "taxi bikes" which were bikes with a seating area in front for 2 people. There were a few information signs at some of the ruins, but didn't really explain much, I suppose they want you to pay for a guide, which again we didn't, and so found it a bit hard to understand what we were seeing. We were done after a few hours of wandering around. We were keen to then head to one of the 3 cenotes 5 kms down the road, however we were low on pesos, as I didn't budget on the parking fee. We tried to find somewhere in the small town that would change some USA dollars, but the only place we found didn't have a very good rate. So we decided to have some lunch instead as we saw a restaurant advertising nachos. Nachos is Doug's signature dish back home so we were keen to compare to authentic Mexican Nachos but we have not found them until now. There was the choice of nachos with chicken or pork. I got chicken, and Doug went pork. They were certainly different to our nachos but still a very tasty experience. When we arrived at the restaurant we choose an outside table under the veranda, a few minutes later it started to rain, so we moved to a table inside by the open doorway. The rain became quite torrential, and we had to move further inside. We were so pleased with our timing of finishing the ruins and being dry inside a restaurant while the rain passed. It was sunny again as we were leaving and went back to the car which was sitting in quite a stream. Still keen on doing the cenote, we changed US$20, and headed to Cenote Multum Ha, only to be told that they were closed as they had no electricity, therefore no lights in the cave. We stopped at the entrance to the other two cenotes, but one was very shallow so not great for swimming, and the other was a very deep one which most people go just to do diving off the 5 or 10 m diving boards, which we weren't keen on so decided to give it a miss and carry on our way to Valladolid where we had accomodation booked for the next 3 nights. After arriving at Casa Chi, we found out we were now in a different time zone so it was now 2 pm and not 3 pm. We were both pretty tired and hot so ended up having a few hours siesta. With it a bit cooler in the evening we went for a walk to a supermarket to get breakfast supplies. It was a large but crammed supermarket that sold everything from motorbikes, washing machines etc, along with the groceries, but the aisles were barely wide enough to get a trolley down (found out the next day it was a Mexican Walmart). After choosing our few items we headed to the checkouts, only to get greeted with mega long queues we decided it wasn't worth it so put all the items back, and we would just get milk at the smaller shop we passed on the way. There wasn't many options for dinner, but there was a little place which seemed very popular with the locals so we thought we would try it. They had 9 choices, which we only knew of empanadas and sopa (soup). They just served a guy his meal which looked good and found out were Salbutes - a puffed deep fried tortilla that is topped with lettuce, sliced avocado, pulled chicken or turkey, tomato and pickled red onion. So we ordered one of those and an empanada each. Both were very delicious. Headed back to our room and that was us done for the day.Read more

  • Vicki HunterMexico and Costa RicaTraveler
    Cenote Secreto MayaOur Valladolid accommodationDraco, dog at the accommodationSome of the Mexican food we have had at ValladolidLunch

    Valladolid

    October 10, 2023 in Mexico ⋅ 🌙 27 °C

    Tue 10 Oct: After a good night sleep and no alarm this morning, we had a leisurely start to the day. First we headed to the center of town, about a 2 km walk. We went into a tourist shop, and had a sample of tequila. It was very nice and smooth, no burning which normally get from a straight spirit. However, even with getting a special deal, a 250 ml bottle originally MX $1300 (NZ$130) down to MX$800, it was beyond our budget. Checked out the Cathedral and then went to find the nearby Cenote Zaci. Eventually found it but as I had read in one blog, it is now closed apparently for renovation, so no cooling off before our walk home. We stop at the large supermarket which we now know is Walmart and got a few groceries only to find the checkout lines were still mega and we estimated would take us an hour to get through. We were just contemplating putting the items back when a lovely lady behind us told us about the rapid checkout, but they couldn't do the fruit because it needed weighing - easy choice to make, we ditched the plums. With that done, we were going to stop at our little local restaurant for lunch to try some of the other dishes, but it was closed, so after putting our groceries away we went back to try another restaurant we saw. I got the quesadilla, and Doug a pork chop. Again both very happy with our dishes. After lunch we drove 40 kms to Cenote Secreto Maya, a open top cenote, surrounded by jungle and hanging vines, with deep blue water. Different to the other two we have done, it only had a few other people in it, and for most of the time we had it to ourselves. I spent alot of time diving in while Doug sussed out using his phone now in its waterproof case to take photos and video. After 2 hours, it was the first time we both felt a bit chilly in Mexico. Driving back to Valladolid, the sun was setting at 5.30pm, such a short day, miss those long days of Alaska, but I suppose it is slightly cooler with the sun down which is good. Did get back to our little local restaurant to try Panucho, Chalupa and Sope tonight. And for dessert when we got back a sweetbread called Ojos de Buey, that we had brought at the supermarket, which were very yummy indeed.Read more

  • Vicki HunterMexico and Costa RicaTraveler
    Just about every small town on the way had exactly the same looking churchIzamal ConventStreet scene from the ConventBack side of the ConventHorses waiting to take tourist around IzamalThink we have arrived in IzamalThe bottom of the PyramidView on top of Pyramid overlooking ConventPyramid Kinich Kak Moo, and "where's wally" sitting on the stepCenote Chihuan

    Yellow city of Izamal

    October 11, 2023 in Mexico ⋅ ☀️ 36 °C

    Wed 11 Oct: The plan for coming to Valladolid, was so we could visit nearby Chichen-Itza, the best of the Mayan Ruin, and now called one of the modern day Seven Wonders of the World, however after not really getting a lot out of the other 2 sites we have visited, mainly due to the hot temperatures and lack of information and also the NZ$62 entry each we have hesitantly decided not to do it, instead today we are going for a 90 km drive west to the yellow city of Izamal. There are two theories why its yellow. Firstly to honor the Maya sun god, but also the city was repainted In 1993 for the visit from Pope John Paul II. Today from what we saw the majority are still yellow with just a few houses pink, blue and other bright colours bucking the trend. On the way there I thought there was going to be a Mexican stand-off between Doug and an impatient bus driver. The road was very narrow with high jungle right up to the road edge. We were following behind another car and the bus was driving impatiently behind us. Doug normally pulls over to let faster vehicles pass however there was no where to pull over, and when the bus tried to overtake where Doug felt there just wasn't enough width to safely do so, he moved more into the centre stopping the bus from doing so. Bus driver was not happy about this. Probably drove another 500 m before there was an area to pull off on the left. With us stopped there, the bus driver stopped on the road alongside and with both drivers making angry gestures I was worried what might come next, but luckily the bus soon carried on its merry way and so did we. Once at Izamal we had a wander around the Convent of San Antonio build in 1561. Afterwards we saw on goggle maps an archeological site nearby so went there but it was fenced off and gate closed. So next we walked to the botanical gardens that showed on the map, but it looked like just someone's backyard, so we just headed back to the car as we were suffering big time in the heat. A 3.6 km drive out to the monastery was also a waste of time, but did have success with the Pyramid Kinich Kak Moo, build sometime around 400 - 600 AD, we climbed up and had views of the surrounding area, and also a very welcome breeze. We were now well and truly ready to find a Cenote so headed to the small town of Holca and Cenote Chihuan. Firstly we had some pork tacos for lunch, but when we went to pay I had no wallet in my bag - bugger must have left it back at the accommodation. I had some USA money but no where in town to change it. Luckily Doug had his wise card, however without any Mexican Pesos on it, but great thing with Wise, it will just convert out of another currency account, and she had a temperamental visa machine that luckily for us decided to work today. But the biggest disappointment about having no wallet was no cash for a cenote. When we got back to the car, Doug handed me my little bag I've been using for my swimming gear, and said to check in there. There was a big smile when I found my wallet in there, yay we can go for a swim. The cenote was another cave one but with a very low roof which made if feel quite different and as always the water crystal clear and very refreshing. Certainly enjoyed our 2 hours there swimming and photographing, although the light always makes it a challenge to get decent photos. Left there at 5.15 pm and drove the 82 kms back to Valladolid. Two more items were ticked of our favorite little restaurant, both were extremely good, have really enjoyed the food here and for between NZ$6 - 8 a night great value.Read more

  • Vicki HunterMexico and Costa RicaTraveler
    Cenote Sac-Aua
    Couple of the catfishSunset from our room at San Felipe

    Cenote Sac-Aua

    October 12, 2023 in Mexico ⋅ ⛅ 30 °C

    Thur 12 Oct: Left Valladolid to head north 113 kms to the Gulf of Mexico and the small fishing village of San Felipe. First though did a slight detour to go to Cenote Sac-Aua. This was an open cenote that use to be a cave but the top felled in, resulting in an island in the middle. Which was quite cool swimming around the outside. Also had quite a few cat fishes in it. Included was a tour through a nearby cave. Once there was a underground passage that connected the cave and the cenote but not anymore. Lots of neat limestone shapes etc and even artifacts from 6000 years ago in the cave. The guide had no English but luckily there was a young Beligum couple with us, and she was able to translate most of what he said. We then went back down to the cenote for another swim before continuing on our way to San Felipe. About 18 kms from our destination Doug saw a lightning strike hit a metal gate, then about 3 kms later the rain came down, and continued coming down heavily until we got to our accomodation and then thankfully a few minutes later it stopped. Lovely room right on the waterfront with pelicans etc flying pass our window. Spent the rest of the afternoon chilling and sorting out photos for my reports. 5.45 pm had a lovely sunset over the water. Went for a wander around town looking for some dinner, finally having empanadas and Panuchos at a local loncheria (snack bar / diner)Read more

  • Vicki HunterMexico and Costa RicaTraveler
    Pink lake of Las Coloradas
    One of the "Pink Lakes" from the carparkThe blue spot is where we drove along the spitRosette Spoonbills in front of Flamingos, Pelicans and other birdsFlamingo, pelicans and coromants enjoying each other's companyGreat EgretLots of turkey vultures and frigate birds gliding aboveFlamingos, American White Pelicans, and CormorantsGreat blue heron1Doug was intrigued by this dead creature, which we found out was a Horseshoe CrabA rest by the lagoon on the sand spitWho could resist this water - not me!Our turn around spot, showing the lagoon and seaThree Black-necked stilts and Greater Yellowlegs behindLong-billed CurlewEastern Brown Pelican at Rio LagartosOur yummy Corvina fish mealThe boardwalk into the mangroves at duskLooking back at our brightly colored hotel in San Felipe

    Las Coloradas

    October 13, 2023 in Mexico ⋅ ⛅ 31 °C

    Fri 13 Oct: All the swimming and diving lately has taken there toll, and my ears are so sore, bugger. Will have to wait til we get somewhere bigger and hopefully can get some eardrops from the pharmacy. Today we headed 29 kms east to Las Coloradas, and the pink lakes. It was a fun drive for Doug, trying to avoid all the potholes. The pink lakes are actually man made salt ponds that have an algae in them causing the pink colour, and also flamingos that feed on the algae. Since Covid you can no longer just view them but have to take a 30 minute tour for $370 mxn (NZ$37). We decided it wasn't worth that, so snapped a photo from the carpark and continued on pass the town where we soon found us driving along a narrow sandspit with lagoons on one side and the gulf of Mexico on the other. It was a real lovely drive with tons of different birds to photograph including flamingos and pelicans. Although the road continued we decided eventually to turn around, but firstly went up the sandbank to check out the sea. It looked so gorgeous and inviting. I didn't want to swim because of my ears, but took my skirt of for a little wade, oh it was so nice . . . . Bra is wet now might as well go abit further but keep the head out of the water, beautiful . . . . Oh stuff the ears, under I went and throughly enjoyed it. Doug also enjoyed the plunged, not that it's difficult to plunge with the very warm sea temperature. On the way back again a lot of stops to photograph birds and iguanas. Heading back to San Felipe we first went to the bigger and more touristy town of Rio Lagartos. Had a walk along the waterfront, being continually asked if we wanted to do a flamingo tour, sorry already done our own. Couldn't find a reasonably price restaurant for lunch so continued on back to San Felipe. Our loncheria wasn't open so ended up going to a restaurant and having a delicious meal of the local fish, Corvina. Choose the garlic and coconut options - the only two we knew what they were, and both were very nice. Since it was about 3.30pm that was enough for our dinner also. Walked down the road from our hotel to the lookout at the end for the sunset, but wasn't as good tonight. There was a boardwalk leading into the mangroves from there, so walked that but it was to dark to see anything. Just spent rest of the evening in the hotel room watching the lightning out to sea, and still trying to decide whether we should go to Chichen-Itza.

    Sat 14th Oct: I had a bad night sleep, couldn't get comfortable with my sore ears, and definitely feeling a lot worse this morning. Doug suggested spending another night here and just resting but I really wanted to get some eardrops so ended up driving 4 hrs back to the east coast to Playa del Carmen, which is halfway between Cancun and Tulum. Got to our accomodation and I collapsed on the bed, while Doug went in search of some ear drops. He also found a pizza place and brought one home for dinner. Discovered I must have left my kobo, hidden by the bed coverings at San Felipe ☹️. Message back to the hotel confirmed they had found it, bugger an 8 hr return trip required to pick it up.    Read more

  • Vicki HunterMexico and Costa RicaTraveler
    Sunrise on Playa del Carmen Beach
    Cruises ship heading to Cozumel Island under the raising sunA freshwater cenote on the beachChichen Itza ruins

    Playa del Carmen

    October 15, 2023 in Mexico ⋅ ☀️ 33 °C

    Sun 15 Oct: Still feeling very unwell, with sore ears, no energy, and a full on head cold, but I suppose if you just have to chill out somewhere to recover this is not a bad place to do it. Went and checked out the beach nearby. 2 minutes walk from apartment to the beach access, and then probably another 2 minutes walk to an amazing white sand, blue water beach and all for free here, so much better than Tulum. Had a bit of a wade and walk along the beach, just beautiful. When back at the apartment went to check out the roof top swimming pool, only trouble is the elevator broke 2 days ago, luckily our room was on the 1st floor but had to walk up 5 flights of stairs to the top - I was exhausted, so much for all that mountain climbing. The pool was quite small but big enough to get wet in and had wonderful views, a lovely spot to spend some recovery time. I spent the rest of the time chilling in our air conditioned room, Doug meanwhile went out in the hot afternoon sun to the supermarket to get some stuff for lunch. About 6 pm wandered down to the beach for sunset. Wow was it busy, lots still swimming and relaxing, playing volleyball etc. Not much of a sunset, the beach is east facing so sun sets away from it. Had a nice walk though, and came back and went up top for the night views on the roof top.

    Mon 16 Oct: Doug could not, not go to Chichen-Itza and since he had to drive back that way to go and pick up my kobo he decided he would detour out to the ruins first. Meant an early start of 5 am but he got to Chichen-Itza 15 minutes before the gates opened, he didn't take into account the change in time zone and gaining an extra hour. But it did mean he had the first hour or so with very few people around the site. He really enjoyed Chichen-Itza, the ruins being in much better condition, with a lot more detail visible on them. Also he had downloaded a walking map with information about them while he waited to go in, and spent about 3.5 hrs there before continuing on to San Felipe to pick up my kobo, getting back to the apartment about 6.30 pm. So for my day to myself, I tried unsuccessfully to go back to sleep when he left, but about 6.15 am gave up and went down to the beach to catch the sunrise due at 6.45. It was such a lovely time to be on the beach, temperature was very pleasant. A couple of cruise ships were heading to Cozumel, an island 18 km off shore, under the raising sun. Spent about 1.5 hrs walking in total turning when ran out of beach, by 8 when I was getting back certainly could feel the heat of the sun already. Spent the rest of the day until 3 pm just resting, reading, catching up on our expenses worksheet etc. I then thought I would go for little wander along the street to stretch the legs and see what was nearby. Ended up walking probably for 2.5 kms and seeing a large mall thought I would go and have a look before turning around. 2 hours later 😉. The mall was part of the tourist area of town and on the other side was a pedestrian only street of shops and restaurants (fifth avenue). Didn't buy anything but a couple of bikini possibilities to check out tomorrow. At least the pedestrian street was leading me back towards the apartment and just as well because intersected with Doug just as he was about to head down the beach access track to look for me (I had the keys to the apartment so he couldn't get in). Went out to a nearby restaurant for another Mexican version of Nachos and to catch up with each other's day.    Read more

  • Vicki HunterMexico and Costa RicaTraveler
    5th AveThe start of my hair braid1End resultPortal Maya Sculpture

    Fifth Ave

    October 17, 2023 in Mexico ⋅ ☁️ 28 °C

    Tue 17th Oct: Enjoyed my early morning walk along the beach yesterday so much decided to set the alarm to do it again this morning. Didn't get as far today, as my stomach is a bit dodgy I think from the antibiotics I decided to take to help my ear infection, so had to rush bac - think I will stop taking them. In the meantime Doug decided to get a headstart on his NZ ocean swimming training and did a 1.2 km swim. After our cornflakes and yogurt we headed bikini shopping. Tried on about 8 pairs over 2 shops, and finally selected a new one, it was abit of dilemma whether to buy or not, really liked it the most but the pants were abit brief at the back for my liking so will have to replace them, at least it was on sale with 60% off. We continued strolling along 5th Avenue, all pedestrian only, right to the ferry terminal. Last night we decided to go to Cozumel Island and do a snorkeling tour, even though if I was sensible I shouldn't because it was to soon for my ears, but I did buy some ear plugs to wear. Anyway we sussed out the ferry for tomorrow, as we were walking back I went to one of the many hair braiding stores to find out the price. We stayed and chatted to a young woman from Mexico City who was getting her and her niece's hair done, trying to decide whether to do it not. I thought I might and they try to get you in the chair before you change your mind but we were really hungry and I wanted to wash my hair first so said we would come back. We also saw a store doing photos with young cats, not domestic cats but a lion, tiger, jaguar, and a black jaguar. We were tempted, just to be able to hold and pat them would be such an unique experience. However the price of $1000 mxn (NZ$100) per animal was a bit off putting, then I started thinking of the ethical side of it, and it just didn't sit well with us. These animals shouldn't be inside a room for the enjoyment for tourists, but roaming in the wilds, even though they are breed for this purpose, and apparently when they are 6 months old will go back to the farm to breed themselves, it is still a sad situation for these supposedly wild creatures. So unfortunately no photos for us. Back at the apartment we had a late lunch and then waited around as Doug had a phone call about a potential job at 6 pm. We eventually walked back down to the center and I got a couple of side braids done. Then went on the hunt for a non tourist restaurant for dinner.Read more

  • Vicki HunterMexico and Costa RicaTraveler
    Refreshments after snorkelingOur scooter on the west side of CozumelWest coast of CozumelSunset on Cozumel Island

    Cozumel Island

    October 18, 2023 in Mexico ⋅ ☁️ 29 °C

    Wed 18th Oct: A 6 am start to make sure we got down to the ferry terminal in time for the 8 am ferry to Cozumel Island. With fifth Ave alot less busier at this time of morning, we made the 3.5 km walk with time to spare, so took a few photos at the beautiful mermaid arch and "Playa del Carmen" sign before boarding for the 40 minute trip across to San Miguel, the only town on the island. Our snorkeling tour wasn't until 9.30, so we had a look around a few of the nearby shops until our pick up time. After getting picked up we had about a 10 minute drive to the marina where we joined an American family of grandparents, parents, and 3 children from the cruise ship, and another older American couple. Took about 40 minutes to get out to first spot at Palancar reef. The water is probably the clearest we have ever snorkelled in and had a good array of fish, which was helped by our guide feeding them. There were quite a few groups out, and we had to stay close to ours at all times, so a bit annoying couldn't really go and explore to much from the immediate vicinity, but apart from that it was really good. My ears were hurting when I dived under, but otherwise I felt good, although did forget the earplugs, because at the last minute leaving this morning I transfered my gear into Doug's day pack and somehow the earplugs got missed - I think they would have struggled to stay in anyway. We then boarded the boat and drove about 5 minutes to Columbia Reef. Here was the grass the turtles feed on and we were in luck one was there, plus other fishes. Back on board and another short time we were at the sandy bottom of Starfish Beach. Our final stop for the day was in a shallow area El Cielo, for beers and sodas and also where we spotted quite a few rays swimming around. It was quite windy here and it was much warmer in the water than out. Back on board for the final time, we had corn chips and freshly made guacamole and salsa to enjoy, and then a very wet and cold trip back to the marina. We then had an opportunity to purchase the photos that our guide had been taking, and when we saw the clarity of the underwater photos, we couldn't resist. We were then dropped back into the centre of town. We decided to suss out price to hire a vehicle for the rest of the day to explore more of the island, after a few different prices we settled on a scooter for $300 mxn, with return time of 7 pm. It was about 3 pm when we finally got on out way and with 75 kms to get around not a lot of time to muck around. Heading south the shops soon merged into hotels and beach clubs. The rental company said if we showed the Bahia Uvus Club our map which he had written on, we could get free entry and the following things free - 5 minute massage, snorkeling gear and shot of tequila. The first guy we showed the map too looked confused but another staff member nearby came and said okay and said take a seat, then asked if we wanted anything. Doug ordered a coke, I was a bit worried about our dwindling pesos so I didn't get anything thank goodness because a can of coke costed NZ$6. The free items weren't offered, so I thought I would have a quick look at what the snorkeling from the shore offered. Had a few different fishes, but I keep comparing to Rarotonga and it was no where near that standard. Doug spent longer in the water exploring. Finally we were back zipping down the road again. Basically the west and south coastline was just lined with resorts and beachclubs and then you hit the wild eastside and had only a few restaurants. I was hoping to go to the lighthouse and ruins at the south east point but it was $300 mxn entry each and we didn't have that much. Did see a strange looking animal cross the road in front of us. When I Google it when I got back I'm pretty sure it was a Coati. Stopped on the east coast for a break and some photos, not much else to see really and didn't fancy another swim. Got back to San Miguel about 6.30pm. After dropping off the bike we took some photos at the waterfront, and decided we would try and make the 7 pm ferry back to Playa del Carmen. With only minutes to spare we got to the ticket office only to find their credit card machine wasn't working and we didn't have enough cash. Bugger another hour to wait til the next ferry. We went and exchanged US$100 and then tried to find a non-tourist restaurant. Eventually the smells coming out of one, and time running out we made our choice. I was keen for fajitas since we haven't had them yet. They didn't do them but the waiter. said the Alambres were similar, so I got beef and Doug pork, and was extremely happy with them, absolutely delicious, probably my favorite meal in Mexico. And to end our Mexican adventure I also treated myself to a Strawberry Marguerite, although later when we were walking back to the apartment I wished I had stuck to Coke like Doug because I could have done with the energy burst. Anyway after our dinner we had to rush again to the ferry terminal and this time got on board for the 8 pm crossing. After the tiring walk back, I was more than ready for bed.Read more

  • Vicki HunterMexico and Costa RicaTraveler
    Cheers to the end of a wonderful 2 weeks in MexicoOur delicious Alambres dinner from last night

    Goodbye Mexico, Hello Costa Rica

    October 19, 2023 in Costa Rica ⋅ 🌧 23 °C

    Thur 19 Oct: I was in two minds whether to get up for a final sunrise stroll along the beach. I was so tired last night, the thought of a sleep in was very tempting but it was our last morning in Mexico. I did set the alarm, however my dodgy stomach made the decision for me too miss the stroll. I'm starting to think maybe it wasn't the antibiotics because they should be out of the system by now. Anyway, still had to have a shower - my hair was a mass of tangles from yesterday, and packing to do. Left Playa del Carmen just after 9 am, and about 45 minutes got to the rental company to drop the car off. Check in at the airport was very efficient with a staff member coming to the self check-in kiosk and had our boarding passes and luggage labels printed out in no time. Dropping our bags off took a little longer as she wanted to check our return NZ ticket, however didn't have any issues at our bag weights of 23.0 kg and 24.1 kg, always a big sigh of relief. We then had 3.5 hours to wait until our flight. Doug was keen for a Starbucks coffee but at NZ$13 decided he could live without. We did spend NZ $30 on some Chinese for lunch which was really nice, and worked out perfectly for getting rid of all our Mexican coins, apart from my coin collection ones. Flight was good, really impressed with Volaris airline, very efficient, when we landed they instructed people to remain sitting and they would come through and open the overhead bins and tell you when you can get up, so a very orderly disembarkment. Our car rental company Easy Cars again booked through Discover Cars gain a 5 star rating from us. They message us yesterday asking when we would be arriving, and gave good instructions to we to find their representative at the airport. Back at their office the guy was very helpful, yes they tried to upgrade the insurance, but no hard push and we actually decided to take it. It was more reasonably priced, and I think the heavy rain and very congested road outside we decided it was worth the peace of mind. Also when we saw the car they had given us we were pleased we had the extra insurance. A very big fairly new Suzuki SUV. He then offered us a coffee and hot chocolate which was very nice, probably the best hot chocolate I've had. We then had to head out into the traffic, rain and now darkness for a over 3 hour drive north west to Monteverde and the Costa Rican Cloud Forest. A horrible hard twisty turny and towards the end potholey drive - a huge effort, well done by Doug. We eventually arrived at our hostel 8.50 pm, without eating but we were to tired (it was 9.50 pm Cancun time) to go looking for food, so had a muesli bar and went to bed.Read more

  • Vicki HunterMexico and Costa RicaTraveler
    Santa Elena Cloud Forest
    The view from the platformThe view of volcano Arenal we could have seen, on a non cloudy dayThe Ficus root tree bridge

    Monteverde

    October 20, 2023 in Costa Rica ⋅ ☁️ 20 °C

    Fri 20 Oct: Wonderful hostel we are staying in at Monteverde. Nice room with own bathroom, and breakfast of pancakes and fruit or eggs and toast included all for US$18/night - we like these sort of prices. We were told the weather is generally fine in the morning and then rain in the afternoon in Costa Rica at the moment, so we headed out to have a look at Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserve. It was raining when we started but in the forest it wasn't very heavy. Beautiful forest, but we didn't see any animals or views due to the weather. Did get some quite loud thunder halfway around. Took it quite slowly, covering about 5 kms in 2 hrs 15. We then headed into the small town centre to find some lunch. Prices were quite expensive, but finally found some chicken and chips and I tried a Enyacuado de Pollo (like a Costa Rican coquette made with yuca) for a reasonable price. After that we went for a walk to see a ficus tree that has formed a bridge. Wow what an amazing root system they have. On the way, we stopped in at a local artist shop, and his wife has put alot of his paintings onto texiles - cushion covers, chairs, umbrellas, exercise leggings and crop tops, and t-shirts. I really liked the t-shirts and on the way back decided to get one, something a bit unique, and also support his art as he was very passionate about it. It was then back into town and looking around the souvenir shops. Both found shirts we really liked but not in our sizes - drats. Got some crackers cheese, salami, tomato and pate to take back for a little snacky dinner.Read more

  • Vicki HunterMexico and Costa RicaTraveler
    Viotear hummingbird at Curi Cancha
    View from the roadside at MonteverdeMexican Porcupine1SlothOrange kneed tarantulaSide-striped palm-pit viper SnakeHummingbird in nest

    Curi Cancha

    October 21, 2023 in Costa Rica ⋅ 🌧 20 °C

    Sat 21 Oct: Today we decided to go to the Curi Cancha Reserve to see if we could spot some of Costa Rica 650+ bird species. Apparently Curi Cancha is home to at least 200 of them. However when we got there found out you needed photo I.D. to enter and I didn't have any on me, so wasted about half an hour having to go back to our accomodation to get it. Finally at 10.30 we entered. First saw hummingbirds. These are just so tiny and so fast, near on impossible to photograph. Next saw turkey vultures. Was really enjoying the relaxed walk around trying to spot and photograph birds and butterflies such as the enormous blue morpho butterfly, until it started raining about midday and unfortunately didn't stop. Very few birds were spotted after that, although we did continue along our trails hoping. About 1.30 we gave up and went for a little drive further down the road which got extremely steep so turned around and went back into town for some lunch and more looking around the shops before heading back to our room for 1.5 hrs for a relax, before heading out at 5.30 pm for our night tour. Our night tour was such good value. 80% of Costa Rica's animals are nocturnal, so you really need to go out at night. The tour lasted two hours, and there was a total of 7 of us on it. We saw a rhinoceros or long-horned katydid, Mexican Porcupine, a sloth awake busy grooming himself - he certainly needs more of that, what a scruffy looking animal (they sleep for about 20 hours a day so lucky to see him awake), an orange kneed tarantula, a sleeping hummingbird in its nest - they need their rest with going to over 2000 plants a day to get nectar, a Toucan, and two vipers, so a very successful and enjoyable night. Our cameras struggled to focus in the poor light but get some good shots through the guides monocle.Read more

  • Vicki HunterMexico and Costa RicaTraveler
    Orange kneed tarantula
    Zebra mosaic butterflytiger heliconian butterflyLesson's motmotHercules beetlesOwl butterflyblue-frosted banner butterflyPostman butterflyBeach looking out to the Gulf of NicoyaCrocodile from the bridge

    Costa Rica Pacific Coast

    October 22, 2023 in Costa Rica

    Sun 22 Oct: Today we are moving on from the Cloud Forest to Manuel Antonio on the Pacific Coastline. First we were considering going back to Curi Cancha to see if we could spot more birds, but in the end decided on going to the Butterfly Garden. This was again guided by a volunteer guy from Canada who was there for 10 weeks. Already since he arrived only 4 weeks ago his knowledge and presentation was very good. Really enjoyed walking through the enclosures photographing and learning about some of the different butterflies. And as a bonus when walking between 2 of the enclosures we spotted a real cool looking bird. There were also scorpions, tarantulas, stick insects, cockroaches and the enormous Hercules beetles - well dead ones but still amazing to see. So a pretty cool few hours spent there before we started heading south. We stopped at a roadside restaurant for lunch, and after that a brief stop when we first hit the sea at Caldera. I thought it was the Pacific Ocean but looking at the map it was the Gulf of Nicoya. Next stop was at the "crocodile bridge" near Tarcoles, where we saw five crocodiles. And of course with all these tourists stopping there was an array of souvenir shops and restaurants, which we had a quick look in. Then we carried onto our hostel at Manuel Antonio, arriving at 5 pm. When we went to pay for our 3 nights, we found our wallet empty of cash. After travelling for 14.5 months and not having any unsavory issues, with only 10 days to go, some time after lunch someone must have got my wallet pocketed the money and put it back, taking a mixture of US and local currency, probably less than US$200 but still annoying and we can't understand when, only way was Doug must have left the car unlocked at one of our two stops. At least they left the wallet and the Wise Card, and didn't take tablet or anything else. And then after discovering that, when walking up to our room I put my hand on the handrail and felt an intense sting - my introduction to a bullet ant, apparently an insect with one of the most painful stings around, which I can attested too. After getting our bags up to our room, we then were considering what to do for dinner when it started pouring with rain, neither of us were keen to go out so a bag of corn chips had to suffice for our dinner.Read more

  • Vicki HunterMexico and Costa RicaTraveler
    White faced monkey
    Large Red legged GrasshopperCommon basilisk, who can run on water so is nicknamed the Jesus BasiliskA young green vine snakeHelmeted BasiliskCharming hummingbirdEscondido Beach inside the parkThe carnivorous Pelican flowerTent making batThe Chip Eater

    Manuel Antonio National Park

    October 23, 2023, North Pacific Ocean

    Mon 23 Oct: Discovered last night when we arrived that the Manuel Antonio NP is closed on Tuesdays, so we made a quick decision to book a guide for a tour for today. Pick up was 7.30 am. So after a noisy night of sleep. The hostel is right on the main road which was very busy, and also the room has no glass in the window so only curtains to block the sound, not ideal. Anyway we had our breakfast, Doug having the tradition Costa Rican breakfast of rice and beans with scrambled eggs, and I had granola and yogurt, we were soon heading the 5 kms south to the national park entrance where we met our guide Sergio. Costa Rica have made rules to try and be more environmentally friendly, which is great and in theory I totally agreed with but they need a bit of commonsense enforcing them. For example, there is no single-use plastic bottles allowed in the National Parks. Great, but both Doug and I have been refilling plastic waterbottles brought over 6 months ago, but we had to ditch those, therefore making more waste! Not surprising, there was a store next to the entry selling reusable water bottles, so we had to spend NZ$12 to buy one of those to empty our water into for today. Also not allowed any food into the park. Luckily we weren't organized and only had a muesli bar anyway, which we quickly ate. There was a Cafe inside that you could buy food at. We did see a monkey with a bag of chips which he was very protective about and definitely didn't want to share with his mates, so it is good to try and minimize the opportunities for the animals to gain human food. Anyway back to the tour, certainly worth paying for a guide, we would never have seen the animals we did without him. Saw 4 different sloths, both the 2 toed and 3 toed, a red legged grasshopper, two of the three basilisk lizards species - one of which can run on water and the other can change colour. Bat's, white faced monkeys, humming birds, white tailed deer, a carnivorous flower, a caiman, a tiny baby snake, red land crabs and iguanas, so a pretty good tally for a 2 hour, 2 km walk. Once we got to the beach, Sergio left us, and we then spent the next few hours swimming and exploring some of the other tracks, although didn't see anymore animals apart from the white face monkeys including the potato chip eater. We got out of the park about 2.45 pm feeling quite hungry so we caught the bus back to the small town of Quepos 1 km past our hostel. Again finding no really cheap options, eg hamburgers about NZ$18 each, and most dishes starting around $25 to 30. With our hungry getting to us, we finally decided on a large pizza and 1.5 litre of Pepsi for NZ$32 and sat overlooking the water to have that, which was very good. We then found some pastries to take back for supper, and then carefully walked the km back up the hill to our hostel - it is quite a narrow,windy, hilly road with no footpath or side verge. Back at the hostel we enjoyed a lovely swim in the pool before showers and a relaxing night.Read more

  • Vicki HunterMexico and Costa RicaTraveler
    Biesanz beach
    A bare-throated tiger heron, we presuming a maleAnd on a neighbouring rock pile maybe a femaleLots of Sally Lightfoot crabs that camouflage well with the rocksA small sloth down quite low in a tree on the beachYum, our delicious lunch at the Falafel restaurant

    Biesanz Beach

    October 24, 2023 in Costa Rica ⋅ 🌧 26 °C

    Tue 24 Oct: What to do today? We found a good waterfall further south that looked worth a visit, but instead of driving an hour there and a hour back today, it made more sense to take that route tomorrow when we head across to the east and the Caribbean coastline, so we decided to just have a bit of a chill out day, so spent the morning finally getting my backlog of Find Penguins footprints posted. My premium subscription has finished, and I decided it wasn't worth renewing for only 10 days, so now limited to only 10 photos and 1 video per footprint. Around midday we caught the bus to go a couple of kms down the road. It's a shame the road doesn't really allow walking along it. Stopped at a Falafel restaurant I had read good reviews about for lunch. Mediterranean food would be my all time favorite. We ordered the Sawrarma Platter with a side of Falafel balls, and it was so yummy, we were soon looking at what to have for dinner so we could come back. Maybe our smoothies made it so enjoyable too - mine was blackberry and strawberry with vodka and Doug had Banana and Coconut with rum. Delicious 😋. Leaving the restaurant full and happy we walked 2 kms down to Biesanz Beach. I think we have been spoiled by the beaches in Mexico, it was nice but the water isn't very clear, although slightly cooler than what we had in Mexico which was nicer. We enjoyed a good swim and explore, spotting some Bare-throated tiger heron birds, a young sleeping sloth, and finally some howler monkeys. We were surprised at how small they were considering the loud noises they make. We were then hoping to spend some time on the beach reading filling in time so we could head back to the Falafel restaurant for dinner, however the weather put paid to that plan, because in came the rain. We quickly hightail up the road before it got to heavy, to catch the bus back to the hostel. Then sat under the verandah while it poured down with thunder and lightning. Ended up driving back to the Falafel restaurant for round two, however without the alcoholic smoothies this time.Read more

  • Vicki HunterMexico and Costa RicaTraveler
    Packing up to leave our hostel at Manuel Antonio
    Outside our roomThe view from outside our room, including a peak of the Pacific OceanThe poolUpper Niuyaca WaterfallLower Niuyaca Waterfall1Beautiful Toucan high in a treeAgouti

    From the Pacific to the Caribbean

    October 25, 2023 in Costa Rica

    Wed 25 Oct: We were up early, had breakfast and was on our way to Niuyaca Waterfall just after 7 am. From the parking lot we had a hot and sweaty 3.3 km walk to the falls, oh how we were looking forward to a swim when we got there. First we went and viewed the upper fall, enjoying the lovely spray, then took the track down to the river and the lower fall. Again a lot of spray to cool us down and just as well because there was no way you were able to swim, don't know if it was just from the heavy rain all last night but it was a large and strong flow coming down. So after photos we started heading back, but a sighting of an agouti soon made us get the cameras out again. About half way we heard this bird making a lot of noise. I eventually found it high up in the tree, and got very excited because it was a Toucan, tried to get some photos but difficult at that distance, after about 10 minutes it flew off. We then got back on the road about 11 am to start heading across the island to Cahuita. Google said it was 327 km and would take 6 hrs 38 mins. Costa Rica does not do straight roads - very up and down, twisty turny and not very wide, and also most of it in the clouds or rain so extremely slow going, especially because you normally get stuck behind very slow trucks, and if you are lucky to get passed one there is another one just ahead. Our eta was about 6 pm - our accomodation's check-in was only until 8 pm so we were felt okay about this and stopped for about 40 minutes for lunch at Cartago. Carrying on the rain was consistent and so was the slowness. Got onto the main highway down the coast, about 40 kms to go and we thought it would be smooth sailing, and due to arrive at 7.30pm. Then we stopped, and waited, and crawled along - not even sure if it was from an accident or roadworks. Finally got moving again, and 8 pm found a shop to try and ring the accommodation, but there was no answer. Eventually arrived 8.45 pm, 9 hrs 45 from leaving the waterfall, what a long hard drive. Doug went in and got the owner out of bed, and luckily we could get our room. Both exhausted it was a quick shower and into bed.Read more

  • Vicki HunterMexico and Costa RicaTraveler
    1Our home for 4 nights at Cahuita
    Not quite the Naked Chef busy in the kitchenNegro Beach, 100 m from our accomodationSome of the inhabitants that live at our accomodation. This is a green and black poisonous Dart FrogA slothAnolis lizard, these were so tinyAgoutiStrawberry poisonous Dart Frog

    Cahuita

    October 26, 2023 in Costa Rica ⋅ 🌧 27 °C

    Thu 26 Oct: After yesterday we treated ourselves to a blob day. Both had good sleeps until the rooster and dogs woke us up. After dozing for a bit longer we got up and checked out the beach which was about 100 m down the road. Beautiful, again not Playa del Carmen beautiful as it is a black beach, but certainly a nice relaxing feeling about it. We then went for a walk to the main area of town, 1.4 kms away to find a supermarket to buy some cereal for breakfast. Its a very small town with mainly restaurants down the main street. Did find a small supermarket to get our breakfast stuff. Heading back we went down a road to check out the beach down there and found the entrance to the marine side of the National Park. Talking to a guy, he told us could only do snorkeling in the park with a guide, which he was. We decided to book him for tomorrow at 7 am, best time he reckons as its a lot calmer. We then walked back, had breakfast, lazed around reading, went for a swim, more lazing, then I walked back into town for more of a look while Doug did an hour long ocean swim (he doesn't believe in building up to things). It started raining about 4 pm, while we sat under the veranda of our room. Eventually we started thinking what to do for dinner - eat out or cook something as we had a little kitchen. We decide we would cook so walked down to the supermarket and got pasta, sausages, sauce and can of vegetables, and since we were saving money by cooking ourselves got a can each of Raspberry Smirnoff Ice, and some Costa Rican pastry things for dessert - still worked out about half what it would have costed just for a main meal each at a Restaurant, and Doug volunteered for cooking duty so even better 🙂.Read more

  • Vicki HunterMexico and Costa RicaTraveler
    1
    Black-cheeked WoodpeckerDictyophorus spumans, the koppie foam grasshopper or rooibaadjieWhite-faced Monkey with some pineappleRaccoonWhite-faced MonkeysHowler Monkey mum and bubsHowler monkey "Just Hanging Out"Another SlothSnorkeling

    Cahuita National Park

    October 27, 2023 in Costa Rica ⋅ 🌧 28 °C

    Fri 27 Oct: Since we had to get up early for our snorkeling this morning I thought I would get up for sunrise, therefore I was out of bed at 5.20 am, but I was not early enough, and it was very cloudy also which didn't help. So just went for a stroll down the beach which was still very enjoyable. It was then back to tip Doug out of bed, breakfast and walk down to the National Park entrance for our 10 minute boat trip out to the reef just of Punta Cahuita. Beautiful reef with a real assortment of fish. It was just the two of us and it was wonderful, not as crystal clear as Mexico but still very good. All to soon we had to board the boat to move a few minutes to another spot. A bit shallower but not quite as good a reef. Had big schools of fish. Once finish here we were meant to be dropped of at the beach at Punta Cahuita, but Doug asked if we could go back to the first snorkeling spot so he could do a bit of video, so we got another 20 minutes there, so in total just under 2 hours - well worth it. Once on the beach, there is a trail heading around the Peninsula, right 2.4 kms takes as back to Cahuita town, left 5.7 kms takes you to the southern entry. We went left not really intending to go all the way just to Puerto Vargas but when we got there we heard Howler monkeys so we went looking for them and ended up walking all the way. We did find them once we had turned around and was walking back. Actually had a successful animal spotting day, sloths, white-faced and howler monkeys, woodpeckers, raccoons, lots of lizards and crabs. It was about 3.30pm when we finally exited the park back in Cahuita, a very enjoyable day. Back at our accomodation, we dropped of our bag and headed across for a swim before enjoying a relaxing eveningRead more

  • Vicki HunterMexico and Costa RicaTraveler
    1Fun taking selfies on Manzanillo Beach
    Diabolino, a Margay cat. Confiscated by police at the Panama border from smugglers when a babyScarlet Macaw rescued from a DrugloadThe Great Green Macaw is one of only ~1000 in the world - they are on the critically endangered listSloth that has a growth problem only about half the size he should due to herbicidesGraffiti boat at Manzanillo beachPerfect way to finish a great day

    Jaguar Rescue Centre

    October 28, 2023 in Costa Rica ⋅ 🌧 27 °C

    Sat 28th Oct: This morning we headed south 18 kms to Puerto Viejo, first stopping in the town for the farmers market, however this wasn't very big so we decided we would try and make the 9.30 am tour at the nearby Jaguar Rescue Centre rather than the 11.30 am. The name is a bit misleading because sadly there's no jaguars. The center was started in 2008 by two biologists an Italian and a Spanish, who met here, fell in love, moved here and ended up having their house full of injured and abandoned animals, with the first animal supposedly a jaguar, but it was actually an Ocelot, however the locals started calling them the jaguar people and it stuck. Anyway, they have set up a wonderful and very worthwhile center, apart from two vets all the other staff are volunteers from all around the world. There are strict rules, and most of the rehabilitating animals are kept away from human contact apart from the vets and biologists so they can be released back into the wild, however there are some animals that for various reasons can not be released so they are the permanent residents that the public can view. These included 3 macaws, 2 brown boobies, 3 spider monkeys, a caiman, turtles, an Ocelot, a Margay, 2 sloths, a whitetail deer. A great informative 2 hours was spent there. We then carried on a little further south to the end of the road at Manzanillo. We stopped here to check out the beach, and just along a bit was an abandoned, now graffiti boat, which we had fun photographing with the crashing waves on it. Enjoyed a nice long swim, thinking how are we ever going cope with Ohope water temperatures after these 29°C waters. Sadly we called it a day and headed back to Cahuita, stopping at a supermarket to get some supplies for what turned out to be lunch/dinner. We had guacamole and corn chips and blue cheese and crackers along with a local beer for Doug and some Smirnoffs for me.Read more

  • Vicki HunterMexico and Costa RicaTraveler
    Our final sunrise at Cahuita
    Colourful tree trunk on my morning walk. A rainbow EucalyptusGreat KiskadeeSome photos from Cahuita NP that did not get included"Smile for the camera"A very emotional welcome home present1Enjoying being back in Whakatane and having proper fish and chips

    The Journey Home Begins

    October 30, 2023 in Costa Rica ⋅ 🌧 20 °C

    Sun 29 Oct: The day we didn't want to come has arrived, time to say goodbye to the beautiful Caribbean sea (I've fallen in love) and head to the bustle of San José to start our journey home. I couldn't decide whether to set my alarm last night to get up for sunrise or not, decided not to as sleep is going to be in short supply the next few days as we travel home, however I woke up at 5.15am so it obviously was meant to be, so grab the camera and headed to the beach. Got an alright sunrise this morning, and after wondering along the beach decided to walk further along the road checking the trees for sloths - didn't find any, but did see some nice birds . Got back to the room to find Doug had also gone out for a final morning wander. Once he was back, and after breakfast we went for one last final swim, it was certainly hard walking out of that water for the last time. Got on the road about 9 am, it was meant to be only a 3.5 hr drive but we know how that can increase, and in the end I think it was about 4.5 hrs. Had got a room near the airport, so after off loading our bags, took our car back which was only about a km away, so nice and easy to walk back. Just down the road was a Walmart, so we went there looking for food, and they had a cafeteria so ended up getting a meal for a reasonable price. It was then back to do final packing of bags, cleaning boots, booking an Uber for 2.45 am a nd getting into bed at 9 pm for some sleep before our 2.30 alarm.

    Mon 30 Oct: I struggled to sleep and to soon it was time to get up. 2.45 am Uber, 5 minutes to the airport, 10 minute panic trying to find our USA ESTA, 6.10 am flight to Guatemala City taking 1 hr 15, 1 hour to transit then back on same plane for a 4 hr 40 min flight to Los Angeles. Doug got called just before boarding in Guatemala for a random bag and body search. Doug said the girl who got searched before him got 2 of her 4 bags of coffee taken from her because it was deemed as too much for 1 person also a newly purchased unopened bottle of water because for some reason they don't allow that on board - what a rip, I would have been fuming, luckily Doug got through with no issues, our one bag of coffee and one tin of drinking chocolate obviously acceptable. Must say San Jose Airport is the best, once you get through security, there is numerous shops selling the popular Costa Rican coffee and chocolate brand, Britt, and so there was many stands with free chocolate covered nuts and fruit samples, and also coffee samples - we made sure we sampled them all many times over. As they say at airports time doesn't mean anything so chocolate at 4 am is 👌. A 7.5 hour wait in LAX, before our 8.55 pm flight to Auckland. We were worried about only having two hours to clear customs and get to domestic terminal for our 8.35 am flight to Tauranga, but made it with plenty of time, and we had luck on our side because the first Tauranga flight was canceled for fog but ours was all go. It was then into the greeting arms of Fiona, and happily meeting my grand-doggy Oden. We all piled into her little yellow car for our final leg back to Powdrell Road and Home, arriving 37 hours after getting up in San Jose to start the journey home. Had a lovely welcome present from the kids, a "paint by numbers" painting of them and three of my most wonderful and sadly missed dogs, Jess, Stormy and Thunder plus a box of KGB Black Russians, which we sampled at lunch - fish and chips at Whk wharf - a great reminder of the beauty of NZ. So now it's the start of our NZ life again and the end of Fiind Penguins. It's been great to keep a record of our trip for us and I've enjoyed I've been able to share it with all of you too.    Read more

    Trip end
    November 1, 2023
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