Day 35 (February 14) – Liberia to San Jose
Valentines Day! Chris & LuAnn gave each a little valentine surprise which I thought very sweet (no pun intended). It was downright cool – only 78 degrees in our camper – windy and high clouds. On the road at 8:30 for another beautiful drive. Only saw 4 goats but the usual horses, cattle, hay fields. What wasn't so usual were the canals for the rice fields. So far it is almost garbage free. There are lots of lovely homes, some with sprinklers on their lawns. On the outskirts of some towns were tin shacks but they were clean. The flowering trees in all their pinks, yellow and orange add so much to the rolling hills. We stopped for a milkshake, which was delicious. Leaving there we got behind a small truck loaded with watermelon and patiently followed up, down, until finally Tim could see a long way so passed him and there was a cop at the bottom of the hill. He motioned for us to slow down, or so we thought. Next thing his car is beside us telling us to pull over. Three infractions – crossing a double solid line, speeding and not stopping. Mike was kind enough to help us with the language. If he gave us a ticket it would be $120 US and lose Tim's license for 44 hours or he would be ever so kind and not give a ticket for only $25 US. Of course we donated to his personal charity – his pocket. We noticed after that there is a large police presence everywhere. As we continued we came to a downhill curve this sign said “40K”. Then flipped on its side freight truck, the driver obviously couldn't read!! There were a lot of Harley motorcycles heading the other direction and some of them waved. Shocking because they seldom wave at home. Going up and down the view was often beautiful with houses and farms right up the mountain side and than a peek at the Pacific Ocean. The summit was 3,852 feet. We arrived at the RV park at 12:50. Quite nice. Once settled, I did my load of laundry, gabbed and slept the afternoon away. At happy hour Bob and LuAnn were put on the hot seat about changes in our itinerary. Once they explained, I for one was happy. After we went for pizza with Pete and Wendy. Good food, good company – what more can you ask for. It did feel strange putting a jacket on but the other side of that meant everyone should sleep well. And last but not least, thank you Ed and Sharon for our new fridge!!!!
Tim broke his sunglasses today and Gail lost hers!!
Rig #18, Gail and Tim
Day 36 (February 15) San Jose/Belen
Today is our first full day in San Antonio de Belen, a suburb of San Jose. The weather is perfect. Low temperatures and low humidity. We really can't complain about the heat since this year is significantly cooler than previous years. We have a real campground with a washing machine, showers, bathrooms, sewers, water, electric, and security.
The washing machine schedule established by a lottery system has been busy since our arrival yesterday. Most people are busy cleaning, straightening and doing laundry. Rita, Lindsay and Fran headed off to the Pacific Coast for a day at the beach. Some are taking advantage of WIFI. We are busy researching optional tours for San Jose and future stops.
#1, Bob and LuAnn
Saturday, February 20, 2010
Day 34 - Liberia, Costa Rica
Wednesday, February 13, 2010 (Day 34) Liberia, Costa Rica
Travel Day - Nicaragua/Costa Rica Border Crossing
At 6:30 AM we headed out in rig number order, as this was a border-crossing day. Temperature at this time was 26 degrees Celsius or 79 degrees Fahrenheit. During our 3-hour drive we came upon a windmill farm that was just being established. We were also able to view the west side of Lake Nicaragua and the Conception and Maderas Volcanoes.
As we approached the border we noted that commercial trucks were backed up
4 kilometers or 2.5 miles from the border. Fortunately, we passed them all and proceeded to the Nicaraguan border where our leaders did their magic in order for us to exit Nicaragua, enter Costa Rica and purchase our vehicle insurance. We waited patiently where we had the time to watch 3 movies in our air-conditioned rig, seeing that the outside temperature had soared to 38 degrees Celsius or 100 degrees Fahrenheit.
The first several miles of road in Costa Rica were extremely curvy but eventually straightened out. We were able to see a good portion of Cacao Volcano as the peak was covered with clouds.
We arrived at our destination just prior to sunset and decided to grab a bit to eat at the little restaurant adjacent to the gas station where we were parked. A couple of us order a local dish called “Gallos” where you had a choice of chicken, meat or sausage. The meal consisted of two tortillas, tomatoes, lettuce, carrots and the meat we’d ordered. Overall, it was not too bad.
Duncan and Rita, Rig #17
Travel Day - Nicaragua/Costa Rica Border Crossing
At 6:30 AM we headed out in rig number order, as this was a border-crossing day. Temperature at this time was 26 degrees Celsius or 79 degrees Fahrenheit. During our 3-hour drive we came upon a windmill farm that was just being established. We were also able to view the west side of Lake Nicaragua and the Conception and Maderas Volcanoes.
As we approached the border we noted that commercial trucks were backed up
4 kilometers or 2.5 miles from the border. Fortunately, we passed them all and proceeded to the Nicaraguan border where our leaders did their magic in order for us to exit Nicaragua, enter Costa Rica and purchase our vehicle insurance. We waited patiently where we had the time to watch 3 movies in our air-conditioned rig, seeing that the outside temperature had soared to 38 degrees Celsius or 100 degrees Fahrenheit.
The first several miles of road in Costa Rica were extremely curvy but eventually straightened out. We were able to see a good portion of Cacao Volcano as the peak was covered with clouds.
We arrived at our destination just prior to sunset and decided to grab a bit to eat at the little restaurant adjacent to the gas station where we were parked. A couple of us order a local dish called “Gallos” where you had a choice of chicken, meat or sausage. The meal consisted of two tortillas, tomatoes, lettuce, carrots and the meat we’d ordered. Overall, it was not too bad.
Duncan and Rita, Rig #17
Days 30, 31 & 33 - Granada, Nicaragua
Day 30 (February 9) – To Granada we be
On the day to depart for Granada I see
An oxen in the field next to me
He's plowing the tobacco fine
High and Low it does grow
School children all dressed alike
In uniforms of navy and white
Horse and cart with solid wood wheels
School kids atop the old wood cart
Can you believe rice fields I see
Veggies at road side piled so high
Looked fresh and nice
Iguanas for sale as he's held by the tail
Down by the river side she's washing her clothes.
A lady under a tree reaching so high
Her pole to the sky
What might she get
Something to eat I bet
A village of hammocks we passed through
He's twisting the twine as his wheel spins around
All colors and shapes look so great
But don't be misled it might dump you on your head
Two or three times we see mattress piled high
Maybe to the sky in colors so bright
It'll give you a fright
Let's go to the city by horse and buggy
It starts out slow all in a row
Horse goes along not minding us at all
The heat we can't beat so smile and enjoy
This city of history
Leave us at the park a drink to enjoy
That's all we need to clear our head.
So we each make our way to Playa
The beach at our doorstep today.
Rig #13
Day 31 Wednesday February 10, 2010
We are in Granada, Nicaragua, parked on the shore of Lake Nicaragua with the smaller rigs parked right on the beach and larger ones across the street. It’s a beautiful view with big trees and sometimes horses, cows and the occasional net fishermen can be seen. We have horses, cows and dogs that wonder up and down the street mixed amongst the traffic ranging from horse drawn carts carrying almost anything to autos, motorcycles, bicycles and the ever present people walking and others selling their wares. We have small lake front restaurants all around us but, up until now, no one has tried any of them to know how they are.
We left the camp area about 8:30 in 2 buses for a 45 minute ride to Masaya Volcano (a Federal Park) passing large areas of old lava from a 1700s eruption once inside the park. The volcano is comprised of five caldrons but only one is still active, it last erupted about 60 years ago, today the active crater puts forth a goodly volume of sulfur smelling steam that, fortunately for us, today the wind carried the rotten egg smell away from us. We climbed 177 steps up to a high vantage point where a Christian Cross was first put on this hill overlooking the crater in the 1500’s and has been replaced several times. . Following the look at the crater and lots of pictures we made a stop at a very well done museum with our guides giving us a good explanation of the exhibits that primarily addressed the reasons that this and other volcanoes existed in the area.
We then took a bus ride around the city of Managua the capital of Nicaragua. The city is divided into 2 major sections; the old and the new but to my eyes not very much of it was a part of the 21st century.
Adventure bought lunch that was pretty good but the one server (not Chris, who by the way did the most serving) had a heck of a time figuring out how many chicken meals he needed, however, on about his 6 th or 7th count he finally got everyone a meal. We then went to the city market with lots of booths with lots of tourist junk and another area for food staples. From there we went to a super market, a lot more user friendly to us, to stock up on all the stuff we needed rum, beer, rum, beer and more beer. We were back to the rigs at about 5:00 and everyone did their own thing for dinner and the evening, primarily sitting outside of the rigs to stay cool (it had been at sunny 90 degree and muggy day) and watching the people watch us.
Our guide gave us some fun facts about Nicaragua as we rode between stops:
Nicaragua is the largest of the 5 Central American countries with a total population of 6,500,000 with slightly more than 1,00,000 living in Managua
The average office/factory worker earns about $150.00 U.S. monthly but the farmers and small town people who are employed (unemployment is 40%) earn about half that much.
School is mandatory and free through 12th grade, however, all school children are required to wear white shirts and blue pants or skirts (the national colors), in secondary school the students are required to provide their own books. University is available for a fee but federal scholarships are available for the gifted.
Most cities have no street names or numbers but the mail DOES get delivered. Directions are usually given by landmarks because of this.
The national flower is JACUANIOCHE know to us PLUMERIA
Day 33 (February 12) – Granada Free Day
Everyone's FREE DAY. Small group of people met with a fellow named Dave from Edmonton, Alberta. He had been talking to Sharon and Ed every morning as he jogged thru the park. He agreed to show us around. We left the camp site around 8:30 am and walked to town. Everyone wanted to phone home so we met him at the church around 10:00 am. He brought his girlfriend Anna. We walked through the local market and to the bus depot. For 10 cordobas a piece we went to a small town called Catarina. Very interesting bus ride. People jump off and on from front of bus and back bus. People brought a “huge floral wreath” to the cemetery. They throw bikes on the roof. Whistling and yelling. All very exciting. After 45 minutes arrived at small town. Very beautiful and clean. Very quiet. Nobody hustling you – cobble stone streets, nice nurseries with tons of flowers. Craft shops and restaurants. Very relaxing not to have to dodge people and cars!! We had a nice view of crater lake. Nice park area with lots of cement benches to sit and view the lake. Beautiful breeze. Dave and Anna checked out all the restaurants and found us the best lunch special. Most us had filet mignon. Excellent. We wandered around some more then caught the bus back to Granada. We said our goodbyes at the church on the main square and caught taxis back to rigs. Everyone was relaxing in the shade; getting ready for our 6:30 am start to Costa Rica Border tomorrow!!!
Rig #16 – Wendy and Pete
On the day to depart for Granada I see
An oxen in the field next to me
He's plowing the tobacco fine
High and Low it does grow
School children all dressed alike
In uniforms of navy and white
Horse and cart with solid wood wheels
School kids atop the old wood cart
Can you believe rice fields I see
Veggies at road side piled so high
Looked fresh and nice
Iguanas for sale as he's held by the tail
Down by the river side she's washing her clothes.
A lady under a tree reaching so high
Her pole to the sky
What might she get
Something to eat I bet
A village of hammocks we passed through
He's twisting the twine as his wheel spins around
All colors and shapes look so great
But don't be misled it might dump you on your head
Two or three times we see mattress piled high
Maybe to the sky in colors so bright
It'll give you a fright
Let's go to the city by horse and buggy
It starts out slow all in a row
Horse goes along not minding us at all
The heat we can't beat so smile and enjoy
This city of history
Leave us at the park a drink to enjoy
That's all we need to clear our head.
So we each make our way to Playa
The beach at our doorstep today.
Rig #13
Day 31 Wednesday February 10, 2010
We are in Granada, Nicaragua, parked on the shore of Lake Nicaragua with the smaller rigs parked right on the beach and larger ones across the street. It’s a beautiful view with big trees and sometimes horses, cows and the occasional net fishermen can be seen. We have horses, cows and dogs that wonder up and down the street mixed amongst the traffic ranging from horse drawn carts carrying almost anything to autos, motorcycles, bicycles and the ever present people walking and others selling their wares. We have small lake front restaurants all around us but, up until now, no one has tried any of them to know how they are.
We left the camp area about 8:30 in 2 buses for a 45 minute ride to Masaya Volcano (a Federal Park) passing large areas of old lava from a 1700s eruption once inside the park. The volcano is comprised of five caldrons but only one is still active, it last erupted about 60 years ago, today the active crater puts forth a goodly volume of sulfur smelling steam that, fortunately for us, today the wind carried the rotten egg smell away from us. We climbed 177 steps up to a high vantage point where a Christian Cross was first put on this hill overlooking the crater in the 1500’s and has been replaced several times. . Following the look at the crater and lots of pictures we made a stop at a very well done museum with our guides giving us a good explanation of the exhibits that primarily addressed the reasons that this and other volcanoes existed in the area.
We then took a bus ride around the city of Managua the capital of Nicaragua. The city is divided into 2 major sections; the old and the new but to my eyes not very much of it was a part of the 21st century.
Adventure bought lunch that was pretty good but the one server (not Chris, who by the way did the most serving) had a heck of a time figuring out how many chicken meals he needed, however, on about his 6 th or 7th count he finally got everyone a meal. We then went to the city market with lots of booths with lots of tourist junk and another area for food staples. From there we went to a super market, a lot more user friendly to us, to stock up on all the stuff we needed rum, beer, rum, beer and more beer. We were back to the rigs at about 5:00 and everyone did their own thing for dinner and the evening, primarily sitting outside of the rigs to stay cool (it had been at sunny 90 degree and muggy day) and watching the people watch us.
Our guide gave us some fun facts about Nicaragua as we rode between stops:
Nicaragua is the largest of the 5 Central American countries with a total population of 6,500,000 with slightly more than 1,00,000 living in Managua
The average office/factory worker earns about $150.00 U.S. monthly but the farmers and small town people who are employed (unemployment is 40%) earn about half that much.
School is mandatory and free through 12th grade, however, all school children are required to wear white shirts and blue pants or skirts (the national colors), in secondary school the students are required to provide their own books. University is available for a fee but federal scholarships are available for the gifted.
Most cities have no street names or numbers but the mail DOES get delivered. Directions are usually given by landmarks because of this.
The national flower is JACUANIOCHE know to us PLUMERIA
Day 33 (February 12) – Granada Free Day
Everyone's FREE DAY. Small group of people met with a fellow named Dave from Edmonton, Alberta. He had been talking to Sharon and Ed every morning as he jogged thru the park. He agreed to show us around. We left the camp site around 8:30 am and walked to town. Everyone wanted to phone home so we met him at the church around 10:00 am. He brought his girlfriend Anna. We walked through the local market and to the bus depot. For 10 cordobas a piece we went to a small town called Catarina. Very interesting bus ride. People jump off and on from front of bus and back bus. People brought a “huge floral wreath” to the cemetery. They throw bikes on the roof. Whistling and yelling. All very exciting. After 45 minutes arrived at small town. Very beautiful and clean. Very quiet. Nobody hustling you – cobble stone streets, nice nurseries with tons of flowers. Craft shops and restaurants. Very relaxing not to have to dodge people and cars!! We had a nice view of crater lake. Nice park area with lots of cement benches to sit and view the lake. Beautiful breeze. Dave and Anna checked out all the restaurants and found us the best lunch special. Most us had filet mignon. Excellent. We wandered around some more then caught the bus back to Granada. We said our goodbyes at the church on the main square and caught taxis back to rigs. Everyone was relaxing in the shade; getting ready for our 6:30 am start to Costa Rica Border tomorrow!!!
Rig #16 – Wendy and Pete
Day 29 - Esteli, Nicaragua
Day 29 Esteli
Left Ojo De Agua, Honduras about 7:00 this morning headed to Esteli, across the Nicaragua border. More beautiful mountain scenery. At the border Pam #13 gave 3 small children toys and then there were many more that showed up begging. We were stuck at the border about 4 hours. It was very hot. We arrived at Camp Campeste and had time to hang up our wash and relax. Some went swimming in the pool. We were served a delicious meal at the camp and fell into bed very early.
Clif and Joan #12
Left Ojo De Agua, Honduras about 7:00 this morning headed to Esteli, across the Nicaragua border. More beautiful mountain scenery. At the border Pam #13 gave 3 small children toys and then there were many more that showed up begging. We were stuck at the border about 4 hours. It was very hot. We arrived at Camp Campeste and had time to hang up our wash and relax. Some went swimming in the pool. We were served a delicious meal at the camp and fell into bed very early.
Clif and Joan #12
Day 28 - Ojo de Agua
Sunday 7th February Day 28 by Rig 11 (Lindsay)
“HILLS AND ROADWORKS”
The road led to ‘Teg’. (How does one pronounce “Tegucigalpa?”) and
nearly to Danli - 130 miles, which took about 6 hours. There were
improvement works more or less in progress most of the way to “Teg”,
though the road was good by Central American standards; and except
for a holdup of about half an hour, delays were few. During this
holdup, we were accosted by swarms of locals who convinced we would
want their wares. One lady at the head of the jam was busy at an
outdoor oven!
Elsewhere, there were the usual congregations of stall holders, each
competing with the rest in their particular line. Today, the lines
included honey, papaya, brown beans, bags of unknown cooked goodies,
oranges, watermelons and bags of what might be lime for limewash.
Rita and I chose to lunch at Pizza Hut, after confirming there was a
sign showing the credit cards that would be accepted. (Our supply
of Lempira was low.) The bill came but, surprise, surprise, they
could not accept my card. Dollars were accepted. Then, as part
of my education, we drove over the road to Baskin Robbins.
Yesterday, the highpoint (of the road) was 2222’. This morning, the
road reached 3725’, while in the afternoon, we climbed to 4950’, and
later, 4990’. Rita admired the pine trees gracing the higher ground.
Overnight, saw the units shoe-horned into a relatively limited space
behind an Esso station.
“HILLS AND ROADWORKS”
The road led to ‘Teg’. (How does one pronounce “Tegucigalpa?”) and
nearly to Danli - 130 miles, which took about 6 hours. There were
improvement works more or less in progress most of the way to “Teg”,
though the road was good by Central American standards; and except
for a holdup of about half an hour, delays were few. During this
holdup, we were accosted by swarms of locals who convinced we would
want their wares. One lady at the head of the jam was busy at an
outdoor oven!
Elsewhere, there were the usual congregations of stall holders, each
competing with the rest in their particular line. Today, the lines
included honey, papaya, brown beans, bags of unknown cooked goodies,
oranges, watermelons and bags of what might be lime for limewash.
Rita and I chose to lunch at Pizza Hut, after confirming there was a
sign showing the credit cards that would be accepted. (Our supply
of Lempira was low.) The bill came but, surprise, surprise, they
could not accept my card. Dollars were accepted. Then, as part
of my education, we drove over the road to Baskin Robbins.
Yesterday, the highpoint (of the road) was 2222’. This morning, the
road reached 3725’, while in the afternoon, we climbed to 4950’, and
later, 4990’. Rita admired the pine trees gracing the higher ground.
Overnight, saw the units shoe-horned into a relatively limited space
behind an Esso station.
Day 27 - Lago de Yojoa
February 6,2010
Day 27
Lago De Yojoa
We were awake early after a hot muggy night to line up and dump our tanks before we take to the road. This process was not easy since we are using a manhole in a main street. But our tail gunner, Brian, who is No. 1 in the No. 2 business, was on the ball and the process was completed in an hour. One rig caught some overhead wires but with the agile use of brooms he escaped.
We followed our wagonmaster out of town since we are in the first group.
We have a short drive today and the road was not as rough as we had anticipated. There were many fruit stands as we started climbing. We had some rain during the night and the clouds are low with mist. As we climbed the temperature dropped to 67. This was most welcome.
This is a beautiful place on the lake Yojoa. We are around back of the hotel with a view of the lake. There are many flowers, birds and water lilies. The mist and clouds increase and the cool air is very welcome.
After a light lunch we load a small bus to visit Pulhapanazak Falls. This is an extra tour so some folks decided not to go. Our original guide was ill so the substitute did not speak English. The manager of the hotel went with us to interpret. He grew up in Washington so speaks English very well.
The waterfall is quite beautiful with a heavy mist as the water cascades onto the rocks. The more adventuresome of our group had an adventure going behind the falls. They were in water to their chin and the going was tough. Bill and I waited at the overlook guarding their possessions. There were scrapes and bruises but all survived. We watched and waited some more has they zip lined over the falls. It seemed to be quite easy compared to the jungle canopy zip line.
We were quite late getting back to the hotel with 30 minutes till dinner. The fish Total was very good with ice cream for dessert. The rain still is with us.
Days 25 & 26 - San Pedro Sula
Day 25 – San Pedro Sula
Guided Bus Tour of San Pedro Sula with the guide Jorge
We took the bus at 8 h. En route the guide explained the situation of Honduras and the principals sources for the economy : Plantation of bananas and sugar cane.
We visited a plantation of bananas of the company Dole - It was very interesting to see how it was done. They bring the bananas from the field to the processing plan attached to a rail, then they clean them very carefully by first getting off the bag that was to preserve them from the insects and keeping the warm during the night. They separate in bunch so they can fit in the boxes for exportation, go in another tub, then they put a chemical product where they cut, to keep them fresh during transport, then they weighed them and put in a box for shipping. We saw in the field the way they plant and how it is growing. It takes 9 months. First the plant make a flower and each 24 hours there’s a leaf who fall down and as it goes we see the little bananas that will grow.
After we went to a wood carving factory, we saw the artisans carving and painting the wood. At the boutique there was the result of their work, so many beautiful items .
We had a delicious lunch buffet at a restaurant in San Pedro
We visited a market with so many things and foods that we did not know where to look.
After we went shopping at a grocery store and then back to the camping site.
Again a very interesting day.
Pauline and Rene Rig 8
Day 26 Thuesday February 25th 2010
San Pedro Sula
Free day Free diary!!!
Thirteen of our group went to Tela beach. We departed the hotel Copantl at 11 am. good The travel time was an hour and half to get to Telamar Hotel.The temperature at the Caribbean sea was very sonny and hot. We had to give 15.00$ for a bracelet non refundable, we could spend the amount for lunch that we had on a beach palapa . The food was good. Since we arrived late, there was no chair and no canopy for us.
Alain met a nurse that he had work with in Sherbrooke. We used her canopy and stayed with them for the afternoon. It is a small world!!!!
We arrived at the hotel at 6.45 pm
During the day a truck delivered propane. Our laundry was back.
The rest of the group that stayed behind in San Pedro went shopping and some relaxed at the campng site.
Pauline et Alain Rig # 9
Guided Bus Tour of San Pedro Sula with the guide Jorge
We took the bus at 8 h. En route the guide explained the situation of Honduras and the principals sources for the economy : Plantation of bananas and sugar cane.
We visited a plantation of bananas of the company Dole - It was very interesting to see how it was done. They bring the bananas from the field to the processing plan attached to a rail, then they clean them very carefully by first getting off the bag that was to preserve them from the insects and keeping the warm during the night. They separate in bunch so they can fit in the boxes for exportation, go in another tub, then they put a chemical product where they cut, to keep them fresh during transport, then they weighed them and put in a box for shipping. We saw in the field the way they plant and how it is growing. It takes 9 months. First the plant make a flower and each 24 hours there’s a leaf who fall down and as it goes we see the little bananas that will grow.
After we went to a wood carving factory, we saw the artisans carving and painting the wood. At the boutique there was the result of their work, so many beautiful items .
We had a delicious lunch buffet at a restaurant in San Pedro
We visited a market with so many things and foods that we did not know where to look.
After we went shopping at a grocery store and then back to the camping site.
Again a very interesting day.
Pauline and Rene Rig 8
Day 26 Thuesday February 25th 2010
San Pedro Sula
Free day Free diary!!!
Thirteen of our group went to Tela beach. We departed the hotel Copantl at 11 am. good The travel time was an hour and half to get to Telamar Hotel.The temperature at the Caribbean sea was very sonny and hot. We had to give 15.00$ for a bracelet non refundable, we could spend the amount for lunch that we had on a beach palapa . The food was good. Since we arrived late, there was no chair and no canopy for us.
Alain met a nurse that he had work with in Sherbrooke. We used her canopy and stayed with them for the afternoon. It is a small world!!!!
We arrived at the hotel at 6.45 pm
During the day a truck delivered propane. Our laundry was back.
The rest of the group that stayed behind in San Pedro went shopping and some relaxed at the campng site.
Pauline et Alain Rig # 9
Days 21, 22 & 23 - Copan, Honduras
Day 21 (January 31) – Copan
Everyone pulled out of the Rio Dulce campground between 7 – 8. There were no more warm showers either last night or this morning – but a cold shower helps to wake you up!
We all stopped at the Restaurant y Jugeria La Vina for a rest stop – and more importantly a cold smoothy. Flavors of the day were pineapple, papaya, strawberry and melon. Pat and I tried the pineapple and the strawberry and we both voted the strawberry the winner.
The drive through Guatemala is beautiful – green everywhere, often trees in bloom lining the road, and surrounded by mountains and hills on every side.
The last few miles to the Honduras border had roads that were very steep and winding.
The wait at the border turned out to be quite short – less than 2 ½ hours – and all of the paperwork was done by the Wagonmaster. Tailgunner and spouses. There was confusion at Guatemala immigration where an official tried to get us to all go through immigration again until he was told by another official everything was already done.
Bob got us parked in a nearby field. Folks selling fruit and water stopped by for business. Honduran police came by to watch over us during our stay for our protection. All activity was intently watched by a crowd that gathered of old and young.
Rig #4 – Mike and Pat
Day 22 Monday, Feb 1 Copan Ruins
The rooster who lives behind us here in Osuman crows early (3:30) and again and again. He also has several friends to respond to his call. We had a leisurely start to our morning (time for an extra cup of coffee) as we readied for our trip to the Copan Ruins.
Yobani, our guide, arrived promptly at 8:30, We scrambled into back of his pickup like a bunch of school kids as this was an opportunity to do as the locals do and we weren’t going to miss it! A truck box full of people is not an uncommon sight in the area.
Just when you think that you have been ‘ruined out’ and that this ruin will surely be like the others, you find just the opposite. We were welcomed at the beginning of the tour by a number of magnificent macaws that posed patiently while we took photo after photo. Yobani provided us with a wealth of information on the Copan Ruins that date from 300 to 900 A.D. They are unique in that they offer an abundance of well defined, three- dimensional hieroglyphics. For me, the most spectacular part of the site was the hieroglyphic stairway with 2000 hieroglyphics on the risers of the sixty-three steps. This stairway was built by the fifteenth ruler in honour of the ruler, Eighteen Rabbit and relates the events of the past rulers. Yobani referred to the stairway as the first encyclopedia - a good analogy. The macaw was depicted in a number of the stelas as it was sacred to the Mayan people of this area.
Following the tour most of us returned to the village square where we exchanged money, We found a restaurant that was owned by a Belgian fellow (just happens to be my ancestry) offering an eclectic menu and cloth napkins! Bob says that cloth napkins are an indicator of a restaurant where it is safe to eat the fresh fruit and veggies. The group enjoyed a variety of menu items – no one was disappointed. Reports from other groups at other restaurants were the same. Conclusion – Copan is a great place to eat!
In keeping with our desire to behave like the locals, our return trip was in a mini taxi for a one dollar fare. We certainly got a different perspective from the taxi than we do riding in our big rigs.
The Adventure staff treated all to a Honduran Hot Dog dinner complete with chips, salsa, chili and margaritas. Thank you – we love not having to cook!
Day 23 2010 (Feb. 2nd in Copan)
The first cock-a-doodle-doo was about 1:44am and adds to the charm of Honduras. The chickens
and roosters, by 7:00am were very busy getting food and the people were passing by on their way to
school, work etc. They are very curious about all our rigs in this field. Several tours were offered today
ie:hiking,hotsprings and a coffee plantation. The weather was quite cooperative as we had a bit of a
cloudy day and a little cooler. We opted to enjoy our free day getting haircuts, doing laundry and
general cleanup, including washing and fixing trucks etc. Most of all we enjoyed a nice walk to the
town of Copan to see this lovely little place of about 7,000 people. With many shops and artisan places
to see we thoroughly enjoyed ourselves and had a great lunch at the Carnitas Nia Lola Reastaurant with
a few other Caravaners. The waitress brought our food and carried some of it on her head. Was
something to see!
We checked out a few prices of things and for instance: a 32” LCD Tv is about $536.00usd, a fridge is
about $500.00usd and a cell phone is about $26.00 usd. I wonder how these people afford some of
these things. The walk home seemed more of a challenge so chose a 3 wheel taxi instead. Lazy or
what?
We had a brief travel meeting and were taxied to the Tun Club Resaurant in Copan compliments of
AVC. Our delicious meal consisted of delirio Jaguar Tamales, and the main course was garlic chicken
breast, served with beans, salad, cheese, sour cream, avocado, rice and of course chismole(salsa) to go
with it. We had a choice of beverage and a variety of coffee to finish. It was a most enjoyable evening.
Rig # 6
John and Kathy
Everyone pulled out of the Rio Dulce campground between 7 – 8. There were no more warm showers either last night or this morning – but a cold shower helps to wake you up!
We all stopped at the Restaurant y Jugeria La Vina for a rest stop – and more importantly a cold smoothy. Flavors of the day were pineapple, papaya, strawberry and melon. Pat and I tried the pineapple and the strawberry and we both voted the strawberry the winner.
The drive through Guatemala is beautiful – green everywhere, often trees in bloom lining the road, and surrounded by mountains and hills on every side.
The last few miles to the Honduras border had roads that were very steep and winding.
The wait at the border turned out to be quite short – less than 2 ½ hours – and all of the paperwork was done by the Wagonmaster. Tailgunner and spouses. There was confusion at Guatemala immigration where an official tried to get us to all go through immigration again until he was told by another official everything was already done.
Bob got us parked in a nearby field. Folks selling fruit and water stopped by for business. Honduran police came by to watch over us during our stay for our protection. All activity was intently watched by a crowd that gathered of old and young.
Rig #4 – Mike and Pat
Day 22 Monday, Feb 1 Copan Ruins
The rooster who lives behind us here in Osuman crows early (3:30) and again and again. He also has several friends to respond to his call. We had a leisurely start to our morning (time for an extra cup of coffee) as we readied for our trip to the Copan Ruins.
Yobani, our guide, arrived promptly at 8:30, We scrambled into back of his pickup like a bunch of school kids as this was an opportunity to do as the locals do and we weren’t going to miss it! A truck box full of people is not an uncommon sight in the area.
Just when you think that you have been ‘ruined out’ and that this ruin will surely be like the others, you find just the opposite. We were welcomed at the beginning of the tour by a number of magnificent macaws that posed patiently while we took photo after photo. Yobani provided us with a wealth of information on the Copan Ruins that date from 300 to 900 A.D. They are unique in that they offer an abundance of well defined, three- dimensional hieroglyphics. For me, the most spectacular part of the site was the hieroglyphic stairway with 2000 hieroglyphics on the risers of the sixty-three steps. This stairway was built by the fifteenth ruler in honour of the ruler, Eighteen Rabbit and relates the events of the past rulers. Yobani referred to the stairway as the first encyclopedia - a good analogy. The macaw was depicted in a number of the stelas as it was sacred to the Mayan people of this area.
Following the tour most of us returned to the village square where we exchanged money, We found a restaurant that was owned by a Belgian fellow (just happens to be my ancestry) offering an eclectic menu and cloth napkins! Bob says that cloth napkins are an indicator of a restaurant where it is safe to eat the fresh fruit and veggies. The group enjoyed a variety of menu items – no one was disappointed. Reports from other groups at other restaurants were the same. Conclusion – Copan is a great place to eat!
In keeping with our desire to behave like the locals, our return trip was in a mini taxi for a one dollar fare. We certainly got a different perspective from the taxi than we do riding in our big rigs.
The Adventure staff treated all to a Honduran Hot Dog dinner complete with chips, salsa, chili and margaritas. Thank you – we love not having to cook!
Day 23 2010 (Feb. 2nd in Copan)
The first cock-a-doodle-doo was about 1:44am and adds to the charm of Honduras. The chickens
and roosters, by 7:00am were very busy getting food and the people were passing by on their way to
school, work etc. They are very curious about all our rigs in this field. Several tours were offered today
ie:hiking,hotsprings and a coffee plantation. The weather was quite cooperative as we had a bit of a
cloudy day and a little cooler. We opted to enjoy our free day getting haircuts, doing laundry and
general cleanup, including washing and fixing trucks etc. Most of all we enjoyed a nice walk to the
town of Copan to see this lovely little place of about 7,000 people. With many shops and artisan places
to see we thoroughly enjoyed ourselves and had a great lunch at the Carnitas Nia Lola Reastaurant with
a few other Caravaners. The waitress brought our food and carried some of it on her head. Was
something to see!
We checked out a few prices of things and for instance: a 32” LCD Tv is about $536.00usd, a fridge is
about $500.00usd and a cell phone is about $26.00 usd. I wonder how these people afford some of
these things. The walk home seemed more of a challenge so chose a 3 wheel taxi instead. Lazy or
what?
We had a brief travel meeting and were taxied to the Tun Club Resaurant in Copan compliments of
AVC. Our delicious meal consisted of delirio Jaguar Tamales, and the main course was garlic chicken
breast, served with beans, salad, cheese, sour cream, avocado, rice and of course chismole(salsa) to go
with it. We had a choice of beverage and a variety of coffee to finish. It was a most enjoyable evening.
Rig # 6
John and Kathy
Days 19 & 20 - Rio Dulce
Day 19 (January 29, 2010) – Tikal to Rio Dulce
We are sad to leave Tikal but must continue on our journey. Today we (or most of we) had a leisurely start as the caravan did not begin departure until 7:45. I say “most of we” because Brian, the thumper, discovered a low tire on Rig 11. It was filled and off we went anticipating our visit and lunch at Finca Ixobel and let's not forget the pick up of the long anticipated bread order. We arrived suspicious of the turn, the cowpath/farm road leading us who know when as we round the corner we see a lovely spot with a circular drive and plants every where. What a beautiful spot. We were greeted by Maria, the daughter of the owners. Maria was born in Guatemala and adopted by the owners, a couple from the US. During the 60s her parents bought the farm/ranch and split their time between Minnesota and Guatemala. Maria and her parents eventually moved to Guatemala. They now run the hotel, bakery and restaurant. We had a delicious meal – hamburgers, eggplant, chicken and avocado, omelets, steak, and fried chicken. Several toured the dessert table and sampled the chocolate cake, carrot cake, strawberry/banana pie, banana cream pie and butterscotch brownies. Everything was done perfectly and professionally. Some took advantage of the WIFI while others toured the bakery and kitchen. Too soon we were off to Rio Dulce.
In the past we parked in a horse field at a hotel in Rio Dulce. This year we parked in the second boat storage area before the hotel. What a surprise!! They built a new reception area, new restaurant, new showers/bathrooms and added on to the pool. The facilities are absolutely gorgeous. The guests took advantage of the pool and bar. What a welcome sight. By far this is the best parking lot we have ever stayed in.
Bob and LuAnn, Rig #1
DAY 20 - Rig 2
30 January 2010 – Rio Dulce Guatemala
Any day that we get to spend on the water is a GREAT day for us – so today with our planned river trip over to Livingston we wake up full of anticipation. We were sorry to hear that Carol and Wendy would not be joining us, as they both felt colds coming on – a day of rest will probably do them good – although they will be missed.
Three boats await us at the dock – ‘Okay load up’ – and we are off. We had a nice time spotting birds along the way – it was fun to see the nesting egrets and cormorants with their young ones in the nest. We saw a fishing eagle, pelicans and some really cute birds that spent their time walking on the lily pads – we agreed it was a good thing we didn’t have to walk on lily pads as we would mostly sink!!
First stop is the thermal pools – after our steamy ride through the jungle no one was up for the walk to the ‘sauna cave’ and most opted for a cool beverage and a bun made with coconut milk – oh yeah, that all important trip to the BANOS.
Next stop was a wonderful shop full of handmade items by native women and children. Very unusual bowls and crafts made from banana leaves – they even made the paper from banana leaves. A few opted for a walk to a small waterfall, but the most interesting thing seemed to be the Rotary Club boat that was tied up at the dock – it was a floating ‘dentist office’ complete with layback chair and overhead lights. Oh things to be found in the jungle!
Finally it is lunchtime and we have made it to Livingston. This is a small port town with quite a few restaurants, shops and tourist stands. There was a mix of Caribbean and Guatemalan items for sale and the food also had a combination feel. A good meal was had by all and of course some great shopping for dessert!
Our GREAT day on the water ended with a fast 1 hour drive home. The breeze felt wonderful and cool, but the dip in the pool upon arrival was even better! What a great stop this Nana Juana Hotel has been. Tomorrow it is off to Honduras – and all the adventures it will bring.
Brian and Chris – Tailgunners
We are sad to leave Tikal but must continue on our journey. Today we (or most of we) had a leisurely start as the caravan did not begin departure until 7:45. I say “most of we” because Brian, the thumper, discovered a low tire on Rig 11. It was filled and off we went anticipating our visit and lunch at Finca Ixobel and let's not forget the pick up of the long anticipated bread order. We arrived suspicious of the turn, the cowpath/farm road leading us who know when as we round the corner we see a lovely spot with a circular drive and plants every where. What a beautiful spot. We were greeted by Maria, the daughter of the owners. Maria was born in Guatemala and adopted by the owners, a couple from the US. During the 60s her parents bought the farm/ranch and split their time between Minnesota and Guatemala. Maria and her parents eventually moved to Guatemala. They now run the hotel, bakery and restaurant. We had a delicious meal – hamburgers, eggplant, chicken and avocado, omelets, steak, and fried chicken. Several toured the dessert table and sampled the chocolate cake, carrot cake, strawberry/banana pie, banana cream pie and butterscotch brownies. Everything was done perfectly and professionally. Some took advantage of the WIFI while others toured the bakery and kitchen. Too soon we were off to Rio Dulce.
In the past we parked in a horse field at a hotel in Rio Dulce. This year we parked in the second boat storage area before the hotel. What a surprise!! They built a new reception area, new restaurant, new showers/bathrooms and added on to the pool. The facilities are absolutely gorgeous. The guests took advantage of the pool and bar. What a welcome sight. By far this is the best parking lot we have ever stayed in.
Bob and LuAnn, Rig #1
DAY 20 - Rig 2
30 January 2010 – Rio Dulce Guatemala
Any day that we get to spend on the water is a GREAT day for us – so today with our planned river trip over to Livingston we wake up full of anticipation. We were sorry to hear that Carol and Wendy would not be joining us, as they both felt colds coming on – a day of rest will probably do them good – although they will be missed.
Three boats await us at the dock – ‘Okay load up’ – and we are off. We had a nice time spotting birds along the way – it was fun to see the nesting egrets and cormorants with their young ones in the nest. We saw a fishing eagle, pelicans and some really cute birds that spent their time walking on the lily pads – we agreed it was a good thing we didn’t have to walk on lily pads as we would mostly sink!!
First stop is the thermal pools – after our steamy ride through the jungle no one was up for the walk to the ‘sauna cave’ and most opted for a cool beverage and a bun made with coconut milk – oh yeah, that all important trip to the BANOS.
Next stop was a wonderful shop full of handmade items by native women and children. Very unusual bowls and crafts made from banana leaves – they even made the paper from banana leaves. A few opted for a walk to a small waterfall, but the most interesting thing seemed to be the Rotary Club boat that was tied up at the dock – it was a floating ‘dentist office’ complete with layback chair and overhead lights. Oh things to be found in the jungle!
Finally it is lunchtime and we have made it to Livingston. This is a small port town with quite a few restaurants, shops and tourist stands. There was a mix of Caribbean and Guatemalan items for sale and the food also had a combination feel. A good meal was had by all and of course some great shopping for dessert!
Our GREAT day on the water ended with a fast 1 hour drive home. The breeze felt wonderful and cool, but the dip in the pool upon arrival was even better! What a great stop this Nana Juana Hotel has been. Tomorrow it is off to Honduras – and all the adventures it will bring.
Brian and Chris – Tailgunners
Friday, February 19, 2010
Days 16, 17 & 18 - Tikal, Guatemala
Day 16 ( January 26, 2010) - Rig #16
Crossed from Belize to Guatemala. Very busy border. Lots of trucks, money changers, confusion etc.! Took 4 hours 50 minutes (Ron #14 won the pool!) Started out on ruff dirt road but they are making improvements as lots of sections with new pavement. Country side has rolling hills; cattle; and lush trees. Thru the small villages all the children came out to wave and were very happy to see the convoy roll by. We stopped for a short while at a small village on the lake with shops and restaurant; some of the group ate there. Camping at Tikal National Park. Grassy, clean, beautiful and peaceful. Looking forward to our ruin tour tomorrow.
Pete and Wendy, Rig # 16
Wednesday, January 27, 2010 (Day 17) Tikal, Guatemala
Tikal Ruins
At 7:00 AM during breakfast a bunch of colourful wild turkeys were seen roaming around the campsite and howling monkeys could be heard nearby, apparently marking their territory. It was drizzling outside and the temperature was 19 degrees Celsius or 66 degrees Fahrenheit.
At 8:30 we split into two groups and headed out to visit the Tikal Ruins with our two tour guides Francesco and Ruben.
As we headed out on this path, Francesco advised that we were walking on a concrete causeway that was built to collect water, as Tikal has no natural sources of water. The population of Tikal was estimated to be around 250,000 but that is probably underestimated. Silt was gathered from the natural swamps close to the man made reservoirs and piled up to grow enough food to feed 997,000 people.
During our tour of the ruins, we saw a small crocodile, howling monkeys, praying mantis, spider monkeys and an assortment of birds. Francesco also pointed out various species of trees and provided information as to what the leaves and roots were used for and still used in this day.
Walked up to Temple 4 that consisted climbing 212 feet. The climb was worth the effort in order to see the vast jungle and the high temple rising above it that was built in 810 AD.
Stopped to see a Mayan kiln used to make cement and shortly afterward Francesco took a moment to show us how sound echoed off the pyramids. Apparently pyramids are built to carry sounds.
Finally found out the name of the ball game that was played by the Mayans, it was called Poka Tok and the rubber ball weighted 16 pounds or 7.25 kilograms.
Arrived back at the campsite after 5 hours of walking/climbing up and down hills and steps. Tired but happy to have made the trek.
Took advantage of the Tikal Inn swimming pool. Good clear water, slightly warmer than the last swimming pool we were in.
Duncan and Rita, Rig #17
Day 18 (January 28, 2010) – Tikal, Guatemala
We woke up to rain pounding on the roof. Rather nice to lay there all warm and cozy,, listening but eventually had to haul ourselves out. We watched the sight of 20 beautiful turkeys do their stroll in the rain. A lot of us went on the zip line while I just took a few pictures and people watched. On arriving back at the rigs some got ready to go horseback riding. Quite a few went to the Jaguar Cafe to use internet and/or eat. There was one rather exciting moment when Pat let out a piercing scream, Wend;y chair went flying and everyone jumped. The poor little mouse just about had a heart attack and went scurrying. It is currently 3 pm and the temperature is 78 degrees with the sun trying to peak through. It was 72 degrees this am (that is inside our camper). The sun made a very short appearance, then rain, stop, sprinkle, etc. We went for a very nice dinner at the hotel with 3 men playing a xylophone and 2 man on a drum. Almost felt like we were in Rio. Great food, great company and home at 8i:45, a truly late night!!
Gail and Tim, Rig #18
Crossed from Belize to Guatemala. Very busy border. Lots of trucks, money changers, confusion etc.! Took 4 hours 50 minutes (Ron #14 won the pool!) Started out on ruff dirt road but they are making improvements as lots of sections with new pavement. Country side has rolling hills; cattle; and lush trees. Thru the small villages all the children came out to wave and were very happy to see the convoy roll by. We stopped for a short while at a small village on the lake with shops and restaurant; some of the group ate there. Camping at Tikal National Park. Grassy, clean, beautiful and peaceful. Looking forward to our ruin tour tomorrow.
Pete and Wendy, Rig # 16
Wednesday, January 27, 2010 (Day 17) Tikal, Guatemala
Tikal Ruins
At 7:00 AM during breakfast a bunch of colourful wild turkeys were seen roaming around the campsite and howling monkeys could be heard nearby, apparently marking their territory. It was drizzling outside and the temperature was 19 degrees Celsius or 66 degrees Fahrenheit.
At 8:30 we split into two groups and headed out to visit the Tikal Ruins with our two tour guides Francesco and Ruben.
As we headed out on this path, Francesco advised that we were walking on a concrete causeway that was built to collect water, as Tikal has no natural sources of water. The population of Tikal was estimated to be around 250,000 but that is probably underestimated. Silt was gathered from the natural swamps close to the man made reservoirs and piled up to grow enough food to feed 997,000 people.
During our tour of the ruins, we saw a small crocodile, howling monkeys, praying mantis, spider monkeys and an assortment of birds. Francesco also pointed out various species of trees and provided information as to what the leaves and roots were used for and still used in this day.
Walked up to Temple 4 that consisted climbing 212 feet. The climb was worth the effort in order to see the vast jungle and the high temple rising above it that was built in 810 AD.
Stopped to see a Mayan kiln used to make cement and shortly afterward Francesco took a moment to show us how sound echoed off the pyramids. Apparently pyramids are built to carry sounds.
Finally found out the name of the ball game that was played by the Mayans, it was called Poka Tok and the rubber ball weighted 16 pounds or 7.25 kilograms.
Arrived back at the campsite after 5 hours of walking/climbing up and down hills and steps. Tired but happy to have made the trek.
Took advantage of the Tikal Inn swimming pool. Good clear water, slightly warmer than the last swimming pool we were in.
Duncan and Rita, Rig #17
Day 18 (January 28, 2010) – Tikal, Guatemala
We woke up to rain pounding on the roof. Rather nice to lay there all warm and cozy,, listening but eventually had to haul ourselves out. We watched the sight of 20 beautiful turkeys do their stroll in the rain. A lot of us went on the zip line while I just took a few pictures and people watched. On arriving back at the rigs some got ready to go horseback riding. Quite a few went to the Jaguar Cafe to use internet and/or eat. There was one rather exciting moment when Pat let out a piercing scream, Wend;y chair went flying and everyone jumped. The poor little mouse just about had a heart attack and went scurrying. It is currently 3 pm and the temperature is 78 degrees with the sun trying to peak through. It was 72 degrees this am (that is inside our camper). The sun made a very short appearance, then rain, stop, sprinkle, etc. We went for a very nice dinner at the hotel with 3 men playing a xylophone and 2 man on a drum. Almost felt like we were in Rio. Great food, great company and home at 8i:45, a truly late night!!
Gail and Tim, Rig #18
Days 13 & 14 - Corozal, Belize
Day 13 January 23, 2010 Chicanna to Corozal, Belize (Henry’s Caribbean Hotel & RV Park)
Our day started on a sad note with the news the Tailgunners, Richard and Maria, were turning back due to family concerns….. they will be sorely missed!
Today we left Mexico and entered Belize. Everyone scurried around, emptying their cupboards and refrigerators of dairy, meats, vegetables, fruit and booze because the customs here inspect. The staff paved our way and we sailed through…only one rig got checked and they didn’t really look into any cupboards…… The winner of the “Border Crossings Pool” was Lyndsay at 2 hours+. Rita Smith was closest by a minute but she was over. It was the shortest crossing that anyone could remember!
Tonight we are in a real campground! Most of us have either water or electric and we all have sewer available. It’s very nice….cool breezes and we are across the street from the gulf. I’m sure everyone had fun finding all their hidden goodies and chatting about the experience.
Our social tonight celebrated Kathy’s (rig 6) birthday. And we discussed water, Agua, and ice, hielo, and purification.
Pam and Fran Rig13
Henry’s Caribbean Village Resort
At 6:00 AM the dogs and chickens announced the beginning of a gloriously 90 degree sunny day for this our first full day in Corozal, Belize.
At 8:30 we boarded three minivans and were driven to Reyes and Sons tours of the New River and the Lamanai Mayan ruins. In route to the river the most noticeable site were the several (60 to 70) trucks full of sugar cane waiting their turn at the sugar refinery.
When we arrived at the Reyes and Sons landing we boarded two motorized skiffs and began looking for wild life along the river which included several different species of birds, some spider monkeys and even an alligator. We enjoyed a good narrative of the area and the wildlife along this section of the 90 mile long New River. Of particular interest along the way of our nearly two hour boat trip was the Mexican Ambassador to Belize home, a drug and alcohol rehab center sponsored by a Texan ironically located next door to a rum distillery, there was also a Mennonite settlement of 3,000 who were granted permission to immigrate from Mexico by the British in the 1950. We were given the statistic that there are 7 ethnic groups speaking 10 languages in Belize and our guide felt that the average Belizean spoke at least 3 languages; interesting of Belize’s 300,000 inhabitants today 10% are Mennonite.
We arrived at the Lamanai Ruins dock just in time for lunch of chicken with beans and rice and potato salad prepared by our campground hostess which we had brought with us. Finished with lunch we toured the 6 ruins that have been uncovered in this one very significant Mayan settlement. Lamani ruins are one of very few Mayan sites that were located on a lake and primarily because of its proximity to the lake this particular settlement of 700 structures sustained itself for 3,000 years vs. the normal 1,000 years for most of the very prosperous Mayan settlements. The tour of the ruins also included an exceptional lesson regarding the botany in the area and the Mayan’s ability to utilize many of the plants and trees for food and medicine.
After a short stop at the museum and the gift shops we were back on the boat cooling off from the breeze with a fast 1 hour trip back to the Reyes dock followed by a minivan trip to the RV Park with a stop at a local market for some much needed items i.e. cold beer. It was then time for our 5:00 social under a large shade tree enjoying the breeze coming off of the Bay of Chetamul as the wagon master gave his travel briefing for tomorrow when we leave Corozal for San Ignacio, Belize..
Rig 14, Barbara and Ron
Our day started on a sad note with the news the Tailgunners, Richard and Maria, were turning back due to family concerns….. they will be sorely missed!
Today we left Mexico and entered Belize. Everyone scurried around, emptying their cupboards and refrigerators of dairy, meats, vegetables, fruit and booze because the customs here inspect. The staff paved our way and we sailed through…only one rig got checked and they didn’t really look into any cupboards…… The winner of the “Border Crossings Pool” was Lyndsay at 2 hours+. Rita Smith was closest by a minute but she was over. It was the shortest crossing that anyone could remember!
Tonight we are in a real campground! Most of us have either water or electric and we all have sewer available. It’s very nice….cool breezes and we are across the street from the gulf. I’m sure everyone had fun finding all their hidden goodies and chatting about the experience.
Our social tonight celebrated Kathy’s (rig 6) birthday. And we discussed water, Agua, and ice, hielo, and purification.
Pam and Fran Rig13
Henry’s Caribbean Village Resort
At 6:00 AM the dogs and chickens announced the beginning of a gloriously 90 degree sunny day for this our first full day in Corozal, Belize.
At 8:30 we boarded three minivans and were driven to Reyes and Sons tours of the New River and the Lamanai Mayan ruins. In route to the river the most noticeable site were the several (60 to 70) trucks full of sugar cane waiting their turn at the sugar refinery.
When we arrived at the Reyes and Sons landing we boarded two motorized skiffs and began looking for wild life along the river which included several different species of birds, some spider monkeys and even an alligator. We enjoyed a good narrative of the area and the wildlife along this section of the 90 mile long New River. Of particular interest along the way of our nearly two hour boat trip was the Mexican Ambassador to Belize home, a drug and alcohol rehab center sponsored by a Texan ironically located next door to a rum distillery, there was also a Mennonite settlement of 3,000 who were granted permission to immigrate from Mexico by the British in the 1950. We were given the statistic that there are 7 ethnic groups speaking 10 languages in Belize and our guide felt that the average Belizean spoke at least 3 languages; interesting of Belize’s 300,000 inhabitants today 10% are Mennonite.
We arrived at the Lamanai Ruins dock just in time for lunch of chicken with beans and rice and potato salad prepared by our campground hostess which we had brought with us. Finished with lunch we toured the 6 ruins that have been uncovered in this one very significant Mayan settlement. Lamani ruins are one of very few Mayan sites that were located on a lake and primarily because of its proximity to the lake this particular settlement of 700 structures sustained itself for 3,000 years vs. the normal 1,000 years for most of the very prosperous Mayan settlements. The tour of the ruins also included an exceptional lesson regarding the botany in the area and the Mayan’s ability to utilize many of the plants and trees for food and medicine.
After a short stop at the museum and the gift shops we were back on the boat cooling off from the breeze with a fast 1 hour trip back to the Reyes dock followed by a minivan trip to the RV Park with a stop at a local market for some much needed items i.e. cold beer. It was then time for our 5:00 social under a large shade tree enjoying the breeze coming off of the Bay of Chetamul as the wagon master gave his travel briefing for tomorrow when we leave Corozal for San Ignacio, Belize..
Rig 14, Barbara and Ron
Day 12 - Chicanna Ruins, Mexico
Day 12 (January 22) - Chicanna
Today is day 12 of adventure caravans 78 day Central America trip, January 22nd 2010
Today was a travel day of the trip from Palenque (Hotel Nututun) to Chicanna ruins. It’s Friday and we are in the fourth pod. We left at 7:45 am and arrived about 3:00 pm. It was a beautiful , but very hot day. Along the way some of us saw a very dead horse, a fox, iguana and what we assumed to be a pet monkey because it was tied to a tree. Some of us had lunch at Quesos La Bretagna (sale of good cheese). The road started off very good but before we reached our destination, the roads left a lot to be desired. Construction was the word of the day. After one vehicle had a flat tire, another found a broken refrigerator door, everyone, arrived glad to have made another day of the trip. Some of the Caravan enjoyed the ruins. I believe everyone is glad they came. Looking forward to tomorrow.
Rig 12-Clif and Joan
Today is day 12 of adventure caravans 78 day Central America trip, January 22nd 2010
Today was a travel day of the trip from Palenque (Hotel Nututun) to Chicanna ruins. It’s Friday and we are in the fourth pod. We left at 7:45 am and arrived about 3:00 pm. It was a beautiful , but very hot day. Along the way some of us saw a very dead horse, a fox, iguana and what we assumed to be a pet monkey because it was tied to a tree. Some of us had lunch at Quesos La Bretagna (sale of good cheese). The road started off very good but before we reached our destination, the roads left a lot to be desired. Construction was the word of the day. After one vehicle had a flat tire, another found a broken refrigerator door, everyone, arrived glad to have made another day of the trip. Some of the Caravan enjoyed the ruins. I believe everyone is glad they came. Looking forward to tomorrow.
Rig 12-Clif and Joan
Days 10 & 11 - Palenque, Mexico
Day 10, by Rig 11 (Rita)
Everyone was up bright and early today, and ready to go before the
designated 8:30 AM departure time. The taxis were lined up waiting
for our business. We piled in, four to a cab, and were quickly (at
least by our cabbie!) taken to Parque Museo La Venta. La Venta is a
unique eco-archaeological park exhibiting a jungle environment, where
you can see colossal and monumental heads and majestic shrines of the
Olmec Culture. The Olmec were an ancient Pre-Columbian civilization
living in the tropical lowlands of south-central Mexico, in what are
roughly the modern-day states of Veracruz and Tabasco.
Poet Carlos Pellicer was responsible for developing La Venta,
moving most of the important monuments to Villahermosa in 1957 and
1958. Most of the monuments were transported from distances greater
than 60 kilometers. Carlos’ park concept was to have a natural
ecosystem to show the monuments.
After entering the park, pathways wound around the 30 monuments and
altars, created by the Olmec, who were the first to make sculptures
using large blocks of basalt. Most were made between 700-400 BC.
Some of the named sculptures were The Walker, The Throne, The
Grandmother, Of the Bearded Man, Triumphal Altar, Colossal Head,
Young Goddess, Altar of the Children, Tomb, The Young Warrior,
Quadrangular Altar, and my personal favorite, the Old Warrior.
The jaguar was a symbol of power and the main deity of the Olmec, so
it was only fitting that there were several in the park. Besides the
spotted jaguar, there was also a beautiful black jaguar. In addition
to the jaguars, there were ocelots, alligators, snapping turtles,
spider monkeys, prairie wolves and kotamundies.
After enjoying the park, we all made our way back to Feira Tabasco by
taxis. We had a short travel briefing, lunch, then departed the
fairgrounds in our usual pods of three or four vehicles, making our
way through Villahermosa to Palenque, 100 miles distant. It was an
uneventful drive, with the usually large number of topes...this time
marked by men in the middle of the road selling their bags of fruit,
etc., rather than road signs. Our stop for the evening is Hotel
Nututun RV park, situated on a pleasant river, with a beautiful,
emerald green swimming hole.
The days are starting to get warmer (in the 80’s today), so everyone
congregated around the swimming pool, with many of us going for a
swim. Of course, there was one...the youngest in the group...who had
to show us his diving skills. Personally, I thought the judges were
generous when they gave him a “6” for technique....there was way too
much splash. : )
Just another nice day in Paradise...............
Palenque
Day 11
A beautiful day for out tour of the Palenque Ruins, Agua Azul and Misol Ha waterfalls. We boarded a really nice bus at 8 A.M. and were introduced to our guide Salvador. He gets an A+ for humor and information. His big sombrero hat
was easy to spot in a crowd. These ruins were the best yet with high temples and many, many steps. Lots of folks climbed to the top level for a better view. Bill and I stayed below with others that were not too anxious to climb. We then took a walk around the ruins to the museum. This was not just any walk. It consisted of many, many steps. Steep ones, shallow ones, narrow and wide ones. Thank goodness it was mostly downhill. The path led through the jungle with many unusual trees and a lovely stream. My knees were glad to get on level ground.
We next visited the museum that housed artifacts from the ruins and more information about the civilization.
Then back to the bus for the ride to Aqua Azul. The road was through the mountains and very curvy. This did not agree with Pat who is very sensitive to motion sickness.
All were ready for lunch at Aqua Azul. Bill finally got his whole fried fish and it was very good. You have to work to get the fish off the bone but it is worth it.
Some folks swam in the blue waters below the waterfalls. Others shopped or just took in the beauty of the place.
The bus took us back along the same curvy roads and poor Pat is so sick. She will be so glad to be still. One more stop at the Misol Ha waterfalls. You could walk behind these high falls. This stop was brief and we are close to our camp.
A travel briefing was around the pool and folks scattered for their evening doings.
After checking e-mail we walked to the hotel restaurant and Mike joined us for a pretty good meal.
It's been a long day but a most interesting one.
Bill and Gerry Marcum, Rig # 10
Everyone was up bright and early today, and ready to go before the
designated 8:30 AM departure time. The taxis were lined up waiting
for our business. We piled in, four to a cab, and were quickly (at
least by our cabbie!) taken to Parque Museo La Venta. La Venta is a
unique eco-archaeological park exhibiting a jungle environment, where
you can see colossal and monumental heads and majestic shrines of the
Olmec Culture. The Olmec were an ancient Pre-Columbian civilization
living in the tropical lowlands of south-central Mexico, in what are
roughly the modern-day states of Veracruz and Tabasco.
Poet Carlos Pellicer was responsible for developing La Venta,
moving most of the important monuments to Villahermosa in 1957 and
1958. Most of the monuments were transported from distances greater
than 60 kilometers. Carlos’ park concept was to have a natural
ecosystem to show the monuments.
After entering the park, pathways wound around the 30 monuments and
altars, created by the Olmec, who were the first to make sculptures
using large blocks of basalt. Most were made between 700-400 BC.
Some of the named sculptures were The Walker, The Throne, The
Grandmother, Of the Bearded Man, Triumphal Altar, Colossal Head,
Young Goddess, Altar of the Children, Tomb, The Young Warrior,
Quadrangular Altar, and my personal favorite, the Old Warrior.
The jaguar was a symbol of power and the main deity of the Olmec, so
it was only fitting that there were several in the park. Besides the
spotted jaguar, there was also a beautiful black jaguar. In addition
to the jaguars, there were ocelots, alligators, snapping turtles,
spider monkeys, prairie wolves and kotamundies.
After enjoying the park, we all made our way back to Feira Tabasco by
taxis. We had a short travel briefing, lunch, then departed the
fairgrounds in our usual pods of three or four vehicles, making our
way through Villahermosa to Palenque, 100 miles distant. It was an
uneventful drive, with the usually large number of topes...this time
marked by men in the middle of the road selling their bags of fruit,
etc., rather than road signs. Our stop for the evening is Hotel
Nututun RV park, situated on a pleasant river, with a beautiful,
emerald green swimming hole.
The days are starting to get warmer (in the 80’s today), so everyone
congregated around the swimming pool, with many of us going for a
swim. Of course, there was one...the youngest in the group...who had
to show us his diving skills. Personally, I thought the judges were
generous when they gave him a “6” for technique....there was way too
much splash. : )
Just another nice day in Paradise...............
Palenque
Day 11
A beautiful day for out tour of the Palenque Ruins, Agua Azul and Misol Ha waterfalls. We boarded a really nice bus at 8 A.M. and were introduced to our guide Salvador. He gets an A+ for humor and information. His big sombrero hat
was easy to spot in a crowd. These ruins were the best yet with high temples and many, many steps. Lots of folks climbed to the top level for a better view. Bill and I stayed below with others that were not too anxious to climb. We then took a walk around the ruins to the museum. This was not just any walk. It consisted of many, many steps. Steep ones, shallow ones, narrow and wide ones. Thank goodness it was mostly downhill. The path led through the jungle with many unusual trees and a lovely stream. My knees were glad to get on level ground.
We next visited the museum that housed artifacts from the ruins and more information about the civilization.
Then back to the bus for the ride to Aqua Azul. The road was through the mountains and very curvy. This did not agree with Pat who is very sensitive to motion sickness.
All were ready for lunch at Aqua Azul. Bill finally got his whole fried fish and it was very good. You have to work to get the fish off the bone but it is worth it.
Some folks swam in the blue waters below the waterfalls. Others shopped or just took in the beauty of the place.
The bus took us back along the same curvy roads and poor Pat is so sick. She will be so glad to be still. One more stop at the Misol Ha waterfalls. You could walk behind these high falls. This stop was brief and we are close to our camp.
A travel briefing was around the pool and folks scattered for their evening doings.
After checking e-mail we walked to the hotel restaurant and Mike joined us for a pretty good meal.
It's been a long day but a most interesting one.
Bill and Gerry Marcum, Rig # 10
Day 9 - Villahermosa, Mexico
Long day from Veracruz to Villahermosa. We had some bad roads on the autopista and also on a small road going up the hill. There was lot of trucks stopped on the shoulder for a lunch in smalls restaurants.
We saw many roadside pineapple stands under over passes, we also could see lot of pineapple fields. At Km 317, we stopped for a picture of the statue dedicated to bridge workers, they did not wear any clothes since it is a very warm country.!!!!!!!!!Then we went over that huge beautiful bridge.
After 440 km of autopista, 16 rigs got together and travel in a convoy through Villahermosa , 2 rigs (6 and 3) were left in Veracruz for repair.
We ended in Villahermoza in the Feria Tabasco (Fairground) since the RV Park was not available due wet and muddy ground.
Pauline & Alain # 9
We saw many roadside pineapple stands under over passes, we also could see lot of pineapple fields. At Km 317, we stopped for a picture of the statue dedicated to bridge workers, they did not wear any clothes since it is a very warm country.!!!!!!!!!Then we went over that huge beautiful bridge.
After 440 km of autopista, 16 rigs got together and travel in a convoy through Villahermosa , 2 rigs (6 and 3) were left in Veracruz for repair.
We ended in Villahermoza in the Feria Tabasco (Fairground) since the RV Park was not available due wet and muddy ground.
Pauline & Alain # 9
Days 8 & 9 - Veracruz, Mexico
Day 7 (Sunday, January 17, 2010)
The first sound I hear alerts me to where I am. THUMP! THUMP! THUMP! THUMP! Richard is hard at work already and I'm not even out of bed. Guess the alarm didn't work again. We either forgot to set it or it decided to do its own thing today.
A quick cup of coffee and we're off down the long hill to join our pod along the blue? and white wall. Whoops! That low branch wasn't here yesterday when we drove up the hill. Wonder what we've got left on top of the coach. We'll check later. No time now. We;re off on another wonderful day with Adventure Caravan.
The roads haven't changed. Bumps, big and little, potholes, ditto, Topes, just the same. Then the vibradores. Did I spell that right? No matter. Everyone knows what they are by now. We're all rocking and rolling through the small Mexican villages and dodging trucks, buses, and cars on busy city streets.
As we drove, I watched the sun rise over the mountains. In the valley there were palm trees. Oh good, a sunny day, I thought. Then fog enveloped us.
It's the little things that let me know I'm not at home. The small donkey with the big man and two big sacks of ???, the huge snake at the edge of the road, two men standing by obviously impressed by its length. The Mexican vendors in the middle of the street with their oranges, the trucks full of sugar cane. Everywhere I look, it's different. I wonder what it would be like to live in this place. What would I do each day? How would I spend my time.
The day passes slowly. We stop for breaks, for fuel, for lunch.. We check the log. Another Pemex, another KM sign. What's that number? It's not in MY log. And today, I bet nobody turned left at Mile 164.4, Kilometer 264.7. But we all arrived.
We went for a walk on the beach, picked up a sand dollar. Dune buggies roared past us on the hard brown sand. The waves rolled in. We saw tall buildings across the water. A slower dune buggy passed us, dragging a load of drift wood. Two men took turns using an ax to chop a larger piece of driftwood, loading the small pieces they produced into an old truck.
At five o'clock, we gathered for our social, a hardy bunch. We got through today and we can't wait to see what tomorrow will bring.
Rig 7, Miriam and Dan
Day 8 – Veracruz
Guided Bus Tour of Veracruz with the guide Vicky
We took the bus at 8 h 30 and in our way to Veracruz we saw the Pico Orizaba with snow on top. We had a delicious coffee con leche at Restaurant La Paroquia and some took a pastry “bumba” everybody enjoyed it.
After we visit the cathedral of Veracruz and Hotel Imperial, we took an elevator and they let us visit a room, the swimming pool and at the balcony we had a nice view all around the place. It was a very old hotel but well kept.
We visit La Antigua and the oldest church built in America en 1523, there was a ceibo (very big tree). We took a walk on a suspended bridge and had lunch at a restaurant near the river.. Going back to the bus Alain almost walked on a dog who was sleeping in the middle of the street. We stopped at the house of Cortes with invading roots on the walls and also corals on the walls inside the house.
At the end of the visit we went to a Wallmart for a 45 minutes shopping.
At the RV Park we had our social gathering under the palopa and the briefing for the next day. So we hat a very interesting day.
Pauline and Rene Rig 8
The first sound I hear alerts me to where I am. THUMP! THUMP! THUMP! THUMP! Richard is hard at work already and I'm not even out of bed. Guess the alarm didn't work again. We either forgot to set it or it decided to do its own thing today.
A quick cup of coffee and we're off down the long hill to join our pod along the blue? and white wall. Whoops! That low branch wasn't here yesterday when we drove up the hill. Wonder what we've got left on top of the coach. We'll check later. No time now. We;re off on another wonderful day with Adventure Caravan.
The roads haven't changed. Bumps, big and little, potholes, ditto, Topes, just the same. Then the vibradores. Did I spell that right? No matter. Everyone knows what they are by now. We're all rocking and rolling through the small Mexican villages and dodging trucks, buses, and cars on busy city streets.
As we drove, I watched the sun rise over the mountains. In the valley there were palm trees. Oh good, a sunny day, I thought. Then fog enveloped us.
It's the little things that let me know I'm not at home. The small donkey with the big man and two big sacks of ???, the huge snake at the edge of the road, two men standing by obviously impressed by its length. The Mexican vendors in the middle of the street with their oranges, the trucks full of sugar cane. Everywhere I look, it's different. I wonder what it would be like to live in this place. What would I do each day? How would I spend my time.
The day passes slowly. We stop for breaks, for fuel, for lunch.. We check the log. Another Pemex, another KM sign. What's that number? It's not in MY log. And today, I bet nobody turned left at Mile 164.4, Kilometer 264.7. But we all arrived.
We went for a walk on the beach, picked up a sand dollar. Dune buggies roared past us on the hard brown sand. The waves rolled in. We saw tall buildings across the water. A slower dune buggy passed us, dragging a load of drift wood. Two men took turns using an ax to chop a larger piece of driftwood, loading the small pieces they produced into an old truck.
At five o'clock, we gathered for our social, a hardy bunch. We got through today and we can't wait to see what tomorrow will bring.
Rig 7, Miriam and Dan
Day 8 – Veracruz
Guided Bus Tour of Veracruz with the guide Vicky
We took the bus at 8 h 30 and in our way to Veracruz we saw the Pico Orizaba with snow on top. We had a delicious coffee con leche at Restaurant La Paroquia and some took a pastry “bumba” everybody enjoyed it.
After we visit the cathedral of Veracruz and Hotel Imperial, we took an elevator and they let us visit a room, the swimming pool and at the balcony we had a nice view all around the place. It was a very old hotel but well kept.
We visit La Antigua and the oldest church built in America en 1523, there was a ceibo (very big tree). We took a walk on a suspended bridge and had lunch at a restaurant near the river.. Going back to the bus Alain almost walked on a dog who was sleeping in the middle of the street. We stopped at the house of Cortes with invading roots on the walls and also corals on the walls inside the house.
At the end of the visit we went to a Wallmart for a 45 minutes shopping.
At the RV Park we had our social gathering under the palopa and the briefing for the next day. So we hat a very interesting day.
Pauline and Rene Rig 8
Day 5 & 6 - Poza Rica
Day 5 Tampico to Poza Rica
Awoke to the rumble of thunder and the flash of lightning, just enough rain to make the parking lot sticky underfoot. As we were having breakfast had to pause to take a photo of the beautiful sunrise. Sun that’s what we’ve been waiting for. But it was to be illusive throughout the day fighting for time with the rain clouds. RV’ers don’t like rain in |Mexico –it makes their rigs dirty!
Set out in the final group and zigzagged down the road dodging the potholes while being on an ever viligant watch for topes. Think we prefer the topes to the potholes as they seem to be more predictable.
I thought yesterday was a juggling act for the navigator – manage the trip log, track the Streets and Trips, take pictures – add to that watch for potholes and topes. Talk about multi tasking! Not to belittle the responsibility of the driver – KEEP THE RIG ON THE ROAD, avoid all the local drivers, dodge the potholes, not too close to the edge, move over so the locals can pass, etc. But hey this is all part of the adventure and today it truly was an ‘adventure caravan’. We all kept a smile on our faces and had a new appreciation for our roads at home.
We wound our way through the mountainous hills, ranch country and orange groves passed through many villages and enjoyed the daily activities of the locals – riding their bicycles loaded with wares, selling fruits and cheese, offering cold drinks at the topes, hauling oranges, rounding cattle and driving taxi.
We concluded our day with a pool party hosted by tomorrow’s tour guide, Vicky – margaritas, taco chips, guacamole and fried beans. All in all a great day! Think we will sleep soundly tonight.
Sharon and Ed, rig #5
Rig # 6 January 16th. 2010
This is our second day in Poza Rica Hotel and RV Park. Some of us are up in the hotel parking lots;
others are down in the RV park. Everyone knows how wet it is down here. It rained off and on most
of the night, as well as waking up to rain this morning.
We left around 9:10 AM. We got on the tour bus with our guide Vicky. She told us a little about the
area Posa Rica “ Rich Hole”, well known for it`s oil. They also grow citrus, bananas, coconuts and
are most famous for their excellent Vanilla.
We arrived at El Tajin Ruins and museum around 10 AM.
We first watched the Papantla Flyers, 5 men up a 120 ft steel mast. They wound up the rope around
the mast by walking around it. The old man, 77 years old climbed up to the top and sat, and then
stood on a small circular platform in the centre. He played some tunes on a musical instrument
sounding like a flute or picalo, while banging on his drums. The other four men finally jumped over
the side and from their weight the unit on top began spinning while the ropes were being unwound.
As everything was turning and the ropes unwinding the men were slowly coming closer to the
ground. It was truly an amazing thing to see.
The weather also cooperated with us today, cool but very nice, and no rain.
We then went into the ruins with a different guide, a very knowledgeable fellow. We looked at the
temples, ball court, market place area etc, As for all of the history you all probably have your own in
interpretation.
We had a great lunch around 12:30 PM, chicken and rice with a pumpkin and sunflower seed sauce.
We had an hour or so to stroll through the museum and the shops, then on the bus and back about 4PM.
Bob, Richard and Brian did not come with us today. They had many things to do; taking care of Dan`s transmission and some sort of electricity and water for those up above. We went to our travel meeting at 5:40 PM and off to our Welcome to Mexico Buffet Dinner.
It was a great day and we are looking forward to many more.
John and Kathy, Rig #6
Awoke to the rumble of thunder and the flash of lightning, just enough rain to make the parking lot sticky underfoot. As we were having breakfast had to pause to take a photo of the beautiful sunrise. Sun that’s what we’ve been waiting for. But it was to be illusive throughout the day fighting for time with the rain clouds. RV’ers don’t like rain in |Mexico –it makes their rigs dirty!
Set out in the final group and zigzagged down the road dodging the potholes while being on an ever viligant watch for topes. Think we prefer the topes to the potholes as they seem to be more predictable.
I thought yesterday was a juggling act for the navigator – manage the trip log, track the Streets and Trips, take pictures – add to that watch for potholes and topes. Talk about multi tasking! Not to belittle the responsibility of the driver – KEEP THE RIG ON THE ROAD, avoid all the local drivers, dodge the potholes, not too close to the edge, move over so the locals can pass, etc. But hey this is all part of the adventure and today it truly was an ‘adventure caravan’. We all kept a smile on our faces and had a new appreciation for our roads at home.
We wound our way through the mountainous hills, ranch country and orange groves passed through many villages and enjoyed the daily activities of the locals – riding their bicycles loaded with wares, selling fruits and cheese, offering cold drinks at the topes, hauling oranges, rounding cattle and driving taxi.
We concluded our day with a pool party hosted by tomorrow’s tour guide, Vicky – margaritas, taco chips, guacamole and fried beans. All in all a great day! Think we will sleep soundly tonight.
Sharon and Ed, rig #5
Rig # 6 January 16th. 2010
This is our second day in Poza Rica Hotel and RV Park. Some of us are up in the hotel parking lots;
others are down in the RV park. Everyone knows how wet it is down here. It rained off and on most
of the night, as well as waking up to rain this morning.
We left around 9:10 AM. We got on the tour bus with our guide Vicky. She told us a little about the
area Posa Rica “ Rich Hole”, well known for it`s oil. They also grow citrus, bananas, coconuts and
are most famous for their excellent Vanilla.
We arrived at El Tajin Ruins and museum around 10 AM.
We first watched the Papantla Flyers, 5 men up a 120 ft steel mast. They wound up the rope around
the mast by walking around it. The old man, 77 years old climbed up to the top and sat, and then
stood on a small circular platform in the centre. He played some tunes on a musical instrument
sounding like a flute or picalo, while banging on his drums. The other four men finally jumped over
the side and from their weight the unit on top began spinning while the ropes were being unwound.
As everything was turning and the ropes unwinding the men were slowly coming closer to the
ground. It was truly an amazing thing to see.
The weather also cooperated with us today, cool but very nice, and no rain.
We then went into the ruins with a different guide, a very knowledgeable fellow. We looked at the
temples, ball court, market place area etc, As for all of the history you all probably have your own in
interpretation.
We had a great lunch around 12:30 PM, chicken and rice with a pumpkin and sunflower seed sauce.
We had an hour or so to stroll through the museum and the shops, then on the bus and back about 4PM.
Bob, Richard and Brian did not come with us today. They had many things to do; taking care of Dan`s transmission and some sort of electricity and water for those up above. We went to our travel meeting at 5:40 PM and off to our Welcome to Mexico Buffet Dinner.
It was a great day and we are looking forward to many more.
John and Kathy, Rig #6
Day 4: Ciudad Victoria to Tampico
We had an easy morning as departure time was not until 11. Many of the folks walked down about ¾ mile to Sorianas, a major shopping store, but we opted to just take a relaxed morning.
We were placed in the third group to leave and set as the lead vehicle. Pat had done well navigating yesterday but we knew we were fine as we were following wagonmaster Bob. This time we were on our own, although with detailed instructions, and three rigs following us, hopefully also looking at the directions to give us a yell if we set off in a wrong direction.
It all went smoothly though. The fourth RV back, Brian and Chris in Rig 2, didn’t catch up with us until the last half of the trip, but since they are one of the tailgunners we knew they were fine. There were two checkpoints during the trip but we were waved on at both.
We had a stop alongside the road for a lunch break and also filled up before stopping at our destination, a large parking lot behind a nice looking hotel in the town of Tampico.
We parked beside a Canadian couple traveling with a German couple. The Canadians didn’t speak any German, and only one of the Germans knew a few words of English. This *had* to make for some interesting travel moments!
This hotel has internet access, a nice restaurant, and even a couple of showers. There is a beautiful garden and pool area behind us. Pat loves the many colors of bougainvillea.
The caravan team gave us a great little sangria social poolside along with tips for the next day’s drive.
Bob, though dancing along the edge of the pool throughout his talk, disappointed us all by not managing to fall in at some point. Pat & I then walked over to the restaurant for dinner and were invited to join a table with 3 Canadian couples. The couple closest to us, Duncan & Rita, were from Calgary and told us about life in Calgary, especially during the Calgary Stampede times of year.
Back to the RV and a chance to check email. Another early bedtime (yes, I think we’re getting old!). Our departure tomorrow will be at 8:15.
Driving report: Roads good. Drive was through a dryish agricultural area with a few hills here and there. Mountains in the distance.
Mike & Pat Astley, Rig 4
We were placed in the third group to leave and set as the lead vehicle. Pat had done well navigating yesterday but we knew we were fine as we were following wagonmaster Bob. This time we were on our own, although with detailed instructions, and three rigs following us, hopefully also looking at the directions to give us a yell if we set off in a wrong direction.
It all went smoothly though. The fourth RV back, Brian and Chris in Rig 2, didn’t catch up with us until the last half of the trip, but since they are one of the tailgunners we knew they were fine. There were two checkpoints during the trip but we were waved on at both.
We had a stop alongside the road for a lunch break and also filled up before stopping at our destination, a large parking lot behind a nice looking hotel in the town of Tampico.
We parked beside a Canadian couple traveling with a German couple. The Canadians didn’t speak any German, and only one of the Germans knew a few words of English. This *had* to make for some interesting travel moments!
This hotel has internet access, a nice restaurant, and even a couple of showers. There is a beautiful garden and pool area behind us. Pat loves the many colors of bougainvillea.
The caravan team gave us a great little sangria social poolside along with tips for the next day’s drive.
Bob, though dancing along the edge of the pool throughout his talk, disappointed us all by not managing to fall in at some point. Pat & I then walked over to the restaurant for dinner and were invited to join a table with 3 Canadian couples. The couple closest to us, Duncan & Rita, were from Calgary and told us about life in Calgary, especially during the Calgary Stampede times of year.
Back to the RV and a chance to check email. Another early bedtime (yes, I think we’re getting old!). Our departure tomorrow will be at 8:15.
Driving report: Roads good. Drive was through a dryish agricultural area with a few hills here and there. Mountains in the distance.
Mike & Pat Astley, Rig 4
Day 3 - Ciudad Victoria
Day 3 (January 13, 2010) – CD Victoria, Mexico
Here we go! Every one is ready to go! Everyone is excited and ready ! Leaving the park is a job in itself, but all went well, and we left safely. The border crossing went smoothly, thanks to our fearless leader. We went through with minimal inspections. The young soldiers were very pleasant and polite. I hope everyone took mental memory pictures, because we are not permitted to take any pictures of them. Our only incident was minimal, with a loose hubcap easily remedies when it was found. The most problematic was the finding of it. We continued on the road and had a great trip!! The park in Ciudad Victoria is minimal , but nice. The owner is a feisty little lady with, I’m sure, many stories to tell. She told us a few and closed with a blessing for all. We then continued with our Margarita party, and our hostess, LuAnn, WagonMaster 1 ½, outdid herself. We will move on in the morning to Tampico, and hopefully sunshine.
Rich and Maria, Rig #3
Here we go! Every one is ready to go! Everyone is excited and ready ! Leaving the park is a job in itself, but all went well, and we left safely. The border crossing went smoothly, thanks to our fearless leader. We went through with minimal inspections. The young soldiers were very pleasant and polite. I hope everyone took mental memory pictures, because we are not permitted to take any pictures of them. Our only incident was minimal, with a loose hubcap easily remedies when it was found. The most problematic was the finding of it. We continued on the road and had a great trip!! The park in Ciudad Victoria is minimal , but nice. The owner is a feisty little lady with, I’m sure, many stories to tell. She told us a few and closed with a blessing for all. We then continued with our Margarita party, and our hostess, LuAnn, WagonMaster 1 ½, outdid herself. We will move on in the morning to Tampico, and hopefully sunshine.
Rich and Maria, Rig #3
Days 1 & 2 - Pharr, TX
DAY 1 – Pharr, TX
First day of our 78 Day Central American Adventure. Everyone arrived early so we were able to inspect the rigs, get items we had forgotten or just found out were needed, obtain our Mexico immigration and vehicle permission papers, run to the grocery store and let's not forget attend the Welcome and Orientation briefing. So much information that at times we are overwhelmed and dazed but then we are right back on track because we don't want to miss a thing.
Wagonmaster Bob gave tons of information and then threw in a few tidbits about leaf-cutter ants, breakdowns – just to keep us awake.
The excitement is starting to grow. We are really going to drive to Panama, drive into all of the Central American countries, experience their culture, try different foods (just keep saying to yourself that you will try new foods), make new friends and make some incredible memories – think of the anxiety you will be causing your kids knowing that Mom and Dad or Grandma and Grandpa are “driving” to Central America and telling their friends that the folks must be losing it.
We ended our group activities with a shared meal of pizza, salad, drinks and dessert. What a great start to an even greater trip.
Rig #1, Bob and LuAnn
DAY 2 - Rig 2
12 January 2010 – Pharr, TX
Another smooth day here at Texas Trails – Bob (our fearless leader) lead another informative and often interesting Orientation. We learned more about pod traveling, personal & rig safety, water acquisition, and border crossings – words to live by: DUMP WHENEVER YOU HAVE THE OPPORTUNITY!!!!
Bribed with a healthy breakfast, both guests and staff were attentive and participated in the morning’s activities. LuAnn (a bit competitive) wanted to see who could peel the ‘prettiest egg’ – as if this was a competition that could be won, or that there would be any prize other than enjoying a well peeled egg – LuAnn attempted both the roll-n-peel, and the cut-n-scoop - though truly stellar attempts… she still couldn’t master the perfectly peeled egg.
The afternoon started with that all important first money exchange – we all we able to feel very wealthy as our small pile of US dollars were exchanged for a very hefty stack of pesos. Oh to be so lucky every day! Tomorrow we begin spending!
Bob and LuAnn are doing a great job keeping us informed, active, and excited – even amused with some personal anecdotes.
Today is the final day before we begin our trek south of the border. Though many of us have traveled great lengths (both mentally and physically – some farther than others) we have finally met each other and are ready for the start of our adventure with for our fledgling group. This is an exciting day for both guests and staff – final preparations, last minute purchases, sorting and storing, last minute fixes, and that ‘oh-so-necessary’ final treasured meal from the world-of-the-familiar?!?! – tomorrow is the true beginning of an Adventure of a Lifetime!
We wish each of us well, safe travels; and may this trip be without incident, accident, or breakdown.
buen viaje, bon voyage, good travels –
Brian & Chris
Traveling Fools
First day of our 78 Day Central American Adventure. Everyone arrived early so we were able to inspect the rigs, get items we had forgotten or just found out were needed, obtain our Mexico immigration and vehicle permission papers, run to the grocery store and let's not forget attend the Welcome and Orientation briefing. So much information that at times we are overwhelmed and dazed but then we are right back on track because we don't want to miss a thing.
Wagonmaster Bob gave tons of information and then threw in a few tidbits about leaf-cutter ants, breakdowns – just to keep us awake.
The excitement is starting to grow. We are really going to drive to Panama, drive into all of the Central American countries, experience their culture, try different foods (just keep saying to yourself that you will try new foods), make new friends and make some incredible memories – think of the anxiety you will be causing your kids knowing that Mom and Dad or Grandma and Grandpa are “driving” to Central America and telling their friends that the folks must be losing it.
We ended our group activities with a shared meal of pizza, salad, drinks and dessert. What a great start to an even greater trip.
Rig #1, Bob and LuAnn
DAY 2 - Rig 2
12 January 2010 – Pharr, TX
Another smooth day here at Texas Trails – Bob (our fearless leader) lead another informative and often interesting Orientation. We learned more about pod traveling, personal & rig safety, water acquisition, and border crossings – words to live by: DUMP WHENEVER YOU HAVE THE OPPORTUNITY!!!!
Bribed with a healthy breakfast, both guests and staff were attentive and participated in the morning’s activities. LuAnn (a bit competitive) wanted to see who could peel the ‘prettiest egg’ – as if this was a competition that could be won, or that there would be any prize other than enjoying a well peeled egg – LuAnn attempted both the roll-n-peel, and the cut-n-scoop - though truly stellar attempts… she still couldn’t master the perfectly peeled egg.
The afternoon started with that all important first money exchange – we all we able to feel very wealthy as our small pile of US dollars were exchanged for a very hefty stack of pesos. Oh to be so lucky every day! Tomorrow we begin spending!
Bob and LuAnn are doing a great job keeping us informed, active, and excited – even amused with some personal anecdotes.
Today is the final day before we begin our trek south of the border. Though many of us have traveled great lengths (both mentally and physically – some farther than others) we have finally met each other and are ready for the start of our adventure with for our fledgling group. This is an exciting day for both guests and staff – final preparations, last minute purchases, sorting and storing, last minute fixes, and that ‘oh-so-necessary’ final treasured meal from the world-of-the-familiar?!?! – tomorrow is the true beginning of an Adventure of a Lifetime!
We wish each of us well, safe travels; and may this trip be without incident, accident, or breakdown.
buen viaje, bon voyage, good travels –
Brian & Chris
Traveling Fools
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