Caribbean paradise
Day 11 0
Well, we are back now in Cancun having spent the better part of 2 weeks on the beach! With our fingers crossed for sun we first headed to Isla Mujeres (Island of Women), just off the coast of Cancun. The sun came out for long enough for us to establish that the beaches were the most beautiful we had ever seen, with turquoise waters and soft white sand, before it started raining. And raining, and raining, and raining. Thankfuly we were staying at a great hostel, called Poc Na, which was incredibly lively and full of fun people.
The next day the sun came out a little, and the next day a little more. We spent our days catching sun where we could (and burning in the process!), and sitting out the rain in the hostel. After a few days relaxing we then went on a snorkelling trip which was truly amazing, where we saw all sorts of weird and wonderful fish, including some enormous ones with great big teeth !
Before we had arrived on the island we had been told about a free reggae festival taking place 30 mins away from Cancun, again on the beach. So when the time came we packed up our bags and came back to Cancun for the second time. While Mexican reggae is not quite the same as that which we are used to back home, the festival was still excellent, and the sun was out so strong and hot that we had to create our own shady shelter using some beach debris, breeze blocks and a sarong.
Following the festival we headed on to Tulum which has really been the highlight of our time in Mexico. Not only is it the most beaut iful place I have ever seen, with even clearer seas and whiter, softer sand than anywhere else we have been on the caribbean, but also full of the nicest people. We arrived in Tulum very concerned about our finances due to various unforseen expenses and were fortunate to stay in a new hostel (Lobo Inn) run by the most generous family who provided us with lifts to the beach, free drinks and dinner, breakafast etc. In addition they taught us to play dominoes properly and kept us entertained at all times.
On the beach we encountered more lovely Mexicans who were always willing to share whatever they could, be it music, beer or just a lively conversation. And Helen also managed to get a free snorkelling lesson. All this in the most beautiful setting. Í think we pretty much have found paradise!
Now we head to Mexico City. A very different cultural experience I am sure!