Driving into Lean had me in the navigation seat and suddenly we were too far from where we were going. Calles go east west and Avenidas run north south. The city divided into quarters. All very confusing when it’s written in Spanish and the map is not to scale. Not making excuses … much. A taxi driver was consulted. Finally he was asked to lead us to the hostel. It The first hostel was not appropriate … only Karen went in to see the conditions. With the taxi driver we arrived at Bigfoot and across the street was ViaVia, Leon. I had decided, when I read the name in the guidebook, that it was the place I was going to stay at and when arriving in Leon had my heart set on ViaVia . So as ... read more

The ruins of Copan were the first stop in Honduras. The reason for the second stop at La Ceiba, was to meet the divers who had been for the previous five days on the Islands of Utila or Roatan and would be staying a while longer. When arriving at Copan the 'monster’ progressed smoothly into town and I rejoiced to know we wee going to stay in town. I had decided to stay at Via Via a hostel run by Belgians with similar locations in a few places in the world, all boasting the same level of friendliness, ecological concern, cleanliness and good food and drink. Minnie had stayed in Via Via in other parts of the world and she was looking forward to similar hospitality. The truck stopped. OK we would all get out and ... read more

El Imposible, La Libertad and Cecilia's Yard Since I passed thru the area in the dead of night with lightning only occasionally … every five minutes …illuminating the whole sky it is best to read an authoritative source concerning the existence of this place. In Park Net .... nps.gov/centralamerica/Salvador.... the following description of El Imposible can be found; “EL SALVADOR Welcome to El Imposible National Park! A combination of unique flora and fauna, archaeological remains, and truly spectacular scenery will allow you to enjoy one of the last remaining tropical rainforests in El Salvador. Of the few natural areas in the country, El Imposible has the most species of plants and animals. The jaguar, harpy eagle and scarlet macaw are already extinct in El Salvador, and countless other species are endangered. Some impressive creatures, such as ... read more

Panajachel, a hippy left over from the 60’s and 70’s lies at one end of Lake Atitlan, supposedly the most beautiful lake ever. And when seen from high up on the mountain highway, on the way south, the lake with the three volcanic cones piercing the clouds in the background truly is the most stunning sight ever. Slept three nights here. On the evening of our arrival Aussie Paul and I checked out the Hotel Atitlan. The guard at the door wanted 40 quetzals just to go in. This would have been returned towards our meal or drink bill. We did not go in to see the garden display or partake of any cervezas. The truck pulled into a derelict hotel that had seen its heyday before the civil war. The bathrooms were mouldy, the ... read more

Tulum is the only Mayan Ruin by the sea. It is near the town of Tulum where my friend Carolyn and her husband George have bought property and are now owners of a house that will be available for rent. I will certainly be a customer. To get into the ruins you turn left off the road and follow the tour buses. Even early in the morning there were lots of them. And IT WAS ALREADY HOT at ten o’clock. Purple umbrella to the rescue. Once off the bus followed the crowd to what looked like the entrance… WRONG …It was the shopping area. ..a very large shopping area. Spied the tractor driven train and got into line. While waiting a man in traditional dress came around with his hat extended. The incessant beat of ... read more