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Jul - Sep 2003: I took a 2 month trip to Mexico, with a short side-trip to Guatemala.

Mexico, week 1

Jennifer Radcliffe
2005-11-12 11:19:04

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Zihuatanejo and my first day in Mexico

I arrived in Zihuatanejo today, which is a beach town 4 hours north of Acapulco (I've attached a map with Zihautanejo underlined). My first impression from the airplane was that it´s a stunning coastline. The land was lush and green, with hills stretching down to a beautiful beach. Coconut palms are everywhere here - coconuts used to be the main source of income for the city before it became a tourist destination. Zihua is now known less for its coconuts and more for its beautiful beaches and great surfing. Stepping off the plane was like walking into a steamy tropical jungle - it´s humid and hot and the light is wonderfully golden here.

After finding a hotel and getting settled in, I walked along the beach taking photos and taking in the feel of the town. I have to admit that I felt a bit of trepidation this first day. I had no idea of what to expect from Mexico, and after my bad experiences in Cuba I was inclined to keep my guard up. However, people here are very friendly and extremely laid back. Mexico has a reputation as being a very relaxing place, and it is certainly living up to that reputation! ¡Viva Mexico!

I have a funny/embarrassing story to tell (yes, already!) I was walking along the beach today and a woman and her son asked me in Spanish to take a picture of them. Because I was nervous I didn't listen well and I thought she wanted to take a picture with me. They were too polite to say anything so we took a few pictures together, first with her camera and then with mine. When I realized that I misunderstood I had a good laugh about it. People in Asia love taking pictures with foreigners so I just assumed these folks wanted the same thing.

Sun, sand and surf in Puerto Escondido

I took an overnight bus last night to Puerto Escondido (translates in ...