the other side of the island.


Here is the link to the last of the three slide shows from this amazing journey.

There are more stories to tell than time. I asked B upon our return how we ever had such a saturated, experience-laden trip without expending very much effort at all. Although we couldn't come up with specifics as to why, she thought it might have something to do with the total and immediate immersion into another culture that you feel the moment you step off the plane. I agree.

I also think it has a lot to do with avoiding brochures, tours, typical tourism. She and I separately grew up visiting Mexico and speak some of the language, we all have a hearty sense of adventure and a true reverence for 'Mexico style'. My best suggestion is (and this would go for any trip really) rent a home or condo to get away from crowds, rent a car or jeep, go everywhere you can on your own and explore, attempt to speak the local language a bit - it makes a difference as long as you try - in essence, become a traveler instead of a tourist.

If you must take a cruise to Cozumel, get off, rent a jeep (NOT a scooter or a segway) and drive the long southern way around to the other side of the island for beauty and solitude. Be careful with the water over there - it is a little rougher. Best to park at one of the two/three restaurants with palapas and swim a little, sit in the shade, eat some ceviche and be a million miles away from anything you know in your day to day...

Or just go for a whole week like we did :)

yum.

palapas.

floaties.

the end.