Sunday, April 7, 2024

Out of the Blue and in the land of no service - HA!

 Hola Amigos!

We woke up early and decided we would get breakfast, then hit the road for Palenque. Turns out we would start the day uncaffienated and on an empty belly since nothing was open when we got to the office. Thankfully, we had asked the sweet waitress at the restaurant last night what route we should take. Her answer seemed fairly clear, "straight ahead" hand gesture and then she told us that she doesn't drive. LOL!     

A 1 lane bridge but takes 2 vehicles at once

We took her route and questioned ourselves a couple of times. The route showed only 87km to our destination. HOLY! A short day, you would think? HA-HA - NO.  Enter the term we had been preparing for: TOPE - translates to a top, something that protects something else. Let me tell you, they do not protect much. I have never been so happy to be driving Dolly, she may not be built for speed but, she sure waddles over the topes. It helps immensely that my hubby is a good driver and that we have been driving in Honduras for almost 4 years.


My trusty pilot







We found a randomly placed OXXO store on our route and they were just brewing fresh coffee. I mean, FRESH, he held my travel mug under it as it ran. It carried us on through to Palenque, with a renewed exuberance and a few loose fillings. 


In December, some of you may recall that we did part of this trip with a company called GAdventures. Our guide was a phenomenal fellow from the Yucatan area of Mexico and he has become a great friend. He has offered us lots of tips on planning our routes and making recommendations. Salvador appreciates good food and exceptional service. His choice for Palenque, a little place near the ruins, Maya Bell. We made our way here after a short and very harrowing experience going through the town of tiny streets. Dolly is sassy, she shows up on one way streets. LOL

Our cute little room



Since we will stay here for a couple of days to recharge and of course visit the Palenque ruins during the eclipse, we opted to choose a room with a bit of extra comfort. Pool is nearby, restaurant is a close walk and the staff are lovely. OMG, I forgot the food. Mexico is known to be a country of culinary experiences. If today is any reflection of that, I would have to whole heartedly agree. I am typing this as we finish eating dinner, which was delicious. 
Tostados de Pollo (think chicken taco but better)


Gigi and Big Poppy




Since the internet is strongest in the restaurant, I am blogging the day from here this evening. Hope your Sunday was fabulous. It is still hot as the habanero sauce Steph burnt his mouth on a few minutes ago. I will stick to the mole, it is amazing!

Since my sister loves cows, this photo was necessary



Until tomorrow, 
Gigi
      




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