Touring Guatemala:
We rented a car and drove to Coban in the alta verapaz (highlands) of Guatemala. It was a very scenic drive. The weather cooperated even though out in the ocean a hurricane was blowing. Being so far into the Rio Dulce (22 miles) , we and the Sorrento were safe.
We travelled over 400 miles round trip to Coban, Lanquin, and Semuc Champey. In Lanquin, we visited a cave which was a mile underground and saw many bats sleeping. The cave was lit and hand rails and ladders had been installed to make the experience safe and easy.
After the cave , we took a 7 mile drive from Lanquin to Semuc Champey. The road was not paved and very narrow and winding. It was absolutely worth the trip. We arrived in the parking area and hiked into the jungle and came out to see 7 beautiful, crystal clear pools, they were positively fantastic. We hiked a little further and saw a gorge with a river rushing in and running undeground below the pools aand then out the other side. We spent hours sunning and swimming here and I can just imagine how Adam and Eve must have felt in the Garden of Eden!
We returned to Coban (a small city) and stayed at a very nice huspedejes (hostel) which had a bistro that served excellent food. We then returned to the Sorrento and found everything in great shape.
While we were away an old salt cruiser friend of ours passed away. Miles was 74 and had built his own 46 foot wooden boat . He was asked how long he was planning to cruise when he first departed and he replied "Don't know, maybe 10 years", well that was over 30 years ago! He was an artist and wanted to paint me. I would have liked that.
We are now getting ready to leave this country. We have had lots of wonderful adventures and trips into her interior. We will travel up the coast and hopefully be in Isla Mujeres by Christmas!
Be well.
Fran and Dave