Translation from Dutch into English with GOOGLE TRANSLATE

Tuesday, July 8

We come from Mexico

What a time to get up after a rough night, short night. Anyway, sucks to blame and who should not complain ... Maybe we showered and not as long as possible to stay in bed lie. For six hours we went by taxi to the bus station we first three and a half hours by bus to the border with guatemala went. The voyage was prosperous, happy I could just what fuck (Piet will undoubtedly have his eyes again not close have done). At the border, the passport with the completed paper by Marjan collected and by the acting on its border post everything, what a luxury. We were just enjoying the sun waiting for what would happen. The boundary settlement happened very fast, we could so quickly in taxis. That was a bit over the old name for American cars just about fell apart. It was In any case, all well and we arrived unscathed and all the luggage to the Guatemalan border. Since Mary was back to work, we are waiting again the sun. There too, everything went very quickly than expected, so fast that our bus was not there. Mary will be reset to carry busorganisatie the call, it controls a lot. The bus was then pretty soon and we could continue. Weather three and a half hours by bus before we arrived at the Lake Atitlán, we are in Guatemala. We had a little boat with a one hour sail to the other side of the lake to where San Pedro was, the village where we have two would spend nights. When we arrived at the quay there were already a number of boys who our big bags 2 for each Quetzales brought up (1 Quetzal is € 0.13), and we could own this temperature not to carry. We checked in, it is a very basic hotel, but or just two comfortable double beds and a working toilet. A disadvantage, there is an electric shower, we'll see. We did the briefing in a small restaurant on site away. During the briefing was sick and Piet So went to bed. I'm still the same restaurant eaten with most of the group while Piet nice lay still. In any case there was an opportunity time to go to bed.


Wednesday, July 9

Piet has the whole night lying / walking ghosts. He suffers of vomiting and diarrhea. I have a quiet breakfast with chocolate bread and tea in the room. After I had with Piet tea and water I walk with the group. Course first with a piece of the boat sail to its destination. Mary thought it since school, I had no pens included. Too bad because we found no holiday and we went to visit a school (We still have a starting time). When we reached the school had just arrived break but we were surely to inside. We then have to run pretty good views of the lake and along a coffee plantation. When we went back to the boat I walked Ank (Egypt 2000) bump, it's a small world. She was on the way Djoser of the Trans America Travel Central, but did not walk with her group. She was a nice little benefit from the view of the lake. When I returned I was in the hotel with tea and Piet toast (thanks to Mieke) and I went to the bank to exchange. Of course I missed the street from the bank and I an extra climbing done. Fortunately it was not long, because I the idea of the village had to walk out again. After some inquiries to people passing by I came to the bank. There were also Miriam and Marc and Hans Erna already present. It took "only" half hour before I returned with a large and Quetzales water bottle. This is the first hotel where we can no water or tap water in the room. The rest of the afternoon I I enjoy reading a little lie. In the evening, I only the drink of old Miriam went and got some in the restaurant meal. Miriam asked if I went with some drinking, but Piet was quite the day alone, so that was but I declined. So back in time flat. Piet was to 03.00 hours awake and had a liking for tea, so I just made it After all three hours and that is the standard time for High Tea.


Thursday, July 10

At half past seven I alone (without Pete) ate a delicious fruit plate with yogurt. At a quarter past eight the boys were ready for a little something to the bags and the boot to wear. At half past eight we went again and sail again a little while the bus route. . Halfway we stopped in Sololá, where the market was.Het Sololá special thing is that not only women but also the particular older men still wear traditional costumes lopen.We have it good gestruind here about the market and then moved on to our final destination of the day. We arrived at the end of the morning in Chichicastenango, famous for its tourist market on Thursday and Saturday. Tried to give the rooms were not ready, Marjan shared the room numbers are down so we could walk. We had room number eight and all songs were on the Maya Way written, so that required some explanation. After the bags in a corner of the courtyard had parked we first have to go and walk. Because almost anniversary Granddad we first had emailed and a Grandpa E-card sent. Then it was time to eat. We needed by the internal market with fruits and vegetables before we came up in a restaurant. I bought at the fruit market two bananas which I just had to haggle again. In the restaurant I took a nice dish, Piet held the with a little dry bread and tea, again thanks to Mieke. That fact was a dish with too much bread and was Piet it off to try to get some inside. After having paid the bill we first went to the hotel went back to the stuff into the guest room. Then we viewed the church, he looked a bit like in Chamula, but was not nearly as impressive, there had little further activities. When the church was visited we went to the cemetery, Mary did have warned, but we had nothing special to us, so we car could do. It seems there what a robbery Cemetery to take place, especially if it is so remote as in Chichicastenango. Happened (of course) and we have no one at ease bit to look around. The tombs are very colorful all, here is the difference between rich and poor to good see. The poor have nothing but a pile of sand with just Maya a cross on it, the rich tombs of complete the whole family. Ultimately, of course, the market lugged, he is not as great as in Otavalo, but they do have enough. We got after some negotiations a bag purchased for Charlene, that could have the budget for her birthday present was not quite prepared. I have went to a new hat looked, but I was course again for spinner. We met up with Marc and Miriam to eat, eventually those were the two, and Gerry Hans, Mary and Hans Erna, the sick behind. When we ordered a bottle of wine for six people were fine, a nice Chilean red wine. I'll have a bottle we said, but there was still a problem. The restaurant was not the same wine. We not too difficult, but then a different brand. When we then have to third bottle started asking the same party again, only now with a different outcome. The third bottle was not good, I was noted that the wine tasting but just not good anymore was, so we refused. When the waiter returned with a suit wine we had it, which was not to drink because The wine was very different when we already had. But then alcoholic beverages and just stop AFET. To bed on time, this time in a bed, so refrain. I was' awake at night because I was nauseous and stomach cramps received. Here both sides cleared the happy good toilet and just back to sleep.


Friday, July 11

We could back up on time, it was after a long 21.30 night ever since (we have our rest during the holidays). I was so shaky as anything, but wanted to go food, it was a travel day without food is nothing. I eventually just some pineapple and tea, bread smoke (for me) terrible. I've brought in some a napkin for later in the day. Along the way I still here sleep it is all nice and if you're not feeling well. When we arrived in Totonicapán but we first Erna at her family brought, she had fever and was quite So nothing but lie down and sleep. Then we subject a guide to the bank on the Plaza gone. There, the guide also called Hannah to Hotels in Chichicastenango. She had her travel documents, passports and checks in the drawer of the nightstand leave. Happy told the receptionist that they had found the stuff, so that was a nice relief. They would from Antigua pick up, that's a lot shorter. Then we went back to the restaurant where we the continuous enjoyment of marimba music had lunch. I loved I'm pretty quiet and ignored for rice and a banana. Fine, so daagje lines, I liked nothing. After lunch we did a city tour with guide, at least that was what Mary had said and what was meant. Ultimately we went a long way in the hot afternoon sun run. The guide would rather explain things in the shadows, but not told how long that even before I went to him just early. Meanwhile, Ruud van Yvonne have dropped out, which saw a climb in the heat is not as hands and went back to the Central Square. We ended up in a weaving where the guide would answer the questions most diverse people in the group. Almost the entire social system Guatemala came along and it started to bore me some. Moreover, I did not feel well and was very hot, so I went out. There was also a smoke Gerry Hans to smoke and we sit down together and neighborhoods. After the guide finally explained what was on the weaving itself we go to the next stop on the tour went to the cemetery. We had very little time by the long time in the weaving, but it was still fun (if you can speak like in a cemetery). All in all, the walk was not half as fun as expected and if we had known we had them walked around in the center. We came back in The "village" where we were greeted with coffee and tea and a band that was playing. There we heard that we that afternoon and evening were spent with the family of Yes the weaving. I told Mary that the weaver is not English spoke, but she reassured me. He did not sufficiently English people to lead, but enough for a small conversation. Run off, mainly because He came to get us a taxi and we do not display the entire end had to climb. The first thing Miquel in taxi asked if tomorrow we wanted a taxi back, then he had that same discussion. He did of us, run down in the morning chill is nothing wrong with that, also we wanted not cost the family hunt. Beyond all expectation, the noon and evening very much. Piet Isaac was already raided by the same five-year son to him the whole evening is occupied with fighting and so on. When we gave him the gift he was all candy happy. He did not even know if he did know the candy, but put it right into his mouth. Raquel Miquel and found it tin with pictures of Den Bosch fun. I, together with Raquel potatoes peeled and washed. Meanwhile, the work we were able to talk a little, they Although spoke no English, but with my three words of Spanish We arrived a little from each other to know. Meanwhile went the men to the vegetable garden and the rabbit. We also went with Piet and Isaac to have the corn mill. There were charges the corn is ground into a kind of wet flour. When we got back to the kitchen we have packets of it in corn leaves in a pot were steamed and later found to belong to the dinner. Raquel has an extensive dinner cooked for us. Just before Eating was a sister of Isaac Miquel within that to bed and games with him would do. Carrot soup first, then the main course which consisted of cold fresh mixed vegetables, rice with vegetables, a corn packet and a delicious piece of meat from the cooker. The vegetable mixture, little by little, she always cooked and let cool. The rice had a very tense and simmer everything in a fire. Only she had a pressure cooker butane gas stove on. The dessert was an assortment of fruit. Al in all, a delicious dinner, closed by a nice cup of tea. At that time we gave Raquel the teaspoon of St. John the Miquel and we brought the postcard of our city. The gifts were much appreciated and we both had a woven mat by himself named Totonicapán it. We still talk and sit down when told that Miquel Raquel the next morning to school. She was doing her high school to finish on Saturday and had to two years. Then they also said that she would be at half past six breakfast and our breakfast would be ready when they went away saying I think we easily could take at half past six breakfast to give her any extra work. Then we together again washed with cold water. Miquel asked us if we wanted to shower now or tomorrow. We chosen for the morning shower and went to bed really early. I just wanted to write what we had experienced that days but did not know if they specifically for the main we would leave on, so I did the light but I'm going sleep.


Saturday, July 12

For six hours the alarm went off after a good night's rest, the shower was not hot but warm. We have Raquel Miquel and delicious breakfast, Isaac was still in bed. The Breakfast consisted of a delicious atoll the maize (corn porridge) tortinas de patatas (potato cakes), fresh pastries and fruit. For the fans there were also corn packets, but it was all very much. Raquel then went to school, but not before we say goodbye had taken of her. Miquel Isaac dressed and then went washing, after which we celebrate at our leisure walk back the village hall. As we said goodbye to Miguel and Isaac, the was certainly worth it for something to come along make (despite reservations in advance). Of course there were several stories of the people of the group, fun to hear what everyone had. From the village we continued with our bus towards Antigua. In the bus were two questions. The driver was willing to drive a lot of the stuff Henk and Hanneke in Chichicastenango to pick. It would be one hour detours are. We settled under the promise of a lap of the two forgetful. Mary gave us the ability to arrive at a intersection adjoining pumping station and bus station. We did naturally prefer to remain in the bumpy bus, especially Marjan was also told that there were also some shops. Henk Hannah tried here or just want to go, but thought not really, and went along anyway. The second question came from the driver himself, he asked his woman who had holidays with us so they could drive while another one would see. Of course we also found that no problem. Everyone is so happy, what a man Fortunately it soon. Along the way we're dropped at the crossroads where we cup of tea drank and walked around a bit. The best was watching the activity when a bus stopped. All vendors in, out and all passengers in a murder rate. There was not much to do and I again bought a scarf. I found it too expensive and will again be without home. After the bus came back with an overjoyed Hannah (I would have been) we moved on to the ruins of Iximché. This is a small Mayan site that is still used by the population. First is on the lawns football player, and secondly there is a sacred hill where Mayan rituals are performed. When we got there Mary went right back to where the sacred hill. When we were almost there, she came back with the message that two shamans were doing a ritual, and we could still look. They have asked us to look calmly and no pictures network. Of course we respect that, unlike others, it is not usual for a priest during a service to photograph. It was certainly special to look forward to, it was everything returned to Mother Earth, for example, by alcohol (Beer) to throw into the fire under the muttering of prayers. After visiting the ruins we had dinner in a restaurant. Nice, but expensive and actually too big restaurant to be sociable. After dinner we went to path and at half past three we arrived at our hotel in Antigua. We had a very nice room with two double beds complete with fine furnishings and decorations. Marc knocked on the door and asked if we went with pins, Meanwhile Miriam was ill and he did not feel at go alone. The hotel was some distance from the center, but to walk and that is what we have done it. We three of us are right some eaten, it was this time not so good, but that may well be a time. When we by Marc said he did not stay with us and Feel free to return to the hotel was what he looked scared to his full wallet and so we decided along with him walking back to the hotel. Along the way he has some toast bought in a shop where he would just never entered. I have not seen the clientele, mostly drunken men. After Miriam had provided a cup of broth (It is very popular among our patients) we went back for a drink at Frida's. There were Hans and Gerry and Hans Erna. The latter was still sick in bed. We took a drink and met with a surprise. Because there is a I got my PhD from a baby bottle of Corona, das nice entry. We linger and were all together back to the hotel.


Sunday, July 13

YES, WE DID IT AGAIN
This time the Pacaya volcano's turn to our to be walked (climbed too big a word). At a quarter to five the alarm went off. When I wanted to take a shower proved (again) no hot water, so I only just a cat laundry done. We would gather at half past five in the hotel lobby. When we were complete, the team consisted eight diehards, we started walking to the travel agency where the bus waiting for us. After half an hour had waiting "were" the bus and we could begin our journey. First I have a small one and a half hours by bus to the entrance to the park. We found out that we still 25 Quetzales per person entrance fee payable. That went for us easily because we had almost appropriate, but Formijn only big money had been no change. He got a note on his ticket and would end change are given. First received some information from the guides, that was a good opportunity to again for the walk pee. Then began the walk, first through a wooded area. It revealed that the group going up very big and the path to which we went over very narrow. This meant that Piet inappropriate own pace and could run so always waited points Before he returned to his pace going up. I stayed what is behind, but luckily we had several guides and remained the first a little walk with me. He also started at all talking to me, but I could not understand everything. It made No matter, it was nice, he always asked me my convenience: Take it easy, we have plenty of time and you will there naturally. (And all that on his Spanish). Halfway through the walk there was also a man with a horse He asked if I wanted a taxi, but I hit it off course. I'm going up or not. When we walked out of the woods almost disappeared from the guide path, I thought for sure that needs to pee or something. But he came back with a stick which he had before me cut / cut. I took not meeting, it was not so bad, besides, we already I almost thought. When we left the forest, we saw the volcano really good, a cone full of bare sand and a large plume. When we were all gathered after taking appropriate pictures of the volcano and the leader of His own the guides have a chat. He said that is difficult, but not impossible to top, with the smoke plume to come. That was the guide who stayed with me always said, so as to the others were half hour over, you might do about three quarters, do come up. Before we were submerged cone on the other side where we were (There was one "path" of lava sand and stones), I still stick to it. I remember thinking, this guy has a lot effort for me to cut a stick and it weighs still nothing, I carry him. Even when the first bit of did the cone, which increasingly resemble a sand dune was, I was overjoyed that I had assumed that stick. It was loeizwaar really, every time you fell you took a step to the ankles in the sand and moved up three quarters of step back down. I have really been about two times to to cut back and go down, but that is after my honor. I finally came up, the rest was already nearly equipped but I did not. I was saved again, it seemed is heavier than the volcanoes in Ecuador, especially since the was so hot. We sat up a little nice, a Sultana ate and drank. Of course they had also pictures are necessary for this "heroic deed" for the progeny record. Meanwhile it was a bit warm on the buttocks and went stand again, it was also very special about working volcano and a crater full of steam where you stood on the edge. It was blowing pretty well, so hard that his hat in Marc the volcano blew. But we said it to the Pacaya had donated. Back we went along a different path with more sand and lava fewer stones. That was nice, but getting used to goes down a lot easier. Just do not be afraid for sand in your shoes. Reach the bottom of the shoes here and emptied through the same path through the woods back to the starting position. This was also a little easier. A "little" tired but very satisfied we arrived at the point where we stopped what could drink until the bus came and took us back at the hotel (because he happened to pass by). When we in the room that we were still no hot water, but Now I did not do well. First she thought the hotel room change, but because our room was so beautiful I wanted that fact and asked not just a place where we could shower. Ultimately, we still traded as the alternative room was also nice, and we had a hot shower then the following morning before departure could shower. So nice under the beam, the room had lunch with soup and toast. Then we walked to the center in some photos and possibly a souvenir. Of course found nothing fun, We are somewhere still disappointing. Unfortunately time was too short the volcano that morning because we had done an extra day Antigua would not have been wrong. We ate together at Cafe Flor, very relaxed allow sufficient time between the appetizer (shared together) and the main course. That we shared when we saw what kind of dish at a neighboring table came and that they asked for an extra plate. Then we wanted a nightcap go do at Frida's, but there was no alcohol served in the cafe. We could go upstairs for a beer, but we had no meaning to us in a dark cave to hide, especially when we saw the appointment of Mary a beer in the pub drinking. To the next pub where we have had no alcohol. Weird people. Later Mary told us that after eight hours on Sunday alcohol more could be sold. Then get back to the hotel for a very long sleep (AGAIN).


Monday, July 14

Mary had a breakfast arranged at the hotel and that was good standard and on time. After breakfast we went on the road to Honduras, the third country on this trip that we would visits. So it was a travel day, with the interruption lunch at a luxury hotel where we had to work with the pool. Most of us did so here, although the water was warm. Hannah gave the first round, yet due our willingness to drive for her travel documents so that was fine. We again took a fish soup, which they really do make, full of fish and shrimp and a half or even standard whole crab in it. As always, the border formalities happy by Marjan settled and went really fast. Changing the first Lempieras was a snap, just negotiate. Marc as bankman took the worst rate, so that was a little laugh (of course not entirely, as many ailed the're not). As well as a nice hotel arrived we had a short briefing on the completion of the next day and together we consider again a drink. In the evening we went to eat at Vamos a Ver. When Hans and Gerry even came in and they have shifted we spend sitting.


Tuesday, July 15

Finally some old stones. After breakfast in the room with the yesterday fetched sandwiches and tea, we go with the group walk to the ruins of Copán. It was just one kilometer, So best to do. Once there bought the Mary tickets, and we have tickets to the tunnels and museum. Overall, the admission of those three things U.S. $ 27.00 pp. It takes some but it was worth a lot. We have First led by a guide walked around. That began almost boring, but he turned just in time faster. Luckily we had all the time in the world, had different we may not stick to his story. When we had had his first tour we went to the tunnels. Mary reviews had heard that it was not particularly that money and the guide said that it was not great, but we would prefer to decide things like that. Eventually So we thought it is special, despite it all was not as great. Rosalila the tunnel was the shortest, but there was the most beautiful original plaster. Some archaeologists argue that the best preserved stucco in the Mayan World. Unfortunately it all behind plexiglass, but it's better that protected from human and natural damage than the lost. Just a pity the photos, but it is on the retina. The Jaguar Tunnels were a lot longer and there was everything without plexiglass. Also this tunnel was very nice with even stucco and ornate staircases. Overall we are happy that we have paid U.S. $ 12.00 pp. The beauty is that you go through between two pyramids. Most pyramids were demolished before the successor of the deceased (or expelled), a new king was built, but these remained so, probably out of respect, and there has been carefully built over it. Then we on our ease further over the rest of the site and are mainly run also extensively reviewed the statues. Too bad the hieroglyphic stairway was not so public, he sat under a tent and they were hard at work, so you could not close. Of course we spent a long time in the museum, It was beautifully designed with a full-size replica of the Rosa Lila Temple (of the tunnel). There were also very beautiful pieces from the site. The whole site was more than worth the money. We arrived back in only three hours where we Copándorp Via Via some food and drink did. On the way back to the hotel we bought a souvenir (After first having visited all the shops) for L80, 00. That translates into a € 4.00, so that we save it. The bottle Bacardi Then we bought was more expensive ie € 4.30. A few cans of Coke there and we could get home. When we got there (at home) we had emptied the bottle with a group from the group and was later known as become the Happy Hour from some people. At any very nice case and a bottle therefore proposes nothing. Then we examine the patient to have Mary with a soup with a couple nice luxury to have dinner at Hotel Marina Copan, complete with a bottle Cassillero. Now you know Meanwhile, why do we really need to be gourmet food over to one of the last day of vacation, so we do it multiple times. But ..., the bill was very L 800.00 (€ 40.00) which included a tip and coffee drink. When we got back to the hotel there was a note on the door Mary Marg of that urgently needed a cup of tea. Despite the late hour was still the case and have we also did.


Wednesday, July 16

Tela way to our beach destination for a half day (Enough is also a holiday). Was on a terrible accident, an elderly man had crossed and scooped by a (thankfully empty) bus. The man has unfortunately not survived, we saw him on his stomach lying on the roadside. First, the bus had to be hoisted, the tow truck was Yet there are already people trying to luxury cars always stop by , but our driver Carlos was not too bland, which had they are not as long as he could stop. Outright antisocial as some try. As the tow truck working there was we could not pass before the bus returns to its wheels stood. When that happened, the man crashed turned into a body bag and done, we saw so open face, not pleasant but certainly not the man himself and any family. We arrived one hour in the hotel, the rooms were still and not all ready but that was actually No matter. We had a lovely room overlooking the sea, two large beds and a nice balcony. Furthermore, all worked so what more could we want. There was even TV remote. The briefing we had in the restaurant and we decided not only once excursions to do but nice to hang around here. After briefing we had dinner at the hotel. After that time for the bathing suit down and the sea to try. The water was very hot, so cooling was not there, but still it was equally delicious. Soon on the beach, but because there were no beach chairs, we were completely sandblasted and that's not really pleasant. Soon we were So back from the beach. In the room we have only just rinse the sand from our bodies, the water was not very hot, but it was at it. Meanwhile, the power was out, at the neighboring hotel began to wail a generator, but in our own hotel remained quiet. Therefore we are in the restaurant but our next coffee drink, the chance that he hot had been larger. When Marc and Miriam came back from the canoe they asked if we wanted to get their empty bottle of Bacardi, they 'turn for Happy Hour. As we say, of course not resist and we ended up with Hans and Erna on the terrace room of the hostess. It was just improvising, of course there were not many in their room chairs, but that was only a matter of chairs tote. When we do well and six of the beverage were came to our surprise the owner of our hotel (With bar) up with a bucket of ice. It should not be crazier be your own rum and cola and ice cubes from the bar. It can is evidently all, it's certainly very nice. When the bottle was empty we went with the group or even eat. When the neighbors, we had no confidence in the refrigerator of our own restaurant, the power was still uit.Piet also took the neighbors just soup, He did not trust it so after his experience from South India. I took a delicious paella. Along with a dozen Baco's we had to have L 314.00 (€ 16.00) pay. It is here just very goedkoop.We have coffee at the table of Hans and Gerry, on the same terrace were eating. Then we have same Hans and Gerry have taken a nightcap at our own hotel. At half past eleven we went to bed, we had well lubrication, the room was full of mosquitoes (which we ultimately did not suffer to have had).


Thursday, July 17

Our entire day at the beach and only during this holiday. It started with good sleep. The hotel was bed, but kept it every day some bread with jam and fruit on the roof terrace. Because we were late, there was obviously not feeling it and we had make do with stale bread with sugar. It was not the first day without a decent breakfast so what really fascinated us, we would go in the village do something. After "breakfast" are So we walked to the center and have explored the whole city. That took about fifteen minutes and then the city. Then we just started looking for another restaurant the Planet, but that post was so far that we disagree could find and view all the warnings crime I did not feel in the dark as far away to wander. I'm still here went into the supermarket to get some buy ham sandwiches for the morning and wanted Bring a bottle of Bacardi (it looks like an addiction). When I asked if could be paid for with dollars that was not problem, but arrived at the checkout was it all not so simple. Initially, the cashier did not know what to do with it and then I lost track of the receive change back. I have all the stuff so it left again and would first have to change. We have a cup of coffee made in a shack where an older man already Sat lot to the beer, he looked therefore not fresh. Unfortunately, we could at night do not eat, you could not only pay the gold and I did not want to change and / or pins. What is useful is that I was there with U.S. dollar could Lempieras pay and got back so I could take the supermarket still shopping. After all these exciting experiences, but we went back to the hotel where we sleep on the balcony sat reading. Because I was in danger of falling asleep while reading (I normally never happens!) I went inside for a while to sleep, it's the holidays. When I turn on your TV background for what I saw that The Lord of the Rings was busy, so there was just not sleeping. After the movie was that course yet. When I visited Mary went to look, she seemed to be getting sicker. She was easily handled by the people of the hotel, she got more tea and soup if they wanted. I've found some packets of jam and drinks for her met, but she did not have much to miss, she was always nausea and diarrhea. After the second time it was time for shopping Happy Hour, this time with Hans and Erna in the apartment, we asked Hans and Gerry there too, after all we are doing very lot together, so sharing drinks is part of that. Because the group in the barbecue restaurant we went again the neighbors to eat. Lovely, again as a couple.


Friday, July 18

With an ill Mary went on our way to Rio Dulce (Guatemala). We had a number of stops as she had vomiting. Moreover, every petrol station an opportunity to what to "fix". It was not pleasant for Mary, but it was otherwise. She had been a doctor in Tela of us and she is given medication for the nausea, but were hit and not be so if everyone had desirable. At the border crossing is the role of Mary Hanna adopted and that was fine. When we arrived at the embarkation point for ferries to the next destination we first went with Mary to the doctor been. Carlos had already called him that we would come and they could therefore rightly so. There she received an injection and some medications. Actually the doctor she wanted another night, but Mary did not do that because we did not want to leave. She has not kept up with the boat, but under the guidance of Marg by bus to Rio Dulce gone. So we took leave for a few hours of Marjan and Marg and went with the boat further. Contrary to first intention was the luggage with you, so no messing around, but enjoy boating. First a bit to Livingstone, a village on the coast where black people lived and the atmosphere very different and relaxed than the rest of Guatemala. This was also the waiting time for lunch. We had a delicious soup (fish of course), but it was terrible long. When we had eaten was the time and we did not time to walk around. Since we do not celebrate names satisfied with (Hans and Gerry and us) and we are indeed just walked up. When we were complete the journey again over the river. That was a nice tour in which we have seen some animals such as a swimming iguana, pelicans, king fishers, cormorants and ibises. At the end of the trip we arrived at our hotel in the jungle. It was just a disappointment (we are too spoiled in Ecuador). The hotel was at the edge of the jungle, if you're in the bar from The vegetation looked you saw the highway (a bridge). It does not matter, it was fun, we had a triple room with mosquito net and fan. But there was no bathroom, which was divided into separate cabins. Nothing wrong with that, everything works and the water is nice and hot. When we got the briefing gain, this time because of Marg Marjan ill in bed in the house of the owner, we ordered food for the evening and for breakfast tomorrow and we could tour / activity books. We did not make much sense, so we have a free days taken. After the good stuff in the room to have put we went into the restaurant a BaCo do. Hans sat there and He asked me if I would ride (We had agreed to do that once). At first I said no, but he felt sad and When I said yes anyway, what can I care about it. When Marc and Miriam were added later, we have them persuaded to subscribe, Piet did not like that has nothing to do with horses. Then we walked around a bit, the was nice set up with all walkways, a kind of holly holly of the old fairground. Meanwhile, it was now time for dinner, of course a long table. Henk was treated at a birthday and some carafes wine, so sleep came quickly and well (I snore somewhat this holiday).


Saturday, July 19

The day of truth, a sore butt up on a horse. Let's first shower. When I came back let me Piet fish and see a turtle swam behind our house. We also had a private veranda on that side (small). When we then wanted to have breakfast before my big adventure turned to the door The exterior's locked. Piet was then out the back forward through the bushes and walked to the problem. Freed from our home, I went to the bar where everybody would collection for selected activities. I was all Marc met who said they would not go along, they had Both suffer from diarrhea and that is not so good on a horse. Hans and I have to wait because the starting time wrong was. It was close but fifteen minutes so it was not all so spectacular. The guide picked us up cum horseman, he was behind the walkways five horses ready, one for himself and four for us. Since Marc and Miriam not lasted that we brought first off, on horseback. I had a horse named Tango and Hans sat on a smaller horse Paloma (a fungus). It was a bit strange, but it worked. Steering went not so well in the beginning and if they did not want Hans and I could not get encouraged to go again move. Gradually it appeared that everything was better to go. We're a while away on a dirt road that had become gehobbeld and have also made a path between the bushes (That was fun). After three minutes we arrived at a watchtower. I thought it was a good idea from there an overview, especially since I have a cramp in leg and it was felt that if I would sit higher stirrup would have less burden. Hans was also a good plan to a pause, then he could have a cigarette smoking. I am not in the tower above the first floor gone, the rest was reached by ladders and that I have not. After adjusting the bracket we're back further and also by a rubber plantation drive. When we had seen the trees in containers and even a guide hope had explained on the plantation (in Spanish, so I not all understand) we turned to, we had to return. We much the same way back and when we went over the top of Piet ran a hill came to meet us. It will not even so, I crawl on a horse, I have no chance of him flee (though I wish). On the way we past the house where the owner came with Gerry and Marg Mary were visiting. So Gerry was also the opportunity to her husband to take a picture while on a horseback. The was a little difficult to get rid of the horse, we both were pretty cramped. Back in the bar we did coffee and cola until Piet came back and deserved a beer. Then it occurred that I actually have an alcoholic beverage and took a BaCo. When the bill but just go and pay for another day of travel, there is no end to the trip day. Mary was a happy feeling better by the good care the owner of the hacienda. First again with a piece of a boat, this time with luggage. On the other hand, was again with Carlos bus is waiting, so the bags and load again.

We arrived in the afternoon, so the trip was not this time so long. In the briefing (with a drink from the hotel) did we agreed to the following day at two hours to collect the birthday party of four people who were minors or were been. So the stuff in the room, a bit smaller, but and everything works just another double beds. We have dinner at Las Puertas. We have wonderful eaten with a beer and lay in bed at a quarter past nine, Tikal morning, the alarm had to be put in four quarts (It is still a party).


Sunday, July 20

Early on, the bus leaves at five hours. The hotel had provided for tea, coffee and pastries. It was not all lot, but enough for the first time but once it forward can. We went in a terribly dilapidated bus route for our visit to Tikal. Since that bus, I took the conclusion that I (still) was an appropriate rider, I had quite a burden on my tailbone. Halfway through the ride Luis was our guide there. He would go four hours guides and started a bit on the bus, so there we would get lots of information. Mary had already told him a tour of four hours would, but he certainly rest had built the pyramids to be different climbing and where needed rest. It was also just as Mary had said, we have rarely had a guide that went along with us so long, but gave so much freedom. He showed us different animals which include woodpeckers, toucans and two species of monkeys. It meant so much that he told, but also different things so it is not bored. Along searched He is also a tarantula. Eventually, he did not found, but he was a fellow or by a guide Copy attention made him so we still seen. The spider was a lot smaller than last year, but very beautiful colors, jet black. On the same square was also bear a nose, of course, half tame and terrible ruin by tourists, but it was still fun. One of the pyramids was only one month earlier released for climb. Because He was so steep they had built a wooden staircase next (If you could speak of a staircase, it was more of a ladder with handrails). It was so steep and so narrow that you above but with some people could simultaneously upwards. So in line to to go up. Because we were early so we could actually right through to top. It was really a kind of ladder, but it was best. Up there it turned out the platform very narrow. Formijn and Gerry were also up gone very brave if you suffer from vertigo. When she reached the top they were shocked, really, really of the depth and They are pushed to the side towards the end of the platform to go. Both were well scared, but above. After a short time we were asked again to go down so next up was also small team. Then it began Of course feast really. Piet sjeesde of course in a furious going down, but I found it more difficult. Even so, the first good step, as a matter of knowing where to put your feet and then step it up. When I was at the platform after the first stage was called Hans and Erna taught me to Formijn. He had a lot of effort to make the right pace find and then I even helped him by coach every time he again had one of the seven steps down. All in all everyone was happy down safely. After the tour and a little free time we went back to Flores where we went into town to enjoy the lunch. After a delay of two hours to five hours because Henk sick in bed, we have the birthdays of the aged celebrated during the trip. Marjan all had a trifle bought from the city or village where they were minors been. They also had a big paper filled with bear bought sweets. It was a custom of the Guatemalan old who was blindfolded doll destroying beat so all the sweets fell out. To put it more difficult The bear hung on a rope by someone from the hotel was drawn so that the bear was moving in all directions. All olds have to do their best, but of course managed everybody could go pick up candy. We took them (A plastic bag full) the next day take the bus. Then adults and it was again time came the cake and drink appear. Anyone who wanted was a piece of cake The hotel had baked. Hans had bought a bottle of Bacardi who poured out, with or without the cola lovers. He had Coke asked the hotel but they did not also that he bought himself. Also, as in Tela, seems here nothing to make your own drinks on the terrace a restaurant or hotel uses. The hotel said the cheerful glass is available. As a part of the group was gone, and we only with our small team have conceived that our bottle Piet Bacardi (we were at the turn of the Happy Hour) even to go. I went across the street still get Coke with also some bread the other day and our bottle was emptied. We have since talked a little off with eight of them to go dinner in another hotel. Gerry had seen and found that terrace it pretty nice. I also went with her look, well to the menu list and thought it was a good plan. Eventually we came up there and we enjoyed eaten. Unfortunately, the white wine is not cold and he had to in the cooler to room temperature. This has not prevented us celebrate with four bottles of wine geleegd.Hans and Gerry paid the drinks bill, even if Gerry's birthday treat. All in all, after all the rum and Corona's afternoon was so nice to chop, we must certainly up early tomorrow (yeah!)

Tomorrow we go back to Mexico.