Category Archives: South America

The laid back beach village of Hopkins.

Had I not stayed in such disappointing accommodation, Hopkins would have rated high in my ‘places to visit’ in Belize. Out of character, I decided to book a room in advance, a decision I  would live to regret; once the … Continue reading

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Placencia.

British Honduras was the name of a territory on the east coast of Central America, south of Mexico, after it became a British Crown colony in 1862. In 1964 it became a self-governing colony. The colony was renamed Belize in … Continue reading

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Welcome to Belize (formerly known as British Honduras).

I guess I should have realised what lay ahead when I had to pay £25.00 for the 1-hour boat journey from Livingston to Punta Gorda (PG). You don’t get much for your ‘buck’ here; Belize is expensive. I don’t quite … Continue reading

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Rio to Livingston (for Belize) by river boat.

Lago de Izabal is Guatemala’s largest lake. Most visitors stay at Río Dulce village, north of the bridge where Hwy CA-13, the road leading north to Flores and Tikal, crosses the lake. East of this bridge is the beautiful Río … Continue reading

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Who needs fellow travellers.

“The tourist may complain of other tourists, but he would be lost without them”. Agnes Repplier. Prior to Flores, I had spent nearly twe weeks without meeting another traveller. Whilst this was good for my Spanish, and my budget, (places … Continue reading

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The amazing Mayan city of Tikal.

Abandoned by its original inhabitants more than a thousand years ago, Tikal remained unknown to outsiders for almost a millennium. In 1525, Spanish conquistador Hernando Cortés passed within a few dozen miles of the place without learning of it. Likewise, … Continue reading

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Coban to Flores (for Tikal).

One of the excursions from Coban is a visit to Chemuc Champey, which I opted not to do (on this occasion). The revues for accomodation and getting there were variable to say the least. In addition, I always try and … Continue reading

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Coban, a culinary delight.

“The surprise is that you continue to be surprised.” ― Jill A. Davis. Not so much an attraction in itself, but an excellent jumping-off point for onward destinations. Cobán is a prosperous city with an upbeat feel. It also has … Continue reading

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Guatemala and its connection with Ironbridge (Shropshire).

 “During the reign of Queen Victoria Britain emerged as the most powerful trading nation in the world…” Paul Atterbury. British History In Depth. Salamá: The town itself is known for its ornate church (complete with grisly depiction of Jesus), bustling Sunday … Continue reading

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What’s the alternative?

‪”If you think adventure is dangerous, try routine; it’s lethal.” – Paulo Coelho. Traveller Tip: An alternative route to Salamá, and onto Coban, for Semuc Champey and/or Flores: For most travellers the main route from Panajachel to Coban is via … Continue reading

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