The seas finally calmed down, we dodged a few more ships, and arrived along the mainland on a humid, sultry morning. Right now we are in a marina for a few days next to a beautiful resort, The Grand Bay. It has a huge three level pool with water slides and waterfalls in between. We spent the whole day at the pool when we arrived and even challenged some Canadians to a water volleyball game. The people are extremely friendly and we are looking forward to exploring the town across the bay. Mike and Wayne need to check in with the Port Captain this morning. They will also need to take a bus after that to another town called Melayque to pay port fees.The town of Barra de Navidad is a short and exciting panga ride across the lagoon. These long skinny fiberglass boats are equipped with a powerful 60 hp engine. Erik loves this experience because instead of going our usual 5-6 knots we fly along at 50 mph. The town is very picturesque with coconut palms and cobblestone streets. There are a variety of small shops and restaurants. We had a delicious dinner at one of the bay side restaurants. Karen had the house specialty, pollo veracruz. It was a thickened chicken stew with wonderful spices served bubbling hot in a large granite mortar. She scooped it into steaming tortillas, yum,yum.
We have the hardest part of the trip finished now with most of the 2-3 day passages over with. Now we will spend the next two moths leisurely traveling north toward Mazatlan. There are many interesting places to explore between here and there. We all love this place and will probably be here another week before heading north 12 miles to Tenacatita. Those of you who travel to Mexico might consider this area. There are many Canadians here, but apparently it doesn't seem to be marketed to Americans. It is a nice change from the usual tourist destinations of Puerto Vallarta and Cabo. Were off to town now in search of an internet cafe. Thanks to all for your e-mails. It is nice to get news. More to follow....
