Thursday, 29 March 2012

Hasta Luego Central America

So it's come to this. The end of a journey. After 8 amazing weeks we've reached the end. It's a combination of bring ready to come home, but being sad at the same time.

Central America has been amazing, although not quite what I expected. I expected it to be a bit rougher and more difficult to travel in, it hasn't been. I definitely expected more people - in some respects this has been great ( empty beaches!) but at times I've missed having lots of travellers around to have a giggle with. What has been completely wonderful though has been the authenticity of everything we've done - I really feel we've got under the skin of the place and have met some lovely locals. We haven't once been ripped off, had anything bad happen or even really come across anyone rude. it's been a joy.

So where did I leave my travelling heart? It would have to be Guatemala - it ticks all the boxes for me - mountains, beautiful friendly locals, lots of colour, random animals everywhere and crucially it's cheap. However I've also loved, loved, loved having some beach time and seeing the untouristy side of the Caribbean has been utterly priceless. The corn islands were remote, authentic and beautiful. Caye caulker in Belize I would return to in a heartbeat, and as for Utila - I want to go back and do a diving course with that hot French instructor.

One other pleasant surprise for me - the last time I went on a big trip ( 10 years ago kids) I was newly single for the first time in 7 years and travelling totally sorted me out. I came back confident, assertive(!) and happy.

This time I haven't changed at all - and I don't want to - it's made me realise that I'm a pretty sorted tough cookie - and very happy just as I am*

My final photo sums it up - hair all over the place but loving windswept las penitas beach in Nicaragua.

See you all very soon,

Gem xxx

* any of a lottery win, hot French guy moving in next door and a kick arse new job opportunity wouldn't be turned down though

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