Friday, 12 July 2024

Baja or Bust!

Balandra Beach

Many friends and blog readers have told me they love the Baja Peninsula, so I've decided to see it for myself. Early December, along with my Chihuahua Bellamy, I'll be leaving on a four month Baja adventure. After landing in Cabo, I'll spend the first few days exploring San Jose del Cabo and Todo Santos. From December to April, I'll be based in La Paz, soaking up all the beauty and experiences Baja has to offer.


La Paz, the capital of Baja California Sur, was founded by Hernan Cortes in 1535. It's known for its beautiful beaches, abundant marine life, and the Malecon boardwalk with stunning views of the Sea of Cortez. I'm particularly excited to spend some time on Balandra Beach, famous for its clear turquoise water, soft white sand, and unique rock formations. Many consider it the most beautiful beach in Mexico.

San Jose del Cabo, at the southern tip of the Baja Peninsula, was established as a mission in 1730. It has cobblestone streets, historic buildings, and a lively art scene. Todo Santos, designated as a Pueblo Magico, was founded in 1723 and is known for its lush landscape, colonial architecture, and thriving art community.

I can't wait to learn about the local culture in the area, discover new places, make new friends, and share my experiences with you. Stay tuned for updates, photos, and stories from my travels in Baja.

Tuesday, 18 June 2024

Exploring New Horizons

I have some exciting news to share – the doctor has finally given me the green light to travel! After battling a stubborn lung infection for what feels like forever, I'm happy to report that, as far as I know, it's inactive. While it still shows up on my CT scans, the experts believe it's no longer a threat, and I can finally start planning my next adventure. And what better place to celebrate my return to health than beautiful Mexico?

For years, my go-to destination has been the town of Melaque. Its culture, warm-hearted locals, and stunning beach have always felt like a second home to me. However, this winter, I feel it's time for a change – a new adventure awaits!

I'm considering exploring the Baja Peninsula this time. The thought of discovering new places, meeting new people, and soaking up the unique atmosphere of Baja is incredibly exciting. But here's the thing – I need your help!

With so many amazing places to explore, I'm reaching out to all of you for suggestions on where I should visit next in Mexico. 

I've heard so many wonderful things about places like La Paz, Cabo San Lucas, and Loreto. Each of these spots offers something unique and special, but I'm open to all your recommendations. Have you been somewhere amazing in Baja or elsewhere in Mexico that you think I shouldn't miss?


I'll be sure to keep you all updated on my travel plans and share my experiences along the way. I look forward to your suggestions and advice, I can't wait to see where your recommendations will take me.

So, leave your thoughts, tips, and travel stories in the comments below or send a private message to my Instagram @exploresooke and let me know where you think I should go next in Mexico!


Tuesday, 9 April 2024

Lung Cancer?! Histo what??


During my last six-month trip in Mexico, I unfortunately suffered with a severe case of Covid-19. Months of coughing, wheezing, and fatigue, along with intermittent fever, made me believe I had long Covid, only to be proven wrong upon my return home to Canada. Persistent symptoms led me to my family doctor, setting off a series of events that would turn my world upside down.

A CT scan revealed two possible cancerous nodules in my right lung. It was then recommended I have a PET scan, as it's more accurate in diagnosing lung cancer than a CT. Due to a long waitlist at my local hospital, my lung surgeon strongly suggested having a PET scan at a private clinic in Vancouver, at the cost of $1000. I had the scan done within three days, and the results were devastating – lung cancer. It hit me hard hearing the word cancer, but I prepared myself for the battle ahead, facing the prospect of losing a significant portion of my lung and undergoing chemotherapy. 

Fortunately, in the midst of the gloom, a glimmer of hope appeared a few months later. A painful lung biopsy (which left me with nerve damage) revealed a different diagnosis – histoplasmosisa treatable fungal infection probably contracted while handling unwashed eggs bought at the local market. It's possible the fungus came from bats, but I hadn't been around any. So, it was thought to have come from washing eggs covered in droppings. From now on, I'll be sure to buy only pre-washed eggs.

When I learned it wasn't cancer but histoplasmosis, I felt a mix of relief and frustration. My family and I had endured three months of uncertainty, fearing the worst and losing sleep over it. So when the surgeon called me with the biopsy results, his casual demeanor, chuckle and flippant comment, "Well, it's not cancer, so be thankful," struck a nerve. Of course, I was thankful, but his lack of acknowledgment of the emotional rollercoaster we'd been on left me feeling angry. An apology for misdiagnosing me would have been appreciated. This served as a stark reminder of the importance for doctors to approach delicate matters with empathy and understanding, considering the profound impact their words can have on patients.

Such a relief, no lung cancer! It was like being handed a second chance at life. However, the path ahead wasn't easy. Following the histoplasmosis diagnosis, I was referred to an infectious disease specialist who prescribed a very strong anti-fungal medication Itraconazole.  Enduring months of intensive anti-fungal treatment really put me through the wringer. The side effects of Itraconazole were brutal, leading to frequent hospital visits for blood tests every two weeks. Eventually, I had to stop the treatment prematurely due to its adverse effects on my liver and kidneys. I was treated for 6 months, rather than the planned course of treatment of 12 months.  

Now, a year after the misdiagnosis of lung cancer, I'm overjoyed to have my lung function restored and to feel more energetic. The nodules are still visible on a CT scan, but the prognosis is positive that the infection is most likely no longer active. So what's next? More quality time with my family and friends, more adventures, more dog rescues, more travel!


Saturday, 11 March 2023

Celebrating 50,000 Views


Hello everyone,

I am happy to share a significant milestone with you all. Thanks to your incredible support, I've reached 50,000 views on my blog.
It's been an amazing journey over the years, filled with documenting adventures, sharing travel tips, and immersing myself in the vibrant culture of Mexico. I want to take a moment to express my deepest gratitude to each and every one of my readers.

Back in 2014, driven by my mother's concerns about my solo travels, I started this blog to reassure her of my safety and share my Mexican escapades. Little did I know then what an incredible adventure it would turn out to be! The countless memories and misadventures that didn't make it into these posts always bring a smile to my face.

To all of you who take the time to read, engage, and support this blog - thank you from the bottom of my heart.

As you continue on your own adventures, may life bless you with an abundance of happy moments and beautiful memories.

With gratitude,

Adina 💜 



Saturday, 7 January 2023

Best part of my trip


Norma and Debbie from Patas Bar in Melaque have been helping stray and neglected animals in the area for many years. Norma rides her bike from Melaque to Barra de Navidad every other day and feeds dogs. 

Whenever I can, I join her. A familiar face, some love, and a good meal makes the dogs very happy. When Norma rings her bike's bell, one of them runs down the road from a ranch excitedly. It's so sweet to see. 


Some of the dogs have owners, while others are strays. Debbie and Norma provide them with food, vaccinations, spays, neuters, flea treatments, and antibiotics.  

Definitely check out Patas restaurant in Melaque. While you're there, drop off some dog food or donate to the animal care fund. The donations received assist both dogs and cats, as well as a variety of other animals. These ladies are the best. 

Donation jar on the bar at Patas