Getting Wedding Ready

I spent the day in Tonala. Known for its ceramics, glass making, and handicrafts, the town is a popular tourist destination. It was so tempting to buy everything I saw. I bought a set of wine glasses for some friends who own a bar in Melaque. I couldn't resist buying something for myself as well. A pair of colourful champagne glasses caught my eye. I decided I would use these glasses at my wedding if I ever get married again. I know it's wishful thinking, but eventually it will happen. When it does, I'll let you know. 

Volcanic Eruption En Route

Just arrived in the picturesque town of Ajijic. Our drive took us through Colima, bringing us near an erupting volcano. While driving, I quickly snapped a photo of the eruption with my phone. It was an incredible experience to see the volcano erupting and ash falling on the windshield. Believing this might be a once-in-a-lifetime event, I stopped at one point to collect some ash from the ground.

After that thrilling detour, we continued our journey and finally reached Ajijic. The town welcomed us with its charm and tranquility. We spent the rest of the day exploring the vibrant streets, enjoying the local cuisine, and soaking in the stunning views of Lake Chapala. It’s been an unforgettable start to our adventure here, and I can’t wait to see what tomorrow brings.

                                                       

    

Me - being me

The owner of the butcher shop feeds scraps to the stray dogs every day. Sweet lady.

Ants in My Pants

It's road trip season.

The last time my friend and I hit the road, I made the mistake of wearing flip-flops into a rainforest. While pretending to be a National Geographic photographer, I unknowingly stood on an anthill and got fire ant bites all over my feet. My toes swelled up so much I could barely walk out of the forest.

This trip, when she picked me up, I was armed with insect repellent and a camouflage hat with mosquito netting. Of course, I'm still not wearing proper footwear, but I'll definitely watch out for fire ants. The little purple flower photo I took last time wasn't worth the bites!

Living the High Life in Ajijic

I'm currently staying at the Real de Chapala Hotel in Ajijic, and it's an absolute paradise. This stunning lakefront property has heated pools, jacuzzis, delicious food, and breathtaking views of Lake Chapala. I could definitely get used to this lifestyle.

After spending some time here, I now understand why so many expats choose to retire in Ajijic. The temperature is just right - not too hot, not too cold. Even during the summer months, the weather remains comfortable. This is a stark contrast to the summer I spent in Barra de Navidad, where the heat was unbearable without air conditioning and a pool. Here in Ajijic, the climate is so mild that you can get by with just fans.

As my stay comes to an end, I'll be heading back to Melaque in a few days. I'm definitely going to miss this perfect weather and the quiet environment. Ajijic has truly captivated me, and I’d love to return here again sometime. Plus, I have a new friend to visit - my horse buddy Romeo. This place has left a lasting impression on me, and I can't wait to come back and experience it again.

View from my room

Mazamitla: A Perfect Mountain Escape

I'm spending a few days in Mazamitla, a charming mountain town at 8,200 feet above sea level. Known as the 'Switzerland of Mexico', it features cool, less humid weather and even had snow last week. Despite the cold, I'm loving it.
 
Founded in 1537, Mazamitla has a quaint atmosphere with cobblestone streets and whitewashed houses. In the central plaza, you'll find the Parroquia de San Cristóbal. This beautiful church, known for its blend of Gothic and Mexican colonial architecture, is a key landmark and cultural centrepiece. 

The area offers hiking, mountain biking, and the stunning El Salto waterfall. Visitors can enjoy festivals like the Fiesta de San Cristóbal, explore local markets, and savour regional cuisine. 

With cozy cabins and modern hotels, Mazamitla provides a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural richness. I've fallen in love with this place and look forward to my next visit.