Before you all leap to the conclusion Sally has redirected us to another continent, there is a place called China not so far away. It did make us smile on what was proving to be a more challenging day than she had promised us. We knew we had at least 180 metres of climbing inland before returning to the coast again over 80 km; in reality it became 425 metres of climbing…….thank you Sally.One of our more entertaining coconut stops with these two characters and the first one for several days. They had no idea what to charge us and settled for 30 pesos for two – we normally pay 60 – 80 pesos. We never tire of these coastal views.
For a town of 250,000 people the road on the way into Campeche was not too grand – it was the old road and not the new motorway, to be fair – although there was some immaculate looking property on the left hand side of the road, all of which were on the waterfront. We decided before we arrived that we’re going to need a two day rest here because this day has really taken it out of us.We were extremely lucky with this hotel; the view is taken from our table in the restaurant opposite where we eat. Two doors to the left is the bike shop we need; three doors to the left of that is the convenience shop we go to resupply our water bottles, and a two minute walk to the right is a dental hygenist which is needed for David to maintain his oral hygiene routine.This chap, after 20 minutes of adjusting the spokes, gave us full confidence that we were back to normal with the rear wheel. He also redirected us to another bike shop where we bought replacement spokes for both bikes so we can do the repairs ourselves if we’re stuck in the sticks if the same problem occurs again. Two rest days means three dinners and three breakfasts and an opportunity to work our way through this very well worn menu. The meals met the three main criteria, cheap, good and plentiful – 10 euros or less for the two of us, including drinks.The bike shop where we bought the spare spokes – we liked the name!Not sure we would get very far with this one?VW vehicles are everywhere regardless of their vintage; unsure how this is roadworthy?The entrance to the walled city of Campeche which is the focus for its main source of income – tourism. Unsurprisingly it is a World Heritage site listed area and features prominently in the LP guide. There are fellow foreigners everywhere and we have a break from being the centre of attention wherever we go.We consider placing an offer for the cannon – it would come in useful for seeing off the wild dogs. Another sight we never tire of seeing is the well preserved Spanish colonial style of architecture with their pastel shades of colour.The main plaza is where the official tours seem to begin and end. Valet parking with cardboard provided to ensure the seats do not become overheated in the sun.David is not exactly a culture vulture although he was easily persuaded to visit the on site museum and learn something about Mayan culture.In case an explanation is needed the man on the left is a statue. The lady on the right is asleep.Exploring the 7 km long waterfront with its own cycle path – not something we’re used to on our travels.This monument is titled ‘the gateway to the sea’.An unusual sight. Our first downpour in daylight hours.
Mexico and Belize 