Mexico & Cozumel

After the last days in Panama City, we continued to Mexico, specifically to the island of Cozumel. Feeling safer here and meeting friends; Tati and Chris, who have lived here for over 20 years.

I actually struggled with my nervous system for longer after the experiences in Panama :( But let's start from the beginning... First, we unfortunately had to drive through Panama City towards the airport and... it is seriously NOT fun to drive there. 😳 Everyone drives however they want and wherever they want, and the road layout is so confusing that even Google Maps is constantly confused and makes you drive in circles. 😵‍💫 But we made it to the airport and returned the rental car. We checked in right away and went through security. The airport is really big.

In the meantime, it started to rain heavily, but that apparently doesn't bother airplanes when landing and taking off. Since we were chilled down to about 16 degrees on our last flight with Avianca, 🥶 we bought a blanket. The flight was great; I listened to relaxing music for 3 hours ;) and... it was pleasant temperatures! So now we have an extra blanket. 😄

We arrived in Cancun around 10:30 PM and then took the bus 🚍 to Playa del Carmen, where we arrived around 2 AM. Thankfully, Tati had already given us tips and warned that we would be approached by Mexicans at the airport regarding a (expensive) transfer and that no bus would be running, etc. That was really crazy and loud. But we made it to the bus station, and that was much cheaper.

The Hotel El Caribe was just for a few hours of sleep and to be near the bus station and ferry. We couldn't have stayed there longer. Ground floor room, no windows, and such a moldy smell... yikes, but you can't tell that from the pictures. Breakfast was provided the next morning next door at the restaurant. Continental breakfast 😉 there was quite a bit to eat 😉

Thanks to Tati’s tips, we took the 'cheap' ferry; you really get bombarded with words, 30 min. crossing and then we were finally in Cozumel. Tati picked us up and had arranged a great apartment for us with Stefano, a Swiss, and a rental car. Incredible... Thank you Tati, you are the best!!! 🙏🏻💙 It's great to have friends like that. 💙 The apartment is really spacious; there's a second bedroom, dressing area, and bathroom that mirrors the first one. Great amenities.

Then we just sat together and chatted for 'ages'. Later we went shopping and also explored the area a bit.

Cozumel practically has a capital, San Miguel (about 80,000 inhabitants), that's it 😉

We, along with Tati and Chris live a little outside.

The following days Tati showed us the island, we went out to eat (where the best places are), visited Tati and Chris, went to the 'laundromat', to the beach, met other people in no time, and even attended a Pink Floyd tribute concert in the city. 👍🏼✌🏼

We really like the 'Mexis'. 🥰 Most are super sweet, and everywhere you strike up a conversation, whether in a restaurant with the owner or at the supermarket...

GOOD that we are here! That was the best decision!

Unfortunately, my nervous system is still a bit off along with my stomach. No alcohol and a mild diet, but it will get better 💪🏼

Oh yeah... the car rental from Emmily is also 'exciting' ;) and really nice! We have now had our third car. The first had a flat tire after 3 days; Emmily and her husband quickly came and just gave us their car, and since the previous one fitted better, we got another one after the weekend, so not the first one we had 😂

I could tell you several more anecdotes, but now the post is long enough; we'll continue next time.😘