WEEK 13 : 25th Jan - 31st Jan 2002
Trip Distance (km) Quote of the Week Country
12,929 " For protection against mosquitoes " - sales pitch for a 6" knife from a indigenous market vendor
 Guatamala
Coban - Nebaj - Panajachel - San Pedro (Lake Atitlan)

Memorable Moment


Being convinced we'd seen enough of what Coban had to offer, we headed further west to a town called Nebaj, which was situated in the mountains at approximately 3200 metres above sea level. The road leading into Nebaj was obviously very tight and rough which proved to be hazardous as a typical Guatamalan bus driver showed Boxy the hard way. The road didn't seem to be wide enough for the both of them so it was into the ditch that was luckily there for Boxy. Thanklessly no damage done but the need to exercise caution was once again prioritised. On our travels further south found us at a live soccer game where the field was made up of fine gravel. As well as the dust kicked up from each player and the nature of injury associated with falling on such a surface, we were happy to be only watching. Further exploration of this town in search of food, brought us to the local villagers selling their produce at the local market. The more interesting fact was the parking lot . It was simply just a house block with at least a dozen mules and horses, saddled with large packs ready for their owners return. Still heading south we made it down to Lake Atitlan which proved the perfect spot to kick back and relax for a few days.

 

Pictures of the Week

Competition

An attempt on the Guinness book of records by a Guatemalan bus company for most number of people in one chicken bus - well that the way it felt after riding the last 12,000 one up on a motorcycle

Highlight

Getting the motorcycle washed for the 1st time in 2 months by 2 service station attendants for 5 Quetzal's

Risk Activity

After meeting travelers Martin and Tammy again at San Pedro we were at risk of staying at that location for another week, similar to when we meet them at Zippolite and El Remate. Risk factor 6 beers/10.

Lowlight

Riding out of the town in the mud after the overnight rain.

Road Tally

Armadillos - 4. At the markets we saw the locals handiwork from what probably came from road kill.