Akumel

So, the bus journey was actually great. The scenery passed smoothly. We were held up for a while and in the end it took 20hours but we all arrived safely. The seats reclined fully and I was right infront of the TV screen so could watch the golden compass and 2 bizarre horror movies in comfort whilst feeling I may indeed be improving my Spanish. The bus company charged me extra for taking the bike but I was glad to pay it.

I met another teacher on the bus. He was Canadian and travelling for vacation. He was very personable and chatty. I was sat next to a friendly Mexican guy who thankfully kept himself to himself so I could relax and watch the world go by. Upon arrival I left my bags and arranged a taxi. Quite expensive (200pesos) but it was a long way and I didn’t object as he helped get the bike in. We found the centre fairly easily and I was introduced to the couple I will be sharing with. They too are (retired) teachers – Mexico seems full of usJ. They were really kind and showed me around and made me feel a little at home. They have been here in their own room for a month so it will be a little weird for them to have me here I’m sure. Anyway they went to Cozumel diving for the day. I was tempted to join them but decided instead to stay and unpack and settle and do my laundry (boring but necessary!).

The room is pretty basic but there is a shared kitchen and lounge. It reminded me a little of CAT in Mach. There is a great café, a restaurant and shops on the complex along with a swanky hotel and 2 dive schools. The offices seem well equipped and the beach…. Well just wait for the photos. I am in sabbatical heaven! I held my first turtle today (rescued as had a twisted shoulder and waiting until it is ready to be released). I then ‘helped’ (I could actually only watch as I had no ID) count the number of hatched and infertile eggs in a number of nests. Apparently I missed a few days of tagging last week were volunteers were in the water catching to tag turtles. I guess this would’ve been great experience but hopefully there will be more, and getting to stay in Oaxaca and see Palanque was worth it. I just couldn’t rush it.

Now I am here, I know it will be difficult for me to leave. It is very interesting as this section of the beach is privately owned by Centre Ecological Akumel (CEA) rather than centrally by the government and is one of, if not the main area on this barrier reef where the turtles come to feed and nest. I have so much to learn that I don’t want to say too much, but I think there are at least 6 different species that can be found here. They are feeding on the sea grass right in front of the centre.

Tomorrow I will be on ‘patrol’ in my kayak. Yes, a kayak!! Can you believe it? Palm trees, soft white sand, turtles, sea, diving, snorkeling AND kayaking. Can it get any better? Hello all! I have finally arrived at the reason I took my year off. I adore marine conservation! I am actually holding in little squeals of delight and only hope that it all works well and I can stay; maybe even for the full 3 month training programme. I will then continue down the coast and try to visit the meso-american barrier reef further south. For those of you who have never seen me next to a beautiful turquoise sea brimming with life, I can assure you I am in my element. You will seldom find me happier. I shall keep you posted.

Happy smiles and birthday wishes to Rachel and Christina,

Anne x