It’s about 36 hours until I leave for the airport. My bag is partially packed and I have a few more errands to run tomorrow. Getting cash out, possibly buying a new camera since the one I have doesn’t take very good pictures, more dog food for Georgie (my Portuguese water dog who I am going to miss terribly) and tying up some other loose ends. It’s almost surreal that I will be going since I just bought my ticket under 2 weeks ago. Since following my instinct to go on this trip, everything is happening so easily, it’s almost unbelievable! I got the cheap airfare I wanted. I fly from LAX through San Salvador, and then will be stopping in Guatemala city for a night before flying out the next morning for Flores where El Remate is.
I was worried about finding a hotel but my friend Allyson who left on Thursday, who I am meeting there stayed at a great bed and breakfast called Patricia’s Hotel. www.patriciashotel.com
She emailed me their website and after taking a quick peek I was sold, especially since it’s only $14 a night and that includes transportation to and from the airport. I sent them an email and within 2 minutes, no exaggeration, I had a confirmed reservation! From Guatemala city I then have a quick flight to Flores. Some fun agenda items once I get there….supporting Allyson in the El Remate triathlon, celebrating with local Mayans in Tikal for the Summer Solstace, working with local women helping them build and plant vegetable gardens, and working with some 7th, 8th, and 9th graders. I also got an email today from Allyson that she is going to keep me busy…the day I arrive I will be meeting an Australian volunteer who is doing arts and crafts with some kids and that night I will be having a home cooked meal made by some local woman. Yum!
When I arrive at the Flores airport I will be picked up by Allyson and a local friend she met while she was down there a few months ago….as I said, it’s all happening so easily, it’s just meant to be. This could also very well possibly be a future destination for one of our summer or winter teen retreats so I guess I will be doing some “research” there as well. Now to finish packing….