The Old Pro

It's amazing what a difference a few weeks makes. Went from being a rookie to an old pro. When coming through in early November, I didn't know where to go, how much it was going to cost, what to expect at customs, and so on. I was always worried about missing buses, not getting to the water taxi on time, how long did it take, how do you clear customs in Belize..... I asked everyone that looked like they knew what they were doing, and then asked another person till I felt comfortable. I listened into every discussion where someone who had been there was giving tips. Different story this time, as I was the one being asked the questions, and the one whose conversations people were listening to.Looked like a seasoned traveler.

Towards the end of the bus drive on the way down, a couple sitting in the seats across the row asked if I spoke English, and did I know anything about the water taxi. Told them how it worked, fees involved, where to but the ticket, how to clear customs, and that they shouldn't put their wallet away until they got on the water taxi, as just when you think you are done paying, zap, they get you again. Also assured them not to worry, they had plenty of time to get there, and get on board, and that nothing left till the army showed up. They were a very nice retired couple from New Mexico( it wasn't lost on me that they were only a few years older) who were touring Belize, Guatemala and Costa Rica by bus. I was able to help them on some things to see, including Tikal in Guatemala.

Also met a young American who started out in California, traveled by train, and was there with his bike to cycle through as much of Central America as he could in six weeks. We had a common bond, both lost our debit cards. After hearing the advice his bank gave him, I'm not so down on my bank. It will certainly be one hot ride for him.

All and all a pretty smooth journey. Only comment I will make is that between the bus to Chetumal and the water taxi to San Pedro, there were three movies playing, all inappropriate for the customers. Now keep in mind, there was not a single person under twenty on either of these. The Movies: Sorcerers Apprentice, Beverly Hill Chihuahua 2 and The Tooth Fairy 2. Hmmmmm...

Anyway, arrived safe and sound in San Pedro, have a few days of legwork to do then will coast the rest of the way to Caracol on the 21 Dec.