Translate

A little about Playa Zipolite, The Beach of the Dead . . .

Playa Zipolite, Oaxaca, Southern Mexico, on the Pacific Ocean. A little bit about my favorite little get-away on this small world of ours.

Zipolite, a sweaty 30-minute walk west from Puerto Angel, brings you to Playa Zipolite and another world. The feeling here is 1970's - Led Zep, Marley, and scruffy gringos.

A long, long time ago, Zipolite beach was usually visited by the Zapotecans...who made it a magical place. They came to visit Zipolite to meditate, or just to rest.

Recently, this beach has begun to receive day-trippers from Puerto Angel and Puerto Escondido, giving it a more TOURISTY feel than before.

Most people come here for the novelty of the nude beach, yoga, turtles, seafood, surf, meditation, vegetarians, discos, party, to get burnt by the sun, or to see how long they can stretch their skinny budget.

I post WWW Oaxaca, Mexico, Zipolite and areas nearby information. Also general budget, backpacker, surfer, off the beaten path, Mexico and beyond, information.

REMEMBER: Everyone is welcome at Zipolite.

ivan

Thursday, June 28, 2012

Accommodation near Mazunte



Accommodation near Mazunte







Punta Placer Bungalows
San Agustinillo, Oaxaca. 1 mile east of Mazunte
Hotel
39 Reviews. Traveller rating: 4.0 of 5.0
Ranked #2 in San Agustinillo, Mexico
Bambu
San Agustinillo, Oaxaca. 1 mile east of Mazunte
Small Hotel
30 Reviews. Traveller rating: 4.5 of 5.0
Ranked #1 in San Agustinillo, Mexico
Lyoban Beach Hostel
Zipolite, Oaxaca. 2 miles east of Mazunte
Small Hotel. Price*: US$ 380
8 Reviews. Traveller rating: 3.0 of 5.0
Ranked #6 in Zipolite, Mexico
Las Casitas Bungalows
Oaxaca, Oaxaca. 2 miles east of Mazunte
Camping/Caravan site
5 Reviews. Traveller rating: 4.0 of 5.0
Ranked #10 in Oaxaca, Mexico
Gundi Y Tomas
Puerto Angel, Oaxaca. 4 miles east of Mazunte
Lodge
5 Reviews. Traveller rating: 3.5 of 5.0
Ranked #3 in Puerto Angel, Mexico
Villa la Luna
Puerto Angel, Oaxaca. 4 miles east of Mazunte
Hotel
3 Reviews. Traveller rating: 4.0 of 5.0
Ranked #3 in Puerto Angel, Mexico
Gloria's Shambhala
Puerto Angel, Oaxaca. 4 miles east of Mazunte
Hostel. Price*: US$ 12
4 Reviews. Traveller rating: 3.5 of 5.0
Ranked #2 in Puerto Angel, Mexico
Hotel Nova Express
Huatulco, Oaxaca. 19 miles northeast of Mazunte
Hotel. Price*: US$ 38
4 Reviews. Traveller rating: 4.0 of 5.0
Ranked #16 in Huatulco, Mexico
Plaza Tangolunda
Huatulco, Oaxaca. 19 miles northeast of Mazunte
Hotel
Traveller rating: not rated 
Sueno Real
Huatulco, Oaxaca. 19 miles northeast of Mazunte
Condominium. Price*: US$ 300
4 Reviews. Traveller rating: 4.0 of 5.0
Ranked #8 in Huatulco, Mexico
Villas Coral
Huatulco, Oaxaca. 20 miles northeast of Mazunte
Hotel
22 Reviews. Traveller rating: 4.5 of 5.0
Ranked #8 in Huatulco, Mexico
Hotel Mexicana Huatulco
Huatulco, Oaxaca. 21 miles northeast of Mazunte
Hotel
3 Reviews. Traveller rating: 3.5 of 5.0
Ranked #26 in Huatulco, Mexico
Hotel Bahia Huatulco
Huatulco, Oaxaca. 21 miles northeast of Mazunte
Hotel. Price*: MXN 859
2 Reviews. Traveller rating: 3.5 of 5.0
Ranked #33 in Huatulco, Mexico
Sheraton
Oaxaca, Oaxaca. 27 miles east of Mazunte
Hotel. Price*: US$ 95
1 review. Traveller rating: 4.0 of 5.0
Ranked #55 in Oaxaca, Mexico
BEST WESTERN Posada Chahue
Huatulco, Oaxaca. 28 miles east of Mazunte
Hotel. Price*: US$ 111
22 Reviews. Traveller rating: 4.0 of 5.0
Ranked #15 in Huatulco, Mexico
Quinta Real Huatulco
Huatulco, Oaxaca. 28 miles east of Mazunte
Hotel. Price*: US$ 292
64 Reviews. Traveller rating: 4.0 of 5.0
Ranked #13 in Huatulco, Mexico
Posada Sicaruu
Huatulco, Oaxaca. 29 miles east of Mazunte
Hotel
Traveller rating: not rated 
Villa Pacifico
Huatulco, Oaxaca. 29 miles east of Mazunte
Villa
9 Reviews. Traveller rating: 4.5 of 5.0
Ranked #5 in Huatulco, Mexico
Mision de los Arcos
Huatulco, Oaxaca. 29 miles east of Mazunte
Hotel. Price*: US$ 40
190 Reviews. Traveller rating: 5.0 of 5.0
Ranked #1 in Huatulco, Mexico
Gran Hotel Huatulco
Huatulco, Oaxaca. 29 miles east of Mazunte
Hotel. Price*: MXN 1,012
3 Reviews. Traveller rating: 3.5 of 5.0
Ranked #29 in Huatulco, Mexico
Sonadores Dreamers Lodge
Huatulco, Oaxaca. 29 miles east of Mazunte
Small Hotel. Price*: US$ 42
1 review. Traveller rating: 4.0 of 5.0
Ranked #9 in Huatulco, Mexico
Flamboyant Hutaulco
Huatulco, Oaxaca. 29 miles east of Mazunte
Hotel. Price*: US$ 45
9 Reviews. Traveller rating: 3.5 of 5.0
Ranked #20 in Huatulco, Mexico
Maria Mixteca
Huatulco, Oaxaca. 29 miles east of Mazunte
Small Hotel
2 Reviews. Traveller rating: 4.0 of 5.0
Ranked #4 in Huatulco, Mexico
Villa Escondida
Huatulco, Oaxaca. 29 miles east of Mazunte
Bed and Breakfast. Price*: US$ 265
42 Reviews. Traveller rating: 4.5 of 5.0
Ranked #2 in Huatulco, Mexico
Hotel Arrecife
Huatulco, Oaxaca. 29 miles east of Mazunte
Hotel. Price*: MXN 470
3 Reviews. Traveller rating: 4.0 of 5.0
Ranked #18 in Huatulco, Mexico
Marlin
Huatulco, Oaxaca. 29 miles east of Mazunte
Hotel. Price*: US$ 157
1 review. Traveller rating: 3.5 of 5.0
Ranked #27 in Huatulco, Mexico
Meicer Palmier Huatulco
Huatulco, Oaxaca. 29 miles east of Mazunte
Hotel
2 Reviews. Traveller rating: 3.5 of 5.0
Ranked #34 in Huatulco, Mexico
Marina Hotel & Resort
Huatulco, Oaxaca. 29 miles east of Mazunte
Hotel. Price*: US$ 80
23 Reviews. Traveller rating: 3.5 of 5.0
Ranked #21 in Huatulco, Mexico
Villa Blanca Huatulco
Huatulco, Oaxaca. 29 miles east of Mazunte
Hotel. Price*: US$ 55
90 Reviews. Traveller rating: 4.5 of 5.0
Ranked #3 in Huatulco, Mexico
Fandango Suites
Huatulco, Oaxaca. 29 miles east of Mazunte
Villa
17 Reviews. Traveller rating: 3.5 of 5.0
Ranked #6 in Huatulco, Mexico
Dreams Huatulco Resort & Spa
Huatulco, Oaxaca. 29 miles east of Mazunte
All-inclusive Resort. Price*: US$ 204
985 Reviews. Traveller rating: 4.5 of 5.0
Ranked #5 in Huatulco, Mexico
Princess Mayev Hotel
Huatulco, Oaxaca. 29 miles east of Mazunte
Hotel. Price*: US$ 100
18 Reviews. Traveller rating: 4.5 of 5.0
Ranked #10 in Huatulco, Mexico
Hotel La Isla Huatulco
Huatulco, Oaxaca. 29 miles east of Mazunte
Hotel. Price*: US$ 66
20 Reviews. Traveller rating: 4.0 of 5.0
Ranked #14 in Huatulco, Mexico
Hotel Balcon Gueela
Huatulco, Oaxaca. 29 miles east of Mazunte
Hotel
Traveller rating: not rated 
Hotel Posada Eden Costa
Huatulco, Oaxaca. 29 miles east of Mazunte
Hotel. Price*: MXN 1,550
29 Reviews. Traveller rating: 4.5 of 5.0
Ranked #2 in Huatulco, Mexico
Las Brisas Huatulco
Huatulco, Oaxaca. 31 miles east of Mazunte
Hotel. Price*: US$ 137
740 Reviews. Traveller rating: 4.0 of 5.0
Ranked #12 in Huatulco, Mexico
Barcelo Huatulco Beach Resort
Huatulco, Oaxaca. 31 miles east of Mazunte
All-inclusive Resort. Price*: US$ 160
602 Reviews. Traveller rating: 4.0 of 5.0
Ranked #7 in Huatulco, Mexico
Crown Pacific Huatulco
Huatulco, Oaxaca. 31 miles east of Mazunte
Resort. Price*: US$ 173
191 Reviews. Traveller rating: 3.5 of 5.0
Ranked #19 in Huatulco, Mexico
Camino Real Zaashila
Huatulco, Oaxaca. 32 miles east of Mazunte
Resort. Price*: US$ 163
207 Reviews. Traveller rating: 4.0 of 5.0
Ranked #9 in Huatulco, Mexico
Casa del Mar
Huatulco, Oaxaca. 32 miles east of Mazunte
Hotel. Price*: US$ 126
10 Reviews. Traveller rating: 3.0 of 5.0
Ranked #31 in Huatulco, Mexico
Casa del Mar Huatulco
Oaxaca, Oaxaca. 32 miles east of Mazunte
Hotel
3 Reviews. Traveller rating: 4.0 of 5.0
Ranked #36 in Oaxaca, Mexico
Fa-sol Villas
Huatulco, Oaxaca. 33 miles east of Mazunte
Hotel. Price*: US$ 318
3 Reviews. Traveller rating: 4.0 of 5.0
Ranked #17 in Huatulco, Mexico
Agua Azul La Villa
Huatulco, Oaxaca. 33 miles east of Mazunte
Bed and Breakfast. Price*: US$ 94
145 Reviews. Traveller rating: 4.5 of 5.0
Ranked #3 in Huatulco, Mexico
Villa Sol y Mar
Huatulco, Oaxaca. 33 miles east of Mazunte
Bed and Breakfast. Price*: US$ 100
135 Reviews. Traveller rating: 5.0 of 5.0
Ranked #1 in Huatulco, Mexico
Best Night La Laguna Hotel
Puerto Escondido, Oaxaca. 34 miles west of Mazunte
Hotel
2 Reviews. Traveller rating: 3.5 of 5.0
Ranked #37 in Puerto Escondido, Mexico
Secrets Huatulco Resort & Spa
Huatulco, Oaxaca. 34 miles east of Mazunte
All-inclusive Resort. Price*: US$ 249
175 Reviews. Traveller rating: 4.5 of 5.0
Ranked #4 in Huatulco, Mexico
Caracol Plaza
Puerto Escondido, Oaxaca. 34 miles west of Mazunte
Hotel. Price*: US$ 106
1 review. Traveller rating: 3.5 of 5.0
Ranked #39 in Puerto Escondido, Mexico
Papaya Surf Beach Hotel
Puerto Escondido, Oaxaca. 35 miles west of Mazunte
Hotel. Price*: US$ 45
13 Reviews. Traveller rating: 4.0 of 5.0
Ranked #17 in Puerto Escondido, Mexico
Luna Rosa Hostal
Puerto Escondido, Oaxaca. 36 miles west of Mazunte
Hostel
2 Reviews. Traveller rating: 4.0 of 5.0
Ranked #11 in Puerto Escondido, Mexico
Daikiri House Hotel
Puerto Escondido, Oaxaca. 36 miles west of Mazunte
Small Hotel. Price*: US$ 60
Traveller rating: not rated 
El Tucan
Puerto Escondido, Oaxaca. 36 miles west of Mazunte
Hotel
1 review. Traveller rating: 3.5 of 5.0
Ranked #35 in Puerto Escondido, Mexico
Hotel Rockaway
Puerto Escondido, Oaxaca. 37 miles west of Mazunte
Hotel. Price*: MXN 749
17 Reviews. Traveller rating: 3.0 of 5.0
Ranked #34 in Puerto Escondido, Mexico
Marina Park Plaza Huatulco
Huatulco, Oaxaca. 37 miles northeast of Mazunte
Hotel. Price*: US$ 87
30 Reviews. Traveller rating: 4.5 of 5.0
Ranked #6 in Huatulco, Mexico
Hotel Santa Fe
Puerto Escondido, Oaxaca. 37 miles west of Mazunte
Hotel. Price*: US$ 125
96 Reviews. Traveller rating: 4.0 of 5.0
Ranked #11 in Puerto Escondido, Mexico
Hotel Ben-Zaa
Puerto Escondido, Oaxaca. 37 miles west of Mazunte
Hotel. Price*: MXN 250
10 Reviews. Traveller rating: 4.0 of 5.0
Ranked #28 in Puerto Escondido, Mexico
Villas Chakaron
Puerto Escondido, Oaxaca. 37 miles west of Mazunte
Villa. Price*: US$ 137
Traveller rating: not rated 
Hotel Flor de Maria
Puerto Escondido, Oaxaca. 37 miles west of Mazunte
Hotel. Price*: US$ 50
78 Reviews. Traveller rating: 4.5 of 5.0
Ranked #8 in Puerto Escondido, Mexico
Studios Tabachin del Puerto
Puerto Escondido, Oaxaca. 37 miles west of Mazunte
Hotel. Price*: US$ 75
93 Reviews. Traveller rating: 4.5 of 5.0
Ranked #4 in Puerto Escondido, Mexico
Las Gaviotas
Puerto Escondido, Oaxaca. 37 miles west of Mazunte
Hotel. Price*: US$ 18
2 Reviews. Traveller rating: 4.0 of 5.0
Ranked #30 in Puerto Escondido, Mexico
Casa Bastin
Puerto Escondido, Oaxaca. 37 miles west of Mazunte
Hotel
3 Reviews. Traveller rating: 4.0 of 5.0
Ranked #29 in Puerto Escondido, Mexico
Bungalows Zicatela
Puerto Escondido, Oaxaca. 37 miles west of Mazunte
Ranch/Farmhouse/Cottage. Price*: US$ 58
14 Reviews. Traveller rating: 3.5 of 5.0
Ranked #10 in Puerto Escondido, Mexico
Casanuna Villas Resort
Puerto Escondido, Oaxaca. 37 miles west of Mazunte
Resort. Price*: US$ 137
33 Reviews. Traveller rating: 4.5 of 5.0
Ranked #9 in Puerto Escondido, Mexico
Villa Belmar Beach Hotel
Puerto Escondido, Oaxaca. 37 miles west of Mazunte
Hotel. Price*: US$ 108
6 Reviews. Traveller rating: 3.0 of 5.0
Ranked #41 in Puerto Escondido, Mexico
Hotel Arco Iris
Puerto Escondido, Oaxaca. 37 miles west of Mazunte
Hotel. Price*: US$ 30
35 Reviews. Traveller rating: 4.0 of 5.0
Ranked #24 in Puerto Escondido, Mexico
The Hotel Tower Bridge
Puerto Escondido, Oaxaca. 37 miles west of Mazunte
Ranch/Farmhouse/Cottage
25 Reviews. Traveller rating: 2.5 of 5.0
Ranked #13 in Puerto Escondido, Mexico
Cabanas de Playa Acali
Puerto Escondido, Oaxaca. 37 miles west of Mazunte
Hotel. Price*: US$ 50
7 Reviews. Traveller rating: 3.5 of 5.0
Ranked #38 in Puerto Escondido, Mexico
Hotel Castillo de Reyes
Puerto Escondido, Oaxaca. 37 miles west of Mazunte
Hotel. Price*: US$ 22
2 Reviews. Traveller rating: 4.0 of 5.0
Ranked #32 in Puerto Escondido, Mexico
Castillo de Carrizalillo
Puerto Escondido, Oaxaca. 37 miles west of Mazunte
Bed and Breakfast. Price*: MXN 350
1 review. Traveller rating: 3.5 of 5.0
Ranked #13 in Puerto Escondido, Mexico
Hotel Mayflower
Puerto Escondido, Oaxaca. 37 miles west of Mazunte
Hotel. Price*: US$ 22
35 Reviews. Traveller rating: 4.0 of 5.0
Ranked #21 in Puerto Escondido, Mexico
Hotel Hacienda Revolucion
Puerto Escondido, Oaxaca. 37 miles west of Mazunte
Bed and Breakfast. Price*: US$ 65
7 Reviews. Traveller rating: 4.5 of 5.0
Ranked #6 in Puerto Escondido, Mexico
Quinta Lili
Puerto Escondido, Oaxaca. 37 miles west of Mazunte
Hotel
265 Reviews. Traveller rating: 5.0 of 5.0
Ranked #1 in Puerto Escondido, Mexico
Surf Olas Altas
Puerto Escondido, Oaxaca. 37 miles west of Mazunte
Hotel. Price*: US$ 97
3 Reviews. Traveller rating: 4.0 of 5.0
Ranked #20 in Puerto Escondido, Mexico
Camino Del Sol
Puerto Escondido, Oaxaca. 37 miles west of Mazunte
Small Hotel
Traveller rating: not rated 
Hostal Losodeli
Puerto Escondido, Oaxaca. 37 miles west of Mazunte
Hostel. Price*: MXN 400
Traveller rating: not rated 
Posada Real Puerto Escondido
Puerto Escondido, Oaxaca. 37 miles west of Mazunte
Resort. Price*: US$ 214
48 Reviews. Traveller rating: 4.0 of 5.0
Ranked #14 in Puerto Escondido, Mexico
Hotel Suites Villasol
Puerto Escondido, Oaxaca. 38 miles west of Mazunte
Hotel. Price*: US$ 67
39 Reviews. Traveller rating: 4.0 of 5.0
Ranked #16 in Puerto Escondido, Mexico
Hotel and Youth Hostal Mayflower
Puerto Escondido, Oaxaca. 38 miles west of Mazunte
Hostel
11 Reviews. Traveller rating: 4.0 of 5.0
Ranked #5 in Puerto Escondido, Mexico
Condos Hacienda
Puerto Escondido, Oaxaca. 38 miles west of Mazunte
Condominium. Price*: US$ 89
Traveller rating: not rated 
Casa Giron
Oaxaca, Oaxaca. 78 miles north of Mazunte
Guesthouse
3 Reviews. Traveller rating: 4.0 of 5.0
Ranked #22 in Oaxaca, Mexico
Casa Allende
Oaxaca, Oaxaca. 95 miles north of Mazunte
Bed and Breakfast. Price*: US$ 111
Traveller rating: not rated 
Caribbean Village
Oaxaca, Oaxaca. 95 miles north of Mazunte
Hotel. Price*: US$ 122
Traveller rating: not rated 
Fiesta Inn Oaxaca
Oaxaca, Oaxaca. 96 miles north of Mazunte
Hotel. Price*: US$ 120
16 Reviews. Traveller rating: 4.0 of 5.0
Ranked #22 in Oaxaca, Mexico
Puesta del Sol
Puerto Angel, Oaxaca. 96 miles north of Mazunte
Guesthouse. Price*: MXN 255
1 review. Traveller rating: 3.5 of 5.0
Ranked #4 in Puerto Angel, Mexico
Hotel Victoria
Oaxaca, Oaxaca. 96 miles north of Mazunte
Hotel. Price*: US$ 95
65 Reviews. Traveller rating: 3.5 of 5.0
Ranked #34 in Oaxaca, Mexico
Marques Del Valle
Oaxaca, Oaxaca. 96 miles north of Mazunte
Hotel. Price*: US$ 132
20 Reviews. Traveller rating: 3.5 of 5.0
Ranked #64 in Oaxaca, Mexico
Parador San Miguel
Oaxaca, Oaxaca. 96 miles north of Mazunte
Hotel. Price*: US$ 89
75 Reviews. Traveller rating: 4.5 of 5.0
Ranked #11 in Oaxaca, Mexico


Local Mazunte Resources




Accommodation in Mazunte


Accommodation in Mazunte

Cabanas Balamjuyuc
Hostel
31 Reviews. Traveller rating: 4.5 of 5.0
Ranked #2 in Mazunte, Mexico
Casa Mermejita
Villa
1 review. Traveller rating: 4.0 of 5.0
Ranked #6 in Mazunte, Mexico
Casa Pan de Miel
Boutique Hotel. Price*: US$ 137
209 Reviews. Traveller rating: 5.0 of 5.0
Ranked #1 in Mazunte, Mexico
El Copal
Hotel. Price*: US$ 97
73 Reviews. Traveller rating: 4.5 of 5.0
Ranked #2 in Mazunte, Mexico
La Dolce Vita Ristorante-Pizzeria
Small Hotel. Price*: MXN 400
3 Reviews. Traveller rating: 4.0 of 5.0
Ranked #2 in Mazunte, Mexico
La Isla
Camping/Caravan site. Price*: MXN 250
14 Reviews. Traveller rating: 4.5 of 5.0
Ranked #1 in Mazunte, Mexico
Los Jacalitos
Ranch/Farmhouse/Cottage
2 Reviews. Traveller rating: 4.5 of 5.0
Ranked #4 in Mazunte, Mexico
Miramar
Camping/Caravan site
4 Reviews. Traveller rating: 4.0 of 5.0
Ranked #5 in Mazunte, Mexico
Posada Arigalan
Bed and Breakfast. Price*: US$ 65
27 Reviews. Traveller rating: 4.5 of 5.0
Ranked #1 in Mazunte, Mexico
Posada del Arquitecto
Camping/Caravan site. Price*: MXN 22
32 Reviews. Traveller rating: 4.0 of 5.0
Ranked #3 in Mazunte, Mexico
Posada de las Flores
Bed and Breakfast. Price*: MXN 800
3 Reviews. Traveller rating: 4.0 of 5.0
Ranked #3 in Mazunte, Mexico
Posada y restaurant Yuri
Lodge
Traveller rating: not rated 
Posada Ziga
Hotel
23 Reviews. Traveller rating: 4.0 of 5.0
Ranked #4 in Mazunte, Mexico
Zoa Hotel
Hotel. Price*: US$ 250
31 Reviews. Traveller rating: 4.5 of 5.0
Ranked #3 in Mazunte, Mexico



Mazunte hit hard too by Carlotta THURSDAY, JUNE 28, 2012


THURSDAY, JUNE 28, 2012

Mazunte hit hard too by Carlotta


Blog post by Tina Winterlik © 2012
tina_winterlik@yahoo.com
http://tinawinterlik.blogspot.com
http://twitter.com/#!/zipolita @zipolita
http://gplus.to/zipolita Google+



Here a video showing the damage done to Posada del Arquitecto. I am not familiar with this Posada but I do love Mazunte. Mazunte is a lovely laid back place, similar to Zipolite but a little more expensive. I hope people will help out where they can.




http://www.posadadelarquitecto.com/home.htm

The Bajo Quinto: The Instrument That Will Not Go Gently by BETTO ARCOS


Don Telesforo next to a bajo quinto, holding a jarana mixteca.
EnlargeCourtesy of Ruben Luengas
Don Telesforo next to a bajo quinto, holding a jarana mixteca.
text size A A A
June 28, 2012
Almost 20 years ago, a young student at the National University of Mexico went in search of a very old instrument in the mountains of the southern state of Oaxaca. Today, he has become a leading force in the revival of the instrument called the bajo quinto and the music played on it.
Ruben Luengas was working on a research project at the National School of Music in Mexico City in 1995. He wanted to focus on the music of his hometown, in the Mixtec region of Oaxaca, so he asked his 97-year-old grandmother to tell him about the music played at her wedding.
"She tells me it was played on violin and bajo. That's what they played at the parties," he says. "I imagined an upright bass, then I thought an electric bass, so I asked her if she could describe the bajo to me. I had no idea what she was talking about."
The bajo quinto looks like an oversized acoustic guitar, with five courses of doubled steel strings. It's played with a pick, with an emphasis on the bass strings. But Luengas did not know any of this.
He went to his professor, Guillermo Contreras, who invited him to his studio and showed him a collection of more than 15 bajo quintos from the states of Puebla, Morelos and Guerrero — but none from Oaxaca.
"He said to me, 'This is the bajo quinto.' I was speechless," says Luengas. "I became captivated by the instrument. So I asked my teacher, 'Where can I get one?' And my teacher says, 'You have to go find it and learn how to play it. It's part of your tradition.' And he gave me a whole lecture on it."
Contreras, who's still a professor and researcher at Mexico's National School of Music, says the bajo quinto likely evolved from the Italian baroque guitar, called chitarra battente, brought to Mexico during the colonial period.
He didn't say anything. He turned around and got a brand new instrument he just finished, for whoever needed it, and he said he was waiting for me.
"Chitarra battente is very similar to the bajo quinto because it has five courses of strings — 10 strings in total — and metal strings," says Contreras. "And the body is very similar — big body, large neck."
He says in the mid- to late-1800s, a German music store had branches all over Mexico, including one in Oaxaca. He has also found evidence of instrument builders there: "In Oaxaca, there were two important centers for building musical instruments: Coicoyan, in the heart of the Mixteca, and Oaxaca City."
It was that first town, Coicoyan de las Flores, that ethnomusicologist Luengas' grandmother had told him about. She — and just about everybody else — said it was a dangerous place, and advised him not to go.
But one day he mustered the courage and took off to the tiny, hard-to-reach town, deep in the Mixtec mountains. Luengas says that when he arrived, he had the odd feeling he was going back in time. A colleague at the university had given him her grandfather's contact. By now, he felt that everything seemed prearranged.
"My friend's grandfather told one of his workers to take me to the luthier's house. We went down a very deep ravine, then up a hill," Luengas says. "I knocked on a little wooden house, and out comes a man, about 80 years old. He speaks very little Spanish. I told him I was there to get a bajo quinto. He didn't say anything. He turned around and got a brand new instrument he just finished, for whoever needed it, and he said he was waiting for me. That day completely changed my life."

Luengas is now one of the leading bajo quinto players in Oaxaca. He has formed several groups to showcase the instrument, including an eight-piece band, Pasatono Orquesta, modeled after the traditional Mixtec orchestras of the 1920s.
Don Telesforo with Ruben Luengas.
EnlargeCourtesy of Ruben Luengas
Don Telesforo with Ruben Luengas.
Luengas says Don Telesforo, the luthier he met in Coicoyan, has died. Nobody there learned his secrets: his respect for the trees, the music and all the mysticism that goes with the craft of making the bajo quinto.
"But the truth is, it's not dead," says Luengas. "I had the opportunity to learn from him. Now I'm reproducing his bajo quinto models, his singular style. And as long as I'm here, I'm not going to let it die."
Luengas says he now has the responsibility to pass on the tradition, but first he needs to find apprentices interested in learning it.

Wednesday, June 27, 2012

4 Water Sports You Have to Try in Puerto Escondido by ANNE NEEDHAM on JUNE 27, 2012



4 Water Sports You Have to Try in Puerto Escondido

by ANNE NEEDHAM on JUNE 27, 2012
Santi LLobt, Flickr
The once quiet fishing port of Puerto Escondido has blossomed into one of the best tourist spots in the whole of Oaxaca. Despite the influx of visitors, it has managed to retain its charm and not succumb to over-development, making it even more attractive to people traveling to Oaxaca.
It is a great place to unwind and relax, and also offers some exhilarating water sports for those of you with a sense of adventure and a sprinkling of courage.

Kayaking Through the Mangroves

Not far from Puerto Escondido you will find the Laguna Manialtepec, a body of water that has been overcome by a mangrove forest. In amongst the dense vegetation you will see a great variety of wildlife, but it is the birds that attract the most visitors. There are many different species to watch here, from pelicans to storks, but you will need to enter the forest by boat to see them.
A company called Rutas de Aventura organizes kayak tours around the mangrove forest so that visitors can get a glimpse of these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat. You can take a one-man kayak by yourself, or team up with others to take out a kayak to navigate the narrow channels between the sprawling mangrove trees.
It’s a relaxing and awe-inspiring experience, and some of the profits made from the kayaking trips are used to help keep the area clean and unpolluted. This activity is perfect for tourists that want to support sustainability and eco-tourism in the region.

Water Skiing at Playa Embarcadero

For those of you that want to move a little faster across the water, water skiing across the calm ocean water at Playa Embarcadero will probably be more appealing. This beach is sheltered from the waves that pound the shore at some of Puerto Escondido’s other beaches, so it’s perfect for water sports like water skiing, wake boarding, and sailing.
Put on your water skis and hold on tight as you’re pulled along at high speeds across the crystal blue water. There are plenty of local guys with their own boats hiring out equipment for you to use, so if you’ve never tried it give it a go.

Scuba Diving around the Coves

Puerto Escondido didn’t start out as a fishing port without a good reason. The ocean surrounding the small town is brimming with a huge variety of fish, big and small, and no doubt you’ll eat some of them while staying here.
On the other hand, you can have the opportunity to see some fantastic marine wildlife if you decide to venture out into the water equipped with some scuba gear. There are many boats that tour the numerous coves that separate the long sandy beaches around Puerto Escondido, and it is at these coves where you can see some really exotic sea life. Perhaps you’ll see a turtle, or colorful fish that live close to the rocks.
For bigger fish, head out into the open water, and be prepared to witness large tuna, snapper, and mahi mahi swimming frantically through the deep blue. If you’re lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of a marlin.

Surfing at Playa Zicatela

The number one activity for all you adrenaline junkies out there, surfing a Playa Zicatela when the waves are big will certainly get your heart pumping.
The wave that breaks here is sometime referred to as the Mexican Pipeline, because it is a very powerful and fast wave. On smaller days beginners and intermediates can have their chance to surf here, but when it get serious only experienced surfers dare paddle out.
Jo Simon, Flickr
Every November an international surfing competition is held at the beach, so if getting in the water yourself is just too frightening, just sit back and watch the professionals make it look easy.
Surfing in Puerto Escondido has helped bring the small town to the attention of international travelers, and the facilities here for people that want to try are pretty good. You can rent or buy all the equipment you need here, so there is no need to bring all your own equipment on a plane with you.
Take Your Pick
If you’re looking for a fun activity to keep you occupied while staying in Puerto Escondido, you really are spoiled with choices. Water sports are perfect here, because of the great water quality, and the year round warm temperatures. All you have to do is choose which water sport is right for you!
Have you tried any of these water activities? What was your experience like?

Puerto Escondido, Mexico June 16, 2012 AFTER Hurricane Carlotta Hit

Travel Tech: Best Camping and Hiking Gadgets Posted by Scott Tharler on June 25, 2012 at 12:05:46 PM EDT Posted in Technology Tagged: Technology, Camping, Hiking Walking



Travel Tech: Best Camping and Hiking Gadgets

CampG_415x270.jpg
Think of the Channel Islands' scenic trails, with amazing vistas and fresh ocean air—not to mention the whale and dolphin watching on the way over. Sound like the perfect place to set up camp? We know. But before you pack up the trunk, you'll want to snap up these key gadgets to help set the mood and capture the moment, while staying well-hydrated during the day and warm at night. Whether you're headed to a national park or something more off the grid, with these gadgets you won't miss those little daily luxuries (much).

1. Samsung W300 Rugged Full HD 1080p Pocket Camcorder

Why We Like It: Just like its predecessor (the W200, featured back in March), this new pocket camcorder is also easy to use, rough-and-tumble, shoots high-def video, and can pause during recording. But it's got a stereo microphone, which comes in handy with the Smart Background Music feature. You can add preloaded music to your videos. And if it senses someone's speaking, it'll automatically lower the music so as not to overwhelm your narration/dialogue. It also features additional filming effects. And it comes in a wider variety of colors: black, orange, and red.
How Much: $160
Buy It: Visit Samsung.com

2. Women's Xspress Fitness Runner

Why We Like It: This versatile shoe provides great cushioning, support and breathability for those invigorating runs and long hikes on light trails. The rubber outsole gives great traction. A removable inner layer provides extra padding and a comfy fit. If you do remove it, you'll see...right through the shoe's heel! That "skylight" adds stability. In addition to black/coral, it comes in white/navy and silver/blue.
How Much: $100
Buy It: Visit Aetrex.com.

3. Organic Insect Repellent

Why We Like It: Lemongrass oil gives this child- and pet-safe insect repellant its sweet, flowery smell. It's sized for easy transport in your purse and on the plane. But it's definitely a good idea to bring along this environmentally conscious product as you explore the outdoors.
How Much: 2.5 oz, $12; 4 oz, $18
Buy It: Visit TickTockNaturals.com.

4. Vapur Sweater

Why We Like It: As opposed to most "sweaters," this one's worn to keep things cooler. More specifically, it insulates and protects Vapur's .4L or .5L "antibottles." So whatever tasty beverage you've got stored in these flexible, rollable containers will stay chilled longer as you're camping and hiking.
How Much: $7
Buy It: Visit Vapur.us.

5. Concentrated Tent & Gear Solarproof

Why We Like It: Help your gear serve you longer. Just a single application of this safe, water-based solvent can double the useful life of your tent's fabric. It's also amazing for backpacks, camera bags and more, protecting them from UV damage and adding water repellency in the process.
How Much: 5 oz, $13; 33.8 oz, $39
Buy It: Visit Nikwax.com.

6. Braven 625s speaker

Why We Like It: Add both tunes and lumens to your path. This rugged, rubberized wireless speaker sounds super as it plays up to 16 hours of your favorite music. But it can also charge your gadgets on-the-go! And using that same port and the included LED flashlight, it serves as a nice little beacon. Adding to its utility, it comes with a lanyard and water-resistant dry bag.
How Much: $180
Buy It: Visit Braven.com.

7. Selk'bag 4G Lite

Why We Like It: Instead of being cramped in a cocoon-like bag, this limb-liberating "sleep wear" system lets you be cozy but free. Its dual front-entry anti-snag zippers make for easy entry. The water-resistant Polyester shell, thermal collar and insulated hood keep you warm. If you need to cool you off—or get to your pants pockets—just open the hip vent and fold back the hand-covers. The feet have reinforced nylon soles with traction-friendly grips. So you can amble around the campsite all snuggly, sneakily avoiding the morning air's chilly kiss.
How Much: $99
Buy It: Visit SelkbagUSA.com.

Huatulco offshore after Carlotta


New Guy


Name: George
Vessel: Angel
Location: Huatulco, Oaxaca, Mexico
Job:plastic gangster
Posts: 9
 
Huatulco offshore after Carlotta

As expected, with a lot of debris in the water the first week after Carlotta brushed us in Huatulco, the rivers are really flowing and the dorado fishing has improved. They're still running small, haven't seen a proper bull or cow in months, but they seem a bit bigger every day. Pleasant surprise has been finding some summer yellowfin, which have been showing up around some massive schools of spinner dolphin 7-9 miles out. Today on a solo trip I got a couple of yellowfin 15 and 20 lbs, released a pair of sails 60 and 80 lbs, and got about a 6 lb dorado. Lost another nice sail too after about 20 jumps. I had decided this was going to be a dedicated marlin trip today but that pretty much guaranteed I'd catch everything but marlin.
-George

Puerto Escondido Surf Oaxaca Mexico Hurricane Carlota


Jank Productions brings some surf clips from June 2012, I ended up losing over half of my footage because the wrist housing go blasted off by the lip, never to be found again. But, I had these clips on my other memory card from a few days out surfing. These were not even the good days ;) Best of luck to the locals fixing up the town after the hurricane, see you again next year puerto!


Puerto Escondido, Mexico June 16, 2012 AFTER Hurricane Carlotta Hit

Puerto Escondido, Mexico June 15, 2012 BEFORE Hurricane Carlotta Hit