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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

Monday, December 10, 2012

Discovering Oaxaca Viva Veracruz & Viva Puerto Escondido


December – 2012 – Viva Veracruz & Viva Puerto Escondido
Viva Veracruz & Viva Puerto Escondido. Musings from and about living in Mexico . Home · ARCHIVE INDEX. KEEP IN TOUCH. Type your search. GO ...
www.vivaveracruz.com/blog/?m=201212



Discovering Oaxaca

The Calpso Clan (now including Anita’s Brother and Ethel his mate) has wanted to discover more of our area. Some short one to three day trips were on our minds. So we planned a trip westward heading towards Acapulco – but not that far. Our target destination would be within 100 miles or so from Puerto Escondido our home base.
Our plan started with Pinotepa Nacional. Located on the coastal highway 200 (Carretera Costera) 90 miles to the west of Puerto Escondido. The 30,000 residents are mostly Mestizos with surrounding areas of mostly indigenous people dominated by the Mixtec with Amusgo and Chatino Indians as well. Pinotepa comes from the Aztec words pinolli (crumbling) and tepetl (mountain). To the Mixtec, Pinotepa has always been called Ñíí Yu-uku, meaning place of salt.
As our plans jelled Pinotepa ultimately became the end of our planned journey west. We had a particular restaurant in mind and several hotel options.
Earlier in the week our friend Franco the owner of Mana Restaurant on El Morro (more on Franco this coming week)  suggested we checkout the smaller pueblos: Santiago Jamiltepéc and Mechocan. Franco explained these authentic Old Mexico communities would probably be of more interest. So they were added to the itinerary.
Yesterday Anita and I left early. We actually arrived a few minutes ahead of the scheduled 8 AM time to pick-up the Ricardo’s (Anita’s aforementioned brother Ricardo and his woman). They are living across town from us in Bacocho. The four of us headed west out past the Puerto airport.
Follow along our photo journal:
After an hours drive we stopped and ate roadside at a Cocina Economica – yum!
Roadside Stand Coastal Highway 200
This little fellow, a ubiquitous green parrot, entertained us at breakfast.
The Travelers getting ready to load up after breakfast (I think Anita is hiking up her slacks – an action shot).
Also ubiquitous –  colorful signage Mexican Style. 
My BIL – What is he Photographing?
The Ubiquitous Mexican circular entrance with a statue monument.  
A Closer Look  Those things protruding from her head – what? Maybe skewered marshmallows? A bare chested woman statue is probably not something you would see in the U.S. at the entrance of any small community. We have seen several here in Mexico ;-) Mexico’s free ancient spirit thrives – more on bare breasted women below.
Mechocan was our destination at this point – just 5 kilometers ahead. 
Mechocan seemed like a town forgotten out of the past. It was up in the hills and quite isolated, and yet as the sign points out there is a secondary schooling teachers education program that happens there:
Colegio Bachilleres del Estado de Oaxaca (COBAO)
Oaxaca, Mexico (for student teaching at the secondary level)

Program Information:

Student teaching in Mexico is an opportunity for students in ESL (English as a second language), Bilingual Education and/or Spanish to complete eight weeks of directed teaching in Mechocan, Oaxaca, a center of indigenous culture, history, and the arts in south central Mexico. A program agreement between the Collegio Bachilleres del Estado de Oaxaca (COBAO) and the College of Education for student teaching at the secondary level.
We noticed some large satellite dishes that are typical of remote educational processes here in mexico. But other than that there was nothing in this small community that would have indicated a technology invasion in this primitive community.
The ubiquitous Mexican small town ‘Welcome to our town’ sign. We should mention that just a few feet further up this road we were welcomed (NOT) with a wire barricade across the road – this being the main entrance to  Mechocan.
After some confusion and conversations with several people – we learned there was a festival in town happening in mere hours; therefore the road was blocked to vehicles. We were diverted to an area where we could park and walk.
Another colorful sign – in Mechocan. They remain until the need to promote the next event. We like them.
This Woman Befriended Us in the Calle 
The pueblita was alive with preparations for the celebration of the Virgin of Guadelupe. Before the Christmas season “officially” begins on December 16, day when the first Posada takes place, Mexicans join together for the festivities of La Virgen de Guadalupe, Our Lady of Guadalupe, on December 12.   This is one of the most important dates in the Mexican calendar. Actually this celebration can be for several days usually beginning on a weekend.
As we four wandered the streets (wide and nicely paved by the way), little children and most of the populace stared at us – gringos are rarely seen in their community.
We love Architecture! We spied some nicely designed and constructed buildings, even some very upscale – but the old cob (mud daubed) construction was fascinating.
The mujer in the above photo was most kind to us. In the street with Coronas she had sold us in our hands she explained that their community had been an artisan pueblo – “but not so much any more”.
We asked about weaved, embroidered products and wicker furniture. We had been told these kinds of things would be available in this area. But not so much anymore. Any thing like this available would be found in Pinotepa.
Even still the girl called to an older Indian woman who joined our circle. She spoke mostly a Mixtec dialect.  The old woman was taller than most and had a long African mask like face – most exotic we thought – the helpful local girl acted as an interpreter (from Spanish to the old woman’s language). We were invited to follow the old woman to her casa to see some embroidered items.
We traveled several blocks and then through a yard into a dark casita. There were a few dogs, children and obviously several generations of family. Plastic chairs were placed for us to sit down. The old woman went away to get her wares while we chatted with a younger generation family member.
Has this happened to you?
Soon the old woman returned with a large cloth bag of ‘napkins’ or embroidered cloth from place-mat to small table area sized. But, what was first noticed was the old woman came out to us naked from the waist up – National Geographic Style.
The half naked lady proceeded to pull her products from the bag – passing them along to each of us. The work was delicate and colorful – really beautiful. I did not venture out to get photographs – it just did not seem appropriate.
I whispered to Anita, “What is going on? Why is she naked?”
Anita thought it was because she was in her home and comfortable with us – as a gestured of this she was taken to be as she normally is sans a blouse.
OK no problem . Having only been as far on the African continent as Morocco, we just adjusted to this. In truth we had read that there was an African population in this area – but we assumed this was as in “African American” not Out of Africa.
A couple of lovely examples of her work were purchased.
A photo of one of our purchases
Moving along we spotted a small marching band (heard before seen)
Many Curious Gazes as we Wandered Around Town
The Pueblo Public Address System (also ubiquitous for these small communities)
On a hill far away stood some old rugged crosses, The emblem of suffering and shame; And I love those old crosses where the dearest and best. For a world of lost sinners was slain.
Touching to see those old wooden crosses decorated with banana leaf palm fronds (Palm Sunday?). Say what you might about these simple folks – their faith is to be admired.
We rounded a corner. Down the way there was a rare photo opportunity - one in which you had to act fast. A lineup of women carrying a chicken under each arm – food for the fiesta still on the hoof (or yellow chicken feet in this case). The chickens were calm – obviously no idea where they were HEADed OFF to.
These Ladies Will Not Go to the Party Empty Handed. They Come Bearing Chickens
In the above photo the women second from the left has a rather unique and quite costly skirt wrap. We saw several ladies in the community sporting these particular colorful skirts. There is an amazing story about the protected purple dye snails from which this fabric is colored. Read More About This HERE and HERE)
After an hour or so of walking we ended up back near the car. Quite a few borrochos were looking like they probably would NOT making another four hours before the actual celebration began.
Marching in view were a few firework laden toros. Not the expensive Xico Celebration kind – but a more simpler version – still going to be some fun we bet.
The party still about four hours off  was something we decided to pass on – been there, done that. We wanted to move on the Jamiltepéc and then Pintotepa – lots to do.

We drove what seemed to be the Looooongest 15 miles in history to Pinotepa Nacional. It turned out to be quite a large city – larger than Puerto. Perhaps a supply depot in the future – but it had little else in the way of attraction. (To be fair – we were warned that this would be the case by Franco).
Forging on we were going to find the restaurant “La India” as in the original plan. Of course it was all the way across town at the west end. We ere now only about 10 miles from the Mexican State of Guerrero – but we planned to stay in Oaxaca this trip.
Here is proof we made it this far (and no further). The restaurant was empty of patrons, large and rather dark. The menu did not particularly impress us – so we had a few cold beers and some botanas (snacks). It was late in the afternoon. We decided we had had enough fun. We would head back to Puerto Escondido rather than spend the night.
In central Pinotepa we saw this huge Cathedral
It was a long drive home – arriving a mere 11 hours from departure. We covered a lot of ground and even MORE TOPES! A standard shift car is no fun on Mexican Highways.

A good time was had by all – but we were happy to spend the night in our own bed after a long and adventurous day. Stay Tuned!



Feliz Navidad - Christmas in Mexico - YouTube HD

Merry Christmas from Mazunte Mexico

Christmas in Oaxaca 2008

Oaxaca Marimbas - Christmas Medley

Michael Jackson - Heal The World - HD

“ Pochutla Market Haggling? ” 30 November 2012, 10:28 Is it as common in this area of Mexico to barter with the prices as in Playa Del Carmen?

Pochutla Market Haggling? - Huatulco Message Board - TripAdvisor
Is it as common in this area of Mexico to barter with the prices as in Playa Del Carmen? I must say I don't really enjoy haggling but if you don't do it in PDC you ...
www.tripadvisor.ca/ShowTopic-g150789-i740-k5934784-Poc...


Nova Scotia
posts: 1,242
reviews: 11
 Pochutla Market Haggling? 
Is it as common in this area of Mexico to barter with the prices as in Playa Del Carmen? I must say I don't really enjoy haggling but if you don't do it in PDC you pay way too much. I wouldn't want to offend anyone. I'm thinking of handicrafts items like pottery or wood pieces. Do they mark up prices by 50% or more here?
8 replies

Huatulco...
posts: 1,172
reviews: 7
1. Re: Pochutla Market Haggling?
Haggeling is expected
I suggest that you do it with respect
The markup varies with different markets and products
I personally will make an offer and walk away if the the price does not meet my expectations.
I can always go back later
Some north americans have the idea that the sellers are out to screw everyone with white skin and are ver disrespectful to the sellers
Wayne Overby
Villa Sol y Mar
(House of the Sun & Sea)

Nova Scotia
posts: 1,242
reviews: 11
2. Re: Pochutla Market Haggling?
Thank you. I have seen that happen too, and is part of why I don't enjoy 5th Avenue anymore. Rude is never the way to be to anyone.

Vancouver BC
posts: 3,733
reviews: 78
3. Re: Pochutla Market Haggling?
Destination Expert   What's this?
for Vancouver
Pochutla is off the tourist trail so while haggling is fair game, it is less likely prices are positioned with the cushion built into tourist area goods. Regardless the game is a national game.

minnesota
posts: 1,382
reviews: 24
4. Re: Pochutla Market Haggling?
Great question, thanks for posting! This is definitely a topic to discuss with my group.
None of us are comfortable haggling, but want to handle ourselves properly in the market. More than once I've overheard someone lecturing others at the resort about "how the thieving Mexicans jack up the price". Usually the same guy that hasn't left his seat at the swim up bar in 8 or 9 hours. Worlds largest bladder, I think not. Hubbie runs for the beach lounger, cuz he knows the oaf is about to get a "kindly worded" mini lecture about different cultures and our responsibly to adapt so as not to be RUDE norte americanos.

Vancouver BC
posts: 3,733
reviews: 78
5. Re: Pochutla Market Haggling?
Destination Expert   What's this?
for Vancouver
Haven't seen a "how to haggle thread" lately. If someone starts one, we can have some fun sharing ideas.

oaxaca
posts: 1,398
reviews: 31
6. Re: Pochutla Market Haggling?
Destination Expert   What's this?
for Oaxaca
By chance, I just finished writing an article about the issue earlier this week, so this might be instructive:
Alvin Starkman - Casa Machaya Oaxaca Bed & Breakfast

Mosinee...
posts: 92
reviews: 3
7. Re: Pochutla Market Haggling?
My husband and I will also wear a smile while negotiating a fair price. He also will practice his spanish which they also appreciate. It's a fun way to get to know the vendors too!!!

berwyn...
posts: 144
reviews: 1
8. Re: Pochutla Market Haggling?
Jennie- LMAO at the "Worlds Largest Bladder" comment- yet another reason to avoid the swim up bar!
True, many of the vendors like to haggle, and many will deliberately set the initial asking price really high partly because they expect people to bargain with them. BUT- that isn't the case with all the vendors and there are plenty of shops in Huatulco where the asking price is the actual price.
As far as haggling "rules"? Here are a few or my own personal ones:
1) Don't expect something for nothing - you really do get what you pay for. Along those lines, don't expect 1980's or 90's prices anymore ........
2) Decide for yourself what you want to pay and be ready to walk away if the price isn't right.
3) If you see something unique or something you really like, and it comes down to a disagreement over a few dollars, buy it.
In the end, if you're happy with what you bought and the price you paid, it was a good day.

April March - Chick Habit - HD

"Fix it" by Medicine for the People

Saturday, December 8, 2012

Lila Downs live @ Mazunte 1/7

Mazunte, Oaxaca, Mexico (8) | Flickr - Photo Sharing! Mazunte, Oaxaca, Mexico (10) · Mazunte, Oaxaca, Mexico (9) · Mazunte, Oaxaca, Mexico (8) · Mazunte, Oaxaca, Mexico (7) · Mazunte, Oaxaca, Mexico (6) ... www.flickr.com/photos/66362218@N08/8253335589/

Mazunte, Oaxaca, Mexico (8) | Flickr - Photo Sharing!
Mazunte, Oaxaca, Mexico (10) · Mazunte, Oaxaca, Mexico (9) · Mazunte, Oaxaca, Mexico (8) ·Mazunte, Oaxaca, Mexico (7) · Mazunte, Oaxaca, Mexico (6) ...
www.flickr.com/photos/66362218@N08/8253335589/

Aloha


Pacquiao Marquez 4


3 de Diciembre 20th Aniversario -Part 1 - 5









Published on Dec 8, 2012
3 de Diciembre Restaurant 20th Anniversary
http://3dediciembrezipolite.blogspot.mx/
Tina Winterlik aka Zipolita © 2012
http://adventurezinmexico.blogspot.com/

La ganadora Srita Pez Vela 2012

Surfing With Whales - Teahupoo Session


Gangnam Style - Ohio University Marching 110

Friday, December 7, 2012

LAGUNA DE ZAPOTENGO

http://www.puertoangel.net/zapotengo/zapotengo_en.html


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That's where the excursion begins
If you would like to know a divine place ....

come to Zapotengo !


About 10 minutes away from San Pedro Pochutla heading towardsBahias de Huatulco on highway 200, after the bridge Puente el Aguacate (km 217) you have to turn right. A 2 miles long dirt road leads you to the village.
Besides of its far reaching beaches Zapotengo offers an almost 1 mile long lagoon with diverse kinds of mangroves, fauna and flora.

The locals propose a good price for excursions by rowboats:
Adults 40 pesos
Students and kids the half price.

The round trip lasts about 2 hours in which you definitely woun't get bored. Even if you don't face any crocodile, the huge amount of birds and plants will overhelm you.
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That's where the excursion begins
It would be a good idea to order your dinner in one of these little "palapa" style restaurants before the excursion starts. So it will be ready to eat when you come back.
Local specialities cooked over open fire are offered and of course served with handmade tortillas.

If you feel a little exhausted after all and want to take a "siesta", there are hammocks available. So you can indulge in your dreams hanging between palmtrees, swinging in the breeze.
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Little restaurants on the left side of the picture
Zapotengo is still an untouched village without any big stores or supermarkets. Therefore you should carry your sun cream, films (don't forget your camera - it's worth it !!), etc. with you.

In the year 2004 the villagers decided to open up Zapotengo for tourism and built a cooperative alike the one in Ventanilla. Their purpose is protection of species and ecotourism. In this manner jobs have been created. Now the villagers don't have to send their family members to the USA as illegal laborers for surviving.
It is a good system because it helps nature and the locals.
So....with your visit you support both !!
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You are allowed to camp on the beach
If you don't travel by car, you can take a Pesera. They depart at 5:00 am in front of the supermarket Elektra in San Pedro Pochutlaand leave Zapotengo around 6:00 pm.
A taxi charges around 70 pesos.
If you don't mind hiking, just pick up any bus to Huatulco, drop off at km 217 (behind the bridge Puente el Aguacate) and walk the 2 miles to the village.

Zapotengo is waiting for your visit !

If you like to see pictures
of the excursion and the beaches,
click at the image below.
Klicken Sie hier um zu den Fotos zu gelangen!

Zapotengo

Published on Aug 7, 2012
Zapotengo is a project to protect the endangered fauna and flora. Habitat of crocodiles, iguanas and numerous kinds of birds. In the state of Oaxaca in Mexico, close to San Pedro Pochutla and Puerto Angel.
http://www.puertoangel.net/zapotengo/zapotengo_en.html
http://ecoturismozapotengo.org/

Zapotengo, un proyecto para la protección de fauna y flora en peligro de extinción. Habitat de cocodrilos, iguanas e infinidad de pájaros. En el Estado de Oaxaca en México, cerca de San Pedro Pochutla y Puerto Angel.
http://www.puertoangel.net/zapotengo/zapotengo_es.html
http://ecoturismozapotengo.org/

Pictures and show © by Harald Ferber.