El Dia del San Patricio

Street in Barra de Navidad

We had been in Barra de Navidad for almost 4 days now. Barra is definitely quieter that Sayulita. It has a laid back retirement feel. Most of the  Gringos here are older retired people taking advantage of the great weather, friendy people and the low cost living. 

I was told that it was nearing the end of the winter tourist season, hence the lack of visiters. The exception is Semana Santa, the Mexican Easter holidays.  In The two weeks around Easter this place will be filled with Mexicans vacationing at the coast.

Beach at Barra


Our Spanish courses are going well. Linda is in group of 3 and I have a private lesson, only because there is no one else at my level right now. Time and location for our classes vary from day to day. Sometimes we meet at Bonnie's house, sometimes on the beach, depending on what is being taught. 

Beach at La Manzanilla

Yesterday we rode the bike 1/2 hours north to La Manzanilla, (not to be confused with Manzanillo, a city 1/2 hour south) a small town on the coast. At one of the little resaurqnts on the beach we stopped for a plate of ceviche and fresh lemonade (no cervazas because we had to ride back). Ceviche is fresh uncooked seafood marinated in lime juice, usually diced and served mixed with peppers and/or onions. Ours had slices of avocado on top. It was served with baked tortias (tostados) and it was delicious. So was the lemonade.

Today is St. Patrick's Day and the next town up the coast is named San Patricio. (for those who are familiar with this area, this town is on the south side of Melaque)

As you might guess from the name, March 17 is a big day for the town of San Patricio. In fact the has been a parade and fireworks in San Patricio every night this week, but tonight is the big wind up. We are planning to catch the bus there this evening to take in the celebrations. Hofully I'll have some interesting pictures for the next posting.