Next stop, one of my favorite places on planet Earth, Holbox Mexico! I can't even begin to explain how my heart aches to go back. This is definitely a place I'll be looking to come back anytime I can. I don't know if my inevitable love affair with this place was due to the fact that I really needed to disconnect from my life, or the unbelievable rush I felt when swimming with a gigantic creature next to me.
Whatever it was, it marked me for life. Loud and clear.
One of my all-time favorite places, ever.
Holbox, meaning "black hole" in Yucatec Maya, is an island in the mexican state of Quintana Roo. An out of time place that is also part of the Yum-Balam Biosphere Reserve. The only way to access the island is through a ferry from the town of Chiquila. ($30.00 usd) Not yet heavily touristed, there are no cars.. only golf cars. But you can easily bike your way through the entire island. The perfect place to just lay down, and be.
One of the most beautiful things about this place, (I mean, next to the crystal-like water and amazing sunsets) is that you have to take a boat ride to get to it. (40 min ride at the most) No cars are allowed on the island, you have to walk or bike ride and for greater distances you can pay for a golf car rental.
Life is THAT simple here.
You may also see the great biodiversity and beautiful ecosistems this island holds. From racoons to whale sharks, flamingos to manatees. And locals who take care of such richness. Every corner has its bundle of life.
On the fifth day of my trip, I was able to join a guided tour to swim alongside the gigantic whale shark. This has been, by far, one of the most significative life changing moments I have been lucky enough to experience. There are literally no words whatsoever to what I felt underwater, swimming next to this beautiful teachers. I swear I heard them talk to me. I might be crazy, but in that moment they really talked. And I listened.
I was also lucky enough to give a little piece of my heart in return. I had the chance to work as a volunteer in an animal shelter called 'Alma Verde'. A non-profit organization that takes care of hurt animals around the island. I fed the kitties, the orphaned raccoons and helped a pelican get back to the ocean. I also helped around the house cleaning and petting the animals that needed it.
Overall, this has been one of the most magical places I've ever been to. I had a heart-deep connection with myself and I got a glimpse of what I want my life to be like someday. I encourage you to look for this kind of trips, look for change, stay close to yourself, to your needs and to your desires. Your heart needs it. You need it.
Much love to all!
F.
