gone south

We’ve been driving for a few days, out of wifi fange for the 1st time. Stopped at Uxmal ruins for visit & camping - it was so late when we got there that we went to ruins the next morning. We were the only ones inside, in the fog - pretty cool. The roads are still pretty good for the most part but when they’re bad, they’re freaking awful.
We haven’t mentioned topes yet (speed bumps), but they must be included in every driving Mexico story. As we’re driving the free roads they wind through towns and school yards. At the entrance to every village of any size are the topes proximo signs start and you better believe it. Some are half hearted, others are 2′ high. We’ve seen cars stall trying to get over them. To add to the thrill, it’s also a place to pass the big trucks - as you focus on the road surface a flash on either side of the car is someone going by. Craig has taken this to heart and passes at every opportunity. Many of the trucks are double trailers - it takes a long time to get by them when they’re moving.

Last night we spent in the parking lot of a restaurant, probably the worst nights sleep (or lack there of) so far. We were all of 25 meters off the road right by a tope. If it wasn’t brakes squealing to stop, it was trucks going through all they’re gears getting going again. This morning we had to wait till 8 for them to unlock the gate so we could leave. About 1/2 hour into driving a new noise showed up - broke one of the exhaust pipes. I guess we’ll now find out just how good the local mechanics really are.

At one point we were not going to circumnavigate the Yucatan but are happy that we decided to do so. So surprised at how pretty the west is with rolling hills, great roads and large farms.

This morning we got to Tulum early and are resupplying & checking email. Then rest for a few days on the beach- if affordable since we seem to be on the gringo riveria by the looks of the folks here on the street. Will be leaving here headed to Belize. Fellow travelers, big rigs and small, have various recommendations on that venture but we will proceed since we’ve come this far. Border crossing is supposedly a bear- we’ll know more later.

For those who have emailed about problems posting messages, I don’t know what to say having never tried. Some folks find it easy and others still await success.

Still not enough time to download more pictures and heading into CA may hamper us further.

Best wishes to all.

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