Two weeks ago I packed up my backpack, grabbed my yoga mat, and boarded an airplane for Guatemala City. I took a taxi to Antigua, where I spent the night, and then headed directly to El Paredon the next morning.
Adventure travel is not for everyone. There are a lot of unknowns, and you have to learn to adapt to each situation, but it gives you the opportunity to learn, grow, and truly get to know other cultures. Two weeks into my Central America trip and I already feel a change in myself. Being here reminds me of the importance of staying present and making the time to chill out. It’s the Guatemalan way of life after all.
My Accommodations
Surfing is one of the major attractions at Cocori Lodge
I am staying at Cocori Lodge, a hostel that caters to surfers from around the world. The lodge accommodates about 20 people in a variety of room configurations, everything from large private suites to shared co-ed dorms and bathrooms. I’m staying in the dorm for volunteers because I’m doing a work exchange during my time here. I’ve been teaching yoga, helping out in the bar and restaurant, and working in reception.
Staying in a dorm takes some patience. Some people snore, some come in late at night, some are messy, and some are clean. You have to roll with it. I’m in a bottom bunk where I have draped blankets around my bed, so it looks a bit like a little fort. I do it for privacy because the truth is, I miss it. I’m around people all day, and at night I prefer some time to myself.
New Friends
Team dinner at Cocori Lodge
The best thing about this style of travel is that I make a lot of new friends from all around the world. Currently in my dorm are people from Portugal, Israel, Canada, and Australia. When you share living space, you become like family, which can be both good and bad. Occasionally there is a mild disagreement, like if someone eats the food that you left in the refrigerator, but mostly we chat, share meals, play games, and tell stories. I’m getting to know the locals as well. Walter, the mangrove tour guide and Yoli, our maid, are becoming my friends as well. When I ask Walter, “Como estas?” he answers, “Super Fresh!” It always makes me giggle.
Daily Life in El Paredon
Sunrise yoga class at Cocori Lodge
I spend my days here planning out simple things, such as where do I get some laundry soap so I can wash my clothes (by hand), when do I teach yoga next, what am I making for dinner, and do I need to go to the market? Guests and volunteers are always checking out the waves, borrowing things from each other (like mosquito repellent), and sharing information, like which shop has that best ice cream or burritos. We also play with our lodge mascot, a precious little orphaned baby racoon.
My new friend, a baby racoon
I wake up early to shower before my first yoga class and then start my work shift at 8:00. I get off work at 1:30, make some lunch in the volunteer kitchen, run errands, nap in the hammock, go for a swim and read. Kids and dogs run around freely, as do iguanas and geckos. It’s a working vacation, but it feels like paradise.
Life in El Paredon is relaxed and simple. The wi-fi is spotty, and there is no ATM or supermarkets. The roads, for the most part, aren’t paved. There is no theater or shopping mall, but we have the bare necessities of life, good friends, a stunning view, and awesome vibes.