FRENCH POLYNESIA, A MAGICAL PARADISE

 

Welcome to the mesmerizing paradise of French Polynesia a tropical haven in the heart of the Pacific Ocean. This blog posting will take you on a journey through the enchanting islands of Moorea, Bora Bora, and Rangiroa. Get ready to immerse yourself in breathtaking landscapes, crystal-clear turquoise waters, vibrant coral reefs, and the warm hospitality of the Polynesian culture.

Moorea is a South Pacific island and part of French Polynesia's Society Islands archipelago. It's known for its jagged volcanic mountains and sandy beaches. In the north, Mount Rotui overlooks picturesque Opunohu Bay and the settlements around Cook's Bay. Inland, hiking trails wind through rainforests on the slopes of Mount Tohivea. The Belvedere Lookout has panoramic views of the island’s peaks and Tahiti beyond.

Locals celebrating their culture with traditional dances.      

                          

  Not sure if I recognize this wahine from way way back when.                     

   

Next we venture to the iconic Bora Bora known as the "Pearl of the Pacific." This island paradise is renowned for its stunning overwater bungalows where you can wake up to breathtaking views of Mount Otemanu and turquoise waters teeming with marine life. Dive into the vibrant coral gardens, go jet skiing, or simply relax on the white sandy beaches feeling the gentle breeze against your skin.  

On to Rangiroa which is a serene atoll the largest in French Polynesia. Known as the "Endless Lagoon," Rangiroa offers an untouched paradise for divers and nature enthusiasts. Dive into the Blue Lagoon where you can swim alongside dolphins, encounter graceful manta rays, and explore colorful coral gardens.

      More traditional dancing entertainmnent to enjoy at dinner.

                                         MORE  STUNNIING SCENERY

Another photo with my new local amigo.  Don't you love his hat! 

Beautiful tradtional dancing as seen in French Polynesia.

French Polynesia is also reknown for the stunning art work by Paul Gauguin, the French artist, painted in the late 1800's as seen below.

I wish to leave you with my favorite photograph taken while visiting French Polynesia which is a local pig taking a refreshing bath. I have always heard that pigs are very intelligent and this one definitely knew what he was doing!

.

Postscript:  For you history buffs you might enjoy the following information:  

Anthropologists and historians believe the Great Polynesian Migration commenced around 1500 BC as Austronesian peoples went on a journey using celestial navigation to find islands in the South Pacific Ocean.

European encounters began in 1521 when Portuguese explorer Ferdinand Magellan, sailing at the service of the Spanish Crown, sighted Puka-Puka in the Tuamotu-Gambier Archipelago.  

In 1606 another Spanish expedition under Pedro Fernandes de Queiros sailed through Polynesia sighting an inhabited island on 10 February which they called Sagittaria (or Sagittaria) probably the island of Rekareka to the southeast of Tahiti. 

In 1722, Dutchman Jakob Roggeveen while on an expedition sponsored by the Dutch West India Company charted the location of six islands in the Tuamotu Archipelago and two islands in the Society Islands, one of which was Bora Bora.

Rangiroa or Te Kokota is the largest atoll in the Tuamotus and one of the largest in the world. It is in French Polynesia and is part of the Palliser group. The nearest atoll is Tikehau, 12 kilometres to the west. It is about 355 km northeast of Tahiti. Rangiroa is home to about 2,500 people.

 

Thank you for joining me on my "Blog Journey" and wishing you well. 

AWESOME ANTIGUA, GUATEMALA MEMORIES REVISITED 2023

 

                                                             

Antigua, Guatemala which is simply refered to as Antigua is a city located in the central highlands of Guatemala. It was founded in 1524 by Spanish conquistadors and served as the capital of the "Kingdom of Guatemala" until 1773. The city's rich history and well-preserved colonial architecture make it a popular destination for tourists and history buffs alike.

I was captivated with Antigua from our initial visit. As tourists, my husband and I had visited Antigua with a group of local residents from Puerto Vallarta during Antigua's incredible Semana Santa (Easter Week) celebrations. It was some years later that we remembered its many attractive attributes and we couldn’t resist the allure. It did not take long to pack our bags leaving Mexico behind and move to Antigua for a new living experience.

Above vintage photo of Antigua way, way back when. 

Antigua is a charming colonial city located in the central highlands of Guatemala. This UNESCO World Heritage site is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the country, and for good reason. With its cobblestone streets, brightly colored colonial buildings, and breathtaking views of nearby volcanoes, Antigua is a traveler's paradise. In this blog post, we'll explore some of the top things to see and do in Antigua for travelers.

Antigua was founded in 1543 by Spanish conquistadors and for over 200 years it served as the capital of the Captaincy General of Gautemala which included present-day Guatemala, Honduras, El Salvador, Nicaragua, Costa Rica, and parts of Mexico.

However, the city was destroyed several times by earthquakes, and in 1773 the capital was moved to the newly founded Guatemala City. Since then, Antigua has remained a small town with a rich colonial heritage. One of the main attractions in Antigua is the impressive collection of colonial-era buildings that have been beautifully preserved. 

                                          

One of the most distinctive features of Antigua is its architecture which blends Spanish Baroque, Mudejar, and indigenous styles. Many of the buildings in the historic center date back to the 17th and 18th centuries and are adorned with elaborate facades, ornate balconies, and intricately carved wooden doors. The city's main square, Parque Central, is a hub of activity and a great place to people-watch.

There are plenty of things to see and do in Antigua for travelers. One of the most popular attractions is the Santa Catalina Arch, a bright yellow archway that spans a narrow street in the city center. The arch was built in the 17th century and originally connected the Santa Catalina convent to a school across the street. Today, it's a symbol of Antigua and a popular spot for taking photos.

                                       

Overall Antigua Guatemala is a fascinating destination that offers a glimpse into the past. Its rich history, well-preserved architecture, and charming atmosphere make it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the colonial period of Central America. The locals are friendly and eager to please.  

Playing a Xylophone and selling trinkets in Antigua.

Like father playing a Xylophone for tips.

                                    

All of these attributes excited me with so much to see, do, and learn. I felt as though Antigua was a living museum that I could explore and learn from just by walking out the door and onto its cobble stoned streets. Very simply, Antigua was my kind of place as you can see in the above foto.

Holy Week, also known as Semana Santa, is one of the most important religious celebrations in Antigua Guatemala. The week leading up to Easter Sunday is marked by a series of colorful processions, traditional music, and elaborate street decorations.  Easter Sunday is the climax of the holy week celebration in Antigua with religious services and processions taking place throughout the city. The main event of the day is the Procession of Silence which takes place in the early hours of the morning and features a silent procession of hooded figures bearing large crosses. 

One of the main attractions of Holy Week in Antigua are the processions which take place throughout the city. These processions feature large floats depicting scenes from the Bible as well as costumed participants dressed as Roman soldiers and biblical figures. The processions are accompanied by traditional music, and are attended by thousands of people.

The following photographs were taken during the Semana Santa celebrations in Anitgua.

             

The above image shows the tapetas, or "carpets," made of flowers which line the street during the Holy week processions. 

                           

     

Another highlight of the towns surrounding Lake Atitlan are the local artisans. The area is known for its traditional ceramics, textiles, and woodcarvings and visitors can learn about the local artisans and crafts by visiting their workshops.

The towns surrounding Lake Atitlan also have a rich spiritual heritage. Visitors can visit traditional Mayan Temples and shrines many of which are still in use today. Visitors can also visit the local shamans and learn about traditional Mayan healing practices.

Overall, the towns surrounding Lake Atitlan are a unique destination that offers visitors a chance to experience the traditional culture and way of life of the Maya people. The towns are rich in cultural heritage and offer visitors an opportunity to immerse themselves in the local traditions and customs.   I loved Guatemala and it's wonderful people and culture.  Maybe it's time for a return visit!  

                            

As always, I look forward to hearing from my blog friends. Please do not hesitate to contact me with any comments, suggestions, or questions either by direct email or by leaving a comment on the web page. Until next time, saludos and gracias, Laura

CINCO DE MAYO IN MEXICO REVISITED 2023

The fifth of May (cinco de Mayo) commemorates the victory of the Mexicans over the French army at the Battle of Puebla in 1862. It was primarily a regional holiday celebrated in the Mexican state capital city of Puebla and throughout the state of Puebla, but is also celebrated in other parts of the country and in U.S. cities with a significant Mexican population. It is not, as people might think, Mexico’s Independence Day which is actually September 16.

Setting the Stage

The battle at Puebla in 1862 happened at a violent and chaotic time in Mexico’s history. Mexico had finally gained independence from Spain in 1821 and a number of internal political takeovers and wars, including the Mexican-American War (1846-1848) and the Mexican Civil War of 1858, had mostly wiped out the national economy.

During this period Mexico had accumulated heavy debts to several nations, including Spain, England, and France, who were demanding payment. Similar debt to the U.S. was previously cleared after the Mexican-American War. France was eager to add Mexico to its empire at that time, and when Mexico finally stopped making any loan payments, France used the debt issue to establish its own "leadership" in Mexico by installing Napoleon’s relative, Archduke Maximilian of Austria, as ruler of Mexico.

Mexico Confronts the Invasion

France invaded the Gulf coast of Mexico and began to march toward Mexico City. Although American President Abraham Lincoln was sympathetic to Mexico’s cause for which he is honored in Mexico, the U.S. was involved in its own Civil War at the time and was unable to provide any direct assistance.

Marching toward Mexico City from the coast, the French army encountered strong resistance at the Mexican forts of Loreto and Guadalupe. Lead by Mexican General Ignacio Zaragoza Seguin, a small poorly armed militia of about 4,500 were able to stop and defeat a well out-fitted French army of 6,500 soldiers which halted the invasion of the country.

The victory was a glorious moment for Mexican patriots and is the cause for the historical date’s celebration. Unfortunately, the victory was short lived. Upon hearing the bad news, Napoleon had found an excuse to send more troops overseas to try and invade Mexico again against the wishes of the French populace. Thirty thousand more troops and a full year later the French were eventually able to depose the Mexican army, take over Mexico City, and install Maximilian as the ruler of Mexico.

Maximilian’s rule of Mexico, however, was also short from 1864 to 1866 and ended as the United States of America began to provide more political and military assistance to Mexico to expel the French. Cinco de Mayo honors the bravery and victory of General Zaragoza’s small and outnumbered militia at the Battle of Puebla in 1862.

Today’s Celebration

For the most part, the holiday of Cinco de Mayo is more of a regional holiday in Mexico celebrated most vigorously in the state of Puebla for historical reasons. Though there is recognition of the holiday throughout the whole country it is nothing like that found in Puebla.

Commercial interests in the United States and Mexico have also been very successful in promoting the holiday with products and services focused on Mexican food, beverage, and festive items. Cinco de Mayo has turned into an excuse to enjoy Mexican beer and eat tacos as if anyone needed any more of an excuse!

                       

Wishing all a wonderful Cinco de Mayo from Mexico wherever you may be.

 

Saludos, Laura

THE TRADITIONAL CUISINE AND LIBATIONS OF OAXACA, MEXICO

The culinary center of the state of Oaxaca is also the name of its capital. Oaxaca is located in what is called the pre-hispanic Central Valleys region. While the dominant indigenous group here has been the Zapotecs since the pre-Hispanic period there has been influence from other groups as well such as the Mixtecs.

The indigenous people of Oaxaca have grown corn, beans, squash,  and other crops for thousands of years. Oaxaca is one of Mexico's major gastronomic and historical centers whose cuisine is known internationally.

                                    

Like the rest of Mexican cuisine, Oaxacan food is based on staples such as corn, beans, and chile peppers. But there is a great variety of other ingredients and food preparations due to the influence of the state's varied geography and indigenous cultures. 

                 

The indigenous people of Oaxaca have grown corn, beans, squash and other crops for thousands of years. In rural, especially indigenous villages, households still depend heavily on these foods with few changes in how they are grown, mostly on small plots. 

                          

The cooking here retains much of its indigenous flavor such as dishes prepared without fat (unknown before the arrival of the Spanish) and the use of the valley's abundance of vegetables and herbs especially in its moles. However, as capital of the state, it also has received influence from other parts of Oaxaca. I love this photograph of a "Frida Kahlo" look alike and her fast food enterprise in the local mercado.

Because of its mountain ranges the state has a number of climates and cultures which contributes to making the cuisine the most varied in Mexico. The state has coastal areas with seafood, the Central Valley region grows a wide variety of vegetables, and the area near Veracruz provides a year-round supply of tropical fruits. Oaxaca also has seventeen recognized indigenous groups who contribute their own cooking traditions. The cooking of each region in the state is characterized by local ingredients and to some extent cooking methods.

                                              

                                       Picking out the all-important chilis was my job! 

           

The best-known mezcal-producing area of the state is here between the city of Oaxaca and Mitla along the highway that leads to the Isthmus of Tehuantepec. Like tequila, mezcal is made with the cooked hearts of a species of the maguey or agave plant, but the flavor is very different. It has been described as smoky and it is usually drunk straight. It comes in several varieties and can contain flavors such as almond, coffee, and orange.

Hanging out in the Mezcal plants

The following link will take you to my blog posting on the "Libations" of Mexico 

                                     LIBATIONS OF THE MEXICAN GODS

Oaxaca's dietary staple is corn which has been Mexico's for over 7,000 years. Corn is generally dried and ground to create a dough which is then used for a number of dishes including entomatadas, empanadas, and tamales. Tortillas are called blandas and are a part of nearly every meal. The main flavoring agent is the chili pepper with varieties such amarillos, chilhuacles, chilcostles and costenos, but the most distinctive is the pasilla oaxaquena chile.

          

As for beans, Oaxacan cuisine prefers black beans in many varieties: cooked with aniseed and served in the form of soup, as a topping for street food, or with scrambled eggs in huevos con frijoles.  Another distinctive ingredient is Oaxaca cheese also called quesillo which is used to make empanadas, tortas and tlayudas. As for beans, Oaxacan cuisine prefers black beans in many varieties: cooked with aniseed and served in the form of soup, as a topping for street food, or with scrambled eggs in huevos con frijoles.   

                                                       

Sharing a meal with family at a traditional mercado is always a good meal and I think I see someone I recognize in this image.

                                                               

And visiting Oaxaca markets was even more special when our daughter Ashley joined us. What  special memories, mi hija!  

                                  

                                       Eating with the locals always make me happy!  

Thank you for visiting Mexico and Beyond: Laura's Photo Journey and I look forward to your company as I continue this blog journey.  Until next time,  saludos Laura