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After a long drive that took a diversion because of a huge traffic jam. We arrived at Panajachel (pronounced-Pana hach el) one mile above sea level, but in a valley surrounded by higher mountains and three volcanoes; Atitlan, Toliman and San Pedro.
Ever present low cloud/fog obscured most of the view. Our hotel was in the main street and what a pleasant surprise, a spacious room with two double beds, my bed had the added attraction of springs that made their presence known wherever I moved. An airy foyer with lounges overlooked a pretty swimming pool. Hazel said the water was cold - she only dipped her hand in, and I took her word for it.
Out on the town we stopped in at the Panna Rocks Bar as they had their 'happy hour' and drinks were 2 for one Hazel enjoy two types of mojito! The live music was great and the atmosphere jovial, but dinner beckoned.
The main street was filled with stalls and sellers approached us constantly. I learnt "no gracias" very quickly. Young children, mostly indigenous Mayans are on the streets selling, not many go to school. One young very personable boy kept approaching us as we ate dinner, when we wouldn't buy anything he asked for a piece of bread. I couldn't finish my dinner so we got the restaurant to parcel it up for him. He sat for a while with us and could speak english which he told us he had learnt on the street. i asked him how he was and he replied tired and still hungry today. It is a tough life, one I can't begin to comprehend.
We wound our way home ready to fall in to bed. We have another full day on Lake Atitlan visiting other villages.
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