DIVERSION EXCURSION: CHAMPOTON, CAMPECHE, MEXICO

Because I am inflicted with wanderlust, I couldn’t resist when a friend asked me if I wanted to go with him to check on his house in Champoton. There was no way I was going to say “no”! He has actually asked me several times to go with him, but the timing was never just right. I was either already on my way elsewhere, or his wife and two small children were also going! This time, I was available, and the wife and kids weren’t going!

Champoton is about a 3 hour ride from Merida, given there isn’t much traffic or any weather to contend with. We piled in his VW Caribe convertible, and off we went with the top down. We left Merida at 9:30 and had wonderful, sunny (and hot) weather all the way. Clear skies let the sun shine through and literally burn my face to a bright red! Ouch! It all happened before I realized it.

We only spent two days and one night there, but it was enjoyable. The vast majority of the time was devoted to taking care of the house, finding a plumber/electrician to fix the pump so we could get some water in the house to shower with, pay his hired help, make arrangements with a local nanny to return to Merida with us to help take care of his children, and search out the best seafood in the area!

Champoton has a lively history dating back to the Mayas and pirates, the revolution, the whole nine yards. There just isn’t too much to do or see in this wonderful fishing village with less than 30,000 people except to eat seafood cocktails, enjoy a cold beer (or two) and just watch time slip away. Admittedly, these are a few of my favorite things!

While there is absolutely beautiful, clear, and inviting water along the entire stretch of shore line in Champoton, there is no beach! I didn’t see anyone swimming. The reason? There is no sand – only rocks and boulders. Plenty of boating/fishing going on, but no indication of any water sports.

The malecon (boardwalk) is alive and bustling morning, noon and night and is the center or hub of activity. Lined with numerous restaurants, one can also find lots of street vendors set up along the malecon selling some of the freshest and best seafood in Mexico. This is what this great little place is really known for. While there, I enjoyed shrimp cocktails, mixed cocktails of shrimp and oysters, and on my way out, a small cocktail of just oysters. All fresh, all incredibly delicious, and very inexpensive. The medium cocktails cost the equivalent of approximately $4.00US. Indulge yourself!

I can highly recommend this quaint little fishing village for a great weekend get-a-way and some mighty fine eating! I'm sure that these guys will agree!