A Flores Island Escape: Accommodation and Exploration
Dorm Room Diaries: Choosing Accommodation in Flores
Finding a place to stay in Flores was a bit of a last-minute scramble. We arrived later than planned, and our usual preference for private rooms was quickly dashed against the rocks of limited availability. Most options were either eye-wateringly expensive or, frankly, looked pretty grim in the photos.
So, a dorm it was! This was only our second dorm experience on the entire trip – the first being in Buenos Aires – and to be honest, I was pleasantly surprised. The hostel itself had a great location and a restaurant with a killer view over Lake Petén Itzá. Breakfast, while not included, was easy to get and delicious (I went with the avocado toast – highly recommend!).
Looking back, choosing the dorm was a surprisingly positive experience. It gave us a chance to meet other travelers, and the price was definitely right. Plus, let’s be honest, the slight inconvenience was far outweighed by the incredible things we were able to do during our time in Flores.
Exploring Flores: Colorful Streets and Swimming Spots
After a delicious avocado toast breakfast (highly recommended!), we set off to explore Flores. The town itself is a charming explosion of color; bright buildings line the streets, creating a vibrant and picturesque atmosphere. It’s the kind of place where you just want to wander aimlessly, snapping photos of every colorful corner.
But Flores isn't just about pretty streets. The island's location on Lake Petén Itzá means easy access to some fantastic swimming spots. We found several places with clean, refreshing water, easily reachable thanks to a convenient bridge connecting the island to the mainland. One particular spot, with its ropes for swinging into the lake, hammocks, and even Wi-Fi, was the perfect place to escape the midday heat and cool off.
I even braved a jump from a rope swing into the lake, though I did manage to get a rather large mouthful of water in the process! It was a small price to pay for the sheer joy of cooling off in such a beautiful location. Later, we took a boat taxi across the lake, a fun and scenic way to see the area from a different perspective.
We did try some local ice cream – a bit of a mixed experience, to be honest. It wasn't exactly what I'd call 'refreshing' (it had an unexpected spicy kick!), but that just added to the overall adventure of exploring Flores. Every moment, from the colorful houses to the surprising taste of the ice cream, contributed to a truly memorable experience.
Ultimate Relaxation: A Perfect Swimming Spot
Escaping the midday heat was a priority, and we found the perfect solution: a stunning swimming spot easily accessible via a bridge connecting Flores to the mainland. This wasn't just any swimming hole; it was a little slice of paradise.
Rope swings plunged into the refreshingly cool water. Hammocks swayed gently in the breeze, inviting relaxation. Tables offered spots to rest, while Wi-Fi and even toilets added unexpected convenience. It was the ideal place to cool off, socialize, and recharge.
I even took the plunge from a rope swing, despite ending up with a mouthful of lake water! It was a small price to pay for the pure joy of the experience. This spot truly exemplified Flores's charm – a blend of natural beauty and unexpected comforts.