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Another big ride...
The Volcano Pacaya , just south of Antigua, from about 70 kilos (42miles) away, on the Pacific http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...zeGuate111.jpg
Disrepair in the harbor http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...zeGuate107.jpg a room for q100 ($13us) and... http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...zeGuate126.jpg a sandy trail to the water. http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...zeGuate121.jpg |
Multi-tasking....
This charming young woman was nursing her baby as she aggressively sold me a couple of t-shirts. Has four kids and one suspects another four on the way. Refused a picture until I agreed to pay q10 ($1.30). Still did not like it... http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...zeGuate147.jpg
This woman also refused me a picture until her friend huranged the price up over $2.00. She did not like it much either. http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...zeGuate159.jpg This woman,from Japan, has made eight trips to China to see friends, rode the train across Russia with a couple of friends, toured the USA ...was traveling alone... http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...zeGuate153.jpg |
Guatemala City with Alex
http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...zeGuate183.jpg
Downtown... Famous landmark... http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...zeGuate175.jpg Never seen quite this before http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...zeGuate191.jpg Alex found a friend....Turns out their march was about aids awareness. http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...zeGuate212.jpg These two did not want their picture taken either, until I told them, in spanish, how pretty they were.http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...zeGuate192.jpg |
Antigua sport bikes in spanish
This guy cooked to order for a dozen hungry bikers standing in line and did an great job. Pricey but great.http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...zeGuate233.jpg
On the south side of Antigua at Joe's http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...zeGuate234.jpg The guy on the right had breakfast with me and found me interesting until I said nice things about Mexico.... http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...zeGuate232.jpg A vintage 'deek' is part of the permanant decor http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...zeGuate226.jpg Attire was mostly roadrace/sport bike leather but for this guy that went geto sheek http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...zeGuate229.jpg |
Great report once again.
Are you sure those"girls" are girls?Still its all interesting to me.:D
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Around town...
This father and two sons came cruising by the park in the center of town riding newish, high tech trails bikes. Nice outing, no issues. http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...zeGuate169.jpg
Occasionally, among the peasant rides, you can spot the ohh, so charming goose .... http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...zeGuate333.jpg ...and the delightful duck. http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...zeGuate335.jpg During the war, everyone on a two wheeler was required to have their registration numbers on their helmet or on a vest, to better id them. Assassins would ride passenger and apparently, they were hard to catch on their little 125's. Kinda gives the whole 'bad boys on bikes' a different ring .... http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...zeGuate288.jpg |
Interesting bit of history.
Great photo's as always.:D
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The venders got set up for the big....
http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...zeGuate354.jpg Burn the Devil event... http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...zeGuate379.jpg that had to be done before the Virgin appeared the next day. http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...zeGuate364.jpg Seems that this is a pagan 'city cleansing' that was adopted by the Catholic church and serves most everybody very well. http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...zeGuate371.jpg |
The Devil gets burnt, apparently.
Massive event...
http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...zeGuate390.jpg Selling battery powered horns... http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...zeGuate393.jpg I have no idea. They are at the park, center of town and in front of the main church.http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...zeGuate406.jpg |
Some locals
Several woman at the public laundry, a few blocks from the central city park
http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...zeGuate343.jpg Water is scooped up from the main reservoir and clothes are scrubbed in the individual sinks. The water drains back to the main supply. Built in 1650(?) http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...zeGuate337.jpg rare... http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...zeGuate401.jpg not so much http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...zeGuate400.jpg |
Sunday at, and on the way to, the races...
Some sport bike guys from Guatemala City that I latched on to the tail end of while lost and looking for the...
http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...zeGuate416.jpg MX races and only 20 miles away!!! http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...zeGuate448.jpg CATours was well repesented with Chris and Frenchie doing hot laps on their duel sports that they rode there. Frenchie gets the late braking and broken spokes award. This is not a foto of either. http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...zeGuate443.jpg There was a lot of plastic at stake.... http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...zeGuate446.jpg |
a couple of guys
John D and has 250 kawa. He has been in these parts before and has some understanding of area. Provided excellent sounding board, feed back. Travels even cheaper than me and at times, can be groucher. Bike is fully loaded and ready to go. http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...zeGuate396.jpg
I bought lunch and signed the gas tank. Thanks for your ear. http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...zeGuate479.jpg Frenchie, one of the tour guides at CATours, rides with big hearted effort. I am told he is a fisherman. http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...zeGuate338.jpg |
All of us here at CATours, sending RatBikeMike off in style:
https://fbcdn-sphotos-d-a.akamaihd.n...00783210_n.jpg |
Proud parents...
There are a lot of civic events that mean a lot to the people. On this day, locals dress their kids up in traditional attire and fuss over them a lot.
http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...htsize2017.jpg Bashful cutie in classic Guatemalan bright colors http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...htsize2018.jpg Classic enthusiastic mom (with pricey camera) http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...htsize2013.jpg |
Into Guatemala City
Found another combatant in the 125 sales contests. I saw a number of Chinese bikes with a very similar side cover, sight glass etc.
http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...htsize2039.jpg The 'freeway' into the city. I found maximum corner speeds to be about 50-60 mph... http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...htsize2032.jpg Part of the big parts hunt adventure. http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...htsize2040.jpg At the forth stop in my search for a 6mm Heli-coil the parts guy handed me this spring as he explained that his spring did not have the square edge.... http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...htsize2044.jpg |
What people buy, sometimes
A 200cc cop bike made in China or is it Korea?
http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...htsize2132.jpg A latte at MickeyD's, Antigua, Guatemala http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...htsize2055.jpg On the showroom floor. Cheaper than any car and it's 'classy'. I want one for about 15 minutes.... just to see what it is.... Honda has one in the same market. Their's can be had as a 6 speed... http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...htsize2173.jpg |
Sunday in the park.
I have no idea, other than it is another pagan thing, that is now a part of the Church. The devils all have blond hair.
http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...htsize2098.jpg Not many people watching but these guys took their performance seriously. http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...htsize2095.jpg I got noticed and later got tagged for a donation. http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...htsize2111.jpg |
Also in the park...
These models are taller than most all Guatemalans. Not sure about the scarfs...
http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...htsize2130.jpg Composed... http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...htsize2069.jpg and above it all... http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...htsize2072.jpg untill hi-heels meet the cobble stones. They become human again. http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...htsize2075.jpg |
Into the city again...
Had a great ride with these BMW guys, up the freeway and around the lake and...
http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...htsize2157.jpg I was left at the mall http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...htsize2158.jpg where moms fling there kids in the air... http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...htsize2165.jpg and this guy led me here when I asked for 'campnaro' bed. (foam mat) http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...htsize2161.jpg |
A Sunday morning crash.
Alex, my navigator, translator, friend got it wrong over a speed bump and...
http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...zeGuate291.jpg got a plate and 13 screws to hold it in place. http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...zeGuate290.jpg Somebody gave all these kids a noise makers and then blocked the exits with them... http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...htsize2200.jpg |
Well . . . . . Merry Christmas, Mike!
Keep those pictures coming, enjoy them all. |
To Copan for the end of an era...
Leaving Antigua, I made a wrong turn in Guatemala city and stopped for an excellent and cheapish meal. Got good, simple directions and was on my way...
http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...onduras009.jpg I had a brief, but excellent ride... http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...onduras056.jpg ...rode right passed the trucks and it all went very well at the border and onward to Copan. http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...onduras039.jpg Doing a hotel search, I found free camping with these, nice enough, guys, stoned and throwing firecrackers. I found a room for $30us(three night min) so.... I cruised down the road anbout 15 miles and got a room for $15us http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...onduras057.jpg |
Copan Ruinas (city)
He's not my friend , he's my husler. This guy lead me to a hotel and I bought him a nice lunch. He tried for more work ...
http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...panplus011.jpg Can you see the thin coating of wet clay? It is easier to drop your bike in Copan than anywhere I've ever been. Really. Parking , tired , stones missing. etc. I grunted loudly but did not drop my tall top heavy, overloaded bike. A few people commented on my brute strength. http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...panplus034.jpg I have no idea... wow http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...panplus180.jpg Also in the park... http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...panplus184.jpg |
The Ruinas
I thought I had seen plenty of old rocks, thank you, but when I got here, the place worked some sort of magic on me. It was and I became, serene and calm. And the scale, it has large pieces and plenty of them. Note person in background.
http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...panplus139.jpg Do be careful about your footing... http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...panplus090.jpg From atop one to see the other. http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...panplus118.jpg A walkway... http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...panplus140.jpg |
Holidays Lost
I have been remiss.(and lost in Honduras with out wifi). Happy Holidays to everyone! Enjoy the new year! ratbikemike
http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...panplus175.jpg |
Happy new year to you too,love the parrot photo!:D
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Sugar's Place in Copan
Thanks Noel900r and John. ( my e-mail to xbacksliders bounced...)
Sugar (who is open and engaging, once he speaks) http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...panplus030.jpg His charming wife and daughter http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...panplus215.jpg and his address. http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...panplus031.jpg This is the best burrito in Honduras. Period. vhttp://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...panplus035.jpg |
On the road in Honduras
This guy , in Honduras, worked to find out where I was from, going to, etc. We ordered for me by spanglish/guessology. Wanted me to see his country etc. and was much enthused about the adventure of it all.
chttp://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...panplus242.jpg $40us or $2us I think the headache is about the same.. http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...panplus247.jpg Later that afternoon, I stopped at this foreboding place and went to the window with steel grading to get a soda and cookies... http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...panplus226.jpg I found this charming woman that was delighted to have her radiance captured http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...panplus225.jpg |
A turn of events on the road
Serious pot holes earlier but I got to savor this stuff in the afternoon at a 3/4 pace.
http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...panplus251.jpg Every time I stopped for a picture these guys would pass and wave, the big guy was running his Chinese 125 just about wide open all the way. It seemed to be OK. They turned off after about 5 passes back and forth.. He had no eye protection. http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...panplus258.jpg] and I came to this.... It was late in the day and I had no idea how far, how good or bad, street tire with full pressure ... about out of money etc.. http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...panplus274.jpg so I let good judgement prevail and back tracked 20 miles and rented a room from this guy in the dark. Glad to get it. Worst meal of the trip. xmas eve. http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...panplus275.jpg |
They set off large fire works most of the night and in the morning, I half expected to find craters in the street. This is a few of the roof of my room.
http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...panplus293.jpg Art on main street. Note the pavement. http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...panplus296.jpg Moving some livestock in the morning. http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...panplus301.jpg Out of town and headed back toward the end of the pavement. http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...panplus308.jpg |
Over the top of the mountain.
It was 4k to this Catholic Church with kids waiting outside. Dirt road in and dirt road out , few signs.
http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...panplus315.jpg This guy, on a sputtering Chinese 125, helped me find my way to La Esperanza. Turned out to be only 20k of reasonable dirt road. http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...panplus317.jpg These guys were pleased to help me find an atm. So now I've got food, money, a sign pointing to the next town and pavement. woohoo. http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...panplus325.jpg Standard equipment. Fold up stock. http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...panplus326.jpg |
Good thing you found an ATM.
Why was that meal the worst meal of the trip? KLR is doing fine? How have you perfected/narrowed down your "must carry" emergency tools/supplies? Why? |
Across Honduras
Just beautiful and mostly good pavement as well.
http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...panplus331.jpg I'm not picky about pavement. This is not at all a large or unusual pot hole. Hard to tell just what size it is at 60mph+ http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...panplus332.jpg This guy regardless of scowl could not have been more helpful in helping me find a way out of the capitol. Guy in the back was pleased. http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...panplus365.jpg It was a fun ride, full of excitements.... The bus going down hill had to stop and let the white truck and car behind get back on their side of the road. Notice the road caving away on the side. Very heavy trucks went within 3 feet of this landslide. http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...panplus385.jpg |
Honduras (posted from Costa Rica)
John, that was the worst tamale mystery slime thing that I have ever had the misfortune to try to chew. But it was cheap and there was no other food to be had. The KLR needed another heli-coil (6mm valve cover piece)-- not my fault!--and had an oil leak--maybe-- I waited until I had the heli-coil kit ($52us) to check the valves. I did a $22 cab ride to the dealer that had a 230 but not a 235 shim. Fine. A little loose on a trip like this is OK. A little tight is not. I put some fancy goo (Kawabond) on the gasket and put it back together. Cams out, water and oil ($35us) drained, starter and exhaust off because the 12 point 10mm wrench would not grip on the cam chain tensioner. Bulky 10mm 6 point socket worked fine. All this in the hallway at the hotel with the manager at times holding the light for me...... wow. These guys helped with directions.... yeah.
http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...panplus373.jpg Large, new looking trucks bring trash and they burn it on the side of the road. http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...panplus375.jpg |
The mix in Honduras
In Honduras, I meet with half a dozen unpleasant incidents. Got no fotos of such. I asked how much for this apple and was told '75 cents' by an angry young woman. Two stalls down I bought two bananas for 10 cents. Going into Burger King, a boy in his late teens spoke in spanish. I said 'not now', I came back out and the third time he spoke, each time more harsh and demanding, 'Give me money'. I confronted him in the most professorial manner. Direct and certain. No. He stood and glared at me as I finished putting the computer in the saddle bag. I suspect we both will remember the incident for a while. On still another occasion, I was sitting in a plastic chair,on the street, at a street food grill (more awful food) about 9pm and a local and his friend crossed the street and pointed two fingers, with thumb up at me and rattled of some angry stuff in spanish. Of the six people there he was alone in his rant. Some one spoke back and he went away. I thought I could take him in a street scuffle but was much relived to see him go. I finished all but the meat of my meal and realized that I was setting alone. I found the owner , paid for my meal and walked a couple of blocks to the hotel. A week later, I thought maybe those guys were out of sight in case that guy comes back with a gun. Maybe.
This little guy came up this hill with no apparent effort, Those are not cardboard shacks but rather concrete and steel buildings. http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...ostrica012.jpg At the Las Vagas restaurant this woman produced a delightful meal. http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...ostrica045.jpg I stopped for a shot of the flowers and got a shot of this giggling crew..... http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...ostrica053.jpg |
The worst roads and the worst litter is in Honduras
I thought 'How really pretty... how lucky I am ... ' etc Just blissing along
http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...ostrica014.jpg and the road did this ..... http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...ostrica015.jpg and then this.... It goes down to one dirty lane of oncoming traffic. Note the skid marks. http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...ostrica016.jpg Looking back. I was supposed to leave the pavement, to the left in the picture. I only ran a few feet wide. http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...ostrica018.jpg |
Honduras/ Nicaragua border crossing
Maybe it was five helpers that all tried to talk over each other and demand to be employed by me. I pulled out the camera and asked 'Foto?'. It disarmed and dismantled the crowd of hucksters. Really pushy bastards.
http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...ostrica055.jpg I don't remember who did what but these are the officials at the border. One very much objected to having his foto taken. It was deleted. http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...ostrica057.jpg Got me a money changer at a fair enough rate. I try to have little cash as I cross. http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...ostrica060.jpg Was patient with me as I stumbled through the process. http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...ostrica063.jpg |
Into Nicaragua
It took three tries to get it right......
http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...ostrica065.jpg Free maps http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...ostrica066.jpg This is the guy that told me to go back several times. They all did a good job. http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...ostrica067.jpg Ride the bus..... and then carry two bags.... and eat at the bus stop...when they stop....on the bus route? No back roads? etc etc. No envy on my part. http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...ostrica061.jpg |
Less litter and better roads.
A welcome sight.
http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...ostrica095.jpg Next morning... a loud clanking in the front. The guy on the left was glad to let me take over his shop and replace the front brakes as I looked for a problem. Found nothing. No charge. I cave him a $4us tip. Thanks. http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...ostrica110.jpg Later, after more clanking I found this bolt loose and banging a bracket. I like simple and cheap repairs. http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...ostrica114.jpg In Managua, Nicaragua. A study in contrasts. That is a pick-ax in his right hand. http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...ostrica126.jpg |
Quote:
I travel by bike too, but there are two sides to that coin. |
Mike most interesting as always
Its great to see the other side of countries.:D
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San Jaun del Sur
Thanks Noel900r and AndyT. Lotsa good ways to travel.. But, personally, I like to ride, even when I've got nowhere to go. One young woman, Erica, got on my bike even tho she had the bus ticket paid for and we went to her next stop. On the way, she was delighted as we wandered around blind alleys and 'lost' on back streets. It only took 10 minutes but, she never gets to do that....and we roared past a lota buses,too.(Delightful CA-1 north of Guatemala City) I heard these guys say that I didn't speak enough spanish, so they let me go. I had done nothing. Later I was going really quite quickly and was pulled over. I kept smiling and not giving him money. I did give him a book to help him translate spanish to english. No fotos that time.
http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...ostrica130.jpg Was behind a big truck and had to stop quickly for this guy. wow. http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...ostrica138.jpg I made it to Cafe Revolation. $2us camping and pricey food. great marketing. Found a book on the evils of capitalism on the bar and was amused. I also read the book. http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...ostrica178.jpg Less than 20 miles from Costa Rica. Did New Years here.... http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...ostrica228.jpg |
With the Surfers....
A little ways up the beach....
http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...ostrica198.jpg Another sunset with the surfers.. http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...ostrica264.jpg New years eve on the beach http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...ostrica256.jpg Just a couple of us guys looking for the bigger, better, cooler, hipper party. http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...ostrica250.jpg |
Into Costa Rica
Leaving Cafe Revolution (great surfing, great food, and live hiphop) going south toward San Jaun del Sur, is found this dump where locals did for treasures.
http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...ostrica268.jpg Did I mention that this is a windy place? http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...ostrica277.jpg Crossing into Costa Rica took time but it went fine. http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...ostrica280.jpg In Liberia, I found the first modern styled Catholic church. It had a bunch of skate borders and a radio tower taller than the steeple. http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...ostrica302.jpg |
San Jose, Costa Rica (2 1/2 million people)
Parking at the first hotel. Downtown.
http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...ricaone031.jpg Hawking their products. Kinda a competitive loud , nasal barking... http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...o/CRtwo030.jpg Jimmy at the Kawasaki shop was really great. Knew where to get this 6mm heli-coil ($52us) and then I did a valve check and a bunch of other related work. http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...o/CRtwo061.jpg Paul, who replaced my carton of milk that someone stole from the fridge, also was all the help he could be in the hallway of his, the second, hotel. He could not do more or better. Thanks Paul. http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...o/CRtwo100.jpg |
Hey Mike, it took me awile but I finally read thru all of your posts, beginning to end. It looks to me like you are having one Hell of an adventure. Great pics, history and stories. Be safe and I will keep watching your posts. Your cuz, John W.
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Hey - :thumbup1:
Update? |
Some Costa Rica Bikes
I don't know what the locals call this things, but I call them gridlock bikes. They can be seen splitting lanes better than anything else in really thick traffic. Tis a sight to behold following briefly and watching. The KLR650 is so big and clumsy so I gotta let them go!
http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...ricaone020.jpg They are often very tidy and well done. They add wide 17" wheels and sport tires so I am sure they feel planted. But I don't ever see one leaned over much... But often wide open and noisey with plenty of 'tude. http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...o/CRtwo095.jpg This is a 'Honda Cargo' The box is not standard but the rack and the rest of the bike is and it is marketed for just this work. Big corporate revelries in the 125cc market Honda, Suzuki, some Yamaha and a lot of Chinese clones from 125 to 200cc. Somehow a 250 is a major step up. http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...o/CRtwo004.jpg |
Cultural differances
Latins in good weather have different manikins than protestants in harsher climes.
http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...o/CRtwo099.jpg I don't think a manikin of this nature is found in a Birmingham mall http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...-4/CR-4023.jpg Maybe one like this....But the attitude about such things is markedly different http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...-4/CR-4082.jpg I have very rarely heard a child crying or angry and loud. It is considered child abuse to raise your voice to a child. Prostitution is legal and promoted but if she is 17 rather than 18 you can get 30 or maybe 40 years for that. I have lunch here often. http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...-4/CR-4077.jpg |
:funmeteryes:
Great mannequins. |
A couple of complaints....
Once upon a time there was a city that had no names for it's streets. Honest!! San Jose, Costa Rica did not a name for any street in 2011. Consultants advised that tourists find this troublesome, so they devised a good system of all streets go north and south and all aves go east and west Odd numbers on the north and east. This system can be adapted to fairly quickly. Before this advancement, addresses were given as the name of some landmark place and so many meters north or south etc. San Jose has a population of about two and a half million. None of the locals can read a map like most people can not read an electrical blueprint. Yes the police and fire dept used the old system, and may still. Most streets are one way. Here there are only two cross walks total, so pedestrians do not hamper drivers turning right. They have adapted well to that.
http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...-4/CR-4067.jpg Clear plastic bags of coins in the doorway of the bank..... http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...-3/CR-3100.jpg Tropical Latin plumbing does not include a separate pipe and such for hot water. Just one water. This thing it supposed to heat the water as it comes out the pipe. This devise is everywhere but the upscale hotels. It sporadically brings the water to lukewarm and goes to cold for no apparent reason. It is evil. Cannot be used without spontaneous bursts of profanity http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...a/IMG_3612.jpg |
enjoying the report
I greatly enjoy your report. Keep it coming and keep snapping the pics.
So, did you pick up one the the leftover bags of coins? They were just extras? :innocent: Mac |
Mike the shower thing got me laughing
I know its not fun at the time (words like for f##ks sake come to mind)But funny from a distance,great report as always.
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That's hilarious - an electric water heater in a showerhead?!?!?!? that doesn't work, so you grab it to get it to work?!?!?!?!
Even funnier, is thinking of you screaming and cussing . . . . .:rofl: |
Looks like a great trip! I flipped through a few pages and will go back and read some more.
Where are you heading from San Jose? I did the same ride as yours about 8 years ago...on a bicycle! Wish I was on your adventure instead of procrastinating in my office at work. Via con dios! |
Terry Two Wheel
Went by to see him and told him you were having a blast. Keep the photo's coming. I have my Nazi croch rocket in the warehouse doing winter maintances. Front/Rear brakes, new back tire, new grips and accellarator cables to name a few things. Take care.
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The way of San Jose
Here for further serendipitous enlightenment. A selection of evil devices at the local hardware store.
http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...-4/CR-4092.jpg Costa Rica is not cheap. 1000 equals $2us. The fast food places are busy http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...4/CR-4-014.jpg At the market where the locals eat..... this was about $4us Another place about $3us http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...-3/CR-3010.jpg Traffic is a Latin New York kinda thing. I could not (nor can anybody else) walk the streets without people constantly bumping into me. No offence was meant by this. No one stepped to the right but rather wandered, wavered and decided at the last moment. The system I developed was to walk as if I were in a real hurry and people did not mind such at all. A sunday stroll results in being pushed aside. Stop to be courteous and be pushed aside. Lots of buses on narrow streets and going quite quickly. Caution is necessary. Watching right hand turns near the farmers market where people stand in the street to sell their stuff is an entertaining contest of wills. Yes, that is a Harley. http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...-3/CR-3026.jpg |
And they never hook up the freakin' ground wire. Every time I use one of these things I look at that green wire dangling. Only been shocked once, though.
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life in da big city
Surprising who you meet. This guys father,as an infant, was hidden in a shoe box so the Nazis could not find him. At that time, my father observed that he would likely die before getting home and resolved to see how many men he could kill first.
http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...4/CR-4-017.jpg The Blind Pig Blues Band did such a good job on Hoochie Coochie Man that I almost got a tattoo on my left arm, so I could hang it out the window while driving, ....in a gaudy, bright multi colored longhand script.... HOOCHIE COOCHIE MAN. Not sure why I didn't. http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...-4/CR-4012.jpg Bill's girl friend was singing, so a bunch of us showed up to support her/him. Tongue in cheek humor is..... "she has such a nice smile". Bill payed for the dental work. Bill does not like 'face recognition technology' on the net..... http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...-4/CR-4060.jpg Sometimes it is big work for me to not complain long and bitter about struggles walking across town..... This guy had a better attitude. http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...4/CR-4-055.jpg |
Last few days in San Jose CR
I spoke to Bill, who gives every impression that he would be comfortable negotiating with Mafia crime bosses, and it was decided that the World SuperBike race in Australia was not on tv in Costra Rica. They have every channel from every provider. I paid $4.20 for a small Red Bell and did not bat a eye.($2.20 almost every where else on earth) Hotel, restaurant, bar and bordello, they insist every costumer is is provided with all the warmth, charm and since of well being that money can buy.
http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...esnorth023.jpg I found myself it a ...... shoestring store. http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...esnorth024.jpg I paid her about $1.50 to pose for this picture. http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...esnorth014.jpg He was so dismayed that I would not see his homeland , Peru, that he presented me with a gift, a necklace... http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...esnorth026.jpg |
Any new pix on return trip?
Still trying to master navigation on this site. Thanks for reply yesterday. Bob:funmeteryes:
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That sun is sooo... good .....kinda bright tho.... The house cat at the Anchor Club
http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...esnorth006.jpg Walking by , I couldn't help but notice the sex toys marketed along with camping gear and guns.... http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...-4/CR-4087.jpg I was to meet friends here at the "world famous Del Ray" and go elsewhere.(goggle it) As I sat at the bar, a woman, bubbling over with out going charm, sat next to me and said in good english spiced with spanish, "Welcome to my country!!" and planted a big wet kiss on my cheek. I, embarrassed, said that I really am expected to meet friends any minute. Soooo, I really did go to a whore house and get a kiss!! Never mind that it was part of a hustle and she was expecting a $100 quick turn around. Never mind that part. http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...-3/CR-3049.jpg |
Up and going north....
Good bye to the folks at the really cheap hotel. (Skid row /red light area) This, a few moments after trying to arrange for a little more cleavage....
http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...esnorth041.jpg This guy, a pushy helper, thought I would obey his bull horn. And he didn't have a gun!! Got into Nicaragua without incident. http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...esnorth042.jpg The roads in this part of Nicaragua are great and I pressed on under that full moon low on the horizon. Photo by a 13 year old boy that was hanging out at a police check point. Really great ride.... http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...esnorth045.jpg Somehow found the Breaded Monkey Hostel in Granada. Was great. http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...esnorth049.jpg |
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Hi Mike.
I think we have a few of the same friends from your pictures of "The house cat at the Anchor Club" and Bill with his girlfriend in San Jose. I lived in Costa Rica for a few years and only visit now. I haven't seen them for a few months but they appear to be doing well. As a new HUBB member I can't send a PM yet but I would like to talk to you about Bill and other CA countries. I've been one of his "friends" for 22 years. Be safe. Phil |
Leaving Granda and across Houndras
Jeremie,
Am I right that you are stuck in an office in Thailand? Must be tough!! That may well be my next effort at travel. Cygan, Had a great time at the boys club there. PM me anytime and I will see if I can sort out how to answer. I had breakfast at this restaurant.... http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...esnorth054.jpg ....with this woman and her daughter http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...esnorth053.jpg The stool and floor are one piece heavy plastic and the rest looks like a kit from the local hardware store. A concrete base, wow. A modern methods out house....... and it is level!! Always ....always...... check for paper. http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...esnorth061.jpg A confusion of humor to do with a little ass... talking to an ass etc etc http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...esnorth062.jpg |
Mike always enjoy your posts!
I love the way your personality shines through in the way you present your posts.It's great the way you show the real sites/people .Noel:D
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Traveling into Hondruas.
Noel.
Thanks for following along. This guy sits at the policia check point and benefits from the generosity of travelers, He took this picture..... http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...esnorth066.jpg .....of the policia that arrested me (YES!!) for not having my papers in order. The bike papers were in a safe place, with the camera, not with the rest of paperwork. He is quite proud of being an honest cop. I have been in a busy, traveling mode and several things don't get the attention needed. http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...esnorth068.jpg In Hounduras now. This woman with the very dark, bruised eyes and the machete said harsh things to me in spanish, so I moved and stood behind ...... http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...esnorth069.jpg .....these guys. Much to the amusement of all. After the atm business was done, the cop on the left gestured that he wanted those tires on the back of the bike. I said in a clear and direct voice, " You know enghish,.... BULLSHIT? It was a rare and precious moment for me. http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...esnorth070.jpg |
El Salvador and the '24hr visa'
At customs (aduana), this is the guy that told me where to sit. I told them that I was headed home and just passing through, so they gave me a 24 hr visa. Being late without a police report would subject me to a heavy fine. It is about 250 miles across the country.
http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...esnorth082.jpg The roads were good for travel and I found my way quite well, despite a very crude map and poor road markings. A startling sunset approaching San Salvador. http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...esnorth090.jpg I stopped to check directions in the night and thanks these two profusely and kissed their hands. They became giggling, blushing girls. http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...esnorth093.jpg I arrived after 5 1/2 hours, at 9:30pm and got all the paperwork done but for entry into Guatamala for the bike. The 'bank was closed so they could not accept any money. I was booked out of San Salvador and could not go to Guatemala with the bike. So, they let me camp here. The guards treated me well. http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...esnorth101.jpg |
A light crash....
At the El Salvador/Guatemala border campsite. That is a regular 8 oz. cup. It can jump.
http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...esnorth098.jpg FINE!!.... I camped in the Immigration building....... By 8am they figured out that I had been out of Guatemala for only 9 weeks and sooooo.... no entry for the bike!! Not until 3-24-13!! ( must be out 3 months! ) The clerk said to me (a bleeding heart liberal), " It's not my problem!" The El Salvador guys offered me a 60 day visa, but if I went to Nicaragua I could not return for ANOTHER 2 months!! I was dealing with the supervisor thru an interrupter that was in NY recently, certainly not legally. I got another 24 hour visa with a fine of $1,300 (yes!) if I were late without a police report. But I could exit the country and return at will. I took off south, still in full cannonball mode plus some 'tude. Did it once 5 1/2 , so 24 can be done again. I was doing fine until I got San Salvador and saw a couple on a BMW that had a Costa Rica plate. I caught them in traffic and was going to use him as a guide through the city. After that it would be simple. Passing while meeting on coming traffic and passing on the right with a concrete ditch about a foot deep on the right etc etc. I tried the right and then the left and while on the right side the pavement dropped 2 or 3 inches with a square lip to return to the higher section. I should have made my move direct and with force,(lota traffic) but I tried to ease up the step. Not the right way to do that. I crashed at 20 to 30 mph. Not much damage, a puled muscle in my left leg, a bruised left tricep and a bent turn signal. AND the Costa Rica guy was gone. Everybody was nice at the crash site, somebody picked up the bike, a cop helped me to my feet a little before I was ready. It was only at certain angles that my pulled muscle hurt. so I was uncertain as to what my condition really was for several minutes. Pretty soon I was rolling bruised up and with a different 'tude. And quickly lost in a large city. Several wrong turns and I stopped to ask directions in spanglish. At the gas station, an english speaking beauty was found and after several minutes of confusion and after she read my paperwork to do with the fine, it was decided that her husband would get in his car and lead me to CA1 which was marked with a sign that read 'Poppas' which is the next city on that route. I made good progress until a got within about 25 ? miles of Honduras. I stopped at a house with several guys standing around in the yard. One spoke English and I learned that I was in fact on the right road. They were pleased to have me stop and all was in good jocular humor. A plastic cup of water was provided. A couple of minutes later a romantically inclined ' somewhat' crazy woman appeared. And then her friend arrived. There was quick talk of marriage. I made it to the border on time. It was just about 26 hours round trip on a 48 hour deadline. All the papers are in order ... This is inside Honduras looking back....Whew!! Full riding mode , too busy for many fotos http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...esnorth109.jpg |
Leaving Honduras
This little guy and half a dozen others like him shoveled dirt from the side of the road and filled the sometimes massive potholes. He then stood by the side of the road and expected me to give him money. There was one every 1/4 mile...... 6 of them....
http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...esnorth122.jpg This is why his work was needed. These things are hard to see at speeds of 45 to 60 mph. This hole has rounded edges. The smaller holes still have sharp square edges. With dirt scattered everywhere, I could not tell where the holes were are anymore. http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...esnorth123.jpg The Honduras immigration official waved her arm in a circle and told me to go to customs. She meant for me to go straight across the way to customs. It is a latin thing. I wound up here. http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...esnorth126.jpg Leaving the harshness and poverty of Honduras for Nicaragua, I found all this massive farm equipment fully loaded and bulging slightly, headed to market. And the roads were good as well. http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...esnorth134.jpg |
Hanging out in Leon, Nicaragua
Some sort of hole in the electromagnetic force field that causes a vortex of lazy at precisely this spot. Not sure why.
http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...onNic002-1.jpg $2 or $3us, plus a coke , gets a plate full. Siting on plastic chairs, at a plastic table in the parking lot. The fat ones always like me.... a lot. http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...onNic050-1.jpg European youth at the pool that is about 100 feet from the vortex mentioned earlier. http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...onNic048-1.jpg Day of the woman in Nicaragua. Yeah...... Latin Feminism. http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...onNic018-1.jpg |
Chinching up my dohickey...
At the 'Doctors' m/c shop (named after Valintino Rossi) I took both sides off the bike, and got down to the counter balancer tensioner adjustment. Only then did I loosen the lock nut. Nothing!! I reached down and pushed the adjuster (has a curved slot) with my thumb and it moved over a quarter of an inch!! I then sanded the steel plates in the clutch on the concrete, a coarse grit, so that it will grip better when I put that heavy wt oil in because the motor is using so much. I then put it all back together. It has no more rumbling, grumbling noise down below and I am not afraid that that 'thecrankisfallingoutofthisthingforchristsake!!! I can now cross Honduras 'more comfortably'. etc
http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...onNic024-1.jpg Oscar, out for a ride with his charming family. He owns the 'Doctors' and charged me only for the oil that I used. One of his guys made a gasket for me. wow, thank you, Oscar. http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...onNic056-1.jpg With a bent skid plate, always put the hard to reach bolt in first. It is a rule. It is in a book.http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...onNic061-1.jpg It is a cheery man that rides this thing. Honest. http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...onNic013-1.jpg |
Off to da beach !!
About 15 miles to the beach and I found these hammocks. Hot, with a really nice breeze. Cost me $2us the first night and he then raised the rent to $4us. I left and found.....
http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...hebeach031.jpg ...lunch at this restaurant and camping was free. The owner helped me tie down the tent and get settled in. http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...hebeach049.jpg This woman turned this into..... http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...hebeach069.jpg ....this for about $3us. That is fried banana on the left. Capt D's will never be the same for me. http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...hebeach071.jpg |
Camping with sea food.
I never knew anybodies name, nor how they were related in the family pyramid at the 'camping/fish restaurant by the sea'. This is the hand of one of the older guys. Three months since he crashed his motorcycle. Yes, it is swollen and that is stainless steel wire.
http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...hebeach096.jpg They have a portable electric water pump with detachable plastic pipe that brings water from the well to various buckets, mostly near the kitchen. Behind the blue tarp is the 'shower'. 15 gallons of water in a barrel and a bowl to pour water it over your head as needed. Stand on the large flat rock. This water was not as cold as it often is in a hotel. http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...hebeach104.jpg This little guy is just learning to walk in the dirt floor restaurant, but crawling is more reliable. All through Latin America I have very rarely heard a child spoken to harshly, nor have I heard a child 'pitch a fit'. They seem to enjoy taking turns distracting and playing with this kid. http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...hebeach114.jpg Taking the little guy for a ride. He is not up to holding on so is tied on with a striped shirt http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...hebeach076.jpg |
Great post
Great post and photos.
Cheers Moss |
Can't quite follow it all, wild stuff, papers in not in order because in wrong place, 9 weeks instead of 12, 48 hours . . . . crashing . . . . :scooter:
Enjoying your reports and pics. Someday, I wanna hear all the back story, the stuff you can't type out . . . .. |
Among the last days in Nicaragua
Before leaving the camping/sea food restaurant, this woman, who is part of the large family pyramid, got my foto on her cell phone.
http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...inghome063.jpg Back in Leon, we tried to have supper in a nicer restaurant, that had several Salvador Dali pics, and service was so bad we walked out after paying for drinks. I was amazed. Half a block away we were served quickly. Was a raucous evening with folks on a holiday rather than a 7 months tour. http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...inghome087.jpg Patrick, with a snack, and his brother, road their bicycles from Canada. From him, I learned that I could do the same. Repairable steel frame bike for $500 !! Also, that I did not want to. Easy border crossings but sometimes, meeting a oncoming car while it is being passed by another car and not being unprepared. Too much for me, as I am accustomed to causing such excitements, not being surprised by them. Also, when you have to pedal, it is harder to decide to go on to the next town, because this place is not appealing. http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...inghome107.jpg Lawrence Newman fell in love with my KLR..... http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...inghome163.jpg |
Trying to be clear
Moss, Thank you. I am glad you enjoyed it. I certainly have.
John... Latin Motorcycle law is a thing to behold. The bikes are subject to high taxes, $1500 and up on larger bikes. A tourist can get a 90 pass at customs for little to no money. They do not want anybody to do their 90 days, then exit the country for a day and come back for another 90, thereby avoiding the tax ongoing. SO, the hapless tourist must stay out of the country for 90 days before he can get another 90 pass. Unaware of how this might affect me , I went back too soon. ALSO , El Salvdor is offended by tourists not stopping to spend some money in their country, SO I could get a visa/ customs pass for the bike for 60 days, BUT if I went out of the country to Nicaragua I would have to wait another 60 days to reenter El Salvador. They offered a 24 hour visa /bike pass, with a heavy fine for being late. $1327.(yes) I made the trip in 5 1/2 hours the first time, but had more adventure returning. Still had plenty of time and lived in cheaper and I think more pleasant Nicaragua for 3 weeks. During that time it was decided that Lawrence would take my bike home for me. ( because I need to go to a VA hospital and I will indeed go for a kidney stone check up). Coming to terms... http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...inghome136.jpg We went to a lawyer and got a stamped and signed statement as to our intentions. Then we went to the customs main office in Managua and Lawrence charmed the woman in charge of this sort of thing. We got stamped and signed papers from her. And her assurances that all would be well. Mostly, this can not be done. http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...inghome139.jpg |
Great shot's ,A smile cures most problems.
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The bike paperwork did not go smoothly, but indeed it is done
Hoping on the bus for an hour ride Managua and customs headquaters.
http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...inghome112.jpg Got a plastic bag of cold water for about a nickel. Bite the top and suck to water out. http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...inghome113.jpg Got in the wrong line, in the wrong building, on the wrong side of town. Took about 3 hours to redirect. http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...inghome115.jpg One of several trips to get more and correct copies. But all details are now good !! http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...inghome117.jpg |
Traveling with out the bike
At customs, exiting Nicagura without the bike
http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...inghome178.jpg After some trouble with a cab driver not able to use the address I gave him, or any other address for that matter, and me slow to provide a landmark, I went back to the same hotel as before and was shown the new kittens. http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...inghome182.jpg The morden clean and seemingly well run airport at San Jose, Costa Rica. http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...inghome199.jpg |
eeeeeeeee
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On da big bird.....
My travel companions to Miami. It turned out just fine. They were charming and easy to travel with.
http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...inghome204.jpg That big bird just leapt right out of Central America..... http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/...inghome205.jpg |
Mike i trust your health issues are being attended to ,have really enjoyed your story i hope you are able to continue when you are well.Noel
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Mike will be at the HU North Carolina event!
For those who want to meet Mike in person, he will be presenting his trip stories and pics at the HU North Carolina meeting this weekend! See you there!
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currant conditions
As an update: My health is good, I have another bike, and another job. Gathering funds. Looking foward to North Carolina ... mike
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