Isla Holbox and Swimming with a Whale Shark

ISLA HOLBOX


Pronounced "Holbosh"

Isla Holbox was just what the doctor ordered. We stayed here:

It was amazing, we had our own little cabana (ours was actually the second set of stairs you see here). It was hot, but we had three windows, all with fly screen and a fan so a great opportunity for a cross breeze. There was also beautiful fly net around the bed. The bathroom was attached to the cabana and was tiled and great. Absolutely no complaints and it was actually one of my favourite places we have stayed. Check it out here!

Our five nights in Isla Holbox passed slowly, lots of book reading and relaxing. Best advice for doing it on the cheap is to bring food with you from the mainland- as the shops were pretty overpriced and lacking in anything good.

Also depending on the time of year you will find yourself wading through a couple meters of seaweed to take a swim. Had its moments but not a deal breaker. Holbox is smack bang in between the gulf of mexico and the Caribbean. The result is a water colour lighter than the dark gulf but not quite the classic Caribbean turquoise.


By far the best thing we did in Isla Holbox was to swim with a whale shark. It was a bit pricey, but so worth it. Seven of us were picked up by the boat on the beach just down from the hostel. The guide spoke English, Spanish and a bit of a few other languages. The captain and guide drove us an hour along the coast line (a sneaky dolphin sighting along the way) until we hit the area most frequented by the sharks. Another half hour searching and we finally found the big boy/girl. Well us and a few other boats (some from Isla Mujeres).

The captain would wheel the boat into the path of the whale shark. Then taking it in turns we would jump in and swim along side/on top of him. Even got to touch him. It was one of the best experiences I have ever had! We got to touch him, and swim with him and he was so powerful and well...huge. I would go again. Simply awesome.

The rest of the tour included snorkeling, lunch (ceviche made on the boat while we snorkeled) and a tour through the mangroves of Isla Mujeres. It was great and I am so happy we splurged and did it. And in terms of not hitting the budget...well smashing it...it just means that we will have to live really cheaply for a few days to make up the cashish.

THE FINANCES

Private double bed with ensuite came to $30/night. Not bad between two but the Hostel offers some cheaper options for those travelling alone or not fussed with dorming/tenting/hammocking.

Swimming with the whale sharks was organised through the Hostel for 1000 pesos (USD 75). Early start with a mid afternoon return. Lunch included. Well worth it.

Food is a catch 22. Eating out is pricey but the things available for cooking are pretty limited. Fresh fruit and veg aren't that plentiful and those available are usually on their last legs. Good option for eating out is the restaurant at the hostel. Good pastas made by some excellent Italian cooks.