After a few days at home in Punta Gorda, we packed our bags again and headed south. We boarded Requena´s Charter across the Gulf of Honduras to Puerto Barrios, Guatemala. From Puerto Barrios we headed towards Honduras on the Litegua Bus. After a bus stop, a border crossing, and a few taxis later, we finally arrived in Copan Ruinas, Honduras.
Copan Ruinas is located in western Honduras near the Guatemala Border. Copan Ruinas is a beautiful little town with cobblestone streets and very backpacker friendly. We stayed at the Iguana Azul, a very affordable and clean hostel with hot water. The staff was friendly and happy to help. We celebrated the New Year on the streets of Copan Ruinas with the crowds, popping fireworks, singing, and cheering. Residents of Copan Ruinas love fireworks and New Years was like no other. The celebrating went on through the night and into the morning.
On New Year's Day we hiked to the Copan Ruinas Archaeological Park, about 1 km outside of the town. The weather was beautiful and the walk alongside the road was very pleasant. Declared a heritage humanity site by UNESCOin 1980, Copan has been referred to as one of the most artistically advanced and elaborate of all of the ancient Maya Cities. We spent the day touring the site and museum. The main plaza was quite remarkable and the many carved stelae and altars were impressive. The Hieroglyphic Stairway was amazing, displaying original ancient carvings. The Museum houses original sculptures and carvings and was definitely one of the highlights of the day. We had a great time exploring the Ruins.
We spent the rest of the day walking around Copan Ruinas, enjoying the wonderful weather and good food. Copan Ruinas was a great way to begin our trip through Central America. We are now hanging out in the artist community, La Palma, in Northern El Salvador.
You two are so special and have such great adentures!! Stay well and safe--we love you GiGi & Bill
Posted by: Aletha Anderson | January 03, 2009 at 09:56 AM