Well... I don't speak Spanish.
I actually enjoy being thrown into the deep end in many cases, especially when I feel out of my element, especially with language. I feel anxious when I know enough to feel like I *should* know more. But in this case? Nah. I can give myself a lot of grace for this one.
Since I know enough Russian to get by, I usually feel crappy when I visit Eastern Europe (read: Belarus, Russia, etc.) because I'm still too nervous to stirke up conversations. Even though... I know the langauge.
But Mexico? Bring it on. The language barrier is pretty much the only thing I'm slightly concerned about.
There's a few things about my upcoming trip to Puerto Vallarta (pronounced PWERH-toh bai-YAHR-tah) that I'm realllllllly looking forward to. And look: I'm actively trying this new thing where I don't expect things, but I can still look forward to things! (I don't know why this distinction helps my brain, but it does.) Those things are:
1. Chilling on a beach. I really just want to be a snake and sit in the sun for a few hours... or maybe a full day. Just to have a full beach day.
2. Swimming at said beach. I'm secretly a fish. I love swimming. And interacting with a place's environment is super important to me.
3. Local food. I'm not sure I'm going to even try to order in Spanish, but do the whole thing where I point at the menu and just nod. I think it's kind of fun that way! I'll ask some English speaking locals for their recommendations, too.
4. Color, color, color. Zona Romantica is said to be full of life and many of the buildings lining the streets are painted in different shades of whatever the owner's heart desires!
Things I'd like to do if I have time/access:
5. Hiking. There's nothing like taking the scenic route through a new place. I love mountains, and by PVR there are a bunch. I am hoping to see local fauna and get away from the city for a bit!
6. Surfing. I really hope I don't end up on my face too much, but oh well! :)
7. Turtle releasing. I found this experience listing on AirBnb. I want to do some more digging, but it seems legit and helpful for the turtles. I'm all about hands on experiences while learning about how to care for our beautiful planet and the creatures who inhabit it! Plus, it'll be great to see what these student biologists can teach us!
If you have any tips or recommendations... save it. I want to figure this one out on my own :)
Let you know how it goes!
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