During our last breakfast on the island, tears started to well up in my eyes. I did not want to leave. After finally figuring out how to enjoy each day without getting taken down by heat exhaustion or a sunburn, I had discovered a magic that I was not ready to let go of.
We had already discussed calling the airline to see how much it would cost to extend our trip, so when we got back to our hotel room, Carlos made the call while I re-packed everything. We were so settled into our comfy room with the sound of the Caribbean waves crashing outside the window, that it was tough to leave. But we knew, even if we could extend our stay, the hotel was booked solid for the next few nights and we’d have to checkout.
Nearly an hour later and just past checkout time, we had secured one more day for no service charge. If we stayed two nights (which was what we were trying to do) it would have cost us $1,500. So we took the extra night as a gift and headed South to stay in the center of the island at Lolo Lorena‘s. We had been dinner guests a week prior and really enjoyed the experience. Luckily, she had one of her guest rooms open and our hotel arranged it for us.
Lolo’s tile work on the back patio.
Lolo’s tile work in the guest bathroom.
More of Lolo’s tile work in the private outdoor shower.
The bed is built into the room with romantic lights in small nooks along the wall and original artwork.
A big bonus to staying with Lolo is breakfast. Since we enjoyed our dinner experience the week before, we were thrilled to have breakfast on our departure day in the same garden where we spent the evening of our first full day on the island. The journey felt complete.
Savory cazuela with vegetables and egg.
Fresh croissants.
Chocolate created for our croissants and melted to perfection in the sun.
I wasn’t necessarily ready to leave after this delightful breakfast, but I felt I’d had a day to unwind from the energy of El Centro and been lovingly taken care of by Lolo. I retreated to the bathtub for a soak before packing one last time.
May your journey be your muse,
Rachel
10 Comments
Ebone
Tears welled in my eyes and I’ve not even been here before. Such beguiling photographs.
Rachel Staggs
Thank you, Ebone!
Judy
Love seeing “newbie” comments. When you hate to leave, your an official “Islaholic’ (MEANING: Love Isla Mujeres dearly) You’ll be back 🙂
Rachel Staggs
Indeed!
Cindy Bannon
My husband and I have been married for 28 years. 6 years ago we tried our first vacation with out our children since they are now adults.We were apprehensive about Mexico but tried an all inclusive.As our confidence in safety increased we expanded our travel zone.2 years ago we looked at Isla for a day trip and at the last minute booked a few nights.We Fell in LOVE.It was really the first time I ever teared up about going home.We actually had the ability to stay an extra night because of snow in Philadelphia.We have eaten at Lolo’s twice and hope to return when we visit in January.I share my love of this magical place to anyone who will listen.We suggested it to my son for his honeymoon .He went and now he and he wife are dying to return.I have beach glass sprinkled all around my home to inspire me .So glad to share this joy with others.Many more vacations to you!
Rachel Staggs
Thanks for sharing your experience! I think about it often and have a few photos strategically placed around the house. Beach glass sounds beautiful! Many more vacations to you too 🙂
Sarah Somewhere
Sounds and looks like a magical experience, your photos are glorious!!! I’m inspired by you to be more artistic with mine! I’m currently on the Caribbean coast of Mexico, was in two minds as to whether we would make it to Isla Mujeres, but after seeing these, it’s on my list 🙂
Rachel Staggs
Hi Sarah, thanks for the kind words about my photographs! Wish I was hanging out with you on the Caribbean coast! 🙂 Such stunning water. I just posted a new blog that lists my top 10 must-do experiences on Isla Mujeres. Check it out: http://rachelstaggs.com/2012/10/23/isla-mujeres-quintana-roo-mexico-top-10-things-i-wouldnt-miss/
Windy
You’re pictures are beautiful Rachel! I love the stories too!
Rachel Staggs
Thanks, Windy!