Cozumel, Mexico (January 26, 2010) Debra and I cruised the western Caribbean on the Navigator of the Seas. This morning, the ship docked at Cozumel. Located off the eastern coast of the Yucatan Peninsula, it is Mexico’s largest island.
It was overcast and somewhat cool, but no rain – picture perfect for a ride on horseback through the “Mayan frontier.” My adventure started at Hacienda Santa Emilia, where I was matched with a horse that met my limited riding experience – which is to say, my horse was tame (or so I thought). Our guide led us on an easy ride along scenic forest trails as he told us about the culture and traditions of the Maya people, who emigrated into the Yucatan (“place of richness”) around 2500 B.C. We spotted this herd of cattle – Brahman, I believe – on the ride out. On our way back, I joined others in gallop atop our horses through an open field. My “tame” horse broke fast, and this “Yanqui” failed to properly set his feet in the stirrups. My knees and back were sore for days. It was an exhilarating experience, though, and a whole lot of fun! |