A lush vegetation, rolling hills and the sea surround us. So far, I could not think of a better place to live. This peninsula once was nothing but jungle. Legend has it that pirates operated from here. Colonization, world war, occupation and liberation followed. Today the ancient fishing village is a major tourist attraction. A scenic stripe of land at the end of a vast country. In this sense I am living on the edge.
The beach is right around the corner. So is the coffee shop and the flea market. There is a church, a police station and a few other low rise buildings. Sounds like your typical village in the middle of nowhere? Well not exactly. Millions of people live just a short bus ride away. A busy metropolis lurks on the other side of the hills - which is both a curse and a blessing.
Let's start with the good things. A brand-new seaside promenade. Restaurants (indoor and al fresco) offering international cuisines and sea views. A few beautifully restored historical buildings. Colorful temples and sand beaches. Hiking trails with breathtaking views from hill tops. Bargain hunting at the flea market. A library and a bookshop. Indoor and outdoor playgrounds for kids. Easy means of transpo like buses and cabs. Quiet weekdays.
Every weekend, however, things get hectic. Not only inside but also outside of the house. All family members are at home and the entire world flocks to this village. Streets are flooded with hordes of tourists and beachgoers. Not to mention water sports fanatics roaming with either a billabong short or speedo (yuck!), sweaty hikers and Lance-Armstrong-wanna-be-cyclists taking a coffee break from their activities, picnic goers flooding the isles of supermarkets for BBQ items. Local residents go to church, parade of lovers, kids, and dogs. Some visit inmates in nearby prisons.
The lazy frog hated weekends and holidays. She longs for Monday where she can have peace and quiet and the serenity she deserves. With the empty street, spacious supermarkets, coffee house and other facilities plus a quiet house (husband and kids are away during the day except for my cute little tot – well, he’s amusing ) LIFE IS GOOD. Don’t you agree?
Until the next weekend frenzy that is…
