March 2014

Yelapa is a unique, small Mexican village of about 1,500 native residents, of which 300 are super relaxed semi-resident Gringos.

A little more than a decade ago, the village operated without electricity, it now arrives by wire or by solar cell.  The evenings are quiet once again without the churning generators.  This car-free village on the Bahía de Banderas, is made for walking, and you require a genuine affection for the numerous and revered stray dogs.  The heavy lifting is accommodated by the many burros, without resistance.

In the 60’s, Yelapa was discovered by the those alternative types from the film and music industries and other gringos found it to their liking and moved in. In those days there were few brick or cement houses only palapas with palm frond roofs and bamboo walls for privacy.  Los Naranjos, a jungle retreat, sports this type of accommodations.  The place is just magical.  Located on a sprawling and well appointed orange grove, the water source is siphoned from their own private waterfall.

Endless diversions lead you off the main walking path. A hike to Sky Temple is as meditative as it is challenging, with strategically places alters, presenting the world’s yogic luminaries. The cross town road gracefully meanders to Verana, a hotel perched on the side of a hill.  Along the way there are art installations and mysterious paths that lead to the water’s edge.

A slice of lemon pie may be had by the local temptress known as the pie lady.  The pace of Yelapa flows gently or not at all, the latter usually end up at la playa, with eyes closed, absorbing the brilliant sun.