Week 3 in Punta Gruesa- Turtle Festival and mingling!

The beginning of week 3 we began preparing for the turtle festival, which marks the end of the turtle nesting season. Held in Tulum, a town approximately 4 hours north of our base, the crew of 30 odd jumped aboard an overcrowded bus where the majority of us had standing room only for the best part of 2 hours.

The first day of the festival, held at the House of Culture brought GVI members from both Pez Maya and Punta Gruesa providing not only manpower but also some awesome games for the local kids to get amongst, adding to the festivities provided by the local community including music, a dance concert and some of the most amazing artwork some of us have ever seen. All of the festivities brought the local community together, working together in aid of raising community awareness to the ever presenting threats of these absolutely magnificent, yet sadly endangered animals… Not to mention one of the most awesome animal in the entire world!!

A 06:00 start the following day began with the crew all chipping in to do a massive beach clean on a postcard picture perfect beach, overlooked by ancient Mayan ruins. With turtles still the focus of the day, they starred as the main theme for the very impressive sand castle building competition… and yes there were prizes!!

After a long hard days work participation in activities including a rather skilful volleyball competition, a leisurely bit of football (or soccer if you are that way inclined) and a little boogey to some good old fashioned Mexican music fiesta, we all were able to let our hair down with a bit of mingling between the two bases over a couple of tasty cocktails and a funky little Mexican band. This is definitely my line of work!!

Week 3 in Punta Gruesa- Turtle Festival and mingling!