I got a little taste of heaven today in a place called Semuc Champey, Guatemala.

Picture bright aquamarine natural pools, infinitely connected by delicately splashing waterfalls, surrounded by towering emerald green forest trees, with the sun piercing through brilliantly. Some pools are shallower and warm as a result, others up to 20 foot deep, luscious bluegreen plunging depths. A five minute slippery climb up to the source of the waterfalls, and along the stepping layers of a variety of waters, led to the most awesome display of the immense power of nature I have yet to witness in my short little life, as it became apparent that the clarity and calm of the natural pools somehow sits atop a roaring monstrosity of terrifying rapids, which cut gaping caves out of the cliff, and pour trecherously underneath the pool glades. At a reassuringly safe distance from the deathdefying edge of the rapids, I learnt that more than five tourists had been whisked off into the waters this year alone. A sobering thought.

I had a wonderful six hours of making like a mermaid in these divine depths.

The only thing missing in this little personal haven of delight, of course, was fodder along the lines of garlicky roast chicken, and maybe a fresh lemonade or Cuba Libre or two...

The journey to the pools themselves was a whole 2.5 hours each way, but which passed rapidly as going there we befriended an extremely fun American couple, who later jumped from impressive heights into the waters along the the local mini stunt monkey/boy, and returning with me chatting Spanish to our wonderful Guatemalan driver, and getting the inside scope on Coban and where best to try out the local delicacies.

My diligent research was well rewarded with the most tasty meal in Guatemala yet...

Food Fiend Ahoy!!!

Finally a meal worth reporting!

Kakik

Succulent leg of turkey stewed in a savoury tomato, chilli and coriander broth. Very tasty when eaten with the accompanying tamalitos (little corn parcels) and rice. Well worth a detour.

And hold tight, I have a few more dish recommendations which I will be making a beeline for in our next few days`destinations of Tikal and Livingston. Watch this space foodies, I am on the hunt for you! xx