After 7 weeks on the island I truely felt a part of it and it a part of me. And for the first time on this journey I felt more sadness over leaving than excitement to explore a new place. That changed quickly after I got to the new place, but Isla Ometepe will always hold a very special place in my heart.

I spent the past 2 weeks on InanItah, or Finca Paulo y Gaia. It was all at once a classroom, playground, work of art and home. I was perfect.

I couldn't have imagined a more beautiful setting or more well-designed finca. The owners are very conscious about each step and the result so far is nothing less than magnificent. A few of the highlights:

1) The shower - A stone floor with 2 palm walls to the back and plants all around. The front opens to a view of Volcan Concepcion and both sides of the lake. The perfect spray of compost-heated water at just the right pressure. By far the best shower I have ever had. The compost toilet shares the same view but lacks a few of its comforts.

2) The vegetable garden - 4 rings of food for the belly and medicine for the soul. Local greens and herbs, carrots, cucumbers and radishes galore. Pineapple, aloe, peppermint and more.

3) The temple - The ultimate chill out place. Natural materials, high ceiling and hammocks. Yoga in the morning, siestas and books in the afternoon, music and hoola hooping at night. Good company, always.

We worked roughly 4 hours each morning. I mostly helped with the watering, planting, transplanting, and weeding. We made absolutely delicious chocolate starting with the roasting of the cacao beans and cheese after picking up the milk from the farmer up the hill. We were also able to pull off some pretty gourmet meals prepared over a wood fire.

I also taught a few English classes my last couple of weeks on the island while the regular teacher was out of town. He's an ex-pat who offers free lessons to locals and has a group of around 12 who come consistently. The students range in age from 11-30 as well as in dedication and progress. I really enjoyed the experience and getting involved in the community on a deeper level.

I am now in Playa Gigante for Semana Santa. Yesterday it was a very sleepy little surf village. But suddenly this morning, the beach was buzzing with activity and from what I understand this is just the tip of the iceburg compared to the chaos expected over the next couple of days. I'm glad I got here when I did to be able to enjoy the tranquility (and secure a place to sleep) but am now pretty excited for the parties.