It just so happens that I have a red bikini that goes really well with Special K, especially so when I contort my body into the shape of a K; my own variation on a yoga pose.

I have just returned from Puerto Escondido, Mexico – a most divine retreat that is far from the hectic inebriated mess of Cancun all inclusives. If you drive six hours south of Acapulco on the Pacific coastline (and I do not reccomend this, as it was an insanely scary venture on curvy dirt roads that were invaded by cows, goats and militia) you will find this sleepy surf town where the Peso truly works to your advantage. We stayed at Villas Carazillo, a small boutique hotel that overlooks a lagoon where I swear you wouldn’t be surprised to catch some Peter Pan mermaids flapping their tails – gorgeous! If was incredible value but if you are seeking a budget getaway – there are a ton of wonderful alternatives including a hostel just for women right across from the beach.

In this coastal gem, it is very easy to do all the things outlined in my Special K challenge – healthy breakfast, time for myself and a few workouts per week. My morning cereal (in Mexico Special K has a sexy Spanish lady on the box who looks like Penelope Cruz) was complimented by fresh papaya, melon and bananas and was enjoyed slowly while I read a novel and let the salty warm breeze whisk across my half naked body. Days were spent swimming with dolphins, doing breast stroke while gazing at multi-coloured fish schools through my snorkeling mask and insane attempts at boogie boarding Zicatela beach – which had me tossed like a loose sock in the washing machine spin cycle…not advised for beginners. In the evening, I would do a few yoga poses with the backdrop of a heavenly sunset. Of course, there was also late night exercise in the bedroom; a consistently rewarding workout.

If you are seeking total relaxation and a hot escape that demands a satisfying siesta for multiple hours each day, then I highly recommend this destination. There is in fact an airport in Puerto Escondido – that is a quick fly from Mexico City, so you don’t have to freak yourself out on the insane drive we barely made.

For those looking for partying and Point Break type surfer dudes, the main drag in town offers a ton of vibrant nightlife with cabana style lounges set up right on the beach.  It’s easy to find yourself sitting at a table with folks from Tel Aviv, Sweden, Australia and the US – which always makes for great conversation over a couple bottles of refreshing Sol. However, my time there was not about socializing or late night tequila – rather total rejuvination and quiet bliss.

Alas, I am back in grey and frigid Toronto, so the YMCA will have to do. That said,  the great thing about a vacation is that upon returning home you feel like it’s a whole new year and your energy and  peace of mind is at a welcomed and calm plateau.

Four more weeks! Let’s see what mega progress can be had. In the meantime, I’ll double check with my yogi friends to see what they think about downward dog moving into a Special K stretch 🙂

xo
Jen