Festival, fish, and dancing

Playa Zipolite, the only nudist beach in Oaxaca, is just 20 minutes east of Mazunte and hosts an annual nudist festival. You don’t have to go nude on the beach, and the festival starts with a traditional parade (fully clothed), though less clothed events were happening on the beach. Irene, Carla, and I went partly because Carla had heard of a fantastic fish restaurant. The main streets in town were pedestrian only—not sure if that’s normal or was for the parade, but it was really pleasant, with lovely shops.

We headed for a cafe on the beach until the restaurant was due to open. But when the restaurant wasn’t open when expected, Carla and I headed for a swim while Irene listened to dance music and then had some impromptu dance lessons…

Then came a beautiful parade with each nearby village represented with their signature dresses and lots of music! Irene borrowed my regular camera and took some beautiful photos and videos. When I get them posted on Flickr, will share a link here.

Back in Mazunte, a little more music and dancing to close a lovely day before we all headed different directions…Carla to a gorgeous natural area Lagunas de Chacahua, and Irene to San Cristobal de las Cruces.

Across from the music, a mural about a dog rescue organization.
At Afe!!
We shared delicious dishes at Restaurante Afe where we learned we were just in time for the opening traditional parade!!
As the parade participants were getting ready, lots of photos..
Irene captured nicer video and photos with my camera so hope to post those soon on Flickr and add links here.
Carla found out which villages were represented…but I didn’t keep track.
On the way back to Mazunte.
Cuban music you may recognize from Buena Vista Social Club! Hoping a new salsa trend will start in the US for old fogeys like me who are in bed before the dancing starts at 10 pm.

Whenever we made a toast, I noticed that Carla and Irene would tap their glasses on the table before taking a sip, so they taught me two sayings, highlighting the importance of tapping your glass and swirling it after a toast before taking a sip. “Quien no apoya no folla” and “Quien no recorre no se corre” suggest tapping and swirling to ensure the best time in bed! Maybe things will change for the better now that I know…

Irene is a physical therapist in France and also teaches classes on making fermented foods and Carla is an assistant director for a film company, along with her beau. What a treat to have the chance to share some time with them.

Hoping to add a separate post with some birds and other wildlife once download camera photos.

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