A very big tree.

We are currently parked next to the river in Chiapa de Corzo (N 16.741705 W 93.035027) waiting to take our two hour "eco-friendly" boat trip down the Cañon Sumidero tomorrow morning (in a 300hp speed boat!)

Our journey here from Oaxaca has been enlivened by a very large tree, several archaeological sites and the first presentation of the "Mrs. Field's Chocolate Chip Cookie" award by Lesley. To see what the award was for visit Lesley's blog.

The 2000 year old tree at Tule claims to be the largest in the world at 42 metres high, with a trunk diameter of 14 metres, and an estimated weight of 636 tonnes.

I could not have put it better myself! Note the three vans in the car park on the left.

We also visited Yagul (N 16.957445 W 96.448965)

According to the archeological interpretations there is evidence of human occupation from 3000 B.C. in the area around Yagul, although construction and the period of greatest splendor of the city took place in the Monte Alban IV period, from 750 to 950 A.D. The architecture of Yagul combines functionalism with urbanism and monumental dimensions. The buildings discovered to date form part of the civic-religious center from which the city was administered.
We also spent a night in a car park in Mitla (N 16.929017 W 96.358952) famous for its ruins dating (as I expect you know) from the Late Post Classical Monte Alban V period. There is also fine restaurant (Dona Chica - N 16.918943 W 96.363128) in town, which is well worth a visit. Ask to sign the visitor book.
Stephen Stewart.

After visiting the amazing Tule tree, we stopped by Teotitlan, a town full of Oaxaca state's best weaving.

The beautiful wool rugs and tapestries are coloured with natural dyes made from fruits, plants, and bugs!

We watched a woman weaving on a traditional hand loom. Her mother invited us into their showroom (the living room) complete with a large and elaborate Christian shrine.

Judy Bartos.

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