With the continued violence of drug cartels after a prolonged and bloody war, it is not surprising that El Salvador is not exactly known for tourism. With a peace agreement signed between the two warring drug cartels of the country, reports of violence has dropped, but the residual fear of extortion, kidnapping, and the likes is still palpable. Most of the homes and buildings have been repaired, but remnants like the pole seen below, pocketed with bullet holes, is a striking reminder of the not so distant past. Suchitoto and the coast seems to be spared most of this, thankfully. The town is small and humble, the people friendly, and the surrounding lush hillsides quite beautiful. We spent the day poolside, basking in the sun and relaxing. Because the lake is now contaminated with mercury, we weren’t able to kayak which we had anticipated. I can’t say I was too upset to just relax and chill.
The small painting of a bird and flowers next to the door below is a symbol seen throughout the country. It denotes a home that is free from domestic violence. It was a movement that swept the country in response to the terrible prevalence of violence against women reported.
Suchitoto was well known for making indigo before it was outsourced due to synthetic production.
On our first night in town, we learned how to make pupusas with a local woman. Pupusas are a large flatbread make with either cornmeal or rice flour that is filled with a variety of foods. They are insanely delicious.
I learned some new things! I’d never heard of how the people combatted violence and they indicated safe houses with bluebirds. Love all of your adventures!