Bioregional Celebration in Maruata
by Beatrice Briggs

An Invitation from the Mexican "family" of bioregionalists to celebrate the New Year on the beach at Maruata, Michoacán

While this is not an "official" bioregional gathering, it is an opportunity to spend time in a beautiful area on the Pacific coast of Mexico in the company of interesting folks from Mexico and around the world. In addition to informal opportunities for learning, inspiration and cultural exchange, some talking circles to discuss the possibility of organizing future bioregional events in Mexico are also planned.

SITE: Maruata is a rustic village about halfway between Acapulco and Puerta Vallerta. Until now, the local community has managed to withstand pressures to sell their communal land to commercial interests. The area is one of the few remaining nesting areas for endangered sea turtles and is also an iguana reserve. Imagine white sand beaches, tall cliffs, glorious sunsets, star- filled night skies and no telephones. But this paradisical setting is also plagued by ecological problems such as garbage, ground water pollution and habitat destruction, as well as social tensions caused by drug trafficking and other crimes. The Mexican bioregional "family" has been coming here for several years, trying to help to improve gray water systems, latrines, and trash collection, while at the same time contributing much needed cash to the local economy.

DATES: There are no set dates. People will probably begin arriving in mid- December and stay until mid-January - and beyond. Come when you can and stay as long as you like.

CONDITIONS: Maruata is a small, remote village with minimal tourist infrastructure. There are no hotels and only a few rustic cabins for rent. The Christmas season is "prime time", so it is likely to be crowded until after the first of the year. Most people bring tents and camp on the beach. There are open-air restaurants serving a limited menu (mostly seafood, eggs, quesadillas, soft drinks and beer) and a small grocery store which sells snacks and a some staples (bananas, canned juices, toilet paper, etc.) No doubt some "rainbow kitchens" will be organized, funded by passing the magic hat. The nearest telephone is 45 minutes away.

GETTING THERE: Maruata is a two-day drive from Mexico City and a full day's journey from Guadalajara. The nearest airports are in Puerta Vallerta, Manzanillo or Colima City. Coming from Guadalajara or Mexico City, go to Colima City. From there take the bus to Tecoman. From Tecoman, take another bus or taxi to Maruata. The last bus leaves Tecoman around 6-7 pm. Another alternative is to go to La Placita by bus and take a taxi from there. Do not travel this road after dark!

WHAT TO BRING: Camping gear, plate, bowl, cup, utensils, musical instruments, biodegradable soap, beach clothes, towel, hat, sun block, personal first aid kit, including remedies for traveler'ss diarrhea. Weather is usually 65-85 degrees and sunny at this time of year, but rain is also a possibility.

A WORD OF CAUTION: Maruata is a poor community under a tremendous amount of economic and political stress. Visitors must be respectful of local customs (i.e., no nude bathing) and careful with their own belongings. Do not leave valuables unattended in your tent or on the sand. While the swimming is usually safe, use caution if the waves are high.

Beatrice Briggs
Turtle Island Office

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