Hi, when Ben made you jump looking at the crocodiles in the mangroves I jumped too and nearly dropped the phone in the bath 😂. Please stay safe on this next border crossing, I'm sending positive vibes that you have no trouble 🤞with love Sue and Bryn xx
Sue this literally made us laugh out loud 😂 😂 😂 Glad Ben didn't ruin your phone! 🙈 Border was chaotic but we got there in the end, about to finish up the edit now! Hope you guys are doing well, sending love from us xx 💕
Just the perfect ending to this leg of the adventure .... River has such skills !! May the road be open and free and big hugs to you all xx Love from us xx
Hello dear friends, I found it a bit unsettling to watch you planning your route. Looks as if you made the best decision. Both pups cracked me up, Scout with her good morning speech and River playing coconut nose soccer. Ben you have a quite a sarcastic sense of humor 'one more day closer to death' indeed. Catching Chesca unaware in feet of the crocs was so mean but very funny. You have likely crossed the border by now and I hope it went smoothly. Hugs to the four of you and safe travels💞💞💞💞
Feeling apprehensive about the crossing but we always get like that with borders so trust everything will be okay. I think it will just be a bit hectic. Haha yep Ben has a dark and dry sense of humour, one of the many things I love about the man. Even if I did nearly push him into the crocs 😭😂 xxx
I've traveled the world quite a bit too. Yes!! Always take the scenic route especially if it includes english condiments, holes to dig for doggos and fruit trees - as long as there's no land sharks and cartels 😁
I can’t help but worry after seeing this video. Will be eagerly awaiting for next weeks video! Sending all the positive vibes to you and this week of travel. It’s sad that there is so much danger and uncertainty in this world 😢. I know you’ll be ok and things will be just fine so, safe travels as always and enjoy the ride!! Shade and sweet water 🩵🩵🩵🩵
It’s not been our favourite part of the trip so far. There is a lot of uncertainty in this area at the moment but with advice from locals and some common sense we should be okay. Thanks for the lovely message xx 💕
❤❤❤father was with aid to international development in Guatemala, lived at ambassadors compound with armed guards 27/7, neighbor said many bandits, people up in the mountains, give niece impression but turn low clas quickly
Yeah it’s had a lot of problems. They’ve put a lot of effort into rebuilding tourism in recent years but we probably won’t be disappearing into remote mountains 🥲
Those campsites sound like when backing packing through Europe hopping from hostel to hostel and seeing the same folks ❤ Happy trials/trails on this next leg!
Safety in Mexico is… you will be very unlikely to run into trouble if you know where you’re going. If you disappear into the mountains to look for trouble, you’ll probably find it!
150cm. like wtf. lol The drifts in places were almost 3 meters high! lol Had to go spend 2k CAD on a snow blower still took two days to dig out lol@@OverlandingSophia
One added benefit (hopefully) to your chosen route, driving along the coast should be lovely? 🤞 Ben looked proper proud of himself jumping like that! 😁 Yikes, though, that's super scary being so close! Safe travels to you lot! ❤️❤️😎👍xx
Yes, he was very proud of himself 🙄 Sweet revenge needs to be plotted! The coast is lovely indeed, not many places to stay and it's very hot, but nothing much to complain about 🥰 Love to you both xx
Hope the border crossing went well guys. Be sure to stay at Pasaj Cap when you get to Laguna Atitlán. Pierre has an amazing campground and it is a great place to squeeze in some Spanish lessons 👍
Still undecided whether to hit Atitlan! But thanks for the camp recommendation, as we were struggling to decide where to go. Hope you guys are all good 💛🧡
Great Video guys! Good luck on the border crossing! I'll be doing one tomorrow as well (Albeit in and Airport in Germany LOL). We also made plans for Panama in April... can't wait! River needs a herding ball....or, coconut.
I’d give anything for a quick and efficient German border crossing! 😂 Safe travels (to or from?) Germany, and yes, River needs a herding ball! Might save her nipping my ankles which she still does although Ben says it’s because I have sheep feet 🤨 xx
Oh please stay safe, hope all has gone well with the border crossing. Beautiful places to be before you cross tho. The dogs look like they're having the time of their lives. Scary to be so close to the crocs. Sending lots of love xx
Thanks lovely, all is good! Just need to watch where we are 🥲 Dogs are happy to be anywhere outside, beaches and coconuts seem to be Rivers happy place. Girl after my own heart! Hope you’re all good, lots of love xxx 💞
hi guys! Could you possibly do a video on the things you cook in the van and your go to things you buy when doing a food shop anywhere you go? Hugs to u all 💓💓
The things we cook change all the time due to ingredients etc but can definitely show the staples of what we buy! Will be interesting next week being in Guatemala for the first time and seeing how similar/different the grocery shops are to Mexico 🫶
Sophia parked up by the Caribbean😱 how incredible that thought must be!!! Just love the slow pace, my ideal camping vibe at that last spot!! Safe travels folks xx
What a vlog guys, fingers crossed for the border crossing. As others have said its hard to believe its been 4 months. As always looking forward to the next episode. All the best Bryan and Dawn Mr&Mrs_H_on_tour From a cold Yorkshire
Absolutely love you guys. We follow many van lifers and you two are the most interesting and educational of all. Keep it up. We look forward to your videos. Xx
"One more day closer to death" 🤣 Hilarrrrrrrrrrr!!! Loved this video SO much. My heart was racing a bit watching you try to decide what border to choose. And I must say, it didn't help when I saw Ben's seatbelt was twisted at 9:43 (A type personality much?) I paused the video to look right into Scout's eyes to say good morning to him and like usual, River brought a smile to face playing with that coconut - what a SWEETIE. Nothing better than getting back from a sunday morning hike to see an Overlanding Sophia video has dropped. xo
4 months Mexico already?? You've come so far since your start of camperfan live. Still remember your first few videos from Belgium and the Netherlands. Stay safe!!❤
Hey Guys, exciting times await you.. I will manifest a safe journey forward for you all! 🙏.. I think option 2 feels better.. no one needs a risky cartel crossing. Funny people mistake you for a bus.. 🚌. That Walmart is very fully stocked.. 👌 Your van isn’t messy, it’s homely and lived in.. a little sort and all good! 👍 tortillas for Ben and that’s a wrap! 😂😂. Really do appreciate a good drone shot of the coast. The sound of the sea is just so peaceful.. 🐊 crocodiles, keep an eye 👁️ out.. 😂😂. “I don’t want to drive this van or do the washing up” made me laugh.. so did the scare 😂😂.. poor bird.. yeah don’t get scoffed… until next time, keep safe and see you next week. ❤️🙏👌
Thanks Mark, feeling a little apprehensive about it but we should be good, keep your fingers crossed for us 🤞 That poor bird indeed, it just disappeared! Hope you’re having a lovely weekend, love from all of us xx 💞
@@OverlandingSophia fingers crossed 🤞 indeed.. slightly less enjoyable weekend and someone gave me a cold. But lemsip and a large amount of UA-cam fixes everything. Sending Love back ❤️👌 xx
Hi there,you guys always find the most beautiful beaches. Ya been hearing places in Mexico are kind of sketchy. By now you have safely cross the border ❤. Love those dogs/ kids. Scout talking and River playing ball. Ok those 🐊 are scary. Stay away far away. Be safe❤
At the 19 minute mark when you have the arrow pointing watch this bird, there is a croc swimming in the water in front of you between the sticks. Look just below where your arrow is drawn
Brilliant to watch Both. Wonderful to see the Croc's that close. Haha trust Ben to play up lol. The dogs are having fun, scouts talking and river playing football lol. All the best with the border crossing. Take Care Both. Love and Big Hugs ❤
Great vid, as usual, thanks for producing, please be safe as you travel in central America, will be interested to see Belize, have friends and relatives that stay there in the winter, English speaking, so should be easier, take care and stay safe, Rick and Susan, from San Jose del Cabo, Baja California sur, Mexico
Another great video guys. Glad to see Chesca looking better. We think despite it being a bit of a faff you have chosen the right option for crossing. Stay safe and well. Hugs - Andrew and Shona
Jus Love your Channel the Excitement/Journey you two are Absolutely Amazing. Love you guys Please be Careful/Safe 🌿❤️❤️🌿 It cracks me up everytime I Hear Ben say Quake 😂 Much Love from West Coast Canada 🍁 🍻
‘Another day closer to death’ is one my favourite sayings - my wife hates it. Anyway, what a nice peaceful vid. Every time I see and hear that morning coffee, I want some. Stay safe guys.
We both laughed out loud at Ben saying one day closer to death 🤣🤣 sending yas lots of love. Ps. I would not be that close to that water, I would be miles back with the big boy lens hahaha
Great post and stick to your gut instincts about safety while travelling . The quick route maybe the most dangerous as you are fully aware of. Interesting places you are travelling to
Yes you’re right! I really want to get a birding logbook so I can identify and check off some of the beautiful birds down here. Hopefully not in the middle of being dinner! 🙈
Hi Ches Ben. I crossed Messilla a few months ago by bike I never felt uncomfortable at any point. There is a great town Comitan which I loved too and people so friendly. In fact the road from San Cristobal is beutiful as it drops down into a valley on perfectly paved roads I actually stayed 2 nights in mesilla walking around as I needed a rest day. The road up from the crossing on the Guatemala side is a bit crazy cause of all the chicken buses !😂 now they drive crazy 😂. Takes you up into the highlands of Guatemala. You’re going to love it Best. Steve. See you when you catch me up in South America 😂🚴
Ah that's great to hear! So glad you had a more than great border crossing there! We had some friends who tried to cross about 2 months ago and they got stuck in a roadblock past Comitan, guys with machetes etc. Told them to turn around in perfect English. They turned around but met police further back, who said they'd escort them through the roadblock. Then when they reached it, the police abandoned them and the roadblock mob were pissed off at them for coming back. It was a nightmare for them but we also have some German friends who just passed and had no problem! I like to think they were unlucky. Whereabouts are you now?! 💛
😂😂😂you guys are too funny!!! You remind me of a friend of mine who has ran 33 marathons but complained about me parking too far from mall entrance 🤣🤣🤣 you already drove several thousands of miles…what is the time concern? 🤣🤣🤣 ❤❤❤ you guys
Your combined wisdom has served you well so far and I believe you made the right choice a few hours extra for the safer route is a smart plan...safe travels and if you crack that coconut on Ben's head we'll look the other way LOL...Karl from eastern Canada P.S. Cape Breton Nova Scotia got 5 feet of snow last week
Hopefully you had a good crossing. We crossed at La Mesilla and it was a very straightforward process albeit hectic. It's true about the wild camping. I long for all the great options back up north and in Europe. Morocco and Turkiye was kind of the same. Just never know when someone will roll up on you out in the wild there. I know it's out of the way for you but El Salvador is pretty nice. But it will be hot. See you guys down south.
We’d been planning on La Mesilla for the past few weeks but a lot of unrest has been building here recently. I think we would have been fine, but yeah, decided on the hot scenic route instead. Totally agree about the freedom in Europe and North America. We didn’t realise how difficult it would be here. It will come again in time. Then we’ll wish for campsites by the beach with coconuts, electricity and bins 😅💛
@@OverlandingSophia social and political instabilities around these parts are definitely concerning. Timing is everything. I hope you will love Guatemala. Probably our favorite country in all of Central America.
@@malimish Did you guys to Atitlan? We're really not feeling like doing it due to the long detour it will be and how popular it is - feels like it might be somewhere to go on a trip rather than drive around a van in. But a couple of people say otherwise!
Hi Ben and Chesca We was watching you’re video and if you look right where Ben was standing when the crocodile took the bird, you didn’t notice that there was another your side close to where Ben went down to the water very close to BEN. 🐊
Did I hear you say that Turkey was 2 years ago? The Hammam episode with Philly and Keely, was one of the funniest YT videos I think I’ve ever seen. Flipping hilarious. Can’t believe it was 2 years ago though
Yes!! Still also the funniest video I edited! We have a GIF of Ben sliding around the marble table slathered in foam in our group chat with Philly and Keely 😂 🍑 Time flies!!
Loved this- what an adventure- crocs were so close 😮I’m interested to know what the Mexican food shop came to as like you say was expecting it to be cheap 😊
Have walked across the border at Tapachula several times to do our visas runs. Yes busy but never had a problem. Just ignore the money changers, they are usually harmless. Never drove over border but saw many doing it. It will be good. Just for information the Guatemala border office is easy to pass by, we did it once, we’re almost across in to Mexico and realized we hadn’t stamped out of Guatemala 😂😂
This is really wonderful to hear, thank you so, so much Anne! We think it should be fine, borders are always nerve wracking experiences with two dogs and a UK van 😂 💛
@@OverlandingSophia Yes that does make it trickier. It is more congested on Guatemala side, but just have papers in order and all will be ok. Will be waiting to hear how it goes.
Hope you have better luck then I did getting into Guatemala through Tapachula. I got so frustrated with all the Third World Border crossing BS I ended up turning around and going back to Mexico and that was over 40 years ago. So I eventually got into Guatemala going through Belize but the border crossing wasn't any better there either. It took almost 4 hrs of waiting for the shift change so we finally got someone who would stamp our visas.
Many things have changed alright but some things never seem to change. You'll be fine and and on your way to some incredible places and people. Sometimes I think too much information makes you worry and not do things you would if you just fly by the seat of your pants. You're making memories you will remember for the rest of your life.@@OverlandingSophia
@@vanman3752 This is so true! There’s a lot to be said for just going with the flow and not getting in your head too much about it. Thanks for the lovely message 💕
Simple decision. Go back to your port of departure for shipping to Colombia. Find a boarding home for the dogs. There is one spot in Guatemala that is a don't miss --- Lake Atitlan. Often called the most beautiful lake in the world. Ten Mayan villages scattered around the lake, each with its own dress and culture. Perfect weather. Transport is by inexpensive boat connecting all of them. If you really must see it, fly from Mexico and take express busses on the Pan American Highway to the Lake. Cheap accommodation from $10 to $40 per night. Otherwise go to Colombia, spend a week sweltering in Cartegena and then head for the towns and cities of the Coffee Triangle. (My favorite is Manizales.) I wouldn't face the wave of migrants and all the sharks circling around them on the route you've chosen for any amount of money.
I understand where you're coming from but this really isn't an option for us. There is so much of Guatemala and Belize we want to explore and we can't just leave the dogs in boarding when things get difficult. This isn't a holiday really, but an adventure, and we expect to be pushed out of our comfort zones 😊
Sorry, but your response to my suggestion is not very logical. If you want to have "more adventure", why not try to crash the borders at midnight with your wrong hand drive van? Or I'm sure there is a cartel somewhere who would build a truck body around it and smuggle it south for a $$$ fee. I might "want to" climb Mount Everest, but that doesn't mean I'd try to do it having never climbed a mountain before.
As far as we know, birds don't dive body first. This one went down body first, then came up and went down again, body first, and then a ripple just beneath the surface made a line and disappeared into the mangroves. I think if it had dove down you wouldn't see any ripple on the surface. And also, the bird landed on the water right where we'd just seen a croc disappear beneath the water. So, we think it was definitely a mother nature moment 😔
MOT isn’t recognised outside of the EU, so it’s not needed for anything. But when we ship back to the UK, we need to have Sophia booked in for one as soon as we get her off the ship 🙂
Just catching back up with you guys from your Turkey days 😊 how does everyone fund this lifestyle? I'm not convinced YT alone generates enough money to ship vans round the globe 😮
Can I ask a question about when you shipped your van to Halifax NS, did you have to get a tank empty certificate for the LPG tank before shipping? If you did who did it? Thank you 😊
I am an English girl currently travelling through Mexico alone. I am confused because the local people have been next level helpful and kind and not asked a penny and yet Mexico is still dangerous. Even the locals agree. I wonder what makes Mexico dangerous and what do they want?
Yeah it's strange because on a personal level we've had very little danger. I think if you follow general tourist routes, even slightly off the beaten path you'll be okay. But Chiapas has had more issues than usual the past few months and I think everyone is on edge because road blocks and protests can happen seemingly overnight. The road we drove to that campsite was impassable a week ago because the main highway was blocked. I think generally travelling Mexico is safe, but if you want to go looking for trouble, you can probably find it. Glad to hear you're having a great time though 🥰
I am disappointed that you are not able to go through the Central American countries. Was looking forward to seeing you two drive through the likes of Costa Rica. How crazy is that to have rules against right hand drive vehicles there?
You and us both Darryl 😔 Although we knew this before we even left. Such a stupid rule! But it means we get to South America sooner and that’s where we’re REALLY excited to explore 💛
Actually l thought that Tapachula was going to be the way. Up the there in Chiapas there is always, these days, besides the cartels, political problems where people block roads in protest. That last of the video was very peaceful, good for charging your energy batteries to face the next part of your trip.
Yep unless you’re driving further north it’s a coin toss really what border to take. We’ve had a few friends cross at various borders over the past couple of weeks with no problems so keep your fingers crossed for us 💛💛
Hi, when Ben made you jump looking at the crocodiles in the mangroves I jumped too and nearly dropped the phone in the bath 😂. Please stay safe on this next border crossing, I'm sending positive vibes that you have no trouble 🤞with love Sue and Bryn xx
Sue this literally made us laugh out loud 😂 😂 😂 Glad Ben didn't ruin your phone! 🙈 Border was chaotic but we got there in the end, about to finish up the edit now! Hope you guys are doing well, sending love from us xx 💕
ooo you guys are nuts....love you both thou....LOL
Coconuts? 🙂🙂🙂
I look forward to your videos. Thanks!
This is really lovely to hear, thank you 🫶✨
Just the perfect ending to this leg of the adventure .... River has such skills !! May the road be open and free and big hugs to you all xx Love from us xx
Thank you 🙏 Lots of love xxx
Ah ha ..... mutual globetrotters. Love watching you all on your adventures, thank you.
@@bobbutcher7725 Bestest of best friends 😍
Hello dear friends, I found it a bit unsettling to watch you planning your route. Looks as if you made the best decision. Both pups cracked me up, Scout with her good morning speech and River playing coconut nose soccer. Ben you have a quite a sarcastic sense of humor 'one more day closer to death' indeed. Catching Chesca unaware in feet of the crocs was so mean but very funny. You have likely crossed the border by now and I hope it went smoothly. Hugs to the four of you and safe travels💞💞💞💞
Feeling apprehensive about the crossing but we always get like that with borders so trust everything will be okay. I think it will just be a bit hectic. Haha yep Ben has a dark and dry sense of humour, one of the many things I love about the man. Even if I did nearly push him into the crocs 😭😂 xxx
@@OverlandingSophia 😂😂🌞🩷🩷
I've traveled the world quite a bit too. Yes!! Always take the scenic route especially if it includes english condiments, holes to dig for doggos and fruit trees - as long as there's no land sharks and cartels 😁
Love this! Pretty basic requirements really! 😂 💞
I can’t help but worry after seeing this video. Will be eagerly awaiting for next weeks video! Sending all the positive vibes to you and this week of travel. It’s sad that there is so much danger and uncertainty in this world 😢. I know you’ll be ok and things will be just fine so, safe travels as always and enjoy the ride!!
Shade and sweet water
🩵🩵🩵🩵
It’s not been our favourite part of the trip so far. There is a lot of uncertainty in this area at the moment but with advice from locals and some common sense we should be okay. Thanks for the lovely message xx 💕
So excited for the Guatamala content.
Yay love to hear this! 🫶❤️
You directed yourselves to your best choice. Everything will go wonderfully and you will be in Guatemala soon. Banish the doubt. Thanks for sharing!
Thank you so much, amen to that! 🙏💞
That beach was nice with the sunset ,right at the very end with the campfire and cider looked like heaven too .
We used to have so many campfires in the US and Canada but it’s been too hot for them down here. Was really nice to sit around one again 🫶💞
Which ever way you go, Just take care and keep your doors locked especially at night.
We’ve been staying at campsites so have actually been sleeping with our doors wide open at night 😂
Beautiful sunset on the beach. All the best crossing the border. Stay safe. Looking forward to next week as usual. Hello from snowbound Cape Breton!
Thanks so much Cathy! Heard NS got a real dumping of snow recently, hope you're all okay 💛
Deciding on routes! Exciting times ahead. Stay safe on the road!
Wishing ye a safe journey to South America. Stay safe on the road. 😃
Thanks so much Pat 🫶
Safe travels ❤❤
Thank you 🙏 💛
❤❤❤father was with aid to international development in Guatemala, lived at ambassadors compound with armed guards 27/7, neighbor said many bandits, people up in the mountains, give niece impression but turn low clas quickly
Yeah it’s had a lot of problems. They’ve put a lot of effort into rebuilding tourism in recent years but we probably won’t be disappearing into remote mountains 🥲
Those campsites sound like when backing packing through Europe hopping from hostel to hostel and seeing the same folks ❤ Happy trials/trails on this next leg!
Yesss! That’s exactly the vibe! 🫶💛
Great video thank for sharing.keep safe both 👍
Thank you 🤗🫶
❤ the vlog guys plz stay safe.❤
I have been wondering about your safety as you drove through Mexico. I pray you are protected as you travel to the border. Enjoy your adventure! 🙏🏻
Safety in Mexico is… you will be very unlikely to run into trouble if you know where you’re going. If you disappear into the mountains to look for trouble, you’ll probably find it!
Stay safe guys, you are living the life we all want :)
🫶 💛
Still watching from Cape Breton. 🙂 Stay safe my friends!
Aw yes this is always our favourite to hear! Hope you are doing well, heard you guys are getting a ton of snow right now? 💛
150cm. like wtf. lol The drifts in places were almost 3 meters high! lol Had to go spend 2k CAD on a snow blower still took two days to dig out lol@@OverlandingSophia
Gled to see you, guys. Good luck in your new traveling.
Thank you so much 💛
I'll be sending positive thoughts for your safe, uneventful as possible border crossing.
Much appreciated, thank you Deidre! 💛
One added benefit (hopefully) to your chosen route, driving along the coast should be lovely? 🤞
Ben looked proper proud of himself jumping like that! 😁 Yikes, though, that's super scary being so close!
Safe travels to you lot! ❤️❤️😎👍xx
Yes, he was very proud of himself 🙄 Sweet revenge needs to be plotted!
The coast is lovely indeed, not many places to stay and it's very hot, but nothing much to complain about 🥰 Love to you both xx
Hope the border crossing went well guys. Be sure to stay at Pasaj Cap when you get to Laguna Atitlán. Pierre has an amazing campground and it is a great place to squeeze in some Spanish lessons 👍
Still undecided whether to hit Atitlan! But thanks for the camp recommendation, as we were struggling to decide where to go. Hope you guys are all good 💛🧡
Be on guard guys and Godspeed.
Thanks so much Kim ❤️
Loving this stretch of the trip. Looking forward to Guatemala. Great campsite, especially with Crocs as neighbours.
Safe Travels Guys. All the Best.👍
Thanks so much my love, yeah, think things are going to start getting more and more interesting now!
Hi, great vlog. By now you would have crossed the border, I hope everything went ok for you. Safe travels❤❤
Thank you Sue 🙏 💛
Great Video guys! Good luck on the border crossing! I'll be doing one tomorrow as well (Albeit in and Airport in Germany LOL). We also made plans for Panama in April... can't wait! River needs a herding ball....or, coconut.
I’d give anything for a quick and efficient German border crossing! 😂 Safe travels (to or from?) Germany, and yes, River needs a herding ball! Might save her nipping my ankles which she still does although Ben says it’s because I have sheep feet 🤨 xx
Oh please stay safe, hope all has gone well with the border crossing. Beautiful places to be before you cross tho. The dogs look like they're having the time of their lives. Scary to be so close to the crocs. Sending lots of love xx
Thanks lovely, all is good! Just need to watch where we are 🥲 Dogs are happy to be anywhere outside, beaches and coconuts seem to be Rivers happy place. Girl after my own heart! Hope you’re all good, lots of love xxx 💞
When you get home, you should look up herding balls. I bet River would love one 🥰
She really would! We tried her with one aaaages ago and she didn't really get it, but now she's discovered the coconuts I think she'd love it!
@@OverlandingSophia it's so cute when they learn new ways to play! At least she's herding the coconuts for now and not you 😂
hi guys! Could you possibly do a video on the things you cook in the van and your go to things you buy when doing a food shop anywhere you go? Hugs to u all 💓💓
The things we cook change all the time due to ingredients etc but can definitely show the staples of what we buy! Will be interesting next week being in Guatemala for the first time and seeing how similar/different the grocery shops are to Mexico 🫶
Sophia parked up by the Caribbean😱 how incredible that thought must be!!! Just love the slow pace, my ideal camping vibe at that last spot!! Safe travels folks xx
I know Sally!! That’s going to be the most surreal moment 🫠😍 xx
Best of luck for a smooth border crossing!
Thank you so much! 🙏
Hello, We will be watching this when we have our dinner later. Happy Days guys xx
My cousin is in Costa Rica this week, bird watching holiday.
Ah amazing, hope you enjoy! Yeah the bird life is meant to just get better and better the further into Central America you go! Xx
@@OverlandingSophia it was a lovely chilled film, looks beautiful there, all the best next week.
Safe journey guys.
Thank you 💞🫶
What a vlog guys, fingers crossed for the border crossing. As others have said its hard to believe its been 4 months. As always looking forward to the next episode.
All the best
Bryan and Dawn
Mr&Mrs_H_on_tour
From a cold Yorkshire
Thanks so much guys, appreciate that a lot. Yeah time has gone by SO quickly. We crossed the Mexico border beginning of October 😮 xx
Another class video guys ❤
Thank you so much 🥹 xx
Absolutely love you guys. We follow many van lifers and you two are the most interesting and educational of all. Keep it up. We look forward to your videos. Xx
Oh thank you so much 🥹💞💞
"One more day closer to death" 🤣 Hilarrrrrrrrrrr!!! Loved this video SO much. My heart was racing a bit watching you try to decide what border to choose. And I must say, it didn't help when I saw Ben's seatbelt was twisted at 9:43 (A type personality much?) I paused the video to look right into Scout's eyes to say good morning to him and like usual, River brought a smile to face playing with that coconut - what a SWEETIE. Nothing better than getting back from a sunday morning hike to see an Overlanding Sophia video has dropped. xo
Hehe thank you my love! This comment melted our hearts 🫶🫶 Scout will stare into your soul and steal it if you aren’t careful! 😆 xx
4 months Mexico already?? You've come so far since your start of camperfan live. Still remember your first few videos from Belgium and the Netherlands. Stay safe!!❤
Ineke you are forever one of our OGs 🥹🫶 ❤️❤️
You could have got your own back Chesca, while ben was snoozing, dreaming about croc's, you should have grabbed his big toe 🤣🤣🤣
Stay safe guys 👍🐸
I actually can’t believe I let that opportunity pass me by. Now my revenge has to be twice as sweet!!
Hey Guys, exciting times await you.. I will manifest a safe journey forward for you all! 🙏.. I think option 2 feels better.. no one needs a risky cartel crossing. Funny people mistake you for a bus.. 🚌. That Walmart is very fully stocked.. 👌
Your van isn’t messy, it’s homely and lived in.. a little sort and all good! 👍 tortillas for Ben and that’s a wrap! 😂😂. Really do appreciate a good drone shot of the coast. The sound of the sea is just so peaceful.. 🐊 crocodiles, keep an eye 👁️ out.. 😂😂. “I don’t want to drive this van or do the washing up” made me laugh.. so did the scare 😂😂.. poor bird.. yeah don’t get scoffed… until next time, keep safe and see you next week. ❤️🙏👌
Thanks Mark, feeling a little apprehensive about it but we should be good, keep your fingers crossed for us 🤞 That poor bird indeed, it just disappeared! Hope you’re having a lovely weekend, love from all of us xx 💞
@@OverlandingSophia fingers crossed 🤞 indeed.. slightly less enjoyable weekend and someone gave me a cold. But lemsip and a large amount of UA-cam fixes everything. Sending Love back ❤️👌 xx
Hi there,you guys always find the most beautiful beaches. Ya been hearing places in Mexico are kind of sketchy. By now you have safely cross the border ❤. Love those dogs/ kids. Scout talking and River playing ball. Ok those 🐊 are scary. Stay away far away. Be safe❤
It’s not hard to find a good beach down here! Haha the dogs act more like kids than dogs sometimes 😂 Hope all is good with you, sending love xx 💛
All is good,getting ready for another snowstorm on Tuesday 😢. Only 20cm😂 to add to the snowbomb from last week. ❤
At the 19 minute mark when you have the arrow pointing watch this bird, there is a croc swimming in the water in front of you between the sticks. Look just below where your arrow is drawn
Yes! That’s the caiman Ben keeps talking about. He was watching that while I was watching the bird 😂
Brilliant to watch Both. Wonderful to see the Croc's that close. Haha trust Ben to play up lol. The dogs are having fun, scouts talking and river playing football lol. All the best with the border crossing. Take Care Both. Love and Big Hugs ❤
Thanks Asa 🤗 Yep I need to plan some sweet revenge me thinks! Love and hugs xxx 💞
Great vid, as usual, thanks for producing, please be safe as you travel in central America, will be interested to see Belize, have friends and relatives that stay there in the winter, English speaking, so should be easier, take care and stay safe, Rick and Susan, from San Jose del Cabo, Baja California sur, Mexico
Yes we can’t wait to see Belize! Heard lots of good things about it. Love to you both in Baja 💛🧡
Best of luck crossing the border, what a beautiful place amazing beach, even with the crocs lol.
Safe travels
Thanks Russell, we’re a long way from Nova Scotia now 🙂💛
Another great video guys. Glad to see Chesca looking better. We think despite it being a bit of a faff you have chosen the right option for crossing. Stay safe and well. Hugs - Andrew and Shona
If you guys think that too, we know we’ve made the right choice 🤗💞
Jus Love your Channel the Excitement/Journey you two are Absolutely Amazing.
Love you guys Please be Careful/Safe 🌿❤️❤️🌿
It cracks me up everytime I Hear Ben say Quake 😂
Much Love from West Coast Canada 🍁 🍻
Ah thank you so much for the lovely words 🥹 But have to say, when does Ben say Quake?! Are we missing something 😅… xx
Ah thank you so much for the lovely words 🥹 But have to say, when does Ben say Quake?! Are we missing something 😅… xx
Yes that's why I laugh so hard..Jus Love it..👍👍
‘Another day closer to death’ is one my favourite sayings - my wife hates it. Anyway, what a nice peaceful vid. Every time I see and hear that morning coffee, I want some. Stay safe guys.
Haha it’s a great saying, keeps you on your toes 😉 Very few things in life taste as good as fresh coffee in the morning!
We didn’t know about the problems at this border. Hope everything turn out okay 🥰
Yep it doesn’t seem there’s an easy option! 😅🙈
We both laughed out loud at Ben saying one day closer to death 🤣🤣 sending yas lots of love. Ps. I would not be that close to that water, I would be miles back with the big boy lens hahaha
Haha I know I’m giving myself anxiety just thinking how close we were 🤮 Think we were even closer to death that day! 😂😂 xx
Great post and stick to your gut instincts about safety while travelling . The quick route maybe the most dangerous as you are fully aware of. Interesting places you are travelling to
Totally agree, thanks Dean 🙌💛
Totally agree! Thanks Dean 🫶💛
I believe the bird that went under the water was an Anhinga. The one in the tree was a Wood Stork. Love you guys videos.
Yes you’re right! I really want to get a birding logbook so I can identify and check off some of the beautiful birds down here. Hopefully not in the middle of being dinner! 🙈
Hi Ches Ben. I crossed Messilla a few months ago by bike I never felt uncomfortable at any point. There is a great town Comitan which I loved too and people so friendly. In fact the road from San Cristobal is beutiful as it drops down into a valley on perfectly paved roads I actually stayed 2 nights in mesilla walking around as I needed a rest day. The road up from the crossing on the Guatemala side is a bit crazy cause of all the chicken buses !😂 now they drive crazy 😂. Takes you up into the highlands of Guatemala. You’re going to love it Best. Steve. See you when you catch me up in South America 😂🚴
Ah that's great to hear! So glad you had a more than great border crossing there! We had some friends who tried to cross about 2 months ago and they got stuck in a roadblock past Comitan, guys with machetes etc. Told them to turn around in perfect English. They turned around but met police further back, who said they'd escort them through the roadblock. Then when they reached it, the police abandoned them and the roadblock mob were pissed off at them for coming back. It was a nightmare for them but we also have some German friends who just passed and had no problem! I like to think they were unlucky. Whereabouts are you now?! 💛
😂😂😂you guys are too funny!!! You remind me of a friend of mine who has ran 33 marathons but complained about me parking too far from mall entrance 🤣🤣🤣 you already drove several thousands of miles…what is the time concern? 🤣🤣🤣 ❤❤❤ you guys
Hahaha! No one likes doing more than they absolutely have to 😆🫶
Been waiting all day for this moment! Usual jabberings to follow! ❤
Enjoy!! ✨
Belize has the best scuba diving. Clear water, and colorfull corals and fish.
Can't wait 😊
Good luck on episode of the van going to another country & 🤞🤞🤞🤞
Thanks lovely 🫶
Your combined wisdom has served you well so far and I believe you made the right choice a few hours extra for the safer route is a smart plan...safe travels and if you crack that coconut on Ben's head we'll look the other way LOL...Karl from eastern Canada P.S. Cape Breton Nova Scotia got 5 feet of snow last week
Hahah don’t tempt me Karl! 😂 🥥
Safe travels 😊
Thank you! 💛🫶
Many many miles from Nova Scotia, that's for sure!
Yes indeed! No coconuts up there 🥴
❤ GR8 VID ❤ LOVED IT ❤
Thanks David 🤗💛
Happy Sunday my loves! 💕 We had some difficult decisions this week. Let us know - which route would you have chosen?
Hope you can make it to your destination.
Thank you! Us too 😅💛
Cheers to a safe border crossing!!!
We can cheers to that! 🍻
Hopefully you had a good crossing. We crossed at La Mesilla and it was a very straightforward process albeit hectic. It's true about the wild camping. I long for all the great options back up north and in Europe. Morocco and Turkiye was kind of the same. Just never know when someone will roll up on you out in the wild there. I know it's out of the way for you but El Salvador is pretty nice. But it will be hot. See you guys down south.
We’d been planning on La Mesilla for the past few weeks but a lot of unrest has been building here recently. I think we would have been fine, but yeah, decided on the hot scenic route instead.
Totally agree about the freedom in Europe and North America. We didn’t realise how difficult it would be here. It will come again in time. Then we’ll wish for campsites by the beach with coconuts, electricity and bins 😅💛
@@OverlandingSophia social and political instabilities around these parts are definitely concerning. Timing is everything. I hope you will love Guatemala. Probably our favorite country in all of Central America.
@@malimish Did you guys to Atitlan? We're really not feeling like doing it due to the long detour it will be and how popular it is - feels like it might be somewhere to go on a trip rather than drive around a van in. But a couple of people say otherwise!
Hi Ben and Chesca
We was watching you’re video and if you look right where Ben was standing when the crocodile took the bird, you didn’t notice that there was another your side close to where Ben went down to the water very close to BEN.
🐊
Oh god 😳 Will have to go back and see! There were crocs everywhere there, couldn’t believe it!
Oh god 😳 Will have to go back and see! There were crocs everywhere there, couldn’t believe it!
@@OverlandingSophia look close to the bank my wife Tracy noticed it first and when Ben went to the edge it didn’t look good xxxx
Belize!!! You could ferry to Honduras.
We considered Honduras! But however far south we drive, we have to drive back north to Veracruz. Guatemala/ Belize is our limit on this trip 🫶
Veracruz is awesome!
You guys are braver than me i wouldnt go there mexico to dangerous i just hope my fellow devonians make it out alive xx
If it’s worth anything we felt less safe in many parts of the US 😕
Did I hear you say that Turkey was 2 years ago? The Hammam episode with Philly and Keely, was one of the funniest YT videos I think I’ve ever seen. Flipping hilarious. Can’t believe it was 2 years ago though
Yes!! Still also the funniest video I edited! We have a GIF of Ben sliding around the marble table slathered in foam in our group chat with Philly and Keely 😂 🍑 Time flies!!
Be careful. Glad you found such a nice place to stay... minus the croc's. Hopefully the border crossing is uneventful
Thank you, we hope so too 🙏
Loved this- what an adventure- crocs were so close 😮I’m interested to know what the Mexican food shop came to as like you say was expecting it to be cheap 😊
Oh that was probably have been useful for me to not cut that bit out 🙈 It came to a grand total of £300!!
Have walked across the border at Tapachula several times to do our visas runs. Yes busy but never had a problem. Just ignore the money changers, they are usually harmless. Never drove over border but saw many doing it. It will be good. Just for information the Guatemala border office is easy to pass by, we did it once, we’re almost across in to Mexico and realized we hadn’t stamped out of Guatemala 😂😂
This is really wonderful to hear, thank you so, so much Anne! We think it should be fine, borders are always nerve wracking experiences with two dogs and a UK van 😂 💛
@@OverlandingSophia Yes that does make it trickier. It is more congested on Guatemala side, but just have papers in order and all will be ok. Will be waiting to hear how it goes.
Hope you have better luck then I did getting into Guatemala through Tapachula. I got so frustrated with all the Third World Border crossing BS I ended up turning around and going back to Mexico and that was over 40 years ago. So I eventually got into Guatemala going through Belize but the border crossing wasn't any better there either. It took almost 4 hrs of waiting for the shift change so we finally got someone who would stamp our visas.
I think a lot has changed in 40 years, well, we hope it has 😅
Many things have changed alright but some things never seem to change. You'll be fine and and on your way to some incredible places and people. Sometimes I think too much information makes you worry and not do things you would if you just fly by the seat of your pants. You're making memories you will remember for the rest of your life.@@OverlandingSophia
@@vanman3752 This is so true! There’s a lot to be said for just going with the flow and not getting in your head too much about it. Thanks for the lovely message 💕
I couldn’t stop giggling at “one stop closer to death”
Me neither 😅🤡
Stay safe x
Thanks Denise 🤗 xx
Simple decision. Go back to your port of departure for shipping to Colombia. Find a boarding home for the dogs. There is one spot in Guatemala that is a don't miss --- Lake Atitlan. Often called the most beautiful lake in the world. Ten Mayan villages scattered around the lake, each with its own dress and culture. Perfect weather. Transport is by inexpensive boat connecting all of them. If you really must see it, fly from Mexico and take express busses on the Pan American Highway to the Lake. Cheap accommodation from $10 to $40 per night. Otherwise go to Colombia, spend a week sweltering in Cartegena and then head for the towns and cities of the Coffee Triangle. (My favorite is Manizales.)
I wouldn't face the wave of migrants and all the sharks circling around them on the route you've chosen for any amount of money.
I understand where you're coming from but this really isn't an option for us. There is so much of Guatemala and Belize we want to explore and we can't just leave the dogs in boarding when things get difficult. This isn't a holiday really, but an adventure, and we expect to be pushed out of our comfort zones 😊
Sorry, but your response to my suggestion is not very logical. If you want to have "more adventure", why not try to crash the borders at midnight with your wrong hand drive van? Or I'm sure there is a cartel somewhere who would build a truck body around it and smuggle it south for a $$$ fee. I might "want to" climb Mount Everest, but that doesn't mean I'd try to do it having never climbed a mountain before.
@@richardelder256 Adventure is subjective I guess. Either way, we made it into Guatemala fine 👍
I know nothing about Mexican birds, but are you sure it wasn't a Cormorant, which can stay under water for several minutes.
As far as we know, birds don't dive body first. This one went down body first, then came up and went down again, body first, and then a ripple just beneath the surface made a line and disappeared into the mangroves. I think if it had dove down you wouldn't see any ripple on the surface. And also, the bird landed on the water right where we'd just seen a croc disappear beneath the water. So, we think it was definitely a mother nature moment 😔
I was today years old when i learned there was a town in Mexico called Tabasco
I can raise you one up and let you know there is an entire state called Tabasco! 🔥
Don’t forget to claim River’s coconut at the border!
😂😂
How do you get updated information on border crossings rules ?
Fellow travellers and Facebook groups!
Any update on Rosie? Just found your channel and been watching random videos of you guys, is she in uk now?
She is back with my mum! She has been with her for 1.5 years now, and is the most spoilt, loved dog with a sister called Belle. We did her proud 🥲 💞
How do you organise yearly MOT while travelling the world? Do you need to re register license plates?
MOT isn’t recognised outside of the EU, so it’s not needed for anything. But when we ship back to the UK, we need to have Sophia booked in for one as soon as we get her off the ship 🙂
Guys, have you had “The Knock” from anybody as of yet? I did back in the 80’s and I got Beaten & Robbed….
Jesus 😳 Only got the knock once in Vancouver from some friendly security guards!
Just catching back up with you guys from your Turkey days 😊 how does everyone fund this lifestyle? I'm not convinced YT alone generates enough money to ship vans round the globe 😮
Can I ask a question about when you shipped your van to Halifax NS, did you have to get a tank empty certificate for the LPG tank before shipping? If you did who did it? Thank you 😊
We read that we did need it, but we didn’t need one in the end and the shipping company never asked for one! ✨
@@OverlandingSophia 🤦🏻♀️Yeah just read the drop of at Liverpool info and it says not required thankfully.
Curious to know how much the oil and filter cost?
£165! 🙂
I am an English girl currently travelling through Mexico alone. I am confused because the local people have been next level helpful and kind and not asked a penny and yet Mexico is still dangerous. Even the locals agree. I wonder what makes Mexico dangerous and what do they want?
Yeah it's strange because on a personal level we've had very little danger. I think if you follow general tourist routes, even slightly off the beaten path you'll be okay. But Chiapas has had more issues than usual the past few months and I think everyone is on edge because road blocks and protests can happen seemingly overnight. The road we drove to that campsite was impassable a week ago because the main highway was blocked. I think generally travelling Mexico is safe, but if you want to go looking for trouble, you can probably find it. Glad to hear you're having a great time though 🥰
Tapachula is easy, but it is hot.
It was pleasantly straightforward! But it did take us an age to get across, and you're right, it was HOT 🥵
Having lived in Fl I would be concerned for the side of the mangrove you were actually standing on 😮 there could have been some out of view 😅
Omg I know watching it back I was thinking we were not concerned enough! 🙈
I am disappointed that you are not able to go through the Central American countries. Was looking forward to seeing you two drive through the likes of Costa Rica. How crazy is that to have rules against right hand drive vehicles there?
You and us both Darryl 😔 Although we knew this before we even left. Such a stupid rule! But it means we get to South America sooner and that’s where we’re REALLY excited to explore 💛
And that was proper national geographic 🤩
My wildlife lens has broken but wish I'd been able to capture the croc-action up close! They were everywhere 😳
Also wanted to ask if you learned Spanish on the road ?? If so do you recommend an app? I’m currently using the free duo lingo
We are doing our best to learn! We use DuoLingo and Rosetta Stone 🥰
Watch the bird . . . Oh no !
Didn't sink in at the time that birds don't dive underwater body first 🙈
Thank goodness Ben has a critical skill and Chesca has a forgiving heart. But one of these days . . .
I'm not sure I quite understand this ominous comment..
Actually l thought that Tapachula was going to be the way. Up the there in Chiapas there is always, these days, besides the cartels, political problems where people block roads in protest. That last of the video was very peaceful, good for charging your energy batteries to face the next part of your trip.
Yep unless you’re driving further north it’s a coin toss really what border to take. We’ve had a few friends cross at various borders over the past couple of weeks with no problems so keep your fingers crossed for us 💛💛
@@OverlandingSophia l will.
Love your blonde dog, is it a retriever ? 🌟
He is a street dog from Turkey! And is part Akbash 🙂
@@OverlandingSophia Wow!!! So gentle .. and pretty ♥️