Casa Mihale was just what we hoped it would be…a complete break from the cold and dark of a New England winter. The sunshine and warmth, and the softness of the sea air quickly enveloped us. The unexpected delight for us, however, was to have the Casa set amongst village houses. This gave us endless contentment to be able to see the kids, cats, dogs, chickens, (and a rabbit), parents, uncles, aunts and abuelita herself…playing, cooking gardening and washing in the yards around us. And the family below us, Beto, Chema, Ari and Arad welcomed us with open arms, going out of their way to make sure our every need was met. (We found their relaxed and gentle charm a true trait of the Oaxacan people wherever we went.)
The ocean (and some great fishing with Beto) took me back to my childhood growing up on the Dolphin Coast of KwaZulu/Natal in South Africa. But unlike what has happened in South Africa, this coastal area is largely unspoilt, and being kept that way through the eco-diligence of the locals.
The open-air design of the Casa is perfect for the setting. We spent a lot of time just gazing out to sea – often spotting whales and schools of dolphins. And, if you like to cook like I do, the kitchen setup is well thought out and supplied by Leigh. (Though, if I had my druthers, I’d want a native, wood-fired, clay comal!) And the fresh fish and fruit! Aaah, the fruit…oranges, bananas, paw paws, mangoes, guavas, and pineapples all with perfumed flavors that you just don’t find in the temperate climes.
So, hats off to Leigh Morrow for all the work she did beforehand to help us understand the place we were going to. Her joy for the San Agustinillo is contagious. And, we got to see why.
Thank you.
Barry and Sarah Clarke, East Thetford, Vermont, USA