We’ve just returned from another visit to Rancho Encantado, which is more beautiful than ever. Each year the landscaping seems to be even more lush! The Laguna, of course, never fails to enchant with the sounds of the crystalline water lapping gently against the shore. In the morning we hear the sounds of the parrots passing by.
The weather was still moist, coming out of the rainy season, but for someone who lives in a cold, dry climate, the moisture was quite wonderful and the occasional light rains never enough to stop one from doing whatever they had planned.
In our case, our plans took us frequently to Chetumal where we purchased a number of necessities for our newly built house, Casa Estrella de Bacalar, adjacent to Rancho Encantado.
The roads are vastly improved with a four-lane highway just about complete, making the trip quick and easy.
Mallina continues to keep everything running smoothly, in addition to being the Director of Spa Services with her soothing, caring ministrations to body and soul. If that were not enough, she has come up with a marvelous new bread recipe and I had thought what we had previously was the best there was! Food is always a pleasure in the large open-air palapa whether it’s a breakfast buffet with pitchers of freshly squeezed orange juice to greet the day, or a fresh seafood dinner at candlelit tables.
Although the entire area is growing by leaps and bounds, offering more services and easier transportation from the city of Chetumal to the Caribbean beaches of Mahahual or the spectacular Mayan ruins of the region, the Rancho continues to be an oasis of privacy and tranquility. The pace simply invites “being there” without distractions, and slowing down becomes natural. 
There’s time to hear the breeze in the palm trees, go for a dip in the warm waters, swing, read or nap in your hammock, indulge in a snack of guacamole and chips whenever you get the urge, or refresh with one of the tropical drinks, many of which are made for the health-conscious with fresh vegetables and fruits.
Now is the launching of the tourist season, and the Rancho is ready to receive guests with their usual hospitality and personal attention. The fresh hibiscus in each room is a reminder of the gifts of a tropical climate and the towels arranged into charming swans will be sure to bring a smile upon entering your own private casita. All the houses have been painted on the exterior, with the feeling of being nestled against the foliage. Inside or outside, there’s plenty of private space to enjoy.
