From Manzanillo and Las Hadas anchorage, we traveled back up to Banderas Bay.  Our trip back included some new stops and re-visiting some of our favorite places again.  Highlights were the anchorage in a wonderful bay near Manzanillo called Carisol and Ipala just before rounding Cabo Corrientes the hard way--against the wind to return to the bay. 

We ventured inland to Colima, Comala and up toward the volcan del fuego, an active volcano beyond Comala.  Our trip from Manzanillo by bus took about 2 hours and we went up in elevation and inland past a large lagoon south of Manzanillo.  The hills were decorated with lovely white blooming trees somewhat like dogwoods and the land was still an interesting combination of dry and tropical with cactus, trees and scrub brush.  The entrance to Colima featured many fruit stands with colorful watermelons cut open and stacked by the side of the road.  We found our way into the center of the city and chose Hotel Merced because we loved the central courtyard with pool, lovely plants, patio and tables.  Our room was converted from the old stables and featured hight ceilings and thick wooden door.  The flowers, tiles and lovely rose color of the terracotta floors and plaster walls made for a serene spot.  We explored the three central parks in the city, with fountains and bandstands and visited museums.  Our favorite adventure was taking the bus up toward the volcano and visiting the town of Comala.  Each afternoon, the restaurants on the square feature free snacks when you buy your drinks.  The snacks keep right on coming and the mariachi bands play in the restaurants, along the covered eating area outside and gather in the central square across the street.  It is a major gathering place for tourists and locals alike.  See photos of masks from a town up the hill from Comala, photos of artifacts from the home of Alexander Rangell Hidalgo outside of Comala!  We really enjoyed this trip and took 4 days inland there before returning to the boat in the marina at Las Hadas.