In the colonial cities throughout much of Mexico, the town square is called the zócalo. The zócalo is located in the old center of the city and is a multi-purpose destination. On one side is usually the cathedral. Government buildings such as the governor’s palace or a museum flank another quadrant. Many are resplendent with portales, arched walkways with outdoor cafes to nosh and people watch. They are the place to see and be seen. I remember sitting on the zocalo in Oaxaca watching the teens circle, boys in one direction, girls in the other. The aunties on benches served as chaperones. Lord are those days gone forever! Welcome to our humble park.
The wonderful gazebo, in the center of the park houses dance classes, tai chi, health fairs and games of tag .
Bacalar’s town square is called el parque. On Friday night it is hopping. Families come to let the kids play, buy a treat and mingle with the tourists.
The parque is also where children put on school presentations and holidays are celebrated.
A walk around the outside of the park starts on the north where several small restaurants attract mostly tourists with regional cuisine and hamburgers.
Notice the bilingual sign. Bicycles provide transportation.
In the northeast corner is an office building devoted to tourism. It is newly painted with colorful murals.
To the east is the pirate fort overlooking the Laguna. Young Guatemalan girls sell their wares in its shadow. These two wanted “three dollars” to take their picture. With lots of giggling, they got five pesos each.
View from the fort and museum
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On the southwest corner, local artists sell wonderful jewelry and wind chimes made from shells found in the laguna. I love to visit to see their latest creations. Shop here to take home that special keepsake.
Continuing around the park you pass the ATMs and on to the municiple offices. It’s time to pay 2015 property taxes. If paid by the end of December there’s a 25% discount!
I hope you enjoyed our little walk in the park. It’s our favorite place to hang out. Did I mention it has wifi? Love our little town.
the adventures of dos tortas 
I love finding el parquet in every community. There is most usually a great basket ball game to watch. Bacalar’s is very quaint.
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How sweet! I feel like I just took a trip to Bacalar. Love town squares and the hub bub.
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I have more pictures that I did use. I will post them to the facebook page. Thanks for stopping by Nancy.
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I miss our little town! I hope you both had a lovely Christmas…and Happy New Year! w/love, L
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Grest NYE party at Carolina’s. You just need to be here.
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A discount for paying taxes early! I love it! Wish they’d do that in the states.
I love what I have seen of your little town.
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