2 hrs, 3 kms

The walking is actually quite pleasant, with little gems all along the way, tiny colorful houses surrounded by beautiful gardens . Even if people are of limited means, they still like to make their homes charming and unique.

Then, on an empty stretch of road, I spot something through the trees: an untouched, isolated beach, with clean, smooth black sand and boulders and trees enclosing it at both ends. I've discovered my first personal beach, and I know I must take some time to soak in the experience.

I sit in the shade and gaze out, feeling like a true explorer who has found something beautiful--overlooked by both tourists and locals. Of course I have to go for a swim--which proves to be a bit more challenging, as the ground drops sharply and there's a nasty rip current, so I don't dare go in very far.

Still a magical moment.