By Jane Bauer

Summer on the Oaxacan Riviera is a tempest. The landscape is lush and unruly, animals emerge along with flowers and vines that cannot be tamed. It lacks the inclination of stability you have probably come to love in winter; guaranteed sunshine, no rain, everything in its place.

In summer, each day is a crapshoot- it could be sunny or the sky could open up and unleash torrents and then it can rain for five minutes or for five days. Rains bad reputation is wholly undeserved. The sound of a jungle rain is one of nature’s greatest symphonies. You can almost hear the leaves growing on the trees as the dust of winter washes away. And when the rain passes, it leaves behind the greenest grass and the birds sweetest songs.

This month our writers explored the natural world; tarantulas, coatis, chachalacas and of course the amazing flowers to be found. Each month we aspire to inspire you to take a deeper look at Oaxaca; its mouth-watering foods, unique and diverse cultures, the rich bounty of its land. While beaches and ocean life often take centre stage there is a world of wonder under every leaf and in every tree.

There is no shortage of fun activities to keep you busy. In Oaxaca City there is the excitement of the world renowned Guelaguetza shows and the minor league baseball season is in full swing. On the coast be sure to check out Huatulco’s Organic Market, take a jungle walk or brave the rivers with white water rafting.

So rain or shine, open your eyes to the world around you, open your arms to the sky and I promise, it will be a great summer!

See you next month,

Jane