Perquin and Suchitoto, a quick visit.

Had a 5 day stint in El Salvador 10 days ago, had a wonderful time and adored the people. Probably the friendliest i have met in Central America.
Came in through the Honduras border after having spent the previous night in Chinandega. I stayed there as opposed to Leon so i could make sure to reach Perquin by nightfall. No stamp at the border, confirmed at the airport on the way out that they do not issue stamps at that border and they do not stamp you going out. If you need the stamp for any reason, you need to fly in. I took a series of local buses, they all hook up. First from the border to the route 7 turnoff then the next bus to Gotera. From there it is best to take a pick up as they are faster and run pretty consistently all day till dark. Perquin is small, mountainous and pretty. I had timed my visit to see the Fiesta de San Sebastian (21/22 Jan), a three day event with the town coming together every evening in the small square. It is maybe the smallest fiesta i have been too. One of the other towns on the Rut de Paz, Arambala, also holds a 5 day fiesta at the same time with bull riding, small carnival and even a greasy pole competition. Both a lot of fun though the latter is bigger. I spent two days cruising around the events and checking out the war museum in town which is very interesting. I did not follow the Routa de Paz as i am coming back in June. Stayed at Hotel Perkin Lenka, one of two places to stay. $20 a night with breakfast but very nice rooms and i think you can do it cheaper in the dorms but it is worth it. There is one hostal in town, basic and friendly at $7. There is a third place in the middle of the small town but it is only open in fits and starts. If anyone is looking for Volunteer opportunities, there is a local school that has a program. Contact through Hotel Perkin Lenka.
Got a ride the next day to San Martin, apparently we took a brand new road that more or less parallels the pan American but goes runs further north through many small villages. I have no idea what it is called. Was dropped at the turn off from the pan american for Suchitoto where i caught a bus to Suchitoto, less than an hour. Lovely little town with colonial square and lots of interesting colonial architecture. It is definately not bustling during the week, which i enjoyed. Buses to the lake run all day, views from around town very cool. Good for a wander. I stayed at Posada Blanca Luna, one block from the church. Private room with cold shower in funky old building, $7. That seems to be the price around town for hostals and they are dotted around. Also a couple of very expensive hotels in town. Organised private transport to catch my flight from San Salvador and haggled a little and got it for $50. Expect $60. I was unable to find anyone else going to the airport but it is worth asking around the hotels. Didn't find any particularly interesting eats.
Overall, no safety issues, very easy to strike up conversation and beautiful and interesting country. Do go.

Short blog and a few photos of the fiesta