BY
CLAY LARROY
Traveling can be an important part of your life,
whether for business or for pleasure. Take time each day to alleviate stress
while traveling or vacationing and you will thank
yourself for it when you get back home. With all the chaos, jet-lag, partying
and other excitement of travel comes a whole lot of stress on your mind and
body. By the time most vacations are over, another one is needed to recover so
taking a few minutes each day to rejuvenate will make it easier for you to
resume your normal life when it's all over. When you want
to plan a vacation contact me!
Port
of Call - Cozumel
Cozumel still retains clear blue water, thick jungle and
some of its character as an out of the way Mexican fishing island despite its
recent reincarnation as a major cruise hub. The island's most well-known
activities include some of the world's top dive sites on renowned coral reefs,
and leisurely strolls in the island's one town, San Miguel. Cruise ships in
Cozumel dock in one of three locations: the farthest from downtown is Puerta
Maya, a bit farther south than TMM International Pier, both of which are about
a seven-minute ride from San Miguel; and Punta Langosta Pier, which is within
walking distance. When all the berths are full, anchored ships can tender
passengers to the docks at Punta Langosta
Shopping
in Cozumel
Shoppers have a large choice of boutique shops and souvenir
stores clustered in the central square of San Miguel and near the waterfront.
Goods are usually less expensive than just across the water in Cancun or other
mainland cruise ports.
Best Buy: Detailed linens or carvings
Dining
in Cozumel
Coconuts Bar and Grill - A remote feel with sea and
jungle scenery and great views. Wet Wendy's - Cheerful and relaxed bar popular
with locals and famous for margaritas. Especias Restaurant - fun and
family-friendly Mexican fusion restaurant.
Best Dish: Margaritas
Port
of Call - Mazatlan
Mazatlan is a working commercial port moonlighting as a
tourist beach haven: it's often a one-day stop on Mexican Riviera cruises.
Despite its port industry and status as a wildly popular beach resort, Mazatlan
retains the ambiance of a colonial fishing town. Although mega-resorts specializing
in all-inclusive package holidays line its long beaches, Mazatlan still has a
historic colonial city center, most apparent in Plaza Machado at the heart of
Old Town. An iconic waterfront walkway and the breathtaking spectacle of cliff
divers plunging into the sea add to the charm but the miles of beaches are what
lure most visitors. Cruises in Mazatlan dock at a primarily commercial port and
connect to the cruise terminal by a free tram. The cruise terminal has a small
shopping area and taxis for a ten-minute ride into the city center.
Shopping
in Mazatlan
The Golden Zone is an aptly named golden opportunity for
souvenir and knick knack shopping and is made for tourists. Old Mazatlan has
slightly more authentic markets where crafts can be purchased. A shopping mall,
La Gran Plaza, offers any modern necessities including a supermarket.
Best Buy:
Gemstones (only from licensed stores)
Dining
in Mazatlan
Topolo - popular for fine dining and good seafood. Carlos
& Lucia's - a casual diner with Mexican and Cuban flair. Pancho's - Mexican
seafood restaurant right on the beach.
Best Dish: Shrimp cooked every which way
Port
of Call - Puerto Vallarta
Puerto Vallarta, on the Mexican Rivera, is book-ended by
tall luxury resorts and a long line of white sand beach but in its center there
are charming colonial buildings and the remnants of a sleepy fishing town. The
most popular activities are watersports on any part of the Golden Zone, a resort
stretch of sand. The Old Town is an attractive district for sightseeing and the
perusal of some picturesque colonial architecture. A new Maritime Terminal,
built in 2007, can berth up to three cruise liners although sometimes a fourth
has to anchor in the bay and tender passengers to the terminal. The terminal is
three miles north of the city and has a host of tourist facilities such as
shops, restaurants, and information centers. Transportation can easily be found
to the city center and the Old Town can be comfortably explored on foot.
Shopping
in Puerto Vallarta
Several American-style shopping complexes can be found
near the cruise terminal but better shopping is available in the city center.
In the Old Town and just off the Melicon visitors will discover the best
souvenir shopping in authentic Mexican style markets. A swarm of art galleries
are available all over town, many of them offering crafts from all over the
country.
Best Buy: Beaded
crafts.
Dining
in Puerto Vallarta
Teatro Limon - fine dining in a friendly atmosphere. Casa
Isabel - Mexican fusion with fantastic views. Tacos Panchos - cheap and
cheerful taco joint open for dinner.
Best Dish:
Street-side tacos
http://www.travelresearchonline.com/
Mexico is a very mom-centered culture. You'll
find stores open on Father's Day, but never on Mother's Day. For us, mothers
are very important.
Juan Gabriel
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