YUCATAN PENINSULA, “LEGACY OF TRANQUILITY”

 

By Clay Larroy

There is nothing more exciting than traveling. Whether you are going for a road trip to see something new in your own state, or heading off to somewhere for the very first time to visit a city you have always dreamed of, there are some travel basics that you should know. Travel in the off seasons from November to April, to avoid crowds, save money and enjoy temperate weather. In those months, many families with children cannot travel due to school commitments, making many tourist attractions much less crowded. This may also result in lower costs for airfare and hotels.  When you are ready to plan a vacation contact me!

Events in Yucatan Peninsula

Spring Equinox

 

Where: El Castillo, Chichen Itza

Equinoccio de la Primavera, the Spring Equinox, draws thousands of people from around the world to witness the shadow that seems to crawl down the El Castillo pyramid in the Chichén Itzá temple complex. The shadow represents the snake god, Kukulkan, and takes the form of a giant, slithering snake that slowly descends the stairs of the largest Mayan pyramid in the country. Sunlit triangles appear to work their way down the stairs, finally illuminating the snakehead at the bottom and forming the giant sunlit serpent.

  

The spring equinox is celebrated by many cultures in many countries, but the Mayan ritual is one of the oldest and most famous (particularly as the pyramid is associated with brutal human sacrifices). The archaeological site of Teotihuacan, near Mexico City, is also a favorite spot to celebrate the arrival of spring and thousands of travelers visit the site for the equinox, traditionally dressed all in white. The Mayans were famous for their advanced use of calendars, making this celebration an apt memorial for them. Festivals de Primavera, spring festivals, are still celebrated all over Mexico, commonly with children's parades, where participants dress up as flowers or animals, to welcome the season of fertility and rebirth.

REFERENCE SITES:

http://www.travelresearchonline.com/

 

Live Life, Have Fun and Travel Often!

 

YUCATAN PENINSULA, “LEGACY OF TRANQUILITY”

By Clay Larroy

 

Do you feel like it is time for a short vacation? Once you decide to travel, how good you plan the trip will help you feel comfortable and be comfortable at your destination. Not only will you feel less anxiety before the trip, but you can rest assured that once you arrive where you're going you will have a good understanding of what's going on there.  When you need to plan a vacation contact me!

 

The Yucatan Peninsula is quite different from the rest of Mexico. A distinct change is noticeable in the landscape, people and architecture as one crosses into the remoteness of the Mayan realm. The atmosphere is more relaxed and tranquil and the legacy of an ancient people is evident in the scattering of ruins within the encroaching jungle. It is an area famed for its white sand beaches, magnificent off-shore coral reefs and diving opportunities on the Caribbean coast, as well as for the region's splendid ruins: the extraordinary Mayan temples and ceremonial centers of an ancient kingdom.

The peninsula is an area of great diversity, from tropical jungle and rainforest, flat and hot countryside dotted with Mayan villages, a superb coastline with popular resorts and islands, numerous archaeological sites, and colonial towns. Once distant and inaccessible, tourism has made determined advances into the Yucatan Peninsula, especially around the major places of interest, like the Mayan sites of Chichen Itza and Uxmal, and along the most visited stretch of the coast incorporating the 'party resort' of Cancun and the islands of Cozumel and Isla Mujeres. These resorts and islands have become highly sought-after package tour destinations with renowned vacation facilities. The traditions, religious beliefs and ancient customs of today's Mayan culture are still a natural part of the Yucatan's character and appeal, although the culture has become somewhat commercialized in certain areas.

The Yucatan Peninsula is serviced by regular first and second-class bus services that connect Merida to Cancun and the Caribbean coast along Highway 180, via Chichen Itza. Frequent buses also travel along the coast between Cancun and Playa del Carmen. Taxis are the preferred way to get around most of the resort areas, and can also be hired to visit nearby sites, although several tours are offered to the main sites of interest on the peninsula or the islands. There are also frequent ferry services to the islands of Cozumel and Mujeres.

REFERENCE SITES:

http://www.travelresearchonline.com/

Live Life and Travel Often!

 

THE COPPER CANYON, “WILD WEST”

 

By Clay Larroy

 

When you choose to travel, whether it is for business or pleasure, it is important to plan your trip well before hand. Here are some tips to help you. Don't be afraid to cash in your airline miles. Many travelers let their miles accumulate and never bother using them. Reap the rewards of your traveling and spend the miles you've earned! Miles have expiration dates, so be sure to use them before they expire. Travelling is a great way to use your airline miles.  When you need to plan a vacation contact me!

 

Chihuahua ,officially the Free and Sovereign State of Chihuahua , is one of the 32 states of Mexico. Its capital city is Chihuahua City.

It is located in Northwestern Mexico and is bordered by the states of Sonora to the west, Sinaloa to the southwest, Durango to the south, and Coahuila to the east. To the north and northeast, it has a long border with the U.S. adjacent to the U.S. states of New Mexico and Texas.

Chihuahua is the largest state in Mexico by area, with an area of 247,455 square kilometres (95,543 sq mi),^[9] it is slightly larger than the United Kingdom. The state is consequently known under the nickname El Estado Grande ("The Great State" or "The Big State").

Although Chihuahua is primarily identified with the Chihuahuan Desert for namesake, it has more forests than any other state in Mexico, with the exception of Durango.  Due to its variant climate, the state has a large variety of fauna and flora. The state is mostly characterized by rugged mountainous terrain and wide river valleys. The Sierra Madre Occidental mountain range, part of the continental spine that also includes the Rocky Mountains, dominates the state's terrain and is home to the state's greatest attraction, Las Barrancas del Cobre, or Copper Canyon, a canyon system larger and deeper than the Grand Canyon.  On the slope of the Sierra Madre Occidental mountains (around the regions of Casas Grandes, Cuauhtémoc and Parral), there are vast prairies of short yellow grass, the source of the bulk of the state's agricultural production. Most of the inhabitants live along the Rio Grande Valley and the Conchos RiverValley.

The etymology of the name Chihuahua has long been disputed by historians and linguists. The most accepted theory explains that the name was derived from the Nahuatl language meaning "The place where the water of the rivers meet" (i.e., "confluence", cf. Koblenz).

Chihuahua has a diversified state economy. The three most important economic centers in the state are: Ciudad Juárez, an international manufacturing center; Chihuahua, the state capital; and Delicias, the state's main agriculture hub. Today Chihuahua serves as an important commercial route prospering from billions of dollars from international trade as a result of NAFTA. On the other hand the state suffers the fallout of illicit trade and activities especially at the border.

Chihuahua City is the capital of the northwestern Mexican state of Chihuahua. It's known for the Spanish Baroque Cathedral de Chihuahua and the 18th-century Palacio de Gobierno, a government building where massive murals depict major Mexican historical events. The city is also home to the eastern terminus of the Chepe railroad, which runs through the green-tinged gorges of the Copper Canyon area.

According to TripAdvisor: The train trip is the most spectacular in the world! Every day since 1961, El Chepe ventures into imposing landscapes of the Sierra Tarahumara, until it reaches the area that encompasses the most representative characteristics of the Tarahumara culture, history and folklore; the Barrancas del Cobre, or Copper Canyon, as this region is known worldwide.

REFERENCE SITES:

http://www.travelresearchonline.com/

https://www.tripadvisor.com

https://en.wikipedia.org

 

Live, Love and Travel to create memories that will last a lifetime!

 

THE COPPER CANYON, “WILD WEST”

 

By Clay Larroy

 

Travel is so much more that simply hopping on a flight to a new destination. If you plan it correctly, it could be a thrilling time you'll never forget. Planning a trip is fun as there are tons of things to do and see. Do you know how to plan a trip effectively? Packing light is key to making your travels as easy and free of stress as possible. Bring one carryon bag that includes everything you need, not necessarily everything you want. Your smart packing will pay off when you are happily carrying one bag around on vacation instead of lugging around multiple bags. When you want to plan a vacation contact me!

 

 

The northwest of Mexico is the country's 'wild west', where it is possible to undertake one of the most remarkable train trips in the world, the Chihuahua al Pacifico (Chihuahua to the Pacific) railway, also known as the Copper Canyon railway, and one of the country's most remarkable tourist excursions. The canyon is in fact a maze of gorges that combine to form six massive interconnected canyons, covering an area four times larger and almost two times deeper than the Grand Canyon in North America. The name, Copper Canyon, incorporates all the canyons and gorges and refers to the color of the lichen that clings to the canyon walls.

Acclaimed as an engineering marvel, the railroad travels from the Pacific coastal town of Los Mochis, climbing to 8,000 feet (2,400m) over the Sierra Madre mountain range, before dropping down to the city of Chihuahua, 393 miles (655km) away. Along the way it passes through 86 tunnels, crosses 39 bridges, and performs a 360 degree loop, winding through some of the country's most magnificent scenery, between towering canyon walls and hugging the cliff face with intermittent views of the river far below.

The region is not only scenically splendid, but is rich in indigenous culture. The canyon cliffs are home to thousands of Tarahumara Indians, a semi-nomadic population of cave dwellers who eke out an existence from farming, cattle ranching and by selling their handicrafts. In stark contrast are the Mennonite settlements around Cuauhetmoc, where the people of this religious sect, of German descent, sell farm products such as cheese and sausages, but otherwise keep themselves completely separate from those around them. They are distinctive with their old-fashioned style of dress, own language and rigid community ways.

 

The train makes several stops along the way, with opportunities to admire the view and buy food or crafts from the Tarahumara Indians. Several little towns and mountain villages are of interest, and many break the journey at Creel, a frontier-spirited mining town complete with horsemen in cowboy hats and tight jeans, and a good base to further explore the surrounds.

 

REFERENCE SITES:

http://www.travelresearchonline.com/

 

Live Life and Travel to create marvelous memories!

 

PACIFIC COAST “MEXICAN RIVIERA”

BY CLAY LARROY

Traveling can be a great way to meet new people and experience other cultures. New friends are waiting to meet you in places you have only dreamed of traveling. It can be a wonderful way to see all that the world has to offer. Travel can be a hobby and an adventure that will lead you to unexpected places.  When you want to plan a vacation contact me!

Overview of Guadalajara

Guadalajara is considered one of the most stereotypically 'Mexican' cities in the country. The birthplace of mariachi music, tequila, and charros (Mexican cowboys), Guadalajara is the second-largest city in Mexico and a major cultural center. The historic center of the city has a plethora of stunning churches and other grand buildings, including must-sees like the Guadalajara Cathedral, the Palacio de Gobierno, and the Templo Expiatorio. A number of parks and monuments also contribute to making Guadalajara a very attractive place.

It is also a very busy place: there's always something to see and do in Guadalajara, whether it's football games at the Estadio Omnilife, bullfights at the Plaza de Toros, free concerts by roving mariachi musicians at the Plaza de los Mariachis, or simply browsing the hundreds of stalls at the multi-level Mercado Libertad. A dozen outdoor markets provide ample shopping opportunities for handcrafted items made by the local Huichol Indians, and tired sightseers can rest their feet while they sample local delicacies at any of Guadalajara's excellent restaurants. Zapopan is the center of the nightlife in Guadalajara, with many bars and clubs serving the local Los Altos tequila.

The region around Guadalajara offers a number of excursions as well, ranging from rowdy (Tequila Express Tours), to educational (pre-Hispanic pyramids at Guachimontones), to relaxing (picturesque towns around Lake Chapala).

Climate for Guadalajara

Guadalajara has a warm temperate subtropical climate. Summers are hot and last from April to June, with high temperatures of around 86°F (30°C) and minimum temperatures that rarely drop below 50°F (10°C). Winter lasts from December to early February with maximum temperatures generally below 79°F (26°C) and low temperatures higher than 48°F (9°C). The rest of the year remains pleasantly warm. The rainy season lasts from June to September, and peaks in July and August. Thunderstorms are fairly common.

Getting around in Guadalajara

 Mexico Public transport in Guadalajara consists of buses, bicycles and a light rail system. Several private bus companies operate along set routes throughout the city. Fares are paid to the driver upon boarding and buses are often overcrowded. The Guadalajara Macrobus, the city's Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system, is operated by SITEUR and consists of stations running north-south through the city center. Rechargeable pre-paid cards can be purchased at vending machines or tickets can be purchased at turnstiles. Exact change is required. SITEUR also operates two light rail lines which pass a variety of local attractions. Tickets can be bought by depositing exact fare at station turnstiles or purchasing a rechargeable card from station vending machines. Bikla Bicipública is the city's bike rental program, with stations across the city. Commuters sign up on the Bikla website and collect their card at the Bikla office close to the city center. Taxis are widely available and can be found at designated sites across the city, called in advance or hailed from the street. Tourist transportation options include horse-drawn carriages called calandrias.

REFERENCE SITES:

http://www.travelresearchonline.com/

Travel to create marvelous memories for you and your family or friends!

PACIFIC COAST “MEXICAN RIVIERA”

BY CLAY LARROY

In the world of traveling, there are plenty of great resources available to both new and experienced travelers alike. There are many websites, guides, books, videos, and other resources available. By writing this blog I hope that I am providing valuable information about wonderful vacation destinations. When you want to plan a vacation contact me!

Acapulco Overview

 Situated on one of the loveliest bays on the Mexican coast, backed by the evergreen vegetation of the Sierra foothills, Acapulco offers anything and everything to holiday visitors, but this is not the place to seek a peaceful escape from it all. It is the Queen of Mexican beach resorts, the loudest and most famous in the country with non-stop energy, high-rise hotels, a glittering nightlife, white beaches and an enormous range of holiday activities. The main attraction in Acapulco is the string of beaches that sweep around the bay, each offering a different atmosphere and ample opportunities for watersports, with calm waters, sun bathing and seafront dining of international quality. The downside of Acapulco city is the shabby, polluted and overcrowded old town area, but it is easy enough to ignore this side of Acapulco with plenty to keep visitors happy along the glitzy holiday resort strip, with its shopping plazas, restaurants and beaches. A famous Acapulco institution since the 1930s are the Quebrada cliff divers, who pitch themselves gracefully from a height of 148ft (45m) into the seemingly shallow water of a narrow chasm in the ocean below after praying at the small rock shrine for safety.

Shopping in Acapulco

One of the pleasures of a holiday in Acapulco is shopping for souvenirs, of which there is a plentiful, varied selection gathered from all over Mexico. Handmade leather goods, locally made textiles, beautiful pieces of silver jewelry, bright and lovely ceramics, and even inspiring paintings by local artists are just some of the things on offer in the markets, stores and beachfront stalls. The older areas of Acapulco have a number of well-priced tailors and quaint souvenir shops. A good spot to indulge in some bargain hunting is the open-air artisan's mall opposite the Plaza Bahia, where it is possible to do a little haggling for arts and crafts. The native-made goods may be appealing, but just as desirable for avid shoppers are the many upscale boutiques selling well known designer labels which pepper the streets of the Zona Dorada (Golden Zone), also dubbed Mexico's 'Sunset Boulevard'. As far as modern malls go, Acapulco's biggest, complete with food court and cinemas, is Le Gran Plaza, situated on the Costera.

Dining in Acapulco

 Acapulco's scenic setting around a picturesque bay allows for some magical and romantic dining opportunities in a multitude of restaurants while on holiday. Cuisine of all sorts is on offer, the quality generally very high and the prices reasonable. Some of the best restaurants use a fusion of styles and cuisines to create something unique and special, like the Kookaburra, with its spectacular terrace views of Acapulco Bay, creating delicious French dishes prepared with Mexican ingredients. Also renowned for its originality is El Olvido Restaurant, which is pricey but worth every penny, with a menu featuring signature dishes like honey-coated quail and sea bass spiced with savory cilantro. Mexican seafood is a top favorite with visitors, a fact well exploited by most establishments, like the El Amigo Miguel off the main town square, where delicious shrimp and grilled red snapper medleys are specialties of the house. Other firm favorites include Pampano Restaurant and Lounge with its spectacular views of Acapulco and Zuntra, where the chef offers up a unique fusion of Mexican, Mediterranean and Asian tastes.

Activities in Acapulco

Flashing lights, pumping music and boundless energy are the characteristics of Acapulco's frenetic nightlife, which centers on the clubs and discos of the main strip and Las Brisas. Clubs like the renowned Palladium, where the legendary 'silver man' fire dancer performs in the early morning hours, make Acapulco a hot favorite destination for young spring-break revelers from the USA. Those looking for a more Latin experience head down to Ninas, a traditional Mexican salsa club where the locals burn up the dance floor. For visitors interested in seeing some authentic Latin American Salsa dancing, head to Salon Q, 'the cathedral of salsa'. Disco Beach on Costera Aleman is well known for its popular Friday night foam parties. Mandara up on the side of the mountain, with its panoramic views of Acapulco by night, is one of the best places to end your evening and wait for the sun to rise before another day on the beach. Most of the dance clubs open at 11pm, close at 6am, and charge a fairly steep entrance fee, but this often includes 'all you can drink'. Those taking a break from dancing can enjoy bar-hopping along the Costera, which is lined with numerous exuberant open-air watering holes.

Things to be aware of in Acapulco

 There is often an oily layer on the seawater of Acapulco from the use of jet skis. Visitors to Acapulco are strongly advised to avoid the resort during America's spring break in mid-March as hordes of student revelers descend on Acapulco for spring break mayhem and partying.

REFERENCE SITES:

http://www.travelresearchonline.com/

Travel  have fun and create wonderful memories for your family!

PACIFIC COAST “MEXICAN RIVIERA”

BY CLAY LARROY

Across the America many couples are having wonderful wedding after months of planning. The bride and groom will need a honeymoon to rest and recuperate.  Vacations are so important, as it gives us a way to connect with each other in a stress free relaxed environment. Couples that take vacations together build memories that will last a lifetime. Couples vacations and travel can be a most rewarding experience. When you want to plan a vacation contact me!

Puerto Vallarta Overview

Puerto Vallarta is situated in the Bahia de Banderas, a 14-mile (22km) long bay lined with long stretches of sandy beaches. It is the second largest holiday resort on the Pacific coast after Acapulco, but despite its resort status it has managed to maintain its own unique character. Puerto Vallarta's charm is due to its blend of first-world cosmopolitan city and the colonial features of its historic old town. The graceful center is embellished with quaint cobblestone streets that are lined with delightful white adobe houses, flower-filled wrought-iron balconies and red tiled roofs, making this one of Mexico's most picturesque coastal cities.

Puerto Vallarta's luxury hotels, restaurants, bars, and shopping centers have spread out along the coast on either side of the original town, allowing Puerto Vallarta to grow as a holiday destination without sacrificing its colonial charms. With more than 250 restaurants, visitors to Puerto Vallarta are spoilt for choice when it comes to dining out in this charming city. In Puerto Vallarta tourists will find a cosmopolitan hub which nevertheless boasts the simple pleasures of a Mexican village. Outdoor recreation is limitless in Puerto Vallarta, especially considering the diversity of watersports available, including scuba diving and snorkeling, while whales and dolphins inhabit the bay and can often be seen on organized boat trips.

Shopping in Puerto Vallarta

 Even serious shoppers won't be disappointed by the variety of shops in Puerto Vallarta, which line almost every downtown street and range from specialty stores and shopping centers to outdoor markets and art galleries. No other holiday resort destination in Mexico can offer a better shopping experience than Puerto Vallarta. It has developed a reputation as an art center and there is an abundance of local arts and crafts, such as pottery, ceramics and hand blown glass. Boutiques stock an array of shoes, traditional Mexican sandals and clothing, while the main flea market is the place to bargain for inexpensive handicrafts, clothes and souvenirs.

Dining in Puerto Vallarta

 As the culinary capital of Mexico, and host to the annual Gourmet Dining Festival every November, foodies will be in paradise while on holiday in Puerto Vallarta. It is home to some of the best restaurants in Mexico, and offers thousands of places to dine ranging from award-winning venues and family-run restaurants to coffee houses and relaxed beachside cafes. A wide range of international cuisine is available, from Italian to Japanese and French, with the eclectic Daiquiri Dick's coming out tops and La Ola Rica serving popular pizzas and coconut shrimp. For traditional local Mexican fare, visit El Arrayán in the center of town.

Activities in Puerto Vallarta

 The nightlife in Puerto Vallarta offers something for everyone. There are nightclubs and all-night discos, strip bars, live music clubs, bars serving up sundowner cocktails, restaurants that bring on bands after the food has been cleared away, folkloric dancing and Mexican fiestas, and hotel bars where visitors and locals alike gather over a drink for a chat at the end of the day. The center of the nightlife is the Malecon strip where the vibrant atmosphere suits the young and the young at heart. The South Side features a variety of alternative entertainment, including gay bars and strip shows.

Things to be aware of in Puerto Vallarta

During the warmer months of May to August insects and mosquitoes can become a problem in Puerto Vallarta so be sure to bring plenty of repellent with you.

REFERENCE SITES:

http://www.travelresearchonline.com/

Experience life travel with those you love!

PACIFIC COAST “MEXICAN RIVIERA”

BY CLAY LARROY

We lead such busy lives working, going to school, taking children to different activities that often we do not stop and talk to our children. We usually do not have time to sit around the dinner table and ask our children what they did today. Family vacations are so important, as it gives us a way to connect with each other in a stress free relaxed environment. Families that take vacations together build memories that will last a lifetime. Family vacations and travel can be a most rewarding experience.  When you are ready to plan a vacation contact me!

Ixtapa Overview

A popular port of call and destination for cruise passengers, the Mexican resort of Ixtapa is set on one of the Pacific coastline's most spectacular bays and is justly renowned for its beautiful beaches. It's located just three miles (5km) from the municipal seat of Zihuatanejo. Ixtapa was constructed in the 1970s on a coconut plantation and mangrove estuary and in recent years has given way to high-rise hotels and luxury villas, making it one of Mexico's most modern resorts with an energy and atmosphere that is reminiscent of Acapulco's earlier years. In fact, Ixtapa is only 152 miles (245km) northwest of Acapulco, so the attractions of that famous resort hub are accessible on daytrips and long excursions.

Ixtapa is home to the all-inclusive luxury resorts, international restaurants, and upscale shopping most people associate with Mexican beach holidays. The neighboring town of Zihuatanejo has a very different character, and has become known as a quaint backpackers' hotspot with picturesque winding streets, lots of art galleries and folk appeal, small boutique hotels, and traditional seafood restaurants. The proximity of this more bohemian beach hangout offers visitors a change of scene and mood and more options for dining and accommodation.

With breathtaking views, sugary white beaches, offshore tropical islands, two world-class golf courses, exciting scuba diving and snorkeling opportunities, mouth-watering restaurants, and a pulsating nightlife, Ixtapa is fast becoming a popular choice for holidaymakers looking for the perfect beach holiday in Mexico.

Shopping in Ixtapa

There is a good selection of shops available throughout Ixtapa, from boutiques and famous brand and designer names and jewelry stores to specialist shops and craft markets selling local wares. Ixtapa Boulevard is the place to go for shopping centers and stores, as well as the artisan market where popular buys include huaraches (handmade leather sandals), wooden sculptures, art, jewelry, furnishings, beachwear, sarongs and traditional masks. Those looking for the quintessential Mexican souvenir need look no further than Tequila Por Favor, Zihuatanejo's first liquor store, which offers an amazing variety of tequila, fine spirits, and Cuban and Mexican cigars.

Dining in Ixtapa

 With some of the most picturesque and romantic beach-side settings, those looking for a night of wining and dining will find there is no shortage of quality restaurants and eateries in Ixtapa. For some of the best seafood around, try 4 Hermanos, and for bit of spice, look no further than Deborah's Chili Beans on Ixtapa Boulevard. For a more familiar dinner, head to Porto di Mare for a bit of Italian fare.

Activities in Ixtapa

The nightlife in Ixtapa is second to none with a good selection of restaurants, bars, clubs and discos to keep you partying into the early hours. Sip a cocktail under the tropical overhang at La Playa Bar in the heart of Zihuatanejo. Head for the world-renowned restaurant-cum-disco on Ixtapa's beach, Carlos 'n' Charlie's, to enjoy some of the finest BBQ ribs and dancing. Or head to Bandido's for live music from Wednesday through Saturday. Senor Frog's and Christine on Ixtapa Boulevard see the DJs spin a mix of pop and disco to keep the party going.

Things to be aware of in Ixtapa

There are a lot of peddlers and hawkers along the beach in Ixtapa which can become a nuisance for travelers

REFERENCE SITES:

http://www.travelresearchonline.com/

Travel  and create wonderful memories for your family!

PACIFIC COAST “MEXICAN RIVIERA”

BY CLAY LARROY

The preparation for a vacation is almost as exhilarating as the vacation itself. I love printing out the tickets and confirmations while thinking about how much fun I will have on vacation. I enjoy researching all the sights at the location I will see once I arrive at my destination. When you want to plan a vacation contact me!

Mazatlan Overview

The holiday destination of Mazatlán is the most important port on the Pacific coast of Mexico. It is also the shrimp capital of the world, with the largest fleet of commercial shrimp vessels in Latin America. This attractive city also has the reputation of being one of Mexico's premier beach holiday resorts. The contrast between commercial port and tourist resort is interesting and sets the place apart from other popular resorts. Travelers will find world-renowned deep sea fishing, miles of lovely beaches, excellent seafood, a variety of water activities and a choice of accommodation to suit all tastes. Fondly called the 'Pearl of the Pacific', Mazatlán boasts Mexico's longest and prettiest waterfront promenade, or malecon. This is the city's defining characteristic, and much of the city's life can be viewed from here.

The colonial old town center is the heart of Mazatlán, where the busy main plaza, alongside the 19th-century cathedral with its blue and gold motifs, and the open-air market, are a hive of activity. The city emanates a combination of laid-back seaside charm and affordable luxury, its beaches lined with bars and outdoor cafés, and the sky above filled with colorful parasails. Sunbathers and hawkers compete for space on the city beaches, and fishing vessels and jet skis circulate in Mazatlán bay.

Shopping in Mazatlan

Mexico is a great place to shop for diamonds because the gems can be purchased here tax-free. The best place to seek out jewelry is Mazatlán's Golden Zone (Zona Dorada) tourist area. The streets of the Golden Zone are a paradise for greedy shoppers, where jewelry, designer clothes, seashell souvenirs and almost anything else imaginable can be found within the tiny boutiques and vast emporiums. The Mazatlán Arts and Crafts Center is a treasure-trove of handmade goods. Wandering the Central Market in Old Mazatlán is a colorful shopping experience, with busy street food stalls under bright umbrellas in front of little stores selling a hodge-podge of crafts, clothing and novelties. Away from the sea, on the Avenida de los Deportes, is a large shopping mall, La Gran Plaza, which has a supermarket stocking essential. Shops generally open from around 10am and stay open until late.

Dining in Mazatlan

Shrimp in every guise is the mainstay of Mazatlán restaurants. A favorite spot for tasting this tempting crustacean is the tourist-oriented El Shrimp Bucket on Olas Altas, the original of the chain of restaurants that has proliferated throughout Mexico. Great cuisine here is not confined to shrimp, however: Asian and Italian restaurants abound, along with some superb authentic Mexican eateries. Favorites among these include Cenaduria El Túnel, near the Angela Peralta Theatre, famed for its chicken gorditas and the best pozole (pork stew) in town. Copa de Leche is a popular restaurant, with lovely views, where you can dine while listening to the waves washing onto the shore. There is a fairly good choice of dining options around the Plazuela Machado, including the upmarket al fresco Pedro y Lola and the Beach Burger, reputedly offering the best hamburgers in Mazatlán. For a quick snack opt for a hotdog or taco from a street stall, or find a cheap meal at the Central Market where a few restaurants offer inexpensive daily specials.

Activities in Mazatlan

Mazatlán, like any busy seaside resort, has a lively nightlife with a plethora of dance, live music and drinking venues. Extremely popular are Mexican fiesta theme parties that are organized by the larger hotels. Most of the nightclubs and popular pubs are to be found in the Zona Dorada, offering a variety of music from chilled piano playing to lively local mariachi groups. One of the favorites for locals, offering sizzling Latin beats, is Mundo Bananas, on Avenue Camaron Sabalo. The young crowd tend to favor the Fiesta Land complex at the southern end of the Zona Dorada, which is packed with restaurants and lively clubs like Bora-Bora and Valentinos. Those whose tastes run to other than dancing will find plenty of sports bars, karaoke bars, cocktail bars, and brew houses in which to spend a fun, social evening.

Things to be aware of in Mazatlan

There are lots of hawkers on the beach in Mazatlan and this can become a nuisance to travelers. Don't stray too far from the tourist areas alone as travelers are easy targets for petty crime.

REFERENCE SITES:

http://www.travelresearchonline.com/

Enjoy life and travel often, the more you travel, the more memories you create!