Just returning from a wonderful trip to Puerto Vallarta, I've decided that tropical vacations are good for the "soul". It's important to take the time to get a way from the everyday routine.
What a different "To do" list you find yourself making:
* Open window or balcony so surf can rock you to sleep each night.
* Apply plenty of sunscreen (don't forget the top of your feet).
* Relax, enjoy.
* Make time for sunset each and everyday.
* Practice your foreign language skills...Hola, Buenos Dias, etc.
* Read a couple of good books.
* Enjoy a refreshing drink at the pool.
* Take time to chat with the locals.
* Make sure to exercise...walk the beach, enjoy a bike ride, boogie board, explore town.
* If you forget one or two....no worries.
It had been almost 20 years since we had last visited Puerto Vallarta we returned as smarter tourist; with a better understanding of the culture, acceptance of the poverty, and a relaxed attitude.
It was a vacation of experiences; kayaking as a pod of dolphins' swam by; having a great laugh as we caught a wave on the boogie board, People watching, along the avenue. Seeing a couple dance the night away to the Mariachi Band as they celebrated 50 years of marriage (she 73 and he 83). We had a great time using local transportation (buses), it was easy and very inexpensive, and we were even serenaded on one particular trip. We enjoyed an adventurous trip to Yelapa, south of Puerto Vallarta (Andy James say's it's like a visit to "Gilligan's Island"); you can only get there by boat. Here, the local women sell incredible pies by the slice; we tried the Lemon Meringue and the Coconut Cream, we're still salivating over them so delicious! We spent an afternoon at Punta Mita (it's as far north as the bus will take you) here you can watch the surfers ride the waves, or just enjoy a leisurely day on a beautiful white sand beach. Our best meal was at "La Palapa" where the fish was amazing and the Mexican coffee prepared tableside was a fun treat.
It's such an easy trip to Mexico via Apple Vacations, three hours later you're there, no connections, no long hauls. We stayed for 7-nights which worked out well; it allowed us to really get into the vacation mood and gave us the time we needed to enjoy each day. Being a good travel agent I felt it was best to stay at two very different properties. Club Marival located in Nuevo (New) Vallarta north of town, you can walk for miles along the beach, there seemed to always be a nice breeze and the boogie boarding here was a kick. It is an all-inclusive large resort that always has something going on, great for families of all ages. They have several pools, one of, which was great for children with slides and other fun water toys. We found the food and drinks to be moderate in standards, there was always plenty of it. Our room was small and clean without a view; location was great easy access to beach, pool and all restaurants. They have a nightclub for those who want to party all night.
We later moved to the Inter-Continental Presidente south of town, a small, intimate hotel where each room is beachfront with a balcony, overlooking a quite cove. This hotel is older and was built at a time when hotels were more an art form; the room was very large and comfortable. It's also an all-inclusive the meals were delicious; the service was amazing all the staff very attentive and gracious. This hotel is best for couples or families who want a quiet location. The old saying rings true you get what you pay for.
All in all we had a great time and recommend a vacation for the "soul" to all.
Our staff at James TravelPOINTS has a wealth of knowledge when it comes to Mexico, please let us help you plan your getaway 303 442-2340 www.travelpoints.com.