Mary Marsden Passed Away

Hi Tom, this is Dave McDonald again, The family is going to have memorial for Mary on the 24th of June here in Craig, Alaska, If anybody would like to send me a e-mail that they would like me to read for Mary and her family at the memorial please feel free to give my address to her friends and ask them for me to send me their message, and I will relate it to the family at the memorial. -Dave Mc Donald, dano4438@yahoo.com

Las Piratas is Moving

Jane
jgorby@earthlink.net
June 2000

A Cautionary View

We stayed the first night at Villa del Mar, and it was very nice. But since we live in Missouri we wanted to be on the ocean, and moved to Hotel Barra de Navidad. The desk clerk told me twice that they had no rooms to accommodate 4 people. I waited till a different clerk came on duty, and guess what, they did have double rooms. Previous comments had remarked on the indifference of the staff, and I have to agree. Our maid and a hotel worker, Juan Carlos, were the two exceptions.

We had no problems with the hotel, but a German couple staying there lost their camera in the hotel. For two days they asked everyone around if they had seen the camera. The day they left an expensive camera suddenly appeared on the lobby desk, and the staff crowded around it laughing and trying to figure out how to work it. This made us want to change hotels because we felt the staff was untrustworthy, but to tell the truth I just couldn't give up that great balcony. I would probably stay there again but would be EXTREMELY CAUTIOUS. This is the first time in 16 years of Mexican travels that I have ever been leery of leaving possessions lying around in a hotel.

I'm sure we'll return next year. By the way, if you fly into Puerto Vallarta and bus to Barra, you can catch the morning bus at 8:15 on the corner of V. Carranza and Aguacate, eliminating an extra trip to the bus station.

Paula Cunningham
CUNNINPJ@sverdrup.com
June 2000

Gemstones

Cathy Brooks
cathy@a-tech.com
June 2000

Maxim's

Todd from MN
toddtruen@yahoo.com
May 2000

La Terraza Kosonoy

Pedro Garcia
e-mail peter.garcia@atlp.com
May 2000

Barra/Bucerias

Kitty Leonard
Veneta, Oregon
DOwen65581@aol.com
May 2000

Hi Kitty. My fiancee and I are devoted to the Barra area especially Boca and La Manzanilla. We were in Bucerias last January and then in the same trip drove to Barra and surrounding areas.

You probably ought to take the time to visit Barra, Melaque, Via de Obregon, San Patricio, Cuastecomates, La Manzanilla and Playa Boca de Iguanas before you buy. Not that Bucerias is a poor choice, cause it is a nice little place.

Bucerias is fairly quaint with easy access to the PV airport and of course all the attractions of PV, of which there are many. However, you will also have more air pollution, traffic and vendors bugging you.

On the other hand the Barra neighborhood is very different. It is much more Mexican, with the good and the bad that goes with that. Your house buying money will probably go further in the Barra area as well.

We in particular love the Barra area and feel that in the future when the mass of baby boomers hit it will become more of a booming economy than it is now. The beauty of the area is awesome. The people are, as the vast majority of Mexicans, wonderful to visitors. My best advice is to look at the Barra area before buying.

We have been traveling to Mexico for the last four years as often as possible, and it seems that after each trip we update our feelings about where we want to buy for the future. Take your time is my thought. See many areas.

Best of LucK.

Jim and Dale jimccpa@home.com

Maxim's Bar

Norma Turner
normarae@netidea.com
May 2000

Posada de Cervantes

The surf was very high in Barra & Melaque during our stay. This caused the beachfront hotel rooms to sound like artillery shells going off outside the door. After two restless nights at the Hotel Villa Hermosa 335-550-02(right across from the bus terminal) we moved to a new hotel.

We highly recommend the Posada de Cervantes on Calle Abel Salgado 132 (about 6 blocks from town toward Barra across from Hotel Mallorca). It is a new hotel as of December with 7 rooms & 4 bungalows (w/kitchen). Includes AC, pool, restaurant, & fans in the rooms. The English speaking owner named Victor is very generous, both in spirit and with knowledge about the area. Phone 335-565-74. These rooms were much more quiet being one block back from the surf. The entire place was ultra clean. Best coffee we found, and excellent breakfast. Rooms are $400p, $550p for Bungalows. You will not be disappointed.

We agree that the local businesses should start a clean up program. We enjoy the clean streets of PVR over the litter around the Melaque/Barra area. Prices in general are very reasonable in town. We did find that many of the finer restaurants were closed for the off season. If you go now be prepared for that.

Feel free to contact me if you need any help.

Kelly & Delene Patterson
kellyp@mindspring.com
May 2000

Hepatitus?

Nancy
potts@ssimicro.com
May 2000

Plenty of Mosquitos at the Sands

The inability to have our concerns understood properly made matters more frustrating, the hotel staff couldn't even inform us of the breakfast that was supposed to have been included. We didn't know whether to laugh or cry when we came back one night after an evening of dancing to find ourselves locked out of the hotel, really!! We eventually ended up in Hotel Barra de Navidad, a beautiful hotel on the beach, and great scenery with just about all the comforts of home. If it wasn't previously recommended it certainly is now. Our last day and night was spent at Cabo Blanco [photo 62K], a bit pricey, however if you plan on spending the day at this all-inclusive hotel, you will find it well worth the price.

We really did have a great time in Barra de Navidad, the restaurants were great, the street vendors were great, the people friendly, and the beach - absolutely fantastic!!! Thank you Tom for your website and the information it contains, my girlfriend and I both would have no problem in recommending this place to other vacationers.

Ken & Julien
julie.ann.sam@sympatico.ca
May 2000

Accommodations in Tenacatita

Andrea
ansla@hotmail.com
May 2000

I think there's just one hotel and it doesn't look too great. This town pretty much closes down and goes home (elsewhere) in the evening. However, this could change at any time.

You might like to try Coconuts by the Sea in Boca de Iguanas. Boca de Iguanas is another beach in Tenacatita Bay and is likewise beautiful though doesn't have as many restaurants. You can contact the owners, Bob & Cissie Jones by email cocos@bay.net.mx. Web page: http://www.COCONUTSBYTHESEA.COM/. Phone: (333) 86315. It is a private home with guest quarters. You can tell them I referred you. - Tom

Tenacatita 21 Years Ago

Enjoyed your site and the memories.

L. Daitz, M.D.
ldaitz@axion.net
May 2000

Hotel Bahía

We really enjoyed Bananaramas the coffee and breakfast are excellent and the owners are very helpful with info on the area. We stayed at Hotel Bahía and it is very clean quite new and very very inexpensive 1050.00 for two for 7 nights! That's PESOS!!The owners are delightful and the elderly gentleman that is there all the time is very sweet. We shared drinks and food with him. He speaks only Spanish but was patient with my espanol. The accommodation is no frills but a group kitchen is available. The beach across the street is the best place to swim with gentle waves.

Other places we ate were Surfos and Alcatraz. The friendliest and nicest place on the beach is Viva Maria they made our group a special seafood meal which was awesome.

The Banana boat fellows that work there and offer rides on the banana are great, take a ride only 30 pesos. The only down side I found to Melaque is the litter sad to see all the water bottles and other garbage polluting the ocean. Tenacatita was very clean and Boca De Iguana. Would be nice to see Melaque businesses and vendors get together and clean up the beach and town a bit. Don't get me wrong I loved it but it could be that much better with a clean-up drive.

Barra has a little more character and was fun to shop at but the Hotel Bahia was a great place to stay. Don't hesitate to use the first class bus service to Melaque it is excellent and very inexpensive.(Premier Plus) Adios any questions feel free to email me.

Sandra
gsmealing@home.com
May 2000

Fans of La Paloma

We still talk about our magical week at La Paloma and, as I think we mentioned, we never go back to a place twice, however much we enjoy it, as there are so many places in the world to see. However, La Paloma is different, and not only do we want to return but we want to recommend it to our friends.

Mary & Ian
May 2000

Two Weeks at the Cabo Blanco

Restaurants:

SeaMaster was good (grilled shrimp in butter and garlic) but I wasn't too fussy about letting the many beach sellers into the restaurant while eating. Didn't stop us from buying so it couldn't have been too bad. Went to our favourite Valero's on the lagoon side 3 times and enjoyed the shrimp kebabs (with garlic and butter on the side). Also went to the Ambar (recommendation from the Lonely Planet guide) where an expat French lady serves terrific crepes and onion soup. After 2 weeks it was a welcome change.

Day trips:

Tenacatita - Nice beach for the day. Restaurants and bars on site. La Manzanilla (not to be confused with Manzanillo) is a short bus ride north and is a beach for mostly Mexican families. I liked the ambiance there. You could rent a few chairs and a beach umbrella for about 6 dollars for the day.

Colima - Spent about $60 U.S. on an all day bus tour to this interior capital city which is also in the state of Colima. I would say that the advertised pyramids and volcano are overstated. The bonus for the folks from Barra is that you get to see Manzanillo as well. Overall, it was a good way to see another facet of Mexico.

Cihuatlán - larger town with not much tourism south of Barra about 20 minutes (7 pesos by bus). Enjoyed going into the stores on the one way main street which are geared for locals and not tourists. This may be an alternative trip if you want to see something different and need to do some banking as they have bank machines there. Barra itself is friendly and has the usual amenities except for a bank machine which is available in Melaque only 10 minutes away by local bus for 2.5 pesos.

There are several small boat operators on the lagoon side who will take you all around the area, including a closer look at the Isla de Navidad area where the spectacular Grand Bay hotel is located.

While I didn't personally sample the night life, others at the hotel went to the Sunset bar each night for happy hour and then later to Piper Lovers. They seemed to like them both. If you would like any further information, let me know.

Ted
tedlunny@istar.ca
April 2000

Wonderful Place for a Holiday

We traveled with 4 teenagers, and found Melaque and Barra to be very safe and friendly. Our kids would head off shopping or to restaurants by themselves after the first couple of days. We had great meals at Cesar y Charley, very economical fish at Las Palmas, wonderful chicken in a lava bowl at Alcatraz, and we just loved the alhambres at Pedro's (a small taco stand on the street - the little place with 3 Coca Cola tables under the 3 flags at Surfo's Bar) Breakfast at Banaramas every day - thanks to my brother, David now has a bacon and tomato grilled bolillo on his menu. And if you get to Tenacatita you MUST try the Rollo del Mar - fish stuffed with shrimp, octopus, and bacon, pan-fried with an almond sauce over top. At 60 pesos, you just can't beat it!

I would like to recommend a fellow named Victor to anyone for anything. He drives a large van (he operates out of the Hotel Dorado) and will take you anywhere from Tenacatita, to Boca de Iguanas, to the airport. He took along boogie boards and snorkel masks and fins for us to use as well. ...And he speaks very good English.

We took Canadian travelers cheques, and got a very good exchange rate. Also tried the bank machine, and it worked just fine. Melaque is a wonderful place for a family holiday.

gwoods@compusmart.ab.ca
April 2000

The Primera Plus

Scott Racy
sracy@wolfnet.com
Yakima, WA
April 2000

Cuastecomates

Jilhearne@aol.com
April 2000

Searching For Jules The Artist

Rosie Villegas-Smith
rosaitzel@yahoo.com
April 2000

AeroCalifornia Lost Baggage

Now I am asking for some help. I read some negatives on your website about AeroCalifornia but after I had already purchased my ticket. I took their flight from Manzanillo to Mexico City on Sat. April 8 and I haven't seen my bags yet, nor can I get any assurances from the "non-chalant" people I have called that I'll ever get them. They said to give them 30 days. All I have is an 800 number for the airline and a long distance number for lost & found in LA. I'm getting nowhere and wondered if anyone has an address for AeroCalifornia or a phone number for administration - officers that run the airline, etc. I want to contact the airport staff in Manzanillo, LA and Mexico City myself but need phone nos. or addresses. I can't begin to tell you how much I need/want all of the things I have in those 2 suitcases. Okay, I'm through whining but if anyone can offer any information on how to contact this illusive airline headquarters or airport locations, I'd greatly appreciate it!

Susan E. Richmond
Susan.Richmond@tulsa.cistech.com
April 2000

New Japanese Restaurant

Tom Penick
tom@tomzap.com
March 2000

Bungalows Villa Mar, Melaque

P.B.
bertorelli@coastnet.com
March 2000

In Search of Ricardo the Tall One

At the Hotel Barra de Navidad, I took advantage of their safe boxes. Kept passport, documents, checks, and extra credit card in there. Made me feel better, much more secure. Again, I have nothing but good to report re. the Hotel Barra. Nice new decor, cheery and homey and wonderful. Those balconies are worth the price of admission.

At Ramon's, you can get "different" types of food, if you get tired of Mexican food and seafood. In addition to excellent traditional Mexican fare, Ramon's has a nice spaghetti, fish and chips, hamburgers, and even chicken fried steak!! I tried their chicken fried steak my last night in Barra, and it wasn't bad. Their chile rellenos are good! I find it's nice to eat pasta now and then when in Mexico, with tons of garlic. Helps slow down the digestive tract a bit, always a good thing down there. The little liquor/tobacco store across from the Hotel Barra not only has Mexican pesos (cambia), but also has stamps and a little mail drop-box. Nice, since the Barra post office is way way north of the main drag.

Reading the visitor comments, I am now wondering about the tiny military presence in Barra (and Melaque?). I had no idea why they were there, but they helped patrol the beach, kept the dune buggies off "our" part of the beach, which I absolutely appreciate. One day when a great big mangrove was banging against the beach, probably washed out of the lagoon, they chopped it up with great big machetes. Bravo! Tom, is their presence really ominous, as indicated in some of those reader comments? I never did see the Melaque part of the military thing. What's the deal with that? I certainly hope it's not ominous. If it's part of the war on drugs, good for the Mexican government!!

Well, Tom, I guess that's it. Except for the fact that I'm still in search of Ricardo the Tall One, via Piper at Piper y Lovers or whomever else might know him. Hard to miss him: very blond, six foot 10 inches tall!, staying in La Manzanilla (I think). Just want to get my e-mail address to him.

Maggie Plummer
plummer@digisys.net
March 2000

Contacting Piper

I loved the Hotel Barra de Navidad for its secure, private rooms with balconies overlooking the wild, explosive surf. And I loved Ramon's across the street from the Hotel Barra. Also, the liquor and tobacco store with cambia was wonderful! I did not care for the pasta dinner I had at the overpriced Mar Y Tierra. So, I disagree with your "best of Barra" listing there.

Now, a question: is there a way to somehow contact the folks at Piper Y Lovers? I would appreciate getting in touch with Piper and possibly a man he knows. Any help with this is most appreciated! Thanks again for your great web site, and I'll be back -- possibly next time I'll try staying in Melaque. or maybe even La Manzanilla, if I have the guts to try it!

Maggie Plummer of Polson, Montana
also known as Margarita de Montana!!
plummer@digisys.net
March 2000

Questions for the Readers

1. While we are staying in Barra for 2 weeks in April, our friends will be in Manzanillo. What is the best way by bus for us to meet up with each other? How far are we apart?

2. We had also heard that mosquitoes can be a problem. What sprays etc seem to be effective? [see this] Do the larger hotels (Cabo Blanco) spray as a matter of course? [yes] Are they an issue at certain times of the day or year? [all times of the year, moreso when the wind is calm]

3. What are your readers favourite day trips and what publications are available on the area?

Thanks so much for any help, and keep up the good work on the excellent site.

Ted
tedlunny@istar.ca
March 2000

Flights to Manzanillo

Might you have any info on either of these two places?

Also, I am having trouble booking a flight from Oakland or San Francisco, CA, to Manzanillo. for years, there was no flight at all, and now i hear there's flights out of sf to Manzanillo on Alaska. What happened to the cheapies that used to go to Manzanillo regularly?

Barbara Yaley
Berkeley, CA
BYaley@aol.com
March 2000

No, I don't know those places, unless you mean the Bungalows Mar Vida in Barra de Navidad. http://www.tomzap.com/marvida.html

I think Alaska Airlines is it. I can't recommend Mexicana. I just got back from a trip where 38 of us got bumped from a Mexicana flight on the way down and one of these families got bumped again on the way back (though their luggage made it--and ours didn't). -Tom

In-laws are Online

On one of your visitors comment pages, you have a letter from me and it mentions my "rich pampered in-laws". So now that they are online 20 hours a day I'm just worried that my comment might offend :-)

My Favor is if you could DELETE the rich pampered part... thanks.

name withheld
March 2000

Tereza Cortes, Sí; Judy's, No

Dustin
cndguy_15@hotmail.com
March 2000

Why No Bananas?

Brad Smith
veritas_53@hotmail.com
March 2000

I agree with you on Bananas. Nice place, friendly staff, good food, and on the ocean. - Tom

Camping at Tecuán

Peter Nichols
neterpichols@hotmail.com
March 2000

Toucan Bar & Grill

Also, met Pete & Helen, a Canadian couple who have a charter service & restaurant. The charter service offers fishing & site seeing. We were fortunate to view the dolphins swimming on each side of the boat, jumping in and out of the water - a spectacular experience. Their restaurant offers specials each night - i.e. Wednesdays is Chinese and Friday nights is spaghetti. Their breakfasts are very good too. We recommend you give them a try.

Frans & Dori
FRANS@dmi.net
March 2000

Snorkeling, Etc.

I would like to recommend the Bungalows Orientales in Melaque. This place is spotless and very reasonably priced (with reductions for longer stays). We paid 350 pesos per night for 4 people, includes kitchen, clean bathroom, 2 bdrms, living area, tv, pool, on the beach. Located on Gomez Farias east of Moreno, (a 5-minute walk to the centro).

We also stayed at Posada Pablo de Tarso, bungalows with kitchens etc. This cost us 500 pesos/night for 4 people, but we spoke with others who managed to get a better price. This place is not as clean and organized as the Orientale in my opinion. Also, there was a robbery here in the middle of the night. Someone walked right in an unlocked door and stole all the cash and cards. Make sure your doors are locked and your $ are stashed.

Lots of people around Melaque want to go snorkeling, but the locals and the guide books direct everyone to Tenacatita, which is a very good spot for this. However it's not cheap or convenient to get there. There's a bus every Wednesday for about 110 pesos ea. Boats from Barra are really expensive, there is a Canadian guy who will take you in the back of his truck for a fee. We took a boat up the coast to Tamarindo beach for snorkeling, paid 800 pesos for 8 people expecting to be out for the day. Had the whole thing nailed down until we discovered this price was only for 4 hours and we were back in Barra by noon. They post the costs for excursions by boat, but they conveniently forget to mention little details like this. (I assume the Tenacatita trip is for the whole day, but be sure to ask).

If you're in Barra or Melaque and you want to snorkel, I recommend going to Cuastecomates, which is just over the hill north of Melaque. You could probably walk there in 30 minutes, we took a 30 peso cab ride. It is a gritty little place with no markets (just restaurants and a dirty beach), but a short swim takes you to some pretty good snorkeling areas, (to the left side of the bay), not world-class, but pretty good. Also, make sure you bring your own gear. Renting or borrowing gear in this area is not easy.

I agree with many of the other comments regarding restaurants in the area. Be sure to try the taco stands on the street below Surfos in Melaque. The one across the street is downright excellent and is nearly free. Next to this stand is a dessert cart which has excellent Creme Caramel (flan).

We went to Popeye's in Barra for some fish on someone's recommendation. I tried "Pescadero Vericruzana", an excellent dish I enjoyed immensely until 3 am the next morning when I suddenly awoke with huge stomach cramps and streaked to the bathroom in record time. Needless to say, I do not recommend Popeye's.

Gord in Calgary
refreeze@yahoo.com
March 2000

Relaxing at La Paloma

As a word of caution to others flying into Manzanillo from L.A., do not fly Aero California. They are forever late and if you've got connections - good luck. As well, on the way down, they lost our bags along with those of two other vacationers. They turned up eventually about 3 1/2 days into the trip.

While our vacation didn't start out well - La Paloma certainly made up for that inconvenience.

Al & Addie
alad@bc.sympatico.ca
March 2000

St. Pats Party

DJMalherek@aol.com
March 2000

Bus Question

Jason Kessler
jason.kessler@mciworld.com
March 2000

Real Estate Question

Marcus & Alison Cain
mcain2@prodigy.net.mx
February 2000

Parrot Alert   Parrots are Cleared!

Tom, Thought this bit of information might be important! There is a small grocery store just south and east of the bus station in Barra. The store is across the street, just north of the store that sells newspapers and magazines. There is a parrot in a cage, just out side store. Three friends who were in Barra in late Jan. and early Feb. spent time talking and touching the bird. All three contracted an infectious form of pneumonia; one is now in critical condition in a Seattle hospital. The doctors seem to feel that the bird is a carrier of some dangerous contagious parasite or disease. Please post on your web site. Stay away from the Parrot in the cage outside the store!

Arlettaslim
FSitts@aol.com
February 2000

The owner of the parrots has been notified and has taken the birds to the doctor to be checked. Thanks, Marsha. - Tom

Thanks again for the site... has proven invaluable to me. I doubt if I ever would have found this area without it.

Bill Droke
wed@laplaza.org

I spoke with Dr. Herlinda in Barra, who has treated patients with the illness that your friends evidently had. She attributes it to rotovirus initially, which sometimes leads to a bacterial infection. She says the infection has been fatal in some cases in Colima where the infected area was around the heart. Symptoms of the rotovirus vary and may include diarrhea and vomiting. She has one patient that continues to suffer from a dry cough after 3 months of illness. She says the rotovirus is brought in by tourists.

Others have reported a similar outbreak in Canada and in Norway. -Tom

Apartment for rent in Melaque?

I also wanted to say that My cousins and myself who just got back from Melaque really enjoyed the La Tenga, Disqoteque and Surfos Bar. I love Melaque, Mexico!

Crystal Coe
crystalina_44@hotmail.com
February 2000

Hotel Barra de Navidad

RC
adamber@erols.com
February 2000

Melaque Restaurants

La Colema, open for breakfast 8-noon, is across the street from Judy's. Menu and prices are similar to Bananarama and Judy's, especially liked their fruit salad.

Siete Estrella, open all day, on west side of plaza. Very reasonable prices, breakfasts, buritos, guacamole, hamburgers, etc., and very good fresh fruit liquados (milkshakes).

Ricardo's, open at 6 pm, across street from Club Nautico El Dorado, excellent food and service. Try their Wed and Sat Barbeque Special of salad, drink, chicken or ribs, and dessert, for 55 pesos.

Restaurant Alcatraz, uptairs, "kitty-corner" from trailer park. Try their Chicken Special (Pollo Estilo Alcatraz) slices of sautéed chicken, onions, green peppers, bubbling in a rich brown sauce, served in a hot stone bowl. Also excellent, garlic shrimp (served with or without shells).

Sunflower Cafe, downstairs from Alcatraz, brewed coffee, espresso drinks, fresh baked cinnamon buns and pies.

Thrifty Ice Cream, up the street, towards Plaza. Lots of different flavors, in regular or waffle cones.

Thanks for your website, its really fun to read comments about Melaque, (we first came in 1984, its become discovered...but not yet spoiled).

Katie
KatieWoo1@yahoo.com
February 2000

More On Canadian Money

Vivienne
vivienne_saunders@telus.net
February 2000

I have seen the Colinas de Plata and they are very nice and peaceful. Swimming pool, nice grounds, laundry, air-conditioned. They are located in the neighborhood behind the Cabo Blanco, so it is a bit of a walk to downtown Barra de Navidad. I have photos which I will be adding hopefully soon. - Tom

Tennis in Cihuatlán

Excuse any misspellings that I might have made - I am not sure of some of the Spanish names for the clubs.

Ranjan McArthur
Victoria, BC, Canada
getme@home.com
February 2000

Problems at the Hotel Royale Costa Sur

I just arrived back from my first trip to Mexico, vacationing with family members who go each year, staying 3-4 weeks each time. This was their first trip to the Melaque/Barra De Navidad area. They stayed at Hotel Mallorca, and some at the Las Palmas. Both were exactly as listed on your web page description, good/clean values.

My experience with the Hotel Royale Costa Sur ended by checking out on the 3rd day of a scheduled 7-day stay, and relocating to Melaque. Due to problems with toilets backing up, no warm water for showers, and our room included a kitchenette that was not usable. And would not have mattered anyway due to no store in the area to purchase food items, etc. Melaque was the nearest. Let me say that the staff was very friendly and tried to help me with the above issues. I made an attempt to speak with the manager, but he or she? was never available. To be honest, my experience was more comical, than frustrating. I just wanted notify you, and anyone that was planning a trip to the general area, they should stay clear of this location until it comes under new management. It truly has potential to be a great place to stay.

But I still planned to vacation next year in the Manzanillo area. I found too many positive's with the people, weather, and over all cost of lodging.

Chris
MCFADYEN.M@worldnet.att.net
February 2000

Hello Villas Cabo Coral, Anybody Home?

Aubrey Little
a.little@attcanada.net
February 2000

Too Late for the Bus

Sandra
gsmealing@home.com
February 2000

Hotel Tecuán Closed

In Barra we tried to stay at Cabo Blanco [photo 62K] but in December they went to an all-inclusive deal that is about $150 for two. The place was empty. No way to work a better deal. I did talk to some folks that thought it was such a good deal that they could afford to go to town to eat, imagine that! We did stay at the Barra de Navidad and had a great time. After all the warning we were very careful with our money but had no problems at all. I would only stay if I got a room with a "vista" or toward the ocean. Pool was fine and the ocean much calmer that last year. A friend went fishing with a guy named Blas and had a great time and would recommend him if you are a little adventuresome. There is a small restaurant called Elory by the lagoon that was great, much better that Seamaster's or some of the better known ones.

In Tenacatita there is now a small hotel, there is about six rooms that are small and one large two or three bedroom "suite". Twenty bucks a night. The rooms are clean and sometimes you have hot water. They have a little restaurant in the middle of the place where you can get good food and there is a bunch of places within walking distance.

El Tecuán in so more at least for now. We went up to look and it appears as if the Canadian's just pulled up stakes. It was a great place to stay.

One place that might be worth checking into is Paraiso Costalegre in the Chamela Bay area. They have just fixed up the ocean front rooms and also have some large multifamily suites. There is not much in the way of food at the hotel but you can go to the bus stop about a mile away for food etc. There is also quite a few small places to eat in Perula. Beaches were great for body surfing and hardly a soul in sight. The manager, Salvador, has very flexible prices for the rooms. Somewhere between 35-50 a night depending on your haggling skills.

Hope these comments are helpful.

David Castor
dogdock@bigsky.net
February 2000

Is Felix Still Around?

Charles
CFGRAB@aol.com
February 2000

Just like Charles, I took many beers with Felix at his bar(?) tables establishments... Is he still alive?

Paul Savard
Alias "Pablocito"
cyclovir@globetrotter.qc.ca
February 2000

Tom, just spent a month in Barra, got back from Never Never Land the 8th of March [Feb.?]. Had a great time as usual! Checked out your web site and there was a question whether Felix was alive and still around. He is doing great and looks better than he has for years!!! Drank plenty of beer with him and laughed and laughed when he would go out and shake a leg. You know how he likes his ladies. Yes, Felix is alive and pounding! Thanks for your great site.

Arlettaslim
arlettaslim@earthlink.net
February 2000

What's Up With the Hotel Royale?

Last Easter I was able to share the riches of Oaxaca and Puerto Escondido for 2 weeks with 7 other women, half of whom had never been to Mexico. It being a mother daughter grandmother trip the pressure was on (Me) will we be safe, etc. It was a fantastic trip. When questions arose I just directed them to your site. This March headed to Melaque for 3 weeks and I was wondering if anyone has been to the Hotel Royale Costa Sur in Cuastecomates recently? Spoke to them on the phone and they were extremely nice. Was wondering if this is the hotel mentioned in a post with a description of the beach at Cuastecomates stating the hotel is a dump. I must confess I have stayed in some very enjoyable dumps and with a quoted price of $15 a night for myself and 2 grandchildren I'm willing to give it a go. Any input would be welcome. Many thanks.

Linda
Yamicoco@aol.com
February 2000

Delfin and Disco

The buffet breakfast at the Delfin, which costs $29 pesos, is a great bargain. Good coffee, toast, buns, fresh fruit, cereal and a choice of entrees (eggs, pancakes) make it a good stop. On occasion they also have a "pasta" dish that contains ham, egg, peppers and cheese. It is delicious but costs an extra $8 pesos.

We ate a couple of times at Ramon's. The food was excellent, the service good and the prices reasonable.

We ate at the Ambar but would not recommend it. It was pricey, the service was poor and the food was barely adequate.

We enjoyed Tessa's burgers and sandwiches. Chris also recommended Estrella beer which we enjoyed more than the other brands.

A "must" for happy hour (from 2 to 10 pm daily, beer included) is the Sunset Bar. It is unique, the service good and the setting is great. One good shake and the whole place will come tumbling down. We feel that it would give most places a run for the "worst bathroom" award. But, after a few cervezas, who cares.

We stayed for 12 days in Melaque at the Hotel Puesta Del Sol [photo] across from the bus station on Gomez Farias. We had a top floor, ocean view room with a small fridge, two-burner stove and sink on our balcony. The hotel has a mixture of long term residents who return year after year (mainly Canadians) and Mexican tourists. We were initially concerned that the maid did not do a very good job and our linens were not changed. We spoke to one of the young guys in charge (all the people running the place were very young) and the problem was cleared up. From that point on we did not have a problem.

We ate at Cesar and Charlie's and had good meals. We also went there for happy hour a few times (very good margaritas). A word of caution make sure they give you the "two for one", they had a tendency to lose count (and after a few drinks we did too).

Bananarama has good breakfasts (they still don't compare with the Delfin buffet). The owners (from Grand Forks BC) have opened Bananarama At Night (Wednesday through Saturday). The place is a bit hard to find but you can get a map at the breakfast Banarama on Gomez Farias. They have a small menu (pork chops, spaghetti, lasagna etc.). The owners are very friendly and are a good source of information about Melaque.

We had good meals at Koala's. They have a limited menu (no Mexican food) but the food was well prepared and very tasty. However, they are a bit pricey.

We also had a couple of good meals at the small restaurant that is located in the Villas Camino del Mar - we think it is called Chevolos. It is a small, family run operation and the food was very good. The family lives on site - when you use the bathroom the toothbrushes from family members are by the sink.

We also enjoyed Surfo's Bar, upstairs a half block east of the square on Jaurez (it has three flags - Mexican, American and Canadian hanging from the front). The hamburger place in the back is supposed to be good as well. We had a Greek salad there that was very good. Just below Surfo's on the street is a taco stand that is considered to be one of the best in Melaque. One of the Americans living in Melaque referred to it as "Pedro's".

We went to the golf course at the Grand Bay Hotel [photo 278K]. It is amazing to see how the other half lives! We ate at the golf course and would not recommend the food. The salad was excellent but our sandwich and stuffed pepper we among the worst meals we had while in Mexico. Go to look around, have a drink, but not too eat (at the golf course anyway).

Los Pelicanos, a restaurant referred to in virtually all the books about Melaque, is no longer in business.

We found your web site helpful before we went.

Ed and Dody
sorsdahl&strong@telus.net
January 2000

Has the Hotel Tropical re-opened?

Bruce
jimijazz@mail.connectexpress.com
January 2000

Tropical is still not open. -Tom

Blue Bay Was Okay

Debbie Henderson
debbie0056@home.com
January 2000

Transportation to Area Beaches

S. Racy
sracy@wolfenet.com
January 2000

Yes. I'm not familiar with the particular schedules for the little local busses that do this. You need to find out when the last bus leaves the beach; it's usually just before sundown. Particularly in Tenacatita, which is bustling during the day with many beachfront establishments; in the evening everyone leaves. - Tom

Blue Bay, Barra, Tenacatita

Since we (group of 6 of us) were there for two weeks we got out to see the area. We went snorkeling for the day in Tenacatita and it was awesome, the clear water around the coral was excellent for snorkeling, we saw so many bright-colored fish, octopus, manta rays etc. and the waves and wind were calm the whole day. Later on we had supper and I tried the Rollo de Mar, it was the best thing I ate the whole trip. Don't forget your English/Spanish Dictionary if you can't speak Spanish the one restaurant we were at spoke no English. We also made two trips into Barra de Navidad shopping, everyone was so nice and polite we had to come twice. We had drinks in Piper Lovers, neat place, and then over to the Sunset Bar for supper and a few more drinks, food was great (I think we all ate hamburgers)and the drinks were huge. Good prices! We did get the opportunity to go to Manzanillo, but the hour and a half drive in the cab wore us out. Not as friendly there and a lot more people and traffic to deal with. I wish I had gone to Barra first because I wouldn't have bothered going to Manzanillo, prices and services were way better in Barra and it had everything you needed right there without the hassle. We walked all through Barra de Navidad saw a lot more cuz everything was in the same general area. A lot of time was wasted in the cab in Manzanillo. It all depends on what you want, the big city or smaller towns. Awesome trip! Be sure to go and visit Barra de Navidad and Bahía de Tenacatita.

Shelly
skaisner@titanlink.com
January 2000

And the "Worst Bathroom" Winner IS . . .

As for the food, we ate very well. Mar y Terra was the top of our list for great dining and service. We spent most of our afternoons there under an umbrella, and several dinners there were all wonderful. Other places we enjoyed were Ramon's, Banana's, Los Arcos, and Pati's. We were not impressed at all with Popeye's (they win the worst bathroom award hands down). Happy hour almost every night was at Seamaster's. The service and the drinks were outstanding. I would also like to say that Ambar's was a joke of a restaurant. We went for desert and a drink one evening and ordered the Banana crepes flambe. They arrived at our table with no flames, but soaked in alcohol so we could barely eat them. The service was not great either. We also searched for Jalepeno's (wanting to try the Sexy Coffee), but it has closed.

We took a trip over to the Grand Bay one afternoon for lunch and to check it out. We ate lunch by the pool and had a very good meal for not much money. We went another day for lunch at the golf course, but I wouldn't recommend it. The service was slow, and the place was pretty much empty. Loved the water taxi rides though!

Susan Perrigo
SPerrigo@GlacierNW.com
January 2000

Barra/Melaque Report

Barra was great as usually. Enjoyed eating at Ramon's and Banana's. Not impressed with the food at Popeye's, but love the setting and the view. Also ate at Tessa's and Pati's, both good. Only spent a few minutes in Mango Bay, but should have spent much more time.

Accommodations at Marsha's Mar Vida Bungalows were at best ok. She needs to fix the place up some. She is helpful and nice.

Stayed one night in Via de Obregon near San Patricio/Melaque and thought it was excellent. Also visited La Paloma and wished we could have stayed there. It is magnificent. Friends we met at Marsha's spent a second week at La Paloma so we saw the room and all the facilities. It is the top of the mark. Unparalleled in the world as far as I am concerned -- and last time in Barra I stayed at the Grand Bay Hotel. It is world class, but the La Paloma is truly unique in all the world.

One other point. While in Barra we had the opportunity to get a massage with Rod from Idaho. We met him thru Marsha. He is reasonably priced and did wonders for a mild back sprain I had from falling on the rocks near Cuastecomates. He can be scheduled thru the ladies at Mango Bay.

Drove out to Playa Boca de Iguanas and La Manzanilla -- another must see area. Not time for Tenacatita this trip though.

We arrived in Puerto Vallarta and went to Budget where we had confirmed reservations for a VW. No cars available. They walked us over to Advantage and set us up with the same car for the same price, but slightly more per day for the insurance program. Thank you for your tip on calling Budget's 1-800 number. Thanks for your site and your help.

Jim C
Phoenix
jimccpa@email.msn.com
January 2000

Hotel on Tenacatita?

Wendy Randall
wrandall@yknet.yk.ca
January 2000

Wendy, I can't get a message to your email address. -Tom

Questions about Blue Bay

Debbie Henderson
Surrey, B.C.
debbie0056@home.com
January 2000

Tennis Courts?

Laurie Fraser
llfraser.sk.sympatico.com
January 2000

Most of the tennis courtsare at the larger hotels. The ones at Cabo Blanco are quite nice and you may be able to rent some time. Of course, the ones at the Grand Bay are stupendous, but it'd be harder to get time on them.

John Williams
sharkbait69@yahoo.com
January 2000

Jungle River Adventure

Ed Fesler
efinguad@usa.net
January 2000

There is a natural waterway just inland from the coast, where wildlife tours are conducted. I am assuming this is the River Adventure you are talking about. I have spoken with one couple that took a tour and weren't too impressed since they didn't see much wildlife. I would not discount the tour based on that. It is a beautiful area and there is much wildlife there--we just can't expect them to "perform" every time. If you like nature and natural places, I would recommend the trip, otherwise it probably won't be much of an adventure. - Tom

Bungalows Aztecas in Melaque

Ken Hayes
Vancouver Canada
KEN_HAYES@telus.net
January 2000

Dr. Woo Amazes

His address: Ramon Corona #128, San Patricio-Melaque Jalisco, Mexico 48980, Tel. and Fax (335) 5 50 77.

Leslie Johnson
melaque@cyberus.ca
January 2000

Hotel Barra de Navidad Improved

We had several friends who stayed at the Bogavante and encountered problems, the worst being that the management would pump out the septic system every few days with the end of the pipe going directly into the sand on the beach in front of the hotel -- the area where the hotel guests sunbathe! It was very disgusting and made me stay away from that area the rest of our stay. Another hotel, the Delphin, gave our friends a surprise when they checked out -- a 40 peso per day room tax!! Otherwise, they thoroughly enjoyed their 3 week stay at the Delphin.

Several members of our group had children ranging in age from 12 to 23. All were able to be set free in Barra (or from Melaque) and found the night life in town to be safe and exciting -- dancing at the Sunset, burgers and shakes at Tessa's, ping pong at Pipers, walking, meeting etc along the streets. Since the town is self-contained, the parents did not need to go far to "accidently" run into their children.

We found Ramon's restaurant to the be the most reliable, friendly and competively priced one in town. We enjoyed three meals at Los Arcos and found it to be very good food and the "Mom and Pop" atmosphere delightful. Piper's was the best night spot. Churros from Florentino in the evenings was a highlight.

Also two very good coffee shops are now in town: Mango Bay, run by Pam and Jan, serves espresso and brewed gourmet coffees -- very strong and rich. Pam also makes the best Kalua Milkshake in the world!! They also have an internet station with two computers, which is run by Mary Carman, DDS, who is delightful and very helpful. The connections are as reliable as the long distance connection with Guadalajara (somewhat iffy). Pam and Jan are a wealth of information on local interest -they are both British and speak Spanish fluently. Pam is married to the manager of the Grand Bay Hotel and is very knowledgeable about activities in and around that facility.

The other cafe is called Cafe D'Arte, run by Hector and Tina. Hector is Mexican and Tina is British. They make a rich brew, the best fruit, yogurt and granola bowl in town, and great scones. Additionally, their Licuado rivals Katarina's (across from the church).

As you can tell, we had a wonderful time and are looking forward to another visit.

Mas tarde
Linda and John
Seattle
oconny1@home.com
January 2000

The Bus to Barra

Cihuatlan buslines head to Barra as well, but unfortunately I don't know their schedule. It's likely to be more frequent than Flecha. Hope this helps.

Paul B.
bertorelli@coastnet.com
January 2000

About Canadian Funds; Melaque Advice Wanted

We are going to Melaque the beginning of April Looking for a clean reasonably priced place to stay....suggestions? There will be three couples should we book ahead? Any info is greatly appreciated. Can't wait for our trip.

Hasta La Vista
Sandra
gmealing@home.com
January 2000

Oooh, that Avocado Man!

Back to teaching this week - my 1st and 2nd graders were glad to be back, I brought each of them one of those cool turtles with the bobbing heads, a shell from the beach and a peso. they were stoked! I'm exhausted but happy, ready for our return trip next year (which will be made easier by the fact that we were bumped for a night on the way there and each (10 of us) received $500 vouchers! - then some of us had luggage detained in Phoenix on the way home and were given $100 vouchers for each detained piece! What a score!!!)

Debbie T.

robforme@pacifier.com
January 2000

P.S. Having withdrawals of sorts for those yummy avocados - even more so for that charming avacado man!

Exchanging Canadian Money

Wendy Randall
wrandall@yknet.yk.ca
January 2000

About Busses

In mid-October I flew into PVR arriving about noon. I took a cab to the new bus terminal just north of the airport (80 pesos taxi stand rate). I quickly checked out the schedules at the various bus lines and concluded that I had just missed a first class bus to Barra and boarded the next available bus, Flecha Amarilla line's servicio regular run at 1:30 p.m. (cost 98 pesos). It was an interesting, if somewhat lengthy, trip to Barra which included many stops along the way. We even encountered a funeral procession in Tomatlan. The bus pulled into Barra about 7:30 p.m.

I have a sneaking suspicion that if I had taken my time in PVR I might have found a first class bus mid- to late afternoon that would have cut travel time in half and provided for a more comfortable -- if less culturally intense -- bus trip. The additional cost for a first class bus is only 20 or 30 pesos.

I also traveled by bus from Barra/Melaque via Manzanillo (28 pesos) to Colima (38 pesos first class) and then to Guadalajara (96 pesos first class). A side trip from Colima to Comala (near the volcanoes) by local commuter bus is three pesos either way. I didn't plan my trip from Melaque to Colima at all -- but the frequent bus connections resulted in seamless connections along the way. It was all quite painless.

I loved Melaque, by the way.

Mike
moran_old@bc.sympatico.ca
January 2000

Canadians and Money Exchange

First of all, forget Canadian travelers' cheques. Nobody wants them or understands them. Arm yourself before you leave Canada with some small denomination bills in American money. That will deal with cabs and odd expenses. Taxis take American dollars, buses take microscopic amounts of pesos. Then change around $20 Canadian into pesos at your hotel or the nearest bank, whichever is most convenient. Charge everything, including excursions, at your hotel or restaurant (make sure they take VISA but most do,) and relax. You do not pay for another month anyway and the exchange rate is usually fair. Even on the beach or the small boutiques every Mexican is happy to take that good ole American dollar and the dollars you don't use this trip -you should be so thrifty - you can use next vacation.

Do not waste time and money changing Canadian money into pesos when in Canada. Nobody cares and Canadian money is unfamiliar currency. As long as you are armed with enough pesos to give a small gift to a child or buy an ice cream (not a wise move for North American insides) plastic works just fine.

Perhaps you might comment, Tom, but this holds true for Puerto Vallarta, Manzanillo, Cancun, and various spots in between. Happy New Year everyone,

Ann
campbelx@cadvision.com
January 2000

Learning Spanish

A few questions. I loved Melaque. Barra was great, but the beach was easier in Melaque. I stayed at the Hotel Bahia, down by Hotel Lagazpi. I lost their business card. Can someone tell me how to get in touch with them? What is March like after the San Patricio festival, is it busy at the end of March, but before Semana Santa. Any information would be appreciated.

Good restaurant in Melaque for barbeque is La Pelape (or it might be in San Patricio as they run into each other). A trip to La Manazanilla was about 45 minutes by bus and less than a buck. Really nice... just make sure you are on the last bus returning about 3:30.

Deb Calderon
calderon@infinet.net
December 1999

How About the Bus from Puerto Vallarta?

Wes
mcjenick@autobahn.mb.ca
December 1999

Barra/Melaque Visit

Surprised to see negative comments re Los Arcos from "Eileen and Jay". Following my first meal there, the owner came chasing after me down the street to give me change because, owing to my poor Spanish, I had left too much money. Does this sound like someone obviously looking to take advantage of tourists? By the way, the food was very good, so were the prices and the owners are very friendly! [Los Arcos is recommended. -Tom]

For those staying in Barra or Melaque, Ciber@net, 27 Av. Gomez Farias, Pasaje comercial, Melaque, has internet service by 15 minute segment or by the hour. E-mail: melaque@ciber.net.mx They are open from 9:30 to 2:30 and 4:00 to 8:00 daily. They have a number of computers on site and I never had to wait, but reservations can be made at Melaque 559 19.

Paul Bertorelli
bertorelli@coastnet.com
December 1999

A Week in Barra

There's Internet access now in Barra. Mango Bay, a nice coffee (Starbucks, Peets, etc.) and pastry establishment also offers curios and Internet access by the hour. The women who run the place are wonderfully gracious. Hourly Internet rates run about 75 pesos. Mid-morning seems to be the best time to successfully get online and it's not a bad time to get your second cup of coffee either!

We rented a car from Peggy at Crazy Cactus and found that getting out of Barra and exploring the beaches and coastal towns nearby was a pleasant distraction and a great way to escape crowds. Peggy and her daughter Tracy were very helpful and her rental rates are reasonable. BTW, Tracy says that she's working on getting permits to rent kayaks which will most likely launch out of Melaque. Apparently, getting the proper permits is somewhat of a hassle. She imagines that she'll have the kayaks ready to rent sometime in January.

Here are a couple of things we learned about getting to Tenacatita. There are two ways to get there by boat. One is to rent a boat by the hour (a pricey venture but entirely worth it if you can afford it); the other is to go there on a group boat. The latter costs about US$20 per person and snorkel equipment is available at an extra cost. (If you don't want to wait and take chances that the boat equipment will fit you, you can rent snorkeling equipment at Crazy Cactus by the day or the half-day. They have a wide range of sizes and they rent for about 75 pesos a day) The downside about the boat is that it only goes once ten people have signed up. Since we couldn't fill the allotted spaces, we drove there instead. Snorkeling visibility was not great that day but the experience was wonderful.

BTW, Los Arcos has gotten a lot of great press from visitors but oddly enough it was the only restaurant we visited where we had a bad experience. We asked if they would provide us with a "take-out" order of rice for two and what would be a simple low-budget side dish turned out to cost 16 pesos (and believe me it was a measly scoop of rice). This seemed exorbitant given what we knew of local prices and it was truly the only experience we had of someone obviously taking advantage of tourists.

Thanks for all your great coverage of the area. It was much appreciated and incredibly useful during our stay. We'll be back!

Eileen and Jay
Eileen.Hansen@barclaysglobal.com
December 1999

Place to Rent Kayaks?

Glen Dunsworth
duny@islandnet.com
December 1999

Brownsmead Comes to Mexico

We are actually an interesting group of friends, mostly musicians, bringing instrument, snorkeling stuff, dancing feet and kind hearts. Some of us are school teachers and some of us are other things. We are all really looking forward to relaxing and enjoying a beautiful new to us part of the world.

Oh, how's the surf? How's the drinking water? We've been working on our Spanish. We'll do our best to be good guests.

Warmly,
Debbie Twombly
robforme@pacifier.com
December 1999

Melaque does have an ATM machine, but a recent comment suggests that you not rely on it. American Express travelers' cheques, and others, are accepted. It is best to drink bottled water. Enjoy your stay. -Tom

Two Weeks in Barra

NOW - How to have the best time in Barra?! Take spanish lessons! There is a woman in Barra named Bonnie who runs "Amiga's" Spanish Lessons, one on one or in groups. She has a very creative and effective method of teaching - I learned more from her than I had in years of studying - I highly recommend her and know that my experience in Barra was superior because of the knowledge and confidence I gained with speaking Spanish. Her rates are reasonable ($60 US for a 5 - 10 hr package) and she makes it fun, relaxing, and easy! She is a very talented teacher! Bonnie is from Vancouver and lives in Barra. She can be found down there at #124 Avenida Lopez de Legazpi, above the Money Exchange/Vinos y Licores (liquor store), across from the Hotel Barra (on the corner). There is a doorway next to the store, walk down the corridor and up the stairs to her door. Her balcony faces the street.

By the way, in response to one of your visitors, I did see Fortino's 2 Restaurant there but didn't go in. The best deal were the taquito's and quesadilla's at Pitufo's Taqueteria (eve's only) on Avenida Veracruz. Other great restaurants - Los Arcos, Velero's, Seamaster, Manglito's, Paty's, Ambar's.

The boat ride with the river cruise to Tenacatita was fantastic and I recommend the Fiesta Mexicana restaurant there. I just want to add that regarding the Marine's being there - well, I felt safer having them around, they are definitely welcome by the locals, and have a friendly presence there.

Lori
Vancouver, B.C.
lorsang@yahoo.com
December 1999

Barra With Kids

We thought we would like to stay at the Mar Vida to take advantage of the kitchenette but I did not make reservations and when we arrived Marsha was booked solid so we went to the Hotel Barra de Navidad. I had stayed there in 1991 and thought it was nice then so we checked in. The next day we looked at other accommodation, many nice places and price ranges to choose from, but with the kids along a pool was very high on the priority list. We weighed the pros and cons of each place and decided to spend the whole time at the hotel Barra. It is the only place on the beach with a pool, the location is great and the room we had was on the beach side and had just been renovated complete with air conditioning (425 pesos + 35 pesos if using the air conditioning). There was renovation work going on around us but it was no problem. We had great sunset and morning views from our patio, close to everything, I bought a cooler, loaded it up, went to the pool and had a blast with the family (I spent more money in PV in three nights than the whole time in Barra but I won't get into that).

The marines set up beside Mar y Tierra didn't cause us any concern. They are armed to the teeth and ready for action, only problem is, there is no action. I was told they are looking for drug smugglers, apparently a lot of drugs come in through Manzanillo and they don't want the same to happen in Barra. Who Knows???

In short, a great time was had by all, no problem with the wee ones and if you like the place you're at, stay there.

Thanks for the web site Tom. I had print outs of the "best of Barra/Melaque" with me and some the restaurant owners did not know they were on the web site but thought it was great when I showed them the page.

Chris, Renee, Walter and Barbara
Vancouver
chris_homewood@city.vancouver.bc.ca
December 1999

Traveling with Kids

Shifting Sands

Not knowing where to go or what to do in the dark, we went across the street to the Hotel Sands [photo 45K]. The night desk clerk quoted his unposted rate of 288 pesos for two persons; but they did not have two beds, only one full size bed , but, he would give it to us for the one person rate of 216 pesos. We spent a very uncomfortable night at the hotel sands and the following morning we went to all the hotels listed on Zpescas web site and to our surprise found much better accommodations, some even with air-conditioning, for competitive prices or less.

When we check out of the Hotel Sands on 17 Nov 99, the day desk clerk gave us a bill for 288 pesos, plus 6% tax, claiming regardless of what anyone quoted us, the rate is 288 pesos for two persons and even after 45 minutes of negotiations, he would not budge.

We reluctantly paid the bill, but promised to post our comments here when we returned home. We thank you for the opportunity to post our comments and only wish to alert prospective guest of the Hotel Sands to be cautious in dealing with them and to be assured that there are far better places to stay for even less money.

One for example, is the Polos Bungalows, which are air conditioned and include a complete kitchenette and TV, for only 200 pesos, this would have been a far better choice, had we known about it that first night.

All-in-all, we did enjoy our visit to Barra de Navidad and wish to give special recognition to the Barra de Navidad Hotel, the Delfin Hotel, the Ambar Restaurant and the Mar y Tierra Restaurant; all very nice establishments.

Mr. & Mrs. J. Sedlin
jacsed@juno.com
November 1999

Responding About the Blue Bay

Paul Savard
Alias "Pablocito"
cyclovir@globetrotter.qc.ca
November 1999

How to contact Villa Obregon?

Barbara
blawrance@yahoo.com
November 1999

Horseback Riding and Donations

Also, we are interested in ways to be a blessing to those we meet along the way? Any ideas of ways to help others less fortunate but still avoid offending anyone. We would like to take toys for the holidays, is that okay? Does anyone know of the churches in Barra or Melaque? Any names or addresses or contacts would be great. How can we help? Would clothing or food be more appropriate? HELP! We have never "been there - done that" so we want to be sure to not step on toes. Our hearts are in the right place, just not sure how to proceed from here. Any suggestions. All comments will be appreciated!

Debi
cyndi@ptialaska.net
November 1999

For donations, check with Marsha at the Bungalows Mar Vida. She and her friends can point you in the right direction. -Tom

Questions

Jill V Davis
jvdavis@metlife.com
November 1999

Wanting Input on Melaque

We are planning a trip to Mexico in mid January next year, and and I am trying to gather as much info as I can. Am anxious to make a decision and reservations as soon as possible. Someone I met recently, told us about the Santa Maria Hotel, in Melaque, and he liked it a lot. Didn't go into a lot of detail about it though. so, if anyone knows about it, please write and tell me about it.

We are planning to fly into Manzanillo in mid-January, and staying for about 6 to 10 weeks in either Barra de Navidad or Melaque, with possibly a couple of side trips here and here. We are looking for a nice beach, (I realize that the Melaque beach is somewhat steep, how steep?) a small town, with a zócolo and a tiny bit of nightlife, with a few restaurants to try, and some music. My husband is a saxophone player and loves to play with the locals. I would be grateful for information any of you Mexico lovers out there could give me. We have a wedding to go to in Puerto Vallarta at the end of April, so looks like we will have a lot of time to fool around.

Jean Ridellab
Orcas Island, washingtonb
jjridella@rockisland.comb
October 1999

Barra and the Costalegre

One can also bring along his tennis racket, or I guess, rent one, and play at the Hotel Cabo Blanco courts (2). You must reserve, and preferably be an early bird, otherwise, its no fun, its too hot!

See you in paradise! I am going back for sure next January 2000. Anybody knows if any celebrations are planned in Barra for the Millennium?

Paul Savard
Alias "Pablocito"
cyclovir@globetrotter.qc.ca
ICQ: 9033248
October 1999

Enjoy it While You Can

For those trying to 'keep it a secret'' - bad news folks. The Vancouver Sun recently printed a two page spread in the weekly travel section titled 'Mexican Beach Town is an Unsung Getaway" - photographs and all! Also the Victoria 'Times Colonist' did the same spread. Written by a Los Angeles Times reporter I can only speculate that it has also been published in many other North American newspapers.

Oh well, lets all enjoy while we can still afford it! (Does anyone remember what Puerto Vallarta was like in the late 1950's and early 60's ???)

Dave Guy
DGuy@pacifica-papers.com
October 1999

About the Hotel Barra de Navidad

We also had a bad experience at the Hotel Barra. Our room was broken into and tossed during suppertime three times in a one week period four years ago in January. Lost her purse and a little cash (about US$120.00 total value). Management at that time was aware that the hotel was experiencing security problems and we were told by one of the desk clerks that the manager knew the guilty parties but chose not to take action. On that day we checked out!

We have since been staying at the Hotel Monterrey in Melaque. It is an older but squeaky clean family run smaller(about 20 rooms) hotel - The location close to all amenities can't be beat, beach is far superior to Barra and the management couldn't be nicer. Rooms are somewhat basic but very comfortable.

Herb Feinberg
Grand Junction, Colorado
HerbnPat@aol.com
October 1999

Several have asked why the Hotel Barra de Navidad is not recommended, including the manager of the hotel.

We stayed in one of the air-conditioned rooms (there were only 6) that fronted onto the beach. Our air-conditioner lacked a grill so we had to rig an air deflector using a tray and a chair to keep the unit from sucking the cold air back onto the thermostat and turning itself off. Fortunately the air-conditioner worked well enough to compensate for the number of openings in the windows and around the air-conditioner itself that were not sealed. Workmanship in the room was decidedly poor.

Although our room fronted onto the beach, there was a security? fence that prevented us from walking out onto the beach without first passing in front of the windows of all of the other rooms that fronted onto the beach. (Our room was at the end of the hotel.) The chain link fence just stopped when you got past the rooms and you could walk around to the beach. The fence also interfered with our view of the beach.

The swimming pool is situated at the other end of the hotel. The sea breeze, which is deflected by the large hotel structure, comes around the corner and through the pool area so that swimmers experience a chill when getting out of the pool even in very warm weather. The hotel has no parking area. We parked on the street with two wheels on the sidewalk like everyone else. There are two rows of rooms, two floors high surrounding an interior courtyard. We do not like this design, because with the parallel masonry walls in this enclosed space, the sound from one noisy person can keep the entire hotel awake.

We did like the restaurant, which wasn't often open while we were there. It is upstairs with a balcony crowded with palm trees overlooking the beach. Even though they got our order wrong, we enjoyed our breakfast.

Comparing this hotel with another beachfront hotel, Hotel Royale Costa Sur in nearby Cuastecomates, we found the Royale to be somewhat cheaper (comparing air-conditioned rooms) and devoid of any of the complaints we had about the Barra de Navidad. Based on these experiences, I don't recommend the Hotel Barra de Navidad. I am not saying that the hotel should be avoided, I just think there are better options. But there are people who regularly stay at the Hotel Barra de Navidad and like it.   -Tom

Don't Worry About Military Presence

Richard & Nancy Lennie
lapaloma@ciber.net.mx
La Paloma Oceanfront Retreat
and Art Center
October 1999

Any Mexico Birdwatching Sites?

Like many of the visitor's who have left messages and provided information, Barra de Navidad has a particular resonance for me. I first visited in 1988 on a trip to the Pacific coast from Guanajato where I was studying at the time. Having been really taken by everything about the then sleepy (and still relatively so) little village (outside of the main holidays naturally), I try to visit once every two years or so, sometimes more frequently, as part of my travels through Mexico while climbing volcanoes and birdwatching (inter alia).

This brings me to a small problem: I have found it difficult to locate any good reference books/websites on Mexican ornithology. I have no doubt that they exist, and so if anyone can assist with suggestions, I would be very grateful.

On the several good places to stay in Barra, may I suggest the excellent and very friendly (and many have already attested to this it appears!) Hotel Delfin. The rooms which give onto the lagoon are excellent with vast tiled bathrooms and great views.

Have you (would you) considered putting any parochial meteorological data on the site? - this would be reassuring for those of us about to experience the dark winter days in Northern Europe and elsewhere!

I enjoyed your site and look forward to visiting again.

Mark Isaac
Pimlico, London, England
rooster@isaac200089.freeserve.co.uk
October 1999

Oh My GOSH!

You guys have made my month......

My guy, John, and I are wanting to get married in Barra (even though he's never been there before!) Does anyone know if the Grand Bay has a ballroom? Does anyone know if someone there will marry two non-demoninational Christinas in English and Spanish?

Hopefully someone does :) please let me know. Well I should get back to my studying. That was afterall my intentions...Viva MEXICO!

Sarah Bullock
slb6471@garnet.fsu.edu
September 1999

Those Darn Police

We have been visiting Santiago ( near Manzanillo) for the past two years and met some other Canadians on a trip to Barra who recommended Melaque and area as a possible 2-week vacation destination.

What concerns me is the March 99 Welcome to Occupied Melaque, is there now a large military garrison here and if so what has the impact been?

Also we are considering renting a car ( depending on how expensive it is ) to explore and some of the comments on this site have referred to being pulled over and paying extra to the policia?

I would appreciate hearing from you and anyone else who has up to date information on Melaque and area.

Pat
d.good@sk.sympatico.ca
September 1999

No, there isn't a large military garrison there. I think the military presence was just temporary. I haven't heard anything more about it.

Yes, sometimes the policia will extort money from tourists. This can happen anywhere in Mexico. It is not a frequent problem. Best thing to do is be patient, don't give in easily, always have small bills available (they don't make change), and don't speak very much Spanish.   -Tom

Want to Rent Apartment

Alaska Airlines

Stephen McGuire
semcguire@worldnet.att.net
September 1999

Schools in the Barra de Navidad Area

T. Hansen
THa3057081@aol.com
September 1999

Newsletter?

Barb
BShea92586@aol.com
September 1999

Bananas about Bananas

We go to Barra because you just can't beat the people. We bring toys to the kids down there. This year my husband was going to drive his little VW down but I kind of got carried away with the toys so now he has to drive his truck. Is there an orphanage near there or we just best taking them to the church in Barra or Melaque or La Manzanillo? Are you from a Chamber of Commerce sort of organization for Barra or?

BShea92586@aol.com
September 1999

No, I'm just a fan like you. Marsha at Hotel Mar Vida says to contact her when you get there about the toys. She doesn't know of any orphanages close by but can connect you with plenty of needy children. -Tom

El Tecuán

carol
caroldan1@earthlink.net
August 1999

About Shore Fishing

Visit our website at www.zpesca.com for more info, or e-mail me direct at zpesca@aol.com.

Brian Wilson
General Manager
Z Pesca Sport Fishing
August 1999

Barra Renovation ??

Arlettaslim
arlettaslim@yahoo.com
August 1999

Laguna del Tule

Frank Howard
fhoward@freenet.carleton.ca
August 1999

Hotel Royale Costa Sur in Cuastecomates, Jalisco

They were kinda busy, I guess there was about 10 cars in the parking lot, maybe 10 to 15 families. Restaurant was open all the time, breakfast is from 8-12, lunch 12-6, and dinner from 6-10pm, most breakfasts were around 23 pesos, the lunches, (shrimp,fish etc,) were around 70 pesos with a 20% discount, and super was around 35 pesos but all there was was burgers and fries. We tried several of the palapas along the beach and the food at Royale costa sur was much better , a little more expensive but better none the less. (My wi