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Puerto Escondido, Oaxaca
January 2001 to January 2003

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Will Our Cell Phone Work In Puerto Escondido? I've just recently discovered your web site and am enjoying reading it. My husband and I are coming to Puerto Escondido March 9-16 in 2001, staying at a friend's condo - I don't even know where it is at this point. We have been to Mexico 7 or 8 times, but this will be our first visit to Puerto Escondido. Can you tell me, do you know if my cell phone will work between Vancouver, B.C. and Puerto Escondido. I just want to be able to keep it with me, since we are leaving our 4 year old son and my newly created business in Vancouver, and just want both caretakers to be able to reach us if absolutely necessary. This is my only concern about coming to Puerto Escondido, and although people say "you can't relax on holiday if you have your cell phone", I WILL be able to relax if I know that both my caretakers can reach me with some degree of reliability. Thanks in advance for your reply. December 2000

Your site is the best for info. Was in PE in '81 and was a fanatic runner and biker, as I still am. When reaching the cliffs at the far end of the bay very early one morning, I took off my daypack and my running shorts and went for a swim. While floating on my back I saw three teenagers coming down the cliff. I swam to shore as fast as I could and one of the boys and myself reached the daypack at the same time. All three of them drew guns. Needless to say, I backed off. In my pack (stupidly) was my camera, some money, passport, etc. They took everything, including my shorts, shoes and towel. I was pissed to say the least and even traced their footprints up the cliff for a while until the cacti got unbearable on the plateau. I scrambled back down the cliff. I was a little embarrassed as I bobbed in waste-deep water until I saw the first tourists who were willing to loan me a towel. The police had a good laugh. I have never been back to PE since then. I ask in all earnestness, because I am tempted to give that area of Mexico another try. I find Baja Sur laid back and fairly safe and of course Puerto Vallarta is an island of civilization. I just want some peace and quiet and sun and tropical fruit, where the people are tolerant and friendly, and it's generally safe for everyone, even if you're running a few miles down the beach. What happened in '81 was a long time ago and I trust things have changed for the better. But maybe not. I think you are one who could answer that for me. So my main question is: Of all the places you are covering in your web site, which, if any areas, provide the most enjoyable (or least paranoid) environment for a gay man. And which areas are the safest for lone runners and bicyclists? Thanks in advance for your help. Hope it comes soon as I am freaking in this cold, damp Seattle climate and have to get out! If Mexico hasn't changed, I'll go back to South India or Thailand. December 2000

Hi, just to say that there is a new plane flying from Oaxaca to Puerto Escondido called Aerotaxi with good prices and very nice service. December 2000

Hi Tom, thanks for the memories your web site has brought back! My wife and I spent two glorious weeks in PE in 1991. Your web site brought back many great moments, the only thing that seems to be missing in all my searching is any mention of the Hotel Margeos, a small family run hotel & restaurant that we stayed at located at the east end of Av Perez Gasa. The family that operated this establishment (especially Edith) made you feel right at home. Could you please let us know whether the Margeos still exists or is it just a good memory? The last address we have is Hotel y Restaurant Margeos Av Perez Gasa S/N Esq Carretera Costera PV, Oaxaca, Mexico Ph# 91 958 2077. December 2000

Gina says the Margeos has changed names and has a new owner. Tom Penick for Gina Espinosa Goddess of Information GinaInPuerto@Yahoo.com

Thanks for the info. Do you have any idea the flight times and the cost?

Want to rent beach front condo or house from Feb. 1 to 4 (3) nights. Need two rooms with bathroom. Must have good view and very clean and well funished. With daily cleaning service. Can be between P. Escondido and P. Angel. Reply with location, rate and picture file as email attachment.

Looking for clean, close to beach, 2 bedroom condo for 3 Canadians, on Zicatela for 3 weeks starting feb 10, 2001. Thanks

Looking for clean, close to beach (Zicatela or Marinero or close), price reasonable, 2 bedrooms with bathroom or condo for 4 peaple ( 2 couples), 1 week starting feb.

Looking for clean, close to beach (Zicatela or Marinero or close), price reasonable, 2 bedrooms with bathroom or condo for 4 person ( 2 couples), 1 week starting feb. 7. Reply rate and picture file as email attachment or if somebody little to inform me about some good hotel, to inform to me would be apprecited. tanks a lot!

Hopefully going to Puerto Escondido soon, possibly for an extended stay. My boyfriend needs to be on-line for a short time each day. Does anyone know 'if' and where this is possible in Puerto Escondido....at a reasonable rate???

Marcel, I know a couple that are staying at the "Ricon Del Pacifico" 011 52 9 582 0056, 011 52 9 582 0101 (voice/fax) They have returned to this location several times. $22 U.S. double room. They indicated that it was a very basic room right on the beach. Sorry this is all the info. that I have. Vern.

Hello, We own unit number #4 in Eglantina. If you go to www.mexico-condo.com you will find a beautiful picture of our condo. We are to the left and above unit number #2 which is marked. Our unit is very similar to the unit number #2 about which you can find much information on the Web. If you are interested, please send me an email. Garret Sobczyk

Hi, I'm flying down to see a great musician named Jack Dekeyzer does anyone know where he's playing

I would also be interested in flight info or telephone/fax contact for this Aerotaxi service. I will be traveling from PE to Oaxaca. Thanks, Paul

Hi! We are looking to go back to PE for our honeymoon and would love to know where I can find information on this new flight. Anything to avoid that long drive from the other airport!!! Let me know where I can find out more! Erin

Hi, I will be going to PE soon to meet myfriend who is alreadythere. (sry for typos-am at the gym) He got mugged at knifepoint his second day there, on the beach and in mid-afternoon.

Yikes! I'm considering a solo trip to Puerto Escondido and while I have heard of robberies/rape in the past, I was hoping things had changed. Perhaps not? Or is it just that no matter where you go, you're always at risk, even in downtown Vancouver, BC where I live. I'd like to know more about the incident you're talking about earth maiden ... Thanks! Jill

Would be interested in flight availibility and prices. Thanks.

This will be our 5th visit to Puerto Escondido. Last year a tourist housing development was started at the Trailer Park at the top of Carrizalillo beach, our beach. Much to our horror, the developers were also planning to charge for access to the beach and "improve it". I am just wondering if the beach is still freely accessible and more or less the same. (We pray it is.) Does Maria still have her palapa restaurant there? Thanks for responding.

Last year there were at least half a dozen internet providers in Puerto. I presume there are more now. I can't recall the price but it was not very high. The main problem is that it is very, very slow and it crashed from time to time. So patience is required. Hopefully thing have improved. But it will probably be fine for your boyfriend if he really only needs to use it briefly each day.

Hi: if you could please forward this airlines phone or any info. Does it fly from Oaxaca to Huatulco by any chance? Thanks Jeff

Hey Terri Yes Carrizalillo is still the same. I've been in Puerto in November 2000 and I'm still in love with this beach. When do you go to Puerto the next time. I hope I can go back this year again. Greeting from Suiza Maja

Hi Jennifer: I went to Puerto during the new year holidays. Mi cell was operating all the time; of course is a nationwide service. May be you must ask to your cell provider if you have access to the Mexico´s nationwide service. Congratulations for your visit. Puerto is, even, a paradise. Luis

First time to southern Mexico. Interested in suggestions for two female friends staying in PE {1st choice} or Huatulco for favorite moderate $ bungalows, villas, etc. Prefer small, quaint, clean, comfort, near beach, and friendly proprietors. Traveling mid-Feb 2001. Thanks!

The Ben Zaa is the place to stay it"s like a dorm room in days past!!!!GREAT PEOPLE we will be there jan20th until feb 10th too short but well loved!!!J+L

You'll probably want to stay on Zicatella. That's where most of the beach crowd stays, but there is an age group mix throughout PE. There are lots of palapas, bungalows and hotels along that road. Arcoiris, Hotel Ines and some newer ones. Most of them are $30 US and up. Unfortunately, a lot of them haven't been added to the list on this site, maybe I should scout up that info for Tom this year. The hotels along the Adoquin are populated more by retirement age people, and Mexican vacationers, but the accomodations are good and I think that the prices are similar. The Rinco, Las Palmas and I think Casa Blanca are along there. You shouldn't have any trouble finding a place, but maybe you should reserve a couple of nights at a hotel and spend your first day checking out what's available. Moderate price is a relative term. The cost in PE will be about half what it is in Huatulco, but you won't be in a 300 room resort with entertainment in the dining room. Puerto attracts a more laid back type of tourist and probably has the highest grey-haired pony tail population on earth. I guess that's what brings us all back every year.

HI-- I have been in Puerto since late November. The principal reason for my visit is to improve my Spanish. I already speak pretty good Spanish, but I would like to return to the States in late April and find a job as an interpreter. I am trying to find a situation in which I could speak Spanish, in whatever field. In the right situation, I would be willing to work for no pay. The only thing I´m looking for is an opportunity to interact with Mexicanos for a couple of hours a day--more if necessary. Doing volunteer work in a hospital, a school, or other such facility comes to mind. Hey, I´ll work in a bar, a pool hall, or other such institution of higher learning, if it will give me the chance to use my Spanish! If you know of any such opportunity, please contact me at wilrib@yahoo.com. I am a tenant (Unit 3) at the compound owned by Danny and Carmen, the owners of El Cafecito, on Zicatela Beach. The compound is about halfway up La Bajada Las Brisas, across the brightly-painted bridge (the color escapes me) and up the road maybe 100 meters, on the left. You can enter through the second gate (the small, rust-colored gate) in the big green fence. Just ask for Bill. Thanks. Bill Yribia

Hey anyone and everyone, I spent time a bit further south in Central America last year and had several good people tell me that I would dig what I found in Puerto Escondido a great deal. I've got a little time to play with at the end of March, and am thinking of coming down. I've got a couple questions though. One is that I am living in Tennessee and am having some difficulty figuring out the best combo of flying and driving to get down there without eating up to much funds. Should I be flying in to Huatulco? Is it better to fly to a larger city and grab a bus or a car? Is there any good middle man I should talk to? My other question is about PE itself. A handful of us are looking to come check it out, but just a couple of us surf. Would Carrizalillo be a good spot for us to call home? Any advice or wisdom would be much appreciated. Thanks for any help.... -Wes

I would like to let you know that there is a dive shope in Puerto Escondido named AVENTURA SUBMARINA we are P A D I certified instructor. We operated a 27 ft. boat with capacity for 8 divers. Fun dives, nigth dives, deep dives, snorkeling tours, dolphin and turtles snorkeling adventures etc. Our phone # 52 958 223 53

We are arriving in Puerto Escondido on January 26th for 3 weeks. We are interested in a snorkel tour and wondered if you have an office in town? Trying to use the phone may be a problem as do not speak Spanish. Jo

Hi i have been going to PE yhe last 4 years &have gone diving with jorge each year and it has been great jorge even cooks on occasion it is loads of fun

Does anyone know distance between Huatulco and PE? What is inexpensive way to get to PE from Huatulco airport (no car)?

Hi Holly; Never been to PE but going in Feb. From my investigation, walk out to highway from airport, it's only a short walk, a block or two, and flag down a bus.There are small busses and large first class busses. try to get the first class bus, it's faster and not as crowded.The distance is about 60 miles.I think there is a bus every 2 hours. Good Luck Bob.

The first class busses don't run that frequently. Last year there was one at 10:00 a.m. and one at 4:00 p.m., according to the schedule, which is another story. First Class busses go into Pochutla to pick up passengers, and it takes about 2-1/2 hours. Second class busses don't go direct. You'll have to change in Pochutla, so it will take about 4 hours. Then you have to get from the bus station to the hotel. If you're travelling light and don't mind making the effort, it's a good instant acclimation to the area, but it can be a pain after a flight to struggle with luggage. We took airport transfer into town, to the bus station, checked the busses and ended up negotiating with a taxi to take us to Puerto for 400 pesos. Depending on how many people are travelling together, that might be the easiest way to go. The airport transfer to Puerto direct will probably be about 1000 - 1200 pesos. These are all the options I've tried, hope this helps.

Hi: Did you recieve my message?

hello, we have rooms avail to rent with the preferences you stated and close to Carrizalillo beach...the best beach in I think Jorge speaks english like he was born in east L.A.

One way to save some money would be to fly to Mex.city and then take a 1st class bus. The price is better than reasonable and the bus is air conditioned and has more leg room than I have ever had on any bus or airplane or car for that matter. I'm 6'3" and could literaly stretch out. I think the only bus leaves around 6:00 or 7:00 PM and arives in Puerto around 6:00 AM. This is a good way to save maybe $150 US or more.

...not sure of the availability, but there are some just up from the beach toward town. I didn't need much.. just some place to kick back, so at the corner (ha, great directions? huh?) going up into town there is a little nook that was $5/day with hot water and a sheet. (the fan above the bed was nice to cool off on, and you can go up on the roof if you want). you can meet people there in the place... but it is not earthquake proof.. where when i was there a 6. el seismo hit. weird..now there was another south of san salvador. ..

honeymooners, while in oaxaca i went to mexicana airways and they set me up for a flight... it is only an hour flight at most, and there is a taxi or bus to and from the aeroport. i would say about $120 us dollars round trip. but the fried fish, tortillas and early morning walks, warm swimmin is all worth it. have fun under the sheets

.... after 5 weeks in oaxaca and 1 in mexico city, i was attacked near my rental apt in oaxaca. after getting off the bus, i shot pics of a group of kids, two of which followed me. They tried to grab my camera bag, which was secure on my belt, but didn't get to it... they threw some punches and got me behind the ear with a screwdriver. They only fled when i yelled "ayudame." Other young kids whom i made friends said that "bandia" liked to fight. I was later extremely upset when i heard that 13 kids from this bandia were out for my neck, apparently because i defended myself... as far as my one week stay in puerto escondido, i walked wayyyy up and down either direction of beach... and had no trouble. i cannot say if it safe....

It takes about 2 to 2 1/2 hours by bus. Different bus lines from first and second class. I've done it a couple of times - as I recall it was about $5 each way. Let me know if I can answer any of your other questions

I've been to PE quite a few times. Have taken the bus from Acapulco to PE (7 to 8 hours). As I recall it cost about $20. If you go to Huatulco the bus ride is about 2 hours. My favorite place in PE to stay is Castille de Reyes (about $12 per night) If you go there tell Fernando hi from me. Let me know if I can be of any more help.

My favorite is Castillo de Reyes - about $13 per night. Say hi for me to Fernando. I've stayed there probably 8 times. Glenn

I recommend the direct bus from Mexico City to PE. We made the mistake of taking a bus to Oaxaca city and then taking a second class bus to Salina Cruz that then made a stop in every beach town before making a final stop in PE. The ride to the coast was grueling. Just about everyone on the bus was suffering from severe nausea (there is a two hour stretch of curves through the mountains). We paid about $40 US each for the entire one way trip from Mexico City. We flew back on AeroCaribe at the end of our stay in PE. We heard later that it's nausea-free ride to go to Acapulco and then take the bus along the coast to PE. Also, keep in mind that the buses sell out often so buy your tickets as soon as you are aware that you are going to need them.

We will be in the area from March 12th through March 18th 2001 and were interested in fishing trips. Any ideas on where a good place is to charter a boat or get in on an existing charter. There are two of us and some of the prices I have seen on the web seem high. All coments/suggestions are welcome.

...can i go with you? i have a case of pino colada and two bottles of spf 50 nivea MILK to keep my skin from peeling... i 'll see you at the aeroport in oaxaca, i 'll be the one in pink. see yaaaa

The Hotel Jardin Real in the bacocho area is for sales, the hotel has 22 rooms, pool, restaurant, all fenced, the surface is about 3200mts2 (29,728ft2) and the construction is about 1600mt2 (14,864ft2). if you need more info. please contact me. It is a family hotel managed by my family, it has about 12 years and it is in a very good conditions.

Hey Wes. Sounds like you're in for a fun trip. In regards to where you want to stay, you can't go wrong. Carrilalillo is a beautiful and mellow beach great for snorkeling and just kicking back in the sun (or shade, as there are several palapa restaurants there). It's my favorite beach here; when you see it you'll understand why. There is only minimal surfing there, though. Since a couple of you are wanting to surf I'd recommend staying in the Zicatela beach area so you don't have to deal with toting surfboards back and forth in taxis. Zicatela is a neat little tourist strip with several hotels, restaurants, shops, etc... I don't think non-surfers would be at all bored here. Happy travels.

Internet access is not a problem down here if you don't mind using a cafe and paying by the minute, a peso a minute at its highest I think. The fastest cafe is right on Zicatela next to Cafecito since they are their own server. It makes up in speed what it lacks in ambience. If you want a funky little internet cafe that truly accents the cafe part (they serve coffee and breakfast snacks) Tigre Azul on the Adoquin is great. If you're bringing down a laptop and want to get your own account, there is a provider here called Results, but you'll have to make sure you have access to a phone line. This is not as easy as it miight seem, but not impossible. Good luck.

Can anyone inform me where Super Bowl, Jan 28th will be broadcast in PE? Either respond to my e-mail address or send your message direct to Jay Bedell at JayBedell@webtv.net Jay is a good friend of mine and he is thinking of delaying his trip to PE so that he can watch his NY Giants in the Super Bowl from his home in NJ. If anyone can confirm that he can watch the game in PE, he will arrive as scheduled on Jan24th. Please send your message ASAP as he has to finalize his trave arrangements in 3 days. I promised I would hlep him find information. Also, does anyone know if the Split Coconut is still in operation? It so, and you are around there, say hello to Bill and Dee and say hello from Mike and Rita. We will see them soon. We arrive Jan. 26th. Regards, Rita Prince George, B. C. Canada

We have a 3 story house for rent that can be rented in it's entirety or as 3 separate apartments. Total of 4 bedrooms and 3 bathrooms. Walled yard with security gates. Rinconada subdivision. Walking distance to private cove. Each story has it's own kitchen. Fully furnished. Ocean view. Phone available. Available starting March 1, 2001.

Hi Rita; I`m sure that Bananas Rest. will be showing the superbowl 100% sure of that! I`m pretty sure the split-coconut is still happening and they too would have the superbowl on with a great dinner included. Don`t forget Art & Harry`s as it would have it on also. Hope to be back in PE mid Feb./01 Have fun! Mike

Hi Rita: PE has the SKY service. It´s means that there are many places with Direct To Home TV (satellite) in wich your friend will have the opportunity to enojy the Super Bowl Luis

hey rita and mike look forward to seeing you in pe in feb.heard cam and mary not coming,too bad.tell jay every bar in town should have the game on.for those who dont know jay is a big giant fan.

Is it safe to travel the highway in a rented car between Acapulco and Puerto Escondido? Some travel books say it is not. I'm a fan of the subcommandate, but I'm going on vacation. ron

Would anyone happen to have an email address or phone number for Steve Posing at the Ben-Zaa hotel in PE. Much appreciated. thanks very much, dennis / vancouver ps if you're interested in fishing in PE, Steve is your guy.

Steve Posing at the Ben-Zaa hotel in PE is a good guy to go out with. My wife and I did last year with another couple. Steve is not expensive, and with another couple, it is very reasonable. Would be interested in doing the same this year. We will be in PE March 9 or 10 for 2 weeks and looking to hook up with Steve. Maybe see you there. Dennis & Linda / Vancouver

THE PHONE # FOR THE BEN ZAA IS ON THIS SITE if you can't find it ask again and I will tell Jeff

Fishing in Puerto last year cost 200 pesos an hour, and the fishermen were looking for 5-6 hours out per trip. If you go down to the beach at 1:00 - 2:00 when the boats come in, you can see the catch and talk to the fishermen about booking a trip. Most of the fishermen are good, but everybody has their favorites. If you walk along the beach someone will come up to you and ask if you want to go fishing or on a boat ride to see turtles etc. They are in a co-op, so they all charge the same price. Most people ti the fishermen, and take part of the catch if you have someplace to cook it.

Hi Joanne: Our office is rigth at the end of the "A D O Q U I N " in front of the tourist information booth. Open from 9.00 a.m. to 2.00 p.m. and from 6.00 p.m. to 10.00 pm. Thank you for contacting us Jorge

I'd read about Gina on Tomzap (the Information Goddess at the PE Tourist Office) before my trip to PE in late December. I started corresponding by e-mail with her for questions on hotels, best place for New Years\

I am interested in a long term rental in Puerto Escondido, preferably furnished and with off street parking. Would appreciate details of your house for rent; would need only one floor (unit). Thanks much. Jerry

I'm pretty sure Art & Harry's will have the game on satellite while you get a great cheeseburger.

Jerry, You must have entered your email in wrong since I have tried 3 times to contact you and it returns undeliverable.

I absolutely agree with you. Gina is one of the nicest and most helpful persons we have dealt with. The information she gives you is useful. Last year I also corresponded with her before we left for PE and she took the time and effort and really doesn't get anything from it. Bob & I went on her walking tour and it is unique and not the regular run of the mill tourist tour. I reccommend it highly We leave January 26th for three weeks and can't wait. Linda

Rita do you mean Jay would have delayed his trip just to stay home for the Super Bowl!!!!! We also wondered if the Super Bowl would be on, maybe we will see you at the Split Coconut. How many more sleeps????? Linda & Bob Prince George "has beens"

Hi there, a friend and I are planning our 1st trip to PE in FEB. Do you have the email address for Gina, i have so many questions about were to stay and how to get there from Mexico city etc. If you have her email please forward it on. Thanks!!!!

Last year my friends I had a hard tuime getting tickets from Oaxaca to Puerto Escondido. Trying now more than a month in advance, one-way tickets from Mexicana are $151 US!!! Any information on contacting and making reservations with other airlines would be deeply appreciated!

Hi Bill, your problem is mine, too. I'm from Germany and my family and I spend a lot of time in Puerto Escondido. I speak Spanish quite fluently and have been looking for a Spanish teacher who's got some experience with foreigners. Up to now I've not been able to find one. The only information I've got but haven't tried myself yet is Sheila (an American lady, supposed to speak the language perfectly) who lives in the light house. She's not exactly a native speaker, of course. Well, if ever you find someone to have serious conversations with, I'd be more than happy if you provide me with some details(I'll be back in June, July 2001) Ellen

From the airport to the crossroad is a short walk--less than 1/4 mile. At the crossroad you can catch a bus, or a local truck with benches in back. For a few pesos you just start heading up the coast. You might get one going as far as the crossroad to Puerto Angel, and then hop on another one to the next big town. I was furtunate enough to catch a bus--not first class but a great experience. You also can take a taxi into Hualtuco and wait in the bus station for a first class bus, which is probably going to stop in Pochutla first. Sometimes a few tourists get together and take a transport taxi to Puerto. Outside of the airport is a stand where you might be able to arrange this. The last time I took a transport, the cost was $50.00, but if you have five or six people it becomes reasonable. When are you going?

If you are refering to Maria Gonzales Hernandez, yes she does still have her restaurant. I am taking her some new dishes to use that she does not know about yet. I have also designed a menu for her. I plan on slipping it into the computor that her son uses so that they can keep prices current. I have known Maria since she came to Carrizilillo (my beach too) in the 1970's. She came with a child holding one hand and a baby in her arms. Maria and Enrique are as close to us as family. I am glad to know that people outthere appreciate her cookingand her clean restaurant. shirlee

Try Arco Iris in Zicatela. They have great food, nice rooms, and you are right in Zicatela.

If you can fly directlyto Puerto without having to stay in Mexico City overnight, do that. If you have to stay overnight in Mexico City you might as well throw $125 out the window. If you cannot make it in one day, fly into Hualtuco and if a group of people are renting a transport (five or six people) it might cost about $10.00 each. If not, walk out to the highway, less than a quarter of a mile and catch a "collectivo". This form of transport might only get you to the Puerto Angel-Pochutla crossroads where you will have to pick up another to Puerto Escondido. It's quite an advernture, but fun.

Any information on the 3-day festival in Chila, (about 15 miles west of PE) in mid February ??

Hi, Ken. I have been at the Chila festival several times over the years. I believe it usually lasts more like a week. There are cockfights,bullfights, an evening carnival (food, ferris wheel, games,etc.) The weeklong thing culminates in a big dance where a major band is imported from Acapulco or somewhere. The ticket to get in to the dance is relatively expensive ($10-$20), so it's a pretty big deal. There is also a running race and a bike race, which I have participated in. I would like to know the date of the bike race this year if anyone out there in cyberlandia happens to know. Maybe Gina, la diosa de informacion, can help us. I never find out until I arrive and start listening to la Voz del Puerto and hear the ads. It is possible that the schedule has not been finalized yet. I am arriving 2/7 and might miss all or part of it. Nos puedes ayudar, Gina? hasta luego, Micky

Elsewhere in these pages it lists Gina's email address as: ginainpuerto@yahoo.com. I will echo everyone else's praise - last year we went on Gina's walking tour and got to know her (as almost every visitor does) - she is invaluably friendly, helpful, spunky and generous. We are going on our 3rd annual PE adventure/vacation in 2 weeks (YAY!!) and will visit Gina again. Good luck & enjoy!

Any info would be great; I am flying into Mexico city Feb.19th for the first time. I`ve read people saying to take the first class bus to P.E. Does anyone know which of the four bus stations this bus would depart from? I think it might be the Sur (south) station but not sure? We land at 4.50pm and would like to catch the night bus right away. I`ve done the Acapulco route with no problems but have never been to M.C. and really don`t want to stay there. thanks; Mike

I don't personally have the answer to your question, but the Cristobal Colon website has schedules and fares listed. Quite possible that they also list the station. I'm not sure that the site is in English, but it's pretty easy to use.

Hi, we plan to be in PE 1st week of march 2001. We would like to have reference on a place where we can stay all 6 in 3 rooms and having our private terrace or balcony with ocean view. We want to spend just enough money to have a clean place with full bathroom (hot water shower). Thanks. (reference quebecoise serait appreciee. Merci)

Hi. The station to take is the same one you take for Acapulco, which is not the South Station. I often took that bus from Mexico City to Puerto Escondido and we always took the bus route through Acapulco. Sorry I can't give you any additional info right now.

Just wanted to say hello and that I hope that you are enjoying yourself.

A friend and I are going to Oaxaca city in early Aprl for 3 days, and then would like to go to a beach town, either Bahias de Huatulco or Puerto Escondido, for 3 days. We will need to fly from Oaxaca city down there. Has anyone been to both and can offer an objective opinion as to which one we should chose? We like to explore a little and also lounge a little. When we go to Cabo, we prefer San Jose del Cabo over Cabo San Lucas if this gives you a clue. Thanks for any help! Gary

Yo, should you hear more specifics about the bike race in Puerto Escondido, would you pass it on, por favor. I just rode the downhill of pico de orizaba bet MC and Veracruz and would like to check out more Mex biking options. &Thanks in advance

Hey watch it.....who wants to grow up. Does not the technique that comes only from experience count for anything! Anyone know about a February bike race in the area. I just did my first mex bike riding, from 14,200 down the 18,800 pico de Oizaba W of Veracruz. Wanna come back and do more fun..........even if the temples are graying Robert D

Puerto is less expensive than Huatulco. The beach is about 3 miles long, open all the way. There are no jet skis, parasailing, golf courses or 5 star hotels. Puerto has good clean hotels and restaurants hotels in town and along the surfer's beach as well as cabanas and camping facilities. There is nothing wrong with wanting a little luxury when you're on your hard earned annual retreat, but Puerto is a little more basic than Huatulco, a lot more laid back, and you can get a nice hotel room for $30-$50 US. There is daily air service to both from Oaxaca. Hope this helps you out.

Huatulco is beautiful, which is why they put in all the resorts that they have. If you're looking for a resort vacation, to have glorious vistas and simply enjoy the space there, then go to Huatulco. The town of the townspeople is not that interesting. Puerto Escondido is more rustic. It does have some nice hotels. It all depends on what you want to spend. There are a lot of excursions you can go on in the outlying areas - hot springs, tropical lagoons, bird watching, scuba diving. You can get a more local experience here, if you choose to. Enjoy your trip to the Oaxacan coast!

HI! I used to take the bus from la Costena Station to P.E., route through Acapulco. The buses with the stars are a little more comfortable.

If you go trough Oaxaca the buses depart Mexico City from the TAPO (Terminal de Oriente) which is the bus terminal for the eastbound routes (Oaxaca, Puebla, Veracruz, Villahermosa, Yucatan, etc..). As far as i know the best line for Oaxaca is ADO (Autobuses de Oriente) from Oaxaca to P.E. you have to take another bus and I do not have much expeirnce with that but I'm sure you can inquiere locally. This at least a two day journey. If you want to take the direct bus from mexico City to P.E. then it departs from Taxqueña (south) bus station (buses for Acapulco, Cuernavaca, Taxco, etc..). The bus usually leaves late at night for an all nigh trip (10-12 hrs) through Acapulco. Hope this helps

From: donna emmanuel <> To: tom@tomzap.com Tom: Just returned from a holiday trip to Oaxaca City and Puerto Escondido. Of course, your site was a big help in planning. Thought we'd share some information about Puerto with you in hopes it would be useful to others. We were traveling from Oaxaca City to Puerto, so we took Estrella del Valle bus line from the second class terminal, thanks to Gina's advice. She remains the information goddess. [http://www.tomzap.com/gina_e.html] The ride wasn't too bad, $10. per ticket, although these are not fancy buses! No bathroom (we did make 3 stops), no airconditioning, and rather small seats. The ride took 8 hours, including 30 minutes to let the brakes cool off on our way down the mountains. We staid at the Flor de Maria and the new hosts, Paul and Joanne, are delightful! They are from Canada, and know the previous owners quite well, and things have remained wonderful. The rate was about $45.00 per night, high season. Rooms are still great, and the food in the restaurant is fabulous! They are former restaurant owners, and have maintained incredibly high standards. Nothing too fancy, but a great variety of dishes, all wonderful. They were incredibly accomodating, and very helpful. Alexandro is the current bartender on the roof, and did a great job of keeping us supplied in refreshments! Ask him about his magic tricks! Our favorite beach was Carizalillo, a short taxi ride away. Great for swimming and snorkeling, and we usually wound up at Luis's palapa. A great conversationalist! Two outstanding activities: The Hidden Voyages Ecotours with ornithologist Michael Malone was awesome! We went on the Manialtepec Lagoon trip which lasted all morning. We wound up with an impressive list of all the sightings we made, including a peregrine falcon, several hawks, amazing herons, and even a parrot! Iguanas as well. We all were given binoculars and the driver of the boat was a local and very adept at spotting bashful birds. Also, Temazcalli, a place for massages and steambaths. A short taxi ride from the beach, all types of massages, and a traditional steam bath with heated rocks and herb scented water. One hour massages are $20. and steambaths are $12. for two people. It was great! Some guests at the Flor were going every day! We also found ourselves hanging out at Lizza's place, just down the beach from the Flor. She has great guacamole and quesadillas. A great spot for music is Split Coconuts, just down from the Santa Fe on Zicatela beach. We spent New Year's Eve there and enjoyed a pig roast with side dishes the locals contributed. Informal dining (whatever happens to be on the grill), great drinks, and good company. Say hi to Bill and Dee. Carmen's is absolutely great for breakfast (the one just up the street from the Flor). Best coffee in town. We often ate food served at the palapas, both on Manzanillo and Carizalillo, all delicious and no ill effects. The only down side was that when we arrived, it was VERY crowded. Lots of Mexican visitors had chartered buses and there were lots of buses! The beaches were packed, and the one campground between the Flor and town was wall to wall people sleeping on the ground. The closer it got to New Years, the less crowded it became. By the time we left on the 4th, it was almost deserted, so if you go over the Christmas holidays, be prepared for crowds! We looked at several other hotels as we plan on returning, including the Tabachin behind the Santa Fe, the Arco Iris, and several others from your web site. We will definately be returning to the Flor de Maria! We met such wonderful people there, lots of Canadians, folks from England and some from the US. For the price, it is one of the best values I've ever experienced. An aside - the owners don't allow children, so if you're traveling with your family, look at the Arco Iris, or one of the others. We had a wonderful experience and will certainly be returning when we can. We had an early morning flight out of Mexico City, so decided to take a flight from Puerto to Mexico City. Aerocaribe charged around $200. per one-way ticket and that was with about 2 weeks notice. Definitely plan on making reservations for your hotel and travel by air if you are going over the holidays. There were some folks there who got lucky with accomodations, but almost everything was sold out. Also, I never felt unsafe, even strolling at night. We often walked from the beach where the Flor is to Playa Principal for dinner. The floodlights were on and there were lots of people about. Also walked back and forth to Zicatela with no problems. Could've been because there were lots of people about because of the holidays. Use common sense and you'll be fine. Happy traveling! Donna and Michael Emmanuel

I just wanted to say sorry for the misinformation I submitted. Joaquin is right, you DO take the South Station. If you just want to get to Puerto, I really suggest going through Acapulco, the ride is direct from Mexico City and you can sleep through the night, making the trip quicker. A note on the trip to PE through Oaxaca, the stretch from Oaxaca to the coast is very, very curvy.

dennis, i know steve but he doesn{t have an email address yet. if you have a message for him or questions, write us and it will get to him. we are renting marias house in las mengales and will be here through march. Steve is very busy with the gringos at this time of year. miguel sucio

We are planning on going to Puerto near the end of February and because of the cheap fares to Acapulco we were hopping to fly there and somehow make our way to Escondido. Are there any buses that go that way? Also I havn't been there for about seven years and was wondering about the cost of hotel rooms. When I was there I paid about $25 for a room. Is there anything reasonable now? JENN

We are going to be staying at the Hotel Santa Fe in early February. I can't believe we are paying $180 per night. I thought Puerto Escondido was supposed to be a bargain. Does this sound right or has my travel agent screwed up. What is the best way to get around in P.E.? Taxis, rental car, horseback, or what. Thanks. H.H.

The Santa Fe is the most expensive hotel in Puerto. At that price though, you must be getting more than a standard room. You usually get around on foot, it's not a long walk from the tourist strip (Adoquin) to the Santa Fe, about 1/2 mile. Collectivos go from the main road to anywhere in Puerto for 3 or 4 pesos, and taxis are about 10 pesos to anywhere but the airport. Most of the people at the hotel have been there many times and they will help you out. Puerto is a friendly, relaxed place. Enjoy!

Jennnifer - there is a bus that travels between Acapulco and PE -- no problemo. The trip takes about 9 hours and I believe the cost is $50 US round trip. Schedules change but there is usualy a 6:00 p.m. bus and an overniter that starts late and gets in early in the morning. Prices have gone way up since seven years ago.

Jill, Don't let this incident keep you from going to PE -- just be cautious and don't bring anything you can't afford to lose! And, especially if you are traveling alone, I would recommend a taxi at night. PE is great, the people are nice (especially to the lone female traveler) and you will have a great time!!! When are you going?

Available now: One bedroom and private bath for rent in a new private cliffside home. One of the best views in Puerto. Daily / Weekly / Monthly rates. Pics available to interested parties.

I would like to spend a week or two in Puerto E. I am a single male, 48, never been down that way but have a friend who winters there. She works at Plumas Pines Resort at Lake Almanor in the summers. She loves it. Pics would be great and trans. info would be much appreciated. Thanks and Tight lines, Dennis

... I don't recommend ANY buses to Puerto Angel or Puerto Escondido from Oaxaca. They are very long, bumpy, and hair raising on some curves according to a friend. I would spend the extra $100 or whatever for an hour's flight... which to my experience can be purchased through Mexicana Airlines either by e- or on the northwest edge of The Zocalo in Oaxaca. Then again.. to each their own experience... after you see the road you are flying over into PE... you can thank yourself.. chris.. ps. the collectivos are a good way to travel locally, however, and the drivers are safe..

I've been there 3 times, and going for 10 days in Feb. My wife and I have never had a problem, on the beaches, town, at the Mercado or anywhere. You have to be aware of who is around you, and just think smart.Feel much safer there than in the states at 2 in the morning. good luck!

Hi Jennifer, Just took that bus trip in Dec. from Acapulco to Pochutla,be prepared for a long,winding, not too comfortable ride. I know everyone says this is the Mexican experience, but I didn"t enjoy it! mind you just my opinion. bon voyage

I just want to apolizage for the misspelling word Costena, the right word is Taxquena. Sorry.

Hi Dave, Going to Barra-Melaque or Puerto Escondido in May! Have to decide soon. Please send pics and price for two weeks. May 1 to 14. Thanks, Erich

look at www.mexico-condo.com for information on and pictures of Puerto Escondido. As far as I know, it's the only site on the www (or in print) where you can find pictures of all of Puerto Escondido's beaches, including aerial perspectives. I just came back from 5 weeks there - more information and pictures will be added to the site in the next few weeks...

have a look at www.mexico-condo.com Eglantina #2 is already rented during that time, but if you are interested and the prices aren't too high for you, there are other similar options available in the immediate area. Let me know if you want further information. if you are seriously interested, tell me a little about the three couples: ages, etc...

have a look at www.mexico-condo.com - the pictures speak for themselves, plus lots of info on Puerto Escondido, including the only place you'll find pictures of all the beaches, including an aerial perspective...(The condo is rented through April 2...) Also, look at the "Travel" link - I'd call Gene at Vista Travel for airfare scheduling/rates. He's done lots to help us get there and back.

I assure you the view and location of this privately owned house beats handily the view and location of www.mexico-condo.com and its condos.

There is a first class bus (AIR CONDITIONING, lots of leg room, no stops) that takes about 5 hours that leaves from the (I think) Ejido bus station. It leaves at about 3 or 4:00 pm but I cant be 100% sure. All you have to do is get in a taxi and tell him that you want to go to the bus station that has the Primera Clase Autobus to Puerto Escondido. It will be the best (most comfortable) bus ride you will ever do. Ha Ha For real

There is very frequent service all along Hwy. 200, hourly much of the time. There are different classes of service available. Much of the service is de-paso, busses that stop along the way to pick up and discharge passengers. These busses have more frequent departures. Some first-class service is available, and the advantage of taking those busses is that they are air-conditioned (well, ususlly...if it is working!). There are frequent delays with the first-class bus and it moves along way off schedule. I usually take the second-class bus because it seems to be more 'reliable\

I was in Puerto Escondido last week (jan 23 2001) and collected the following information regarding Aerotaxi at the Erickson Travel Agency. From inside Mexico, the telephone number is 01951 57270 and fax is 01951 56211. From another country, it would be, I think, International access + 52 + 951 57270. The plane used is a Cessna Gran Caravan 1999 with a 14 passenger capacity. The trips to Oaxaca from PE are in the morning. Here are the fares, one-way, in Mexican pesos, including two other destinations: Oaxaca (OAX) - P. Escondido (PXM) $1103.20 P. Escondido - Oaxaca $1129.53 Oaxaca - Huatulco (HUX) $1160.70 Huatulco - Oaxaca $1160.70 Oaxaca - Acapulco (ACA) $1292.95 Acapulco - Oaxaca $1319.28 Children (under 10 or 12, can't recall) have a 67% discount. For those who would require such a flight 'right now\

hi there....THIS IS DARLENE AND GENE FROM PUERTO ESCONDIDO....TO ANSWER SOME OF YOUR QUESTIONS.....HUATULCO IS VERY EXPENSIVE AND TOO MANY TOURISTS......BIG HOTELS AND ALL THE TRIMMINGS THAT A LOT OF PEOPLE TRY TO AVOID.....PUERTO IS A SMALL TOWN MOSTLY MEXICAN TOURISTS FROM OAXACA AND YOU CAN ALWAYS FIND A QUIET HIDEAWAY IF YOU KNOW WHERE TO LOOK....WE LIVE BY THE CARRIZALILL BEACH AREA AND HAVE 2 ROOMS TO RENT FOR VERY REASONABLE PRICES....WE CAN ALSO INCLUDE BREAKFAST.....IF YOU DECIDE TO COME TO PUERTO WE MAY ALSO BE ABLE TO ARRANGE TRANSPORTATION FROM HUATULCO,,OR YOU CAN FLY INTO PUERTO WITH AERO CARIBE....OR TAKE A BUS FROM OAXACA BUT THAT IS 8 HOURS OR MORE...YOU WOULD NOT BE DISAPPOINTED IF YOU CAME TO PUERTO...WE LOVE IT HERE AND LIVE HERE FULL TIME ....IF YOU WANT MORE INFO EMAIL US AT genedar@hotmail.com......or call us at 582 2646 good luck in your travels.....

We're planning a trip to P.E. in early April and haven't been there since 1982.I've read good things about the Hotel Santa Fe. Has anyone stayed there or have any comments regarding it or an alternative hotel? We have two boys (15 and 13).

We're heading to Puerto Escondido in a couple of weeks, and we're curious as to whether last week's earthquake (reported to have been in Oaxaca state) had any effect in the P.E. area?

Didn't stay there, but had a fantastic breakfast there a few time last Jan. The pool was mostly in the shade of the hotel late morning, and very small. We stay at the Posada Real, and wonderful pool with an island in the middle. Right on the beach, miles to explore. Prices are very similar. See the Posada on this website.

Our family has been going to P.E. for the last 2 years and my brother inlaw and his wife spend the winters down there. E.P. is a great place, we stay at the Flor de Maria, walk about town and has visited all the beaches etc. We have not had any great problems. In most cases we have found the people to be very kind, proud and friendly. E.P. is not your average tourist trap. There are no large all inclusive resorts and gated properties. You have to remember that you are a visitor in a third world town in a poor province in Mexico: act accordingly. Yes, there is porverty and problems that come with such dispair. but being aware of your surronding and common sense (head up - open eyes) and a little pre-trip research and planning, will take care of most of your concerns. Stay at a recommended hotels,travel by reputable carriers & abide by the available travel tips and advice. Don't bring anything with you that you don't want to loose. Use this website and your local embassie's site for travel advisoies etc. and look up Gina when you get there. If your want you can also contact me. I run a security consulting firm, specializing in Close Personal Protection, Travel briefs & contingency planning. We love the character and atomsphere of P.E. Relax and enjoy, Cheers Imre

look at www.mexico-condo.com lots of information on and pictures of Puerto Escondido, including an aerial perspective. Our condo, Eglantina #2, may or may not be available in early April...

You can get cheap flights thru Mexicana's Mexipass. You must be it in the US. I just purchased 3 tickets: Mex City - Oaxaca; Oaxaca - Puerto Escondido; Puerto Escondido - Mex City for $275 incl. tax. Lisa

thanks for your e-mail is pretty good, and contains many information, I been thinking go to puerto escondido for knowledge and experiences, but I have small problem, i need work for pay all my expenses, so pease if you can ,please reply me and tell me what you think. thanks for all. i hope you enjoy your next trips wherever you go. Juan carlos de la Cruz.

Spoke to my dad in Puerto last sunday (Jan 28, 2001).... very few people in town even felt the earthquake, no damage reported. Enjoy your trip. I see you've got a telus e-mail... are you flying via huatulco out of Vancouver or some other route?

There is no question; if you're going fishing in Pt. Escondido, the best guy to take you out is Rudolpho. Who would know this better than me- who has been going out with him for 7 years- and the other fishermen in town. They will leave you alone if you tell them you're going out with him. He drives a grey pickup- luxury for one in his proffession- and you can ask for him at Art & Harry's, or at The Flaming Pearl Restaurant( La Perla Flamente), downtown. After you go out and catch your tuna, sailfish and hopefully a dorado, tell Rudolpho you want to keep some of the fish. He'll have it filetted and send it over to Flaming Pearl for you, where they will cook as much as you want for free. They'll charge you for the rice and salad and veg that'll be on your plate-maybe two bucks U.S. Other restaurants will do this as well. If you want to eat your tuna raw at the restaurant, take a cooler with ice on the boat with you. Otherwise the fish will sit in the sun on the floor of the boat until you get back to land. The abovementioned restaurant has, in my opinion, the ONLY sushi in town worth eating. And try the margaritas. They look small but they sure pack a punch. And be warned: if the water is rough, someone on the boat will get seasick, regardless of experience, and you better hope it's not you. Take the medication that's available in any Farmacia. Cheap 'n easy prevention. Say hi to Rudolpho from me. Karl

Just got home to Vancouver on the 28th. Was in Puerto during the quake, and didn't realize there was one till I was told. I've been going down there since the 70's and the place has never looked better. This year we flew Air Canada to Mexico City via LA on points. Spent 3 nights total in the capital (2 there and 1 back), flew to Oaxaca, did 3 ruins, spent 2 nights then took the Sola de Vega road to Puerto for 10 days. My Dad lives in Puerto and he drove. Great trip, including a couple 1-day side trips to the Mazunte, Puerto Angel area as well as Chila, Rio Grande, Roca Blanca, Cerra Hermosa etc. It was my 1st time in Puerto Angel in 20 years and thought it looked pretty sad. I remember it looked cleaner and more prosperous than Puerto Escondido back then. I guess it shows how well P.E. has done in comparision. But the Zipolite, Mazunte and San Agustinillo strip has really developed and looks pretty funky. There wasn't a good road through there then, but there is now. Didn't get down to Hualtulco this trip, but remember Tangolunda completely undeveloped, as the perfect beach before Fonator came in, so Huatulco is really not my scene. Cal, is your father Ron or Ross Machin? My Dad knows him. I met him at Barb and Bill's last week. He mentioned something about Vancouver. Next year we'd like to be able to fly direct from Vancouver, like we were able to for a couple of years in the early 90's with Canada 3000, I think it was and we had to land in Mazatlan to clear customs. Then the airport in Puerto wasn't international like it is now, so a charter can now be non-stop. It is a great town and beautiful area, and there is lots of good and inexpensive food and empty hotel rooms, restaurants, condos and houses, perfect for bargain hungry south seekers. One doesn 't get that ripped-off feeling, like in Acapulco or Vallarta. And this website is loaded with good info and great links about Oaxaca. Congrats Tompaz. Many BC people in Puerto and it has a good international mix. Its funky, a bit trendy, has great beaches, the best climate, and lots of character. It's bustling, clean and not too big. As far as the crime is concerned, I've never been afraid there, and there is more crime in my back lane in Vancouver. If it was charter cheap to get there like it could be, I'd go more often and avoid awful places like LA. US Customs there is archaic, chaotic, stressful and intimidating. Not so much the officers as the whole system. Vancouver's customs is faster, far more accomodating, respectful and people are treated with more dignity.

Hi Bruce, I've tryed to sen you an E-mail but was returned! I live in Vancouver also,and have a few questions re PE. Could you e-mail me? Tanx, Erich

This is the same question we have? Has anyone responded to your email? We wanted to fly in from Oaxaca or possibly take the bus and fly back to Mex City from one of these towns from the the web sites I've looked at Huatulco looks very developed but I really don't know. I will forward any info I find to you. Look forward to hearing from you. Patti and David Bess ( N. CA)

Eric, My email address is: brucer@telus.net I entered it wrong here at first and yours is wrong too (at least the message I sent you bounced back...) -bruce

Can a trip from Oaxaca to Puerto Escondido on Aerotaxi be booked from the US? Any guesses as to how much a roundtrip ticket costs?

People who LOVE Huatulco tend to have little good to say about PE while true fans of PE tend to say nothing good about Huatulco. I love the entire CostaEsmeralda and have stayed in everything from hamacas in Zipolite to mega-resorts in Huatulco. The Cancun-Ixtapa-style mega resort experience is ONLY in the Tangolunda section of Bahias Huatulco. Santa Cruz Huatulco and La Crucecita are MUCh more laid back. Puerto Escondido has an arts community and is one of the world's top destinations for surfing. But if you body surf rather than board surf, there is a school of thought that Zipolite is better if only due to the variety of waves. San Augustinillo, near Mazunte, has one of the prettiest places to swim in the whole area, and there is a new place to stay there. I realize that all I've done is muddy the water. Intentionally. It IS a personal choice type thing. When I get back in July, I'll be in Huatulco.

going to Peurto Escondido for Feb 26 2001 prices, pics, currency exchange, surfing, horseback riding, jungle tours,river trips, fishing prices-cheap, snorkeling, What about prices for to and from Parque nacional lagunas de chacagua and sights to see there?

I've been to Huatulco twice, and Puerto Escondido four times. Will be back in PE next week for 10 days. The hotel area in Huatulco is kinda a comparison to Ixtapa. High prices and fight for a chair around a pool at 7 in the morning. Just a 45 dollar cab ride up the coast to Puerto Escondido, is much more relaxful, and where I go the chairs are never half taken. The town is small, but the Mercardo is wonderful, and the open air restaurants are the best, with a great meal at 15 to 20 dollars with drinks. I've stayed a a few different places, and now always have a room reserved at the Posada Real. Not the hamock type place, and expect to pay 60 to 70 per nite for a double, depending on your bargaining skills. A wonderful restaurant, 2 pools and the beach club is very quiet, kidney shaped pool with a large island in the middle, and a great happy hour from 1 to 3 pm. The beach is 1 1/2 miles long, very remote, and the sunsets from the cliff side are the best. You can always rent a car and drive down to Huatulcofor the day, and then return to peace and tranquility.

i met jorge 7 years ago when i first came to puerto.now i go back every year to dive with him.we became good friends over the years and had many great dives together.even if you don`t dive now jorge can give you the discover diving couse in the morning and you will be in the water diving in the afternoon.he is a great guy and will accommidate any level of diver form beginner to advanced.we have senn whales ,dolpins,turtles and almost every type of sea life there is .it`s a great way to see puerto,from under the water.

We (husband and myself) are planning a trip to P.E. next January and would like to find accommodations with a kitchen, preferably close to town. A pool would be nice, too. We want to spend less than $50US a day. Has anyone stayed at the Barlovento or the Bungalows Villa Marinero? Or does anyone have any recommendations for other places? Thanks

The bus stattion is Taxqueña, I dont think they have a web page, but busses useD to go out at nigth around 7:00 PM. there is another way to do it, but is a longer trip and the services is almost the same. SALUDOS

although i surfed alot here in so-cal growing up i have not gone as much lately. i want to plan a trip to puerto not only for waves but for the total experience. my question is: are the waves just totally outrageous throughout the entire season? like what always double-overhead? thanks in advance for any response.

I would like to know the price for 1 floor in march or april Thank you

I hate to be the harbinger of bad news, but my friend was just almost robbed again! Maybe he just bad karma.... Was standing on a rock outcropping looking for whales with 2 friends and 4 "gentlemen" climed the rocks behind them brandishing knives. They jumped out into the surf, backpacks and all, and swam away, safe butshooken up. Still, it isn't stopping me from going so don't let it stop you!

Totally flat right now....

We had a wonderful couple of weeks back a few years ago at Flor de Maria - Lino and Maria were wonderful and we enjoyed Maria's wonderful cooking and Lino's dry sense of humor.... After all the problems in that area in the past couple of years we have often wondered how they were and if they were still there - please send us some informaiton - could not find a web site for them and they used to have one. Many thanks. We never had any problems walking the beaches, etc. but we were careful and never left anything on the beach unatttended.. we are an older couple and really enjoyed watching all the surfers on Zigatella Beach. Mo & Larry

Hi Shirlee, I'll be flying to Huatulco airport February 15, arriving at approximately 11:30 AM. From there, I would like to go to Puerto Escondido. I understand that Estrella Blanca has air-conditioned buses going to P.E. every hour. I don't know if this is accurate, nor if I can get the bus at the airport gate or whether I need to go to Potchutla or La Crucecita to get the bus to P.E. Do you have any info on this? I'm not sure if this e-mail is accessible to others on the P.E. Visitor's Comments site, but if it is, I would like your feedback. Also, if any of you are travelling to P.E. from Huatulco the same day, perhaps we can split a taxi, if necessary. Thanks, Gerry

Check out my website http://www.geocities.com/TheTropics/Beach/5432/oldindex.html for pictures of the Santa Fe and some comments. It actually has 2 swimming pools - one always in full sun and one partially in shade in the PM. It is never crowded as the place is not that large. This is the place to stay if you want to feel like you are in Mexico and not in a chain hotel that could be anywhere in the world. It is right across the street from Zicatella beach and just sitting watching the waves and listening to them is incredible. Feel free to mail me with any questions.

Gerry - You CANNOT get a bus from the airport terminal to either town. All the busses at the airport are hotel-specific charters. The cabs are also higher if taken from the airport. The cabbies have to pay a VERY healthy fee to pick up passengers at the airport and if the authorities at the airport allowed busses, everyone would lose a lucrative source of income. From your questions on the Huatulco page regarding room prices (which range from 25USD in La Crucecita to the 325USD you were quoted for a Zaaschila suite), I take it you are interested in economizing. If you travel light, the highway is only 1/4 mile from the terminal. You can get a cab for a fraction of the terminal price or flag down a bus, anything from the Pochutla micro to the Acapulco 1st class! Adventure is cheap. John

i am planing a trip to PE in april just wondering if any one can give me some info on good places to do some snorkling....and also would like some info on fishing on fresh water inland lakes. in the PE area....thankyou........

If you fish in Huatulco I can highly reccommend Isidro Cruz...he is very good and very safe to be out with. I was there during January and they were catching a lot of tuna and dorado plus the usual barrieletta and chulas. His rates I think are @$25 US per hour and he usually goes for 4 hours. He has two well equipped boats and should be available with a day or two notice. Just ask at the Marina in Santa Cruz for him and someone will help. His phone # is 71067 although his english phone skills are not the greatest.

I just returned from the area and travelled back and forth from Huatulco to P.Esc. many times. The cheapest way from the airport is to walk out to the main road...it's close and catch a micro (small bus) to Pochutla. This costs 8 pesos. In Pochutla you can take another micro to P.E. for 16 pesos or catch a collective (a taxi that gathers together 5 people who want to go to the same place ) This is faster than the micro, but is 50 pesos per person. There is also a bus station in Pochutla with sceduled first and second class buses. I think it is about 35 pesos on these. If you want a bus from Huatulco to P.Esc. you have to go into la crucecita first. It is 65 pesos just to do this and about 50 pesos for the first class sceduled bus ride to P.E. I really like travelling by collective because it is quiker but the busses are probably safer as some of the taxi drivers have "intimidating" driving styles...but they do know the roads because they make the same trip day after day. Hope this is a great vacation for you....I've spent alot of time there and absolutely love both areas.

I've visited Puerto Escondido often over the last 6 years and have never seen them absolutely huge...wild maybe but not huge. I'm told that this does occur but usually in August. Otherwise the only fact is that they change everyday...if there are bad waves in Marinaro the surfers are at the Point of Zicatela.... I've seen all levels of surfers in the water in Puerto Escondido on any given day. As I understand it the beauty of the area for surfing is in the tubes that can be formed along the top of the wave.

As I stated in an above comment I truly beleive that First Class is the way to go unless just a few dollars make a difference. As far as the travel time difference is concerned I totaly disagree. I took a 2nd class bus because it left FOUR hours earlier. I should have known better because I had just taken 4 First Class busses oves the previous 3 days and was totaly impressed. Busses left on time and the air conditioning worked. They even had videos. Anyway about 1/2 hour outside of Puerto hear comes the First Class bus flying by us with all the passengers holding filled frosted beer mugs, laughing and looking like they just had a massage after watching videos of the beach experience they were about to have in Puerto while I was sweaty, stinky, dirty, totaly exausted and was wondering why I didn't go to the zocalo in Acapulco and have some cheap delicious local specialties with an ice cold Negra Modelo and wait for the First Class bus. After traveling in Mexico for over 25 years by every possible mode of transportation I truly think the relitively new First Class bus system is the best way to to go unless there are other special factors involved. Mike

I totaly agree with John Williams. I personly vote for Puerto and suggest you find a couple of more weeks or months to check it all out for yourselves. You must go to Puerto and I promise you will do all in your power to return as soon as you can the area for a much longer stay. Mike

What are the coordinates of Puerto Escondido?

I think 15.5 north 97.1 west. Does that sound right?

Hi Jessica, Not that I know of, we are going down the end of March. We are staying at Casa Caruso in Oaxaca and the owner there graciously offered to get the tickets ahead of time if we sent the money along with our deposit for the hotel. It is about $200 each/round trip (kind of steep, no?). Good luck, Gary

hi chris,i just came back from puerto,good place for snorkling are the smalls beaches close from the main beach.they are call playa carrizalillo,playa manzanillo, playa angellito.for fishing in fresh water i guess your best bet is the laguna ,they are two of them not to far.they advertise it all around town.

hi yvonne,try casa de playa (acali)on zicatela beach it is very close from town and they have a pool,kitchenette,its a little bit rustic but the people are nice.

15-51.407, 97-04.150 Puerto Escondido GPS at Eglantina Condominiums, just to the west of the lighthouse

Regarding lodging costs: I stayed in Acapulco for about 8 days in 1996. I paid less than six U.S. dollars per night for a clean room in downtown Acapulco near the zocalo. Buenas suerte! From: Terry in Escondido, California, U.S.A.

I usually stay in the Beach Hotel Ines, it is safe and have some rooms and apartaments, with sea view, you can see the web page in this link in hotels I think you will enjoy have a good trip.

I would like to have more information about the place that you are renting for a month, does it have pool, or ocean veaw, or acces to a beach club, tell me more about it.

try the beach hotel ines at zicatela it is nice and have a nice pool, they have diferent pices, and diferent kind of rooms, from cabanas to apartaments.

we usually go to the beach hotel ines, they have all kind of rooms from cabanas to apartaments, and they have web page so you can see all the information, look for it an this page in the hotel information I dont remember well but I think is www.hotel_ines,com.mx not sure have a nice trip to puerto

I would like to have more information about the place that you are renting please send by email. monthly rates

We are arriving in Mexico City Feb 14 and will be in PE by Feb 28th and staying for a month. Just my wife and I. Can you tell me more including rates? Thansk, Brian

i have stayed at villa marinero for 15 years.its the best for me.best location ,on beach and middle of everything..they have kitchens and cool pool.for 50bucks you might have to rent 2 apts lol.owners are real nice and security is exelent.a lot of regulars of p.e. stay there and are real friendly.feel free to e mail me with questions....ps im from vancouver bc canada.you cant go wrong with marinero...if so you can all ways move..you can pay by day or week.

Canadian couple trying to find out about getting married in Puerto Escondido. we want an intimate beach wedding, on Playa Carrizalillo. All the paperwork, accomodation and reception are taken care of (it's our 3rd trip to PE), we just have heard that the Judge/Official is not into marrying travellers and doesn't perform much of a ceremony. We're leaving in 3 weeks. If you have any info PLEASE HELP!! Thanks, Cath

Thanks for your responses! I tried to email Al for more info on Villa Marinero, but the message was returned. So Al, can you please send me a working email addy? cheers

Perfect, thanks all.

Hi Al, We are from Wpg. Manitoba and are heading to PE for three weeks in March/01 and were also wondering about the Villa Marinero. What we would like to know is if it is quiet for sleeping and also how many beds are in the one bedroom cabana. How are the kitchen cooking facilities? Are the rooms clean? What are the owners like? Thanks very much.

Hi Yvonne, We are also going to PE in three weeks and we would also like info on Villa Marinero. We will let you know what we think when we get there. I also tried to email Al and got no response.

Thanks, mag! I really appreciate that. Say, if you happen to be over by the lighthouse one day, and it's not too much trouble, could you take a peek at the Barlovento for me? :) Hope you have a great time in PE. Have a margarita for me. cheers...

I spend time in both places during all my trips and both are great. Puerto is less expensive overall but huatulco can be just as inexpensive. If you like to be on the beach snorkelling as opposed to surfing go to huatulco... tthere are lots of beautiful beaches with coral reefs right off shore. Huatulco is also in my opinion safer to be out in at night. If you love the big surf of a wide open beach go to puerto...lots of surfers and tourists from Europe as well as Mexico. No good places that I know of for snorkelling.

We just bought tickets for trips to Oaxaca, PE and back to Mexico City through Mexicana under the "Mexipass" program that costs $50 one way from Oaxaca to PE. Some information is on the mexicana web site (http://www.mexicana.com.mx/mx2/english/destinos/mexipass/home.asp) If you call them for details, you'll likely find that they're unfamiliar with the program.

try this email honestlink@aol.re:villa marinero re:Yvonne

Hi Al, Hope you get this. We are going to be in PE for three weeks in March and are interested in the Villa Marinaro. Could you please tell us how many beds are in the one bedroom. Also is it quiet there so we can sleep at night? We like to party too, but we also like our sleep. ALso is the kitchenette clean? Is the hotel safe for belongings, ie passport, travellers cheques etc. What about water, do they have purified water outside or do we buy the big bottles at the store. Your immediate response would be great as we are leaving for Mexico City on Thursday morning. Adios for now. Thanks.

Hi, I've done this trip dozens of times. Here are your options: The cheapest way is simply this: walk out of the airport to the highway and wait for a bus (any bus ) to come by ( heading north, that's to the right as you leave the airport ). You'll want to wave it down, and he'll most definitely stop. The bus might take you all the way to Pt. Escondido, but it may only be going as far as Potchula, a city almost half way between the airport and Escondido. There you'll get on another bus to Escondido. Just ask anyone. In total, it should take you 2 hours, and cost you about 30 pesos ($3 U.S.). When you get off the plane at Huatulco, there will be alot of drivers with really nice white Suburban vans, and they'll take you there. Be warned that there is NO set rate. It's up to you to bargain. They'll try to get you for as much as $50 U.S. per person, but I've had them as low as $80 U.S. for 8 people. If you aren't shy, ask other travellers if they'll join you. You can also walk out of the airport (200 yards) to the highway and hail a cab. The same cab will charge triple if he picks you up in the airport. The same applies to the van drivers. Catch them outside of the airport and it'll be cheaper. Going in to Huatulco will be a waste of time and money, you'll find. My advice is to avoid it altogether. I don't know if you're travelling alone, if you speak any Spanish, if you're going for a long visit, if you arrive at night......... Don't be overly brave and adventurous when you first arrive. They see you without a tan and they know you are new and that you don't know any better yet. Even as simple as buying a bracelet. The price will be half once you're tanned and you look a little less new. Have fun, and let me know if you need any further recomendations. I can't get down there (from Toronto) this year, and I'm missing it in a big way. Have fun. I know you will. Karl

Okay, first timer here, sitting on the phone ringing airlines for flights to get to Puerto Escondido...surely it is easier than this?! So, anyone with any suggestions for the best way to get there from either San Fran or LA ? I want to go April 3-15. Also, which is the best place - Beach Hotel Ines or Flor Del Maria ?? I am down to these two at the moment...happy with either and then I see Santa Fe in the corner of my eye...hmm Any help, gladly and thankfully received... Mardi

8 years in PE. Stay at the Villa Belmar south down Zip Beach.. Love it. Ines can be noisy in the late evening when the young folks come in from the all night parties, not for this couple. Flor del Maria is nice place, not much of a balcony view from most rooms I think but could be wrong. Pool on the roof with bar service. Sunset is different view from up there, point is in the way for viewing as it hits the water, Arco best for that. They are under new ownership, just sold few months ago. Nice personalable owners, waiter is always rushed but good, as is the lady at the bar. Some guests said the resturant can be noisy in the evening but said it quiets down by the time they are ready for lights out. Said sound travels up the center of the complex but this is not a problem as this is just a dinner crowd, not bar crowd.The beach they are on is the best and only place for SAFE swimming, surf beach is dangerous if you are not used to it. Cafecito original bakery is just across the alley and good place for a fresh bakery snack made by Caren and Dan's staff from Zip Beach. Mexicana I think is the place to start and they will get you then to PE from Mexico City thru Air Caribe(Not daily service and often changes) Worth the hassle. Enjoy your vacation marc

It's less expensive and there are more flights to the Huatulco airport than to P.E. Even with the expense of transportation from huatulco to Puerto you might still save money. The trip takes about 2 hours each way and there are many different forms of transportation available. Our experience with the flights into Puerto are that there are problems...the flight has been cancelled, the times changed, all requiring stays in Mexico City. If you are lucky and the trip goes as sceduled it is the best way though more expensive. If they do change your flight times note that Mexican airlines are not as accomodating as American carriers and unless they delay you for over 24 hrs they are unlikely to offer any services.

When do the waves begin to increase in size (Playa Z. / The Point)? Others?

Hi Norma, I'd like more information. First, how much US$ are you selling the property for? Can you send me some pictures? How much income does the hotel generate? Why are you selling it?

We found the cafe in the rental space outside the lobby of the new hotel next to Hotel Inez to be just fine for our needs. Rates were all the same I found. Have no experience with the one Adoquin. We found going after dinner worked best, say 8:30 and messages went faster as the cafe was not busy. mjhalver

The robberies during the day seem to be continuing and also at night in the dark areas. Mostly at knife point. Spoke with those that were robbed, not rumor. After 8 years of our Januarys there we know what to do and where not to go after dark. Getting worse, I guess not, just the same. They know we aren't going to resist so they sieze the opportunity to take what they think they deserve and the police don't seem to get too involved, just drive up and down the beach. Sorry to hear of this happening each year we are down there. There is a problem, don't let anyone tell you there isn't a problem. It happened to our group at 10 AM.

Just got back from P.E on the 16th. We stayed at the Flor for the 10th year. Price is 360 pesos, restaurant is not as good as it was when Maria was there. I would recommend getting a room on the second floor as there is some noise from the restaurant, and people hang around the lobby area talking aerly (6:00 am) in the morning. The BelMar is a nice hotel, but it is way down the beach and you have to take taxis after dark if you want to go to restaurants. The beach is not Zip, its Zicatela, Zipolete is over by Puerto Angel. There are some new restaurants which a worth a visit. Just across from the Santa Fe are Fanys, fany used to run the original Carmens for Dan & Carmen. Excellent food & value. Just near Fanys is El Sorbo, where the food is graet. Try the Deluxe Paella.

talk to Gene at Vista World Travel - links to him on Penick's site or via the Travel link at www.mexico-condo.com - he makes all our reservations there from the west coast and does a great job...

Hi Mardi, You've probably figured it out by now, BUT ... yes, it is tricky! I agree that if you include the possibility of flying into or out of Huatulco, that will increase your options. We just went Feb 3rd through 13th (our 3rd trip ... WONDERFUL!) and we flew from Santa Barbara CA to LAX to Mexico City to P.E. (took 16 hours overnight including long layovers) and returned from Huatulco to Mexico City to LAX to S.B. I would ask a good travel agent to make you their personal challenge! As for hotels, we have stayed at the Flor de Maria in years past; it is good. The Beach Hotel Ines looks OK... We stayed at the Arco Iris this year and were extremely satisfied. I would say not to waste your money on the Santa Fe except maybe for your first night or two if you just want to land someplace extra nice. It is beautiful; we stayed there on our first trip, but it is honestly just "more" hotel than you will probably need unless you demand the comforts of home! My advice (you asked!) - it is probably more a question of whether you want to be on the surf beach (Zicatela: Arco Iris & Santa Fe) or closer to town (Flor de Maria) or actually in town (Hotel Paraiso Escondido is beautiful). And wherever you decide upon, feel confident that you can easily change once you're there. If you want any more info, or to "chat", don't hesitate to email me directly. Have fun! Sarah

Chris, We just got back from our third trip to Puerto last week. In addition to the beaches Bernard named (& named!) - Playa Bacocho was beautiful & oh-so-clear. We spent a magical morning there with only a few other people in sight. We didn't actually snorkel, but the conditions were perfect. Enjoy! ... Sarah

Regarding Chacagua: once you are in Puerto, go talk to Jesus at the Dick Tracy Travel Agency on the Adoquin. Jesus loves Chacagua, and will arrange whatever kind of tour you like. The office is right in the middle of the Adoquin, next to Los Crotos restaurant and the Bank. Jesus is there most nights, is a native but has great English skills which he loves to use (unless you would rather work on your Spanish skills with him!) Tell him that Fred & Sarah from Santa Barbara California say hi. Have fun!

Just wondering if anyone knows if the Japanese restaurant is still in operation? Have any other new and interesting places opened since last year??

I too am looking at PE around March 15 and have looked at a B & B for 200 peso's and supposebly in a quiet section of town. Anbody else stay at Genne and Darlene's

Charters to Huatulco should be easily available from most major metros, air-only via charter is definitely the best value. From Huatulco it's a 90-minute cab ride to PE, or there are lots of bus options too. I've stayed at the Santa Fe and investigated, but not stayed at, the Flor and Hotel Ines. The Santa Fe is very very nice and has a great central location right between the town beach and Zicatela. Ines is nice, it's along the Zicatela strip and is more for the free-spirited type of traveler. It has an attractive small pool area, with many beach amenities nearby. Flor de Maria is among the small streets and sandy alleys in town that verge on the beach, all reports say it's very good as well as an exceptional value. As others have said, you can always change to another hotel (except perhaps at Easter time).

Salut Jennifer, L'année dernière en Mars nous avons fait le voyage d'Acapulco à Puerto Escondido en autobus, à l'allée nous avions pris la seconde classe et le voyage à été très très long environ 9 hrs, c'était un voyage de jour et je ne te le recommande vraiment pas. A notre retour nous avons opté pour un voyage de nuit en autobus de première classe, c'était vraiment mieux mais très froid à cause le l'air climatisé, alors apporte des vêtements chauds, le voyage à pris environ 5hrs et on a pas perdu une journée, le seul inconvénient l'armée à arrête l'autobus à 6 reprises pour faire des vérifications de passeport, avec des passeports Canadien nous n'avons eu aucun problème. Pour ce qui est de l'Hotel nous avons passé 7 jours à l'Hotel Flor de Maria, nous avons adoré et c'est possible d'avoir un prix réduit si tu dis que tu demeures plusieurs jours, si je ne me trompe pas notre chambre nous avait coûté 42$ canadien par soir. Il y a une autre hotel en ville qui était très très bien mais je ne me souviens plus du nom malheureusement. Nous avons adoré notre voyage et te le conseillons fortement. Josée

If you are going to be in Puerto at Easter you definitly need a reservation someplace and you will not be able to find another place to move to unless you are one of the luckiest people around. Don't think you will pull into town and grab a room someplace because there won't be any rooms to be had. Easter is the biggest holiday in Mexico. It is also a popular holiday for North Americans to travel for obvious reasons. Puerto during Easter and Christmas is not the same place as the whole rest of the year. Does anybody else out there agree? Mike

We'll be in P.E. approx April 10 - May 1st. Can you please send us pictures, rates and your location?

We will be in P.E. from approx April 10 - May 1st. Can you send on pictures, rates, description, location? Thank you.

Hi. I spent a month or so in PE in 1987 [Jan.] and had a great time. I,m now retired and looking to get away from the lousy Washington weather. Can anybody give me info. on living in PE as far as cost and expensives go? I am an experienced world travler [40 countries], single, resourceful and don,t need hair dryers or other consumer goods. Michael Merrill

Would appreciate info re retirement cost in various beachfront locations on the west coast of mexico, the further south the better. Michael Merrill

If Bruno's is still there... it is great and right on the beachwalk on Playa Z. Joey

Brunos hasn't been there since 1990. It was operated by Bill & Patrice for a couple of years, and has been turned into a really good restaurant called Cafecita. There are a couple of new places, Fanys & El Sorbo across the road from the Santa Fe are good. There is a little place between those two that I have only had lunch at. Spent some time under the umbellas and had quesadillas, incredible guacamole, fries etc. Galeria on the Adoquin was good. The vegetarian place, La Goda Vida, on Zicatella, was also good.

It's never easy to get there!!!! Mexicana to Mexico City and then it is an Aero Caribe flight operated by Mexicana to Puerto Escondido The hitch is as of today (It changes frequently) the flight out of Mexico City is not flying on Tuesday and Wednesday and there is only one flight a day and it is at 11:20 a.m. I have been going for 5 years. While there...check with the airport before you're planning to leave because they'e been known to cancel the flights with no new ones planned. I ended up last year with the option of an 8 seater to Oaxaca then going to Mexico city or a bus! Enjoy, it's wonderful once you're there.

We just booked a trip to Oaxaca and Puerto Escondido. We made full travel arrangements with our travel agent. We were told purchasing tickets in Oaxaca for Puerto Escondido were very expensive and to do it in the U.S.

This is to everyone out there who is planning on going to Puerto Escondido, or to any beach anywhere in the southern states of Mexico especially Chiapas and Oaxaca. I just came back from there two days ago.......my vacation was wonderful but towards the end of my trip my boyfriend and I decided to go to Bacocho Beach to relax. When we got there we were extremely happy because nobody was on it and it was a beautiful 2 mile beach. There was a hotel called the Best Western "Posada Real" on one side with the beach club, but on the other side there was a beautiful secluded beach. My boyfriend and I thought that was great because we wanted to have a nice romantic peaceful walk. We walked all the way to the end of the beach and saw the sunset, when we started walking back, we got robbed at knife point by two young males. It was the WORST feeling in the world! One had a knife and the other had a machete on his belt and a wooden stick on his hand. They took my purse with all of our vacation money. They took my boyfriend's Tag Heuer watch, his wallet with all his credit cards and driver's license, our two hats, our necklaces which were two hearts cut in half with our names engraved on the back, the room to the hotel key, and our new camera. This was all we had with us. Once they got everything they ran away. I just started crying and my boyfriend took my hand and started running towards the hotel. There were four people playing volleyball and we told them what happened so they could be careful, they were nice enough to give us a ride back to our hotel, which was called Hotel Loren. When we got to the hotel, the people there acted like nothing, they acted like this happens all the time. They were no help, all they told us was that we should have never walked on the beach alone and by sunset, and that we should never take money or valuables with us, and that we should have left our room key with the hotel. When we tried to use the phone to cancel our credit cards, it was a nightmare! (and I am fluent in Spanish!) Nobody helped us on how to make calls to the U.S., we tried dialing 800 numbers and some didn't go through because they charge you to just connect to it, so we had to get a phone card, and even with the phone card it was a nightmare calling anywhere, after three hours we finally had Mastercard call the hotel and that was how we were able to stay on the line. I am not telling you this story to scare you away - I just simply want to warn you and tell you to be careful. It is a gorgeous place! Here are some things you can do to stay safe: 1) Do not go to any beach at sunset and at night unless it is well lit and with a lot of people. 2) Stay were all the people are. 3) Pay attention to your surroundings, if you see people leaving especially the locals, you should do the same. 4) Don't carry a purse, money, or any valuables. 5) Leave your hotel key with the hotel receptionist. 6) Call your credit cards and get their collect call numbers. Trying to call 800 numbers is a nightmare, it is so much easier to call collect. 7) Once in Mexico, be familiar with the phone system and know how to make an international call and where to get a phone card. 8) Always walk to the beat of the drummer - in other words, stay where all the tourists are, even though everything will be more expensive, it is much much safer. 9) If you are carrying a lot of cash, use the Hotel safe. It's the best place. I never ever thought this would happen to me, but it did and it could happen to you, so please be careful!! Thank God they didn't hurt us nor kill us - THANK GOD!!! We went to Huatulco and Oaxaca City and everything was absolutely breathtaking - it is a beautiful country. Just be careful. If I can be of any help to anyone, I would gladly help. Thank you.

I'm sorry this happened to you, but you did all of the things you shouldn't have. You need to be careful about where you go no matter what country you're in, but in Puerto, if you're not carrying money, jewellery etc., the people who robbed you will just leave. It's not like Florida where they kill you first. The bacocho area is isolated, and not frequented by gringos because it is isolated. The vast majority of tourists to Puerto have no bad experiences, and the unfortunate incident you had is not commonplace. Anybody who knows Puerto (Gina for example) would have told you not to go there.

Chris please let us know how it works out, I for one will be curious to know. Thanks!

Jackie, I am so glad that you relayed your experience so that others can benefit from your story. That must have been an awful experience for you. I have to add, though, that we just came back from our 3rd trip to Puerto including an absolutely magical morning on Playa Bacocho. We spent several hours there swimming and painting - two local fishermen were the only other humans we saw the entire time. It was daylight. It was beautiful. And I guess we were just luckier. We did, however, have one 'incident' on our trip. My boyfriend's wallet was "lost" (stolen??) in the Mexico City airport. Broad daylight, crowded, we don't know exactly what happened except that it suddennly wasn't in his pocket anymore. This was on our flight going down there. We spoke to the Mexicana officials; didn't even bother going to the police; and we had a similarly challenging time cancelling credit cards from Mexico. Gina even offered to help us. We ended up emailing a friend in the states who did it for us. However, the $200 or so in cash that we lost didn't ruin our trip; we had 10 wonderful days in Puerto ... learned from the experience & kept on going. I truly think that a vacation in Puerto is less dangerous than in most other vacation destinations. Be careful, use common sense, and don't carry more cash than you can afford to lose, just in case.

Want to let people know about a little treasure we discovered on our recent time in the PE area. San Agustinillo now has a wonderful little posada owned by Jeff and Ana who are charming and helpful hosts. The posada is new and is still a work in progress. The rooms are large, very clean and very comfortable. The food is terrific. We liked it so much that we went once in Jan and again in Feb. It got better the second time. For anyone looking for a spot in SA that is definitely a step up from the usual cabana we heartily recommend the Posada Dona Sol. There is no phone but they can be reached by e-mail tierrapin@hotmail.com. Ana checks the mail regularly when she goes to Pochutla to shop.

DIP @!#$

Dear Zach and Heidi, Our house is available for rental starting April 1. It is truly a beautiful home, with a gorgeous view - probably the best in Puerto Escondido. People who visit here say it looks like a movie set. There are two bedrooms, two bathrooms, a fully equiped kitchen, two palapas with tables and chairs and lounge chairs. It is cool and very comfortable. There is a king size bed in one room with a full view of the ocean. The other bedroom has two double beds. Banana trees, bouganvilla in bloom - the works. It rents for $950 (US) a month, or less if rented for more than a month at a time. Let me know. Subagh

We have a gorgeous, brand new, two bedroom, two bath, two palapa, full kitchen home for rent. It sits on the cliff right next to the lighthouse and overlooks the ocean and bay. Mountain view from the upstairs palapa. It truly looks like a movie set. There is a king bed and two doubles. Tables and chairs, lounge chairs. Banana trees, bouganvilla, fully equiped. Rent for a month is $950 (US). Discount if rented for longer. Please email me at subagh@earthlink.net or call. The number is (from the (US) 011 52 9 582 0700. Subagh

Flying out of Seattle can't decide best direct route Mexico City or Acapalco. First time to PE would like direct route. Once i know best route, then I can decide on second route - bus or fly to PE. Your help is most appreciated.

Have narrowed location in PE to beach Carrizalillo or Marinero. We like to swim and snorkel do not surf. What do you think? Thanks

Mag did Al replay I have the same questions as you. Also did you Email Villa Marinero and did you get a price. Good luck

Mike...absolutely agree with you re: PE at Easter......was there last year at Easter and it was a nightmare! Have been to PE many times and love the place but last year's experience really was a turn off! We're going to Europe this year and will return to PE next year (maybe), after the memories from the last trip have sufficiently faded away!

Puerto Angelito or accross the bay from Puerto Angelito, Manzanillo......Just something else to think about when you think you have your choices narrowed down the the two best. Mike

USE THE AERO CARIBE FOR THE QUICKEST ARRIVAL BUT THIS FLIGHT CHANGES ALOT, LOOK AT AA THR REPLYS FOR THE PAST FEW WEEKS. WE USED TO DO NON STOP CHARTER TO ACAPALCO BUT THEM WE STARTED STAYING TOO LONG. THE BUS LEAVES FOR PE ABOUT 11 PM..CHECK THE OLD REPLYS. YOU ARRIVE IN PE VERY EARLY MORNING. JUST CURL UP AND TRY TO SLEEP. WE STUCK A TRAVEL ALARM IN A POCKET TO WAKE US UP ONE HOUR AHEAD. INTERESTING TRIP, DON'T SIT BY THE BATHROOM!!!! MJHALVER

Look at www.mexico-condo.com and go to Beaches link. Pictures, and information(including aerial pictures) of all Puerto Escondido beaches.

stop by the dive shop at the end of the adoqin,adventuras submarinas,jorge is the owner .he does snorkel trips as well as fishing and dive trips.you might even want to take the discover diving class,you spend some time in the pool in the morning and do a dive that afternoon.check it out it`s great!

All of the beaches are only minutes apart by water taxi. Staying at a place near the smaller beaches just makes it more difficult to get to the restaurants on the Adoquin and Zicatella. If it's your first time in Puerto, you'd be better off staying at one of the hotels closer to the bigger beaches. After you know your way around, you feel more comfortable going out after dark.

Michael are you talking of buying/? renting/? no beachfront really legally availble to gringos. I have bought and built a home in Puerto. Let me know what you are wanting to do.

The requirements for a fma 3 is a minimun of 1000.00 per month U.S. dollars.There are places for sale $20,000.00 to 150000.00 U.S.

Michael are you talking of buying/? renting/? no beachfront really legally availble to gringos. I have bought and built a home in Puerto. Let me know what you are wanting to do.

Hello! We just got back from PE last week and we had an amazing time. We (my parents and my husband and I) stayed at the Flor de Maria. We loved the hotel and thought the food was excellent. When we return to PE we will definitely stay there again. Anyways, before we left for our vacation we consulted this website numerous times. We knew that it should only cost us $40-50 US to get a taxi to PE from Huatulco. Imagine our surprise when the taxis at the airport were charging at least $1300 pesos. (About $210 Canadian- i know our dollar is low but not that low!) We ended up walking out of the airport (about 2 minutes, if that) and got into a cab for $500 pesos. Our driver's name was Mario and he ended up taking us to his "casa" and getting us some cervasa and then we were off to PE. Just thought that we should mention that you do have to leave the airport grounds to get a good deal. We found PE to be very safe. We used common sense and didn't take any chances that we wouldn't take in Canada. Use your head. None of us brought any valuables with us. Who needs them in PE? All you need is a bikini, sunscreen, sunglasses and a book! Oh, and maybe some immodium!!!! Take care, Melissa

checking things out,going to retire in next 2 years. $1500.00 approx per month-rent,buy,or build. got lot"s of ? medical fac. groceries,rx med"s. we r planning to fly to p.e. on late april and hope to find some of the answers.

Just returned form 10 wonderful at Puerto Escondido, (the 10th to the 20th of Feb.). We stayed at the Posada Real resort and had --NO-- !!! problems. You have to think a little bit when in a foreign country. We spent some time around the pool area of the Posada every day, and then went out onto Bococho Beach, and yes, we even went all the way to the far end, (up the coast, about 1 to 1 1/2 miles). We took with with us some cold beers, a few colas, our towels and some suntan lotion, and a cheap disposable camera,,,, NOTHING ELSE !!! If you look like you have nothing with you, they will ask for nothing. I believe that from the way you describe the two guys, they might have taken our picture, with out cheap disposable camera. Anyone who has traveled in Mexico should know that you take NO Money, NO jewelery, No credit cards, No room keys, No fancy necklases when you go the the beach. We spent 5 or 6 hours every one of our ten days on the same beach and had no problems whatsover. We also talked to quite a few people and they had problem free days also. At sunset time, you should not be on the beach, but up ont he cliff of the Posada Real where it is safe having a cold refreshment. and enjoying the view. Just because you were very unwise on your trip to the beach, does'nt mean that is is unsafe.

Sorry to hear what happened to you and your boyfriend. I have travelled that beach a couple of times but only in the daylite. Being a photographer I always try and find out from local people what is "safe" and what is not. First, never go anywhere in the third world with real jewelry(real stuff) and don't ever leave home with a fancy watch. I was approached on a beach south of Acapulco some 22 years ago as I ran at a pace of about 9mi/hr. The fellow was waving his hands and I stopped, it was 1pm, the sun was out and I was about 5mi. north of the airport. All I had on was a pair of shorts, running shoes and my Rolex watch. I spoke very little spanish and had a strained conversation with this young man. Among other things he told me that a family of 7 or 8 could live and eat for at least two years with the value of my watch. He told me never to run on an empty beach with anything but myself and never get out of site of other people. I pass it on for what it is worth. Puerto is a great place, one of my friends has been going every year for 24 years. He doesn't go on beachs unless it is with a pack of people, and never goes at noght unless it is lite. He has never had a incident. What happened to you is a scarry thing. Leave as much at home as you can and remember you are a prime target where ever you go, even in Chicago!

i am looking for a house for next year in puerto,i just came back on the first of feb.i was at condo carrizalillo it was nice and very clean do you have pictures of the house?it is big enough for 4 peoples?do you have a web site?thank in advance bernard.

have a look at mabrealty.com - lots of information and pictures specific to what you are interested in. also mexico-condo.com

Plan to travel to P.E end of April via bus from M.C. Any information on hostels or budget accommodation around Playa Zicatela. Clean and Safe.

The Taxis, yes. The deal is that Taxis need a 'license' to operate at Airports Mexico-wide. They are then gauranteed customers and customers are gauranteed Taxis,all for a price. These 'licenses' are of course very expensive and so the cost for Taxis increases exponentailly. Are they realy Taxi Airport licenses or licenses to steal? LOL!!! Thanks for the report on Flor de Maria I spent 2 weeks there some years go truly a lovely spot. Did Lino ever talk the municipality into paving the street?

There is a sign at the exit of the Beach Club clearly indicating the dangers.

http://mailweb.pue.udlap.mx/~sobczyk/eg4.html

Marinero is great for swimming, particularly if you like frolicking in waves (great place to try out boogie boarding). But not for snorkeling, I would think. Haven't been to Carizalillo.

Flip flops: check Tank top: check Board shorts: check Sun screen: check Head: check I know this has been mentioned several times before but you need to watch out for yourself and stay aware of where you are and how it is to be perceived by the other people around you, good or bad. I am a rather small guy and have traveled to PE on several occasions and have backpacked all over southern Mex. Whether by myself, girlfriend or buddies we know to keep our heads while there or anywhere. The typical rules you hear for any crime possible areas should be noted. Stay to the better lit areas at night, don't venture too far from others you can get help from if needed, do not wear fancy clothing to bring attention to yourself, or jewelry. You don't need that stuff anyway. One thing I do in New York, while on business, is to carry a wallet that has a few small bills and non essential things in it ready to hand over to anyone that may "need" it. Don't carry your entire trips stash with you! Take what you need for the few hours of the evening and no more. You can always come back to the hotel, or ATM for more. As for leaving things on the beach, come on, keep your head! Take your risks and fears and make them an integral part of your trip planning so that when you get there you can smile, soak up tropical rays and sand in your trunks!

The Posada Canon Devata is in full operation in Puerto Angel. I was there. The place is being run by Mateo and operated by a caucasian named Steve. The place is clean, secure and quiet. The meals are not macro biotic anymore(standard fair) and they miss a meal at times. The Posada's phone # is 011.52.958.4.3137. The rooms run from 150 to 400 pesos. Mateo's wife(Chelli) has opened the "Galeria Cafe" below the grade school by Mateo's house in town. The chef is a Swiss gentleman by the name of Peter. The food is European, Seafood, and vegetarian. The meals run from 20 to 60 pesos. I ate there and the food was high grade but not spicey. Reply To This Message List Regions | New Topic | List Topics | Go to Topic | Threaded View | Search Reply To This Message Your Name: Your Email: Subject:

C: I be sure to have the info ready when you get to PE contact me at the tourist offoce in the adoquin. 1)you need birdt certificates originals. 2)passports originals. 3)inPe we had to go to the notary to certifait hwo you are ! 4) blod test (for the two of you) 5)then pay $$$ 3000pesos or less to the goberment service.You will have a ticket gob stamp. 6)Then we wil had to see the judge to get the date and location of your reunion. See you here Gina. I all ready toalk to the owner of Carrizalillo beach.Good news.

Aerovega $920 pesos you had to get the reservation from Oaxaca city in the Hotel Monte alban. csesnna &plazas. no problem is de best.flys early in the morning. gina

Please call me (9) 58 202 76 Gina in puerto@ yahoo.com

Jennifer, Spent January in PE this year, another couple from Ontario had driven down, used the digital cell all the way down until about 300 miles into Mexico from their Canadian provider. Once in PE they went to a cell phone service across the street from the big supper market downtown to get a access number and minutes on it. Cost was 50.00 US for phone and number and about 50.00 US for 100 minutes. They were very happy with the service, made for instant calls back home to check on the business and elderly parents. If you exit the grocery store and look slightly to the left and up 3 or 4 businesses you will see a sign above the business windows. If memory correct it had a picture of a cell phone painted on it. We plan to bring ours next year, set up times with family when to call and enjoy knowing that when we are off the grounds of the Belmar I can be reached. Marc in Minnesota

i am very interested in renting the house but would like to see some photos if possible. are there any periods during the year when it is unavailable? thank you.

Nope, it's still dirt! And Lino & Maria are still in Puerto but don't own the hotel anymore...

Sorry about your personal experience. I am a mexican guy who loves traveling around the world. There are some UNIVERSAL caution mesaures that you didn't take, and I won't repeat them. I have traveled several times around my country and central america and you MUST have a minimal amounto of common sense. By the way, also traveling I have been robbed twice in USA (Philadelphia and Minneapolis) during dayligth, in downtown (no much money because I never carry lots of money). Pleasure of traveling worths the risks we take, so we MUST minimize them.

I know! You have it all under control. Chill-out mate, hang loose.

The Hotel Loren has signs clearly indicating: 1)leave key when leaving the room and 2)hotel safe available for valuables. That's where your credit cards, extra cash, and expensive watch belonged. Only take the minimum that you need (water, small amount of cash if needed). And always be off the beach before dark, generally about 7 PM this time of year. Hopefully the Hotel was able to re-key the lock, an expensive endeavor for them and one that should not have been necessary if the key was left as directed. I do not mean to appear uncaring, but this was an incident that should have not happened and does not reflect on the safety of PE.

I am thinking about staying at the Gala resort and we would like to fish and golf. I have read alot about the fishing and I would like suggestions on the best time of year for Dorado. I have read that the end of Nov to March. I would like to go in Sept but I hear it is the rainy season and the fishing is not that great. I have gone to places and they told me the fishing wouldn't be great the time of year that we were going to travel but we were pleasantly surprised and had such a wonderful time catching lots of fish. WHO knows??? Please let me know what you think. Thank you, April

Jackie, I can see that you got all kinds of responses to your message about getting ripped off. Some of them not so nice. Remember that there are a lot of people who really like Puerto, like myself, who don't want to see negative things about it. Your experience must have been very scary and disillusioning. After traveling to Puerto for over 25 years I can assure you that your experience was very rare. Oh it happens and when it does it can become magnified because of the crowd that the news travels in but it really doesn't happen often. Also, by the responses, you now know that you made some mistakes even though you may think you should have the right to do the things you did. In a perfect world that is probably true but...... I just hope the people who read about your experience take it as a learning opportunity. I learned something from what you wrote. Even after spending so much time traveling there. I also hope that you can look back and see that you had one bad experience that ruined your whole trip but in reality Puerto Escondido was a pretty nice place to visit if you can look beond that one bad part that most people don't experience. Maybe you can give the place another try some day. Mike

Looking for a place to keep my swing in check, when I visit. thanks

Ask Jeff and Patty at Art and Harry's about Mango Creek. They are just finishing the greens now and taking orders for condos ont the sixth farway.

when i am there it is a must to play and keep my game solid. what are the options?

After taking off this year from Puerto, after two back to back great years we want to come back down again next May 2002 till July. I am looking to rent an apartment for me, my wife, and daughter, near Zicatella beach. I don't care about air conditioning, but access to a pool would be essential for my family. Does anybody have any good contacts? What is the weather that time of the Year? Is the town closed up at all? Is there an off season in Puerto? What would be the price of an apartment for that time of the year? Thanks for the help? paul cales

We just came back from Puerto Escondido the middle of February and did not hear anything about a golf course Mango Creek. Could you fill me in as we are definitely going back next year and like to play golf.

You will have to get info from Jeff or Patty or somebody who is in contact with them. They are the owners of the fabulous "Art and Harry's" on Playa Zicatela. I know the clubhouse is built because I saw it 2-3 years ago and I was told the fairways were laid out. They were also going to do condos or time share or something. They had a couple of homes for sale up on the hill near the clubhouse. I'm sure sombody knows all about this because it was BIG news at the time.

have a look at www.mexico-condo.com If you are interested, e-mail me: dmiller@polarnet.com . We could "negotiate" rate because of off-season months and length of stay.

Can you handle one more email on this? One more warning -- do not walk with daypacks either --even if they only have atowel and snorkel gear. And be thankful that you are so "wealthy" that youdon't need torob to feed yourfamily!

How are the surface water temps now? I'll be in Puerto next week and am hoping the water will be bathwater warm like it was for my first visit in '98. 1999 was a La Nina year and the water, even in the hotel pool, was a tad chilly for my me.

David: Just returned from Puerto after 5 weeks in paradise. We are looking for accomodation for 2002. Could you provide some more details re:house for rent. Do you have a pool? What are the rates? We could be interested in the entire house or 1 apartment. We are looking at a minimum for 1 month. Is there maid service, gardener, etc.? What is the address? Are you near the Sports Bar? Thank you, Rita

Viajes Dimar is offering van service to/from Huatulco airport at the cost of $80 pesos per person based on the van being full (eight passengers). You can make reservations to have the van pick you up in Huatulco by calling 52-958-20734 or 52-958-21551. You'll need to check with the van the day prior to flying to see if they've been able to pick up more passengers but at the very least they'll send a taxi for you and charge you approximately $500 pesos. Adios, Vicki Cole

Michael, Let me know when you're in town and I'll be glad to steer you in the right direction. I've been living in Pto. Escondido for the last eleven years and because of continually being asked similiar questions decided last year to start a business called Your Helping Hand to help foreigners just like you. I act as a translator and liason for people who need help with purchasing property, establishing residency, processing immigration papers and car documents, forming Mexican corporations, concessioning for the federal zone, etc. I don't actively sell nor rent property but have contacts with other individuals who do - I help with the legal aspects of closing, etc. to make sure you understand the process and what you're signing. I also have personally gone through all of the above mentioned paperwork so having learned by experience and can pass on advice and suggestions. My phone number in Pto. is 52-958-21673 or email at vicric@ptoescondido.com.mx.

I'm looking for accomodations with exquisite bathroom (bath tub). My wife and I would like to enjoy a sunset bubble bath. Anyone have recommendations?

Best bet: Grab the Cristobol Colon 1st class down to Bahias Huatulco and knock out a round or two on their GREAT Fonatur course.

Some folks need an excuse to venture out of the immediate locale of their hotel. Golf is a great excuse to rent a car or take a first class bus down to Bahias Huatulco. The course there is great; starts in the jungle and ends on Tangolunda beach. If you rent a car, make it a fantastic day trip by turning off Hwy 200 at San Antonio, passing the turtle beach of La Ventanilla, stopping by the museum at the National Institute for Turtles in Mazunte, passing the beautiful beach at San Augustinillo, going through the Euro-hippie haven of Zipolite, passing through the famous fishing village of Puerto Angel, then rejoining Highway 200 just outside Pochutla. Chances are, you will have killed the better part of a day with the irresistable side trips and find yourself in Huatulco too late for a round of golf on that same day. Solution? Grab a room at Club Plaza Huatulco on Tangolunda (just accross from the Barcelo) and get an early start golfing the next day! Just don't tell the people in Puerto Angel your plans - they'll try to talk you out of it as they fear losing clientele to the nicer end of the coast!

Hi Paul We have a fully furnished two bedroom/two bathroom apartment with washer and dryer, on the top floor of Condominios Eglantina overlooking the Pacific Ocean. Being on the top floor it is quite breezy and cool, and the view, of course, is magnificient. The building has two swimming pools, one quite small overlooking the ocean, and the other a lap pool just behind our buildling. If interested, please e-mail me for further details

Hi Paul Sorry I didn't give you my e-mail address: Amarsheila@ Yahoo.com

I don't knoe Puerto Escondido well enough to make a suggestion, but the Hotel Club Plaza Huatulco in the Tangolunda section of Bahias Huatulco has a hot tub set-up on the balconies of several of their rooms that would make a superb option for your sunset bubblebath.

Zach & Heidi Our condo at Eglantina is available from April 10 to May 1st. Please have a look at my website for info about the condo and surrounding area. http://sites.netscape.net/pheuts/homepage The weekly rate at that time of year is $500. Paul

The Puerto Connection can take care of ALL your vacation and extended stay needs and desires while you are in Puerto Escondido. Check us out at www.puertoconnection.com and let us know how we can be of service.

Arriving on April the 28th and looking for a room to rent for a week. Would love more information on avail, cost, pics etc. Thanks Matthew

David, This is a test. Iam trying to call Jaime Hill at Casa Loma, 120 Caminoal Faro and apparently have the wrong phone number. Could you get this phone number for me? Also, I have several digital photographs for two of the employees at Rincon del Pacifico, but do not have a source in P.E.to download them. They might be helpful to them for self-promotion. Have you any suggestion as to how I can get these in the hands of the two employees? If you can pull this off, I will be eternally greatful, Cy Horine

Where is it easier to find budget accommodations : Puerto Escondido or Acapulco? If you had to chose between the two, what would you pick? WHich is better for snorkelling? Thank in advance for your advice

Where is a good spot to snorkel? How good is the snorkelling in the region of PE and around? Is the water warm? Thanx for your wisdom!

How much should i budget for a day in PE? Whats the cheapest hotel room i can expect to get? How much do i need for food? Thank you for your tips!

If you want to disco all night, there are cheap accomodations in Acapulco, especially in the older part of town. That is not why I go to the Mexican Pacific. Since budget seems to be a primary consideration, have you considered Zipolite? Or Puerto Angel? Both can be extremely low budget and there is good snorkeling in the area, probably superior to either PE or 'pulco.

Try cabanas at Hotel Ines or Rockaway. They should be around $10-15 per night and are VERY VERY clean. The break is a short walk straight out from in front of both of these places. Closer down the beach toward town are the Zicatela bungalows, and the Acali, but I don't think they are quite as nice as Rockaway or Ines. Rockaway also has a clean pool and a small store on premises with good beer prices. April is usually hot as hades, so be prepared to sweat. Have a great trip.

For great wave potential try anytime from June through October. That's when you have a chance at PE get

Visitors' Comments ArchivePuerto Escondido, Oaxaca January 2001 to January 2003

Visitors' Comments Archive
Puerto Escondido, Oaxaca
January 2001 to January 2003