Visitors' Comments Archive
Puerto Escondido, Oaxaca
January 2003 to January 2004

You wern't kidding, all gone just like that. Wondering if anyone has seen Omar in PE this year??? I come from Northwestern Ontario Canada, the same place that Omar guides during the summer months (May - Sept).

Cheers

It has been a while since I have had a chance to spew forth as I had been in Puerto Escondido for a month. It was a hard trip down and I will share it with you now.

We made it down to Puerto Escondido but it was not easy. When we left SF there was a huge storm and we were do to take off at around midnight . Well, we got to the airport and they told us that we could not take the dog. As you can guess that was not an option. My wife made a big scene and after about 20 minutes they relented. They told us the dog could not go because there was not enough room even though we had less stuff than everybody else. You can imagine how that went over with us. Then they told us the flight was delayed for an hour. We got on the plane and sat there for 5 yes 5 hours. The storm got worse so they could not take off. 80 mph winds over the Golden Gate Bridge. So we sat and sat. My 7 year old fell asleep but we could only dose a little. The plane was rocking and bouncing and we were just sitting there. At 6 am the plane started to move but the weather did not seem any different at all. I think the pilots just got tired of waiting. We took off and it was the worse 45 minutes in a plane I have ever experienced. But we made it out of the storm. We were suppose to stop in Guadalajara for a minute to let some people off but when we got there we ended up changing planes and waited for 2 hours. Connection to Puerto Escondido missed for sure but they told us there would be another plane to Puerto even though there is only one flight a day to Puerto. Also remember that the dog was on the plane or somewhere. We finally got on the plane to Mexico city but as they were loading the baggage we saw them drive away with the Dog. "Hey that's our dog". They told us that he could not fly on that plane because the cargo hold was not pressurized. He will be on the next plane out and we will make our connection to Puerto. WRONG. We get to Mex city and there is no other flight to Puerto but there is a flight to Huatulco but where is the Dog? We don't know, they don't know and Guadalajara is not sure. Of course we will not go without him. They find out he is coming sometime soon. Meanwhile where are we going to sleep? At first they told us they would not put us up in a hotel because the storm was not their fault. After I explained that they should not have sent us 6 hours late if they knew we were not going to make our connection they seemed to understand. Cool. But we cannot fly to Puerto anyway because the plane that goes there does not have a pressurized cargo etc. (we found out later that was not true but who are we to argue at that point) Huatulco it was. Meanwhile where is our little boy's Dog. "Oh yea". He will be here. In the baggage area. Well 2 hours later with all the baggage personnel looking and running around and calling all over the world, they tell us he is here. He finally shows up. And he didn't seem to care one bit. He even seemed to enjoy the whole thing. I think he wanted to tell us about his trip to Guadalajara and the plane rides etc. He is definitely a stress free dog. So they gave us a hotel and 3 meals for each of us. Not the Dog though. We gave him our leftovers from the buffet. He ate more than us, needless to say. Ok, so we get to the airport and the lady asks us how we are going to get from Huatulco to Puerto. I had not thought to ask the previous day and told her so. At that time I was more concerned with getting a free hotel room. She took our tickets and left for about 15 minutes and came back with a voucher for a ride to Puerto. Worth about $120 US. if the fare is not negotiated down and the airline is paying for it. I saw the receipt. Cool. We get to Huatulco and guess what. The dog does not get off the plane. What? We saw him get loaded so this plane is not going anywhere until that Dog is with us. So they open it back up and sure enough they did not see him the first time. His box is only about the size of a Volkswagen. They thought it was funny. We didn't. And that is the story of the worse plane trip we have ever been on. Oh by the way we had a wonderful time in Puerto .....and so did the Dog. I will write about that later with a chapter about the plane ride home.

PB

Hi. We're flying into Mexico City on Monday, Feb 3rd at 8:00 in the evening and taking either an overnight UNO or ADO bus to Oaxaca. Does anyone know if it's necessary to make a reservation or can you just head over to the bus station? I've looked at the Ticketbus website but it's all in Spanish.

Also, does anyone know about the van service from Oaxaca City to Puerto Escondido. I've heard it takes Sola de Vega (approx 5 hours) instead of that horrible windy road but does anyone know where it takes off from in Oaxaca City and how often?

Thanks for your help. Joanne

Bill: I feel your pain. I have been in similar situations flying out of Toronto. Missing connections etc in Mexico City. I was young and under travelled to experience the joys of the Mexico City Airport by myself unable to speak spanish. i will keep looking at the thread to hear about your trip home. How is PE?? I am headed there next week for 17 days. Hope nothing has changed since 1999.

Cheers

I too will be there; landing in M.C. the 28th of Jan. Taking a bus the next day at 4.45pm( station Norte) on Cristobal-Colon $422peso's 15 hrs. Hope the web-site I found was up to date? If anyone knows differant, please post. I also would be interested to know what the weather is like as of late.( lots of clouds, ect.).

I am using new forum software and there are some new features. You can log on and create a user profile. This allows you to edit your own posts after posting, create a personal signature, and to change the menu language. Right now the default language is Spanglish. I think there may be some other features but I'm not sure what they are right now. I'll read the manual as soon as I get everything configured. :-) Logging on is optional. Expect some bugs with these new features.

[%sig%]

Cheers, We will be travelling from Puerto to Oaxaca (return) in February. We have heard the bus ride over the mountains is very beautiful, but uncomfortable? There are some issues with arthritis so we don't know whether to go the bus route or fly.

Any info regarding either method and costs would be greatly appreciated!!

[%sig%]

There is a Chevy Suburban that goes to Oaxaca and costs about $25 US I think. I am not real sure about the cost but it is comfortable and I remember the price as being reasonable.

PB

hola, When I was in PE in Nov someone gave me a copy of small Spanish/English newspaper. I think it was either a monthly or simi-monthly .It was very interesting. It had a calender of events, some articles of local intrest and best of all I think it was free. I would be more than happy to pay some fee & postage.I"m not sure but I think "Sol" may have been the name of it.If anyone knows an address,E-mail or otherwise I would very much appreciate it.

Don

Big Don:

Try:

www.elsoldelacosta.com

Saludos,

I.P.

Warren Sharpe is the publisher: elsol@escondido.com.mx from the US/Canada: 011-52-954-582-2230 great way to keep in touch with Puerto Escondido.

We are arriving in about weeks time for a month in PE. Can anyone recommend the cheapest and least painless way to get from the Hualtulco Airport to PE. I know I've seen it here before, but the old messages are gone.

Thanks [%sig%]

Are they necessary and any idea where to buy them in PE? How to you hang them? Thanks

On my last 3 trips to PE, my wife & I have taken walked outside the gate of the airport and got a cheap taxi going north. The walk to the gate is only about a 3 or 4 minute walk. You will most likely be greeted by a taxi driver even before you get thru the gate, offering you a ride. Otherwise, walk another 1 1/2 blocks to the Gas station and you will find taxi's there. For a ride to PE, they will usually start around $60 US. I've ended up paying $45.00 the last 2 times, and I let him keep the extra $5 as a tip. He took us right to the hotel which the busses don't. We stopped a few times for a cold Corona & Pepsi and the trip only lasted about 1 hr, 15 min. Nice ride, beautiful view of the countryside. You will hear other comments about taking a bus. May be a little cheaper but will take longer and the bus will not take you directly to your hotel. The alternative is to talk to one of the drivers of the taxis inside of the airport gate, (most of them are suburbans and have a set reate of aprox $110 to PE) and see if you can get a better deal.

I just got back from a wonderful week in Puerto. Thought I would share some of my experiences and impressions with the group.

I spotted an attractive last-minute airfare from Toronto to Huatulco direct for only $250 (all prices in US$). Couldn't resist, so on 2 days notice, I was off. The flight was full of package tourists heading for luxury all-inclusive resorts at Huatulco. I asked if there was anyone heading up to Puerto, but all I got were blank stares.

Walking out of the airport, an official taxi offered to take me for $100, but I knew a local one out on the highway would do it for half price. But after a15 minute wait, no taxi had passed, but a local bus for Pochutla came by. It was either 2nd or 3rd class - no, it must have been 2nd class because there were no chickens on board. After 45 minutes, it pulled into the Pochutla bus station and I immediately stepped into a bus heading for Puerto. Total trip took about 2 hours and cost $3.

In Puerto, I booked into my old standby hotel, the Rincon del Pacifico. The setting is the best in town, in my view, as there are hardly any hotels directly on the beach. The rooms are clean and simple with ceiling fans and large windows facing a palm-filled courtyard. Cost was $24 a single ($30 a double)

(Note: Old Paul from Montreal, who has been staying in the front unit every winter since the dawn of time, had fallen and broken his hip. They brought him back from the hospital during my stay, and he has 24 nursing care.)

One annoying thing about staying in this hotel: there is a group of conga drum players from Argentina who play for cash on the pedestrian street each night and they set themselves down right in front of the hotel. The sound pours through the courtyard and reverberates off the walls at an intense volume. Their show is good, if you are just passing by on the street, but most annoying for a couple of hours each night, especially if you are in search of peace and quiet! I thought about moving several times but stuck it out in the end.

There seems to be more litter - plastic - on the main beach, even though a squad of a dozen people sweep down the beach each morning. But the packs of wild dogs that I read about are gone. The story I heard is that a reporter from a Mexico City newspaper was there on holiday and got bitten. He threatened to expose the dog problem if nothing was done, and it was!

Carrizalillo beach is still the most beautiful I know. And surprise! A proper stone staircase has been built. 167 steps, count 'em. I don't miss the dusty old path at all. This is the place to settle in under a palapa to swim, read, drink cerveza and order a fine shrimp cocktail. Heaven!

There were virtually no bugs around. Usually the noseeums nibble at my ankles in the evening, but not this time. Never saw a mosquito. Anyway, the ceiling fan kept anything at bay. However, there were, for the first time in my memory, a lot of flies that appeared whenever food was put on the table.

There are internet cafes all over the place, making contact with home a breeze. They all charge $1 (10 pesos) for an hour. But the connections can be SLOW.

I took a few shots with my new digital camera. You can view them at http://members.rogers.com/46jnott1/ It was a great trip but too short.

Jimbo

Yes Omar is in Puerto. In fact we just talked to him on the phone. We are leaving for Puerto on Wednesday and we phoned to talk to our friends and Omar was at their house. His fishing season is going very good , catching lots of fish.

Great pictures!!!

A LOVELY report, Jimbo! Didn't you feel good saving that $97.00 on the trip from the airport? And just think about how widely you spread that $97.00 among the people in Puerto!

Nice photos, Jimbo. Can I use some of them on the web page?

[%sig%]

Omar operates out of Puerto Angelito. He has a truck now, and picks you up where you are staying, about 6:45 AM. You're on the water shortly after 7 AM. His current rates are a flat fee of 1500 p. He can take a max of 10 "tourists", or 4 serious fishermen(there are only 4 rod-holders in the boat). You are usually back by noon or so. I've gone out with him twice in the last 2 weeks - my interest has been seeing dolphins, rather than fishing.

On the first trip, we went out 19 km, about 12 miles. We got into a group of what Omar estimated were 400+ "spotted" dolphins. 3 of our group of 9, me included, got in the water with them. The faster I swam, the more I was surrounded by dolphins - both sides of me, in front of me, rolling just below my face mask. Incredible experience in the "deep blue". I brought a rock tied onto a rope to measure the visibility - it was 43 feet, or 13.1 meters. There was one "downside" - all the jellyfish! They were beautiful in the clear water, but they did "sting". I'd been "stung" by jellyfish numerous times before and knew what to expect, so it didn't really bother me. For me at least, a small price to pay for the dolphin experience.

Even Omar was amazed - in 13 years, he never had anyone want to get in the water with the dolphins(with the exception of one underwater photographer, who stayed right next to the boat).

The dolphins stayed with the boat for oven an hour(I was in the water with them for 45 minutes) - we left before they did. Our kids, hanging over the prow of the boat, got to touch them at will - a memorable experience for them. We were trolling lures, but not seriously fishing. We watched a sailfish batting a lure with it's bill, but it never took the hook. No fish caught. We saw several turtles on the way back.

On the second trip, I went for the dolphins again, but with 4 people who wanted to fish. We saw about 8 bottlenose dolphins, but they only stayed with the boat a few minutes, and I didn't get in the water. We didn't catch any fish on that trip either.

I've talked to several groups who have gone fishing with a variety of guides. I'd say fishing has been "slow". A neighbor of ours has gone out twice with 2 different guides(not Omar), and their group has caught one dorado(mahi-mahi), about 4 feet long on both ttips. Prices vary, but 300 p/hour with a 4 hour minimum seems to be an average. Omar speaks excellent English(he guides for a fishing operation in Canada during the summers), and he's well worth the few extra pesos.

Omar's cell phone number is 044-954-588-4075. You'll probably have to book him days in advance.

Hi Tom!

Feel free to use any of the photos you wish. Thanks for the great website!

Jimbo

Hola, I am going to travel to P. Escondido, I´d like to know where can I find a place where I can meet gay people, are there places in P. Escondido like bars, disco or something like that?... thanks for your help..

good luck!!!

A few questions about ypur camera??? We are leaving for Puerto on Wednesday and we also just got a new digital camera. Do you mind telling us what type of camera you got and any tips you might have when taking those picture of Carrizalillo. We have 30 days to change our mind on our camera, your pictures are so clear and the colour is fantastic. We are very beginner!!

This will be our fourth year in Puerto and we love it. We stayed in the white building in your pictures above Carrizalillo last year.

Thanks

Linda, The camera I use is a Canon Powershot A40. I use Photoshop Elements (which comes with the camera) to adjust the colours and sharpen the pics (they are a bit 'soft' in their natural state).

Enjoy your stay.

Jimbo

Thanks for th up date. I am leaving for PE next Wednesday out of Toronto.

Maybe we'll see ya there. If you are interested in fishing, let me know, I may be interested in a trip out.

Cheers

Hi. We'll be in PE for the month of Feb - really love it there and getting away from it all. BUT, I'm a huge fan of Survivor and it's starting on Feb 13. Does anyone know if Art & Harry's or any other bar has satellite and if so, have they shown previous Survivors before.

Thanks & take it easy.....

Jo

The January 2001 to January 2003 Puerto Escondido Visitors' Comments (minus the headings) are available in a 1.2 Mb html file at <http://www.tomzap.com/comments_escondido2002.html>

I plan on staying at the hotel Flor de Maria in Puerto the week of 10th. I was just wondering why it is not a link on tomzap, and if anybody knows anything other than what they have on there website. Thanks for the help.

Mike

We have never stayed there, but we do eat dinner there quite often. Every comment about the hotel on this web site has been good. The owners are charming and accomodating people.

I'm living here in Puerto, and I can pick you up in my Dodge Caravan and take you to your hotel. If you're interested, email me at the hotmail address.

Oops, the email address doesn't show up. Email me at casacare@hotmail.com if you want more info on pickup at the airport.

I have a business card which I picked up at the hotel last year. Their email address is: pajope@hotmail.com Phone: 011529545820536 Jimbo

try the local mexican jails they have your type im sure, maybe you can bribe a guard to let you in for a night [%sig%] Post Edited (01-21-03 20:44)

take uno the seats turn into beds ,its the only way to go i took ado in jan. an couldnt take the uncomfotable seating. since uno has only 25 seats compared to ados 40 yes it would be very wise to reserve

Nice place, genial and friendly owners (Canadian, I believe), good restaurant, wonderful roof-top bar and pool area (small pool). Not directly on the beach, but easy access to Playa Marinero and Zicatela. Haven't stayed there but have eaten in the restaurant and checked things out. I'd stay there.

There've been times in Puerto I wished I had one. Most places have hooks above the bed for hanging them. Haven't seen them in town but haven't really looked either, they have to be there somewhere, you can also buy 'em on-line. I use the slow-burning insect coils, called Raidolitos there, they're readily available and work well. The mosquitoes I've encountered in Puerto are pretty much invisible, more like the no see-ums northerners might be familiar with. They come out after dark and you don't know they're biting you until it's too late.

Did anybody in Puerto Escondido feel the Colima earthquake, 8:07 PM, yesterday, January 21, 7.6 - 7.8. An ABC News story is at <http://abcnews.go.com/sections/world/DailyNews/mexico030122_quake.html>

Can anybody living in Puerto give us an update about the earthquake and if it affected Puerto

Does anyone know Omar's e-mail address? David

We did not feel anything here.

Dave <http://www.puertoconnection.com>

I took the trip from PE to Oaxaca City last summer on a (second?) non-first class bus. It stopped roughly every fifteen minutes to pick up passengers and stopped once for a food/potty break. If you have the funds take some of the nicer transports up to Oaxaca City.

If you can stomach it (literally), the views are breathtaking and beautiful. You will, however, have to put up with sharing seats, people leaning on you, etc. It is also really bumpy (depending on what class bus you take ... I think I took the non-direct bus as I remember now!) so if you have arthritis it can be a little troubling. Take Care, R

Has anyone had any experiences in visiting archaeological sites in and around Puerto Escondido? If so I would like to hear about them.

Thanks in advance! R

Since this site attracts a lot of surfie types, I am wondering if anyone can direct me to a Tomzap - style visitors forum for Tamarindo, Costa Rica. An offer that was too good to turn down {especially given the present Siberian weather conditions} has me leaving for Liberia later this week, and I would love to pick a few brains before I head out. Any sites I have found so far kinda suck, this is SUCH a good one. Any help much appreciated, Cheers, Sara

We just got back from Oaxaca last night. We took the van service from Puerto Escondido to Oaxaca and it was very comfortable. The scenery was beautiful! The van was a 5 1/2 hr trip where the buses take the long way around and stop frequently. If you have a tendancy to get carsick, take dramamine, but it really isn't that bad. The vans leave at 9am 2pm and 7pm. and was about 130p per person. Also, you can reserve seats and apparently the ones in front (which we reserved) are more comfortable. We took the 2pm van as we wanted to do Gina's morning walking tour of Puerto Escondido which I can also heartily recommend.

We were going to fly, but Mexicana has cancelled all its flights from Hualtco to Oaxaca for the month of January. The flights from PE were frightfully expensive. Like $300. per person Canadian. Take the van. It's a beautiful trip.

We were just in PE and stayed at the Flor del Mar. It was great. Really, really nice hosts Paul and Joanne. Very clean, quiet rooms and the location is great. I think there are cheaper places to stay, but we had a great time there. Paul helped us arrange the van to Oaxaca when we were ready to leave and he also suggested the Eco tour of the lagoon with Mike Malone which was outstanding. Have fun!

hi, i'm seeking a 1-2 bedroom villa for a 1 wk rental in march. i have not booked any air travel yet, so any wk is fair game. pls email me asap at sianb_s@yahoo.com with any info. can't wait to get there!

Below I have pasted a report I wrote in October for another website, together with the reply from the webmaster, who helped me arrange my transportation. Hope it helps you.

In Reply to: Bus report posted by Paul on Octubre 22, 2002 at 08:34:31:

So glad you enjoyed it. I had not recommended Estrella Roja or Solteca from Oaxaca direct to PE, as most tourists seem to want only luxury and flat, straight roads in perfect condition. But really that route, via Sola de Vega, is much more beautiful because it is not so filled up with towns and other construction. So don't tell anyone about it, so that it will stay uncluttered (-:

By the way, the UNO bus betwen DF and OAX is perhaps even more luxurious than the Futura! Note for next time.

: Hi Maria

: Last month you advised me about bus travel between Mexico DF, Oaxaca and Puerto Escondido. We're just back and I'd like to tell you a bit about our experience. It was great! We choose the ADO GL bus from TAPO to Oaxaca. TAPO is very easy to get to from the airport and it was also easy to find the bus company. Excellent bus, clean and comfortable. Frequent service, our bus departed within 45 minutes of us getting to the terminal. (Joanne: I did not pre-book, the next departure had plenty seats) The ADO terminal in Oaxaca was close to our hotel, so it was very convenient. We really enjoyed Oaxaca and Monte Alban; really worthwhile the stop-over. As most buses like the Cristobal Colon and Estrella Blanca busses go either via Salina Cruz or Puchutla, we decided to be adventurous and take the Estrella Roja bus direct to Puerto. Fabulous trip. The mountains were awesome. The bus not quite as good as the ADO GL bus, but still very acceptable. By the way, we are a middle aged couple (almost 50), very used to our comforts at home. We did stop frequently to let passengers on and off, but that was only a minor inconvenience. The road was OK, just at a few spots in bad repairs, I think due to recent slides and the rain. At one point there was even a chance of imminent danger of further rockslides, the road was full of litter from earlier ones, but the driver negotiated that spot very nicely. Puerto was great, seems to look a little better each time we visit. On the way home we choose the Estrella Blanca (Futura) service via Acapulco to Mexico SUR. Fantastic bus, never seen anything like it, even in "prosperous" North America. The trip did take a full 13 hours, but due to the footrests that extended the seat into a full couch, it really was not tiring. There are several evening departures from Puerto, so depending on your flight time the next day in Mexico, you can pick and choose. (Joanne: the reverse direction Mexico to Puerto, also travels overnight) The bus did get stopped twice between Puerto and Acapulco. The first time a group of youngsters came on board collecting money from the passengers (voluntary, no arm twisting, honest) for a festival in their town. The second time we were boarded by two military officers; they visually inspected everyone, tried some bags, and left again. Both times rather unnerving, but nothing really happened. We were travelling relatively lightly, so we choose the Metro between SUR and the airport, which we found very doable.

In Reply to: Bus report posted by Paul on Octubre 22, 2002 at 08:34:31:

So glad you enjoyed it. I had not recommended Estrella Roja or Solteca from Oaxaca direct to PE, as most tourists seem to want only luxury and flt, straight roads in perfect condition. But really that route, via Sola de Vega, is much more beautiful because it is not so filled up with towns and other construction. So don't tell anyone about it, so that it will stay uncluttered (-:

By the way, the UNO bus betwen DF and OAX is perhaps even more luxurious than the Futura! Note for next time.

: Hi Maria

: Last month you advised me about bus travel between Mexico DF, Oaxaca and Puerto Escondido. We?re just back and I?d like to tell you a bit about our experience. It was great! We choose the ADO GL bus from TAPO to Oaxaca. TAPO is very easy to get to from the airport and it was also easy to find the bus company. Excellent bus, clean and comfortable. Frequent service, our bus departed within 45 minutes of us getting to the terminal. The ADO terminal in Oaxaca was close to our hotel, so it was very convenient. We really enjoyed Oaxaca and Monte Alban; really worthwhile the stop-over. As most buses like the Cristobal Colon and Estrella Blanca busses go either via Salina Cruz or Puchutla, we decided to be adventurous and take the Estrella Roja bus direct to Puerto. Fabulous trip. The mountains were awesome. The bus not quite as good as the ADO GL bus, but still very acceptable. By the way, we are a middle aged couple (almost 50), very used to our comforts at home. We did stop frequently to let passengers on and off, but that was only a minor inconvenience. The road was OK, just at a few spots in bad repairs, I think due to recent slides and the rain. At one point there was even a chance of imminent danger of further rockslides, the road was full of litter from earlier ones, but the driver negotiated that spot very nicely. Puerto was great, seems to look a little better each time we visit. On the way home we choose the Estrella Blanca (Futura) service via Acapulco to Mexico SUR. Fantastic bus, never seen anything like it, even in ?prosperous? North America. The trip did take a full 13 hours, but due to the footrests that extended the seat into a full couch, it really was not tiring. There are several evening departures from Puerto, so depending on your flight time the next day in Mexico, you can pick and choose. The bus did get stopped twice between Puerto and Acapulco. The first time a group of youngsters came on board collecting money from the passengers (voluntary, no arm twisting, honest) for a festival in their town. The second time we were boarded by two military officers; they visually inspected everyone, tried some bags, and left again. Both times rather unnerving, but nothing really happened. We were travelling relatively lightly, so we choose the Metro between SUR and the airport, which we found very doable.

You can buy mosquito nets at many places in town. Ask any native. They can direct you.

Once you take that 4 minute walk to the highway there are all kinds of little trucks with wood benches in back (collectivos) who stop along the way and pick up people and let them off. It's a lot slower than a taxi, but a lot cheaper too. You might have to change trucks periodically as some only go as far as the Puerto Angel turnoff. It's an adventure!

Just a suggestion. Have some light comfortable clothes packed so that you can easily access them if you are going to walk out to the road to catch transportation. The weather will seem hot and humid and some people dress differently for the plane than they would for walking to the hwy and catching a colectivo or bus or taxi. Walking with long pants or dress clothes to the hwy will bum you out. PB

Check our site to see if we have what you are looking for.

www.puertoconnection.com

Josua, I've never found a gay bar in PE - Guys like Chicago Frank will swear there aren;t any, won't be aware of the historically tolerant Zapotec culture, etc.

Smartest thing would be to find somebody in la ciudad de Oaxaca and ask them - there are plenty of gay bars in Oaxaca ... But tourist gay bars in PE - nope, not that I know of - Yo estare en PE Feb. 26-28. E-mail si quieres conocerme.

Thanks*NM*

Jimbo, Just wondering where you found the cheap airfare. Looking to go this winter out of Toronto.

Mike, I got my airfare off the Air Transat website:

http://www.airtransat.ca

Good luck, Jimbo

Your pictures are great. Just wondering do the steps down to Carrizillio beach have a railing ? I bet not.

Do I smell a potential lawsuit? PB

Not a lawsuit, it's difficult for older folks or people who are unsteady to navigate some of the steps, especially 168. Somehow Mexico in general doesn't think about people with disabilities. It sure would be nice to have railings to grab on to don't you think Puerto Bill ?

On the subject of airfare. I did alot of searching for flights to PE this year. In the past I flew Transat and it got me to Hautulco alright but usually 5 to six hours after I was supposed to be there. This year I am flying Air Canada, Mexicana, Areo Caribe. It was about $100 more expensive but I am confident that I will get there on time or close to it at least and maybe this year I won t have to wait for four days for my luggage to arrive. Once your luggage arrives in Hautulco it is a real challenge to get them to ship it to PE with transat.

I went through a travel agency in Toronto called Martours you can find them on the internet. Hopefully the flight will be better than the two hours we spent on the ground with no beer in Ixtapa with air transat.

Good luck

Jimbo, Fantastic pictures! I sent them to all of my friends just to make them jealous. I'm taking my 18 year old daughter ( What am I thinking????) to PE this summer. My mind is already there.

Gunter

Hello, I pulled this out of the archives to repost it as this is timeless, if you will, information and has worked for us and we hope it helps all who follow it enjoy a healthly and happy visit to the land we love so much. On our last two trips to Mexico, one of five weeks, five years ago, and the most recent, two weeks, last month, we have enjoyed excellent health. Part of the reason for this, I believe is the a week prior to departing we each took an acidophilus pill daily and continued to do during our time in Mexico. The theory being that acidophilus is probiotic and it develops healthy bacteria in your intestines which will then enable you to resist foreign bacteria that your system is not used to. That along with the normal precautions about eating and drinking has prevented us from having to engage in those not so enlightened conversations concerning the solidity of one's movements, which it is well known detract from one's ability to enjoy Mexico. We have also found charcoal capsules to be an excellent relief for discomfort. The theory here being the charcoal filters out poisons. Last month, In Puerto Escondido, my wife gave a couple to a young woman we had meet who, one morning, had that look of "let me die now, lord", on her face and by late afternoon felt that a rum and coke, would be "just fine now, thanks". A true testimonial! Anyway, these two items, acidophilius and charcoal capsules can be found at most health food stores.

Frank should shove his head back up his ass. This is no place for abuse of anyone. GROW UP.

You are right, Phyl. 168 steps is a lot and in the hot sun can be pretty difficult. I was only joking about the lawsuit beause such a suit would be fruitless in Mexico. And as we know the steps would not even be built here in the good old U, S. of A. because the potential for lawsuits and restrictions placed on the construction would make it prohibitively expencive not to mention the insurance costs involved. And Grambo, two hours in Ixtapa without beer could be grounds for a winable lawsuit in Mexico I would think. PB

For people who are not as agile as they once were, you can take a boat from Puerto Angelito or from Puerto Escondido main beach to Carrizilillo beach. They come and go constantly--kinda like water taxis. If you are eating at Carrizilillo, the only place with piped in pure water for washing dishes is Maria's. Maria lives above the beach and has her water piped down. The rest of the restaurants are using water from an open well at the bottom of the old path where dogs walk thru, people bath, and people wash their clothes when the town is out of water. Maria and Henry are great people. I have known them personally and have lived with them off and on for the past 30 years. I'd love to see the photos but can't find them.

Great pictures!

Thanks so much for the replies guys. Looking so forward to getting to PE and climbing those 168 steps at Carrizalillo!! Take care Jo

We stayed there for one week earlier this month. We all agreed that Paul and Joanne are wonderful, warm hosts. They are welcoming and helpful in every way. It is clean, quiet and charming. And the restaurant was terrific. We will stay there again when we return.

WOW...Great pictures, Another reminder that Puerto Escondido, truly is one of the most beautiful places in the world. Thank you for sharing.

Saludos, I.P.

Hotel Jardin Real has hookups for 5 RV's. This includes electric, water and sewer. Full use of hotel facilities is included.

<http://www.puertoconnection.com/jardinreal.html> [%sig%]

I've tried to find out about the mixtec site that gina the information goddess is exclusively giving tours of but never gotten any response whatsoever from anyone.It sounds like a major find that they are excavating and i would like to volunteer at but i can't find out anything!!!! try some of the sites around the city of oaxaca, monte alban is certainly worth going to see, as is mitla....good luck

Thanks for the info. I'm pretty familiar with the existing archaeological literature (Tomzap mentions Brockington's dissertation work) on the coast but have had a lot of trouble finding recent info stateside around PE. I am very interested in finding info on Chila.

I am going to be in PE very soon (as in the next two weeks) so it would be kinda cool to get linked up with people that know the area well archaeologically speaking.

As far as volunteering goes you may want to check out Earthwatch, although a lot of their work is in Belize..

Ryan

The site you are referring to sits in the foot hills of the Sierra Madres, aprox. 7 to 8 kilometers above Charro Seco. I was informed that the trail to the site is a animal trail and the climb is not for the faint of heart. The site also has a barb wire fence running through it. There is no legal excuvation going on at present and the community does not want any. Last year Gina did not offer that tour but did have pictures of that site. I would reccomend her as her prices are very fair and thats how she supplements her living. Gina is paid by the Dept. of tourism, very knowledgeable of the area, makes a meger wage and works long hours. I was also informed if you go to Charros village councel and tell them you would like to see the site that they will escort you for a nominal fee. Don't forget to take a interuptor from Puerto as the do not speak Spanish. I tried to visit the site last year but ran out of time trying to coordimate a translator in my alotted time frame

thank you thank you, at last some info.......muchas gracias i will do my best to find out more and if possible ask gina to help me get there

My Wife and I stayed there in December 2001

Great place. Run by a Canadian Woman and her hus. Rooms are clean. If your looking for a secluded quite spot during your trip, the rooftop pool is almost always empty. The hotel is one block from the beach and from there you can go botheways...to the Zicatella, or to the Main P.E. beach

Please feel free to email me for more.

Dave

mmmm, there's another site on the beach. Information is real sketchy, and there's some security, but I have heard about on small operator in Zipolite that was doing two-day trips for about a half-dozen people a week. I even had an article from the New York Times from about a year ago...there's things to do, but the information is hard to come by and it's certainly not for deletants nor the faint of heart.

AND OF COURSE, wash your hands before AND after dining; If you eat on the street, eat only where the person handling the food and the person handling the currency <a PRIME vector for undesirable micro-organisms> are NOT the same person; if you're going to have to ride a bus back to your gateway city, Lomotil is a readily available chemical cork; careful on VOLUMES of food and drink, as most folks increase their input of both and this can cause the problems...What have I left out? Lime juice, chili, and prayer sometimes work...

Thanks for all of the suggestions. I am definitely going to contact Gina--she sounds like an excellent resource. I know a site was excavated around Zipolite (in a dissertation by Brockington called Sipolite) published in the 1960's which may be the sites that are on tour? I am not exactly sure though. Ryan

Great Pictures. We arrive in PE on Feb. 7th. Can't wait. Thanks for the boost!

Wow! Hi Katie ! I'm heading to Puerto on the Feb 6th & will be staying there & Zipolite till around the 18th. Where are you coming from? A friend & I are bussing from Houston.

Jon, We are heading to PE from Michigan (our annual two week vacation in the sun). We are staying at our usual location, The Villa Belmar. Have a great trip. Have to been to PE before?

Thanks for sharing your photo's they are wonderful. Brought back good memories.Planning on going down in March for 3 weeks. Can hardly wait. Is it March yet?

Surprise! The steps down to Carrizilillo do have railings. The problem isn't faling over the side, it's going down headfirst. They're not for the faint of heart or body though. Maybe someone who thinks that Mexico should have the same acibility and safety standards as gringoland should build an escalator. Now we just have to get electricity...

There are also 'direct first class' buses that go to Oaxaca through Sola de Vega for 90 pesos. (Estrela Roja and a couple of others) There are about 4 or 5 bus lines here, and a new terminal is under construction to replace the individual offices.

We have a beautiful front unit condo in Puerto Escondido; please see http://mailweb.pue.udlap.mx/~sobczyk/eg4.html

We have openings in March if you are still looking. Our web page address is www.ZicatelaProperties.com and our email address is zicatela_properties@yahoo.com.

[%sig%]

Regarding the steps down to Carrizilillo...take the water taxi! We went down the steps, spent the day at the beautiful beach and took the water taxi back to PE. A fun boat trip with two friendly boatmen, a little tour and I got to practice my Spanish. It was the same price as the land taxi from town and way more fun!

I've posted virtually the same message on the Barra comments board and am hoping to get some replies from there as well as from those in the PE area.

I am hoping to move to Mexico in the next year or two and am interested in buying a house in either the Barra/Malenque/La Manzanilla area or the Puerto Escondido/Puerto Angel area. Can anyone familiar with both areas provide some pros and cons of each locale?

From the real estate listings in the PE area, it appears that housing prices are less than in the Barra/Malenque area. Is that actually the case? How does one go about finding houses for sale by locals as opposed to vacation homes being sold by gringo snowbirds? I'm looking for something under $100,000 US.

I plan to be in Mexico for the month of August and part of September to check out the various locales. I will spend part of the time in the Barra/Malenque area and part in Puerto Escondido. Learning as much as I can before I go will help me make the best use of my time. So....help!! Please.

Also, if anyone who lives permanently in the PE area would like to get together in August/September, I'd be happy to trade an adult beverage for information.

Thanks in advance.

Karen [%sig%]

homo's aren't wanted in Mexico...

Sexual preference, like handedness, is genetically determined. I believe that sexual behavior between consenting adults, where harm is neither intended nor caused, is not open to public censure. In practicing tolerance of others, we increase the chance that we will also be tolerated. Hateful attitudes and behaviors are, of course, excepted from this policy; they cause harm. I'm grateful my children don't carry around such burdens of hate. It must be wearying.

A warning. Use the ATM's at banks. Free-standing ATM's often not only charge a fee but give an inferior exchange rate. The ones at the bank give the Interbank rate on the date the transaction clears your home bank. In fact, the easiest way to spot a machine in Mexico that will rip you off in this way is whether the transaction is offered in dollars or pesos. The "good" ATM's will offer peso figures only as the exchange rate is not fixed until the transaction clears your bank. If the machine offers information in dollars, they are charging you a premium to cover the "conversion risk."

We have some nice listings under $100,000U.S. in Puerto Escondido. One of our low end properties is $25,000 U.S. Our listings can be viewed at www.ZicatelaProperties.com. Send us an email if you would like additional information or photos. I am familiar with both areas you are looking at and highly recommend Puerto Escondido for year round living. My wife and I have been living in Mexico for 9 years year round.

[%sig%]

Check our site for many listings that meet your requirements. We also have a team of "locals" that can find what you are looking for, if it exists here, as well as take care of all the paperwork. Let us know if we can help.

<http://ww.puertoconnection.com> [%sig%]

Check our site for many listings that meet your requirements. We also have a team of "locals" that can find what you are looking for, if it exists here, as well as take care of all the paperwork. Let us know if we can help.

<http://www.puertoconnection.com> [%sig%]

Rick, Thanks for the info. I've actually looked at your website before. I'm afraid the very low end homes are a little too primitive for me and there seems to be a big jump up to the $147,000 type houses. I guess I'm looking for something somewhere in the middle.

I'd be interested in why you think PE is a better area to live year around. Why did you decide on it? I'll keep an eye on your website over the next few months and be sure to get in contact with you when I am there.

Thanks again for the info.

Karen

Enjoyed the photos and the report! How did you deal with memory? We are shopping for deals on compact flash memory, but it will take a lot. Your high resolution photos certainly did.

Internet connections too slow to download to our albums, I'm figuring.

We plan to shoot high res with our two digital cameras when we visit Puerto this summer.

Any ideas?

i'm just learning to surf - will i get killed in PE?

I've lived in both areas. The summers in La Barra can really be incredibly difficult. I LIKE hot and sultry, but the Costalegre was pushing it, even for me. Despite even closer proximity to the equater, something about the wind patterns makes the Oaxacan coast more pleasant.

Real estate IS cheaper in the costaesmeralda than in Barra/Melaque. But transportation costs are more going to and from "home." I expect you can find properties more in your niche when you are on-site and if you are patient. The best deal is never out there waiting for you. Nor is it probably ready-advertized.

You are planning to go down and talk with ex-pats during typically the worst weather of the year. If you check the historical data, well over half the anual rainfall is in September. That said, the weather will still be excellent. But you should try both wet and dry season before you put your money down.

Be sure to budget for a lawyer as well as the time of a good banker. You will need both in your endeavor.

The ex-pat crop in La Barra/Melaque/La Manzanilla is unsurpassed. The costaesmealda should be so lucky as to secure a Beer Bob! But the locals on the Oaxacan coast are the real selling point. Visit the small places along he La Ventanilla-Mazunte-San Augustinillo-Puero Angel loop while you're down.

The best place to learn is at La Punta. You will not get killed (probably) there anymore than most anyplace else you would try to learn. Learning to surf is difficult but if you stick with it, it will be well worth it. Just don't start "boogie boarding". You may get stuck in a bad rut and never take off the training wheels, so to speak. Then you will end up with an inferiority complex. You won't be able to look your SURFER friends in the eye. You will be excluded from many surf trips. The babes will think you are a wimp.I can't imagine what it would feel like to walk down the street carrying a boogie board. The humiliation. The disgusted looks from passersby. It would be very ugly indeed. Boogie boarding is for women and children. Sorry if this seems harsh but it is the feeling of 99.999% of anybody who has ever stood up on a surfboard. Remember you don't see SURFERS taking off their leash and putting on fins so they can ride a sponge. PB

I like to run up and down the steps in the morning to get a good workout--not. I was there this summer when they finished the project. It is a thigh burning experience in the heat of the day. The other path is also difficult but offers shade and flat portions to catch your breath. I can't wait to be there this summer with my daughter,. She wants to learn how to surf. Gunter from Texas

Dear Karen, I just sent you an email with some additional information. Let me know if you DO NOT receive it. We will look forward to a visit with you this summer. We will be here enjoying the rains. Regards and best of luck in you search. Rick [%sig%]

Link to a story about a study by the Mexican national environmental agency of contaminated waters at beach resorts. PE is specifically mentioned. http://www.enn.com/news/2003-02-03/s_2497.asp

Who runs the van service??

Thanks for the link - I've forwarded it to some people I know with Puerto Escondido interests... - "RAP" - I have some relevant info if you want to reply to me directly...

Katie, Nice to hear fellow Michiganders will be in Puerto Escondido in February. Al and I will arrive 2/14/03 from the frozen north (Paw Paw). We will be staying at the Rin Con del Pacifico. ( best bartender- Francisco and drinks in town ). Stop for happy hour if you get a chance. Have a safe trip. Peace

Chuck, Thought I'd check the visitor's comments one more time before we leave. We will make sure to stop in for happy hour. You have a great trip as well.

See you in Puerto Escondido!!!!!!!!!! Katie

Hello,

As above stated, my name is Tico. I am in search of a friend who moved there in the last Year & 1/2. I know this is a long shot, though I try any means possible of locating this gentleman. His name is Stefan. Pronounced in german. He bought a hotel somewhere in Puerto Escondido. He measures 5'8 - 5'10. He is a very energetic and driven worker.(CAN U SAY HI ENERGY) He owns his own cabinet making shop in Miami FL. He will own a giant suburban, that is what he drove all over Mexico to find this haven he now calls home. Does tend to travel frequently. Why, you may ask? I have an open invitation, to visit my hard to reach freind. If you do know him, and give this much thought please ask him of TICO. I assure you it will be met with a warm reminder of a damn good time! Any assistence is apprieciated.

TICO

I wonder if you could tell us more about the van service. Where did you go to reserve it? Did it stop for bathroom breaks? Thanks!

I'm wondering what it's like to get from the airport in Mexico City to the uno bus station (how you did it, what it cost, how long it took,etc.) and also how long the journey took and what it cost.

Thanks so much!

Has anyone spent the night at a Mexico City airport hotel on their own dime? Any suggestions, advice??

I've stayed at both the Hilton and Marriot in the airport, and the Aeropuerto Plaza just out of the airport. Was at the Hilton in early Jan. but the best rate was $120 US midweek, so stayed on Hilton points. the Marriot is comparable, within $10 per night. Weekend rates should be cheaper, check the web. The hotel home sites were cheaper than Expedia and Orbitz. The Aeropuerto Plaza is a nice property and was running about $85 a night. They run a shuttle to and from the airport, or you can walk it during the day by turning left out of the terminal, past the taxi rank to the pedestrian overpass. Go over the street and then right past Wings to the hotel. We have stayed there several times and recommend it. Any of the three are fine. Just depends on what time you get in and how anxious you are to get to bed. good luck.

On our trip back to Canada in January, we stayed at the Aeropuerto Hotel, which is next door to the Aeropuerto Plaza. It was clean, safe and cheap (I recall about $40.US) and also had a little restaurant. We travel lite so we walked to the hotel which I think is probably faster than getting a taxi. Go left out of the airport and cross the bridge which crosses the highway. Aeropuerto Hotel is on the left, Aeropuerto Plaza is on the right. I was amazed that you really could walk to the hotel given how big Mexico City is!

Since our Spanish is very limited, we made a reservation while we were in Oaxaca through the receptionist at the hotel at which we were staying. Phone #785-6928.

Have a great trip.

We reserved the van service with Paul at the Flor de Maria. 130p each. He phoned for us and asked for front seats. The van picked us up at his hotel. Ww stopped at a small bus stop near the main market and picked up everyone else.

Our van did not stop intentionally for a bathroom break. We did have some trouble with our breaks and stopped at the home of a mechanic. They had "outhouses" and a pop machine. Most of us gratefully used the facilities. I don't think we would have stopped if we didn't have brake issues. My recommendation would be not to drink much before you go!

It was a beautiful trip and other than the van being pretty crowded, it was very pleasant.

Thanks, Karen, for the additional info.

Does anyone know how and where you could reserve the van in Oaxaca to travel from Oaxaca to PE?? Ruth

I too have stayed at the Hotel Aeropuerto - it was just $25 a few years ago. I recommend that you either reserve in advance, or arrive early, because it fills up. Ask for a room on the back side, as the highway out front is very busy. The rooms were clean and modern. Amazing when you think that you can walk there from the airport in a few minutes.

We had a flight to catch at 2 AM, so we didn't stay the whole night. But it was a great alternative to 'hanging out' for hours on end somewhere else. We were eating in the hotel restaurant that evening when we saw a young German couple asking for a room and being told that there were none. We told them that we were vacating our room at midnight and they could have it. Promptly at midnight, they knocked on our door, paid us for half the cost and off we went into the night. A good solution for both of us! Jimbo

Hi Here is another option to consider. You can take an Exectutive class bus directly from the airport - they leave frequently (40 minutes) - to Puebla. It is about a two hour trip. You can catch a bus to Oaxaca from there or spend the night in Puebla and leave in the morning. It is about a six hour trip to Oaxaca from Puebla. Puebla's zocalo is worth seeing.

We will be flying into Mexico City and want to know the best way to get to Puerto Escondido. The flights are expensive and don't seem to run that often. Does anyone have a good suggestion? We'd appreciate it.

One idea is to fly into Puebla; there's great bus service into Oaxaca City and from there, you can choose between the scenic route and the one for those prone to motion sickness. From Mexico City, you can either go through Oaxaca or go through Acapulco. There are advantages to both routes.

I'm down here in P.E. right now. Landed in M.C. and took a busline Crisbol Colon from the Tapo bus station. It left at 5.15pm for $443.00 peso's. Nice but a very long ride 18hrs! Lot's of road construction going on just outside of Oaxaca city that slows things down. Better off the Acapulco route for now. People leaving P.E. can go dirrect via Acapulco to M.C. in 12hrs. for under 400peso's. Good luck. P.S. not a cloud in the sky for the last two weeks with no change in sight!

Had a great day fishing wednesday 12 feb. out of puerto escondido Two sailfish 8 to 9 feet long and Four dorado all over 4 ft long Went out at seven and back about one Saw a lot of dolphin and one whale.

I've heard great things about this hotel (and the owners' Peruvian restaurant in Toronto -- Boulevard Café -- is fab too!), but I have also heard that Oaxaca can be quite dangerous now. Since I've never been to Mexico, can someone tell me what safety is like around the area? [%sig%]

My wife Joan and I recently spent 4 days at the Hotel Flor de Maria in Puerto Escondido. While there, we learned from Paul Mader, the co owner, that a recent and anonymous e mail comment had gone through a long description of how terrible the owners of the hotel had treated "ANONYMOUS" and her husband. He apparently had gotten sick and they were not allowed to use the phone at night to call a local M.D. . "Anonymous" also reported that the staff had told them of how much they disliked and feared the owners.

This e mail report which was listed as Feb. 03 is either entirely vindictive or possibly done about 3 years after the fact. Paul and his co owner, Joanne Lombardi Simpson, bought the place about 3 years ago. I had heard from some longtime visitors to Puerto Escondido (not Paul and Joanne) that the prior owners were somewhat lacking in "people skills." In short, maybe "anonymous" did in fact have an unfortunate run in with the owners but it was with the prior owners.

Why do I spend time on this single point? Because we have rarely run into hotel owners or managers who are more kind and helpful to the guests than Paul and Joanne! They really knock themselves out to be available for advice and help. Also, from all I could see, the staff appeared to be very happy with their work. The anonymous e mail, in other words, was an entirely bad rap. Particularly bad because the charge is so hugely wrong in this case.

In sum, if you saw the anonymous e mail in question, forget it. This is a fine hotel in a fine place and run by good people. Sam.

Just want to let everyone know that we're giving away samples of the herbal insect repellant again in return for your feedback. See <http://www.tomzap.com/crocodile.html>.

We will be traveling to Puerto Escondido for the end of February. Who took you out fishing, what kind of a boat - how far did you go out? We really want to fish while we are there, but are novices.

Grambo, you mentioned Martours in Toronto, but I can't find them. Is that the correct name? Do you have contact info? thanks

I lived in Puerto for three years, moved to the city in Oct. I rented. I would strongly suggest renting first to see if you like it, also to get a good feel for the prices and location you would prefer.As you may know real estate is harder to do iin Mexico with agents, there is no multiple listing and all you know is the asking price which could bbe out of sight. You should definitely be able to get somethiing in your price range. A friend of mine from Belgium has her house for sale right now, asking price 800,ooo pesos, if you would like to know more details email me cbridal@hotmail.

Hi jeanne: Went out about twelve miles. Went with Ray out of the bay of angelito. Have fished with him for 5 years and condider him one of the best.

Are there buses that run from Puerto Escondido to Veracruz? How often? How long of a trip is it? And what is the cost? Thanks for your help.

You may have to route the trip yourself. PE to probably Tehauntepec or Salina Cruz; then accross the isthmus to Vera Cruz. Cristobol Colon is going to probably be your best bet for the first part, with either Colon or ADO for the later part. Try their websites, but I suspect that this may be a trip best planned on the fly.

It is either P.E-Oaxaca-Veracruz or as mentioned above P.E. -Salina. Cruz- Veracuz.T.

Thanks for your replies. Do you have the URLs to the transportation companies you mentioned - Cristobal Colon and ADO?

Try magicbus.com for some links. A routing through Oaxaca City would be worth while just to see Oaxaca City, but Salina Cruz and across the isthmuis would be much quicker.

Does anyone have any information about the "castle"? Its the big white house near Playa Carrazalillo. I stayed there this summer and wish to stay there again this summer, but can't find the phone number. For the uninitiated, the house has four room for rent surrounding a lovely pool and garden. I spent many siestas floating in the pool, distracted only by the seemingly constant whirr from the squadron of hummingbirds. Heaven on earth. My thanks in advance.

David

Here is there website: http://www.tbaytel.net/castillo/ Jimbo

Thanks a bunch.

We are planning our move.... Can we rent long term 2 bedroom ground floor Apt or house for $300(US) ? [%sig%]

I would say no. We are renting a one bedroom, which we are moving out of, for 260 pesos plus utilities, which brings it up to 3000. You can probably find something for the off-season, but the you'll have to look for something in October, when prices go up. Check the rental sites though, but I think 400 is about as cheap as you'll find.

Anybody knows where I can rent a surfboard? and What is the best way to get to PE? How far is PE from Cozumel? Any tips in how to get there?

Rent at Central Surf, there's a web link somewhere on the main PE pages.

Quite far !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

You can also rent from Dave at 360 surf shop on Zicatela Beach <http://www.puertoconnection.com/360.html> [%sig%]

When I looked into cost a couple of years ago it was actually a bit cheaper and less time to go via Oaxaca, the alternative was via Huatulco but not a fast connection. Its not usually a problem not booking in advance except for holidays like Xmas and Easter. If you prebook and miss your time you have to buy another ticket.

Hello, I have read many of the fishing posts on this board and have done some research on the internet as well. i am getting conflicting reports about the fishing during March. some reports say this is a slow time of year, others say it is peak season. which are correct ? I'm coming in Puerto the 10th of March, what kind of fish can i get offshore ? thank you for your help with my questions.

Help Please! I will be in Huatulco and Puerto Escondido March 12th through the 22nd with my boyfriend. We are 35 yrs. old and are interested in everthing offered in both cities; sunning, shopping, sightseeing, nightlife, tours. I have no idea what to pack. I've read in one of my guidebooks (I have 3 right now, I'm so excited to go!), that what is worn in the resorts is not worn in the cities. We will not be staying at the resorts, but in smaller hotels in both cities. If anyone could offer any advice it would be greatly appreciated. Also, we haven't made any reservations for any hotels. Is it possible to find rooms without advance reservations? Thank you!!! [%sig%]

It does not sound like you will be going to any cities so don't worry.You need hot weather wear. Light clothes. Shorts and light tops. T shirts and/or Hawaiian type shirts. Flip flops and maybe a pair of running shoes (no black socks) which you could wear on the plane. Maybe a sweat shirt or one long sleeve light shirt just in case but you will probably not use it. Long pants are not needed except for maybe the plane. If you think you want some sort of dressier clothes, that is what you can wear on the plane so that you don't have to pack them. Swim wear. A beach towel per person could come in handy and a day pack (small) could come in handy as well. Books. Bug Juice. Appetite.

As John Williams says "Half the clothes and twice the money you think you will need". You will have no problem finding a room. Have the airport taxi take you to Zicatela and stop at the Santa Fe. Check it out and if it is too expensive (as it is for me but the restaurant is a must. Check out the restaurant reviews on puertoconnection.com) leave your stuff at the front desk (it will be very safe I promise) and walk down the road until you see something you will like. Or you could start at one of these hotels along the beach: There is Acali, Las Olas, Arco Iris, Bungalows Zicatela, Aquario, Olas Altas, Inez, Rockaway, and a couple others. You can pick out any of these and if you find something else you think you would like better the next day or whatever you can move. It is very easy to do this. Takes about ten minutes. I know a guy who moves every couple of days, of course he is a little nuts. PB

Re clothes Puerto is casual. You might want to consider a hotel on the Adoquin side for part of your stay, like los tres Reyes up the hill across from Banamex or the Mayflower on the Adoquin or Rincon Pacifico right on the fishermans beach or Cocos across from the church...this way you could walk to Zicatela or also to the other quieter beaches like Carizalillo. Have fun.

Well, we made it over the mountains to Oaxaca. We booked a van from a location by a hotel & church with lots of roosters- I think it is above the Adoqin. You can see the highway signs for Oaxaca and for Puerto Angel etc. We were to leave at 6:00am, arrived 15 minutes early and waited...and waited...at 6:45 we figured this clown was not going to show and flagged a taxi into town to another van location.

The trip was "interesting" but after awhile you might prefer another method as the constant fast and tight turning throw you around like a rag doll. We chose to fly home vie Aerotucan- 30 minutes and very scenic.

Sorry noy to have the guys name, business number and telephone who stood us up but I promise to get back with this info. This type of occurance should be reported.

Thanks for all the advice! Pilgrim

hello there.

i have a 91 jeep. i am in zipolite. my pump is out. would any one know where i might get a replacement in the region? please write with info.

thanks a bunch derek hola: tengo un jeep modelo cherokee año '91 y se descompuso la bomba. ¿me podrían dirigir a donde podría yo conseguir otra? favor de escribir al correo electronici con informaccion.

gracias derek

I want to check out the real estate in PE. I have a few spare months this summer. What kind of place can i rent for $500 a month ( july and august)? [%sig%]

We have many places to choose from. Check the site and let us know if we can help you.

<http://www.puertoconnection.com> [%sig%]

Second Bill. I throw in a nice lightweight shirt and pair of slacks in case I want to dress up for a good restaurant. But there are no restaurants in PE where you'll be required to dress up.

You could wear the slacks on the plane so that you don't have to pack something extra. And as RAP says there are no restaurants in Puerto that you need to wear slacks. In fact you may get strange looks if you do wear slacks. I have had a pair or two of nice long pants stashed in Puerto for a few years now and have never worn them. I just can't seem to find a reason to put them on when a nice Hawaiian shirt and nice shorts are so much more comfortable. Sometimes in the winter I put on a pair af sweats in the morning when it is a little cool (75°). Usually for no more tham 10-15 minutes though. It gets hot fast. Now in Huatulco that is another story. Some places can be weird down there but I think they are mainly the AI resorts. PB

I will be traveling with family & dont have a great deal of time so I thought I would take first class bus from Mex.City to Oaxaca hang out a few days than fly to beaches if its not to costly from what my research tells me its around 100 dollars R/T on Aero Vega, if anyone has any experience with this ,please respond. Also I am looking for a hotel in Oaxaca not a chain something with the charm of Mexico centrally located & a way to get in touch if possible so I can set a base to meet my traveling companions Thank you & happy travels! Patti

urgent. my brother just move to my house in the light house area . he lives next to Paulina and Pedro i thing their house is called casa el faro. My brother ,s name is Pedro Becerra .our mother is really sick and she is at the hospital in mexico citty. he needs to call his relatives in mexico city. 690-0853 or 642-2627 tio juan . please any one that knows Paulina or her husband Pedro .please deliver this massege.Thank .s Manuel becerrra

We have stayed in both Huatulco and Puerto. In Huatulco I recommend the Mision De Los Arcos in Crucecita: tel: (958) 702-65. E-Mail: losarcos@huatulco.net.mx Approximately $50 US a night for two. Very nice owners, speak English. We have stayed there for five years. Also, nice is Hotel Villablanca: tel: (958) 706-06. This hotel a bit more pricy but has a pool. We only stay one night in Huatulco as we love Puerto so much. It is just our stopping off point when flying in and out. This is the first year in seven years we will not be going to Puerto. Having withdrawal symptoms!! In Puerto, we have stayed at the Arco Iris and Olas Altas, recommend both, they have pools. It is not necessary to have reservations with any of these. We almost always go without and have no problem getting a room. Clothes are very casual. Us ladies do like to dress in long sundresses in the evening for dinner as it is more comfortable than shorts. Enjoy.

Comfy shorts and t-shirts for daytime or over the bathing suit, nicer shorts, skirts, tank tops and t-shirts for evening. Forget any clothing that are not lightweight or breathable. Sandles, thongs and walking shoes. At least two beach towels, 4 is better. I also suggest buying one of the multi-purpose sarongs while you're there.. they come in handy as a cover up, sunbathing mat, tablecloth, etc.

We stayed at the Castillo de Reyes up the street from the Adoquin. Simple but lovely. You must check out Playa Manzanilla. Its between Playa Principal and Carizalillo. For some reason not very many people go there, which makes it even more enjoyable and relaxing.

I envy you!

Just in case you get adventurous and decide to visit inland - say, Río Tonameca or Santiago Jamiltepec or someplace like that - take along a skirt so as not to offend the conservative sensibilities among some of the indigenous inland folk. Beach locals are used to tourists. Inland folks less so. Or you could blow it off and buy something while you're down there... Sunday by the river in Tonameca can be so much fun - enlightening as well...

We really enjoyed the Hotel Casomali in Oaxaca. It is between the ADO busterminal (where you will be arriving) and "downtown", within walking distance of both. Rates are good, owners friendly, hotel is clean. There is a brief write up about them in Fodor's (they have their own website too) http://www.fodors.com/rants/rrread.cfm?destination=oaxaca@187&class=Hotels@20003&entity_id=41044&property=HOTEL%20CAZOMALLI@43179&sort=name&pg=1

Oops, spelled it wrong. It's: Cazomalli. website is http://www.mexonline.com/cazomalli.htm

hi, i am wanting to move to pe in the next few months. i am not going to have a job or a place to live when i get there...will it be difficult to find employment? could i work illegally like at a bar/restaurant or some kind of tourism business? how hard is it to find a place to live? is rent expensive? any advice would be great!! thanks

If you are looking for a real lousy salary - well, you may find something. T.

is that a fuel ,water or oil pump you need

sorry. water pump it was. got that taken care of. you have some sort of line on jeep parts?

THANKS! derek

Ana, I've managed to go broke three times trying to run businesses on the Pacific coast of Mexico, so I may be the last one you want advice from. But it takes a special mentality to successfully live in the peso economy after getting used to the norteño one. The hardest part is the way business DIES right after Eadter. You've got to learn to live a year on what you make from Christmas to Easter. There is a smaller peak during July and August, but it's largely domestic and there's not near as much money flying around. Best is always if you can get some sort of "dollar pipeline" coming to you from the states. I mean, you can live fairly comfortably for $500usd or so a month. But local wages tend to be more in the $5usd per day range for most workers. You do the math, as they say.

I stayed in pe nov -feb 91 to 97 you just gooooooooooo nowwwwwwwww I live near sf calif.John M Williams wrote:

> Ana, I've managed to go broke three times trying to run > businesses on the Pacific coast of Mexico, so I may be the last > one you want advice from. But it takes a special mentality to > successfully live in the peso economy after getting used to the > norteño one. The hardest part is the way business DIES right > after Eadter. You've got to learn to live a year on what you > make from Christmas to Easter. There is a smaller peak during > July and August, but it's largely domestic and there's not near > as much money flying around. Best is always if you can get some > sort of "dollar pipeline" coming to you from the states. I > mean, you can live fairly comfortably for $500usd or so a > month. But local wages tend to be more in the $5usd per day > range for most workers. You do the math, as they say.

Has anyone driven from Mexico City to PE. Is it safe to do with a family, what's the best route, what kind of road conditions can we expect. How long will it take. Is there any camping available along the way.

We have some rentals starting at about $300 U.S. per month. They can be seen on our web page at www.ZicatelaProperties.com. $500 U.S. per month can get you something quite nice in July and August. Give us a call when you get to town at 582-2495 or email us at zicatela_properties@yahoo.com.

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Bruce - the safest way is probably the tollway from MEX to Acapulco and than on to P.E. on the coastal highway. That last part should be done in daylight. There are campgrounds around ACA. If you do it in two day, it is a piece of cake. Dont even think about wild camping in Mexico. Always go to a safe place, especially with family aboard. T.

Just to reinforce what John said, Puerto has a very short tourist season which means no tourist related jobs for most of the year. High season is really only Xmas and Easter. Mexican tourists tend to be tour busses, families on a budget who dont patronize bars or restaurants or hotels. I lived in Puerto for 4 years, loved it but finally we had to leave for economic reasons, my partner is a musician, tourism is down every year and the few professional musicians left in Puerto are starving to death.

Dont want to be negative, but youre not moving to a big charter flight resort destination like Los Cabos or Cancun, so dont expect it will be easy to earn a living. I know some extranaras who work at Blum teaching English, the pay is good for Puerto, 75 pesos for an hour. The public schools pay 30 pesos an hour. For waitressing you can try the new Cafecito in the Rinconada, they want English speakers, also the Split Coconut on Marinero, US clientele. Re rents, expect to pay 800 a month for a basic cabana. You can find a rustic house for 1000-1500 but it takes a lot of looking. I would stay at the new hostel on Rinconada while you look around, Shalom, really nice, clean, economical, friendly. Good luck.

We're considering a year in Mexico. What are the school options for a Fifth Grader in PE? Thank you in advance.

Please send us your Puerto trip or surfing photos so we can add them to our photo page. We want to let everyone know the fun you had when you were here.

<http://www.puertoconnection.com> [%sig%]

Looking for info on bus service to PE from MC. Can we get to PE directly from MC. It seems from previous posts that there are different levels of service available. What's the difference. Is it suitable from children ages 9 -14. Can it be done with a overnight stop over in Acapulco.

Thanx, B [%sig%]

Looking for info on bus service to PE from MC. Can we get to PE directly from MC. It seems from previous posts that there are different levels of service available. What's the difference. Is it suitable from children ages 9 -14. Can it be done with a overnight stop over in Acapulco.

Thanx, B

We will be driving down to PE from Nolgales and were curious what some of the gas prices are along the coast highway? Thanks T&J

Yes you can get to PE directly from MC. The bus leaves from the south bus station in MC. I don't remember the name. I just tell the taxi driver to take me to the bus station that has busses that go to Acapulco. For some reason the name does not come to me right now. There is a First Class bus that leaves at around 7:00pm I think and takes 12 hours or so. I am not aware of a morning bus. The First class bus is very comfy. Lots of leg room. Even videos. I think it is perfectly suitable for your kids.

You can also take the same kind of bus to Acapulco and those leave pretty much every hour. You can then catch another First Class to PE but they leave from a different station than the one that arrives from MC. The name of the station that the bus leaves from is named Ejido, I think. Again you can just tell the taxi driver to take you the station that has busses going to PE. PB

About $2.50 a gallon. All the way. If you are just trying to get to PE as fast as you can there is a better way to go. If you are going to take your time and explore, the coast route is great fun. PB

Just for the record- the name of the southern busstation is Tasqueña. T.

Primera Clase has a rest room, usually functioning air conditioning, video tapes on several monitors, and limited stops. Bus quality varies but is usually pretty darned good - certainly better than Greyhound in the states, in my opinion. Second class usually does NOT have functioning air conditioning and if there is a head, it's usually locked. But the busses stop VERY frequently, so you can always leap off for a moment to pee. After second class comes everything from retired school busses to a wooden bench in the back of a Nissan pickup and often involes the transportation of multiple species. But nearly EVERYone in Mexico travels by public transportation. You and the kiddos will be welcomed and as safe as can be while careening through the mountains with a macho madman at the wheel! Just kidding, MOST of the bus drivers are very skillfull. And drive fast.

[%sig%] Post Edited (03-18-03 12:22)

I'm thinking of taking a trip to mexico after I take the bar exam in July, but I don't have much money and am wondering how cheaply I sleep in PE? My guidebook talks about renting hammocks and cabañas for about 50 pesos a night. are these accommodations safe? will I get eaten alive by mosquitoes? what do people do with their luggage while they sleep outdoors? thanks for all your help.

For not much more than that we have rooms in the Zicatela Beach area with kitchenette. They are $80 to $100 pesos per night, safe, and close to the beach. Give us a call at 582-2495 when you get to town if you would like to see them or take a look at our web site at www.ZicatelaProperties.com. - "Casa Lion Cuartos" - in the rental section.

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Some cabanas have lockers, some have trustworthy owners or operators who will watch your stuff, and some are securely fenced. But in general you get as much safety as you pay for.... re: mosquitos, I'm usually in Puerto in March (alas!, not this year) and mosquitoes can be a problem then. Supposedly they're gone in April. If you encounter them, you should be able to buy a net to hang over your bed.

I'm planning on a trip to PE later this year, and am wondering about the availability of good cigars in PE? And if cubans are sold there?

Lots of Cuban Cigars. You can buy 'em buy the box, or even individually on the tourist strip from a couple of smoke shops. And you can smoke 'em in the restaurants!

Cabbie, Great!! Are other types available, like Dominican, etc.? And how are the prices? Thanks, Chris

IF ANYONE CAN GIVE STEPAN LARS A MESSAGE, PLEASE HAVE HIM CALL TICO IN MIAMI, AT 305 754 0186. OR 786 797 6917! TO ANY WHO RESPOND TO THIS AND WHO KNOW HIM I THANK YOU. BELTRAN L. QUINN (TICO)

All of the cubans in Puerto and most of Mexico that I have seen are fakes!!!!!! Go to Cigar Aficianado's website and check'em out.

Everyone's an expert. I've seen the hair from the thigh of the virgin. There are some really fine Mexican cigars that are cheap, and certainly not "fake." Buy Domenicans back home. And have a great time!

Chris: Read the thread entitled 'Dublin' in Huatulco Visitors Commments section regarding fake cuban cigars in Mexico.

Mexico and Cuba always had good trade relations. There is great cuban rum in Mexico. I dont see why there shouldnt be real cuban smokeware as well. However, P.E. may not be the place to find them, but the big cities and major tourist spots can provide almost everything. T.

Here is another link to more infor about fakes.

http://www.cigaraficionado.com/Cigar/CA_Features/CA_Feature_Basic_Template/0,2344,879,00.html I know I would rather smoke a nice Mexican cigar rather than spend money on a fake cuban. To each his own.

Has anyone made the long drive from California down to Puerto Escondido? I am considering going in late May and spending at least a month away from home... How long did it take? How dangerous could it potentially be...any banditos or corrupt federalis? Is roadside camping a bad idea? I have a 1994 Jeep Cherokee that I could sleep inside with locked doors if I have to...I plan on driving at night fairly often so my car will be less likely to overheat. On the lighter side what should I stop to see on the way? Are there surf spots all along the Pacific coastal road that I could surf most days? How friendly are the people and the experience? I am 24 years old and my spanish is fair but getting better quickly. I am interested in hearing stories and opinions about this type of trip......

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I am also planning to make the drive to PE this May from Oklahoma and would appreciate any advice. The US embassy in Mexico City has warned me about the drive from Acupulco to PE. Is it really that dangerous if I drive during the day? I'm driving a '96 mitsubishi with an American license plate, how safe will my car be if it is parked in a hotel lot in PE? Should I worry about vandalizism? Is there anything specifically that I should look out for or bring with me? My girlfriend and I are planning to drive the trip together, and we are both able to speak some spanish if necessary. I would also benefit from any body who had some advice about the drive the PE.

Good Day folks,

I have been traveling the pacific of mexico since 1981 and have never had a problem and i feel the key to this is

When in Rome do as the Romans do,

Go there poor and happy and be ready to live life the way they do, naturally, enjoy the people and their land , I feel the best way to have a safe time is to give out gifts to the locals as you go, they will remember you when you return and they will take care of you while you are there. and use the bus, thats the way they travel. brownsville boy

Driving in Mexico is not dangerous in general. If course sometimes things happen but there is always the odd chance anywhere. It can happen in Mexico or elsewhere. Just follow your instincts. Night driving however is more dangerous than travelling during daytime. Not only for the banditos. But there are unlit vehicles on the road, animals and people. And, yes, there may be the odd bandito as well who ambushes cars and busses. Roadside camping in a not protected and asigned area is strongly NOT recommended. All this is also vaild for the ACA - P.E. Road.

Hey, I always read these comment about dangerous Mexico. If you are that afraid of going abroad, you should consider staying home. A trip to Mexico is not like invading Iraq. T

Hola Okie, I too am from Oklahoma, Altus originally. I live in Corpus now. I drive down to Puerto Escondido in Jan and really enjoy the drive. You should not drive at night as a general rule, although I have done this often when I know the road and conditions. The quickest route is to go down the Gulf Coast and then cut over to Oxacca and then onto P.E. I have driven from Acapulco to P.E. and stupidly done it at night. No problems, but it can be dicey. Acapulco is just another large metro area and you don't want to go through Mexico City to get there. You will be paying the police bribes there plus you cannont drive your car into Mexico City on certain days that correspond with the last number on your license plate. Trust me it seems I have made almost every mistakes possible in Mexico while driving and hopefully i am getting smarter. Last year it cost me $155.00 in gas, $45.00 in toll roads and about $75.00 for 3 room nights to get down to P.E. I stayed the first night at the border in Matamoras, the next night in Tuxpan and the final night in Oaxacc City and then into P.E. I don't know if you are familiar but the gas in Mexico runs about $2.50 a gallon and could be more now with the war going on. If you want to sleep in your car or van the safest place is to stop at the Pemex gas stations where they have security and restrooms and usually something to eat and drink and don't mind you staying there. I manage a condominium project in Corpus Christi, Texas, on Padre Island and if you want to stop by here on your the way down I'd be glad help you out with info on roads and hotels and etc. I'll also get you a discount here at the condo if you need a night to stay before you head into Mexico. We are 2 1/2 hours from the border. Your gonna love P.E. But there is a lot to see on the way there too. Talk at you later, Russ in Corpus.

Jace,

Just returned from a 10,000 mile, 3 month round trip from the Chicago area to PE via the east coast in a '71 VW Campmobile. Did not go through Oaxaca but through the Isthmus of Tehuantepec. Avoided a whole lot of mountains & twisty-turnys. If your're interested in some info, drop me a line. This is the 4th time driving in the 15 years I've been to going to Puerto. Miguel Sucio

The gulf route is a good route but I don't think it is the quickest. I have not done that route in a few years so I don't know if it has changed much. The last time I did it was from the south to the north. I took the Isthmus as opposed to over the mountains through Oaxaca. The way I go now is (North to south) cross at Del Rio, Texas and head south thru Saltillo and spend the night in Matehuala. Hotel Las Palmas. A bit pricey for Mex. but they have a pool and it is nice. There other hotels as well. Next day is to Taxco. Hotel Loma Linda. We don't go thru Mex. City but go thru Toluca. It is a bit tricky but it sure is a whole lot better than Mex. City. When going thru Toluca follow the signs to Ixtapan del Sol. The Next day it is off to Puerto via Acapulco. We take the toll roads whenever possible and it is possible most of the way. On this route most of the way is 70 mph except in a few places. Aca. to Puerto for example is slow. About 7 hours. If you do not want to go thru any part of Acapulco, when you get to the end of the toll road to Acapulco take the toll road to Puerto Marquez. It goes toward the airport and you can get on hwy 200 from there and save about an hour of hassle figuring out how to get out of Aca. (There is a great taco stand right after you get on to hwy 200. Under the trees on the right hand side.) Also the hardest day is the last day. Each day is about 450 miles and we try to cross the border no later than 6:00 am. Our days start at 6:00-7:00 am end around 3:00pm, sometimes earlier (not much) and sometimes later. Last year we drove from San Miguel de Allende to Puerto in one day. It was hellish and we drove the part from Aca. to Puerto at night. I would not suggest this to anybody and I would not do it myself but I was not thinking straight. Plus it was sure nice to wake up in Puerto the next day and not have to drive another day. This way is recommended if your want to get to Puerto as fast as possible no matter where you are driving from in the U.S.A. It could be done in two days but that would include some driving at night and again I would not recommend that. Also, from Aca. to Puerto is tope hell. 189 of those things. Many of them camouflaged. PB

The fastest and easiest way is to cross at either McAllen or Brownsville, picking up the Sanborn's guides on the way through, and looseley following them. You go down the Gulf Coast, across the Isthmus, and to Puerto. You're only in mountains for a little while near Huatulco, and the roads are all good. If you want, you can go 70 mph or faster. You avoid all of the cities and most of the toll roads. Most of the annual returnees here use that route.

I have two questions that I hope someone can answer. How far is it to some whitewater to do some kayaking and does anyone in town go regularly? I am not looking for a guided trip but rather someone who knows the rivers. Thanks in advance

While I have never driven in Mexico I have spent the last two months about 2 hours west of Puerto. My advice is to be really careful in driving at night, or if you decide to go to Oaxaca City to use the bus or take the Isthmus route. On my way from Oaxaca City to Puerto I noticed washouts, etc. on the mountainous road that runs from OC to Pochutla (then to Puerto). I guess it is a matter of confidence. Personally, I trust the bus driver who drives the route every day versus my driving skills or lack thereof.

As far as banditos are concerned, I have heard of robberies off of Highway 200 but never on (around the Rio Verde on a popular night hangout for young kids at the dam). I think if you are worried about your car overheating you may want to take the bus from San Diego, etc. (then you will overheat...if you take the non first class buses).

All in all you will have a rad trip. Once in Puerto you will have a great time with great people.

Wendy, Good luck on the bar, tough stuff having just passed my own phd qualifiers..

As far as cabanas, they seem reasonable here in Puerto. I have heard of some incidents involving people stealing but it was another tourist. For that matter I guess anywhere with locks and the level of privacy you are used to would do the trick just fine. You can always stay at a hotel (like the mayflower or san juan--both under 15 dollars a night with showers, bathroom, etc.).

There are a couple of outfitters in Huatulco who do it all year long. It may be worth the side trip. The whitewater tends to be better during the rainy season, of course.

We were just wondering how you enjoyed your time in Puerto Escondido. What did you think of the area? Would you go back? Could you give us a brief synopsis your time there as we are thinking of going. Thanks.

Garth

Will ATM cards from US banks work in the ATM machines in Mexico (PE)? I don't use a credit card, just the ATM/Check/Visa 'debit' card that has Plus,Interlink,Co-Op, and Star connection. Chris

If mine from Canada worked I don't see why yours from the US shouldn't.

Yes it works.

There is a $ 2 US charge to use it and another $ 2 US charge if you check your balance. gg

I have used my ATM card from my US credit union down in PE for the last three years. I have never paid a fee for these transactions and have never had any trouble using my card. I have used the ATM at the Ahorrara and on the Adoquin and at the Bank. You get better exchange rates through the ATM too and don't have to worry about exchanging currency.

Try looking on ebay (http://www.ebay.com) I did a search and you can get 256mb of compact flash for $45. Good luck! [%sig%]

Thanks for the tip.

I have recently purchased a couple of 256mb's from Buy.Com on the Internet. With rebates they came to about $47 per. 128mb used to be the top 'break' price because of demand, but apparently that's moved up to 256mb. Just have to slowly collect enough for the trip.

If you have any more tips, we're still in the market. Bought my wife a Canon S200 ELPH. Great camera. So we figure we'll need at least 2gig's worth of memory.

If I hear of any better deals, I'll post them on a new message.

Thanks again, W

Can anyone help me; I want to take a bus from Zihuatanejo to Puerto Escondido - Would like to know - What bus or buses; do you have to transfer in Acapulco; length of time and the cost ? TX.

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I drove from Vancouver Canada to Puerto 4 years ago, the deal was it had to be a surfing trip for my driving companion, a friend of my sons. We also did all of Baja Calif. It was fantastic. He surfed early in the mornings and we drove only in the day because both of have had experience with night driving in Mex...you just dont see the topes, black cows on the road, lots of vehicles approaching with no lights on etc. We camped with a van and a tent but in campgrounds. If you want info on surf spots Ill get you Brendans address, I forget where all we stopped. It took less than 3 weeks and that included several 2 day stops and the ferry from La Paz. Ive also driven to Puerto via the east coast, nice drive with no problems, 3 ddays from Brownsville without pushing it, daytime only.

Yeh, you'll have to change busses in Acapulco. From there to Puerto, you'll probably be on Estrella Blanca. The run from Zihuatenejo gives more bus selection; maybe Primera Plus?

We have taken the bus from Zihuat to Puerto the last two years. Two years ago we arrived in Zihuat spent a day then went to Acapulco (4hrs), spent a night, then to Puerto the next day (91/2hrs). We travelled during the day; even though we were on a first class bus with air conditioning it was quite hot in the afternoon during the Acapulco to Puerto part of the trip. The trip wasn't that bad, but it was quite drawn out and we didn't want to do it that way this year. This year we arrived on Alaska Airlines around 4:00pm, made it to Estrella Blanca Terminal by 4:30pm (quickest we have ever made it through customs). Easily found out the next first class bus left between 7-7:30pm (can't remember the exact time), bought our tickets, stored our luggage, went to Playa Principal had a drink, snack and was back at the bus depot in plenty of time to catch the bus. We travelled the entire way on the same bus; in fact I never even go off, my husband got off in Acapulco just to make sure our luggage stayed on the bus. We arrived in Puerto around 8:00am, tired but excited to be there. Even though it made our first day very, very long it was much better then the year before. Make sure you take the bus from Zihuat to Puerto(direct), not from Zihuat to Acapulco, then Acapulco to Puerto. On the way home we left Puerto just after 8:00pm on a fantastic new first class bus, arrived in Zihuat around 9-9:30am. We spent the night in Zihuat and then flew back to Vancouver. This year everything went like clock work, but we realize this is Mexico and anything can happen. Last year on our way home we had planned to take a first class but from Puerto to Acapulco, but it never came so we travelled on a 2nd class bus. We look at it as an adventure and so far nothing bad has happened. If you need any more info just let us know.

I posted this on a different board and thought people here might be interested. DEET works great but but with all the warnings about who and how much you never know what your unborn kids or grandkids will look like. I have tried Skin So-Soft and thought it sucked - smelled bad, did not last long (about 4 minutes) and to this day (10 years later) every time I smell it I want to puke. I have tried 3-4 other different products that are suppose to be healthy. Most did not work well. One works (for me) very well. "Buzz Away" works and I think it smells OK but some people may think it is a little strong (perfume smelling). I buy it at a local health food store so it may be hard to find. But you are in luck as they have a website - quantumhealth.com. They charge a shipping and handling fee but I emailed them a couple years ago and they told me that they would wave the charge if you bought a certain amount or stood on your head and patted your stomach or something. By the way I do not work for them or anything. I just think this is a good product. PB [%sig%] Post Edited (04-07-03 14:25)

A MUCH better route, Robert! As usual, someone out there is better informed than I and I am so happy you responded. Thanx.

Thank you everyone for their input.

I stayed at the Hotel Flor de Maria two summers ago. It was a great experience, inexpensive, charming, excellent dining, and wonderful proprietors. The rooftop hammocks and pool were delightful too! I had initiatlly booked the "Best Western" in Puerto Escondido, but we had to flee during the night due to propane fumes leaking into the rooms. Susie

I stayed at the Hotel Flor de Maria two summers ago. It was a great experience, inexpensive, charming, excellent dining, and wonderful proprietors. The rooftop hammocks and pool were delightful too! I had initiatlly booked the "Best Western" in Puerto Escondido, but we had to flee during the night due to propane fumes leaking into the rooms. Susie

Hi All I am a travel agent in Toronto and those really cheap deals are few and far between. With regards to finding Martours you will have to go through a travel agent. Best time to find great deals are from when the charters start flying until the week before Christmas and then the last few charters at the end of March. We can't wait to go down this summer!

Friends had their 12 year old ddaughter in a private school called Blums. They did this because they offered computer and English instruction. The daughter just loved the school.I dont know much about the govt schools, but my daughter in law and her brother went to a local elementary school in Cuatla for 3 years while the family was living in Mexico, learned fluent Spanish and it didnt seem to hold them back academically...at that age content is not that much of an issue, their parents wanted them to fit in with the community, make friends in their neighbourhood and learn Spanish. I think this will be a great experience for your son/daughter.Im not living in Puerto at the oment so cant do any research for you re the schools, maybe Gina at the Tourist Office could help with more info.

Miguel, Regarding your VW Campmobile trip to Mexico....do you have problems with over heating on you journeys to Mexico?? I have a 70' bus as well and also a deisel Yoyota Landcruiser and am wondering which vehicle to drive down from Canada:) Thx for any help.

how easy is it to find ATMs in PE? can I pay for stuff with my ATM card (has a visa logo)? or should i get cash in DF?

thanks for the info! nice site Rick, maybe i'll swing by

ATMs are easy to find but I would not expect to pay for things with your card. Just extract cash from the machine. As you probably know you can only extract a certain amount a day $300US? PB

To me it is the best and easiest way to get cash in Puerto and the limit is about $300.00 a day US, depending on the exchange rate. You can get pesos at the airport in Mexico City and the exchange rate is very good. My atm card does not charge a fee either. It really is a bonus because you don't have to carry a lot cash and traveler's checks cost more money to cash.

I would really appreciate it if anyone could help me out. I am trying to plan a cheap (college) graduation trip for myself and about 5 others. They all want to go somewhere like Puerto Vallarta or Acapulco. This looks much better to me!! I am wondering about night life and if the beach is still good for swimming if you are not an expert surfer? Are there a lot of young people (college age) there or is it more retirement age? Where would be a good place to rent for about a week? Thanks for your help.

You should probably stay home and watch the travelchannel.You have obviously forgotten you are a GUEST in their country.By the way, have you even bothered to learn basic spanish?

PE is definitely cheaper than PV or Acapulco. However, it is smaller and more laid back, not as much "party" going on as other towns. There are lots of young people, mostly in the Zicatela area where the surfing is, and they gather at the Zicatela and Adoquin coffee shops and bars in the evenings. The thing I like best about PE is the wonderful choice of beaches. Zicatela for surfing, Marinero for swimming and people watching, Playa Manzanillo and Angelito for relaxed swimming, and Carizallilo to get away from it all.

Sharing the cost of a bungalow will make your trip even more affordable. I dont have any suggestions tho as I am only familiar with some of the hotels. You could also consider Zihuatenejo, which is probably my favorite of the Pacific Coast destinations. It is more expensive than PE and less expensive than PV. A good message board (once you get past the BS) is: http://www.zihuatanejo.net/wwwboard/ Enjoy! [%sig%]

thanks for the tips!

Is tap water really unsafe in Mexico? can I filter it myself with something like Brita portable bottles? or should i stick to bottled from the store? Thanks

Here's my proposed itinerary: 4 days - DF, with a day trip to Teotihuacan and maybe Tula too. overnight bus to Oaxaca City. 2-3 days - Oaxaca City, day trip to Monte Alban and maybe Mitla or Yagul overnight but to Puerto Escondido 2-3 days in Puerto Escondido. bus to Zihuatanejo 2-3 days in Zihuatanejo bus to Acapulco 2-3 days in Acapulco bus to DF, maybe a couple of more days there plane home So that's about three weeks, i may cut down to add to it as my plans for August firm up.

I'm trying to get back to DF for a return flight home without doubling back through Oaxaca - is there a better option besides Acapulco? Thanks! [%sig%]

I don't know about the Brita filter you are talking about, but whatever it is it will become ineffective with time and have to be replaced, recharged, whatever. Don't drink any tap water, buy bottled water. It's cheap, and the best/safest thing you can do.

Bottled water is to problem to use. They sell small bottles almost anywhere and you can get big 5 gallon bottles for your bungalow. 5 gallon (20 litter) bottles cost about 10 pesos. They deliver. Don't sweat it. PB

Agree, not safe. Brita and the like do not filter out bacteria and viruses unless you fit them with microbioligical filters by Pur, available wherever you buy the replacement filters. Bottled water would actually be a lot cheaper, unless you're there for an extended stay.

Compared to Aca and PV, PE has none of their glitz and glamor. But I far prefer it over them. It's a much more "real" place that attracts a polyglot of international vagabonds. You'll meet lots of young people, but it's highly unlikely they'd include any of the drunken whitebread frat rats or mall seekers that tend to populate resort-type places. Rather they might be Brazilian, French, or Portuguese wanderers who speak 2 or 3 languages and can party in many more. And of course a fair number of familiar anglos, especially surfers from the U.S. and Oz. Your money will go a lot farther in PE, and the beaches and the surf are world-class. Zicatela or downtown (they're close) are definitely the areas for you. Let us know if you need any recommendations on places to stay etc. And if you go, by all means please post your impressions here.

Let me be the first to say that the southern pacific coast of mexico is the garden of eden The first thing I noticed was the size of all the plants ,everything was huge , The second thing I noticed was how everything was so tranquil <no problems>. Stayed at bungolos Mainaros, owend by a dentist and his familly, it was super cool. I remember praying every night for the cool air to drop down out of the mountains, between 2 and 4 in the morning, my next favorite thing was this beautiful rainbow that formed over my head in the off shore spray everytime I broke through a wave , Surf there is intense , you havent lived till you get lip launched into the sandbar off of a 6 ft wave. Eat alot of watchanango eggs and papas , but the best part of PE are the people . I will never forget a young lady named Innocencia, I mean beautiful Huge round eyes and lips and a smile to die for.I would marry her today ,how i wish i could have brought her back, and yes I do remember Fidencio, Abusadora are you still there.

I love P.E.

Senor Salsa [%sig%]

thanks for the info. i drink about 3 liters a day at home, and i think with surf, sea and sun i'd need more!

Instead of doing Acapulco, go back to Mexico City from Zihua via Morelia. You will go a bit north to Lazaro Cardenas and then inland to Morelia. Then a side trip to Patzcuaro, one of Mexico's loveliest towns. This is high, cool mountain country - very pleasant! Also, I wouldn't bother going all the way to Tula. After Teotihuacan, it's pretty minor.

In Mexico City, get down to the southern suburb of Coyoacan, especially if you are a fan of Frida Kalho (visit her house). Jimbo

thanks for the suggestions - i'm going to spend some time with a map and figure out how much time (and money!) i have.

Hi Wendy, I'm envious of your trip. We were on the Oaxaca coast in January and are ready to go back. A couple of suggestions...If you're planning to visit Monte Alban, I would really suggest you hire a guide. We were lucky to hire a great guide named Raul. We hired him right at the gate and he gave us a wonderful tour. He was very knowledgable and his English was perfect. He offered us an hour tour but when he found out we were interested in spending more time, he doubled the time of the tour but kept the price the same. He took us to some smaller parts of the site, which were very interesting.

On another day trip, we took the second class bus out to Mitla. The bus ride is worth the trip in and of itself. We really enjoyed Mitla, not because the site is more grand, but because it is different and not as developed. It is amazing the way the city has grown up around the ruins and the way people casually use the old walls. The site has been a working city for eons and we really liked that aspect of it. They had a quaint market at the entrance to the main site. The bus drops you at the edge of town. It's about a 20 min. walk up to the site but taxis are there if you prefer. On the way back to Oaxaca we got off the bus again at Teotitlan to see the weavings. We got an impromptu tour of the process of dying, spinning, weaving at the home where we bought a wall hanging. A real highlight.

One more thing...while in Puerto Escondido, be sure to stop by and see Gina at the tourist information booth. She is a wealth of information about the area. We took her morning walking tour and loved it. She took us to a small cafe for a traditional breakfast and to the homes of women who grind corn and spices for the locals and to another place where they make tamales in the traditional way. Then we went up to the market and she bought wonderful exotic fruits, candies, etc. so we could taste some of the local goodies. She takes the money with which you pay for the tour and spends some of it in the markets. That way she spreads the money around in the local area and the vendors look forward to her visits with the gringos. Really a neat experience.

Have a great trip. You'll love it!

Hi, Just doing some ground work. I am curious if I should bring done a couple of my own boards, or are boards priced reasonably ( 200-400)new, seems like it`s easy to go through a few over a month or so in the summer.

The second thing, hows the fish (sharks) , are there many, is it the kind of place you go out with a friend to make it fifty fifty or is is easy on the nerves. Many sightings or attacks, just curious have had some runins in the past else where so just wanted to know what to expect, thanks adios.

In six years visiting there I never heard of any sharks, nor anywhere on this board. But then I'm not a surfer.Josh wrote:

Hi All: Have greatly enjoyed reading about this wonderful location and am looking forward to spending 7-10 days. However, my friend can only spend 4-5 and we'd like to know how best to structure our time.

We'd like to see Monte Alban, Mitla then if she has any time left, join me to either Huatulco or Puerto Angel. Can we fly directly to Oaxaca City from Los Angeles and San Francisco and then return from either of the recommended coastal destinations? I look forward to your suggestions.

Regards, Pedro

Mostly in the nightclubs. Lock up your daughters!

ha ha ! ya joker, peace out.

I hoping that some old PE/ Oaxaca residents might read this and possibly help out here. I spent spring '79 in Oaxaca and PE. Easter I spent in PE and watched the people flock in from the countryside for Easter. I had a room at Roca Mar, third floor so I had a great view of the crowd on the "then" sandy main beach drive. Super crowded but the best Easter that I can recall. I wonder how the view was this Easter from that same balcony? The Pope had visited Oaxaca that year and that spring a miracle occured in Oaxaca and I saw it myself. I'd driven to Oaxaca via Hwy 131 and the zocolo in Oaxaca was all buzzing about the miracle. Seems a geyser, of saltwater, had sprung up near Mitla, where the Pope had been earlier. Everyone was talking about it, saying it was a miracle and a sign from God. Deciding that this was a must see, I drove my VW down that way next morning. Sure enough, between El Tule and Mitla, a geyser of water was spouting away as I drove up. I've seen Old Faithful several times, and the Oaxaca geyser was every bit as impressive. A spout of water about 2 feet in diameter was spouting up at least 100 feet into the sky. It had been going like that for about 3-5 days, non stop. People, especially elderly Mexican women were collecting the water in buckets, bottles, clay pots etc. Many people were bathing in the small stream that had formed . The whole thing wasn't 100 feet from the highway. Buses and taxis were bringing people from all over to see, touch and enjoy the miracle. The water was cold and salty. It was clear and fresh as any water I ever saw, except salty. I went there 3 or 4 times before I returned home to the states. I heard that a well, being drilled had hit that saltwater, but I don't know if that's true. A small village of huts and roadside stands grew up over night to sell food/drink/trinkits to the people flocking in to see the miracle. I heard that later on, it turned to mineral water and it was now being bottled. I'd sure like to find out what really happened there and how it turned out. I can't recall if the miracle was before or after Easter, but it was in spring 79. I still have a faded Polaroid of Katy, who I met in PE, standing in front of that huge geyser of water. Does anyone know about this incident? Surely it was written up in the Oaxaca newspapers. I tried a computer search, but my computer is old and slow and so am I. So that's my tale of the old days. I hope someone can help me find out what happened to the miracle. And how was Easter in PE this year?

I just found an open jaws ticket - into DF and out of Zihuatanejo for less than a RT ticket to DF! so looks like my vacation will end on the beach. ahh, the beach! after the bar exam and snowy winter, i think i will really need it!

Can anyone recommend a bilingual attorney either in Puerto Escondido or Huatulco. I need a reasonably simple lease agreement in Espanol. It would be necessary to do our business via e-mail as I'm now in the States.

I have been trying to get in contact with Villas Carrizalillo and Hotel El Tabachin, Via EMail, for a week long stay at the end of July. Since I was never contacted I was wondering how the accomidations are. I also wanted to know if their are any other hotels next to Playa Carrizalillo because I heard the snorkeling was excellent. Thank You

Puerto Connection can make your reservations at either of these properties. Please contact us with details and we will take care of everything.

<http://www.puertoconnection.com> [%sig%]

Snorkelling in Pto isn't really "excellent" anywhere....mostly rocks not much coral. It is probably better at C. than other beaches but not a main draw.

Josh, Long ago, in the seventies, my (now) husband and I went to P.E. 7 or 8 times for some longish visits. We stayed in various bungalows and grass shacks on the beach and were in and around the water constantly. We heard about a couple of shark attacks, which may or may not have occurred, but nothing ever while we were there. However, one time we walked to the end of zicatela and out onto the rocks to this shallow cavey kind of space to watch the surfers. We saw, very clearly,. a goodsize shark in the same wave with a surfer. Of course we screamed and of course the surfer did not hear us. He surfed safely in and we told him then. I saw little sharks a couple times (like three feet) while snorkling in the bay with the steep path. All could have been perfectly harmless as I don't know types of sharks. None of this kept us (or anyone else) out of the water. Judy

Sue is right, there isn't any great snorkeling around Puerto Escondido.

I have had a look at Carrizalillo and at the near end of Bacocho in the past. The water clarity is generally okay at C. but there isn't much to see. In my experience, the best snorkeling in the immediate area is around the left side of Playa Manzanillo at Puerto Angelito. Depending on the wind, one can fly along the rocks out around the corner towards the lighthouse close to the rocks. Visibility can be pretty good on calmer days - maybe as good as 30-40 feet. There is a small patch of coral (mostly dead) right off the beach by the rocks. Although it is mostly dead there can be lots of bright little fish in there. There are a couple of small coves out along the rocks that are more sheltered where there can be several varieties of fish, and lots of them. In two stretchs this past March we saw some some spotted rays, a couple of small barracuda and eels. In the past I have also seen a small green turtle on the other side of the bay. Even thogh it isn't the best, snorkeling there is fine way to pass an afternoon.

I've stayed at Tabachin but not the other place you mentioned. Tabachin is homey and the upper units have spectacular views of Zicatela. The rooms in the main building (3 floors) are larger, like studio apartments, with kitchens, fans and AC, and verandas. (May be true of the other unit as well, haven't been in those). Breakfast (excellent!) in the courtyard is included. The owner is American and has many interesting stories. It's located right behind the Santa Fe, a two-minute walk to the beach. No good snorkeling around there, it's the open Pacific. Great surf, though!

I highly recommend Tabachin. My wife and I stayed there last year and found it delightful. The breakfasts are great in the courtyard, one lingers and converses with the other guests, while enjoying the locally grown coffee. Also, the mandrian orange juice from the owners trees in Nopal is delicious. The owner, Paul Cleaver, is one of the original developers of the Santa Fe and has been in Puerto Escondido for more than 20 years. Naturally, he has lots of great stories of there and elsewhere and, to our taste, a wonderful attitude and feeling for the area he so obviously loves. He also will arrange for visits and over night stays at his hacienda in Nopal. We took advantage of this for a couple nights and enjoyed it immensely.

My fiance and I traveled from Puerto Escondido last December and had no problems. We were in a rental with Mexican tags but both of us are fair skinned with no chance of being mistaken for natives! The drive is somewhat long but incrediably beautiful! We even had a flat tire at dusk and were on the side of the road changing it without any problems. It took us approximately 10 hours. We are returning to Puerto in May and even considered flying into Acap. just to make the drive again. -laura

Wendy, have you been to the Zihuatanejo message board: http://www.zihuatanejo.net/wwwboard/ It's very informative. Have fun!

Thank you Lily!

D-O-L-P-H-I-N

I can´t find any comments on my favorite hotel in Pto...Hotel BuenaVista It´s clean, comfy, amiable and has the best location and the best view in town! The entrance is next to Merlins´store. There are some stairs but it´s absolutely worth the climb. Prices are excellent and some rooms have kitchenettes and hot water. What more can I say!!! [%sig%]

As you wish, Kris. We weren't fortunate enough to see any dolphins, but we did see giant sea turtles and very large mantas as well as a whale. We hope to come down next winter with our children to relive old memories and make new ones. Signing off until trip-planning time...Judy

If sheila Clark has time she can translate , but she is not an attorney! If you need a translation to be legalise call your consulate in Oaxaca city Mark Leyes has the power to help you and gide you ! Gina Machorro Ginainpuerto @yahoo.com

Call Hotel Tabachin (954* 5821179.

Easter since is getting big the beaches full with nice people your Hotel Rocamar has alot of view and the \Family Salinas stile roon the pleace. So come down Gina

Buena Vista is a good Hotel I hope they make some cards or any promotion to have some inthe tourist kiosk. Gina

Pedro, You have to go to Mexico city from thr Oaxaca city and the best way to come down the coast is fling with AEROTUCAN fromOaxaca city Any travel agency will help you , and then come and stay in PE from here you can visit in one day Mazunte , Pangel, and Zipolite, and be shure to come see me at the info Kiosk, Ill be happy to help you to get accomodation! Gina

Lady's. I love to help you PE has more nicer beaches to swim and there are great pleaces for the 6 of you to saty private Condo, Hotels and great cabanas wwere you will be close to every thing, walking distance to the night life and we have life music Salsa..., you can snorkell or just reead a great book if you dont have a good B we have a great library! be shure to let me know dates and witch caind of pleaces you will like ! GINA

I can help you with some schools options there are great local primarys who can take your 5 year old kid but with a registration inAugust if you like a private school pues any time is good the $$ is minimum! Gina

If you like some simple rentals and real state info come to see me Iam mexican and live here for more than 10 years.when you get here, there is slow seasson, so don't comet is better to see the rentals from here and then you will see all the options also for real state , there are some much market. see you here ! . Gina. tIf you like when you can stay in a inexpencive Hotel, Hotel Ben zaa 954 5820523 they speak english. Gina info kiosk. and they are close to beaches and the restaurants area.

We have Kayaking only in the lagoon Manialtepec , Yes And you can get agood Kayak here in the laggon with Lalo at las Negras rest, before raining seasson you can go up river but andale!! Gina

I hope you new or www.oaxaca-mio.com gina

I haven't stayed at the Buena Vista but did check it out once, it looked really nice. It's a small place, up on the slope just back of and overlooking the Zicatela strip near Cabanas Olas Altas. Great views of the beach and excellently situated for cooling breezes. When I saw it the stairs going up to it were steep, narrow and without railings, particularly at one spot where the stairs bridged over quite a drop; I thought, sheesh, if you were coming back to the hotel drunk you'd better crawl up that thing! Helped keep out the riff raff, I'm sure. Probably they've got that fixed now.

Kimberly, did you decide on PE? If you go, Gina is a great resource for the visitor. Very friendly and very helpful, be sure to drop by her travel info booth on the adoquin. She genuinely wants people to enjoy themselves in PE and won't steer you wrong.

Hi Gina, Thanks for the reply. I'm glad to hear that the Salinas family still runs the hotel. I always enjoyed my stays at their hotel. I will vacation in Puerto this fall/winter. I look forward to meeting you, Gina.

Kim, I have been to Puerto many times in the last couple years. I have never found a shortage of good places to party. (I am 24) I have gone with my college friends and we have all loved it. The crowd is so much more laid back and you can have a good time without getting involved in the whole wet T-shirt, get drunk until you puck your guts out thing. (unless you are into that) Another good idea would be to stay in Puerto for a few days, and then head over to Huatulco for a few days. It is only a two hour bus ride and this is what my friends and I usually do. Huatulco doesn't have the most active nightlife either, but there are definetely fun places to go to.

For $500 US a month you can be mayor of Puerto Escondido.

[%sig%]

As i recall it was 114 steps from the street to my room at the top.

[%sig%]

I personnaly witnessed one of the wading fisherman pull out two 6 foot sharks last summer down at the end of Zicatela-but apparently that was an isolated incident, given the reaction of the the restaurant staff.

David [%sig%]

Hi Kimberly - I'm planning a similar trip to take after I take the bar exam in july. go to Barnes and Noble and look at a book called Mexico Beach Resorts for Dummies. The book says that PE is the best value in Mexico. (the book also says Acapulco is better in the dark!)

Not really Mr. David. 500US$ in todays Mexico is nothing.T.

But you could live in the lap of luxury for that price. Am I not right my friendly traveler? [%sig%]

David, I agree as far as P.E. is concerened and provided you can spend 500 a month on accomodation. In P.E. you do get luxury living for that amount. I live in the big city -D.F.- and 500$ dont get you far at all there. T.

Acapulco is better seen on the Wide World of Sports when they do the cliff diving thing. Actually being there is not all that enjoyable.

[%sig%]

How about a nice clean Hotel room with a kitchenette, beachbreak view, hot water, maid service and short walk to all amenities!!! Hotel BuenaVista

I agree there is no place anywhere that can compare with the accommodation and the people at theBueno Vista Hotel

Like Judy, I stayed in PE for several long visits in the 70s and early 80s. Fisherman brought in sharks almost everyday but I never saw any caught on the beach. I never heard of any surfers that were attacked by sharks but I do recall that a California surfer had his Achilles tendon bitten by a moray eel. Shark fin soup was popular in the restaurants, as was turtle soup, and eggs. While sharks can be in any ocean, I'd worry about those waves if it was me.

I have a one bedroom apartment for rent on Carrizalillo Bay., Completely furnished. great view. Secure.

Did anyone hear what happened to the shark fishermen who went missing on an overnight expedition last year? Were they ever found?

And Paul's a pretty good drummer, too.

Hasn't anyone every heard of how Bruno's restaurant got its name???? Bruno, the shark at the Point??B.S., get it??

I have a place in Puerto Escondido.,over looking Carrizalillo Bay. Its a furnished, all-bills-paid apartment in a private walled estate, caretaker on site. Gorgeous ocean view. Its close to stores and restaurants. Easy access to beach and town..$450.00 a Month . If interested, you can E-mail me at: Puertoliz@yahoo.com

No.

I still don't know where I'll be staying and was wondering if it is necessary to reserve a room. If no, are the rates higher if you don't reserve. I will be there the last week of July.

[%sig%]

Hey Russ, I am originally from Corpus Christi and I live in Houston now. I am planning a trip to Acapulco,-P.E.-and Oaxaca (ruins) as well. I will fly from Houston to Acapulco and then take the bus to P.E. and I would like to know if there are other locations you might recommend. I will fly back out of Acapulco 10 days later. By the way, I drove down to San Miguel De Allende, GTO. last summer and I had no problems. Thanks, Joseph

Hi, You are coming during low season and reservations for hotels are not necessary. You can find anything you want just by showing up and asking around. rates are the same if you reserve or if you just walk in. However, if you would like to make reservations or if you are interested in a weekly or monthly rate somewhere, check us out.

<http://www.puertoconnection.com>

Hi all...coming to PE this summer surfing with my 16 and 6 year old sons....looking for a cool place on or very near Zicatela beach....Some place friendly to the 6 year old. A tv and pool would be extra plus's. A kitchen is required. A fenced yard, shade ie exceptional. Rustic, palapa type is ok. Staying for a month or two, depending on the vibe. Any info is mucho bueno...thanks Bob A

Hi there, I think with the time you have you will have plenty to see and do. The Monte Alban temples in Oaxaca and the zocalo there are very pretty and interesting. Just outside the city center of Oaxaca there is Dona Rosa's where they make Black Oaxacan pottery which i try to bring back as much as I can fi