Visitors' Comments on Huatulco

Private Pilot Seeks Basic Accommodations Near Airport

I would appreciate it if you could provide me with any information on the following:

1) The cost of long-term tie-downs and hangar space at Huatulco Airport or at Puerto Escondido airport. (Is there a difference in rate for airplanes of Mexican versus U.S. registry?) I'm sure there's an airport at Huatulco, because I've landed there. Not so sure about Puerto Escondido, but if you can fill me in I'd appreciate it.

2) The cost and availability of a six-month rental (say, October 15-April 15) in the Huatulco / Puerto Angel / Puerto Escondido area. I would much rather live in a Mexican neighborhood than in a turista palace. (I speak pretty good Spanish.)

I need zero luxury. I've been divorced for eight years, and I'm used to living in a sound but simple abode whose furnishings are most charitably described as unfortunate. I'm looking for really basic accommodations. About the only things I absolutely have to have are good, reliable telephone service, electricity, internet access, and some sort of toilet and shower (again, nothing fancy). After that, I would like a table, a desk, a futon (all of which I can buy, if necessary), and a kitchen with potable water, a stove, and a fridge. If all of this were within walking distance of an airport where I can hangar or tie down my airplane, I'd be happy as a clam.

3) I would like to make myself and my airplane available to any "mercy flight" or other humanitarian operation that might be active in the area. If you know of any such operations that can use the services of a small, light plane and pilot that can get in and out of relatively short, unpaved strips, please let me know. (My maximum payload, in addition to myself, is in the 150-200-pound range, depending on density and distribution.)

Bill Yribia
wilrib@yahoo.com
January 1999

Zaashila in November

We left Los Angeles on Thursday night at 1:00am and arrived in Mexico City at 6:00 am. Our flight to Huatulco was to leave at 10:00am, so we went and sat in the Marriott Hotel lobby. We are Marriott frequent guest members and figured we would give them our number if anybody said anything, but they didn't. They have free coffee sitting out for the taking, plus there is a little coffee bar where you can buy pastries, juice and coffee. We bought one and then drank theirs the rest of the time! It was nice sitting there, people-watching, drinking our coffee and reading the paper in cozy chairs, as opposed to sitting around in the airport downstairs.

About 8:45am, we decided we would go down to the airport and check on our flight, and of course Mexicana had delayed us, so we now weren't leaving until 11:00am. Once on the plane, it was a short flight to Huatulco, what a beautiful, lush view flying in. They have that red light/green light customs affair, and of course we had to get the red light and plop our bags up on the counter for them to go through, but we are used to this as we have never once gotten the green light in our trips to Mexico. The Apple transportation was at the airport to meet us and drive us to our hotel which seemed to be about 20 minutes away.

I normally book all my vacations myself, but since we were going to an unknown destination, I decided to go through Apple. I have to say that this worked out well for us, as they picked us up at the airport and took us back. The only thing I didn't like was the fact that I had to meet the actual Apple rep - Luis, the next morning at 9:00 in the hotel lobby, for "orientation." That was ridiculous, Luis showed up, I was there, he asked me if I had any questions, I said no, and he left. It was a big waste of time for both of us, and the visit could have taken place over the phone. So, unless someone wants to do some sightseeing or they have a lot of questions, I recommend you tell the person who drives you that you don't want to meet for orientation. The rep will call you the day before your return flight to tell you what time he will pick you up, and give you confirmation of your flight departure. Heck, who wants to waste beach time talking!

We paid $2400.00 for the package (air plus 7 nights). This included an oceanfront ground floor room with a splash pool on the "Club Floor". We were told by our travel agent (who got this information from Apple), that we also got a full American breakfast daily, and a happy hour daily, from 5-7 with cocktails and hors d'oevers. Well we did get the room and the splashpool, but when I asked about the breakfast, the hotel personnel told me this was not the case, that we got a continental breakfast that would be delivered to our room, and a "snack" in the afternoon that would be delivered to our room. Oh.

Actually, the continental breakfast worked out well for us, a big pot of coffee, juice and some pastries, and they were there in no time, once you called. The same with the ice in the afternoon, the room service guys at the Zaashilla were the fastest I had ever seen and always smiling!

We had a ground floor room (#53) overlooking the pool and the ocean, but I think the second floor rooms would provide an even better view of the ocean, and if I went again, I would ask for #44 or somewhere in that vicinity, which has no foliage obstruction.

Our room had a small balcony with a table and chairs in front of the splash pool. We wouldn't bother about getting the splash pool again, as we hardly used it, but it might be handy if the weather is really hot in the evening.

The rooms at the Zaashilla are pretty sparse. We had 2 beds, bare marble floors throughout, a TV with no American channels, and a big closet, plus a well-stocked minibar. I comment on the TV channels, because we don't go to watch TV, but even when we were on Margarita Island in Venezuela, we got CNN and since there were no English newspapers available, it was disconcerting to not know what was going on in the world. They do have several channels, HBO, Cinemax, Health Network, a couple of Spanish channels and a couple of cartoon channels so we were puzzled as to why they didn't have CNN.

The bathroom was huge and had the infamous half shower door. They had plenty of towels, Cassey and Maxwell amenities and a hairdryer.

For a supposedly top of the line resort, I found the maid service to be less than adequate. The room was never cleaned until 2-3 in the afternoon, and the nightly turndown service is posted as being between 5 and 10 pm, so that most nights, we didn't receive it, as we were already in bed when they came around.

It seemed as if I was always calling housekeeping because consistently, they would forget to leave washcloths, ashtrays, take the bathmat, leave the kleenex box empty or forget to empty the wastebaskets. Minor things I know, but important to me :)

The hotel itself is well-maintained and the location is stunning. Their pool is the centerpiece of the hotel. It is 130 yards long in a kind of S-shaped affair with plenty of chairs around it. The beach is wonderful, with a wide front, and 12 cabanas. On the one side you can see Club Med in the distance, and on the other side is a rocky cliff, with houses at the top. From the beach you are unable to see "next door" to the Gala and Sheraton as there is a large cliff which separates the properties.

Next door to the Zaashilla is the Gala, (formerly the Maeva) and we wanted to go in to visit Charlie Diver, (Carlos Ramos) who had also been very helpful to me with my trip planning, but they wouldn't let us in. They said visiting hours are from 11-12 daily. Charlie normally is located at the Sheraton Dive Shop, but had moved to the Gala while they did some renovations at the Sheraton. Sorry I missed you Charlie, thanks again for all your help!

We were able to go in to the Sheraton and look around their facilities. They have a beautiful, big lobby, dark wood, it reminded me of India and a few swimming pools, with lots of chairs spaced too close together. Their beach is narrower than the Zaashilla, with a much steeper incline and they have many more vendors on their beach selling things than at the Zaashilla, and we did have several people selling things everyday. Plus, my biggest beef was from the noise of the jetski's.

Most days we had our continental breakfast, and then had lunch at the beachside pool cafe. With the exception of the following, we ate dinner at the hotel restaurant Chez Bini. The food and service were excellent, with reasonable prices and we developed a good relationship with the staff and their very efficient captain, Marissio, a wonderful guy.

On Sunday afternoon, we went to Don Porfirio's to watch the Green Bay Packers play football. We had a great time and met a couple who were staying at La Quinta, they said the rooms were stunning, but it was a long walk to the beach. We went back again in the evening for dinner. We both had the grilled lobster which was dry and tough. We wanted a salad, but they were out of most things and brought us some lettuce on a plate with oil and vinegar on the side. The bill with drinks and tip was about $110.00. When the Apple rep called on Thursday with our confirmation, I asked him for a recommendation for dinner that evening and told him about our experience. I was surprised when not an hour later, the owner of the restaurant called, and wanted us to come back that evening for dinner on the house, which we declined. I thought that was pretty good of him though.

On Tuesday night, we went to a small restaurant called Cactus, in La Crucecita. The food was pretty good with reasonable prices, but they have an awning over the seating area and it traps the cooking heat in, so that it was rather hot and stuffy. We had fish and salad and a couple of drinks and the bill was around $50, they were very accommodating and even went and got us a taxi when we were ready to leave. The taxis are plentiful and very reasonably priced.

Thursday night we went to the best place of all. Il Giardino del Papa, an Italian restaurant in La Crucecita. The owner once cooked for the Pope and is noted for his sauce-making. I highly recommend this restaurant. Excellent homemade food, impeccable service and reasonable prices, around $50.00, it would have been over $100 in Los Angeles.

On another note, our waiter at del Papa, was the sweetest guy in the world, and he told us he was leaving to move to Chicago so he could make money to send home to his family. He said he had been trying really hard to learn English well enough to work in a restaurant there. He said he mostly learns from TV, as English books are hard to get. I told him I had a few novels and I would leave them at the front desk of the hotel for him, which I did the next morning, and by the afternoon he had picked them up. I wished I had more for him.

Friday was our trip home and Apple was there promptly to pick us up at 1:00 for our 3:00 flight. Of course, once we got to Mexico City, we found out our 5:30 flight to LA had been cancelled and we had to wait for a rescheduling. Mexicana told us to go to the restaurant and show them our tickets and we could get something to eat. Naturally, there was a whole planeload of other people trying to get food as well, and there was nowhere to sit. So we just wandered around for about an hour and then went back. We were allowed to spend $8.00 each.

We finally took off for Los Angeles at 9:00 pm, needless to say we were not happy. It wouldn't be so bad, but this is the third time Mexicana has messed us up on our flights. So, we have decided that we aren't going anywhere on Mexicana anymore, which I guess rules out another trip to Huatulco, since they seem to be the only airline going there.

The mosquitoes weren't bad in the daytime, but for us (both fair) they came out at night. We used Deep Woods Off, and had great success, except for the areas we forgot to put it on :( The weather was hot, really hot, we were using a 30 sunblock at the end.

I took 50 American one dollar bills and used these for room service tips, bellmen and taxis, it worked out well. If anyone has any extra room in their suitcase for clothes, shoes and books, take them, and leave them in your room, they will be put to good use.

Tom, Huatulco is a sight to behold. We were out on the beach every day at 10:00 am and stayed until 4:00. The temps everyday were in the high 80's and we only experienced a little bit of rain once. It truly was paradise. Thanks so much for your wonderful website and all the information you provide, I really appreciate all the help you gave me over the past year, in planning my trip.

Ellen Garland
Voh2ox2@aol.com
December 1999

Canadian Travelers Cheques

Cindy Parker
Port Moody,BC,Canada
rockymountain@home.com
December 27 1999

I am not familiar with the Villa Coral. It is a relatively new hotel. For an economical place to stay, one possibility is Hotel Posada Chahué It is clean, comfortable, and quiet, and about 2 blocks from a beautiful park and beach. It's about 5 blocks from downtown La Crucecita The locale isn't that pretty because it is only partially developed.

I don't know about the Canadian travelers cheques, but perhaps the readers can tell you. I would appreciate some information on this. There are banks in Santa Cruz, and I think in La Crucecita too, and there is an exchange house next to Sabor de Oaxaca in La Crucecita. There are several ATMs in both towns. -Tom

Presidential Suite at the La Quinta

The suite offered two complete rooms; two tiers of dining and basking in and around the spacious pool and service that was super!!!! Also a large bar for entertaining and music of CDs (ours or theirs). The beach was nearby and wonderful. The hotel vans were available for excursions into town to shop. No bugs, mosquitoes or insects of any kind were we bothered by. Everyone was gracious and friendly, I really hated leaving the area. Many great places to eat and eat we did!! My knowledge of Pesos is zilch but I managed anyway. My Spanish needs much improvement but everyone there helped.

If anyone needs more info, don't hesitate to ask by E-Mail. Adios for now.

Noni7@aol.com
December 1999

Which Room at the Zaashila?

Dan T. Merriman
tfl3672@montana.com
Montana
December 1999

Canadian Money?

Cal Mackintosh
calm@home.com
December 1999

What About the Sheraton?

Also would like to know what material is used in the crocheted bags they sell at the beach. Can't seem to find it at home.

Time2retir@aol.com
December 1999

Sheraton is no operating in Huatulco. The hotel is now officially Barcelo. All the staff remains the same at the Barcelo. In fact, there is not any evident change. Only the name has changed. Barcelo will continue working with the Sheraton's style, until they fulfill all the obligations acquired from the Sheraton with their customers (I mean, reservations, rates, services, facilities will be the same). The staff expects changes by May-June.

I'll keep you informed.

Carlos "Charlie" Ramos, PADI MSDT 157092
charlie_diver@hotmail.com

Been to the Crown Pacific Lately?

We visit Mexico every year, all-inclusive resorts, and love it. This will be our first time in Huatulco and since we prefer laid back holidays and hate getting dressed up it sounds our kind of place and we are really looking forward to it. The comments I read about excursions are interesting and helpful.

Ann
campbelx@cadvision.com
December 1999

I believe the Crown Pacific has a "beach club", a place set aside with chairs and things for their guests. The public beach is just a corridor between hotels where the public can get to the beach--it's all the same beach really. It would only be crowded around Christmas and Easter. You can always get someone with a boat to take you to a remote beach--this is what Huatulco is known for. The boat people will be all over you at the beach with proposals for the tour of the bays. You don't have to take the tour; you could just ask them to take you to one secluded beach. Go to Santa Cruz Marina if you want to avoid the middle man. - Tom

Really Good Restaurants

John Baumann
jbaumann@utelco.tds.net
December 1999

Do you mean really good as in pricey or just popular favorites? Restaurants and accommodations are probably the two most heavily covered subjects on my web page. There is about .7meg of visitors comments on Huatulco on four pages. You can wade through this more easily by searching (Ctrl + F) for "restaurant". There is also this list with some comments and recommendations, there is this rundown. Phil Minch includes restaurant recommendations for his guests here.

For pricey, Hotel Casa del Mar is recommended. A popular favorite is Sabor de Oaxaca for regional food. I was very impressed with Meson de las Flores for its variety, atmosphere, and value. Mexican street food, though the guidebooks say to avoid it, is usually excellent--you can inspect them for cleanliness and use your own judgment. - Tom

Fun in the Sun

The following day we took an all day private tour of the bays. Lorenzo made the initial arrangement including transportation to and from Santa Cruz by Alonzo. Our guide, Saul, spent the entire day with the children talking about Huatulco. Saul was just about fluent in English so it made things easy for the linguistically challenged members of the group. The following day we made arrangements to take the children SCUBA diving.

Alonzo again made the transportation arrangements we rented equipment and Saul volunteered to do a crash course in SCUBA safety followed by a trip to Entrega Bay with Paco for a open water dive. Both Saul and Paco took the two younger children ages 11, 12, and were by their sides for the entire dive lasting about 45 minutes. After the initial dive which also included the older children, Saul took the older children on a more challenging deep water dive. We returned home for a late lunch ocean swim and a wonderful home-cooked Oaxacan feast for dinner.

Tuesday was ATV day, again Alonzo made the travel arrangements and of course Saul was our guide. The trip courses through the jungle visiting two isolated beaches Cacaluta and Maguey, and takes about 3.5 hours. It's very dusty and plan on changing your clothes as soon as you return home. Ocean swimming (not required), and beach lounging were part of the trip. Tuesday evening we went to La Crucecita and ate at Sabor de Oaxaca. After dinner we shopped and went to a family bar called La Crema in La Crucecita.

Wednesday was coffee plantation day. The all day activity started at our Villa again with our guide Saul. Manuel, the driver of the Suburban was also very helpful throughout the day. The first stop was the big falls on the Copalita for a swim at the base of the falls, then off the coffee plantation. Hardly a plantation but a camp located in the Jungle were coffee is harvested. Certainly not the bed and breakfast described in the brochure. We hiked through the woods and came upon a natural water park), falls caves pools and currents to swim with and against. Lunch followed and then the ride home. That night Saul and Manuel joined us and the older children for a night of disco at Club Poison.

Thursday was a day off. Sitting around the pool, downtown shopping at La Crucecita, ocean swimming at our beach. We celebrated Thanksgiving and my son's birthday. Alonso and his family brought a piñata and Saul joined us for dinner. On Friday we were off kayaking with Saul and Pancho down the Copalita into the Pacific Ocean about a 5-hour tour which included a picnic lunch. Saturday was for packing and the flight home.

Most of the activities we participated in were between 350 to 450 pesos depending if they were all day and or lunch included or not. The exchange rate for this week was around 9.20 pesos/USD. Food ranged anywhere from 500-600 pesos total per day for both families.

We were most impressed with the Huatulcan hospitality and the attention and caring attitude that everyone displayed especially Saul and Alonzo. Everyone we met, Manuel, Pancho, Paco, Anna & Vicky were all wonderful. I've never spent so much time with all my children doing activities we all enjoyed together. We all want to return.

Ray Talucci
rtalucci@crozer.org
December 1999

Shark Sightings and Sheraton Changes Hands

First, let me tell you that I've found a dive site where there are a couple of white tip sharks living there. They 've spent one week in the same place. Some of the divers I took diving this week have been fortunate enough to see them. The biggest (4 feet long) is escorted all the time by a school (50 or 60) of jacks. These fish don't look afraid of be eaten by the shark, in fact, they look very funny and enjoying the company of their big brother. The smallest (probably 3 feet long) spends long periods of time resting on the sand, opening its mouth continuously. I saw some reef sharks some time ago in Isla Mujeres showing the same behavior. I don't want to tell exactly where they are, for the sharks' safety.

Second. SHERATON IS NO LONGER SHERATON. Tomorrow, December 3, Sheraton finishes its operations in Huatulco. Sheraton sold its hotels in Huatulco and Ixtapa to a company called Barcelo Hotels.

All the staff remain working for the new owner-operator, except the General Manager, because he continues working for Sheraton. Barcelo is a top quality Spanish-based hotel chain. They have more resorts in Mexico: Playa del Carmen (playacar) and Cancun, as well as Acapulco among others.

We will continue working here. The new administration decided to keep us working with them, so Action Sports Marina and SCUBA remains in the same place, with the same facilities and quality.

I'll keep you updated about this topic. I'll send you more information as soon as I get it. These are the most interesting facts happened in the last weeks. Weather is beautiful, water absolutely calm. No more rebalses this month, so what else can I expect out of life?

Carlos "Charlie" Ramos
charlie_diver@hotmail.com

Malaria

Kim
mikeandkim@earthlink.net
November 1999

Club Med or Gala?

Alison McCord-Waco, TX
abmccord@msn.com
November 1999

Everybody likes the Gala. Airfare is not too bad right now. Check with Vista World Travel on packages for the Gala. -Tom

Paradise on earth!

We were there during the slow season, so the resort was only 18% full! We never had to wait for a chair at any of the 4 pools, no lines for any of the fabulous food, and drinks were served quickly and very tasty! (I recommend the Banana Chocolate Monkey at the sports bar!!)

We found out too late that the hotel has junior suites....about 100$ more (total, not per day) would give us a hot tub on the balcony. You have to be specific with your travel agency to request a junior suite, because they are not advertised.

We took a $3 cab to La Crucecita which was nicer in late evening, after 4pm, then the daytime. Daytime is hotter and some stores are closed and don't open until after siesta. We felt safe in the town. Everyone was nice and helpful, even with the language differences.

My husband and I recommend the ATV jungle tour we booked through our hotel. The Apple Vacations representative, Luiz, helped book the tour and it was muddy, and hot, and fun, and wild! Be prepared to get dirty and take a waterproof camera!

The weather was very hot, over 100s the entire time. It rained only once, for 30 minutes, but didn't put a damper on anyone's spirit. There are no mudslides or earthquake damage at the Gala. It's in perfect condition!

My husband did the kayak thing at the resort. He's never done that sort of activity before, but he had a great time. There is a lot of things to do there if you want. But if you don't want, then there are 4 pools to relax by. One of them has jacuzzi jets and we stayed there a lot!

We are definitely going back!! All inclusive resorts are the way to go! If anyone is going, please say hello to Edgar. He's the bartender at the sports bar in the lobby. Please tell him Barbara says hello!!!! Tom, your website made all the difference for us on our trip! We knew what to expect and we were able to enjoy ourselves without worries. Also, there are safes in the room of the Gala Resort. Free of charge, but lose the key, and it will cost you 100$.

Thanks for all your help and advice, Tom!

Barbara and Gary Beriso
babyzoo@hotmail.com
October 1999

What's This About Earthquakes?

Louise Ferm
Louise.ferm@trendpoint.se
October 1999

Hi Louise. Is nice to receive mails from Europe, but is much better to know that there are people there interested in visit us. Probably you know that I work in a water sports center called Action Sports Marina, located inside the Sheraton Resort. I'm in charge of SCUBA diving activities.

Well, the history is: Mexico is located in the very edge of two tectonic plates. From time to time, earthquakes are felt in the country, especially in the states (provinces) of Guerrero, Oaxaca and Michoacan (all them located in the south Pacific coast of Mexico). Most of this earthquakes are felt in Mexico city as well as in most of the states of the center of the country.

The strongest earthquake that has struck Mexico occurred in September of 1985. A lot of buildings felt down in Mexico city and probably there were 20,000 people dead. I use to live in Mexico City in that year and the experience was very very sad.

So, in Mexico (the country) earthquakes are common. The last really strong happened in September 30. Some towns and cities around Huatulco suffered some damage. But Huatulco has been built with earthquakes in mind. Huatulco is only 13 years old. All the constructions are brand new and the reglament to build in Huatulco is very strict about structures to support earthquakes. Earthquakes are not really a problem here. So please, feel confident to come and enjoy this beautiful place.

Weather is hot. We are now at 30 Celsius degrees. There are a couple of tropical events that have produced a lot of rain in the south half of the country. Many cities have become flooded and many people is suffering the effects of these floods. But Huatulco, again, is very well planned. There are four huge concrete channels to drain the rain water to the ocean, so we never get flooded.

So please, feel confident coming here. I hope to meet you soon. If you want more information, just let me know.

Saludos de su amigo (Regards of your friend)

Carlos "Charlie" Ramos
charlie_diver@hotmail.com

Thanks for your response, but now I have another question.... Is it possible to get to Huatulco from Mexico City, we are told that there are no safe roads in the whole south of Mexico, and there are problems reaching smaller villages even by air...is that correct?

I spoke to a travel agency and they told me that it is not safe to go to Huatulco at the moment. What's your opinion?

Louise Ferm
Louise.ferm@trendpoint.se

Hi Louise. I don't understand what is exactly the meaning of "safe". From Mexico city to Huatulco, is possible to come by jet. Mexicana de Aviacion flies daily to Huatulco two or three times. In high season (December thru April) they open more flights. There are another two airlines flying to Huatulco. About roads, you can come to Huatulco from Mexico city via Acapulco, via Oaxaca and via Veracruz. Is true that in this moments, some roads were damaged by the rain and earthquakes, but they'll be fixed soon ( two or three weeks). The reports about road conditions say that all the highways are working , some of them with damaged sections, but is possible to use them.

Believe me: if you come to Huatulco, you won't see any damage. Last night, I was watching ABC and CNN news, and I got disappointed with the versions they transmit. They say:"Oaxaca, Puebla, Veracruz, Hidalgo (these are four states of mexico) are flooded and destroyed by the rain". That's crazy. The surface of these four States together is larger than Spain and France together! Is true that some towns next to rivers became flooded, and some sections of the roads connecting these places are broken, but not the whole state.

So, if you plan to come to Huatulco by plane, I suggest to reserve your ticket right now. If you plan to come by road, I can send you a couple of maps with posible routes. You can check Mexico's road plans in http:\\www.sct.gob.mx (this website belongs to the Ministery of Communications and Transports).

I hope to clear your doubts and, if I can help you whit any other information, please, just let me know.

Carlos "Charlie" Ramos
charlie_diver@hotmail.com

Requesting Road Conditions

JAN TYNAN
jtynan@usachicago.com
October 11, 1999

How About a Web Site Like This on ... ?

We visit Mexico frequently from California. Next April we are heading to Playa del Car and staying at the Gala (after enjoying our visit at the Royal Maeva aka Gala). It would sure be nice to read others comments on this area.

Best regards and thanks for your efforts, they are appreciated...

Rhett Tindall
tindall.org
October 1999

I couldn't handle a wider area without sacrificing quality. But I don't see why someone else couldn't do it. I am often asked if there is a web site similar to mine on some other particular location. As far as I know, there aren't any and I don't understand why. It really isn't so difficult. One of the reasons that I have chosen not to get my own domain name is to show that it does not take much to collect such information to share with others. Practically anyone with an email address has web space allocated to them by their service provider that they can use. So, throw up a few pages of basic information, snatch a few visitor comments from the newsgroups, register with the search engines, and you're there.   -Tom

Earthquakes and Flooding

Michael and Karen
miren@provide.net
October 1999

Yes, I have earthquake reports, and the heavy rains are mentioned here as well. http://www.eden.com/~tomzap/quake99.html

Earthquakes and seasonal flooding are regular features of this area and are commonly dealt with by the residents. It should not impact your trip unless you do a lot of local traveling--the roads may be bad in places. And if it is flooding at the time, underwater visibility will be poor. There are no rivers in Huatulco to cause large-scale flood damage. The biggest problem that residents have with these "disasters" is when tourists cancel their trips and locals are deprived of income at the time they need it most.   -Tom

Planeando el Milenio

Pancho y Ana Laura Moreno
Pambaso99@aol.com
October 1999

La Marina or Casa Costeña?

Kathy & Bert LaTurner
KLATURNER@worldnet.att.net
October 1999

Looking for a 2-bedroom Apartment

Frank Perlongo
7231 38th place
Lyons, Illinois (chgo area)
708-442-1432
kywest1@mcs.net
October 1999

Glad We Saw it Then

Late in the day, signs of things to come, we saw surveyors in the hills above the beach. And on the way out of Santa Cruz Huatulco that evening, large concrete pillars rising from a dusty small coastal village, for the new International Airport.

Glad we saw it then.

Gary Etie
garyetie@pacbell.net
September 1999

Close Encounters

I was stopped by Zapatista rebels (They had Zapatista on their sombreros.) just outside Oaxaca city while they surrounded my car holding up rocks and machetes. I was the first to arrive so they calmed down after they secured the road with big trucks etc. It happened so fast--very disorienting. I was able to take pictures [5] after I calmed down and they as well . They show everything (the pictures). Funny, Mark Leyes the US consular agent in Oaxaca, insists that it is very safe here in Oaxaca State but then he owns numerous rentals that he rents to us so it is pretty difficult to rent them if he tells the truth about all the crimes against foreigners here. Hope this helps someone. Personally I think Oaxaca is the perfect place to loose your life savings and your life--more later if you print this.

Pamela Darling
padarling@hotmail.com
September 1999

Looking for Ideas

I would appreciate any tips on dining, entertainment, beaches, etc. As we will be staying with another couple and it will be her 30th birthday, so I would like to plan some fun things to do. We will be arriving on Thursday, Oct 7 and staying until the 11th, so I would like to do a few of the most reputable sites.

Any info would be greatly appreciated!

Davida Capra
DavidaCass@aol.com
or dcapra@lasallest.com
September 1999

Quisiera Contactar la Pampa Argentina

Podrían hacerme el favor de decirme como puedo contactar a los dueños de dicho Restuarante??, ya que nos gustaría agradecer sus atenciones.

Les agradeceré mucho la ayuda que nos puedan dar para contactarlos. De antemano muchas gracias.

Ma. Patricia Ortíz Balbuena
ortizbal@mx1.ibm.com
September 1999

About Villa Coral

Tony Fellner
apf@sierra.net
September 1999

Looking for Emmanuel

aries0777@yahoo.com
September 1999

Friends at the Zaashila

We would like to make a special commendation about two people we met at the hotel. [photo 66K] Gino Andrade is the manager of the pool and related concessions. He is the person who will book special excursions from the hotel. He is a terrific guy and a very important asset to the hotel as he is fluent in English (he grew up in Chicago). Many of the staff at the hotel were not fluent in English. Gino befriended us during our month at Zaashila and helped us in many ways. His wonderful wife Lupe (who grew up in Indiana) is a marvelous baby sitter (the best we have ever had- she acted like a family member). Our daughter cried when we had to say goodbye to this warm, friendly couple.

We have traveled throughout Mexico and the Caribbean, staying at many 5 star resorts. The Zaashila is a special destination.

James and Maureen Krinsley
JKrinsley@aol.com
September 1999

What's that URL Again?

Mary
Robert3420@aol.com
September 1999

Where to Rent an Automatic?

Any help would be most appreciated. Unfortunately, I grew up with only automatics, and have never learned to drive manual. Oaxaca is probably not the place to start!

Jeff
sherm@merle.acns.nwu.edu
September 1999

Avoid Mexico City

Perry Ansari
PAn3421255@aol.com
September 1999

About Coral Villas

As I recall from taking long walks during my Huatulco vacation in February '99 (I stayed at Misión de los Arcos in Crucecita), the El Arrocito village is made up of new villas hanging off steep hills west of Tangolunda. Its little beach, in a pleasant tropical cove, appeared to be used mostly by the locals rather than tourists. Its protected nature might make it safer, especially for children, than the bigger beaches, but that's a consideration that should be well researched before taking the plunge.

There is not much to choose from in the way of restaurants in the neighbourhood, although the beach has a nicely ramshackle snack bar. Tangolunda is a stiff hike away, and stiffer walking back because it's uphill. Taxis should be available, of course, and are a bargain as long as the passengers insist on the official rate. I understand these rates are supposed to be published and displayed in cabs but I never saw them, except at the taxi stand in the centre of Tangolunda.

"Quiet seclusion" is how the travel brochure defines Villas Coral, which is either an enticement or a warning depending on how much action is desired. The rear of the Club Med encampment is clearly visible across the bay as a symbol of a rather different style of accommodation.

Signature Vacations is on the Web at www.signature.ca but as of early September its entry for Huatulco was still the 1998/99 program, not mentioning Villas Coral.

John Laycock
JLaycock@win.southam.ca
Windsor, Ontario
Canada
September 1999

Not Much English in Huatulco

As stated many times in other posts, the sun is so powerful there. Sunscreen is essential. We had no problems with the mosquitoes. The weather is very hot and humid. If you are trying to get away from hot and humid in September, this would not be the place for you. If you are looking for a quiet retreat away from crowds in a beautiful surrounding, then I think you would enjoy. We saw very few Americans and decided that since everything was geared to those speaking Spanish, maybe it is a resort that the Mexicans want to keep to themselves.

For your information about prices: our hotel stay for 3 nights, 3 breakfast buffets, one lunch and two evening meals came to $516 US. This was for two adults and a room with king-sized bed. We think that was reasonable for the quality of the hotel and the food. I think it's worth mentioning: By mistake, on Saturday, I left my wedding ring and another fairly expensive ring on the nightstand. When we returned that afternoon, I found them carefully placed in an ash tray on the bedside table. That was impressive to me.

J. Mitchell
jamsing@freewwweb.com
September 1999

Villa Coral Hotel and Suites

Noreen Adam
Driemel_N@elmer.sd36.surrey.bc.ca
September 1999

I don't know this place. Can anyone else help? -Tom

Out of the Way Places

Now back to Huatulco and a few restaurant reviews... since I'm almost a local in Huatulco I'll try to name a few of the hidden or less well known places there. First we'll go to the Pato Mohado (wet duck) located on Jazmin near the corona distributorship (I'm sure the taxi drivers know where it is). The proprietors are Luis and Elva, the same folks who own Las Portales on the Zocalo in La Crucecita and Pesos rent-a-car... the specialties here are fish with special spices baked in a brick oven with a wood fire... I recommend the robalo if they have it... it's known as snook here in the states and is as tasty as any fish I've ever had.... There is a wonderful outdoor seating area and a small children's play area there also.

For great carry-out or dine-in chicken I reccomend Pollo Imperial, located on Carrizal in La Crucecita (They also deliver but I don't know the phone number). This is probably one of the most popular chicken houses in the entire republic and therefore everything is always fresh. A whole chicken is 54 pesos and comes with charro beans, tortillas and sauces...what a bargain..!!!

In closing I would like to comment about our favorite beach/bay in the area.. San Augustín .. It might be a little hard to get to but well worth it in my opinion. One can either hire a taxi to take you there and wait for you or go by water taxi or by rental car. If you drive yourself go past the airport to the crossroad to Santa Maria Huatulco...(el crucero) and turn left down a dirt road.... simply follow the most traveled route, about 5-7 miles, trust me you'll find it. When you arrive, you'll not only find one of the most beautiful bays that Huatulco has to offer , with the requisite palapas and beach restaurants, but also Coyote Beach (open pacific ocean....don't swim here unless you are olympic class) right around the point. San Augustín is still virtually the same as it was 30 years ago, a real trip in a time machine, be sure that you are ready to SLOW down once you arrive there.

In closing I hope you enjoy your vacation in our little corner of paradise... If anyone has questions feel free to e-mail me with them.

Lee Dorsey
Casa Costena
costena@webtv.net
August 1999

Simply Wonderful

First I want to say thanks to Tom for this smart site, your maps were useful there. Thank you.

The tours are great, we went on the Bay Tour by a catamaran (a kind of boat), we visited almost all the beaches there, and snorkeled a lot. The tour guides are so funny. On another day we went to La Crucecita and Santa Cruz by a bus called "Iguana" with the funniest tour guide of all Huatulco, Don Oscar, he took us to the Conejos Beach and there we took a mud bath; it is fun when kids are putting a lot of mud over your body; it is relaxing.

I went to Chahue beach and saw the sunrise by my left side, (it was a romantic time). The view from the Sheraton is great, and even though Tangolunda bay is not the best for swimming, we played in the waves and swam there; most of the day the sea was calm. The best beach undoubtedly is La Entrega for swimming and snorkeling.

As a recommendation, use a large amount of sun block. You are going to get a beautiful tan and without pain. If you swim a lot, spend time tanning the front part of your body, you'll need it.

You can find souvenirs in the market at La Crucecita and you have to visit the family who make textiles. I bought a very beautiful cotton curtain for my bedroom. If you want to buy food, go to the Probadita and you will taste the best "mezcal" and "moka".

I think, I'm missing a lot of my trip, but if you have questions about it, I made some friends there, and they can tell you a lot about that beautiful place.

eumendoza@infosel.com
August 1999

Honeymooners from Norway

It took a couple of days getting used to it! A few hours by the pool the first day made us realize how strong the sun was. We looked like pigs and had to use approx. a bottle of aloe-vera gel each... It didn't affect our holiday too much though. As someone said earlier -watch out for local fisherman Acapulco-SAM. He is not to be trusted and did not show up when he said he would.

If you meet a lovely lady at the Sheraton named Norma (we called her the towel-lady, but I think she now is working in the hotels kindergarten), please say hi to her from her Norwegian pen-friend. We started exchanging letters but I have not heard from her recently. We'll be back some day....

elin.vatnar.nilsen@ssp.no
August 1999

About The Gala

The resort is very comfortable, without being upscale or sterile. Same goes for the Gala [photo 39K]. The rooms are big enough and comfortable, but not furnished in grand scale. Most rooms have great views. Our first rooms were a bit disappointing (saw the ocean if you leaned out over the balcony and screwed your head to the right) so we asked to be moved and we got rooms with much nicer ocean views and a cooling breeze. The bathrooms are very clean and large with great hot water and showers with full tubs, in case you are a bath fanatic. The staff are wonderful, very polite, speak English pretty well and if they don't understand you, which happened with us as we have English accents, which they found harder, they go and get someone who can help! They check the pool chemicals twice a day and are constantly cleaning every nook and cranny in the place. We loved the fact the management obviously got out and about and stayed on top of the staff. They also mucked in when needed and didn't just issue orders. It seemed like people really liked their work.

Whilst we were there the hotel was not full and most of the guests were Mexican families having their annual holiday. The beach never seemed busy, the pools always had space and there was plenty to do if you wanted to or nothing if that was your cup of tea. We used the water sports extensively as we like to sail and my husband dives.

A couple of things worth knowing, which we wish we'd been told: under 18's cannot go on the snorkelling trips, use kayaks etc. Our daughter, who is very capable and had snorkelled extensively in Hawaii, was upset at this news. Whilst we recognize that they don't want kids who slow the trips down or are a nuisance this seemed a little too rigid for family enjoyment, and the all inclusive idea.

The river rafting company was supposedly back in town but the whole time we were there they didn't restart business. Make sure that when you do this trip that you go when there is plenty of water. We met people who had done it and virtually walked some parts of the white water experience, due to no water!

Your evening drinks in the bar on the lobby floor are so much more superior than the round the pool ones. They tend to throw them together during the day. Watch out for the wasps around the coke machine if you fancy doing a self refill on the soda!

The Happy Hut, ugh what a name, is great for breakfast and lunch because it gets the breeze. It wasn't doing dinner when we were there.

Valentino is back on the beach and has excellent English. We actually didn't do any trips at all, which is rare for us because we like to explore, but he was very useful just in general about the area and where to go for things. We were so burnt out this year that we simply used the hotel and water. We did venture out for one dinner to the Steak and Lobster place across the road. It was very good, but not that cheap. The service was friendly and the kids loved the crepes.

We also tried the reservation only Italian at the Gala. We were a little PO'd because we'd made arrangements for our brood as we were told no kids and then a family arrived at 10.pm with their two kids, and were all dressed in jeans. We happened to be celebrating our 18th anniversary and it kinda spoilt the atmosphere. A couple of guests mentioned to me that they had seen rules being bent at the hotel for Mexican guests that American guests were not getting the same treatment over. I hope that isn't happening.

The youngsters who work the beach, sports etc. are a good crew and very friendly. They have a lot of fun...watch out for Marco in the water! Out kids took windsurfing classes with Ben, who made them laugh! My daughter said she got the sail up and was about to get going when he made her break up with giggles, so she was down again.

If you are contemplating trying this place, go for it. I really hope they do maintain its current "look" and don't spoil it with over development, hotels and so on.

We went with Apple Vacations .. hmmmm... all went fine until day of departure when they didn"t come for us so we had to get 2 taxis and drive like the clappers to get to the airport for our flight. They claimed we weren't there at the hotel on time and that they waited 10 minutes for us. Well somehow 5 of us missed them, even when we sat on the steps outside for 25 minutes, rang their office 3 times and had Michelle at guest relations trying to track them down too. It was a sad end as they were very rude at the airport, where we found them as we drove in, and I boarded the plane pretty mad about their bad attitudes and inability to say, "Sorry, we screwed up."

Feel free to email if you want any questions answered.

FiFraser@aol.com
August 1999

Anyone know about Salina Cruz?

Kathy Lynn
KLynn@bksjlaw.com
July 1999

Receiving a Visitor from Mexico

Also, I was reading your web page about "Mail in Mexico". I have sent several packages to the Huatulco area and so far all have arrived. I only send them Registered though from the U.S. You also mention DHL but you might want to let everyone know that a package under 10 lbs. costs approximately $160.00 U.S.

I love this web site and check it regularly for any new info. about the area that I love so much. We are also inquirying about buying land to build a home on. Do you have any info. regarding this? If so it would be much appreciated.

Thanks for such a great escape from reality (reading anything on this site). We are returning to Huatulco again and will stay at the Gala Resort (formerly Royal Maeva). We can't wait to go back and see all our wonderful friends that we have made there! Until next time - be happy!

Adios,
Loretta Podeszwa
loretta@iwc.net
July 1999

Tom does not have good answers to these questions. Anyone else? -Tom

Hi there. I've just read the mail you sent to Tom. My name is Carlos Ramos and I'm a SCUBA instructor at Action Sports Marina, at the Sheraton. Probably, if you come to Huatulco and stop in the Gala, I'll have the pleasure of meeting you personally, because GALA and we are neighbors (just walk ten steps from water sports in gala to reach water sports in Sheraton).

I think your friend is in big trouble if he doesn't have his Cartilla del Servicio Militar Nacional. Mexican law, obligates all male mexican citizens to register for a boring and long long year of military service. This practice was established in the Mexican Constitution, due to the WWII, when Mexico became allied with Americans and all the good guys. The war finished 54 years ago, but the law remains the same.

When a Mexican citizen (males only, that's discrimination fortunately for women, isn't it?) reach his 17 years, he (including me) has to go to the Junta Local de Reclutamiento (local recruiting office) to get a paper called Precartilla (this is a sort of booklet, with all your data and a photograph). Following this, all the Precartillas go to a "lottery" and those unfortunate ones getting a "white ball", must serve for one full year in the army or the navy when they reach the age of 18. Right now, as Mexico is at peace, the guys "winners" of a white ball who have a high school or higher educational level, have to go every Sunday to teach adults and other illiterate people to read and write. That's the only good side of the military service. Guys without this level have to go to the military installations to spend a half day learning how to march, to stand up and salute officials and all those things that the military loves. If you get a "black Ball" in the military service lottery, then you don't have to do anything except wait for one year to obtain the Cartilla.

After one year, the Precartilla is turned back to the owner with an attached document called Liberacion de Cartilla that is only a paper to certify that the owner has completed his military obligation. The problem with the Cartilla is that it is required in order to obtain some other documents, such as driver's license and passport. This is especially true with passports, because even if you get a fake Cartilla, it is easily detected at the passport office.

So for a Mexican citizen to leave Mexico legally, first you have to get your Mexican passport. This is easy if you are female, or male younger than 17 (under 17 need parents' permission). If you are a male older than 17, you need your Cartilla, as I explained. The closest place to obtain the passport is in Oaxaca city.

The visa is another story. Once you've got your passport, you have to go to the American Embassy and ask for a visa. This is not easy at all for a poor person. The requirements of the American government to give you even a temporary, no-immigrant visa are not easy to fulfill. You need to demonstrate that you have a job and an account in the bank. If you own property in Mexico it is easier to obtain the visa. I'm not sure if is easier to obtain the visa if you have an American sponsor. But, the embassy asks for the passport anyway, because they stamp the visa on it, and I think they keep a copy of the passport, just in case.

So I think that your friend will have to wait a little bit before getting his passport. I hope this letter answers your questions about the Cartilla.

I appreciate your feelings toward the family you mention, even though I don't know them, but is always nice to know that somebody is taking care and helping to a poor family of Mexicans (I'm Mexican too). Hoping to meet you, receive my best regards.

Carlos Ramos
PADI Scuba Instructor - Sheraton
charlie_diver@hotmail.com
see Carlos' article on scuba diving
July 25, 1999

Tom Richards Fishin Show

The fishing was off due to 2, that's right 2, tropical storms but we still caught a sail that went over 8 feet, mahi mahi, tuna, and dorado. The beautiful thing about Huatulco is all these fish were caught less than 2 miles offshore. Blue water comes extremely close to shore here, so it should become a real haven for guys who don't want to go 30 or 40 or 50 or 60 miles out to catch marlin and sails. Sometimes they're caught at the entrance to the bay!!!! Also old and new...we saw guys hand line 15-20 lb. tuna off a boat trolling at pretty good speed. By hand lines, I mean just that 100 lb. test let out off a 2x4, wrapped around your hand till the strike, then you pull him in. They also do this off the cliffs using a stick they spool with line and throw(the old). The new is my first personal plug. All the boats out of Santa Cruz catch fish, but Ventures Huatulco with David Garcia is the boat to hire for a world class trip. They caught ballyhoo the night before and were absolutely top notch in every way. Great mate with personality... whistles and calls for fish... all kinds of good luck stuff we'd never seen before. In fact, all our mates threw coins, whistled, called, begged; did everything they could to give us a good trip. Many thanks!

OTHER MUSTS

BAR- - -La Crema coolest bar in Mexico, period.
FOOD---walk out of The Crown Pacific on Tangolunda Bay and go left for 1 1/2 blocks till you see an old covered wagon. Ask for Memo and eat the steak and shrimp. Tell him Rod and Michelle from a TOM RICHARDS FISHIN SHOW say hi and keep the grill warm.... we'll be back.

Rod Thomas
T V Concepts
tvconcepts@infoave.net
July 1999

Hyperbaric Medicine Symposium On August 14 and 15, 1999, a Hyperbaric Medicine Symposium will be presented in Huatulco. The symposium is going to be conducted by the following Naval Medicine Doctors: Cap. Carlos Alcala Guerrero. Director of the Hospital Naval de Ixtapa, Zihuatanejo. Guerrero. Cap. Ricardo Cruz Montiel. Sub-Director of the Hospital Naval de Salina Cruz, Oaxaca. Tte. Angel Novelo Lopez. Director of the Hyperbaric Medicine Section of the Hospital Naval de Veracruz. The symposium will be hosted in the Hotel Marlin. The recuperation fee is only $200.00 (US $25.00) and this fee includes a cocktail aboard a yacht. Some of the topics that are going to reviewed are: Oxygen Toxicity, Hyperbaric Oxygen in Diabetic foot, burns, gaseous gangrene, osteomelitis, bends, decompression sickness, pressure related injuries, among others. The course is oriented to Doctors, nurses, paramedics and divers. For further information, contact with: Doctor Isaac Santiago. Phone (958) 7 01 04 FAX ( 958) 7 07 43 or email to Carlos Ramos charlie_diver@hotmail.com

Simposium de Medicina Hiperbárica El próximo 14 y 15 de agosto de 1999, se llevará a cabo el Primer Simposium de Medicina Hiperbárica, conducido por los Médicos Navales: Cap. Corb. SSN MC. MIN Carlos Alcalá Guerrero. Director del Hospital Naval de Zihuatanejo. Cap. Corb. SSN MC. MIN Diplom. En Med. Hiperbárica. Ricardo Cruz Montiel, Subdtor. Hospital Naval se Salina Cruz, Oaxaca. TTE. NAV SSN MC MIN. Diplom. En Med. Hiperbárica Angel Novelo López. Jefe del Serv. De Med. Hiperb. Del Hospital Naval de Veracruz. El evento tendrá lugar en el Hotel MARLIN de Huatulco y tendrá un costo de únicamente $ 200.00 mn. Algunos de los tópicos que se expondrán son: Toxicidad del Oxígeno, Gangrena Gaseosa, Pie diabético, aeroembolia, enfermedad descompresiva, barotraumas, entre otros. Este evento esta dirigido a Médicos, enfermeras, paramédicos, instructores de buceo y buzos en general. Para mayores informes, contactar al Dr. Isaac Santiago al tel. (958) 7 01 04 FAX (958) 7 07 43 o bien por correo electrónico con Carlos Ramos charlie_diver@hotmail.com.

Carlos Ramos
PADI Scuba Instructor - Sheraton
charlie_diver@hotmail.com
see Carlos' article on scuba diving
July 21, 1999

Quinta Real

Robert Duncan
rduncan@ctplastics.com
July 1999

Hyperbaric Chamber Arrives in Huatulco

Carlos Ramos
PADI Scuba Instructor - Sheraton
charlie_diver@hotmail.com
see Carlos' article on scuba diving
July 12, 1999

How About Gala Resorts?

1. What is the weather like in July? What should we anticipate?

2. How should we handle tipping at the Gala Resorts?

3. Is there anything "special" that we need to know?

4. What archeological site would be recommended?

5. What denominations of American $$ was most useful to have while you were there?

6. I am under the impression that there is a tour operator in the Gala Resorts. How do they compare with the others?

7. Any chance that there is a Spa facility?

Thank you for taking the time to post your comments to the internet and taking the time to answer my questions.

Alicia M. Slay
aslay@m-dcalpha.com
July 1999

Club Med

I got stomach cramps. Went to infirmary, they gave me something called Buscapina. Problem gone. Went on tour to Santa Cruz, boat ride, snorkel and lunch, had a great time. Going here is like adults being sent away to camp. We never dressed up! Accommodations are adequate but clean. No bugs really, they spray daily. This is not a place for those who want to be pampered, but for those who want to kick back and do their own thing. [Club Med photo 21K]

Emil Eger
eger@ix.netcom.com
June 1999

Buscando Empleo   Looking for a Job

Adriana Acevedo
aacevedo@mpsnet.com.mx
June 1999

Casa Costeña Gets a Positive Review

The first trip to Huatulco, I spent at the Royal Maeva [photo 39K] - again an outstanding experience, especially for my first visit. I am disappointed that there seem to be no more inexpensive charters in the summer to Huatulco from Texas. I was hoping to go again this summer, but could only find a three day package from San Antonio.

Because of our numbers, we arranged for our own tour to the coffee plantation in the mountains. That was a very nice experience - the plantation now has a sort of bed and breakfast, and were I to go again, I'd spend a couple of days there.

Snorkeling and diving was so much worse the second year that I don't recommend it to anyone for whom that is a priority. Thanks for your website - where I got my original info.

Molly Lamphear
mlamphear@athletics.utexas.edu
June 1999

Scuba Diving; Dredging La Entrega

A huge Navy dredge is digging in Santa Cruz Bay. The federal government is going to build a dock to receive cruise ships. I think this pier will affect very badly the La Entrega reef. Top ranked politicians came to Huatulco to place the first stone of the dock. There is not any environmental impact study done.

Carlos Ramos
Scuba Instructor
charlie_diver@hotmail.com
see Carlos' article on scuba diving
July 3, 1999

Hoteleria

Lic. Christian A. Lopes
Lab. de Microbiologia y Biotecnologia
Univ. Nac. del Comahue
Neuquen- Argentina
clopes@uncoma.edu.ar
June 1999

Laredo to Huatulco

I was very pleasantly surprised to see so many mountains. I had no idea that it would so remind me of my native Arkansas. No one has mentioned the foliage they will see down there. The tropical plants we try so hard to cultivate in most parts of the U.S. as houseplants are so interesting to see in their native habitat. I think you should devote a section to that at your web site. That will draw quite a bit of attention. I would suggest a picture of what we call tabachine (the trees that are beautiful with their red flowers). I must admit that I am currently trying to cultivate some in my garden right now. Be sure to tell your readers that bringing trees to the U.S. is against the law. I was given these seeds by someone here that has been successful with them.

We were part of one of those Magnitur groups. I never saw them mentioned at your web site. My guess is because these tours originate in Mexico. We were able to get plane fare from Monterrey, Mexico, to Huatulco easily with a local travel agent. Our round trip airfare for two adults, tour bus transport from airport to the Sheraton, three nights and four days, all inclusive (drinks & buffets), bus back to airport, and then in Monterrey we were taken by Chevy Suburban to the regular bus station was a total of $1,000. I think this is excellent. Our bus to and from Monterrey which is 2-1/2 hours was about $24 each! The buses were more comfortable than the Boeing 727 that took us from Monterrey to Huatulco. We saw an American movie in perfect air conditioned comfort. The bus ride included NO chickens or other livestock. There were a few passengers that might cause some people a little discomfort but they just local working people and can be a wealth of information if you speak Spanish. The bus did pick up two guys outside of Monterrey that gave us all a serenata. That is an experience that isn't easily forgotten if it is your first. A nice gesture is to donate a small amount to them (50 cents is fine). Another nice gesture is a small candy to the children seated near you or to share with your fellow passengers. There were a few comments about the architecture of the Huatulco airport. I found the palapas charming. The lack of air conditioning was not too overpowering. The buses from the tour company were all top of the line. Not at all what most Americans would think of as being available. The guides were entertaining and charming.

I do have to agree that the shopping did lack. We rented two motor scooters in front of the Sheraton and had a delightful morning's experience in town. No where in the information did I see the mention of the area's famous black pottery. It is unique and deserves a mention. The embroidery needs mention too -- I knew about it but most do not. I expected to see more of a variety of the famous Taxco silver and the beautiful folk art. Beware of a shop across from the church that sells folk art plates -- this guy claimed to be the artist "Roberto" and really tried to "poke my eyes" on the prices. His work is better quality than any other that I saw but he was VERY insistent. If you know the guy of whom I write tell him that I was the guera that in there this past Sunday.

The people were very friendly and I enjoyed visiting with several of the local ladies who were universally pleasantly surprised that I spoke Spanish and was willing to visit.

The Sheraton was a very pleasant stay. The cafe de olla was exceptional. It will become a frequent beverage at my home. The various buffets and restaurants at the hotel were a feast for the senses. The serving staff were always very quick to satisfy my addiction to mango which isn't commonly served. At almost every meal one of the waiters would bring me something made with mango. Every day is a different menu. we greatly appreciated the taco night with fajita, carne al pastor, and mollejas ( sweetbreads). Delicious. The view was beautiful, the pool crystal clear, and the grounds immaculate. Good job.

We, too, did the beach tour. It was okay. We had one that was a lot more fun when we were in Puerto Vallarta and there were no snacks and only the most basic drinks. The snorkeling was okay if you've never done it before. Xel-ha and Xcaret near Cancún are many, many times better than at Huatulco. The water is also much clearer on the Caribbean side of Mexico.

Huatulco is worth the visit but for my money the charm of Puerto Vallarta is more romantic (you can't beat Liz Taylor & Richard Burton's passion for the place) and Xcaret and Xel-ha are the most beautiful places on the planet. Tell people to come see Huatulco before it gets too commercialized like the other resorts in Mexico.

Thanks to your web site I was pretty well prepared and we got our much deserved respite from our hectic business -- at least for a long weekend. Thanks Tom.

Sandra Sauceda
Laredo, Texas
dimasnoe@netscorp.net
June 1999

Fishing Report

Tony Fellner
Ventures Huatulco
apf@sierra.net
June 1999

Gala Resort?

Azomalli Awesome

"Celli" whom I called Chili, Chelsy and God knows what else and she too gave me a new name "Evelyn". We planned our days around her meals. No need to eat out unless you just want to be kind and give them a break.

Our daily routine consisted of the Banco, La Crucecita y Casa. Our taxi driver had our routine down after 2 days (Poncho) we called him. We also went on a fishing expedition, where one of us became "sea sick" and had to miss out on the remainder of the trip. There was also snorkeling and finally a picnic on the beach at which the fish that was caught was prepared by the locals. We also ventured out one night to disco but our luck it was during the week and the place was closed so we just walked around Santa Cruz and enjoyed every minute of it with our tour guides.

If you have any questions or are hesitant in any way about making the trip please email me at:

Et7854@aol.com
June 1999

Bugs? What to wear?

Promise to do a trip report when we return! Thanks for your help.

Ellen Garland
Los Angeles CA
EGARLAND@SMURFIT.COM
June 1999

You should be prepared for mosquitos. See http://www.eden.com/~tomzap/mosquito.html

There is a small chance you might see a scorpion. Best thing to do with a scorpion is squash it.

Here's what Phil Minch says about clothing:

"WHAT TO PACK: Huatulco's climate is very tropical year round. Dress is very casual day or evening. Leave jackets and ties and fancy evening attire at home. Pack cool and comfortable clothes. Swim suits, cover-ups, shorts, T-shirts, tank tops, comfortable shoes, tennis shoes, beach shoes or thongs. Hats or visors to shade the sun or purchase them in Huatulco. Get the picture?

"A definition of dressed up in Huatulco would be light weight slacks and tropical shirt for men or light weight casual summer dress or slack outfit for women. You may want to bring one pair of jeans or old slacks for horseback riding."

Phil rents condos at the Zaashila. He provides this info for his guests. You can read the rest of it at: http://www.eden.com/~tomzap/minch3.html.

Tom
tom@tomzap.com

Proyecto Acerca de Huatulco

Cabe aclarar que en todos y cada uno de los puntos se tomaran en cuenta debilidades y fortalezas; por suerte yo ya cuento con la mayoria de las fortalezas, vivi 10 años en Huatulco y continuo visitandolo, pero unicamente en las vacaciones, debido a que mi familia aun reside ahi; en fin, es más dificil ver las debilidades de un lugar asi , que si alguien me puede ayudar estaría plenamente agradecida.

1.-sitio (debilidades y fortalezas)
2.-acccesibilidad (debilidades y fortalezas)
3.-atractivos (debilidades y fortalezas)
4.-actividades (debilidades y fortalezas)
5.-servicios (debilidades y fortalezas)

Si alguien pude mandarme alguna informacion antes del 25 de junio, me ayudarian muchisimo.

gracias
Primavera Rubalcava Kareaga
primavera_lis@hotmail.com
June 1999

Weather, Fishing

Tony
Ventures Huatulco
ventures@huatulco.net.mx
June 9, 1999

Club Med

SWohlstadt@aol.com
June 1999

Finca La Gloria

Cheryl and Dixon Leavers
dleavers@erols.com
June 1999

Condo at Zaashila

For your info: Royal Maeva is now Gala, Bings in La Crucecita is out of business (the one in Tangulonda is open), Bella Venesia restaurant is out of business.

Stanley, Bill
William.Stanley@West.Boeing.com
June 1999

Villa Azomalli

We went on a private bay tour that Aracelli arranged. Caught fish and had a blast snorkeling. The waters did seem calmer during the mid-moon cycle. Used the private beach down the street from Villa Azomalli. Great place to play in the ocean. Mostly, we lazed around the Villa and played in the swimming pool. If you're interested in staying at Villa Azomalli, contact Tony @ info@huatulcovilla.com.

We had no problems with our Mexicana flights from L.A. Huatulco was empty the end of May. Weather was fine, with an exciting mini hurricane, but no other rain. No mosquitoes either!

The last week was spent in the charming city of Oaxaca at a terrific hotel - Hostal de la Noria. Wish my vacation would never end!

Kacey Jurgens"
kacey@thomashacker.com
June 1999

Hola/Hello

Sheryl, nanita
cg.jr.reece@sympatico.ca
June 1999

Sailing on the Luna Azul

Another great activity that I haven't seen listed in your visitor's comments that we thoroughly enjoyed is the sailboat Luna Azul. It is owned and operated by Jack and Lorena Hennessy. The captain is Chavis (not sure of spelling) and they are all wonderful, friendly and accommodating people. Reservations can be made on the hotels but certainly at the Posada Chahue if anyone is interested. We enjoyed the afternoon cruise so much that we went on the evening one as well. We saw manta rays, sea turtles and dolphins. On the evening tour the dolphins played at the bow of the boat for about 1/2 hour and it was great. We even caught a couple fish which we could have taken back to the restaurant for a meal. The evening tour is planned so that you see the sunset as you sail back into Santa Cruz marina. Beautiful. On the afternoon tour we anchored in a bay, took the dingy to shore where we had a drink and something to eat at one of the beach front restaurants, swam, sunbathed, collected shells and snorkeled the coral reefs. The snorkeling equipment is provided so it is actually two activities for the price of one. During our sail we saw the "blow hole" where water shoots up the side of a cliff through a hole in the rock, a face carved into the rocks and many of the popular bays. The Tangolunda Bay tour showed the many resorts and architecture of the area. Jack and Chavo are a wealth of information about the area. Anyway I highly recommend the Luna Azul sailboat tour. Food and drinks are provided and there is a washroom on board. We intend to keep in touch with them and I believe the Luna Azul is setting up a web page and I will let you and your visitors know when it is completed.

Huatulco is a great place - wonderful weather and beaches, friendly people, good food and shops, lots to do. I enjoyed reading all the other comments. Keep up the good work.

Klaus Ehrhardt
ehrhardt@cyberbeach.net
May 1999

Acampar y Pescar

Carlos Diaz
tucacas@df1.telmex.net.mx (Atte Carlos Diaz)
May 1999

Sandals at the Gala Resort?

Claire Coront
ckcor@yahoo.com
May 1999

Learn Some Spanish

I had read many comments to this effect on this excellent page, but I was still taken by surprise by how much Spanish I needed. The Spanish I've picked up from a lifetime in Texas was definitely not enough.

Huatulco is favored by Mexican tourists, which means it feels more like a foreign country than a resort. I happen to consider that a major plus.

Tangolunda beach, where several of the big resorts are located, is not very swimable. The flags were black every day but one. If you want to swim, head out to Entrega or somewhere rather than waiting for the surf to calm down, because it probably won't.

Don't let the restaurants and rental shops and public baths on La Entrega fool you: this is a very basic, cash-only environment. No one takes credit cards and there is nowhere to change money (though everyone takes US dollars).

One thing you will find on Tangolunda are some of the pushiest touts and peddlers I've encountered since Turkey. One tout I encountered in Santa Cruz became rather insulting when we turned him down, but that was an isolated event. The fishing-boat touts will sometimes come right up into the poolside area to bug you. [A tout is a solicitor. -Tom]

Simply put, everywhere you go outside your hotel, you're going to get the hard sell. Cab-drivers, silver merchants, fishing boat rentals, little wooden bookmarks, hair-braiders, trinkets, everything you can imagine. If you so much as make eye-contact, it takes a minute or so to extricate yourself, Spanish or not. If you ask them any questions, they'll be on you every time they see you thereafter. So, be warned!

But most people were exceedingly nice. Be sure to visit El Sabor de Oaxaca for dinner one night. Also, Ve el Mar in Santa Cruz (ask your cab driver to take you directly there: it's in a little corner of the square and you might not see it otherwise), and go to the Cactus, for drinks at least. Ask for Ramon, and then ask him about his football career ;->. In Tangolunda, I recommend Jarro's, but on the opposite side of the block and to the right is El Burro Charlie's, which makes an excellent Arrachero (marinated steak).

If you're a coffee drinker and you get sick of the Nescafe they serve at the hotel and most of the restaurants (the Mexicans call it "No-es-Cafe," get it?), go to Cafe Huatulco, which has recently moved closer to El Burro Charlie's. They also sell whole-bean and ground coffee to take home with you, which I am enjoying as I write this.

The regional alcoholic drink of Oaxaca is mezcal. You really should try it, though it is an acquired taste (even if you're an accomplished bourbon or scotch drinker, this stuff will challenge you). Alternately, ask for cafe Huatulco (not the cafe, the drink!), which is an elaborate, flaming coffee drink with mezcal. Little bottles of mezcal are available everywhere, and everyone in Huatulco has an opinion as to which is best. El Sabor de Oaxaca even bottles their own house brand. If you go to a liquor store, sometimes they will stage a spontaneous tasting for you so you can decide for yourself. But beware! All those tiny shots add up! There is also a cream mezcal ("for the ladies," I was told).

Many of these bottles are actually charming, hand-made jugs and jars, and you might buy one just for the container. However, pack it very carefully in water-tight plastic AND cushioning towels or whatever. I had a bottle leak on the way home, much to the amusement of US customs when they opened my bag...

John St.Lawrence
jes@mail.utexas.edu
May 1999

Comments on Driving to Huatulco?

Tony Fellner
apf@sierra.net
May 1999

Worked for Royal Maeva

Erin
pollerin@hotmail.com
Vancouver, Canada
May 1999

Choco Loco

mmccowan@lacusc.org
May 1999

Recommends Posada Chahue

We spent three days I will never forget in Huatulco, and my husband and I are planning a return trip by air without the three kids!! I would highly recommend Posada Chahue for its cleanliness, service and charming little restaurant. ENJOY!!

[Tom agrees, Posada Chahue is a clean, comfortable, economical hotel and restaurant with friendly staff. You can even contact them by email. -Tom] Sergio and Tammy Perez
tperez@lz95.lake.k12.il.us
May 1999

Help Getting a Package to Huatulco

[Shipping packages by the Mexican postal service can be unreliable. I have had about a 75% success rate. -Tom]

carmen666@webtv.net
May 1999

Mexican Consumer Protection Agency

Carlos Ramos
Scuba Instructor
charlie_diver@hotmail.com
see Carlos' article on scuba diving
May 1999

Airfares Sky-High in Denver

Marie Burows
mchidi@earthlink.net
April 1999

[We now have reduced airfares. See Vista World Travel. -Tom]

The Maeva (now the Gala) with Kids

The food was great and the shows were very entertaining. The presentation of the nightly buffets was very eye-appealing ice carvings and fruit carvings just like on a cruise ship. I would highly recommend the Royal Maeva.

Brenty5@aol.com
April 1999

Beautiful Huatulco

The last time I was in Huatulco was 3/16/99-3/23/99. I went through MLT worry free vacations out of Minneapolis, and their service was great, and super cheap. I got roundtrip air for $202 (including tax) and spent an additional $265 for a weeks stay at the Villablanca hotel [photo 30K] (also including tax) in a master suite. The hotel is very clean, and the staff is very nice and helpful. The food and drinks were cheap at Villablanca. The breakfast buffet was fabulous and included in the ridiculously cheap hotel price. The hotel was on the playa Chahue, and I wasn't crazy for it, so my friend and I always cabbed it to a different beach. This worked out well, we had the chance to see other places.

I would highly recommend dining at Ve el Mar, its cheap, and very tasty. There's seating available right on the beach, and a musical group that will sing to you while you eat for a small fee.

Go to Cactus for awesome pina coladas. Go to La Crema for cheap drinks, and great pizza.

Finally, I was wondering, if you or anyone could give me information on what I would need to do to be able to work in Mexico? I'm fluent in Spanish, so there's plenty of opportunity for me in a place like Huatulco. My father resides, and is a Mexican citizen. I imagine that this could work in my favor, somehow? Any info. or suggestions you have would be greatly appreciated!

Oh, and if you have any suggestions on how to send small packages to Huatulco, please tell me. Federal Express and UPS are a minimum of $50. The postal service is unreliable. What do you recommend? The last package I sent, I sent registered/insured mail. I hope it makes it.

Anyone with any suggestions/answers to my questions may e-mail me. Thanks.

Carmen Martinez
Eau Claire, WI
carmen666@webtv.net
May 1999

Childrens' Day in Huatulco

In Huatulco, there are two schools for handicapped children. These schools give and provide special education to these boys and teenagers. They survive with donations, part of this support come from a federal government office called DIF (Office for the Family Integration). These schools are attended not only by children of Huatulco, but also by many boys and girls coming from the rural communities in the sierra.

Today, the snorkeling guides and some restaurants of La Entrega beach, as well as the dive center located at the Sheraton, offered a party to these children. At 9.30, all the kids and their parents and teachers came aboard of the El Tequila catammaran for a trip around the bays. After that, they landed at la Entrega beach, where the snorkeling guides and scuba diving staff of Action Sports Marina, took them into the reef, some using mask and snorkel and others boards with a clear acrylic window to show them the corals and fish of the reef. For some of these kids, this was the first time that they had seen the ocean.

After the in water experience, they celebrated with sodas, cake and a big party. There was a clown and a sweepstakes in which the winners received gifts.

The experience was very emotional. Was a great experience that made that all participants, especially those not directly involved with the education of these handicapped children and young, felt more aware about this sector of the population, who needs a big amount of care and support.

Carlos Ramos
Scuba Instructor
charlie_diver@hotmail.com
April 1999

Driving From Huatulco to Cancun

Tammy
sequoia@sympatico.ca
Montreal, Quebec, Canada
April 1999

Fishing with Acapulco Sam

We have traveled the Caribbean, Mexico, Venezuela along with Hawaii and have been at many "all inclusive" resorts but the Royal Maeva beats them all. I recommend the 7-bay tour (it's a fun trip extremely interesting to see the land while it's still in its almost native form). This year again we were lucky enough to see whales up close and personal--Grey and Orca (obviously not together) along with dolphin and sea turtles.

I have gone Deep Sea fishing on both occasions (4 trips) with a local fisherman named Acapulco Sam and have had a great time. He has always been on time and we have always caught fish. The first year we caught an 8ft Sailfish and some smaller game fish. This year we caught several (almost 2 dozen Tuna about 12-15 lbs each). The cost is pretty much standard (about $35/hr). I have never had any problems with the local fisherman and enjoy talking with them about the area customs and their families. Sam seems to know his business very well and we have never come back empty. I felt that I always get my moneys worth with him. Give him a try and tell him that Tony from Chicago sends his best.

We will definitely go back again to this beautiful part of Mexico and will most likely stay at the Gala Resorts.

T&J
antonv@ameritech.net
April 1999

How About the Castillo?

Has anybody stayed at Hotel Castillo [photos 35K]? Any opinions on this? Thanks, Hope to hear from some readers out there!!

Carmen Cenko
Cenko@uic.edu
April 30, 1999

Missing the Royal Maeva

I made a lot of friends with the workers there and I miss them a lot. I remember the security guard at the main entrance, I gave him a lighter for cigars which he wanted very much. I also remember a guy named Isaac who wanted my cap. He was really nice, too. I would love it if you could tell those people and everyone else there that my parents are definitely coming back in Feb but I might go to Mexico City instead to visit someone. However, I still think about the vacation as a dream come true. I love this website and I will visit here to make comments or be available to give suggestions or recommendations of things to do while in Huatulco.

Last, if anyone wants to do Water Rapids, no better group to go with is Rio Montana!! Those guys are great and it was a blast. Unfortunately I had to be the only one to fall out of the raft!

chase4me@webtv.net
April 1999

Old Times in Huatulco

I'm from Belgium, but my husband is Mexican. We've been living in Huatulco from Nov 94 till April 95. I loved it. I've been working at the reception of Royal Maeva, for about a month.

I didn't go back to Huatulco since. Reading the comments