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Index

accessibility issues, 44–45 • Numerics • Accessible Journeys, 45 accident in rental car, 84 2travel.com Web site, 56 accommodations. See also all-inclusive 11th Hour Web site, 64–65 accommodation; condo; villa 100% Natural , 311–319 Acapulco, 328 Akumal, 182 Cancún, 116 apartment, renting, 62, 92 budget for, 34–35 bungalow, 271 • A • cabaña , 178 AARP, 43 Cancún, 93–94, 96, 98–105 abbreviations, common, 465 for children, 35, 42 ABY Charters, 434 choosing, 61–62 Acapulco Cozumel, 156–158, 160–162 accommodations, 311–319 cutting costs on, 39 areas of, 310 dive packages with, 156 beaches, 338–340 finding and booking online, 65–66 booze cruises, 342 Huatulco, 358, 360–362 bullfights, 344 Ixtapa, 270–271, 272, 276 CICI water park, 342 Los Cabos, 395–406 cliff diving, 318, 344, 453 Marina Vallarta, 212, 213 cruises, 345–346 Nuevo Vallarta, 207–208, 209–210 deep-sea fishing, 341–342 Playa del Carmen, 182–183, 184–185 diving and snorkeling, 341 pricing system, 3 Fast Facts, 324–326 Puerto Escondido, 373–374, 376–378 golf, 343 Puerto Morelos, 183–184 horseback riding, 344 Puerto Vallarta, 203–213 maps of, 312–313, 330–331, 336–337 Punta Mita, 206–207 nightlife, 352–354 rack rate, 34 overview of, 21–22, 309–310, 335 Riviera Maya, 178–180 , 327–334 sharing with children, 42 shopping, 346–347 Taxco, 349–350 Shotover Jet, 341COPYRIGHTEDTulum, MATERIAL 180–181, 185 side trips from, 347–351 Yelapa, 212–213 sightseeing, 344–346 Zihuatanejo, 270–272, 274–275, skiing and surfing, 340 277–279 State of Guerrero Office, 474 achiote, 461 tennis, 343 Activities for Kids Web site, 42 transportation in, 322–324 addresses transportation to, 321–322 in Acapulco, 323 Acapulco Princess golf course, 343 in Cancún, 111 Acapulquito, 432 in Cozumel, 164 Access-Able Source Web site, 44 in Puerto Escondido, 379 11f_557815 bindex.qxd 6/10/04 10:12 PM Page 502

502 ’s Beach For Dummies, 2nd Edition

Adoquín, 373, 376, 379, 388 American Express, 465 Advantage Rent-A-Car, 409 American Express Vacations, 56 , 370 Amigos del Mar, 433–434 Aeroméxico Vacations, 57 Ana’s Eco Tours, 385 Aeromovil taxis, 216 Andrea (Marina Vallarta), 224 AIM (Adventures in Mexico) Antillano (Cancún), 93 newsletter, 48 Apartamentos Amueblados Valle Aioli (Cancún), 101, 116, 118 (Zihuatanejo), 271–272 airfare apartment, renting, 62, 92 exit tax and, 38 Apple Vacations, 52, 58, 156 finding and booking online, 64–65 Aqua Disco (Huatulco), 371 finding best, 59–61 Aqua Mundo, 341 airlines. See also airfare Aqua , 172 contact information, 59, 471 aquarium, 339 E-savers, 64 Aquarius Travel Fishing, 173 package tours from, 57–58 aquas frescas, 488 Aquaworld, 130–131, 132, 173 Acapulco, 321–322 archeological sites accessibility issues, 44 near Cancún, 138 Cancún, 107–109 Chichén-Itzá, 29, 30, 138, 140, 141 Cozumel, 163 Ruinas del Rey, 140 Huatulco, 362–363 San Gervasio, 164, 170, 174–175 Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo, 281–282 Tulum, 138–140 Los Cabos, 407–408 Xel-Ha, 145 Puerto Escondido, 378 Archie’s Wok (Puerto Vallarta), 225 Puerto Vallarta, 200, 215–216 Arcoiris Hotel (Puerto Escondido), 374 Aktun Chen, 141–142, 195 arrayán, 226 Akumal Arrayán (Puerto Vallarta), 225–226 accommodations, 182 art dining in, 191 contemporary, 255, 440–441 diving, 194 decorative and folk, 256, 441 overview of, 188 Huichol Indian, 253–254 Akumal Dive Shop, 194 Arte, Diseño y Decoración, 441 Akumal Vacations, 179 Atlantis Submarine, 136, 172–173 Alaska Airlines Vacations, 57 ATM (automatic teller machine) alcohol, sale of, 456, 468 for cash withdrawal, 68–69 Alebrijes (Acapulco), 353 locator Web sites, 477 Alfarería Tlaquepaque, 256 in Riviera Maya, 188 All About Cabo Web site, 447, 476 using, 465 All About Cancún Web site, 110 atole, 488 All on the Web (Web site), 65 ATV jungle tour, 135 Allegro Cozumel by Occidental auction, online, 66 (Cozumel), 158 Australia, applying for in, 77 all-inclusive accommodation Autobuses Riviera, 186 children and, 41–42 automatic teller machine (ATM) overview of, 3, 36, 62, 63 for cash withdrawal, 68–69 Riviera Maya, 179–180 locator Web sites, 477 Alltournative, 195 in Riviera Maya, 188 America West Vacations, 57 using, 465 America-Mexico Foundation, 43 Avalos Doña Celia (Huatulco), 366–367 11f_557815 bindex.qxd 6/10/04 10:12 PM Page 503

Index 503

Avenida Francisco Medina Ascencio Ixtapa and Zihuatanejo, 295–296, (Puerto Vallarta), 217 298–299 Avenida Juárez (San Miguel de Los Cabos, 427–430 Cozumel), 164 Marina Vallarta, 241 Avenida Melgar (San Miguel de nude, 387, 458 Cozumel), 164 Puerto Escondido, 384 Avenida Tulum (Cancún), 110 Puerto Vallarta, 237–242 Aventura Spa Palace (Riviera variety of, 456 Maya), 179 vendors on, 453 Aventura Submarina, 385–386 beaded pieces of Huichol Indian art, 254 beans, 486 • B • Beccofino (Ixtapa), 288 Channel baby food, 42 Web site, 66 Baby-O’s (Acapulco), 353 bed, rollaway, 42 Bahía de Banderas, 199–200, 237, 242 beer, local, 3, 40, 488 Bahía de Mujeres, 128 Bejar, Feliciano (artist), 255 Baikal (Acapulco), 328–329 Benito Juárez birthday, 29 Baja Peninsula, 24, 427 Benitto’s (Marina Vallarta), 226 Baja Travel Guide Web site, 447, 476 Berta’s (Taxco), 351 Baja Wild Expeditions, 432, 433 Best Western Posada Real (Puerto bakeries in Zihuatanejo, 288 Escondido), 374, 388–389 banana boat, 340 Bianco (Puerto Vallarta), 262 B&B Caribo (Cozumel), 158 Bike Mex, 248 Banderas Bay Trading Company, 256 bird watching banks and foreign currency Isla Contoy, 136–137 transaction fee, 69 Los Cabos, 430 Bar Crawl Tour, 149 Los Moros de Los Pericos islands, Bar Fly (Puerto Escondido), 389 298, 301 Barbaroja (Acapulco), 353 Marietas Islands, 238 Barceló Ixtapa (Ixtapa), 272, 305 Puerto Escondido, 385 Barcos México, 163 Puerto Vallarta, 249 Barquet, Ramiz, Nostalgia, 250 birth certificate, 73–74 Barra Vieja, 340 Blouet, Thierry (chef), 226 Batacha (Cancún), 102 Blue Bay Getaway & Spa Cancún Bay of Zihuatanejo, 283 (Cancún), 93–94 Bayside Properties Web site, The Blue Iguana (Puerto 45–46, 202–203 Escondido), 389 Bazaar Santa Fe, 388 Blue Parrot (Playa del Carmen), 196 beach club, 170 boats. See also cruises; pangas BeachDestinations Web site, 57 (boats), hiring beaches banana, 340 Acapulco, 338–340 glass-bottom, 345–346, 431 Cancún, 128, 130 Inari Maru, 430 Cozumel, 170–171 Marigalante, 243 drinking on, 456 trimaran, 301 Huatulco, 368 Boca de Tomatlán, 242 Isla Ixtapa, 298 11f_557815 bindex.qxd 6/10/04 10:12 PM Page 504

504 Mexico’s Beach Resorts For Dummies, 2nd Edition

Bol Bahía, 346 Cabo del Sol golf course, 435–436, 437 bolillos, 288 Cabo Falso, 438 Books, Books, 442 Cabo (Los Cabos), 396, 398 booze cruises, 342 Cabo Pulmo, 433 Boren, Evelyn (artist), 255 Cabo Real golf course, 436, 437 Boutique D’Xochitl, 304 Cabo San Lucas breakfast plan, 36 accommodations, 396, 398, 402–403, bribe, offering, 457 404–405 Bucanero Bar and Grill (Puerto beaches, 430 Escondido), 389 maps of, 399, 419 Bucerías, 200, 240 orientation to, 411 bucket shop, 60 overview of, 24, 393, 395 budget restaurants, 415–416, 418, 420–423 for accommodations, 34–35 shopping, 440 for activities, attractions, and Cabo Travel Advisors, 431, 432, shopping, 37–38 434, 442 cutting costs, 39–40 Cabo Wabo Cantina (Los Cabos), for dining, 36–37 446–447 Los Cabos area and, 393 cabrito al pastor, 332 overview of, 33 Cafe Canela (Los Cabos), 416 for tipping, 37 café de olla, 459 for transportation, 35 Cafe del Puerto (Puerto Morelos), 191 Bulevar Ixtapa (Ixtapa), 283 Café des Artistes/Thierry Blouet Bulldog Cafe (Cancún), 149–150 Cocina de Autor (Puerto Vallarta), bullfights, 145, 147, 344 226–228 bungalow, 271 Café Huatulco, 370 The Bungalows (Los Cabos), 396 Café Max (Marina Vallarta), 224 Bungalows and Cabañas Acuario Café San Angel (Puerto Vallarta), 228 (Puerto Escondido), 376 Café Santa Fe (Todos Santos), 443 Bungalows Ley (Zihuatanejo), 272, 274 Caffé Todos Santos (Todos Santos), 443 bungee jumping, 352 calendar of events, 28–31, 413–414 Burton, Richard (actor), 251 Caleta (beach in Acapulco area), 339 bus travel caleta (cove), 144 in Acapulco, 323 Caletas, from Puerto Vallarta in Cancún, 112 to, 243 hijackings, 285–286 Calinda Viva Cancún (Cancún), 94 in Huatulco, 364 calling home, 40, 470 in Ixtapa and Zihuatanejo, 284 Calzonzin (emperor), 299 in Puerto Vallarta, 218, 238 camarones borrachos, 332 business hours, 465 Camino Real (Puerto Vallarta), 203–204 Bustamante, Sergio (artist), 347 Camino Real Acapulco Diamante (Acapulco), 311, 340 Camino Real Cancún, 96 • C • Camino Real Zaashila (Huatulco), 360 Canada, applying for passport in, 77 cabaña hotel, 178, 179 Cancún. See also Ciudad Cancún Cabañas Ana y José (Tulum), 180–181 accessibility issues, 44 Cabo Blanco (Puerto Escondido), accommodations, 91–92, 93–94, 381–382, 389 96, 98–105 11f_557815 bindex.qxd 6/10/04 10:12 PM Page 505

Index 505

arriving in, 107–109 Carretera Santa Pilar (San Miguel de beaches, 128, 130 Cozumel), 164 diving and snorkeling, 131–132 Carretera Transpeninsular, 410 Fast Facts, 112–114 Carretera Transversal (San Miguel maps of, 129, 146 de Cozumel), 164 nightlife, 149–151 carry-on luggage, 86 overview of, 13, 16, 91 Cartes, 442 restaurants, 116 Casa Cuitlateca (Zihuatanejo), 274 shopping in, 147–148 Casa del Mar (Los Cabos), 398 sightseeing in, 145–146 Casa Marina shops, 304 skiing and surfing, 130–131 Casa Mediterránea (Playa del Carmen), transportation in, 110–112 191–192 Web sites, 110 Casa Natalia (Los Cabos), 398, 400, 444 Cancún and Visitors Casa Nova (Acapulco), 329 Bureau Web site, 110, 475 Casa Puntarenas (Zihuatanejo), 290 Cancún Hideaways, 92 Casa Rafael’s (Los Cabos), 416, 418 Cancún INN Suites El Patio (Cancún), 96 Casa Tres Vidas (Puerto Vallarta), 204 Cancún Mermaid, 132, 135 CasaMagna Marriott (Cancún), 98 Cancun South Web site, 476 Casanova, Victor (), Cancún Travel Guide Web site, 110 172, 173 Cancún.com Web site, 110 casas de cambio, 68 canopy tour, 249–250 cash advance from credit card, 69 Canopy Tours de Los Veranos, 250 cash on hand, keeping, 188 Canto del Sol Tennis Club, 248 catch and release, 435 Captain Tutiz (Playa del Carmen), 196 Cave of the Sleeping Sharks, 131 Captain’s Cove (Cancún), 118 cavern diving, 194 car, renting. See also driving safety caves of Aktun Chen, 141–142 in Acapulco, 324 cenote, 142 agencies, 472 cenote diving, 172 in Cancún, 109 centavos, 67 in Cozumel, 165 Centers for Disease Control, 474 gas and, 188 Central Surf, 388 in Huatulco, 363 ceviche, 121, 291, 459 in Los Cabos, 394, 409–410, 411–412 Chacahua Lagoon National Park, 385 overview of, 35, 82–84 Chahué Bay, 358, 364, 368 in Puerto Vallarta, 218–219 change, getting, 67–68 Caribbean Fantasy, 179 Chankanaab National Park, Carlos ’n Charlie’s 164, 171, 174 Cancún, 151 Chapman, Lee (artist), 256 Cozumel, 176 Charlie’s (Tulum), 191 Ixtapa, 306 charreada festival, 144 Carlos O’Brian’s Charro beans, 332 Los Cabos, 416 charter flights Puerto Vallarta, 224, 262 to Cozumel, 163 Carmen’s La Patisserie to City and Monte Albán, 370 (Puerto Escondido), 382 Chatino healing hot springs, 385 Carnaval, 29 chaya, 193 Carretera Escénica (Scenic Chen Rio (beach club), 171 Highway), 340 Chez Binni (Huatulco), 360 11f_557815 bindex.qxd 6/10/04 10:12 PM Page 506

506 Mexico’s Beach Resorts For Dummies, 2nd Edition

Chichén-Itzá maps of, 97, 119 fall equinox at, 30 overview of, 13 spring equinox celebration in, 29, 30 cleanliness of water, 21, 338, 339 visiting, 138, 140, 141 cliff diving, 318, 344, 453 Chico’s Dive Shop, 245 climate Chico’s Paradise (Puerto Vallarta), 231 Los Cabos, 412 chilaquiles, 233, 460 overview of, 27–28, 455 children Puerto Vallarta, 220 Acapulco and, 21 clothing, shopping for accommodations for, 35 in Los Cabos, 440 all-inclusive accommodation and, 63 in Puerto Vallarta, 253 Ixtapa, Zihuatanejo, and, 20, 270 Club Akumal Caribe/Hotel Villas Maya protecting from illness, 81–82 Club (Akumal), 182 Puerto Escondido and, 24 Club Bananas Water Sports Center, 244 Puerto Vallarta and, 224 Club Campo de Golf Los Cabos, 438 sharing room with, 39, 42 Club Campo de Golf San José, 437 traveling with, 41–42 Club de Esquis, 340 traveling without parent or Club de Golf Acapulco, 343 parents, 74 Club de Golf Cancún, 134 chile peppers, 487 Club de Golf Ixtapa Palma Real, 302 chile rellenos, 290 Club de Tenis Hyatt, 343 chiles en nogada, 230, 421, 424 The Club Grill (Cancún), 103, 118 chimichurri sauce, 122 Club Paco Paco (Puerto Vallarta), 266 choosing to visit Club Roxy (Puerto Vallarta), 264 Acapulco, 21–22 clubs Cancún, 13, 16 Acapulco, 353–354 Cozumel, 16–17 Cancún, 149–150 Huatulco, 22–23 Ixtapa and Zihuatanejo, 305–306 Ixtapa and Zihuatanejo, 19–21 Los Cabos, 446–447 Los Cabos, 24–25 Puerto Escondido, 389 overview, 12 Puerto Vallarta, 262–266 Puerto Escondido, 23–24 cochinita pibil, 193, 421 Puerto Vallarta, 18–19 cocktail at sunset, 452 Riviera Maya, 17–18 Coco Bongo (Cancún), 150 “The Scorecard”, 13, 26 Coco Cabaña Collectibles, 304 Christine coco locos, 338 Ixtapa, 306 Cocobichuela, 121 Puerto Vallarta, 264 Coconuts (Zihuatanejo), 290 Christmas, 28, 29 coffee, 459 Christmas Posadas, 31 coffee plantations, 370 CICI water park, 342 colectivo service Cielito Lindo (Taxco), 350 in Acapulo, 322 cigars, buying, 257, 442 in Cancún, 108, 109 Cinamomo Cocina and Lounge in Ixtapa and Zihuatanejo, 282–283 (Los Cabos), 440, 445 in Los Cabos, 410 Cinco de Mayo, 30 collision and damage insurance, 83 citizenship, proof of, 73 Colonial Treasures Air Expedition, 258 Ciudad Cancún Colunga, Alejandro, Rotonda del accommodations, 92 Mar, 250 dining in, 115 comal, 485 11f_557815 bindex.qxd 6/10/04 10:12 PM Page 507

Index 507

Comida Casera Toñita (Cozumel), 167 shopping, 175 comida corrida, 488 sightseeing, 173–175 commission for travel agent, 54 snorkeling, 172 Conchas Chinas, 202 transportation to, 163–164 Condesa, 339 Cozumel Villas and condo Condos, 157 in Cozumel, 157 Cozumel.net Web site, 476 in Puerto Vallarta, 202 crafts renting, 62, 92 buying, 255–256 on Riviera Maya, 179 Cancún, 147 condoms, 82 Los Cabos, 440, 441 confirming information in book, 2 credit card, 69, 71, 465–466 consolidator, 60 cribs, 42 Constantini Bar Lounge (Puerto crime Vallarta), 226, 227, 263 in Acapulco, 325 consulate, 466 in Cancún, 109, 114 continental plan, 36 in Ixtapa and Zihuatanejo, 285–286 Continental Vacations, 58 overview of, 469–470 Cooperative de Pescadores, 245 in Puerto Vallarta, 221 Copacabana Beach Resort Crucecita (Riviera Maya), 180 accommodations, 361–362 Copal, 441 overview of, 358, 364 Coral Reef Surf Shop, 240 restaurants, 367–368 the Corridor (Los Cabos) shopping, 369 accommodations, 398, 400–402, 403, cruise ships 405–406 Cozumel and, 17 beaches, 428–430 Santa Cruz Bay and, 357 description of, 393, 394, 411 cruises maps of, 401, 421 Acapulco, 342, 345–346 restaurants, 423–424, 425 Cancún, 122, 130–131 corruption, 457 Cozumel, 172–173 Costa Linda Hotel (Acapulco), 314 glass-bottom boats, 345–346, 431 Costera Sur (San Miguel de Huatulco, 369 Cozumel), 164 Isla Mujeres, 135–136 Coyuca Lagoon, 338, 339, 340 Ixtapa and Zihuatanejo, 300 Cozumel. See also San Miguel de Lobster Dinner Cruise, 122 Cozumel Los Cabos, 431–432 accommodations, 156–158, 160–162 Marietas Islands, 238 beaches, 170–171 Puerto Vallarta, 219, 243–244 cruises, 172–173 sunset sail, 451–452 deep-sea fishing, 173 Tres Palos Lagoon, 340 diving, 38, 171–172 Cuadra San Francisco Equestrian from, 169–170 Center, 439 Fast Facts, 165–166 Cuca’s Blanket Factory, 441 golf, 173 cuisine location, choosing, 156 basic dishes, 485–487 map of, 157 best dishes, 459–461 nightlife, 176 fish, fresh, 452 overview of, 16–17, 155 lobster and shrimp dishes, 40, 115 restaurants, 167–169 Oaxacan, 360, 461 11f_557815 bindex.qxd 6/10/04 10:12 PM Page 508

508 Mexico’s Beach Resorts For Dummies, 2nd Edition

cultural events. See also fiesta night Cozumel, 173 Acapulco, 352 Ixtapa and Zihuatanejo, 300 Cancún, 151 Los Cabos, 25, 434–435 mariachi music, 151, 452 Puerto Aventuras, 194–195 Puerto Vallarta, 261 Puerto Escondido, 386 Cummings, Patricia (chef), 290 Puerto Vallarta, 245 currency tipping captain of boat, 300 ATMs and cash, 68–69 dehydration, 81, 82 cash on hand, keeping, 188 Delta Vacations, 58 credit and debit cards, 69–70, dentist, finding, 466 465–466 departing from Mexico, 73–74 pesos, 67–68, 466 desert, 455 stolen, 70–71 Desert Course at Cabo del Sol, 437 traveler’s checks, 69–70 destination wedding, 47 Universal Currency Converter Día de Independencia (Independence Web site, 477 Day), 30 cutting costs Día de la Candelaria (Candlemass), 29 airfare, 61 Día de la Constitución (Constitution tips for, 39–40 Day), 29 Cybercafes Web site, 477 Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead), 31 Día de Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe • D • (Feast of the Virgin of Guadalupe), 31 Dady Rock Bar and Grill (Cancún), 150 Día de Revolución (Revolution Day), 31 Dady’O (Cancún), 150 Día de Reyes (Three Kings Day), 29 Daiquiri Dick’s (Puerto Vallarta), 228 dialing 800 U.S. toll-free number, 71 Damiana (Los Cabos), 418 diapers, 42 dance clubs diarrhea, persistent, 80–81 Ixtapa and Zihuatanejo, 305–306 dining. See restaurants Los Cabos, 446–447 directions, giving, 480 Puerto Vallarta, 264–265 disability, traveler with, 44–45 day trips DiscoBeach (Acapulco), 353 from Acapulco, 347–351 discounts from Huatulco, 370 accommodations, 34 from Ixtapa, 304–305 airfare, 64–65 in Los Cabos, 442–444 asking for, 39 from Puerto Escondido, 385–387 car rental, 83–84 from Puerto Vallarta, 257–260 Divers de Mexico, 341 de Santos (Puerto Vallarta), 228–229, diving 264–265 Acapulco, 341 de Santos Boutique, 253 Akumal, 194 debit card, 70 Cancún, 131–132 deep-sea fishing cost for, 38 Acapulco, 341–342 Cozumel, 16, 156, 171–172 Cancún, 133 Ixtapa and Zihuatanejo, 299–300 catch and release, 435 Los Cabos, 429–430, 433–434 cost of, 38 Playa del Carmen, 194 11f_557815 bindex.qxd 6/10/04 10:12 PM Page 509

Index 509

Puerto Escondido, 385–386 eco-tours Puerto Vallarta, 243, 244–245 Huatulco, 357 recompression chambers in Planeta.com Web site, 476 Cozumel, 166 Puerto Escondido, 385 Riviera Maya, 193–194 Puerto Vallarta, 249–250 D’Latinos (Zihuatanejo), 305 Ecotours de México, 249 doctor, finding, 79–80, 466 El Amigo Miguel (Acapulco), 329, 332 Dolphin Adventure/Dolphin El Anclote (Puerto Vallarta), 238 Encounter, 246 El Arco, 431 Dolphin Discovery, 133, 174, 194 El Buen Gusto (Zihuatanejo), 288 dolphins, swimming with El Burro Borracho (Troncones), 305 Acapulco, 342 El Cabrito (Acapulco), 332 Cancún, 133 El Cafecito (Puerto Escondido), Cozumel, 174 381, 382 Puerto Vallarta, 246 El Callejon, 441 Xcaret, 143 El Chilar (Los Cabos), 418, 420 Xel-Ha, 145 El Cid La Ceiba Beach Hotel (Cozumel), Don Cafeto’s (Tulum), 191 158, 160 Dorado Pacífico (Playa el Palmar), 302 El Cozumeleño Beach Resort Dos Lunas, 442 (Cozumel), 160 dress code, 458 El DexkiteLitros (Huatulco), 371 drift diving, 171 El Dorado (Puerto Vallarta), 238, 241 drift snorkeling, 132 El Dorado Golf Course, 436, 437 drinking El Encanto Inn (Los Cabos), 400 alcohol, 456, 468 El Faro Lighthouse Bar (Puerto aquas frescas, 488 Vallarta), 264 beer, local, 3, 40, 488 El Garrafón, 131, 132 cocktails at sunset, 452 El Garrafón National Underwater Park, liquados, 116, 292, 460 132, 136 in Mexico, 488–489 El Guacamayo (Cozumel), 169 tequila, 457 El Marlin (Isla Ixtapa), 298 water, 80–81, 457, 470 El Mexicano (Cancún), 151 driving safety El Mirador, 345 Highway 200, 285–286 El Moro (Cozumel), 167 Highway 307, 189 El Nogalito (Puerto Vallarta), 231 between Huatulco and Puerto El Olvido (Acapulco), 322 Escondido, 378 El Pabellon de San Sebastián tips for, 84 (San Sebastián), 259 drugs, illegal, 82, 387, 456, 466 El Pescador (Cancún), 118, 120 dry season, 27 El Pueblito (Cancún), 98 duty-free shopping, 78 El Repollo Rojo (Red Cabbage Cafe, Dye family (golf course designers), 436 Puerto Vallarta), 230 El Sabor de Oaxaca (Huatulco), 367 El Sombrero (Acapulco), 353 • E • El Tecolote Libros, 444 El Tigre golf course, 200, 247 Easter, 28 El Tubo (Puerto Escondido), 389 eco-theme park near Cancún, 141–145 El Tuito, 249 11f_557815 bindex.qxd 6/10/04 10:12 PM Page 510

510 Mexico’s Beach Resorts For Dummies, 2nd Edition

El Tule, 432 Puerto Vallarta, 219–222 Elcano Hotel (Acapulco), 314 Riviera Maya, 189–190 electricity, 85, 466 fax, 470 electrolytes, 81 Fazio, Tom (golf course designer), 437 11th Hour Vacations Web site, 64–65 ferries embassy, 466–467 to Cozumel, 163–164 emergency, 79–80, 467 to Isla Mujeres, 136 Emporium by Collage Fiesta Americana Condesa Acapulco (Puerto Vallarta), 265 (Acapulco), 314–315 enchilada, 485–486 Fiesta Americana Grand Coral Beach enchiladas suizas, 121 (Cancún), 99, 134 enfrijolada, 485 Fiesta Americana Puerto Vallarta English, speaking, 458, 468 (Puerto Vallarta), 204, 206 English-Spanish phrases, 479–481 Fiesta Brava (Acapulco), 344 Enigma (Acapulco), 353–354 fiesta night, 151, 261–262, 445, 451 entomatada, 485 filete almendrado or filete equipales, 275 empapelado, 366 escorted tour, 54–55 Finger, Joe (golf course designer), 201 Espacio Meditativo Temazcalli, Finisterra (Los Cabos), 445 384–385 fish, fresh, eating, 452 Esperanza (Los Cabos), 400–402 fishing. See deep-sea fishing Espresso (Puerto Vallarta), 230 Fishing with Carolina, 245 Estas Son Las Mañanitas Fish-R-Us, 342 (Playa del Carmen), 192 Flamingo Cancún, 99 Estero San José, 430 Flamingo Hotel (Cozumel), 160–161 Etc. Beach Club, 240–241 flat tire, fixing, 84 European plan, 36 flauta, 486 event calendar, 28–31, 413–414 Flor de María (Puerto Escondido), exchange rate, 68, 466 376, 388 exit tax, 38 flor de mayo, 486 Expedia Web site, 63 Flying Wheels Travel, 45 FMT (Mexican tourist permit), 74, 107–108 • F • FONATUR, 22 food. See also cuisine; restaurants Fajita Republic (Puerto Vallarta), baby food, 42 230–231 best dishes, 459–461 fall equinox, 30 as spicy, 457 family. See children foreign currency transaction fee, 69 Family Travel Network Web site, 42 Foreign Languages for Travelers Fast Facts Web site, 477 Acapulco, 324–326 Forum by the Sea, 148, 149 Cancún, 112–114 Four Seasons Resort Punta Mita Cozumel, 165–166 (Punta Mita), 206–207, 247 Huatulco, 365–366 Freedom Paradise (Riviera Maya), 180 Ixtapa and Zihuatanejo, 284–286 French Quarter (Cozumel), 167–168 Los Cabos, 412–414 French Riviera (Los Cabos), 420 overview of, 4 frijoles refritos, 486 Puerto Escondido, 380–381 Frommer’s Web site, 53 11f_557815 bindex.qxd 6/10/04 10:12 PM Page 511

Index 511

Fuerte de San Diego, 345 Gran Arrecife Maya (Great full American plan, 36 Mesoamerican Reef), 131, 132 Fun in Acapulco (movie), 319 Gran Noche Mexicana, 352 FunJet Vacations, 58, 156 Grand & Club Marival (Nuevo Vallarta), 207–208 Grand Circle Travel, 43 • G • Grand Cozumel by Occidental (Cozumel), 158 Gala (Riviera Maya), 180 Gray Line, 410, 431, 434, 439 Gala Resort (Huatulco), 360–361 greetings, 479 Galería AL (Arte Latinoamericano), 255 Guide to Ancient Maya Ruins Galería Dante, 255 (Bruce Hunter), 174–175 Galería de Todos Santos, 444 Gustavo Diaz Ordaz International Galería des Artistes, 255 Airport, 200 Galería Espacio Pal Kepenyes, 347 Güth, Bernhard (chef), 235 Galería Gattamelata, 441 Galería Pacífico, 255 Galería Uno, 255 Galería Wentworth Porter, 440–441 • H • Garibaldi’s (Marina Vallarta), 224 habichuela, 121 gay and lesbian travelers Hacienda (Los Cabos), 445 Puerto Vallarta and, 18, 241, 266 Hacienda Cancún, 100 services for, 45–46, 202–203 Hacienda del Solar (Taxco), 349 Gay Guide Vallarta, 266 Hacienda Jalisco (San Sebastián), 259 geography of Mexico, 12, 455 Hacienda San Angel (Puerto gifts, buying, 255–256, 441 Vallarta), 208 Giggling Marlin (Los Cabos), 446 Hacienda San Jose, 258 glass-bottom boats, 345–346, 431 Hagar, Sammy (musician), 446 GoGo Worldwide Vacation, 52, 58 hand crafts Golden Cactus Studio-Gallery, 441 buying, 255–256 Golden Cookie Shop (Ixtapa), 290–291 Cancún, 147 golf Los Cabos, 440, 441 Acapulco, 37–38, 343 happy hours in Los Cabos, 445–446 Cancún, 134 Hard Rock Cafe Cozumel, 162, 173 Cancún, 151 Huatulco, 369 Cozumel, 176 Ixtapa, 21, 302 health insurance, 79, 80 Los Cabos, 25, 435–438 health issues, 79–80, 82, 467–468, 474 Marina Vallarta, 201 Henriksson, Ulf (chef), 235 Nuevo Vallarta, 200 Hidden Worlds Cenotes, 194 Playa del Carmen, 195 high season, 3, 28 Puerto Vallarta, 18, 246–247 Highway 1, 410 Punta Mita, 200 Highway 200, 283, 285–286 Gómez, Luis Fitch (chef), 233 Highway 307, 189 Gordo Banks, 433–434 hiking, 248 Gota de Vida (Puerto Escondido), 382 Hilton Cancún Beach & Golf Resort Gourmet Dining Festival (Puerto (Cancún), 100, 134 Vallarta), 223 HIV/AIDS, 82 Graffiti (Puerto Vallarta), 251 Hola Asia (Puerto Morelos), 191 holidays, 28, 311 11f_557815 bindex.qxd 6/10/04 10:12 PM Page 512

512 Mexico’s Beach Resorts For Dummies, 2nd Edition

package, 35 Puerto Vallarta, 201 Hooters (Puerto Vallarta), 261 San José del Cabo, 395 hora alegre. See happy hours in hoteldiscount!com Web site, 65 Los Cabos hotels. See also accommodations Hornitos, 339 chains, 472–473 Hornos, 339 overview of, 62 horseback riding Spanish phrases for, 481–482 Acapulco, 344 hotline, 468 Cancún, 134–135 huaraches, 304 Cozumel, 173 Huatulco Ixtapa and Zihuatanejo, 302–303 accommodations, 358, 360–362 Los Cabos, 439 beaches, 368 Puerto Vallarta, 248–249 cruises, 369 Riviera Maya, 195 Fast Facts, 365–366 hot chocolate, 488 golf and tennis, 369 Hotel Caleta (Acapulco), 315 map of, 359 Hotel California (Todos Santos), nightlife, 371 443–444 overview of, 22–23, 357–358 Hotel Casa Blanca (Puerto Escondido), restaurants, 366–368 376–377 side trips, 370 Hotel Jungla Caribe (Playa del transportation in, 364 Carmen), 182 transportation to, 362–363 Hotel Lagunita (Yelapa), 260 Huatulco Hotels Association, 475 Hotel Los Arcos (Taxco), 350 Huatulco State Tourism Office, 475 Hotel Los Flamingos (Acapulco), huevos rancheros, 233 310, 315–316 Huichol Collection, 254 Hotel Lunata (Playa del Carmen), Huichol Indian art, 253–254 182–183 huitlacoche, 125, 233 Hotel Margaritas (Cancún), 100–101 Humboldt House/Museo Virreynal Hotel Misión (Acapulco), 316 de Taxco, 348–349 Hotel Molino de Agua (Puerto Hunter, Bruce, Guide to Ancient Vallarta), 209 Maya Ruins, 174–175 Hotel Monte Taxco (Taxco), 351 hurricane season, 27 Hotel Ojo de Agua (Puerto Morelos), Huston, John (movie director), 183 241–242, 243 Hotel Palmilla (Los Cabos), 438 Hyatt Regency Acapulco , 317 Hotel Plaza Las Glorias/El Mirador (Acapulco), 344 Hotel Rancho Taxco Victoria • I • (Taxco), 351 Hotel Raul 3 Marias (Zihuatanejo), 274 Iberostar Cozumel (Cozumel), 161 Hotel Sands (Acapulco), 316–317 Iberostar Quetzal or Tucan Hotel Santa Fe (Puerto Escondido), (Riviera Maya), 180 377, 388 Icacos, 339 Hotel Susy (Zihuatanejo), 275 Iglesía de Guadalupe, 369 Hotel Zone Iglesía de San Lucas, 439 Acapulco, 310 Ika Tako (Acapulco), 333 Cancún, 92, 110–112 Il Giardino di Toni e Simone Ixtapa and Zihuatanejo, 284 (Tulum), 191 illness, dealing with, 79–80 11f_557815 bindex.qxd 6/10/04 10:12 PM Page 513

Index 513

immigration check-in, 107–108 Ixtapa Tourism Office, 475 impuesto al valor agregado (IVA), 38 Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo airport, 281–282 Inari Maru (boat), 430 Indigo, 175 INFOTUR help line, 468, 474 • J • InnSite Web site, 66 insurance Jamiltepec, 385 rental car, 83 J&B Salsa Club (Puerto Vallarta), 265 travel, 79 Jazz on the Rocks (Los Cabos), 445 Intellicast Web site, 477 Jeanie’s Waffle House (Cozumel), 168 Interactive Aquarium, 133 jeep rental, 458 InterContinental Presidente Cozumel jewelry Resort (Cozumel), 161–162 buying, 257 InterMar Cozumel Viajes, 170 Los Cabos, 441 International Friendship Club, 251 silver, 252, 347–348 Internet John Grey’s (Puerto Morelos), 191 access to, 468 John Huston’s (Puerto auction, online, 66 Vallarta), 242 trip planning and, 53 Jones, Robert Trent, Sr. (golf course Ireland, applying for passport in, 77 designer), 134, 436, 437 Isla Cancún, 13, 92, 95, 117 Journey into Amazing Caves Isla Contoy, 132, 136–137 (IMAX film), 194 Isla de la Roqueta, 339, 341 Juan Alvarez (Zihuatanejo), 283 Isla Ixtapa, 298, 301 Juárez, Benito (reformer), 29 Isla Mujeres, 135–137 jugos, 488 Isla Mujeres Tourism Office, 475 jungle cruise in Cancún, 130–131 Itzamná (god), 175 jungle restaurants in Puerto IVA (impuesto al valor agregado), 38 Vallarta, 231 Ixchel (goddess), 174 jungle tour by ATV, 135 Ixtapa accommodations, 270, 272, 276 beaches, 295–296, 298–299 • K • cruises from, 300 Kahlo, Frida (artist), 230 diving and snorkeling, 299–300 Kaiser Maximilian (Puerto Fast Facts, 284–286 Vallarta), 232 fishing, 300 Karen’s Place (Bucerías), 240 golf, 302 Kau-Kan (Zihuatanejo), 291 maps of, 273, 289, 297 kayaking, 299, 432 nightlife, 305–306 Kepenyes, Pal (sculptor), 347 overview of, 19–21, 269–270 Kids Travel Buddies Web site, 42 restaurants, 288, 290–291, 292–293 Kit Kat Club (Puerto Vallarta), 263 shopping, 303–304 Kukulkán Plaza, 148 side trips from, 304–305 Kuzamil Snorkeling Center, 172 skiing and surfing, 299 tennis, 302 transportation in, 283–284 • L • transportation to, 281–283 Ixtapa Golf Club, 283 La Bocana, 432 Ixtapa Sportfishing Charters, 300, La Bodeguita del Medio 341–342 (Puerto Vallarta), 261, 263 11f_557815 bindex.qxd 6/10/04 10:12 PM Page 514

514 Mexico’s Beach Resorts For Dummies, 2nd Edition

La Boom (Cancún), 150 language, 468 La Buena Vida (Akumal), 191 LANS, 253 La Cantina de los Remedios Las Animas beach, 202, 242 (Puerto Vallarta), 263 Las Brisas (Acapulco), 317–318 La Casa del Agua (Playa del Las Brisas area (Acapulco), 310 Carmen), 192 Las Brisas Resort (Ixtapa), 276 La Casa del Habano, 257 Las Palmas (Huatulco), 361 La Casa del Tequila, 257 Las Palomas (Puerto Vallarta), 233 La Casa Que Canta (Zihuatanejo), 275 Las Ventanas al Paraíso La Choza (Cozumel), 168 (Los Cabos), 402 La Colección de Sergio LastMinuteTravel.com Web site, 65 Bustamante, 347 Latitude 22+ (Los Cabos), 446 La Coronela (Todos Santos), 443–444 Laura López Labra Designs, 253 La Destilería (Cancún), 120 law. See also police La Dolce (Los Cabos), 420 drugs, illegal, 82, 387, 456, 466 La Dolce Vita (Cancún), 120 liquor, 456, 468 La Fisheria (Cancún), 120–121 Napoleonic Code of, 82 La Fuente, 303 Le Café d’Amancia (Puerto La Galería (Puerto Escondido), Morelos), 191 383, 388, 389 Le Candelaria, 438–439 La Habichuela (Cancún), 121 Le Méridien Cancún Resort & Spa La Isla Shopping Village, 148, 149 (Cancún), 101, 134 La Jolla de Mismaloya resort left turn, making, 189 (Puerto Vallarta), 202, 241–242 legal aid, 468 La Mesa del Pescador (Cancún), 120 Leger, Heinz (film production La Palapa (Ixtapa), 296 designer), 212 La Palapa (Puerto Vallarta), Legorreta, Ricardo (architect), 104 232–233, 241 Liberty Travel, 56 La Paz, 442 Lieve, Veronique (prop stylist), 212 La Perla (Playa La Ropa), 291 liquado, 116, 292, 460 La Posada del Capitan Lafitte Liquid (Ixtapa), 306 (between Playa del Carmen Liquid Blue Divers, 172 and Puerto Morelos), 183 liquor laws, 456, 468 La Pura Vida (Cozumel), 176 Lobby Lounge (Cancún), 103, 150 La Quebrada cove, 318, 344 Lobster Dinner Cruise, 122 La Sirena Gorda (Zihuatanejo), 292 lobster dishes, 40, 115 La Tarraya Restaurant/Bar (Playa Lobster House (Cabaña del Pescador, del Carmen), 192–193 Cozumel), 168–169 La Torre Cancún, 147 Loco Gringo, 179 La Ventana de Taxco (Taxco), 350 lodging. See accommodations Labor Day, 30 lodging rates, 3 Ladatel phone card, 40 Lorenzillo’s (Cancún), 121 Laguna Nichupté, 111 Los Almendros (Cancún), 122 land activities. See also bird watching; Los Amigos Smokeshop and bullfights; golf; horseback riding; Cigar Bar, 442 tennis Los Arcos, 243 ATV jungle tour, 135 Los Balcones (Puerto Vallarta), 266 bungee jumping, 352 Los Cabos eco-tours, 249–250, 357, 385, 476 accommodations, 395–406 hiking and mountain biking, 248 areas of, 394–395 11f_557815 bindex.qxd 6/10/04 10:12 PM Page 515

Index 515

beaches, 427–430 Manialtepec Lagoon, 385 cruises, 431–432 Mapquest Web site, 477 diving and snorkeling, 433–434 maps Fast Facts, 412–414 Acapulco Bay area, 336–337 golf, 435–438 Acapulco Bay area accommodations, horseback riding, 439 312–313 map of, 429 Acapulco Bay area dining, 330–331 nightlife, 444–447 Bahias de Huatulco, 359 overview of, 24–25, 393–394 Cabo San Lucas accommodations, restaurants, 415–425 399 shopping, 440–442 Cabo San Lucas dining, 419 side trips from, 442–444 Cancún area, 129 sightseeing, 439 Cancún attractions, 146 sport-fishing, 434–435 Chichén-Itzá ruins, 141 surfing, 432–433 Ciudad Cancún accommodations, 97 tennis, 438 Ciudad Cancún dining, 119 tours, 438–439 the Corridor accommodations, 401 transportation in, 409–411 the Corridor dining, 421 transportation to, 407–408 Cozumel Island, 157 Los Cabos Tourism Office, 475 Isla Cancún accommodations, 95 Los Cinco Soles, 175 Isla Cancún dining, 117 Los Flamingos Club de Golf, 247 Isla Mujeres, 137 Los Milagros (Los Cabos), 402–403 Los Cabos, 429 Los Moros de Los Pericos islands, Marina Vallarta dining, 227 298, 301 Mexico, 14–15 Los Pelicanos (Puerto Morelos), 191 Playa del Carmen, 181 Los Xitomates (Puerto Vallarta), 233 Puerto Escondido, 375 lost luggage insurance, 79 Puerto Vallarta area, 239 low season, 3, 28 Puerto Vallarta Downtown Lucy’s CuCu Cabaña and Zoo, 256 accommodations, 207 luggage, 85, 86 Puerto Vallarta Downtown dining, 229 lunch as main meal, 40 Puerto Vallarta Hotel Zone accommodations, 205 Riviera Maya, 187 • M • San José del Cabo accommodations, 397 MacClure, Chris (artist), 441 San José del Cabo dining, 417 macho culture, 47 San Miguel de Cozumel, 159 magazine, 469 Tulum ruins, 139 Magic Tropical (Huatulco), 371 Zihuatanejo and Ixtapa Mágico Mundo Marino, 339 accommodations, 273 Maguey Bay, 368 Zihuatanejo and Ixtapa area, 297 mail, 468–469 Zihuatanejo and Ixtapa dining, 289 malcajetes, 231 Mar de Sueños, 253 malecón (Puerto Vallarta), 202, 250, María Bonita (Cancún), 123 252, 261, 452 Mariachi Loco (Puerto Vallarta), 264 malls in Cancún, 147–148 mariachi music, 151, 452 Mamma Eli’s, 442 María’s Restaurant (Puerto manchamanteles, 421 Escondido), 383 Mango Tango (Cancún), 122, 151 11f_557815 bindex.qxd 6/10/04 10:12 PM Page 516

516 Mexico’s Beach Resorts For Dummies, 2nd Edition

Marietas Islands, 238 Mexico Boutique Hotels Web site, 65 Marigalante (boat), 243 Mexico City, making connection in, 59 marijuana, 456 Mexico Connect magazine Web site, 476 Marina Ixtapa, 283 Mexico Ministry of Tourism, 476 Marina Ixtapa Golf Course, 302 Mexico Tourism Board, Marina Vallarta 47, 473–474, 476 accommodations, 212, 213 mezcal, 488–489 beaches, 241 Mi Casa (Los Cabos), 420–422 map of, 227 Mi Cocina (Los Cabos), 422 nightlife, 261 Mi Parri Pollo (Acapulco), 333–334 overview of, 200–201 Michael Malone’s Hidden Voyages restaurants, 224, 226, 234 Ecotours, 385 Marina Vallarta Club de Golf, 201, 247 Micky’s No Name Café (Puerto Marine Ixtapa, 300 Vallarta), 266 Mariscos Pipo (Acapulco), 333 minibar service, 40 markets Miramar Misión Cancún Park Plaza Acapulco, 346 (Cancún), 102 Cancún, 147 Misión de los Arcos (Huatulco), Crucecita, 370 361–362 food stalls in, 487 Mobility International USA, Puerto Vallarta, 251, 252 A World of Options, 44 Santa Cruz, 370 Mocambo (Los Cabos), 422 Taxco, 347 modified American plan, 36 Zihuatanejo, 287–288, 303–304 mojo de ajo, 332 Maroma (Puerto Morelos), 184 mole sauce, 332, 460 masa, 485, 487–488 money Mascota, 258 ATMs and cash, 68–69 MasterCard ATM Locator Web site, 477 cash on hand, keeping, 188 Maya Fair Plaza/Centro Comercial credit and debit cards, 69–70, Maya Fair, 148 465–466 Mayan Palace Golf Club, 200, 343 pesos, 67–68, 466 Media Luna (Playa del Carmen), 193 stolen, 70–71 Medic Alert identification tag, 80 traveler’s checks, 70 medical emergency, dealing with, Montano, Armando (chef), 418 79–80 Monte Albán, 370 medical insurance, 79 Montezuma’s Revenge Meigas Binniguenda (Huatulco), 361 (Puerto Escondido), 389 Melía Cancún golf course, 134 Moon Palace Golf Resort, 134 Melia San Lucas (Los Cabos), 445 mopeds menú del día, 488 in Cancún, 112 menu terms, 489–491 in Cozumel, 165 Mercado Parazal (Mercado de mordida, paying, 457 Artesanías), 346 Mosaïqe, 257 Mexican tourist permit (FMT), mountain biking, 248 74, 107–108 Mr. Sancho’s (beach club), 170 Mexicana Vacations, 58 Muelle Fiscal pier, 163 Mexico Museo Arqueológico de Cancún, 145 geographical regions of, 12, 455 Museo de Arqueología de la Costa map of, 14–15 Grande, 303 retiring in, 43 Museo de la Isla de Cozumel, 175 11f_557815 bindex.qxd 6/10/04 10:12 PM Page 517

Index 517

Museo de Taxco Guillermo Nuestra Señora de la Soledad, 345 Spratling, 349 Nueva Zelanda (Zihuatanejo), 292 Museo Histórico de Acapulco, 345 Nuevo Vallarta Museo Río Cuale, 251 accommodations, 207–208, 209–210 music clubs in Puerto Vallarta, 264 beaches, 240–241 Mystic Divers, 193–194 overview of, 200 numbers, 482–483 • N • Nachi Cocom (beach club), 170 • O • Napoleonic Code of law, 82 Oaxaca, 357 national , 28 , 370 Nayarit, 200 Oaxacan cuisine, 360, 461 New Zealand, applying for passport Ocean Course at Cabo del Sol, 437 in, 77 Oh! Mar, 388 newspaper, 469 Olas Altas (Puerto Vallarta), 217, 224 NH Krystal Ixtapa (Ixtapa), 276 Old Acapulco, 310 NH Krystal Puerto Vallarta fiesta, 262 Old Man’s beach, 432 Nicklaus, Jack (golfer), courses Olmedo, Dolores, home of, 345 designed by Olvida Plaza, 346 Cozumel, 173 100% Natural Los Cabos, 435, 436, 437 Acapulco, 328 Puerto Vallarta, 247 Cancún, 116 Nick-San (Los Cabos), 422–423 One&Only Palmilla (Los Cabos), 403 night, driving at, 84, 189, 286 online, researching and booking trip, The Night of the Iguana (movie), 63–66 241–242 Open Air Expeditions, 244, 249 nightlife Orbitz Web site, 63 Acapulco, 21, 352–354 Organo Bay, 368 Cabo San Lucas, 395 Orozco (artist), 255 Cancún, 102, 149–151 cost of, 38 Cozumel, 176 • P • Huatulco, 371 Ixtapa and Zihuatanejo, 305–306 Paccolo (Zihuatanejo), 305 Los Cabos, 444–447 Pacific Travel, 259 Playa del Carmen, 196 package tours Puerto Escondido, 388–389 advantages of, 39 Puerto Vallarta, 261–266 booking, 54, 55–58 Taxco, 351 Cancún, 91, 92 Nixon, Richard (president), 319 Cozumel, 156 Noches Caribeños, 151 golf, 438 Noches Oaxaqueñas/Don Porfirio transportation costs and, 35 (Huatulco), 367 travel agent and, 52, 56 Nopala, 385 packing for trip, 85–87 Nostalgia (Ramiz Barquet), 250 Paco’s (Taxco), 351 November, 28 Paco’s Ranch (Puerto Vallarta), 266 nude beaches, 387 Palancar Reef, 171 nude sunbathing, 458 palapa, 170, 452 11f_557815 bindex.qxd 6/10/04 10:12 PM Page 518

518 Mexico’s Beach Resorts For Dummies, 2nd Edition

Palladium (Acapulco), 354 Pie de la Cuesta, 338 The Palm Video & Show Bar (Puerto Pierre Marqués golf course, 343 Vallarta), 265 PIN number, 69 Palmilla Golf Club, 436, 437 Pipis (Puerto Vallarta), 234 Panadería Francesa (Zihuatanejo), 288 Pitahayas (Los Cabos), 423 pangas (boats), hiring Places to Stay Web site, 66 for sightseeing, 238, 299 Planet Hollywood (Cancún), 151 for sport-fishing, 300, 434–435 Planeta Vegetariano (Puerto panuchos, 122 Vallarta), 224 Papaya 3 (Puerto Vallarta), 224 Planeta.com Web site, 476 Paradise Cafe (beach club), 171 planning. See also budget Paradise Plaza shopping center, 200 airfare, finding, 59–61 Paradise Village (Nuevo Vallarta), escorted and package tours, 54–58 209–210 Internet and, 53 Parador (Cancún), 102 off-peak travel and, 61 Paraíso Escondido (Puerto online, 63–66 Escondido), 377–378 travel agent and, 51–52 parasailing, 299, 340 Plantation House (Cancún), 124 Parish of Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe platillo a la huatulqueño, 366–367 church, 250–251 plato Oaxaqueño, 367 Parque de las Palapas, 151 Playa Anclote, 238 Parque Nizuc, 133 Playa Azul Golf & Beach Hotel Paseo del Pescador, 283, 303 (Cozumel), 162, 173 Paseo Díaz Ordaz (Puerto Vallarta), 217 Playa Bacocho, 384 passport Playa Barco Varado, 430 express service for, 76 Playa Barra de la Cruz, 386 lost, 78 Playa Bonita (beach club), 171 other countries, applying for in, 77 Playa Caletilla, 339, 340 overview of, 74–75 Playa Caracol, 130 renewing by mail, 76 Playa Carey, 298 U.S., applying for in, 75–76 Playa Chac-Mool, 130 Passport Express, 76 Playa Chileno, 429, 432 Peacocks (Los Cabos), 423 Playa Coral, 298 Pedialyte, 81 Playa Costa Azul, 428, 432 Pepe’s Grill (Cozumel), 169 Playa Cuachalatate, 298 Pepto-Bismol, 81 Playa del Amor, 238 Périco’s (Cancún), 123 Playa del Carmen personal accident insurance, 83 accommodations, 179, 182–183, Pesca Deportiva, 341 184–185 Pescadero, 433 diving, 194 pescadillas, 460 ferry to Cozumel from, 163 pescado sarandeado or pescado map of, 181 en talla, 460–461 nightlife, 196 pesos, 67–68, 466 overview of, 17, 177–178, 186 pets, 469 restaurants, 191–193 Pez Gato (catamaran), 431 shopping, 196 pharmacy, 469 transportation to, 186 phone, making calls on, 40, 470 Playa del Rey, 130 Picante/Bluewater Sportfishing, 434 Playa Destiladeras, 240 11f_557815 bindex.qxd 6/10/04 10:12 PM Page 519

Index 519

Playa El Medano, 430 Plaza Alvarez, 344–345 Playa el Palmar, 296 Plaza Bahía, 346 Playa Escobilla, 386 Plaza Bonita Shopping Center, 442 Playa La Angosta, 339 Plaza Borda, 347 Playa La Entrega, 368 Plaza Caracol, 148 Playa La Ropa, 271, 283, 291, 298 Plaza Condesa, 346 Playa Langosta, 128 Plaza de Toros, 344 Playa Larga, 302–303 Plaza Flamingo, 148 Playa Las Cuatas, 296 Plaza Las Glorias (Cozumel), 162 Playa Las Gatas, 283, 299 Plaza Las Glorias/El Mirador Playa Linda (Acapulco), 318–319 Cancún, 128 Pleasant Mexico Holidays, 58 Ixtapa, 283, 296 pluma coffee, 370 Playa Los Arcos Hotel & Suites poc chuc, 122, 167 (Puerto Vallarta), 210 pok-ta-pok, 143 Playa los Cerritos, 433 police, 456–457, 469 Playa Los Muertos, 202, 241 pollo almendro, 124 Playa Madera, 271, 283, 298 pollo en relleno negro, 168 Playa Maguey, 369 pollo ticuleño, 167 Playa Manzanillo, 240, 339, 384 Porto Bello (Marina Vallarta), 234 Playa Manzunte, 386–387 Posada Citlali (Zihuatanejo), 277 Playa Marin, 339 Posada de los Castillo (Taxco), 350 Playa Marinero, 378–379, 384 Posada Señor Mañana (Los Cabos), Playa Medano, 412 403–404 Playa Mismaloya, 202, 241 pozole, 327–328, 461 Playa Municipal, 296 Premier Hotel & Spa (Puerto Vallarta), Playa Norte, 135 210–211 Playa Palancar, 171 prescription medication, 80 Playa Palmilla, 428 Presidente InterContinental Playa Panteón, 387 (Los Cabos), 404, 438 Playa Piedra Blanca, 240 Presidente InterContinental Cancún, Playa Principal, 379, 384, 386 102–103 Playa Puerto Marqués, 340 pricing system, 3 Playa Quieta, 283, 296 Prima (Cozumel), 169 Playa Revolcadero, 340 proof of citizenship, 73 Playa Roqueta, 339 Pueblo la Playa, 428 Playa San Agustín, 369 Puerco Azul, 256 Playa San Francisco, 171 Puerto Angel, 386 Playa San Pedrito, 433 Puerto Angelito, 384 Playa Santa María, 429 Puerto Aventuras Playa Sol (beach club), 170 deep-sea fishing, 194–195 Playa Tangolunda, 368 dining in, 191 Playa Tortuga, 130 overview of, 188 Playa Varadero, 298 Puerto Escondido Playa Vista Hermosa, 296 accommodations, 373–374, 376–378 Playa Zicatela, 373, 379, 384 Adoquín, 373, 376, 379, 388 Playa Zipolite, 387 beaches, 384 Playacar, 177 Fast Facts, 380–381 Playacar Golf Club, 195 map of, 375 11f_557815 bindex.qxd 6/10/04 10:12 PM Page 520

520 Mexico’s Beach Resorts For Dummies, 2nd Edition

Puerto Escondido (continued) transportation in, 217–219 nightlife, 388–389 transportation to, 216 overview of, 23–24, 373 Puerto Vallarta Tourism Board and restaurants, 381–383 Convention and Visitors shopping, 388 Bureau, 475 side trips from, 385–387 pulque, 488 spa, 384–385 Punta Gorda, 432 transportation in and to, 378–379 Punta Mita, 200, 206–207 Puerto Escondido State Tourism Punta Morena (beach club), 171 Office, 475 Punta Sur Nature Park, 171 Puerto Marqués, 340, 341 Punta Venado, ferry to Cozumel Puerto Morelos from, 164 accommodations, 183–184 diving, 193–194 overview of, 186 • Q • restaurants, 191 Puerto Paraíso Entertainment Qixo Web site, 64 Plaza, 440 Querencia golf course, 437 Puerto Vallarta Querubines, 256 accessibility issues, 44–45 quesadilla, 486 accommodations, 203–213 Quesado, Armando (sculptor), 345–346 airport, 215–216 queso cotija, 486 areas of, 199–200 questions, asking, 479–480 beaches, 237–242 Quimixto beach, 202, 242 cruises, 243–244 Quinta Avenida (Playa del deep-sea fishing, 245 Carmen), 178 diving, 244–245 Quinta María Cortez (Puerto eco-tours, 249–250 Vallarta), 211 El Centro Vallarta, 201–202 Quinta Real (Huatulco), 362 Fast Facts, 219–222 golf, 246–247 horseback riding, 248–249 • R • Hotel Zone, 201 rack rate, 34 malecón, 202, 250, 252, 261, 452 Radisson Hacienda (Cancún), 103 maps of, 205, 207, 229, 239 rahmschnitzel, 232 Marina Vallarta, 200–201 raicilla, 260 mountain biking and hiking, 248 rainy season, 27 nightlife, 261–266 rajas con queso, 461 Nuevo Vallarta and northern Rancho Altamira, 249 coast, 200 Rancho Collins, 439 overview of, 18–19, 199 Rancho El Charro, 249 restaurants, 223–235 Rancho Loma Bonita, 134–135 shopping, 252–257 Rancho Ojo de Agua, 249 side trips from, 257–260 Rancho Palma Real, 248 sightseeing, 250–251 Rancho Palmitas, 173 skiing and surfing, 244 Rancho Playa Linda, 302 southern shore, 202–203 Rancho Punta Venado, 195 State of Jalisco Tourism Office, 475 Rancho Taxco Victoria (Taxco), 350 tennis, 248 11f_557815 bindex.qxd 6/10/04 10:12 PM Page 521

Index 521

The Raven Club golf course, taxi driver recommendations for, 218 436, 437–438 tipping in, 488 Rayos X (Puerto Escondido), 389 Tulum, 191 recompression chambers in ¡Viva Mexico! icon, 36 Cozumel, 166 waiter, summoning, 488 reefs Zihuatanejo, 290, 291, 292 Cozumel, 171 restrooms, 469 Gran Arrecife Maya (Great retablos, 256 Mesoamerican Reef), 131, 132 retiring in Mexico, 43 renewing passport by mail, 76 Rhythms of the Night, 262 rental accommodations. See Rick’s Sportfishing Center, 194–195 apartment, renting; condo; villa Río Cuale, 202, 209, 217 renting car. See also driving safety Rito’s Baci (Puerto Vallarta), 234–235 in Acapulco, 324 Ritz-Carlton Cancún (Cancún), 103–104 agencies for, 472 Rivera, Diego (artist), 230, 255, 345 in Cancún, 109 Riviera Maya. See also Playa del in Cozumel, 165 Carmen; Tres Rios; Tulum gas and, 188 (archaeological site); Xcaret; in Huatulco, 363 Xel-Ha in Los Cabos, 394, 409–410, 411–412 accommodations, 178–180 overview of, 35, 82–84 diving, 193–194 in Puerto Vallarta, 218–219 Fast Facts, 189–190 renting jeep, 458 horseback riding, 195 resort, 62 map of, 187 The Restaurant (Los Cabos), 423–424 overview of, 17–18, 177–178 Restaurant Santa Fe (Puerto restaurants, 190–191 Escondido), 383 tennis, 195 Restaurante Ethel (Taxco), 351 tours, 195 restaurants transportation in, 189 Acapulco, 327–334 transportation to, 186 Akumal, 191 Rockaway Surfer Village authentic, finding, 487 (Puerto Escondido), 378 Bucerías, 240 Rolandi’s Pizza (Cancún), 124 budget for, 36–37 Romeike, Volker (chef), 423 Cancún, 115, 116 room service, 40 Ciudad Cancún, 115 Rosa Mexicana (Cancún), 124–125 Cozumel, 167–169 Rotonda del Mar (Alejandro Huatulco, 366–368 Colunga), 250 Ixtapa, 288, 290–291, 292–293 Ruben’s (Ixtapa), 292–293 Los Cabos, 415–425 Ruinas del Rey, 138, 140 lunch as main meal, 40 ruins (archeological sites) Marina Vallarta, 224, 226, 234 near Cancún, 138 menu terms, 489–491 Chichén-Itzá, 140, 141 Playa del Carmen, 191–193 Ruinas del Rey, 138, 140 pricing system, 3 San Gervasio, 164, 170, 174–175 Puerto Escondido, 381–383 Tulum, 138–140 Puerto Vallarta, 223–235 Xel-Ha, 145 Riviera Maya, 190–191 Ruth’s Chris Steak House Spanish phrases for, 481 (Los Cabos), 440 Taxco, 350–351 11f_557815 bindex.qxd 6/10/04 10:12 PM Page 522

522 Mexico’s Beach Resorts For Dummies, 2nd Edition

Santa Prisca (Taxco), 350 • S • Santa Prisca y San Sebastián Church, 347, 348 Safari Accents, 256 Santa Rosa Wall, 171 safety. See also swimming safety Savio’s (Cancún), 125 in Acapulco, 325 SAX, 441 in Cancún, 109, 114 Scuba Cancún, 131 condoms and, 82 scuba diving in Huatulco, 365 Acapulco, 341 in Ixtapa and Zihuatanejo, 285–286 Akumal, 194 overview of, 2, 469–470 Cancún, 131–132 in Puerto Escondido, 380 cost for, 38 in Puerto Vallarta, 218, 221 Cozumel, 16, 156, 171–172 when driving, 84, 189, 285–286 Ixtapa and Zihuatanejo, 299–300 SAGA International Holidays, 43 Los Cabos, 429–430, 433–434 Sail Vallarta, 245 Playa del Carmen, 194 sailing in Puerto Vallarta, 245 Puerto Escondido, 385–386 Salon Q (Acapulco), 354 Puerto Vallarta, 243, 244–245 San Agustinillo, 369 recompression chambers in San Blas, 249 Cozumel, 166 San Francisco Reef, 171 Riviera Maya, 193–194 San Gervasio, 164, 170, 174–175 Sea Kayak Adventures, 432 San José del Cabo sea kayaking, 299, 432 accommodations, 398, 400, Sea of Cortez, 427–428 403–404, 405 sea turtles, 386–387, 438 beaches, 428 seasons, 28 golf, 437 Seawalker, 143 maps of, 397, 417 Semana Santa (Holy Week), 30 nightlife, 444 senior travelers, 42–43 overview of, 24, 393, 394 Señor Frog’s restaurants, 415, 418, 420, 422, 424 Cozumel, 176 shopping, 440 Ixtapa, 306 zones in, 410 Playa del Carmen, 196 San Lucas Bay, 433 Puerto Vallarta, 261, 265 San Miguel de Cozumel The Sets of The Night of the Iguana accommodations, 156 Restaurant (Puerto Vallarta), 242 description of, 16, 164 Shangri-La Caribe (Playa del map of, 159 Carmen), 184 transportation in, 165 shopping. See also markets San Sebastián, 258–259 Acapulco, 346–347 Sanborn Tours, 43 budget for, 38 Sanborn’s, 346–347 Cancún, 147–148 Sancho Panza Wine Bar and Bistro Cozumel, 175 (Los Cabos), 444–445, 446 Crucecita, 369–370 Santa Cruz duty-free, 78 accommodations, 361 Ixtapa and Zihuatanejo, 303–304 beaches, 368 Los Cabos, 440–442 overview of, 358, 364 Nuevo Vallarta, 200 restaurants, 366–367 Playa del Carmen, 196 shopping, 370 11f_557815 bindex.qxd 6/10/04 10:12 PM Page 523

Index 523

Puerto Escondido, 388 Solmar Suites (Los Cabos), 405, 445 Puerto Vallarta, 252–257 solo, traveling, 46–47 Spanish phrases for, 482 sombrero, 456 Shotover Jet, 341 Son y la Rumba (Puerto shrimp dishes, 40, 115 Escondido), 389 shuttles in Los Cabos, 411 Sotavento Beach Resort Sian Ka’an Biosphere, 178, 195 (Zihuatanejo), 277 Sian Ka’an Tours, 195 Sotavento Restaurante Bar Galería side trips (Taxco), 351 from Acapulco, 347–351 Spa del Mar (Cancún), 101 from Huatulco, 370 spas from Ixtapa, 304–305 Cancún, 101 in Los Cabos, 442–444 Puerto Escondido, 384–385 from Puerto Escondido, 385–387 Puerto Vallarta, 210–211, 249 from Puerto Vallarta, 257–260 special event calendar, 28–31, 413–414 Sierra Madre Expedition tour, 249 Spicey (Acapulco), 334 siesta, 456 Split Coco (Puerto Escondido), 389 Siesta Suites (Los Cabos), 404 sport-fishing sightseeing Acapulco, 341–342 Acapulco, 344–346 Cancún, 133 Cancún, 145–146 catch and release, 435 Cozumel, 173–175 cost of, 38 Crucecita, 369 Cozumel, 173 Ixtapa and Zihuatanejo, 303 Ixtapa and Zihuatanejo, 300 Los Cabos, 439 Los Cabos, 25, 434–435 Puerto Vallarta, 250–251 Puerto Aventuras, 194–195 Taxco, 348–349 Puerto Escondido, 386 tours, 37 Puerto Vallarta, 245 silver jewelry, 252, 347–348 tipping captain of boat, 300 Silver Museum, 349 Sportours, 438 Site59.com Web site, 64 Spratling, William (collector), 349 skiing spring break, 28 Acapulco, 340 spring equinox, 29–30 Cancún, 130–131 Squid Roe (Los Cabos), 416, 445–446 Ixtapa and Zihuatanejo, 299 STA Travel, 60 Puerto Vallarta, 244 Stefano’s (Cancún), 125 snorkeling Su Casa/La Margarita (Acapulco), 334 Acapulco, 341 Subsee Explorer, 132, 173 Cancún, 132 suitcase, 85 Cozumel, 172 summer season, 3 Isla Ixtapa, 298 Sun Palace (Cancún), 104 Ixtapa and Zihuatanejo, 300 sunburn, 81 Los Cabos, 429–430, 433–434 sunset sail, 451–452 Puerto Escondido, 387 sunset-watching Puerto Vallarta, 243 cocktail and, 452 Riviera Maya, 194 Los Cabos, 445 snuba, 145 Puerto Escondido, 388–389 Society for Accessible Travel and Super Chomak grocery store, 191 Hospitality, 45 11f_557815 bindex.qxd 6/10/04 10:12 PM Page 524

524 Mexico’s Beach Resorts For Dummies, 2nd Edition

surfing taxis Acapulco, 340 Acapulco, 322, 323 Cancún, 130–131 Cancún, 108–109, 111 Ixtapa and Zihuatanejo, 299 Cozumel, 165 Los Cabos, 428, 432–433 Huatulco, 363, 364 Puerto Escondido, 373, 384 Ixtapa and Zihuatanejo, 284 Puerto Vallarta, 238, 244 Los Cabos, 411 swimming safety overview of, 35 Acapulco, 325, 338 Puerto Escondido, 387 Cancún, 114, 128 Puerto Vallarta, 216, 217–218 cleanliness of water, 21, 338, 339 restaurant recommendations Cozumel, 171 and, 218 Ixtapa, 295, 296 tipping and, 37 Los Cabos, 412, 430 water taxis, 219, 298 pennant system, 128 Taylor, Elizabeth (actress), 251, 319 swimming with dolphins telephone, making calls on, 40, 470 Acapulco, 342 temascal, 184 Cancún, 133 temperature, 27–28 Cozumel, 174 tennis Puerto Vallarta, 246 Acapulco, 343 Xcaret, 143 Cancún, 134 Xel-Ha, 145 Huatulco, 369 Ixtapa, 302 Los Cabos, 438 • T • Puerto Vallarta, 248 Riviera Maya, 195 T. Fuller Gallery, 255 tequila Tabu (Acapulco), 353 buying, 257 taco, 486 drinking, 457 tacos al pastor, 461 origins of, 488–489 Tales of Retirement in Paradise Tequila (Los Cabos), 424 (Polly Vicars), 43 Tequila (town), 257–258 Talpa de Allende, 258–259 Terminal Marítima, 219 tamales, 461, 486–487 Terra Noble Spa Art and Healing Tamaral, Nicolás (missionary), 439 Center, 249 Tangolunda Bay tikin xik fish, 121, 192, 461 accommodations, 360–361, 362 time zone, 470 overview of, 358, 364 timeshare sales restaurants, 367 in Cozumel, 175, 196 Tank-Ha Dive Center, 194 in Ixtapa and Zihuatanejo, 285 taquería, 485, 487 jeep rental and, 458 Taxco in Los Cabos, 408 accommodations, 349–350 in Puerto Vallarta, 216, 218 nightlife, 351 Tio Sports, 439 overview of, 347–348 tipping restaurants, 350–351 captain of fishing boat, 300 sightseeing, 348–349 overview of, 37, 470 transportation to, 348 in restaurants, 115, 488 taxes, 38, 470 U.S. $1 bill and, 68 Titita, Carmen (chef), 225 11f_557815 bindex.qxd 6/10/04 10:12 PM Page 525

Index 525

Tlaquepaque, 249 Spanish phrases for, 483–484 Todos Santos, 433, 442–444 to Taxco, 348 toll-free (800) number, dialing, 71 Transportes Terrestres Tonalá, 249 Acapulco, 322 Toni’s (Taxco), 351 Cozumel, 163 tortillas, 485–486, 487–488 Huatulco, 363 Tostado’s Grill (Huatulco), 367–368 Ixtapa and Zihuatanejo, 282–283 tourist information, 468, 473–477 Puerto Escondido, 378 tours. See also eco-tours; package Puerto Vallarta, 216 tours travel agent ATV jungle, 135 advantages of working with, 52 Bar Crawl, 149 all-inclusive accommodations canopy, 249–250 and, 179 Coyuca Lagoon, 338 and, 52, 56 Cozumel, 173 snorkeling or diving trip and, 170 escorted, 54–55 working with, 53–54 Los Cabos, 438–439 Travel Companion Exchange, 46 Puerto Escondido, 385–386 , 79 Puerto Vallarta, 251 Travel Secrets Web site, 477 Riviera Maya, 195 Travel with Your Kids Web site, 42 Sian Ka’an preserve, 195 traveler’s checks, 70 sightseeing, 37 Travelocity Web site, 63 traveler with disability, 45 TravelWeb (Web site), 66 Traditions, 444 Treetops (Playa del Carmen), 184–185 transportation. See also specific modes Tres Palos Lagoon, 340 in Acapulco, 322–324 Tres Rios, 142–143, 186 to Acapulco, 321–322 Tres Vidas Golf Club, 343 budget for, 35 trimaran, 301 in Cancún, 110–112 Trio (Puerto Vallarta), 235 from Cancún airport, 108–109 trip-cancellation insurance, 79 to Cozumel, 163–164 TriStar (trimaran), 301 in Huatulco, 364 Troncones, 304–305 to Huatulco, 362–363 Tropicana Bar and Grill (Los Cabos), to Isla Mujeres, 135 424, 444, 446 in Ixtapa and Zihuatanejo, 283–284 Tropicana Inn (Los Cabos), 405 to Ixtapa and Zihuatanejo, 281–283 Tukari Tours, 249 in Los Cabos, 409–411 Tulum (archaeological site), to Los Cabos, 407–408 138–140, 453 to north-shore beaches of Puerto Tulum (city) Vallarta, 238 accommodations, 179, 180–181, 185 to Nuevo Vallarta, 240 overview of, 178, 188 to Playa del Carmen, 186 restaurants, 191 public, 39 Turismo Dimar , 378, 385 in and to Puerto Escondido, 378–379 turista, avoiding, 80–81 in Puerto Vallarta, 217–219 Turtle Bay Café and Bakery to Puerto Vallarta, 216 (Akumal), 191 in Riviera Maya, 189 Turtle Museum, 386 to Riviera Maya, 186 turtles, sea, 386–387, 438 in San Miguel de Cozumel, 165 Tutifruti (Puerto Vallarta), 224 2travel.com Web site, 56 11f_557815 bindex.qxd 6/10/04 10:12 PM Page 526

526 Mexico’s Beach Resorts For Dummies, 2nd Edition

Villa de la Selva (Ixtapa), 293 • U • Villa del Sol (Zihuatanejo), 277–278 Villa Vera Beach Club, 240 UltraFemme, 147 Villa Vera Hotel, Spa, and Recquet Ultramar, 163 Club (Acapulco), 319 Un Tigre Azul, 388 Villa Vera Puerto Mio (Zihuatanejo), undertow. See swimming safety 278–279 United Kingdom, applying for passport Villas Miramar (Zihuatanejo), 279 in, 77 Villas San Sebastián (Zihuatanejo), 279 Universal Currency Converter Virgin of Guadalupe, 345–346 Web site, 477 VirtualVallarta Web site, 202 US Airways Vacations, 58 Visa ATM Locator Web site, 477 U.S. customs, 78 Visit Cabo Web site, 447 U.S. Customs & Border Protection Vista Vallarta Golf Club, 247 Web site, 78 Viva, 257 U.S. State Department Bureau of Viva Mexico (Cozumel), 175, 176 Consular Affairs, 74, 474 ¡Viva Mexico! icon, 36 Viva Zapatos, 304 Von Hagge, Robert (golf course • V • designer), 195, 247 Vacation Hotline Web site, 57 Vallarta Adventures Caletas day trip, 243 • W • canopy tour, 249–250 wallet, stolen, 70–71 diving, 244–245 water headquarters of, 246 bottled, 40 Rhythms of the Night fiesta, 262 cleanliness of, 21, 338, 339 Tequila trip, 257 drinking, 80–81, 457, 470 whale-watching, 244 water activities. See diving; snorkeling; value-added tax, 38, 470 surfing; swimming safety; vegetarian restaurants in Puerto swimming with dolphins Vallarta, 224 water park, 339, 342 Velas Vallarta Suite Resort water taxis, 219, 298 (Marina Vallarta), 212 water-safety pennant system, 128 vendors weather on public beaches, 453 Los Cabos, 412 in Puerto Vallarta, 252, 260 overview of, 27–28, 455 Verana (Yelapa), 212–213, 260 Puerto Vallarta, 220 Vicars, Polly, Tales of Retirement Web sites in Paradise, 43 air evacuation, 80 Victor’s Sportfishing, 435 airlines, 59 viga, 275 ATM networks, 68 villa Cancún, 110 in Cozumel, 157 Cancún Hideaways, 92 in Puerto Vallarta, 202 car rental, 83–84 renting, 62, 92 Centers for Disease Control, 474 on Riviera Maya, 179 consolidators, 60 Villa Catarina Rooms and Cabañas family travel, 42 (Playa del Carmen), 185 11f_557815 bindex.qxd 6/10/04 10:12 PM Page 527

Index 527

Frommer’s, 53 Yelapa gay and lesbian travelers, 45–46 accommodations, 212–213 hotel chains, 65 beaches, 242 local tourist information offices, overview of, 202 474–475 visiting, 259–260 Los Cabos and Baja, 447 Yelapa Yacht Club, 260 Medic Alert Foundation, 80 Yucab Reef, 171 Mexico Tourism Board, 47, 473–474 Yucatán Peninsula, 13 package tour, 56–57 Yucatech Expeditions, 172 Passport Express, 76 senior travel, 43 travel, 63, 477 • Z • travel insurance, 79 travel to Mexico, 476 Zamas (Tulum), 185 traveler with disability, 44, 45 zapote negro, 332 U.S. Customs & Border Protection, 78 Zermatt (Cozumel), 167 U.S. State Department Bureau of Zihuatanejo Consular Affairs, 74, 474 accommodations, 270–272, 274–275, wedding, planning in Mexico, 47 277–279 Weiskopf, Tom (golfer), 437 beaches, 295–296, 298–299 Wentworth Porter, Dennis (artist), cruises from, 300 440–441 diving and snorkeling, 299–300 Westin Regina (Los Cabos), 405–406 Fast Facts, 284–286 Westin Regina Cancún, 104–105 fishing, 300 Westin Regina Resort (Marina Ixtapa, 303–304 Vallarta), 213 maps of, 273, 289, 297 Whale Watcher’s Bar (Los Cabos), 445 nightlife, 305–306 whale-watching overview of, 19–20, 269–270 Los Cabos, 431–432, 453 Paseo del Pescador, 303 Puerto Vallarta, 238, 244, 453 restaurants, 290, 291, 292 wholesaler, 52 seaside walkway, 452 Windows (Taxco), 351 skiing and surfing, 299 woman, traveling alone, 46–47 transportation in, 283–284 A World of Options (Mobility transportation to, 281–283 International USA), 44 Zihuatanejo Scuba Center, 299, 300 Zihuatanejo Tourism Office, 475 Zipper’s (Los Cabos), 425 Zippers beach, 432 • X • zócalo, 310, 344–345 Xcaret, 136, 143–144, 188 Zona Hotelera Xel-Ha, 144–145, 188 Acapulco, 310 Xpu-Ha, 180, 188 Cancún, 92, 110–112 Xpu-Ha Palace (Riviera Maya), 180 Ixtapa and Zihuatanejo, 284 xtabentun, 121 Puerto Vallarta, 201 San José del Cabo, 395 Zona Romántica (Puerto Vallarta), 224 • Y • Zoo (Puerto Vallarta), 265 Zucca (Acapulco), 354 yarn paintings, 254 Yaxché (Playa del Carmen), 193 11f_557815 bindex.qxd 6/10/04 10:12 PM Page 528

528 Mexico’s Beach Resorts For Dummies, 2nd Edition