Puerto Vallarta

It was overcast this morning as we arrived in Puerto Vallarta, but warm and humid.  Two other ships in so along with the Christmas vacation tourists staying in town it’s very busy! 5 of us took a taxi in to downtown. Some confusion over price, we thought it should be $20.00 to $25.00 and it ended up $30.00 They have really fixed up the waterfront area with a lovely Malacon making it easy to walk along with out traffic. Very crowded today though. We walked over as far as the Marsol, the hotel we stayed at in 1985. Don’t know if I would stay there today! Lots of Mexican families on the Los Muertos beach, and all restaurants looked pretty full.  We walked through the marketplace along the river, lots of nice things but we weren’t in a shopping mood. We headed back to the ship for a late lunch and a relaxing afternoon to get ready for the Gala New Years Eve. Alan, Rowena , Jenya & Iyla were doing an all day excursion to  Yelapa & Majahuitas so we’ll hear about that when they get back.

Mazatlan Sunset

 Everyone else went to the old historic downtown of Mazatlan. They had it very well organized for tourists, with many blue shirt volunteers to answer questions. There is a historic blue route marked for walking in, about a half hour walk. Jenya & Iyla were very impressed by the cow and pig heads in the market. Mom Karen & Aaron had a very good late lunch of shrimp, a specialty of Mazatlan. The Nordin/Vincents went to the beach as well, and Iyla did some bodysurfing.

Once again there was a beautiful sunset for sailaway. Only 4 of us made it to the dining room for dinner, everyone else was too tired or getting up early. 3 of us did make it to the Rat Pack tribute show.