Mazatlan

[wheatsailor]

I'll be heading to Mazatlan in about 10 days for a week. Anyone been there lately and have some ideas. A friend got a deal on a 3 bedroom suite at the Pueblo Bonito at Emerald Bay. Having never been to Mexico, I haven't a clue.

[BigR-KyParrothead]

never been to mazatlan, but loooove mexico

[Pepe T. Pirate]

My friends and I were staying at the Mazatlan Pueblo Bonito 4 years ago and we were offered a come-on we couldn't refuse - so I've actually "toured" the Emerald Bay condo property! It's pretty far out of town and 4 years ago, the scene there was pretty sleepy (they were still working on the golf course)......but it's beautiful, tranquil and the suites are amazing. The beach and pool were beautiful. See how it feels when you get there - my feeling is that unless there's a hotel shuttle into town, you may want to rent a car. Four years ago, it was pretty isolated there and public transportation would have been sketchy. Taxis would have cost bucks.

You say you've never been to Mexico......you are going to want to head to the old part of town and walk around in the market (gotta see the pigs heads!), admire the architecture and galleries in the colonial area, walk along the Malecon in the older Olas Altas area, and people-watch in the square across from the cathedral. For a true Margaritaville experience, take the bus or a cab to the harbor and catch a small boat (less than $10 RT) across to Isla de la Piedra. No ATMs on the island, so bring $ and your beach stuff. There are about 20 palapa restaurants built on the sand - hammocks, strolling mariachi bands, horses for rent, fresh fish, all the good stuff. Have fun!

[Pepe T. Pirate]

PS!
Great view from the rooftop pool area at Hotel Freeman on the malecon at Olas Altas.

[wheatsailor]

Thanks for the info Pepe, we will make the best use of your suggestions.

[wheatsailor]

This is a really nice place. Somehow we got bumped up to a villa. I am getting so spoiled. Golf course still being worked on. More later.

[Pepe T. Pirate]

A villa? Sounds pretty amazing....you'll never leave the place now!
Don't forget Isla de la Piedra - not a villa in sight, but you'll have lots of fun!
Ah, sometimes the rest of us have to live vicariously! Thanks for the update!

Pepe