Sirpi.org

When traveling to Mexico for a vacation, it is good to be mindful that you are in a foreign country and that some areas may not be as safe and secure as your hometown. While most of Mexico is very safe for visitors, you should always be proactive in protecting yourself and your property while traveling. Hotel employees, tour operators, taxi drivers and others involved in the tourist industry have their best interests invested in keeping you safe and secure, but there are always those who may take advantage.

When walking in public markets and shopping areas, it is always best to keep a low profile while at the same time appearing confident. Walk with a sense of purpose and avoid looking lost, even if you are, as this will be a signal to unscrupulous types that you might be an easy mark. Don’t wear eye-catching jewelry or flash a lot of cash for the same reason. A middle-class look will work best as it doesn’t stand out as much, but still elicits respect. If you appear to be intoxicated, sick, tired, or physically weak you may become targeted for foul play.

(more…)

Most of us have heard of Puerto Vallarta and it may bring images to our minds of tropical scenes and exotic travels. Maybe we remember that this was where the Love Boat made a stop once a week. But there may be a question as to what attractions and activities can be found in this coastal Mexican city.

Puerto Vallarta is located on the West Coast of Mexico, south of the Baja Peninsula. The weather all year round is beautiful and the cost of living is low, which may be why over 20,000 Americans own vacation homes there.

Puerto Vallarta may be best know as the location for the 1963 movie “Night of the Iguana” starring Richard Burton and Ava Gardner. Actually, most of it was filmed a few minutes drive down the coast in Mismayola, but walking tours can point out buildings in town where Burton stayed and had his affair (or one of his marriages with Elizabeth Taylor. - Who can keep track?) The U.S. media gave a lot of attention to the couple and to all the infighting among director John Huston and the film’s stars and the publicity put Puerto Vallarta on the map. Today, most bus and walking tours will make some mention of the film and point out applicable sights of interest.

(more…)

If you are thinking about planning a golf vacation to Mexico you are not alone. Mexico is the world’s number two golf destination for U.S. golfers. And Mexico is planning on taking the number one spot away from Hawaii as soon as it can. At the rate they are going it probably won’t be too long before they realize their goal. The country is diverse geographically and there are gorgeous courses located throughout Mexico.

The best time to visit might be before or after the rainy season, which is from June through September. Nevertheless, most of the courses you will encounter are well made and will drain quite well. And since it usually rains in the afternoon you can avoid the heavy downpours by booking morning tee times. Mornings are the best time to golf in Mexico anyway because of the heat. Additionally, if you travel during the low season you can save hundreds in lower hotel rates and greens fees.

(more…)