I Love Mexican Vacations

Mexico is known for a lot of things, and one of them is the beach. There are several Grupo Mayan resorts that you can choose from, offering not only a good view of the sea but also an opportunity to enjoy countless water sports activities. However, even if most of these Grupo Mayan beaches are relatively safe—they do have their own life guards—your safety still remains your primary responsibility and priority.

To make sure that you can really have an enjoyable and safe trip to Mexico, take note of the following suggestions:

1. Practice swimming. A life vest can only do so much for you. You may have to learn the basics of swimming before you try to hit the waters. If not, ensure that you have a companion who can watch out for you as you wade yourself through the Grupo Mayan sea. You should also avoid going far from the sea shore, especially if the area is known to be a surfing paradise. The big waves may just bring you a lot farther, and you can be in big trouble.

2. Swim if there’s a life guard. Even if you know how to swim, there are still accidents that can possibly happen. Some of them can occur when you’re not in the waters. The risks for further complications are lower and chances of being safe are higher if there’s a life guard around.

3. Follow the rules. Every Grupo Mayan beach resort has its own set of rules that you have to obey at all times. They are not only meant to enforce discipline, but they are also created to keep their guests safe when they are already in the beach. Thus, if the policy says that children below 4 feet should not be allowed to swim, then by all means stick with it.

4. Check on the weather forecast. There are only few who would take the time to verify the weather for the day, but they don’t know that doing so can save their lives and even energy. How many times have you actually gone out to the Grupo Mayan beach, only to realize that the waves are just too big for you to handle? You can surf the Internet when you need more information about the wind currents and gales.

5. Protect yourself. You are going to be traveling into the unchartered waters. You cannot definitely determine what is waiting for you once you are already underneath the water. Thus, protect yourself as much as possible. You can wear goggles, so you can clearly see what’s underneath. You may also have to wear comfortable slippers to avoid hurting your feet with pointed rocks or sea urchins that could be lingering in the sea bed.

6. Take note of rip currents. Rip currents are strong and can take you very far from the shore. However, there’s no use in panicking. You will only make matters worse. What you can do is to go with the flow until you will be completely out of the current. Then immediately swim toward the shore. If you feel like you need help, shout for one or wave your hand.

irinaM
http://www.articlesbase.com/travel-articles/great-safety-tips-when-in-a-mexico-beach-738780.html

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Our Little community of rocky point has experienced an incredible ride. It has become known internationally as a tourist destination that will continue to develop into the future. The majority of the impressive growth has been led by the sales of condos, single family homes, and even raw land. There are several strong indicators that the positive growth cycle will continue, placing us on even more radar screens. Simply ponder the amount of time and money put into studying growth trends; market futures; and touristic patterns, by any major hotel group when looking to invest millions in a new destination market. Now think about these researchers representing the Marriott hotel group. The Marriott Penasco Bay is a 28 story 265 room four diamond resort. This is such a huge statement as they obviously didn´t choose Puerto Penasco overnight, or without knowing something. The feasibility analysis done by an empire like Marriott looks into so many aspects of the demands of seasoned first class travelers, that if Penasco was not positioned for stardom we would not see their logo on our horizon.

Another impressive indicator of international success is the selection of Rocky Point has a major home port for several large cruise ship companies. Representatives from cruise lines like Holland America, Princess and Carnival have all been here, and Mexico´s federal government has approved Rocky Point as a major hub in a joint effort as the result of many discussions among the experts. We have been receiving a lot of attention from the leaders of Mexico and many of Mexico´s most prominent investors. Obviously now, investors from all over the world have been watching Puerto Peñasco, Mexico.

Studies indicate that the future looks bright here because Rocky Point sits less than four hours from several major U.S. metropolitan areas with proven retirement markets. Take the similar climate to those already respected, retirement magnates add our beautiful beaches and lower cost of living and one starts to see where the excitement is coming from. The huge number of soon to be retirees speak volumes in terms of future demand. This group of over 25,000 people a year is an astounding number looking to retire. Between now and 2025, there will be a baby boomer retiring every 16 seconds. While 2030 will be the peak year of boomer retirement, the first year of baby boomers (born in 1946) turn 62 this year; many of which are now retiring and taking advantage of a record level of leisure income. Many of these people will look to the beaches of Mexico to spend their golden years. The draw of rocky Point is that it is one of the few superb beachfront markets that will support both drive-in traffic and air travelers. There are many dynamics of this that will lead to a surge in retirees. To many, the close proximity to large U.S. cities, where they can go to monthly appointments or various hometown cultural events is important. The airlines will allow other family and friends ease of access. Many have already discovered that while the healthcare system in U.S. continues to struggle, Mexico´s healthcare is rapidly accelerating into one worth the trip south. One can expect the advances in Mexico´s healthcare to continually draw visitors south more and more. With insurance providers now servicing so many from the north, more large companies will enter the market, and the cycle here will continue to expand as the international audience grows.

About ten years ago there were no condo projects with more than 100 units. In 2000 there was only one project of any large scale. This all changed, and now Sandy Beach alone has about 3,000 condos sold, and over 30 condo towers have been completed. The feeding frenzy was wild and we enjoyed a great cycle as the town morphed itself into a resort destination. Then, because the economic situation affecting so many investors, we shifted into a buyer´s market. It would be irresponsible to say that the correction period has fully completed its course as no one has found that crystal ball yet. It would however be safe to say with confidence that there are some great bargains to be found in the Rocky Point area. Plain and simple, there are people that need out. Much like the buyer´s market sought after by successful investors in so many U.S. communities, we are ripe for the next phase of our cycle. There are properties in every market segment that are priced many thousands of dollars below the ¨List Prices¨. You just have to know how to find those bargains. It truly does come down to representation. Who is representing you? In Mexico, like in the United States, there is a National Association of Realtors. In the last few years we have come along way in regards to communication, ethical practices and working on the development of an MLS system. It is because of this and our mandate that all of our members are licensed, that we have been welcomed into NAR, the same international organization you would likely seek for representation in the U.S. In order to truly guarantee satisfactory representation you need to secure the representation of an AMPI professional. AMPI agents are NAR Realtors, registered at the state level, and are the only real estate association endorsed by the federal government.

Historically, Rocky Point Real Estate is one of the safest investments you can make as it is scarce by nature. No more land will be created. Even more scarce is land found near the beach. This is way in the long term, Rocky Point is destined to be an international real estate success story, and the big money is already starting to see the opportunity.

There are new improved mortgage money programs with reasonable rates allowing people to take advantage of the current opportunities. Some people are turning self directed IRAs into real estate investments in and around Rocky Point. Others have chosen to split ownership on properties with friends, family members or other investment groups. There are even reverse mortgages out there allowing homeowners to simply turn equity from one home into equity in another. If one truly wants an investment that they can enjoy Puerto Peñasco is certainly a worthy alternative to the less than predictable stock market.

Within a year, an international airport will be open in Rocky Point and a new costal highway will extend south and east from Tijuana , through Rocky Point, to beyond Guaymas. These geographic factors alone will bring many thousands of new visitors to this area, and a profound positive influence on the economy. Rocky Point is a great place for anyone interested in owning a second home or a secure investment that allows one to stay at and enjoying their portfolio.

Author: RealtyExecutives Mexico

Steve Schwab
http://www.articlesbase.com/real-estate-articles/major-indicators-bright-future-of-puerto-penasco-717924.html

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Following professional soccer player Ethan Zohn on another global adventure, this entertaining and educational handbook explores the cultures and customs of Mexico. From a walking tour of Mexico City and visits to the ruins of the country s ancient civilizations to a once-in-a-lifetime butterfly migration sanctuary and colorful Lucha Libre wrestling, this investigation explores the real Mexico, avoiding the commonplace tourist traps and border towns. Activities presented in each chapter include learning Spanish, science and math projects based on Mayan cultures, creative writing and art exercises inspired by Mexican folk art and celebrations, and even simple traditional recipes. Staying true to its series, this installation provides the opportunity to research a charitable project in Mexico and make a difference in this wonderful country.

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Any traveler would know that moving to another place even for a short time can be pretty expensive. You don’t only have to think about your travel expenses, but you must also be mindful when it comes to your accommodation, not to mention food and perhaps souvenirs that you have to buy for your families and friends left back home. But there are ways on how to cut back on costs even if you’re in one of the tourist-infested countries like Mexico:

1. Travel by bus. There are a lot of taxicabs in the cities, and you can rent a car. But you can save hundreds of pesos if you travel by bus. There are also countless of them plying in the area, and they can still take you to your desired destination. Moreover, they are the cheapest mode of transport. You don’t have to worry of your safety, as they are actually one of the safest that you can find. They are also very stable.

2. Choose where to dine. When you’re in Mexico, you can’t definitely miss out on dinners and lunches with real Mexican cuisine, but they can also be costly, especially if you’re going to eat in fancy restaurants. You can scrimp on your food, though, if you will settle for cafes and street foods. There are also hotels like Grupo Mayan that can offer complementary breakfasts to their guests, and that means you’re already saving money even for just one meal.

3. Create a plan and stick to it. It’s also essential that even before you reach Mexico, you already have a good plan as to where to go, where to stay, and how much you would likely spend on your entire trip. This way, you can prevent yourself from going overboard. You may also want to keep your credit cards somewhere else unless you need it badly. Keep in mind that every time you use it, you’re going to pay for the interest.

4. Select your hotel wisely. Grupo Mayan hotels can be more expensive than inns and motels, but you can make use of their amenities for free or at very low prices. These include fitness centers, swimming pools, spas, saunas, and a lot more. You can also take advantage of its security features.

5. Travel with a friend. It’s always best to visit another country like Mexico with someone else, since it removes the boredom, and you can share the costs. For example, instead of spending a hundred dollars for your gasoline, you can just dish out half of it. You can also afford to settle for a more comfortable accommodation like Grupo Mayan as well as even rent a car, which can take you to a lot of places without having to move from one transport to another. 

6. Shop in bazaars. When you need to bring some souvenirs to friends, you better shop at flea markets and their bazaars, since prices are not only very affordable, but you can actually haggle for them.

irinaM
http://www.articlesbase.com/travel-articles/6-best-methods-to-minimize-your-mexican-travel-expenses-694267.html

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Humor in translation – Mistranslations

v When Kentucky Fried Chicken entered the Chinese market, to their horror they discovered that their slogan “finger lickin’ good” came out as “eat your fingers off”

v Chinese translation also proved difficult for Coke, which took two tries to get it right. They first tried Ke-kou-ke-la because when pronounced it sounded roughly like Coca-Cola. It wasn’t until after thousands of signs had been printed that they discovered that the phrase means “bite the wax tadpole” or “female horse stuffed with wax”, depending on the dialect. Second time around things worked out much better. After researching 40,000 Chinese characters, Coke came up with “ko-kou-ko-le” which translates roughly to the much more appropriate “happiness in the mouth”.

v Things weren’t much easier for Coke’s arch-rival Pepsi. When they entered the Chinese market a few years ago, the translation of their slogan “Pepsi Brings you Back to Life” was a little more literal than they intended. In Chinese, the slogan meant, “Pepsi Brings Your Ancestors Back from the Grave”.

v But it’s not just in Asian markets that soft drinks makers have problems. In Italy, a campaign for “Schweppes Tonic Water” translated the name into the much less thirst quenching “Schweppes Toilet Water”.

v The American slogan for Salem cigarettes, “Salem – Feeling Free,” got translated in the Japanese market into “When smoking Salem, you feel so refreshed that your mind seems to be free and empty.”

v General Motors had a perplexing problem when they introduced the Chevy Nova in South America. Despite their best efforts, they weren’t selling many cars. They finally realized that in Spanish, “nova” means “it won’t go”. Sales improved dramatically after the car was renamed the “Caribe.”

v Things weren’t any better for Ford when they introduced the Pinto in Brazil. After watching sales go nowhere, the company learned that “Pinto” is Brazilian slang for “tiny male genitals.” Ford pried the nameplates off all of the cars and substituted them with “Corcel,” which means horse.

v Sometimes it’s one word of a slogan that changes the whole meaning. When Parker Pen marketed a ballpoint pen in Mexico, its ads were supposed to say “It won’t leak in your pocket and embarrass you.” However, the company mistakenly thought the Spanish word “embarazar” meant embarrass. Instead the ads said “It won’t leak in your pocket and make you pregnant.”

v Foreign companies have similar problems when they enter English speaking markets. Japan’s second-largest tourist agency was mystified when it expanded to English-speaking countries and began receiving requests for unusual sex tours. Upon finding out why, the owners of the Kinki Nippon Tourist Company changed its name. The company didn’t change the name of all its divisions though. Visitors to Japan still have the opportunity to take a ride on the Kinki Nippon Railway.

v When Braniff translated a slogan touting its upholstery, “Fly in Leather,” it came out in Spanish as “Fly Naked.”

v Coors put its slogan, “Turn It Loose,” into Spanish, where it was read as “Suffer From Diarrhea.”

v The Dairy Association’s huge success with the campaign “Got Milk?” prompted them to expand advertising to Mexico. It was soon brought to their attention the Spanish translation read “Are you lactating?”

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mona
http://www.articlesbase.com/customer-service-articles/chambers-communication-700298.html

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Mexico is known for a lot of things, and one of them is the beach. There are several Grupo Mayan resorts that you can choose from, offering not only a good view of the sea but also an opportunity to enjoy countless water sports activities. However, even if most of these Grupo Mayan beaches are relatively safe—they do have their own life guards—your safety still remains your primary responsibility and priority.

To make sure that you can really have an enjoyable and safe trip to Mexico, take note of the following suggestions:

1. Practice swimming. A life vest can only do so much for you. You may have to learn the basics of swimming before you try to hit the waters. If not, ensure that you have a companion who can watch out for you as you wade yourself through the Grupo Mayan sea. You should also avoid going far from the sea shore, especially if the area is known to be a surfing paradise. The big waves may just bring you a lot farther, and you can be in big trouble.

2. Swim if there’s a life guard. Even if you know how to swim, there are still accidents that can possibly happen. Some of them can occur when you’re not in the waters. The risks for further complications are lower and chances of being safe are higher if there’s a life guard around.

3. Follow the rules. Every Grupo Mayan beach resort has its own set of rules that you have to obey at all times. They are not only meant to enforce discipline, but they are also created to keep their guests safe when they are already in the beach. Thus, if the policy says that children below 4 feet should not be allowed to swim, then by all means stick with it.

4. Check on the weather forecast. There are only few who would take the time to verify the weather for the day, but they don’t know that doing so can save their lives and even energy. How many times have you actually gone out to the Grupo Mayan beach, only to realize that the waves are just too big for you to handle? You can surf the Internet when you need more information about the wind currents and gales.

5. Protect yourself. You are going to be traveling into the unchartered waters. You cannot definitely determine what is waiting for you once you are already underneath the water. Thus, protect yourself as much as possible. You can wear goggles, so you can clearly see what’s underneath. You may also have to wear comfortable slippers to avoid hurting your feet with pointed rocks or sea urchins that could be lingering in the sea bed.

6. Take note of rip currents. Rip currents are strong and can take you very far from the shore. However, there’s no use in panicking. You will only make matters worse. What you can do is to go with the flow until you will be completely out of the current. Then immediately swim toward the shore. If you feel like you need help, shout for one or wave your hand.

irinaM
http://www.articlesbase.com/travel-articles/great-safety-tips-when-in-a-mexico-beach-738780.html

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By: Jim Scherrer

Well, it appears as though the effects of the mortgage crisis in the US which began in March, 2008 followed by the collapse of the stock market in October, 2008 are finally being felt in Puerto Vallarta. Thanks to the strong Canadian Dollar, tourist expenditures in Vallarta for goods and services, including retirement real estate, held up fairly well for most of 2008. However, during the September/October timeframe, the Canadian Dollar plunged by more than 20%, thus reducing the Canadian purchasing power accordingly. Consequently, both the Americans and Canadians are now hesitant to aggressively invest in anything, especially foreign retirement properties.

The airplanes and cruise boats packed with tourists continue to arrive daily in PV; however the visitors are much more thrifty and prudent with their purchases than they were a year ago. Many of the restaurateurs and shop owners are claiming that sales are down from last year by as much as 35%. The construction of new condominium projects has also noticeably decreased as new sales slow to a trickle.

During the past ten years, Vallarta has literally been a boom town with explosive growth and new construction everywhere. Obviously, many of the developers and entrepreneurs failed to see the oncoming global financial crisis and committed to many long term construction projects resulting in a glut of more than 7,000 new condominiums now on the market.

Finally, with the supply of goods and services, including retirement properties, currently exceeding demand, we are now witnessing a true buyer’s market in Vallarta. Even though list prices for real estate have not dropped noticeably, the developers and sellers are much more apt to negotiate than they were a year ago. The same is true for store merchants and other vendors in the area.

Okay, now that we have a better understanding of how the economy in the US and Canada have affected business in Vallarta, we should have a better appreciation for the North American bargaining position in this beautiful resort destination. Therefore, let’s take it a step further. With the exception of real estate, most all other goods and services in Puerto Vallarta are sold on a Peso basis and therefore we must consider the monetary exchange rate.

The Mexican Peso has held steady with the US Dollar for more than ten years at about 10.8 Pesos per US Dollar. It wasn’t until early in October, 2008 when the Peso precipitously devalued to about 13.5 Pesos per Dollar resulting in a 25% increase in the value or purchasing power of the US Dollar relative to the Mexican Peso.

For those of us fortunate enough to still be holding a few US Dollars, almost all goods and services in Mexico just went on sale! For example, we recently purchased a high-end brand name washer/dryer set, normally priced at $1,300 US, for $1,015 US. Most all grocery and food products, clothing, hardware, and electronics manufactured in Mexico, gasoline, electricity, and other native commodities are also 25% less expensive to those of us holding US Dollars.

Through inflation over time, the costs of these Mexican products will eventually rise until they return to where they were only a few months ago. The one category where costs will rise much more slowly is that of labor. Almost every worker in Mexico just took a 25% reduction in wages relative to the US Dollar! That includes all maids, gardeners, restaurant and store employees, taxi drivers, doctors, architects, engineers, etc. It will probably require several years for the Mexican labor rates to be equivalent to where they were only six months ago.

One very important labor group is that of the construction workers which represents a significant portion of the total cost of retirement residences, all priced in US Dollars. Add their 25% cut in pay to the cost of Mexican concrete and other native materials which also dropped by 25% and you can imagine how that will affect the completion costs of the thousands of condos currently under construction!

Now, with the demand for goods and services reduced relative to their supply and the US Dollar being 25% stronger, you can see the benefit of shopping in Paradise at this very moment; the time for buying your retirement dream could never be better!

As Billy Mays, the famous TV pitchman would say, “But wait, there’s more”! Yes, aside from the 25% savings associated with the Peso devaluation and an increase in willingness of the local vendors to negotiate lower prices (caused by the reduction in tourist consumption brought on by the uncertain US economy and the devaluation of the Canadian Dollar), effective in June, 2008, you now receive a rebate for the 15% IVA tax that you pay on many of your purchases while visiting Mexico.

The 15% IVA or Value Added Tax (VAT) is returned to foreign tourists who can prove they have spent a minimum of 1,200 Pesos (approximately $90 US Dollars) on Mexican territory and who are returning home by sea or air. Tourists now have the right to receive up to 50% of the net rebate, an amount not to exceed 10,000 Pesos (approximately $750.00 US Dollars), in the form of cash; the remaining 50% will be refunded via electronic funds transfer within a period of 40 days.

In conclusion, after being exposed to the past six months of economic frustrations, you deserve to escape from the prevailing gloom and doom. If you have ever considered traveling to or retiring in Paradise, now is the time and Puerto Vallarta is the place! You will find many great values on everything this season; values that have not been seen for almost a decade and may not be available again in the near future. As Billy would say, “Why wait, pick up the phone” and call your travel agent. The weather is guaranteed to be perfect during the months of November through May, the scenery of the Pacific Ocean, the sandy white beaches, and the Sierra Madres is world class, the margaritas are ice cold, and the Mexican hospitality is second to none. So, come on down; you’ll find bargains galore while enjoying the time of your life on the Mexican Riviera!

Jim Scherrer
http://www.articlesbase.com/real-estate-articles/bargains-galore25-discount-on-everything-in-puerto-vallarta-mexico-683199.html

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Imagine your family opening up a present to reveal that you all will be leaving tomorrow to go on a vacation in Mexico. Your family will not only be surprised and overwhelmed but they will be forming images in their minds of the amazing time they will have as a family. The gift of a vacation in Mexico is sure to make anyone’s holiday. Mexico timeshare sales are the perfect way to go about making your family’s dreams come true. A vacation in Mexico will provide your family with the medium to spend quality time with one another in a luxurious destination. Mexico is the ultimate destination for excitement, fun, and adventure as well as relaxation, leisure, and rest. Whether you are into relaxing on the beach all day with a margarita in your hand, or horseback riding through waterfalls, Mexico is the place to do it. Mexico timeshare sales can provide you and your family with a yearly vacation that is sure to entertain all. The gift of destination can be the perfect holiday gift that will not only bring your family together but it will also give everyone a new lease on life. You and your spouse can be refreshed and energized for a new year at work, and your kids will be ready to take on another semester at school. Whatever the case may be, Mexico timeshare sales can be the answer you are looking for to gaining that quality time with your family.

Mexico timeshare sales are now available online which makes it the most efficient way of booking a vacation. No longer do you have to wait on your travel agency to find you deal that they might think you will like. Now that Mexico timeshare sales are online, you will be able to browse through thousands of listings online from the comforts of your own home or office. You can tailor your search to your exact specifications so that you will be sure to find Mexico timeshare sales that you like. Once you have found a couple that you like you can contact the seller directly via e-mail so that you are sure you are getting the right information. Mexico timeshare sales allow you to break from the mold of hotels and have a yearly vacation set that is tailored to your exact needs and wants. This way you will not have to worry or stress about booking and planning a yearly vacation. This time of year is a great time to take your loved ones on a vacation that they will be sure to remember for years to come. Your family will be able to get away from the cold and bask in the warm sun and glistening beaches. Mexico timeshare sales will enable you to have a yearly vacation for you and your family to look forward to every year. Don’t let these amazing deals pass you by this holiday season and inquire about Mexico timeshare rentals today.

Charles Joseph
http://www.articlesbase.com/vacation-rentals-articles/mexico-timeshare-sales-the-perfect-holiday-gift-719710.html

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As our journey begins, we will be looking at some of the best places on all three points of the Caribbean. From the Lesser Antilles of the Eastern Caribbean to the vibrant, colorful, ancient Mayan ruins of Mexico touching the Western Caribbean to the fabulous duty free shopping of the Southern Caribbean, we will take a first hand look at what cruising to these spots has to offer vacationers.

We begin first with the Eastern Caribbean Cruise itinerary, both rich in culture and offer breathtaking scenery. The itinerary usually includes the Bahamas (located in the Atlantic Ocean) and islands of the Eastern Caribbean which include St Thomas, St. Maarten – St. Martin, Bahamas and the Dominican Republic. Most cruises to the Eastern Caribbean begin in Florida, with some departing out of Texas and sometimes when the Ship is repositioning, it will depart out of one of the North East ports.

Nassau is the capital of the Bahamas and is a hub of activity. With its colonial forts and interesting sites, Nassau’s downtown area is perfect for walking and offers some great shopping opportunities. Atlantis, a world-class resort is located in Nassau, and must be seen to be believed. Nassau is a must see on your trip to the Bahamas.

The scenery alone are worth the visit to the lush island of St. Thomas, USVI, not to mention the duty free shops and treasure –filled boutiques that are abundant for shopping aficionados. Some points of interest include Fort Christian, a US National Landmark and the oldest standing structure in the Virgin Island and Government house, which has been the center of government in St. Thomas since the mid 1860’s.

The cultural aspect of St. Maarten – St. Martin, split between a French side and a Dutch side, makes it unique. St. Maarten, the Dutch side, is lively with casinos and a bustling nightlife. This nightlife is known to be the most energetic in all the Caribbean. St. Martin, the French side, is more docile with very little nightlife, but it does have the opportunity to taste some terrific food. Beautiful beaches surround both sides of this wonderful island.

With its beautiful scenery and rich cultural heritage, it’s no wonder the Dominican Republic brings visitors back again and again. Christopher Columbus landed here during his exploration of the new world and declared it in the name of Spain – Santo Domingo, today, is home to some of the oldest buildings in the Western Hemisphere. Covered with spectacular white sandy beaches, and warm waters perfect for your water activities, Dominican Republic is one stop you won’t soon forget!

Some great cruise deals going on to the Eastern Caribbean are:
1. $379+: 7nt Bahamas Cruise Vacation Deal
2. $1079+: 8nt Caribbean Cruise on RCCL

Sailing mostly out of Florida and Texas, the Western Caribbean cruises invite you to experience such places as the Yucatan Peninsula of Mexico, Jamaica, Grand Cayman, and Key West, Florida. Each with its unique distinctions, these spots have a world to offer any traveler.

Cozumel, an island off the eastern coast of Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula, is a popular destination renowned for its snorkeling and scuba diving. This vibrant, colorful island is home to the ancient Mayan ruins and ultra-modern resorts. It also has some of the whitest powder sand and the clearest blue water you will ever see!

Although Jamaica has quite a few different spots to visit while on your Western Caribbean Cruise, make sure your itinerary includes Dunhill River Falls and/or Negril, Jamaica.

Ochio Rios, a city on the northern coast of Jamaica, has gained popularity among tourists as it is touted as being one of the safest areas for tourists in Jamaica. Two must sees when you go to Ochio Rios is the Dunn’s River Falls and Dolphin Cover, where visitors are able to swim and interact with dolphins.

Negril has been rated as one of the top ten beaches in the world by many travel magazines. South of downtown Negril is West End Road, known as the cliff area. This area offers good water for snorkeling and diving, and if you’re really daring, jumping points reaching more then 40 feet high. Rick’s Café is the place to watch the cliff jumpers. Consider one of the 1,000 places to go before you die, Rick’s Café not only entertains you with cliff jumpers, but has some of the best sunsets are some of the best in the world.

Another stop on your Western Caribbean cruise is Key West. Lying near the end of the chain of islands known as the Florida Keys, Key West is the southernmost city in the continental United States. Located north of Cuba and southwest of Miami, this laid back spot offers fun with its trolleys, great bars and music, and a plethora of water activities such as jet ski tours, kayak tours, and some of the best fishing anywhere in the world. If you are still around Key West during the early evening - don’t that you are in one of the most magnificent spots to view the sun set.

Take a closer look at some great deals to visit these and other islands in the Western Caribbean.
1. $499+: 7nt Western Caribbean Cruise
2. $599+: 7nt Western Caribbean Cruise – President’s Week

Finishing off the Caribbean cruise excursions is the Southern Caribbean.  Mainly departing from Puerto Rico, cruisers enjoy stops including Antigua, Aruba, Barbados, and Curacao. 

Antigua is the absolute ‘beach-bum’ vacation destination.  Priding themselves on having a different beach for every day of the year, Antigua’s beaches are lined with soft white sand which attract people from all over the world who simply want to get away from it all.  Although Antigua’s British past is still evident with several forts dotting this island, people come here not for the history lesson, but rather to experience the crystal-clear waters and velvety sand.

More water adventures can be had in Aruba.  Part of the Netherlands Antilles, this island was virtually undiscovered by the tourist industry until a few years ago.  Miles and miles of white sandy beaches and desert-like landscape make up this piece of paradise.  Outside of the hurricane path, the island receives only a few inches of rainfall yearly making warm weather a given at any time of the year.  Palm trees swaying in the warm breeze and turquoise water lapping over a white sandy shore-line is music to anyone’s eyes.

Barbados, sometimes known as the “England of the tropics”, is famous for its miles of pink and white sand beaches – and who could argue with that?  Other then the clear water of the Caribbean Sea, Barbados is steeped with colonial history.  Buildings on the islands capital, Bridgetown, recall time of British rule.  A tad bit of history in Barbados, but the call of beautiful sandy beaches is what keeps people coming back to this magnificent island.

Along with Aruba and Bonaire, Curacao makes up the ABC Islands of the Lesser Antilles.  These are the only islands outside of the hurricane belt, so this would be the best itinerary to choose during hurricane season. Curacao is the perfect spot for those folks looking for warm water, an excellent nightlife and a unique cultural experience.  Willemstad, the capital of Curacao, is like visiting a small European city with all of the charm – and shopping.   These waters are great for snorkeling and scuba diving, particularly at the Curacao Underwater Park.  There are also several interesting sites inland such as the Hato Caves and the Curacao Seaquarium.  If the Southern Caribbean is your choice to cruise, give this island a close look.

You can view some great cruise deals to the Southern Caribbean here:
1. $449+: 7nt Southern Caribbean Cruise
2. $609+: 7nt Caribbean Cruise on RCCL

Of course, there is more to the Caribbean then the places above. A whole world of adventure and relaxation await you on any of the three points of the Caribbean. Enjoy your time exploring!

Rich Gonzalez
http://www.articlesbase.com/travel-articles/a-closer-look-at-caribbean-cruise-itineraries-717335.html

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Playing tennis is one of the best pastimes that you can do when you’re in Mexico. First, you may do it in one of the villas or resorts in the area, such as Grupo Mayan in Puerto Vallarta. Second, you can play the game with beautiful natural sceneries as your backdrop. Third, it helps you lose those unwanted pounds so you can go back home fitter than ever as well as give you more reason to dine in Mexican restaurants.

But for beginners, it’s a totally different struggle. Unless he gets good grasp of the game, he will find it real hard to fully understand the benefits of the game. What’s more, if he doesn’t fit the ball few times, he will feel disheartened and completely give up on the sport—talking about how to ruin your vacation.

If you’re one of those who are trying to learn the game, you can take advantage of the following beginner tips:

1. Check out the hotel. If you’re staying in a Grupo Mayan hotel, for example, you’re sure that it has a tennis court, where you can practice anytime you want to. And if you avail of their sports package, which could just involve tennis, you can play the games for free or at deep discounts. It will also force you to really try the game, just to make the entire package worthwhile for you.

2. Look for a trainer. Surely, you can study tennis books or watch videos, but nothing prepares you to the real game. You will learn a lot faster when you’re able to apply what you’ve learned immediately. You can hire a trainer for that. A Grupo Mayan hotel does have in-house tennis coach, who can give you pieces of advice on the basics of the game. At least, you won’t feel scared when you’re up against competitors. If it’s part of a sports package, then you won’t have to worry about spending anything.

3. Play with a friend. Do you know someone who is familiar with tennis? You can also ask him to teach you a thing or two. Better yet, play with him, making him as your opponent. If you don’t have one, you can always request your fellow traveler to help you out. Mind you, there are really a lot of good souls that you’re going to meet when you’re on the road. Your tennis buddy can just be one of them.

4. Rent the best equipment. You will appreciate the game more if you get to play it with the most ideal racquets. There are some of them that are just so bad that they’re bound to end your game in disaster even at your few early hits. You can buy them, but they can be pretty expensive. Your next best alternative is to rent. Grupo Mayan resorts have rental facilities, where you can find almost all classes of balls and racquets.

As a player, it’s very important that you are relaxed. Information can come in smoothly if you are. Don’t pressure yourself in learning the game quickly, as it didn’t take Federer and other world-class players overnight to become champions.

irinaM
http://www.articlesbase.com/travel-articles/a-beginners-guide-to-playing-tennis-in-mexico-694287.html

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