Tuesday, December 16, 2014

Rhythms of The Night

A couple of weeks ago the Cowboy & I decided we wanted to do something special for our anniversary this year. As if just being in Puerto Vallarta isn’t enough!

You can click Puerto Vallarta Adventures to see why we were attracted to this “Unforgettable evening under the stars . . .”

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The Cowboy doesn’t look too sure about our new found friend, Rosie.

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Since we had arrived and checked in early (our ticket was number 1) we were the very first couple to board the large two decker tritoon.

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Here come the others behind us. Not sure how many there were but would guess about 200 passengers.

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And that’s how I roll!

Quoting straight from their brochure:

“Much of Mexico’s rich cultural heritage is reflected in the stories and folklore of civilizations past. Our Rhythms of the Night dance performance illustrates how ancient pre-Columbian religions and beliefs influenced the myths, legends, and cultures of Mexico.”

“Cruise across the bay, surrounded by spectacular views, until the flicker of torches guides us into the secluded cove of Las Caletas Beach Hideaway.”

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The friendly and welcoming crew on the boat kept us entertained the whole trip and didn’t miss a beat – offering up trays of margaritas, beer and a wide assortment of drinks and appetizers.

 

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“Haunting flutes and pulsating drums summon you along a torch-lit path to a pyramid set in the shadowy jungle. In a mystical amphitheater under a star-studded sky, witness Mexico’s mythological past come alive through the universal language of contemporary dance and music.”

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“With a beautiful view of the cove from your seaside table, enjoy a sumptuous and romantic candlelight dinner, with delectable offering fit for the gods. An open-bar with a wide selection of beverages and an attentive staff help make your dining experience a meal to remember.”

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There were several beautiful and bountiful buffet stations set up all along the beach each serving about 8 – 10 couples each so there was no waiting.

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The water was literally lapping at our feet on the rocks just below our table.

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We both chose tiramisu with chocolate covered strawberries and flan for dessert. Yum!

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“Enjoy a return journey under the moon and stars with the beautiful lights of Vallarta as our beacon.”

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On the return trip we were treated to our own private performance by the crew’s version of KISS! It was excellent!

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We weren’t allowed to take pictures of the live performance in the amphitheater but it was INCREDIBLE! The lively music and acrobatics/dancing kept us totally captivated. Cirque de Soleil has nothing over this troupe. Amazing choreography and the outstanding costumes helped to pull this whole show together with a real ‘WOW” factor!

Needless to say, the whole evening was such a wonderful experience, one we’ll never forget. We wouldn’t hesitate to recommend this cruise to anyone. The cost was $119.00 each – but because we booked 2 other tours we did get a discount – or at least we think we did – and that’s what counts. Regardless, It was worth every penny!

Monday, December 8, 2014

A Little Taste of Mexico

Well today marks our fourth week since arriving here in this truly amazing country of Mexico so it’s high time we started sharing some of our experiences and especially photos with our friends and family.

I’m not going to try to explain my absence in blogging for the last year . . . nor am I going to make any silly promises to do this on a regular basis.

It is what it is . . . We’ve taken tons of photos and this is just a sample of some of the sights we are enjoying. We hope you do too.

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Marina Vallarta

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Photos taken along the very famous Malecon . . . one of the most beautiful miles on Earth!

“Mexico's most beautiful boardwalk, Puerto Vallarta's El Malecon is a mile-long oceanfront boardwalk that follows the beach and main street in downtown Puerto Vallarta. El Malecon begins at Hotel Rosita - the first hotel built in Vallarta in the 1940s - and ends at a magnificent open-air theater called Los Arcos, or The Arches.”

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“Offering wonderful strolling, sightseeing and shopping experiences, where art, culture, and cuisine captivate your senses. On the city side of this legendary Puerto Vallarta boardwalk, Malecon is lined with trendy boutiques, shops, markets, cafés, bars and  wonderful restaurants that offer stunning views and sunsets over Banderas Bay. Watch the rolling surf from the wrought-iron benches, take pictures of the famous Dolphin and Seahorse sculptures, and relax in a café overlooking the sea.”

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Strolling along The Malecon, heading to the top level of the building on the left – The Cheeky Monkey made popular not only by their great food but also The $1.00 margaritas and $1.00 beer – all day long!

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All of the food was excellent, generous portions served by very friendly & entertaining wait staff. I thoroughly enjoyed and shared my Coconut Shrimp and The Cowboy chose Shrimp Scampi which was also delicious.

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Our total bill (for 6) was under 1000 pesos which works out to about $70.00 USD – that included 12 margaritas and 4 or 5 beers and that was spread over about 3 hours.

 

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Great views of Banderas Bay. You can see one of the 3 cruise ships that were in that day.

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A section of the Malecon in late afternoon/early evening.

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Breathtaking – as the sun slips beyond the horizon.

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Spanish lesson for the day:

La lista de vinos – May I have the wine list?