From: Michael
Subject: Barbados - we share it with
you
If you
like to slow things down a bit once in a while, and just enjoy a bit of seclusion,
try this out of the way place in Barbados. It is called Crane Beach. It is spectacular,
graceful, refreshing, sophisticated and relaxing. We stayed in an amazing suite
(one of only 6 I believe) and had a choice of: a brick patio terrace overlooking
a well-manicured lawn and the ocean beyond; a cantilevered deck which felt like
we were hanging 60' over the rock cliffs and the pounding surf below; or a cozy
porch nestled in a tropical landscaped garden overlooking the adjacent cliffs
and fields with grazing cows (?) and goats. Complete with sunken tub, giant four-poster
bed, passable kitchen, hardwood floors and hand made carpets, and plenty of lounging
space -- here was a place to relax in comfort. We were confused about the many
towels lying folded on the furniture near the louvered doors. That is until the
first night when we were awakened by the nightly storm which blew in about an
inch of rain at the base of the doors. Ahhh..Weatherstripping for the third world!
The
dining area was an amazing open-air tent-like structure overlooking the cliffs
and the beach some 60+ feet below. Wonderful food! And I developed a definite
liking for the local Banks brew. My companion quaffed all sorts of tropical fruit
drinks -- all based on wonderful local Old Cockspur rum and fresh fruits. Fresh
catch was prepared every day depending on what the local divers brought in-- something
they offered to let us participate in if we wanted. The swimming pool was located
atop a terrace overhanging the cliff. A pause at the deep end, beneath a classical
colonnade, gave you an up close and breath-taking view of the ocean below! We
were told by a waiter that Mick Jagger used to vacation here... Not that we cared,
but if so, it is nice to know Mick has similar good taste.
But here I come to the real reason I never wanted to leave: the beach. To get
to a private 1/4 mile crescent of pink sand and blue-green surf, you have two
choices. A sturdy but knee-weakening spiral stair from the restaurant down to
the beach. A height of 70 feet with a large center pole, two rope rails and open
riser steps... like walking out into the air! Or, there was a semi-natural stone
walk down the side of the cliffs with large steps from platform to ledge to natural
stairs to beach. Of course it virtually disappeared at high tide too, so you had
to try to guess the gaps between the surprise spray of the random breakers at
the last switchback for entertainment! But once you made it to this secluded beach,
you notice just how incredibly soft and velvety the sand is. And it really is
pink! This is truly the nicest sand I have ever felt. No sticking or wind blown
blasts. Just luxurious softness between the toes.
Of course, being on the ocean side of the island, you had a more violent surf.
But it was no worse than most days in Daytona Beach. Only 15 degrees warmer, 100%
cleaner ,and waaaay bluer! The coral reefs created a wonderful collage of blues
and greens. I could swim there all day. Or at least between body or board surfing.
Even
though I was accompanied by plenty enough distraction, there was plenty to observe
on the beaches of the island. Sightseeing jaunts confirmed the prevalence of the
thong in the Carribean. As a British protectorate (?), the generally stiff proper
atmosphere was prevalent on most public areas though. However, our curve of beach
was perfect for a romantic getaway, bounded by cliffs, dunes and palm trees, it
was our own. I am being literal here -- we had the entire beach to ourselves most
days. The most I ever counted was 8 on our last day when a bunch of French-Canadians
showed up to annex the place for themselves. The breezy cocunut groves were ideal
for some textile-less frolicking. We often were aware of other couples enjoying
similar liberties, but being so empty it was easy to maintain a sense of territory.
The view from the tops of the cliffs was too far to be a nuisance for either.
At the far end of the crescent, the groves and dunes reach down to the edge of
the next rock wall and the water, so we were easily able to enjoy the warmth of
the ocean au natural. Incomparable is all I can say!
We forayed into town and to some of the "hot" spots, but our best outing was a
stroll up to the locals market where we also inquired about a place to experience
truly local cooking. Some delightfully friendly local people gave us the address
of a family that cooks Bajan style for visitors. This was exactly what we wanted;
we wound up eating on the screened porch of a beautiful cottage with the cook
and her family serving us on their dining table. Delicate and subtle, or spiced
and daring, the food was perfect.
Find
me a beach lover.
Barbados was a wonderful island, but it was all the more special because of the
uniqueness of the Crane Beach resort. I know I will be back there again soon!
I hesitated telling about it but some things are too good not to share.
From : tabrown@concentric.net
Subject: Sans Souci - Ochos Rios I
would have to say that the best beach and resort we have ever been to would be
Sans Souci Lido in Ocho Rios, Jamaica. It is an all inclusive resort and spa.
The service there was the best I have ever received, the food was delicious and
plentiful, and the beaches and cliffs were breath taking. What else could you
ask for! I
would have to say that the best beach and resort we have ever been to would be
Sans Souci Lido in Ocho Rios, Jamaica. It is an all inclusive resort and spa.
The service there was the best I have ever received, the food was delicious and
plentiful, and the beaches and cliffs were breath taking. What else could you
ask for! Just
to give you a little more information on Sans Souci Lido... It is a "Super Clubs,
Super-inclusive resort". So everything that you can imagine is included, from
room service to private boat excursions. They even did our laundry and ironing.
They had planned snorkeling and scuba diving trips a couple times a day. I believe
that any travel agent would know about super clubs resorts, give them a call because
we got a free video to check it all out. We
were there for 7 nights in mid August and flew from Atlanta and we paid around
$4,000-$5,000. But we paid nothing else while we were there except for a few T-Shirts.
We can't
wait to get back there.
Enjoy,
Brandi Brown
Find
me a beach lover.
From:
kris.robinson@m.cc.utah.edu
Subject: Re: Bajamar -
Baja
Last
June I had the opportunity to tag along with some friends to the Bajamar resort
. This was the most beautiful place I had ever been (before I went to Italy),
and certainly the best beach area. I was very impressed with the quality of Bajamar,
and would highly recommend it to anyone - even if you don't golf! Sorry
I don't have more info., I went with a group that pre-planned it so I don't have
any idea how much golf and the rooms were (the web page has rates though). I remember
that a full lobster dinner was only about $8 in town. There's also a resturant
called the Miramar on the way back to the states that has excellent food and decks
with incredible views of the coast. And there's a bar (in Tiajuana?) that has
180 different types of tequilla -- funny what one remembers about vacations, huh?
heheh kris
Here’s more info on Bajamar from our Baja section of On the Beach magazine:
Bajamar - 26 1/2 miles south of Rosarito
$50 to $250
7860 Mission Center
Court # 202
San Diego, Ca. 92108
Ph#(619) 299-8518
From:
Dan Price dan@priceinc.com
Subject:Cancun - Shangri-La
Find
me a beach lover.
We stayed on the north side of Playa del Carmen at Shangri-La on the Caribbean
coast of Mexico, about 45 minutes south of Cancun.
The place as a whole was very nice and relaxing. We stayed in a palapa cabana
on the beach, and at night, the waves stopped only about 40 feet from our front
porch.
The rooms are all-inclusive, with great breakfasts and dinners.
There were only a few North Americans there when we went in July, 97. Mostly
there were German, French and Italian visitors. The beaches are combed every
day, and the water is beautiful. The beaches from Playa del Carmen all the
way up to the punta north of Shangri-La are European in manner.
We can't wait to go back.
From:
Ericsden@aol.com
Subject: Re: Hotel Cafe Americana
This
IS on the beach....and a funky resort to boot. We stayed in one of the
"outlying"
buildings. Room was large (although an adjoining room door had a crack so large
we really felt obliged to be covered the whole time). Also, no firewood provided
for the fireplace and we couldn't seem to get the door to the room to fully lock!
The charm of this place though is the main building. The owner has done all of
the stained glass himself. The rooms above the restaurant are nice - full ocean
views..lovely stained glass and wood. The main bar and restaurant are cozy...several
people stopped in that
weren't staying there and we had a great time. The
patio is great on a summer's day. We saw dolphins swimming by while sipping on
a glass of vino blanco! Hotel Cafe Americana is between Puerto Nuevo and Ensenada,
north of the La Fonda hotel. We read about it in a LA Times article in the Travel
section about 2 years ago. We can't find the article right now but will look for
it and send more info.
Find
me a beach lover.
October
From :
Wayne Linder
Subject: Flamingos, sunsets,
and miles of empty beach for running naked
on.
I have been cruising beaches worldwide for 25 years. Caribbean, Red Sea Mediterranean,
West Coast, Florida, Bali, Thailand, Indonesia, Hawaii etc. The place I have returned
to most often is not the most beautiful, but a very good beach. I love it so much
I bought a beach house there. The town is named CELESTUN. It is in the Yucatan,
Mexico 200 mi. due west of Cancun on the gulf. It is the only fishing village
in a million acre wildlife and bird refuge.
There are flamingos and a hundred other variety of sea birds, sea turtles nesting
on the beach in spring, but most of all, there are 30 miles of pristine beach
north of town and more south of town. This is continuous beach, not isolated patches.
RUN NAKED
AND PRIVATELY FOR MILES. You
will meet almost no one except the occasional boat of fishermen that pass by.
If you have a car, you can drive the rough, sandy trail that parallels the beach.
I had my pick up and had no problems but a 4wheeler would be great. It is a get
away from it all kind of place. If you are interested in ecology, the Pronatura
people come from around the globe to study this ecosystem. Personally, I would
rather sit around and suck down margaritas watching the evening sunset from my
balcony.
Theres is just enough tourism, with the flamingos and beach and a half a dozen
restaurants with fantastic seafood to keep it interesting, but you can be as secluded
as you could ever hope to be if you desire. It is really native, not filled with
"city folk" from Miami or Mexico City as is Cancun. There are 4 small hotels in
Celestun, my favorite being the Hotel Maria del Carmen run by Maria and Saul.
It costs about$25 to $30 a night ON THE BEACH!
The fanciest restaurant in town is LA PALAPA. It has a bar right on the sand of
the beach, and oh yes, they have great Margaritas!! You can stuff yourself with
fresh catch seafood for about $10. I sail up there from my house just outside
of town, slurp a few, watch the bikinis, and people of every nationality, then
hop back on my board and sail back the 3/4 mile home. The
abandoned house I bought on the beach, I renovated and added a second floor plus
separate servants quarters. It has 2 baths, 3 bedrooms and sleeps 6 or 7 comfortably.
The house comes with a family of servants that clean, do laundry and will cook
a fish for you if you ask. The house rents for $250 the first week and $150 for
each additional week. There is always a great breeze, the water usually flat,
and great for beginning boardsailors. (One comes with the house)
If you haven't toured the major Mayan ruin sites, you are missing a very inexpensive,
safe adventure. Merida, the Yucatan capital is worth the trip alone. It is 50mi
east of Celestun, has a major international airport, great bus connections, fantastic
shopping, and weekly fiestas in the main squares.(The busses are the first class
air conditioned ones) Chichen Nitza is about halfway between Celestun and Cancun,
Uxmal is another fantastic site that has a pyramid you wouldn't believe exists
outside of Egypt. So does Chichen Nitza for that matter.
Camping on the beach is no problem away from the town. I see people doing it all
the time. If you want to know more, send me an e-mail.
From:
Brad Mix
Subject: Honeymoon Cabo San Lucas
My beautiful
wife Kathy and I spent our honeymoon in wonderful Cabo San Lucas, Mexico. Cabo
San Lucas is a small desert paradise along the Baja Peninsula bordering the Pacific
Ocean and the Sea of Cortez. The town itself is very Americanized, almost like
a Mexican Palm Springs along the ocean.
We stayed at the five star resort Solmar hotel. Our hotel was located right on
the Pacific Ocean. The grounds of the resort and the view of the ocean from our
balcony were breath taking. We spent many evenings watching the sunset over the
ocean as the large waves came crashing in to shore. Unfortunately, because the
waves are so big and the ocean has a dangerously b back-tow, swimming is prohibited
in the Pacific Ocean. You had to travel 10 to 15 minutes to the Sea of Cortez
to swim in the ocean. I personally like to walk right from my hotel room and swim
in the ocean. To compensate, the Solmar hotel had a spectacular pool with a bar
at the end. Guests could swim to the bar and order a Margarita or their favorite
drink and enjoy the libation while sitting in submerged bar stools. In the middle
of the pool was a tanning area where you could laying partially submerged in the
water and sunbathe. Quite a unique concept!
The area is stocked full of outdoor activities including parasailing, snorkeling,
jet skiing to name a few. Cabo is also home of the most sought-after game fish
in the world including Marlin, Sailfish, Wahoo, Rooster-fish, Dolphin, and Yellowtail.
The Solmar hotel has one of the largest and best fishing fleets in Cabo with many
guests bringing home prize catches. If fishing is your forte, then make sure you
plan your visit around the prime fishing season. The
Dark Side of Cabo San Lucas
Sleazy,
deceptive timeshare sales abound Cabo San Lucas. A terrible industry problem plagued
by unscrupulous business practices that really needs to be addressed by the local
Chamber of Commerce. Unsuspecting tourists, getting off the plane, are bombarded
by greedy locals lying that they have an arrangement with your hotel for transportation.
Then they drive you to a different resort and force you into a high pressure sales
presentation. I was fortunate enough not to fall into their trap.
The Solmar hotel is also guilty of sleazy timeshare sale practices where they
will actually try to finance your timeshare purchase on a credit card. They also
use a "good salesman, bad salesman" sales technique much like the "good cop, bad
cop" scenario you see on TV when they try to force confessions from suspects.
The price quotes you receive on the timeshare is directly related to what they
think you can afford and not the value of the property. Many guests received different
price quotes for the same unit. Worst of all, they do not understand the word
NO. My wife and I were unfortunate victims and left their unmerciful sales presentation
angry and annoyed! They originally told us it was merely a tour of the resort.
I am sad
to say one of the favorite topics of conversation of guests at pool side was their
sharing and comparing of timeshare horror stories. The concept behind timesharing
is good, but the industry practices are so out of control, it is a shame guests
have to be subjected to such abuse. In addition, beware - many of the timeshares
sales are used to finance of preconstruction units that has its own obvious inherent
risks.
When traveling to Cabo San Lucas, I recommend you take a crash course in the conversion
of the US dollar to pesos. Many local merchants will try to short change or over
charge unsuspecting tourists. I found it much easier paying for goods and services
with pesos.
Find
me a beach lover.
From:
mark & linda johnson marlin@stn.net
Subject: Re: Club
Oasis Akumal
My favorite beach and hotel
I've travelled to Cuba, Domincan republic and Mexico and by far the best hotel
and beach has been in Akumal, Mexico. My fiance and I made plans to go to the
Club Oasis Akumal (offered by signature tours) which is one hour south of Cancun.
The resort was amazing but the best part of the vacation was our beach and the
crystal clear waters that were full of parrot fish, sergent majors and other very
friendly fish. Snorkelling was the best at the resort, we also went to Xcaret
(very beautiful and lots of fun), Xelha (where the freshwater and salt water mix
together) and Tulum (where the world famous ruins are located - definitely a great
trip). The
resorts beach was very clean, the water was extremely calm because of the protection
of the coral reef and there were hammocks every where on the beach, as well as
lounges and beach towels. I want to go back to this resort soooooo bad, but I'm
now looking for a honeymoon destination and I'm considering the Sandals resort
in Antigua or the Sugar Bay resort in St. Thomas. Both are all inclusive and the
water/beachs look great. Find
me a beach lover.
From:
spicot@adnc.com
Subject: Re: Hotel New Port
Baja, Puert Nuevo
Here's a quick synopsis of this Puerto Nuevo resort hotel. First, it's fairly
new, which is one of the positive aspects. On the other hand, the rates are what
I consider high for the services provided and for Baja Norte Mexico in general.
We had an "ocean front, balcony" room on the second floor, meaning that beyond
our cramped balcony we had no beach access. Then again, there's not much allure
in the small, rocky beach.
The room was decent and of good size, with a double bed and foldout couch. Unfortunately,
there was no A/C (none in the hotel) and the ceiling fans provided had only three
speeds - loud/fast, louder/faster, helicopter speed. The bathtub took an hour
to drain - kind of annoying. "Purified"
water (not bottled) is provided. The fitness room is barely adequate with a step
machine, and a few rusty dumbbells to augment the rusty universal machine. (I
know, who goes to Mexico to work out). As a long-time Mexico surfer/camper, this
was my first experience with a supposed "high-end" Baja hotel. It all would have
been tolerable but for the price: US$170/night. Our friends spent a night in one
of the "ocean view" US$80/night rooms, and it was a sweltering hell-hole with
poor ventilation. Didn't eat at the restaurant. Give me La Fonda or the back of
my truck any day! --Steve Find
me a beach lover.
August
From:
Joe Gentile (tabeast@intr.net)
Subject: CO Resort -Club Orient - Saint Martin
Trip Report - 7/2 through 7/22 1997 This
was our fifth trip to the Caribbean island of Saint Martin. FWI and Orient Beach
and the fourth time that we stayed at Club Orient, and our third trip since Hurricane
Luis destroyed the place. We are pleased to report that the rebuilding has proceeded
remarkably well. I think all of the guest units are completed. An office building,
the new massage center and some other type of building is still under construction.
Palm trees have been replanted and it will take a few years before they provide
any substantial shade. We stayed in Beach Chalet # 48 which is 2 chalets west
of Papagayo. Our unit had a separate bedroom with a door, a bathroom with a door
and a large living, dining and kitchen area. The bath consisted of a tub and shower.
The shower apparatus was unstable, and I knocked it down a couples of times, but
was able to put it back without trouble. The shower curtain rod was not fixed
and was also easily knocked down. The kitchen was well appointed. There was a
full size refrigerator and gas range and sufficient utilities for cooking and
serving food. Four different types of electrical outlets were located strategically.
Our unit was one of the last to receive a bedroom air conditioner. Actually, we
were quite comfortable sleeping without it due to the overhead fans.
Except for a few rainy periods the weather was quite pleasant. The water was at
perfect temperature for bathing and the wave action was calm for the most part.
Full nudity was the norm for Club O's guests on the beach property and is acceptable
throughout the property. There were several dances with live music and the Wednesday
Wine and Cheese Parties where the dress code was "As Bare as you Dare." This gave
the women the opportunity to adorn themselves prettily.
Club Orient has about one half mile of the 1.5 mile crescent of Orient Beach.
Many Club O guests walked the entire crescent nude every morning. Some of us were
comfortable walking nude among the textiles any time of the day. There are native
snack bars and retail stalls where nudity is accepted, and of course Pedro's the
first restaurant beyond the Club Orient property is clothing optional. However,
this is a popular stop for tour buses with folks from cruise ships and although
one can go there nude while all other patrons are clothed, only the most intrepid
nudists dare to do so.
Without a doubt, the best feature of Club Orient is the guests themselves. We
have become good friends with a number of other couples who are repeat visitors
and with whom we exchange notes during the year. It seems that just about all
of the guests we have met are professional or semiprofessionals with quite a few
being teachers, engineers and lawyers. Several are retired, and are from all over
the USA: CA, TX, MD, VA, MD and MA.
Club Orient allows non guests to use its beach, and many take the opportunity
to shed their clothes, but there was a steady parade of textiles walking back
and forth all day. This bothers some guests not not others.
There are five beach bar restaurants beyond Pedro's which serve generally excellent
food. Kon Tiki is the first one beyond Pedro's and serves supper. Kakao is the
next one down the beach and is also open for supper. (In July) Bikini Beach Bar
and Restaurant was not open for supper the nights were were there, but it was
open for Sunday lunch at which Paella is featured. Guests can go to these places
wearing minimum clothing.
Club Orient has a store where one can purchase most necessities and most food
items. There are a number or grocery stores in nearby Cul de Sac and Grand Case
plus real supermarkets in Phillipsburg and Marigot. Although the food at Papagayo
and the other beach restaurants is very good, the great dining experiences are
in Grand Case, and we heartily recommend, Le Pressoir, El Nettuno, Le Tastevin,
Bistrot CaraibesLe Cottage and Alabama. In Marigot there is a great one, Mario's,
where we went with three other couples one evening.
A very interesting event took place one evening; one of our friends organized
a Pizza Party at Kakao. About twenty guests from Club O went there for supper.
Permission for nudity had been previously obtained. We heard of a group of forty
clothing optional attending one prior evening before our arrival. The management
of Kakao at least was very amenable to having a group of nudists on an evening
that would have otherwise would have been quiet. In the interest of encouraging
nude use of Orient Beach, we hope that other visitors will attempt to organize
nude events not only at Kakao but the other establishments as well.
Other fun things to do with clothing are a visit to the Butterfly Farm located
near the road entering Club Orient, and from Cul de Sac there is a five minute
ferry ride to Isle Pinel which has a nice inexpensive restaurant and a quite nice
boutique. There are many shops where one can purchase pareus, jewelry and other
knick knacks on Saint Martin. The least expensive area for this sort of shopping
is in the area next to the Cloud Room - a German restaurant located on the hill
above Orient Bay.
A somber note was struck when one of our friends who was staying at nearby Green
Cay Villa had severe chest pain one night. The French hospital care was inadequate.
A heart attack was apparently ruled out but a definitive diagnosis was not obtained
until he got back to California. His insurance carrier was not willing to pay
for the air ambulance, but he had a generous employer who did. It turned out to
be a torn cartilage. The cost was $28,000.00. We have not had any personal experience
with the French Health care system but have heard frightening things. Supposedly
the Dutch is better.
Submitted by, Joe Gentile (tabeast@intr.net) Find
me a beach lover.
May
A
little more info on Las Rosas:
I've stayed there 3 times, always a joy, staff is friendly and courteous and English
is no problem. Hotel is situated "on the beach" although it's mostly rocky tidepools,
not the traditional sandy strip. However, large swimming pool juts right to end
of property and is directly above ocean, very scenic and relaxing, also a jacuzzi
at other end. Hotel also has an exercise room and restaurant with excellent food
although somewhat pricey.
Last time I stayed they had special rates for off season and Sunday/Monday packages.
Hotel is only a five minute drive from downtown Enesenada, but is away from all
the craziness. Rooms
are clean, phones, TV, bottled water, etc. Most have balconies. Can't think of
anything else at the moment, but hope this gives you a better idea. A
report on theBaja Beach Resort and Las Rosas: Hi
Jerry, My husband and I just spent a week down in Ensenada, originally staying
at the Baja Beach Resort. The resort has the potential to be very nice, but it
falls short due to lack of maintenance and insufficient staff. From
what we gathered while we were there, the hotel is having some money problems.
It is a full service hotel, with a spa, pool, restaurant, nightclub and cabanas
on the beach, but we were not happy with the restaurant, and the appearance of
the hotel was a little run down. You
couldn't beat the price though, which was only $44/night to stay in a cabana right
on the beach. The cabana had a living room with sliding glass doors to the patio,
a kitchen, big bedroom with a full wall of windows looking out to the ocean and
a big bathroom. After our first (and only) meal at the hotel, we ate dinner the
next night at Las Rosas, and proceded to check in to that hotel the following
morning. We
LOVED that hotel. It is beautiful, the restaurant was wonderful and the waiters
in the restaurant were extremely friendly. I would definitely recommend Las Rosas,
and we plan on going back ourselves. We
golfed at the Baja Country Club which was in a canyon surrounded by hills. It
was beautiful. That too seems to be having some financial problems, but the greens
are well maintained, it's the fairways that could use a little more work. But
it was empty and we never had to wait to tee off. Our last day there we golfed
at Bajamar which was a very professional, well maintained course that had beautiful
views as well. We
recommend HACIENDA del MAR
Carretera Transpeninsular,
Mega Desarrrollo
Cabo del Sol Lote-D,23410
Cabo San Lucas, Baja California Sur, Mexico
52/114-326-12
It's
right on the water. They said the beach wasn't really a swimming beach but I didn't
have a problem nor did any of the other people I saw body surfing. It's
really just east of the lighthouse near Km #9 out of Cabo San Lucas.
We spent 12 days
there last June. There's a great restaurant at the resort called Pitahayas. I
was told that A Grand Hyatt Resort was to be built within the next 1 or 2 years
right next to it. As
far as the rates they ranged from $220.00 to $500.00 a night during high season
for a 4 occ. junior suite to a 12 occ. Penthouse Suite.($180.00- $450.00 off-season)
We stayed in a Junior Suite, it was perfect for us( 2 adults and 2 kids) Great
mini kitchen and all the stuff in the cupboards to make you feel right at home
to prepare simple breakfasts and lunches. The
pool was great and so was the staff on duty.The grounds surrounding the villas
we also very beautiful. We will definitely go back in 1998! I heard about this
resort through a oufit called Mexico Condo Reservations in La Jolla The phone
# is 800-262-4500. My
most recent perfect margarita experience was down in Los Cabos- Baja,Mexico. I
was floating in the pool at the Hacienda del Mar resort at Cabo Del Sol, drinking
freshly made concoctions of Sauza Commemerativo and local lime juice from the
Pitahayas restraunt in the resort. It was a beautiful June Day, about 85 degrees
with a slight breeze coming off the azure blue Sea of Cortez. I closed my eyes
and I thought I had gone to heaven. When I opened them back up I KNEW I was in
heaven! Subject:
Re: Bed and breakfast in Bandon
There's
a beautiful Bed and Breakfast owned and operated by Shirley Chalupa. It has views
of ocean,the lighthouse,river,and an echo-system that will satisfy anyones taste.
Lighthouse
Bed and Breakfast
650 Jetty Road
Bandon Oregon 97411
541-347-9316
PHONE
April
The "Adult Resort" of Diamond Eden
Check out these
articles from some of your buds in Margarita Ville who've been to Diamond Eden,
now called Eden Resort - Loreto. From
: Wanda / Todd - taps@interlog.com
Subject: Re: Diamond Eden
Hi guys!
Thanks for your
information on Diamond Eden in Loreto. My husband and I just returned to a snowyToronto
and really enjoyed our stay there. Everything that you had told us about the resort
was true, and there was so much to do if that's what you wanted. I
just have one piece of advice for anyone going, however. Both my husband and I
found that the food served at Diamond Eden was very greasy...i.e. it was either
deep-fried or it was fried on a very greasy grill. Since we are pretty healthy
eaters, after five days we started to feel ill from all of the grease. Therefore,
I would recommend taking some snacks that you're used to so that you can control
the amount of grease you eat. On
the bright side, the town is very quaint and very interesting...great deals on
hammocks and marble chessboards for any Canadians going. And the whales were amazing,
but were just about to the open ocean last week. The activity staff were very
busy and very friendly....they literally went from 8 a.m. thru to midnight where
they finished their day at the disco. The
new article you have by Rene really explains Diamond
Eden well, and the feeling you have when you realize they are going to land this
huge A320Airbus on that runway is pretty thrilling! Many people we were with plan
to return again next year because the resort was so wonderful, and an excellent
bargain. Just bring plenty of Pringles!!! Thanks
for your advice earlier, Wanda More
articles on Eden Resort. From:
aussco@teleport.com
Subject: Cabo Pulmo
You
most definitely missed Cabo Pulmo Beach Resort. The resort lies just south of
La Rivera on the East Cape. Only five miles of improved graded road get you there
from the end of the paved road.
Rental Casitas are for the most part situated within 1000 feet of the Sea of Cortez.
Cabo Pulmo
is the sight of the most northerly Coral Reef in the Northern Hemisphere, a sensitive
Mexican environment. (just recently a Mexican naval gunship was observed boarding
and taking into temporary custody, and subsequently fining heavily, two trawlers
that were illegally netting in and on the reef) .
The entire resort is solar powered with a clean supply of potable water.
New York Times
did mentioned Nancy's resturant in Cabo Pulmo. Two other resturants will also
serve good to better food.
Pepe's dive shop is a fully functioning class A dive shop, and dive center.
Approximately
5 miles of white sand beaches are virtually empty all the time Cabo
Pulmo Resort
$20 to $75 a night
(208) 726-9233 fax - 726-5545 P.O. 774
Ketchum, Idaho - 83340 From:
Pat - pjpaters@work2.cc.nps.navy.mil
Subject: Re: La Fonda Inn (between Rosarita
and Ensenada)
Folks,
I've stayed at a hotel called La Fonda about halfway between Rosarita and Ensenada
next to La Mision. I forget the mile marker but its about 19 miles south of Rosarita.
Great food and the accomodations, a bit rustic, are incredible. Besides about
20 hotel style rooms, there are also about 8 bungalows hidden among flowers on
the cliffs leading to the beach. It's a "not to miss" kind of place and only about
90 minutes below the border. The
address listed in the 2nd edition of the Lonely Planet Guide to Baja is no longer
valid. They don't have a phone service. Can anyone tell me how to get in touch
w/ the owners for a reservation (other than in person)? Gracias! The
phone number we have is :
01152 662 87352
March
From:
Karen Kushell - kkushell@dreamworks.com
Subject: Reviews of two hotels on
the Northern California Coast
Just want to let you know about an experience I had at the "famous" HERITAGE HOUSE
in Little River. The location is beautiful...the hotel is abysmal. What once (reportedly)
was a charming spot has deteriorated into a the rusty side of rustic. Apparently
the original owners have died, and their daughter has taken it over. After paying
a $1000.00 depost, we arrived on Christmas eve for a three-night stay. I could
not relax there for five minutes, let alone three days; the place had a real aire
of "trashy trying to feel classy", and smelled of mold and mildew. We had a bellman
(who was completely inept) take us to three rooms in our effort to find decent
accmodations, but each room smelled worse than the lobby of the mold/mildew, and
the decor was barely a step above a Motel Six, crammed haphazardly with antiques;
the entrances were sliding glass doors with tacky stickers on them (presumably
for "safety") My impression of the place is best summed up as: it's like visiting
your Grandmother
who has no taste and doesn't bathe. Needless to say, we tried to secure a refund.
Not only did the General Manager refuse to give us anything other than $100 (for
the special Christmas package), but she actually hung up on my husband, who was
honestly very cordial with her; we never made a disparaging remark - we just said
that we were driving up the coast staying at small inns, and this one didn't quite
fit the bill. I can not recommend AGAINST the Heritage House bly enough!!
On the positive
side...
I must recommend TIMBERHILL RANCH in Cazadero, 80 acres of pristine
wilderness 1 mile inland (as the crow flies) off of Hwy 1. It ia a fantastic,
elegant, all-details Relais & Chateaux "Country House". My six days there felt
like three months of R&R - fantastic food (breakfast and six-course gourmet dinner
are included), and NOTHING to do except completely relax and be taken care of.
There are tennis courts and a pool for those inclined. There are only 15 cottages;
a maximum of 30 people at the resort. The cottages are spacious and beautifull
appointed, and spaced far enough away from one another for complete privacy. But
it seems best suited to those who want a place to be romantic, private, quiet,
peacful and fantastic. One of the greatest vacation spots I've ever been to--
Best, Karenk. TIMBERHILL RANCH 35755 Hauser Bridge Road; Cazadero, CA. 95421 707-847-3258.
From:
IBShell72@aol.com
Subject: Two Great Beach Resorts
- Captain's
Cove Inn
- 44781
Main St.
- Mendocino,
Ca. 95460
- phone-
(800) 780-7905
Actually, the parents of an old friend own it. I have not actually stayed there,
but have been there, and looked through all of the rooms. It is a very nice place.
They were featured in Country Inns Magazine, in August 1996, rated as one of the
top ten inns out of 200 visited in the U.S. - Breakers
Inn
- P.O.
389
- Gualala,
Ca. 95445
- (800)
273-2537
I'm not sure how far up or down the coast you cover, but there is another place,
that I have stayed at. It is called Breakers Inn. It is located in Gualala. All
rooms include fireplace, whirlpool bath, private oceanfront deck, and is located
right on the mouth of the Gualala River. The service was excellent, and the room
was beautiful. There is an ad in the Coast Magazine, on page 2. (Holiday Issue,
1996) Prices range from $85-$155, midweek. Weekend rates range from $115-$225.
Looking forward to hearing from you soon. February
From
: cfletch@pacifier.com
Subject: Club Cascadas
Club
Cascadas is directly north of Pueblo Bonito. Beautiful resort. Very natural setting.
Sea of Cortez out your front door. I
was introduced to Cascadas through time share owners. However, my last 3 trips
have been through travel agencies booking reservations. Very nice-serene setting.
In the Spring, when I was there, Pueblo Bonito had finally started their expansion
(that should take a few years!! ha ha) You need not be a time-share owner to experience
it!! Room
rates varied considerably, of course, depending on time of year..however, The
Margarita (2130 sq ft 2 bedroom unit with dbl balcony and large jacuzzi) is around
$350.00 - $450.00 per night. The "hotel" portion of the condo units are around
$200.00 per night, as are The Perlitas.
For those of you wanting to contact the hotel, their state phone number is (714)
779-7900 January
From:
kathleen.hylen@x400eng.isocor.com
Subject: Festival Plaza - Baja - Rosarito
Hi,
I was checking
out your web page for resorts in Rosarito. You ask "have we missed a resort?"
You sure have. My girlfriends and I stayed at the Festival Plaza this weekend
and it was fabulous, from service to food to accomodations. A must for your list.
Put it at the top! Here is the info: Festival Plaza
Blvd. Benito Juarez y
Calle del Nogal
Rosarito, B.C. Mexico C.P. 22710
Tele from US: 011 526
612 2950
for reservations: 800/453-8606
Fax: 91 (661) 2 29 50
And thanks for
putting together that useful site On
the Beach replies:
Kathleen,
we called the Festival and they told us they weren't on the beach. They said they're
a block away from the beach. If that's the case, we can't list them in on the
beach. What do you think? Are there buildings between them and the beach? Is there
a road between them and the beach? We're willing to reconsider if you feel they're
really on the beach. From:ppinfold@direct.ca
Subject: Marina Fiesta Resort
One
I would like to get more info on,
Marina
Fiesta Resort
Lotes 37/38
23410 Cabo San Lucas
Mexico
52/114-326-89
On the
Beach replies:
Our
research shows that the hotel is not on the beach. It's located on a marina. There
are 149 suites each with a kitchenette. You can have a brochure mailed to you
by calling 800.336.5454 or 800.332.2252
From:
ScottBondo@aol.com
Subject:villa del palmar - cabo san lucas
Please send any
information about the above listed resort and the surrounding area. What else
should I know about this area? The food, the drinks, the entertainment, and the
accomodations. On
the Beach replies:
It's
a beautiful 5 star resort. 3 nights will run you about $250. That's for a studio
for two people. Most
people who go to Cabo love it. The water is warm and tourquise. It is a desert,
however. Don't expect lush tropical vegetation. Except, of course, where the hotel
has planted it. Your
travel agent can get you photos and make your bookings. Call
the tourist office for more information 01152 (114) 2-0377.
From:
ACAKE@aol.com
Subject: Punta Palmilla
This
hotel is located on Punta Palmilla just west of San Jose del Cabo. Please provide
information. On
the Beach replies:
Birnbaum's
Mexico '96 says this:
"This Mexican Eden basks on a secluded bluff, and its
62 oversize rooms,.....and grounds impart the spirit of Old Mexico. ....The hotel
is in the middle of the 900 acre Palmilla development, which features an 18 hole,
Jack Nicklaus designed golf course." To
get a brochure call:800.637.CABO
From:
sguzzett@grossmont.k12.ca.us
Subject: Report on Quintas Papagayos
Recently
I stayed at a resort in Ensenada called "Quintas Papagayos", Ranch of the parrot,
owned by John (Juan) Hussong. I can't remember the address or phone number but
it is a great place with fabulous people. On
the Beach replies:
The
phone number is 800.346.3942. It's 1.6 km north of Ensenada on Rte 1. According
to Birnbaum's Mexico '96 "there are 26 suites and 20 cottages most with kitchens
and ocean views. There's no air conditioning, T.V. sets, or phones."
From:
robin@tekedge.com
Subject:Plaza Las Glorias
Have
you heard of Plaza Las Glorias Hotel/Resort. I'd like to know if it is a nice
hotel. On
the Beach replies:
Robin,
the auto club book on Baja says,"part of a large complex that includes condominiums
and a shopping center." Birnbaum's
Mexico 96 travel book desribes it as,"a Mediterranean style hostelry. It's in
the heart of town."
You
can call the hotel for a brochure - 800.342.2644
From:
dusty@camalott.com
Subject: Holiday Inn Ventura Beach Resort
We'll be there
in early October. What will the weather (and marguaritas) be like then?
On
the beach replies: The
odds are that the weather will be absolutely wonderful. We used to live on the
beach, now we live in the mountains. In June and sometimes early July we'd feel
sorry for the tourists who'd come out for the California beach sunshine cause
there wasn't any.
In
early summer you can expect fog or at least overcast skies. Maybe, maybe, it'll
burn off by the afternoon. But we've seen many a tourist shivering on the sand.
Then come July and August it's hot but can also be crowded. Late September and
early October the crowds are gone, not the sunshine.
Odds
are that sometime during this period we'll get Santa Ana conditions. This brings
crystal clear sunshine filled days. Santa Cruz island, just off the coast of Ventura,
will be so clear that you'll feel like you can reach out and touch it. That's
when you want to be sipping a Margarita up at the top of the Holiday Inn Ventura
Beach Resort.
By
the way, one of our favorite restaurants is in Ventura. It's not on the beach.
You can walk to it, though, from the Holiday Inn. maybe it's a 1/2 mile up on
Main Street. The name is California 66. You grill your own steaks there and they
are terrific and very inexpensive. Like under $10.
Surfing
is also super here and there's a wonderful boardwalk for skating, biking, or walking.
Hey, let
us know how your trip goes.
May
- 1996
From:
JEA Subject: Santa Barbara 5 star accommodations.
Kindly
advise on 5 star accommodation situated along the coast of Santa Barbara in California.
We are 2 adults and 3 children. We require 2 bedrooms suite or 2 connected room.
Also advise on facilities for children at the hotel.
On
the Beach replies:
Thanks
for stopping by our beach place. There is only one resort really on the beach
in Santa Barbara. It's the Miramar Resort Hotel. You can see them in our magazine
http://www.o-t-b.com under resorts or call them for a brochure: 800.322.6983
At the Miramar, you have your choice of accommodations either on the beach or
located on beautifully landscaped grounds. The beach is safe and excellent for
swimming. In addition, there are two heated pools, a spa, four tennis courts,
shuffleboard, and paddle tennis. Bicycles can be rented for touring the surrounding
area.
Please
let us know if we can offer you any more assistance. See ya on the beach,Jerry
November
From:
Lorrie
Subject: San Jose Del Cabo - Hotel Aguamarina.
Just
came back from San Jose Del Cabo. Stayed at the Aguamarina. It sits between the
Posada Real and the Fiesta Inn. Since we were on a package from Fiesta West, can't
quote prices. It's adequate. Very 'budget' in it's style. We were all inclusive.
Breakfast and Lunch were okay, but Dinner was always an 'adventure'. They have
daily aerobics. Swimming pool, very clean. Lots of loungers available. If your
on a budget and just looking for simple and clean, this would be the place. Some
rooms are not air conditioned. They supplied bottled water and coffee makers in
the rooms. TV was an assortment of cable movie & news stations, ie. HBO. The beach
is wonderful, swimming is not recommended. Very b under tow. Car rentals and tour
operators on site. 20 minute walk into town. Worst part was the beach dogs that
hung out.
You
missed a great hotel in Ensenada. Las Rosas Hotel & Spa. It's on the water, but
it's not a swimming beach.Great location. Great rooms. They all face the ocean.
Very romantic. Phone 011 52 617 4 43 60, fax 011 52 617 4 45 95.
From:
pchelpme@ix.netcom.com
Subject:
You missed one.
You
can't be complete without including the Sea Sprite Hotel in Hermosa Beach, California.
This hotel is truly "On the Beach." 310.376.6933
On
the Beach replies:
We checked it out. It really is on the beach. Thanks
for finding it for us. We've added it to our list.
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