Mexication

Wendy and I took our first "vacation" vacation in a good while when we went to Puerto Vallarta, Mexico for six nights last week. Home base for us was an all-inclusive resort (Riu Palace Pacifico) in Riviera Nayarit, which is twenty minutes from PV. The goals for the trip were simple: spend ample time in the sun by the pool or on the beach, eat our weight in food, and day-drink every day, all of which were accomplished. As a bonus, we also learned how to surf, watched whales go crazy in the wild, and read a few good books along the way.

The view from our 7th floor room. We didn't actually catch the sunsets from here, as we were pointed just far enough north of west, but still an awesome view. And far enough away from the pool to not be annoyed by the group of 70 year old women catcalling their waiter.

Awesome sunsets.

One of the highlights of the week was a daytrip to Sayulita, a small surf town around the northern point of Banderas Bay on the Pacific Coast, where we hoped to surf for the first time. With the help of our instructor, Alan (pronounced ah-LAWN), Wendy and I were riding waves like pros. We also found time for a few Coronas and some fresh ceviche at a beach front bar.

Us with our surf instructor, Alan

Surfing giant waves

On the beach in Sayulita

Our other big excursion for the week was whale watching in Banderas Bay. I was a little skeptical about this one when we signed up, but this ended up being one of the coolest experiences I've ever had. The tour started off a little slow, but by the end we had about fifteen humpback whale-sightings, and even saw one come fully out of the water, Pacific Life style. I also caught this video of one waving at us. Pretty amazing.

I told the Captain I would double her tip if she cued up the Free Willy song on our way back into port. She was either insulted or had no idea what I was talking about.

On the sailboat, looking for whales

Meanwhile, back at the resort we were catching plenty of rays and chain-drinking pina coladas. The food at the resort was good enough, but definitely not blog-worthy. Our food highlight was the senorita at the omelet station who we talked into making us breakfast tacos every day. Yum.

This resort was pretty hilarious. It seemed as if everyone there was a fifty-something from the Midwest or Canada (let's just say there was no shortage of jorts or mandals). There was an "entertainment" crew that was apparently there to ensure we were having a good time, but succeeded only in emulating a really bad mexican variety show. Don't get me wrong, this resort was absolutely gorgeous and spotlessly clean. The service was impeccable. It was located on probably the best part of the beach. And we actually did meet some "kids" our age. The ease of an all-inclusive resort is why we chose it, and we were not disappointed. But I think we discovered this may not be our scene for vacations in the near future. Smiley face.

From our balcony

In the courtyard

At our favorite bar