Riviera Maya & Playa Del Carmen

The Riviera Maya has been a very popular vacation spot, due in part to the many activities that are available, the numerous and varied resort choices and the quick flights from the Midwest.

It's a good idea to venture off your resort, and get a taste of the local culture.
One easy way to do that is taking a cab ride from your resort to 5th Ave in Playa Del Carmen. Your driver will drop you off, and pick you back up at the designated time and place.

Wear comfortable walking shoes, as there are many blocks of shops, restaurants and cafes. Cold bottles of beer can be purchased for $1 a bottle, and there are benches available to sit and people watch.

The ferry that runs from Playa Del Carmen to Cozumel is located downtown. Senor Frogs is right there, and serves great margaritas. The staff is usually very animated and make your visit enjoyable. About a block away is a new mall, that has some really nice stores.

Playa Del Carmen is the place to buy a hand made hammock or pick up your supply of vanilla. Of course T-shirts are plentiful as well.

Winter Weather

It's that time of year. We have our warm weather vacation planned and are dreaming of white sand beaches, 80 degree tempatures and sunshine.
Hopefully, all will go well and we'll get to our destination quickly and easily.
In the event of bad weather, check out http://flightaware.com/
You can track flights, and check on the airport activity.
Just remember, you are on vacation, sit back, relax and know that you will get to your destination.


SNOW in Maui???
In my last post you saw photos of Mount Haleakala, very typical. Check out these photos a friend of mine sent. I wonder how long the snow lasted?


















This is a great shot, looking toward the West Maui Mountains. What a contrast!

Up Country Maui

Most visitors to Maui drive up to see Mount Haleakala crater. It's a fun drive, with amazing views. It seems like you are on the moon.

You'll have a chance to see a Silversword plant, only found there.

Don't sell yourself short and head back to the beaches right away, ride around and explore the area.


Kula Lodge Restaurant has wonderful food and fabulous views. They have an amazing banana pancake breakfast, that is more desert than breakfast.



Take a stroll across the parking lot to Kula Marketplace, and shop for local art and home grown food. http://www.kulalodge.com/index.htm


If you enjoy lavender and protea, a stop at Ali'i Kula Lavender Farm.Lavender is known for its relaxing qualities. The farm is like walking through a botanical garden.



You can purchase anything lavender at the gift shop. Be sure to try the lavender scones, they were delicious.