You asked for it-Cindyrella's trip report Part 2

Cindyrella · 06-10-2004

Pools: Great! Each pool is divided into sections so it never feels crowded and there are always plenty of lounge chairs in both sun and shade. The swim up bar pool was just steps from our room so we hung there a lot. I also enjoyed the hammocks, even took a little nap in one. My only suggestion would be to make the pool bars adults only, there were so many kids at the bar with their pool toys splashing, screaming, etc it was a tiny bit annoying. They could make that section of the pool adult only and the kiddies would still have plenty of pool to play in. One day a photographer came around to take pictures of people holding a huge iguana. He would sit on their heads! I kept wondering what iguana poop looks like, especially in your hair- :o . It didn’t seem to be a problem but I wasn’t taking a chance.

Beach: Perfecto!!!! A long stretch of clean, soft white sand, warm calm water, spectacular turquoise color, never crowded. You can be in the middle of the action or all by yourself at either end. Snorkeling off the pier was great, crystal clear water and a lot to see, didn’t spot the Barcelo turtle though. Actually you can see fish just swimming in the ocean. I also liked how you can walk out pretty far until it gets deep. There was always a breeze at the beach to keep you cool but beware—you will burn quickly because you don’t feel hot. I bought a hat because the part in my hair got burned pretty bad. I just can’t say enough about this beach. We’ve been to each of the Hawaiian islands several times and the sand there just isn’t as fine and soft and cool. Your feet don’t get burned walking on it. We only saw one lady topless on the beach in an area that wasn’t crowded, didn’t see any topless at the pools but we only used the one closest to our room. There was a guy doing temporary tattos at the resort and a girl was getting one on the small of her back --in a thong :o My husband said he wanted that job

I noticed the "artist" took his time

Oh yeah, NO SEA LICE!!!

Bars: Yes, there was a bit of a wait at the swim up bars but not excessive. We used the the self serve corona taps. I did order a few strawberry margaritas too. At the lobby and theater bars the service was slow, they just don’t have enough bartenders. I was really looking forward to trying all these drinks I had heard about. I had a Miami vice and a blue Hawaii and didn’t like either one. I figured out that they use light AND dark rum in everything so I eventually asked for just light and that was better. I thought the house rum had a real after taste to it. I’m used to Malibu rum and didn’t see any of that. I did try a dirty monkey the last day and wish I had discovered them earlier, yummmm.

Question--are the “cocktail waitresses” supposed to take your drink order? Because all they did was put coasters under drinks people already had and pick up empty glasses. With the exception of the first night we got there, no one ever took my drink order, that was annoying

The theater bars were even slower. We’re not big drinkers so it wasn’t a big deal but this is an area that definitely needs improvement.

Entertainment: The theater performers are very good. A lot of talent there and they work really hard. How do you go about tipping the performers? Even though it was hot we sat in the front to take pictures. We really enjoyed the Broadway night; they performed scenes from Cats, Beauty & the Beast and Phantom. The costumes were a little cheesy but the talent was great. I very much enjoyed the Moulin Rouge/Chicago night. Chicago is one of my all time favorites and they choose the best songs and scenes to do. The costumes were much improved for this show. We attended the Mexican folklore night but found it a little boring, of course this could have been marred by the fact that hubby and I had a little “tiff”. It was his fault, no really

There are several girl singers that are excellent, my husband had his favorite he reffered to as “my girl” another he affectionally referred to as “camel toes” for obvious reasons

—uh, yeah, those costumes are mucho tight! Never made it to the disco, too much sun and just generally too tired.

Gift shops: I thought the gift shops were reasonably priced and quite nice, especially Cas Mexicana where there have pewter picture frames and lots of colorful Mexican pottery. I bought two picture frames to bring home for gifts. There is a jewelry store, tobacco shop, and I think two basic gift shops. I also bought a handpainted tile from a woman near the towel shack. It’s very pretty and she only uses her finger and nail to paint. One night, I think it was Friday, there was a Mexican couple hand rolling cigars for sale in the lobby, I bought one for my boss although I had no idea what I was doing. The lady said they come in regular and “banilla”.

Activities: Lots of stuff to do on the beach everyday. Spanish lessons, water aerobics in the ocean, games, volleyball, beach soccer, etc. There are water bikes, Hobie Cats, kayaks, windsurfers, and probably more. I wanted to take a Hobie Cat out but we didn’t get around to it. I have a theory that due to its geographical location the gravity must be stronger at the Barcelo, therefore making it extremely difficult to get out of your lounger! I tried several times and just gave up, I mean c’mon you can’t fight science

We did go parasailing one afternoon, $100 US for tandem. It’s a little pricey but worth it, it was my first time so I was a bit nervous. You go up very gently and it really is like flying, you’re supposed to get 10 minutes of airtime but I think we got much longer. The crew was great but there was a woman probably around 50 that was drunk when she got on the boat, she was going tandem with her friend. She was very loud, dancing around, did I mention there was NO music?

Anyway she was flirting heavily with the young crew members and when one guy put her harness on her she grabbed his shoulders, reeled him in and gave him a big kiss on the lips

He was very embarrassed :o When everyone was done parasailing the captain did turn on some music and of course she shimmed pretty good with the guys who, incidentally were trying to do their jobs. Then she got behind the wheel of the boat and announced that she’s had a boat for 30 years and she can drive

The captain immediately pulled back the throttle but let her stand there. These poor guys didn’t quite know how to handle this wild woman. We saw her the next night at the lobby bar and my misguided husband waves to her and says “hey didn’t you go parasailing with us?” Jeeez, don’t draw attention to us, dear

She replied “ oh yeah, Hi, that will be our secret because my husband is right here, okay?” Yeah, sure, okay we were just leaving anyway, right honey?????

Tours: We only did one tour—that gravity thing again. I had booked online before we arrived from another board. We were picked up at the hotel at around 8:00 and drove to Tulum. Our tickets had already been purchased so we bypassed a long line. We had a guide and he would show us a building, find some shade and relate some Mayan history to us. It was very interesting but hot, hot, hot!!! By this time it was only 9:00 am. Tip: wear a hat and sunscreen or cover your shoulders. I wore my swimsuit under quick dry shorts and short sleeve top. The setting is spectacular with the turquoise ocean below and the ruins set on the cliff. Bring your camera, lots of good photo ops. The tour guide finished and we had free time to explore, I just walked around and took pictures. This just whetted my appetite for more ruins to visit next time. I regret now not going into one of the shops and buying a book on Tulum. As we were leaving some Mexican men were performing this “thing” were they crawl to the top of a high pole and hang upside down and swing out from the pole all the way to the bottom. Kinda hard to explain but I took pictures. They pass the hat for donations. If somebody knows what this tradition is about, I’d be interested to learn. Next stop, Gran Cenote. Just awesome. Very cool water, which felt good, in a jungle setting and lots of stalactites in a cave. We snorkeled and swam. After about an hour there we drove to a remote part of Tulum on a deserted beach and our guide cooked us lunch on the beach. I’m not exaggerating when I say there was not another soul on the beach except for the 12 in our party. We had delicious BBQ’d chicken, beer, fruit, rice, beans, etc. Swam in the ocean there after lunch, then moved on to Cenote Cristallino which turns out to be across the street from the BM. The water was even cooler here; snorkeling was better because there were more fish. There’s a little cliff maybe about 10-15 ft. high that you can jump off of into the water. It was a great combination of fun and relaxation with no strict schedule. If you want more info on this tour or others they offer, email me.

Puerto Adventuras: Took a taxi into Puerto Adventuras just for fun one afternoon. We shopped, had lunch and watched people in the Dolphin swim. If we bring the teens I know they will definitely want to do this. It looked like fun. I think we might have spent 2-3 hrs total there. We saw Gringo Dave’s, it would be really fun to catch something on one of the fishing boats and have them grill it up. I’m sure we missed a lot the little town has to offer, not sure how to get to places—everything seemed to be behind gates.

Playa del Carmen: I originally thought we would go into Playa more than we did. It was just too much work after a day of relaxing. We did go in the second night we were there to meet up with some people from another board. The meeting was at the ****** but it was not busy, maybe they get busier later? This was about 8:00. We ate dinner at some sidewalk café I wasn’t very hungry so I just had guacumole and chips and hubby had veggie tacos. I also had a mojito (the drink with mint leaves) and after 3 sips I announced I was drunk (now do you believe I don’t drink much?)

anyway what was weird was the more I drank, the more sober I got so I guess all the liquor is on the top. We chatted with a nice couple from Belgium at the table next to us. We shopped a little on 5th avenue, I bought a beautiful silver bracelet for myself and one for my daughter. The roads are torn up and dusty but it was still fun. I’ve read comments about the aggressive shop owners but let me tell you they are 100 times worse in Puerto Vallarta.

Our second trip was after our tour. We took a collectivo—the stop is literally right around the corner from the entrance to the resort, took a cab back as it was late. We ate at Babe’s noodle house, little warning-- they don’t take credit cards so we had to find a cash machine. It was very good and cost less than 200 pesos for both dinners and one drink each. I did a little shopping in the square at the end of 5th. I bought two nice leather purses for my daughter and niece. After a bit of haggling, I paid 500 pesos for both which I thought was a good price. Once you settle on a price, the vendors are very friendly, he even offered my husband a free cigar.

We might consider staying closer to Playa next time so that hubby has a better selection of food with all the restaurants. I wouldn’t want to stay in Playa proper though, it just wouldn’t be very relaxing in my opinion.

All in all a wonderful vacation and one of the most relaxing we’ve had. Would I return to the Barcelo? In a heartbeat. But with hubby’s food limitations somewhere closer to Playa might be good too. I just don’t want to give up that beautiful beach.

Nerak936 · 06-10-2004

Quote:

Originally Posted by Cindyrella

Playa del Carmen: I originally thought we would go into Playa more than we did. It was just too much work after a day of relaxing. We did go in the second night we were there to meet up with some people from another board.

From another board??? Maybe we behaved like we were from a different planet, but I thought we were all from the same board......

Andiline · 06-10-2004

Karen, I think Cindy copied this report over as she is very secretive about the tour guide....

Hey, it was JAMES!

I know because I was there too....

Sorry Cindy, but I guess we caught you...

Andiline · 06-10-2004

Oooops, I forgot: the reports are great anyway!!!!!!!

Nerak936 · 06-10-2004

Quote:

Originally Posted by Andiline

Oooops, I forgot: the reports are great anyway!!!!!!!

Yup..... what she said.

Cindyrella · 06-10-2004

Confusion understandable. I originally posted this on a board devoted only to the Barcelo resort so I wasn't sure if it was "kosher" to post a link to this board. However, I did get quite a few emails inquiring about the tour and I gave them this web address and info about the tour. Whew, glad that's cleared up.

Are you guys having withdrawals too?

How am I going to get through the next year? I shouldn't complain because we live on a nice big, beautiful lake but hey, it's not the carribean

KC Arrowhead · 06-10-2004

going to the IB*Paraiso in 4 days.. What great info you provided to us!!! Thanks so much!!!

TAPPY · 06-12-2004

Great report.....The James/Anna Tulum tour is 1# on my list for next time I go.

I live close to the beach, but it is just not the same so I know what you mean !!!

Rainman · 06-14-2004

Cindyrella:

Great part 2 on your trip report. Seems like the beaches where you stayed compared to PDC and Playacar has allowed you to experience more of the reefs and better snorkeling (sounded great). Do not confuse PDC with Playacar, Playacar is a different world than PDC. Playacar is where all of the big AI resorts are and it is a really nice place and you should check it out some time.

Seeking Trip Knowledge.
Rainman

06-10-2004	#1 (permalink)
Cindyrella toe in water Join Date: Jan 2004 Location: North Idaho Posts: 47	You asked for it-Cindyrella's trip report Part 2 Pools: Great! Each pool is divided into sections so it never feels crowded and there are always plenty of lounge chairs in both sun and shade. The swim up bar pool was just steps from our room so we hung there a lot. I also enjoyed the hammocks, even took a little nap in one. My only suggestion would be to make the pool bars adults only, there were so many kids at the bar with their pool toys splashing, screaming, etc it was a tiny bit annoying. They could make that section of the pool adult only and the kiddies would still have plenty of pool to play in. One day a photographer came around to take pictures of people holding a huge iguana. He would sit on their heads! I kept wondering what iguana poop looks like, especially in your hair- :o . It didn’t seem to be a problem but I wasn’t taking a chance. Beach: Perfecto!!!! A long stretch of clean, soft white sand, warm calm water, spectacular turquoise color, never crowded. You can be in the middle of the action or all by yourself at either end. Snorkeling off the pier was great, crystal clear water and a lot to see, didn’t spot the Barcelo turtle though. Actually you can see fish just swimming in the ocean. I also liked how you can walk out pretty far until it gets deep. There was always a breeze at the beach to keep you cool but beware—you will burn quickly because you don’t feel hot. I bought a hat because the part in my hair got burned pretty bad. I just can’t say enough about this beach. We’ve been to each of the Hawaiian islands several times and the sand there just isn’t as fine and soft and cool. Your feet don’t get burned walking on it. We only saw one lady topless on the beach in an area that wasn’t crowded, didn’t see any topless at the pools but we only used the one closest to our room. There was a guy doing temporary tattos at the resort and a girl was getting one on the small of her back --in a thong :o My husband said he wanted that job I noticed the "artist" took his time Oh yeah, NO SEA LICE!!! Bars: Yes, there was a bit of a wait at the swim up bars but not excessive. We used the the self serve corona taps. I did order a few strawberry margaritas too. At the lobby and theater bars the service was slow, they just don’t have enough bartenders. I was really looking forward to trying all these drinks I had heard about. I had a Miami vice and a blue Hawaii and didn’t like either one. I figured out that they use light AND dark rum in everything so I eventually asked for just light and that was better. I thought the house rum had a real after taste to it. I’m used to Malibu rum and didn’t see any of that. I did try a dirty monkey the last day and wish I had discovered them earlier, yummmm. Question--are the “cocktail waitresses” supposed to take your drink order? Because all they did was put coasters under drinks people already had and pick up empty glasses. With the exception of the first night we got there, no one ever took my drink order, that was annoying The theater bars were even slower. We’re not big drinkers so it wasn’t a big deal but this is an area that definitely needs improvement. Entertainment: The theater performers are very good. A lot of talent there and they work really hard. How do you go about tipping the performers? Even though it was hot we sat in the front to take pictures. We really enjoyed the Broadway night; they performed scenes from Cats, Beauty & the Beast and Phantom. The costumes were a little cheesy but the talent was great. I very much enjoyed the Moulin Rouge/Chicago night. Chicago is one of my all time favorites and they choose the best songs and scenes to do. The costumes were much improved for this show. We attended the Mexican folklore night but found it a little boring, of course this could have been marred by the fact that hubby and I had a little “tiff”. It was his fault, no really There are several girl singers that are excellent, my husband had his favorite he reffered to as “my girl” another he affectionally referred to as “camel toes” for obvious reasons —uh, yeah, those costumes are mucho tight! Never made it to the disco, too much sun and just generally too tired. Gift shops: I thought the gift shops were reasonably priced and quite nice, especially Cas Mexicana where there have pewter picture frames and lots of colorful Mexican pottery. I bought two picture frames to bring home for gifts. There is a jewelry store, tobacco shop, and I think two basic gift shops. I also bought a handpainted tile from a woman near the towel shack. It’s very pretty and she only uses her finger and nail to paint. One night, I think it was Friday, there was a Mexican couple hand rolling cigars for sale in the lobby, I bought one for my boss although I had no idea what I was doing. The lady said they come in regular and “banilla”. Activities: Lots of stuff to do on the beach everyday. Spanish lessons, water aerobics in the ocean, games, volleyball, beach soccer, etc. There are water bikes, Hobie Cats, kayaks, windsurfers, and probably more. I wanted to take a Hobie Cat out but we didn’t get around to it. I have a theory that due to its geographical location the gravity must be stronger at the Barcelo, therefore making it extremely difficult to get out of your lounger! I tried several times and just gave up, I mean c’mon you can’t fight science We did go parasailing one afternoon, $100 US for tandem. It’s a little pricey but worth it, it was my first time so I was a bit nervous. You go up very gently and it really is like flying, you’re supposed to get 10 minutes of airtime but I think we got much longer. The crew was great but there was a woman probably around 50 that was drunk when she got on the boat, she was going tandem with her friend. She was very loud, dancing around, did I mention there was NO music? Anyway she was flirting heavily with the young crew members and when one guy put her harness on her she grabbed his shoulders, reeled him in and gave him a big kiss on the lips He was very embarrassed :o When everyone was done parasailing the captain did turn on some music and of course she shimmed pretty good with the guys who, incidentally were trying to do their jobs. Then she got behind the wheel of the boat and announced that she’s had a boat for 30 years and she can drive The captain immediately pulled back the throttle but let her stand there. These poor guys didn’t quite know how to handle this wild woman. We saw her the next night at the lobby bar and my misguided husband waves to her and says “hey didn’t you go parasailing with us?” Jeeez, don’t draw attention to us, dear She replied “ oh yeah, Hi, that will be our secret because my husband is right here, okay?” Yeah, sure, okay we were just leaving anyway, right honey????? Tours: We only did one tour—that gravity thing again. I had booked online before we arrived from another board. We were picked up at the hotel at around 8:00 and drove to Tulum. Our tickets had already been purchased so we bypassed a long line. We had a guide and he would show us a building, find some shade and relate some Mayan history to us. It was very interesting but hot, hot, hot!!! By this time it was only 9:00 am. Tip: wear a hat and sunscreen or cover your shoulders. I wore my swimsuit under quick dry shorts and short sleeve top. The setting is spectacular with the turquoise ocean below and the ruins set on the cliff. Bring your camera, lots of good photo ops. The tour guide finished and we had free time to explore, I just walked around and took pictures. This just whetted my appetite for more ruins to visit next time. I regret now not going into one of the shops and buying a book on Tulum. As we were leaving some Mexican men were performing this “thing” were they crawl to the top of a high pole and hang upside down and swing out from the pole all the way to the bottom. Kinda hard to explain but I took pictures. They pass the hat for donations. If somebody knows what this tradition is about, I’d be interested to learn. Next stop, Gran Cenote. Just awesome. Very cool water, which felt good, in a jungle setting and lots of stalactites in a cave. We snorkeled and swam. After about an hour there we drove to a remote part of Tulum on a deserted beach and our guide cooked us lunch on the beach. I’m not exaggerating when I say there was not another soul on the beach except for the 12 in our party. We had delicious BBQ’d chicken, beer, fruit, rice, beans, etc. Swam in the ocean there after lunch, then moved on to Cenote Cristallino which turns out to be across the street from the BM. The water was even cooler here; snorkeling was better because there were more fish. There’s a little cliff maybe about 10-15 ft. high that you can jump off of into the water. It was a great combination of fun and relaxation with no strict schedule. If you want more info on this tour or others they offer, email me. Puerto Adventuras: Took a taxi into Puerto Adventuras just for fun one afternoon. We shopped, had lunch and watched people in the Dolphin swim. If we bring the teens I know they will definitely want to do this. It looked like fun. I think we might have spent 2-3 hrs total there. We saw Gringo Dave’s, it would be really fun to catch something on one of the fishing boats and have them grill it up. I’m sure we missed a lot the little town has to offer, not sure how to get to places—everything seemed to be behind gates. Playa del Carmen: I originally thought we would go into Playa more than we did. It was just too much work after a day of relaxing. We did go in the second night we were there to meet up with some people from another board. The meeting was at the ****** but it was not busy, maybe they get busier later? This was about 8:00. We ate dinner at some sidewalk café I wasn’t very hungry so I just had guacumole and chips and hubby had veggie tacos. I also had a mojito (the drink with mint leaves) and after 3 sips I announced I was drunk (now do you believe I don’t drink much?) anyway what was weird was the more I drank, the more sober I got so I guess all the liquor is on the top. We chatted with a nice couple from Belgium at the table next to us. We shopped a little on 5th avenue, I bought a beautiful silver bracelet for myself and one for my daughter. The roads are torn up and dusty but it was still fun. I’ve read comments about the aggressive shop owners but let me tell you they are 100 times worse in Puerto Vallarta. Our second trip was after our tour. We took a collectivo—the stop is literally right around the corner from the entrance to the resort, took a cab back as it was late. We ate at Babe’s noodle house, little warning-- they don’t take credit cards so we had to find a cash machine. It was very good and cost less than 200 pesos for both dinners and one drink each. I did a little shopping in the square at the end of 5th. I bought two nice leather purses for my daughter and niece. After a bit of haggling, I paid 500 pesos for both which I thought was a good price. Once you settle on a price, the vendors are very friendly, he even offered my husband a free cigar. We might consider staying closer to Playa next time so that hubby has a better selection of food with all the restaurants. I wouldn’t want to stay in Playa proper though, it just wouldn’t be very relaxing in my opinion. All in all a wonderful vacation and one of the most relaxing we’ve had. Would I return to the Barcelo? In a heartbeat. But with hubby’s food limitations somewhere closer to Playa might be good too. I just don’t want to give up that beautiful beach.

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06-10-2004	#3 (permalink)
Andiline añejo Join Date: Feb 2004 Location: Cologne, Germany Posts: 7,434	Karen, I think Cindy copied this report over as she is very secretive about the tour guide.... Hey, it was JAMES! I know because I was there too.... Sorry Cindy, but I guess we caught you...

06-10-2004	#4 (permalink)
Andiline añejo Join Date: Feb 2004 Location: Cologne, Germany Posts: 7,434	Oooops, I forgot: the reports are great anyway!!!!!!!

06-10-2004	#6 (permalink)
Cindyrella toe in water Join Date: Jan 2004 Location: North Idaho Posts: 47	Confusion understandable. I originally posted this on a board devoted only to the Barcelo resort so I wasn't sure if it was "kosher" to post a link to this board. However, I did get quite a few emails inquiring about the tour and I gave them this web address and info about the tour. Whew, glad that's cleared up. Are you guys having withdrawals too? How am I going to get through the next year? I shouldn't complain because we live on a nice big, beautiful lake but hey, it's not the carribean

06-10-2004	#7 (permalink)
KC Arrowhead beachaholic Join Date: May 2004 Location: 15 minutes east of Arrowhead stadium Posts: 314	going to the IB*Paraiso in 4 days.. What great info you provided to us!!! Thanks so much!!!

06-12-2004	#8 (permalink)
TAPPY añejo Join Date: Jan 2004 Location: Louisiana Posts: 14,940	Great report.....The James/Anna Tulum tour is 1# on my list for next time I go. I live close to the beach, but it is just not the same so I know what you mean !!!

06-14-2004	#9 (permalink)
Rainman life=playa Join Date: Feb 2004 Location: Cincinnati;OH Posts: 538	Cindyrella: Great part 2 on your trip report. Seems like the beaches where you stayed compared to PDC and Playacar has allowed you to experience more of the reefs and better snorkeling (sounded great). Do not confuse PDC with Playacar, Playacar is a different world than PDC. Playacar is where all of the big AI resorts are and it is a really nice place and you should check it out some time. Seeking Trip Knowledge. Rainman

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