Hurricane Rick

Hurricane Rick on the Mexican Coast

We drove up the coast to Todos Santos for some homemade Damiana liquor and Sea of Cortes sea salt to carry home. If you get the chance to venture to the cape - make sure you indulge in some Damiana for your margarita. Damiana is an herbal tea as well which settles the tummy and those womanly monthly pains as well as boosts the fertility hormones.

The best reason for the trip up the coast to Todos Santos is the return sunset stop at Art and Beer.

I had a pure, au natural pina colada right up there with my Galapagos cocktail.

Since Hurricane Rick was hanging over us, we spent many hours watching the powerful surf and sipping on some wonderful Mexican rose’. Who would have thought we could enjoy local wines on the Mexican coast?

Of course we indulged in the local tacos at Gardenia's by the McDonalds in Cabo as well as our new find in San Jose - Taqueria Mexico!

If you travel to San Jose in the winter months, check out the new local farmer's market on the outskirts of town and take the drive up the east cape to Cabo Pulmo for some snorkeling.

We didn't get to check it out, but Sandy's Restaurante on the highway to the airport has a very traditional dished called camerones agua chile. Next time, I suppose…

One last tip: Try Tequilas for a very soothing garden experience. Great lighting and ambiance!

Vieques

Enjoying The View From Vieques, Puerto Rico       

So here I am sitting poolside sipping a cold frosty beer watching the waves roll in.

Yes, there is surf in Vieques....

Bravos De Boston couldn't be a finer place to unwind. Stop in town early morning for some fresh pastries and possibly a cerveza, if you are so inclined. Not sure of the name of the joint, but just go to the center of Isabella. Look for the lazy days of Cuba when sitting on the stoop chillin was a perfect way to enjoy a sunny day. Don't ask for anything fancy just straight up is how they poor it here and at our other favorite watering hole, El Sombrero. 

Don't let the drunken chatter fool you, the wine selection in the back (temperature controlled room) is the furthest thing from shabby. The prices on the Don Piedro can''t be beat. Try the two star, it's lighter.

If you are hankerin’ for some Labrador ribs head to the Blue Crab and your whole experience will bring you back to Normandy.

If you want to try something off the beaten path (even for Vieques) head over the Barefoot Bistro and have Nicole whip up whatever comes in that day.

Now for my favorite part: Pack some Coronas in the cooler and bring a couple strawberries ( the crabs are fascinated by them) and head to Garcia Gate for some of the most beauteous sandy coves you will ever set your eyes on. Stop at Blackbeard’s snorkel shop and pick up gear and a guide to the beaches and explore.

Get Abe on the horn and take the trip to Bio Bay. His humor and knowledge with take you to another place. Just don't forget the eco-friendly bug repellent ( eucalyptus and baby oil seems to do the trick)

If you want to surf, go to the North and drive to the Vieques Humane Society. Make a donation the head to the beach by the horse track. if you need to rent a board, Playa Valatos in Isabellas rents boards and the guy is super nice!

If you can swing renting the the Bravos Boys - just do it.

Off season is definitely quieter, but private beaches and discounted rates will leave you whipping up your own little cucina in a beautifully appointed kitchen . We just finished a garlic, onion, tomato and gouda frittata layered with the mofongo from last nights doggie bag. Sitting on the patio looking at a rainbow over the horizon sipping some wonderful Caribbean coffee while wondering if we have the energy to do much more than this. I don’t think we really need to….

Surf Sun Sayulita

Tacos, Surf, and Sun in Sayulita, Mexico

Back tracking a bit to find the best taco via Pacific Mexico.

Surf and sun aside, the coast north of Puerto Vallarta is place to begin searching for the best taco stand. The little sleepy town of Sayulita is a great place to start. Ivan's Tacos on the main road will keep you craving but only after 6pm. What's a girl to do all day long?

Head to Tacos Vicki in La Penita.

La Penita hosts the Thursday Market, so take the drive from Vallarta or Sayulita early on Thursday and walk the main road by the bus station with your eyes peeled for Tacos Vicki. The Thursday market can fill your rental up with anything your heart desires. Personally, I find the end of the walk through the market yields the best finds. I picked up a candelabra on the first trip and when I returned I was on a mission for a vintage Mexican mortar and pestle and walla. The same candelabra man hooked me up!

There are many options for accommodations in Sayulita. The second time we chose the Sayulita Trailer Park. If the view is what makes your spot 4 stars, and you love opening your front door to coffee and chest high surf, this is paradise. If you want the works, opt for a private rental for whatever suits your needs. Sayulitalife.com is the site for whatever you need. When you get sick of Tacos, head to Rojo Dragon for the absolute best fried rice outside of China. (I am not kidding.) Happy hour 2-for-ones set the mood for any evening and the staff is the friendliest in town. (Look for the music schedule so as not to miss the live Reggae night.)

Go to Dorado Rentals and rent an old Thing or Volkswagen Bug. Then take the ride to La Lancha and walk the heavenly white sand beach. Bring your board and if it is too small go the the Palladium resort and walk the secret path to Burros....

Adventure awaits! Go for it!

Galapagos

We started on the mainland - surfing the coast from Montanita to the pristine and empty spots along the coast. Then we hooked up with our friends, Mia and David to find not only the best breaks but the most amazing aloe massage and chocolate cheesecake (It was to-die-for ….Who would of thought?)

When the surf has died or you’re just plain wiped, head to the beach for ceviche right out of the sea and a grande Pilsner to wash it down. Stay out of town at the Casa Del Sol ($20 a night and includes breakfast) Just make sure you get a second floor room. If you want to be closer to the sea, Randy's friends in front of the Casa have cute little cabinas ($30 a night but go ahead and splurge) Randy can also arrange to pick you up and take you back to the Airport. The flight gets in late but I suggest taking the ride to the sea and waking up with the sound of waves, not traffic...

If you go into town - check out the Funky Donkey for the best Caparihna in town. The food is made with flavor, love, and a grill right in the middle of the patio. Don't forget you are in South America so the wine’s cheap and plentiful.

Wherever you find yourself, remember to enjoy your adventure!