A Day in Morro Bay

22 July 202319 April 2025

Morro Bay was one of my last stops down the Pacific Coast Highway (Route 1) before heading over to Bakersfield to meet up with some friends. This charming fishing town is most known for its large rock formation which rises 576 feet up from the harbor. Morro Rock is one of nine volcanic plugs called the Nine Sisters that stretches along California’s Central Coast. The Rock, as it is known by locals, is one of the best surfing spots, so I wanted to check it out for myself. Surfing among dolphins, sea lions and harbor seals, I had the time of my life. I was so excited to see the large population of adorable otters that make their home in Morro and couldn’t wait to explore additional sightings of these playful little mammals while immersed in this charming town.

Built as a wharf to transport dairy and food products, the Embarcadero waterfront is now a boardwalk full of locally-owned shops and restaurants. I decided to dine at the Great American Fish Company and catch another view of the otters frolicking in the sea.

With so many options on the menu, I decided to order the local back bay oysters. With a little hot sauce and horseradish, I slurped them down in seconds. I was also intrigued by the GAFCO clam steamers and having dipped them in warm butter, they were the perfect taste of saltiness and fish. Someday I will return for the ceviche, calamari (which comes highly recommended) or the local abalone (ab-ah-LOW-nee), a mild mollusk, which is also referred to as a mild tasting sea snail.

Before leaving Morro Bay, I purchased some salt water taffy at Carousel and made a trek around the base of The Rock to stretch out before leaving this beautiful place. Rock climbing at Morro Rock requires a permit to ensure the protection of the peregrine falcons that nest here. Once added to California’s Endangered Species list, there are two nesting pairs of falcons in the area.

I had an amazing adventure in Morro Bay. Having my fill of seafood, a morning of surfing, an afternoon of otter watching and my lucky box of salt water taffy, it was time for me to set out for the Central Valley.

Have you visited Morro Bay? What was your favorite experience? I would love to hear from you if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below. Many thanks for following my short trip to The Rock and wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Morro Bay

Admission Fee: Free
Hours: Open daily 24/7
Scenic View: See wildlife and surfers from Morro Rock; hike the local trails.
Length of Visit: 1 hour
Travel Tip: Bring a sweater if stopping by in the evening. The weather may include fog, so be prepared. Bring binoculars to see the peregrine falcons that nest on The Rock.

The Embarcadero

Admission Fee: Free
Hours: Varies depending on the shop/restaurant you visit
Scenic View: See wildlife near the Great American Fish Company
Length of Visit: 1 – 3 hours
Travel Tip: Bring a sweater if stopping by in the evening. The weather may include fog, so be prepared.

Where to Stay:

Inn at Morro Bay
60 State Park Road
Morro Bay, CA 93442
Telephone: 805 772 5651

Where to Eat:

Great American Fish Company
1185 Embarcadero
Morro Bay, CA 93442
Telephone: 805 772 4407

What to Eat:

Calamari
Ceviche
Fish and Chips
Local Oysters
Oyster Shooters
Steamed Clams and Mussels

What to Read:

Eyes Wide Open by Andrew Gross
Vanishing Point by Marcia Muller

Photo Guide for Morro Bay:

Photograph The Rock from Morro Creek Beach at sunrise or sunset
Morro Bay Dunes
The sea otters next to Great American Fish Company

Disclosure: Please refer to our blog disclaimer tab for more information.

Exploring Bali: Singaraja and Lovina Beach

22 January 202222 September 2024

Early morning sunrise on Lovina Beach, Bali

Just as I had predicted, I had a great night’s sleep at the Aditya Beach Resort on Lovina Beach in Bali. Waking up early, I wanted to walk along the beach at dawn while the weather was still brisk and invigorating. Besides the lonely fisherman and a couple of tourists, I had the beach all to myself. I walked the short length of the coast where rowboats had been pushed up along the sand next to piles of seaweed and debris and birds were searching for their morning breakfast.

Dolphin Cruise Excursion at Lovina Beach, Bali

On my way back to the hotel, the beach began to liven up with activity. A group of sightseers were stepping into a boat for a dolphin cruise and joggers slipped past the stray dogs.

Lovina is known for its large school of dolphins and early morning cruises are a popular excursion for tourists during season. Watching the boat drift into the horizon, I met the hotel security guard, Ajit, who stopped by to say good morning. Having met him at check in last night, he offered to take me around to the local sites. Since he knows my friend Wayan, I took him up on his offer.

Hindu Offerings, Bali, Indonesia

I strolled back to my room to prepare for the day and noticed several pedestals that contained pieces of fruit, flower petals and burning incense. These are the offerings that the Balinese offer up to their gods throughout the day and are visible on the side of the road, sitting on small roadside shrines or near the large temples throughout the island.

Buddhist Monestary in Northern Bali

Ajit returned on his motorcycle and I told him that I would like to visit the Buddhist Monastery. He also suggested a nearby waterfall and the hot springs, so we had a full day ahead of us.

The atmosphere of the monastery is one of reverence and solitude. Although the island is predominantly Hindu, there are two active places of worship for Buddhists in Bali as well.

Beautiful Fountains at the Monastery

The spectacular views of the coast from the Brahma Vihara Arama Buddhist Monastery went on for miles. The tropical trees met up with the beaches of Lovina for a beautiful backdrop. The paintings and sculptures within the monastery were unusually lifelike and three dimensional.

Lily ponds and fountains gave the monastery a religious sense of calm. Protecting their surroundings, the monkey gods took a stand to ward off evil spirits. The soothing sound of water and gentle rustle of leaves from the wind were comforting as I searched for koi fish under the lily pads.

The Buddhist Eightfold Path of Enlightenment

The Eight-Fold Path is the final teaching of the Buddhist Four Noble Truths. A stairway at the monastery representing the steps of these teachings are said to lead to spiritual enlightenment and the end of suffering.

The Brahma Vihara Arama Buddhist Monastery is an exceptionally well maintained temple and open to the public as a place of worship. The grounds are exquisitely manicured and the views out towards the sea from atop of the temple are magnificent. Signs throughout the property strongly communicate that this is not a tourist attraction but rather a temple and should be treated with reverence and respect. Proper attire is required and courtesy must be given to those who visit.

Northern Bali Waterfall

Enjoying a peaceful morning at the temple, I was ready for our next excursion, a hike to one of north Bali’s most treacherous waterfalls. Ajit explained that the falls is a local favorite and is not open to tourists. He guaranteed that this hike would be a challenge but the view would be well worth the trek.

The concrete path was manageable at the start but became narrow as we closed in on the falls. The course quickly changed as the mist produced a muddy trail we were cautiously trying to avoid. Eventually the pathway disappeared and we resorted to rock hopping amidst the rushing water between the stones.

I was close to giving up and turning back when I noticed the shrines appear on the side of the hill. The water coming from the cascades was so strong and powerful that I was frightened I may lose my footing.

We sat for a few moments on a couple of large rocks so I could catch my breath. The mist from the falls felt so cool on my face, dampening my hair and clothes. I decided that I was ready to take a few more steps and as I rounded the corner, I was able to see the highlight of my hike, the larger of the two falls.

I wished I could have enjoyed the view for a while longer, but working to keep myself upright was draining my energy and I was ready to find security back on dry land. The hike back was not as difficult and it seemed as though we reached the entrance in half of the time it took to reach the falls.

Visiting the hot springs could not have been more appropriate after a long hike. Set among the hillside there are three pools of water to enjoy a moment of rest and relaxation. The first pool at the top is the hottest while the bottom is the coolest of the three. I was looking forward to soaking in the springs.

Air Panas was built by the Japanese hundreds of years ago and is said to be therapeutic for those suffering from rheumatic disease. A steady rush of water from the mouths of mythical creatures adds to the fascinating environment of the springs.

I enjoyed the resort for a couple of hours and visited the snack bar before leaving for the hotel.

The Aditya Hotel was hosting an event that consisted of a four course meal and a program which included two young girls performing the Balinese dance of Legong. Known as one of the most popular forms of Indonesian entertainment, the dance consists of intense facial expression, body movements, and intricate finger work accompanied by Gamelan music.

The unique music and vibrant performance were entrancing. Although I was exhausted, I felt satisfied that I had accomplished so much physically, religiously and culturally in one day. I reflected back from the start of my journey and could not have been more pleased. I am ready to do it all over again tomorrow!

Have you visited northern Bali in your travels? I would love to hear about your experience if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below! Many thanks for reading about my fun day in northern Bali! Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Brahma Vihara Arama Buddhist Monastery
Banjar Tegeha Buleleng Buleleng
Lovina Beach, North Bali, Indonesia

Banjar Air Panas – Hot Springs
Jalan Banjar, Buleleng,
Singaraja, Bali, Indonesia

Where to Stay:

Aditya Beach Resort
Jalan Raya Lovina, Lovina Beach, North Bali, Indonesia
Phone: +62 362 41059
Email: info@adityalovinabali.com

Where to Eat:

Banjar Air Panas – Snack Shop
Jalan Banjar, Buleleng,
Singaraja, Bali, Indonesia

Aditya Beach Resort – Restaurant
Jalan Raya Lovina, Lovina Beach, North Bali, Indonesia
Phone: +62 362 41059
Email: info@adityalovinabali.com

What to Eat:

Babi Guling: Suckling pig, which is similar to BBQ pork in the US.
Bakso Soup: Indonesian soup made with meatballs, noodles, spices, vegetables and broth
Gado-Gado: A cold salad of vegetables served with a peanut sauce
Nasi Goreng: Fried noodles with lots of vegetables and a choice of meat, topped with peanuts and an egg.
Pisang Goreng: Fried Bananas, served with palm sugar, honey, flaked coconut or ice cream
Sate Ayam: Chicken on a stick usually served with a peanut sauce
Spring Rolls: Crispy pastry filled with minced meat and mixed vegetables and then fried, usually served with a chili sauce

What to Read:

Balilicious, by Becky Wicks
Eat, Pray, Love, by Elizabeth Gilbert
A House in Bali, by Colin McPhee
Love and Death in Bali, by Vicky Baum
Snowing in Bali, by Kathryn Bonella
Under the Volcano: A story of Bali, by Cameron Forbes

Photo Guide for North Bali:

Git Git Waterfall
Mount Batur
Sekumpal Waterfalls
Tamblingan Lake
Twin Lakes Viewpoint

A photo of the Dalai Lama that was given to the monastery during his visit

Exploring the beautiful grounds of the monastery

Buddhist Statues

Strolling Through Old San Juan, Puerto Rico (Part 1)

5 March 201817 September 2024

Arriving in San Juan, Puerto Rico, the weather was absolutely perfect. I hailed a taxi into the heart of downtown to my hotel at the Plaza de las Armas.

After a great night’s sleep, I awoke excited to begin the walking tour I had downloaded online. I stopped for a coffee and sat at a table in the square, surrounded by pastel-colored buildings and cobblestone streets, I watched the pigeons looking for food and noticed the early risers exploring the heart of downtown San Juan. After a few moments of taking in the beauty of Puerto Rico’s capitol city, I started my walk towards the pier.

The walking tour began at La Casita ending at Castillo de San Felipe del Morro. Another option to reach the starting point is to take the trolley to stop 13 at the Plaza Darsena, Casita, San Juan Bay.

Arriving at La Casita at 9AM, I realized it was closed and found a nearby café for a second cup of coffee while taking in the views of the harbor.

While ordering my coffee at Café Colao, I was excited to see the Carnival Liberty was already in port. It reminded me of my younger days of working for the cruise lines and embarkation day. It had been awhile since I had cruised and I was looking forward to revisiting some of the amazing ports of call on this itinerary.

The self-guided tour took me through some of Old San Juan’s 400 historical sites. The town is considered the second oldest settlement founded by the Europeans in 1521.

I couldn’t help but notice the cobalt blue cobblestone streets throughout San Juan. These pavers were once used as weights to balance the trade ships on their way to Puerto Rico. Once the ships arrived, these ballasts were then removed to make room for the exported sugar cane going out from the island. The locals re-purposed the beautiful brick-like stone to develop the streets of this charming, historical wonderland and the local pigeons seemed to love them.

With my back toward the bay, I made a left and began walking towards the Paseo de la Princesa. I was excited to see the Raices Fountain during the day and the expansive ocean view during the daylight hours. The tree lined promenade led me to the Raices fountain which had been busy with local teens and lit up the night before.

Before reaching the fountain, I noticed the beautifully decorated Puerto Rico Tourism Company which was once the Carcel de la Princesa, the San Juan jail. Built in 1837, the penitentiary was in use until 1976 when it was determined that the conditions were inhumane for prisoners, both local and political. While this building is the headquarters for Puerto Rico’s tourism, visitors can explore the three prison cells and tour the small courtyard where prisoners were executed by hanging.

With the bay in the background, the beautiful Raices fountain was now ahead of me and as the temperatures continued to rise, I wished I could have jumped in. The elegant bronze sculpture, reminding me of the Roman fountains, was designed by Spanish artist Luis Sanguion. It is called “Raices” meaning roots and symbolizes the roots of Puerto Rico’s African, Spanish and Taino cultures.

The central figure of the wild horse seems to rise out of the fountain in a full gallop as a young child scans to watch the horizon from sunrise to sunset. The two dolphins jumping out of the water represent the Puerto Rican character of kindness and gentleness while a woman offers gifts of garlands and local delicacies to the island’s visitors. To the left of the fountain are sculptures of a family and the native jibaro is represented to the right. The central female figure stands for the independence of Puerto Rico as if she is attempting to reach the stars.

The tree-shaded walkway wrapped along the bay as joggers sped by me on their morning run. A strong wind picked up as I continued walking through the tunnel-like pathway, where the twisted roots of trees resembled the Banyan. Interesting spikes rose up from the ground as I continued my stroll towards the Puerta de San Juan.

I soon began to realize I was following along the fortification walls of the Paseo del Morro when I noticed the garita above. The pathway split heading towards the entrance to the fort but I took an alternate route leading to the top of the city gate, ending my walk along the Paseo de la Princesa. Standing inside the guard tower, the symbol of San Juan, I was amazed by the stunning views of the cove where Spanish ships once anchored.

Only three of the six city gates remain. One of them, the Puerta de San Juan. Spanish traders would unload their supplies, pass through the massive wooden doors under the red arch and exit through the 1630s-tunnel to enter the city. When this main gate was in use, the doors would be closed at sundown to protect the residents from potential invaders and reopened the next morning. Once the tunnel was open, sailors would walk through the passageway towards the cathedral at the top of the hill to thank God for their safe passage.

Instead of taking a right along the Paseo del Morro and the old city walls, I decided to continue up the hill towards the Catedral de San Juan (The San Juan Cathedral). Several feral cats were hanging around, protected by San Juan’s Parks Department. They had been neutered, spayed and vaccinated through a local program called “Save a Gato.”

At the top of the hill, I reached the San Juan Cathedral where explorer Ponce de Leon and martyr St. Pio are buried. A mass was taking place inside, but I couldn’t help but peek into the church as I continued my walk. The cathedral dates back to 1540, but updates and renovations have given this church its Gothic-Neoclassical style. I noted the inscription above the entrance, “Misericordia” which translates to “mercy”. Pope John Paul II visited the church in 1984.

Making a left on Calle del Cristo, I reached the Plaza del Quinto Centenario and its El Totem Telurico, designed by local artist Jaime Suarez. The square was designed for the 500-year celebration of Columbus’ initial voyage to the Americas, which took place in 1992 at a rumored cost of $10 million. Popular with both tourists and locals, this square offers a glamorous view of the El Morro fort and the infinite ocean.

As I walked down the stairs towards the coastline, I passed a pair of life-like sheep flanking the steps before reaching the fountain at the bottom. Children were playing around the water, splashing each other to cool off from the afternoon heat and vendors were selling water and soft drinks nearby.

With El Morro in sight, I stood for a moment to enjoy the view of the fort and the nearby cemetery. I promised myself I would return after my cruise. I enjoyed leisurely stroll through the streets of Old San Juan and enjoyed the memories of being here so many years ago.

Have you visited San Juan and walked through the historic Old San Juan? What were some of your favorite sites or stops along with way? I would love to hear from you if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below. Many thanks for reading about our walking tour in Old San Juan and wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Puerto Rico Tourism Company
500 Ochoa Building, Cll Tanca, San Juan, Puerto Rico, 00902
Phone: 787 721 2400 extension 3901

Contact the local office for hours of operation and to inquire when the interim jail is open.

Bacardi Rum Factory
Carretera 165, Catano, Puerto Rico
Phone: 787 788 8400

Admission Fee: $13 for the historic tour, lasting approximately 45 minutes, includes guided tour of the Bacardi Visitor Center, Commemorative Bacardi Cup, Bacardi Welcome Cocktail for adults, Access to the Self-Fill Experience & Retail Shop, Complimentary WiFi on property. The site recommends that you arrive 30 minutes prior to your tour time to allow for registration and to enjoy your Welcome Drink.

$50 for the Rum Tasting Tour, lasting approximately 90 minutes, to learn how Bacardi makes their premium wines, the history of the company and taste five Bacardi rums including Legacy, exclusively available at Casa Bacardi. Visit the distillery, the “Cathedral of Rum” a Bacardi Specialist will lead you through the tasting and help you understand the five unique premium rums. This tour includes tasting of five premium rums, Commemorative Bacardi Cup, Bacardi Welcome Cocktail for adults, Access to the Self-Fill Experience & Retail Shop, Complimentary WiFi on property. (Must be over the Legal Drinking Age to participate). The site recommends that you arrive 30 minutes prior to your tour time to allow for registration and to enjoy your Welcome Drink.

$60 for the Mixology Experience, to last approximately 90 minutes, to include your own bar set up where you will prepare three basic Bacardi cocktails, Commemorative Bacardi Cup, Bacardi Welcome Cocktail for adults, Distillery Visit, Access to Bottle your own Bacardi, Access to the Self-Fill Experience & Retail Shop, Complimentary WiFi on property. (You must be over the Legal Drinking Age to participate). The site recommends that you arrive 30 minutes prior to your tour time to allow for registration and to enjoy your Welcome Drink. Children are not permitted.

$160 for the Bottle Your Own Bacardi Experience, includes a full-size bottle of Special Reserve rum exclusively available at Casa Bacardi, a special padded box to preserve your personalized bottle of Special Reserve, recording your name and bottle number in the Casa Bacardi registry, high resolution photo of you and your freshly filled bottle in front of the numbered barrel at Casa Bacardi. This experience takes place in the Self Fill area of our retail shop, Complimentary WiFi and Complimentary parking on site.

Hours: Tuesday to Friday from 9AM, last tour starts at 4:30PM; Saturday to Sunday from 12 noon, last tour starts at 4:30PM; Closed Mondays.
Length of Visit: Depending on the Bacardi Experience
Tips for Your Visit: Please ensure that you arrive in the required time to register and enjoy your welcome drink. Some Bacardi events require that you be of Legal Drinking Age.

San Juan Cathedral
151 Calle del Cristo, San Juan, Puerto Rico 00902
Phone: 787 722 0861

Admission Fee: Free, but donations are gladly accepted.
Hours: Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday from 9AM to 11:30AM and from 2PM to 4PM; Friday from 9AM to noon. Please visit the cathedral’s website for worship services.
Amenities: Services and Sacraments provided
Length of Visit: Less than 1 hour
Tips for Your Visit: Enter with reverence and remain quiet in respect of other visitors. Dress appropriately covering your shoulders and knees.

San Jose Church
San Juan, Puerto Rico, 00901
Phone: 787 918 3800

The church is currently closed for renovation and to raise fund for conservation.

Castillo San Felipe del Morro
Calle Norzagaray, San Juan, Puerto Rico, 00901
Phone: 787 729 6960

Admission Fee: $7 which includes the Castillo San Felipe del Morro and Castillo San Cristobal and 24 hours are provided to visit both forts
Hours: Open daily from 9AM to 6PM. Closed on Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day and New Year’s Day.
Amenities: Gift shop and restrooms
Scenic Views: Gorgeous views from the fort include the harbor and the cemetery as well as the shoreline.
Length of Visit: 2 – 3 hours
Tips for Your Visit: There are several iguanas and feral cats that roam the premises. Wear comfortable shoes, sunscreen and bring plenty of water. (Carts outside sell water). Don’t miss the Dungeon at Castillo San Cristobel!

Where to Stay:

Hotel Plaza de Armas
San Jose Street 202
Old San Juan, Puerto Rico 00901
Phone: 866 599 6674

Amenities: Non-smoking, free continental breakfast, WiFi, refrigerator and microwave; there is a free trolley nearby at Stop #8

*Hotel was prepaid costing $150 per night. We arranged for a queen sized bed, room without a window, non-smoking and guaranteed late arrival.

Where to Eat:

Café Colao
Calle Marina, San Juan, Puerto Rico, 00901
Phone: 787 725 4139

Cute little coffee shop down by the Port of Puerto Rico

What to Eat:

MOFONGO! This is absolutely my favorite dish in San Juan. Mashed fried plantains are smothered with meat and/or vegetables.
Alcappurias are similar to fritters filled with crab, meat or lobster and dipped in a batter made from green bananas.
Arepas de Coco is a bread made from coconut flour stuffed with meat, seafood or vegetables.
Chicharrones de Pollo are usually served as a side dish to mofongo, these tasty pieces of chicken are seasoned with garlic, oregano and achiote.
Chilo Frito is a fried red snapper served with fried plantains or french fries on the side.
Lechon is a suckling pig cooked whole and prepared juicy on the inside and crispy on the outside.
Pastelon: San Juan’s answer to lasagna made with plantains instead of pasta
The Pina Colada was invented at Barrachina in Old San Juan.

What to Read:

The Rum Diary by Hunter S. Thompson
The House on the Lagoon by Rosario Ferre
Simone by Eduardo Lalo
Mundo Cruel by Luis Negron
La Llamarada by Enrique Laguerre
Song of the Simple Truth by Julia de Burgos

Photo Guide for San Juan, Puerto Rico

La Perla in Old San Juan for its colorful umbrellas
The cobblestone streets and colorful buildings of Old San Juan
The Forts in Old San Juan

Disclosure: Please refer to our blog disclaimer tab for more information.

Square located beside La Casita

Pelican gliding above the bay

Look closely at the inscription above the door “Benedictus qui venit in nomine domini”

The Spikes in San Juan

Bacardi Rum Factory

A Cat Sculpture in a San Juan Park

Our Port Day in Puerto Vallarta

25 June 201514 September 2024

It was our final day cruising along the Mexican Riviera as the Carnival Splendor brought us into the port of Puerto Vallarta. This cruise ship stop on the Pacific Coast rests on the edge of Banderas Bay, protected by the tropical forests of the Sierra Madre Mountains. My friend Dani and I were so excited for this day because we had booked the dolphin excursion from the ship. We would have plenty of time after our tour to explore this popular port town and enjoy an authentic meal of tacos, nachos and quesadillas.

As soon as we disembarked the ship, we boarded the ferry that shipped us off to the Dolphin Rescue and Reserve. It was a short ride but the scenery was beautiful as we took in the bay and watched the ship fade into the distance. Our group size totaled twenty, which included not only adults but several children. The kids were so happy to see the dolphins and their energy made us just as excited as well.

Once we arrived, we followed a path through dense brush where our tour guide pointed out several native birds. The iguanas were difficult to find, camouflaged against the green foliage so we were thrilled to point them out to our fellow travelers the moment we spotted them.

It wasn’t long until we had arrived at the pool and distracted by wanting a glimpse of the dolphins, we strayed away for a minute or two in hopes of seeing these amazing creatures. The research team led us to a covered space providing us with a safety briefing as well as instructions on how to interact with the dolphins.

We were asked to remove our jewelry so that we did not scratch the dolphins’ delicate skin. It was also important that we allowed the dolphins to take their time to get comfortable with us once we entered the pool. The trainers would be looking for any signs of distress by the dolphin(s) and our interaction could cease at any time should the caretakers feel the dolphins were not comfortable. Cameras were not allowed in the pool area, but we could purchase our photos from the reserve.

Prior to hearing the rules, Dani and I happened to take a photo of the dolphins as they were let out during our educational session. I was happy that they allowed us to keep the photos, but of course, reminded us not to take any additional photographs.

Once we finished our dolphin swim, we followed our guide to an observational deck below where we could catch a better glimpse of the dolphins underwater. A highlight of my trip was to watch a seven month calf swimming side by side with her mother.

I would have loved to have had more time watching the dolphins, but our group was preparing to leave as another tour began. Dani and I had decided to stop by a local restaurant to enjoy a couple of margaritas before boarding the ship.

We selected a cozy, open-air café where we could people watch and place an order for an authentic Mexican meal.

We started by requesting a Pacifico, the local beer.

An order of chips and salsa….

and guacamole.

After finishing our snacks, we decided to return to the ship a little early and hang out by the pool. The excitement of swimming with dolphins lasted throughout the evening and I wished I would have purchased the photo. Removing “Swimming with Dolphins” from my bucket list, I was ready to relax for the rest of the evening.

Have you had the opportunity to explore Puerto Vallarta? Or have you recently marked off one of your bucket list items? I would love to hear about your adventure if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below. Many thanks for checking out my day at the Dolphin Reserve and Rescue and I wish you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Dolphin Discovery Vallarta
Tepic Km 155
63732, Nuevo Vallarta, Nay Mexico
Telephone: 866 393 5158

Where to Stay:

Fiesta Inn Puerto Vallarta Isla
Blvd. San Francisco Medina Ascencio 2477
Puerto Vallarta, JAL 48333, Mexico
Telephone: 888 734 8507

Ranked 9.2 out of 10

Where to Eat: (our restaurant has closed, but the following comes highly recommended)

Azul Vallarta
Playa de Oro #126,
Zona Hotelera, Zona Hotelera Nte.,
48333 Puerto Vallarta, Jal., Mexico
Telephone: 52 322 221 9606

What to Eat:

Birria is made of goat or lamb boiled in local spices and prepared spice. It is served with lime, onion and tortillas.
Fish roasted on a stick or “pescado embarazado”
Tamales are corn meal stuffed with meat, tomatoes, chilis, while some have pineapple without chiles. The corn meal is then wrapped by a corn husk and steamed. A favorite during the Christmas holiday.
Tequila, mescal and raicilla are alcoholic drinks. While most are familiar with the tequila and mescal (with the worm), raicilla is much stronger and has a smoky taste.

What to Read:

Knock Until the Dog Barks, by D. E. Brobst
Getaway, by Lisa Brackmann
Puerto Vallarta Squeeze, by Robert James Walter
Boomers in Paradise: Boomers in Puerto Vallarta, by Robert Nelson
Tomorrow There will be Sun. by Dana Reinhardt

Photo Guide for Puerto Vallarta:

Bay of Banderas
- Cultural sights
Beaches of Puerto Vallarta
Cuale River Island
- Stairway to heaven
Local Hotels
- Pool shots
Los Muertos Beach
- Brightly colored architecture
Old Town
- Angel Wings in Old Town Puerto Vallarta
- Beautiful Murals
Sayulita
- Charming alleys
- Iguanas
- Murals
- Restaurants
- Wall art and art vendors

Disclosure: Please refer to our blog disclaimer tab for more information.

Freeport, Bahamas: A Welcome Change in Itinerary

5 March 201431 August 2024

Updated December 24, 2019

Hurricane Gilbert stunned the port towns of Cozumel and Playa del Carmen in 1988. Due to the devastating damage, our ship’s itinerary quickly changed to include the Bahamian ports of Nassau and Freeport over the next couple of months.

Our first stop was Freeport, located on Grand Bahama Island. This port offered many of the same amenities as our Yucatan Peninsula ports, so it was a perfect choice. It was such a great stop for visitors who were interested in watersports, sightseeing, shopping and dining.

Recent Hurricane Dorian, touching down in the Bahamas on August 24, 2019, was one of the most powerful hurricanes to hit the Bahamas in over 65 years. Information provided throughout this post may require updating due to the recent event, so check for updated information online.

Since the early days of cruise vacations, the islands of the Bahamas have been a popular destination. During my days of working with the cruise lines, Freeport was a shopper’s paradise and offered a variety of activities in addition to its international restaurants.

One of Freeport’s most popular shopping plazas was the International Bazaar consistently bustling with tourists. I was surprised to learn that today, the Bazaar has become a ghost town, with limited shopping and dining, quite different than my past experience. Much of the change has been attributed to a history of hurricanes that have left the island in need of repair. A new shopping area has been developed near downtown Freeport and is much more visitor-friendly. For shoppers who are into haggling for a deal, check out the straw market to practice your bartering skills for souvenirs and merchandise.

UPDATE: The International Bazaar has closed due to the latest Hurricane Dorian, August 24, 2019.

The bazaar, in keeping with the international theme, was divided into sections based on countries of the world. The architecture of each designated location included France, America, the Orient and Scandinavia. It remains one of the oldest shopping regions on the island.

UPDATE: The International Bazaar has closed due to the latest Hurricane Dorian, August 24, 2019.

In front of the International Bazaar was the Bavarian Beer Garden which provided a wide range of lunch and dinner items. Continuing the tradition today, the menu highlights the following options: Conch salad, crab salad, fried chicken, lobster and French fries. With the best prices in the Bazaar, they also offer deals on tropical cocktails. Outdoor seating is perfect for people watching and enjoying the sunshine.

UPDATE: The International Bazaar has closed due to the latest Hurricane Dorian, August 24, 2019.

Outside of the International Bazaar is a brightly colored directional sign that shows the distance from Freeport to popular worldwide destinations. It was the first time I had ever seen anything like it, so I thought it clever to know how far I was from some of the other islands as well as major cities including, New York: 1015 miles, Bimini: 53 miles, Montreal: 1323 miles and San Salvador: 285 miles.

UPDATE: The International Bazaar has closed due to the latest Hurricane Dorian, August 24, 2019.

A nearby attraction to the International Bazaar and Straw Market was the Bahamas Princess Resort and Casino. Built in the 1970’s the resort was later named the Bahamia Royal Oasis Resort. Sitting on close to 1,000 acres, which included a hotel with pools and casino, the property eventually closed due to hurricane and tropical storm damage.

The most recent information regarding the property came from a 2010 news story which reported that there was a fire at the Princess Towers, which started on the 7^th floor.

Another shopping area is the Port Lucaya marketplace and seems today to be much more popular than the International Bazaar. Activities from this port include scuba and snorkeling, boat tours and rentals, as well as an opportunity to swim with dolphins There is a shopping mall nearby which includes a drugstore and offers duty free deals on perfume and watches. If you are searching for cheaper prices for alcohol, your best bet is to head downtown.

UPDATE: Port Lucaya reopened on October 18, 2019 after closing due to Hurricane Dorian.

In the Port Lucaya shopping area, you can also find restaurants, but downtown is where you will find Bahamian local dishes and fast food restaurants such as Burger King and Pizza Hut.

UPDATE: Port Lucaya reopened on October 18, 2019 after closing due to Hurricane Dorian.

While in Port Lucaya, stop by to see the lighthouse. It has since been painted with red and white stripes and visible from the shopping area.

The town of Freeport has not been without its own natural disasters over the years. And although they have faced many challenges, they have worked together to make a huge comeback in the tourism industry. It was just a matter of time. I look forward to returning again soon to see how things have changed since my last visit to the beautiful islands of the Bahamas.

UPDATE: Port Lucaya reopened on October 18, 2019 after closing due to Hurricane Dorian.

Have you visited a port that has been affected by tropical storms and hurricanes? Have you since had an opportunity to see its restoration? I would love to hear from you if you would kindly leave a message in the Comments Section below and wishing you many Happy Travels!

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