Count Down

I don't know how many days there are left, but I do know there are 5 months, 2 days, 15 hours, and 44 minutes left--according to my countdown calendar I downloaded to my computer. It costs $10 to put it on the website so I won't do that, but I'll let you know from time to time how it's shaping up!! SL

DUH

We're not going to Acapulco, so I guess that's why I didn't see the divers on RCCL! I must need some sleep. Guess I'll go look up Disneyland stuff instead. So many trips, so little time! SL

More on shore excursions

Cruise Critic suggests these excursions while in the Mexican Riviera. The divers in Acapulco sounds awesome! I don't know if Royal Caribbean offers that, but I think we should check it out! Any takers? SL (Really, I'm done blogging now!)

Acapulco -- Night Divers and Sound and Light Show

Whether you see the world-famous cliff divers during the day or at night, seeing them is a requisite for anyone going to Acapulco. The night show presents more of a thrill, which is why we are including it here. Visitors can cab over to La Quebrada to see the show, but most of the ships offer shore excursions that include transportation, a sound and light show at the San Diego Fort, and a complimentary drink at the restaurant fronting the La Quebrada cliffs, providing the very best views. Average cost: $75 adult, $55 children.

Who Should Go: Everybody! This is truly a unique experience and great for families; even teens will be enthralled. Those with mobility impairments should stick with the ship excursions, as there are wheelchair-accessible viewing areas that may not be available to those going independently, and there are several sets of steps to negotiate for those who choose not to take the organized tours.

Why It's Extraordinary: Divers climb the cliffs by torchlight and then soar outward to dive into an area that's about 10 feet square, timing their dive to the highest flow of the waves. The tallest cliff platform is 130 feet above the water; the diver has nothing but torchlight to guide him. You'll find yourself holding your breath and ooh-ing and ahhh-ing during the show.

Note: The same dives take place during daylight. The advantage is that the divers are more visible, but again, the night dives provide more of a thrill since there is an added element of danger involved in the darkness.

Cabo San Lucas -- Land's End Catamaran Sail and Scenic Drive

The rock formations at the tip of the Baja Peninsula are renowned worldwide, and this is a way to get up close and personal with them. Called Los Arcos (The Arches), these towering rocks straddle two bodies of water, the Pacific Ocean and the Sea of Cortez. The scenic drive portion is short, and takes visitors to Georgio's Cafe, a cliff-top restaurant with magnificent views over Land's End, Los Arcos and the Sea of Cortez. Average price: $36 adult, $20 children.

Who Should Go: This tour is suitable for almost everyone, although there are some stairs to go up and down at the cafe, not suited to guests in wheelchairs. It's particularly appealing to nature lovers and nature photographers.

Why It's Extraordinary: It's the best way to get a sense of the magnificence of Los Arcos. As appealing as they are from a distance, they are truly awe-inspiring close up.

Cabo San Lucas -- Whale Watching by Zodiac

If you are lucky enough to be in Cabo San Lucas during whale-watching season (mid-December to mid-March), and if you are somewhat adventurous, this is the tour to take. There are other whale-watching tours with larger vessels, but for a personalized experience, the Zodiacs and their guides provide the best option. (Zodiacs are inflatable boats that hold a small number of guests, usually a maximum of eight). The Seaworld-trained captains take the boats a safe distance into the Sea of Cortez or the Pacific and find gray and humpback whales during their birthing season. Average cost: $64 adult, $44 child.

Who Should Go: This trip is particularly suited to the the adventurous nature lover who is not concerned about being in a smaller boat on the open seas; the photo ops are incredible. Children under 11 are not allowed, and boarding/disembarking would be very difficult for completely non-mobile guests.

Why It's Extraordinary: With luck, you will see the blow spouts of whales right from your ship as you sail through this region, but to get within just a couple of hundred feet of one of these creatures, at sea level, to watch it swim and jump and cavort, is an amazing, once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Mazatlan -- Sierra Madre, Copala and Concordia

This half-day tour takes you away from the water and into the colonial interior of the Sierra Madre mountains. During this trip guests will visit two towns established in the 1500's, learn about the history of the region, and see handmade pottery, Mexican tiles, furniture and bricks being created by local artisans. Lunch is included in a "typical" Mexican restaurant in Copala.

Who Should Go: The air-conditioned motorcoach makes this trip suitable for almost anyone, but the cobblestoned streets of Copala might make wheelchair access difficult. This trip is especially suited for history buffs, architecture lovers, photographers and anyone with an appreciation of the arts and style of Mexicana.

Why It's Extraordinary: The gold rush didn't just happen in California; these mountains were the venue of many bloody battles for land that was rich in the ore, and predated the California gold rush by over 300 years. The Baroque architecture of the village of Copala is renowned in the region, and anyone who appreciates the history of architecture will have plenty to explore.

Mexican Port Information

I get a newsletter from Cruise Critic. This link should get you to the page on Mexican Ports and lots of exciting information about our intended cruise! SL

www.cruisecritic.com/ports/area.cfm?area=13

passport cover

How cool are these? SS and I picked them up at Target while she was here. They are bright plastic and VERY stylin'! Do you guys want me to pick one up for you? SS and I both liked the hot pink. They also had bright orange and lime green. They are about $6. Let me know if you want one. Okay, I've done my duty. Someone else's turn to blog! SL

161

If my calculations are right, we're 161 days out! No pressure Lib, but did you apply for your passport? SL

Anybody out there?

Isn't it time someone updated this blog????? SL :)