Saturday, January 23, 2010

Ixtapa, Mexico Vacation Is Fun For All

By Sean Elstins

Ixtapa Mexico offers a variety of activities and amenities catering to diverse travelers. Ixtapa has a contemporary, sophisticated feel, contrasted with neighboring Zihuatanejo, a peaceful, traditional Mexican town. The area is abundant with beautiful beaches ideal for a multitude of different water activities. This resort contains everything a vacationer would want, but enjoys the benefit of being smaller and less crowded than destinations such as Cancun or Acapulco.

Located on the Pacific Coast of Mexico, Ixtapa is a couple of hours' north of Acapulco. The weather is ideal, the average temperature being 78.8 degrees Fahrenheit. It rains very few days out of the year. An ecological reserve exists on a good part of the land called Ixtapa, which lends to a less congested more relaxed atmosphere. The land is hilly and tropical, its coast occupied by beautiful beaches and secluded coves.

Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo has its own airport. There are nonstop flights from Mexico City and many cities in the United States. The airport is very close to Ixtapa hotels. Taxis are not metered, so agree on a price with the taxi driver before you leave for your destination. If you plan on exploring around the greater area, you can rent a car at the airport. If you intend to hang around the resort areas only, you are better off relying on taxis and moderately priced local transport.

Activities include golfing, sunbathing, water sports and deep sea fishing. Golfers can choose between two excellent courses: Palma Real Golf and Tennis Club, and Marina Ixtapa Golf Club. Ixtapa continues to be very popular for sport fishing large and small game fish. Main game fishing consists of sailfish, marlin, and rooster fish. The town offers a number of excellent boat charters and equipment providers. Local fishing captains are well known for their expertise in finding prime fishing spots along the coast.

Most memorable are Ixtapa's beaches, ranging from those in protected bays for swimmers and snorkelers, to beaches with open-water and waves ideal for surfers. Some of the most popular are Playa El Palmar, Playa Linda, and Ixtapa Island. Scuba Diving and snorkeling off the Ixtapa beaches is ideal, as the area is part of the southwestern coastal plain, which contains volcanic rock and marine sediment. There are over fifty popular dive sites, along with numerous certified dive schools offering all levels of training along with equipment to ensure safe and entertaining dives. The most popular snorkeling sites are located at Playa Las Gatas, and Ixtapa Island.

Ixtapa and Zihuatanejo are only five minutes drive from each other. The two locales combine to provide abundant fine dining and a variety of shopping. Visitors can find a wide selection in either Ixtapa or Zihuatanejo. Ixtapa exhibits a more modern and sophisticated atmosphere. The picturesque, old-fashioned village of Zihuatanejo boasts wonderful markets selling local crafts, charming seaside cafes and a wonderful seaside promenade.

Visitors to Ixtapa unwind in comfort and luxury while also being exposed to traditional, charming old-Mexican character. An Ixtapa, Mexico vacation is a less crowded, more tranquil experience that promotes true relaxation.

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