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Location: This is where it all began. Mexico's tourist boom was born in Acapulco and the world owes it a debt for providing us with discos, parasailing and swim-up pool bars. The high-rise hotels set against the stunning Sierra Madre del Sur mountains which rise up on all three sides gives this famous curved bay a look of Hong Kong. It is just as vibrant and buzzing with high energy levels as its look-a-like. The heart of old Acapulco is a quaint reminder of days-gone-by where locals escape the chaos and sit in the shade of mango trees. Beyond their time-capsule tourists and traffic create a thriving atmosphere. Alas, the ten mile stretch of beach is no longer big enough to contain this party town and it continues to spread around the bay towards the airport. Acapulco has been passing out of fashion with the British in recent years due to the development of Cancún on the east coast but it is still enormously popular with American and Canadian visitors. There may be some traffic noise from the busy main road that dissects the resort area of the city so check with your travel agent before you book. Poverty is very evident in places and begging is unfortunately, a way of life. Days Out: Huge shopping malls around the Papagayo Park area attract the bargain hunters during the daytime and clubbers at night. The busy main highway, known locally as the 'Costera' is a hub of activity stretching for miles through the resort. A more peaceful, shady town square lined by street cafés provides shelter from the madness. Acapluco's famous cliff divers show off their daring skills at La Quebrada on a daily basis. Yes, what started as a bit of local bravado is now an unmissable tourist attraction. Try to get there early before showtimes because the crowds can limit the views A water park, fun park and an aquarium are all within easy reach of the hotels. Jungle river cruises and white-water rafting are popular along a stretch where 'Rambo' was filmed. Glass bottom boat trips sail regularly to the sunken statue of the Virgin of Guadalupe. The statue was placed on the seabed in memory of a group of divers who died at the spot in 1959. Check sea and weather conditions. On the outskirts of town are 4 championship golf courses set in some of the country's most stunning scenery.
Nights Out: Acapluco is the daddy of all party towns. Traffic jams are not uncommon in the early hours along the 'strip' of clubs and bars, especially at weekends when the locals also let their hair down. 'Live' shows and sophisticated music bars offer a more relaxing evening out. Beaches: The huge stretch of coast is open to the elements and whatever the pacific throws at it so the water conditions can vary. Riptides and strong undercurrents make the sea a dangerous for anyone other than strong swimmers. Surfers favour the southern bay area where the 'rollers' are often high and mighty. The calmer stretches are more popular with families and become over-crowded at weekends when the locals reclaim their beaches to unwind. All along the coast there are beach bars and cafés serving snacks and drinks. Litter from the crowds and debris washed up from the sea tends to build up in places, even though the beaches are cleaned regularly. Bucket and Spade Brigade: Some of the resort beaches are sheltered but tidal conditions can be treacherous on this open stretch of pacific coast so great care should be taken with youngsters. Away from the seaside attractions is a popular water park with the usual 'wet-knuckle' slides and dolphin shows. |
