Minniemex - October trip report

[minniemex]

Travel Day – October 6, 2007

I can hardly believe it is already one month since I left – well – here goes the story………

My last couple of flights had spoiled me - direct flights leaving at ten in the morning – well, not this flight. Departure time, 6:00AM in the morning. Had to leave home at 3:15AM – YUCK!! Thank goodness we have a good friend who drives us to the airport!! Instead of paying for parking he drives us and then we take him and his wife out to an awesome restaurant. We don’t save any money, but we have a good time at dinner. Lot more fun than paying for parking!!

Got checked in, was a little upset as I had preselected our seats and the woman at check-in said we didn’t. I tried to push it, DH said to just drop it as long as our seats were now together. ( I will say here, I should have pushed it cause there were two of me on the flight!! Same first, middle, and last name – you guessed it! My last name is very common!! ) Anyways, we are sitting waiting for the flight to board and over the PA comes “Kathleen A please come to the front desk”. Heart flops right to my feet…….. like what the heck did I put in my luggage that would cause this?? They just had to give me a new boarding pass that reflected the true me. The other Kathleen A came up also, they were already aware of the mix up, but didn’t know which one of us was in trouble! LOL! I was really going to be mad if they got my seats (the seats were row 5!!) but they didn’t have them, so she was absolved!! We finally boarded only to wait an extra 15 minutes before take off because some code came up and they had to reboot the computers. No real complaining here, if something is wrong, let’s not take off!! Finally cleared to take off!! Yea!!!!!!!

Just a little digression here – When we returned home after Wilma, we were served a “cheeseburger” on the plane. After a week of semi warm food, and not much “food” to speak of, it was the best thing I ever ate!! It was so hot, I could hardly eat it!! Now, we were flying Sun Country and they served the very same “cheeseburger”…… which I could not eat as it was the worst thing I have ever tasted!! What a waste of precious calories!! How things are altered when circumstances change.

Flight was very uneventful, had to get off the plane in Dallas and then re-board about 45mns later. It was nice to stretch our legs and get a drink to mellow me out!! I do prefer the direct flight, but money talks, and this flight was a lot cheaper!!

Landed in Cancun pretty much on time and got thru Customs without any problems. The luggage seemed to take forever. Finally got our luggage and a green light – we have arrived!!!

Our flight arrived at the new Terminal #3. I was somewhat lost as to where we should go. It is not the same as Terminal#2 and that was the only terminal I had landed at before, so some confusion occurred. We did not know where to find our car rental and wasted about 15 minutes (every minute is precious in the Roo!!! LOL) trying to find our rental. Finally someone told us if they do not have a license at the airport, they would be over there – and pointed to directly to your left when you exit the terminal. So for those of you getting your car rental, non airport, when you exit the terminal, they will be directly to your left along the sidewalk to your left. Also, we had made a phone call to the rental company, and they thought we were coming in at Terminal#2, so, make sure you find out what terminal you are landing at and give your rental company that information.

Now, we are on our way to the rental place. Get there and I had let them know we did not want to keep the car, so we were driven directly to Akumal Beach Resort from their office in Cancun (which was only like 5 minutes from the airport). (I think you all know I rented from Continental Rent a Car but thought I should put that in here for future reference.) It was funny that when I said we didn’t want to keep the rental, he said “Pay me in cash only” and we never filled out any paper work. I think I know where that $35 went!! But all I really cared about was that I had a transfer to ABR for 2 for $35!! Not a bad deal if I say so myself!!

Finally at about 2:00PM, I am finally on my way to the beach!! Yeah!!!!!!!!!!

The weather was horrid!! It was like a major thunderstorm that seemed to be following us down the 307!! Heavy, heavy rain that did not stop!! I was really glad to have someone else driving, as he was a lot more comfortable doing it than we would have been!!

It was raining when we arrived at the ABR but we didn’t care!! We checked in no problems and got changed and went down to the beach!! And guess what?? The sun came out, just like it always does!! I was in heaven!! We sat and stared at the sea, ate chips and salsa from the snack bar, drank beer and sangria, what more can a person need??? Nirvana……

We stayed on the beach until sunset (around 6:30), then went back to our room, showered and changed for dinner. Sorry, no pictures of food, just plain old buffet food…. Edible…….

After dinner, we had a drink in the bar and went back to our room to crash. It had been a long, long day!!

Sorry, no pictures for day one, I would have sworn I took some, but the camera says otherwise!! Will have pics for all the rest of my days though!!

[Karen in OH]

Perfect timing when the sun comes out just as you get to park it on the beach :)! Looking forward to more of your report, with pic of course. :)

[firecop680]

Hey Minnimex did the airport ever get finished or are they still working on it? Last year they were still running all the people through the cattle gates out to the pickup area.

[BP.]

Wow, a month gone by already?? Yikes! Thanks for the report . . . glad it is underway!! :D

[FITZ]

Sounds like a nice, eventful start. I think half of the fun is getting there!!

[minniemex]

Wow, a month gone by already?? Yikes! Thanks for the report . . . glad it is underway!! :D

That includes the two weeks we were gone, I have only been home 2 weeks. I didn't want anyone to think it took me a month to report!! LOL:D

[minniemex]

Day 2 October 7, 2007

Woke up to doom and gloom this morning. :( No sunrise to be had, just dark skies. We were starved, so headed off to breakfast. As I have said before, this my DH’s most favorite meal!! Nothing fancy just eggs and toast.

The sky started to clear and I got this shot – not the best but at least it is not raining!!

http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k83/Minniemex/Oct%2007%202007/DSC01210.jpg

By 9:00 it was clear and the sun was shining!! We packed up and walked the grounds a bit and took a few pictures of the flowers we found down there. This one especially impressed me, as my last trip to Tulum last year was the only time I have ever seen this plant have a flower.

http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k83/Minniemex/Oct%2007%202007/DSC01217.jpg

Here is a picture of our room from the outside!!

http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k83/Minniemex/Oct%2007%202007/DSC01216.jpg

From the outside hallway to our room we can see Akumal Pueblo – really has grown from the first time I saw it!!

http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k83/Minniemex/Oct%2007%202007/DSC01221-1.jpg

Ok, we have checked everything out, so we decided to go snorkeling – I have to say I have never bumped into this before, but the bay was like glass and all the rain we had the day before (and maybe days before that too, as I wasn’t there to know) the fresh water was sitting on top of the salt water which caused the halocline, which is oily water. We were wondering at what point does it mix?? It rains all the time so at what point does the fresh water rain mix with the salt water??

Ok, I can handle this, lay in our loungers and read and drink!! Relaxing!!

At about 2PM our view from the palapa starts to change!! What do I see on the horizon – maybe it will miss us!!

http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k83/Minniemex/Oct%2007%202007/DSC02449.jpg

Nope, half an hour later and it attacks!!

http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k83/Minniemex/Oct%2007%202007/DSC02453.jpg

Well, we have our suits on so we decide to go for a walk. We walk to the Chomack

http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k83/Minniemex/Akumal%20April%202007/AKUMALAPR2007271.jpg

Picture of the Chomak is from our last trip!

and take a look around, buy some treats and snacks and back to the ABR. Still raining, too hard to sit and read, book is getting wet.
Well, back to our room, it’s about nap time anyway!! Besides, the skeeters are attacking!! I have to say ABR was out spraying often for these nasties, but could not keep up with them. There had been just too much rain!! For some reason, genetics I think, I must smell wonderful to them, as they always attack me before they do anyone else. I have heard many ideas on this subject, but it doesn’t change that they like to bite me.

We woke up and decided to go to dinner. Nothing extraordinary, just buffet food.

I don’t have a lot of notes for this day, so I think we must have just chilled out in the main bar and then retired for the evening.

[Gale in KY]

Off to a good start Minnie! Let me get this straight..you set up a car rental..didn't keep the car..they still delivered you to ABR from Cancun..and for $35? Kewl!

I love the pic of the rain coming in..and the one of the clouds hanging over the water your first morning..very unique!

[mayaflya]

Minnie,

I love that little Super Chomak! It looks like a hole in the wall from the outside, but it is a well stocked grocery/liquor/gift store that just keeps going and going and going! After searching all over Tulum for lime squeezers we found them in Akumal at the Super Chomak. We bought every one they had and gave them away back here as gifts!

[firecop680]

MM, I don't remember seeing that last year. Where was it at, the north, south, middle?? Do they have good prices on CERVEZAS??? It does look really cool.

[dionski]

Taking notes I am. We are going to visit a few places in April. Can't wait to hear more!

d2

[beachreader]

Yay, a trip report! I've been missing them.

I don't have very fond memories of the Super Chomak as they refused my traveler's cheques on my last trip. Who does that? She said none of my signatures matched, neither the two on the cheque itself nor the one in my passport (which is 10 years old, come on--whose signature is the same after 10 years?).

So I have a bad taste in my mouth about that place. Not that I'll refuse to shop there if I'm ever in Akumal, I don't hold grudges like that.


Sorry about the rain, but I'm sure you still had a good time with your DH. And for the amazing deal you got at the ABR, you really couldn't lose no matter what happened.

[Gale in KY]

Once again, I find myself nodding my head at BR's posts..lol..we are not alone in our less than favorable experiences with "her" at Chomak. I now prefer to go over to the pueblo to the Super Mar Caribe for my shopping when I am in Akumal. Actually, I would drive back to Cancun to Sams' or Walmart before I ever go in that store again:eek:
But I do love the turtle on the wall outside..was thinkin' of having a tattoo done with the Akumal Turtle...something to shock my kids..heehee..

[BP.]

That includes the two weeks we were gone, I have only been home 2 weeks. I didn't want anyone to think it took me a month to report!! LOL:D

Oh gosh, no! LOL Sorry, didn't mean to imply the report was a month in progress. :D Just can't believe a month went by since you split!!! I have been feasting on the morsels you leaked about Zulum and I'm really looking forward to your TR & some others . . . when I get home. :) :) :)

[minniemex]

Oh gosh, no! LOL Sorry, didn't mean to imply the report was a month in progress. :D Just can't believe a month went by since you split!!! I have been feasting on the morsels you leaked about Zulum and I'm really looking forward to your TR & some others . . . when I get home. :) :) :)

No appology needed - I just wanted people reading it at a later date to know it didn't take me a month!! LOL!!

Just 4 more days and you are off!! Lucky you!!

[minniemex]

Once again, I find myself nodding my head at BR's posts..lol..we are not alone in our less than favorable experiences with "her" at Chomak. I now prefer to go over to the pueblo to the Super Mar Caribe for my shopping when I am in Akumal. Actually, I would drive back to Cancun to Sams' or Walmart before I ever go in that store again:eek:
But I do love the turtle on the wall outside..was thinkin' of having a tattoo done with the Akumal Turtle...something to shock my kids..heehee..

I know there have been stories out of the Chomack - but, when I was there in April they were so nice to us and the grandkids - I guess it is like the car rental thing - just a matter of luck how your story goes.... either good or bad! LOL I just have never had a bad experience there.

[minniemex]

MM, I don't remember seeing that last year. Where was it at, the north, south, middle?? Do they have good prices on CERVEZAS??? It does look really cool.

FC - I don't know about the cervezas - but they do have some in the cooler that are cold. It is right before you go under the arch on your right as you get to the end of the long road to Akumal. Right next to the loncheria every one loves.

[firecop680]

Thanks MM!! Looks as though some have not had too many great experiences there.


Once again, I find myself nodding my head at BR's posts..lol..we are not alone in our less than favorable experiences with "her" at Chomak. I now prefer to go over to the pueblo to the Super Mar Caribe for my shopping when I am in Akumal. Actually, I would drive back to Cancun to Sams' or Walmart before I ever go in that store again:eek:

We usually go into Tulum for breakfast anyway so we won't chance a bad experience.

[minniemex]

October 8th, 2007
AkumalBeach Resort


Well, there was somewhat of a sunrise today!!


http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k83/Minniemex/Oct%2008%202007/DSC02455.jpg

http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k83/Minniemex/Oct%2008%202007/DSC01223.jpg



Then look see what happened!!:( Rain again!!


http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k83/Minniemex/Oct%2008%202007/DSC02459.jpg

Whew………. Didn’t last long – this happened 20 minutes later!! LOL

http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k83/Minniemex/Oct%2008%202007/DSC02460.jpg

http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k83/Minniemex/Oct%2008%202007/DSC02467.jpg

Here is our view eating breakfast every morning – wow, I don’t think I would ever tire of this!!

http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k83/Minniemex/Oct%2008%202007/DSC02469.jpg


After our breakfast, we went to choose our palapa for the day – here is our view from there –
http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k83/Minniemex/Oct%2008%202007/DSC02472.jpg


They didn’t have bottles of Corona at ABR, so we decided to do a Coke commercial instead.

http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k83/Minniemex/Oct%2008%202007/DSC02485.jpg

After breakfast settled (around 10am) we set out in the bay to check out the snorkeling. It was absolutely gorgeous!! Here are a few pictures from our outing!!

Another shot of barry! He was surely making me nervous this trip as he kept checking us out!! One time I was snorkeling around the fish ball and all of a sudden the fish split and here comes barry right at me!! I don’t need to tell you what almost happened!!! :eek:

http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k83/Minniemex/Oct%2008%202007/DSC02529.jpg


For those of you who have never seen the fish ball, it is incredible. I wish I could get a picture that shows the size of this thing!! It truly is amazing!!

http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k83/Minniemex/Oct%2008%202007/DSC02503.jpg


This turtle had 3 remoras on him (the green fish) which clean him. Not all the turtles have them, so I really don’t know why this one has 3??

http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k83/Minniemex/Oct%2008%202007/DSC02514.jpg

I love trying to get a picture of the turtles coming up for air, I got an ok one on this day…….

http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k83/Minniemex/Oct%2008%202007/DSC02553.jpg

One of my favorite turtle shots……..

http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k83/Minniemex/Oct%2008%202007/DSC02528.jpg


Ok, just one more… (consider yourselves lucky, I must have 50!!)


http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k83/Minniemex/Oct%2008%202007/DSC02558.jpg#2558

Then we moved onto the reef a bit, away from the turtles.

http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k83/Minniemex/Oct%2008%202007/DSC02567.jpg

Found this little guy,,,,

http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k83/Minniemex/Oct%2008%202007/DSC02571.jpg

All of a sudden, our light is starting to disappear…. This explains it!!

Straight out…

http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k83/Minniemex/Oct%2008%202007/DSC02580.jpg


To the left

http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k83/Minniemex/Oct%2008%202007/DSC02581.jpg


To the right

http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k83/Minniemex/Oct%2008%202007/DSC02582.jpg


The rain never lasts long, but it did stay overcast, so snorkeling was done for now.

We decided to take a walk and we bumped into some girls who were volunteering for the CEA. They were checking turtle nests that should have hatched and unfortunately, the one they were checking today was full of dead babies. They were guessing this nest was laid before Dean and the surge after drowned the eggs. I know the concept sounds strange, but that is what they said. I will have to do some reading later to discover exactly what happened.

After our walk over to Jade bay it decided to rain again, so sat under palapa and read. After awhile we decided to head up to the room as the rain was not stopping and maybe take a nap. Man, I loved my afternoon naps….. regression to childhood I think!! LOL

After our nap when the rain stopped, we headed over to Akumal again to check out some shopping and to get some ice cream from Lucy’s. Lucy’s was closed, so no ice cream today!! (No ice cream any day, as Lucy’s never opened when we were there.) There was a type of gum the kids liked that we had bought down there so we picked up some of that for them. When I say Akumal, I mean the Akumal on the east side of the 307, not the actual pueblo of Akumal which is on the west side of the 307.

We spent the rest of the day sitting and reading….. Here is what it still looked like at 5:00PM

http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k83/Minniemex/Oct%2008%202007/DSC02583.jpg

Off to the room to get ready for dinner and a few drinks and then off to the room to read and bed.


Day 4 to follow shortly!! (I hope!!)

[Lynnette]

Great shots!!!! I know we all love the sunny days, but I find the stormy skies dramatic too. The water takes on an eerie green glow when that happens. It's been a few years since we were at the ABR, but we always loved the view with our breakfast, too. Great photos & report! Can't wait for more!!!

[preeya]

Wow! Beautiful snorkel pics! What camera did you use?
On our last day we drive to Akumal and only I went to snorkel for just about 40 mins as DH had to watch our daughter and felt so great, out of the world. My husband will never know what I saw until I develop my watercamera (Fuji) Lets see how those pics come out though! I did not see a turtle!

[BP.]

The turtles and the skies look incredible!!

[beachreader]

Great shots, Minnie! I really love the turtle on the blue background; I'm guessing he was heading up for air? What an amazing picture that is.

I know stormy days are cool and it's still a great vacation, but I'm sorry it rained so much for you. I had one of those trips once, and while it was still great (and different--I did many other things I never would have gotten to if it had been sunny), I do love the sun!

[Gale in KY]

You can post all those turtles Minnie..I love 'em all..can't get enough of them!

After seeing that pic of the blue tang, I love those too! That's a truly kewl picture!

Wish you would have had better weather!

[minniemex]

October 9th, 2007
AkumalBeach Resort

We woke up to strong winds and rain in the sunrise!! I was hoping it would show, but it doesn’t really. This is the day I did the slide show on –

Here is what it looked like at 6:30

http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k83/Minniemex/Oct%2009%202007/DSC01233.jpg

At 6:38

http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k83/Minniemex/Oct%2009%202007/DSC01234.jpg


and at 6:46

http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k83/Minniemex/Oct%2009%202007/DSC01237.jpg


Just goes to show how quickly the weather changes down there!! You never know!!

Here is the link for the slide of the sunrise shots for this day –

http://tulum.info/showthread.php?t=1322 (http://tulum.info/showthread.php?t=1322)

We had some more great snorkeling today!! Have a few pictures to show you. This was the day we saw the spotted eagle ray… there is a slide of him, so I will share my favorite picture of him here……..

http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k83/Minniemex/Oct%2009%202007/DSC02663.jpg


Here is the link for the slide show of the eagle ray….

http://tulum.info/showthread.php?t=1319 (http://tulum.info/showthread.php?t=1319)

I really like the looks of this shot – shows the rays of the sun!! The picture is not too clear though.

http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k83/Minniemex/Oct%2009%202007/DSC02593.jpg

A smaller fish ball…

http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k83/Minniemex/Oct%2009%202007/DSC02596.jpg

Another shot of another Barry……. This fish did not leave me alone!!!

http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k83/Minniemex/Oct%2009%202007/DSC02597.jpg


We were trying to get a picture of this very small yellow tang – this was out best shot……


http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k83/Minniemex/Oct%2009%202007/DSC02605.jpg

We started having problems with the halocline again, so took up our spot on the beach. The rain showed again at around 2, so we just went and sat in the bar and had a few libations.


My DH said he was having problems with his flips, his being the kind that goes over the foot and not thru the toe if you get what I mean. There is a lot of plastic that goes over and he was having problems with rubbing and getting blisters. He has refused up to this point to get flips that go thru the toe, because he says “ I can’t have that thing right on my toe, I will get blisters!! There is no way I can get used to that”. This has been his mantra for ages!! Can’t have that thing going thru his toe!! LOL I said I didn’t think he had much choice right now, it was flips through the toe or no shoes at all or tennis shoes. So off to shop we go. They had a little gift shop at the hotel and we checked there first. They were over $30 so I said I didn’t think we needed those. We then took off for the dive shops and found a pair that he liked and bought those. We still paid way too much for a pair of flips but I had finally gotten him into a pair. Well, he didn’t want to tell me they were wonderful and that he was getting used to the thingy between the toes. So, I have learned after many years of marriage, just to shut up and take my win like a pro!!! LOL

The supper was really bad at the buffet, we even tried to go to one of the specialty restaurants, but they were full. We weren’t that hungry anyways, so had whatever. ( I really must say, the food was usually really good)

A few drinks and off to the room and nighty night.

[beachreader]

Just a tip on a new product that a friend told me about. It's from the Band-Aid people, called Blister Block. It's like a tiny little deodorant stick type deal, and you rub it on your feet in the places you get blisters. It protects your feet! Really works, too. It's really just a solid mineral oil or something like that, but it doesn't feel all slimy, just gives the skin enough lubrication to keep the blisters away.

He should try it (you all should--it rocks).

[minniemex]

Awesome tip BR - will have to find it and add it to our vacation first aid kit!! He is always plagued with blisters!!

[PhyllisB]

Woohoo, finally a report to read from Minnie's trip! I love that gray morning pic, too. I think everyone expects sunshine pix from the beach, but I really do love those other moods too. It's a keeper.

So, shall we see who finishes their report first, amiga???? :) :) :)

[dionski]

minnie

Could we please have a little more on tulum/zulum.

waiting patiently:)
d2

[minniemex]

Woohoo, finally a report to read from Minnie's trip! I love that gray morning pic, too. I think everyone expects sunshine pix from the beach, but I really do love those other moods too. It's a keeper.

So, shall we see who finishes their report first, amiga???? :) :) :)

Chica - is that a challenge?? LOL - I have not as yet got all my pictures upoaded!!

[minniemex]

minnie

Could we please have a little more on tulum/zulum.

waiting patiently:)
d2

I am getting there!! I arrive on the 12th, only a few more days!! LOL

[PhyllisB]

Chica - is that a challenge?? LOL - I have not as yet got all my pictures upoaded!!

Better get them loaded!!!!!!! :D

You even have had a two week head start!

[Lynnette]

Better get them loaded!!!!!!! :D

You even have had a two week head start!

Wooohooooo.......a shoot out!!! Can't wait, chicas!!! :D

[minniemex]

Wednesday Oct 10th -
Akumal Beach Resort

This was our best sunrise so far and I almost slept thru it!! My Grandson, Zachie would have said "bad Nana"!!

http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k83/Minniemex/Oct%2010%202007/DSC02664.jpg

The wind whistled all night and our sink in the bathroom "talks" - an issue that we will need to address tonight. My thoughts were a towel down its throat!!

Well, I was glad the sunrise was ok because half an hour later it looked like this -

http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k83/Minniemex/Oct%2010%202007/DSC02670.jpg

On the back side of our building there was a green space with flowers and foilage - but - it has now turned into the Akumal swamp - I can only imagine the skeeters that are going to attack!!!

http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k83/Minniemex/Oct%2010%202007/DSC02671.jpg

http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k83/Minniemex/Oct%2010%202007/DSC02673.jpg

As you can see, the road is also flooded.

This was by far our "worst" day, if there can be one - I was in paradise wasn't I?? We had rain all day. We decided to take up residence in the Moonrise bar - we sat and played cards, read, walked the beach alittle during downpours. Of course, we also imbibed a few beverages also. We talked with a couple from Maryland who we kept bumping into. Just a lazy day at the beach!!

We love to chase these little birds, they act so hyper!! LOL

http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k83/Minniemex/Oct%2010%202007/DSC02674.jpg

We ate at the Italian "specialty" restaurant that night. You picked what you wanted when you made the reservation in the morning and I only looked at the entry - not the starter - besides it had some name I didn't understand except risotto. So they put the plate in front of me and it is BLACK and I mean BLACK risotto. I am thinking, ok, how does this get so black, and I think, oh, black beans. So I taste it and it actually tastes really good. I eat about half of it and leave the rest as I know I won't be able to eat my entry also. The waiter shows up and asks if I am done and did I not like it. I said "no, I really liked it, just couldn't eat it all" and since we had started the conversation I decided to ask him what it was and he told me "Squid Ink Risotto" - oh shit I think!! (for those of you who don't know, I am allergic to fish & shell ) I can only imagine myself itching to beat all !! As a matter of fact, I scratch already!! Lucky for me on this occasion, I was just fine, I think my head took over for awhile telling me I was itching!! LOL Luckily, there must not have been enough of anything in there to cause a real reaction!!

We went to the show that night, a take off on Chicago. I love the music from Chicago and the dancing and their performance of some of the routines was basic, but enjoyable.

Stopped off at the bar for a drink on the way home and then it was off to strangle the drain and a good nights rest!!


Thursday, October 11th
Akumal Beach Resort

A great sunrise!! Now this looks positive!!

http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k83/Minniemex/Oct%2011%202007/DSC01286.jpg

I tried playing with our camera a bit and got this picture -

http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k83/Minniemex/Oct%2011%202007/DSC02676.jpg

As you can see, the bay is like glass - (a picture of the above in my regular mode)

http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k83/Minniemex/Oct%2011%202007/DSC01277.jpg

All I can think of in "no breeze" to stop the skeeters!! LOL

The sun held out most of the day and we had another great snorkeling day!! I picked some of my fav's to show you - I know, not all of you like snorkeling, but for those who do...........

http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k83/Minniemex/Oct%2011%202007/DSC02694.jpg

http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k83/Minniemex/Oct%2011%202007/DSC02700.jpg

http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k83/Minniemex/Oct%2011%202007/DSC02701.jpg

http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k83/Minniemex/Oct%2011%202007/DSC02703.jpg

I finally got a good picture of a blue tang!!

http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k83/Minniemex/Oct%2011%202007/DSC02718.jpg

Some French Grunts -

http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k83/Minniemex/Oct%2011%202007/DSC02721.jpg

Whhhoooops - what happened to the sun???

http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k83/Minniemex/Oct%2011%202007/DSC02723.jpg

Whewwwwwwwwwww just a short overcast sky!!

We have no clue what this fish is - first time we ever saw one!!

http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k83/Minniemex/Oct%2011%202007/DSC02727.jpg

Coming right at me - outta here!!

http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k83/Minniemex/Oct%2011%202007/DSC02740.jpg

Four eye Butterfly fish

http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k83/Minniemex/Oct%2011%202007/DSC02744.jpg

A beautiful Anemone -

http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k83/Minniemex/Oct%2011%202007/DSC02758.jpg

One of my favorites - forget its name!!

http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k83/Minniemex/Oct%2011%202007/DSC02771.jpg

These are just itty bitty fishes but they are colorful!!

http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k83/Minniemex/Oct%2011%202007/DSC02775.jpg

This guy on the other hand was quite a large fish and again, I don't know what he was - first time I ever saw one!!
I am going to have to buy one of those identification books.

http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k83/Minniemex/Oct%2011%202007/DSC02779.jpg

I was just going to say, another favorite, have said that already a few times, but they all are really beautiful!!
This is a sea fan - such a vibrant purple!! My picture does not do it well.......

http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k83/Minniemex/Oct%2011%202007/DSC02788.jpg


Ok, done with the snorkeling pictures, that was the end of them for here. If anyone wants to see more, just PM me I will be happy to share
more!!!

After Hurricane Dean, this tri-hull had washed up on ABR's beach. (thats how I remember it - I thought I saw a picture of it, but now I can't find it - if someone does, post the link!! ) They now have it in what was a grassy area in the interior of the resort. They had to cut the two hulls off but makes an interesting picture!!)

http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k83/Minniemex/Oct%2011%202007/DSC02799.jpg

The afternoon was really an enjoyable day - here is how it looked at about 5PM

http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k83/Minniemex/Oct%2011%202007/DSC02794.jpg

Right after that photo, it started to rain again!! We went back to our rooms to shower before dinner. On the way to the room, we had to run the gauntlet of "amazingly scarey bug" LOL - nothing like the spider though!!!

http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k83/Minniemex/Oct%2011%202007/DSC02687.jpg

Rained a bit on the way to dinner. I can't believe I didn't take any pictures of the food. Must have forgot the camera!!

Did alot of snorkeling, kinda tired and had to pack as we were finally leaving for Tulum tommorrow!! Yeaaaaaaaaaa!!!

[beachreader]

Yay, Tulum!

Great snorkeling pics, Minnie. I'm getting really psyched now to get up there and maybe see some turtles. With Gale as my guide, I'm sure I can't miss (no pressure, Gale, LOL).

I wonder if your unidentified fishie is in the grouper family? Similar markings on the head, similar mouth/eye formation. If this guy was pretty, though, I don't know. Groupers are dull brown.

[Gale in KY]

That's what I thought he was too BR..a grouper..but he does look a bit different than the usual grouper you see in the area..lighter in color than the ones I have seen..he looks almost blue.

WOW...that Tang looks HUGE!

You know I never tire of the marinelife pics! I have been impatiently waiting for your report so I could get my snorkel fix!

That boat is too funny..I thought I saw a picture of it sitting close to the Moonrise Bar right after Dean..did they haul it up there from the beach???

Just like I always say, "A rainy day in paradise is better than a sunny day at home!"

Hurry south, I can't wait for Tulum!

[AdGuy]

Great snorkeling shots, Kayt! I've given up on bringing a camera when I snorkel cuz I never seemed to capture anything decent and when I dive I'm too focused on my buoyancy and other controls to be able to handle the camera. Fortunately, you capture it for me. Nice job!! :)

[minniemex]

Friday November 12th
ABR to Tulum to Zulum

Well, my sunrises have not been as colorful as I would have liked. I wonder if that has something to do with all the rain we have had??
Hopefully they will improve in Tulum!! Here are a couple of my last shots at ABR for this morning.

http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k83/Minniemex/Oct%2012%202007/DSC01291.jpg

http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k83/Minniemex/Oct%2012%202007/DSC01293.jpg

There is no breeze here today and I am hoping there will be one in Tulum or I will be eaten alive!! This was our second stay at ABR and they give you a nice letter and some coasters....... just a small nice touch.

http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k83/Minniemex/Oct%2012%202007/DSC02806.jpg

I have read if you stay a third time, you get a tree planted in your name. We were finally all packed up and ready to go to Tulum!! Called the valet to come pick up our luggage. Got to the lobby and checked out and set about to wait for our rental to show up.

I took this picture of cab rates from the ABR - thought it would help guessestimate if anyone was wondering cab fares.

http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k83/Minniemex/Oct%2012%202007/DSC02812.jpg

Well, we had made arrangements to be picked up at 9:00am. It is now 9:30 and no show. I was afraid of this......... so we call from our cell phone, not something we wanted to spend money on, but, they said they would be there in 10mns.............. waiting... it is now 9:45, 9:50,9:55, ok, now it is 10:00 - how I hate waiting!!! DH calls again, they said he is there, and they won't let him in......... Won't let him in???? WTF??!?!? There seemed to be some confusion at the gate and they thought he was there to rent cars and only Thrifty can do that on ABR property, so they didn't let him in. He should have just said he was there to pick us up. (Anyways, they decided to let him on the property when we started walking to the gate at the highway. I was going to write ABR about this, but forgot about it until just now writing this trip report.) I guess the part that annoyed me the most was that the highway guard did not call down to the lobby to let us know. Ok, now, they were late, but not an hour, maybe 35 minutes. I guess in Mexico, you have to account for this!! LOL

Ok, we are driven back to PDC to do the paperwork. Pictures of the car, although I don't know why, we have 0% dedutible!! I don't even have a whole picture of the car, just pieces!!

http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k83/Minniemex/Oct%2012%202007/DSC02831.jpg

I have stated in previous posts on the subject of car rental from Continental that they use a conversion rate of 11:1 to convert US dollars to Pesos to charge on your credit card. You end up paying alittle more when all is done, so next time I will be paying in US dollars at the time of rental. Finally we are on our way!! After a few wrong turns in Playa, filling an empty gas tank, we are out on the 307 heading for Tulum!! Yeaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa!!!
Just as an aside, we always just put 100 Pesos of gas in the car at a time. This eliminated the 200 to 20 peso note scam and assured we wouldn't return the car with more gas than it had when we got it!!! LOL

We stopped at Xpu Ha as we were going to stay there our last night in Mexico, just to be alittle closer to the airport as we had an early flight. We made the reservation which really wasn't necessary as they were nowhere near full!! A few quick pictures of the beach and we were off again!!

http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k83/Minniemex/Oct%2012%202007/DSC02842.jpg

http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k83/Minniemex/Oct%2012%202007/DSC02843.jpg


We stopped at the San Francisco in Tulum to pick up some supplies and treats. And then it was down the Boca Paila to Zulum!!

Zulum

My first impression was just as I had imagined it would be, it was beautiful!! Being so close to the ocean was heaven!! All I can do is post the pictures we took when we first entered our room - I think they speak for themselves!!

http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k83/Minniemex/Zulum/DSC02858.jpg

http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k83/Minniemex/Zulum/DSC02859.jpg

http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k83/Minniemex/Zulum/DSC02860.jpg

http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k83/Minniemex/Zulum/DSC02861.jpg

Use your imagination on this picture!! LOL - really though, it was just a picture of the whole shower. I don't know what I violated!! too funny!!

http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k83/Minniemex/Zulum/DSC02862.jpg

http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k83/Minniemex/Zulum/DSC02863.jpg

http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k83/Minniemex/Zulum/DSC02864.jpg

http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k83/Minniemex/Zulum/DSC02865.jpg

http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k83/Minniemex/Zulum/DSC02866.jpg

http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k83/Minniemex/Zulum/DSC02867.jpg


Now, we quickly change and hit the beach!! Nirvana, why did we wait so long?????? We took a really long walk, no cameras, just us and the beach and the clear beautiful water!! How we love Tulum!! When we returned, we were starved and the chef there, Sergio, said he would fix us some wonderful steak. Well, who were we to argue?? He said he would call us from the beach when it was ready...... gee, can I handle that??? He called it "Argentinian Steak" and it was really wonderful. I think sometimes when you are really hungry, some things taste better but this was really tasty and good!! It was a little spendy - $15. a plate but the service was wonderful!!

Here is the restaurant & Sergio - this is behind the south white building.

http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k83/Minniemex/Zulum/DSC02870.jpg

The wonderful steak -

http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k83/Minniemex/Zulum/DSC02869.jpg

Here is an overview of the restaurant area -

http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k83/Minniemex/Zulum/DSC02871.jpg



One of the strangest things was this sight on the beach when we arrived -

http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k83/Minniemex/Zulum/DSC02874.jpg

They were using it at Ana Y Joses for placing the pilings for the new spa. This was the first and last time that we saw this thing there. It was really weird to see it there.

Ok, now some words on Zulum -

The bathroom does not have a door and it did not bother me, but I could see how it could others. The floor is cement and did have a rug under the coffee table. There were not rugs next to the bed which I would have liked as I hate getting into bed with sandy feet. This problem I solved by putting a small towel on the floor next to the bed. I loved the suspended bed!! It was like laying on a huge swing!! If you are prone to motion sickness, I don't think this would be the bed for you. Everytime you move it swings alittle and I loved it!! Yes, there is a restaurant on site, no liquor license yet so they can't techinically charge you for drinks. You get the drink free and the tip is a killer!! LOL (Actually not bad, a cervesa was 2 dollars)(brand of beer changed as the supply was replaced) They had no menu yet, but all the food we ate there was great!! Breakfasts were included in our rate. The lighting in the room is very muted and I loved it. I looked years younger than I actually am. Wow, sunlight was a killer for the ego though!! You could not read a book by the light or apply makeup. The mirror was eclectic, but worthless. The patio/deck was heaven. The only thing to improve it would have been a second hammock, as I hogged the only one there and my husband didn't get much "hammock" time. (maybe he didn't get any, I kinda feel bad about that) (didn't change my hogging it though) The fixtures were corroded, happens most of the time from being so close to the beach and I don't think it will change. Dean could have speeded up the process somewhat!!

Well, if you have specific questions regarding Zulum ask away. I tried to write all that I noticed.

On our walk along the beach we noticed alot of differences. Some places walked away with only less foilage and some lost whole walls and some cabanas. I will report on that later, as I need to spend some quality time with DH and I have only sat at the computer today. More to follow later.

The wonderful beach!!

http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k83/Minniemex/Zulum/DSC02873.jpg

[beachreader]

Interesting that the fixtures are corroded already. The place has only been open less than a year! Yes, sea air is terrible for such things, but I'm still shocked it took such a short time. Perhaps they should have spent more for better-quality fixtures, since they'll have to replace them sooner rather than later.

What's the property just to your north/left? Is that Arrecifes?

And is Sergio from Argentina? Just curious.


I'm so happy we have all these trip reports now. There was a bit of a dry spell there, now suddenly, five really good ones! (or more? Let's see: Preeya, Phyllis, Minnie, Tuluminous, Shyeviolet...)

[PhyllisB]

Great pix Minnie! Shoot I see I'd better get going so I can catch up with ya.... :D

I've been still in recovery from whatever cold I brought home with me! Stuck in bed, taking meds every 6 hours or so. :mad:

But at least I'm not at work! ;)

Hopefully I'll get a report going soon..... besides, we don't want them ALL to come at the same time..... otherwise who will keep us entertained until Gale & BR's trips?!?!?!?

[minniemex]

I guess I overstate the corrosion as it was one thing that I always thought was tacky until it was explained to me that they just can't keep it new and shiny looking. Dean might have played a huge part along with all the wet weather that was there this fall. This is kinda my bathroom door fetish I think. tee ehee............

[Gale in KY]

It doesn't take long Minnie..have a friend who lives in Xcalak, he is constantly replacing plumbing and fixtures. It's the salt..it's in the air all the time.

[preeya]

OMG Minnie, great snorkel pics. Also the last day ABR sunrise pic is really good, the first one in that. We also had a lot of cloudy sunrises, but still beautiful isnt it!
Now I regret not having a lot of time to snorkel, but there is next time!
Please do send me other snorkel pics. Love em