Tuesday, March 4, 2014

MAZATLAN, SINALOA



Mazatlan, Sinaloa, Mexico

OLD TOWN IN MAZATLAN

 Mazatlan has been called the "Pearl of the Pacific" and is breathing new life into its historic center.  Her great gift, though, is the beautiful16 km of golden sandy beaches.  It boasts of having the longest malecon  (boardwalk) in Latin America! 


 Mazatlan and Her Beach Front

 The city's life centers on its port operations, commercial fishing, and now tourism.  So many warm water activities to enjoy: swimming and beach fun, watching for humpback whales and pelicans, finding illusive iguanas, surfing, snorkeling, and fishing. 

The variety of fish is a dream for sportfishing: marlin, swordfish, sailfish, tuna, dorado, and red snapper...and the chefs know how to prepare it.
Daily Catch in the Central Market

Huachinango (Red Snapper) is so Delicious
Note its orange variegated color.




It's not all fish in the Market!




































VIEWS OF MAZATLAN LIFE
Pulmonia, Name of a Traditional Transport Vehicle

Life Along the Beach

A Ride with a View

Buy Your Dresses on the Beach.  Plenty are Available

Greatest Treat on Mazatlan Beach
Boating along the coast, we could  feel the growing pains of Mazatlan with new construction along the once pristine beaches.  Some massive boxy high-rise structures of condominiums and time-share condos are a disappointing contrast to the traditional Spanish-style architecture of Mazatlan's Pueblo Viejo (Old Town).


Mazatlan is Growing Fast
In Center of pix is Cathedral.
Plazuela Machado in Renovated Old Town

Fortunately, there seems to be a cultural revival in pueblo viejo, old town.  Along the cobbled streets and crumbling edifices, are newly restored gems like the Teatro Angela Peralta, a museum of local history, the charming Plazuela Machado, and some boutiques. The Cathedral, nearby, has also had a facelift.    



Cathedral in Old Town
Eclectic Architectural Style

Eating a Mexican fusion dinner at the colorful Topolo restaurant near the Plazuela was an incredible treat.  We enjoyed watching our sweet waiter prepare the margaritas and salsa at our table.  Then stepping outside, we joined the music and dancing in the Plaza...what a beautiful experience....





The Port of Mazatlan
Good-bye Mazatlan for now.  We will return, hopefully for the annual Festival Cultural Mazatlan.  And, maybe we'll see you there in the near future!

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