It doesn't get any better than this

[susan]

So I really wanted to go to Tulum during turtlenesting/turtle hatching season. So i checked with the previous girl trip attendees and a few others but no takers. Then I saw a post by BeachReader about how she would love to see the whale sharks. I sent her an email saying if she came with I would swim with the whale sharks with her. After I believe a little bit of friendly name caliing (by Her:)) she gave in and the trip planning began!

First was coordinating our flights. We were both able to get flights which arrived on the morning of August 1st within a few minutes of each other, mine arrived 15 minutes late and BR was waiting for me once I got through immigration. She already had her bag and been to the ATM. I did carry on so it was a stop at the ATM and then through customs, we both got the green light so away we went.

BR (she will be using her super powers to edit in her additions to the report--OK, here I am, superpowers in hand--comments in purple will be from Beachreader, regular type from Susan.) had arranged a private transfer to the ferry dock so we could be on Isla Mujeres for lunch. It was an uneventful ride and ferry crossing though unbelievably hot for this Minnesotan. I would learn to accept the sweat soaked. clothes stuck to you, oh my gosh it's hot weather as the days went on. Yeah, it was pretty hot, but for some reason I wasn't bothered quite as much as mi amiga here. We used Best Day for the transfer airport/ferry, and paid extra for the VIP service, meaning private and nonstop. I was a bit irked that we had to wait a good 15 minutes in the heat for our car to show up, but oh well.

We arrived in isla and followed a pedicab to our room (which was air-conditioned:)) She means the room, not the pedicab. Next time I stay on the other side of the island from the ferry, I'll either get the golf cart right there or take a real taxi. Walking behind that pedicab was pretty darned hot!

Here are a couple of shots of the hotel, Playa La media Luna. We ate lunch by the pool, before heading out for the afternoon.

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Lunch was seriously mediocre. We didn't realize that PML doesn't have a restaurant, so they order in from a restaurant in town. The food really wasn't that bad, but my margarita, first in country, was terrible. Mix-city. Still, PML has a lovely pool area and view. The room is very basic, but having that a/c was very nice.

http://beachreader.smugmug.com/photos/618232312_rMUk8-M.jpg

We rented a golf cart to tour the island. First on the agenda was the turtle farm. This is a sea turtle preservation organization. Facilities not quite what we are used to at home but they do some much needed work. they also collect the eggs from nests aroung the island and keep them safe for hatching. They also have quite a few turtles in tanks on display.

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transplanted turtle nests

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We continued on to the south point of the the iland where they have a sculpture garden at the Mayan ruin. It is also iron shore on that end but the breaking waves were beautiful.

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this guy had a great view

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We headed back up the east side of the island with a short stop to do some beach combing, this is the one thing Tulum is missing, a good spot for shelling. We made a top at Lia Vida Bella?, the B&B where Lynn stayed for a couple of refreshments where I had a wonderful pina colada. This guy had found a perfect spot. The owner was there and she was great, gave us a tour of some of the rooms, this is really a great spot.

http://lh6.ggpht.com/_VY_8ukbZxsQ/SoCwlVJcLXI/AAAAAAAACr8/ApqOzt_YNFQ/s640/IMGP0951.JPG

Flowers on the grounds

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I can't beat Sue's pictures, ever, but here's a good use of one of those flowers:

http://beachreader.smugmug.com/photos/618239129_JKoG9-M.jpg

And this was, truly, the best pina colada I have ever tasted, and I only had a sip of Sue's. Not too sweet, as most pina coladas are to me, this was completely fresh. I need to drink more rum. I had the margarita, which was also excellent.

http://beachreader.smugmug.com/photos/618239389_os3Jt-M.jpg


We headed back to the hotel to get ready for dinner and cool off. We decided to head for Bally- Hoos and the views which go along with it.
Only food pic i have is of te guac but I am sure Fran has some.

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I had a very good stuffed fish and Fran had a garlic fillet?

View from the table- great vivid coolrs in Isla

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I loved Ballyhoo's, excellent margaritas (as promised by Lynnette) and fantastic atmosphere. I didn't love my garlic fish, which was quite plain, but Sue's stuffed fish was excellent. Still, this is a place I could live at, and the prices are really reasonable. We got some great sunset pics as well.

What a view:

http://beachreader.smugmug.com/photos/618239590_VP6fk-M.jpg

How to fix this dreaded little fog spot? It seems to be in most of my pics. :-(

http://beachreader.smugmug.com/photos/618240295_SwpKW-M.jpg

http://beachreader.smugmug.com/photos/618240902_3QApv-M.jpg

I had been up since 2am to catch the 5:30 am flight so after dinner it was back to the hotel and off to bed.

[susan]

The big day- we were going swimming with the whale sharks.

First the sunrise
http://lh3.ggpht.com/_VY_8ukbZxsQ/SoCwnM-CKoI/AAAAAAAACsM/aQmc3NzB3HI/s512/IMGP0970.JPG


We were to be at the boat at 7:30am and we arrived a few minutes early. We haada decided to go with a company called ceviche tours. Our original desire was to go with captain tony but he was dealing with his father's illness at the time and just too much was up in the air with our tight schedule. We thought we'd be lucky, since there was only one couple waiting at the dock, but then suddenly we ended up with like 9 people on the boat at the last minute. Since only the four original people came for lunch, we think those other folks must have booked at the last minute and not done lunch--perhaps they got a discount, who knows. Anyway we left the dock about 8am and it was an hour ride out to the whale sharks. Beachreader did fine on the ride out but I will let her fill in the details of her experience since she will tell the story much better than I. We did see a few turtles on the ride there and back just swimming along the surface.

Ceviche Tours was OK, very nice captain and our snorkeling guide, Julio, really saved me by calming me down in the water, but I'd really have liked a bit more nature-talking, and we were supposed to have a "beach bbq", but instead had lunch at the restaurant near the dock (not Ballyhoo's, alas), which was not at all what I'd hoped for. It was OK, just not a "beach bbq".

Finally we get to the Whale Sharks!

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Now the hard part- we had to wait for our turn in the water! Only 2-3 people are supposed to be in the water at a time. I was alrady concerned that we wouldn't get much time in the water since we had 10 on the boat. But at last it was finally our turn and i did get plenty of time in the water, in fact I was quite tired by the time we were set to go. BeachReader did get seasick but 2 other people on the boat had it even worse. i am lucky that the bobbing doesn't effect me. I will let the pictures do the talking. i am also attemting to load a video but never done that before so hopefully it works.

feeding at the surface

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video link- let me know if this works.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_VcN3qu-HuI

There is nothing I can add to Sue's fabulous pictures above, except maybe this one, which I caught as one of the magnificent beasts passed close to the boat.

http://beachreader.smugmug.com/photos/618242041_6n8K4-M.jpg

And this one, which I completely lucked into--I couldn't see a thing through my viewfinder, ever, I don't know if this is true for other people, but for me it was basically point blind and shoot as much as possible!

http://beachreader.smugmug.com/photos/618242952_4PDPS-M.jpg

And don't let anyone ever say I never let a photo of myself get posted on the internet!

http://beachreader.smugmug.com/photos/618243221_pNbSL-M.jpg


We stopped at a reef on the way back to Isla where I took a few photos.

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We had lunch on the beach it was part of the tour, I had the chicken fajitas and then we headed back to the hotel to chill for the afternoon. The weather was great, hot but we had a nice breeze on the east side of the island.

The pool was really refreshing and fresh water. It was really nice to have the pool. I agree--it was VERY nice to have a pool!Beachreader lounged by the pool, reading and relaxing while I took the opportunity to do some beachcombing.

It was low tide so there were some tidal pools to investigate

Can anyone tell me what this is?
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I collected some sells and sea glass and then headed back to the hotel for another swim.

We decided to check out hidalgo street before dinner. I picked up a few souveniours for the children left behind and myself of course. we were able to time the rain shower perfectly with being in the store. After a little walking we headed to the Sunset grill for dinner.

And true to it's name there was a very nice sunset!

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That sudden rainstorm left some fabulous cloud formations--I tried to catch them here. Also, there are still the "beached whales" protecting the beach, but overall I thought the beach looked really nice.

This series starts at the storm, still moving off to the left, then one to the right and one to the right of that, where the sun was setting. I love clouds!

http://beachreader.smugmug.com/photos/618244374_D8cJB-M.jpg

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I have food pics for this dinner because BR made me.

We started with a grilled octopus which was really good.

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I had a greek fillet

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BR also had a fish dish but I don't remember what it was sorry I am really not a foodie as you will find out later in the trip.

My fish was Tikin-Xic, and really good. Thanks, Sue, for taking the food pics--I'm a terrible food photographer, or else my camera is (or I haven't yet figured out how to make my camera like food as much as I do). Very good margaritas here, and 2-1 at that.

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Dinner was pretty good and you couldn't beat the location.

I wanted ice cream so we headed back to Hidalgo where I enjoyed my coffee gelato- BR didn't like her choice so much. No, I think I've just finally realized that rich ice creams make me feel icky. Oh, right, and the pistachio was nasty. :-)

Back to the hotel for tomorrow it was onto Tulum.

[ilovewyoming]

Beautiful pictures! Enjoying the report so far...THanks!

[Tranquilo Tomas]

Susan . . . amazing pics and quite the adventure. Where exactly did you guys go? Pacific coast? Not Holbox was it. The coast doesn't look like the gulf. The whale sharks are magnificent! Love the kitty and iguana shots! Tell us more!

[susan]

We were in Isla Mujeres for the whale sharks and it was absolutely amazing. It was my first time in Isla and I loved, very different than Tulum, a little more developed but very quiant. I would definately go back.

[beachreader]

Yay, thanks for starting this so beautifully. I'm sorry I'm so busy, won't be able to post pics for the next 24 hours, I think, but I'll try to come back and participate as much as I can tomorrow night.

It was an amazing trip for sure! :sun:

[heenan]

Great pics! This swimming with the whale sharks sounds like something we need to check out on a future trip.

[Tranquilo Tomas]

I'm soooo jealous of your whale shark experience!!
Remarkable clairity on your pics. I need a new camera.
Great sea slug shot. Don't you just love the other worldliness underwater?
It's been a long time since I've been to Isla Mujeres.

[Shebug]

Wow, really great shots of the whalesharks! Especially the one, where one is coming towards you with it's mouth sort of open. You captured exactly what intigues me about them.

My turn very,very soon...

Shebug

[BP.]

Adorable so far! Sounds so fun and adventurous! Wonderful pics -- I love those 4 beachcombing pictures just before your sunset shot, which was also lovely.

[jbutah]

The creature in the picture you asked about is a marine invertebrate called a chiton.

[Toni]

I love it! beautiful pictures, wonderful.....It has been many a year since we were last in Isla, may have to head back. Looking forward to the rest.

[susan]

The creature in the picture you asked about is a marine invertebrate called a chiton.

Thank You!

[minniemex]

Wonderful start Susan!! Love the shot of the Hibiscus!!

How was the clarity of the water?? It is hard to tell from the pictures.

Do you have any shots of the Sunset Grill?? The last time I saw it was right after Wilma. I loved eating there!! I really didn't care about the food, it was all the view.:p

You didn't ever eat on Hildago??

[letele]

Awesome start, Susan! Your whale shark pics came out incredible! :)

[tbpeaceful]

Beautiful photos! Thanks for making the effort so quickly. The whale sharks are amazing. Looking forward to more.

Happy days - T.

[PhyllisB]

Oh man, the more I hear about this perfect trip the more bummed I am that I couldn't go!

But your writing is great, I feel like I'm right there with you. Loved the comment about Fran making you take the food pics! :D

[mayaflya]

I really like this shot....the water clarity was much better for you than we had..


http://lh6.ggpht.com/_VY_8ukbZxsQ/SoCwqK5NMcI/AAAAAAAACss/rqTjV1FzpWQ/s640/IMGP1071.JPG

Of course, it's also easier to get great shots if you aren't screaming!:D

Great report....even better than the weekend's installment!

[Lynnette]

Absolutely fabulous!!! I love your narrative & beautiful photos. The pina coladas at Villa la Bella are the best. You did so much in a short time, but definitely "got" Isla!! I love this shot, too!!


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[susan]

I really like this shot....the water clarity was much better for you than we had..

Of course, it's also easier to get great shots if you aren't screaming!:D

Great report....even better than the weekend's installment!

The weekend report was much quicker:)

Water clarity was pretty good, a lot of plankton but it was pretty clear other than that and the sharks were right at the surface.

Can anyone see the video- does the link work?

[Lynnette]

The link works...cool video. I can't believe how close to the surface they were!!!! More, more, more of you awesome report and beautiful photos....can't wait to hear from Fran, too.

[bellydancer]

Susan...the video on Youtube came out great...had no problem viewing it. Man this makes me even more excited about swimming with them! Wasn't real happy to hear about all the seasickness though...I bought a box of Bonine yesterday...so did Beachreader not take anything before going or did it just not help?

How many times did you get in the water with the whale sharks? Were you pleased with the company you went with?

[susan]

Susan...the video on Youtube came out great...had no problem viewing it. Man this makes me even more excited about swimming with them! Wasn't real happy to hear about all the seasickness though...I bought a box of Bonine yesterday...so did Beachreader not take anything before going or did it just not help?

How many times did you get in the water with the whale sharks? Were you pleased with the company you went with?


BR did take something, bonine I think, but I will let her chime in on the seasick issues since it doesn't happen to me.

There seemed to be some tour operators offering discounted tours but I don't really know how that works so you maybe able to get a cheaper rate than what is on the internet if you can wait until you get there but yes I was happy with our tour.

I spent a lot of time in the water - went in 3 times, the last time I got out on my own because i was getting tired you do a lot of swimming if you want to stay with the sharks, they are little faster than what they look like and they do not move out of the way for you, you must move. One hit our boat and it was kind of funny because the captain was yelling at the shark- hola amigo- to try and get him to turn away but he didn't, he just kind of nudged the boat and then went under it. He was bigger than our boat so I suppose something could have happened. I thought it was cool but the captain seemed pretty concerned.

[TnTWalter]

Oooh.

Wonderful!

Sorry bout the seasickness...that stays with you all day too... yuck!!

Great pictures too. Nice hotels.

:beerchug:

[beachreader]

Hi, I'm back and can take a minute here before I chain myself to my spreadsheets once again. :(

I took one Bonine before we left for the dock--the dosage said 1-2, and I should have taken 2. The ride out to the deep water was fine, the forward movement of the boat makes the swells exciting, not nauseating. But then the boat stops, and the swells start pushing the boat around. That's when I knew I'd be in danger, so I took another one at that moment, probably far too late, and I chewed it (they're a nasty cherry flavor), and that was a mistake as well since then I had to taste that for a while.

The swimming part was fine, but as soon as I hoisted myself up out of the water onto the boat, bam. Like someone had put me on a spinny ride. I pulled off my gear and got horizontal as quickly as possible, eyes closed.

Seasickness totally bites, really ruins a trip. I never hurled (no smileys, please), but I didn't feel well enough to stand up and put the gear back on so I only took one round with the sharks. I knew Sue's pictures would be better than mine anyway! :)

Of the 8 or 9 passengers on our boat, four of us felt bad, one gal was really sick, but I don't think anyone actually threw up.

By the time the boat started heading back at speed, I sat up and looked forward and that was fine, but of course then the second Bonine kicked in and I got a bit drowsy with the motion of the boat. I didn't go in for the snorkeling stop since I didn't want to go up the ladder again.

Once on the dock, though, I felt fine, just kind of tired. A lot of adreniline from that first jump in with the sharks and exhaustion from trying to maintain, but other than that, solid ground and I was fine again.

I've decided that I like snorkeling best when there is ground very nearby where I can put my feet down from time to time, so it may be Akumal-type stuff for me from now on. :)

I'll go boating again, of course, and next time I'll take two Bonine, but if I'm still sick then, I don't know what I'll do. It's really depressing, since I used to be a big boater. I sailed for a few years and then in the 90s spent a lot of time on ski boats, both driving and passengering. This seasick thing is fairly recent. :( I wish someone would come up with a real effective solution!

Even with all that, I'd really like to do the whalesharks again someday. Amazing creatures and I'm so happy I got to see them up close and personal.

[bellydancer]

Thanks Beachreader/Susan...now I know to take 2 Bonine before leaving.

I've gone out from Cozumel several times on catamarans and dive boats and have never gotten sick but since this trip will be a lot longer and possibly bigger waves I would rather be safe than sorry.

My hubby has tried snorkling out over reefs from boat trips and really doesn't care for it...he doesn't like fighting the waves and like you he prefers being able to stand up when he wants to so he's really hesitant about doing the whale shark tour...but for me he's willing to try it.

Was the water fairly calm for the snorkling or were the swells pretty high?

[susan]

You snorkel much closer to the island so it was pretty calm but there was a strong current. With the sharks there are swells so there is a lot of bobbing. It was 120ft deep where the sharks were.

[elvo73]

Beautiful pictures Susan, I can't wait to hear the rest of your trip :wave:

[beachreader]

Thanks Beachreader/Susan...now I know to take 2 Bonine before leaving.

I've gone out from Cozumel several times on catamarans and dive boats and have never gotten sick but since this trip will be a lot longer and possibly bigger waves I would rather be safe than sorry.

My hubby has tried snorkling out over reefs from boat trips and really doesn't care for it...he doesn't like fighting the waves and like you he prefers being able to stand up when he wants to so he's really hesitant about doing the whale shark tour...but for me he's willing to try it.

Was the water fairly calm for the snorkling or were the swells pretty high?


If you have been on boats like that many times and not been sick at all, you might be oK with just one Bonine, but if you're resistant to the drowsiness factor (they say they're non-drowsy, mmm, maybe), maybe two couldn't hurt.

Tell your hubby I'm just like him about snorkeling, but this is a true life experience and he should really just do it. I was a bit nervous in the water, but our guide came over to me and calmed me down so I could focus on the sharks right in front of me. It was incredible, and honestly, it was worth feeling like crap for an hour or so. :o

[minniemex]

The only time I ever felt any type of "seasick" was when the boat was actually anchored and "bobbing". It is a terrible feeling, so sorry you had to work around it! How great that the guide helped calm you and you got to swim with the sharks at least the one time.

Can you chicas give us any idea how large these whales were?? Do you have any pictures that show someone beside them??

[FITZ]

Welcome back chica's! I am really enjoying the report so far. Beachie, I'm so sorry for you're spinners on the boat. At least you got to go in once.
I started feeling crappy on the ferry to Coz during some rough weather. Not a good feeling, esp. when people are around. First time for me, and I worked on a boat at one time and was out often on my boat in Lake Michigan. You just never know.
I've never taken or chewed a Dramamine or any other med. Are there any after effects?
Thanks so much for sharing your trip. I need this.

[susan]

The only time I ever felt any type of "seasick" was when the boat was actually anchored and "bobbing". It is a terrible feeling, so sorry you had to work around it! How great that the guide helped calm you and you got to swim with the sharks at least the one time.

Can you chicas give us any idea how large these whales were?? Do you have any pictures that show someone beside them??


I don't have any photos with people but here is a video link taken from the boat that might give you an idea. There is a lot of bobbing so it isn't very steady. I would say the majority of the sharks were in the 30-40 foot range.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ayWdGk6mkak

[BP.]

Do you have any pictures that show someone beside them??

Have a look at xcalak dot tv's message board, where xcalaksteve just posted a few pics from his whaleshark trip of last week. There's a very nice one showing exactly what you're looking for.

[beachreader]

OK, everyone, now you have to go back and re-read the beginning of the report. I finally got some time to put my pictures together and I've added my commentary in purple (not that Sue needs my help!).

OK, Sue, I'm ready to head down to Tulum, I'm out tomorrow but I'll check tomorrow night to see if you've posted!

Gosh this was such a great trip. :sun:

[Lynnette]

I love your sunset pics...the storm clouds make such a dramatic sky. Do you remember who was making the margaritas at Ballyhoos...guy or chica?? I missed my fav bartender in May. You just can't beat the ambiance of Ballyhoos....I can (and have) spend hours just chilling there!!!

Those red hibiscus shots are great. Every morning Ashley, of Villa la Bella, gives one to every female guest to wear in her hair....what a beautiful way to start each day.

This is the best trip report.....I can't wait for you to head to Tulum!!!

http://beachreader.smugmug.com/photos/618244374_D8cJB-M.jpg



http://beachreader.smugmug.com/photos/618239590_VP6fk-M.jpg



http://lh3.ggpht.com/_VY_8ukbZxsQ/SoCwl_RzdxI/AAAAAAAACsA/G85dktgkDA0/s512/IMGP0953.JPG


http://beachreader.smugmug.com/photos/618239129_JKoG9-M.jpg

[beachreader]

Do you remember who was making the margaritas at Ballyhoos...guy or chica?? I missed my fav bartender in May. You just can't beat the ambiance of Ballyhoos....I can (and have) spend hours just chilling there!!!


I don't know who was mixing our drinks, to be honest. My back was to the bar, but I don't remember seeing a woman back there and for some reason I feel that I would remember that.

[susan]

So we awke to anther beautiful sunrise. Our plan was to take the 10:30am ferry back to Cancun. Beachreader had called Continental car rental the day before and they were to pick us up at 11am at the ferry dock.

But first a little bit of beachcombing for me, it was high tide though so not as interesting as the day before but i did find a few more pieces of sea glaa now all nicely displayed in a jar at home.

And one last swim in the pool- I will definately miss that pool.

We hahd the continental breakfast included with the room which was forgettable. The coffee wasn't too bad, I suppose, but I have nothing else good to say about it except that the room at air conditioned. :-)

We had to return the golf cart this morning but BR haad arranged for one the hotel guys to give us ride in it down to the ferry dock. It wasanother beautifully hot day, no breeze so I was really looking forward to the wind on the ferry. We had the upper deck to ourselves, it was so calm and the water such a beautiful tourquoise that I wouldn'g have minded if the ride was a little longer.

http://lh5.ggpht.com/_VY_8ukbZxsQ/SnxnruPWHGI/AAAAAAAACmY/6K86EV1afng/s640/IMGP1179.JPG

Isn't that an amazing picture? The colors were really just like this! Oh, and no worries for me on the ferry, up top, wind in my face, forward motion, all good.


So we grabbed our bags and went to find the continental guy- but he was nowhere to be found. This very nice security guy try to help us locate him and try calling and callung and calling but no answer at the Continental office. So after 45 minutes I said lets take a cab and get on our way. So we grabbed a cab to the Continental office, BR a little unhappy, but we got there got a car and everthig worked out fine and only caused us an hour delay.

"BR a little unhappy" might be a bit generous on Sue's part, I was steamed, and not just because it was so bloody hot on that side of the building! We'd called to confirm the car and the pickup the day before. The poor taxi guy who finally took us to the Plaza Santa Fe had to feel the steam coming out of my ears. So I overtipped him since I know it's unpleasant sitting in a car with a pizzled person.

We had planned on eating at Casa Cenote but because of the time and the fact that we were ravenous we stopped at La Floresta (sp?) in PDC for lunch. Quick service and good food and we were back on the road. Sorry no pics, can't remeber if BR took any. No pics from La Floresta, but we had the marlin. It was kind of a smoked version, like it came out of a can, but still pretty tasty. Just FYI, if you order the marlin, it's not fried like their other things. Tasty michelada, too.

Finally we make it to Casa Cenote, we had heard a lot about this place and wanted to check it out. we walked around a little bit to check out the grounds, it is a nice little hotel in a very pretty location. Allthe rooms opened facing the beach and they seemed to have a fair number of guests.

Back across the street to snorkel. So it was hot, in case I have mentioned that, and the water was a very refreshing cool bath and crystal clear.

http://lh4.ggpht.com/_VY_8ukbZxsQ/Snxnsrmt4rI/AAAAAAAACmk/dV5JntYt8-M/s640/IMGP1206.JPG

http://lh5.ggpht.com/_VY_8ukbZxsQ/SnxnsWx7KII/AAAAAAAACmg/mp0ZGqBlVIE/s640/IMGP1186.JPG


http://lh5.ggpht.com/_VY_8ukbZxsQ/Snxnr7Gl1YI/AAAAAAAACvs/8g2ugeZ3iIM/s640/IMGP1185.JPG

Another Picture of BR on the internet!
http://lh6.ggpht.com/_VY_8ukbZxsQ/SoMNyzvLaTI/AAAAAAAACvo/FrHBtLH7UuQ/s640/IMGP1188.JPG

After a nice swim we decided to try and snorkel in Tankah Bay. we walked to beach for away and try to enter at a couple of points but the entry was too rocky. This beach is better for shelling than the Tulum beach but for swimming tulum wins hands down. I asked this question somewhere else, not sure if it's been answered yet, but how do all you experienced snorkelers handle this kind of rocky-shore entrance? It was looking like 20 yards of dicey walking before we could get somewhere deep enough to get horizontal. Do you just wear scuba booties and march out like that, always use kayaks, always find a sandy place, what? The cenote was lovely, I just couldn't figure out how to swing the bay part of things.

It was about 4pm so it was time to head to Tulum. NV here we come!

http://lh5.ggpht.com/_VY_8ukbZxsQ/SoOBFmSb3cI/AAAAAAAACyM/RQS5teGLakk/s512/IMGP1478.JPG

We checked into Magico Amencar and found out there would be a baby turtle release tonight around 8pm- this turned out to really mean sometime between 8 and midnight but we were really excited.

I am sure BR has more pics of the room but here are the sink and shower.

http://lh6.ggpht.com/_VY_8ukbZxsQ/SoOBEcUdQjI/AAAAAAAACyE/8r8-k5NxMEU/s640/IMGP1476.JPG


http://lh5.ggpht.com/_VY_8ukbZxsQ/SoOBE0rSYWI/AAAAAAAACyI/lGSTG4-lK90/s512/IMGP1477.JPG

from the deck

http://lh3.ggpht.com/_VY_8ukbZxsQ/Snxnuw0jA3I/AAAAAAAACnE/CVGB9voBegg/s512/IMGP1308.JPG

A few more pics, though Sue's is the best one of the shower. That shower was huge, and I loved the bench.

http://beachreader.smugmug.com/photos/618247294_vqAsV-M.jpg

The oscillating fan came in handy/necessary, but we could really have used two. Some of the other rooms at NV I saw had two, but they're hard-wired in so you can't (apparently) ask for a second as there'd be nowhere to plug it in. (There's a power strip in the reception area you can use to charge stuff).

http://beachreader.smugmug.com/photos/618246888_7eK9G-M.jpg

The "view from the bed" shot:

http://beachreader.smugmug.com/photos/618246989_WpnTH-M.jpg

Overall, Magico Amenecer was a very nice room, perfect for two, but beware the very slippery tiled floors. We used extra beach towels as rugs after each of us practically broke our necks. It's funny, because in the bathroom they used brick, which was not at all slippery, and the porch had a concrete insert, also not slippery, but in the midst of a whole bunch of slippery tiles. Fairly minor design flaw, and they were generous with the extra towels. Another thing, though, there was always plenty of breeze on the porch, but for some reason it refused to enter the bedroom through the large sliding screen doors. Very frustrating, but I still slept pretty well on the very hard beds.

We relaxed for a while on the deck while deciding where to eat and there was a nice breeze to enjoy as well. We decided on La Zebra- BR will have to provide the photos.

We both had mojitos which were fabulous of course. We had the guac as well. I had a BLT with avocado that was fantastic and BR umm sorry I forget but she liked it.

Hmm, I forgot to take a pic of the sandwiches. Mine was some local-ish thing, a big bun stuffed with chorizo and cheese and somehow sauced with chipotle. It was OK, but I'm not a fan of white bread anymore so I should have known better. Sue's sandwich looked much better, on real bread. The mojitos were outstanding, of course!

Here's the guac. Very pretty, but I thought it was quite bland. Seemed like they made it that way on purpose, there was a little pile of cilantro and a little pile of chile (not hot, though) on the side, I assume for people to make it themselves.

http://beachreader.smugmug.com/photos/618248442_VPsS5-M.jpg

We headed back to NV not wanting to miss the turtle release where we definately learned that patience is a virtue.

We watched the moonrise

http://lh3.ggpht.com/_VY_8ukbZxsQ/SnxntQEhGXI/AAAAAAAACmw/ug13-pM3hug/s512/IMGP1214.JPG

http://lh3.ggpht.com/_VY_8ukbZxsQ/SnxntpQodEI/AAAAAAAACm0/rJQcV9Flq9c/s512/IMGP1218.JPG


So i think it was bout 9:30pm when they finally came out to do the turtle release. These babies had hatched during the day but they until te cover of darkness to release them in order to give them a little more prtection from predators. So we thought we were only going to be able to watch but then they handed each person a baby turtle to release- way cool. So the following pics were taken n darkness with only moonlight because flash and any light other than red is really bad for the turtles and thus are not very high quality but give you an idea of what we saw.

The little black blobs are the babies making a run for the ocean.

http://lh5.ggpht.com/_VY_8ukbZxsQ/SnxnuIhIM6I/AAAAAAAACm4/jWSm4fkY4ic/s640/IMGP1230.JPG

http://lh3.ggpht.com/_VY_8ukbZxsQ/SnxnufTt0rI/AAAAAAAACm8/mgIKcUwYXjo/s512/IMGP1237.JPG


After the release we wlaked soouth on the beach to look for any mam turtles coming on shore to nest. We got just past OM and we saw this big black blob at the edge of the water, we stood there for a bit trying to determine if it was moving- it was so we went for a closer look. A turtle- yes!

http://lh6.ggpht.com/_VY_8ukbZxsQ/Snxnut8bycI/AAAAAAAACwE/ggMWCPjKu2k/s640/IMGP1246.JPG

This turtle only came up a few feet and then turned around and went back into the ocean. We thought maybe we had disturbed her but found out talking to a few turtle folk that no the turtles many times decide they don't like something about a particular spot so head back out and try a new spot sometimes even te same night.

We walked a little further but didn't see anything so headed back toward NV.

They expected more hatches tonight so we waited for awhile until another nest was ready. I think it was about midnight when the babies started hatching and crawling put of the sand. NV keeps the nests in a caged area to protect them. The turtle peoplewnet into collect the babies for release soon after.

http://lh6.ggpht.com/_VY_8ukbZxsQ/SoMN3q14duI/AAAAAAAACwo/Fc2vCGR6Q9g/s640/IMGP1345.JPG

A link to a video of the babies

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BTIr8hQpNq4

We helped with this release and these babies were speed racers compared to the earlier release. Wow another unbelievable day!

I couldn't believe our luck that day; two turtle releases AND a mama sighting! Truly thrilling. And it was interesting to note how the babies who'd hatched earlier in the day and were kept in a bucket were much slower than the ones who'd just hatched the moment they were released.

The full moon was so gorgeous all week, lighting the white sand like it was daylight. Cameras might not show it properly, but there was never a need for flashlights.

http://beachreader.smugmug.com/photos/618248980_WvNmM-M.jpg

Thanks so much, Sue, for your great turtle pics--my turtle screens were all black. :-(

[minniemex]

Ohhhhhhh, love love love the baby turtles. You chicas were so fortunate!! I am so envious!!

Also, BR, loved the cloud shots, truly amazing. I could stare at those for hours.:p

And Sue those moonrise shots!! Loved them too!!

[pepper]

Aug is the perfect time to go to see both releases and mamas coming up on the beach. In June, we didn't even see mamas on the beach. In Aug, you practically trip over them walking the beach at night.

BTW - totally enjoying your adventure.
Sorry the Bonine didn't help that much, BR. And sounds like nobody blew, unlike my oldest son, who ALWAYS does.

[Lynnette]

All I can say is WOW!!! Your photos of the turtle release are wonderful....I so love the babies!!! Not many people get to experience a release, so thank-you for sharing your experience in words and pics. :)

[Lynnette]

I forgot to add, how beautiful your photo is, of leaving Isla on the ferry...I always find the turquoise color of the water there so amazing...it actually looks fake.

I'm sorry about the lost hour due to the Continental mix-up. Did they say what happened when you arrived at the office in a taxi?

[susan]

I forgot to add, how beautiful your photo is, of leaving Isla on the ferry...I always find the turquoise color of the water there so amazing...it actually looks fake.

I'm sorry about the lost hour due to the Continental mix-up. Did they say what happened when you arrived at the office in a taxi?


I agree the water is an amazing color and the yellow of the ferry sort of made it look surreal.

With Continental they said they sent a car but couldn't find us- don't know how that could have happened because we were pretty much standing in the driveway to the parking lot. The phone numbers they gave BR went to the other Cancun office which the folks at Plaza Santa Fe said they don't answer.

They have been swamped with the couple of office people they have working 18 hour days, so again people are going to Mexico if that is any indication and they said they have over 300 cars?!

BR I think should chime in here.

As well that ends well.

[elvo73]

How cool to release the babies!!! the water in the cenote looks so beautiful, great pictures :)

[PhyllisB]

OMG, ditto what everyone else has said. What an amazing experience!!!! I am so jealous!!!! *Sigh* How cool for you guys!!!!!

And Fran, I'm glad you could bend your no photos rule for a couple of snorkeling shots. I think the one closeup of the face mask ought to be your avatar! :D

[Margoinmexico]

Great job Sue and Fran.......love the whale and turtle shots! I've got to get up there one of these days!

Why do I kind of feel like I read the last page of the book already........

Miss you guys,

margo

[susan]

shhiss- no story telling Margo. We had a great time with you and I definately wish I was back there- can't wait until April.

[beachreader]

OK, I just went back and added my few comments to Sue's post. This is fun!

Lynnette, Eduardo did have an explanation for the car thing as Sue said, but I really didn't understand it at all. But they apologized and we got a car pretty quickly once at the office; a decent little Attitude, which was all we wanted. I think I may have neglected to give them a cell phone contact number (should have given them Sue's since her phone worked well down there), but I thought that "11:00 at the Gran Puerto terminal" would be enough instruction. Next time I'll give them phone numbers as well as ask them if the phone numbers they give me will be working the day of the pickup. :rolleyes:

[susan]

Thanks for all the comments everyone. We had great experiences on this trip. I considered myself to be very lucky and very blessed to be able to have these kind of opportunities and there is still more to come.

[Lynnette]

This she said/she said narrative is so much fun!!! :)

[tbpeaceful]

Thanks ladies! Those babies are adorable. So glad you had the opportunity to see this . Beautiful photos. I especially liked the lemon yellow ferry and the stunning turqoise water. Oh and the storm clouds too! Just great work! I like it all.

Happy days - T.

[minniemex]

OK, I just went back and added my few comments to Sue's post. This is fun!

Lynnette, Eduardo did have an explanation for the car thing as Sue said, but I really didn't understand it at all. But they apologized and we got a car pretty quickly once at the office; a decent little Attitude, which was all we wanted. I think I may have neglected to give them a cell phone contact number (should have given them Sue's since her phone worked well down there), but I thought that "11:00 at the Gran Puerto terminal" would be enough instruction. Next time I'll give them phone numbers as well as ask them if the phone numbers they give me will be working the day of the pickup. :rolleyes:

Beachreader ~ I don't know if you have caught up on all the old posts, but idunk2 rented a car 6 months prior and got there and they had no car for him. Here is his report ~

http://tulum.info/showthread.php?t=4191

I wonder if they are growing too fast? I mean this is the "slow" season, what will happen "high" season??

[BP.]

Beautiful photos; super fun adventures; and now I know who to look for on the off chance we bump into one another on the streets of Philly, the King of Prussia Mall, or some such place! :wave::p :D



And don't let anyone ever say I never let a photo of myself get posted on the internet!

http://beachreader.smugmug.com/photos/618243221_pNbSL-M.jpg




And in case we do, here's me (face down) just to refresh your memory!! :D

http://i252.photobucket.com/albums/hh40/bpuchino/WINETOUR-1.jpg

Such a bummer about your ocean sickness. Good thing it was at the start of your trip. Love that you loved it anyway. I felt the same after a whale watch in Maine- hell but awesome!

[susan]

Just a little tidbit on our meal at LZ on Monday night as it plays into our meal on Wednesday night.

While we were checking out the LaZ menu and deciding of we wanted to eat there or not BR asked the waiter a question about the item she ended up ordering.

She wanted to know what kind of bread it was served with, the waiter didn't quite know the english translation for it so using his hands he sort of made a gesture like a ball.

BRs east coast interpretation- a large roll
My midwest interpretation- a big bun

Well the waiter cracked up over the "big bun" wording- it was kind of fun for him to say so thus she had a big bun for dinner.

The east coast/midwest thing shows up at dinner on Wed as well which made the meal very interesting along with the food.

[susan]

I din't do a very good job of taking pics this day so hopefull BeachReader will have some to add.

As beachReader mentioned the beds were very hard so I awoke to the sunrise a little stiff, Br was alrady out on the porch watching it. The breeze had died down to none- so much more to my surprise than the glorious sunrise was a CALM ocean! I wouldn't have believed it was possible in Tulum unless I had seen it myself and we had 3 glorious days of swimming pool nice ocean to swim in. I spent the more time in the water this trip than my other two combined it was great!

Anyway back to the sunrise- yes another spectacular scene

http://lh5.ggpht.com/_VY_8ukbZxsQ/SoMN1CbhsMI/AAAAAAAACwI/-TzAkyWv4Ok/s640/IMGP1274.JPG

Casa Banana opened around 8 for breakfast and we were there right on time. Even though it is on the jungle side of the road this day it wasn't to bad to sit there.

http://lh3.ggpht.com/_VY_8ukbZxsQ/SoMN187QOSI/AAAAAAAACwU/wRX8kbzrMXc/s640/IMGP1288.JPG

http://lh4.ggpht.com/_VY_8ukbZxsQ/SoMN24_dEqI/AAAAAAAACzk/q605OIhsrmA/s512/IMGP1287.JPG

I din't take any food photos but it was continental, fresh fruit,juice, bread and jam, and coffee. It was enough for me. We also timed this perfectly as a breief rain shower came and went through while we were eating, all clear when we wer done but no it did not cool it off.

After breakfast I walked down to the little store to get some water for the day. on the way back i stopped in at Margo's place to let her know we were here but noone home and why -she was at our place when I got back to the room.

We spent the next little while chit-chatting, got a tour of her place- what a fabulous spot and house. I was very interested to see the casita above Margo since I already have it booked for next April to stay in with my sons. It is going to work out great. We decided we would have lunch together- pollo bronco on the beach- the best.

BR and I spent the rest of the morning on the beach and in the water.

A few photos-

of the grounds

http://lh5.ggpht.com/_VY_8ukbZxsQ/SoX1YyRgQPI/AAAAAAAACzc/nT8m3NKjDaI/s640/IMGP1275.JPG

turtle nest cage
http://lh4.ggpht.com/_VY_8ukbZxsQ/SoX1Zb0t_PI/AAAAAAAACzg/kTFx8EUst5Q/s640/IMGP1281.JPG

to the south- see how calm!
http://lh6.ggpht.com/_VY_8ukbZxsQ/SoX1a4bdIQI/AAAAAAAACzw/UZX28qtIujc/s640/IMGP1299.JPG

looking out in front

http://lh6.ggpht.com/_VY_8ukbZxsQ/SoX1bfQrt6I/AAAAAAAACz0/nqXcWL7tTGE/s512/IMGP1307.JPG


Around lunch time BR and I head into town for a stop at the San Fran to pick up a few things and then to Bronco Pollo for lunch. Not very lively in town and a lot of shops were closed. And they raised their prices- a half chicken dinner is now 45 pesos- i know it broke the bank.

Anyway we head back to NV for lunch with Margo, we head over to CdeLP to meet up with Margo and get to meet Norby from Hechizo de Luna as well and she joins us for lunch.

We ate out on the patio of the big casa and had a great time just talking and eating and eating. Really should have taken pics here but i don't think we have any.

We spend the rest of the afternoon on the beach.

Time for dinner- where should we go? The decision is Hemmingway's so we head down the beach road.

We walk out to the beach first where there is a very noticable seaweed odor but here is also a heron looking for dinner.

http://lh3.ggpht.com/_VY_8ukbZxsQ/SoX1b8oOf_I/AAAAAAAACz8/tOrNozk8WKc/s512/IMGP1320.JPG

So we decide to check inside the restaurant to find out if the beach smell is as strong- it's not so we decided to stay.

No menus- only a few items so the waiter just recites it.

We both decide on the fettucine in a tomato sauce. BR orders her's with shrimp and I opt for the crab. The red flag should have been when BR asked if the shrimp was shelled.

They start us with a nice appetizer-my only food pic of the night.

http://lh6.ggpht.com/_VY_8ukbZxsQ/SoMN3ciZZbI/AAAAAAAACz4/ibAoNdhowwE/s640/IMGP1322.JPG

This was followed by another appetizer which was good as well but i forgot the picture.

Anyway time for the main course. As i have said i am not a foodie. I just want to be able to eat my food and have it tast good.

So I am a bit bewilderd when they serve the hard-shell crab in my pasta in the shell. Oh yes they chopped the whole grab into a number of pieces but left the shell and served it with no utensils with which to to eat the crab.

So being the midwesterner I just accept my fate and start picking peices of crab, crab guts, and shell out of the pasta so at least I can eat the pasta. Don't want to cause any issues so just cross this place off my list to eat at again.

BR says what no way and calls the waiter over to ask how I am supposed to eat that and can some one clean the crab for me. He brings back a bowl for me to put all the crab parts into and attempts to leave but BR asks him to take it back to the kitchen and clean it.

At this point I am like no don't worry about it I'll be fine and by now we are giggling after the waiter leaves- but he comes back with the chef! Who says no he can't clean it- it is not hygenic. It was all I could do to not start laughing. So back to the kitchen they go. As we are discussing the not hygenic comment- since he had already cooked both our dinners with the same hands- BR asks the waiter to come back who then explains that they can't clean the crab becuase there isn't enough meat in the crab to get out. Again the waiter leaves and we are pretty much in wonderment over the no meat explanation. Well a few seconds later the waiter comes back grabs my crab and takes it to the kitchen. He returns a few minutes later with a small plate with a spoonful of crab meat on it, so yes very little meat but I can eat it. It was an amusing experience but I don't think either one of us understood why they would serve a dish in that manner

Meanwhile BR's shrimp is peeled and her meal looks very good and it is. I will say the the pasta portion and tomato sauce was very good as well as the service. Just more attention than I like to have at a meal.

Anyway by now it is time to go looking for turtles so we head back to NV. There weren't any hatches during the day so no planned releases but they did expect another hatching during the night. Nothing is happening yet with the babies so we head south again. We walk down to Suenos but don'tsee anything and the beach is very deserted beyond there so we head back to check on the babies- nthing yet. while we are relaxing on the deck our neighbor came running back and told us one had come out the water by LaZ so we quickly head down there. She cam all the way up to the dune turned by one of the beach beds and headed back to the ocean. Shoot while we were happy to see another turtle we really wanted to see one nest. There were lights on by LaZ so maybe it confused her or she didn't like the beach beds?

Here she is
http://lh3.ggpht.com/_VY_8ukbZxsQ/SoX1cUfYnFI/AAAAAAAAC0A/_YkEL90spLo/s640/IMGP1324.JPG

So we head back to NV to check on the babies and one nest is nearly ready so we hang out here and wait. Sure enough a few minutes later te babies are crawling out of the sand.

http://lh3.ggpht.com/_VY_8ukbZxsQ/SoMN4BjjnnI/AAAAAAAAC0I/Zn7Nxr6iFeo/s640/IMGP1351.JPG

Soon after we a back on the beach to release them-more blobs running for the ocean- really wish we could have had better light
http://lh6.ggpht.com/_VY_8ukbZxsQ/SnxnvdsYoGI/AAAAAAAAC1I/hRYrXt3fgZU/s640/IMGP1362.JPG

Well the end of another amazing day in Tulum - time for bed

[heenan]

thanks for the turtle pics. would like to see the mass break for the water. enjoying your report.

[PhyllisB]

WOW, Fran finally got her calm water days!!!! This trip really did have it all, didn't it! Turtles, whale sharks, and calm beach days. That's awesome!

LOVE the Hemmingways story too. I can just see you two now! :D

[lazydog]

That is too crazy about the crab with shell on it in the pasta. I guess it was really meant to be a garnish? Great trip and trip report. I want to stay on Isla now! We went for the day once but I need a good couple of nights like you two had.

[minniemex]

WOW, Fran finally got her calm water days!!!! This trip really did have it all, didn't it! Turtles, whale sharks, and calm beach days. That's awesome!

LOVE the Hemmingways story too. I can just see you two now! :D

Ditto!!

Pictures would have been great!!

[susan]

Day 5

Didn't sleep to well, the beds are really hard but woke to another spectacular day. Not much breeze so it will be very hot but the bright side is another calm ocean.

Ate at Casa Banana for breakfast again, this morning we were the only ones in the place so we had the luxury of hogging the fan.

After breakfast I went down to the little store to get ice but there was none to be had. I brought my camera today since yesterday I noticed a lot of flowers in bloom along the beach road.

http://lh3.ggpht.com/_VY_8ukbZxsQ/SoMN4ea6tFI/AAAAAAAAC14/-puSs8Xd36o/s640/IMGP1377.JPG

http://lh4.ggpht.com/_VY_8ukbZxsQ/SnxnwnuB9kI/AAAAAAAAC18/Qee7IUosg6k/s640/IMGP1380.JPG

http://lh6.ggpht.com/_VY_8ukbZxsQ/SnxnwESRuFI/AAAAAAAAC2E/QDksoym3uII/s512/IMGP1373.JPG

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http://lh3.ggpht.com/_VY_8ukbZxsQ/SohMeCKyduI/AAAAAAAAC20/iwl5qRbuB2M/s640/IMGP1400.JPG

This one was in town but it fits in witht he rest of the flowers
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Today was a total beach day.


where we spent most of our daytime.

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Since the plan was to meet and have dinner with Margo and Rene at Oasis tonight we stayed on the beach for lunch. We ate a LaZ, I had fish tacos and BR had beef tacos. Mine were quite tasty and you get 3 good size tacos for 100 pesos- not bad for the beach. Sorry no pics.

We spent the afternoon on the beach. I went for a walk down to Playa Azul before turning around. This is when I saw the transformation underway at Cabans Tulum.

For those who missed this thread CT is being gutted. Anyway i walked most of the way back in the ocean since it was so calm you could stroll in it and it was damn hot out.

While walking back i took this shot of our unit from the unbelievably calm ocean view.

http://lh5.ggpht.com/_VY_8ukbZxsQ/Snxn14rRTwI/AAAAAAAAC2M/8Sr0sVZnr4o/s640/IMGP1392.JPG


I also saw two rays in the water so I got my snorkel gear on and headed back out to see if I could find anything but no luck so back to the beach to join BR for some more lounging.

BR had gone to get ice and when she came back had found out there was a turtle hatching this morning and the babies were in the office for release tonight. So i went up there to get a couple of photos.

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Soon it was time to get dressed for dinner. Margo walked over about 5:15ish and we went for our tour of Hechizo de Luna with Norby. BR has already done an amazing report on this so check out that thread. Anyway with no breeze it was hot so I bugged out of the getting to see the last garden room to go cool off in the air-conditioned car and the fan at the NV reception area. Margo and BR found me a few minutes later and it was off to see Rene's place.

Rene- the former La Luna manager is in Tulum to oversee construction of a new place down at the south end of the beach road. This place is going to be spectacular but will only be available for groups. I hope BR has pics. But there is a main house which is beach front and 4 units behind it- quite fantastic. it doesn't have a name yet.

So we head into town to eat at Oasis which I am really looking forward to plus it is air conditioned. So we get and it is CLOSED. Aaaarrrrgh! So on to the next place which is a trio of restaurents but one is closed so it was decided to go back to the beach and try OM.

This turns out to be a good choice and is my best dinner of the trip.

Rene and I both ordered Pollo Sian Kaan which cam e with 3 different sauces and mashed potatoes. It was very good. Br must have requested photos because I have them.
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Margo and BR both orderd shrimp dishes but i can't remember which is which but bothe were very spicy hot.

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And we got to watch another very nice moonrise

http://lh6.ggpht.com/_VY_8ukbZxsQ/SohMeQNYJRI/AAAAAAAAC24/WnsxvDkdm7s/s512/IMGP1404.JPG
The owner of OM was there and he spent sometime chit chatting with us and bought us a couple of shots as well. He was very friendly. We had a lot of good conversation and a really enjoyable evening.

About 10pm I excused myself, torn between the socializing and wanting to actually see a nesting turtle. it was unfortunately our last night so I chose the turtles. BR stayed and enjoyed the good company.

I walked back up the beach to NV but didn't see anything. So I decided to try north an got up by Titas and saw the red lights of the turtle crew. So I quickened my pace to see what was going on. A couple of marked nests had hatched during the day and the crew was counting the eggs. They keep track of how many eggs hatch and how many didn't for research purposes.

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I asked if they expected anymore hatchings at NV tonight- they siad no and were going to be working down in the Sian Kaan the rest of the night so there wouldn't be any releases.

So I started walking back after they were done counting and.....

A nesting turtle- yeah!

I think my heart stopped - asmall hadful of people gathered. i ran back to NV to wake our neighbors who had been looking for turtles as well and then ran back. Too old for that!

Anyway i was about to take a picture when this older women came running off the dune yelling quietly at me in spanish. i could see the anguish on her face. I said no hablo espanol- at least not that fast- no flash! no flash! she was then ok.

So I just sat and watched- unbelievable. She took about 1 1/2 hours for the whole process. I talked with the women for awhile, I don't know who she was other than a local but she really cared about the turtles. She was with her family, must have been sons and daughters and grand children. They were there to protect the turtle and mark the nests.

Here are few grainy photos, had to leave the shutter open to see anything but at least there was a full moon.

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And I got this shot because some Bozo decided to use his flash at the sametime I was taking a shot even though he had been repeatedly told not to. The women I had been talking to chased him away.

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After she went into the water i went up and took a shot of the nest. You can almost see a large turtle shape in the sand. The nest was about 6 feetin diameter

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After all the excitement I headed back to the room- I think I am one of luckiest people alive to see all of this on one amazing trip.

BR got back to the room about 5 minutes after me. we talked a bit, told her the story and then I went to bed though it was hard to fall asleep.

Woke up early for the sunrise- we have to go home today. We both have late flights so we don't need to leave the beach until 1pm.

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Another calm day!

We just soaked up the sun and spent a lot of time in the water. we had breakfast delivered to the room so we could eat with the ocean view. Margo stopped by and we chatted a bit.

Some more shots of the calm ocean- just in case I don't see it this way again in Tulum.

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Unfortunately it is time to finishing packing and get ready to go. we planed for lunch on our way out of town. We checkout and stop next door to bid adios to Margo. It was really great hanging with her in the short time we had and I really hope she is ther in April when I go back with my sons.

We have lunch at this little taco place in the building that has the Pat y Pat sign, there seems to be two businesses in here, the taco place is on the south side of the buiding. I had shrimp tacos which were really good and cheap. I would definately eat here again.

We then begin our trek back to the airport. Another trip has ended and it couldn't have been more perfect.

[minniemex]

Hate it when you get your hopes up and it bombs! Too bad Oasis was closed. Hopefully OM turns out ok.

I absolutely love the picture of Nueva from the calm ocean. I think I am going to have to plan a trip in the summer. I have never seen it like that.

[susan]

Minnie i hadn't finished the entry yet so you need to go back and reread it. I saved it along the way for fear of losing my work and then edited.

[PhyllisB]

Wow wow wow wow wow!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[beachreader]

I really have nothing to add this time. :eek:

Well, I do, but I have to leave for a business trip in the morning and don't have time to post tonight. Just wanted to say that Sue did an awesome job and I have LOVED reading it like this.

OK, I really have to go now, I'll check in when I can tomorrow night.

Thanks, Sue!!! :eat-drink:

[susan]

Fran - can you fix my typos while your in there?

[barbj050]

great pics especially the turtles thanks....
i missed the cabanas tulum thread
they r tearing it down wow....wow...
anyone know whats going up?

[minniemex]

Minnie i hadn't finished the entry yet so you need to go back and reread it. I saved it along the way for fear of losing my work and then edited.

Whoops......:o

[susan]

great pics especially the turtles thanks....
i missed the cabanas tulum thread
they r tearing it down wow....wow...
anyone know whats going up?


They aren't tearing it down but it is being gutted. I don't think anyone knows what it is going to be yet unless margo has heard something.

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[minniemex]

Sue ~ thanks for the flower shots!! I absolutely love, love the flowers.

My favorite (although it was hard to chose one!)

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And how lucky that you got that picture at the same time that man used his flash!! Totally mindblowing!! To know that turtle just layed her eggs!!

You guys had the trip from heaven! Just remember it when things are not going quite as well.:)

Gracias for taking the time to share this most exciting trip with us!



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[FITZ]

Looks like you two had a very nice trip. The pic's and report are great. I'd love to witness the turtles, but the summer heat in MX is a turn off for us. Thanks for taking the time.
I always thought that it would be cool if CT made each slab into one big unit, with a huge patio. The beach there is so nice.

[Lynnette]

Absolutely incredible turtle pics!!! I'm with you, Kayt, I'd definitely go during the summer just to experience the water being so calm, watching the babies make their journey to the water...and of course lobster season!! :) Your flower photos are gorgeous, and well, I just love the entire report. Well done, amigas!!!!

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[letele]

Excellent report! So cool that you got to see so many turtles!

Sorry Oasis was closed - you'll just have to catch it next time!

[graceland]

Another WoW from me; I have truly loved the turtle shots, the calm seas, the beautiful scenery and the story line.

GRACIAS!!!!!

What an Incredible Trip You Both Had!

I am thinking of summering in Tulum 2010 after this great read.:fan::palmtree::crossfingers:

Gracie

[Tranquilo Tomas]

Thank you, thank you for a wonderful report. Your last beach photos really tugged at my heart. I've only been away for 2 1/2 months, but I hear the sea calling my name again! On those rare days when the Tulum waters are calm, the place is even more magical. You guys were so fortunate to have witnessed the tortugas nesting. Love those little guys! Oh yeah, the flower shots are going into my wallpaper collection. I've always been a fan of the sea lillies.

[susan]

Thanks everyone- glad you enjoyed it.

[beachreader]

Hi, all, I'm back (sort of, working with a bad hotel connection). I wasn't feeling well last night, sorry I was so brief.

I just wanted to follow up on the crab pasta thing, and I'm really sorry we didn't take any pictures. For those of you familiar with blue crabs, we all know there's not a lot of meat in them. They're also famously difficult to shuck, so unless you're at a full-on crab feast, where they dump a bucketful on a table covered with newspapers and pass around mallets and picks, they're rarely served in the shell.

Here they just took a whole crab and whacked it in half with a cleaver and plopped the halves (and shards) onto the pasta. WTF? It's one thing to serve pasta with shrimps still in their shells, but hard-shell crab? The funniest thing to me was the waiter (who was really very good) saying that they couldn't take the meat out because there really wasn't very much. Um, and you're charging 200 pesos? Sue and I had a good laugh over that one. He really was trying hard, just the wrong thing to say.

I'm a pretty big foodie, and I can put up with a lot, but this presentation was a head-scratcher for me. Has anyone else had this?

I guess I'll eat at Hemingway again if I feel like Italian on the beach. The pasta itself was quite good, as were the two complimentary starters (the other was a bruschetta), and the wine was decent. The atmosphere and view is great as well. But beware the crab pasta! :D

[PhyllisB]

So it sounds like the seaweed wasn't too bad up that way, like it was in April? There really seems to be no rhyme or reason to where the tides will take the seaweed....

[beachreader]

There was definitely seaweed, a fair amount, but the erosion is much better. The restaurant at Hemingway is at the top of the beach, though, so you can't see it/smell it (much) at that distance. The Maya Tulum bay was still affected, but not nearly as badly as in the past. The part over by their restaurant looked fine; it was mostly around the pelican rock area in front of Hemingway (where that heron was finding good fishing).

[minniemex]

What about the erosion around Playa Kin Ha area?? Was that better than it was last fall??

[tbpeaceful]

WOW! Thank you both. The bouquet of flowers you gave to us is just lovely. The turtle photos are very humbling. Gracias!

Happy days - T.

[susan]

What about the erosion around Playa Kin Ha area?? Was that better than it was last fall??

Minnie we didn't really walk anywhere except right out in front of Hemmingway's so don't know the answer to that.

[elvo73]

Thank you very much for your wonderful report and amazing pictures :)

[beachreader]

We didn't walk much, but I did look down the beach from Hemingway with an eye toward looking for erosion. I noticed the chairs at Ana y Jose Beach Club were much farther away from the water than they were last spring, and there was no "cliff" along the edge of the water from Casa de Miel to the south.

Overall, it looked like the erosion is fixed, but of course I can't say for sure, just that the way it looked from Hemingway was much better.

Sorry. If anyone wants to pop for another plane ticket, I'll happily go back and take a closer look!

[minniemex]

Sorry. If anyone wants to pop for another plane ticket, I'll happily go back and take a closer look!

I get to go with just to have that second pair of eyes to check it out!:p

[Lynnette]

From this photo it looks like the fence is being replaced or taken down completely. It didn't look like this a few months ago.

http://lh5.ggpht.com/_VY_8ukbZxsQ/SohMmaefnyI/AAAAAAAAC4U/Jf90m7ZxBbs/s512/IMGP1470.JPG

[Karen in OH]

thanks so much for the wonderful trip report and beautiful photos, how awsome to release the babies and see the mothers make her nest and lay eggs! That is way cool. Sad to see Cabanas Tulum being gutted, that is the place I stayed on my first trip to Tulum back in 1993 I think it was. thanks againe for sharing your awsome trip with us.
Karen in OH

[susan]

From this photo it looks like the fence is being replaced or taken down completely. It didn't look like this a few months ago.

http://lh5.ggpht.com/_VY_8ukbZxsQ/SohMmaefnyI/AAAAAAAAC4U/Jf90m7ZxBbs/s512/IMGP1470.JPG


It didn't look that way when I walked past it in April either- maybe people didn't like that it was blocking their view- I don't know but there wasn't any work being done on it while we were there.

[Margoinmexico]

So nice to meet you Sue, and to see you again Fran,,,,,great job on the report.....you guys are so enthusiastic and love Tulum so much, it is fun to be with you and see what you brought home with you too....

,,,,,but, we had more than a couple of shots that night at OM.........he brought us 5 or 6 each!!!! on top of the drinks we ordered! Yikes! It did dull my pain a bit! I miss Rene, he's about the only one around I can talk shop with!

ON the Cabanas Tulum....I still don't know what or who is doing it, but I sneaked a peak and they are gutting everything! Looks like they are knocking out the wall between the cabanas to make them bigger, so the rock walls between the porches are coming down too, I can't wait to see it done! Lots of workers and material in there.......if I find out one of you girls won the lotery without telling me..........:eek: No paint yet!

Thanks for taking my package to Pat as well.........

See you in April Sue....and Fran??????

[La Luna]

Hola all,

Wow that's a nice trip report;-) Just was checking out the forum, because I already miss Tulum!!! However I went today to the beach in Holland, and I must admit that it is not as beautiful as the Tulum beaches, not even close!

Miss you too Margo;-)

I am probably going back to Tulum October 2010;-) Still far away:-(

hasta luego y vaya con dios!

Rene

[Margoinmexico]

Miss you too Margo;-)

Rene

Besos Rene...........!

It's fun getting to be IN the trip reports!

But one thing that trip reports make me remember........I'D LOVE A VACATION IN TULUM!!!!!!!!!! all that laying on the beach and eating all that great food........where do I sign up?:o

Actually, that is how I got the job at Xamach in the first place, I was trying to book a two week vacation there........oh well, maybe in my next life!

Like I'm going to get any sympathy from YOU guys! never mind!:p:p:p

[tbpeaceful]

Actually Margo, you get BIG kudos from me! I know how hard you must work and you make it look like so much fun....Gracias amiga. :) Making your work with the public, especially a vacationing public, with high expectancies, is no little job. You are amazing. Hopefully we can say 'Hola' when we are in Tulum. In the meantime...thanks for all that you do for us here. Hopefully you will enjoy a vacation soon....

Happy days - T.

[Margoinmexico]

:wave:Um, thanks for noticing T...........and it is a fun way to spend a life...it truely is my pleasure to do what I do...........but, I'm working on reinventing my life here to be able to enjoy even more days that feel like vacation..........stay tuned!!!!!!!!!!:beerchug:

[dionski]

Thanks for the great report. looks and sounds like you ladies had an awesome
adventure.

i love the turtles. what a wonderful experience.

d2.

[Jana]

Wow, you guys had an amazing trip! I would totally choose baby turtles over shots too. ;)

I'm so jealous about all turtles you guys saw - what an incredible experience. I wish I could handle the heat in August to do the same!

[beachreader]

Honestly, it really wasn't that bad, heat-wise. I think if we'd have more cross-breeze in our unit, we'd have been just fine. For some reason the stiff breeze we felt on our porch never seemed to make it through the screen and into the room, which was kind of amazing to me. Perhaps we should have tried sleeping one night with the screens open, but we never did.

I think some other rooms might have better cross-ventilation, and that, combined with a fan, would be just fine I think for August. At least, for the August we had.

Of course, both Sue and I were thinking that for as much time as we spent in our room, maybe going for the a/c at Los Lirios was sounding pretty good, especially at the $85 rate they were offering at the time. :)

Overall, the experience was definitely worth a little heat. I'll do it again someday.