As more travelers become experienced Caribbean cruisers, they are discovering a new tropical paradise, the Mexican Riviera, which offers sensational scenery, some of the best beaches in the world and a…
As more travelers become experienced Caribbean cruisers, they are discovering a new tropical paradise, the Mexican Riviera, which offers sensational scenery, some of the best beaches in the world and a formidable array of cultural attractions. According to the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), the Mexican Riviera has grown into one of the top five cruise destinations in the last five years, and for good reason.
Typically, CLIA member line ships call at such destinations as California`s Monterey and Catalina Island, and the Mexican ports of Acapulco, Cabo San Lucas, Puerto Vallarta, Ixtapa/Zihautanjeo, Manzanillo and Mazatlan. Cruises from seven to 11 days set sail from Los Angeles, Long Beach, San Diego and San Francisco.
It`s no wonder that Mexican Riviera cruises continue to grow in popularity, said Terry L. Dale, president and CEO of CLIA, the chief marketing organization for 20 premier cruise lines and nearly 17,000 North American travel agencies. These cruises have it all – charming villages, bustling cities, fabulous food and culture and miles and miles of flawless beaches.
Travelers will visit a cornucopia of coastal villages and towns along the California and Mexican coasts. California`s 70-square mile Catalina Island harkens back to a more gentrified time in history. Another California port favorite, Monterey, is renowned as a golfer`s paradise – and a town that offers spectacular views of the harbor at Fisherman`s Wharf on the Monterey Peninsula.
The glittering city of Acapulco is renowned for its legendary nightlife, restaurants, beaches and the La Quebrada cliff divers – who leap from 130-foot rock formations into the sea below. Quaint Cabo San Lucas is home to gorgeous beaches and a wide range of water-related activities such as snorkeling, scuba diving, marlin fishing, surfing and kayaking.
With more than 250 restaurants and a hip nightlife scene, Puerto Vallarta still maintains the charm of an old-fashioned Mexican village with cobblestone streets and blossoming bougainvillea. In addition to shops and galleries, the town boasts ecotourism activities like mountain biking though the Sierra foothills and whale watching.
In Ixtapa, guests will find spectacular beach areas, including a two-mile strip that extends along the hotel zone, Playa del Palmar.
Manzanillo, one of Mexico`s most vibrant and active seaports, is one of the greatest fishing spots around the globe – and also features one of the world`s best golf courses. Mazatlan`s harbor is set against a breathtaking mountain range and has magnificent beaches.
Theodore is the Co-Founder and Managing Editor of TravelDailyNews Media Network; his responsibilities include business development and planning for TravelDailyNews long-term opportunities.
