Bienvenidos a Mexico!

After an introductory period to the Mexican culture and attitude in Baja, it was finally time to embark to the mainland. The "trucker" ferry had few people and mostly cargo carrying or receiving semi-trucks. After a 16-hour cruise across the Sea of Cortez, Mazatlan was a welcome site with all its authentically Mexican wonder. From there it was due south for beach, surf, cacti-based moonshine and more. Having little expectations of the Mexican landscape, I was pleasantly surprised and awed by it's lush green vegetation, long stretches of picturesque coastline and rocky headlands. The Mexican people are overwhelmingly friendly and pleased to help in any way. Camping is easy, food is cheap, waves are rolling, beer is cold and smiles are all around. There were some warnings about traveling through the state of Michocoan given its current state of civilian unrest, but the coast doesn't seem to be as involved and there weren't any problems driving there, at least during daylight hours. In fact, it was perhaps the most beautiful drive as it hugs the coast all the way through. Some of my favorite spots include: In Jalisco- El Tuito (southeast of Puerto Vallarta) a quaint town with artists and moonshine (Raicilla), Mayto for its secluded beach; In Michocoan- La Ticla for waves and tranquillo factor; In Oaxaca- Chacahua for big smiles and friendly folk (see Roy below, a charming fisherman on the "island"). And don't miss the mezcal in Oaxaca either...