Cabo San Lucas is where our “us” day truly began, away from tourist traps and filled with simple pleasures. The Sand Bar remains our go-to spot, and this time, our cats Charlie and Tippy even made an appearance via my t-shirt. There’s something special about enjoying time in the sun, even if I wished for a bit more breeze. The highlight of the day was definitely spotting the Carnival Firenze, which doesn’t sport the iconic whale tail funnel, a detail I found fascinating…
We waddled out of the restaurant, having left more than 30% of the food in the “boat,” un-tasted. The special we ordered included two items of everything they serve, and our drinks were a fun twist—one even balanced on the restaurant owner’s head! Although the extra charges for add-ons caught us off guard, the delicious meal and lively atmosphere made it worthwhile. David said we’d picked well, and locals seem to love this place.
The construction of the Catedral Mazatlan Basilica de la Inmaculada Concepcion faced significant delays due to financial issues, leading to its unique completion. Remarkably, a Jewish Synagogue stepped in to fund the remaining work, resulting in a church adorned with 28 stained glass windows featuring the Star of David, a rarity in Catholic architecture. This fascinating blend of cultures adds depth to the historical narrative of Mazatlan, making it a must-see on any tour.
Waking up before the alarm, I stepped onto the balcony, the pre-sunrise glow inviting me to reflect on my journey. Arriving in Mazatlan, I opted for a more intimate tour with just nine fellow travelers. Our guide, David Maciel, led us to stunning sites, including the Cathedral with its unique Jewish symbols. The sheer thrill of watching cliff divers and zip liners added to the adventure, promising a day filled with unforgettable memories.
The ride to Playa Chicka Locca brought back vivid memories of my trip to India, with scenes of bustling streets and herds of motorcycles reminiscent of Kolkata. Our driver, Angelo, guided us through the less touristy areas, where the local ambiance contrasted sharply with the resort’s planned activities. Waiting on Boca beach, we could smell the fresh produce from the boat’s grocery run, adding a unique flavor to our experience. The fragrant onions and lively atmosphere made it all the more special.
The breakfast options at Grand Pacific may not inspire a photo frenzy, but it’s the ambiance and personal preference that truly shape the dining experience. While the Main Dining Room offers a standard fare, my heart leans more towards the cozy feel of O’Sheehans. As we set sail from Mazatlan, tomorrow's plan may involve the buffet instead, adding a touch of spontaneity to our culinary journey.
We woke up late Monday morning, but news that Roxan’s dad had taken a dramatic turn for the worse set us scrambling to debark the ship. As we rushed to arrange flights home, I struggled with ship WiFi and poor cell service, all while Roxan packed our bags. The timeline was tight; we had to meet customs by noon, and our laundry was still in question. Just when panic started to set in, Francisco knocked on the door with our clean laundry!
Ironically, I ended up indulging in a 'Resort Day' at the same hotel I initially planned to visit for a day pass. For $95 each, we enjoyed a bus ride, access to pools, a beach, and a delightful lunch buffet. It was my first time swimming in the ocean, a refreshing experience after years of only dipping my toes in. Relaxing under a palm front gazebo, with stunning views and the thrill of parasailers overhead, made for a perfect day.
Tendering in Cabo San Lucas was a unique experience for me, especially since the Encore had to anchor in the bay due to its size. Unlike traditional ships that use lifeboats, Encore employs a folding platform to facilitate shore access. After a quick trip ashore, we enjoyed a delightful lunch at The Sand Bar, where the vibrant decorations for Dia de Muertos brought the local culture to life. The massages we booked were simply out of this world, surpassing anything we’ve had in years.