Your Diet Plan
Ditch your diet and enjoy the incredible food! I am tempted to hold you down and shove a burrito [or ten] down your throat upon hearing you add up your Weight Watchers points. YOU ARE ON VACATION! Go for a damn walk afterwards and don't miss out on the cultural experience of a countries cuisine. Obviously there is a balance and healthy approach to this suggestion; nobody wants to hang out with a gluttonous sloth, either. Best tourist experience is to rent an umbrella and chairs with friends, eating and drinking all day long. Its a Sunday ritual for many of the locals.
Your Guidebooks
I am not going to lie, I have travel guidebooks and will use them for references. However, my style of travel is changing and I want off the beaten path! What I am discovering about the Bay of Banderas [and many other places I've visited in Mexico] is guidebooks are not necessary. Ask locals for a recommendation of what to do during the day. Seek out another tourist for information and advice. Are you seriously relying on a person who steps off the airplane, for a two week [maybe three week] vacation, to tell you what is fun and interesting in Mexico. The person writing the recommendation may be receiving free services for promoting their attraction?...so is it really the best restaurant or tour? There are so many hidden gems not featured in your guidebook. The last few times we have traveled in Mexico, we have neglected to bring a map or guidebook; forcing us to communicate and ask around. Even if you don't speak Spanish, 'no pasa nada'; most of the locals are familiar with tourists and will do their very best to help you.
Your Surfboard
The surf is horrible, the locals are mean [especially the ones who aren't really local but have lived here a few years and think they've earned it; me]. If you really feel like you need to surf, go to Sayulita...strange phenomena; water is crystal clear with beautiful waves over yonder [and no mean locals]. Once you get over to where I live....no waves, polluted water.
Loud English Requests
Not everybody speaks Spanish, I understand that. However, I beg you not to raise your voice and shout in English when somebody [who does not speak English] does not understand you. If the bag boy at the grocery store doesn't understand you are asking him for a bag, you do not have to raise the level of your voice and say it louder. Try hand signals or a smile.
It happens often enough for it to be addressed.
It happens often enough for it to be addressed.
Fear
Leave your fear at home. No sense in scurrying around or stressing out...unless, you are up to no good; then you should be really f'n scared! If you have a concern about safety, ask several locals around your hotel or at a restaurant. Locals usually have the best advice.
