2011 Travel Excursions

Well it's time to start looking for new travel destination. I'm really having a hard time deciding where to go this year. Since my last trip to Thailand I have been wanting to go back. This time head even more south than ever before. I was thinking of heading to Ao Nang once again. From there travel south to Trang. Even more south visit Indonesia. Take a few days following the travel path of great beaches and great food. From there head towards Ko Samui. We'll see. In addition, I have a zest to fly to Cancun. Visit the shores of white sand beaches. From there make arrangements to take a bus to Belize. I heard it's very lovely there. It reminds people of what Mexico used to be like. I'll keep in touch with my travel details with dates and destinations. Furthermore, I promise to keep writing about my past travel excursions and experiences. I have so many to write, just very little time. I'll have to also finish off the ones I started.

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Best Youth Hostel In Bangkok

The last few times I visited Bangkok, I stayed at Suk 11. A unique youth hostel that makes you feel special.

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OXXO : Mexican Version to 7 Eleven

Have you ever heard of OXXO? I have to include this story because I think is very important to let the general public know that it's a great substitute for 7/Eleven when visiting Mexico. They are very much alike. You can find just about anything at a decent price.

I was visiting Puerto Vallarta during the busy Christmas season. At times I wanted to go for a walk early in the morning. Since I'm an early riser, I tend to go go for a walk very early. At this time of the morning not much is open. Even my resort didn't offer coffee till around seven am. So with that in mind I set off to find a small coffee shop that could offer me a tasty cup of joe. Honestly, I would have had to take a cup or walk a fair distance to find a coffee shop near my resort I was staying. So I asked a local taxi driver who was in the parking lot where I cold find a fresh cup of decent coffee. I was instructed to make a right at the end of the road near my resort and walk about ten minutes on the main road. I was told OXXO was a twenty four hour store that offered fresh coffee. I decided to follow directions and found the store. I found the few krafts that held fresh, oromatic coffee. I think there was two flavours. I can't remember. I filled my cup with the dark roast and added a few creams which I like to add, which was also near the coffee pot. I stirred my coffee and went to pay. I think it was like fifty cents for a large cup. I was surprised to find out that the coffee was very good.

I had a look around the store and basically it was just like Canada's famous seven eleven. It offered just about anything from milk, eggs, veggies, gum, tobacco products and much more. I found the pastries also fresh and delicious.

I must had gone to the store every morning. I even bought a few needed toiletries at one time. the store is open all the time. When adventuring about Puerto Vallarta I must have seen an OXXO store at just about every other block or so. This was good to know. I wold rate OXXO a 5 out of 5 for convenience. If your ever in Mexico, you might want to visit one of these fine Mexican stores when you need a fresh coffee or item of need. Just look for the bright white, yellow and red sign in front of the store.

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Air Canada flight from YVR to BKK Bangkok via Tokyo, Japan

My last trip to Thailand was an exciting one. I flew from Vancouver Int. to Bangkok via Air Canada. I was waiting to check in. Even though I usually check online I like to go in early and check in with an agent making sure all is well with my booking. It usually is, but you never know. At the same time I always ask if it's okay to upgrade. At the last minute airlines might have seats available at a discount price. I checked in and watched my bag go down the conveyor.

Vancouver Int. Airport is very beautiful. The architects group and interior designers made and huge improvement over the older terminal it once was. I remember flying with my parents back in the day when CP, Canadian Pacific, was offering services from Vancouver. Even then from what I can remember it was always a very nice terminal. I decided to grab a coffee and something to eat. Went through customs and waited at the boarding gate. I took out my labtop and started to surf the free wifi internet. Time passed and it was time to board.

I have to say, I've heard many negative comments about Air Canada but don't see what all the hot air is all about. I boarded the plane on time. The plane was very clean and modern looking inside with all the nice electronic features even though it was an older 767. Sure, first class was a lot more lavishing, but so is the ticket price for an overseas flight to Japan. Everyone was on board. Flight crew came on the loud speaker letting us know some details about our flight and such. Not so much later, we were up in the air heading north west towards my first stop Tokyo, Japan.

The flight crew on board was excellent. I was catered with good entertainment. The movies, tv shows and other forms of on board entertainment were excellent. I must have watched two or three movies before I fell asleep. The food was wonderful. Warm, delicious. There was never a lack of beverages. I looked around and tried to figure out why people sometimes put Air Canada down. I could not find a flaw. The seats were excellent and had ample room for my legs. On thing I must comment on is that sometimes one has to give somebody a break. I noticed the flight attendants catering to people throughout the flight. The entire flight over was about ten or so hours. Maybe less. In addition, the hours they work are very strenuous and demanding. I gave it some serious thought and wondered if I could do the same job given the long hours of work in awkward time zones. My body would sure feel the effects. Just imagine being jet lagged and working a ten hour shift on top of it. I commend all flight crews in this factor.

I landed in Tokyo, Japan. The weather was good. Once we off boarded the plane I went through the continuing flight section. I went through security much like Vancouver and followed a few signs to my other waiting connection to Bangkok. I thought it was going to be another Air Canada plane but since they have this agreement with other airlines, , I boarded a United Airlines 747. I do have to say that this flight was seriously full. I don't think there was any more room to fit a mouse onboard. The economy class, which I was in, was pretty tight. Nonetheless, it was okay given it was only a six or seven hour flight.

We landed in Bangkok near midnight. I went through immigration, picked up my bags which went through all the way from Vancouver and went downstairs in the main terminal to hire a cab to take me to my final destination within the city. All in all, the Air Canada flight was a delight. I was attended to in an orderly fashion. My bags made it all the way through. My connections were right on time. I was very pleased with my service provided by Air Canada. In fact I returned via Air Canada though Thai Airways on the way back and made a connection in Hong Kong boarding a newer Air Canada, Boeing 777. My return service was as good if not better than on the way to Thailand. The same expectations were met and I had a trouble free flight back to Vancouver.

On my second trip to Thailand, I made sure to book through Air Canada once again. Once again, I was treated with the upmost respect and detailed service. I would rate Air Canada given my past flight experiences 5.5 out of 10. I can'r wait to go to Thailand again.

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Shopping in Puerto Vallarta : Liverpool : Street Shops

I love shopping. Especially when I travel. Puerto Vallarta is a great place where one can find just about anything they desire. From local Mexican crafts, brand name cloths, knock offs and so much more. I tend to stick to off beat shops and behind the main road stalls. They tend to be a bit less expensive. Some of the best places for shopping in or around Puerto Vallarta consist in many parts of the town. My wife loves the main shopping centre called Liverpool. Just across the cruise ship terminal located on the Banderas Bay sea front. The modern, high end shopping centre is nestled in the Marina Vallarta vicinity.

Inside the luxurious shopping centre one can find just about all the current fashions and high end luxury home decor and such. From high end clothing such as Armani and Channel to the local names such as Senior Frogs. A Mexican brand name of clothing that displays a green frog. This green frog names stands for more than just a brand of clothing. Behind this name stands a legend of fine food restaurants. A cool hang out for the young and young at heart. Always a funky location where fun times is part of the menu. Back on topic, Liverpool has a two floors devoted towards shops that reflect today's most popular brand name choices. Shops like Nike, Starbucks and such are just another indication of what one can find. Other amenities include a casino and movie theatre. A great way to spend a day or afternoon if you would like to get away from the sun and heat and shop while your at it.

If you would like to cruise the streets of Puerto Vallarta. I found the malecon. An approx. one mile shopping promenade full of kids playing, tourists walking and talking, artists displaying their artwork and finally where you'll find shops that cater to all types of products. I found many unique stores that sell anything from inexpensive tee shirts, pottery, leather goods, pottery, fine art, furniture and knock offs. I spent just one day cruising the streets browsing the stores for gifts to bring back with me. I found more than just that. One of my favorite shops was a local cigar factory called Vallarta Cigar Factory. They display many blends of tobacco that originate from Cuba, Nicaragua and Dominican Republic. Custom blends of tobacco from Veracruz and Tuxtla. A domestic manufacturer of quality standards indeed. My next stop was at a local vendor of fine leather bags. I decided to by my wife a modular handbag that she could use when travelling. A bargain price for the size and quality. Finally, I bought myself a few tee shirts. Usually one can get three for twenty or dollars. All depending on the quality of the cotton and the size. Usually, larger sizes cost a bit more.

I walked toward the end of the Malecon. It must have taken me about four or so hours of looking around. I felt a bit tired and wanted a break. I found a paleteria. A fruit popsicle, factory called La Michoacana where one can find just about any flavour of popsicle. A few freezers full of real fruit popsicles made from purified water. I tried a few flavours including Mango and Lime. A must try. Shortly after finishing my paletas, I decided to walk towards the town center. Near the famous Our Lady of Guadalupe Church. The one we all know from those postcards. It's close to city hall and tourism office. I bought myself a Starbucks coffee. I again sat down on a metal bench. Put on my glasses and watched the locals enjoy the afternoon. An hour or so later I decided to ask one of the local where I could find an authentic Mexican taqueria. I was instructed to walk a few blocks to find the restaurant. It sure wasn't what I expected, but I have to say they served the best tacos in town. I ordered four tacos and two Dos XX dark beers. That made my day. I flagged a cab and a four dollar ride took me to my resort.

I have to say there is a lot to do in Puerto Vallarta. I found the endless individual stores that met my needs. From the Liverpool shopping centre to the local shops located in or around the Malecon. One has to devote a few days of shopping when in Puerto Vallarta. Not just one. Ask around. Get instructions and help from the locals. Finally, always barter. One can always get a better deal when you start to barter. It's almost a given when your in Mexico. Your expected to do so. Give yourself plenty of time to shop. You'll have fun as much as I did. I would give my experience a 5 out of 5.

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When in Puerto Vallarta : The Predator Film Set Location

Candy for the sci-fi fan. Did you know that most of the 1987 sci-fi movie, The Predator, with action star, Arnold Schwarzenegger, was filmed in Palenque and Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco, Mexico? Have you ever wanted to visit the Predator film set in Puerto Vallarta? Since it was one of my favorite films back in the day, I decided to have a look. I booked a tour via a local tour company called, El Eden Canopy Tours, which offered an exclusive "El Eden" film set excursion. I have to say it sure was surreal to actually go to the film set. The set is located about half an hours drive south from downtown Puerto Vallarta on hwy 200. There is a beach called Mismaloya. From there it's only another fifteen minutes drive into the jungle to get to the film set.

I waited patiently for the bus to arrive at my resort. Just passed nine am or so I was escorted on board a unique open air pus with a canopy. I sat down and was welcomed by the tour guide. As the last passengers finally got on we were on our way to the Eden. The tour guide presented himself and his crew and told us what he had in store for us all. It sounded very exciting. The entire day was filled with short stops along the way to the film set. As the bus moved on toward the old part of Puerto Vallarta main town section we were all asked our names and where we were from. An array of different people from all over the globe. I sat down at the end of the bus capturing all the sights and sounds. The sun was warm, it was going to be a great day full of adventure.

Our first stop concluded on a small main road located in the old town of Puerto Vallarta. We were all welcome to drinks and a viewing. The shop we visited included many local works of art. Silver jewelry was the main selling feature. We were told they were all made from the locals. A fair price for semi precious stones and nicely crafted silver jewelry. Of course there was more than that. One could find just about anything you wanted. If not I'm sure it could have been commissioned to be made.

Next stop was on top of some hills. The driver drove the bus up the hill toward the nicer homes of Puerto Vallarta. They took us to a specific look out. From there you could see just about everything Vallarta could offer. The onboard passengers couldn't believe their eyes. I couldn't either. I could have stayed up there all day. The homes located on the hill top. That's another story. They were absolutely flamboyant. There were homes that I couldn't imagine existed. One would have to experience it in real time to get the idea of what I'm talking about.

After a few stops along the next brief stops included famous actors home and other film sets that were worth visiting. Another famous film location was pointed to us all. The 1964 film " The night of the Iguana" staring Richard Burton still exists. One can walk around and visit the location. Our tour continued onward. Believe me when I tell you that there is so much to see as you head south from Puerto Vallarta. Unique homes, beautiful beaches and spectacular resorts line up the coastline. A few kms down the road we make a detour into the hills of the "Eden". A lavish collection of dense green vegetation and distinct wildlife.

I few more rough, bumpy minutes into the the jungle, we arrive in a small Mexican town. One you read about. One pharmacy, corner store, bakery and tequila distillery all on one main road. At the local distillery, we stopped over for a refresher course on how real tequila is made and how it should be consumed. Apparently, they called it "Mexican Yoga". A mix of breathing and consuming tequila without lime or salt. We all tried the various, delicious products they sold. It was some of the best Blue Agave Tequila I have ever tasted. While some of us had the opportunity to look and buy some of the products they sold, some of us went out to take on some sun and have a better look at the cozy, restful town. It was getting well pasted mid day and we were all waiting to see what was next on the agenda. Lunch.

Just a few more minutes into the jungle we stopped and viewed the first part of the film set on the right hand side of the bus. Apparently where the helicopter dropped the actors. Onward, we stopped at a dirt cul de sac style parking lot. We arrived at the film set. Lunch was waiting and we were told how to enter the film set and where lunch was being provided.

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Air Transat : All Inclusive Deal : Las Palmas Dec 18th - 26th YVR to PVR

I love writing about airlines services together with all inclusive deals. I find most airlines today are wonderful. Case in point my last trip to Puerto Vallarta. I was due to leave Vancouver International Airport on Dec 18th, 2010. I was a a lonely traveller because my wife felt ill at the last minute. Doctor convinced her that is was in her best interest not to fly with a plugged up sinus cavity and ears. Good call. It would have taken a toll on my wife. Nonetheless, I was at the airport waiting for my flight. It was an hour or so before the boarding time that I heard my name broadcasted on the pa system. An important message. I walked up to the desk kiosk and was informed that I was upgraded to their first class service. I have to admit I have never had this happen to me before. Sure, I have bought first class tickets, but being upgraded free of charge was a nice surprise.

I boarded the flight. Everything was on time. We left YVR and started to climb to cruising altitude. The on board service was wonderful. I couldn't have had a better flight. The staff was kind and considerate. Means were provided with a smile. The drinks were also sublime.

I noticed on their onboard magazine the idea that they were one of the many airlines who were happy to introduce their two inch extension policy for their seating arrangement on all aircraft. I was happy with the leg room and ample space between passengers. The plane inside was clean and free from garbage from the previous flight. However, I did notice that that even though our flight was a late departure out of YVR, they left all the main lights on. I was kinda hoping for the cabin to become dim after meals and such. Nonetheless, I was given free a set of comfort eye shades, a free club blanket that I could keep and headphones to listen to movies to. This made up for the lights. I assume that most of the crew was working hard attending passengers needs. That is okay.

I landed in Puerto Vallarta near midnight. The bags arrived. There was no reason to worry. The representatives for all our different hotel packages were there. They helped us all by getting into the right bus to different resorts. Most of the Mexican bus drivers knew a bit of english and were also very polite. It looked like they were all making an effort making sure we got to our destinations. We waited for all those going through customs. The busses departed. We were on our way. Each bus had a destination. It wasn't one of those deals were it stopped at each and every resort along the way. It was a direct drive to the hotel.

At our stop, Las Palmas, the bags were offloaded and we all went through the check in counter at the hotel. It was well after midnight. I checked in. There was no trouble at all. I was escorted to my room. Number 301A. I think that was the room. I was introduced to my bell boy, Antonio. nice enough gent. The room pleasant. There was two sandwiches waiting for me and two bottles of water. I didn't expect that. Antonio took off and the room was silent. I opened the deck sliding doors. The view was pleasant enough. Next to my room was one of the pools, the bar and finally the restaurant. I took a shower and got ready for bed. The bed was comfortable.

I woke up the next morning. The sound of the waves woke me up. I felt refreshed. Took another shower. Then decided to hit the breakfast buffet. It started around seven am. I was a bit early. Nonetheless, I was welcomed with a warm smile and coffee was served on the table. I was asked if I wanted an orange juice. After, I looked over the buffet, I decided to go with the scrambled eggs. The chef was pleasant enough to take my order as I went off and got some fresh fruit. The buffet was wonderful. Every morning there was combination of Mexican and Americanized food plates. They were warm, very clean and everything I tasted was great. I never got sick once.

Las Palmas, is a great resort to stay at. The people were very friendly and always willing to help you out. I took a tour which was one of the best things I did there. I found it very entertaining plus it was a great way to meet people from around the world. The food was delicious. They served different choices of food for every palate at their two restaurants. Drinks were included in the all inclusive package. They were served cold. Not shy of liquor. If you asked for a double, you got one. The beach was small, but very clean. The entertainment was a true delight. Every night there was a new show. You could feel the Mexican atmosphere in the air. A wonderful place to stay. I truly recommend Las Palmas in Puerto Vallarta. It's a 3.5 start resort. Still, it deserves a few more stars. I felt at home and never wanted to leave.

I think Air Transat spoiled me on this excursion. The flight back was wonderful. Great service along the way. On time performance. Great onboard flight crew. Did I get what I paid for. Yes, I give Air Transat 4.5 out of 5 for their all inclusive package deal that cost me around $850 with taxes and all. I couldn't have asked for a better trip. However, I wished my wife came along. There's alway's next time.

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