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Lon

Sep 5, 2005, 10:50 AM

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Finding a rental: PE in summer of 2006

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Buenos Dias, helpful people. Next summer I plan on taking my family to the Mexican Pacific coast for an extended stay--six to ten weeks, I hope. I've never been to that part of Mexico, although I have traveled extensively in the central region, including a homestay as a student in Jalapa about 25 years ago, and a visit three years ago to MC, Veracruz, Puebla and Oaxaca City with my husband and kids.

I realize it will be hotter than the heat lamps of hell, but we've endured Veracruz in summer, so I think we're prepared. This trip we'll land in Mexico City and fly out of Huatulco. That gives us ample time to explore the coast starting from Acapulco. I also want to hunker down in Puerto Escondido for a few weeks of language study. The schools there seem inexpensive, and of course there's also surfing, fishing and all the attractions of the coast.

So here is my question, finally: Is it possible to find a decent house rental on arrival in PE? I'd like to find a modestly priced 2 bedroom place, or perhaps a nice hotel with a discount for a long stay.

I keep hearing that it is a better idea to check things out first, rather than book the schools/accomodations in advance. I've talked to a couple of schools there that can fix me up with everything, for a fee--but I wonder if I shouldn't scope them out first before making a month's commitment.

I'm obliged for any comments on this plan. My kids are now aged 11 and 16, by the way. The Hub and I are codgers, but active ones; we like hiking, the outdoors, fishing. The kids like watching TV, video games and laying around the house, but they'll adapt.

Esteban

Sep 5, 2005, 11:01 AM

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Re: [Lon] Finding a rental: PE in summer of 2006

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I'll just comment on one thing, the ocean at that time of year. The summer is when PE gets the big waves. It is a well known surfers destination because of the expert waves. The waves are VERY dangerous to say the least. It's called the Banzai Pipeline of Mexico for a reason. The ocean is not for bathers and casual swimmers this time of year. Summer is also hurricane season so be prepared. You might think about bringing a techie water filter in case you get into one of those once in a 100 years situations.

geri

Sep 5, 2005, 11:12 AM

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Re: [Esteban] Finding a rental: PE in summer of 2006

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It's true what you say about the strong waves and currents in PE. However, there are calmer coves west/north just a short distance from the main beach. Playa Carrizalillo is my fav (167 steps down to the shoreline). It's breathtaking with palapas serving fresh fish. If 167 steps discourage you (sure keeps out the non-fit) then the twin beaches of Playa La Manzanillo and Puerto Angelito may be more to your liking. These also have calm waters. You can walk, take a taxi, or go by water taxi from the main beach to these more secluded, small bays. Another idea: search for a rental in the Bacocho area and you will be closer to the more swimmable beaches. Playa Zicatela and Marinero are certainly far more dangerous and should be respected for their forceful undertow. It sounds as if you are suited for PE. Enjoy! Geri

Esteban

Sep 5, 2005, 11:24 AM

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Re: [geri] Finding a rental: PE in summer of 2006

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I've never been to those beaches of which you speak Geri. I go for the surfing. I am curious to know if PE surf is say 3 meters are those other calmer beaches actually calm?

Thanks,
Esteban

geri

Sep 5, 2005, 2:02 PM

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Re: [Esteban] Finding a rental: PE in summer of 2006

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I suppose it depends on the time of year. I've been there various months and I'm afraid of strong currents/surf and usually I can swim in those coves. One time they had a kid's surfing contest...ages 4 to 15...it was a lot of fun. But to catch a wave, they had to stay pretty close to the edges (high cliffs) of the bay. The waves are very gentle and usually break away from shore, so there's plenty of swimmable water. The little lanchas shuttle people back and forth....to the other coves and main beach...they come right up to the sand, so the waves aren't very big. Also, the banana-like creature that holds about a dozen people comes in to take people out. One time it turned over, tossing them all overboard...within sight of land. They had quite a time getting everyone back on. The Puerto Angelito cove (not to be confused with Puerto Angel farther south/east) is a bit more commercial, with larger palapas, boat rentals, etc. I prefer Playa Carrizallilo.