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ogden in maine

Nov 13, 2007, 2:58 PM

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questions about coastal Oaxaca

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I spent a couple of weeks in Oaxaca a couple of years ago and absolutely loved it. Since then I have been to a number of different places in Mexico, but I think I reserve a special top fondness for Oaxaca and its surroundings. I'm thinking of returning with my wife this April (I came alone before) and we're also thinking of spending a few days at the coast, where I've never been. I've been reading in Lonely Planet (not a current one; I've got 2004) about some of the towns -- Puerto Escondido, Puerto Angel, Zipolite, and so on. It's a little disconcerting to repeatedly come across references to theft and robbery, and statements about "don't go on such and so road after dark," and "be especially careful on blah blah blah beach," and "only go to such and such a place in the morning, and in a group." Gee whiz, it it really so bad? I have to say, I've gone a lot of places in Mexico, and always felt pretty comfortable, but all this anxiety spilling from Lonely Planet is a little disconcerting. Or is it just the typical BE SCARED OF MEXICO! crap that seems to ooze from every red-blooded American pore sometimes. Anyone recommend any of the coastal towns over others? Or any particular places to stay? We're looking for a quiet and lovely place; night life not important. I understand it's blazing hot, and humid at the coast in April though, right?
Thanks for any help anyone might provide.
--ogden williams
cape elizabeth, Maine.

geri

Nov 16, 2007, 6:34 PM

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Re: [ogden in maine] questions about coastal Oaxaca

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I LOVE the Oaxaca coast and go there frequently. I've never been robbed, but I know people who have. Beaches, for the most part, are not well-lighted and therefore it's best not to walk on the beach at night.

Each little town has its own personality and you might not be able to decide which one is best for you until you get there. But since they are all within an hour or two of each other, you can easily change venue.

I suggest starting out in Puerto Escondido. Although it's larger than the other places, it's not huge and offers a range of ambiences, from surfing, to fishing, to swimming in its various beaches. My favorite beach is Playa Carrizalillo. It's seldom crowded and certainly won't be in April. (It's not crowded because to get there you have to go down 167 steps or take a water taxi from the main harbor. But it's worth it!)

I have some articles and photos about Puerto Escondido on Mexconnect. Although these are several years old, not all that much has changed.

I could recommend lodging if I knew more about your tastes and budget. Hotel Santa Fe is a good bet for a high end choice, but not too ritzy place. Well situated. I stay in much more modest digs. You probably will want A/C in April, although I've never needed it. Because I live in Oaxaca City, I go to the beach to sweat, to re-hydrate my skin and to regain appreciation for Oaxaca City's dry, cool mountain air, albeit tinged with a bit of diesel fuel.

Oscar2

Nov 17, 2007, 7:27 PM

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Re: [ogden in maine] questions about coastal Oaxaca

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Ogden, below is a website I’ve viewed for years and like you, the Oaxaca coast has always appealed to me. Personally I’d like to visit Huatulco, maybe I will, one day soon.

http://www.tomzap.com/ph5/list.php?6