Cancun Bay Tours

Cancun Bay Tours

One would think that a massive tour bus, gorgeous on the outside, huge to walk beside, would be equally impressive on the inside. Not so!
   If you take a tour on the Yucatán Peninsula, you might be tempted to choose Cancun Bay company. If so, you might want to first do your homework.
   The first leg of our trip to visit the Mayan Ruins offered seating in the second row, reserved for handicap seating. Debby’s seat back was broken, allowing the seat back to recline all the way into the lap of the passenger behind. This irritated the lady behind us.
   Back on the bus following our breakfast drop, we were not really disappointed to find our seats had been taken by a transfer passenger. So we ended up in a row with no clear view through the window. I was not bothered about this because I have limited vision anyway.
   The main problem with this tour company was they redesigned coach seating to cram everything together. It appeared to us that by crowding the rows together, they were able to add 4 to 8 more seats, thus able to increase revenue at the expense of passenger comfort.
   Simply sitting upright. Our knees rubbed the back of the seat in front. The rough fabric caused "rug burns" on the bare knees. We were very uncomfortable!
To make things worse, a two hour ride to Chichenitza took 3 1/2 hours one way because Cancun Bay detoured from the highway route, taking us first into a dusty wayside to herd us into a conveniently placed souvenir shop and into a crowded room where we enjoyed a cold breakfast for an hour.
   The second detour took us into a poor Mayan village created by these tour companies to help the poor Mayans make a living. I’m certain the tour companies also line their pockets from this venue. After routing us through the local souvenir shop twice, a visit to an underground swimming hole and a crowded cafeteria for lunch, we were back on the bus for the final hour and a half ride to Chichenitza.
   We ended up having limited time to explore the ruins buses made the best of it even though the tour guides told us to hang together as a group.
   Souvenir shops and sellers lined the pathway that meandered through the complex. We had already been carefully programmed to not talk to or buy from these vendors. Their fake products, shortchanging practices and buyer be aware of potential counterfeit change. One thing was for certain; the prices I heard called out were cheaper than the first two stops we were taken to.

   Back on the bus in a couple of hours, we faced another 3-1/2 hour ride home because of 2 detours.  First we took a side trip into a small city where we wandered around the town square.  This was a good stop.  Much better than any other stop we made!  Too bad we only got 30 minutes!  The final stop was to drop off some passengers.
   The final two hours of our journey was made I even more miserable. The Cancun Bay company began serving tequila, beer and margaritas to the passengers, without limitations. The two guys right behind us became obnoxious and were plastered. Our two Cancun Bay guides, Hector and Daniel continued to bring them rink after drink. Drunken passenger probably tip more. However, at this point I was determined to considerably reduce their tip! Which I did.
   Considering the one hundred plus dollars the four of us spent on this trip, we might have done much more with a taxi and a good tour book

Cancun to Mayan Ruins

On Thursday , two days ago the four of us took an excursion to go visit the ancient Mayan ruins of Chicken Pizza, aka Chichenitza.

   We were up before the chickens to catch the shuttle for the main transportation area where we caught a large tour bus. The bus ended up being very full with no empty seats left. Our tour company was Cancun Bay. The main tour guide, Hector, was very knowledgeable on Mayan culture and spent nearly 2 hours describing in great detail, everything he knew in both Spanish and English. He also described in great detail how the bus has a toilet in the back but to use only for number one, to not use it for the “poo, the doo, or the number two”; using many other slang words describing the process; that if the number 2 was necessary, Miguelito could stop the bus and we could take the Machete into the jungle to “cut the flower”.
   We got lessons (many lessons) in Mayan math and Mayan language. He was very knowledgeable but I think talked uncontrollably. We certainly got a snootfull.
   The bus stopped twice on the way. Our first stop was a little dirty spot where we dropped off and picked up passengers. Our bus was full. Here we ate breakfast. Breakfast was a buffet type meal where we went through the line and picked out things that we thought were good to eat.. I can’t remember exactly what I had but I did have a few scrambled eggs and one sunnyside up. The fried egg was cold, pretty much like the coffee.

   Soon, we were back on the bus listening to more Mayan history from Hector. I believe it was along this stretch of the road that he pulled out a large pad of paper and a black marker. He begin showing us how the ancient Mayans figured out multiplication.
   Our next stop was at a small Mayan village. We were introduced to the village chief and said hello in the Mayon language. A few more words from Hector completed our introductions and we were herded toward a souvenir shop , encouraged to support these poor Mayans. Inside we were greeted by native Mayans who presented us their homemade items that they had apparently crafted themselves. There were many things made from Obsidian. There were wafers of Obsidian that were translucent enough to look up and see a small light in the sky which was the sun. There were various shapes of apple size Obsidian stones that were used as massage stones; some with handles. They were also Mayan calendars on leather, hats, keychains and a myriad of other things one could buy.
   We were not yet able to go explore the Cenote because the oath was gated. The closest gate was ironically placed to cause you to enter and exit through this one souvenir shop, both coming and going. Cancun Bay tours were really pushing us to buy from this shop! Eventually we were allowed to walk down a gravel pathway towards the opening of a subterranean swimming hole.  
   This was a natural cave, called Cenote.   Daylight came in through a hole in the cave ceiling where, apparently, some poor unfortunate man accidentally fell through years before and discovered this cavern. We do not know his circumstance. I am sure his breakthrough discovery was a screaming experience.Apparently, there are many of these limestone caves in the Yucatán Peninsula.
   Following the cave swim, we returned along the same path and were, once again funneled into the gift shop before we were given two drink tickets for lunch. We were escorted to a large room like a cafeteria, where we sat down for lunch. The food was served cafeteria style. I thought our lunch was a good meal. The food was certainly Mexican and was still hot. Our drink tickets allowed us a variety of soft drinks in the bottle.
   Following lunch, we got back on the bus. Our next stop would be at the Mayan ruins. Hector decided to give us a break from his talking and gave us an hour of quiet time in case some old timers needed to take a nap.
   No doubt, the Mayan ruins were impressive. These huge structures were hewn from the limestone by the Mayans using tools of Obsidian and other natural resources as iron was not yet part of their culture.
   I heard that these ruins lay dormant for 600 years. During that time the jungle enveloped these massive structures, covering the pyramid with climbing vines, trees and bushes. One could tell the stones were damage by the roots
   Because there are no mountains in the Yucatán the ruins which stood high enough on this flat land to be noticed, covered with vegetation, was investigated by treasure seekers. Later on, the government took possession, cleared off the vegetation, and brought visitors to this Wonder of the world.
   A few years ago, tourists were allowed to climb the 92 steps to the top of the pyramid, but that got stopped after a female Codger fell off and died.
   As we walked along the pathway from one structure to another, we were continually hounded by people selling trinkets and souvenirs of all types. Most of them seemed to have the same things with a few exceptions. You could hear phrases from them like, “nearly free”, “only one dollar” and other words trying to entice you to buy their wares..
   During our bus trip, our tour guide, Hector, emphasized to be cautious if buying anything from these hundreds of small shops. He told us that much of their items were made overseas, not by local crafters, that they would try to cheat you in some way, perhaps giving you change made from counterfeit pesos. His advice to us was such that we should not even make eye contact with these vendors.
   I did notice that many, many people paid no attention to

these vendors. It got me to thinking of why? I came to the conclusion that because our tour company emphasized buying from the Mayon village that the participating tour companies are probably making money from the sales at the Mayon village. It is possible that because many of these shops along the ruins trail are independently owned, there was no way they could make a deal to get money from them. I think that’s why they emphasized to us not to buy there. Just my thoughts. But it does make sense. Tour companies are out to make money whatever way they can. I might be mistaken.
   Our long ride home was uneventful except for the drunks on board our bus. But, that’s another story.

Cancun to Plata del Carmen

Playa del Carmen.

This afternoon we took a taxi into Playa del Carmen, a little seaside town about 35 miles and 435 pesos away. We spent some time shopping and listening to the “barkers” trying to get us into their stores and buy their stuff. They lined the street called 5th Avenue for 15 blocks. Four of them claimed to know us! 😎 “Hey! Remember me? I’m Carlos! I was your waiter at the restaurant!” One guy said, “I will not lie to you; I was NOT your waiter! Come! Let me show you something!”
   Our lunch at a corner cafe proved to be fun! We got balloon hats, great food and free entertainment by world class dancing waiters and waitresses!

   We also bought groceries at Walmart! Yes, Walmart! It was a very classy store! Very clean with a HUGE variety of produce! I think we spent a hundred dollars on food! It was great! It was all made or grown in Mexico. I don’t believe they would truck groceries from Bentonville to Cancun.

   Ron had trouble finding a Dr Pepper but the 7-Eleven has some, as they do
over Europe. Ron goes in and hands the clerk a $10 bill (us). She said, “I need more.” So Ron uses his credit card without thinking and went on his merry way. He began to realize what happened and checked his recent. His bottle of Dr Pepper cost him $14.00. Woah!! 😎  Note:  you probably shouldn’t ask Ron what a $14 bottle of Dr Pepper tastes like!  Just

   
     

CANCUN

                                                   
CANCUN
VIDANTA RESORTS
THE GRAND LUXE

Once again Mike and Debby put on our traveling clothes for another adventure. It wasn’t that hard to leave the blustery East winds of Oregon, or the relentless rain that bihas plagued us for several weeks, to accept an invite to go spend a week in Cancun, Mexico! Our traveling companions, Ron and Nancy Pinkerton had secured a couple of condos at the Grand Luxe 5 star Resort,. The Grand Luxe is one of seven resorts inside a huge complex that also sports seven restaurants, shops, swimming pools that are much nicer and larger than some lakes in Washington wilderness areas, and a thousand Mexican trams to taxi you from one spot to another!
    There’s plenty of wildlife to entertain the kid in you; flamingos 🦩, iguanas 🦎 of all sizes, coatis or Mexican raccoon, as some call them and a myriad of birds, some of which have been seen stealing food off one’s table at lunch!
   We arrived Sunday late afternoon. As this RCI property exists to sell ownerships, checking in took a while because “they have a plan”.
   Our condo wing, called Jungle in the Grand Lux, is constructed in what appears to be in a jungle clearing, as are buildings 1 through 9; we are in 8-9.Birds and Mexican raccoons would actually invade our tiny patio if we sat there and started feeding them! The management, however, frowns on feeding the little guys.
   The rooms are very nice; spacious with tall ceilings. The Pinkerton’s and us have our own one bedroom unit. Our tram driver said that Michael Jordan comes and stays at the Grand Lux and will be coming this September.
   This complex is called Vidanta Resorts. It is a 1000-acre complex and growing. This morning we spent a couple of hours with a high pressure salesman over a free breakfast buffet getting fired up to buy into this gig. The salesman wasn’t happy that we didn’t bite but not everyone does. But for just listening we received some discounts and a few “two-fer’s” on restaurants.

First Flight

First Flight        

TORONTO’S FIRST FLIGHT  
Toronto 
Our first flight with Toronto was a new experience for us! We arrived at the Portland, Oregon airport just after 5 am to board a JetBlue airship to Reagan International in Washington DC via Boston. We were the first to board and sat down on the left side in the first row, just behind the bulkhead. This selection gave Toronto a little more room to stretch out. The passenger in our row did not mind that Debby had me take her seat, nor that Toronto occasionally lay on her foot.  
    With a 2 hour layover in Boston, we had ample time to get Toronto to a doggie relief station on the way to our next gate. He did not need it so we continued the long walk to the far end of the concourse. We found our gate just in time for an announcement about a gate change. We found our new gate, which was verified by a young lady sitting across from us. Debby left me with the luggage while she went to find us something to eat. After wolfing down a sandwich, they announced pre-boarding so we did. The flight to Reagan international was barely an hour and a half. I sent John a text that we had landed and we began to make our way towards baggage claim.
   Our cousin, John, picked us up at the curb right on schedule! He was happy to have us in the car. His 45 minute commute home with us in the car allowed him to drive for free in the HOV lanes, saving about $15 to Stafford.
   The next day we rested. John had to work. Lisa needed to make a hurried trip to SaInt Louis on business. Deb and 
   On Saturday, John drove us out to see Great Falls. It wasn’t far away; a pleasant drive. As we drove north on I-95 in the HOV lanes, we saved another $15. The entrance fee into Great Falls National Monument was another $15 savings, flashing my Codger Card to the Ranger on duty. It occurred to me that we are worth a few bucks to have around!
   The Falls were beautiful! The entire Potomac River tumbles down across ancient granite lava, dropping nearly 90 feet in elevation in several places, forming several smaller Falls. From our observation decks we noticed a pole with posted levels identifying former flood levels. It was unbelievable !
    We drove to the airport to pick up Lisa. We were a little early so we waited in Security’s Parkin lot because the cell phone waiting area was closed for repairs. As we waited, a black squirrel came down a large tree to have a look around. This was my first black squirrel sighting since I was a teenager living in Kansas. There was one area along a small creek where I could often spot one in the big trees as we drove by.
   We enjoyed going to church with John and Lisa on Sunday. The congregation was not very large but the people were friendly and the service was great! Toronto took a nap.
   Almost every day I would take Toronto out for a stroll of one to four miles, depending upon how lost we were! Actually the trails were paved and easy to explore. The trail along the golf course ponds was nice but way too short!
   On Wednesday, Debby and I rode in with John to DC. We took the Metro train into downtown and made our way to the Zoo. We went in and walked around for an hour or two. Debby wanted to see the Pandas. They were not very active this time of day but we enjoyed an informational lecture by one of the young zoo keepers. She was very knowledgeable on the Pandas but kept rocking back and forth, like she was taking a step forward, then quickly rocked back, only to repeat the act. This went on the entire half hour. During her question and answer period, some jakeleg late comer stepped up and began asking her questions that she already answered had he been on time. Very annoying!
    We took a bus part way and got off to walk along the White House, the Washington Monument and The War Memorials square. There was a lot of construction going on in the back of the White House. Tourists milled around taking pictures while a lone man with a sign that said, "Build the Wall", quietly informed everyone of what to do. They are building a wall. Yes. They are constructing a 13 foot high steel fence to replace the old 6 foot kind. We did not get to see the Donald, er, Mr President. I’m sure he knew we were there but with his schedule and all, we weren’t able to have coffee with him. Maybe next time!
   Walking along the dark granite wall with the thousands of inscribed names is very emotional. I cannot help but to feel blessed that mine was not among them. At the same time, seeing my friend’s name etched in the black marble is even more emotional. Michael Ray Conner, a friend and fellow Airman was shot down over South Vietnam in the summer of 1970. I was also flying that day in a nearby quadrant. The events of that day are forever etched on the gray matter of my brain.
   We flagged down a bus that took us to the Metro. Before boarding a southbound commuter to rendezvous with John, we grabbed a sandwich and sat down beneath the high vaulted ceiling while Toronto stretched out on the worn white marble floor to cool down.  
   John picked us up at the train stop and back on the HOV to Stafford. Lisa would work from home part time a couple of days a eek so we had time to go out for morning coffee with her. That was nice. She is a very busy lady!
   We borrowed Lisa’s RAV 4 on Friday and drove a couple of hours away to New Market/Timberville area to visit with my younger brother, Cliff, and Katie and kids. Cliff bought a beautiful place on a ridge top looking over into the Shenandoah Valley and mountain range. He has 5 acres with a barn, chickens and a cat. He said he was going to get some goats. The sprawling house with it’s 80 foot long deck was spacious and unique. We nicknamed it the Thomas Resort!  
   We really enjoyed our visit with them. We rented a motel nearby as their house was full with kids and Katie’s Mom.  
   The Day’s Inn in New Market turned out to be a dive so we checked out the next morning and got a room in the only other motel in town. Across the freeway was a much cleaner feeling place with more room.  
   We returned the car to Lisa Sunday night as she worked on Monday and needed it. Deb and I hundred down for a little rest and relaxation. I managed to get in some more walking time with Toronto. He loves getting out and about. The only problem is that he wants to stop and play with every dog that comes down the sidewalk. He strains and tugs on his leash and sometimes lunges toward another dog. It’s very frustrating to me to have him act this way. I try to correct him but every day is the same. He seems to do better wearing his head collar then he does without it. But he despises having to wear it. He keeps trying to rub it off. If I was totally blind I would probably send him back to boot camp for a refresher course! I will work more intensively with him after I get home this week.  
      On Thursday we asked our things and got ready to go to th airport. We had a leisurely morning. Lisa slept in . Took Toronto outside and gave him a grooming. He likes to be brushed. I always wipe down his fur with a large wet wipe cloth we get at the pet store.  
   We stopped on base at Quantico to do some shopping at the PX and Commisary. Lisa needed some groceries and things. Afterwards, we decided to go out to unch. Lisa knew off this shopping area in Woodbridge, so we chose Firebirds wood Fired Grill. It was not rowed but seemed like thy had just opened. The dining room was large and open. The lights were turned down and it seemed dark inside. The air smelled of burned wood. The waitress sai we woul need to sit outside I the patio area because of my dog not being allowed inside. Lisa told her he was ADA approved and my Guide Dog. That did to matter to her as she turned and opened the outside door for us. We reminded her that Toronto was allowed anywhere, etc. Debby, not wanting to dissent with her agreed to go outside; that it would be fine. I decided to agree to sit outside with Debby, so we followed the waitress/hostess . Lisa called over the manager and told him that we were being escorted outside. The manager admitted that, as an ADA go, we could sit indoors. The manager sent another hostess out to let us now we could sit indoors if we wanted. We said no. I told Lisa I old all 9
      We had a good lunch an then headed on to Ronald Reagan International to easy ourselves for our trip home. We have a few hours before we board but we needed to arrive early I order for Lisa to make her afternoon appointments. We went ahead and checked our luggage an printed our boarding ticket for our First Class rie on Alaska Airlines, ire the to Portland.We found the ogre relief a station and let Toronto sniff around before he took his leave.
   Thanks again, Firebirds Wood Grill of Washington DC for your considerations. No, I will not report you.
   TSA today was a pain. For some reason the line moved very slowly. The agents were very thorough, complete with xrays and pat downs! Toronto and I made out pretty good. They didn’t bother us with the X-ray machine. Probably because they couldn’t get him to stand upright and plead his front paws! I also held his leash so the X-ray couldn’t work or us. They did send us through the magnetic sensor to detect metal. I had no trouble and Toronto, as well. I was surprised his collar did not set it off as it contains a double chain with rings for the metal leash clip. Even the TSA agent was surprised it did not go off! I told him if it had he would have needed to pat down the dog. He agreed.
   As we waited at the gate for our plane, it arrived direct from Portland. On board was half a plane load of World War II, Korea and Vietnam Honor Flight recipients. Dozens of wheel chairs rolled down the walkway to bring in these old timers from WWII and those who needed it. As they rolled by us, the applause from onlookers in the waiting area was very moving. Some of the old vets expressed shock at the reception they received.The applause continued until the last veteran walked through the road of well wishers. It was a very moving experience for all of us. What a welcome they reek ed! The thought occurred to me; {What if we had received such a welcome the day we came home from Vietnam?{. I believe that if our soldiers got such a welcome home, much healing would have been accomplished in an   





   Welcome home, Soldiers. Welcome home.