FX Excursions

FX Excursions offers the chance for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in destinations around the world.

An Insider’s Look at Mazatlan

by Patricia Vanikiotis

Aug 13, 2022

In my previous blog about Mazatlán, the second port of call on our seven-day Mexican Riviera cruise aboard the brand-new Discovery Princess, I wrote about our morning shore excursion, tasting agave spirits and delectable ceviches. We intentionally chose a short, early excursion, as we made plans to meet up with friends of ours (and travel companions on cruises and a road trip in Spain and Portugal) who were spending a few months in Mexico, escaping the cold, snowy, winter weather of North Central Washington. Paul and Julie have done so the past few winters in their large, comfortable RV, and they were eager to show us the Mazatlán they’ve come to know as part-time residents of the area.

Our guides met us outside the restaurant after our excursion, and we strolled back through the Plaza Machado and on to Plaza de la República, a lush, shady square full of tropical foliage and featuring an impressive wrought-iron bandstand at its heart. Towering over it looms the 19th-century Basilica of the Immaculate Conception, built in the Baroque style. We stepped inside to view the beautiful stonework, ornate main altar, Mazatlan, Mexico several side altars Mazatlan, Mexico    Mazatlan, Mexico  and its massive pipe organ.

From its cool, quiet interior we moved on to the crowded, bustling Mercado Pino Suarez, Mazatlán’s largest market and an instant reminder to all of us of the mercados we visited on our trip to Spain in 2019. Here were stalls selling fruit and vegetables, Mazatlan, Mexico fresh cuts of meat Mazatlan, Mexico — even pigs’ feet — Mazatlan, Mexico cheese and spices, Mazatlan, Mexico and, of course, here in the port boasting one of the largest shrimp fleets in the world, camarón of all sizes and other fresh seafood. Mazatlan, Mexico Although there were tourists about, this market clearly caters to the locals, as we saw many shopping for their daily staples.

Next, we headed for the Malecón; Mazatlán sits on a peninsula, and at roughly 13 miles long, its seafront promenade is one of the longest in the world. Here lie long stretches of sandy beach, while on the other side of the paved walkway sit a host of shops and restaurants as well as private residences and hotels. Mazatlan, Mexico (We didn’t venture farther to the north to the “Golden Zone,” where there are modern malls and international chains and four- and five-star hotels.) We strolled for a mile or two, admiring the many sculptures and works of art adorning the waterfront Mazatlan, Mexico before we popped into a small neighborhood restaurant for a late lunch of shrimp and rice and a refreshing cerveza. Mazatlan, Mexico The serving was large (Harry and I could easily have shared one plate between us) and the shrimp heavenly.

Paul and Julie suggested we hail a pulmonia, a small open-air taxi, to take us farther on and up to higher elevations, to which we gladly agreed. Mazatlan, Mexico The four of us squeezed in and headed for the southern tip of the peninsula for clifftop views of the ocean and coastline. We pulled into an overlook near the seafood restaurant La Marca Mazatlan, Mexico and basked in the expansive vistas of the sun on the water and nearby El Faro, said to be one of the world’s highest lighthouses. Mazatlan, Mexico The hike to the top would have to wait for another visit, as we would shortly have to return to our ship. We did take the opportunity to snap a picture of it from our perch high above, though. Mazatlan, Mexico

Our friends accompanied us back to the cruise port, and we were so grateful for the chance to spend time with them and for this more intimate and local experience of Mazatlán.

— Patty Vanikiotis, associate editor/copy editor

 

 

Introducing

FX Excursions

FX Excursions offers the chance for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in destinations around the world.

Explore Excursions

#globility

Insta Feed
Daily
May 19, 2025

“Viking Libra”: The World’s First Hydrogen-Powered Cruise Ship

Able to operate with zero emissions, the new Viking Libra will be the world’s first hydrogen-powered cruise ship, set for delivery in late 2026. Currently under construction at Italian shipbuilder Fincantieri’s Ancona shipyard, Viking Libra will be part of Viking’s small-ship ocean fleet.

Seoul: Your Next MICE Destination

Seoul has rapidly become a leading global MICE hub, known for its rich culture, advanced technology and strong economy. As the capital of South Korea, it offers a strategic location in East Asia and a booming cultural influence through K-pop, K-movies, Korean cuisine and K-dramas. With its vibrant atmosphere and business-friendly environment, Seoul is increasingly the top choice for MICE organizers and corporate travelers seeking connection and collaboration.

May 2025
May 19, 2025

Caribe Hilton Serves the Creamy Frozen Cocktail of Your Dreams

To paraphrase that cheesy but infectiously catchy 1970s yacht rock tune: If you like piña coladas — and the feel of the ocean — make a pilgrimage to discover the origin of this beloved tropical tipple.

Daily
May 19, 2025

The Ritz-Carlton, Lake Tahoe Unveils Property-Wide Transformation

The Ritz-Carlton, Lake Tahoe recently debuted its property-wide transformation. The two-year project included an overhaul of guestrooms and suites, refreshed common spaces, updated dining concepts, and new experiences for guests.

Find Your Perfect Escape with Paradisus by Meliá — More Than Just All-Inclusive

Luxury travel today is about more than just beautiful accommodations — it’s about experiencing the destination. Paradisus by Meliá takes traditional all-inclusive resorts to the next level by offering indulgence with immersion, experiences and authenticity. Each resort is shaped by its location, local flavors and curated Destination Inclusive® experiences that bring you closer to the heart of the destination.

Slideshow
May 19, 2025

6 Roman Walls to Put on Your Travel List

It’s time to start dreaming of your next trip. Here’s some destination inspiration for you. Take a visual journey through these Roman walls with us.

Daily
May 15, 2025

Mansions, Gardens, Museums and More Await in Greater Wilmington, Delaware

Lovely any time of year, Wilmington and the Brandywine Valley in Delaware shine in spring and summer, providing an easy getaway from nearby major cities like Philadelphia; Washington, D.C.; Baltimore; and New York City. Wind down with a stroll along the riverfront, or time your visit to enjoy outdoor and indoor sites, plus plenty of great food on these dates:

Royal Air Maroc Marks Five Years with oneworld: Strengthening Connectivity Between USA and Africa and Expanding Global Reach

Royal Air Maroc proudly enters its fifth year as a member of the prestigious oneworld alliance. Since joining in April 2020, RAM has demonstrated resilience during the COVID-19 pandemic, emerging as a dynamic airline that enhanced its digital services and expanded its network. The airline plans to grow its fleet to 200 aircraft by 2037, reinforcing its global presence.

May 2025
May 15, 2025

Culture Runs Deep in the Old Town of Corfu

Corfu, or Kerkyra, as the Greeks call it, is arguably one of the most beautiful islands in Greece — and one of the most cultured. Part of the Ionian Islands located off the western coast of Greece and Albania, it boasts a storied history dating back nearly 3,000 years and a heritage shaped by many foreign rulers who made it their own.