GOOD FOOD IN PUERTO VALLARTA!

 

ALCATRACES — Puerto Vallarta, Mexico
While in Puerto Vallarta in February 2018, I and some friends dined at a delightful restaurant called Alcatraces. The decor was warm, colorful and cozy. It was the first time that I saw an entire wall draped in stacked stone, and artwork created by Mexican artists laden throughout this gem added an authenticity that compels you to learn more about Mexico generally and Puerto Vallarta, specifically.

As aesthetically pleasing as the decor is, the food is equally appealing. We started with an appetizer of a huge deep fried Porto Bello Mushroom loaded with shrimp, onions and cheese — a gastronomic phenomenon. For my entree, I had the Barbeque Ribs — most tender and with outstanding sauce. I paired my meal with a Pacifico Beer! Now, that was heaven.

The service was attentive and warm, and our waiter made satisfying recommendations.
Please pay Alcatraces a visit on your next trip to Puerto Vallarta! You will walk away mesmerized by the entire experience.

#thisidoforme

 

 

 

 

 

Traveling — A Different Kind of Vacation

 

What was the unexpected?  Taking a vacation in the middle of a harsh Chicago winter — one that I never even entertained.  Winter has mainly been something to suffer through while I waited on the dawn of spring when it “made more sense” for me to take a vacation.

So when I was invited to spend time in Puerto Vallarta last month, I went with the flow and decided to spend some winter time doing something different, but this time in 80+ degree temperatures.

Typically, when I vacation, it is traditionally to locales where there are loads of historical monuments to behold, great shopping districts to experience, restaurants to sample and jazz clubs to get my music fix satisfied.

Although these destinations are exciting and filled with constant activity and fun stuff, I must admit that my recent trip to Puerto Vallarta, Mexico was a different kind of vacation. Total relaxation ruled the entire week.

Although I took advantage of a few excursions — a tour the historic Lady of Guadalupe Church, viewing the sculptures along the Malecon and shopping, the best part of this trip was the time I spent at Palenque Spa getting a mani and pedi, along with a deep tissue massage, partaking in sumptuous meals like the one at Los Alcatraces La Marina, sipping champagne on the golf course and more importantly just kicking back on the beach in the most comfortable lounge chair while immersed in a collection of essays written by Samantha Irby sharing the company of special friends.

And I can’t forget the time I spent on the balcony watching daily sunrises and sunsets.

My mind was not bogged down with the items on my To Do List, or work related issues or making decisions.  My mind was clear — as clear as the waters in Mexico.

I think I can get used to that!

#thisidoforme