Our group decided upon the "City and Beach Resort Tour," and we were not disappointed. The city tour included the El Cid residential area, the Cathedral and the local market downtown, the cliff divers, the statues along the Malec�n, the shrimp market, and the Machado Plaza in the old part of the city with many sidewalk caf�s and shops.
Since we were "in the neighborhood, Frank took us to a friend's artist studio entitled Nidart. The studio was closed, but for Frank we were allowed a short tour. The studio is located in Old Mazatl�n in a renovated 19th century house. The unique studio displays the creations of its different workshops, along with the works of artists and artisans from various regions of Mexico.
Since it was a national holiday in Mexico celebrating the birthday of Benito Ju�rez, local school children were performing onstage near the cliff diver area. Since I work in the field of education, it is always a "special treat" to photograph children. Their natural innocence always seems to "shine through" in photographs. The children were absolutely delightful dressed in their local costumes performing various dances and skits onstage. I wish we could have spent more time watching, but it was time to continue with the tour.
Afterwards, Frank took the group to the Playa Mazatl�n located in the Golden Zone. At the Playa Mazatl�n we had a leisurely lunch with any selection from the menu, plus two drinks of choice. The lunch was "quite tasty" with excellent shrimp dishes. Afterwards, we were free to use the pool facilities to swim, etc� At 3:30 p.m. Frank took us all back to the cruise ship dock with arrival at approximately 4:00 p.m.
Our full-day tour was $55.00 and was well worth the expense. Frank is a wonderful tour guide and "goes above and beyond" to make sure that his passengers have a wonderful time. One of the passengers in our group wanted to find a Mexican craft or game to play with mentally challenged adults. I knew of a bingo-like game (La Lotteria) that I suggested might be appropriate. Frank went "searching" while we were having lunch and finally found the game at Wal*Mart of all places! We couldn't have asked for a more "educational" and relaxing day. Needless to say, we were all sad to say goodbye to our "new friend" Frank.
After such a long day, it was time to relax. Once more onboard the Oosterdam, I took a nap, and visited the casino (for the daily contribution). Leaving the casino, there were several members of the cruise activity staff outside the Queen's Lounge "luring" passengers in for 70's Disco Night. I have to admit, there was a time in my life long ago when I was caught up in the "world of disco." I had the glitter, the shoes, and the "tacky" polyester dresses that showed off my legs when I was twirled on the dance floor. It was a "fun time," learning different dances and meeting friends three or four times a week. Not to spoil the event too much for future passengers, but let me "tease" you with two visuals. First, picture the Cruise Director, Jimmy Lynett in skin-tight polyester with a HUGE afro-type wig. Second, picture an assortment of several middle-aged men (with no SHIRTS) parodying the Village People. (I'm ashamed to say I've been playing "Disco Inferno" after returning home to "re-live" the experience.) I don't think I've EVER laughed so much! So, attention all "Baby Boomers," you must attend 70's Disco Night if you ever sail on the Oosterdam!
Once more secure in the fact that "Disco Lives," (at least on the Oosterdam!) I caught the late show of the incredible vocalist Alfreda Gerald. By then, I was hungry and had a satisfying late-night "snack" at 11:00 p.m. in the Lido Buffet. It was then "off to bed" to dream about my favorite port on the Mexican Riviera - Puerto Vallarta!
Tuesday Entertainment:
Vista Lounge - Vocalist: Alfreda Gerald
Queen's Lounge - Movie: Cheaper by the Dozen
Crow's Nest - Contemporary: Cruise Control
Ocean Bar - Classic Dance Hits: Crossover
Explorer's Lounge - String Favorites: Rosario Strings
Piano Bar - Piano Player: Jeff Warren
Northern Lights - DJ Dancing: D. J. Matt Green
Signature Cocktail: South Seas Aviation
Martini of the Day: Glacier Blue
