ACAPULCO, MEXICO

Acapulco de Juárez, more commonly called Acapulco, is Mexico's largest and oldest beach resort which came into prominence during the 40’s and 50’s as a getaway for Hollywood stars and millionaires. 

Arial of Acapulco Bay   Photo: Public Domain

From a population of only 4,000 or 5,000 in the 1940's, Roberto claims Acapulco now boasts a population of over 2 million. In 1997 the city was devastated by Hurricane Pauline. The storm stranded tourists and left more than 100 dead in the city. Most of the victims were from shanty towns built on steep hillsides that surrounded the city. Other victims were swept away by thirty-foot waves and 150 mph winds. Avenida Costera Miguel Alemán, the city’s main thoroughfare that loops around Acapulco Bay, quickly became a fast-moving three-foot-deep river of sludge. 

Photo: Public Domain

Photo:  Public Domain

If one is going to write about Acapulco, violence in the 21^st century is not to be ignored. Cartel gang violence has been a major problem in Acapulco since 2006 causing the number of international flyers to drop from 355,760 in 2006 to 52,684 in 2015, an 85% decrease in the course of nine years.  That said, I did have reservations about taking a shore excursion but after much research decided to give it a go. 

The Norwegian Pearl docked in Acapulco on April 21, 2018.  Big Al Malone, a fellow cruise passenger, had arranged a shore excursion with Roberto Alarcon, owner of Roberto Alarcon Tours.  Roberto lived in the United States for 8 years but was born and raised in Acapulco and has been conducting tours for 21 years. 

Roberto Alarcon, Owner of Roberto Alarcon Tours

Van used

Al had our group assemble onboard at the Maltings Beer & Whiskey Bar, Deck 6.  Once everyone had checked in we disembarked together as a group.  The time was 9:45am.  

We found Roberto without any difficulty, boarded the van and set out for our first stop, the pink Las Flamingos Hotel.   The hotel sits atop the highest cliffs in Acapulco.  I loved the historical background of the hotel, it’s stunning views, and Casa Tarzan - the ‘tarzan’ suite - where Johnny Weissmuller stayed. 

Owned by Johnny Weismuller and John Wayne, the guests here were the Hollywood elites of the 1950-1970’s and included Rita Hayworth, Elizabeth Taylor, Frank Sinatra, Eddie Fisher, Rock Hudson, Debbie Reynolds, Brigitte Bardot, Sylvester Stallone, Jackie Kennedy, Gregory Peck. Elvis Presley, Esther Williams, Lana Turner, Tyrone Power, Richard Widmark, CaryGrant, Red Skelton, Rory Calhoun, and many, many others.  It was fun looking at all the photos that are still on display in the lobby area.

Main Lobby

I had heard of the famous "Coco Loco" drink before but have never had one. Unfortunately, we weren't here long enough to try out the famous drink created for John Wayne. The drink is served in a giant green coconut with 7 types of liquor and coconut water with lime. It is decorated with Hibiscus, a little flamingo made of fruit and nuts and a tropical fern. 

Coco Loco drink

Our time here was short but we were able to walk the grounds and admire the stunning views of the Pacific Ocean.  We also climbed to the very top and walked around the Casa Tarzan - the 'tarzan' Suite.  Built in a unique circular design with windows all around, it gives one a feeling of what it must have been like back in ‘the good ole days’.  The unit does not have air conditioning but it is truly a historical treasure and worth a visit, or better yet, an overnight stay, affordable at only $120 a night. 

 

Tour guide Roberto

Photo opp with friend Marci Inman on the left. 

It was now time to make our way to La Quebrada, the most famous of all tourist attractions in Acapulco. But first, a quick stop at Casablanca, in Old Acapulco, used in the filming of "Fun in Acapulco", an Elvis Presley movie made in 1963. 

Originally opening in 1935, it represents an authentic colonial style hotel.  As we made our way back to the van I glanced at my iPhone.  It read 91 degrees but said "feels like 109". Once again Roberto provided us with water and beer.

Eric Kirkby enjoying a beer

It was a much welcomed drink as it was very hot and humid.  From here we were heading to the peninsula to view the Diego Riviera murals. Completed between 1954-1956 and just before his death in 1957.  The murals, made from venitian tiles, represents the main culture of Mexico Dos Azteca, "King of the Rain" and "King of the Fire". 

We arrived at La Quebrada at 12:30pm and I counted five divers for our performance.  The fearless Cliff Divers of La Quebrada are world-famous and extremely talented, as one would need to be to throw themselves 135 feet off a cliff.   

There are officially 38 in the association of divers of which 1 is female and 23 dive every day.  They are paid by the government and also from tourist tips.  These speedo-clad young men are truly amazing.  Diving since 1934 from a maximum height of 135 feet, they must time the waves perfectly before they jump into the "gulch" which can vary from 16 feet to 19 feet deep depending on the waves. The width of the channel varies from 42 feet to 48 feet.  Timing is critical for the divers.  There are two memorials at the 135 foot elevation.  One for Mother Mary and one for Jesus Christ.  Each diver takes a moment at the top to pray and prepare for his next jump. 

If you want to enjoy the sunset and watch the divers I would recommend the 7:30pm show. 

There are a number of vantage points from which to watch the dives.  I walked down the concrete steps to a viewing platform that afforded a great view of both the 135 foot high jump area and the “gulch” water entrance below.  I was glad I had remembered to bring along my umbrella.  It brought some much needed sun relief. 

As I started to climb back up the steps I came across Luis, one of the divers.  He was 26 years old and his dives were from the 115 feet height.  Luis told me that he started jumping at the age of 12.  Most jumpers start jumping between the age of 8-10 years old.  All jumpers are male with the exception of 1 girl and she only dives on special dates.  Imagine your 12 year old son coming in to tell you that he was 'going jumping' today! 

Next we made our way to a local area and stopped at one of the local shopping areas.  I am not one for shopping so four of us walked through the historical side of the complex ending up at a small little café where we took a much needed break and had a refreshing drink.

It was now time for lunch and Roberto took us to a wonderful stop, Los Tarascos Taquieria in the downtown area. Safe and clean food.  

After lunch we made our way back to the van and headed up the mountain to visit the A-frame Chapel of Peace. The church is located on a hill that provides a beautiful view of Acapulco Bay and the nearby islands.  When two brothers, whose lives played an integral role in the development of the city of Acapulco, met their tragic end in a car accident, their father Carlos Trouyet built the chapel and the large white cross as a testament to their lives and dreams. While it was initially a church and then private property, the Chapel of Peace was eventually given back to the city by its owner and is now open to visitors.

The site itself is composed of three very distinct and impressive pieces of artwork.  First, the large Las Manos de la Hermandad “The Hands of Brotherhood” structure. It is said that at just the right time of day “The Hands of Brotherhood” perfectly frame the setting sun.

Next is the massive 130-feet tall white cross that can be seen from almost anywhere in Acapulco. 

Lastly, the Capilla de la Paz “Chapel of Peace” is the main building of the chapel. The building is relatively small and charming with onyx facades that allow opaque light to shine through into the interior of the chapel. I found the inside of the A-frame structure to be light and airy with plenty of space.

The exterior of the Chapel displays rich gardens and cascading fountains. From the elevated perspective at the back of the chapel, you have a stunning view of Acapulco Bay and Isla de Roqueta in the distance.

If you are not with a tour group you will want to hire a driver due to the steep climb and difficult roads. Roberto said we were 1,250 feet above sea level.  No admission fee is required for the Chapel but they do have a donation box as you exit. You will love your visit here – it will leave you with a lasting sense of peace and serenity. 

Next it was off to the Diamond Zone (the new Acapulco), and a visit to Campamento Tortuguero for the releasing of the baby sea turtles. As you make your way to the beach area, you walk through the harvesting area and learn about the conservation efforts in place to protect these wonderful creatures.  

Then we headed to the beach where each person who wanted to participate was given, and instructed on proper handling of, a 4 day old sea turtle. They were so adorable and their eyes weren’t even open yet.

Next we were asked to give our baby turtle a name.  I named mine “Colton” after my great grandson.  Then a survival blessing is given as you hold your precious little sea turtle high in the air.   

When completed you gently place your turtle on the sand and instinct takes over leading them all to the sea.  It was truly an amazing experience. 

We were told that once they enter the ocean only 10 out of 100 will survive their arduous journey.  They were heading to Australia and the journey would take them 18 months.  What is even more amazing is that the females will return to bear young at the exact spot we released them. Truly incredible creatures. 

As we headed back to the ship Roberto pointed out XTASEA, the world’s longest over water zip-line. I can't see myself ever doing this activity.  You’re strapped in Superman style, then connected to the line and then released.  This attraction opened 6 months ago and there are 4 lines across.  You fly about 300 feet above the water, traveling between 70-75 mph, over Puerto Marquez on a flight that lasts two full minutes. Roberto said he has done this and the cost was $999 MXP or $62USD.  I did read several TripAdvisor reviews and most comments referred to the spectacular views.

Photo: Public Domain

We arrived back at the ship at 5:30pm.  The cost of this tour was $50USD and worth every penny.