Sure, I live in Tampa, and you can't beat a Tampa vacation package, but Mexico is a fantastic place for a winter vacation. There are many top-of-the-line resorts, beautiful scenery and fascinating history. Mexico is also a shopper's haven. The bargains you can get in Mexico are truly amazing. The liquid fish oil supplment I pay $30 for in the US was half price!
Small border towns are interesting places to shop. Anything and everything is for sale in these little towns. They quite literally exist just to sell wares to visiting Americans from over the border. The thing to remember in these little places is do not pay the listed price for anything. I had my first introduction to bargaining in one of these little shopping spots. Nothing ever sells for the asking price – in fact, I'm not even sure why they bother to put prices on things! Also, don't be alarmed at the venders' assertiveness. They will joke with you, pester you to buy from them and even follow you down the street calling out lower prices for items. It's all in good fun and once you relax and get used to it is really a blast.
There are many items that are for sale in Mexico that can not be brought back into the states or Canada. Be sure to check the prohibited items lists to make sure you can bring your purchases back. For example, endangered species and items made from them; crocodiles and items made from crocodiles; birds, alive or stuffed are all prohibited. There are other items that cannot be brought back as well. Check with Border Patrol if you're unsure.
There are other items that while not illegal, are not advisable to buy for other reasons. Many beautiful ceramic and pottery pieces are made and sold in Mexico. While these are stunning pieces, it is best not to buy them as many of the paints used on these and other items made in Mexico contain lead. I saw many gorgeous bowls and pottery pieces that I really wanted to buy, but I didn't dare for fear of the lead content.
Even with all these restrictions there are still countless wonderful things that can be purchased in Mexico at truly unbelievable prices. Do your research and know what to avoid and you will have a wonderful shopping experience in Mexico.
Thursday, March 11, 2010
Wednesday, March 10, 2010
Winter Blues Got You Down? - Time to Fly South!
For those of us in the northern states and Canada, the long, cold, dark winters can really bring us down. By February, we are only halfway through the winter and we feel like it's been six months since we last saw a blade of grass or a ray of sunshine! The shorter days with less daylight and the cold weather generally make people lethargic and cranky. The best way to break up the long, cold winter and combat the winter blues is to take a tropical or southern vacation. Sun, water and sand can do wonders for your mood and health.
Some of the best North American beach destinations are:
Cancun, Mexico - Cancun is located on the south-east coast of Mexico on the Yucatan Peninsula. The sandy beaches and sparkling turquoise Caribbean waters make Cancun the perfect haven. Don't worry – you certainly won't be bored! There's lots to do in Cancun. Great restaurants, trendy nightclubs and luxurious resorts await you in Cancun. You'll have all the fun you can handle with all the different water sports, scuba diving, snorkeling and amazing golf courses.
Tampa Bay, Florida – Nestled on the west coast of Florida, A Tampa vacation package has a lot to offer vacationers. If you are visiting in February, it's probably a bit too chilly yet for swimming and sun-bathing, but don't let that keep you from a relaxing stroll on the beautiful beaches. A rich nightlife, theatre, and loads of fun attractions will keep you entertained day and night. And what about a Tampa football vacation to to see the Tampa Bay Buccaneers play!
Maui, Hawaii - On the island of Maui, you will experience stunning natural beauty and unique adventures. White sandy beaches, warm ocean breezes and lush rainforests make Maui one of the most beautiful of the Hawaiian Islands. Whether you're looking for a world-renowned 5-star resort or a quaint little Bed-and-Breakfast, you'll find what you're looking for in Maui.
No matter which destination you choose, you're guaranteed a good time and best of all – a warm, sunny break from the winter blahs!
Some of the best North American beach destinations are:
Cancun, Mexico - Cancun is located on the south-east coast of Mexico on the Yucatan Peninsula. The sandy beaches and sparkling turquoise Caribbean waters make Cancun the perfect haven. Don't worry – you certainly won't be bored! There's lots to do in Cancun. Great restaurants, trendy nightclubs and luxurious resorts await you in Cancun. You'll have all the fun you can handle with all the different water sports, scuba diving, snorkeling and amazing golf courses.
Tampa Bay, Florida – Nestled on the west coast of Florida, A Tampa vacation package has a lot to offer vacationers. If you are visiting in February, it's probably a bit too chilly yet for swimming and sun-bathing, but don't let that keep you from a relaxing stroll on the beautiful beaches. A rich nightlife, theatre, and loads of fun attractions will keep you entertained day and night. And what about a Tampa football vacation to to see the Tampa Bay Buccaneers play!
Maui, Hawaii - On the island of Maui, you will experience stunning natural beauty and unique adventures. White sandy beaches, warm ocean breezes and lush rainforests make Maui one of the most beautiful of the Hawaiian Islands. Whether you're looking for a world-renowned 5-star resort or a quaint little Bed-and-Breakfast, you'll find what you're looking for in Maui.
No matter which destination you choose, you're guaranteed a good time and best of all – a warm, sunny break from the winter blahs!
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