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Zihuatanejo,
located on the south west coast of Mexico, was
made famous by the 1994 movie, Shawshank Redemption. Timothy
Robbins' character, Andy Dufresne spent years in prison for a murder
he did not commit. Through a series of orchestrated events, Andy was
able to escape prison - but before he did so, he told Morgan Freeman
('Red') about a beach in Mexico where he wanted to forget about his
past and live a simple life.
That beach town
was Zihuatanejo.
Today Zihua has grown to include resorts, restaurants and much
tourist traffic, but the simple fishing life still prominently
exists.
An old seaman
with gnarly fingers tending to his craft is a common site. Could
this be Andy?
If fishermen are not
out to sea, there is still much to do on shore. Here, they
are mending their nets.
If you prefer to
charter a boat and go out further into the ocean to fish, there are
many options from which to choose. This is very popular with
Gringos who are looking for the thrill of deep sea fishing.
Here's an early morning
fisherman throwing his net out. With the birds calling and
the waves crashing it is a peaceful sight. We love watching these
skilled men carrying on a tradition from years past.
Aaahhh! The fresh
catch!
These lobsters
were taken
straight from the sea only hours ago.
Daily, the
markets are bustling with the morning's seafood offerings. Restaurants and
locals all purchase for the day's eating.
These fresh oysters
are being shucked open for the hungry clientele inside
the restaurant.
And there are
numerous
choices of outside restaurants in which to eat. Many are located right on the
beach and it's a casual feeling. Warm breezes, cool drinks and great
views.
Here's a typical Mexican
menu. Viva Mexico! Restaurant has delicious offerings from
breakfast through dinner.
This sidewalk
cafe also has tables on the beach.
A place perfect
for a romantic
evening dinner to watch the sun set and the moon rise.
Yup! That's what
we chose to do this particular night... Lovely.
Colonial Centro
has a roof top pool with a good view of the sea and the town of Zihua. With air con, cable TV, hot water and nice sized rooms, they
charge 450 Pesos per night.
The beaches are
far more tranquil than the town itself, which is bustling. This is
more our style.
Tiny, winding
walkways throughout the town by the beach shows the local colonial
architecture.
Another tropical
corner restaurant. This one has a nativity scene on the roof...
along with the advertisement for Corona Beer!
The best pan
dulce we have found in Mexico - at the Panificadora El Buen Gusto
located at Vincente Guerrero #11. There are many selections and
definitely worth a visit. Try the bread pudding or cinnamon buns.
Excellent!
One of the local
in-town eateries. Freshly made chili rellenos are on the
platter in front on the table, and fresh corn tortillas are being
cooked on the grill in the back. It doesn't get any more authentic
than this.
An elderly vendor
is
selling fresh pastries on the street. I always wonder about their
particular lives when I see these merchants eke out such a small
amount of daily cash.
Taking an early
morning jaunt along a paved pedestrian walkway is a great way to
find a breakfast or lunch location. Resorts and restaurants are
everywhere and this upscale joint has a great view. A table for two?
A better look at
the walkway around the beaches of Zihua. Nicely paved, it's easy for
a run or a leisurely walk any time of day.
Resorts dot the hillsides
as seen from the sea with its tiny calm waves. There
are not the body surfing waves we like but the tranquility is
priceless.
At the end of the
approximately half mile walkway is a decorated turnaround. We
recommend this easy going pathway to view Zihuatanejo from another angle.
If you're fishing for something different, Zihua may just be it!
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