Fun in Paradise!

I just can't believe how much fun we are having here! We live on the south side of Vallarta- which is the oldest and trendiest place-cobblestone streets, lots of bars and restaurants and very lively. We are just over the Rio Cuale (river). There is a little island in the middle of the river which is filled with flea market type shops, little restaurants and a great place to walk. It is very lush and green and is a great place to spot iguanas climbing the trees.

You can get to the island by regular bridges, but our favorite way is via the swinging pedestrian bridges! The bridge onto the island is just a couple of blocks from here so it's a fast way to get to the other side where the malacon is. The locals call it the drunken bridge because that is exactly how you feel walking over it. It's very old, very rickety and sways a LOT especially when there are people passing each other. I am still amazed that I managed to get Gail to walk over it. She has potential to see the Grand Canyon after all!! Be sure to click on the photo of the bridge so it will enlarge and you can really see how bad it is.

So, after using the two bridges (one on and one off the island) we found our new haunting place Friday- Cafe Roma. It's just a fabulous bar/restaurant owned by Sr. Fox-from Winnipeg! Carol, Tim and Dale, he is living your dream of running a bar in Mexico. He has all Mexican staff of course but the place is usually packed, the beer is the coldest in town and only $1.50 for a Corona! All first timers get a free shot of excellent tequila!! Can't be beat! We've met some great people there from all over the world. I've included a photo of Robyn and Serge -who live in Tacoma- and who are going to do a house swap with us this spring! Serge is Mexican and Robyn is American. Lots of fun and it's great to hang out with a non gringo!

Lea and Dale, we met a fellow from Belfast last night who now lives in Richmond. His buddy bought the Brigadine pub in Maple Bay a couple of years ago!! Small world but I thought Dale would like to know that the place is in good hands!!

This morning we used the Skype computer phone for the first time and talked to family. It worked like a hot damn so we are very pleased we can keep in touch-especially for Gail as her Mom doesn't have/use a computer.

Carol, be prepared for a long fun day on Dec 13 when we meet up. Send me an email because I want to give you a few options about how and where to meet. It would be easier than trying to connect when you get to the DeCameron.

That's the latest, oh, other than it is 28C, sunny and PARADISE!