AKUMAL - SNORKELING WITH BOB THE BARRACUDA

This was definitely our best snorkeling dive ever! We must have been in the water for a couple of hours.  Friends took us to Akumal about 45 minutes outside of Playa del Carmen.  They told us they have never taken anyone there who was disappointed after.  That would certainly include us. 

We were there for the green turtles and saw a variety from 1 foot to about 5 feet long.  Afterwards we were comparing notes that it didn't seem real watching them swim under the water.  Both of us would watch their heads crest the water just to reassure ourselves we were really there with them.  Such amazing creatures! 

The snorkel guides are, rightfully, very protective of the turtles and other sea creatures there.  Enjoy them just don't touch them.  An important note is that holding the turtles' shells and having them pull you can be very hard on their hearts so a 'hands off' policy is best for them and us.  If they should happen to bite your finger they could easily break it.  So if their personal space is respected a wonderfully awe inspiring experience can be preserved for all.

As if the turtles weren't enough we also saw spiny sea urchins, manta rays, and a wide variety of corals and fish.

Here are a few photos of the beach.

The day before going a friend warned us about not having anything shiny on as it may attract barracudas.   He also mentioned about a resident barracuda that many see.  So, careful we were.  As we are just getting going I happen to look to my right and there is a gal snorkeling beside me and is intent on getting pix of something so I look to my left.  About 2 feet from me, between Bruce and I is
Bob the Barracuda.  I just remained still and watched this 4 foot fish swim between us and away.    Too cool for words! 
He made me think of a little kid who goes around with a scary mask who just wants to see people's reactions.  Do fish have a sense of humor?  Maybe.
The link below is to some videos by talented folks who also enjoyed Akumal.  Thanks to the makers of these videos.  Their credits are on the YouTube links below.  Do take a moment and let them know what you thought.

Bob the Barracuda is in the first one.  That's what I like to call him anyway.  I'm sure the locals have something more interesting.    

See Bob the Barracuda or friend.
Note to self:  SPF 50 really does work to keep you from burning, but you've got to put it on generously everywhere.  The little red sliver moons where your bathing suit rides up slightly can make sitting a bit challenging for a day or so.
http://www.facebook.com/CEA.AKUMAL This link connects you with the efforts being made to preserve the natural balance of this area.
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Is it time to head home already?

So if you do have the chance to visit Playa del Carmen do make the time to have a snorkel at Akumal Beach.  It is truly worth it.  You can rent gear there very reasonably from experienced dive tour operators.  They will  take you out if snorkeling is a new experience for you. 

You might just meet Bob.

ANTOJITOS IN PLAYA DEL CARMEN

So you are on a budget and wondering where to eat in beautiful but touristy Playa del Carmen.  We were wondering also after we made the 7 hour road trip. Well do as we did and ask the locals. They suggested what they called a taco stand. This brought to mind a cart but in actuality it was a clean little building with enough chairs and tables for about 15 people to sit comfortably al fresco. The food was hot and delicious.



Something new for us is the refreshing licuados. This drink can be made with a variety of fruits or chocolate and liquified ice with a dash of cinnamon. You also have the option of having it made with milk or water. We tried papaya, strawberry and cantaloupe. My favorite was cantaloupe and water. Its so thirst quenching and a must have on a hot day.

Bruce is enjoying his papaya licuado.

Now to the food. quesadillos, salbutes and huaraches were what we tried on different days. Bruce's winner was chicken salbutes. They are made with deep fried tortillas. How could they not be good. They are similar to panuchos we've had but the waitress said that bean make the differnence between the two.

My choice was the chicken huarache with lots of veggies. Don't forget to add one or more of the zippy salsas they'll bring to your table.

So for 67 pesos we got 2 licuados, 2 salbutes and a huarache.  Cdn. that comes to $5.15 plus tip.
It's located by the Chedraui grocery store on Benito Juarez St. and is on 45 Sur.
While you eat you can have your car detailed at the shop on the same lot.  That will only set you back about 70 pesos or $5.38 to have you car cleaned inside and out. These guys are worth watching. They are quite amazing.  Dinner and a show.

So if you are in Playa del C just go back up Benito Juarez from the waterfront and you'll find some good, yet inexpensive eats and  refreshing licuados.