Huatulco Travel

Huatulco is on the Pacific Coast and located in the state of Oaxaca. If you look on a map, Huatulco is about 200 miles south of Acapulco. Bahias de Huatulco, shortened to Huatulco, is named for the nine bays that surround it. If you want soft, white sand, cobalt water shimmering in the distance, the sound of waves crashing on beaches and a walk alone in the sunlight, then you have 35 beaches to explore.

The Mexican government designates certain regions in Mexico to be enhanced for tourism. Huatulco was one of those regions. About 30 years ago, Huatulco's infrastructure was updated to accommodate tourism. The upgrades also had some green zones to make the area more ecologically friendly. The attention and money was then turned to Cancun and Cozumel as major tourist destinations.

Huatulco has the infrastructure upgrades but did not receive the marketing dollars for promotion. Of the visitors to Huatulco, 80 percent are domestic, due in large part to limited air service. In 2000, the Green Globe award was given to Huatulco as a result of their potable and waste water management.

Four districts make up this little community. Most of my time was spent in the small resort area. The beaches are not bulging with gigantic resorts. My favorite resort is the Quinta Real. It is very small and has a beach all its own. You can sit on a hammock on the balcony of your brightly colored Mexican tiled room, sway in the tropical breeze and sip on a margarita. This resort seeps with peace and quiet and relaxation for a winter-weary soul.

The marina is a delightful place to visit and experience some small, quaint resorts. The little town of La Crucecita is a few miles inland, has a charming city center and shops that offer Mexican treats. The local shops are bursting with colorful platters, leather belts and purses and silver jewelry that will beckon a way into your suitcase. I always purchase Mexican vanilla to share with family and friends who are avid bakers.

Oaxaca is known for its chocolate. I love chocolate, but this chocolate tested my sweet tooth. A very sweet dessert chocolate is not to be expected. The chocolate is used in main dishes as a mole and is very spicy. Another local favorite is mescal. This predecessor to tequila has been in production for more than 400 years. The best quality 100 percent agave Mexican mescal spirits are found in Oaxaca. If you are a connoisseur of tequila, this is a great spot to treat your taste buds.

I think we could all use a little invincible summer to warm our January hearts right now. Pack your bags and give Huatulco a chance.