The residents of Zihuatanejo are a fun, laid back crowd. I’m sure the beach lifestyle has something to do with it, but I also want to suggest that it is because of their ability to drink openly in public. The town of Zihuatanejo is located on the Pacific side of Mexico, about 2 hours north of Acapulco and a quick 40-minute flight from Mexico City. Like most of the other beach towns I have visited in Mexico, Zihua (as the locals refer to it) is a great place to unwind and enjoy a cool brew. Waking up to the ocean breeze and being able to enjoy a nice Victoria lager (the beer of choice in Zihua) anytime and anywhere must contribute to the happy mood of the population.
Zihua is not as crazy as Acapulco, Puerto Vallarta or Cancun, but that is where the appeal lies. You are not bumping into 18-year-old drunk Americans in Zihua, nor are you witnessing sorority girls going wild. What you do witness though, is the Mexico you hear about in romantic stories, the Mexico that is filled with passion for food, culture and amity. Zihuatanejo is a place where you can get away from corporate stores and chain restaurants. The town has a “downtown†area that instantly transports you to a time when streets where narrow, when food from restaurants can be smelled a block away and a time when street vendors valued your visit. Being that Zihua is next to the Pacific Ocean, seafood is fresh and delicious. Any fine meal you get goes great with a cold Victoria lager. Have them prepare the beer for you with lime and salt and you will not be disappointed.
After dinner, grab a six-pack of beer and head down to the basketball court located next to the beach in the downtown area. Basketball games go on till the late evening and since the court is not enclosed, you sit under the stars as the sights and sounds of the town engulf you. It has to be said, that having a beautiful beach and a cool beer in your hand make for a great living situation.
For those who do want drunken underage kids going wild, take a 15-minute trip up north to Ixtapa. That is the tourist destination with big hotels and chain bars among the main strip. For all others, find your way to Zihuatanejo and enjoy the beauty life has to offer.
