Manzanillo holiday villa

We were guests of Casa de la Paloma during early December 2008. We had four generations of us staying for a family holiday. Everything that was described to us and assured to us was met. Mr. Watkins was very quick to answer our questions with an honest opinion. Those opinions were accurate. We included the house keeper for a couple of meals, visited with the pool people, and talked with the grounds keeper. They were all very friendly and went beyound expectations for a reasonable helpfullness. The beach is the best on the Pacific side of Mexico. Our two year old grandchild enjoyed playing in the surf and sand. He played with the Mexican children on the beach while we shared common life experiences with the parents. It was friendly and great. Use the people for tours that Jess recommends. There is no snorkeling on the beach just out side the property but a ten minute walk north leads you to great opportunities. If you are a diver all of the boat or shore dives originate in that ten minute walk. I am a master scuba diver and the wreck is not to be missed. The snorkel crowd (my wife) only experience the top portion of the wreck but 100 feet down there is a world to be explored. Please be certified for wreck penetration and you will be surprised. If you want to go fishing do not use the recommended parties. They try hard but they are not the best. I fish all over (thats a good enough description), Go to downtown Manzanillo by the big fish. Ask for Captian Jose on the Banna boat. It is a ponga that is a little rough, has shade, and has and outstanding fisherman. In previous trips we have caught up to 100 fish a day with the best being 23 dorado. This is not normal but Jose always gets into the fish. I took the recommended fisherman with my father-in-law and my son-in-law and we caught nada. No take downs no nothing. In six trips with Jose this never happened. We rented a car (expensive insurance) and were able to travel around the county side. The stop at El Salto was the best. There are many places to explore by car if you desire. The major stores are 15 minutes away if you choose. The local stores have most everything if you desire. I am called the Italian Housewife (hey, I'm a guy) an thus I love going to the markets, both superstores and local. Do the local markets (I forgot the name) for true Mexican culture. The flea market operates on the week-end and it is very good. There are good values in the artasian market.