In the summer of 1997, a family vacation to Puerto Vallarta turned into an unexpected adventure, complete with border patrol scares, cultural exchanges, and the simple joys of travel. A mother, her two daughters, and a stuffed monkey found themselves at the center of a humorous misunderstanding with border officials, leading to a memorable trip that would include everything from hair braiding to snorkeling, and even a friendly encounter with a surrendering crab.
As we approached the border that summer day, my daughter Ashley, then nine years old, faced a daunting situation. The border patrol, a group of stern officers, scrutinized our documents with intense focus. Their serious demeanor and foreign language heightened the tension, as they questioned the legality of a "smuggled" animal – Ashley's beloved stuffed monkey. The officers' concern about potential diseases and the lack of vaccination papers for the toy led to a moment of panic and tears from Ashley.
The language barrier only added to the confusion, as my limited Spanish left me uncertain about their intentions. The situation seemed dire, with the possibility of being sent back to the United States looming over us. Traveling as a single parent, I had navigated the complexities of international travel documents, even resorting to forging the signature of my late ex-husband to comply with travel regulations.
Our fears were soon alleviated as the officers revealed their good-natured jest, allowing us to continue our journey into Puerto Vallarta. The relief was palpable, and we eagerly made our way to our destination, the Meza del Mar hotel, an old and beautiful establishment with whitewashed walls and Spanish tile roofs. For more information about Club Meza del Mar, visit Vallarta Shores.
The trip was a birthday present for my eldest daughter, who had just turned fifteen. We looked forward to our three-day all-inclusive stay, which was a bargain at a hundred dollars a day, including airfare.
Once settled, we embraced the local culture and hospitality. Yolanda, a nineteen-year-old mother of three, braided our hair in the courtyard of Meza del Mar, giving us a taste of the iconic Bo Derek '10' hairstyle. Ashley spent hours playing in the pool with a new friend, proving that language barriers melt away during friendly play.
Our adventures continued with an all-day cruise, priced at only $55.00 USD, which included free food, unlimited Corona, and lively conversations with fellow travelers. The journey took us to Yelapa, at the southern tip of the peninsula, where we attempted snorkeling and encountered the rich marine life.
The trip was filled with memorable moments, from horseback rides to walks through town, always with a sense of caution and protectiveness as a mother with two daughters. We even had a comical encounter with a crab that humorously "surrendered" to us during a rain-soaked walk back to the hotel.
For more information on Yelapa and other local attractions, visit Virtual Vallarta.
Our trip to Puerto Vallarta was more than just a vacation; it was a series of experiences that brought us closer together as a family and allowed us to embrace the unexpected. From the initial scare at the border to the heartwarming interactions with locals, each moment contributed to a story we would cherish for years to come.
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