Heading to the beach in winter sounds like it might be a
great idea, but even if you live near a beach like we do, it’s probably way too
cold to actually enjoy it. Wearing three layers to build sandcastles is never
fun, so why not head to a place where it’s warm in the winter and won’t bust
your budget? Colima, Mexico is one such place that has lovely weather all year,
a tropical feel with banana and coconut trees all over – giving it the name
“City of Palms” – and is ideal for surfing, too.
 |
| photo credit |
Colima is right on the water and sits between two volcanoes,
giving it amazing views wherever you look. Watersports a great way to enjoy
Colima, but it can also be super relaxing or make for a lovely history-filled
vacation if you prefer. It also has crazy affordable hotels that feel luxurious
and exotic, with all the amenities you expect to find at high end resorts. You’ll
find yourself wanting to return to Colima before you even leave. What a way to
enjoy a budget escape.
 |
| photo credit |
Refresh
If the ocean is not for you, Colima has tons of natural
springs and pools. Why use the hotel pool when you can, literally, soak in the
landscape? Skip the hot tub and sink into one of the state’s thermal springs. The
ones in Agua Caliente and El Hervidero are surrounded by jungle, making them even more
unique. Explore the flora and fauna that you’ll not find anywhere else.
 |
| photo credit |
Invigorate
La Cumbre is Colima’s city where paragliders go. The thermal
winds are the perfect environment for the sport and you’ll have sweeping views
of valleys, hills and canyons. What more can you ask for? How about awesome
kayaking, camping, horseback riding, fishing, hiking, as well as surfing? Families
can enjoy all of these things and more. Kids will love running through the
parks and seeing animals at the zoo that they may never have seen before.
 |
| photo credit |
Immerse
Colima is steeped in history. The archaeological sites of La
Campana and El Chanal are home to temples, buildings and sport courts from the
Mayan culture that once inhabited the lands. Those who have a love of beautiful
architecture won’t be disappointed. The main plaza of Colima, Jardín Libertad, is
bordered by a row of arches, the city hall building and the cathedral.
Entertainers and musicians can often be found here, so it’s a nice place to
spend a frugal afternoon. Art and history lovers will want to visit the Museo
Regional de Historia de Colima, the Museo Universitario de Artes Populares or
the Pinacoteca Universitaria Alfonso Michel.
 |
| photo credit |
Indulge
Colima
has a vibrant night life, so if you want to toss back a few cocktails or dance
the night away, make sure to pack your dancing shoes. Tantalize your taste buds
with some of the city’s finest cuisine. Lunch is the main meal of the day and
you’ll be happy it is, because it’ll give you time to walk off the calories
from all the dishes you’ll want to try. Make sure to sample the Tatemado (pork
in mole sauce), tales de ceniza, sopitos (a corn tortilla topped with red chili
and bean sauce) and try a glass of tuba (coconut beverage) or Tejuino (a
corn-based, beverage with cinnamon and lime).
 |
| photo credit |
Where to Stay
Believe
it or not, even though the city of Colima is small, it has a choice of budget-friendly hotels. Even the luxury Wyndham
Garden Colima is less than $100 per night and has views of the Colima Volcano,
a variety of pools, a sauna, hot tub, a bar and restaurant. You may never want
to leave.
The
Fiesta Inn Colima is perfect for those who want easy access to both the airport
and other activities. The hotel is business-minded, but has extras that
everyone can appreciate: a restaurant that is open long hours, 24-hour room
service and free Internet. It is also close to the cultural center and art
museum.
Business
travelers and couples alike will enjoy a stay at Hotel Mision Colima. The hotel
is in the middle of the financial district, but is also beautiful and makes for
a fantastic romantic getaway. With room service, free Wi-Fi, a restaurant and
lovely courtyards, you never need to leave. At just $50 per night on average,
you can stay even longer.
Want
more options? Surf-Mexico specializes in hotels only
in Mexico. Search for lodgings everywhere in the country where surfing is
fantastic and get suggestions for different kinds of accommodations from people
who love vacationing (and surfing) there. Let the experts help you find a place
to call home while you’re in Mexico. Because the less you spend on your hotel, the
more money you have to splurge on delicious food and souvenirs to bring home.
You can also connect with Surf-Mexico on Twitter.
Disclosure: This is a sponsored post written by me on behalf of Surf-Mexico.
No comments:
Post a Comment