Camping World President's Club Tours, P.O. Box 161, Osceola, IN 46561 (800 626-0042).
Caravans Voyagers, mentioned in the book, no longer offers caravans to Mexico or to Alaska.
Here's another small caravan company offering one low-cost tour into Mexico each year. Fiesta
RV Caravans leaves about the first of December each year and travels to
Mazatlán. En route they stop in Kino Bay, San Carlos, and Alamos. The return trip is made
about March first. Contact at: Al Felgate, 1868 120th Street, Balsam Lake, WI 54810,
telephone 715 825-3846, e-mail allenfelgate@hotmail.com.
Cash and Credit Cards, p. 35
The big supermarket chains in Mexico -
including Aurrera, Comercial Mexicana, Gigante, Soriana, Wal-Mart, and others - are now
accepting Visa and MasterCard.
Drinking Water and Vegetables, p. 36
A reader tells us that there are ultraviolet purification systems available from at
least two companies in the U.S. for RV use. He says they're by far the most convenient way
to handle the water problem in Mexico and cost a few hundred dollars. Unfortunately he
didn't mention the names of the manufacturers.
English-Language Bookstores and Magazines, p. 38
If you happen to be in Guadalajara you'll find a fine English-language bookstore.
Libreria Sandi (Sandi Book Store) has a good selection of travel guides to Mexico as well
as lots of novels and magazines. We like them because they carry this book. The address is
Tepeyac 718, Col. Chapalita. Ask for directions at any of the Guadalajara area
campgrounds.
Another English-language newspaper you might watch for is the Mexico City Times.
Fuel and Gas Stations, p. 40
A reader has taken us to task for our discussion of sulfur in diesel fuel. We checked
and he's right. Sulfur is apparently actually good for the operation of your diesel
engine, but not so good for the environment. There's no reason to change your oil filter
more frequently when you use high-sulfur Mexican diesel. Also, there is now
low-sulfur diesel available in some parts of Mexico. You may, however, need to change your
fuel filter more often in Mexico, it's a good idea to bring along extras.
People Documentation, p. 61
There is now a charge for tourist cards to enter Mexico. The fee is 170 pesos (about
$18 U.S.). It is not collected at the border. Instead, you are issued a voucher which you
must take to a bank within three days to make your payment there.
Vehicle Documentation, p. 62
Written May 2, 2001
As we note in the book it is extremely important to turn in your hologram window
sticker when leaving Mexico. These stickers are now being tracked by computer and you will
have trouble getting back into Mexico next year if you don't turn them in this year as
your leave. You may also hear from the Mexican government by mail and be fined. Here's a
letter we received on the subject:
"Upon entry into Mexico we followed appropriate procedures and got our vehicle
permit and windshield sticker. When coming back into the US by way of Reynosa and McAllen,
we were stopped at the checkpoint where the functionary looked over our papers, returned
them to us and waved us on without taking the vehicle permit or windshield sticker. We
didn't think anything of it until a US Customs inspector saw the sticker and expressed
surprise that it hadn't been taken. He also said that once the permitted time had expired,
we might have problems with the Mexican government assuming that we had never taken our
vehicle back out of Mexico.
Since it was late in the evening, we had to return to the Mexican side the next
morning. There the clerk in the vehicle permit office took our permit and sticker and gave
us a receipt, the whole process taking just a few minutes.
I called the Mexican Embassy today and was told that we might indeed have a problem
entering Mexico in the future if their computer system had no record of our having takin
our vehicle back out.
RVers leaving Mexico at the end of their trip should be aware that their permit and
windshield sticker must be returned when they leave if they ever plan to return to Mexico.
If the checkpoint guard doesn't take them they should return the permits at the Mexican
point of entry before crossing back into the US. and no matter where they give up the
permits, they should be sure to get a receipt for them. Although is is possible to mail
the permit and sticker to the Mexicana embassy, it requires paperwork, copies, a notarized
letter, etc."
President Zedillo Orders Collection of Vehicle Deposits Halted, p. 62
Written December 3, 1999:
The new procedures for collection of deposits on vehicles traveling into Mexico have
been scrapped today at the direction of Mexican President Zedillo. Government officials
will work on finding a new way to curb the illegal import of vehicles into the country.
The imposition of deposits had caused a storm of protests from people and officials in
both Mexico and the U.S.
Crossing the Border - Nogales, Sonora, p. 71
Readers tell us that there is now a "Sonora Only" lane at the documentation
station 21 kilometers south of the crossing. Procedures are slightly easier but remember,
you must stay in Sonora if you use this lane. That means that if you head south you will
be limited to the camping destinations of Bahía Kino, San Carlos, Guaymas, Navohoa, and
Alamos. We've already heard from people who were sorry later when they decided that they
really wanted to continue on to Los Mochis and Mazatlán.
Crossing the Border - Ciudad Juárez, Chihuahua (El Paso, Texas), p.71
A reader has pointed out a flaw in our write-up of this crossing. From the east/west
Highway I-10 you want to go south on Highway 54, not 59. We said this is Paisano Street
but it is not, Paisano is a nearby east-west street through the El Paso business district.
Fortunately the route to the border crossing is well-signed from I-10. In fact, it is
apparently so easy to find yourself in Mexico at this crossing that there have been
national news reports lately of Texans ending up in Mexico accidentally. This has had
serious consequences for several of them that had guns in their vehicles, they landed in
Mexican prisons. Tourists are not allowed to have guns in Mexico. Being caught with a gun
in Mexico is no joke and will probably result in jail time. Rigs are often thoroughly
searched at check points so don't even think of bringing one along.
Crossing the Border - Other Border Crossings, p. 73
A reader passes along the following information about
crossing at Los Indios between Brownsville and McAllen Texas. We haven't tried it and
can not identify its exact location on a map. It must be signed from the highway along the
border between McAllen and Brownsville. We assume it's east of the Pharr crossing.
"We had previously exited Mexico via the crossing at Pharr, which is very
popular with RVers, and this year we entered Mexico that way with no problems and had
planned to leave by the same route. But Rosie and Russ at the Victoria Trailer Park told
us about the crossing at Los Indios, not mentioned in your book. It was much easier to get
to than the one at Pharr - the well-marked route in Mexico is via Valle Hermoso from
Highway 101 - and the crossing was the easiest one we have experienced in six years, with
no waiting on either side of the border. The US customs agents told us that the crossing
has been open for some years, but it's apparently little known. On the US side, the signs
for Los Indios say "Free Trade Bridge"; we had noticed them but erroneously
assumed that the bridge was for commercial traffic."
Dolisa Motel & Trailer Park, Álamos, p. 87
During April 1998 we spend a few days at the Dolisa in Álamos. The park now has 51
spaces, all have 30-amp electricity and water hookups. All but 5 have sewer hookups.
Sixteen of the sites are pull-throughs. In addition, the Dolisa has a water-purification
plant and sells purified water to much of Álamos. The GPS location of the Dolisa is N 27° 01' 32.1", W 108° 56' 25.6".
El Caracol RV Resort and Ranch, Álamos, p. 88
The GPS location of the El Caracol is N27° 04' 40.6",
W 109° 04' 18.9".
Real de los Álamos RV Park, Álamos, p. 88
The GPS location of the Real de los Álamos RV Park is N 27°
01' 49.0", W 108° 57' 02.2".
La Playa Beach Front RV Resort,
Bahía Kino, p. 90
We've been getting recommendations from readers for this new (winter 2000) campground
in Kino Bay. It has 48 full-hookup sites (50-amp. for rigs to 45 feet) on terraces above
the beach, nice bathrooms with showers, laundry area, a security wall, and friendly
owners. A pool and hot tub are planned for March, 2000. It is located right about where we
show the Km 110 marker on page 91 of our book. Reservations are highly recommended. La
Playa, P.O. Box 15, Bahía Kino, Sonora, Mex. 83340. Telephone 01152 624-20274, Fax 01152
624-20273.
Hotel Playa de Cortés Trailer Park, Guaymas, p. 98
This trailer park in Guaymas continues to grow in popularity. They've recently
installed 27 new spaces for a total of 82. The new spaces are narrow but do have full
hookups with 15-amp power. The hotel does not have boat-launching facilities as indicated
in the book but you will be able to arrange launching in the area. The GPS location of
this campground is N 27° 54' 42.7", W 110° 56' 40.6".
Hacienda Tetakawai R.V. Trailer Park, San Carlos, p. 100
The GPS location is N 27° 57' 48.2", W 111° 01' 31.2"
Totonaka Trailer Park and Apartamentos, San Carlos, p. 101
The GPS location is N 27° 57' 48.0", W 111° 01' 28.2"
El Mirador Trailer Park, San Carlos, p.
101
San Carlos near Guaymas has a nice new trailer park this year. To reach it take the San
Carlos road off the Guaymas cut-off, drive right through San Carlos toward the hotels and
Playa Piedras Pinta toward the west. You can't miss it. This is a nice place. There are 90
sites, good bathrooms, a swimming pool, two tennis courts, laundry, convenience store, and
restaurant. The beach is about 200 yards away. Give it an overnight try if you are heading
south or stake out a site for the winter. Long-term rates are available. Overnight stays
fall into our Expensive range. Reservations at (622) 7-02-13 which is the number at the
campground.
Pictures of the resort
before it opened.
Hotel El Cangrejo Moro and RV Park, near Los Moches, p. 102
When we revisited this relatively new and increasingly popular RV destination on the
beach between Los Mochis and Culiacán in April 1998 it had grown to 68 sites. All are
back-in but many are quite large and suitable for any rig. Plans are still in the works
for restrooms dedicated to the RVs, until then a hotel room continues to be available if
you don't want to use the shower in your rig or if (like us) you don't happen to have one.
The restaurant and pool continue to be great! The GPS location of the campground is N 25° 17' 41.8", W 108° 31' 31.7".
Hotel El Cangrejo Moro and RV Park, near Los Moches, p.
102
Note from reader related to May 1999 late-season trip:
We were surprised at the cost ($15 U.S.): this park was the worst value of our
trip. Perhaps the high charge was because we were the only visitors there. Additionally,
the pool was filthy and the restrooms uncared for. For us, this is "not
recommended" for off-season camping.
$15 would put this campground at the top of our moderate range. Probably not
unreasonable considering its popularity during the season but a little high if the
facilities aren't being kept up in the off season. Don't be surprised if you are the only
camper in a campground after the Easter holidays, RV traffic drops to almost nothing.
Rio Fuerte Trailer Park, p. 103
We've been receiving reports that this campground is closed. Don't count on staying
here. That shouldn't be much of a problem since there are several alternatives in the
area.
New RV Park in El Fuerte near Los
Mochis, p. 104
We've received an e-mail dated Nov. 15, 2000 from the operator of a new RV park in El
Fuerte. That's good news, the town is on the route of the Copper Canyon railroad so it
shortens the trip up to Creel by several hours, and you only miss the flatland part of the
ride. The place is called RV Park de El Fuerte, it has 26 full-hookup
sites (21 with 30-amp power, 5 with 50 amp), a palm-roofed palapa, and a tall fence with
security personnel. The fax says the place is still under construction, sites are
available from November 9; hot showers, washers, and dryers to be available at the end of
November. Prices are $15 for a 15-amp site, $20 for 50 amps. For reservations contact Bill
Trimble in El Fuerte at (689) 3-11-38 or on the web at bill@tsi.com.mx .
Punta Vista R.V. Park, Santa Ana, p. 105
The GPS address is N 30° 32' 10.6", W 111° 07' 00.1".
Motel Kino, Magdalena, p. 106
The GPS address is N 30° 37' 30.1", W 110° 58' 20.9".
San Fernando Trailer Park, Mazatlán p. 108
This is a new campground in Mazatlán. It is close to the Mar Rosa, about a block
inland from there. We visited in April 1988 and found it to be nice although the sites are
really packed in there. This is a very convenient location and well worth a look.
Point South Mazatlán Trailer Park, Mazatlán, p. 110
The folks at Point South tell us that their Mazatlán RV park will no longer be open,
beginning with the 1998-99 season. The owners of the land have other plans for the space.
Rancho Los Angeles, Teacapán, p. 115
We revisited this new campground during April 1998. The only other campers at that time
were a group of tent campers. An American living in Teacapán stopped by and reports that
the campground did very well during the winter. There's just no other place like this so
close to Mazatlán. The campground has 42 sites overlooking the beach with another 20
sites under construction behind them. The restrooms have toilets but no showers and are
very basic. You can use the much nicer facilities at the restaurant and pool if you don't
have a shower in your rig. The GPS address is N 22° 38'
40.4", W 105° 48' 50.3".
Rancho Los Angeles, Teacapán, p. 115
Note from reader related to May 1999 late-season trip:
Overnight cost was $10 U.S. Once again, we were the only guests (at either the
hotel or RV Park), but what a difference compared to the El Cangrejo above! The pool and
restaurant were immaculate, and the management very hospitable.
Incidentally, this campground is being advertised as a KOA that is under construction.
There are now 9 KOAs either under construction (actually most are just bringing themselves
into compliance with KOA standards) or in operation in Mexico.
Playa Suave, Acapulco, p. 126
A reader reports that this campground now falls into the moderate price range. It's
still a good choice due to the location.
La Marmota, Manzinillo, p. 131
A reader reports that the price here has increased to the moderate category and that
the toilets and showers were not even "barely adequate" as we reported. During
the reader's 1997-98 visit they were best described as "filthy and unusable".
Boca de Iguanas and Boca Beach, near Melaque p. 134
The entrance road is now paved. How's that for amazing. Hope it doesn't mean that the
days of these two trailer parks are numbered.
Boca Beach, page 135
Note from reader related to May 1999 late-season trip:
Overnight cost was $12 U.S. A few day-trippers came out for a picnic; otherwise we
were alone on this wonderful stretch of beach.
Red Snapper, RV, p. 136
A note from a reader related to a Winter 1998/1989 winter trip:
You were looking for more info on a new campground in Perula. We stayed at Red
Snapper RV, a rather small campground, located in Perula a few blocks before the Hotel
(Campground #7), which was experiencing a temporary power outage to the RV sites. We got
the impression that the campground had been around for several years. There were perhaps
10-12 sites, 3 overlooking the ocean. At least some had full hookups, but can't speak for
all of them. There were separate clean restrooms. There was also a large shelter with
tables & chairs overlooking the water and we were told that they occasionally served
meals there. English was no problem as the husband was from the US. He offered free use of
the outside washing machine (cold water) and cable (whatever they were watching... usually
the History Channel). We paid $8/US in Mar 99. Very large RVs may find it difficult to
maneuver into sites when the park is full.
Another note from a reader about this campground:
We were there in Feb-Mar 2000 and again at the end of June to purchase a place.
There are 4 beachfront sites and probably 15 others. The rate is 120 pesos for the
beachfront sites and 70 pesos for the others. The campground closed for the year at the
end of April. It has a large palapa with tiled floor and food served by the owner's wife.
Free use of washing machine with telephone and fax. Great Beach! The 3 kilometer road from
Carraterra 200 is now paved.
Cabañas y RV Park, Melaque, p. 137
We'd heard a rumor about this place and a reader reports that it is very small with
primitive hookups. The price is in the moderate category and they found it empty in
February while La Playa was full. It is located several blocks south of La Playa.
Tacho's Trailer Park, Puerta Vallarta, p. 142
A reader reports that this campground is now in the expensive category.
Tacho's Trailer Park, Puerta Vallarta, p. 142
Note from reader related to May 1999 late-season trip:
Overnight cost was $12 U.S. A good value; the pool and restrooms were nice. However
avoid "Festival de Mayo"; a carnival held in an adjoining fairground, as it
features all night revelry and music with the ubiquitous bass beat.
El Caracol RV Park, Lo de Marcos, p. 147
This campground now has a web site. http://www.members.tripod.com/elcaracol_mx/
Chihuahua KOA, Chihuahua, p. 165
A reader reports that there is a new KOA in Chihuahua too. Apparently it is located on
the western bypass route.
Loewen's R.V. Park, Cd. Cuahtémoc, p. 166
Note from reader related to May - June 1999 late-season trip:
Overnight cost $11 U.S. This was one of our favorite stops. Peter Loewen was a
great host, and very informative about the area. He would like you to update his phone
number to (158) 2 65 23. This is also his campground fax number.
Hotel Los Arcos, Nuevo Casas Grandes, p. 166?
Our book does not show a campground in Nuevo Casas Grandes but a reader reports:
"The Hotel Los Arcos on highway 10 at the southern end of Nuevo Casas Grandes
advertises a trailer park. Seven sites are demarcated at the rear of the motel. though
there's room for at least four times that many to park and plenty of room to maneuver.
Four eighteen-wheelers were parked during one night of our stay, creating no problem.
Presently, there's only one water faucet, one duplex 15 amp outlet, and one very adequate
sewer dump, at the end of one of the two motel structures, for the RV sites. The owner,
who is very cordial and speaks fluent English, said that the outlet has a 30 amp breaker,
but there was insufficient voltage for our air conditioner, requiring us to run our
generator. The owner wants to encourage RV business and says that he wants to install
electric outlets at the sites, but it's expensive to do, and we were only his seventh
customers this year. The advantage of the location is, of course, its proximity to the
Paquimé ruins, the most important ones in northern Mexico, and the new, excellent museum
there (with the finest exhibition of ceramics I've ever seen). The charge was 80 pesos.
The hotel's address is Carretera a Chihuahua, sur de la ciudad, and its phone is
169/4-42-60."
We've also received a letter from the owner of the Los Arcos. He writes the following:
"In your book in the Chihuahua's section I noticed that in Nuevo Casas Grandes
the R.V. Park "Los Arcos" doesn't appear.
The R.V. Park is part of the Hotel "Los Arcos". It offers security,
electricity (15 amps plug) water and dump area. The area is fenced and has 24 hrs.
vigilance. Also there's space for 20 vehicles in a primitive area.
R.V. Park "Los Angeles" is located in the Casas Grandes-Chihuahua
Highway Km#2, 7 kilometers from the "Paquime" archeological site and Museum of
the Northern Cultures. It is 5 kilometers from downtown Nuevo Casas Grandes.
R.V. "Park Los Angeles" is on the route to Creel, Copper Canyon and
Basaseachic Falls.
Nowdays the "Paquime" ceramic is one of the finest in Mexico. Each year
on the month of May, a ceramic contest of the "Paquime" region is held.
R.V. Park "Los Arcos" is on the Mimbres-Paquime route which connects New
Mexico, USA with Chihuahua, Mexico.
RV Park "Los Arcos" is hosted by its owners, the Nevarez Family.
We would really appreciate if you included information on the R.V. Park Los Arcos
on your next edition
Hotel Los Arcos, Nuevo Casas Grandes, p. 166?
Note from reader related to May-June 1999 late-season trip:
Overnight cost $10 U.S. This campground is in the dusty side area of a modest hotel
with a restaurant. We hooked up to electricity, and water and a sanitary dump were
available; there was also a palapa with a group barbecue area. However, there are NO
restrooms available! This is the only place we could find to camp close to the fascinating
archaeological sights of northern Chihuahua. I hope that in future editions of your guide
you will add this important area.
We will!
The Lodge at Creel R.V. Park, Creel, p. 169
Fooled again! This campground didn't get built. But see below.
Creel/Copper Canyon KOA, Creel, p. 169
KOA says there is a brand new KOA in Creel, opening date to be January 1, 1998. We
haven't been there yet, we'll visit during the spring of 1999. Until then we'd appreciate
info from anyone who has visited.
A reader reports that this campground did indeed open in March 98. It is located near
the Y at the southern end of town, not far from the Pension Creel. It has 80 spaces,
cabins, and most KOA amenities, but no pool. The price category is Very Expensive. There
were a few problems:
"There was no security at night, no one on duty and the outside lights were
turned off when personnel left between nine and ten. The manager advised us that electric
voltage fluctuated (new transmission lines and a new substation are being built outside
Creel) and during two days of our stay there was virtually no water, so that restrooms and
showers were closed. All personnel were very cordial, though the person at the desk may
not speak English."
Creel/Copper Canyon KOA, Creel, p. 169
Note from reader related to May-June 1999 late-season trip:
Overnight cost $27 U.S. We couldn't find "The Lodge at Creel R.V. Park"as
described on page 169, but were suspicious that this KOA, in approximately the same
location, is what has actually come about. Listed in our KOA directory at $26 for 2 adults
with water, electric, and sewer, and indicating off-season rates from 4/1 - 9/30 (our
visit was mid-June), we still somehow ended up paying $27. Once again we were the only
campers. This park was experiencing some disorganization, or perhaps was unprepared for
off-season guests. Anyway, the restroom, supposedly open all night, was locked; shower
water was cold as the staff needed to be forewarned in order to turn on the water heater
(although they neglected to inform us of this fact). We left our Motorhome there overnight
while taking the train to El Fuerte. To make up somewhat for previous inconveniences, the
night watchman met us at the train which arrived back in Creel about 8 hours late in
pouring rain.
KOA headquarters, are your reading this? Actually, the above is a great improvement
over what was being offered just a season or two ago - nothing. The hardships don't sound
so bad, but the price sure seems out of line for the off-season and the limited amenities.
Also, these folks mention another possibility in Creel:
A hotel, high in a hill in town, is installing some RV hook-ups. Unfortunately, I
have lost the card the owners gave us in hopes that we would "tell our traveling
friends" about them.
Parque National Cascada de Basaseachis, north of
Creel, p. 170
Note from reader related to May-June1999 late-season trip:
Free. We camped in what is described on page 170 as tent-camping areas. Also in the
park are some commercial projects that may become completed campgrounds with amenities in
the future.
El Paraiso, p. 174
At N$150 a night, the El Paraiso is now in the expensive category for large units.
Campo Mexico Motel, Durango, p. 178
In our description of this Durango campground we note that some of the electrical
outlets are marked as 220V. A recently received letter suggests that a little more
emphasis would do no harm. The reader tells us that the outlets are actually marked as
220W (watts) but they are indeed 220V (volts). Without thinking he moved his rig from a
spot with 110V into one with 220V and plugged in. He and his wife heard "awful
noises" from the microwave but unplugged quickly and there was no damage. They were
lucky! You should make it a point to check outlets with a tester before using them as we
discuss in the Details, Details, Details chapter of the book.
Hacienda Trailer Park, Guadalajara, p. 181
The Hacienda has raised its rates to the moderate range in line with other campgrounds
with similar amenities in the Guadalajara region.
PAL Lake Chapala, near Guadalajara, p. 185
Note from reader related to May 1999 late-season trip:
Overnight cost was $13 U.S. Exactly as you described it. We were there on a
weekend, and lots of Mexican families with lots of kids were camped near the pool.
There's a new telephone number here: (376) 6-00-40 and (376) 6-14-47
Morrill Trailer Park, Guanajuato, p. 187
Note from reader related to May 1999 late-season trip:
Overnight cost was $9 U.S. Your detailed directions guided us right to the park. At
this time of year, the park is also used as overflow parking by the rest of the
neighborhood, so there was lots of noise in the early a.m. hours during the week by
working folks making sure their cars, trucks, motorcycles, etc. were thoroughly warmed up
for the steep shoot out the gates and up the hill.
Bugamvilia Trailer Park, Guanajuato, p. 188
This seems to be the correct spelling of the name of this campground. Apparently it is
named for the owner's daughter, not a tree. Our mistake and we apologize. There are now 48
sites with electrical hook-ups here. The small small Cactus Restaurant is
open only for rallies and large caravans. Tours can be arranged into Guanajuato by the
owner.
Las Palmas Midway Inn, Matehuala, p. 190
A reader reports:
"The height of the arch you have to pass under to get to the Las Palmas
trailer park (about 11'9") prevents big motorhomes from entering. (ours requires
12'11", so we parked in the front parking lot and ran a cord from a garden.)"
Driving Through Mexico City, p. 200
A reader writes:
"The problem in going through Mexico City to Cuernavaca in a large bus-style
motorhome on the route you direct is that the police will likely make you, like trucks and
busses, get off the multi-lane highway to a lateral, from which you can't make the turn
required to get to the Cuernavaca exit, and of course, they may demand
"mordida"as well. I like to visit Mexico City, but getting through it in the
motorhome is always a nightmare. (I've driven my car into the city without
problems)."
We've never been stopped by the police on the expressways through Mexico city, but it
is very possible that this might happen, especially if you are in a large and obvious rig.
We've talked with others who have had no problems, and also with those who have,
particularly with police looking for mordida. There are so many rules that you are likely
to break that it is pretty easy for the police to find something wrong. The best strategy
is to follow one of the routes to bypass the city, especially in view of the U.S.
government's recent notices that Mexico City is unsafe. If you do visit, just camp outside
of town in the places mentioned in our book, and take a bus into the city. Once there be
careful, stay away from the taxis and don't wander into out of the way places.
Motel Patzcuaro, Pátzcuaro, p. 208
Note from reader related to May 1999 late-season trip:
Overnight cost was $9 U.S. This place was great!! Gringos need to
"discover"Patzcuaro. The owners of the motel offer a complimentary informational
brochure about the history of Patzcuaro as well as current highlights of the area. Also
available for tenters and campers is a small house with a kitchen (particularly useful for
tenters) and a fireplace.
We have a number of those brochures ourselves that we have collected from them over the
years. We don't mention it in the book for fear they'll stop handing them out and visitors
will be disappointed. The brochures are very useful.
Trailer Park Las Americas, Puebla, p. 210
A reader reports that the new periférico (ring road) is now completed. We mention
passing under it in our guide, it now is apparently the best way to reach the campground
from highway 150D. "You simply get on the periférico from 150D, exit at 190
toward Mexico City, and turn left on Calle 6 Norte from the highway at the trailer park
sign. No need to drive through Puebla now."
Hotel Imperial del Norte, Saltillo, p. 214
Now in the expensive price category.
El Mesquite, San Louis Potosi,
p. 215
We're told that this hotel is open again and accepting campers (spring 2000). It had
been closed for renovation.
New Campground in San Luis Potosí?, p. 216
A reader tells us there is a new campground in San Louis Pososí. This is great news
since the only other one in town, the El Mesquite, has been in the throes of a major
reconstruction for several years and the campground seems to be closed, maybe for good.
The new campground is at the Fiesta Inn. The readers stayed in the place in the spring of
1999, it wasn't really open yet at that time but they say it looks very promising. We hope
so, San Luis Potosí is well worth a visit lasting several days. The Fiesta Inn is
reported to be located on Mex 57 east of the big high-rise intersection that is just east
of the center of town.
La Siesta Hotel, San Miguel de Allende, p. 217
A reader reports some good news:
"We agree that Lago Dorado is very nice, but it is remote and we hold our
breath as our 38 foot bus-type motorhome crosses the railroad hump, so this year we stayed
at the La Seista, which we'd given only a cursory look-see before. We're happy to report
that its facilities have improved since the description given in your book. Our hookups
were excellent: grounded electric outlets with correct polarity, good water pressure from
well-threaded faucets with handles, free flowing sewer - all that one could ask for.
Though there is only one toilet/shower for each sex, they had seats, toilet paper, and
soap, as well as hot water! The lot was not dusty, though there was much cut, dried grass
to track into the motorhome. I did see, on the far side of the lot, some two-wire
(ungrounded) electric outlets that were not attached to anything, but a class C motorhome
was using one of them."
La Siesta Hotel, San Miguel de Allende, p. 217
Note from reader related to May 1999 late-season trip:
Overnight cost was $10. The hotel will do laundry for a reasonable fee.
Koala Bungalows and Trailer Park, Tepic, p. 220
A reader suggests an addition:
"You might want to mention next time around that the Koala Bungalows and
Trailer Park, listed under Tepic, is far and away the best birding location we have found
in Mexico. In addition to which, it is incredibly beautiful."
We agree.
Hotel Villa Jardín, Gómez Palacio, p. 225
A reader reports:
"The electricity at the Hotel Villa Jardin was insufficient for any appliance
other than lights and battery charger, requiring us to run the generator for anything
else, and it was turned off every morning when the lights were turned off, requiring us to
ask that is be turned on again if we wanted to use it. Hotel personnel were very cordial,
and the pool is very nice. The rate was 75 pesos."
This is exactly how we found things when we visited, right down to the lights being
turned off in the morning. Truth is, they don't get many RV visitors so they tend to
forget. Guess we should have mentioned the extremely low amperage. Still, there are few
alternatives in this region and we enjoyed our stay.
Hotel Villa Jardín, Gómez Palacio, p. 225
Note from reader related to May 1999 late-season trip:
Overnight cost $17. Despite your book's indication of "Low" on the cost,
this is what we paid. This should have been a warning to me as I handed our dirty clothing
over to the laundry - which they charged for by the piece. Ugh!
La Joyita, Uruapan, p. 226
Note from reader related to May 1999 late-season trip:
Overnight cost was $8 U.S. Taking your advice, we headed to the multi-plex where we
chose the film "American History X" over some of the usual Hollywood drivel. Not
aware of the movie's theme or content, we experienced an uncomfortable moment when the
skin-heads were berating "spics" and "wet-backs". We were the only
Norte Americanos in the audience.
Embarcadero Laumase, Valle de Bravo, p. 228
A reader reports some problems with this campground:
"Embarcadero Laumase, at Valle de Bravo, did not turn out to be a good
experience for us. The owner was not there when we arrived at 6:00 p.m.; the two men we
talked to said we should NOT set up our camper without permission from the owner, but that
he would be back in a couple of hours. As it was really too late to start for another
campground, we decided to wait. When the owner had not arrived by 8:30, and it was pitch
dark, we climbed in the back of our pickup and more-or-less slept until daylight. The
owner still had not arrived, so we got in the truck and drove off. We realize no one can
be on duty all the time, but if he wants to be in the campground business, perhaps he
should delegate someone to handle it when he's gone."
Hotel Hacienda del Bosque, Zacatecas, p. 230
Note from reader related to May 1999 late-season trip:
Overnight cost was $14. The bathrooms were so fabulous we wanted to move into them!
Your "fly in the ointment" comment is too much of an understatement to describe
our reaction as the first train of the night came through sounding like it was bearing
down on us right through the park . . . . and then the whistle blew!
Motel Del Bosque, Zacatecas, p. 230
One reader has written to voice severe discontent with the Del Bosque. He reports being
asked to pay extra for a parking place for his tow car (when leaving, after already having
paid what he thought was the full rate when he arrived), friends having had extra charges
added to their credit card after leaving, and children stealing valve covers from his
tires (poor security). On the plus side, he reports being able to get a 38-footer into the
place. We're not ready to remove this place from our book as he requests, we try to list
all campgrounds unless there are very serious problems. Also, the convenient location of
the Del Bosque is hard to ignore. When we were there we paid one day at a time and
had no problems with people messing with our rig when we were away. We were awakened one
morning, however, by a local washing our front windshield. We paid him a few pesos and
thought it an interesting service for the campground to offer. We're not really sure that
they even knew about his visit.
Ciudad Mante, p.239
Readers advise us that there is a campground in Ciudad Mante, the Hotel Mante Trailer
Park. Ciudad Mante is south of Ciudad Victoria on Mex 85.
Ciudad Victoria, p. 241
A reader reports that there may be a new RV park in Ciudad Victoria.
"Leaving Ciudad Victoria on 101 toward Matamoros, we noted, on the west side
of the highway, not far beyond the outer periferico, a trailer park with several RVs
parked in it. We did not stop to investigate, but you might wish to do so when you're in
that area."
La Pesca, p. 242
We do not include any campgrounds in this town in our book, but there is one. A reader
reports:
"La Pesca - Gaviota is worth mentioning. They are building a big pool by
the river. More docks. There are hookups along the fence, Lots more space."
Cerro Azul, p. 241
If you are driving south on Mex 180 along the Gulf Coast you will find that the streach
from Tampico to Nautla can make a long day of driving. There may be a new campground near
Cerro Azul which would be a big help. Our information is very limited, it comes from a
reader:
"On Highway 180 south of Cerro Azul we noticed a new trailer park, but we did
not stop to inspect it."
Poza Rica Hotel, p. 243
We mention this place as a possibility under "Other Camping Possibilities" on
the Emerald Coast north of Veracruz. A reader reports:
Posa Rica Hotel had water and weak electricity for 5-6 rigs and use of bathrooms
and a nice pool. Rate for Nov 98 was $15/US.
Rancho Hermanos Graham, Villahermosa, p. 248
This campground has been closed for several years but during the
2000/2001 season it was open and exactly like it was when the book was
written.
La Choca Fairgrounds, Villahermosa, p. 250
The area mentioned in the book is now called Parque Tabasco. La Choca
has moved farther out across the river, it is still the place to boondock
in Villahermosa.
Other Camping Possibilities in Villahermosa, p. 250 -
A reader points out that it is perfectly possible to make a day trip to Villahermosa
from Palenque. He's absolutely right, we've done it ourselves.
Rosa Isabel Trailer Park, Oaxaca, p. 259
A reader reports that in the winter of 97/98 this campground was closed with a chain
wrapped around the gate, but no lock. He stayed there anyway, no one appeared. He left
payment when he left.
We visited in 2000/2001 and found that this campground is now closed.
Trailer Park Los Mangos, Bahías de Huatulco, p. 261
A reader's suggestion for those with big rigs:
"We couldn't get into the Los Mangos but parked in the public bus parking lot
opposite the mall on the main street in Santa Cruz and ran the generator for A/C. The
police looked us over on arrival but no one bothered us, we felt secure because of the
guards at the bank and shops across the street."
During our 2000/2001 trip we found that Los Mangos has disappeared, the
place to camp is now the public bus parking lot mentioned above.
Puerto Escondido Trailer Park (Bahía de
Carrizalillo), p. 265
During the winter of 2000/2001 we
visited this campground and found that it is completely closed down.
Palmas de Cortes, Puerto Escondido, p. 267
This place is also reported to be totally destroyed by the storms. This doesn't leave a
lot of places to camp in Puerto Escondido. Some folks camp along a beach road south of
town. The Neptuno might also be OK for dry camping.
Hotel Calli, Tehuantepec, p. 275
Update from a reader. Guess we'll definitely be taking another look at the Hotel Calli.
"We've always stayed at the Santa Teresa, passing by the Hotel Calli because
of its less than glowing descriptions in your guide and Franz's. But last year at the
Santa Teresa someone apparently tried to get at the bikes on the rack at the rear of our
motorhome, setting off the alarm, and this year we decided to avoid the Santa Teresa's
very rough access road (not noted in your book) and stay at the Calli. We were very
pleasantly surprised. An electric outlet was no more than ten feet from the rear of our
backed-in motorhome, not requiring "a long cord"; there was a water faucet
adjacent to it; and the waste tanks could be emptied into one of several sewer drains. A
second faucet and two more outlets were also available. The hotel's interior court has a
lovely swimming pool, surrounded by a lushly landscaped lawn area furnished with tables
and chairs, recliners, rockers, and hammocks. Dozens of birds sang in the trees during the
afternoon we enjoyed there. There are toilet facilities, complete with seats and toilet
paper, though no showers, at the main entrance to the pool area, which is also directly
accessible from the RV parking space. The Calli was a welcome change form the rustic
isolation of the Santa Teresa, and we found it well worth the N$100 we paid."
Here's another report from a different reader:
"You may want to warn travelers about the biting insects at Tehuantepec. Not
sure what they were... larger than no-see-ums (as we know them), more like sand fleas. We
enjoyed the pool at Hotel Calli and might have stayed longer and taken some side trips,
but for the bugs. We met up with a caravan at Oaxaca that had experienced even more bugs
at the Santa Teresa. Two of the women had to seek medical attention.
Hogar Infantil near Tuxtla Gutiérrez, p. 277
It's good to get a report on the Hogar Infantil:
"The Hogar Infantil no longer has full hookups, as the electric outlets are
inoperative, but you can run a cord to an outlet inside a building. It's now a boys and
girls home, and the residents and staff do make it a rewarding stop."
Zoo in Tuxtla Gutiérrez, p. 277
We mention in the book that some folks boondock in the parking lot of the zoo. Here's a
first-hand report from a reader:
"The zoo (which operates on donations only) at Tuxtla (p. 276) is wonderful.
We pulled in late afternoon and they gave us permission to stay in the parking area
overnight. We have the zoo a generous donation in appreciation. The local police stopped
by that evening to let us know they would be patrolling the road for our protection and
again the next morning to wish us a safe trip. Not even a hint of mordida! "
Trailer Park Mecoloco, Cancún, p. 284
We forgot to mention the mosquitoes, but a reader reminded us. "The mosquitoes
at Mecoloco are almost as bad as the no-see-ums at San Blas (nothing could be as bad as
them)." We didn't find the mosquitoes bad except in the evening, then it was
necessary to move indoors. Mosquitoes are funny, they'll be bad one time and no problem
the next, but the fact that most people who have stayed at this campground mention the
mosquitoes must mean something.
This campground also has a new phone number. Call (98) 4-30-324 or (98) 4-30-325.
Oasis RV Campground, Merida, p. 295
Readers tell us that this campground has been closed. The Rainbow RV Campground which
also serves Mérida remains open.
