And North to Troncones...

We had decided on this trip to broaden our horizons beyond Zih. The boys both had new expensive custom body boards and were eager to try them out...on to Manzanillo Bay!

We stayed at Inn at Manzanillo Bay for a couple of stormy nights (which precluded any body boarding) but were extremely happy with the facilities. The Inn, bungalows and grounds were rustic but nicely kept and the addition of a gorgeous pool after 11 days at a non-pool facility in Zih was a welcome change. The Inn features eight two person bungalows on site and a larger room over the office. The restaurant/bar had excellent food, helpful staff and featured a talented chef. The bar sometimes has a few 'gabbers' that want to stay till the cows come home. Be sure to request Bungalows # 1, 2, 3, or 8 ,7. They are furthest away from the noise.

We were warned by several long time Zih folks that this area is really, really quiet. Well, yes. There isn't alot to do other than enjoy the days. Most of the guests at the Inn were in bed by 9:00 pm. (or earlier.. gee.. what WERE they doing???) We heard that Burro Burracho in Troncones has a band or music on weekends but other than that nothing much is going on.. so.. with that in mind here are my Troncones recommendations:

1) Rent a car. The taxis are expensive. $5.00 USD just to get from Troncones proper to Manzanillo Bay and keep in mind that is only about a mile and a half in distance over a bumpy road. And you have to hunt them down.. they aren't exactly waiting on every corner. And quite frankly, without a car it is difficult to explore the area at ALL. Want to surf in Saladita? You better just get a car..otherwise.. whew ..the taxi cost will cool your jets reeeal fast. And a final note, unfortunately we were horribly ripped off on our way back to the airport to the tune of 75.00 USD. (this was NOT a taxi recommended by the Inn however) 'Nuff said - rent a car kids.

2) If you are a couple, think the romantic Inn at Manzanillo Bay otherwise try one of the many other amazing Inns, private homes and bed and breakfasts. I toured quite a few of them this year and several looked great but I really can't recommend anything other than where I have personally stayed.

3) Bring groceries from Zih. There are a few tiendas in Troncones, but honestly, they have almost nothing you want to buy other than ice.

4) Stock a full First Aid Kit. We ran into a couple that were surfing and the husband sustained a nasty gash that could have used a nice suture kit. He ended up at the clinic a few miles away and got about ten stitches from a rustic medical facility. It was fine but it would have been nice to have your own suture kit in case it was more serious. We also had a very unfortunate encounter with a mean dog who bit one of the nice women who was a vendor on the beach. My husband, a former critical care nurse, put some make shift butterfly bandages on her wound and left her with neosporin, gauze, tape, money and strict instructions to see the clinic but we didn't hold out much hope that she would follow through... the clinic is far.. the hospital in Zih is MUCH farther. Bring your kit.

Anyway.. here are our pics.. and, yes, we will be back here next year...Hasta Pronto!