We traveled to Cancun, Mexico, a year ago, and we arrived the weekend of the presidential election. There was no alcohol for sale because of the elections, and right after we picked up our rental car, the transit police pulled us over and shook us down for $50. That had never happened to me in almost 20 visits to Mexico. This trip, we rented a car, and I cannot tell you how impressed I was by the police presence--federal, military, state, municipal, and tourist. We felt safe. I was dumb enough to make a wrong-way turn on a one-way street, and the police let me off with a warning. Thank goodness!

I had not been to Mazatlán since 1996, and I was curious to see how it had changed. I stayed at a Pueblo Bonito resort in Cabo San Lucas a few years ago (the week before Hurricane Odile hit), and I didn't like it. The resort was built on a hillside, and there was lots of waiting for golf carts to pick you up, even to just get to your car. No so at Emerald Bay! They offered us rides and assistance at every turn and unexpectedly.

For this trip to Mazatlán, the resort made us an all-inclusive deal we could not refuse, and it was wonderful! This was my first time doing all-inclusive at a timeshare resort (over decades), and I felt like we got our money's worth. Although we left the resort each day to go on an excursion in our car, we got great value for our money with the pool-side drink and food service, as well as in the resort restaurants. We tipped our servers a lot (up to 30%), but it was so worth it. They were so kind, responsive, and attentive. It was one of the best service experiences we have ever had.

Once we refused to do the timeshare presentation, they left us alone, for which I am grateful.

We did a short day-trip to Concordia and Copola, on the old Hwy 40. A longer day trip to Durango on the new Hwy 40D, which was amazing! What a feat of engineering. Between Mazatlán and Durango, there are 115 bridges, 8 of which are over 800 feet high, and 63 tunnels that total more than 10 miles in length. The Baluarte Bridge is a suspension bridge on the state line between Sinaloa and Durango, and it is the highest in the world, as well as one of the longest. We saw it from the plane when we flew in to Mazatlan, but cloud cover kept us from seeing it on the way out. Other day trips we made were to Isla de Piedras (okay), and to La Noria to try and buy some local tequila.

The weather was super hot and humid, so we didn't pick the best time of year to travel. The pool water was always warm and not refreshing. It was that time of year, though.

Early check in given to us weary travelers. Front desk clerk, Erika R went out of her way to accommodate us in consideration of a temporary disability. She then took the time to help us download an app which really was very helpful. Honestly, we have never been greeted as pleasantly and given such superior customer service as she did! Our lunch was slightly disappointing for several items on the menu weren’t available. We are on the all inclusive package but dinner didn’t disappoint with an amazing Mexican theme night buffet with the most beautiful presentation and freshest fish! The most gorgeous sunset ended the day with a lime margarita.

Whar a lovely resort, perfect for a family get a way or even a week with friends. Beautiful views, extravagant luxary rooms and fantastic service. Enda, the receptionist was extremely friendly and helpful, I would absolutely recommend this resort.