Below are some of our most frequently asked questions, but in case you can't find what you're looking for please feel free to contact us and we will be happy to answer any other questions you may have.
Where is the closest ATM machine or bank?
There is an ATM machine located at Super Che (our local supermarket) and also at two banks, Bannamex and HSBC Bank. Another ATM is located in the area of the Adouqin, which is a tourist strip of shopping and restaurants on a small beach. FYI, bringing an ATM card, you will get the best exchange rate. Travellers checks are harder to cash and the exchange rate is low.
How do I get around?
Taxis are around 20 to 30 pesos to get you pretty much anywhere around town. Try and get a set price if you are leaving town. Collectivo- you will see these white pick up trucks with a covered canvas top and benches in the back. You can flag one down and get around like a real local. Just jump in the back and a quick bang of your fist when you're ready to get off, pay when you hop off. (About 2 pesos). Our concierge is also available for hire when you'd like. I recommend this for the first time you need to hit the banks, supermarket, or the mercado. It's way easier.
Where can I buy groceries?
There is a small corner store on Calle Jacarandas directly up the street from our Villas. They sell milk, bread and all the basic essentials. Down on Zicatela beach there us a Rockaway nest to the Cafecito restaurant and at the other end of the strip is Merlins. Merlins also sells a small selection of deli items. Uptown is the large supermarket, Super Che. But the real place to visit is the local mercado. Fresh produce, flowers, fish and meat and much more. Spend the morning there, get something to eat and experience Puerto.
Safety...
We have been coming to Puerto a very long time, and in this time we've only ever had some board shorts and shoes taken. Puerto Escondido is a safe beach town, that isn't without the occassional "bad egg". We like to recommend the following obvious tips: Take a taxi anytime after 11pm, Don't flash a lot of money or jewelry, don't buy drugs. If you have any problems, call our conceriege and we can help you. Remember: You are in a different country and try to be sensitive to this.
Are there different beaches?
Yes. Playa Carrizalillo and Playa Manzanillo are both great local swimming beaches. There is also Playa Marinero close to downtown. Or try La Punta (the point). Most beaches offer some boat rides, snorkeling gear and surf board rentals and are close to or have a nearby restaurant.
Frequently Asked Questions...
Travelling with children?
Our Villas are very family friendly. Casa Jacarandas and Casa Lily both have small wading pools attached to the Large Pool, perfect for children. Need ideas for a day out? There are two clubs nearby which offer great days out with small children. First is Club Cocos, a taxi can get you there. They have a great park surrounding the pool, direct beach area with swing set and trampoline. (A note of caution is this beach has strong undercurrents) There is a restuarant/bar there and have good menu items for those picky eaters. Second is Club Sol which is right next door. Just as fun but a tad less expensive. Both will assist in getting you a taxi home. Babysitter needed? Just ask our concierge and we can arrange in home babysitting services as well.
What if I need a doctor?
Please, if you are not well, tell our staff. We will contact Dr. Mario for you. Dr. Mario has looked after our family and friends for many years. He is bilingual, well trained, thorough and overall just a wonderful doctor. Our staff will help in any way needed.
Can I bring my pet?
YES! We are pet friendly, so long as its not an elephant... That means as long as he/she is well behaved and does not disturb our neighbors or other clients, they are welcome. Please just notify us about your pet and we can help make there trip as nice as yours.
Where to eat?
There are so many awesome places to eat in Puerto, but here are a few we really like. For Breakfast, there's Cafe Delux ($), for a fresh breakfast it is next to Dan's hotel which is just a short walk right up the hill from our properties. Or Cafecito ($) for a great cup of coffee and omelette or baked goods, Cafecito is right on the strip. Past Dan's down the hill and over the little red bridge there's a great juice bar ($) with food I recommend you try it. For Lunch and Dinner on the strip there's Los Tios ($). On the beach, great surfer food, ice cold beer, try the Huachinango (whole baked red snapper) yum. For a special sunset dinner take a taxi to Espadin at the Hotel Villas Carrizalillo ($$$), and enjoy a great meal, and beautiful atmosphere.
What else is there to do?
Puerto Escondido offers many other activities than just going to the beach. Ask our concierege and we can help you plan some fun activities that suit your lifestyle. We have bicycles in the garage, or you can hire motos to cruise around town. There is also: Snorkeling, walking tours, waterfalls, Turtle Farm, Coffee Ranch, Salsa Dance Lessons, Yoga, or Surf down the coast on some more isolated beaches, go check out some real estate. Ask and we can have our favorite local cowboy come to the house with horses for a sunset ride on the beach. A morning trip to the mercado is must to experience local culture. There are birding river tours on kayaks, or go to the local rodeo. Take surf lessons or get a massage at Temazcalli. The possibilities are endless and we can help you organize any activity.