Getting Around Acapulco

Taxis are everywhere in Acapulco. Since they are unmetered, make sure that you agree on a fare before entering. Always negotiate - they can smell tourist money a mile away. Shared Cabs (usually white) run between major destinations and are very convenient. They usually display their destination in large letters and charge a flat fee on $10 pesos, irrespective of distance. You should not have to pay more than $50 pesos per cab ride within the Costera area but fares can reach as much as $120 pesos for rides from La Costera to La Quebrada, Princess Hotel (Revolcadero Beach) and the airport. Alternatively most hotels can arrange for taxi transportation for a fixed fare (usually inflated). Prices will usually be about 50% more expensive than for a taxi hailed on the street.

There are several public transportation options: Yellow cabs are 10 pesos per person; buses are 4 pesos or 5 pesos with the luxury of air-conditioning. Because of the sheer amount of taxis here, when one is dining out it is often worthwhile for them to offer a round trip and simply wait around while you have your meal, and they will not charge extra.

Buses are worth experiencing even if you don´t want to travel on them. The bus system in Acapulco has been fully privatised - each bus is privately owned. This means they can decorate them however they want. Pink buses cruise around blaring out traditional Mexican music, racing against ones decked out in UV lights pulsing out club music into the night air. The complete lack of suspension and the bizarre incentive for the buses to race each other to each bus stop as they compete for passengers makes for an unforgettable ride.

It is generally unwise to try to drive yourself around Acapulco. Traffic is heavy, parking is scarce, streets do not run in a neat grid, and even change names unexpectedly.

Adapted from Wikitravel

Diving Trips in and Near to Acapulco, Mexico

Think Acapulco and somehow, Elvis comes to mind. This port city, situated on the Pacific coast of Mexico, nestled on a bay. Known for its bustling port of call for ships and cruises, Acapulco is also blessed for being in tropics with warm breezes all year round. Rainfall is more frequent in the summer while winter is dry and sunny.

Who can possibly forget the cliff divers of Acapulco? Grace combined with an incredible adrenaline rush never failed to keep watchers fascinated. Today, this beautiful island resort has much more than just cliff divers and its white beaches. With average water temperature ranging in the mid-twenties, you can't ask for a more pleasant dive. However, check visibility of the water before entering. There'll be enough information in Acapulco to start a great diving adventure.

Roqueta Island or La Isla Roqueta is a favorite haunt for divers who wish to explore the shallow and clear waters. It's definitely the way to go to appreciate its marine richness. The more experienced divers can venture into the cave. However it's not only for novices because for experienced divers there is the possibility of diving in the caves. On the shores of Roqueta Island you can explore the "Virgen Sumergida" (an underwater shrine). For the more adventurous, visit the many diving centers on the island and ask about the Rio de Plata, a sunken shipwreck. This island is ideal for all 'classes' of divers.

To the east of Acapulco lies Puerto Marquez. First time divers may want to visit this picturesque bay surrounded by gentle mountains, for its shallow waters and beautiful surroundings. What could be more satisfying than surfacing to breathtaking fauna?

Although small in size, the beaches at Caleta and Caletilla are excellent choices for beginners at diving. The calm waters provide excellent visibility for divers to enjoy the beautiful aquatic inhabitants. Many locals flock to these beaches to enjoy the serene waters.

To the west of Acapulco, lies Icacos beach. As in all parts of Acapulco, you will be visually thrilled by the variety of fishes and corals in its crystal blue waters.

You say you can't dive and have no gear? There are many diving centers which offer 'crash courses' for those interested. Acapulco doesn't give you an excuse not to take a plunge into the beautiful Pacific waters. Rent a gear, sign up for a 'crash' course and jump in. Acapulco and its beautiful surrounding waters are beckoning.

Orson Johnson writes for Holiday Velvet, a website providing Acapulco accommodation and World vacation Rentals.