Zihuatanejo - The Hidden Gem of Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo

• HelloHola
  [oh-lah]
• GoodbyeAdiós
  [ah-dee-ohs]
• YesSí
  [see]
• NoNo
  [noh]
• Please/You're welcomePor favor/De nada
  [por fah-vor/deh nah-dah]
• Thank youGracias
  [grah-see-ahs]
• Excuse me/SorryDisculpe/Perdón
  [dee-skool-peh/pehr-dohn]
• How are you?¿Cómo estás?
  [koh-moh ehs-tahs]
• Fine. And you?Bien. ¿Y tú?
  [byen. ee too]
• Do you speak English?¿Hablas inglés?
  [ah-blahs een-glehs]
• I don't understandNo entiendo
  [noh ehn-tee-ehn-doh]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseMe gustaría ver el menú, por favor
  [meh goos-tah-ree-ah behr ehl meh-noo, por fah-vor]
• I don't eat meatNo como carne
  [noh koh-moh kahr-neh]
• Cheers!¡Salud!
  [sah-lood]
• I would like to pay, pleaseMe gustaría pagar, por favor
  [meh goos-tah-ree-ah pah-gahr, por fah-vor]

• Help!¡Ayuda!
  [ah-yoo-dah]
• Go away!¡Vete!
  [veh-teh]
• Call the Police!¡Llama a la policía!
  [yah-mah ah lah poh-lee-see-ah]
• Call a doctor!¡Llama a un doctor!
  [yah-mah ah oon dohk-tohr]
• I'm lostEstoy perdido
  [ehs-toy pehr-dee-doh]
• I'm illEstoy enfermo
  [ehs-toy ehn-fehr-moh]

• I'd like to buy...Me gustaría comprar...
  [meh goos-tah-ree-ah kohm-prahr]
• I'm just lookingSólo estoy mirando
  [soh-loh ehs-toy mee-rahn-doh]
• How much is it?¿Cuánto cuesta?
  [kwan-toh kwehs-tah]
• That's too expensiveEso es muy caro
  [eh-soh ehs moo-ee kah-roh]
• Can you lower the price?¿Puede bajar el precio?
  [pweh-deh bah-har ehl pree-syoh]

• What time is it?¿Qué hora es?
  [keh oh-rah ehs]
• It's one o'clockEs la una
  [ehs lah oo-nah]
• Half past (10)La diez y media
  [lah d'yehs ee meh-dee-ah]
• MorningMañana
  [mah-nyah-nah]
• AfternoonTarde
  [tahr-deh]
• EveningNoche
  [noh-cheh]
• YesterdayAyer
  [ah-yehr]
• TodayHoy
  [oy]
• TomorrowMañana
  [mah-nyah-nah]
• 1Uno
  [oo-noh]
• 2Dos
  [dohs]
• 3Tres
  [trehs]
• 4Cuatro
  [kwah-troh]
• 5Cinco
  [seen-koh]
• 6Seis
  [says]
• 7Siete
  [syeh-teh]
• 8Ocho
  [oh-choh]
• 9Nueve
  [nweh-veh]
• 10Diez
  [dyehs]

• Where's a/the...?¿Dónde está...?
  [dohn-deh ehs-tah]
• What's the address?¿Cuál es la dirección?
  [kwal ehs lah dee-rehk-syohn]
• Can you show me (on the map)?¿Puedes mostrarme (en el mapa)?
  [pweh-dehs mohs-trahr-meh (ehn ehl mah-pah)]
• When's the next (bus)?¿Cuándo es el próximo (autobús)?
  [kwan-doh ehs ehl proh-ksee-moh (ow-toh-boos)]
• A ticket (to ....)Un boleto (a ...)
  [oon boh-leh-toh (ah ...)]

Zihuatanejo's history dates back to the pre-Columbian era when it was inhabited by indigenous groups, primarily the Nahuas and the Purépechas. These communities thrived on fishing, agriculture, and trade, utilizing the region's abundant natural resources. Archaeological evidence suggests that Zihuatanejo was a vital coastal trading post, connecting various Mesoamerican cultures.

The arrival of Spanish conquistadors in the 16th century marked a significant turning point for Zihuatanejo. The area was explored by Hernán Cortés in 1521, and by 1531, Spanish forces established control over the region. This colonization led to the introduction of European agricultural practices and the spread of Christianity, drastically altering the cultural landscape of Zihuatanejo.

Throughout the 19th century, Zihuatanejo evolved into a bustling fishing village, capitalizing on its strategic coastal location. The local economy thrived on fishing, particularly the export of seafood to larger cities and abroad. This period saw the establishment of the local fishing community, which remains a cornerstone of Zihuatanejo's cultural heritage.

In the 1970s, Zihuatanejo began to emerge as a tourist destination, primarily due to its beautiful beaches and laid-back atmosphere. The construction of hotels and resorts transformed the area, attracting both national and international visitors. This tourism boom also led to the development of Ixtapa, a nearby resort town, which was created as part of a government initiative to promote tourism in the region.

Today, Zihuatanejo maintains a unique blend of traditional Mexican culture and modern tourism. The local community celebrates its heritage through festivals, such as the annual 'Fiesta de la Virgen de Guadalupe,' and showcases artisanal crafts in local markets. The town's history is reflected in its architecture, vibrant local cuisine, and the enduring importance of fishing and agriculture to its economy.

Zihuatanejo is easily accessible from Ixtapa, located just 5 kilometers away. Taxis and local buses frequently operate between the two towns, with the bus ride taking approximately 15-20 minutes. If you're arriving by air, the nearest airport is Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo International Airport (ZIH), which is about 15 minutes from Zihuatanejo. You can take a taxi or pre-arranged shuttle service from the airport directly to your accommodation.

Zihuatanejo is a walkable town with many attractions within easy reach. For longer distances, local buses are available and are a cost-effective option. Taxis are also common; agree on a fare before starting your journey. Bicycles can be rented for a more eco-friendly way to explore the area. Note that there are no trains in the region.

Zihuatanejo is generally safe for tourists, but like any destination, it is wise to stay vigilant. Avoid poorly lit areas at night and keep your belongings secure. Certain neighborhoods, particularly those further from the tourist areas, may experience higher crime rates; exercise caution when venturing into these areas. Always use reputable transportation services.

In case of an emergency, dial 911 for police, fire, or medical assistance. The local hospital, Hospital General de Zihuatanejo, is equipped to handle medical emergencies. Travelers are advised to have travel insurance that covers health issues. Pharmacies are plentiful for minor health concerns and over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do wear light, breathable clothing suitable for the tropical climate. Don't wear overly revealing clothing, especially when visiting local churches. Religion: Do be respectful of local customs and traditions. Don't take photos in places where it is prohibited, especially religious sites. Public Transport: Do offer your seat to elderly passengers. Don't engage in loud conversations while on public transport. Greetings: Do greet locals with a friendly 'Hola' and a smile. Eating & Drinking: Do try local seafood dishes and fresh fruits. Don't drink tap water; always opt for bottled water.

To experience Zihuatanejo like a local, visit the bustling markets such as the Mercado Municipal, where you can find fresh produce, local crafts, and authentic street food. Engage with the local fishermen at the beach and learn about their daily catch. For a unique experience, take a boat trip to nearby Playa Las Gatas, a beautiful beach known for its calm waters and snorkeling opportunities. Embrace the local culture by participating in community events or festivals when they occur.

The official currency in Mexico is the Mexican Peso (MXN). Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops, but it's advisable to carry cash for small purchases and in local markets. ATMs are available throughout Zihuatanejo, but be cautious about withdrawing cash in less populated areas. Always inform your bank of your travel plans to avoid issues with card usage.

Zihuatanejo has a tropical climate with a dry season from November to April, making it the best time to visit for pleasant weather. The rainy season spans from May to October, with the heaviest rainfall typically occurring in September. Expect warm temperatures year-round, but be prepared for humidity during the summer months.