Tag: Travel

Riparian Preserve at Water Ranch in Gilbert, Arizona Creek
Family Travel, Things-to-Do, Travel Tips

Riparian Preserve at Water Ranch: Gilbert, Arizona’s Hidden Nature Escape (+Video)

sharondashariee
riparian-preserve-at-water-ranch-in-gilbert-arizona-entry-map

Riparian Preserve at Water Ranch: Gilbert, Arizona’s Hidden Nature Escape

Whenever I discover a place that I love, I can’t wait to come back and tell you all about it. The Riparian Preserve at Water Ranch in Gilbert, Arizona was no different. We intended to take a quick one-mile walk, but ended up wandering over two miles. This place was just that captivating.

TIP: Bring a water bottle. You’ll need it!

A Hidden Gem in the Heart of Gilbert, Arizona

The Riparian Preserve at Water Ranch is a local park managed by the Town of Gilbert. Let me tell you, it’s a magical little world tucked right in the middle of the city. Think Bridge to Terabithia vibes: peaceful, lush, and full of surprises.

When you arrive, you’ll notice a small parking lot on the north side that fills up quickly. If you continue further west, there’s also a public library with plenty of parking. Yes, you can park there while exploring the Preserve. The parking is free.

A parking lot filled with various vehicles near the Riparian Preserve at Water Ranch in Gilbert, Arizona.
Parking near Riparian Preserve at Water Ranch in Gilbert, Arizona.
Parked in a lot with several other vehicles, surrounded by green trees and a cloudy sky.
Parking near Riparian Preserve at Water Ranch in Gilbert, Arizona at the Library

What You’ll Find at the Riparian Preserve

Serene walking path surrounded by lush greenery at the
Riparian Preserve in Gilbert, Arizona.

We didn’t follow a specific trail; we just let curiosity lead the way. That approach turned out to be perfect because there’s so much to see. Here’s what you can expect:

  • 110-acre wetland and wildlife sanctuary
  • 7 ponds connected by scenic hiking trails
  • 1 recreational urban fishing lake (fishing license required)
  • 1 floating boardwalk
  • 3 overnight campsites
  • 2 reservable small ramadas
  • 2 restroom facilities (north and south ends)
Serene walking path at the
Riparian Preserve in Gilbert, Arizona.

According to AZCentral, the Riparian Preserve at Water Ranch was created in 1999 to help recycle and replenish groundwater. The preserve also supports native riverside forests and wildlife habitats. Over 70 acres are dedicated to seven recharge basins, which are filled on a rotating basis with treated wastewater. I am always fascinated by how we can re-use our resources time and again.

Nature, Wildlife, and a Touch of Mindfulness

During our walk, we spotted several bird species, squirrels, rabbits, and turtles swimming through the ponds. Me and another trail-walker even discovered some wild mushrooms growing near the trees.

Riparian Preserve at Water Ranch in
Gilbert, Arizona – Turtles

One of my favorite features, were the posted Mental Health Tips along the trails. I thought the mindful health tips was such a thoughtful touch. It made me pause every time and really breathe in the calm of the space.

A sign offering a mental health tip about deep breathing at the Riparian Preserve at Water Ranch in Gilbert, Arizona, surrounded by trees and a gravel path.
Sign at the Riparian Preserve at Water Ranch featuring a mental health tip about anticipating positive experiences, surrounded by green foliage.
Sign displaying a mental health tip at the Riparian Preserve, emphasizing patience with an inspirational quote by Christine Caine.

Whether you are coming for exercise, photography, a quiet moment of reflection, or a family stroll, the Riparian Preserve at Water Ranch lets you choose your own pace. There are benches scattered throughout the trails where you can sit and take it all in.

Would I Go Back?

Absolutely. If you’re looking for peaceful outdoor thing-to-do, this preserve is an absolute must-visit. It’s beautiful, free, and full of life, literally and figuratively. Let the Riparian Preserve at Water Ranch, in Gilbert, Arizona, remind you how good it feels to just wander.

Plan Your Visit

Riparian Preserve at Water Ranch
2757 E. Guadalupe Road
Gilbert, Arizona 85234

Hours:
Sunday – Saturday: 5:30 AM – 10:00 PM

Riparian Preserve at Water Ranch in Gilbert, Arizona Creek
Dental Tourism, Health & Wellness, Mexico Travel, Travel Tips

Dental Tourism in Los Algodones, Mexico: Saved Me Thousands on Dental Implants

sharondashariee

Dental Tourism in Los Algodones, Mexico: Saved Me Thousands on Dental Implants

If you’ve ever considered traveling for dental care, Los Algodones, Mexico, nicknamed Molar City, has probably popped up on your radar. I recently had someone ask about my experience getting implants there, which inspired me to finally blog about it. So, here are the deets.

Where I Went: Best Dental Clinic in Los Algodones for Dental Tourism

Walking through Los Algodones might look a little suspect at first, but once you step inside Supreme Dental Clinic, you’re immediately relieved. The office is clean and modern, and the dentists, as well as the front desk staff, speak English.

A lot of people worry about language barriers when it comes to healthcare. At Supreme, every patient is assigned a coordinator to answer questions and help with scheduling. The dentists are accredited, well-trained, and affiliated with the American Dental Association. You don’t just have to take their word for it; their identification numbers are published publicly so you can verify them yourself.

How Much Do Dental Implants Cost in Los Algodones, Mexico?

One of the biggest draws? The cost.

I’m paying about a quarter of what the same procedures would have cost me in the U.S. For example, I needed 8 implants plus some minor work. My U.S. dentist gave me an estimate of around $50,000. At Supreme Dental, I was quoted about $2,000 per implant (that includes the implant, abutment, and crown). That doesn’t include additional dental concerns, like bone grafting or sinus lifts, which some people may need before implants.

Supreme Dental also offers other services such as cleanings, whitening, extractions, veneers, full mouth restoration, and packages.

💡TIP: If your job offers an FSA account/card, Supreme accepts it as long as it carries a Visa or MasterCard symbol.

Crossing the Border to Los Algodones: Parking & Travel Tips for Dental Tourists

There’s a large, gated, paved parking lot called the Andrade Parking Lot. This is the location I enter in my navigation system, and it costs $10 per day to park. You insert your money into a machine and a ticket is printed.  If there are ever any problems, we’ve noticed an attendant that is there, but not always. While they do accept cards for parking payment, I highly suggest cash.  On one occasion, the card system was down.

We are about 2.5 hours from the border, because we live west of the Phoenix city center.  If you enter Phoenix to Los Algodones, you’ll get an estimated drive-time of about 3 hours.

Once there, crossing the border is easy if you plan ahead. Just remember to bring your passport. It makes re-entry to the U.S. much smoother.

Here’s how it goes: park, hop out of your car, walk about 5 minutes, and you’ll reach the Mexico Customs & Immigration building. They’ll ask for your passport to make sure you have one. Then you’ll walk through a metal detector, and you’re in Los Algodones in about 10 minutes.

💡TIP: Use the clean bathrooms near the parking area before heading into town.

💡TIP: Don’t rush! Give yourself plenty of time for navigating and crossing back. The line to enter back into the U.S. can get lengthy.

You can also drive right into Los Algodones, however we’ve noticed the lines are always long and parking isn’t that great along the streets.

A question I’m always asked is: Do you really need a passport to go to Los Algodones? Yes. Don’t be fooled by how easy it is to enter Mexico. It’s still another country, and you need to follow their rules and laws.

You can use a U.S. Department of State issued passport card or even a birth certificate paired with a photo ID. But I always recommend traveling with a full passport when crossing any international border.

The Implant Process: Step-by-Step Dental Implant Process in Los Algodones

My first implant was placed, and implants need about 3–4 months to heal and integrate with the gums before attaching the crown. When I returned after the first healing process, I had my first crown placed and also had two additional implants placed.

The healing process is fairly quick, about three to four weeks without soreness. Since the implant sits under the gum line while healing, there’s nothing visible until the crown is placed.

I chose Straumann implants, the most reputable option, because they’re made of titanium and last the longest. I researched materials beforehand since I’m sensitive to metals, and titanium was the safest option to avoid rejection.

💡TIP: Use your patient coordinator! They’re there to answer questions, adjust schedules, and make sure you feel supported.

Return Visit & Dental Crown Fitting in Los Algodones

When you come back for your crown, the dentists will measure the space/fit, then cast your crown in their in-house lab, so you don’t have to go elsewhere. You’ll return the next day (or a very short time after) for them to fit the crown.

Overnight Stay Option & Return Visit Logistics Overnight Stay & Return Visit Tips for Dental Tourism in Los Algodones

Just outside the Andrade Parking lot is Quechan Casino Resort (a casino + hotel) in Winterhaven, CA, about 3 miles from the Andrade border crossing, just off Highway 8. It’s a convenient choice if your treatment spans multiple consecutive days and you don’t want to commute back and forth.

💡 TIP – Alternative: Yuma, AZ Stay (what we chose)
Yuma is only 20–30 minutes from the border (depending on your starting point), and there’s an abundance of hotel options, making it another solid choice.

You can also find lodging within Los Algodones, MX, if you prefer not to leave. Supreme Dental Clinic partners with a hotel provider, so ask your coordinator if you’d like this option.

Challenges of Dental Tourism in Los Algodones (What to Expect)

The only real downside I’ve experienced is occasional waiting, it’s simply because they’re busy. Once, the power surged twice and we had to wait about 10–12 minutes for it to return. We were told that’s just Los Algodones life, and honestly international travel in general. Still, nothing that would deter me.

Final Thoughts: Is Dental Tourism in Los Algodones Worth It?

Dental tourism isn’t for everyone, but it’s a solid option for Americans seeking quality care at a fraction of the price. Dental work is a process, and it can feel like a lot, but doing your homework, knowing what to expect, and giving yourself grace along the way makes all the difference.

With preparation, Los Algodones can be a smooth, cost-effective, and feasible option for dental work you may have thought impossible in the U.S.

💡TIP: Check out Supreme Dental Clinic’s YouTube channel. It’s a goldmine of information to help you make an informed decision. (https://www.youtube.com/@supremedentalpodcast)

Location Visited:

Supreme Dental Clinic
Avenida A #224, Suite 26
Los Algodones, B.C. 21970

Hours: Mon–Fri, 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM | Sat (select hours)
Website: supremedentalmx.com
Phone Number: 1.844.300.2982

Uncategorized

Waffleto Brunch & Waffles: Worth the Hype or Another Overrated Spot?

sharondashariee

Waffleto Brunch & Waffles: Worth the Hype or Another Overrated Spot?

Can We Talk About Social Media Food Hype?

The way I am so tired of over-hyped TikTok and Instagram eateries. Social media has disappointed me too many times with perfect reels, staged bites, and then… underwhelming food.

So, when my husband showed me an impressively edited reel for Waffleto Brunch & Waffles in Goodyear, AZ, and asked if I wanted to try it, I gave him a non-committal, “I guess.”

First Impressions: Busy but Welcoming

We pulled up around 11 a.m. on a Saturday. It was busy, but we didn’t have to wait, major win. The place is a small sit-down brunch spot with a casual, open feel. We were greeted right away and handed menus, which gave us a moment to look things over before ordering.

Waffleto Menu: Sweet Meets Savory

Waffleto’s menu offers hearty savory waffles and over-the-top sweet creations. in a good way:

Savory Options Include:

  • Fried egg, bacon, and spinach
  • Chorizo and egg
  • Grilled chicken with pesto
  • Omelets and traditional breakfast plates (for the non-waffle folks)

Sweet Options:

  • Strawberries and cream (with seasonal berries, but you can request strawberries only)
  • Peaches and cream
  • Nutella-topped waffles

👉 Check out their full menu here

What We Ordered

We split our meal:

  • One Fried Egg, Bacon, and Spinach Waffleto (no syrup drizzle—because I don’t trust the drizzler!)
  • One Berries Waffleto (strawberries only)

You can split your waffle between savory and sweet, which we loved—it felt like a brunch plate and dessert all in one.

And I have to mention this, the home-fried breakfast potatoes were delicious. I live for a good breakfast potato, and these hit the mark. Crispy on the outside, tender inside, and perfectly seasoned. Don’t skip them.

Watching the Waffle Magic Happen

The open kitchen gave us a view of the action, and I noticed the waffles looked darker than I prefer more brown than golden. I’m a light, fluffy, slight-crunch-on-the-edge kind of waffle girl.

When I asked about it, our server reassured us that the color comes from the batter, not overcooking, and they’re still soft inside. She was right. The waffles were perfectly cooked, lightly sweet, and honestly, some of the best I’ve had.

Is Waffleto Worth the Trip?

If you’re in the Goodyear, Avondale, or West Phoenix area—yes, Waffleto is worth a stop.

If you have to drive far or wait in a long line? Maybe not. It’s good, but not a “drive across the Valley and wait an hour” kind of place. That said, Waffleto delivers on flavor and creativity, and the service was on point.

Waffleto Brunch & Waffles Location + Hours

Heads up: If you love breakfast for dinner, this isn’t your spot. They close early and stick to brunch hours.

🕒 Hours:
Monday – Friday: 8 AM – 2 PM
Saturday & Sunday: 8 AM – 3 PM

📍 406 N. Litchfield Rd., Ste 208
Goodyear, AZ 85338

Final Thoughts

Waffleto might not be the viral hotspot you travel for, but it’s definitely a local gem if you’re nearby. The flavors are solid, the sweet/savory combo is fun, and the vibe is low-key and relaxed.

Have you tried Waffleto or any other social media-famous food spots that were actually worth it? Let me know in the comments or over on Instagram @SharondaShariee (yes, I’m posting again!).

Family Travel, family-travel, Living, Travel, Travel with Kids

20 Frequent Asked Carnival Cruise Questions You’re Probably Already Wondering About

sharondashariee

20 Frequent Asked Carnival Cruise Questions You’re Probably Already Wondering About

And yes, I’ve got answers. Let’s get you cruise-ready, without the overwhelm.

Planning your first (or fifteenth) Carnival Cruise? Whether you’re traveling with your partner, your kids, or your crew, there are always questions that pop up before you set sail. And if you’re anything like me, you want real answers from someone who’s been there, not a maze of fine print (but I include links with all that too).

So I rounded up 20 of the most frequently asked cruise questions, from what to pack to how not to lose your Sail & Sign card. Let’s break it all the way down.

Before You Sail: Planning & Prep

1. Do I need a passport to go on a Carnival Cruise?

If your cruise is closed-loop (starts and ends in the same U.S. port), a birth certificate + photo ID works. But a passport is the safest option in case of emergencies.
→ Carnival’s official ID requirements

2. Are cruise fares refundable if I can’t go?

It depends on how early you cancel. The closer you get to your sail date, the less you’ll get back.
→ Carnival’s cancellation policy
Pro tip: Consider adding Carnival Vacation Protection for coverage and peace of mind.

3. Is there a minimum age to cruise?

Yes—6 months old for most cruises, 12 months for longer or exotic ones. And anyone under 21 must sail with someone 25 or older in the same room.
→ Carnival’s minor guest policy

4. Can I bring my water bottle or canteen?

Yep! Bring your reusable bottle and refill it at water stations onboard. Insulated bottles are clutch for port days.

5. Can I bring snacks or drinks onboard?

You can bring sealed snacks and one 12-pack of non-alcoholic drinks (cans or cartons) per person. No glass bottles, no liquor (unless it’s the one bottle of wine per adult).
→ Carnival beverage policy

Cabins, Cards & Spending

6. How many people can sleep in a stateroom cabin?

Most cabins fit 2–4 people, and some family rooms or suites fit up to 5. For bigger groups, connecting rooms are your best friend.

7. What can I use so I don’t lose my Sail & Sign card?

Get a lanyard with a pouch. It keeps your card handy for everything. Room access, purchases, boarding, and getting on and off the ship at ports of call.

8. Do kids have access to money on the ship?

Yes, through their Sail & Sign card. It works like a debit card onboard.

9. Can I put a spending limit on my child’s Sail & Sign card?

Absolutely! You can cap or block spending for kids and teens right in your Carnival Account or at Guest Services.

10. Are gratuities (tips) included?

They’re automatically added—about $16–$18 per person/day depending on your cabin. You can prepay or adjust onboard.
→ Gratuities explained

Life Onboard: Food, Fun & Feeling Good

11. What’s included in the cruise fare?

Your room, all meals (excluding specialty dining), drinks (water, tea, lemondade and juice during breakfast), pools, shows, and onboard activities. You’ll pay extra for Wi-Fi, excursions, soda, alcohol drinks, and spa services.

12. Is Wi-Fi available on board?

Yes, but it’s not free!  Carnival has 3 plans: Social, Value, and Premium.
→ Carnival Wi-Fi packages

13. Is there bottled water on the ship? How much does it cost?

Yes.. You can pre-order a case to your room or while on the ship through room service.

14. Do people get sick on cruises?

Sometimes. Sea sickness or colds are the most common.
Tips to avoid it:
– Book a mid-ship, lower deck room
– Bring Dramamine, Sea-Bands, or ginger chews
– Drink plenty of water, avoid heavy meals prior to sailing, and get fresh air while on board
→ Carnival’s health guidelines

15. What should I wear on the cruise?

Daytime: swimsuits, casual wear.
Evening: cruise casual with a couple “Cruise Elegant” nights (think cocktail dresses or slacks & button-ups).
→ Carnival dress code

In Port & On Excursions

16. Are shore excursions worth it?

Yes, if you want more than beach time or walking along the piers. Carnival offers excursions for every vibe. Relaxing, adventurous, foodie approved. You can also wait and book an excursion on your own.  Just don’t miss that ship. No, but seriously, don’t miss the ship.

17. Is cruising good for families or couples?

Both. There’s something for everyone: waterparks and kids’ clubs for families, adults-only spaces and spas for couples. You set the tone and the vibe you want to have while sailing.

Packing & Practical Tips

18. What should I NOT pack for a cruise?

Leave these at home:
– Irons or steamers
– Candles/incense
– Drones
– Surge protectors
– Alcohol (unless it’s your one wine bottle)
→ Carnival prohibited items

19. How do I stay in touch with my family and friends that are on the ship?

Use the Carnival Hub app to chat for just $5 per person (no Wi-Fi plan needed).
Some families also bring mini walkie-talkies. Great for kids or those who don’t use phones much. Just know the signal works best on open decks.

20. Is cruising worth it?

Absolutely. You unpack once, wake up somewhere new every day, and everything you need is right there on the ship. Whether you want relaxation, nonstop fun, or a little of both, you’re covered.

Final Cruise Tips from Me to You:

– Download the Carnival Hub App before you board
– Bring a power strip (non-surge) for extra outlets
– Take a photo of your passport and ID just in case
– Don’t forget meds, sunscreen, and comfy shoes
– Pack the patience, good vibes, have a blast

Want more cruise tips, destination guides, or family travel ideas?
💌 Subscribe to my blog or follow me on Instagram @SharondaShariee for the real, real.

Let me know what else you’re curious about—if you’re wondering, someone else probably is too. I got you!

Appetizer, Dining Out, Food Opinion, Home Cooked Food, Living, Things-to-Do

Bobo’s Restaurant: The Best Breakfast in Tucson: Why Bobo’s Is Worth the Wait

sharondashariee

The Best Breakfast in Tucson: Why Bobo’s Is Worth the Wait

Tucson, Arizona is not just a place we drive to for concerts or a quick getaway, it’s also home to one of the best breakfast spots we’ve ever experienced, Bobo’s Restaurant.  During one of our trips, I searched for “the best breakfast in Tucson,” and Yelp led us straight to this charming gem.  With nearly a five-star rating, we knew we had to check it out.  Spoiler alert: it did not disappoint.

The Drive to Tucson

Getting from Phoenix to Tucson is an easy 95-mile drive, taking about an hour and a half.  Whether you are headed there for a specific event or just passing through, you will definitely want to make time for a stop at Bobo’s.

First Impressions

We first visited Bobo’s on a Sunday morning around 11:30 AM. It is a very small, yellow brick building sitting off a main road, that otherwise I would have driven passed.  When we arrived, about 10–15 people were already waiting outside. Pro tip: if you are not a fan of waiting, plan your visit strategically.  The wait for a table can take about an hour during peak times, but we have also visited later in the day, about 40 minutes before closing, and got seated immediately.

What’s On the Menu

Let’s talk about the food, because it’s why you go to Bobo’s, and it’s what makes the wait 100% worth it.  Over a few visits, we have tried several dishes:

  • Apple Upside-Down Pancake:  My husband says this is a breakfast masterpiece that’s equal parts sweet and filling.
  • Buttermilk Pancake: Fluffy perfection every single time. Cutting your pancakes like this makes them taste even better.
  • Chicken Fried Steak with Eggs & Fried Potatoes: Comfort food at its finest, with rich gravy. I usually put it on the side, because you cannot trust everyone’s gravy. I eventually put it on my food, since it passed the taste test. The potatoes I can have live without.
  • French Toast with Eggs & Bacon: The French toast is done how we used to make cinnamon toast in the oven as kids.

The consistency of the food is outstanding.  It is clear why Bobo’s has earned its loyal following and stellar Yelp ratings.

Cost & Value

If you do not know by now, I am always about value, and for the quality and portion sizes, Bobo’s offers unbeatable value.  Whether you are craving something hearty or sweet, you will leave both satisfied and full without breaking the bank.

Better Than Mom’s Cooking?

Bobo’s tagline is “Just like mom’s cookin’,” but honestly, they might need to tweak it to “Better than your mom’s cookin,’ at least for breakfast.  Sorry, Mom!”  It is that good.

Plan Your Visit

Location:  Bobo’s Restaurant, 2938 E. Grant Rd. Tucson, AZ 85716

Pro Tip: If you want to skip the wait, aim for non-peak hours (like just before closing or early morning).

Whether you are heading to Tucson for a concert, a day trip, or even just passing through, Bobo’s Restaurant is a must-visit for breakfast lovers.  Trust me, it is worth every mile and every minute of the wait.

Your Favorites & Recommendations

What is your go-to breakfast spot when you are on the road?  Share your favorites in the comments.  I am always looking for my next great meal!

Dining Out, Family Travel, Living, Mexico Adventures, Mexico Excursions, Mexico Travel, Out the Country Travel, practical-hotels, Self-Care, Things-to-Do, Travel, Travel with Kids

Puerto Vallarta, Mexico’s-Rhythms of the Night by Vallarta Adventures

sharondashariee

Puerto Vallarta, Mexico’s Rhythms of the Night by Vallarta Adventures

When we went to Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, I had one thing in mind, to RELAX. I did not want to do the usual excursion, city hopping, out all hours of the night, that we usually do. Sleeping, eating, and sitting by the pool were the only things on the agenda.

View from Oceanview AirBnB in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico. Click for Listing.

Until I stumbled upon a Puerto Vallarta post in one of the travel groups, suggesting that anyone going to Puerto Vallarta MUST do, “Rhythms of the Night” by Vallarta Adventures. Initially it was just my husband, me, my best friend, and her husband travelling, but my daughter talked us into letting her come along.  My friend then brought her daughter as well.

The girls enjoying the beach in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

Phoenix to Puerto Vallarta

We flew from Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport to Puerto Vallarta International Airport, non-stop.  It was important to me to leave the country, with a short flight time.  Our flight was two and half hours.

We booked this Airbnb with a gorgeous view. The view was mandatory considering that my agenda consisted of merely breathing, lounging, eating, and sitting by the pool.

Oceanview Airbnb in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico. Click for listing.

We headed into the city one of the days, for about three hours, but the activity that had every one of us in amazement was the Rhythms of the Night sunset cruise, dinner, and show.

Dinner in the city Puerto Vallarta, Mexico La Madalena Restaurant

Puerto Vallarta’s Rhythms of the Night

I purchased tickets to the show in advance from Puerto Vallarta Tours, $116 for adults and $109 for kids, 6-17 years old.  We received 30% off for booking more than four days in advance.  Regular or same-day pricing was $165 for adults and $155 for kids.

TIP 1: Book more than four days in advance to take advantage of 30% off regular ticket pricing.

The day of the tour, I used my very beginner Spanish to hale us a taxi and to get us to the dock where we boarded the boat.  Honestly, you do not need to know Spanish to get a taxi and arrive at your destination safely. However, I find every opportunity to practice.

Once we arrived at the ferry station, we made our way to the line where we presented our tickets, then we went through a security check. Yes, a security check, like in the airport.  Check the Vallarta Adventures website for prohibited items.

We boarded the boat, where there was a bar and plenty seating. I suggest getting there well before departure, so your group can sit together.  The suggested arrival time is 45 minutes prior to departure.

We arrived on the island where the Rhythms of the Night show takes place in about 30-45 minutes.  There was onboard entertainment, where they sang American songs, most people would be familiar with.  People danced and sang along.

It is a whole experience as soon as you step foot on the boat, let alone once you make it to the tiki lit island. 

Review Puerto Vallarta’s-Rhythms of the Night by Vallarta Adventures
Tiki Island Arrival

TIP 2:  Book the sunset cruise time.  There is an earlier day show, but the sunset booking time is more exquisite.

We were seated in designated areas around the island and assigned a dinner station.  Dinner was buffet style.  We had a traditional Mexican dinner.

We had a waiter who served drinks and any additional items you may want from the buffet.

After about an hour and a half, the staff began to clear the tables, and we waited to be dismissed. 

TIP 3: Use the restroom before you head to the stadium for the show.

We travelled to the stadium up large, flat, rocked stairs.  We stood in line for about 15 minutes before we could enter the stadium.  This activity is not recommended if you have difficulties doing a slight hike.

I would like to describe the show, but it is indescribable.  It is something to be experienced.  Here is glimpse of the amazingness we witnessed.

Review Puerto Vallarta’s-Rhythms of the Night by Vallarta Adventures

The entire crew from start to finish conducted this experience flawlessly.  If you need any more convincing, check their reviews.  Perfection.

Review Puerto Vallarta’s-Rhythms of the Night by Vallarta Adventures

Cost & Booking

Total Cost: $341 (included ferry ride, dinner, and show for three people)

Booked Rhythm of the Nights by Vallarta Adventures here:  https://www.vallarta-adventures.com/en

Subscribe

Subscribe below to updated when I post new blog posts!

Date Night, Family Travel, family-travel, inexpensive-hotels, practical-hotels, Things-to-Do, Travel, Travel with Kids

Hotel & AirBnB Recommendations

sharondashariee

This is a practical list of hotels or Airbnb we have stayed in with and without the kids. We would stay at each of these hotels again. I did not include any hotels that we would not stay at again.

Tip 1: When traveling with our kids, I always choose a hotel that is a suite and has complimentary breakfast.

My favorite hotel brand to stay in with the kids is Embassy Suites by Hilton, and second is Residence Inn by Marriott. When it is just my husband and me, we stay in a Hilton, Hyatt, and sometimes a Marriott.

Tip 2: Pick 2-3 hotel brands you like or love and consistently stay at those brands to accrue points to redeem for free nights.

Arizona

  • Avondale
    • Homewood Suites Avondale
    • Homewood Suites Phoenix-Avondale
  • Goodyear
  • Flagstaff
    • Embassy Suites Flagstaff
  • Phoenix (area)
    • Hampton Inn Phoenix-Biltmore
    • Hilton Phoenix Tapatio Cliffs
    • Springhill Suites Phoenix-Chandler
    • Springhill Suites Phoenix-Glendale/Peoria
  • Prescott
    • Holiday Inn Express Prescott
  • Scottsdale
    • Embassy Suites Scottsdale Resort
    • Hampton Inn Phoenix/Scottsdale
    • Hilton Scottsdale Resort & Villas
    • Holiday Inn & Suites Scottsdale-Old Town
    • Marriott at McDowell Mountains
    • McCormick Scottsdale Resort
    • Scottsdale Plaza Resort & Villas
  • Tucson
    • Desert Diamond Casino & Hotel
    • Hampon Inn Tucson-Airport
    • JW Marriott Tucson Starr Pass Resort & Spa
    • Omni Tucson National Resort

California

  • Long Beach
    • Hotel Maya a Doubletree
    • Hyatt Centric-The Pike Long Beach
  • Los Angeles (area)
    • Doubletree Los Angeles-Norwalk
    • Hampton Inn Los Angeles-Orange County-Cypress
    • Embassy Suites Arcadia/Pasadena
    • Embassy Suites Orange County-Irvine
    • Residence Corona Riverside
  • Newport Beach
    • Holiday Inn Express Newport Beach
  • Oakland
  • Ontario
    • Hyatt Place Ontario/Ranch Cucamonga
  • Redondo Beach
    • Marriott Torrance/Redondo Beach
  • San Diego
    • Comfort Inn & Suites Zoo/Sea World
    • Hampton Inn San Diego Downtown
    • Hampton Inn & Suites San Diego Liberty Station
    • Hampton Inn San Diego Mission Bay
    • Holiday Inn San Diego Bayside
    • San Diego Marriott Hotel & Marina
    • Omni San Diego Hotel
    • Marriott Vacation Club Pulse
  • San Francisco
    • Doubletree San Francisco Airport North
  • Santa Ana
    • Doubletree Club Orange County Airport
    • Hampton Inn & Suites Santa Ana/Orange County

Florida

  • Jacksonville
    • Hampton Inn & Suites Jacksonville-Airport
  • Miami
    • Comfort Suites Miami Airport North
    • YVE Hotel Miami

Georgia

  • Atlanta
    • Hampton Inn & Suites Atlanta Airport North

Idaho

  • Sandpoint
    • Best Western Edgewater Resort

Illinois

  • Chicago
    • Embassy Suites Chicago Downtown River
  • Kentucky
    • Lexington
      • Hyatt Place Lexington

Louisiana

  • New Orleans
    • Doubletree New Orleans Airport

Montana

  • Great Falls

Nevada

  • Las Vegas
    • Boulder Station Hotel & Casino
    • Flamingo Hotel & Casino
    • Harrah’s Las Vegas
    • Palace Station Hotel & Casino
    • Sahara Las Vegas
    • Springhill Suites Las Vegas Convention Center
    • Treasure Island Hotel & Casino

North Carolina

  • Charlotte

Ohio

  • Cincinnati
    • Sonesta ES Suites – Sharonville West

Oregon

  • Portland
    • Hyatt Regency Portland at the Convention Center

Texas

  • Arlington
    • Comfort Suites Arlington – Entertainment District
  • Dallas (area)
    • Candlewood Suites DFW West-Hurst
    • Embassy Suites Dallas Lovefield
    • Townplace Suites Desoto Dallas South
  • Fort Worth
    • Homewood Suites Forth Worth Medical Center
    • Hyatt Fort Worth City View
    • Hyatt Place Fort Worth Alliance Town Center
  • Houston
    • Doubletree Hotel & Suites by the Galleria

Washington

  • Seattle
    • Hilton Garden Inn-Seattle Downtown

Canada

  • Vancouver, B.C.
    • Vancouver Marriott Pinnacle Downtown

Mexico

  • Jalisco
    • Puerto Vallarta
      • Peninsula Tower Condominiums
  • Sonora
    • Puerto Penasco (Rocky Point)
      • Las Palmas Beachfront Resort
      • Sonoran Sky Resort