Acapulco, MexicoI'm staying at the K3 International Hostel directly across the street from the Americana Fiesta, and the beach. First thing I did after settling into my room, was put on my speedos and head to the beach. Splashed around for awhile, then returned to the hostel and took a well deserved shower (it was an 18 hour bus ride from Puerto Vallarta).

The bus ride was smooth. The bus (compania "La Futura") was very modern, with an interior very much like that of a commercial airplane. Movie specials were "Tombstone" (I listened was on my iPod through that one), and "El Padrecito" starring Cantinflas. We stopped in Guadalajara. The bus terminal there is immaculate. Huge automatic sliding glass doors, and were those shining, polished floors marble?

Had an excellent lunch after getting off the bus and made sure to tell los tres mujeres en la cocina "La comida estaba muy bien, muchas gracias." I have been making it a point to leave compliments for my meals (in Spanish) when appropriate, as well as "Tiene un buen dia", particularly to practice my espanol. Had an excellent dinner at Ika Taco, and boogie oogie oogied at the club Paradise.

Maybe this could not be said 20 years ago, but I'm beginning to get the impression that overall Mexico is a wealthier, safer and more sophisticated country than the states. Materially speaking, the cars, electronics, and chainstores you see in the US, you see here. At least in the cities.

The bus system is extraordinary. The busses are modern and there appears to be at least 10 different companies.

Another interesting observation is that, at least here in Acapulco, it's common to see women walking casually alone, after dark, even on poorly lit or even unlit streets.

Another observation, is that it appears the people here are not afraid of each other. The mass populace seems at peace with each other. Generally, people are respectful to each other, are courteous in verbal exchanges and walk around casually all times of the day and night.

So far not a single person has offered to sell me any drugs, nor have I seen anyone on drugs.

Free EnterpriseSeems like Mexico practices true free enterprise. People are allowed to sell their wares virtually anywhere. Even on these fancy busses the drivers allow street merchants on board to sell foods and beverage.