Just back from cruise to Mexican Riviera aboard Sapphire Princess -- our second visit to these fabulous cities. In Puerto Vallarta, there is the El Malecon -- a mile-long beachfront art extravaganza that features sculptured bronze pieces along the way. Plus, a very picturesque rendition of exquisite sand art. The Malecon is only a $4 mini-bus ride from the cruise terminal and you can spend as much time as permitted there. In addition to the art, there is Los Arcos, a public plaza where all types of typical Mexican entertainment -- like typical dancing in traditional costumes or just a salsa spiced band ensemble playing Latin music - is available during day or night. What's nice about the outdoor art is that across the street from the breezeway that's back dropped by beautiful Bay of Banderass are several outdoor restaurants to enjoy a delicious Mexican meal, cerveza, tequila-spiked refreshing drinks etc. for a reasonable price. There is an old cathedral about halfway and numerous smart shops to buy art, replica pieces and glass. There are small vendors working the crowd of people who visit this venue. Cruise ships usually charge about $130 per person for this adventure, but you can do it at your own pace for less than $50 which includes transportation, lunch, drinks and maybe a souvenir if you are so inclined. I have written a travel piece for my local newspaper's travel section. If you send me your email, I can send you a link or a copy of the story with several pictures when printed later this month. We spent the night in Cabo San Lucas -- so we had two days to explore there. We took a bus trip across the desert to San Jose Cabo -- sister city to Cabo San Lucas -- where we visited El Cacti Mundo, the largest collection of cacti in the Americas -- both north and south. Cost less than $50 for the day which included drinks, transportation and entry into the cacti conservatory. Took some great photos of cacti that I had no idea existed and helped support a good cause with a small donation to the museum. If you need more details, send me an email at ajgiametta@yahoo.com