On Sunday, Tropical Storm Alex was passing nearby and we had white caps in the swimming pool and the rain was coming down sideways parallel to the ground!  We decided to go to the breakfast buffet at the Veranda restaurant here at the Sands. The weather was causing the wind to whistle loudly inside the restaurant but we had a great breakfast in spite of all the noise. The selections this time were more limited than in past visits to the Sands. I would say about half they once were. Obvious cost cutting has occurred, perhaps as a reaction to the economy in the USA and Mexico or perhaps they cut back during the summer??

Around 12:30PM our  friends Al & Louise joined us to watch the soccer match between Mexico and Argentina in the sports bar here at the Sands. It was crowded and everyone mucho enthusiastic. The match was exciting  and everyone really enjoyed it. Unfortunately Mexico lost 3-1.

After the game we all went for a walk on the beach and then a dip in the pool. We all took advantage of the 2 for 1 Happy Hour at the pool bar and spent the rest of the afternoon enjoying our drinks while standing in the pool to keep cool.

Over the next few days the weather improved gradually and by Friday the beach flags were changed from red to yellow. I tried wave surfing but a big one got me and I went for tumble and decided that the pool would do.

Every time we visit the Sands I take a picture of the beach sign holding my hand out to the birds…………….this years picture:

Here’s Suzie’s

The next morning we ate in, just coffee and pop tarts. Then we went for a long walk on the beach together, returned and hit the pool area with our books, Bloody Mary’s, and sun screen. We read for a couple of hours, did some swimming and just kicked back. Later in the evening we went to a special place for dinner. The El Conquistador at the Royal Mayan. Jorge Duran entertains the diners with his guitar playing which I think is world class.

We enjoyed salad, lobster bisque, prime rib , Steak Diane prepared table-side, and some really good red wine.

We were too full for dessert, so we ordered Gran Marnier on ice and listened to Senor Duran play. Afterward we walked over to the La Palapa pool bar and had Baileys on ice. It was a good night. Stay tuned for part III in a couple of days……………