VERACRUZ: pop. apx. 650,000 people (including siter city of Boca del Rio) I first visited Veracruz on a vacation in Feb. 98.. I immediately decided that it was much different than any other cities that I had previously visited in Mexico.. It has been called by many the "New Orleans of Mexico" for the easy going party atmosphere that exists.
Many things to see and do in Veracruz.. acuario, beaches, old forts, some small museums, the zocalo, malecon, mercado, restaurants, bars, nightclubs and more.. In addition to what you can do in Veracruz there are many other destinations around the state.. travel time varing from 45 minutes to 3 hrs distant by bus.. less if your driving..
If this is your first visit to Veracruz, perhaps is best to start with a stop at the tourist office located in the Palacio Municipal on the zocalo. There are a couple tourist guide brochures in english and a map pin-pointing attractions.. Outside the tourist office grab a seat on one of the benches and look over the info, check out map.. Next I would suggest a bus tour which will take you past most of the attractions and give you a general idea of the lay out of Veracruz and Boca del Rio. You'll find the brightly painted buses stop in front of the large Cathedral beside the central park known as El Zocalo. Buy a ticket and enjoy the ride........... there is a spanish speaking tour guide on board to point out the highlights. Tickets are 50 pesos per person (bout 5 bucks)
Check out my list of things to SEE Y DO on left hand side of page.. or click on following link to go there now.. http://groups.msn.com/VERACRUZ-COMbyJONW/seeanddo.msnw
Cafe Parroquia facing the malecon
La Gran Parroquia: a busy and well know landmark since 1809.. Known for their café lechero, a strong dark coffee and hot milk concoction in a glass. The waiters circulates the restaurant with a pot of coffee in one hand and a kettle of steaming milk in the other and make quiet a production of filling the customer's glasses. The cafe also offers pastries, sandwiches, or complete meals.
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