Checking out Riviera Nayarit, Mexico, preparing to play golf

Before I checked into the Paradise Village Resort in Nuevo Vallarta, Nayarit, my host, Richard Zarkin of the Riviera Nayarit Convention and Visitor’s Bureau, treated me to lunch and a little sightseeing this afternoon. What a great day.

Here are some of my observations:

I already love the food here. Seafood and more seafood. I’ve always liked raw fish ? sushi, smoked salmon, etc? Now I can add shrimp and scallops chile agua ("cooked” in chili water) to the list. The barbecued lobster, shrimp and Mahi Mahi we had today at Tino’s La Laguna were top a notch as well.

We visited Sayulita today, a coastal town on the Riviera Nayarit north of Puerto Vallarta, internationally recognized for its outstanding surfing and somewhat bohemian art colony. Tons of unique colorful shops and boutique and small luxurious hotels. It’s easy to see why so many Americans and Canadians spend their winters here.

We also spent a little time at San Francisco, which is better known here as San Pancho. With Valentine’s Day just a couple of hours away, it’s appropriate to mention the practically deserted beaches, perfect for a romantic getaway. Known for its polo matches this time of year, you can also go horseback riding, diving, climbing, and participate in yoga or jungle excursions here.

After that, I checked into Paradise Village, one of two resorts I’ll be staying at the next few days. This place has everything ? a great beach, marina with million-dollar yachts, nine restaurants, a mall next door, two terrific spas and even its own zoo, featuring the owner’s passion ? Tigers.

Next up: golf tomorrow morning at the appropriately named El Tigre, designed by Robert Von Hagge. Can’t wait.