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Acapulco

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Overview: Acapulco is a popular cruise port for ships sailing between Panama and San Francisco. The town itself sits on a beautiful stretch of beach in a semi-circular bay that has offered deep water berths for ships since the 16th century.

Today Acapulco's port function has been overtaken by its popularity as a sun-and-sand holiday destination, appealing to Mexican and overseas visitors in equal numbers. Apart from dancing and tanning, Acapulco offers the world-famous La Perla cliff divers and an attractive old town that's well worth exploring.

Cruise chips berth at the rather unattractive Acapulco terminal at the north of the bay near Costera Miguel Aleman. There are good facilities here, including tourist information, internet access, shopping and taxis. The old town is 5 minutes' walk away. Contact:

Tourist Office

Av. Costera Miguel Aleman No. 187
Tel: +74 84 24 23

Transport: Catch a taxi from the cruise terminal as the centre of town is too far to walk. Always negotiate the fare before starting out. Local buses are cheap and fun to use. If in town for longer than a day, rent an open-top jeep and drive yourself about. Attractions: Catch some sun on Revolcadero Beach, a truly gorgeous stretch of sand. Further up the bay, watch the famous cliff divers plunge from the cliff into the sea below; Plaza Las Glorias/El Mirado is an ideal vantage point. Explore the historical district of Plaza Alvarez, then head to the 18th century fortress of El Fuerte de San Diego before taking a photo of the city from the El Mirador view point, overlooking the city. Restaurants:

• Coyuca 22: great food, flawless setting. Order the lobster or prime rib!
• La Casa de Tere: authentic Mexican food in an open-air setting
• La Cabana: directly on Caleta beach, famous for its matador clientèle

Best dish: Medley of grilled red snapper

Shopping: Head to the open-air market near the Plaza Bahia for handicrafts such as jewellery and leather gear. The Mercado Parazal is also good for souvenirs. Bargaining is expected and necessary! The streets of the Zona Dorada (Golden Zone) are lined with designer boutiques; for Acapulco's biggest mall make a beeline to Le Gran Plaza on the edge of town.

Best buy: Silver jewellery

Excursions:

• Take a sunset catamaran cruise into the bay
• Go swimming with dolphins
• Catch a glass bottomed boat ride to Roquetta Island
• Take a tour to Laguna de Tres Palos swamp
• Tee off at one of four championship quality golf courses