Manzanillo is a well-known resort destination in Mexico and was the first shipping yard in Latin America, built in 1531. Today it is Mexico's most important commercial seaport and a popular port of call with cruise liners. Known as the Sailfish Capital of the world, the port is host to many national and international competitions. Manzanillo consists of two large bays and boasts an average of 350 sunny days a year. You don't have to be a fishing aficionado to enjoy all Manzanillo has to offer. It has several resorts, the most famous of which is Las Hadas of Dudley Moore and Bo Derek '10' fame. Club Santiago is also a favorite spot with the foreign set, particularly in the winter months. Vida del Mar, the complex in this listing, is situated beyond the Club Santiago, set high on a mountain side with ocean views. It is not on the actual bay of Santiago and the small beaches of Vida del Mar are considered open ocean. The complex is therefore not recommended for young children and is best suited for adults who mainly enjoy relaxing by the pool, going into town for shopping or a nice meal, or exploring all the region has to offer. Vida del Mar has two pools and a restaurant, L'Recif that is open in the high season. The restaurant is poolside with a bar and has fantastic views of the ocean below.

But if sitting by the pool is not enough for you, there is plenty to do around Manzanillo.

There are golf courses nearby, at Club Santiago, or other hotel resorts in Manzanillo, or further away at Barra de Navidad. A trip to La Culebra and eating Pescado Sarandeado by the lagoon is highly recommended. You can catch a boat there that will take you past the Ritz Carlton resort to Barra de Navidad, a favorite spot with the more bohemian crowd.

About an hour southeast of the port is Cuyutlan, famous for the Ola Verde beach, home to some of the best surfing in Mexico.

Ecotourism is available at Manantlan Biosphere Reserve where there is a 100 ft. waterfall. People can swim, hike, mountain bike and go abseiling. Arrangements for these trips can be typically done through the local hotels.

Colima, the State capital is inland, about an hour away past the Sierra Mountains. There is an active volcano aptly named Volcan del Fuego that is known to spew lava/smoke when in a foul mood, making a perfect dramatic subject for the avid photographer. A dormant volcano next to it, Volcan Nevado de Colima forms part of the national park where you can go hiking, see the crater lake, spot wildlife, etc. Wise to check on conditions before going.

Just outside Colima is the Pueblo Magico of Comala, known for its painted white adobe buildings. About a mile outside of Comala is the Nogueras Cultural Center, housed in a former sugar hacienda.

How active you want to be is up to you. If you prefer to stay in Vida del Mar and enjoy the views poolside, or meditate to the hypnotic sound of the crashing waves in the privacy of the apartment, you will be sure to return rejuvenated.