Zar Colima: Your Ultimate Guide to Colima, Mexico
Zar Colima: My Honest (and Slightly Chaotic) Take on Colima's Ultimate Guide to… Well, Everything!
Alright, buckle up buttercups, because I just got back from a whirlwind trip to Colima, Mexico, and I'm here to spill the beans on Zar Colima. Forget those perfectly polished travel blogs – this is the raw, unfiltered truth. Think of it as your friend who actually went and survived. And maybe cried a little. (Okay, a lot. But mostly from happiness.)
So, Zar Colima, huh? They bill themselves as the "Ultimate Guide," and look, I'm always skeptical of "ultimate" anything. But I'm walking away impressed. Here's the deal, broken down, slightly disheveled, and with a healthy dose of reality.
Accessibility: Smooth Sailing (Mostly!)
First off, a huge thumbs up for accessibility. Wheelchair accessibility isn't just a checkbox; it felt thoughtfully considered. Elevators are plentiful, and I saw ramps where they needed them. That's HUGE. No fumbling with narrow hallways or unnavigable spaces – a real breath of fresh air. Facilities for disabled guests are definitely there, which is a lovely change of pace. I saw a lot more than lip service here. Good job, Zar Colima!
Internet – Because We Can’t Live Without It (Especially Me!)
Okay, let's be honest: I need the internet like oxygen. Zar Colima understood. Free Wi-Fi in all rooms! Praise be! And it actually worked. No frustrating buffering or dropped connections when I tried to upload my Instastories (essential, obviously). They also have Internet access – wireless in, like, every corner. The Internet [LAN] option is there too, for you techy types. I didn't use that, but it's there! It’s the little things, right?
Cleanliness and Safety: Feeling Safe, Not Claustrophobic
Look, let's get real. I was worried about safety post-pandemic. But Zar Colima felt remarkably clean without feeling sterile. The Anti-viral cleaning products got a big thumbs up from me (I'm a bit of a germaphobe, don't judge). The Daily disinfection in common areas was noticeable, but not intrusive. They’ve got Hand sanitizer everywhere. Staff trained in safety protocol. And they weren't being too crazy about it, you know? It felt like a responsible approach, not some over-the-top, panic-stricken situation. They even let you Room sanitization opt-out available! Which, hey, if you're a super germ-skeptic, it's a nice option. I didn't opt-out, I was too relaxed by that point.
Dining, Drinking, and Snacking: Prepare to Eat (and Drink!) Well!
Okay, this is where Zar Colima really shines. Forget diets, people. Just…forget them.
- Restaurants: They have several! With a bunch of A la carte in restaurant options. More crucially, the food's actually good. Like, seriously good. I had the tacos (duh), the mole (divine), and a surprisingly fantastic pizza.
- Breakfast [buffet]: The breakfast buffet was a glorious, carb-laden dream. Asian breakfast, Western breakfast…They thought of everything! I started every day with a plate piled high with fresh fruit, pastries, and a ridiculous amount of coffee. (Yes, coffee/tea in restaurants, which is always a plus.)
- Poolside Bar: The Poolside bar needs its own paragraph. Imagine this: sunshine, a gorgeous pool (with a view!), and a chilled-out bartender ready to whip up a margarita the size of your head. I spent, well, a significant amount of time there. The Happy hour was, of course, my favorite hour. They would leave a Bottle of water in the room too which was perfect for rehydrating after a long day of sunshine and margaritas…
- Snack Bar: I even found a snack bar for those mid-afternoon cravings. No regrets.
- Alternative meal arrangement: They had options for dietary restrictions too.
Rooms: Comfort is Key (and I Like My Comfort)
My room? Gorgeous. Simple as that. The Air conditioning worked like a charm (thank God, Colima gets HOT). The Blackout curtains were a lifesaver for sleeping in after those late nights at the poolside bar. I had a Balcony with a spectacular view. Free bottled water and coffee/tea maker were there. The bathroom…was clean. And the Bathtub? I took a bath! With bathrobes and bath gel!
Services and Conveniences: They REALLY Thought of Everything
- Concierge: The concierge was a godsend. I am not good at logistics, so I was happy to have access to a concierge.
- Cash withdrawal: It's always a good idea to have a way to get cash when you want it.
- Laundry Service: This was great because, let me be honest, I was there for a while.
- Daily housekeeping: A fresh room every day? Yes, please!
- Elevator: I never had to walk up the stairs.
- Food delivery: Because some days you just want to chill in your room and eat. I didn't use it, but I could have!
- Car Park [On-site]: This was a big plus because parking can be an issue and you won't have to pay for it!
Things to Do, Ways to Relax…OMG, the Spa!
Okay, full disclosure: I am a total spa addict. Zar Colima’s spa/sauna was the highlight of my trip. The Spa itself was beautifully designed. I got the Body scrub and the Massage. Oh sweet, heavenly relief! I felt like melted butter afterwards. Like, seriously, I could have just floated away. The Pool with view was another highlight.
But WAIT, there's MORE! (Because there always is)
- Babysitting service: Because, life happens.
- Meeting/banquet facilities: For those business trips.
- Car park [Free of charge]: Always a win!
- Room service [24-hour]: Because, you know…midnight cravings.
A Few Minor Quibbles (Because Nobody's Perfect)
- The Wi-Fi occasionally hiccuped in a few obscure corners, but honestly, it was barely an issue.
- The gift shop could have been a little more interesting, with more local crafts.
My Verdict and (Shameless) Offer
Zar Colima is a fantastic base for exploring Colima. It’s got the comfort, the style, the location, and the amenities. And the price? Surprisingly reasonable for what you get.
Here's the Deal: Book your stay at Zar Colima directly through their website and get a FREE welcome cocktail at the poolside bar, plus a 10% discount on all spa treatments! (Because you deserve it, and because I said so.) Use the code "COLIMAPERFECT" at checkout. You’re welcome.
Honestly, I am already plotting my return. My only regret is that I didn't stay longer. Go. Experience it. You won't regret it. Just maybe pack some comfortable shoes (for all that exploring) and an extra-large pair of pants (for all that eating). Happy travels!
George Manor Galveston: Your Galveston Getaway Awaits!
Okay, buckle up, buttercups, because we're blasting off to Zar Colima, Mexico! My brain, already a tangled web of travel excitement and pre-trip anxiety, is about to get a whole lot messier. This isn't just an itinerary; it's a confession, a comedy routine, and a desperate plea for good coffee all rolled into one.
Project: Zar Colima, Mexico - Chaos Edition
Pre-Trip Brain Dump (AKA, The Meltdown Before the Calm)
- Flights: Ugh, the flights. Found a decent deal, but it involves a connection in Tijuana. Tijuana! My Spanish is… enthusiastic, at best. Pray for me (and the customs agents).
- Hotel: Booked a "charming" Airbnb. Charming, in the pictures, maybe. Praying my gut instinct for a comfortable stay isn't completely wrong.
- Packing: Still haven't started. I'm convinced I'll end up packing an entire suitcase of emergency snacks and nothing remotely practical.
- Language: Must. Learn. Basic. Spanish. "Where's the bathroom?" "More tequila, por favor." That's all I've got so far.
Day 1: Arrival & Mild Panic
- Morning (or What Passes for Morning After a Red-Eye): Land in Zar, Colima. Pray to the travel gods the luggage makes it too, because I'm NOT spending my first day in a pair of airplane socks. Taxi the only thing that saves me in this situation, even though I feel like this is not the best idea.
- Late Morning: Check into the Airbnb. The pictures better not be lying. The actual apartment is probably not identical to the pictures though. I'm sure it's gonna be… homey.
- Afternoon: Find coffee. Urgent. Then, embark on a mission to find the actual town center, get lost, and hopefully stumble upon a decent taco stand. My stomach is already chanting "tacos, tacos, tacos!"
- Evening: Dinner somewhere local. Probably ordering something I can't pronounce. Will attempt my severely lacking Spanish. Prepare for awkward hand gestures. Hopefully, it's delicious.
Day 2: Volcano Vibes & Possibly Getting Lost
- Morning: Okay, here's where things get real. Volcán de Fuego! I've seen pictures. It's majestic. Need to find a tour or a way to get there that doesn't involve trying to drive myself on roads I've never seen before. I suspect I'll fail at driving and take a guided tour.
- Mid-day: THE VOLCANO! (Hopefully). I want to feel like I earned the right to witness this spectacular volcano. The hike could be a challenge, but the views? Worth it. I hope.
- Afternoon: Back in town - more exploring. Perhaps looking for local handicrafts, or just an excuse to wander aimlessly. I have the strong feeling I'm going to get lost again. That's half the fun, right? Right?!
- Evening: Find a rooftop bar. Tequila, of course. Watch the sunset. Contemplate how lucky I am to be there. Maybe start journaling. Or maybe just stare blankly at the sky, completely overwhelmed by the sheer beauty of it all. Okay, probably that.
Day 3: Coffee, Cathedrals & Colima Culture
- Morning: Coffee, coffee, glorious coffee. Discover a local cafe. Become a regular. Immediately.
- Mid-morning: Visit the cathedral and maybe a local museum - the history and culture of this area. Soak it all in. Try to actually remember some of it.
- Afternoon: The Market! I'm thinking I should avoid buying souvenirs. The impulse buy is real.
- Late Afternoon: Cooking class maybe? Okay, I'm not the greatest cook, but I love food. This could either be a disaster or, surprisingly, incredibly fun. Pray for good teachers and forgiving taste buds.
- Evening: Dinner. Hopefully I've learned a few Spanish phrases by now. Less hand gesturing, more actual words. Wishful thinking? Probably.
Day 4: The Grand Coffee Quest and the Most Memorable Taco
- Morning: The Great Coffee Hunt! Need to find the BEST coffee in Zar. This is a serious mission. I will scour every cafe, try every blend, and document my findings with the utmost seriousness. This could consume the entire day. But hey, it's coffee.
- Afternoon: If the coffee quest doesn't completely obliterate my senses, I'm determined to find the PERFECT taco. I'm talking about the taco that will live in my memory forever. The taco that will make me weep with joy. The taco that will make me want to move to Zar and become a taco judge.
- Evening: Back to the rooftop bar. Reflect on the trip. Maybe even write a cheesy travel blog entry. Regret the blog entries later. Feel grateful!
Day 5: Departure (and the Post-Trip Blues)
- Morning: Last breakfast in Zar. Try not to cry as I consume my final tacos and coffee. Pack (again!). Hug the Airbnb host goodbye.
- Afternoon: Head to the airport, maybe try to learn how to say "thank you" correctly.
- Evening: Depart Zar Colima. Already missing it. Begin the mental process of planning my return. Because I have a feeling, this isn't the last time I'll be here. This trip, I'm sure, is something I'll carry with me.
The Imperfections & The Truth
Look, this is a rough draft. There will be hiccups. There will be language barriers. There will be moments of sheer, unadulterated bliss and moments of utter panic. I'm probably going to overpack, under-plan, and generally wing it. That's part of the fun, right? Right?! Wish me luck. And maybe, send coffee.
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Zar Colima: Your (Very Opinionated) Guide to Colima (And Maybe Yourself)
So, what *is* Zar Colima, anyway? Is it a travel agency? A cult?
Psh, a travel agency? Honey, no. A cult? Maybe. Just kidding... mostly. Zar Colima is *my* love letter to Colima. Think of it as your extremely opinionated friend who's been living here (on and off, let's be real) for years and has seen, tasted, and probably stumbled over every cobblestone in this damn city. I'm supposed to be your guide, but honestly, I'm just trying to survive the heat and avoid the stray dogs, just like you are going to when you visit.
Okay, okay, Colima. What's the *actual* vibe? Is it just... volcanoes?
Volcanoes are a good start. They're kind of the *literal* backdrop to everything. Majestic, imposing, occasionally rumbling in a way that makes you question your life choices... you know, the usual. But Colima is way more than fiery mountains and picturesque sunsets. The vibe? It's laid-back. Like, ridiculously laid-back. Expect siestas. Lots and LOTS of siestas. Things run on "Colima time," which is significantly slower than even "Mexican time." Embrace it. You'll get used to the pace. Or, you know, you'll slowly lose your mind. Either way, you'll be well-rested...or insane, I'm not sure, ask my therapist.
What's the food like? Please tell me it's not all tacos. (But also tell me it's tacos.)
Alright, buckle up buttercup, because the food is where Colima *really* shines. Yes, there are tacos. Glorious, delicious tacos. But we're talking *local* tacos. You know, the ones that don't look like they came from a chain. Things like *sopitos*. You. HAVE. To. Try. Sopitos. They’re crispy corn "discs" topped with meat, cheese...and love. Trust me. And the *tuba*! It's a drink that has the most bizarre concoction like a coconut milky tasting sweet sweet nectar that has to be experienced. It's a local specialty. Then there's the seafood. Fresh, flaky, and often cheaper than a bag of chips back home. Don't be afraid to branch out, and for the love of all that is holy, learn some Spanish. Pointing and grunting only gets you so far...mostly just a funny look, honestly.
I'm thinking of staying a while. Where should I find a place to live? Is it safe?
Finding a place? That depends. Are you looking to be in the middle of town next to the plaza? Or further out for a secluded feeling? The downtown and surrounding neighborhoods are generally safe, but like *anywhere*, be aware of your surroundings. Don't flash your bling, don't stumble around drunk after dark, and you'll likely be fine. That is not to say that certain neighborhoods aren't better than others. But Colima is relatively safe, and I find it safer than most cities in the United States. Seriously, the biggest threat to your safety is probably a rogue scooter or some guy with a really loud stereo. Speaking of which, if you are thinking of staying a while, I do recommend renting a car or scooter for the area.
Transportation? Is is easy to get around? Is Uber or something like it accessible?
Getting around is easy, if you're patient. Uber is pretty reliable within the city itself. Otherwise, there are *combis* (shared vans) and taxis. Combi's are fine if you're short on time and money, but taxis can be a bit of a gamble. Negotiate the price *before* you get in! Seriously, otherwise you'll likely get hustled. My advice is, if you have the means, rent a car. It gives you the freedom to explore the surrounding areas (and escape the city during rush hour, which, by the way, isn't that bad). I've had some truly hair-raising taxi rides. Let's just say I once saw a taxi driver *fall asleep at a red light*. The only way I got him to wake up was my loudly banging on the dashboard. Not my finest hour, not his either.
What are some things to see and do *besides* eat (which, let’s be honest, will be my primary activity)?
Okay, okay, I get it. Food is a major draw. But try to experience other aspects of Colima. First, the Plaza de Armas is the central plaza, and in the early morning and evening, it's a hive of activity. The Cathedral... go inside. It's beautiful (and a great place to escape the sun). Then, there's the Museo Regional de Historia de Colima. It's actually really interesting, even if you're not a history buff. The nearby town of Comala is a MUST. It's the "White Town" and is known for its coffee and its super-chill atmosphere. Try to visit when there is a celebration. And, I'd be remiss if I didn't mention the beaches. Manzanillo is close, as is Cuyutlán. But be warned: the Pacific is a force to be reckoned with. Respect the water.
Should I take a day trip to Cuyutlan?
Cuyutlan. Oh boy. Okay, listen up, because Cuyutlan is... a journey. The beach is *black sand*. Literally, volcanic black. It’s beautiful in its own way, but it also gets *scorching* hot. The water is rough so do not go in unless you are an experienced swimmer. The waves are enormous and the undertow is powerful. Honestly, I almost drowned there once. It was terrifying. I thought that was it, my grand, dramatic death in the Pacific. I panicked. I swallowed half the ocean. Luckily, some locals hauled me out. They just looked at me, shaking their heads. Embarrassing. The town itself is sleepy. Really sleepy. And, be warned, the sun there is *relentless*. Wear sunscreen. Reapply it constantly. And bring water. Lots of water. Worth it? Yes, in my opinion. But go prepared, and be careful in that ocean. Really, truly careful.
What about the locals? Are they friendly? Will they tolerate my terrible Spanish?
Generally, yes! The people of Colima are incredibly warm and welcoming. They're used to tourists, both Mexican and international, and are patient with bad Spanish. Seriously, they'll laugh *with* you, not *at* you (usually). Try to make the effort though. Learn some basic phrases. Even if you sound like a toddler trying to order a taco, theyBook Hotels Now
