Cancun called; we answered

Had a couple firsts last week.

First visit to Cancun, Mexico. Also, first stay at an all-inclusive hotel - the Riu Palace Peninsula.

Some observations: 

** The first person I met at the resort was from Brandon, SD. We lived in Valley Springs, five miles away, for 15 years. The last guy I talked to was from Iowa. His son plays football at my alma mater Augustana in Sioux Falls, SD. What's that saying? It's a small world after all.

** Reminded me of Vegas. It was relaxing but don’t go for the peace and quiet. A lot of noise, a lot of people. 

** Food was great. Though my wife lost a battle with a grilled octopus. The all-inclusiveness was cool as you could get about whatever you wanted whenever. 

** Do not book an "adventure" with Mexico Travel Solutions. Wife booked a scuba thing for us, got sick the night before. I called at 4 a.m. to cancel, as directed, and I went down at 7:30 to talk to the van driver, who knew of the call. But they wouldn't refund our money, despite her purchasing insurance, because she didn't have a doctor's note. Seriously.

** Cancun, Mexico, is a lot like Florida but more people speak English in Cancun.

** I never understood the allure of pool bars. I like pools; I like bars; but standing up to your waist drinking doesn’t do it for me. Never saw anyone leave to use the restroom. Just saying.

** Didn’t talk to an a-hole in six days. New record.

** I held my own in sand volleyball with the young punks. 12-12 serving would’ve made Coach Haugen proud.

** I’ll bring some dressier clothes next time. Especially for evenings. I just threw shorts and shirts in a bag the night before like I was going to Florida.

** All in all, it was fun, glad we went. But I wouldn't go every year. I still prefer St. Pete's Beach, FL, during spring training. Unfortunately, it's seldom my decision.