Growing up in California with my grandparents in Arizona meant traveling hours in the car was no big deal. By the age of 2 I was making trips with my grandmother to Mexico for vacation at there house. I have spent the last 16 years I have been partially raised in a small city in the state of Sonora, known as Puerto Penasco or Rocky Point. I have only recently realized how much there is to do an see in the beautiful city that I consider my second home. While Puerto Penasco isn't like Cancun, you'll want to visit the next time you have a break to see something new.

This small and subtle town is only an hour away from the border making it easy to jump in a car from Tucson, Arizona and make the trip to the water. There are many hotels and condos directly on the water, with beautiful views. Because this town is so small, in comparison to Panama City or Destin, Florida, you are able to walk the entire beach if you're feeling full of energy. There are many things available for you to do in the water, including jet skis, deep sea fishing and parasailing, all on top of the typical beach activities. The beach is my first stop when I come in town.

The Malecon is a fish and shrimp market that has many things to do besides buying seafood. There are many restaurants and bars, all with jaw dropping views of the water and a brilliant variety of foods and drinks. There are also endless shops that allow you to purchase gifts for family back home as well as some for yourself.

When you may get home sick for American food, Head over to Bryan's Sports Bar and Grill for specials every evening, including prime rib, pasta and slider night. And for desert, make certain you go by Thrifty's ice-cream for a Baskin robins inspired parlor.

For a new experience, head east of downtown Rocky Point and visit the multiple stage zipline that circles around a mountain. It is an incredible experience, with the beach beside you and other travelers who have drove up the mountain in dun buggies, below you. You feel as if your flying towards the ocean. You can rent the dun buggies, after making your round on the mountain , and race your friends to the top.

Many people miss out on all of these experiences due to being nervous about Mexico because of its bad reputation in the US, however I feel just as safe In Mexico as I do In Missouri. Another factor that often holds people back is the language difference, however there is usually little to no barrier and you can always get your point across one way or another. Most of the town has learned English throughout school or learned because of their job. Now what's stopping you? Book your next vacation in Puerto Penasco!