Wednesday, Day 6 Zihuatanejo/Ixtapa 7:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. Long before Columbus sailed to America, Zihuatanejo was a sacred sanctuary for indigenous nobility. Artifacts, figurines, ceramics, stone carvings and stelae are still being found in the area verifying the presence of civilizations dating as far back as the Olmecs (3,000 BC). The original name, "Cihuatlán" means "place of women" in the Náhuatl language. It was apparently a matriarchal society where weaving was the dominant industry. This is evidenced by pre-Hispanic figurines, plentiful bobbins and other related artifacts found in the area. Close to a thousand pre-Hispanic pieces as well as murals and maps are on permanent display at the Museo Arqueológico. In 1527, Spanish conquistadors launched a trade route from Zihuatanejo Bay to the Orient. Galleons returned with silks, spices and according to some historians, the first coconut palms to arrive in America where brought here from the Philippines. The Spaniards did little colonizing here. A scout sent by conquistador Hernán Cortés reported back with his evaluations saying the place was nothing great, tagging the name Cihuatlán with the demeaning Spanish suffix "nejo", hence "Zihuatanejo". While Zihuatanejo's roots are traced back centuries, Ixtapa's birth came about in the 1970's, conceived and developed by the Mexican government. As one of Mexico’s newest west coast resorts, Ixtapa has managed to coexist nicely with the charm of Zihuatanejo. Not many resorts deliver modern comfort, tropical beauty and village charm better than Ixtapa - Zihuatanejo. Excursions (from Carnival) You can receive more information on these excursions by registering and logging into Carnival.com. You can also use these ideas and then book your own independant excursions. Check the links section for links to different tour operators. ATV's Beach Ride Weave your way through some of Zihuatanejo's largest beaches on this exciting ATV adventure. 3.5 Hours Certified Two Tank Dive Explore the waters of Ixtapa on this amazing two-tank dive. 4 Hours City Tour Take this opportunity to discover the best of the twin localities of Zihuatanejo & Ixtapa. 3 Hours Club de Golf Marina Ixtapa Known for his imaginative designs, Robert Von Hagge designed this championship links course in 1994 with the area's natural surroundings playing a large role in his conception. 1 Hours Country Customs & Traditions Discover the charm and mystique of the beautiful Mexican countryside, and see for yourselves why Zihuatanejo quickly became the Gold Coast paradise. 4 Hours Deep Sea Fishing This is a great opportunity to hit the open seas and fish the famous waters of Ixtapa! 5 Hours Dolphin Swim Don't miss this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for a truly unforgettable dolphin experience. 2.5 Hours Hill & Valley Horseback Riding Come on and saddle up for a horseback adventure through the land between the Sierra Madre and the Spectacular Pacific Coast.. 3 Hours Ixtapa Island Getaway This is your opportunity to experience the atmosphere, the feeling, and the romance that is Mexico. 4.5 Hours Ixtapa Resort & Shopping Experience the best of both worlds on this combination tour. 4 Hours Lagoon Kayaking Tour Explore the peaceful lagoon waters of Barra de Potosi in your kayak. 3.5 Hours Mexican Fiesta Experience local traditions and a true Mexican fiesta on this walking excursion of Zihuatanejo. 2.5 Hours Picante Catamaran Sail & Snorkel Set sail to one of the premier snorkel sites in Mexico. 3.5 Hours River Beach Horseback Riding Discover the beautiful views of the Mexican Riviera on horseback. 3.5 Hours Kayaking at La Roqueta Explore the fascinating shoreline of Isla La Roqueta from the seat of your very own kayak. 3.5 Hours Troncones Beach & Native Fishing with Nets Exp. Learn the ancient art of fishing with nets on an unspoiled haven with miles of white sand beaches. 6 Hours PICTURES These next pictures are from Las Gatas Beach. Some of the group is going here for the day. You pick which restaurant you wish to visit that day and they supply you a table, chairs, beach lounges, etc. in exchange for your food and beverage business. LINKS Sportfishing captains that specialize in Tag & Release..