Aztec Pyramid of the Moon - Beware these 2 tricks

Traveling in Mexico would not have been my first choice, but I go where the clients need me. Luckily for me, a quick web search showed that there are some pretty cool sites to see in Mexico City. If you have a chance, take the time to spend a day climbing the Pyramid of the Sun and the Pyramid of the moon. But beware! Even my spanish-speaking companion was tricked by the following.

1. Everyone who acts friendly is NOT a park ranger with your best interests in mind. The friendly fellow with a handful of flyers is NOT an employee of the park, he is a hawker for the vendors at the park. His job is to make sure you park near a gift store and buy something.

2. Don't be fooled by the people whistling or pointing at you, then motioning you to park in front of them. These are NOT park rangers, they are vendors trying to get you to park in front of their restaurant. This restaurant is probably a very long way from the entrance to the park.

The park is BIG, so be prepared before you go and know the layout, where the parking is, and where the entry points into the park are. If you want to try one of the restaurants at the park, please indulge and enjoy. But don't be mislead into parking, then finding out you are not at the park entrance.

One other word of advice: It is quicker and closer to park near the first pyramid, then walk to the second pyramid. Don't go back to your car and drive around the park to the second pyramid. It is a much longer walk and the gift shops are much more expensive.

My First Day in Vancouver

October in Vancouver: What images does that bring to your mind?

When I think of Canada, I usually think of "The Great White North," very cold, with lots of snow. Much to my surprise, my first day in Vancouver was gorgeous. From our office, my native guide and fellow consultant, Monte, was excited to show me the mountains ringing the city. The air was crisp and clear, enough clouds to be pretty, but not enough to block the view. Overall the weather was very nice.

The view from my room at the Marriotts was gorgeous, overlooking the pool with a view of the mountains on either side of the Hilton. After work, I slipped on my swimsuit and found the pool a wonderful 80 degrees. It was a little chilly, so the hot tub was welcome and very relaxing after my swim.

So if anyone asks, tell them October in Vancouver can be just as beautiful as October in California.