We have decided to settle down for a bit and immerse ourselves in Mexican culture - learn the language, how to take the bus, what to buy at the market, etc. before we continue on to more rural areas.  An apartment in the historical district of Mazatlan is our new home for a whole month(!)  It is a lovely mix of plazas, shops, restaurants and corner stores - which is a far cry from the Golden Zone (read: Spring Break Hotel strip) that comprises the northern area of Mazatlan.  We are within walking a few blocks of Olas Altas beach, the Angela Peralta theater, the central market and Plaza Machado.  Of course there will be many more posts to come about our adventures in this fascinating old city.