If your family needs a summer lift, try parasailing in Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo. By visiting these two Mexican towns, you'll get two destinations for the price of one.

Ixtapa, a modern, world-class resort, was created from the ground up in 1968. There, visitors can discover restaurants, boutiques and numerous beachfront hotels (from one- to five-star quality). Nearby is Zihuatanejo, a town by the bay that has maintained its old fishing village character. Only 1.8 meters wide, the downtown streets are still paved in cobblestone.

I visited these two beach resorts years ago. But according to recent travel reports, the area has continued to attract tourists from around the world. My friend Lorraine first recommended it and no one knows global beaches better than she does. Her idea of a summer vacation included sitting underneath a thatched straw umbrella (called a palapa) reading a mystery novel, sipping a Margarita -- and watching me lift off into the sky. In Ixtapa, there's a beach called Playa del Palmar. Although swimming isn't recommended because of the strong undertows, you or your teenagers can try parasailing for $15. (Incidentally, there are numerous beaches in these two areas, so don't worry if you'd rather keep your feet on the ground. There are plenty of other places to swim, water ski, snorkel and fish.)

For the adventurous spirit, here's how it works: Two men -- a skilled driver and observer -- typically commandeer the boat, which typically moves with 100 horsepower. With 300 feet as the standard tow-rope length, you can expect to float at altitudes up to 200 feet. Of course, the take-off and flight area must be clear of trees and rocks!

The flyer (presumably you, your spouse or teen) is strapped into a harness on the shore. Companies offering parasailing should provide a helmet, approved life vest and foot protection -- especially if you're supposed to land in the water. In my case, I lifted off and landed on the shore. A young Mexican boy stayed on the beach to make sure I didn't tilt upside down or sideways. He also caught me during landing -- before my feet actually touched the sand.

Once aloft, you get comfortable in the harness by sitting in it, rather than hanging from it. You can even steer left and right by pulling on the appropriate rear risers. If you look down, everyone sitting on the beach will look like ants. I remember it being so quiet up there that I imagined I had died and gone to Heaven! There are also no 'traffic jams' up there -- just you, some curious seagulls and the vast sky. After 8-10 minutes, the flight was over. The boat came to a full stop and as I descended, someone was waiting ashore to help me land smoothly and slowly. Once on the ground, I lifted my legs out of the harness and beamed, my eyes looking skyward, still able to feel the warm breeze across my face.

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(Article originally published by www.expatspouse.com)