Our driver stopped for cigarettes at the market in PJ; it looked pretty substantial, and we saw several American brands there - some of it was funny like the cereals because they have the American characters on them like Tony the Tiger or the Sugar Smacks Bear, but the name would be different like Azucares - which basically translates as sugar. I think it would be pretty easy to pick up staples there, and the prices were reasonable.

agree with janenicole, go ahead and make them now. Things have certainly changed from when you could book a couple months out. I've been booking around 7-8 in advance just to be on the safe side.

vg - you must've rode with Frank ;)

I agree about booking now. We booked March of 2007 in March of 2006. At that time (Mar., 2006), they were already taking reservations for Dec. 2007--21 months out! Of course, that's the Christmas season, so no real surprise there.

Certainly if you have a particular accomodation in mind, the earlier the better. I think you'll love Casa Blanca.

By the way, yes, Frank always stops at La Esquina. I've never been to the "supermarket", but this little place has always seemed quite well stocked. Tully, do you and Frank smoke together on the way in??!! LOL! Come to think of it, I remember his smoking when driving me in. He asked if it was okay. As you know, I gave it up almost 3 years ago and sometimes I still get quite a craving. But no more. Too many stops and starts through the years. This time it HAD to be for good! :)