A picture-perfect Mexican retreat

Chuck PAWLIK’S article “Near Cancun, Yet a World Away” [May 4] caught my attention, as I was planning a dive trip in June to Mexico. I contacted Casa Carolina in Xcalak, and from the first communication, the proprietors, Caroline Wexler and Bob Villier, were responsive, helpful and informative about the environs and what to expect in their remote village.

After spending four days in Cozumel, my husband and I ventured down the Yucatan Peninsula to Xcalak, perhaps a bit more slowly than Pawlik reported. Upon our arrival the first thing we saw was the picture from the Los Angeles Times -- the dock, the palm tree and, yes, the incredibly blue water photographed so invitingly by Pawlik. What a pleasure to have “truth in advertising.”

I subscribe to the Sunday New York Times as well, and frankly, both papers tend to feature the same locations, countries and activities. What a delight to find something different, well written and timely.

Linda M. Poverny

Los Angeles