Tips when you go boating in Cancun

Beyond the bustling bodies and the sweltering tropical heat of its beaches, Cancun has a lot to offer the traveler. And more so if they travel by boat. The ocean in these parts is home to Cozumel, the biggest reef system in the continent, island natural reserves, and several Mayan ruins. Here are some Richard Ohlhaber tips if you want to go boating in Cancun.

Image source: .playayachting.com

Image source: yachtscancunluxurycharters.com

First, there's a lot of boat rental services in the area in case you're not bringing your boat. If you are, make sure you're bringing proof of citizenship, departure clearance, and title from the last port you've docked.

Next, if you're planning to go swimming, make sure you use biodegradable sunscreen. The non-biodegradable ones harm the corals. Let's all do our part to preserve the Yucatan's natural environment so we can keep coming back to it.

If you plan on visiting any of the islands listed as natural reserves, make sure to do your reservations way in advance. The Mexican government only allows 200 people per day on some isles like Isla Contoy.

If you keep these things in mind, you'll have a pleasant boating trip to Cancun, advises Richard Ohlhaber.

Richard Ohlhaber grew up in Chicago but now resides in Texas. Still, he is a loyal supporter of the Chicago Bulls and the Chicago Bears and names Michael Jordan and Walter Payton as his favorite athletes. When not busy checking ESPN for football highlights, he turns his attention to boating and golf. More travel and outdoor tips from Richard on this blog..

Martin Scorsese: The other master

Image source: empireonline.com

When Richard Ohlhaber talks to other film buffs about great film directors of Hollywood in the past 50 years, there are a number of names that stand out – Francis Ford Coppola, Steven Spielberg, and Martin Scorsese. While each of them has carved his own niche in the industry, Coppola and Spielberg garnered much acclaim and popularity, with Scorsese’s darker take not being received too warmly by unprepared viewers.

Image source: amazon.co.uk

Scorsese initially rose to prominence with his 1976 stunner, “Taxi Driver.” It also marked the emergence of Hollywood superstar Robert de Niro and the classic director-actor partnership that would last for decades. Four years later, Scorsese scored another critical hit with the true-to-life story of pugilist Jake LaMotta in “Raging Bull.”

However, it was not until 1990 when Scorsese crafted his masterpiece “Goodfellas,” a film that had critics comparing it to Coppola’s “The Godfather,” and for a good reason. His next hit was in the mid-90s with the movie “Casino.” It was also, in many ways, perfection in filmmaking. However, the film was criticized as being too similar to “Goodfellas.”


In 2002, Scorsese had another Oscar-challenger in “Gangs of New York,” which was an epic period movie. But it was not until 2006’s “The Departed” when Scorsese finally received his much-deserved Oscar for directing, Richard Ohlhaber notes.

Richard Ohlhaber grew up in Chicago but has been living in the DFW Metroplex since 1998. Though now based in Texas, he is a true Chicago sports fan, cheering for the Bulls and the Bears. For similar reads, visit this page.

Three tips for perfect putting

Images source: golfinsideruk.com

In golf, there is none more crucial segment than putting. After a few good drives, you’re in the green and have a chance at a birdie. As difficult as it is driving the ball hundreds of yards toward the precise location, the same can be said about the inches in a green. Hitting the ball at an off-angle could ruin your numbers. And then there are times when the ball is three feet or closer to the hole, but you are still unable to sink it in. Richard Ohlhaber notes that making mistakes while putting can throw your game off. To help you with your putting problems, here are three tips to ensure perfect putting every time.

Work on your impact: If you can’t sink the ball, the next best thing to do is to bring it closer to the hole. This is where working on your impact comes in. This emphasizes the power you put into your swing. Knowing how much you can put and knowing the distance that you would can easily lower your score in golf.

Images source: golfinsideruk.com

Aiming: Lining up your putt can be tricky as the ball never follows a straight line. The ball consistently veers away from your intended putting line by 0.5 degree at the beginning of your putt. This means depending on the distance between you and the hole, you will have to aim your putt 1 or 2 degrees off the hole. Use an alignment stick and do drills of different distances when practicing.

Create a good putting grip: A good putting grip is one where the handle of the grip runs up through your waist joint using both hands. It’s important to have a feel of what your putting grip is given the constant shift from driving and putting. Richard Ohlhaber explains that having just one grip for your whole game can affect either your putt or your drive.

Originally from Chicago, Richard Ohlhaber has been residing in Texas since 1998. Living in DFW, however, did not stop him from cheering for the Windy City’s famed sports teams, notably the Chicago Bulls and the Chicago Bears. He regularly watches ESPN and tracks the latest in the teams’ matches. For more insightful reads on golf, visit this blog.

Basic boating safety tips newcomers should know

One of Richard Ohlhaber’s favorite hobbies is boating. He loves the open water and the promise of adventure that comes with it. However, as in all other hobbies, there are a number of things people need to learn before taking one on. And just like most outdoor activities, people need to keep in mind a few reminders to stay safe at all times.

Image Source: boatingsafetymag.com

Below are some important safety tips for boating, as shared by Richard Ohlhaber.
Always check the weather apps.

A stormy sea can be one of the most terrifying things on Earth. Boating hobbyists always check their weather apps and always avoid areas with fierce weather. This is one of the most important safety measures people should take before heading out to open water. It’s always best to wait out a storm, or at least schedule a boating trip right after, when the seas are calmer.

Work diligently on a float plan.

Image source: yachtingworld.com

Float plans are plans that include the destination of a boating trip, how long the trip would take, who are on the boat, the name of the leader, the phone numbers and addresses of all the passengers, boat description, and a list of all the equipment on board to be used for communication and signaling in case of emergencies. Richard Ohlhaber explains that every boating hobbyist should insist that their boating leader should have one such comprehensive plan before leaving port.

Richard Ohlhaber lives in Texas but grew up in Chicago. The wind stayed with him, though, as he remains a Chicago Bulls and Bears fan through and through. For more articles on Ohlhaber’s passions, visit this blog.

Things to do in Cancun if you’re not a beach lover

Cancun, Mexico might be known for its pristine, white sand beaches, but these are not the only places you can visit if you are planning a trip there. While millions of tourists and beach lovers flock to this place for some beach time, here are some other activity options for you to enjoy if you don’t particularly like the sand.

Image source: justfdi.wordpress.com

Explore and go swimming in an underground river. Cancun is also famous for its other kinds of bodies of water, such as underground rivers. The Yucatan Peninsula is known as the longest network of underground rivers and caves in the world. Cancun’s Xcaret has three rivers with slow-moving waters that is perfect for relaxing without dealing with busy beach crowds.

Enjoy its mouth-watering cuisine. Since Cancun is already established as a tourist hub, there is an abundance of restaurants in the area that you can visit. No matter what kind of food you are craving for, you will definitely find a place that will satisfy your gastronomic needs.

Image source: greenglobaltravel.com

Immerse yourself in the culture. Mexico is a country that’s rich in heritage and culture, and there are quite a number of museums, local markets, or small villages you can explore if you don’t want to spend your days tanning or drinking cocktails by the ocean.

Richard Ohlhaber grew up in Chicago but has been living in the DFW Metroplex since 1998. Though now based in Texas, he is a true Chicago sports fan, cheering for the Bulls and the Bears. Apart from watching games on ESPN, Richard likes to go boating or play golf. He names Cancun, Mexico as his favorite travel destination. If he could, however, reside anywhere in the world, it would be in Italy. For more on Richard, visit this page.

The mental health benefits of playing golf

While technique is part and parcel of excelling in golf, the game is also highly dependent on one’s mastery of its mental aspect. This challenge is true for both professionals and amateur hobbyists and is a huge reason why golf is such a great game for promoting holistic health. On this blog, golf enthusiast Richard Ohlhaber lists some of the top mental health benefits of playing golf.

Image source: timesnownews.com

First, playing golf promotes socializing. Aside from being fun, the sport allows players to meet and converse with fellow players as they play. You get to catch up with friends or improve your relationship with your partner during a weekend golf session. You can also opt to play collaboratively in pairs. All in all, the game is a great bonding activity and be with people, surely vital in preventing any potential mental health issue.

Golf also reduces stress by promoting both entertainment and relaxation. Whether you spend just two hours on the weekend or face an entire 18-hole course, it’s a great respite from long and hectic days at work. Being out in the open promotes the production of the so-called happy hormone serotonin, which enhances your mood, improves your focus, and relieves debilitating stress.

Image source: crown-golf.co.uk

Lastly, golfing allows you to get immersed in nature. Spending time in the great outdoors and taking in the fresh air are keys to maintaining both our physical and mental health. The serene nature of a golf course with its pristine greens and surrounding lush trees and little lakes will revitalize both your mind and body. Ecotherapy, as many experts call it, significantly reduces agitation and anxiety, Richard Ohlhaber explains.

Richard Ohlhaber likes watching games on ESPN, boating, and playing golf. He is a big fan of Chicago sports teams. For more of Richard’s writings, go to this page.

Fun facts for fans of 'The Godfather' trilogy

Movie fans and critics agree that "The Godfather" trilogy is worth seeing more than once. The film franchise catapulted author Mario Puzo, director Francis Ford Coppola, and actors Al Pacino and Marlon Brando to worldwide fame. Supporting actors James Caan, Robert Duvall, Diane Keaton, and Andy Garcia also received critical acclaim for their performance in the movie. Here are some fun facts that might interest fans of the trilogy.

Image source: Cnn.com

 Marlon Brando was not the first choice

Paramount was against the idea of casting Marlon Brando as Don Vito Corleone. However, author and screenwriter Mario Puzo and Coppola knew that he was their guy early on. For fans of the film like Richard Ohlhaber, no other guy can top Brando's iconic performance. Despite being surrounded by controversy, he totally made the character his own.

Don's Cat

Image source: Fandom.com

The iconic cat scene wasn't really part of the script. Director Francis Ford Coppola found a stray cat in the studio and thought of a good idea. It's a good thing Marlon Brando liked cats, which made the scene look natural. Perhaps the cat got too comfortable because the purring sounds had to be dubbed over.

Robert De Niro auditioned for the role of Sonny

Robert De Niro was one of the Italian-American actors who auditioned for the movie. However, the role of Sonny went to James Caan. Despite this casting decision, the producers loved him and offered him the part of Paulie. De Niro turned down the role to star in another film but finally said yes to playing the young Don Vito in "The Godfather II," his first Oscar-winning role.

Born and raised in Chicago, Richard Olhlaber is a big fan of the Chicago Bulls and is fond of movies like "The Godfather." Visit this blog for more updates on him and his interests.