We will definitely have to stay in Old Mazatlan the next time we come to the city. You've sold us! :) Sounds like they really do have totally different characters/vibes to learn and love. We didn't notice overcrowding from tourism in the Golden Zone, but the experience in San Blas definitely made us realize we could go for even less than what was there....probably something like Old Maz! Thanks for your detailed message, we really appreciate all the information and your perspectives on things!

As far as the Pulmonias, we found that most of them tried to "gringo price" us, even if we were speaking Spanish and asking for the price in pesos, not USD. Probably something we could get past if we spent more time there.

Btw - didn't realize "pulmonia" was a lung disease. Can't imagine they did that on purpose?