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LOS CABOS & SOUTH BAJA by Michelle Monroy
Los Cabos (the capes) is in the southern most tip of the State of Baja California Sur and consists of three main areas:
Cabo San Lucas, San José del Cabo and the East Cape. In between, along the coast as well as inland, you will find smaller towns and points of interest such as Santiago and Miraflores.
THE BAJA SUR LOOP If you look at the Baja Sur map you can see that the highways and towns form a loop. There are ongoing road improvements and new highway constructions, so getting from one place to another will only get easier. The new highway from Cabo San Lucas to Todos Santos is impressively well done, making it only 45 minutes away.
Have your camera ready to snap some photos of the beautiful beaches and make a roadside stop at the Cabo Real arroyo for a refreshing coco frío (cold coconut).
San José del Cabo
Walking around San José will be more of a traditional Mexican town experience than Cabo San Lucas. You will find yourself surrounded by colorful buildings and quaint cobblestone streets that lead to the town’s picturesque zócalo (main plaza). Over the years, San José has become an artistic and cultural centre with numerous fine art galleries in its downtown art district. From November through June the popular “Art Walk” takes place every Thursday evening where the galleries welcome guests to view their exhibits, sip wine and dine at one of the five star restaurants. San José has a beautiful beach where you can take a horseback ride and explore the estuary that is home to many different bird species.
Todos Santos
Located on the Pacific Ocean side, Todos Santos is an oasis where artists and surfers flock to enjoy the culture and excellent surf. Home to the famous Hotel California, this charming town offers great restaurants and a cooler climate than Cabo San Lucas and San José due to the Pacific’s breezes.
La Paz
Cabo San Lucas
Also just known as “Cabo”, is a tourist friendly town located on the tip of the Baja California peninsula that’s full of entertainment for every age and liking. You will find the Sea of Cortez and the Pacific Ocean meeting at land’s end and the beautiful rock formations that create the famous Cabo arch. Cabo San Lucas has the liveliest beach in the Los Cabos area, an impressive marina and countless restaurants and bars that keep the town alive day and night.
The Corridor
A 40 Km highway that connects Cabo San Lucas and San José del Cabo (about a 25 minute drive). Along this road you can find various hotels, luxury ocean front homes, championship golf courses and beautiful views.
La Paz is the capital of the state of Baja California Sur and is known for its warm people and beautiful beaches. This authentic Mexican city (as well as the general south Baja region) has been rated as one of the safest in Mexico and still maintains the small town feel that is very welcoming for tourists. La Paz is a departure point for tours and charters to the stunning Espiritu Santo Island as well as whale watching excursions. Stroll down the colorful malecón (boardwalk), walk hundreds of feet in waist high water at Balandra beach or have a fine dining experience; La Paz has a lot to offer.
East Cape
People often call it “the old Cabo” because of its pristine beaches and small fishing towns such as Buena Vista and Los Barriles. The East Cape begins just east of San José and extends about 100 miles up the Sea of Cortez coast. 60 miles outside of San José is the Cabo Pulmo National Marine Park, an eight fingered coral reef that offers outstanding snorkelling and scuba diving. Very popular for fishing and surfing, the East Cape also attracts kite surfers and folks who just want to get away from it all.
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SEPTEMBER FEATURES
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SIERRA de la LAGUNA
CONTRIBUTORS
September 2013 Edition Publisher
Owen Perry
Editor in Chief
Michelle Monroy
In every issue 3 TRAVEL
Los Cabos & South Baja: This incredible corner of the World 5 Activities: Snorkelling ~ Scuba diving ~ Surfing ~ Fishing & boating ~ Golf 10 Los Cabos Top Beaches: descriptions and tips about the best beaches to visit
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16 ENTERTAINMENT
Music ~ Who is the Chef? ~ Events ~ Cabo’s Party Scene
20 WHO IS THE CHEF?
Creative Editor
Yésica Pineda Moreno “Yeye”
Art
Michelle Monroy
Photography
Bruce Herman Justin Miller Karen J O Shaughnessy Michelle Monroy Ricardo Tamaño And others
Writers
Yeye Michelle Monroy Marilyn Graham Fernando Rodriguez Blake Harrington Bruce Herman
Editors Contact: destinomichelle@gmail.com destinoyesica@gmail.com
Irving Palacios - The Container
21 HOTEL PROFILES
Next advertising closing date: SEPTEMBER 8th
22 HEALTHY LIVING
For advertising rates and placement, please contact: destinoadvertising@gmail.com (624) 105-9700 / (624) 142-4949
One & Only Palmilla
Scuba Diving ~ Organic Yoga ~ Spa ~ Beauty
24 ART DISTRIC T
Cover photo by Bruce Herman
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MEXICAN WINE COUNTRY Baja Wine Route
Mexican Folk Art ~ My Experience with Traditional Mexico
25 COUPONS 26 MAPS 31 REAL ESTATE
Owning Real Estate in Los Cabos
DESTINO GROUP SA de CV
Los Cabos, BCS Ph (011 52) (624) 142-4949/105-9700
contactdestino@gmail.com ISSUE 57 September 2013 Printed in USA. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form without the written consent of the publisher. © 2013 Destino Group SA de CV Numero 57 Septiembre 2013 Todos los derechos reservados por Destino Group. Prohibida la reprodución total o parcial del contenido sin previa autorización por escrito de los editores. © 2013 Destino Group SA de CV DESTINO GROUP welcomes all written and photographic material. We cannot guarantee return. Rights to publish unsolicited material are retained for 12 months. Circulation throughout Southern Baja. For more information on distribution visit: www.DestinoMagazine.com Imported by: Comercializadora Californiana, S de R.L de C.V.
TRAVEL
Los Cabos
activities SCUBA DIVING & SNORKELLING
This is your chance to experience the underwater life in the Sea of Cortez, also known as the “Aquarium of the World”. Prepare yourself for nature to show off as you swim side by side with colourful schools of fish, eels, rays, octopus, turtles and more. There are a few ways to snorkel in Cabo: book one of the popular snorkel tours, drive to a beach and swim off the shore or charter your own private boat. Tours last around two or three hours and cost around $40.00 dollars per person. If you’re venturing out on your own, stay away from the Pacific side; its strong currents make it very dangerous for any kind of water sports.
SNORKELLING SPOTS Pelican Rock This rock attracts many fish and is just an easy five minute boat ride from the Cabo San Lucas Marina. Lover’s Beach Accessible only by water taxi. Be aware that this is a high boat traffic area and it’s not roped off for swimmers. Santa Maria Cove Santa Maria is a regular destination for snorkel tours. If you choose to drive there, it’s a very easy swim from the shore to the reef. Chileno Bay This bay is also a common destination for snorkelling tours and has a safe roped off area for snorkellers. Cabo Pulmo Cabo Pulmo is a Natural Marine Reserve in the East Cape that offers possibly the best snorkelling in the area. To get to this eight fingered coral reef you have take about a 2 hour drive from San José del Cabo, but it’s well worth it.
SCUBA DIVING DESTINATIONS
Note: travel time is from Cabo San Lucas marina Land’s End Intermediate-Advanced 50’-60’ and just 5 minutes by boat you’re swimming with sea lions and moray eels. Also a sunken boat can be seen in the Falls. Sand Falls Beginners - Advanced 30’-100’ Steep sand banks go down sharply into a canyon filled with tropical fish. A short boat ride from shore, the canyon runs from the depths of the Cabo San Lucas bay to within 30 feet off shore. Pelican Rock Beginners - 25’-80’ Just 5 minute boat trip to this large rock that attracts many tropical fish.
Santa María Cave Beginners - 20’-40’ - 35 minutes by boat, or dive from the beach. The entrance to Santa Maria canyon has a huge variety of fish who feed right from your hand. Chileno Beginners - 30’-70’ - 35 minute boat ride and a sandy and rocky bottom. PARKING Lots of turtles sited here, tropical fish, night dives. El Gavilán Intermediate/Advanced - 70’-100’ - 35 minutes boat time. Rocky ledge leading into a canyon where groupers and larger fish are often sited. Blow Hole Beginners/Advanced - 30’-70’ - 35 minutes boat ride from San Lucas, or just 10 minutes from Chileno beach. Rocky valleys present a variety of fish. Las Salinas Beginners - 30’-45’ - 1.4 hours by boat from San Lucas, or 1 hour by boat from La Playita. A sunken Japanese fishing boat attracts a large assortment of fish. Gordo Banks Advanced - 110’-120’ - 1 hour boat from La Playita, there is a seamount where you can see marlin, hammerheads, skip jacks and at times huge manta rays. Cabo Pulmo Beginner/Advanced - 30’-100’ - 1 hour drive East of San José on the paved road. 5 minutes by boat you’ll find the only living coral reef in the Sea of Cortez.
SNORKELLING & SCUBA DIVING COMPANIES Adventure Cabo Deep Blue
(624) 143-7668
Amigos del Mar (624) 143-0505 Andromeda Divers (624) 143-8232 Cabo Adventures (624) 173-9500 Cabo Expeditions (624) 143-2700 Cabo San Lucas Tours by Johann & Sandra Toll-free from Mexico
01-800-822-4577
Neptune’s Finger Advanced - 80’-100’ Spectacular canyon wall dive.
Eagle Divers (624) 143-9286 Manta (624) 144-3871 Nautilus Dive Tech (624) 143-0067 Ocean Riders Toll-free from Mexico
Cabeza de Ballena Beginners - 20’-40’ 25 minute boat ride to dive through large boulders with lots of fish.
Oceanus (624) 143-3929 Pez Gato (624) 143-3797
01-800-727-5391
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TRAVEL
SURFING Cabo has been a popular surfing destination since the ‘50s, but with its enormous growth and the quick and daily flights coming in from California, it has now become a surfer’s paradise.
MAIN SURF SPOTS
San Pedrito • Level: Advanced •
Direction: Right, left Location: Pacific side right before arriving to Todos Santos Cerritos • Level: Great for beginners • Direction: Right and left • Location: Pacific side at Km 65 of the Cabo San Lucas-Todos Santos road Monuments • Level: Advanced • Direction: Left • Location: at Km 6.5 of the Corridor, closer to Cabo San Lucas El Tule • Level: Advanced • Direction: Right and left • Location: Exit at Km 16.2 at the El Tule bridge Costa Azul is made of three spots: The Rock or La Roca • Level: Advanced • Direction: Right Zippers • Level: All level • Direction: Right Acapulquito • Level: All levels • Direction: Right • Location: at Km 28.5. Access is below the Costa Azul bridge
La Bocana at the estuary • Level: All levels • Direction: Right and lef • Location: San José del Cabo’s main beach, close to the Presidente Hotel Shipwrecks • Level: Advanced • Direction: Right • Location: East Cape, about 25 Km from San José del Cabo Nine Palms • Level: All levels • Direction: Long rights • Location: East Cape, about 30 Km from San José del Cabo
SURF SEASONS June through November The summer months are known to be the best as the Southern Hemisphere’s swells send great waves to the Pacific, Cabo and East Cape. December through February
East Cape and Costa Azul are on the flatter side. The Pacific can be good this time of year because it’s exposed to the west swell.
March through May This is the windy season. Swells are consistent and you’ll run into fewer crowds.
SURF SHOPS For surf gear, board rentals and lessons:
Baja Waterman Surf Central (624) 172-6110 Cabo Surf Shop and Mike Doyle Surf School (624) 172-6188 Costa Azul Surf Shop (San José and Cerritos) (624) 142-2771 SUP Mexico (624) 172-6046 Punta del Cabo Surfshop (624)105-24-29 Mario Surf School (Pescadero) (612) 142-6156 Zippers Surf Shop & Rentals (624) 172-6162
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TRAVEL
BOATING & FISHING
Puerto Los Cabos Marina
Calm waters, extraordinary fishing and perfect weather... some would argue that boating is the most popular attraction in Los Cabos. Whether you want to take a cruise to Santa María Bay on a luxury yacht or wake up at the crack of dawn for a fishing adventure, the options to fit your needs are endless.
BOAT RENTALS Private yachts and sailboats There are several charter companies that can accommodate you depending on what you need. What you do on your trip is really up to you, but it will typically consist of a tour around the arch, fishing for a couple of hours and a cruise to any of the beautiful bays for swimming. Most boats have fishing equipment and a knowledgeable crew, but the main difference between renting a yacht and a fishing boat is the cost.
Fishing Boat Rentals You can always fish on a yacht, but cruisers and pangas are more commonly used. Pangas and super-pangas are a more affordable option, but cruisers will fit more people and be more comfortable if the sea is rough. When booking with a fishing boat operator, make sure they include proper safety equipment such as; life jackets, GPS, VHF radio and shark repellent!
FISHING
There’s a reason why the world’s richest fishing tournament - the Bisbee’s Black & Blue - takes place in Los Cabos for over thirty years. This part of the world offers an abundant sea life and an exceptionally high catch success rate. No matter what your level of fishing experience is, Cabo won’t disappoint you.
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What to Expect It’s recommended to make a reservation at least one day before. Most charters include a fishing license, bait, tackle and equipment. Some also include food and drink or can be added at an additional cost. The earlier you leave the better; trips usually begin around 6:00 and 7:00 am and last around 6 hours. Cost will depend on the number of people in your party and the size of the boat you choose to rent. 15% to 20% of your charter cost is a customary tip for the crew.
Bait and Tackle Most likely, the boat you charter will include your bait and tackle. If you need your own fresh bait you can buy it along the Cabo San Lucas Marina or the crew you hire can also stop to buy it from the local fishermen on your way out.
Sport fishing flags commonly seen in Los Cabos:
CHARTER COMPANIES
Dream Maker (624) 143-7266 JC’s Sport Fishing (624) 147-5821 Marlin Masters Sport Fishing (624) 144-4481 Minerva’s (624) 143-1282 / 143-2766 Paradise Sport Fishing (624) 143-1033 Picante Sport Fishing (624) 143-2474 Pisces Fleet Sport Fishing (624) 143-1288 / 143-9488 / 143-8388 Portus Sport Fishing (624) 104-3775 / 355-4561 Rafael’s Sport Fishing Fleet (624) 143-0018 RedRum Sport Fishing (624) 172-0085 Salvador’s Sport Fishing Charters USA : (406) 980-1588 Silverados Sport Fishing (624) 147-0594 Solmar Sport Fishing Fleet (624) 143-0646 / 143-4542 Sushi Time (624) 147-5162 Top Anglers Sport Fishing (624) 122-1643
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TRAVEL
GOLFING With the desert meeting the Sea of Cortez as a backdrop, there is no doubt why Los Cabos has become a championship golf destination over the years. From Nicklaus to Fazio, many of the big names in golf have designed courses in this unique landscape. Green fees vary based on the membership status of the golfer, time of day, season of the year and other factors. Many courses also offer a reduced rate later in the day during twilight hours. Appropriate golf attire is required on all courses and club rental prices range from $35 to $ 65.
Cabo San Lucas Country Club This course was designed by Roy Dye and is conveniently located outside of Cabo San Lucas and is the only one with views of Land’s End. It has more than 80 bunkers and slightly inclined fairways and one of the longest holes in all of Mexico at 610 yards. 18 holes, 7,220 yards, par 72. (624) 143 4654 www.cabosanlucascountryclub.com
golfer with risk vs reward type decision-making. 18 holes, 7,049 yards, par 72. (624) 145-8200 • www.cabodelsol.com
Cabo Real The newly renovated Robert Trent Jones Jr. designed golf course is one of the Corridor’s first championship courses and boasts beautiful views of the Sea of Cortez, elevation changes, and has hosted two PGA Senior Slams. 18 holes, 7,037 yards, par 72. (624) 173-9400 ext. 1 • www.caboreal.com
Palmilla With 27 holes of Golf, each 9 hole course offers something different. The Ocean, Mountain, and Arroyo courses all boast Jack Nicklaus Design and a fun and challenging layout with canyons and elevation changes. (624) 144-5250 • www.palmillagc.com
Punta Sur Golf - Formerly Mayan Palace Golf This 9 hole course is a friendly course but make sure you hit ‘em straight because throughout the course you are
surrounded by homes and condos in beautiful San José. A fun course for any level of golfer. 9 holes, 3,141 yards, par 35. (624) 142-0900 • www.vidantagolf.com
Club Campestre San José Make sure you bring your creativity for the greens at Club Campestre, the newest Jack Nicklaus Design in Los Cabos. Almost every green has 2 or 3 different tiers, so spend some time on the practice green before your round. 18 holes, 7,055 yards, par 71. (624) 173-9300 • www.clubcampestresanjose.com
Puerto Los Cabos The only composite course in the area with two different 9 hole courses designed by two legends of golf, Jack Nicklaus and Greg Norman respectively. Oceanfront holes, elevation changes, and incredible vistas make Puerto Los Cabos a unique and special experience for any golfer at any handicap. 18 holes, 6,818 yards, par 73. (624) 173-9300 • www.puertoloscabos.com
Cabo del Sol Ocean Course - A Jack Nicklaus signature course with six ocean front holes (1.5 miles). Known for its “3 finest finishing holes in golf” the Ocean Course is said to be one of the most difficult yet beautiful courses in the area. 18 holes, 7,075 yards, par 72. Desert Course – Designed by Tom Weiskopf, this course winds through the desert above the Ocean Course and challenges the
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TRAVEL
Most people come to Los Cabos for a beach vacation and this area happens to have some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. From floating in a turquoise bay with pink sand to riding some epic waves, each one offers something unique. Here is a list of the mustsee beaches to help you decide which one is your dream beach.
By Michelle Monroy
Medano Beach
This is where the action is. El Médano (as the locals call it) is a 2 mile stretch of hotels, restaurants and bars right on the sand. It’s a swimmable and family friendly beach with endless options for souvenir shopping. All water sports and activities are available. If you want to take a water taxi to Lover’s Beach, this is the spot to do it. Its stunning view of land’s end and the vast entertainment options makes it a must-see. In the heart of downtown Cabo San Lucas. You can walk through the east side of the marina or access it via Avenida del Pescador street. Get prepared to be approached by souvenir vendors. If you’re not there for the shopping, the only thing you can do is say “No Gracias.” • Prices don’t vary too much from one water sports rental place to another; just talk to someone and break out those negotiation skills. • Make a trip to Lover’s Beach while you’re there.
Location: Tips:
Lover’s Beach
Getting to here is an adventure in itself due to the fact that it’s only reachable by boat or kayak. The easiest way is to take a water taxi from the Cabo San Lucas Marina or Medano Beach. Prices are around $15.00 per person. Ask your captain to cruise by the arch and the sea lion rock for some great photo opportunities. Once you arrive you’ll notice the striking rock formations and caves that you will instantly want to go explore. Walk to the other side of the rocks and you’ll now find yourself looking at the Pacific Ocean; the locals call this Divorce Beach. This side is very dangerous for swimming because of the powerful undertow, so only swim on Lover’s Beach. Land’s End beside the famous arch. Only accessible by boat. There are a couple of vendors that offer beers and water but you won’t find any other services. • A good idea is to spend the day at Medano Beach and take an hour or two to go to Lover’s Beach; this should be enough time to explore and enjoy this natural wonderland.
Location: Tips:
Las Viudas
Las Viudas (The Widows) beach is not visible from the road and is possibly the most private beach you will find on this list. What makes it unique are the rock formations that create small pools and coves where you can have a private and peaceful beach day. This beach is swimmable with caution, but if you find your own pool you can avoid the waves. Turn right at Km. 12.5 of the corridor and follow the dirt road down to the beach. There is a sign that reads “Las Viudas” but keep your eyes peeled because the entrance sneaks up on you. You won’t find any services or vendors so bring all your beach essentials with you.
Location:
stop here to enjoy the snorkelling and scuba diving that this National Marine Preserve offers. This family friendly beach is relatively secluded, therefore you rarely run into beach vendors. Follow the sign that reads “Santa María” and exit the highway at Km. 13. Follow the dirt road until you reach the parking area. No services and hardly any shade. You can rent umbrellas on the beach, but if you happen to have one bring it anyway. • Bring snorkelling gear!
Location: Tips:
Chileno
A very popular location for snorkelling, swimming or just spending the day under the newly installed palapas. You’ll find tide pools at the east end of the beach and beautiful reefs for excellent snorkelling and scuba diving. This is the only beach with public rest rooms and it has plenty of palapas for shade. Follow the signs for Chileno Beach Club near Km. 14 of the main highway. If you visit Chileno on a weekend make an effort to arrive early; snorkelling visibility is often better in the mornings, you’ll avoid the mid-day snorkel tours and if you beat the crowds you’ll be guaranteed a palapa for that much needed shade. • Bring Snorkelling gear!
Location: Tips:
Palmilla
Palmilla is known for its family friendly calm waters and mile long stretch of beach. Located within the resort community of Palmilla, you will find yourself surrounded by oceanfront luxury homes, the One&Only Hotel and the world renowned Jack Nicklaus Ocean Nine golf course. Pangas and fishing cruisers are available for charter but you won’t find water sport rentals such as kayaks or jet skis.
La Playita
La Playita (the little beach) is a long stretch of beach where you will often find locals fishing from the shore and families with children enjoying the beach-front playground. On the right end of La Playita you will find a roped-off swimming area just outside the beautiful Puerto Los Cabos 500 slip marina entrance. To the left is the natural open beach where you can swim, skim-board and enjoy a peaceful beach day away from the crowds. Follow the signs to La Playita/Puerto Los Cabos form Boulevard Mijares in downtown San José del Cabo (across from the fire department). You will find new and well maintained bathrooms, palapas and fishing charters. • There are no food services directly on the beach, but there are several casual restaurants in the surrounding area.
Location: Tips:
Cerrit os
Cerritos beach is a popular surf spot and swimming is relatively safe. The scenic 45 minute drive from Cabo San Lucas is well worth the trip as you drive along the pristine Pacific coast. The Cerritos Beach Club Restaurant is a perfect spot to spend a relaxing day on the beach or if you want to be active you can take a surf lesson at Baja Surf Camp or rent surf and boogie boards at the Costa Azul Surf Shop. Exit at Km. 66 of the Cabo San Lucas - Todos Santos highway. Watch the markers as there is no sign. Drive about 1.7 miles to the beach area. Lounge chairs, restrooms, food and drinks are available at The Cerritos Beach Club Restaurant.
Location: Tips:
Medano Beach
by Michelle Monroy
27. Follow the signs and turn into the main beach parking area before the entrance to the One&Only Hotel.
Tips:
Tips:
Santa Maria
Costa Azul
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Location: Tips:
Location: Take the Palmilla ramp exit at KM
Palmilla is popular among local families on the weekends, so arrive early if you want a palapa or bring your own umbrella. • No services available.
A stunning horseshoe cove with coral coloured sand and an abundant marine life. Boat excursions and private charters often
a surf session and lunch and beers at the restaurant. To the west of Zippers is Acapulquito beach where Cabo Surf Hotel and Mike Doyle Surf School are located. You can find surf shops in the area where you can rent surf and SUP boards and set up lessons. The surf is bigger during the summer and in the winter it’s a good spot for snorkelling and swimming. Exit at Km. 28 via the Costa Azul Bridge. Swimming with caution is possible in this area but keep an eye out for surfers.
If what you’re looking for is a good surf spot that doesn’t require driving out of town... this is it. Head over to Zipper’s for
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TRAVEL
SIER R A by yeye
de la
Once upon a time, between the highest peaks of the southern most range of the Pacific Crest which includes some of the most famous National Parks in the world (including Denali and Yosemite) there was a lagoon which in Spanish translates as Laguna. In 1870, after years of supporting local agriculture and mining, Cañón San Dionísio eroded enough to drain away accumulated water and the lagoon disappeared leaving a flat meadow. Today this mountain range is still called Sierra de la Laguna and in normal, non-drought years the Sierras can receive over 100 centimetres (39 inches) of rain and serve as a key water source for Todos Santos, Pescadero and other coastal communities. Declared a Biosphere Reserve in 1994, this range is located at the southern end of the Baja California Peninsula, it is sparsely inhabited, and it is one of the least exploited natural environments in Mexico. The summits reach heights of only 5,000 to 7,000 feet, which attracts hikers, mountain bikers and naturalists, since they offer plenty of opportunities for hiking through canyons and for boulder climbing, through miles of nature and hidden trails throughout the mountains. The highest peak Picacho de la Laguna, in the Sierra’s centre is 7,090 feet, approximately 4 miles southeast is Cerro las Casitas, which measures 6,835 feet. An estimated 1.7 million ounces of gold, worth more than $2 billion, are embedded in this Mexican beauty. The villages of San Antonio and El Triunfo are pueblos that treasure Baja’s mining history, but Agriculture is the number one incomegenerating activity in the region and farming communities such as Los Planes remind us that 88 farms in Baja California Sur export agricultural produce, most of those are certified organic and much of the food grown in the area goes north, to the United States. Do not be surprised if when asked about mining all that gold, they answer: “We don’t need gold, but we need water.” Families in remote ranches in the middle of a forest do not allow for any large scale, export-oriented agriculture, but their way of living can easily be used as example to those who strive for a sustainable local economy, as they grow only enough for the family, plus a little bit to share locally. These ranches have beehives and maybe cows, goats and hens, so the family sells its cheese, eggs, and honey in nearby towns. Local reforestation programs are offered that pays them to grow
L AG U N A
In Their Own Words: Hikers Describe the Challenges and Rewards of Hiking Baja Sur’s Sierra de la Laguna Mountains by Todos Santos Eco Adventures
native plants in a nursery and replant them in previously deforested areas. For a little extra money, some make clay pottery and sell it in a craft shop in El Triunfo. There might be those who would describe them as poor, but for the simple minded nature lovers, they are healthy people who still can climb a mountain at age 73 and instead of money want life. Natualists enjoy knowing that the southern tip of the peninsula, including the Sierra de la Laguna, was formerly an island, and it has a distinctive flora and fauna, with many affinities to southern Mexico. The Sierra is home to many endemic species and subspecies. The dry San Lucan xeric scrub extends from the coast to 250 meters elevation. The Sierra de la Laguna dry forests occupy lower portion of the range, from 250 to 800 meters elevation. Above 800 meters elevation, the dry forests transition to the Sierra de la Laguna pine-oak forests. The composition of the pine-oak forests varies with elevation; oak woodlands predominate from 800 to 1200 meters elevation, with oak-pine woodlands between 1200 and 1600 meters elevation, with transition to pine-oak forests above 1600 meters elevation. The predominant pine is a local subspecies of Mexican Pinyon, Pinus cembroides subsp. lagunae. The forests are exploited commercially for timber, and cattle-raising is common in the oak woodland and dry forest zones. UNESCO has designated the Sierra de la Laguna a global biosphere reserve. The Biosphere reserve was established by a Mexican presidential decree of 6 June 1994, which designated a core area and buffer zones. The core area is centred on the higherelevation oak-pine forests, while the transition area includes the communities of Todos Santos, El Pescadero, El Triunfo, San Antonio, San Bartolo, Buena Vista, Los Barriles, Las Cuevas, Santiago and Miraflores. In places such as Sierra de La Laguna, time and travel always open mysteries to the seeker, who in retreat of worldly matters finds himself in a Universe of wonderlands. Who knows, maybe you end up following a white rabbit, if you do, send us a picture!* Volunteering at Sea Turtle Nest Monitoring Camp this summer is a great activity around the time of the full moon in September. This is an overnight adventure in which you patrol the beaches with biologists to find nesting turtles and their eggs. TOSEA’s wildlife biologist Stephanie Rousso just won a grant from the prestigious Rufford Foundation for her research at Sea Turtle Camp, and she will be there! Congratulations!
At Todos Santos Eco Adventures we run four day hiking trips in the mountains of Sierra de la Laguna Biosphere Reserve, a little-explored but fantastically beautiful area in Baja California Sur. Rather than tell you about the hike ourselves, we asked former guests to share what they found most memorable about the trip. So here, in their own words, is each guest’s description of their Sierra trek: “A few adventurous friends of mine in Baja had hiked to the Sierra de la Laguna and told me how amazing it was, but it was more wondrous than I imagined. At an elevation of 7,000 feet it is a world of its own, an “Island in the sky” as one friend described it. The forests of oak, pine and madrona are host to unique plants and animals. For me as a birder seeing the Yelloweyed Junco, Oak Titmouse, Baja morph of the American Robin and Acorn Woodpecker was great fun. Our trip was lead by an incredible guide, Mauricio Durán, from Todos Santos Eco Adventures. His knowledge of the natural history of the area added greatly to our experience.” Thea Thomas, Cordova, Alaska “I learned so much about geography, birds and the natural world from him. I often think about that trip. The hike itself to the top was more difficult than I thought it would be but absolutely beautiful. What I couldn’t believe is the diversity of trees. There were parts of it that looked exactly like Colorado. The most exciting point was the freak electrical storm one night. I think we had a few snowflakes and our water bottles had ice in them. I have never seen or heard such an electrical display. I remember the beauty and serenity of the camping area and the hikes we took each day to the peak and waterfalls. The beauty and diversity of this area nestled between the Pacific and the Sea of Cortez---so different from the normal Baja tourist itinerary. People need to see the incredible beauty of Baja beyond the beaches.” John Valentine, Kansas City, Missouri “I went swimming on my birthday in a frigid mountain lake. Everyone was going to join me... but after I took the plunge, they all were still on the rocks laughing. That was the coldest birthday swim I have ever had. One of our group was a urologist. He assured me that a certain appendage that had almost disappeared would be sure to return the next day. I’m glad he was right!” Craig Ligibel, Annapolis, Maryland “My greatest memory of the trip was the bells. The cowboys hobbled their horses and mules so they would not leave the meadow and each of the animals had a bell around its neck. The bells created a symphony under the starlit night, and it was spectacular.” Patty Romanchek, New Buffalo, Michigan
For more information about trekking in the Sierra de la Laguna Biosphere Reserve with Todos Santos Eco Adventure team visit web site at www.tosea.net and/or email at TSEcoAdventures@hotmail.com
Photography courtesy of Sergio and Bryan Jauregui
www.DestinoMagazine.com | SEPTEMBER 2013
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eptember is mes de la patria - patriotism month. Every year on September 16, the people of Mexico celebrate the day that they gained independence as a country. For about 300 years Mexico was a Spanish colony which was known as The New Spain. It is said that on the morning of September 16, 1810 a priest named Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla rang the church bells in the town of Dolores and proclaimed an armed revolt against the Spanish. His famous speech became known as and is re-enacted every year on the evening of September 15 by the President in the zócalo of Mexico City and by Mayors and Governors in their respective cities or towns. The speech ends with the threefold shout of which translates as Long Live Mexico! The following day, on the 16th, Mexico celebrates with parades and other civic festivals. In Los Cabos you can join the festivities in the main town squares of Cabo San Lucas and San José del Cabo and most restaurants and bars host some kind of celebratory fiesta.
Mexican patriotic national holidays:
February 5: Constitution Day February 24: Flag Day March 21: Benito Juárez’s Birthday Memorial September 16: Independence Day November 20: Revolution Day Memorial
The Cultural Pavillion of Cabo San Lucas is a space where residents and tourists can enjoy the cultural and artistic expressions of the los Cabos local talents. They offer concerts, dances, art exhibits, international seminars and much more. The Pavilion closed out their July calendar of events with a comic book exposition which featured Gustavo Garcia Melgar, a local comic book historian who spoke of the golden era of comic books in Mexico. Garcia Melgar is also the
On Thursday, August 8, 2013, the Cultural Pavilion presented a 7:30 p.m. showing of the skateboarding documentary, Dogtown, written by Stacy Peralta, and directed by Catherine Hardwicke. ‘‘If people would like to know how the skateboarding movement started in 1970, this would be the film to see,’’ said Miriam Villafaña Beltran, who added that August at the Cultural Pavilion is ‘‘Surf and Skate’’ month. The Pavilion has also hosted the “International Day of Dance’’ which included musical dance performances by young children and teens, a lecture on poetry and song writing by Franco Narro, and an exhibit of books and photographs of the history, archaeology and culture of Southern Baja California and the Los Cabos Youth Orchestra.
Baja California Sur is rich in history and traditions that have been carried on from generation to generation. It is not hard to find family owned and operated establishments such as This world class equestrian centre was established in 1994 by Francisco J. Barrena M. and is home to about 50 horses. They can accommodate riders of any age and skill level; each one has been trained by professionals to ensure safety and an enjoyable ride. The riding school is ran by Professor Valente F. Barrena. and its specialty is high level dressage. Dressage is an excellent way to perfect any riding discipline and to become an better rider overall. Cuadra San Francisco is located on km. 19.5 of the main highway between Cabo San Lucas and San José del Cabo.
By Fernando Rodriguez
creative writer and artist of his own Spanish-language comic book, whose main hero is from Baja California. Memin Pinguin, La Familia Burron, Kaliman, La Pequeña Lulu and a host of other comic books by Mexican authors and artists from the 1940’s-1970’s golden era of comic books were on display for all attendees to appreciate.
The One of 500 is one of the many community conscious platforms which the Cultural Pavilion provides. Municipal Cultural Director Blanca Hernandez mentioned, ‘‘One of the functions of One of 500 is the promotion and dissemination of the artistic work of creative writers and visual artists.’’ Another community conscious event was the “Protection of domestic animals in the State of Baja California,’’ held in April, 2013. The Cultural Pavilion posts all of their upcoming events at their Facebook page, Pabellon Cabo San Lucas, which currently boasts 5,000 friends and followers. The cultural centre stresses, ‘‘The participation of each of our citizens is paramount for the improvement of our city.’’
5 DE MAYO is not the date of Mexico’s independence.
Some believe that the popular fiesta of Cinco de Mayo, or May 5th, is Mexico’s independence day. This date actually celebrates the Mexican victory over the French in the Battle of Puebla in 1862.
Thursday Free Film evenings have included such works as, “The Royal Tenenenbaums”, “Cafe Tacuba; Seguir Siendo”, “Baraka”, ‘’The Cove”, “The Rocky Horror Show’’, and ‘’The Thirst of the World’’. In April the Pavilion joined Municipal leaders to present the first ever, Cabo Comic Con 2013, which celebrated the Japanese magna comic book culture as well as the traditional comic book heroes of traditional Batman, Superman lore. “The fact there are only two comic book conventions in Mexico City, and one in Guadalajara, made having a very first one in San Lucas, very special,” said local comic book artist and Japanese language teacher, Jaime Nava Pastrana.
This seasonal dish originated in the state of Puebla, Mexico (same place where the Talavera pottery industry had its beginnings). Many restaurants celebrate the Mexican independence by offering this traditional dish during the month of September, others have it during the season when the pomegranate is ripe, which is usually from September through January.
Servings: 12 Prep time: 1 hour Cook time: 30 minutes
INGREDIENTS
15 large poblano peppers Filling 1 kilo of ground pork leg 1 onion, halved 3 garlic cloves, whole and peeled 2 bay leaves 1 tablespoon oil ½ onion, chopped 4 cloves garlic, minced 1/2 cup parsley, chopped 4 tomatoes, seeded and chopped 1/2 cup peeled and chopped almonds 1/2 cup pine nuts 1/2 cup diced citron 1/4 cup chopped orange covered 2 apples, peeled and chopped 1/4 cup raisins Salt, to taste
Walnut Sauce 2 cups milk 1 cup fresh walnuts, peeled and chopped
1 cup Cotija cheese 1 cinnamon stick Sugar (optional)
Topping 1 pomegranate, shelled 1/2 cup parsley, chopped Preparation method
PREPARATION Grill peppers on a griddle, turning until the skin burns or blisters. Put them to sweat in a plastic bag for about 5 minutes, making sure they are soft, but firm enough. Peel carefully and make a slit with a sharp knife, taking care not to go to the edges. Remove the seeds and veins.
Filling Cook meat over medium heat in a pot of water, along with the halved onion, 3 garlic cloves, bay leaves and salt to taste. Drain well. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat and fry the chopped onion and 4 garlic cloves until they are transparent. Add tomatoes and ½ cup parsley, and sauté until the tomatoes soften. Stir in cooked meat and simmer for 5 minutes, uncovered. Add the almonds, pine nuts, citron, orange cover, apple and raisins. Leave on the heat until the meat is almost dry, about 10 minutes. Walnut Sauce (Nogada) Blend milk with nuts, cheese and cinnamon. Add a little sugar if desired. Refrigerate at least 30 minutes before serving to thicken well. Stuff the peppers with the filling. Bathe with walnut sauce and garnish with pomegranate seeds and chopped parsley.
(GRILLED CLAMS) This specific way of cooking clams is dated back to pre-hispanic times and is a traditional dish of LORETO, Baja California Sur, due to the abundance of Chocolata clams in the area. The clams are placed on the ground over a bed of beach stones and then covered with branches of a desert plant that grows near the coast called romerillo. These branches are then lit on fire to grill the clams. Watching the cooking process is quite a show, so on your next visit to Loreto ask for one of the local families that can prepare clams for you just the way they have been doing it for generations. If you want to test your clam grilling skills on your own, follow these steps (with caution!): INGREDIENTS
Chocolata clams Romerillo branches Flour tortillas Pico de Gallo Mustard dressing - 1 cup of mustard, 1/2 squeezed lime, 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt to taste.
Photos from: www.deliciasprehispanicas.blogspot.com
PREPARATION Form a gravel base on the ground. Place the live clams in the gravel with their opening facing down. Add more gravel until half of the clam is covered. Place abundant romerillo branches on top and light them on fire on the opposite side of the direction the wind is blowing; this is recommended to favour slow cooking. Leave the fire going for approximately 40 minutes. Carefully remove the clam and consume it right away with the mustard dressing, flour tortillas and pico de gallo.
www.DestinoMagazine.com | SEPTEMBER 2013
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MEXICAN WINE COUNTRY
Baja Wine Route
by yeye
Baja California wine region compares in climate to California’s Napa Valley and France’s Rhone Valley, placing our Mexican wine country at the same level of productivity and quality in wine making. The Wine Route in Baja is designed so you, when travelling the region, can enjoy beautiful landscapes and regional culture as you live an intimate rendervouz with the spirits of the earth, and learn about the family tradition of our local wineries and the magic of century old vines. In Old World countries, wine is considered a food, the beverage consumed with daily meals, to consume a glass per day is often recommended by medicine practitioners. To say the least, drinking wine offers such a fine spectrum of experiences that it has been elevated to an art. Sight, smell, taste, these are the senses dedicated to the fruit, its ritual and celebration. The study of its science is available to anybody interested, but those few who dare to be the makers are in a journey of alchemy and centuries of esoteric knowledge. Clarity, bouquet, body and finish are qualities that authentic wine lovers give importance to. The artist of wine making, though, honours the light of the sun, moon, planets and stars that reach the vine in regular rhythms; each contributing to its life, growth and form. Hence, farmers can time their ground preparation, sowing, cultivating and harvesting to the advantage of the grape. In tandem, the tradition of wine drinking is a peaceful celebration to unite in good health those who enjoy fine company and good conversation. Those who have a deep understanding of its medicinal attributes and its role in the finest balance of the body and mind interaction for the spirit to partake untouched by its intoxication, find in wine a calming relaxation. Drinking wine is the choice of cultured minds, never to be confused with the drunken craving of the ignorant. Still alcohol - sobriety says? Well, that is topic of another table. The northern part of Baja offers ideal conditions for growing grapes. This land is home to many wineries and producers of excellent world-renowned wine and is one of the few places in the world where premium wine grapes can be grown. Grapes do take on the flavour of the soil and grow sweeter in the sun as they hang on the vines, but still, knowing which wine grapes went into the mash gives you a head start on getting a wine to match your moment. When it comes to naming grapes wine makers try to maintain an industry standard. The varieties of red wine produced in the Baja are Cabernet Sauvignon, Ruby Cabernet, Zinfandel, Grenache and Mission. The white wines are Chenin Blanc, Palomin, Riesling, Sauvignon Blanc, Semillon, Saint Emilion and Málaga. La Ruta del Vino, connecting Valle de Guadalupe, Valles del Sur, Ensenada Centro and Puerta Norte - Tecate, takes you near
the small family-owned wineries and to the large-scale producers and exporters. In addition, you will find small country diners to high-end restaurants, camping sites, ranches, craft centres, museums, B&Bs, wine boutiques, art galleries, indigenous culture and natural sites. To get a map visit: www.discoverbajacalifornia.com
Discover Baja Wineries It has been around for a long time, wine. The culture of its making has evolved with each civilization through centuries in interaction with its social and spiritual awareness. To write about wineries in Baja has to start with the sacred foundation of them all, the vine. Vineyards’s happy grow is dependant on their climate and their geographic location, certainly Baja California conditions are ideal, the north climate is Mediterranean - in winter 2°13°C in Summer 20°-45°C - (A change
in temperature of 1 “degree” Celsius is equivalent to a change of 1.8 “ degrees” Fahrenheit.) We can only applause every one of the Wineries. All of them, aside of their individual uniqueness, are committed to one goal in common, creating excellent wines in Mexico. Relax and let the region and its Oenology and Viticulture sages teach your senses about the world of wine while you enjoy all which leader Mexican Entrepreneurs make of the lifestyle of a wine region; music, food, family and friendship, and the appreciation of life, all part of changing our busy pace to experience centuries of culture in one simple glass of grape elixir. It is not an invitation to get drunk, or to intoxicate oneself to an extreme of sin, but only to appreciate the importance of a healthy biochemistry in a well balanced body-mind experience. The 15 miles Ruta del Vino provides easy access to the Valley’s wineries. There are also guided commercial tours which let you focus on the tasting and not worry about the transportation. The route includes Valle de Guadalupe, Valles del Sur, Ensenada Centro and Puerta Norte - Tecate. The Baja Wine Route offers at least 22 different wineries registered with the Baja California Winegrowers Association. The famous Valle of Guadalupe in San Antonio de Las Minas is only minutes from Ensenada, and is the most important wine growing valley in Mexico. Wineries such as award winning Château Camou, whose vineyards follow the French model of cultivation (which takes into account even the direction in which the vines are facing) will enchant you with their XIX century architecture; you can tour their winery in 2530 minutes and taste three of their wines at the end of the tour for only 5 or 10 Dllrs (depending the wines you choose) and you get to keep the glass! Or, for 40 Dllrs the wine-maker and/or the owner will tour the vineyards with you and give you a comprehensive tasting of their wines, including barrel sampling, lunch at the end of the tour with your choice of paella, quails, ostrich or carne asada and, of course, a glass of wine. For a different experience, a short three hour drive from Orange County, Viñedos Malagón offer Bed and Breakfast service in a ranch that has been around more than 100 years; it is said that Malagón wines speak of the romance and love between the soils of the land and their family, which is expressed through it’s aromas, colour, and texture achieved from twelve months of aging in new French oak barrels. The Valleys of the south, will surprise you with wineries such as Cava Antigua Ruta del Vino, a Cava that unites micro and small winemakers from La Grulla y San Vicente Valley; besides their wine you get to taste local cheeses and olive oils. For an eclectic experience in Santo Tomás Valley visit Winery Bodegas de Santo Tomás (they have been around since 1888) besides exploring the place where wine was first made here in Baja, they also have a room where you get to make your own wine. North of the Baja Wine Route, also known as “La Puerta Norte de la ruta del vino” about 4 miles south on #3 highway from Tecate, you’ll find wineries such as Vinos Tanama, whose name is a Kumiai word that means: “Place of fertile land, where water runs and oak grows.” They are what its called a boutique winery, for they are dedicated only to make signature fine wines. Located in the Valle of Tanama, their vines are more than 100 years old with fine grapes such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Tempranillo, Syrah, Nebbiolo and Mission.
These are only few choices from the many you’ll get to discover, all unique, all about wine. If you are travelling into Los Cabos you could start your pilgrimage by staying at Casa Vino, built in La Jolla, San José del Cabo, by Loyal and Stefani Miner owners of California Winery Miner’s Leap. The Miner family has been producing and making wine on the West Coast for several generations, but Los Cabos is their second home. Staying at Casa Vino will give your vacation that style that wine lovers love as you enjoy a beautiful home experience; and, after you are done enjoying Baja Sur, drive or fly to the North part of the Península, where the Baja Wine region is.
If this year your travelling map does not include a visit to our Wine region, you can also taste Baja wines here in Los Cabos, just visit a wine shop in town, or ask for the selection of Baja wines every time you are out for dinner! One glass is all you need, not two, just one. Buen provecho, bon appetite, enjoy...*
Mexican Wine common history
tells us that In 1597, the Spaniard Don Lorenzo García made the town of Santa María de las Parras in the northern Mexican state of Coahuila home to his Casa Madero, the oldest winery of the Americas. By the mid- XVII century, the Spanish crown, anticipating future competition from New World wineries, banned all vine planting and brought wine production in Mexico to a halt. Many Spanish missionaries refused to abide by the new rules and continued to plant vines and produce wine on a small scale. The Saint Thomas Mission (Misión de Santo Tomás), founded in the northern area of Baja California Norte State by Jesuit priests in 1791, reactivated the production of wine in Mexico by bringing over and planting the mission grape. In 1834, Dominican priests began growing grapes at the nearby Northern Mission of Our Lady of Guadalupe (Misión de Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe del Norte), now known as the Guadalupe Valley (Valle de Guadalupe). In 1857, after Mexico’s War of Reform, the Catholic Church was stripped of its holdings and all church property became part of the state. The small wineries formerly tended to by missionaries were abandoned. In 1888 the government sold the former lands of the Santo Tomás Mission to a private group, which established the Bodegas Santo Tomás, the first large-scale winery in Mexico. In 1904, the region received the molokans, a pacifist religious group which opposed war and fled Russia so its men would not be drafted by the Czarist army. The Russian families purchased about 100 acres of land and dedicated a considerable portion of it to harvesting grapes for wine. They encouraged others to do the same, helping the area acquire a reputation for making good wine. Since the 1990s the association of wine makers of Baja California holds the Grape Harvest Fiestas in the Valley of Guadalupe and the town of Ensenada every year in August. The celebration includes wine tasting sessions, concerts and soirées, and samplings of regional cuisine and Mexican wines. Today, 2013, Mexico’s largest wineries can be found in three regions conveniently located near the town of Ensenada, 70 miles south of the U.S. border: San Antonio de las Minas, the San Vicente Valley and the Santo Tomás Valley. Guadalupe Valley is located in San Antonio de las Minas. Others states such as Zacatecas, Sonora and Coahuila also boast boutique wineries producing high-quality wines: Coahuila is home to the aforementioned Casa Madero, and grapes produced near Sonora’s capital city of Hermosillo are often used in the production of wines from Baja wineries.
www.DestinoMagazine.com | SEPTEMBER 2013
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MUSIC L i v e Mu s i c at H o t e l E l Ganzo and the new Jazz Ta pa s B a r By Marilyn Graham
“There are lots of hotels in Los Cabos. But none quite like HO T E L E L G A N ZO – Design Boutique, Arts, Live Music, Marina & SPA – Los Cabos.” – www.elganzo.com. The goal of this new Playita hotel is to celebrate the arts by working with artists; painters, writers, musicians and composers, by sponsoring live music and art shows, while also boasting an inhouse recording studio. On a lovely Saturday evening, August 3, 2013, El Ganzo did just that with a show of flamingo pop fusion that featured the impressive talent of classical guitarist, David F lores Vel a zquez , and his group, L os P ulp os En Su Tinta . David Flores, originally from Guadalajara, is the musical
keyboard, and Joaquin Gonzalez on drums. Don’t miss Diego at D o c’s Wine Bar on Thursdays from 7:30-1030 PM…one of my favorite venues in Los Cabos! (Or Daline and Diego at The Ca bo Winery on Wednesdays and a few more Sundays at Cerritos.) A really fun evening, delicious dinner can be had at S olomon’s L anding Restaurant on the Marina in Cabo, music featuring three fabulous talents, A lexey G onz a lez , exciting singer and dancer, Diego R amirez , keyboard, and Joaquin G onz a lez , drums. L os T rillizos L atin F usion is another fantastic and fun group, normally to be found at Ba ja Bre wery. And the lovely Luna It zel can be heard Wednesdays at the Gr and M ayan and Fridays at Ca sc a da . A new music venue is the JA Z Z TA PA S B A R, located in Plaza Pescadero on San Jose del Cabo’s hotel row. Four local Mexican gentlemen own the club, Mario Gadsden (who also owns the Plaza), Roberto Jauregui, Federico Martinez and Miguel Angel Arce. The tapas bar is open Tuesday through Sunday. It is a three-story building and the large third floor garden is available for private events. A Jazz Festival took place in the Plaza last February and I believe they have plans for another festival, on the U.S. President’s Day every year. Also possibly there might be a fall festival.
L I VE M US IC SCH E D U L E S BAR ESQUINA
director of the new version of this group, playing lead guitar, with Jonathan Orozco on keyboard (Cabo Mil’s “Nostalgias”), Hugo Navarro on bass, Luis Cuellar on drums, Geraldo Escober on percussion, and the lovely Karla Kassaneth, on vocals. David Flores studied classical music at The University of Guadalajara. His important musical influences have been “Leo Brouwer (with whom he studied in Spain), Vicente Amigo, Paco de Lucia, John McLaughlin, Pat Metheney and Roland Dyens among others.” It was a packed house on the open-air terrace of Hotel Ganzo, appetizers/drinks were available, and the audience thoroughly enjoyed the band’s performance. Some of my favorite pieces were “Algo Contigo”, “Que Bonito”, “Como Quieres Que Te Quiera”, and “De Boca en Boca.” I especially appreciated the beautiful original pieces performed by David Flores and I hope he continues to perform this style. You can listen to Los Pulpos en Su Tinta perform at the Rumari Bar in Cabo San Lucas on Thursdays from 9:00-11:00 PM, and at The Office on Mondays and Wednesdays from 7:0010:00 PM. You can also see Karla Kassaneth at the Marquis Los Cabos and at Don Sanchez Sunday evenings. El Ganzo also has a Tuesday Jazz night with the Tito Rodriguez Trio. Other venues I highly recommend: the always talented and enjoyable Daline J ones Group at The Office on Fridays, with Daline Jones on vocals, Diego Ramirez on
- Starting at 8:00 pm every day; Tuesday, Flamenco Guitars; Wednesday, Soft Rock; Thursday, Solo Acoustic Rock; Friday, Latin Rhythms; Saturday, Soft Rock; Sunday, Bolero Guitar. CABO WABO - Tuesday to Friday, 7:15 pm, Cabo Uno acoustic rock patio set; Tuesday to Sunday 10:30 pm Cabo Uno electric rock set; Mondays, 7:15 Estrógeno patio set, 10:30 electric set; 624.143.1188 CERRITOS BEACH CLUB - Sunday, 2:00-5:00; 624.143.4850 DESPERADOS - Tuesdays and Thursdays, 6:30 pm to 9:30 pm; Saturdays, 9:00 pm to 12:00 pm; Spanish guitar; 624. 143.4313 DON SANCHEZ CANTINA - Tuesdays through Saturdays, Cuban jazz band & salsa; Monday, Howie Clifton on saxophone; 624.142.2444 HOTEL EL GANZO - Tuesdays, Jazz night, 8:00 pm; Thursdays, Mark Rudin, 8:00 pm; Fridays, Chaplin, 8:00 pm; Sunday Brunch, 9:00 am; 624.104.9000 FLORA FARMS - Tuesdays, The Shamans; Thursdays, Robert Drake; Friday, Marcie Castro; Saturdays, The Shamans; Sunday Brunch, 10:00 am to 3:00 pm, Marcie Castro; 624.355.4564 H RESTAURANT - Saturdays 7:00 pm to 10:00 pm; Hugo “saxo” Moreno; Saxophone; 624-105-2974 JUNGLE BAR - Daily at 9:30 pm, Estrógeno. THE ROAD HOUSE - Thursdays 7:00 pm to 10:00 pm; Saturdays 7:00 pm to 10:00 pm; Peter Bacon on Piano
TWO FOR THE ROAD CABO JAZZ SPOT -
Monday to Saturday 7:00 pm to Midnight; 624. 143.7759 VOILÁ BISTRO - Thursdays 7:00 pm to 9:00 pm; Hugo “saxo” Moreno; Saxophone; 624-130-7569 ZIPPER’S - Fridays, E.C Davis; Wednesdays & Sundays, Hot Steel; 624.172.6162 7 SEAS SEAFOOD GRILLE - Full Moon Jazz Concerts; Call for schedule 624.142.2666
Contact us for your music events or to add your live music schedule to our list: contactdestino@gmail.com or call 142-4949/ 105-9700
www.DestinoMagazine.com | SEPTEMBER 2013
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CABO’S PARTY SCENE There is no denying that many come to Cabo for the beach parties and the nightlife. From trendy nightclubs to booze cruises, you will always find a party... anytime, anywhere.
FUN in the SUN Billygan’s Island is a fun beach club and
restaurant where you can go for lunch and soak up the sun in their lounge chairs and beach mats. Don’t miss their house drink called Billygan’s Special and their daily contests and shows that will surely keep you entertained. Located in Medano beach. Mango Deck is the ultimate representation of spring break in Cabo. They have entertainment all day and night, from live music to beer drinking and booty-shaking contests. Great happy hour margaritas and a lively staff. Located in Medano beach. Nikki Beach is known for its white teepees, pool-side lounge beds and sexy and stylish pool party scene. As the sun sets, resident DJs get the crowd going with beats of dance and house music. Located in the Hotel ME Cabo on Medano Beach. Sky Pool 180° view of the Cabo San Lucas Marina? Check. Contemporary electronic music with live DJ’s? Check. Drinks, pool and classy ambience? Check! Sky Pool is the only pool party located right on the marina in the Wyndham Hotel in Cabo San Lucas. The Office The perfect place to spend the day sipping on your choice of beach drink, swimming in the ocean, trinket shopping, people watching...and more people watching. The Office has great food and is more family friendly compared to other spots on Medano beach.
BOOZE CRUISES Cabo Escape Booze Cruise The name says it all, booze while you cruise at sunset and bring your dancing shoes. Departs daily at 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm (Nov-Mar); Dock #3 Cabo San Lucas Marina. Cost: US $45.00 per person. Includes: chips, salsas, guacamole and veggie dips and open bar. Cabo Escape Floating Disco For the late nighters! Dance to current hip-hop and electronic hits. 18 years old and up only. Departs Wednesdays and Fridays 9:00 pm to 12:00 am; Dock #3 Cabo San Lucas Marina. Cost: US $45.00 per person. Includes premium open bar. Jungle Floating Disco & Club is the one and only late night floating night club with optional open bar or bottle service, VIP tables and STAR lounge. Departs Friday and Saturday from 9:30 pm to 12:30 pm. Cost: $35 usd per person. 18 years old and up. Includes: premium international open bar, dancing to current hits, hip-hop and electronic music. Jungle Reggae Booze Cruise is the ultimate Cabo San Lucas wild booze cruise. If you’re here for the famous Cabo spring break, this is the tour for you. Departs: Tuesday through Sunday from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm (winter) or 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm (summer). Cost: $35 usd per person. 18 years old and
18
up only. Includes: All-you can drink booze, dancing, reggae and party music. No dinner included, make sure you eat before the tour! Pez Gato Dance, drink and play on a catamaran at sunset. Children are welcome! Cost: $39 usd per person and includes national bar. Ages 5-11 are half price and under 5 are free.
BARS and NIGHTCLUBS Cabo Wabo Cantina A Cabo San Lucas icon,
Cabo Wabo has been owned by the famous rock star Sammy Hagar since it’s opening in 1990. You are guaranteed some amazing live rock music with their talented house band and if you’re lucky you might even see Sammy or any other big name artist hop on stage on any given night. El Squid Roe You can feel the high energy the moment you walk into this three story night club and restaurant. It’s very well known for its lively staff that not only serve you, but will entertain you all night long. Gigglin’ Marlin Just a fisherman’s bar in the beginning, this Cabo landmark is now a seafood restaurant that becomes a lively night club once the sun sets. The large image outside of a man hanging upside down next to a “giggling marlin” is hard to miss. One of the traditions of this bar is to hang brave souls upside down while they do a tequila shot! Jungle Martini Outdoor martini bar that also offers many other beachy cocktail concoctions for a guaranteed fun time. Located in Plaza Bonita. Knotty It’s unique decor and ambiance was designed by world renowned Davis Krumins. Dance to the beats of house music mixed by live DJ’s and even climb into the tree-like dancing cage in the middle of the club. Mandala When you’re waking the main street of Cabo, you will surely notice Mandala’s striking entrance and sleek Asian decor. If you are looking for the stylish nightclub scene and great dance music, this is where you want to be. Pink Kitty Known for its club scene and cosmopolitan style atmosphere, Pink Kitty is a popular spot for dance and house music. They often feature famous DJs that fire up the crowd on the dance floor until 4:00 am. The Jungle Bar Casual bar for good tunes, live music every night and local culture. Located in Plaza de los Mariachis, bellow Cabo Wabo. The Nowhere Bar A happening open-air bar with dance music and dance floor that’s located right on the beautiful Cabo marina. Known for its popular Tuesday lady’s night, Nowhere Bar is a hot place for celebrity sightings and has an excellent staff and service. Visit during the day for a refreshing happy hour beer or at night for a fun and stylish party scene.
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Who is the Chef? L o s C a b o s l o v e s Chef Irving Palacios defines his cooking style as modern with traditional methods, he specializes in Mexican, Oriental and Italian cuisine. Presently, he rules the kitchen at The Container, where you will eat as eating should be done, happy and thankful to the Universe for such a delicious moment. Here is his favourite recipe!
Receta: Tiradito de Huachinago y Chayote
Recipe: Tiradito de Huachinago y Chayote
Ingredientes: 150 gr. Filete de Huachinango 100 gr. Chayote pelado 100 gr. Mango Manila 70 gr. Pepino 30 gr. Cebolla Morada 50 ml. Jugo de Limón 50 ml. Jugo de Limón Real 100 ml. Aceite de Olivo 2 ramitas Cilantro 1 pza Chile Serrano Ajonjolí al gusto Chile Tajín al gusto Sal y Pimienta al gusto Procedimiento: Rebanar en lonjas o rebanadas finas el chayote, mango, pepino y marinarlo con el jugo de limón real, aceite de olivo, chile tajín al gusto y sal y pimienta al gusto. Rebanar en lonjas finas el filete de huachinango y la cebolla morada; marinar con el jugo de limn durante 5 minutos, sal y pimienta al gusto. Montaje: Sobre un plato extendido colocar las lonjas de mango, pepino, chayote y reservar el marinado; arriba colocar las rebanadas del huachinango y cebolla morada, vertir sobre el platillo la marinación de limón real y aceite de olivo y decorar con rebanadas finas de chile serrano, hojitas de cilantro y ajonjolí.
Ingredients: 150 gr. Huachinango fillet 100 gr. Pealed Chayote 100 gr. Mango Manila 70 gr. Cucumber 30 gr. Purple Onion 50 ml. Lime juice 50 ml. Royal Lime juice 100 ml. Olive Oil 2 Cilantro branches 1 Serrano pepper sesame to your taste Tajín pepper to your taste Salt and pepper Method: Cut the chayote , mango, cucumber in fine slices and marinate with royal lime juice, olive oil, tajin pepper and salt and pepper. Cut the huachinango fillet and the purple onion in fine slides; marinate with the lime juice for 5 minutes, add salt and pepper. Presentation: Over a grand plate, place the slices of mango, cucumber, chayote and reserve the marinating sauce; on top place the huachinango and purple onion, then pour the marinating sauce and decorate with fine slices of serrano pepper, cilantro leaves and sesame.
THE CONTAINER When you visit the light house village of La Playita, you must not miss the excellent ambiance of The Container restaurant. You’ll stop time if you do so. Naturally designed by water, a romantic panorama of the Mexican new marina of Puerto Los Cabos is best enjoyed from their garden bar; it is simple, sunny beautiful and their service is friendly and light. People love their breakfast, and their lunch and dinner offer the genuine taste of Mexican Chef Irving Palacios, whose energy on food is delightful and dedicated to a happy eater. You can choose from great vibrant salads, fish, steak or chicken fajitas, delicious real burgers and homemade fries, or a special day of paella might surprise you. Drinks, music, excellent Baja wines, this restaurant is by the water and by a vision of the future that unfolds before your eyes. Please, do not forget dessert, their buñuelos with vanilla ice cream are just harmony. The Container is owned by a French Baja lover, still the hospitality of its manager Jean Paul Avellaneda and his team, are all for your experience of a relaxed Mexican day.
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Photo by Michelle Monroy
Photo by Blake Harrington
www.DestinoMagazine.com | SEPTEMBER 2013
one & only
Palmilla
Destino Hotel Profiles
by yeye For you, who travel with great expectations hoping to build the grandest memories experiencing an exciting world of luxury, welcome to Los Cabos’s most celebrated resort in Mexico and many other parts of the world.
One-mile stretch of the Baja peninsula, the beach we known today as Palmilla has a rich history as a port for our San José del Cabo fishermen village. Panga Fishing traditions go deep for the Mexican native families who have spent their days here through out many seasons ruled only by the fish way of life. Baja has always been a remote escape to worldly life, and not too long ago its location was the secret of only a few adventurers who travelled here by boat to enjoy fishing and retreat in its natural environment. For some Cabo old timers, thinking about Palmilla is a trip through the past as they tell you the story of how once the hotel was a dream of a young Mexican pilot from la Paz named Abelardo Rodriguez, son of one of the presidents of Mexico. Abelardo would fly his plane from la Paz over the peninsula and observed that the tip of the Baja always had calm beautiful waters even when the wind was howling on the pacific side or on the sea of Cortez. Then, some time later, Californian developer Bud Par came along and they built Palmilla , the resort. Palmilla resort started as a 15 room luxury resort, and its guest book included people like former USA President Dwight D. Eisenhower, singer Bing Crosby and actress Lucille Ball. Today it is one of the most beautiful beaches safe for swimming, you can still find the traditional pangas dedicated to the ocean life and after Sol Kerzner bought it in 2004 and launched a remodelled version celebrating John Travolta’s 50th birthday whose attending friends included Tom Cruise, Sylvester Stallone, Oprah Winfrey and Quincy Jones, Palmilla itself became the celebrity around the world, and is beloved by those who want to rest from fame and the public eye in an intimate breathe of beauty by natural design. Ocean, sand and pampering to the ultimate detail,
Palmilla was awarded the #1 Resort in Mexico for
eight years by the readers of Conde Nast Traveler since it re opened in 2004 under Edward Steiner management, and the year 2013 has already given an applause by naming it Condé Nast Traveler – Readers’ Poll The Top 270 Spas – #8 in “Top 25 Spas, Mexico & Central America”, Condé Nast Traveler – ‘The Gold List’ – 96.3 Readers’ Choice Rating in “Los Cabos Hotels and Resorts”, and Travel + Leisure – ‘500 World’s Best Hotels’ – 91.14 Readers’ Choice Rating in “Best Hotels in Mexico”
Palmilla ’s genuine service reminds you of old world elegance, when service was an elemental part of the privileged. Its people strive to establish an emotional connection with their guests as they embrace the most humble Huichol Indian traditions to connect. A heart salutation in silence, a vow that means “you are I, I am you, may your heart beat my same happiness” enchants the traveller sending him to an even more profound journey, the ref lexion of the Self. For lovers, Palmilla is one of the most romantic locations in the world. They light over 1200 candles in the evening, scent the public spaces, play specially designed music to promote relaxation, decorate rooms with rose petals, and even welcome honeymooners to their suite with a serenade of their wedding song. Its floating daybeds in secluded beach coves, private spa villas and dining areas a deux, give an ambiance of relaxation, and its gardens in blossom inspire the poetry of life.
Palmilla is an exotic and luxurious master-planned guest and resident community built in 250 acres with a 27-hole Jack Nicklaus golf course, located in Los Cabos. Palmilla is a One & Only Resort by name and by essence; indeed, there is no other resort like it in the entire world.* www.DestinoMagazine.com | SEPTEMBER 2013
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YOGA Stillness. Moments of stillness are sometimes needed for our journey highlights to contrast a clear perspective. Stillness is not lack of movement, at the deepest level of existence we are always changing, subatomic particles in constant flow. By stillness lets understand a moment of no distraction, where future is not here, past is already gone and now is all we see with perfect concentration, realities that fluctuate when our attention is complete and totally focused on our intention and when our breath is the only time. Scuba diving is stillness, if we think of stillness as the moment to be totally present, without flickering repetitive thoughts and unnecessary worries, when we dive into the discovery of ourselves through the mastery of our breath, when our consciousness feels “alive in a silent intimacy” with nature. While diving underwater, our will surrenders and our control issues come into a balance because they have to observe and abide by the rules of temperance and absolute calm. We must pay attention. Am I breathing? Am I moving in good pace? Am I alone? Who am I when all around me is water and where there is no importance given to what I know as I? Baja is surrounded by awesome waters, friendly for divers of all levels. As an experience scuba diver you can choose your spot and go adventure. For those who want to begin our region offers wonderful couching and programs to get certified. Tours to secret dives for you to discover and some famous spots that are not to be missed - like our coral reef in Cabo Pulmo National Park, or the undersea Sand Falls discovered by Jacques Cousteau- are available for the traveller. Great touristic beaches abundant in marine life are there for all to enjoy. Stillness, astronauts look for it in space, meditators look for it in yoga, mothers find it in their children happiness, musicians feel it in their music, lovers seek it in each other. Stillness always is a state of mind. Underwater, stillness is the scuba diver’s bliss.
ORGANIC - The Cactus In Mexico, there is nothing more organically traditional than our cactus. Our Mexican flag has a cactus in it to remind us of the stor y about how Mexico was founded by the A ztecs in Lago de Texcoco af ter god Huitzilopochtli advised them to look for an eagle standing in a nopal cactus while eating a serpent, as a sign to recognise our land, and so we did; Our world famous Tequila is a cactus elixir, so is mescal. The agave also gives honey, juice, and medicine and some types are great food and give delicious fruit. There are many varieties of course, and you must know your cactus before you decide what to do with it. Maybe what is most traditional about our cactus is their medicinal use. Nopal “the king of cactuses” (prickly pear cactus) is eaten in all kinds of Mexican dishes because it tastes good, but in traditional Mexican medicine, nopal is used for treating type 2 Diabetes, it normalizes blood sugar and boosts insulin levels. It has been shown that daily consumption of this plant will lower cholesterol. This cactus has also been used to treat whooping cough and asthma. For millennia the Huichol Indian have rubbed the juice of the crushed Peyote cactus into wounds to prevent infection and promote healing. It has been
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shown that hordenine shows an inhibitor y action against at least 18 strains of penicillin resistant Staphylococcus bacteria. Woman of the Menomini tribe, from the state of Wisconsin, carr y a basket of Peyote to be used for childbir th, earaches, or to be inspired to weave intricate spiral patterns, and at least one Indian group is known to use the juice of Peyote on the scalp, and as a hair tonic. In fact in many Indian languages, their word for medicine is the same as for Peyote, so great is the healing power of this cactus plant. Healers have learned from Cactus that illness is never a “thing” that is in us; it is a believe that we carr y, a thought form; a negative pattern we hold on to and reproduce. The barrel cactus, which is also a flowering plant - It has rings of yellow yellow-green or red blossoms at its top- has numerous uses, deser t people stew the Barrel Cactus to make a cabbagelike food. They get water to drink from the pulp and they made fish hooks from the spines, which are pointed at the end. The pulp is also made into “cactus candy”.
Beach Asana
Experience travellers have learned that travelling, at the deepest level, is really not different from daily life. Those who love to travel see it as a lifestyle. The journey itself teaches that when you travel you do not become a different person, it does not matter how far you go you always find yourself. Yoga is a lifestyle, you do yoga every day, all the time. Yoga is not something you do in a class, or on top of a mat, but a conscious awareness of your balanced self in everything you do. When you travel, is a great opportunity to practise. The kindness you give others, the patience you exercise when things are not the way you expected them to be, the stillness you carry within while you experience the new land you visit, the healthy foods you choose, the clear mind you maintain, the good company you keep, the way you choose to entertain yourself, all these are essential to your yoga. In Los Cabos, the ocean is marvellous and the sand pretty, when you get to the beach, try doing a sun salutation to lay down. 1. Raise your hands to the sky, breathe in. 2. Vow to the ocean, breathe out. 3. Relax your neck, bend your knees a little, relax your hands to the sand, breathe deep for five counts. 4. Inspire, look up to the ocean, keep your hands down. 5. Exhale, walk your legs back to a push up position, either with your knees up or on the ground bend your elbows and keep them close to the chest as you take your chest down to the ground, relax your body on the sand. 6. Inhale, place your hands’s palms down under your shoulders and lift your head then your chest gently to the sky, gently. 7. Exhale, bring your head and chest back down, inhale push hands against the ground and lift your hips to the sky to do what is called a “downdog” for 5 deep breaths. 8. 8. Place your knees on the ground, lay down on your back, listen to your body, honour how you feel, relax and enjoy the beach. Be happy.
Cactus is considered sacred and stories of supra natural are related to its energy; the purer the body and the mind the more potent its teachings. Blessed be the shaman and ¡Viva México!
www.DestinoMagazine.com | SEPTEMBER 2013
BEAUTY
SPA SAND & FEET The feet are considered the most sacred part of the body in Indian culture. Reflexology massage teaches us that all the organs and nervous system is represented in the feet through meridian points of energy and a sophisticated biology. Massaging the soles of your feet, which activates venous and lymphatic circulation, is important because it activates antigen/antibody presentation and immune reactions; the friction of the sand is a marvellous natural exfoliate, it helps circulation and relieves pain. Walking barefoot in the sand will result in softer feet in no time. In simple words it is healthy and fun.
Every year, Mexican ancient Indian Maya celebrate a day without time. In this day nothing else is done but celebrate time as art. Beauty is considered art for those who understand it for what it is; a state of mind and a door of perception. Beauty, it starts with a clean body, as nature has it, the body is the garden of the soul. In the same way you want your garden to be healthy, you want your body to be free from toxins, free from disease, free from intoxicants. A pure body is followed by a pure mind and ends in the lightness of being. A beautiful person is beautiful because she feels beautiful, any other kind of beauty belongs to the vanity realm (and vanity is a favourite place only for the vain, really not a matter of beauty.) When we observe modern humanity, we see that feeling beautiful obeys the ultimate natural law: change. We are always changing, and feeling beautiful is directly connected to the moment we are in and what is important to us to project to others at that moment, which is usually the idea we have of ourselves. When we have discipline, our actions actually support that idea and we consciously create a reality in which we always feel gorgeous because we have awareness of what makes us beautiful. On the other hand, when our worldly intoxicating habits control our decisions, then we are left at the mercy of what we feed our mind with, through the senses. What we see, what we smell, what we hear, what we taste, what we touch, what we think play an important role in our beauty.
Walking barefoot in natural grounds is an alternative medicinal practice called “earthing,” Research suggests that it increases antioxidants, reduces inflammation, and improves sleep. The health benefits come from the relationship between our bodies and the electrons in the earth. The planet has its own natural charge, and we seem to do better when we’re in direct contact with it. According to scientist, Earthing also changes the electrical activity in the brain, as measured by electro-encephalogram, it benefits skin conductivity, moderates heart rate variability, improves glucose regulation, reduces stress and boosts immunity. Barefoot walk on sand or grass, or stone, or any natural floor, also helps regulate both the endocrine and nervous systems, and increases the surface charge of red blood cells. As a result, the cells avoid clumping, which decreases blood viscosity. High viscosity is a significant factor in heart disease. Some cultures believe the feet are the windows to the soul, and the door to the spirit (for example if you don’t want to be messed around by a hunting ghost Betelgeuse style, never sleep with your feet facing the main door of the house, it is said) The truth is there is no need for deep analysis to appreciate our feet, they support us all day, every day, enough to deserve all care and honour. At the beach, relax and massage your feet, really what else are you here to do if not to walk on the sand?
Sensations are continually arising and passing through our body as our senses receive constant stimuli, leaving us with a choice: either I react with craving or aversion to the sensation I feel, which tends to manifest as “I will be beautiful when I have this or that...” or “I will be beautiful when this or that disappears...” or, the choice to simply master my mind and understand that beauty (whichever beautiful means to me) will also pass, why loose happiness over it? Feed your senses with healthy beautiful stimuli, taste vibrant nutritious food, hear inspiring music, see peaceful nature, touch the ones you love, and if you must think, well think about all the things you are thankful for and, like the Mayan, take a day out of time to celebrate all beauty.
Energy = Art + Time
Farmer’s Markets
*Fruits, vegetables, organic produce, food, local arts&crafts and music* THE SHOPS AT PALMILLA: Fridays 9am to 1pm LOS CABOS ORGANIC MARKET in PEDREGAL: Wednesday & Saturdays 8am to 12pm
www.DestinoMagazine.com | SEPTEMBER 2013
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art district in San José
gal leries ~ ev en ts ~ din n in g
My Experience with
TRADITIONAL
M E X I C O
by yeye Valued as Mexico’s national identity, Folk Art is what the international community identifies as artesanía mexicana. Its foundation is in many pre-Hispanic cultures within the country, it is hand made and typically is done by indigenous people who, with no formal artistic training, create a functional piece that is authentic and attracts art lovers. More often than not, the artisans are anonymous people who represent a region or ethnic group culture, and only the genuine art-lover’s eye recognizes the unique.
Folk Art is created by common people, using traditional methods well-founded in the past, methods the artisans learn through formal or informal apprenticeship on how to use and master materials of the region. In Mexico there are more than a hundred types of clay; soft, light and hard wood; metals such as copper, teen, silver and gold; vegetable fibres as cotton, sisal, ixtle and agave, leather and wool; assorted stones, like onyx, obsidian, amber and opals and on top of all these a wide assortment of vegetable, mineral and animal dyes. Folk artisans are well known for their many pottery styles, wood carvings, blown glass, lacquer ware, metal ware, paper maché figurines, vitreous enamel, many different textiles and paper crafts.
The history of our artesanía has also 500 years of European influence which has transformed it into a mixture of the two, still it is unique to Mexico. In the early postMexican Revolution era when artists and intellectuals were concerned with creating a native identity for Mexico around the concept of “mestizo” or the blend of European and indigenous races, this was their definition: “a blending of European and indigenous traditions, with items produced for domestic consumption, mostly for the Mexican middle class.” Admired leaders through out Mexican history have expressed visionary realizations about Folk Art. For example, Don Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla, who in the XVIII Century was a Mexican priest and a leader of the Mexican War of Independence, dedicated time in promoting activities of commercial value to use the natural resources of the area to help the poor, with a goal to make the Indians and mestizos more self-reliant and avoid being instrument of foreign conqueror’s ambitions. Later, during the period known as the Porfiriato in the XIX Century, not only crafts, but just about everything native to Mexico was nearly discarded in favour of French-style and modernization. Governed by Porfirio Díaz Mori (1830-1915) a Mexican general, President, politician and dictator, Mexico was ruled with an iron fist for 35 years, from 1876 to 1911 and though his period was marked by great progress and modernization and the Mexican economy boomed, the benefits were felt by very few, as millions of peons laboured in virtual slavery. He lost power in 1910-1911 after rigging an election against
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Francisco I. Madero, which brought about the Mexican Revolution (1910-1920). By the end of the Revolution, artists, intellectuals and politicians defined and promoted a national Mexican identity through its pottery, fired-clay earthenware, toys, silver work, gold work, feather mosaics, basketry, textiles, wood objects, folk religious paintings called ex-votos or retablos as well as other folk art expressions such as theater, poetry and print making. It is a shame that the promotion of Mexican artesanía was accepted earlier by foreigners than by Mexicans themselves. Very few examples of crafts from the early 20th century survive and most of the best collections of it are in North American or European hands. Interest in the latter part of the 20th century would be concentrated among academics, collector/“experts” and tourists.
Interesting is to observe that despite the support for artesanía by many of Mexico’s elite, foreign collectors, critics and gallery owners in the first decades of the 20th century, the pieces themselves were never considered true art. They were considered to be examples of native intuition, genius and tradition but not individual talent. For most of the 20th century, what had mostly been discussed about Mexican artesanía is its collective meaning, especially identifying it with various ethnic groups. This anonymity assured that such expressions would remain somewhat inferior to “true art,” and its creators called artisans and not artists. Among the artisans themselves,
Charros and Charreada The official national sport of Mexico Charreada practiced by Charros Mexican Cowboys - is a colourful exciting equestrian event that turns
there has been some movement since the 1970’s to break from the tradition of anonymity to having the individual’s talents recognized as artists. Some who have managed to do this include Roberto Ruiz, who specializes in works made from bone, Teresa Nava who makes maquette, Teodoro Torres who makes lead figures and many more. In each of these cases, the artists’ individual talents are part of the value of the works made.
out to be a wonderful mixture of sport
San José del Cabo Art District has beautiful Mexican Folk Art. Artisans such as Edgar Cuamatzi, who owns Artesanías Miquiztli where he exhibits several fine crafts from artisans in mainland Mexico, methods such as Talaveras, onyx, wood carvings, chaquira and blown glass, and where he displays his own artistic Mexican Folk art designs known as Labrado or Dibujo. When you visit him downtown at Blvd. Mijares #29, Local 4, ask to see his beautiful sarapes made of cotton. You will take home not only a beautiful souvenir, but also the blessed experience of giving something to the community you are enjoying so much. Most importantly, as an art lover, the happiness in your heart for being an essential element in keeping the Mexican artesanía tradition alive, will be yours forever.*
to see Mexican families having a good
culture and Mexican tradition.
The
various competitions and activities originated from the practical work of
cattle
ranching
like
branding,
separating, rounding up, etcetera. The sport is practiced all over Mexico as well as many parts of the US.
Want
time and share it with them? Go to the Charreada in San José during San José Days in March, I shot this picture there more than 20 yers ago and I still go to it, and still enjoy it!
Raweli Gallery Artist District Ph: 624-121-2651 www.brucehermangallery.com
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IMPORTANT PHONE NUMBERS in Los CAbos Emergencies: (equivalent to 911) – 066 Police Department: Cabo San Lucas 143-3977 San José del Cabo 142-0361 Fire Department – Dial 116 or: Cabo San Lucas 143-3577 San José del Cabo 142-2466 Highway Patrol: 146-0573 Tourist Police: 143-3977 Hospitals: Amerimed: Cabo San Lucas 105-8550 San José del Cabo 105-85-50
Los Barriles: 141-0797 Baja Medical Response: 144-3434 Blue Medical Net: Cabo San Lucas Hospital 104 3911 San José del Cabo Clinic 142-3511 Cabo Surgical Center: 172-6030 North American Hospitals and Clinics: 142-2770 Walk-in Medi Clinic: 130-7011 Air Ambulances: Skymed Air Ambulance: 001 (866) 805-9624 Air One Ambulance: 1 (800) 236-8080
U.S. Consulate: 143-3566 Canadian Consulate: 142-4333 Taxi Cabo San Lucas: 143-2221 Taxi San José de Cabo: 142-0401 Immigration: 143-0135 Airlines: Aero Calafia 130-7822 Aeromexico 146-5097 Air Canada 01 (800) 719-2827 (Toll
free within Mexico) Alaska Airlines 146-5166 American Airlines 146-5302/5303 Continental Airlines 146-5050 Delta Airlines 146-5005/146-5217 Interjet 01 (800)-011-2345 (Toll free within Mexico) Spirit Airlines 1 (800) 772-7117 Sun Wing 1 (800) 668-4224 Volaris 01 (800) 7VOLARIS (Toll free within Mexico) US Airways 146-5380 West Jet 1 (800) 538-5696
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HOW DO I DIAL FROM MEXICO?
The local area code is 624 From a Mexican landline or cell phone...
To a Mexican long distance number: 01 + 3 digit area code + 7 digit number To a Mexican cell phone number: 3 digit area code + 7 digit number To a U.S. phone number: 00 + 1 + 3 digit area code + 7 digit number U.S. TOLL FREE NUMBERS (International rates will apply)
To a 1 (800): 00 + 1 + 880 + phone number To a 1 (888): 00 + 1 + 881 + phone number To a 1 (877): 00 + 1 + 882 + phone number To a 1 (866): 00 + 1 + 883 + phone number To dial to other countries: 00 + country code (1, 2 or 3 digits) + phone number From your U.S. cell phone‌
To a Mexican landline or cell phone: 011 52 + 3 digit area code + phone number To a U.S. phone number: 00 + 1 + 3 digit area code + phone number If you don’t have an international plan, be careful with internet data usage, calls and text messages; international charges can get very high. Some U.S. cell phone carriers have arrangements with Mexican carriers and when you travel here your cell phone uses their towers. If this is your case, you will have to dial as if you had a Mexican phone.
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www.DestinoMagazine.com | SEPTEMBER 2013
Useful Tips Driving
Renting a car will let you enjoy the freedom of exploring the Los Cabos area without having to depend on taxis. Driving in Mexico might be intimidating to some, but if you just go with the muddled flow, you will realize that there actually is some organization within the chaos. Here are some tips if you’re behind the wheel: Road Signage - Most signs are self explanatory, but here are a few that might need interpretation: ARROYO
TOPE
ALTO
Dry riverbed
Speed bump
Stop
NO ESTACIONARSE
ESTACIONAMIENTO
No parking
Parking
Gas stations - There are two types of gasoline: Magna or verde (green) which is regular and Premium or roja (red). Lleno means full. Tipping the attendant around $10.00 pesos (less than a dollar) is customary.
Money and Currency
Exchange rates - Dollars are accepted almost everywhere and you will most likely get your change back in pesos. The exchange rate varies every day, but some places have a set rate of $12.00 pesos to $1.00 dollar. Cash or Card? - Visa, Mastercard and American Express credit cards are generally accepted but you often run into cash only places, especially at restaurants, so always carry cash or ask before.
ATMs - There are many ATMs all over Cabo. Some only give you dollars, some only pesos and some give you the option of pesos or dollars in one. Pay close attention to what currency you’re withdrawing. Try to get as much cash as possible in one transaction to avoid paying more commissions. Commissions on the street ATMs are higher than going to a bank’s ATM.
www.DestinoMagazine.com | SEPTEMBER 2013
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www.DestinoMagazine.com | SEPTEMBER 2013
Real Estate
Los Cabos Real Estate News Real Estate FAQs by Blake Harrington
HGTV’s hit show “House Hunters International” airing two episodes featuring Los Cabos.
O
ur beautiful community of Los Cabos is going to be put on a worldwide spotlight over the next couple months as HGTV’s hit television series “House Hunters International” will be airing two episodes that were recently filmed in Cabo. Every so often, Cabo gets big international press exposure and this is another event that is sure to impress viewers around the globe. House Hunters International is a 30 minute reality show that takes the viewer through the experience of buying or renting a home abroad. With mostly American contributors, the program shows both the joys and obstacles that can arise from a move to another country, directly from the perspective of real people. The viewers get a chance to see different parts of the world while being educated on the Real Estate conditions and pricing in the area. House Hunters International has been a big hit since its inception. Here in Cabo, the two episodes will feature local Realtor/Agent Blake Harrington, also Managing Partner of REmexico Real
Estate Group. “This is a great opportunity for Los Cabos to be seen on a worldwide media platform like HGTV. Cabo is especially beautiful and attracts all types of Real Estate investors”, Blake explains. “These episodes will cast a spotlight on our region and give viewers a real-life look into the Cabo lifestyle and our Real Estate market. It’s very exciting for everyone! “ The first episode will feature Bonnie Chase and Kale Cowell. This young couple is making the move to Cabo from Phoenix and looking for that perfect paradise getaway that can also serve as a full time residence for them and their two dogs. As the episode progresses, you really get a chance to learn about who they are and what they are really looking for in a home in Los Cabos. This episode will air on September 4th, on HGTV. Check your local listings for exact air time. The second episode features Antonio and Paris Buchanan. Successful entrepreneurs with a variety of different businesses, the Buchanans love to travel and fell in love with Cabo on their first visit. The episode shows their search for a vacation home to purchase and how their desire to accommodate their big family plays into their selection of the perfect home. Air date to be in Fall, exact dates not available yet from the network. Be sure to tune into HGTV on September 4th. To stay up to date on the second air date, you can sign up for REmexico Real Estate Group’s newsletter at www.CaboRealEstate.com.
A common question buyers have is about financing for foreigners. Mortgages are currently available to Mexicans with many of the major national Mexican banks, and the loans are done in pesos. However, currently there is little to no availability for traditional financing through American banking institutions. Some hard money lenders are available, but interest rates can easily be in the double digits. What many buyers are exploring now is “seller financing”. In some cases, seller’s offer financing on their property with specific terms that depend on down-payment, interest rate, and length of financing. This is becoming a more popular trend in Cabo, but it is only offered on a case by case basis and depends entirely on the seller’s willingness to finance a buyer and required terms.
www.DestinoMagazine.com | SEPTEMBER 2013
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