B A JA C A L I F O R N I A #48 May / mayo 2011
Baja Good Life Club Members Magazine
CONTACT THE CLUB
www.bajagoodlifeclub.com 877luvmex1@gmail.com 1-877-luvmex1
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JOIN BY EMAIL: Email: packmagazines@gmail.com JOIN ONLINE: www.bajagoodlifeclub.com JOIN BY PHONE: 1-877-LUVMEX1 (877-588-6391) PAY BY CHECK / M.O.: JOHN BENJAMIN PACK Mail to: PO Box 9019-460 Calexico, CA 92232 ABOUT BAJA GOOD LIFE CLUB The Baja Good Life Club is a Baja lifestyle magazine for snowbirds and expats. The opinions expressed in Baja California Magazine and Baja Good Life Club online do not necessarily reflect those of the editor, publishers or their agents. Publishers: John & Rachel Pack Editor : John Pack Contributors: Karri Moser, Stockton Hill, Lynn Russ, Benjamin Eugene Cover: Mark Winfrey
BAJA GOOD LIFE CLUB MEMBER BENEFITS
Club Contact: US Toll Free: 1-877-LUV-MEX1 San Diego, CA: 619-550-2730 Baja: 521-686-230-9933 bajagoodlifeclub@gmail.com www.bajagoodlifeclub.com
BGLC Members ENSENADA, BC
ESTERO BEACH RESORT
Estero Beach Hotel Resort has all the elements to for the perfect vacation. Qualified with 4-star oceanfront with sandy beach with private access, Estero Beach is a prestigious family oriented resort that has been a favorite since the 1950's, combining luxury away from the stress and ordinary living with an array of exciting activities. Estero Beach is where the cool waters of the Pacific and the warmth of Baja California create the memories of a lifetime. They are offering BGLC members 20% off. US (619) 335-1145 or Mex (646) 1766225 or http://www.hotelesterobeach.com
LA PAZ, BCS
TAILHUNTER RESTAURANT
DISCOUNTS OFFERED BY BGLC MERCHANT MEMBERS
START SAVING TODAY TOLL-FREE: 877-588-6391 EMAIL: BAJAINSURE@GMAIL.COM WEB: WWW.BAJAGOODLIFECLUB.COM Rosarito Beach Baja Bunk House - 10% Baja Produce Deli Place - 10% Baja Public Storage - 50% Cisco-Sat - 50% Nancy La Masajista - 5% NC Remodeling - 10% Nonnie's Italian Restaurant - 10% Poco Cielo Rest. & Hotel - 15% Rosarito Beach Hotel - 20% Baja’s Click-on.com - 10% Baja’s Click-on.com - 5% Bobby's Baja by the Sea - 3/2 Joanna Jones Galeria y Cafe - 10% La Mision / La Salada Clam Beach RV Resort - 3/2 Ensenada Baja Country Club - $25 fee Estero Beach 20% La Bufadora Restaurant - 25% Poco Cielo - Restaurant 15% Poco Cielo - Hotel 15% San Felipe Alanis Insurance - 15% Amor Property - 10%
On the Malecon in beautiful La Paz. The TAILHUNTER BAR & FUBAR CANTINA not only has the freshest flavors in town, excellent grilled seafood dishes, homemade Mexican specialties along with a few special Hawaiian recipes... but, you can book a fishing trip too. The Tailhunter Bar & FUBAR Cantina is a great place to enjoy a flavorful meal and have a couple of cold ones while hiding out from the Baja sun. A great place to just kick back with friends and enjoy those magnificent La Paz sunsets! 10% off all food and drinks. US: (626) 638-3383 / Toll Free: (877) 825-8802 or from Mexico 044 (612) 125-3311.
Blowin' Smoke BBQ and Grill - 10% Botica Sagrado Corazon - 15% Baja Ink Spot - 10% Baja Desert Cafe - 10% Baja House Cleaners - 10% Baja Beauty - 15% Back to Life Physical Therapy - 10% California Dental - 10% California Optical - 10% Dr Jason Consultorio Dental - 30% El Polloyon - Pollos Asados - 10% Fatboy's Pizzeria - 10% Juanitos (El Colorado) - Free Drink La Cabaña Restaurant - 10% La Competencia - Building Matrls - 5% La Palapa Bar and Grill - 20% Medicorama - 50% Miller Dental - 10% Pavilion Restaurant - 20% Pelicano Market - 5% Rabbit Pizza - Free Drink Redwagon Property Services - 4/3 Rumors Bar & Grill - 20% San Felipe Disposal - 15% San Felipe Resort Rentals - 10% San Felipe Storage - $20 San Feleipe Vacation Homes - 10% Santa Fe Pharmacy - 10% Sweet Spot Restaurant - Free Drink
Sweitzer Construction Mangmnt - 5% Taller Rallo - Brakes and Suspension - Los Barriles 10% Hotel Los Pescadores - 12% The Computer Guy - 25% Cooper River Designs 10% Versoleil Landscaping - 10% Wolf Management Trans. Service - 5% San Quintin Posada Don Diego R.V. Park - 10%
San Jose Tankreto Precast Cistern sys. - 10%
Catavina Parque del Palmerito - 100 %
Cabos San Lucas Cabo Marine Show - 25% Ecosmart Technologies - 20% Hotel Mar de Cortez - Free Upgrade
Mulege Cuesta Real Hotel/RV/Camping - 10% Loreto Cava Tapas & Wine Bar - 15% Dali Delikatessen & Gourmet - 10% Domingo's Place - 10% El Caballo Blanco Bookstore - 10% El Tiburon Casitas - 10% Galeria La Media Luna - 15% Loreto Islas Restaurant - Free Drink Loreto Playa - 10% La Paz Casa Cóctel Refugio de Libación 2/1 Seascape Charters - 10% Tailhunter Restaurant 10%
All of Baja Baja Expeditions - 5% Binational Emergency - 11% Green Tortoise - 10% Jones Adventures - 10% Nichols Expeditions - 5% SkyMed - $60 The Print Supplier - 10% Whales - Pachicos Tours - 10% DISCOUNTS: Please visit the website for discount details. Any Baja Good Life Club member that owns a Baja business can offer members discounts.
FUN DESIGNED WITH MEMBERS IN MIND Contact us with your group of 6 to10. We will arrange your tour date and show you what is HOT in Baja! Visit the website www.bajagoodlifeclub.com, email bajagoodlifeclub@gmail.com or call US Toll Frre 1-877-LUX-MEX1 or MX Cell 686-230-9933
MICROBREW & WOOD FIRED PIZZA IN LA BUFADORA
BAJA ROAD TRIP
BAJA WINE COUNTRY
Date of your choice - Call us!
Date of your choice - call us!
Date of your choice - call Us!
Duration: 12 - 15 days
Duration: 11 Hours
Duration: 2 days
Depart From: San Felipe, Playa de Oro
Depart: 7:00 AM, San Felipe, Playa de Oro
Min. for tour: 8 persons
Per person: $550 - Non-member: $575
Per Person: $75 - Non-Member: $100.00
Depart From: San Felipe, Playa de Oro
Minimum to Run Tour: 6 persons
Per person: $130 or Non-member: $155
Budget: Allow an additional USD $500-$1500 per
TOUR DESCRIPTION:
Budget: Allow USD $40-$100 / person for meals
person for meals, tours, shopping and extras.
Departs from San Felipe and travels across the peninsula to Ensenada for breakfast and shopping,
and shopping
TOUR DESCRIPTION:
then visits Bodegas de Santo Tomás Winery,
TOUR DESCRIPTION:
An adventure road trip down the Baja! See the
Baja’s oldest winery. It continues to Valle de
A weekend to Punta Banda to see the sties and
unique and special places that many haven't
Guadalupe, where you’ll visit L.A. Chetto and Casa
have the famous Wood Fired Pizza & the only
seen. We will work with your group to design the
Pedro Domecq wineries for tours and tasting.
microbrew beer in the area.
perfect adventure just for you.
TOUR INCLUDES:
TOUR INCLUDES:
- Wine Tasting at 3 Wineries
- Comfortable ride to Punta Banda
- Accommodations
- Lunch in Valle de Guadalupe
- Shuttle to Old Mission Brewery
- Comfortable ride in our 10 pasanger van
- Round Trip Transportation
- Over night stay in a beach house
- Custom guided tour of Baja and all it has to offer
- All Winery Tour Fees
- Shopping in La Bufadora
- Round Trip Transportation
- Tours with Wine Experts
- Tour to La Bufadora Blow Hole - Round Trip Transportation
TOUR INCLUDES:
Upcoming Featured Events A n n i v e r s a r y o f t h e B a t t l e o f P u e bl a - M a y 5 - M e x ic o The Battle of Puebla took place on 5 May 1862 near the city of Puebla during the French intervention in Mexico. The battle ended in a victory for the Mexican Army against the occupying French forces. The victory is celebrated today during the festivities of Cinco de Mayo, the 5th of May. Read more at http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Battle_of_Puebla
NORRA Road Rally - M a y 4- 8 M e x i c a l i to La Paz The world's first Baja racers launched from the start line in 1967 at the NORRA Mexican 1000. History was made and to this day passionate drivers flock to Baja for off road racing. NORRA was first. And now NORRA is back! 2010 welcomed the return of the Mexican 1000. Vintage and Alternative Fuel vehicles participated in an Edson Racer was photographed at the 2010 innovative 3 day rally. Legends of NORRA by Bob Hamm and won the Baja racing and legendary vehicles California magazine January cover contest. converged on Mexicali in April and raced their way to LaPaz. Now it is on again May 4-8 from Mexicali to La Paz. The Mexican 1000 Rally is a fully-supported on-road/off-road rally open to vintage and alternative fueled vehicles. It will be an adventure filled with highperformance driving, incredible scenery and world-class adventure. For more info go to www.norra.com.
Cuba Gooding, Sr Per forming Live in San Felipe - June 17 An intimate evening with Cuba Gooding, Sr in San Felipe Baja California on Friday June 17 and Saturday June 18 at the La Ventana del Mar Resort Pavilion. Cuba Gooding, Sr. is the lead singer of the soul group “The Main Ingredient�, most notable for its two biggest hits, "Everybody Plays the Fool" (1972) and "Just Don't Want to Be Lonely" (1974). All the proceeds from this event will go to examine, clean and fix the teeth of the 40+ children of El Oasis Orphanage in Valle de la Cuba Gooding Sr. live in San Felipe on Trinidad and Casa de Fe June 17 & 18 at the Pavilion at La Orphanage in San Felipe. Ventana del Mar at El Dorado Ranch. $15.00dlls Ticket for this event at ALL PRE-SALE, ticket will not be available at the door. Tickets can be purchased online, or by stopping by the Baja Good Life Office at Playa de Oro, in San Felipe or by calling US toll-free 877-LUVMEX1 or 877588-6391, in Baja 686-230-9933, in San Diego 619-550-2730.
www.bajagoodlifeclub.com - PAGE 5
TOP 10:
Lovers Beach in Cabo San Lucas
Mexico has 5797 miles of coastline, so it's no wonder it has so many amazing beach destinations.
Please send your calendar events to bajareport@gmail.com; please include the word CALENDAR in the subject. You can view or post your calendar events at: www.bajagoodlife.com
Here is our top ten:
1. Cancun
Cancun can't be beat with it's beautiful beaches (especially since the 2009/2010 beach reconstruction project).
Upcoming Featured Events
BIG HAT DAY San Felipe May 29
2. Playa del Carmen
Located just south of Cancun, Playa del Carmen has in recent years undergone a transformation from fishing village with hippie appeal to lively cosmopolitan city.
Cantu Cove
3. Bahia Concepcion
Memorial Day weekend in San Felipe Baja
The beaches along Bahia Concepcion in Baja California Sur, offer an incredible choice of primitive beach camping at it's best and is a winter haven for Canadians and American snowbirds.
California is the place to be. On Sunday May 29 from 10AM to 6PM, it’s a day for big hats, horseshoes and happy hungry people on the
4. Los Cabos
beach, and not just any beach, but the 3 time
Located on the southern tip of Baja California Sur where the Sea of Cortez meets the Pacific Ocean, Only a few of Los Cabos' beaches are suitable for swimming, but the beauty is abundant.
Best of Baja’s “Best Beach” winner Cantu Cove, named after Esteban Cantú, the first Governor of the
5. Tulum
Bring your family, friends, and everyone you know for a beach blast like non-other. There will be a
North District of the Federal Territory of Baja California and still owned by the same family.
Arguably Mexico's most beautiful beach is located in the heart of the Riviera Maya and offers a stunning archeological site.
single elimination horseshoe tournament with prizes, salsa making competition with prizes, chili-
6. Mazatlan
be barbecue hamburgers, hotdogs, cold beverages and beer. Bring your umbrella and blanket and relax
Known throughout the world as a sport fishing destination, it also offers sunning and swimming along its 16 miles of golden beaches.
7. Cozumel
This island off of the Riviera Maya is just 30 miles long and 10 miles wide and offers warm, clear, turquoise waters and abundance of coral reefs and sea life.
8. Huatulco
pepper eating competition with prizes, and of course BIG HAT competition, and it doesn't take the biggest hat to win; you can win with big, but you can win with flambouyant and colorful too. There will on the beach, or bring your fishing pole for some great shore fishing, high tide will be about 12:40 PM, so you'll have time for a burger and beer before casting out. The event is a presentation of the Baja Good Life Club and a fund raiser for San Felipe’s Casa de Fe Orphanage. Horseshoe pitching is only $10 per team. The salsa making competition is only $10 per salsa entree. Join us for a great time on the beach and all for
Huatulco is a beach destination on Mexico's Pacific coast in the state of Oaxaca with nine bays and 36 beaches, many of which are protected as part of the Bahias de Huatulco National Park.
a good cause. Lots of covered spectator and eating
9. Ixtapa
bajagoodlifeclub@gmail.com
areas. Don't miss the action, food, hats or horseshoes entertainment! To be a sponsor contact Rachel at or
go
to
The resort town of Ixtapa in the state of Guerrero has Pacific to the west and the Sierra Madre mountain chain to the east, and popular activities in this area.
www.bajagoodlifeclub.com/ and look under EVENTS
10. Acapulco
The easiest way to get to Cantu Cove is to take either
Acapulco was Mexico's foremost beach destination from the 1950s. Today it remains one of Mexico's most popular resort areas.
PAGE 6 - www.bajagoodlifeclub.com
for more info and to REGISTER YOUR TEAM TODAY!
Mar Caribe Norte, or Mar de Cortez and head north to the baseball field, then continue north on the newly paved road. At the school the road turns to dirt, just keep following it, always staying to your right and it will take you directly to the beach. See ya there.
Race - 646-176-1637 Jun 25: Tara Restoration Work Party - MaryAnn VanHoomissen 646-155-6275
SAN FELIPE
May 4: ZAPP 1st Annual Casino Event - Steven Forman bajaanimalrescue@yahoo.com
IMPORTANT DATES May 1: Día del Trabajo (Labor Day in MX) May 2: New Moon 11:51PM May 5: Cinco de Mayo (Anniversary of the Battle of Puebla) May 8: Mother’s Day (US) May 10: Día de las Madres / Mother's Day (MX) May 15: Fiesta of the Flowering Vineyards / Fiesta de los Viñedos en Flor May 17: Full Moon 4:09am May 21: Armed Forces Day (US) May 30: Memorial Day (US) Jun 1: Día de la Marina (Navy Day in MX) Jun 1: New Moon 2:03am Jun 15: Full Moon 1:30pm Jun 19: Father’s Day
ROSARITO BEACH
May 1: Bridal show - www.hotelfestivalplaza.com 1-800453-8606 May 7: Mother's Day Fiesta - Rosartio Beach Hotel 661612-1594 May 5-7: Coast 2 Coast Paseo Offroad Rosarito to San Felipe - 661-612-2525 May 14: Rosarito - Ensenada Fun Bike Ride www.rosaritoensenada.com May 14: Classic Rock Retro - Hotel Festival Plaza 661612-2950 May 22: Expo Quinceanera - Rosartio Beach Hotel 661612-1594 May 28-29: Rosartio Art Fest - info@rosarito.org or 661612-0396 May 27-29: Memorial Day Fest 661-612-0396 Jun 1 - July 25: Rosarito Fair - www.feriarosarito.com
May 7: 9th Annual Club de Pesca International Chili Cookoff - Joseph Malek clubdepescachilicookoff@gmail.com May 8: Gift & Crafters Show at Rumors - Vickie Silva vicirae99@yahoo.com May 14: International / North American Group Meeting Gary Dilley 686-212-3599 May 28: Laguna Percebu Off Road Poker Run May 29: Big Hat Day & 3rd San Felipe Horseshoe Tournament by Baja Good Life Events - ONLY $10dlls team Come out and show your stuff! www.bajagoodlifeclub.com or 686-230-9933.
MULEGE
May 7, 14, 21, & 28: Hotel Serenidad Pig Rost - 615153-0530 May 27-28: 2011 Dorado Tournament info@mulegefishingtournament.com Jun 4,11,18, & 25: Hotel Serenidad Pig Rost - 615-1530530
LORETO
May 7, 14, 21, & 28: Fiesta Mexicana at Hacienda Suites - www.haciendasuites.com Jun 4,11,18, & 25: Fiesta Mexicana at Hacienda Suites www.haciendasuites.com
LA PAZ
May 6-8: XVIII Dos Mares 500 - FMADAC por Club La Paz www.probajaonline.com May 7: Scavenger Hunt and Car Rally - Ben lopezbenjamin1@hotmail.com - Courtesy of Roz in La Paz Jun 18-19: PlayStation Coyote 300 - FMADAC por Club La Paz www.probajaonline.com Jun 4: Fashion Show and Luncheon at Palermos banquetespalermos@hotmail.com - Courtesy of Roz in La Paz
Jun 4: Noche Nortena - Rock & Roll Taco 661-612-2950 Jun 18: State Surf Tournament - 661-612-0396 Jun 24-26: International Vollyball Tournament - Papas and Beer 661-612-0444 Jun 25: International Food Festival - 661-612-0700
ENSENADA
LOS BARRILES
May 7: Scavenger Hunt and Car Rally - Ben lopezbenjamin1@hotmail.com Jun 4: Fashion Show and Luncheon at Palermos banquetespalermos@hotmail.com
May 1: Shells and New Wine Celebration www.provinoac.org
LOS CABOS -
May 14: Rosarito / Ensenada Fun Bike Ride www.rosaritoensenada.com
TODOS SANTOS
May 29: 4 Patas Pet Adoption Campaign - Info: 4 Patas, tel. (646)178-0988 or (646)178-6668 Jun 3-5: 43rd Tecate SCORE Baja 500 - (818) 225-8402 Jun 5: 14th Annual Mushroom Festival - CANIRAC Chamber of Restaurants 646-174-0448 Jun 24-26: RECORD Ensenada-San Felipe 250 Off-road
Jun 15: Gardel De Bergerac / Cada Día Canta Mejor" musical comedy - Alfonso Figueroa 612-1285 -Courtesy of Baja Western Onion Send us your Calendar of Events to bajareport@gmail.com; include CITY and Title of Event in the Subject line.
PLEASE SEND YOUR CALENDAR EVENTS TO BAJAREPORT@GMAIL.COM
www.bajagoodlifeclub.com - PAGE 7
by Robert P. Miller, PhD this, that they have committed over 30,000 soldiers to these borders towns. There was a thoughtful article written by a professor at the University of Juarez. He was reminded of the Prohibition years in the U.S.A. and compared Juarez to Chicago when Al Capone was conducting his reign of terror capped off with The Saint Valentine's Day Massacre. During these years, just like Juarez today, 99% of the citizens went about their daily lives and attended classes, went to the movies, restaurants, and parks.
Photo by Victor Rodriguez Ratliff
A Reality Check on Mexico Mexico is in a unique position to reap many of the benefits of the decline of the US economy. In order to not violate NAFTA and other agreements the U.S.A. cannot use direct protectionism, so it is content to allow the media to play this protectionist role. The U.S. media - over the last year - has portrayed Mexico as being on the brink of economic collapse and civil war. The Mexican people are either beheaded, kidnapped, poor, corrupt, or narcotraffickers. The American news media was particularly aggressive in the weeks leading up to spring break. The main reason for this is money. During that two-week period, over 120,000 young American citizens poured into Mexico and left behind hundreds of millions of dollars. Let's look at the reality of the massive drug and corruption problem, kidnappings, murders and money. The U.S. Secretary of State Clinton was clear in her honest assessment of the problem. "Our insatiable demand for illegal drugs fuels the drug trade. Our inability to prevent the weapons from being illegally smuggled across the border to arm these criminals causes the deaths of police officers, soldiers and civilians," Clinton said. The other large illegal business that is smuggled into the U.S.A. that no one likes to talk about is Human Traffic for prostitution. This "business" is globally now competing with drugs in terms of profits. It is critical to understand, however that the horrific violence in Mexico is over 95% confined to the three transshipping cities for these two businesses, Juarez, Tijuana and Nogales. The Mexican government is so serious about fighting
PAGE 8 - www.bajagoodlifeclub.com
Is there corruption in Mexico? YES !!! Is there an equal amount of corruption related to this business in the U.S.A.? YES !!!. When you have a pair of illegal businesses that generate over $300,000,000,000 in sales you will find massive corruption. Make no mistake about the Mexican Drug Cartel; these "businessmen" are 100 times more sophisticated than the bumbling bootleggers during Prohibition. They form profitable alliances all over the U.S.A. They do cost benefit analysis of their business much better than the US automobile industry. They have found over the years that the cost of bribing U.S. and Mexican Border Guards and the transportation costs of moving marijuana from Sinaloa to California have cut significantly into profits. That is why over the past 5-7 years they have been growing marijuana in State and Federal Parks and BLM land all across America. From a business standpoint, this is a tremendous cost savings on several levels. Let's look at California as an example as one of the largest consumers. When you have $14.2 billion of Marijuana grown and consumed in one state, there is savings on transportation, less loss of product due to confiscation and an overall reduction cost of bribery with law enforcement and parks service people. Another great savings is the benefit to their employees. The penalties in Mexico for growing range from 5-15 years. The penalties in California, on average are 18 months, and out in 8 months. The same economic principles are now being applied to the methamphetamine factories. FOX News continues to scare people with its focus on kidnapping. There are kidnappings in Mexico. The concentration of kidnappings has been in Mexico City, among the very rich and the three aforementioned border Cities. With the exception of Mexico City, the number one city for kidnappings among NAFTA countries is Phoenix, Arizona with over 359 in 2008. The Phoenix Police estimate that
twice that number of kidnappings goes unreported, because like Mexico 99% of these crimes were directly related to drug and human traffic. Phoenix, unfortunately, is geographically profitable transshipping location. Mexicans, just like 99% of U.S. Citizens during prohibition, go about their daily lives all over the country. They get up, go to school or work and live their lives untouched by the border town violence. These same protectionist news sources have misled the public as to the real danger from the swine flu in Mexico and temporary devastated the tourism business. As of May 27 2009 there have been 87 deaths in Mexico from the swine flu. During those same five months there have been 36 murdered school children in Chicago. By their logic, if 87 deaths from the swine flu in Mexico warrants canceling flights and cruise ships to Mexico, then close all roads and highways in the USA because of record 43,359 automobile related deaths in the USA in 2008. What is just getting underway is what many are calling the "Largest southern migration to Mexico of people and real estate assets since the Civil War" A significant percentage of the Baby Boomers have been doing the research and are making the life changing decision to move out of the U.S.A. The number one retirement destination in the world is Mexico. There are already over 2,000,000 US and Canadian property owners in Mexico. The most conservative number of American and Canadian Baby Boomers who are on their way to owning property in Mexico for full or part time living in the next 15 years is over 6,000,000. Do the math on 6,000,000 people buying a $300,000 house or condo and you will understand why the U.S. Government is trying to tax this massive shift of money to Mexico through H.R. 3056. The U.S. government calls this "The Tax Collection Responsibility Act of 2007". Those who will have to pay it are calling this the EXIT TAX.
M e x i c o : A be t t e r e c o n o m i c c h o i c e t h a n C h i n a Another large exodus from the U.S.A is high paying skilled jobs. The job shift in automobile sector, both car and parts manufacturing, is already known by most investors. In the last few months as John Deere and Caterpillar have been laying off thousands of workers in the U.S.A., and hiring equal
numbers in Mexico. The most recent industry that is making the shift is the aerospace manufacturers. In the city of Zacatecas there is currently a $210 million aerospace facility being built. With the 11 U.S. companies moving there, it is estimated to
India's biggest drawback is geography. Also recent events, Thailand's inability to keep a government in place and the recent terrorist attack in Mumbai, have helped Mexico capture close to half of this growth industry. In Mexico today there are over 56 world class hospitals being built to keep up with this business. Mexico is currently sitting on a cash surplus and an almost balanced budget. Most Americans have never heard of Carlos Slim until he loaned the New York Times $250 million. After that it became clear to many investors around the world what Mexicans already knew: that Mexico had been able to avoid the worst of the U.S. economic devastation. Mexico's resilience is to be admired. When the U.S. Federal Reserve granted a $30 billion loan to each of Mexico, Singapore, South Korea, and Brazil, Mexico reinvested the money in Treasury bonds in an account in New York City.
provide over 200,000 new high paying jobs in the coming years. One of the main factors for the shift in job south to Mexico instead of China is realistic analysis of total production, labor and delivery costs. While the labor costs in China are 40% less on average, the overall transportation costs and inherent risks of a long distance supply chain, and quality control issues, gives Mexico a distinct financial advantage.
M e x i c o ' s re a l e c o n o m i c f u t u re Mexico has avoided completely the subprime problem that has devastated the U.S. banking industry. The Mexican banks are healthy and profitable. Mexico has a growing and very healthy middle and upper middle class. The very recent introduction of residential financing has Mexico in a unique position of having over 90% of current homeowners owning their house outright. U.S. banks are competing for the Mexican, Canadian and American cross border loan business. It is and will continue to be a very safe and very profitable business. These same banks that were loaning in a reckless manner have learned their lesson and are loaning here the old fashioned way. They require a minimum of a 680 credit score, 30% down payment, and verifiable income that can support the loan. In most areas of Mexico where Baby Boomers are moving to, with the exception of Puerto Penasco (which did not have a national and international base of buyers), there is no real estate bubble.. The higher end markets ($2-20 million) in many of these destinations are going through a modest correction. The Baby Boomers market here is between $200,000 and $600,000. With the continuing demand, that price point, in the coming years, will disappear. This is the reason the Mexican government is spending billions of dollars on more infrastructure. The other major area where America has become overpriced is in the field of health care. This massive shift of revenues is estimated to add 5-7% to Mexico's GDP. The name for this "business" is Medical Tourism. The two biggest competitors for Mexico were Thailand and India. Thailand and
According to oil traders, Mexico's Pemex wisely as the price of oil shot to $147 a barrel put in place an investment strategy that hinged on oil trading in the range of $38-$60 a barrel. Since the beginning of 2009 Mexico has been collecting revenues on hedged positions that give them $90-$110 per barrel today. Mexico's recent and under reported oil discovery in the Palaeo Channels of Chicontepec has placed it third in the world for oil reserves, right behind Canada and Saudi Arabia. The following is a quote from Rosalind Wilson, President of the Canadian Chamber of Commerce on March 19, 2009. "The strength of the Mexican economic system makes the country a favorite destination for Canadian investment". I would offer a word of caution for investors in Mexico. Do not be seduced by the endless natural beauty that is everywhere, both inland in colonial towns and along thousands of miles of beach. Apply conservative medium and long term investment strategies without emotion. The demand for full and part time living by American and Canadian Baby Boomers is evident throughout the country. The top two choice locations are ocean front, and ocean view. The third overall choice, which is less expensive, is inland in one of the many beautiful colonial towns or small cities. Mexico, with the world's 13th largest GDP, is no longer a "Third World Country", but rather a fast growing, economically secure state, as the most recent five-year history of its financial markets when compared to the U.S.A.'s financial markets suggests.
DOW JONES AVERAGES: MAY 2004 10,200 - MAY 2009 8,200 20% LOSS IN 5 YEARS MEXICAN BOLSA: MAY 2004 10,000 - MAY 2009 23,000 130% GAIN IN 5 YEARS Author is Robert P. Miller, PhD, 535 Westfield Rd, Suite 100,Charlottesville, VA 22901
BAJA BOUND:
by Stockton Hill
Loreto, Baja California Sur Latitude is 26째 01' N. Longitude is 111째 21' W
Located 700 miles south of the United States-Mexico border, Loreto and it's 13,000 inhabitants make up the oldest settlement in Baja California Sur. It was actually the very first capital city of upper and lower California for 132 years. There is plenty of culture and authentic Baja shops and galleries to enjoy in town. The Malecon, a waterfront walkway, is a must-see part of any
visit to Loreto. The walkway is peppered with coffee shops, traditional restaurants, galleries and specialty stores. Loreto is nestled between coast and an amazing mountain range and is perfect for almost everyone in one way or another. The up-andcoming sense of luxury and sophistication along with wellpreserved authentic Baja heritage make it a perfect mix of old and new. The airport makes it a truly easy-to-get-to destination, yet it holds onto its out-of-the-way feel.
PLEASE TO EAT & DRINK
Cava Tapas & Wine Bar - 15% - An amazing 83 different wines. 613-100-2349 Domingo's Place Restaurant - 10% - Formerly El Nidos, this is the place for steak. (613) 135-2445
El Caballo Blanco Bookstore - 10% - The best Baja book selection. 613-116-5374 | jeannine1220@yahoo.com Galeria La Media Luna - 15% - Wonderful household and art items (613) 135-0533 / Cell (613) 104-8244
Loreto Islas Restaurant - Free Drink - Fine dining at a fair price. (613) 135-2341 | www.loretoislas.com
Dali Delikatessen & Gourmet - 10% -Gourmet meat and cheeses. On Benito Juarez.
PLACES TO STAY
PLACES TO SEE:
El Tiburon Casitas - 10% - 30 Calle Davis. US Tel (805) 748-4566 | lizinloreto@gmail.com Loreto Playa - 10% - Beautiful romantic hotel on the beach (613) 135-1129 | loretoplaya@gmail.com | www.loretoplaya.com
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PLACE TO SHOP
Mision Loreto - 1697 Loreto Museum next to Mission Golf at Loreto Bay San Javier mision - 1699; the 2nd mission in the peninsula. Loreto Marine Park
BAJA ROAD TRIPS:
by Greg McKinney, photos by Richard and Joyce Lawrence
Baja road construction diversions. The 4WD option on our Sidekick was not need and our tires did not need to be “aired down” as had been advised. There were only 20 miles of unpaved road to contend with between San Felipe and Gonzaga Bay and 11 of those were just “washboardy”, like many roads in Baja and if the gravel road rattles too much, you can move over to the dual track sandy path running parallel on the right.
Richard and Joyce Lawrence, Greg and Melissa KcKinney all stopped at the Baja Good Life Club office to pose for a group photo before their trip. Photo by Rachel Pack
Bahía de San Luis Gonzaga, or Gonzaga Bay in English (GPS: 29°47'56.07"N / 114°23'33.63"W) has been one of those “must do trips” my wife and I have talked about since moving to San Felipe. In 2005 we sacrificed our Ford Taurus on a trip Puertecitos (GPS: 30°20'56.67"N / 114°38'31.22"W) when the road was rough and although our car never recovered, we were ready to go again. This time to Gonzaga Bay, another 40 miles south of Puertecitos down the same road. Now, six years later, the road has recently been paved as far south as El Huerfanito (GPS: 30° 8'20.26"N / 114°38'25.70"W), which is approx. 71 miles from San Felipe and 82.8 miles from our home at Playa de Oro. I had asked numerous people about the condition of the road and received as many different opinions. Most people talked about the rocks, so big and jagged they would tear the tread from our tires and eat us alive. The stories were making it sound like a treacherous journey. Not taking any chances, we packed for every contingency; spare tires, cans of fix-a-flat, tire jacks and irons, air compressors, a wood board, tarps and flashlights, warm clothes, water, etc. Everything was thrown into our tiny hoopty to get us through the next two and a half days. We decided that the trip would be doable in our brave little Suzuki Sidekick 4WD. Our good friends Richard and Joyce Lawrence gamely joined us in their little Chevy Tracker and we headed out for the unknown. It was now or never! With our FM3s in hand (recommended, but not needed), we headed south on Highway 5, stopping at Cowpatty’s watering hole in Puertocitos (KM73) for a cold one then back on the road. Until we passed El Huerfanito and could see the islands leading the way to Gonzaga Bay, we had encountered road conditions no worse than
In two hours on the dirt road, we reached the PEMEX gas station in Gonzaga Bay. Our average speed on the unpaved portion was between 10-15 mph. No flat tires! I still had over half a tank of gas because I took the advice of my neighbor Jim Greene, “Never pass up gas!”. Which is good advice, because this PEMEX had been without fuel for 4 days. Our destination was Alfonsinas, Gonzaga Bay’s only hotel situated at the end of the estuary and the northern end of the bay. Sadly, Alfonsina was not there to greet us, she passed away last May. The rooms, though Spartan, gave us access to the beautiful beach and the restaurant with great food. I recommend their San Felipe style fish tacos filled with more fish than a tortilla can hold. This small hotel does fill up fast towards the weekend, during races or during good fishing. I would suggest calling ahead just in case. The paved highway is coming to Gonzaga Bay and if you hurry you can get there before it does. Be prepared, go forth, and at the end of the road…be rewarded!
Alfonsinas beach looking south
Rancho Grande Market
Roadside monument
Note: Alfonsina passed away just after Memorial Day 2010. She will be missed.
Looking south at the long road ahead
Alfonsina's is operated by Alfonsinas son Juaquin and manager Antonio and his wife.
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ROSARITO BEACH, BC
ENSENADA, BC
SAN FELIPE, BC
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www.bajagoodlifeclub.com - PAGE 13
MULEGE, BCS
LOS BARRILES, BCS LORETO, BCS
bajagoodlifeclub@gmail.com with CLASSIFIED in the subject line. REAL ESTATE
BAJA CLASSIFIED - All ads can be submitted via email; to bajagoodlifeclub@gmail.com with BAJA CLASSIFIED in the subject line. $10dlls for 20 words; $0.50 per word thereafter. No images. For the best classified results include brief description, contact info, city and price. SPECIAL - buy 1 month get 1 month FREE. You can place free classifieds on the Baja California Community www.bajagoodlife.com. ITEMS FOR SALE ENSENADA - Kwikat (II) Windsurfing Powered Sailing Fun (Perfect for Seniors): Single hammock seat w/padded cushion, Black powder-coated steel frame, Sails, Mast, Boom, Azusa wheels, sealed bearing, Harken blocks, Adjustable linkage-free foot steering, 34"x26", 70lbs, Rear track - 56" to 64", cambered wheels, supports asymetric rear axles, mast base adjusts fore/aft 5". Windsurfing on Wheels - $1,800 Located in Punta Banda, Ensenada. Gordon Parnell 646-154-2451 http://sites.google.com/site/puntabandasailing/pbhom e/home
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SAN FELIPE: Road Warriors: 4 seater Dune Buggy w/VW engine + Honda Trike for sale. Make it worthy!Percebu 686 137-8599 citizen_journalist@yahoo.com SAN FELIPE: 8 foot inflatable hypalon with fiberglass bottom with 7HP Johnson outboard and tank, paddles, retractable launching wheels and more. $800USD.686-135-3081 Baja or 510-530-3033 CA SAN FELIPE: Hughesnet satellite for sale with all the extras: router, tripod, cables, dish and arm. All we ask is $200...first come first served. Call 686-230-9933 or email sanfelipebaja@gmail.com. SAN FELIPE: Scooter, silver, Kymco People, 50c, 2 stroke, buddy seat, DOT helmet, new battery, CA pink slip, 7 miles on odometer. $1000. Call 686-172-8851. BAJA: SPECIAL - Buy 1 classified listing get 1 second month FREE. $10dlls for 20 words; $0.50 per word thereafter. Email your classified listing to
ROSARTO BEACH: SUNSET HEAVEN, beautiful 2 bedroom/1 bath ocean front home, car port, courtyard, private beach, studio/laundry room, security gate, US neighbors, 20 min. from border, 900 sq. ft plus lot to build on. Asking $89,500 (20 yr. land lease) 619.296.2336 or Tatblue@aol.com. SAN FELIPE: 2,100 sq. ft. Peaceful Paradise in Vista Del Sol, El Dorado Ranch, San Felipe. Including over 9,000 sq. ft. outdoor living area including pool, spa, shower, full kitchen, 5 seating areas, & fireplace seating area. 2-bedroom, 1-bath casita has private entries. Fully upgraded furniture and kitchen appliances; the landscaping has complete automatic drip system, Hague water conditioning system with UV filter and reverse osmosis in kitchen, 5-ton and 3ton heat and air conditioning, 2–40 gallon hot water heaters, 37 exterior lights and numerous solar yard lights, and many more than can be listed here. More information contact Gene Jensen, bajagene@gmail.com. LA PAZ: For Sale by Owner: 287 m² residential lot in beautiful La Paz. Clear title. Includes documents and
All ads can be submitted via email; to bajagoodlifeclub@gmail.com with CLASSIFIED in the subject line. $10dlls for 20 words; $0.50 per word thereafter. Images $10 ea.. www.bajagoodlifecloub.com
approved plans for custom multi-story home with 3-car garage. Located in the tranquil community of Palmira Bellaterra in Lomas del Palmira. Minutes away from downtown with easy access to the Malec贸n. Breathtaking views of the city and bay! A million-dollar opportunity for only $100,000 USD! Please contact Dax at (612) 140 3070 or Ssmorgan5@aol.com for photos and more. CABO: For Sale By Owner: Never-lived-in home in Cabo San Lucas. Located in the private gated community of Paraiso Iguana. On city water but includes a backup cistern. Minutes away from downtown Cabo with easy access to the new Todos Santos highway. Offers views of both the Sea of Cort茅s and Pacific Ocean. 2 bedroom, 2 bath, approx. 1000 sq. feet. Huge rental income potential! Price reduced -- $85,000 USD. Please contact Dax at (612) 140 3070 or Ssmorgan5@aol.com RENTAL PROPERTY CABO SAN LUCAS: New 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom home in Paraiso Iguana, private gated community minutes from downtown. Close to new highway & mall. Beautiful ccean views. HUGE RENTAL INCOME POTENTIAL! Asking US $105,000 or best offer. Call Dax at (612) 140-3070 or email Ssmorgan5@aol.com. HOUSESITTERS Looking for summer house sitters? We are an experienced housesitting couple and are available year round. We can manage the house and watch the pets while you are awary. Impecible references. If you are interested we will be available in the northern Baja area from May to Sept. and can house sit in Rosarito, Ensenada, or San Felipe. caicai422@gmail.com PUBLIC ANNOUNCEMENTS BAJA: Need Mexican Auto Insurance? The Baja Good Life Club can help you, it is so simple you will SMILE! We now offer Diver Licence Insurance, premium starts at $137.28 for 2 for one year. Join the Baja Good Life Club www.bajagoodlifeclub.com and then call 1-877-LUV-
MEX1 Ex 3 ask for Jen or Yara. ROSARITO BEACH: Baja Animal Sanctuary - Provide help for abused, abandoned and needy animals by spaying/neutering and finding homes. More info contact Sunny Benedict 661-112-0126. ROSARITO BEACH: United Society of Baja California (USBC); meeting are on the 1st Sat. of each month, 10am. More info contact Anne Hines 664-631-3967 Mx or (619) 407-7574 US. SAN FELIPE: Want to see Baja? Let us show you Baja! You can take choose from any of the Baja Select Tours or we can create a custom tour to see all of Baja. Contact bajagoodlifeclub@gmail.com SAN FELIPE: San Felipe Lions Club - English Meetings on the 1st & 3rd Thursdays, more info visit www.sanfelipebclionsclub.org SAN FELIPE: Charity Cookbook - Proceeds going to the San Felipe Food Bank. Send your contributions to sanfelipecooks@yahoo.ca. Debbi Moore and the Cookbook Crew. SAN FELIPE: ZAPP - Zero Additional Pupulation Project, help reduce the dog population in San Felipe. More info contact Steven forman bajaanimalrescue@yahoo.com, 707-320-4969, or 686-577-2708. LORETO: The Optimist Club of Loreto is looking for new members. Contact Jupiter Jones at (613) 135-0143 LA PAZ: Casa C贸ctel's Bohemia Night - Join us every Tuesday night from 6:00pm to 11:00pm. Bring your musical instruments, poetry and stories. No reservation required. Contact Casa C贸ctel, info@casacoctel.com, www.casacoctel.com, 612-128-4957 casa 612-140-4353 cell. Show your BGLC membership card and SAVE 15% in your order.
SERVICES SAN FELIPE: Pro photographer available @bajastudio21 on twitter or call MX Cell 686-137-8599 or TEXT 615-2431860. SEE photos online www.photoshoot21.com Downloadable! BAJA: Want to save BIG on Baja? Then Join the Baja Goo Life Club go www.bajagoodlifeclub.com or call call 1-877LUV-MEX1. BAJA: Need Mexican Auto Insurance? The Baja Good Life Club can help you, it is so simple you will SMILE! We now offer Diver Licence Insurance, premium starts at $137.28 for 2 for one year. Join the Baja Good Life Club www.bajagoodlifeclub.com and then call 1-877-LUVMEX1 Ex 3 ask for Jen or Yara. WANTED BAJA: BAJA LOVE RIDE VOLUNTEERS NEEDED - Want to be part of something BIG in Baja? On Nov. 2-5, 2011. This is a fundraiser to help the kids of baja. The Baja Love Ride will take place over 4 days & we need your help for one day or all four days! Find out how just by contacting bajaloveride@gmail.com or go to www.bajaloveride.com click on VOLUNTEER. TRAILER WANTED - Do you have a small, clean, older model camper trailer you would like to sell, please email me.vcantuclav@gmail.com CASA DE FE ORPHANAGE - Volunteers needed during the week, bilingual is helpful but not needed. Work with young girls 3-10 yrs. of age. Needed for a couple hours per day in the afternoons. Work one day, or many. Contact us at casadefecarol@gmail.com. BAJA: 10 foot or longer diver type inflatable. HYpalon with or without motor. Contact johnzigler@hotmail.com
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Return Address: Baja Good Life Club P.O. Box 9019-460 Calexico, CA-9019
www.abatti-gutierrez.com US Direct: 760-482-8681 Mex Cell: 686-231-7504 Office: 686-576-0223