Edition 15 - August 2008

www.mexicoliving.info No. 15

FREE/GRATIS August / Agosto 2008

Mexico is the origin of the wine industry in the Americas.

ROSARITO

Rosarito Hotel La Bamba Restaurant New Visitor and Residence Assistance

ENSENADA

Dream Dining at La Vendimia Sculptor Alfonso Arambula Robles Fiestas de la Vendimia’s Deep Roots Vinos Fuentes - Wine and Family

SAN FELIPE

Changes at SFAR Computing Integral Solutions Desert Realty Gears Up Los Arcos’ New Menu and Staff New Chef at Al’s Backstreet

PUERTO PEÑASCO

Federal Investment Request Firefighters Learn Medical Services Rocky Point Reservations

2 - Guide to Resort Living in Northwest Mexico

Get more info: www.mexicoliving.info - 3

WELCOME TO NORTHWEST MEXICO

Mexico Living Publishing Team San Felipe: 686-230-9933 Puerto Penásco: 638-109-4771

Website: www.mexicoliving.info Email: info@mexicoliving.info

Mexico Living Mexico Living Magazine’s Mission: We are committed to promoting Northwest Mexico to the limits of our abilities; to highlighting the amazing natural beauty, friendly John & Rachel Pack people, opportunities and lifestyles of one of the most unique places on Earth; and to showing that Northwest Mexico is a great place not only to visit and play, but also to live and work – a place to call home.

Mexico Living magazine is published by John Benjamin Pack, a Mexican business in San Felipe, Baja California, the home of publishers and owners John and Rachel Pack.

John and Rachel have spent years traveling the region falling in love with the people, the landscape and the Gulf of California (Sea of Cortez). This is a way to combine their passion for travel, exploration, writing and photography with their desire to share their joy and showcase all the beauty and wonderful things to do and see in Baja California, Sonora and the northern Sea of Cortez, Mexico.

Published by John Benjamin Pack (dba Pack Publishing) ______ Publisher/Editor John Pack, john@mexicoliving.info Publisher Rachel Pack, rachel@mexicoliving.info

USA: 800-576-0919 Ext. 3 Ensenada: 646-192-6965

Roberto Rodriguez, roberto@mexicoliving.info Jim Moore, jim@mexicoliving.info Kathy Preppernau, kathy@mexicoliving.info Armando Rubio, armando@mexicoliving.info

Writers Robin Waters, John Pack, Arts Editor Benjamin Eugene, Rachel Robin Waters, digitaldesignsbyrobin@gmail. Pack, Ron Saunders, Charlie Luse com Golf Editor Hal “Paco” Clark, bajapaco@gmail.com Sales Bill Maine, Sales Manager bill@mexicoliving.info Rachel Pack, rachel@mexicoliving.info

Website Administrator Lisa Shannon, lisa@mexicoliving.info Contributors Denny & Sandi Flannigan Distribution Armando Rubio, San Felipe armando@mexicoliving.info Hilda Chong, Ensenada vvaannyych75@yahoo.com

USA Mailing Address: John Pack/Yetmail #460 PO Box 9019, Calexico, CA 92232

Mexico Mailing Address: John Pack/Yetmail #460 Av Mar de Cortez Sur #1049B San Felipe, B.C. Mexico 21850

Table of Contents Letter to the Editor ...................................... 5 Welcome to Northwest Mexico ................... 6 Northwest Map .......................................... 7 Calendar .................................................... 8 Baja Desert Dog ....................................... 10 Tide Calendar ........................................... 11 Mexico’s Wine Revolution ........................ 12 News Briefs ............................................. 14 Rosarito Beach ........................................ 16 Assistance Program ................................. 17 Rosarito Dining & Lodging Guide .............. 18 Rosarito Hotel .......................................... 20 Vinos Fuentes .......................................... 21 Ensenada Map ......................................... 22 Ensenada Welcome .................................. 23 Ensenada Dining & Lodging Guide ............ 24 Dream Dining at La Vendimia .................... 24

Fiestas de la Vendimia .............................. 27 Rosarito/Ensenada Yellow Pages .............. 29 San Felipe Map ........................................ 30 San Felipe Welcome ................................. 31 San Felipe Dining Guide ............................ 32 Desert Realty ........................................... 37 Computing Integral Solutions .................... 43 San Felipe Yellow Pages ........................... 45 Puerto Penasco Map ................................ 50 Puerto Penasco Welcome ........................ 51 Puerto Penasco Dining & Lodging Guide ... 52 Puerto Penasco Yellow Pages ................... 55 Art & Design ............................................ 56 Real Estate Green Sheets ......................... 56 Tour the Wineries ..................................... 60 Centavo’s Two Cents ................................ 61 Classifieds ............................................... 62

Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of the publisher. All contributors and advertisers assume responsibility and liability for the accuracy of their statements and claims. All readers assume responsibility for actions or decisions they might make as a result of reading this publication. We reserve the right to refuse any advertising.

4 - Guide to Resort Living in Northwest Mexico

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR We picked your publication up at the Palm [restaurant] in Cantamar. it’s a great little magazine. good maps, lots of useful info, interesting articles. keep it up and thank you.

--- Stacy Magic, unknown location ML: Thank you, we work hard at it and truly appreciate the kind words.

Right on the money! Yes, Mexico is safer than America. I have been living here for five years without any problems of any kind. Thank you for the article and putting a little perspective on all the BS the US news media have been spewing.

--- Charles S., Rosarito Beach ML: Too often US reporters will regurgitate news off the internet, sensationalize it a little and release it.

Many have never even been to Mexico.

Mexico is safer because all the gangsters live here now. Whose hot legs are on the cover of the mag?

Mucho love from Ventura.

-Frank Boross, Ventura California

COMMERCIAL COLOR PRINTING FOR BUSINESS

GUARANTEED

THE LOWEST PRICES THE HIGHEST QUALITY STANDARD 2-4 DAYS business cards, brochures, flyers, catalogs, postcards, envelopes, newsletters, rack cards, door hangers, greeting cards, and much more.

www.theprintsupplier.com 1-800-576-0919

ML: You also have great waves and yes those are Rachel’s, aren’t I lucky. Love back at ya.

Can I get the magazine in the states? I like the new look of the magazine.

-Jason Ramirez, Northridge California ML: Yes. You can get a subscription for $24 a year (we’re only charging for postage) and have it delivered to your home or office. Be sure to get one for your friends and family…wink…wink…We are also working on a US distribution deal and will have US newsstand soon enough.

Love your magazine. Both the health and tourism issues have helped illustrate what I’ve been telling people for some time, keep it up.

--Lynda C. ML: We promise.

SUBSCRIBE NOW!

Only $24.00 dlls for 12 issues Have the magazine mailed to your home!

Name ___________________________ Address _________________________ City___________State___Zip________ Ph#_____________________________ E-mail___________________________ Check#_____ Visa_____ MC_____ AMEX_____

Name on Card____________________ CC No.__________________________ Ex Date______ CVC (3 digit #)______

SEND US FEEDBACK Do you have a comment, complaint, compliment? You can send directly from our homepage www.mexicoliving.info or you can email editor@mexicoliving.info.

Payable to: John Benjamin Pack Mail to: John Benjamin Pack PO Box 0919-460 Calexico CA 92232 Get more info: www.mexicoliving.info - 5

WELCOME / BIENNVENIDO

WELCOME TO NORTHWEST MEXICO

NORTHWEST MEXICO GUIDE

Rosarito Baja California, www.rosarito.org Located 20 miles from USA. 011-52661-612-5222, or (800) 962-2252; www.rosarito.org San Felipe Baja California, sanfelipe. com.mx Located 122 miles from USA. (COTUCO) 011-52-686-577-1104 Tecate Baja California, tecatemexico.com. mx Located at the USA Border Tijuana Baja California, seetijuana.com Located at the USA Broder 011-52-664684-0537, -684-0481, -634-6330, or toll free from the U.S. (888) 7752417; www.tijuanaonline.org.

T

he Mexican states of Baja California and Sonora make up Northwest Mexico as covered by our magazine. The region features an enormous diversity of landscapes like no place on earth—a land of quiet, colorful deserts, endless beaches, majestic mountains, forests, unexplained rock formations, brilliant clear skies, an average temperature of seventy-five degrees, and some of the most welcoming people in the world.

Northwest Mexico is the destination of choice for retirees, investors, entrepreneurs, travelers, and vacationers alike. The U.S. State Department say more Americans retire in Mexico than any other place on the globe; 51% of all U.S. retirees who live outside of the U.S. live in Mexico.

Mexico is economical; the dollar goes further here than it does in Europe, Canada, and the most popular destinations of Asia. The people of Mexico are accustomed to Americans and vice versa. Mexico welcomes American retirees and tourists and is increasingly prepared to offer the foods, goods, and services that Americans like and expect.

Whether you’re looking to retire, invest, vacation, or operate a business, Northwest Mexico is the place.

We hope our guide helps you to enjoy Northwest Mexico to the fullest. Explore!

TOURISM & VISITOR INFO Detailed information can be obtained from the following tourist offices: Mexico, visitmexico.com Baja California, State Tourism www. discoverbajacalifornia.com & www. turismobc.gob.mx 011-52-664634-6330, -634-6918, -634-6574, or toll free from the U.S. (888) 775-2417 Ensenada Baja California, www. enjoyensenada.com Located 62 miles from USA 011-52-646-172-3022, or (800) 310-9687; www.enjoyensenada.com 6 - Guide to Resort Living in Northwest Mexico

Mexicali Baja California, mexicaliturismo. com/cotuco/prueba/ingles. Mexicali is the capital of the State of Baja California.

Located at the US border.

Sonora State Government http://www.gotosonora.com/ Hermosillo Sonora, http://www. gotosonora.com/hermosillo-son-mx.htm.

Hermosillo is the capital of the State of Sonora. Located 160 miles from the border with AZ. Puerto Peñasco www.cometorockypoint. com. Puerto Peñasco is Located 62 miles from the US border.

BORDER CROSSINGS San Diego, California (San Ysidro) – Tijuana, • Baja California Otay Mesa, California – Tijuana, Baja California • Tecate, California – Tecate, Baja California • Calexico, California – Mexicali, Baja California • Andrade, California – Los Algodones, Baja • California San Luis, Arizona – San Luis Río Colorado, • Sonora Lukeville, Arizona – Sonoita, Sonora • Sasabe, Arizona – Altar, Sonora • Nogales, Arizona – Nogales, Sonora • Naco, Arizona – Naco, Sonora • Douglas, Arizona – Agua Prieta, Sonora •

WHAT DO I NEED TO ENTER MEXICO?

You are required to get a tourist card (tourist visa) if you are planning to stay more than seventy-two hours, or if you plan to travel south beyond Ensenada, San Felipe, or Puerto Peñasco. Tourist visas are available at all border crossings .

WHAT CAN I BRING INTO MEXICO?

DO NOT BRING GUNS OR DRUGS INTO MEXICO. You will go to prison. Do not bring such quantities of anything that it may look like the item is for resale. As a tourist, your personal luggage and other merchandise must not exceed

WELCOME TO NORTHWEST MEXICO Yuma San Diego Mexicali Rosarito Beach

Ensenada

SEA OF CORTEZ Gulf of California PACIFIC OCEAN the allowed exemption of 50 USD per person.

Allowed items include: personal things such as, new or used clothes; shoes; toiletries (quantities not for resale); and no more than two used sports-equipment items. You can also bring in two cartons of cigarettes; fifty cigars or 2.2lbs of tobacco (1 kilo); one liter of wine or hard liquor; twelve rolls of film; a computer; camera equipment; and one musical instrument, as long as you can carry it—really, that is the law.

Medicine for personal use is also allowed. Note: Be careful not to bring a large quantity of your prescription medication.

If you carry more than the equivalent of 10,000 USD in foreigner currency (or the equivalent in checks, and/or other monetary instruments), these must be declared.

If you are bringing more than 50 USD worth of merchandise per person but not more than 1,000 USD, you may declare it by driving into the customs facility thru the declaration lane (carril de declaración). You will need to fill out some documents and determine the value of your merchandise. The duty is usually between 15% and 25% of the value.

San Felipe

Puerto Penasco (Rocky Point)

MILITARY CHECKPOINTS

There are military checkpoints along the way to all the Northwest border cities. These check points serve the same purpose as the California and Arizona highway inspection stops you’ll encounter on the return north. The soldiers will be carrying weapons, but there is nothing to be concerned about, the soldiers are looking for drugs and guns. You’ll find them to be polite and friendly. They may ask to look inside your vehicle or RV. Check points on both sides of the border, are an agreement between the United States and Mexico to fight drugs.

WHAT CAN I TAKE HOME?

You can bring back 800 USD of duty-free merchandise per person, per month, including one liter of alcohol.

Mexican arts and crafts, including handcrafted furniture, are duty-free and do not count toward the 800 USD limit.

BUSINESS TRAVEL

Business travelers must complete and submit a form (Form FM-N) authorizing the conduct of business (but not employment) for a thirty-day period. Travelers entering Mexico for purposes other than tourism or business or staying for periods longer than 180 days require a visa and must carry a valid U.S. passport. U.S. citizens planning to work or live in Mexico should apply for the appropriate Mexican visa (FM3, FM2) at the Mexican consulate nearest your city in the United States, or through the immigration professional in your area.

VEHICLE PERMITS

Tourists traveling with their vehicle beyond the border zone north of Ensenada, San Felipe or Puerto Peñasco must obtain a temporary import permit or risk having their vehicle confiscated by Mexican customs officials.

Get more info: www.mexicoliving.info - 7

WELCOME / BIENNVENIDO

WELCOME TO NORTHWEST MEXICO

WEEKLY CALENDAR EVENTS

NORTHWEST CALENDAR

1st Annual Mexico Living & Lion’s Club Horseshoe Tournament The 1st Annual Mexico Living Horseshoe Tournament, held Saturday July 5th at the beautiful Cantu Cove was a good time for all and a great success for Mexico Living Magazine and Greg & Jon Anderson, team San Felipe Lion’s Wassupononuppie (no really) went Club. The turnout was far greater undefeated for 1st. than expected and an overwhelming 32 teams registering, each with wild names. Second and third place battling it out by truck headlights as the sun dropped completely out of sight.

Mexico Living wants to thank the Lions Club and Rick, Rodger and Bob for enduring the heat in the PAWS THAT REFRESH, Lois and Valerie Cantu, Clarence, San Felipe Mayor Hazael Sierra, Sundance

Deli, John Hall and Mark Dille, all the participants, our sponsors San Felipe Moving & Storage, Conficasa Mortgages, Amor Property, Playa del Paraiso, San Felipe Disposal and Perla del Mar. It was a great the event and we hope to see you all next year.

Over 500 PHOTOS of the tournament taken by photographers Victor Rodriguez and Robin Waters available in our online Gallery: www.mexicoliving.info.

FIRST PLACE - WASSUP ON ON UPPIE Greg & Jon Anderson SECOND PLACE - TOO SLICK Slick & Henry THIRD PLACE TIE THE BARACHOS Craig & Al

ENSENADA BAJA CALIFORNIA

Tuesday: Jazz Cafe - Cine de Arte Wednesday: Jazz Cafe - Trivia Thursday: Jazz Cafe - Jazz Friday: Jazz Cafe - 8pm Salsa dance classes Saturday: Jazz Cafe - Oldies but Goodies -The live music of “Nuevo Concepto”

SAN FELIPE BAJA CALIFORNIA

Monday: No activities at this time Tuesday: • Lighthouse - Sing Out Sisters Karaoke 6pm Wednesday: • Lighthouse - HAPPY HOUR ALL DAY Thursday: No activities at this time Friday: • Los Arcos - Karaoke • La Vaquita - Live music “Vatos Locos” 6:00PM • Lighthouse - Sushi Night & Live Music Saturday: • Lighthouse - Live Music of “Lighthouse Band” Sunday: • Los Arcos - Live Music • Lighthouse - Kids eat for $20 pesos

THE BLONDE BOMBERS Debbie Lux & Barbi DeVaul

Wednesday, September 10th

Playa de Oro Bar & Grill San Felipe, Baja California Cocktails 5:00PM Dinner 6:00PM Concert 7:00PM Live performances throughout the evening, featuring Flamenco Guitarist Benjamin & his Flamenco Group Also featuring fine wines from Valle de Guadalupe TICKETS $40 BY RESERVATIONS ONLY Tickets include dinner Reservations online www.mexicoliving.info Or by phone 686-230-9933

H

EST ALL AROU B N E

KARAOKE

D

T

The Lighthouse Restaurant Presents

with

The Singout Sisters

& Chuey

EVERY TUESDAY NIGHT FROM 6PM - 10PM Let’s party and be the star that you are!

DON’T MISS OUT:

Shuttle Service from El Dorado PEMEX available, call 686-147-9432 ask for Roger

San Felipe Baja California

8 - Guide to Resort Living in Northwest Mexico

NORTHWEST MEXICO CALENDAR & EVENTS

PUERTO PEÑASCO SONORA

Thursday: JC`s Bar - 3:00 PM Darts Tournament Friday: Dugout - 7:00 PM Billiards Tournament Saturday: Oldies Bar - 7:00 pm Live Pop Rock Music

LIST YOUR EVENT: mexicoliving@gmail. com. Include event name, dates and times, description and contact info.

MONTHLY CALENDAR EVENTS NATIONAL DATES & HOLIDAYS Aug. 29 to Sept. 1 Labor Day Weekend Sept. 16: Día de la Independencia (Mx Independence Day)

ENSENADA BAJA CALIFORNIA

August 1-17: Fiestas de la Vendimia info: Baja California Winemakers Association, tel.

(646)178-3038; e-mail August 2 & 3: Nativa 2008 Festival of Traditional Arts of Baja California 9am-5pm: Info: ADESU Alliance for Sustainable Development/Horacio González, tel. (646)1788780 August 16: 13th Annual Los Gordos Chili Cookoff & Salsa Contest Noon-5pm: $7dlls. for salsa (judged at 1pm).

Info & cook’s registration: Kathleen Taormina, tel.

(646)152-0090 August 16: L.A. Cetto “Fiesta Colores de Vendimia 2008” Noon: L.A. Info: L.A. Cetto offices, Ensenada tel. (646)175-2363, Valle de Guadalupe tel.

(646)155-2264, Tijuana tel. (664)685-3031 August 17: 6th Annual Summer Taco & Beer Festival 10am-8pm: For information and tickets call Olivia Herrera, cell tel. (646)132-6094.

September 1: Labor Day (U.S.) September 13 & 14: Cabalgata de la Independencia 2008 Horse rental available or bring your own.

Registration & info: Alfredo Vizcarra, cell tel.

(646)179-5074 or Tijuana tel. (664)902-3681 September 16: Día de la Independencia (Mexican Independence Day) September 27: 29th Fall Rosarito-Ensenada Fun Get more info: www.mexicoliving.info - 9

CAL ENDAR & EVEN TS

NORTHWEST MEXICO CALENDAR & EVENTS

September 30: Rosh Hashanah Begins at Sundown

ROSARTIO

August 1,2,3: Cevichel Bowl The Primo Tapia Sand Dunes passing Puerto Nuevo will be the site for this 3 day extreme event that combines an exhibition/competition of Extreme Motocross Freestyle with international and national Riders, Skateboard Contest,

SUMMER PARTIES!

BEACH! FUN in the SUN!

Septemder 4-7: Summer Festival Including the “Steak & Lobster Festival”, “Rosarito Art & Furniture Expo” Info: Ph: 01 (661) 613-1532 www.bajaevents.com.mx Septemder 6: The State Motocross series round 1 State Motocross Championships. For More Info: 619.819.6323 Ph: 01 (661) 612-2525 www.toomuchfun.com.mx Septemder 27: Rosartio-Ensenada Bike Ride. For More Info: 1-800-282-9352 www. rosaritoensenada.com

SAN FELIPE BAJA CALIFORNIA Aug 16: Bikini Contest - TBA

Sept. 10th: Flamenco nights 5pm - 9am diner - Wine - Flamenco Guitar - Flamenco dances Tickets only $40.00/person call 686-230-9933 or e-mail mexicoliving@gmail.com

PUERTO PEÑASCO

August: Cholla bay Sportsmen’s Club AnnualFishing Derby. The region oldest fishing derby. The Derby’s third and second to last phase takes place the end August and first days of September.For more info visit www.jjscantina. com.

Call us Today!

686-230-9933

From US 1-800-576-0919 Ex. 3

NORTHWEST MEXICO CALENDAR & EVENTS

Bodybuilding Contest, a Football game of Tijuana Vs Mexicali, all with live bands. For More Info: www.xtremepromotions.com.mx

San Felipe, B.C.

CICESE

AGOSTO 2008

(31 01 N, 114 49 W)

Oceanografía Física 0

6

Dom 18

0

6

Lun

18

0

6

Mar

18

0

6

Mie

18

0

6

Jue

18

0

1

400

6

Vie

18

0

2

Sab

6

18 PMS

2 13

200

NMM BMI

0

400

3

4

5

6

101 461

7

717 -85

8

1339 564

1958 -17

141 475

9

755 -82

1414 552

2031 -18 PMS

12 21

200

NMM BMI

0 219 470

400

10

829 -60

1447 521

2100 -6

255 449

11

900 -20

1517 476

2126 15

332 415

12

929 33

1544 424

2150 43

412 371

13

956 92

1607 371

2216 75

457 324

14

1024 153

1625 319

2246 110

600 1058 1625 281 211 273

2327 144

15

16

1003 269 PMS 13 17

200

NMM BMI

0 334 153

400

17

1113 317

17492150 193 231

427 117

1140 360

18

1752 2250 158 265

501 79

1200 398

19

1804 2321 125 304

531 41

1219 430

20

1823 2349 94 345

600 9

21

1238 456

1845 64

016 383

629 -15

22

1258 476

1908 39

045 415

657 -30

23

1320 490

1932 19 PMS

15 50

200

NMM BMI

0 113 439

400

725 -35

24

1342 496

1956 5

142 453

752 -30

25

1405 493

2020 -2

213 456

26

820 -13

1429 480

2046 -3

247 448

27

852 17

1456 455

2117 3

329 428

28

928 61

1527 417

2153 19

422 395

29

1010 119

1605 369

2238 47

535 357

30

1111 182

1659 313

PMS 11 59

200

NMM BMI

0 734 338

400

2342 82

31

1433 1922 215 271

231 91

942 375

1623 2131 162 298

400 44 408 204

200

0

0 121 503

730 -66

1340 526

1950 -37

1048 433

1715 2242 99 355

457 -6

1133 485

1754 2332 42 412

Hora del Meridiano: 120 W.G. Nivel de Referencia:

BMI

544 -45

1210 523

1828 -1

1er Cuarto: Luna LLena: 3er Cuarto: Luna Nueva:

013 459

624 -69

1243 542

1859 -28

049 490

658 -76

1313 543

1927 -39

8 16 23 1 30

http://oceanografia.cicese.mx/predmar MAR V0.7 2006 J.I. González

September 29: One Club Open: At Cholla Bay. The open consists of a golf game with a certain number of holes located in the Bay. For more info. visit www.jjscantina.com

LIST YOUR EVENT: mexicoliving@gmail.com.

Include event name, dates and times, description and contact info.

THE ALL NEW ADVENTURES of Baja Desert Dog by The Flannigans

10 - Guide to Resort Living in Northwest Mexico

Get more info: www.mexicoliving.info - 11

CAL ENDAR & EVEN TS

Bicycle Ride Register online or call U.S. tel. 858-483-8777 Ensenada contact Andres Muñoz, tel. (646)1740033.

cms

NORTHWEST MEXICO CALENDAR & EVENTS

Mexico’s Wine Revolution

The Spaniards planted the first vineyards in the Americas in

By Steve Dryden Mexico in the sixteenth century.

T

he Spaniards planted the first vineyards in the Americas in Mexico in the sixteenth century. From these early vineyards of Mission grapes, Jesuit missionaries send vines and cuttings to Peru, Argentina, and Chile.

By 1701, the first hybrid cuttings of Vitis vinifera (European stock) were planted in Baja California at Mission San Javier on Loredo Bay. Later in 1780, Franciscan Friar Junipero Serra sent cuttings and plants from the mission vineyards in San Diego to all the Alta California mission sites reaching Sonoma by 1830.

Bodegas de Santo Tomas was the first commercial Baja California winery operation established in 1888.

The quality and quantity of their wine was limited due to the use of the Mission grape. The following year, James Concannon, winery and vineyard owner in Livermore, California introduced French varietal cuttings throughout Mexico, followed in 1910 with cuttings of Zinfandel and Petite Sirah. Then in 1932, Esteban Ferro and Dimitri Tchelistcheff imported Italian varieties to include Nebbiolo, Dolcetto and Barbara into Baja California. In addition, the Cetto family brought more Italian and French vines into the 12 - Guide to Resort Living in Northwest Mexico

region and Camillo Magoni in 1970’s to include Cabernet Sauvignon Blanc, Merlot, Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc and Chenin Blanc. After acquiring more vineyard properties in 1990, Don Luis Cetto added Syrah, Sangiovese, Petite Verdot, Malbec and Viognier to his portfolio of classic grape varietals. Mexico was now blessed with an abundance of superior grapes and well on the road to creating premium wine.

These early leaders, planners and visionaries developed a wide variety of diverse vineyards of classic European varietals in selected microclimates that has led to Baja California’s “silent revolution” in creating premium wine.

Ninety percent of all Mexican wine grapes are grown and produced in five distinct areas: Valle de Guadalupe, Valle de Santo Tomas, Valle de San Vicente Valle de las Palmas, and Ojos Negros. In addition, the State of Sonora has two important wine growing regions located in Hermosillo and Caborca where vineyards of Barbera, Dulce, Cardinal, Ruby Cabernet and Palomino provide juice for a handful of small boutique wineries.

Further south in Coahuila, Durango, Zacatecas, Aguascalientes and Queretaro grapes are grown and wine is produced.

About the time (1980’s) many of the classic European vines were reaching maturity with the production of premium fruit, the real transformation of the Mexican wine industry began. L.A. Cetto, Bodega de Santo Tomas and Pedro Domecq wineries began accumulating international awards with wine made from those mature grapes found at various sites throughout the region. Adding to the excitement was the arrival of several small boutique wineries with a focus on creating limited production-premium wine, using state-of-the-art technology, under the direction of professionally trained enologists. Cavas Valmar (1983) was the first artisan winery in Ensenada, followed by Monte Xanic winery as the first boutique facility on the scene at Guadalupe Valley in 1988. The artisan and boutique winery movement brought in self-taught and trained enologists from Mexico City, France, Germany, Switzerland, Argentina, Chile, and other regions of Mexico.

Today, there are over thirty licensed wineries in Mexico and as many “unofficial” winery operations located throughout the country. In addition, a new artisan movement is attracting hundreds of aspiring handcrafted winemakers each year. Viticulture,

viniculture and enology classes are being offered in Ensenada at the UBC and in Valle de Guadalupe, near El Porvenir, a small winemaking and artisan olive oil school is training many locals and “moonlighting” professionals.

It’s an exciting time for Mexico’s emerging wine culture. For example, at Guateque 2008, an exclusive wine event focusing on new artisan wines and winemakers, over twenty-five participants proudly displayed and shared samples of their first and second year wine releases to an enthusiastic group of over three hundred international wine lovers. And, with each year, the wine just keeps getting better and better!

Most of the wineries, wine tasting rooms, restaurants and wine country lodging facilities are centered in Valle de Guadalupe near Ensenada. This premier wine country is blessed with a Mediterranean climate, located ten to twenty-five miles from the Pacific Ocean, along the Tecate - Ensenada Highway 3. About fifteen of the twenty wineries are open on the weekends and about half of those during the week.

The most “user friendly” wineries in order as you drive from Ensenada along Highway 3 are: Vinisterra, Casa Vieja, Viña de Liceaga, Three Women, Viños Sueños, Viños Fuentes, Monte Xanic, Viños Bibayoff, Pedro Domecq, L.A. Cetto and Do–a Lupe. Those wineries requiring advance reservations are Casa de Piedra, Adobe Guadalupe Vineyards and Pau Pijoan.

Recent additions to the Guadalupe Valley wine country are two new hotels: Hacienda Guadalupe (upscale) and (budget) Hotel Plaza Fatima. Finally, gourmet coffee located in a “world class” art gallery can be enjoyed at Jardin Las Veredas, near Vinisterra winery. Several wineries are located in the town of Ensenada to include Cavas Valmar, Roganto, Bodegas de Santo Tomas and the artisan wines of Jose Louis Durand. Of course, you might know that several of Baja California’s top gourmet restaurants can be found in that port city.

Mexico’s wine industry and wine culture is “booming.” Furthermore, Ensenada is becoming the “gourmet food and wine capital” of Mexico with close proximity to the wine region, abundant fresh seafood, organic produce, gourmet cheese and artisan olive oil. Maybe, it’s time to explore some “bottled treasures of delight” from Mexico and discover our “silent revolution” in creating premium wine. Our wine region awaits your exploration and we’re here with our famous Baja California hospitality, eager to share our amazing wine culture with you, your family and friends. Viva Mexico!

COVER FEATURE

COVER STOR Y

COVER FEATURE

Steve Dryden is a wine and food writer living in Valle de Guadalupe where he guides private wine tours for individuals, couples and small groups. He can be reached at sbdryden@hotmail.com

Get more info: www.mexicoliving.info - 13

In Puerto Peñasco, also known as Rocky Point and other Mexican cities the Fire Departments respond only to fires, vehicle accidents and bee removals, leaving Emergency Medical Services to Cruz Roja (Red Cross) and private clinics.

Last month, Puerto Peñasco Fire Chief Ramon Esteban Manuel Lara and other fire officials met with Martin Navarrete, a Surprise Arizona firefighter/ paramedic to outline a plan for Surprise fire personnel to train their Puerto Peñasco firefighters to basic emergency medical services protocol.

The new training program will handle the training is the basics, taking blood pressure, performing glucose checks and first aid. This will increase the total number of EMS responders, which is good not only to its residents, but also tourists.

Ironically, to gain an edge in the emerging green economy, they are taking advantage of the North American Free Trade Agreement originally promoted by the US government.

According to a press statement from Silicon Border, Q-Cells, known as the world’s largest solar cell manufacturer, will have a strategic launching pad in Mexicali because of the border city’s close transportation links to US markets, the existence of Mexico’s 43 free trade agreements with other countries and tax and financial incentives offered

by Mexican state and federal governments. Anton Milner, Q-Cells chief executive officer, called the Silicon Border location “ideal” for his company.

Construction of the factory is expected to begin later this year, with the target opening date set for late 2009. Q-Cells long-term investment could reach an unprecedented $3.5 billion. The construction end of the project will need 1,200 workers or more and utilize 100,000 cubic meters of concrete.

For President Calderon, the landing of Q-Cells represented not only another foreign investment coup, but an important milestone in Mexico’s entry into the global green economy as well.

Baja California

Mexico

News Briefs from Mexico

Puerto Peñasco

Puerto Peñasco firefighters to learn emergency medical services

Pemex officials pledge end Marriott to triple Mexico to Baja diesel shortages hotels Promising an imminent end to Baja California’s recent diesel shortages, top officials with the Mexican government oil monopoly, Pemex (Petroleos Mexicanos), have committed to step up delivery of the fuel to stations statewide.

According to state officials, there has been plenty of diesel at Baja California’s main Pemex storage facility in Rosarito Beach, but they have not been able to transfer the fuel fast enough to gas stations statewide, resulting in shortages at the pump.

Recognizing that their distribution has not been adequate, Pemex has committed to increasing deliveries by at least 20 over 2007 consumption.

Diesel sells for about $2.20 per gallon in Baja California – less than half the price of diesel in California.

Mexicali

Green Industry Unveiled in Mexicali

In this US election year, politicians of all persuasions talk about “green” jobs as the wave of the future. But while the US whittles away time in making the inevitable transition to a fossil fuel-free economy, German investors on the Mexico-US border now have a jump-start on their Yankee competitors.

14 - Guide to Resort Living in Northwest Mexico

Marriott International, which has said much of its expansion in coming years will be outside of the U.S., will triple the number of hotels it has in Mexico in the next five years.

The Bethesda-based hotel giant has signed agreements with four separate hotel developers for a total of 29 new hotel properties in Mexico. Owners of the properties will invest more than $1 billion in the properties as part of the agreements. Marriott says the new hotels will create 3,000 new jobs in Mexico.

Marriott currently has 16 hotels in Mexico.

The new hotels will be mostly Courtyard by Marriott properties, but also include at least three resort properties.

“We have watched Mexican tourism evolve into the vibrant, appealing product it is today and are delighted to see Mexico’s growing middle class spurring national tourism as well,” Ed Fuller, president of international lodging, said in a statement.

The new hotels will also attract growing throngs of European and Latin American tourists.

Marriott’s second-quarter earnings fell 24 percent on a decline in U.S. travel. Its international continued to grow, with double-digit growth in Central and South America, the Middle East and Asia.

San Felipe

Change is Coming for San Felipe Animal Rescue

by Steven Forman

The US economy has affected just about everyone.

For five years now since SFAR (San Felipe Animal Rescue) was founded by Arizona resident Ronda Walpole, and a small group of committed volunteers, more than $500,000 has been spent on the spaying, neutering, caring and feeding of San Felipe’s indigent dogs and cats. Their benefactors, Ronda and her husband Richard have been hugely generous and extremely supportive and have made a tremendous contribution to this community.

The site in Las Minitas is closed for the summer, with the focus shifting to ZAPP, (Zero Additional Pupulation Project), their spay/neuter program which currently holds two clinics every month, surgically altering 100+ animals a month. 4500+ spays and neuters since the beginning of SFAR in 2003, with more than 2000 puppies and kittens adopted.

Unfortunately, the site in Las Minitas, which is owned by SFAR has become too expensive to run for the Walpoles. We are actively looking for committed, passionate folks to take over the site.

BAJA CALIFORNIA & SONORA If you, or someone you know, would like to continue managing, funding and caring for the Las Minitas compound, which includes a newly built air conditioned two story clinic, complete with a three room apartment with live-in caretakers, surgery rooms, recovery rooms, kennels and runs, please contact us at bajaanimalrescue@yahoo.com. You can call from the States at 707-320-4969, and in San Felipe 686-577-2708. Visit our website at sfanimalrescue.org to donate securely to ZAPP and SFAR thru PayPal. It would be a shame to see the SFAR facility sit empty, but Ronda and Richard Walpole have certainly done their part---and for now, it’s time for them to move on. We currently have 45 adult dogs at the site that need to be relocated if the site is not taken over, so please come visit us and help us reduce our herd by taking home one of these mature animals, that are not only social, but spayed, neutered and fully vaccinated.

LO C A L B A J A S E R V I C E - C A L L T O D AY

Get more info: www.mexicoliving.info - 15

NEWS BR I EFS

NORTHWEST MEXICO NEWS BRIEFS

Rosarito Beach Baja California Rosarito Norte Exit

GAS

TOLL RO

Pemex

AD

Villa Floresta Lienzo Charro

Via de las Olas Calzada del M

ar

Mexicali

Rosarito Centro Exit

Via del Mar

FREE RO AD

Via de las Play as La Fuente

Tijuana La Paz Ensenada

Jose Amaro Ave. Machado E. Zapata

GAS

TOLL ROAD TO ENSENADA

Cardenas Cinco de may o Ebano M. Balbachano

L Oritz GAS

Acacias

Av. J.J. Rosseau

Alamo

Av. Mar Mediterraneo

Abeto

Roble Encino

Nogal Palma Magnolia

Rosarito Sur Exit

FREE ROAD

Av. Mar de Norte

Eulaipto

Cleofas Ruiz

Puerto Nuevo

Puerto Nuevo Exit Cuenca Lechera Exit

TOLL BOOTH

Rancho Mision Descanso

16 - Guide to Resort Living in Northwest Mexico

Playas de Rosarito, or Rosarito Beach as it is referred to by non-nationals, is a city in the Mexican state of Baja California and is its own municipality.

It is located between the Pacific Ocean and coastal foothills, just 20 minutes south of the U.S. border in Tijuana and is a popular destination for tourist, snowbirds, and expatriates from the United States.

GETTING TO ROSARITO Toll-Road Directions: Immediately after entering Mexico merge into the right lane and exit at PLAYAS DE TIJUANA ROSARITO. You’ll see the border fence to your right as you travel west.

Take the right turn-off to the road ENSENADA QUOTA. As you merge, get over into the left lane and stay there. A toll fee of approximately $2.35 US dollars will take you all the way to Rosarito Beach.

ATM/GETTING CASH Banamex, Bancomer and Bital have 24-hour-a-day ATMs that accept most U.S. bank cards all along the Tijuana - Rosarito Beach - Ensenada corridor. Only pesos are dispensed from these machines. Your account in the U.S. is charged that day’s Peso rate of exchange. Your account will also have about a $3.50 service fee deducted. Bital also has a ATM machine (Pesos only) in the AM/PM 24 hours Pemex Station on south end of Rosarito Beach.

WHILE IN ROSARITO BEACH Rosarito Beach offers a large variety of places to stay and thing to do. Rosarito has more than 900 hotel rooms from 25 resorts, hotels & motels and luxurious spas and incredible shopping in any of the Artisan shops with some of Mexico’s finest leather goods, furniture, wrought iron, pottery, marble and traditional Mexico crafts.

Rosarito offers 20 miles of white sandy beaches with endless activities including golfing, surfing, fishing, horse back riding, or relax in spa, ATV riding, visit Fox Studio Baja, or enjoy any of the many nightclubs.

Rosarito is also the host to the third largest bike ride in North America, held twice annually.

Rosarito Beach restaurants offer a culinary paradise of international cuisines. You can choose from traditional Mexican cooking, sensational seafood, delicious steak dinners, and a broad selection of other specialty American, Chinese, French and Italian cuisines. Be sure to visit the well-known lobster village, Puerto Nuevo is just fifteen minutes south of Rosarito, a tourist and culinary destination.

Whether staying for vacation or life, you will enjoy Rosarito Beach.

New Full Assistance Program Launched in Rosarito for Visitors and Retirees Serena Senior Care held their first annual Serena Senior Fair, Health and Home Expo at the historic Rosarito Beach Hotel on July 26th, 2008, where they launched the Serena Full Assistance Card.

The Serena Full Assistance Card is a support system for visitors and retirees living in the coastal region between Tijuana and Ensenada, It provides bilingual assistance by telephone through a toll free number both in Mexico and in the U.S., 24 hours a day all year round, to help its members resolve emergencies or those daily challenges of life. The support is focused on Health and Property Care.

The medical assistance component of the Assistance Card starts with establishing a local medical record with a certified physician that includes basic blood tests and an interview with a doctor. Having a medical record in Mexico could be a lifesaver in case of emergency, as dispatchers can provide timely information to paramedics or ambulance operators. Medical records will be available online through secure access, which would be extremely helpful for designated loved ones that can make decisions for card members and facilitate making any arrangements or dealing with authorities.

Additionally the program includes substantial savings and special packages with the best doctors, hospitals and clinics in the region, including the stateof-the-art facilities of Angeles Hospital in Tijuana or the convenience of service at Bonanova Hospital in Rosarito. Physicians in the network include Geriatricians, Cardiologist, Urologist, Orthopedics and Traumatology.

The Fair as well as the Full Assistance Card was developed by Serena Senior Care, an In-Home Assisted Living and Property Care corporation established in Rosarito. The offices are located in Arco Plaza, next to the Arch Exit on the TijuanaEnsenada toll road and can be reached at (661) 612 9090, or info@serenaseniorcare.com. More information on the Fair may be found on www. serenaseniorcare.com/fair.

ROSARITO BEACH, BAJA CALIFORNIA

A Great Place To E AT - D R I N K - S T AY Restaurant - Bar - Terrace - Spa On Site Vacation Villas & Casita Rentals US: (619) 262-2900 Mexico: 661-614-1135

NE DAY SW NOW PA OPEN

Km 43 Libre Ros. - Ens. 1 mile So. of Las Gaviotas Rosarito Beach BCN Mexico Calling from US dial 011 52

Casita Rentals: 661-613-2494 Restaurant: 661-614-1135 Spa: 661-613-2523

Source: Rosarito, Baja California, Mexico. (PRWEB) July 13, 2008

Get more info: www.mexicoliving.info - 17

R OSAR I TO BEAC H

TOLL BOOTH

ROSARITO BEACH, BAJA CALIFORNIA Pa c i fi c O c e a n

DINING

Dining & Lodging Guide

American Food

La Bamba Restaurant, a 1950’s dining experience Article by Jim Moore Owners, William and Susan Fekete pride themselves on the quality of the food, service, cleanliness and even the hot water in the banos sinks.

They make everything they can “homemade” including breakfast jams, fresh fruit pies, puddings, ice cream and cookies. They also make all of their “side” items in small batches to ensure freshness and quality - things like potato salad, coleslaw & mash potatoes with gravy.

Most known in the area for two things, their great American- style breakfast served all day and their daily ‘Blue Plate Specials’.

Breakfasts includes choices hard to find in the Baja, like potatoes instead of beans, seven types of juices, several choices of toast or biscuits, corned beef hash, grits, sausage gravy, (real pork sausage, not hot dogs) and everything is prepared to order, not off a steam table.

The daily “Blue Plate Specials” change on a monthly basis and include good American comfort food such as Chicken & Dumplings, Meatloaf, Stuffed Pork Chops, as well as foreign dishes such as Pork Schnitzel, Chicken Paprikash, and even an occasional Asian dish like Mongolian Beef.

William and Susan take very good care of their employees and as a result, their employees are dedicated and hard working, taking care of us in return. They do their best to put a smile on everyone’s face.

Stop by “La Bamba’s” at km 29.5 on the free road in Rosarito and let them put a 50’s diner smile on your face

La Bamba ........................................ 661-100-2560 Coffee & Breakfast Las Brisas Coffee .................................. 661-612-2546 Chinese Dragon Del Mar ..................................... 661-612-0604 Costa Azul ............................................ 661-612-1189 Palacio Royal ........................................ 661-612-1412 Hua Mei ................................................ 661-612-5717

ROSARITO BEACH, BAJA CALIFORNIA

Steak & Seafood El Nido .................................................. 661-612-1431 La Guerita Restaurant ........................... 661-612-1019 Los Pelicanos ....................................... 661-612-1757 Mariscos El Poder ................................. 661-612-5414 Siete Mares ........................................... 661-612-0774 Villa Ortega’s ........................................ 661-614-0706 Vince’s Old Pier .............................. 661-612-1253

Taco Shops El Zurdo ................................................ 661-612-7687 Macho Taco .......................................... 661-613-0630

French Chabert’s .............................................. 661-612-1111 Le Cousteau.......................................... 661-612-2655

LODGING RV Park/Parque de RV Baja Season RV Parks ........................... 661-628-6128

Italian Portofino............................................... 661-612-2950 Bobby’s by the Sea ............................... 661-614-1135

Motels/Moteles Camino Inn ........................................... 661-612.2803

Mexican Amigos Cantina..................................... 661-613-2168 Calafia .................................................. 661-614-9815 El Patio ................................................. 661-612-2950 La Cazuela Del Mole .............................. 661-612-2910 Los Arcos ............................................ 661-612-0491 Maria Sabina ......................................... 661-613-1532 Restaurant Azteca ................................. 661-612-1111 The Palm Grill (Puerto Nuevo) ............... 661-614-1203 Pizza Virgilio’s Pizza ....................................... 661-612-1210 Dominos Pizza ...................................... 661-612-5920

Hotel Costa Azul ............................ 800-800-9632 Grand Baja Resort (Puerto Nuevo) ......................................... 877-315-1002 Rentals Bobby's by the Sea ............................... 661-614-1135

GET LISTED TODAY

List your restaurant, cafe, hotel, motel, campground for only $48 per year. Call today and you can be in the next month - 686-230-9933

We do everything we can ‘HOMEMADE’ * All American-style brekafast * Blue Plate Specials * Big & Juicy 1/3 lb burgers

7:00AM - 8:00 PM EVERY DAY CLOSED THURSDAYS 661-100-2560 Km 29.5 Tijuana-Ensenada Carretera Libre, Rosarito Beach 18 - Guide to Resort Living in Northwest Mexico

Get more info: www.mexicoliving.info - 19

R OSAR I TO BEAC H

ROSARITO BEACH, BAJA CALIFORNIA

A Glorious Past Combines with a Promising Future

Mexico’s Legendary Rosarito Beach Hotel Becomes A 500-Room Resort With Aug. 2 Gala Celebrations

by Ron Raposa

It started out as a 12-room hunting lodge in 1925 and for over eight decades it has had a magical hold on Baja California and the millions who have visited or stayed there.

On August 2, the landmark Rosarito Beach Hotel will officially become a 500 room and suite resort as it hosts the grand opening celebration for its spectacular oceanfront 17-story, 271-suite Pacifico Tower.

The ribbon cutting will be at 5 p.m. Three by-invitationonly themed celebrations will start at 5:30, in the Pacifico Tower, plus a fourth in the hotel’s garden area for all guests. Reservations are now being accepted and early reservations are suggested.

More than 1,000 people are expected. The Governor of Baja California, José Guadalupe Osuna Millán, will be among those on hand to participate in the celebration of this historic occasion.

In 83 years the Rosartio Breach Hotel has guests including celebrities and royalty from around the world, so many in fact that it spawned the birth of the

20 - Guide to Resort Living in Northwest Mexico

popular tourist town of Rosarito Beach which literally grew up around it.

The Pacifico Tower marks the first time that the option of ownership has ever been offered to the public, as fully furnished suites are offered for sale with the option of guests placing them in the hotel rental program.

The Rosarito Beach Hotel is now in its third generation of family ownership, the principal owner is Hugo Torres, the mayor of Rosarito Beach, a position he holds for the second time.

The hotel has undergone extensive renovations of its existing facilities, including the grand lobby murals, as well as the addition of many more amenities for its guests, including an infinity pool and rooftop restaurant plus a greatly expanded selection of accommodations and rate options. A new state of the art conference center is scheduled to break ground in December.

Following an extraordinary past, the Rosarito Beach Hotel is ready to unveil its promise to the future with the grand opening of the Pacifico Tower. Suites in the Pacifico Tower will be available as of Aug. 1 and can be reserved now. Media Contact: Ron Raposa 619-948-3740, ronraposa@hotmail.com

ROSARITO BEACH, BAJA CALIFORNIA

Vinos Fuentes: Promoting Quality Wine and Family Values

by Steve Dryden

Life is getting better with each and every morning as the sun rises over Guadalupe Valley in Baja California. This magical and enchanting valley is home to Mexico’s premier wine growing and wine production region where content residents are embattled in a “silent revolution” with the creation of high quality wines. One of the newer members in our regional “wine boom” is the family of Hector and Miguel Fuentes, along with brothers Mark and Hector Fuentes Jr. These native Baja Californians have a long history of farming in Mexicali and Valle de Guadalupe.

It all started in 1958 when the Fuentes family moved from their farm in Mexicali to raise fruit and cattle in Valle de Guadalupe. The Fuentes family purchased about seventy-five prime hectares in the heart of Guadalupe Valley where the river runs through it, and began the long process of planting a large selection of various fruits and grapes. Hector Fuentes was a visionary with a creative imagination, determination and college degrees from Texas A&M in Animal Husbandry and Soil Sciences. Hector developed the agricultural concept, worked and managed the farm, cattle and vineyards with a focus on quality fruit and grapes. A few years ago he retired to a remote, sustainable mountain retreat and turned the operation over to his son, Miguel.

Miguel Fuentes eagerly took over the general management of the operation and with the help of his father and brothers they gradually decided to focus on high quality vineyard management and artisan winemaking. One important element was the fact that Miquel was armed with an advanced education from local Catholic schools in Ensenada and a degree in International Agricultural Development from US Davis.

His studies and curriculum at UC Davis allowed him to explore programs in viticulture, fruit tree science, food science and enology.

According to Miguel Fuentes, “Hospitality is the key here and we plan to built a family-oriented project where there is something to offer the entire family from young children to grandparents. We are a family that respects and appreciates the needs of everyone in a family and we plan to share that perspective with our guests. The children can play in the recreation area with supervision, while the parents enjoy wines in our tasting room. We’ll offer food in our family-

style restaurant, snacks on the patio, barbecues, and even host special events to include birthday parties and weddings. We’re creating a venue where we can offer something for everyone in an environment based on fun, education and family entertainment.”

Vinos Fuentes has seventy hectares of natural and sustainable land on both sides of the Guadalupe Riverbed. Twelve hectares are planted with Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and Tempranillo with several additional plots are planted in table grapes to include: Ruby Red, Globe, Superior and Thompson seedless grapes. The vines range in age from two years to twenty-five years. In 2008, Miguel will plant Nebbiolo, Syrah, French Columbard and Muscat vines to \compliment his vino portfolio.

The winery facility, boutique gift shop and restaurant are located in a 8,250 square foot building on a beautiful and natural farm setting.

Vinces Old Pier Restaurant Since 1973

Fresh Seafood & Fish Market (Calling from the US dial 011-52)

661-612-1253 Get more info: www.mexicoliving.info - 21

R OSAR I TO BEAC H

ROSARITO BEACH, BAJA CALIFORNIA

rte llo

pe

ide

E sp ino za Flore sta

Gua dalu

Iturb Ray on

Gra nad a

algo Hid

Ald ama

R

Palme

ra

Azhare s

Soto

oa Balb

e a d u s as s s

Ro

Ah ue h Ab uet ed es ule s

Suchiate Grijalva Balsas Lerma A. El Gallo

Av. Topacio

Gardenias as R. Azucen R. Clavel in lor C. Co

R. Lirio s R.Tulipane R. Jazmin a Blvd. Plint

a Orquide

Estrabel

che Blvd. Zertu

C. La Paz a C. Ensenad

e San Felip alena B. Magd

Palmas

Zafiro Magnolia Obsidiana Amatista R. Po R. Panuco Cinabrio Cabita Estano

Reforma

inta Usumac

C. Plata

a B. Californi rrera J. de la Ba Oca Fco. M. de

R. Girasol R. Amapola

C.Violeta Cortes C. Mar de e Mar Carib Victoria Blvd. Lago L.Texcoco L. Cuitzeo ronto Lago de To

E

nsenada is the third-largest city in the Mexican state of Baja California. It is located 116 km (about 70 miles) south of the San Diego/Tijuana border crossing. The city had a 2005 census population of 260,075. Ensenada is also the municipal seat of Ensenada. Located in the Bahía de Todos Santos — an inlet of the Pacific Ocean — Ensenada is an important commercial and fishing port as well as a cruise ship stop. The city is backed by small mountain ranges. Due to its location on the Pacific Ocean and Mediterranean latitude, the weather tends to be mild year-round.

GETTING TO ENSENADA

Getting to Ensenada has never been easier or faster. A US driver license is valid in Mexico, so you Mexican auto insurance is required by law if you drive in Mexico.

If you’re interested in visiting Ensenada, but not doing any driving you can contact Eaton International Tours and Passenger Services. San Diego pick and return. Fast and secure. Call 619-479-1536 / 646-108-8538.

Taking The Bus from San Diego is another option.

I take the San Diego Trolley to San Ysidro, then walk across the border to the small Plaza Viva bus station.

ABC (Autotransportes Baja California) buses depart for Ensenada every half hour beginning 6AM - 9:30PM, you can call 1-52-(664)683-5681; fare is approx. $6.50dlls 1-way.

Greyhound Bus Lines (U.S. toll free: 800-231-2222).

Greyhound Lines will take you to Tijuana’s Central Bus Terminal (Central Camionera) from anywhere in the US and connect to any major Mexican bus line, including ABC. The Ensenada Airport is for private and military only.

No commercial flights.

If you Arrive By Ship to the Ensenada port terminal, which holds two ships and each pier has shopping for Mexican curios and other items. Most cruise tourists arrive on the three and four night cruises Expect to pay about $2 for the five-minute ride to downtown shopping.

ENSENADA, BAJA CALIFORNIA GETTING AROUND TOWN

The healthiest and most personal way is ON FOOT. Ensenada is a great city for getting around on your own energy. Most of the shopping is at sea level and easy to navigate with all numbered streets running north and south and celebrity named streets running east and west.

TAKING THE BUS if you want some adventure, or want a great sightseeing opportunity. Fare is 7 pesos ($0.65). Buses are called “micro” instead of “bus” or Autobuse. Bus Terminal 646-121-2982 al 87 Calzada Lazaro Cardenas & Rio Alamar La Mesa.

IN A TAXI is a great way to get from point A to point B, Taxis Amarillos (Yellow Taxi) is available 24 hours with local and unlimited service available; they will drive you anywhere. Ave. Lopez Mateos & Miramar. English spoken. 646-178-3475.

Try RENTING A CAR if you want to get out and explore on your own. Fiesta Rent-A-Car at 646-1763344, located at 1442 Blvd. Lazaro Cardenas or RentaCar Ensenada at 646-176-3344, located at 582 Lopez Mateos.

LODGING & ACCOMMODATION

Ensenada has the accommodations to meet any level of comfort or amenities. Prices can range depending on the time of year from $30 to $250+ depending on the hotel. The best hotels in Ensenada are located to the north and south of town along the beach and are not within walking distance from downtown shopping and attractions. Taxi and shuttles are available in some locations.1000.

WINERIES

Although the winter rain season is short and the area is prone to prolonged droughts, Ensenada sits in the heart of a wine country that is widely regarded as the best in Mexico. It is said that the first Vitis vinifera made it to the peninsula (specifically to the San Ignacio Mission) in 1703, when Jesuit Padre Juan de Ugarte planted the first vineyards there.

Baja California Wine Country is blessed with some of the most ideal Mediterranean climate for grape growing.

Nearly ninety percent of all Mexican wine grapes are grown in Baja California within 120 miles of the west coast, in three wine-producing areas; San Antonio de las Minas (which includes the Valleys of Guadalupe and Calafia), San Vincente Valley, and Santo Tomás Valley.

Only one hour from (50 miles) San Diego and you’re in Mexican wine country. Consider a day trip to the beach and wineries. There are very few microclimates in Mexico that combine the very unique characteristics of elevation, soil, season, and temperature.

California wine connoisseurs are making this a regular trip, complete with tours and tasting, Baja California is producing wines of the same quality and consistency as some of its northern neighbors.

Get more info: www.mexicoliving.info - 23

ENSENADA

Riv ero Alv ara do

roll

ta rio

s

lu m as te

Cas ti

Bla nc a

re go n

Av .G

He rm o Cd sillo . Ju are z

m Mir am ar ll

Obre gon

20 d

cte zum a

Mo

Ob

ta ue Az Te ni en te

Muzqu iz Pte. Quiji

ned y Ken

iz Gas telu

bre

c

ca

eN ovie m

Cua uhte mo

Azte

rso n Rye

Av .R ui z

m an

le

Ryerson

Ma ta

Pla cid o

Plac ido M

Sara bia

ata

Cisn es

Clau dia

Av. Ru

ma

zu

cte

Mo Cuit lah u

Netz ahu alco yotl Ah uiz otl Av. Mi

Mayorca

Valdepena

Za mo

Sn. Borja r Sn. Javie l C. del So

Plomo R. Grande R. Sena hos R. Conc R. Nilo Sonora Grijalva Atoyac Parana Asuncion s Amazona Topacio

n Mazatla

z Veracru o Acapulc

Tampico

C. de las

o Av. Mexic

J. Escutia

Guaymas

a Blvd. Plint

Serra

A Serdan

ez Rodrigu

o Loyola Av. Pedr

ncia Blvd. Esta

Junipero

M ira m ar M ac hero s

C

a

Pap atz in

poc

ma

s

Cac a

ora

s rca mo ma Ala dui Dina Abe

Chim alpo

s

Mexicali te TecaEns enada Marconi

Abelardo

o Sn. Benit

Sauzal d I. Nativida ta Margari

Isla

Delfines

Bahia

s Carabela

s nto

ya De la Jo

s Sa

ros Bucane

o Tod

DRIVING DISTANCES

22 - Guide to Resort Living in Northwest Mexico Copyright John Benjamin Pack

to Abe

ana Roo A. Quint Rayon I. Lopez ila Av. El Pip o Fco. Moren ia

D.

o C. Del Puert C. Juarez embre pti Se 16 de

r Mirado Bahia ue Del Parq

R. Blanco

Rosarito Beach B.C. ................ 44 miles Tijuana Border B.C. ................. 62 miles San Felipe, B.C. ..................... 140 miles Palm Spring, CA .................... 204 miles Los Angeles, CA .................... 120 miles Phoenix, AZ ......................................358

a Caob

sM

tes Insurgen

Gpe. Victor

nas

BASE NAVAL MILITAR

Diamante

de Av. Allen

oza Av. Zarag

Mendez

o San Telm ria Santa Ma io el Sn. Anton San Migu A tos Todos San San Carlos s Ca I. Cedros San Marco l e te M ta cos San Vicen Sn. Mar en s S i r na Sto.Toma e tin r in A San Qu te o Av. Delan les Sn. Jeronim tas ida Caraco GavioNe re GAS El Rosario ol rm El Ma es E. Dunat tin Sangin tin Gral. Agus Sn. Agus Sn. Luis Sn. Borja

as s Bris rrecife A ante Diam as in Ond o n Neptu

e la

toria

irez Blvd. Ram

ral Calle Co

Q. Roo rquez Fco. Ma L. Vicario lgar Rio Bravo Agustin Me de Oca ntes Fco. Mo Pipila reno toria i Pedro Mo Gpe. Vic Rio Yaqu ia Gpe. Victor ndez Juan Me uez Doming J. Ortiz de relos J. Ma. Mo Iturbide Uranio Agustin o Escobed Mariano vo Nicolas Bra Fco. Ulloa ragoza Za Ignacio Mangos Venus Av. de los

Redes Corales

J. Ortiz de Morelos

Trit one s

s Atlas Ola

C. d

La Joya

Gpe. Vic

Av. Colon

Gal ana

Du

cas

ptiembre 16 de Se bre Noviem Seis de

s Matamoro Guerrero

las

Ro

Aguilas

Abasolo Aldama

e d. d Blv

ro Fa ro e Est

Blvd. Em

oros Prol. Matam Diamante

Mina

n

Terc era

ate os

Nueve

za ilio Carran Jimenez Bravo

Lop ez M

Av. Rev.

las Calz. de

as

to s

und a

z Av. Juare

Av. Ad Blv olfo d.

La za ro To do Ca sS rd an e

Calle Diez

Allende

ale co n

Ter cer a

Seg

sita Nueva Ro

17

Call e

Call e

M

Av. Jua rez

ta

de len Al G. llo lti Sa C.

19 yentes de Constitu

e

Cua r

os Matamor Arc e

os Av. Morel

Quin ta Call e

tava

yo.

Av. 8 Ma

at eo s

ta

Ensenada Baja California

M Oaxaca In Zac Me ore l su ate xic rg ali ia en cas te s

cho ila Cama Manuel Av o ader Fco. I. M lende Miguel Al z Mateos pe Adolfo Lo ce Calle On a os des Ocho ce er M Matamor C. a C. E. Zurit ados an Gr C. Fco. n rro C. B. de Ma C. Kende

V. Ur ib

5 de Feb.

Sex

C. O c tim a

ras

Mexicali

o Av. Mexic

Lo pe zM

GAS

Bronce

pt.

16 de Se a Priv. Aldam a Ensenad nada Priv. Ense

A.

ampo Gral. Anaya Glez. Oc Hermida

A el gu

J. Olguin

Sep

tines

de er eV

Zapote

Onc e

nda

Call e

Priv. Segu

Tre ce

Guayabo Limones

Doc e

Priv. E Priv. D Priv. 2 B Priv.

Priv. A

te

a Priv. Tercer

Ca sti Jere l z ec la el o Ar ag na on

cioc ho

cisie

yo 10 de Ma

GAS

Toledo Coronado

Ba

Die

Cor uiz

nos nza Ma all oV s C Pa Gl ed s o Tu ad ros ad Gi Bu lip iola Geranios an r g a s Gr Ca D aso M am nes m al les Ga ag bles bi Ambar Ro s i n lo e l les a rd o i de lia s Clave en lia as Blvd. s s ia s Jazmine s ente a Fu en la uc Az Parras de Gr Lirios al . I. M. Glez. ta Za La Cues ra go La Cima za ante G. Nigrom Ze C. Alisos a pe s David Ojed Matamoro Sab da ta Co s nto Sa in te Leon C.V. Carra n z a as Nigroman erlanga de o ndez av os Ramirez Me Carranza Br Matamor o o Venustian on Ri rre To Calle Bronce dero Fco. I. Ma

a

Cedros gros Ojos Ne u Camal

Sevilla Madrid

Die

cise is

inc e

ion Revoluc

rna Be nas Ate iza N

Punta Eu genia C . de l Ma rmo l

an lem lA ue

Qu

C. D e Cal le N cima ove na

ta

Roma Berlin

ig

ima

a

int a

.M Av

Cat orc e

nci Independe

Sex

Dec

Nov ena

Oc t ava

Die

ac

Argentina Brasil Mexico

Qu

o r i t ca sa n Ro . Bla B. B

Ambar

Laureles Pinos Alamos Pirules Sauces

ara

s Margarita Acacias Lilas Rosas Eucaliptos

oJ er t

nza V. Carra

rib

L. Cardenas

He

ntu Esteban Ca n M. de Leo F. Angeles Azteca

ro

e M ad

Cedro Jalisco

m Lo

Sonora Tlaxcala

Reforma Barcelona Niza Monaco Gibraltar

da

le To

Caoba Eucalipto

o Queretar Colima

no

s

A. Serdan

1" t. " Ar 3" t. " Ar "7" t.

Ar 9" t. " 4" Ar 2 t. " 7" Ar 2 t. " 23" Ar ion 1 uc t. " Ar stit n Co

gele

Puebla

Durango

is

F. A n

rdo ba

Sep tim

tas Pelic Para anos Arreo is Tuca o Sara la b Colibrie nes Ban ia s L aga erd oG lez.

Cien fueg Bugambilias os F. Sa Rosales ra A. R bia gue z.

J. O zum Cirio a s H. M elen dez es ro Ninos He S.Taboada

ata Zap

C al

. Ejericto alz

ios ed em s R n aga e lo oma onz d .

G R B n. is u ara B. S n. L to J S B. riber intin He . Q u n S B.

Gavio

Palmas Roble

tz.

Hidalgo to Guanajua Mexico

er t oM

Fco . Vil la 10. d M eM Hn artire ayo s os Flo del R io B res lan Ma co go n

ob

as Higuer

l. R

Gral .

Rive

Gra

ENSENADA, BAJA CALIFORNIA

s ore nd Co

Morelos

Dining & Lodging Guide

DINING

Dream Dining at La Vendimia

La Casa Antigua

by Lisa Shannon

Dinner at La Vendimia Restaurant in Ensenada is always a pleasure. I have had the opportunity to try several different things on the menu and have enjoyed each bite…and sip! Their wine list is spectacular, and they have some of Owners Katrina and Andres the finest Mexican wines Tinoco (Andres not shown). available to pair with any meal.

During our last two trips to the west coast of the Baja peninsula, we dined at La Vendimia for lunch and dinner. I had the most exquisite filet mignon I think I have ever had. The Filete de La Vendimia is a choice filet slathered in a reduced red wine sauce with mushrooms. The meat is so tender that it simply cannot be described. It’s like, a first kiss soft, if you can remember what that was like. The taste lingered on my tongue long after I swallowed my bite, and the aroma lingered in the air as I anticipated my next

Coffee & Breakfast

bite. Sides included a green salad with vinaigrette dressing, a baked potato and vegetables. With my filet, I enjoyed a lovely LACetto Cabernet Sauvignon, a deep red and aromatic Baja California wine. Our server was pleasant and attentive, a real treasure in Baja.

I would certainly recommend this order and restaurant to anyone who can appreciate a wellprepared filet and a great glass of wine. Visit Andres and Katrina, the owners of this fabulous place, and don’t forget to tell them that Mexico Living Magazine gave their service Five Stars.

La Vendimia is located on Riveroll between the main boulevard and Lopez Mateos.

RV Park/Parque de RV ........................ 646-175-7320

Chinese

Bamboo Garden .............................. 646-178-2516 Italian

Gondolieri Ristorante Italiano ............ 646-174-0976

Mexican

Amigos Cantina..............................(619) 917-5696 CASAMAR Restaurant Bar ................ 646-174-0417 www.restaurantcasamar.com ....................... 646-108-4702 Brisa del Mar ............. 646-176-4900 Broncos Steakhouse ........................... 646-154-2540 Costa Azul ............... 646-178-3210 Hussong’s Cantina ............................ 646-178-3637 La Puerta ................................ 646-176-3720 Haliotis Oxidos Cafe .................................... 646-178-8827

Steak & Seafood

ENSENADA, BAJA CALIFORNIA

LODGING

El Rey Sol ........................................ 646-178-1601 ........................ 646-176-1044 Las Cazuelas La Finca de Ensenada ...................... 646-172-5833 ........ 646-174-0807 La Embotelladora Vieja ..... 646-178-3271 La Mansion de Ensenada .............................. 638-174-0969 La Vendimia

Mona Lisa RV Park ........................... 646-177-5100 Motels/Moteles

America Motel..............................646-176-1333 Rudis Motel ...........................646-176-3245 Ensenada Inn ...............................646-176-1361 Essence Spa ................................646-174-0816 Hotel El Joker ...............................646-177-5151 Posada Don Fernando ..................646-177-0127 Azteca Inn ....................................646-177-4015 Casa Del Sol ................................646-178-1570 Cortez..........................................646-178-2307 Hotel

Best Western El Cid ......................646-178-2401 Corona Hotel .........................646-176-0901 Costa Azul .....................800-800-9632 Grand Baja Resort (Puerto Nuevo) ..................................877-315-1002 Hotel Coral & Marina ....................................................646-175-0000 Hotel La Fonda ..........646-155-0007 San Nicolas Hotel .........................646-176-1901

 

•

An extraordinary place of relaxation and indulgence

•

Experience the sunset during a romantic La Fonda Delight for two

•

Packages designed especially for men

•

Complete salon services

•

Incredible wedding packages

•

And much more

Getting to La Fonda is easy. It’s located at Km 59.5 Carr. Tijuana-Ensenada. An easy 15 minute coastal drive south of Rosarito Beach. Take the La Fonda exit to a perfect vacation.

USA 1-619-342-2183 MEXICO 661-614-1434

24 - Guide to Resort Living in Northwest Mexico

Get more info: www.mexicoliving.info - 25

ENSENADA

ENSENADA, BAJA CALIFORNIA

ENSENADA, BAJA CALIFORNIA

ENSENADA, BAJA CALIFORNIA

by Steve Dryden

El Rey Sol

Mexico 's oldest French restaurant prides itself on a diverse menu, professional staff and sophisticated atmosphere. The extensive French menu includes seafood, chicken, steak, Caesar salad for two prepared tableside and a few traditional Mexican dishes. The ample portions always include fresh vegetables from the nearby family farm.

The restaurant's sidewalk cafe, open from early morning hours, serves an array of fresh French pastries and coffee.

The American Academy of Hospitality Services honors El Rey Sol in 2004, 2005, 2006 & 2007 with it's coveted Five Star Diamond Award.

Meal Prices $9 - $19 ACCEPTED

26 - Guide to Resort Living in Northwest Mexico

Restaurant Hours Daily 7:30 am - 10:30 pm

Harvest season is a time of abundance, excitement and celebration in Mexico’s premier grape growing and wine production region.

Historically, Ensenada has been the “hub” of the wine culture in Baja California and was the original location for the first Fiestas de la Vendimia. In the early days of the this “wine culture” celebration (1982) the event was organized and promoted by the Club de Leones de Ensenada or the Lions Club and a few small wineries. The 1986 IV Fiesta y Feria de la Vendimia was a two day event held on August 30th and 31st with an admission fee of $65 usd. Three wineries were involved in the first events to include Bodega Santo Tomas, Bodega San Antonio and Cavas Valmar. Fernando Martain of Cavas Valmar and the management of Santo Tomas winery have been involved in the event planning from the beginning and continue to this day.

La Cofradia del Vino, a group of Ensenada residents who wanted to learn about and explore the world of wine and gourmet culinary delights, took over the management, planning and organization of Fiestas de la Vendimia in 1987.

Hector Arriola, Octavio Jimenez, Ignacio Crespo Pozvelo, Raul Borquez and Fernando Martain were among the first visionary leaders who truly believed in the future of the Baja California wine

culture. According to Fernando Martain, “the real purpose of this event was to promote the regional wine culture.” In fact, in a 1991 interview with San Diego Union staff writer Diane Lindquist, about the Mexican wine industry, Martain stated, “this is only the beginning, in a few years more, there might be a hundred wineries.” In that same interview, Hans Backhoff, one of the owners of Monte Xanic winery added, “everybody thinks the weather is too hot and you cannot produce good grapes here, but that is wrong. This is a fantastic microclimate.

With this exceptional year (1991) I think we’re going to be discovered.” Today, Mexico’s “silent revolution” in creating high quality wine shows that both Martain and Backhoff were right on target! In 2008, there are many new wineries in the region and several hundred individuals are making artisan and boutique wines.

The wine association of Baja California or Asociacion de Vinicultores de la CANACINTRA joined forces with la Cofradia del Vino to host the event in the early 1990’s. A few years later, the wine association took over the entire management and promotion of the festival and continues in that role today. Interestingly, the Fiestas de la Vendimia has become “too successful.” For example, even though tickets are not being issued for this year’s events yet, many of the festivities are already sold out. I suspect that somebody forgot to tell the City of Ensenada and the Baja California wine culture that the economy is slowing down! In fact, the regional economy is growing at a study rate and much of that has to do with our “emerging” wine culture that includes special events, culinary arts, artisan gourmet food products, restaurants, wine bars, wine country hotels, B&B’s, new wineries, and several winemaking and culinary educational programs. Fiestas de la Vendimia 2008 takes place from July 31 through August 17 with over fifty spectacular events. This festival is like an “old vine” with deep roots in our region, it keeps growing while producing quality fruit in the form of “world class” entertainment and hospitality. Don’t miss out!

Avenida Lopez Mateos 1000 Ensenada, 22800 MX Phone: 011-52-646-178-1733 www.ElReySol.com Get more info: www.mexicoliving.info - 27

ENSENADA

Fiestas de la Vendimia has Deep Roots in Ensenada This is fine dining at its best in Ensenada . El Rey Sol at Av. Lopez Mateos #1000 has been family run since 1947 and has won many awards for their excellent seafood, distinctive international cuisine and impeccable service.

ENSENADA, BAJA CALIFORNIA

ROSARTIO BEACH & ENSENADA BC MX

YELLOW PAGES GET LISTED TODAY ONLY $4 Dollars: 1-52-686-577-1377 / 1-52-1-686-230-9933

USA to MX Cell Phone: 011+52+1+Area Code+(Tel #) USA to Mexico: 011+Area Code+(Tel #) Mexico to USA: 001+Area Code+(Tel #) MX Landline to MX Cell Phone: 045+Area Code+(Tel #) MX Cell Phone to MX Landline: Area Code+(Tel #)

DIALING 800 NUMBER: 800 DIALING to the US From Mexico (dial 001+) To Dial USA 800 .......................................... dial 880 To Dial USA 866 .......................................... dial 883 To Dial USA 877 .......................................... dial 882 To Dial USA 888 .......................................... dial 881

IMPORTANT NUMBERS:

REAL ESTATE/BIENES RAÍCES Ensenada Remax ...............................(661)-612-1132 RESTAURANTS/RESTAURANTES See ROSARITO/ENSENADA DINING GUIDE section

Call to list you business., $4 per month.....(686)230-9933

MEDICAL SERVICES/SERVICIOS MÉDICOS ISSSTE ........................................... 646-176-2230 IMSS .............................................. 646-120-7771 Centro de Salud ............................... 646-152-1371 PROFESSIONAL SERVICES PSN Mexico Professional Services.......(646) 178-8280 Legal/Immigration Assist FM3/FM2/FMT Import documentation www.psnmexico.com

MX 411 (Spanish only).......................................040 Tourist Assistance Hotline ..................................076 Check Time........................................................030 Worldwide Emergency No.for Mobile is ............. 112 Emergencies ......................................................060 Sky Medical (from Mexico).........001-866-805-9624 Tourist Office (Toll Free Mexico) .........01(800) 025-3991

POLICE/POLICÍA Policia Ministerial ............................. 646-176-3636 Policia Federal Caminos .................. 646-683-8040 Policia Federal Preventiva ................ 646-176-2579 Prefectura Naval ............................. 469-0376/2948

AEROPUERTO/AIRPORT Aeropuerto ........................................ 646-273-1984

Terminal de Buses ............................ 646-224-1041

DEVELOPMENT MANAGEMENT/MANEJO DE FRACCIONAMIENTOS Baja Mar Country Club ....................1-800-434-2252 ELEVATORS/ELEVADORES To The Top Elevators .......................... (661) 614-1434 FISH/PESCADERÍA Vince's Old Peir ................................. (661) 612-1253 HEALTH & FITNESS/SALUD Y EJERCICIO Spa La Fonda ......................................(646) 155-0394 HOTEL/HOTEL See ROSARITO/ENSENADA LODGING GUIDE at the beginning of each city section.

MUSIC/MUSICA Pharmacy Regia & House of Music .....(646) 174-0557 RENTALS/RENTAS See ROSARITO/ENSENADA LODGING GUIDE section

PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION/EL TRANSPORTE PÚBLICO

UTILITIES/EMPRESAS DE SERVICIOS PÚBLICOS CFE ..................... 612-143 0064 or 612-142 0237 TELMEX ...........................................612-142 0001 CALIGAS...........................................612-142 0122 WINERY Vinos Fuentes Winery ..................... (646) 171-7070

ROSARITO/ENSENADA LIST YOUR BUSINESS! ONLY

$4.00 PER MONTH

BUSINESS.....646-123-4567

Call us Today!

686-230-9933

REAL ESTATE AGENTS/AGENTES DE BIENES RAÍCES Nicolas Santos (Rosarito).................... 619-917-5695

28 - Guide to Resort Living in Northwest Mexico

Northwest Mexico Business Directory - 29

R OSAR TI O/ ENSEN A D A

DIALING INSTRUCTIONS:

Chet

Gulfo de Mexico Gulfo de California

ez Cort

rm

Virgin de Guadalupe Monument

ar de

Be

uma

l

Mar

Tourist Info

GAS PG

El Cortez Hotel

AM/PM mercado

GETTING TO SAN FELIPE

nid Ave

If you are Driving your car or a rental (you MUST purchase Mexican Auto Insurance) to San Felipe is straightforward, because all roads lead south. The Mexicali/San Felipe highway is a breath-taking visual experience from wetlands to moonscapes to vistas that fall off the horizon. Most car rentals in El Centro, San Diego, and Yuma Airports sell Mexican Auto Insurance.

The San Felipe International Airport has a runway of 4850 feet that is in excellent condition. The available oriented 310° and 130°, coordinates 30°57’ lat. 114°51’ long. The radio control tower operators are bilingual.

a Ca

M is

r

l Su o de min

ion de

de ision

do

e Lor

mas to To San n de Misio tir Mar dro n Pe ente n Sa Vinc Misio San n de Misio

M Calle

a tarin a Ca Sant

n Misio

de G

uad

alup

e

HARBOR

Hwy 5 to Airport, South Campos & Puertocitos Old Road South Campos & Puertocitos

30 - Guide to Resort Living in Northwest Mexico

S

an Felipe is a small fishing village that historically has been economically dependent on fishing, however today tourism and real estate provide the economic base. Even as it grows into the next century with four-lane highways, multi-pump fueling centers that shines bright even after the moon has drop behind the majestic mountains it will remain a small fishing village in its heart and soul.

Today San Felipe is maturing into a sophisticated resort community with destination resort developments, luxury condos, fine restaurants, sport fishing charters and world-class off-road adventures.

San Felipe sits on the Gulf of California (Sea of Cortez), 118 miles (190 km) south of the US border and within the municipality of Mexicali.

Directly behind San Felipe to the west is Sierra San Pedro Martír, the tallest mountains in Baja, forming a protective wall from Pacific storms. San Felipe has 23foot tides (7-meters) exposing a kilometer or more of ocean floor. One of the largest tidal bores in the world due in part to the Colorado River delta to the north.

San Felipe Hosp.

Policia Station

Bus Terminal

Because of the close proximity of Northwest Mexico to the USA, most invoices, and receipts at restaurants, hotels, gas stations, etc., will be in both dollars and pesos. It is a good idea to convert your money into pesos for local purchases. You will likely save money. ATMs at Banamex Bank on Chetumal, Bancomer Bank on Mar de Cortez and Chetumal or AM/PM on Mar Caribe Sur.

Lighthouse

Av. M

ar

ejo

Med iterr aneo Mar Jonic o Mar Berm ejo Mar Blan co Mar Neg ro Mar Cant abric o Mar Tasm ania Mar Baltic o

ar Ca

Rojo

M ar

Av. M

.M Av

ATM/GETTING CASH

con

ada

a

ribe

Avenida Pirues Avenida Jacaranda

Avenida Fresnos Avenida Copales Avenida Laureles Avenida Moreras Avenida Eucaliptos Avenida Tabachin

A Calz

Manzanillo

The San Felipe Arches monument at the entrance of town, was built in 1980 to represent the commitment of the four states around the Sea of Cortez (Baja California Norte, Baja California Sur, Sinaloa, and Sonora) to promote tourism and the regions beauty and charm.

co

Male

Mar M Mar uerto d Mar el Nort e d e Ir M ar de la landa s M ar de M Flores inda nao

M v.

GAS

nad

ni

SAN FELIPE, BAJA CALIFORNIA

can obtain a tourist card in Mexicali at the Aduana (Customs) office building located just left of the border gates. Parking is available on the street, across near the bank (which is where you will be going after customs. Tourist visas are no longer available in San Felipe.

Marina Resort

www.mexicoliving.info

WHAT DO I NEED?

A combination of identification documents, such as a U.S. Drivers License and a U.S. Bir th Cer tificate or a valid U.S. passport - PASSPORTS ARE NOT REQUIRED! You do not need a tourist

visa if you visit San Felipe for 72 hours or less. You

THINGS TO DO

San Felipe offers endless things to do and or not do depending on your personal goals.

San Felipe beaches extend north and south for over 50 miles of shoreline to explore. Whether you’re looking for a banana boat rides, beach bars, and crowds or an isolated paradise to share with someone special - San Felipe has it.

Off Road adventures, await you beyond every horizon, which is why San Felipe is home to the SCORE International Baja 250. The desert terrain surrounding San Felipe is vast and offers incredible trails and exploration for ATV’s, dirt bike or off-road vehicle. Just south of San Felipe are extensive sand dunes ideal for buggies and rails. ATV Rentals are also available.

The Valley of the Giants: The natural reserve of the thousand-year-old Cardon Cactus has become a major attraction Shopping, San Felipe offers great shopping for bargain, souvenirs, arts and much more. Much of the shopping can be found downtown on the Malecon, Mar de Cortez, or Chetumal leading into town.

However, all around town you’ll find great finds.

NATURAL ATTRACTIONS

It is home to four highly endangered species including the endemic Gulf of California harbor porpoise or vaquita and the totoaba.

The northern Gulf of California is an area of extreme temperatures, salinity, and tides (23 ft. maximum). Many unique organisms have adapted to these conditions, some with seasonal cycles of abundance.

The Valley of the Giants: The natural reserve of the thousand-year-old Cardon Cactus has become a major attraction after the transport of one of these giant specimens to Seville, Spain for World Expo ‘92. The area has also become a favorite spot for photographers worldwide.

In March of 1991, the three levels of Government and the San Felipe community organized a program of artificial reefs to attract fish and provide better sport fishing.

Get more info: www.mexicoliving.info - 31

SAN FEL I PE

EENSENADA NSENADA

Ense

e

ib

ar

C ar

GAS

Calle

Jo

co lan nas at Pe az

cru z

ar

M

GAS

Ver a

M

o ej an o at ulc hu p Zi Alca

Creta

Call del Ce San Jo ab o se

Cal le

Baseball

o ric no ega Do erre oru r i a M ar T de N ava inas M ar e J lip M r d e Fi rillo a M ar d ma M ar A M

rto

SAN FELIPE ARCHES

San Felipe Baja California

e Pu

Mar de

Me xic ali

DISTANCES SDRIVING AN FELIPE, BAJA CALIFORNIA El Centro, CA ..........................137 Miles Los Angeles, CA .....................350 Miles Phoenix, AZ ............................375 Miles San Diego, CA ........................236 Miles Tucson, AZ .............................446 Miles Yuma, AZ................................184 Miles

Article & Photo by Kathy Preppernau

How do you find a great new chef? You steal her and according to Al, owner of Al’s Back Street Cantina and Patio Grill, that’s exactly what he did. Al found Berthy at Tijuana’s Famous Los Arcos Restaurant where she had been working for 22 years. He brought her to San Felipe to be his new Chef. She is a single mom with 3 boys and has been a chef for 23 years.

She really likes the tranquility of San Felipe but says she has to get used to the heat.

She was born in Sinaloa, Mexico and started learning to cook when she was just 8 years old. A good friend had a restaurant there and she began to learn from him. First, learning how to make cakes and flans, she started as the cook’s helper and progressed

DINING

American

Los Arcos ......................... 686-577-2585 . ...................

Jimmy’s Beach Bar & Grill 686-576-0454 ........ 686-151-8002 Java Jitters BC Bistro Blowin’ Smoke BBQ & Grill ................Coming Soon! see ad pg 33 Burgers Baja Burger .................................... 686-577-2465

to Pastry Chef and by his side learned to cook all the different Mexican dishes.

Twenty-two years ago, Berthy helped open the Tijuana Las Arcos Restaurant and has since expanded her talents to Italian, Mediterranean and Spanish dishes as well as Mexican Food. She specializes in seafood and steaks, but her Mexican dishes seem to be the most popular right now. My first treat was the Diablitos “Little Devils� which are yellow chili’s stuffed with Marlin. Just a little hot and oh so tasty.

I’ve since enjoyed the Taco Gobernador and Taco de Marlin and most recently her ceviche and the Faitas de Pollo with fresh made guacamole - yummy!

Everything is made fresh daily from the salsa and guacamole to the fresh salads, ceviche and hamburgers. She is very particular with the quality of her meals. She even filets the fish at the time of your order before cooking. Now that’s fresh!

Al’s Back Street Cantina and Patio Grill is open Thursday through Sunday from 6 PM to 2 AM during the month of August but after Labor Day will be open Thursday through Monday again and be opening at 4 pm instead of 6 pm.

Al’s Back Street Cantina was awarded BEST BAR TO TAKE OUT OF TOWN GUESTS by popular vote of the people in the Best of San Felipe reader’s poll. Call them today: 686-577-1580.

32 - Guide to Resort Living in Northwest Mexico

CHECK OUT OUR WEB SITE FOR HOURS & EVENTS SANFELIPELIGHTHOUSELOUNGE.COM

Los Arcos

........................686-577-2585

Fine Dining Baja Mar Restaurant Pavillion Restaurant

686-577-2648 . 686-577-0022

LODGING

Due to San Felipe’s large residential developments such as El Dorado, La Ventana del Mar and Playa de Oro, the real lodging secret is the vast number of private vacation rental homes. RV camping and beach camping is also available.

RV Park/Parque de RV Club de Pesca .................................. 686-577-1180 Rentals Baja Bill's Property Managment ........ 686-577-4014 Casey’s Place ................................ 686-577-1431

Pizza Rabbit Pizza Delivery ........................ 686-577-0987 Popeye’s Pizza ...............................(686) 577-1122

Rancho del Sol ............. 686-231-4921 Redwagon Enterprises Services ........686-576-0081

........................ 686-111-2257

Steak & Seafood Backstreet Patio Grill ............ 686-577-1580 ........... 686-573-0202 Baja Mar Steak House Green House .................................... 686-181-6358 ....................................... 686-577-1028 El Nido

/26 $5&26 5(67$85$17

5HVHUYDWLRQV RU WDNH RXW

1(: +2856 1(: 0(18 ,7(06

Mexican Beach Bar & Grill . .......... 686-576-0454 .............................. 686-577-1057 George’s ...... 686-200-4083 La Palapa Bar & Grill Mi Casa es Tu Casa.......................... 686-577-1495 Rancho Alegre ............................ 686-576-0648 Rice & Beans ..................... ......... 686-577-1770 see ad pg 33............... 686-577-1903 Rosita ........................ 686-577-2648 Taco Factory

Spanish Miguel & Paco

Coffee & Breakfast Baja Java .......................... 686-577-2465

LIGHTHOUSE RESTAURANT

Property Management / Condo & Home Rentals Providing Rental income For homeowners since 1997 6,000 satisfied clients per year sun@hughes.net 577-1431 / 310 862-4928 www.SanFelipe.bz

7+8 30 72 30 )5, 30 72 30 6$7 30 72 30 681 30 72 30 1HZ 3L]]D 6SHFLDOV WKH

+DSS\ -DFNDVV /RXQJH &ROG %HHU &RPSOHWH %DU

+DSS\ +RXU WR 1DWÂśO %HHU :HOO GULQNV ZZZ KDSS\MDFNDVV FRP

1DVFDU )DQWDV\ 6XQGD\ EDOO 3RRO 7RXUQH\ 30 6XQGD\

.DUDRNH )ULGD\V $OO VXPPHU ORQJ 30 WR FORVLQJ

%,1*2 7KXUV 30 WR 30

1LJKWO\ 6SHFLDOV &RPH DQG HQMR\ D JRRG PHDO DW D UHDVRQDEOH SULFH 9LVLW RXU ZHEVLWH ZZZ KDSS\MDFNDVV FRP Get more info: www.mexicoliving.info - 33

SAN FEL I PE

Al’s Backstreet Patio Grill - Introduces New Chef Berthy Perea

SAN FELIPE, BAJA CALIFORNIA ) 6 8( 6

Dining & Lodging Guide

Juanito’s Grill ...................686-200-4059 ............ 686-577-2837 La Vaquita Restaurant .......... 686-577-2540 Lighthouse Restaurant

&/ ,)

SAN FELIPE, BAJA CALIFORNIA

SAN FELIPE, BAJA CALIFORNIA

Seaside Shangri-La Apartment ......... 686-577-1573

SAN FELIPE, BAJA CALIFORNIA Marina Resort

................... 686-577-1569

Los Arcos Restaurant has new staff and menu

Motels/Hotel El Capitan .................................. 686-577-1303 Mini Posada de Don Jesus ............... 686-577-0685 Motel El Pescador ............................ 686-577-2991 Posada del Sol ................................. 686-577-1727 Baja Palms ............................... 686-576-0276 Costa Azul ........................ 686-577-1702 El Cortez ............... 686-577-1055 Goerge’s .................................. 686-577-1970 Hacienda Don Jesus ................. 686-577-0080 Langosta Roja ..................686-577-0483 Las Palmas ............................. 686-577-1333 Riviera Hotel ..................... 686-577-1185 San Felipe Inn ........................... 686-577-1608

Cliff and Sue White, owners of Los Arcos Restaurant and The Happy Jackass have an entirely new staff, Francisco, Cecelia, and Arcelia and Cliff White himself is back in the kitchen cooking.

They’ve also launched a new menu that includes apple pork chops, Cajun chicken Alfredo and their Friday night Top Sirloin Dinner.

They promise great tasting news items, served hot and delicious with good portions and inexpensive prices.

Los Arco Restaurant is located at the Arches in San Felipe, and is the meeting place for the San Felipe B.C. Lions Club.

SAN FEL I PE

Thurs-Sun 6PM - 2PM After Labor Day we’re open Thursday through Monday 4PM - 2PM

Al, Chef Berthy and Amapola

Enjoy Dinner By Chef Berthy The Home of AL’S FAMOUS Homemade Tequila SNARLIN CHOLLA

‘There’s no place, like this place, anywhere near this place, so this must be the place’

011-521-686-577-1580 San Felipe Baja California

Coming Soon!

VOTED BEST PLACE TO TAKE OUT OF TOWN GUESTS 2007 READERS POLL 34 - Guide to Resort Living in Northwest Mexico

Get more info: www.mexicoliving.info - 35

SAN FELIPE, BAJA CALIFORNIA

Desert Realty is gearing up

SAN FELIPE, BAJA CALIFORNIA

by Benjamin Eugene

When moving to Mexico, many people will develop a plan, create a list of goals and then they’ll move, not Jose Aguilar, or Joe, as many know him, “I was just passing by and one thing lead to another, I got invited to work in real estate and I got in the business.” That was seven years ago.

Joe was born in Mexico, but grew up in San Jose and Simi Valley California. He says he moved back to Mexico, settling in San Felipe for the mountains and the people, but especially the sun, sand and Sea of Cortez.

After nearly five years learning the trade, Joe started Desert Realty. “I learned from their mistakes,” says Joe, about working for others, “and when I opened my business I made sure not to make the same mistakes and I know what the clients want and expect.”

Now, just two and half years later, Joe and Desert Realty employ seven and offers complete residential and commercial services. They are marketing throughout Mexico and continue to develop their commercial real estate business. Joe himself has served as Secretary of the Chamber of Commerce

36 - Guide to Resort Living in Northwest Mexico

(COTUCO), and the Secretary of the Real Estate Association of San Felipe.

Desert Realty offers experience in San Felipe, Puertecitos, San Luis Gonzaga, Bahia De Los Angeles, Ensenada, and Baja California real estate as well as intimate local area knowledge, and they work extensively to help buyers and sellers meet their real estate goals.

As Americans continue to struggle with the rising cost of living and a declining housing market, Mexican real estate is beginning to really make sense.

Although, there has been in decline in sales, property prices in Mexico are significantly more affordable than in the U.S. In the fishing village of San Felipe, which historically slows during the summer months, Joe says it’s “better then the states, slow but still making sales.”

Desert Realty is focusing on marketing and getting ready for the when the market rises to service the forthcoming retirement of the baby boomer population and their demand for affordable retirement property.

You can meet Joe, and find out more about Desert Realty by visiting him at Calle Chetumal #400 San Felipe, B.C. Mexico. Phone (686) 577 6336 Fax (686)577 6337 From U.S(619) 567 4317. www. desertrealtysanfelipe.com.

Get more info: www.mexicoliving.info - 37

SAN FEL I PE

Getting ready for the forthcoming baby boomer demand for affordable retirement property.

SAN FELIPE, BAJA CALIFORNIA

SAN FEL I PE

SAN FELIPE, BAJA CALIFORNIA

38 - Guide to Resort Living in Northwest Mexico

Get more info: www.mexicoliving.info - 39

SAN FELIPE, BAJA CALIFORNIA

San Felipe 686-577-0050 San Diego 001-619-920-2292 www.sanfelipehomebuilder.com

SAN FEL I PE

SAN FELIPE, BAJA CALIFORNIA

General Contractor WE DO IT ALL, FROM START TO FINISH

SAN FELIPE

HOME BUILDERS

• ARCHITECTURAL SERVICES • CUSTOM HOMES

WE CAN BUILD YOUR BAJA DREAM HOME TO AMERICAN CODES

• INTERIOR DESIGN & FURNISHINGS • PROPERTY MANAGEMENT

LOCATED AT

CLZ Chetumal 228 Mar Del Coral Y Mar De Corte San Felipe, BC, CP 21850

40 - Guide to Resort Living in Northwest Mexico

• REMODELING •

HOME REPAIRS

Get more info: www.mexicoliving.info - 41

SAN FELIPE, BAJA CALIFORNIA

SAN FELIPE, BAJA CALIFORNIA

New Computer and Technology Solutions in San Felipe Just when you need to get something from your computer, whether a file or something from the Internet, your computer crashes. We’ve all been there.

Now in situations like this, Computing Integral Solutions of San Felipe can help. They’re providing complete computing solutions including system troubleshooting, diagnostics and optimization, virus and spyware detection and removal to data, hard drive recovery, hardware and software installations and custom built computer systems, and they do it either in their office or onsite.

Computing Integral Solutions is a partnership and friendship, between two unrelated guys with the same last name, Cesar Rodriquez, an Electronic Engineer, from Engineering Faculty of U.A.B.C., and a certified technician from Microsoft and Juan Rodriquez, an Informatics Engineer, from the engineering school of the Mexicali Technologic Institute.

Together they provide years of knowledge and experience. Cesar has been working with computers for 12 years, the last 10 in a Mexicali factory as a Manufacturing Engineer, where one of his duties was to keep the computers and network working, along

with training and technical support and Juan has been in the technical support business for about 11 years.

Cesar’s family arrived in San Felipe in 1976, when his father started his medical practice. He went to school in San Felipe and later continued his University studies in Mexicali, finishing as an Electronic Engineer in 1996 and stayed in Mexicali for the jobs opportunities.

Juan was born and raised in Mexicali, and as many people there, he had to work to help his family with money. When he was able, he enrolled in school and graduated as an Informatics Engineer.

They provide hardware and solutions for software and hardware problems. They don’t currently sell software, but plan to add software sales soon.

Cesar and Juan want to be the best option in computing technical support for people, small and medium business, by always offering their service with quality and honesty. ”It’s our number one priority and goal is customer satisfaction and quality Service. We assist our clients in order to gain long-term friendship and business.”

You can reach Cesar and Juan at 686-577-2370.

Mar de Cortez at the end of “El Malecon”

686-577-1903

We Welcome Visa & Mastercard 42 - Guide to Resort Living in Northwest Mexico

Get more info: www.mexicoliving.info - 43

SAN FEL I PE

A complete solution for the simple to the serious computer problem

SAN FELIPE, BAJA CALIFORNIA

SAN FELIPE BC MX

Y E L L O W PA G ES

DIALING 800 NUMBER: 800 DIALING to the US From Mexico (dial 001+) To Dial USA 800 ......................................dial 880 To Dial USA 866 ......................................dial 883 To Dial USA 877 ......................................dial 882 To Dial USA 888 ......................................dial 881

BANDS/BANDAS Agave Blues ........................................(686) 184-9237

IMPORTANT NUMBERS: Check Time....................................................030 Emergency - similar to 911 ........................... 066 Electricity (emergency and non-emergency) ...071 Fire Emergency ..............................................068 Legal Assistance ............................................061 Police Emergency .........................................060 Port Captain .................................. 686-577-1577 Red Cross: (emergencies on the road)............066 MX 411 (Spanish only)...................................040 Sky Medical (from Mexico).....001-866-805-9624 Tourist Assistance Hotline ..............................076 Tourism Department.......................................078 Tourism office .............................. 686-577-1155 Water 24Hrs. EMERGENCY ............................073 Worldwide Emergency No. for Mobile is .........112

Beach Bar & Grill

ACCOUNTING/CONTABILIDAD CP E&A Accounting ..................................(686) 577-0836 BBBS, Inc. ..........................................(866) 329-8009

ARCHITECT/ARQUITECTO Freddy Hernandez ...............................(686) 946-7897 Licensed, CAD, Blue Prints, Graphic Design

• Strong support team

Rosa Lina Ramos Lazcano ..................(686) 184-6172

• Travel Mexico We are looking for advertising executives to work in Ensenada and Puerto Peñasco areas. Travel, meet people, explore and earn a living at the same time.

686-230-9933 Only call if you are self-motivated, computer literate and legal residence of Mexico (WORKING VISA, FM2, FM3)

BANK/BANCO

BBVA Bancomer ...............................(686) 577-2224 Silvia Elizabeth Urbea, Preferred Customer’s Unit Ext. 13

BARS/CLUBS Backstreet Patio Grill ...........................(686) 577-1580 Bar Miramar ........................................(686) 577-1192 Pool tables, Entertainment, And FREE WIFI

. .......... 686-576-0454

Club V.................................................(707) 237-1906 Fandango’s .........................................(686) 577-0060 Los Arcos - Happy Jack Ass ...............(686) 577-2585 BEAUTY SALONS/SALONES DE BELLEZA

Hair By Nancy .......................................... (686) 573-2352 Lilly Ana’s Day Spot ................................. (686) 577-6253 BUILDING MATERIALS/MATERIALES DE CONTRUCCIÓN El Dorado Construction Materials.............. (686) 576-0317 Plumbing & Hardware Open 7 Days a week Located at KM 179 across from new Pemex station Pro-Construction....................................... (686)576-0430 Building Materials, Plumbing, Paint supplies Brick Block, Wood,, & Hardware. Delivery Services Call us!

Maderas de San Felipe ............................. (686) 577-1515

ALARMS/ALARMAS Del Desierto ........................................(686) 577-1486

• Great Income

• Work Independently

44 - Guide to Resort Living in Northwest Mexico

BAKERY/PANADERÍA Panaderia Especial ..............................(686) 577-2948

ARTIST/ARTISTA Andrena Joyce .......E-mail: andrenajoyce@yahoo.com Melody Ashley ....... E-mail: melodya2004@yahoo.com Robin Waters ......................................(686) 115-0526 Watercolors by Mary Lou ....................(686) 171-5513

CHOCOLATE/CHOCOLATE

Baja Chocolate Lovers.............................. (686) 576-0348

ATTORNEY/ABOGADO Carlos A. Martinez Monges .................(686) 120-1650 Lic. Francisco Sosa Mendez ................(686) 577-0624 ADULT CARE/ATENCION DE ADULTOS San Felipe Adult Living Facility ............(686) 173-0424 AUTO REPAIR/REPARACIÓN DE AUTO Automotive PIT STOP ..........................(686) 173-0424 Km 183.3 Repair & Services-All electronic & Mechanical Reasonable rates. Call Now!

CITY SERVICES/SERVICIOS DE LA CIUDAD

District Attorney’s .................................... (686) 577-1110 Mayors Office .......................................... (686) 577-1021

COFFEE & TEA/CAFÉ Y TE

Java Jitters & BC Bistro ............................ (686) 114-7735

Northwest Mexico Business Directory - 45

SAN FEL I PE

Are you looking for a career change? Want to be able to afford to live and travel in Mexico?

DIALING INSTRUCTIONS: USA to MX Cell Phone: 011+52+1+Area Code+(Tel #) USA to Mexico: 011+Area Code+(Tel #) Mexico to USA: 001+Area Code+(Tel #) MX Landline to MX Cell Phone: 044+Area Code+(Tel #) MX Cell Phone to MX Landline: Area Code+(Tel #)

COMMUNITY SERVICE ORGANIZATIONS/

ORGANIZACIONES DE SERVICIO A LA COMUNIDAD Club Las Amigas ...................................... (686) 202-0455 San Felipe Lions Club ............................... (686) 212-3599 San Felipe Rotary ..................................... (686) 576-0112

COMPUTER SERVICES

Soluciones Integrales en Computacions.... (686) 577-2370

CONSTRUCTION MANAGEMENT/MANEJO DE CONSTRUCCIÓN

San Felipe Management Services ............. (686) 576-0553

Call Today! 686-230-9933 Get Listed!

El Dorado Ranch .................................(686) 577-0015 La Perla Del Mar..................................(760) 458-7602 Playa de Oro .......................................(686) 576-0223 Located Seaside of Highway 5, South of Km#179 Just 6½ miles North of San Felipe. USA (509) 280-7517 San Marino .........................................(686) 577-0611 San Rafael ..........................................(686) 576-0223 Playa San Rafael is a 64-acre community only 3/4 mile north of Playa de Oro. Calling from the USA (509) 280-75-17 Website: www.mexico-real-estate.us

CONSTRUCTION MANAGEMENT/MANEJO DE CONSTRUCCIÓN

Oscar Parra .............................................. (686) 163-6514 CONSULTING-THERAPY/CONSULTA TERAPÉUTICA Inner Connection ...................................... (686) 202-1208

DOCTORS/DOCTORES Dr. Victor Abasolo ...............................(686) 577-1706 .......................................................or (686) 573-0174 ENTERTAINMENT/ENTRETENIMIENTO Name That Tune - Denny Flannigan......(686) 576-1683 The Singout Sisters & Chuey (Karaoke)(686) 576-0047

NORTTHWEST MEXICO - AND GROWING! GET LISTED TODAY 1-52-686-577-1377 / 1-52-1-686-230-9933 GENERAL CONTRACTOR/CONTRATISTA GENERAL California Real Estate & Construction.(686) 576-0420 GLASS SHOP & GARAGE DOORS/VIDRIERA Y PUERTAS DE GARAGE Ka-Va Hermanos .................................(686) 147-3145 GOLF/GOLF Kelly’s Golf Range & Snack Bar ...........(686) 576-0094 Las Caras de Mexico ...........................(686) 576-0517 GRAPHIC DESIGN/DISEÑO GRÁFICO GreetScape ........................................... 686-188-2393 GYNECOLOGIST/GINECÓLOGO Annel Becerra Prado............................(686) 577-6350 See story and ad on pages 30 & 31

DENTIST/DENTISTA

FIRE DEPT/DEPT. DE BOMBEROS Fire Dept ............................................... 686-577-1182

HOME BUILDERS/CONTRATISTAS California Real Estate & Construction...(686) 576-0420 HouSing ..............................................(686) 577-0810 San Felipe Home Builders ....................(686) 577-0050

FINANCING/FINANCIAMIENTO Baja Lending Company .. ......................(686)152-5233

HOME CLEANING/LIMPIEZA DE CASAS Redwagon Proerty Management .......... (686) 576-0081

DENTIST/DENTISTA Consultorio Dental Y de Ortodoncia ....(686) 577-6212

Versoleil .............................................. (686) 576-0664

HEALTH & FITNESS/SALUD Y EJERCICIO KenSue Martial Arts .............................. 686-577-6023 Excerise, Taewaonndo, Mixed Martial Arts Sqatts Gym ........................................... 686-125-1555 See ad on page 34

EVENT SERVICES/SERVICIOS ACONTECIMIENTO Produciones Baja ................................(686) 576-1683

California Dental Spa ................................ (686) 577-0708 Dr. Felix Rodriguez .................................... (686) 577-1919

Prestige Landscape .......................... ((686) 170-8651 and Maintenance Your Paradise...My Passion

HEALTH & BEAUTY/SALUD Y BELLEZA Sea Star .............................................. (686) 577-6250 USANA Health Sciences ......................(686) 116-3982 Call Beth for all your supplemental needs like: nutritional supplements, skin care products, ask about RESET. elisabethan236@uasna.com 686-116-3962

DELI

Sand & Sea Market & Deli ...........................686-577-3168 SunDance Deli .......................................... (686)576-0369

LANDSCAPING/JARDINERÍA Mauricio’s Lanscaping ........................(686) 151-8002

HOME IMPROVEMENTS/MEJORAMIENTO CASERO Baja Home Improvement .....................(686) 222-4507 Tropical Home Improvement ................(686) 577-0041 HOSPITAL Hospital San Felipe ............................... 686-577-0117 ..................... or call 686-569-3019 or 686-212-1672 MexQuest Mortgage Corp.................... (686) 211-9520

HOTEL/MOTEL - See Lodging Guide Section at beginning of each city section.

FISH/PESCADERÍA No Listings at this time

IMPORT SERVICES/SERVICIOS DE IMPORTACIÓN San Felipe Storage Company ............... (686) 576-0432

FILM DEVELOPMENT/IMPRESION DE FOTOS Fotografia Alvarez ..............................(686) 577-1144

INTERIOR DESIGN/DISEÑO INTERIOR Baja Nueva..........................................(686) 211-4676

LAUNDRY SERVICE/LAVANDERÍA Wash Tub............................................ (686) 577-2001 LIFEGUARD/SALVAVIDAS San Felipe Lifeguards ..........................(686) 233-7730 Ask for Franscio LIQUOR/LICORERÍA Tecate Six - Julio .................................(686) 119-0030

SAN FEL I PE

CONNECTING THOUSAND PEOPLE MONTHLY WITH SMART BUSINESS THROUGHOUT

LOCKSMITH/CERRAJERO Gomez Locksmith ............................... (686) 221-8337 24 HR Service, Professional Service. Homes, Cars, Boats, Motorcycles, English Spoken POSTAL SERVICES/SERVICIOS POSTALES Yetmail ................................................ (686) 577-1255

INTERNET CAFE/CAFE DE INTERNET Java Cafe Internet ...............................(686) 577-1833

DEVELOPMENTS/FRACCIONAMIENTOS Casablanca .........................................(686) 157-1728 Diamante Residencial ..........................(686) 569-2347

46 - Northwest Mexico’s Smart Yellow Pages

Call Today! 686-230-9933

FURNITURE/MUEBLERÍA Baja Nueva..........................................(686) 187-7795 Muebles Coloniales Rosy ....................(686) 577-1214

Get Listed!

The Net ...............................................(686) 577-1600

Northwest Mexico Business Directory - 47

POSTAL SERVICES/SERVICIOS POSTALES Sandollar ............................................ (686) 577-3168

PHARMACY/FARMACIA Santa Fe Pharmacy ............................(686) 576-0546

NORTTHWEST MEXICO - AND GROWING! GET LISTED TODAY 1-52-686-577-1377 / 1-52-1-686-230-9933 Casey’s Place .....................................(686) 577-1431 Redwagon Enterprises.........................(686) 576-0081

SHOWCASE YOUR BUSINESS HERE

STORAGE/ALMACÉN Lock Box .............................................. 686-576-0606 San Felipe Storage Company ............... (686) 576-0432

info@mexicoliving.info MEX 686-230-9933 or USA 800-576-0919 Ext. 3 Botica “Sagrado Corazon” ...................(686) 577-1294

MASSAGE/MASAJE Casey’s Place (Massage) ....................(686) 577-1431

PHOTOGRAPHY/FOTOGRAFÍA Casey Hamlin.com ..............................(686) 577-1431 Francisco Romo ..................................(686) 577-1193

REAL ESTATE AGENTS/AGENTES DE BIENES RAÍCES Bill Maine ............................................(686) 231-4921 Gary Gold ...........................................(686) 211-9952 Kathy Preppernau................................(686) 210-4458 Katy Asimus .......................................(686) 211-5474 Nate Morace .......................................(686) 171-3257 REAL ESTATE/BIENES RAÍCES Amor Property ....................................(686) 577-0611 Baja Ranch & Sea Realty .....................(686) 577-1304 California Real Estate & Construction..(686) 576-0420 Call Margaret Realty ............................(686) 577-1156

MEAT MARKET/CARNICERÍA La Vaquita II ........................................(686) 577-1718 MEDICAL SERVICES/SERVICIOS MÉDICOS Ambulance..........................................(686) 577-0500 Health Center ..................................... (686) 577-1521 Red Cross ...........................................(686) 577-1544 San Felipe Hospital ..............................(686) 577-0117 OPTOMETRISTS/OPTHAMOLOGISTS California Optical .................................(686) 577-0708 OpticaMaxi Vision .............................. (686) 577-0320

Ron Saunders .....................................(686) 576-0007

Ph/Fax: 011-686-576-0077 E-mail: info@bajareflections.com Website: bajareflections.com PAINT/PINTURA John B. Ross ........................................ 686-109-9544

PO Box #9011 PMB #151 Calexico CA 92232

PIZZA/PIZZA See SAN FELIPE DINING GUIDE section

Get Listed!

48 - Northwest Mexico’s Smart Yellow Pages

POLICE/POLICÍA Federal Preventive Police ....................(686) 577-1045 Police ................................................(686) 577-1134 PRINTERS/IMPRESORAS Papeleria Copicentro ...........................(686) 577-1402 The Print Supplier ................................(686) 230-9933

ONLY $4 PER MONTH Contact - mexicoliving@gmail.com TATTOOING/TATUAJES Baja Ink Spot Tattoo & Body Piercing ...(686) 577-2538 TIRE SHOP/lLANTERA Llantera Aguilar ...................................(686) 192-8462

TRANSLATION/TRADUCCIÓN Carlota Villagran B ...............................(686) 212-9951

Desert Mother .....................................(686) 577-2552 Desert Realty ......................................(686) 577-6336 Sea Mexico Realtiy (SMR) ...................(686) 576-0223

TRANSPORTATION/TRANSPORTACIÓN Airport ................................................(686) 577-1368 Taxi Service ........................................(686) 577-1293 Bus Station ........................................(686) 577-1516

RECREATION/RECREACIÓN San Felipe Sailing-Sailing Lessons .......(686) 114-3259 Aerodynamic - Ultralight flights ...........(686) 116-2933

T-SHIRT SCREEN PRINTING No listings at this time

RENTALS/RENTAS See SAN FELIPE LODGING GUIDE section

ROOFING/TECHOS San Felipe Professional Roofing ...........(686) 590-6818 Victor Rodriguez Ratliff ........................(686) 573-0222

LIST YOUR BUSINESS HERE

Call Margaret Realty 686-577-1156 Ask for Glenda (If calling from the states dial 001-52-686-577-1156)

RESTAURANTS/RESTAURANTES See SAN FELIPE DINING GUIDE section

PEST CONTROL/FUMIGACIONES Bichos Pest Control .............................(686) 209-9764

Call Today! 686-230-9933

PUBLICATIONS/PUBLICACIONES Gringo Gazette .................................... (686) 111-3692 Mexico Living Magazine ...................... (686) 577-1377 San Felipe Newsletter ..........................(686) 577-2898

SAILING/NAVEGACIÓN Sail San Felipe - Felipe......................... (686) 114-3259 SATELLITE TELEVISION & INTERNET/TELEVISION SATELITALES Y INTERNET Satellite Services/Servicios de Satelitales CSI Computer-Satellite-Installation............686-577-2928 SHOPPING MALL/CENTRO DE COMPRAS La Plazita ............................................(686) 577-2119

SAN FEL I PE

SSAN A N FFEL E LIIPE PE

CONNECTING THOUSAND PEOPLE MONTHLY WITH SMART BUSINESS THROUGHOUT

UTILITIES/EMPRESAS DE SERVICIOS PÚBLICOS Electric (CFE) ......... 686) 577-1060 or (686) 577-5602 Estrella Azul (Water Dispensery) ..........(686) 577-1314 Propane Gas .......................................(686) 577-2373 State Com. of Services Public .............(686) 556-1383 Telnor Phone Co ..................................(686) 577-1000 Water Company ..................................(686) 577-1022 VETERINARY/VETERINARIO Hospital Animal ...................................(686) 577-1688 PETS ..................................................(686) 577-2155 WASTE MANAGEMENT/MANEJO DE DESHECHO San Felipe Disposal .............................(686) 121-1004 WELDING SERVICES/SERVICIOS DE SOLDADURA Waldo The Welder ...............................(686) 226-3127 WINDOW CLEANING/LIMPIEZA DE VENTANAS Pro Window Cleaning ..........................(686) 590-6594

PROPERTY MANAGEMENT/MANEJO DE PROPIEDADES Baja Bill’s Property Management ........(686) 577-4014

Northwest Mexico Business Directory - 49

DRIVING DISTANCES

Ajo, AZ ......................................94 miles Albuquerque, NM ....................678 miles Caborca, MZ ...........................108 miles Guaymas, MX..........................345 miles Hermosillo, MX .......................270 miles Las Vegas, NV .........................475 miles Los Angeles, CA ......................550 miles Lukeville, AZ .............................68 miles Nogales, MX............................294 miles Phoenix, AZ .............................215 miles San Carlos, MX .......................357 miles San Diego, CA .........................445 miles San Francisco, CA ...................927 miles Salt Lake City, UT ....................890 miles Sonoyta, MX..............................66 miles Tucson, AZ ............................. 170 miles Yuma, AZ.................................271 miles

THINGS TO DO • Puerto Fireworks Peñasco in designated has a wide areasvariety until 10:00 of activities PM060 Emergency Help ........................................................

• available No possession for everyone, of drugs, from the guns lazy or days weapons. relaxing in Same as 911 in USA • sun, the Speed to thelimits action (25filled MPH) wildand ride.drivers Activities must including be 16 City Police Department ..............................638-383-2492 shopping, yearsscuba old. diving, sport fishing, sunset cruises, Red Cross .................................................638-383-2266 off-road adventures, horseback riding, kayaking, Fire Department ........................................638-383-2828 parasailing, watercraft rentals and much more.

Forest Fires (only in Mexico) ................ 01 800 007 7100 HASSLE-FREE SONORA Social Security (IMSS) ..............................638-383-2677 RULES Visitors TO toKNOW the interior of Sonora are now able to CityHere (Municipal) Hospital ...........................638-383-2110 are a few basiccities rules as to follow to avoid drive directly to such Guaymas, Santrouble: Carlos, AISD Line (Only in Mexico) ..................

01 800of712 • NO drinking vehicles any0886 kind Hermosillo, Bahia and de driving Kino, Caborca, Father Kino Powerincluding CompanyATVs. .......................................638-383-2492 Missions, Magdalena and Santa Ana without the timeState Police ...............................................638-383-2783 • No drinking under 18 yearsaofcar age. consuming process of obtaining permit.

• All vehicles are prohibited on the beach.

The “Only Sonora” program, unique in Mexico, • No riding ATV’s after dark, on the beachesallows or on

PUERTO PEÑASCO , SONORA

areas, known in parts as La Mirador, Playa del Oro and then Las Conchas, an area of beachfront and nearbeach condos, homes and time-shares.

Puerto Peñasco is in the same time zone as Arizona observes, and does not observe rules for Daylight Saving Time same as Arizona.

Puerto Peñasco Sonora

GETTING TO PUERTO PENASCO FLYING Puerto Peñasco (Rocky Point) now has flights to and from Los Angeles (LAX)

Blvd Juarez.

PUERTO PENASCO SONORA MEXICO Puerto Peñasco, commonly known among many of its English-speaking visitors as Rocky Point, is a small city of approximately 42,000 people in the northern state of Sonora, Mexico. Located on the shore of the Gulf of California (also known as the Sea of Cortéz), the town is known for its fishing and tourism industries.

It is a popular destination for tourists, particularly those from Arizona, for Puerto Peñasco is nearest beach.

This is why it is such a popular Spring Break destination with students from Arizona, New Mexico, and California.

Puerto Peñasco is located in the ‘free zone’ where tourists are not required currently to obtain immigration papers in order to visit. Puerto Peñasco marina has new fuel docks and other boat-related developments as part of the country’s Escala Nautica (Nautical Ladder) efforts, which call for a chain of ‘tourist-class’ marinas sprinkled up and down the Baja coast in an effort to promote nautical tourism.

Puerto Peñasco has two main beach areas. To the west of the Old Port area, there is a wide, flat area known as Sandy Beach. This is the home to several large hotel/resorts with more under construction. East of Puerto Peñasco, there is a long coast with several

DRIVING Visitors to the interior of Sonora are now able to drive directly to such cities as Guaymas, San Carlos, Hermosillo, Bahia de Kino, Caborca, Father Kino Missions, Magdalena, and Santa Ana without the timeconsuming process of obtaining a car permit. With the movement of the “Only Sonora” vehicle checkpoint, visitors to the state will no longer have to obtain a car permit in order to travel south of Nogales. Puerto Peñasco From Phoenix west on I-10 to State Route 85, southbound on SR 85 to Gila Bend.

Gila Bend turn right at a sign stating “Mexico” and “SR 85 South” before McDonalds. Continue southbound on SR 85 through Ajo, Why and the Organ Pipe National Monument to the border at Lukeville, Arizona.

From Tucson, State Route 86 westbound to “Why”, Arizona and go south on SR 85 through Organ Pipe National Monument to the border at Lukeville, AZ. From Yuma, go eastbound on I-8 from Yuma to the SR 85 to Gila Bend (see Gila Bend above).

From Ensenada or San Felipe take the Mexico Route 2 (MR-2) towards San Luis Rio Colorado and continue on MR-2 to Sonoita.

From the border, you will continue southbound two miles to a three-way intersection in Sonoyta.

Merge LEFT towards Caborca for one until the road splits into a “Y”, stay to the RIGHT and you’re on your way. Continue southbound approximately fifty miles to Puerto Peñasco.

FOR SALE Offered Exclusively by

Contact

Your Cholla Team

David Flores

638-107-8306

Local 638-382-5355 or 602-635-3736 from U.S. Our

50 - Guide to Resort Living in Northwest Mexico

OR VISIT

New Cholla Office

Charlotte Bohner 638-112-9942

Get more info: www.mexicoliving.info - 51

PUER TO PENASC O

PUERTO PEÑASCO , SONORA

PUERTO PEÑASCO , SONORA

PUERTO PEÑASCO , SONORA

Rocky Point Reservations offering free online marketing to it’s 400 vacation properties

Private Tourism Investment in Mexico Totaled US$2.803 billion during First Four Months of 2008 Mexico’s Tourism Minister noted that during the past 16 months of President Felipe Calderón’s administration, Mexico has accumulated US$6.267 billion; as a result it has achieved 31% of its six-year goal of US$20 billion.

Tourism Secretary Rodolfo Elizondo told businessmen at the 22nd Annual Convention of the Mexican Association of Tourist Developers (AMDETUR) on “Tourism, the Engine of Development for Mexico,” that Mexico has shown favorable results regarding private tourist investment by accumulating US$2.803 billion during the first four months of this year.

“55% of this investment comes from national capital, while the remaining 45% corresponds to foreign investors, mainly from the United States and Spain,” Elizondo said.

“This fund provides the possibility of financing tourist projects for the state, which in turn will facilitate the construction of the tourist attractions we have planned, as well as the improvement of urban services in already consolidated destinations.”

In particular, he reported, the Tourism Secretariat has formally submitted a package of seven investment requests for providing basic services such as drainage, safe drinking water and the installation of wastewater treatment plants and other urban works for seven beach tourism destinations, including Puerto Peñasco.

Secretary Elizondo urged businessmen and investors to continue trusting in Mexico and to create a sustainable, orderly development for the benefit of the industry and Mexico’s economic and social development.

“The point is not to do business to the advantage of a few and to the disadvantage of many, but to ensure that investments in Mexico are attractive and profitable for investors, while distributing wealth that will create well paid jobs and provide local benefits.”

“I urge you to continue to invest in Mexico and for our growth to be orderly and planned and have a longterm vision rather than one based on doing business in a day,” he stated.

Proper ty owners in Puerto Peñasco “Rocky Point” will be rewarded with an increase in online reservations for their condos, beach homes and resort properties.

Rocky Point Reservations, Inc. of Phoenix, AZ has signed a strategic alliance with its vacation software provider, RealTimeRental of Ocean City, NJ, who provides electronic online distribution of vacation rental properties.

This alliance will significantly increase online traffic for more than 400 vacation properties located

in Puerto Peñasco, Sonora Mexico, also known as “Rocky Point”.

RealTimeRental provides this service for The Wall Street Journal’s Real Estate Vacation Rental Website at http://wsj.realtimerental.com/, which boasts more than 50,000 unique users each month.

“We are offering this service to our property owner/clients for free. We believe it will significantly increase their revenues,” said Jason Sprinkle, Business Manager of Rocky Point Reservations.

Rocky Point Reservations has used the internetbased rental system since 2005, and with the additional distribution capability of the new alliance, they will bring more rental income to their property owners.

Since 1987, Rocky Point Reservations have been procuring rental clients for vacation properties.

Visit www.RockyPointRes.com for more information.

DINING

Baja’s tallest mountain. Puerto Peñasco offers choices of lodging from “this’ll work” minimalist accommodations that cost nearly nothing to the luxurious resorts, condos and hotels.

Mexico colonial style with the 21st century. Perfect for a romantic getaway or a cozy stay with the family. Whatever your heart desires, there are endless possibilities! Every room is unique, so every stay can be too.

RV Park/Parque de RV

Your One Bedroom Hide-Away $65 to $75 per night

Source: Head Office of Media and Communication, Press and Information Office, Tourist Secretariat (SECTUR), Mexico City



For room rates and availability; e-mail us at rockypointplus@live.com

In the heart of Puerto Penascos’ Old Port just off of the malecón

Breakfast

Giuseppe’s Coffee .............................638-383-5181 Mexican Betos Place .......................................... 638-383-5198 Cocodrilos ........................................... 638-383-6376 La Curva .............................................. 638-383-3470 Manny’s Beach Club ............................ 638-383-3605

Bonita RV Park ................................. 638-383-1400 Playa Bonita ..................................... 638-383-2596 Rentals/Se Rente

Steak & Seafood Friendly Dolphin ................................... 638-383-2608 Lighthouse ........................................... 638-383-2389 Latitude 31 Rest. & Sports Bar .............. 638-383-4311

Casa Encanto Beach House.............. 638-383-4549 Cyndi’s Beachfront Home Rentals..... 638-383-5145 Sylvia’s Condos ............................... 638-383-5429 Go 2 Rocky Point ............................. 602-748-4134

Chinese Rocky Point Chinese ............................ 638-383-5940

Motels/Moteles

LODGING

Discover for yourself why Puerto Peñasco Mexico is such a great place to stay. Whether beach camping or seaside resort, the views are always amazing. Watch the sunset drop behind San Felipe and San Pedro Martir,

Baja Hotel ........................................ 638-383-6878 El Mirador Village ............................. 638-383-6333 Playa Azul Motel .............................. 638-383-6296 Playa Bonita Hotel ............................ 638-383-2586 Sandy Beach Resorts ....................... 638-383-1111 Sonoran Spa Resort ......................... 638-383-1044 Playa Inn/Best Western .................... 638-383-5015

The Main House (Romantic Suite) 2-Bdrms / 2-Baths. $200 per night



KAYAK ROCKY POINT 









              

KAYAK RENTALS, SALES & TOURS CONTACT: LOCAL CELL 638.103.2038 OR TOLL FREE 866-687-2510 

52 - Guide to Resort Living in Northwest Mexico

Get more info: www.mexicoliving.info - 53

PUER TO PENASC O

Dining & Lodging Guide

Puerto Peñasco Named as a Tourist Destination in Federal Investment Request

PUERTO PEÑASCO , SONORA

PUERTO PEÑASCO , SONORA

PUERTO PEÑASCO SON. MEXICO

Y EL LOW PA GE S DIALING INSTRUCTIONS:

MASSAGE/MASAJE Rita Pizarro ......................................... (638) 386-5203

USA to MX Cell Phone: 011+52+1+Area Code+(Tel #) USA to Mexico: 011+Area Code+(Tel #) Mexico to USA: 001+Area Code+(Tel #) MX Landline to MX Cell Phone: 045+Area Code+(Tel #) MX Cell Phone to MX Landline: Area Code+(Tel #)

MEDICAL SERVICES/SERVICIOS MÉDICOS 1One Stop Medical Clinic ...................(638) 110-7898 Clinica Hospital .................................. (638) 383-2447 Air-E-Vac .......................................001-880-321-9522 City (Municipal) Hospital ...................... 638-383-2110 Central Clinic ........................................ 638-383-2110 Hospital IMSS ..................................... 638-383-2777 Red Cross ............................................ 638-383-2266 Santa Fe General Hospital ..................... 638-383-2447 Santa Maria Clinic ................................. 638-383-2440

800 DIALING to the US From Mexico (dial 001+) To Dial USA 800 ......................................dial 880 To Dial USA 866 ......................................dial 883 To Dial USA 877 ......................................dial 882 To Dial USA 888 ......................................dial 881

IMPORTANT NUMBERS: Green Angels (MX Toll free) ......01-800-903-0092 Check Time....................................................030 Emergencies ..................................................060 MX 411 (Spanish only)...................................040 Sky Medical (from Mexico).....001-866-805-9624 Tourist Assistance Hotline ..............................076 Tourist Office..............................1-638-383-6122 ACCOUNTING/CONTABILIDAD BBBS Inc. ...........................................(928) 329-8000 ARCHITECT/ARQUITECTO Punio Rivero .......................................(638) 383-4710 BEAUTY SPAS/SALONES DE BELLEZ Gloria’s Beauty Salon .........................(638) 383-1890 La Spa de Peñasco ............................(638) 382-8111 DENTIST/DENTISTA RockySmiles ......................................(638) 383-1844 DEVELOPMENTS/FRACCIONAMIENTOS "Parayso" Desembembogue Devept.....(638) 388-5707

MOTEL/MOTEL See Rosarito/Ensenada LODGING GUIDE section REAL ESTATE/BIENES RAÍCES Buena Vide Real Estate ........................(638) 110-4127 Coldwell Banker ..................................(638) 382-5355 Majestic Realty ...................................(638) 388-1120 Mexican Beach Developers..................(638) 383-8417 Tessoro...............................................(638) 388-6288 RECREATION/RECREACIÓN Kayak Rocky Piont ..............................(638) 103-2038 RESTAURANTS/RESTAURANTES See Rosarito/Ensenada DINING GUIDE section POLICE/POLICÍA City Police Department ......................... 638-383-2626 State Police .......................................... 638-383-2783

PUER TO PENASC O

DIALING 800 NUMBER:

PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION/EL TRANSPORTE PÚBLICO Bus Station going North ....................... 638-383-2019 Bus Station going South ....................... 638-364-0383 Railroad .............................................. 638-383-2610 Taxi ...................................................... 638-383-2773 UTILITIES/EMPRESAS DE SERVICIOS PÚBLICOS Power Company ............................ 638-383-2492 071 Propane .............................................. 638-383-2630 Telephone Office .................................. 638-383-2288 Water Co. .............................................. 38-383-2060

DOCTORS/DOCTORES Dr. Luis Vasquez, M.D. .......................(638) 383-3014 FIRE DEPARTMENT/DEPARTAMENTO DE BOMBEROS Fire Department ............................ 638-383-2828 068 FINANCING/FINANCIAMIENTO Platinum Capital..................................(602) 692-8523 HEALTH & FITNESS/SALUD Y EJERCICIO La Spa de Penasco ............................(638) 382-8111 HOTEL/HOTEL See Rosarito/Ensenada Lodging Guide at the beginning of each city section.

54 - Guide to Resort Living in Northwest Mexico

Call Today! 686-230-9933 Get Listed!

PLACE YOUR BUSINESS LISTING HERE ONLY $4 PER MONTH YOUR BUSINESS IS WORTH IT

yellowpages@mexicoliving.info MEX 686-230-9933 Get more info: www.mexicoliving.info - 55 55 - Northwest Mexico’s Smart Yellow Pages

ARTS & DESIGN OF MEXICO

Art & Design Guide

Alfonso Arambula Robles – A Sculptor of massive proportion by Robin Waters

Alfonso Arambula has a story that many can identify with in today’s economy: A successful businessman with a multi million-dollar importing/ exporting business in Mexico City, caught in the devaluation of the peso in 2000, and lost his fortune.

He now feels it was a blessing that also gave him the opportunity to realign his heart and passion for the creative artist within himself. He says he was scared, but took the risk, and is “humbled to be able to pursue my passion”.

He studied art at Palomar College, San Diego, California, and created his own unique style classified as “organic sculptures”, made from materials such as rocks, tree trunks, recycled items and what he calls, “natures own gifts”.

Many of his art pieces today can be seen in private collections and in public exhibitions in Mexico, US, Japan, Europe and he was also featured on the Discovery Channel.

Alfonso was the first place winner in the Biennial Sculpture Contest (2002) organized by the Culture Institute of Baja California, with apiece named “The Soaked Cow”. This sculpture is on exhibit at the gardens in the Port of Ensenada. He is also a winner of a Fondo de Estímulos a la Creación Artística, [translated means Fund Incentives for artistic creation] (FOECA) grant, for his creation of a 7 meter long monument of “The Shark Whale” in Bahia de Los Angeles, where the shark lives 8 months of the year. He donated his winning piece to that community to promote the conservation of this creature, which is on the endangered species list.

He is an artist for Fox Studios in Rosarito and was 56 - Guide to Resort Living in Northwest Mexico

a Member of the Advisory Committee 2003–2007) for the Culture Institute of Baja California.

A prodigious sculptor he has 13 public sculptures on exhibit currently, in various Baja cities.

Of the many credits to his name, one of his finest and most prized accolades was acknowledgment and recognition for his artistic sculptures by the National Geographic Society, Lindblad Expeditions, along with the Mexican Fund for the Conservation of Nature in 2007, by naming him on the official Geotourism map and guide of Baja California, Mexico.

He is presently working on an incredible sculpture for the capital city of Hermosillo, Sonora; that will become a main attraction and symbol for the city.

A sculptor who has “found his place” and as part of his ongoing personal commitment of giving back to those who have given so much to him, he recently offered to donate a small sculpture per month, to the children’s cancer hospital to raise funds for the hospital, On the cover of his DVD, he says, “This talent that happens within me, does not belong to me, it is a divine gift on loan. What are mine, I bravely express, are myself and my commitment through art to expand the language of world peace and making the world more beautiful.

I invite you to explore for yourself, the man that is at a point of truly becoming one of The artists in Baja. A DVD of his working and his works is available from www.cactusfilms.net. His website is www.AlfonsoArambula.com Email: bajayuny@ yahoo.com.mx Phone: 646-149-3866.

DID YOU KNOW THAT THERE ARE APPROXIMATELY 27 DIFFERENT DEVELOPMENTS IN SAN FELIPE RIGHT NOW? NEITHER DID MOST OF THE REAL ESTATE PEOPLE I TALKED TO.

SEE THEM AND THEN DECIDE WHICH IS RIGHT FOR YOU. WITHOUT KNOWING WHAT IS AVAILABLE YOU CAN’T REALLY MAKE AN EDUCATED AND INFORMED DECISION.

VISIT THE SAN FELIPE DEVELOPMENT INFORMATION CENTER BETWEEN THE TACO FACTORY AND OXXO RIGHT OFF THE MALECON.

VISIT US AT WWW.SANFELIPEDEVELOPMENTTOURS.COM 0R CALL (480) 236‐0741 or (686) 171‐6898

Get more info: www.mexicoliving.info - 57

AR TS & DESI GN

PUERTO PENASCO

ARTS & DESIGN OF MEXICO

N O RT H W E S T M E X I C O Welcome to

GREEN SHEETS

ONLY $10 M ONTH OR $100 YEAR / U NTIL S OLD 5 line listing, 200 characters

PRINT LISTINGS $10 MEXICO CALL 686-577-1377 USA CALL 800-576-0919 Ext. 3 FREE ONLINE LISTINGS:

http://www.mexicoliving.info

REACH MORE FOR LESS

Rosarito Beach, Ensenada, San Felipe and Puerto Penasco

REAL ESTATE LISTINGS SAN FELIPE BAJA CALIFORNIA Call to post your listing. $10 per month, or $100 per year. (686)230-9933 mexicoliving@gmail.com South Beach – Home site $52,500 Incredible, huge home site located in South Beach. On leased land (10-year, $1,000/year). 7,000 square feet. Wake up to the Sea of Cortez every morning Amor Property, US 760-494-3639, MX 577-0611 3500+ sq. ft. Home on 2 Legal Lots. Ocean Views, Walk to Beach. 12x36 Pool w/ Extensive Patios. Operating as Bed & Breakfast. Will consider House & Property elsewhere as partial payment. $399,000. Call Todd 686-187-9614 LaHacienda, 1.5 million. Your right on the front and have the best view of San Felipe. Big home, fenced, alarm, lots of space for family and friends. Seperate cartakers unit, garage & car pad. Just listed. glenda@callmargaretrealty.com Huge lot in town, near Banamex. $150,000. Existing structure with utilities etc. Near everything except the noise! Great place for home or business. glenda@callmargaretrealty. com Home in the pueblo near 5 corners. $75,000. Residential or Commerical. glenda@callmargaretrealty.com Playa de San Felipe Double-lot on Water Side $65,000 About 7,000 sq. ft. lot! 66’ wide at street and 106’ deep. All city services.Amor Property, US 760-494-3639, MX 5770611 Large 3 Bedroom, 2-1/2 Bath, Turn-key $199,950 Oversized Garage, 2 Lots, Outdoor Entertaining, In-Town Amor Property, US 760-494-3639, MX 577-0611 Villa at La Ventana del Mar MUST SELL!! REDUCED to $299,000 Very Desirable Plan 1 condo on Golf Course by the Sea, 2 BR, 2 BA, Brand New! Amor Property, US 760494-3639, MX 577-0611 Playa de San Felipe $95,000Lot, 12mx30m. Unobstructed Sea View Lot. All city services.Amor Property, US 760-4943639, MX 577-0611 Bungalow with Separate Casita & Separate Art Studio $229,0002 Master BR, 2 BA, Large kitchen, interior courtyard, fruit trees and rose garden. Amor Property, US 760-494-3639, MX 577-0611

The ONLY Monthly Guide to Northwest Mexico

• ROSARITO BEACH • ENSENADA

R E A L E S TAT E & R E N TA L Greensheets Real Estate Listings - 59 Playa de Oro – Steps to the Beach REDUCED TO $549,0002 BR, 2 BA, Extremely Unique Home with Extensive Landscaping & Outdoor Living Areas, Completely Turn-key, Double Garage. One street to the Sea. Must be seen! Amor Property, US 760-494-3639, MX 577-0611 Luxurious 3BR, 2 ½ Bath Villa at La Ventana del Mar $648,000 Home is turn-key, fully furnished right down to the silverware. Flatscreens, whole house sound system. 3car garage, sea and golf course views, too many upgrades to list.Amor Property MX 686-577-0611 US 760-494-3639

Waterfront 3 bdrm 3 bath 1900 s.f. home $399,000 Coldwell Banker Rocky Point 638-382-5355 or 602-635-3736 Ask for David or Charlotte Ocean views new 3 bdrm 3 bath 1700 s.f. $399,000 Coldwell Banker Rocky Point 638-382-5355 or 602-6353736 Ask for David or Charlotte Huge lot ocean views $299,000 Coldwell Banker Rocky Point 638-382-5355 or 602-635-3736 Ask for David or Charlotte

Best Buy in Playa de San Felipe - Spectacular REDUCED $279,000 2 Master BR, 2-1/2 BA. Swimming Pool; Marina View Amor Property, US 760-494-3639, MX 577-0611

Investor dream operating motel 4800 s.f. $550,000 Coldwell Banker Rocky Point 638-382-5355 or 602-635-3736 Ask for David or Charlotte

El Dorado Ranch Lot GREAT BUY $33,000This nearly 13,000 sq. ft. lot is located in the Buena Vista development. It is a Homes Only lot with underground electric. Fantastic views!

Amor Property, US 760-494-3639, MX 577-0611

RENTAL LISTINGS SAN FELIPE BAJA CALIFORNIA

New Seaview Home in Playas de San Felipe $399,000 4 BR, 3 BA. Art Studio, Bar, Basement, Cabana. Amazing place 4000 sq.ft. Amor Property, US 760-494-3639, MX 5770611 Home in El Dorado Ranch’s Los Medanos South $99,500 2 BR, 1 Bath, 1400 sq.ft. home on 3 lots totaling 50,000 sq.ft.! Amor Property, US 760-494-3639, MX 577-0611 La Ventana del Mar Villa $399,000 2 Master Suites, 2-1/2 Bath. Beautifully furnished. Turn-key. Move in Today! Amor Property, US 760-494-3639, MX 577-0611 Spectacular Sea View $125,000 1 BR, 1 BA, Furnished.

Detached, oversized single garage (art studio) Amor Property, US 760-494-3639, MX 577-0611 Great Buy in San Felipe ONLY $40,000 3 BR, 1 BA, on Culde-Sac. Nestled along side of mountain. Quaint little casa.

Amor Property, US 760-494-3639, MX 577-0611

___________________________________

ENSENADA, BAJA CALIFORNIA Call to post your listing. $10 per month, or $100 per year. (686)230-9933 mexicoliving@gmail.com Single level Fairway home 3bdr 2Bth. Gated Golf dev.1700 sq ft of living space + 2 car garage. Less 1 year new. w/planned pools, tennis. Close to shopping. $228,200 USD Up-grading to larger home.1-800-599-0631 bajacountryclub.com

___________________________________

PUERTO PENASCO (ROCKY POINT), SONORA Call to post your listing. $10 per month, or $100 per year. (686) 230-9933 Fantastic opportunity 2bdr 1 bath 1200 square foot house with huge boat house $215,000 Coldwell Banker Rocky Point 638-382-5355 or 602-635-3736 Ask for David or Charlotte Investor opportunity 3bdr 2.5 bath 1700 s.f. house $195,000 unfinished. Coldwell Banker Rocky Point 638-382-5355 or 602-635-3736 Ask for David or Charlotte Waterfront 4 bdrm 3 bath 1500 s.f. home $439,000 furnished. Coldwell Banker Rocky Point 638-382-5355 or 602-635-3736 Ask for David or Charlotte Waterfront 3 bdrm 2 bath 1500 s.f. home $545,000 Coldwell Banker Rocky Point 638-382-5355 or 602-635-3736 Ask for David or Charlotte

• SAN FELIPE • PUERTO PEÑASCO

Call to post your listing. $10 per month, or $100 per year. (686)230-9933 mexicoliving@gmail.com Private Beachfront Home - One bedroom home with large living room, kitchen, appliances and AC. Located on bluff over beach with fenced in yard, $650 dollars per month. Call 686-109-9544.

REAL ESTATE DEVELOPER UPDATES San Felipe - La Perla del Mar Receives F4. At La Perla del Mar, KM6 South Beach, two beautiful homes have been built in a lovely modern contemporary style.

They now have running water to all our lots & their greenhouse, which is abundant with lush greenery for all their landscaping. Very soon CFE will be hooking up electricity. All the roads are done & they have started construction in the community area. And best of all, they have received approval for F4 status. www. laperladelmarsf.com San Felipe - BC Homes Makes House Calls. BC Homes is now offering a brand new service for their customers - house calls.

No more do you have to wait until you can come to Mexico, they’ll send the architect to you. BC Homes now has a US architect to design, review plans and home projects any place in California. Why wait, contact Ricardo at BC Homes for more information email ricardo@bajahomes.com.mx.

San Felipe - Amor has a new Sales Manager. Amor Property is proud to welcome Russ Burlakoff as their new sales manager. Russ comes to us from California, where he worked for several national and regional homebuilders and has over 15 years experience in new and resale homes, as well as mortgage lending. U.S. 760-494-3639. Mex. 577-0611. www.amorproperty. com.

San Felipe - Playa San Rafael have their infrastructure lines in past their pool area and they have just finished the gunite in the pool. They have some very affordable lot pricing.

Puerto Penasco - Tessoro features elevators that will bring you right to your floor with no corridors behind the units. We feature Sea of Cortea and estuary views.

Lush landscape and pools will enhance your pleasure of ownership. Phase 1 is totally vertical and the inside walls are going up with steel studs and both the inside of Phase 1 and the outside is being wrapped.

Get more info: www.greensheets.info

R EAL ESTATE

58 - Real Estate in Northwest Mexico

Tour the Wineries of Baja California

Baja California Wine Country Tecate, Mexicali & Tijuana

San Jose de la Zorra

Hotel Domecq Winery Chateau Camou Paralelo Baron Balche Winery

Monte Xanic Winery

L.A. Cetto

Dona Lupe Winery Vinicola Suenos

Museum Restaurante Laja Vinos Bibayoff El Mezon de Vino Mogor-Badan Winery Three Woman Winery Valley Winery Vinas Pijoan

Mustafa Restaurant Casa de Pierda

Quinta Maria Luisa La Hacienda Restaurant Vinisterra Winery

Rosarito/Tijuana

Valle de Guadalupe Baja California Ensenada

Located in the northern part of the State of Baja California, the Baja California Wine Country is blessed with the ideal Mediterranean climate for grape growing. There are few microclimates in Mexico that combine the unique characteristics of elevation, soil, seasons, and temperature.

And, of course, love for the art of winemaking.

Chenin Blanc, Colombard, Sauvignon Blanc and Chardonnay grapes are cultivated primarily for making excellent white wines, while Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Grenache, Carignan, Barbera, Nebbiolo and Zinfandel are used for making our award winning reds.

WINE COUNTRY The Baja California Wine Country offers a wide array of attractions, which go from tiny family wineries to large-scale winemakers.

Gourmet restaurants located alongside family eateries, arts & crafts centers and museums make for interesting visits.

Elegant B&Bs, campgrounds and RV Parks give the visitor the option of staying in the heart of it all without straying far form the Ensenada Resorts.

Visitors to this region can enjoy an interesting getaway in a safe and affordable place that is close to home. Baja California Wine Country is the unique destination for fun or relaxation. For more information on Baja Wineries and Baja California travel, visit discoverbajacalifornia. com.

CENTAVO’S TWO CENTS:

Ahhh...Food and Wine! Does it get any better than this?

“Yo,Ho ,Ho and a bottle of beer?..nah....whiskey?.. nope...gin?..nada....Yo, Ho,Ho and a bottle of RUM... yeah..that’s it! Rum. I just finished reading about pirates who lived in Jamaica. The town was called Port Royal and it was a wild Caribbean town in the 1600’s. The pirating was legendary and ruthless, fueled by their drink of choice...RUM! Rum is a product of the sugar production process.

It is made mainly from molasses and or sugar cane and yeast. It is fermented and distilled as a clear liquid and usually aged in oak casks.

There are light rums, heavy rums (with caramel added- their color derived from the wooden barrels) and finally dark rums that are aged five to twenty years. All this meant nothing to me when I became of drinking age (possibly earlier). After beer...”What will you have to drink?”...was always...”Ah, rum and coke, please.” Because...1. I couldn’t think fast enough for anything else...and...2. I couldn’t remember any other mixed drink except for a Whiskey Sour which my parents drank in the summertime.

MORE GREAT INFORMATION

A missionary Father Tertre was the first to have mentioned the word rum, a name coming from the word rumbillion, which meant agitation. Once pirates got a hold of rum they agitated every ship, everything and everyone throughout the Caribbean Sea. After reading what horrors and treachery were inflicted by pirates I will not be able to view the Disneyland Ride as “humorous” anymore...and I might need to rethink our traveling name...POP UP PIRATES!..(We have a pop up camper.) I can’t give up the eye patch or pirate hat, though.

Several years ago my brother Hank became a liquor salesman. He brought me a bottle of Captain Morgan Original Spiced Rum to try. It was new and I was still drinking rum and cokes....impressive.

Delicious...this was before the coconut and designer rums appeared in stores. To this day I always have a bottle of Captain Morgan on hand even though I have soared to a higher level of mixed drinks.

If you want to read a good book about pirates read the EMPIRE OF BLUE WATER by Stephan Talty...It’s about a pirate named Henry Morgan who makes Jack Sparrow look like a cub scout.....Wait a minute!...

Henry Morgan? Isn’t that the guy on my spiced rum bottle?...No. Not that cute swashbuckling pirate with a blue cape and his foot on a barrel of rum that he probably bought ....rather than stole?

I went to my liquor shelf... Captain Henry Morgan signed my bottle! “Well, shiver me timbers!” It is him!

Lions Clubs bring people together......for friendships...for a better tomorrow - join us.

A Private Beachfront Community

www.laperladelmarsf.com Turkey Trot - Nov. 2008 SanFelipeBCLionsClub@Gmail.com

Subscribe Today www.mexicoliving.info, USA 800-576-0919 Ext. 6, San Felipe/ Mexico 686-230-9933.

Mart ! i n i M oon

Coming

S

r u o w e i V Homes!

New

Sales office open daily in south beach km 6 Call Baja 760-458-7602 or US 760-494-8798 60 - Guide to Resort Living in Northwest Mexico

Get more info: www.mexicoliving.info - 61

TH E BAC K PAGES

MORE GREAT INFORMATION

FREE CLASSIFIEDS FREE CLASSIFIEDS PLACE ADS BY EMAIL classifieds@mexicoliving.info up to 20 characters for non-business ads FREE (2 lines) ENTERTAINMENT The BEST Karaoke in town at Juanito’s Cantina hosted

by Maria Arnold; Wed. nights 6:00pm. Come and sing like a STAR! Bass player wanted for working band in San Felipe Baja California. Travel meals and lodging compensated.

686-184-9237 FOR SALE 4 Mexican Rustic Custom-made desks are 57” x 26”.

Each desk has one regular drawer and one file drawer.

Very nice set of four for $850 or $250 each. Call Uria 686-577-2129 JOBS SALES EXECUTIVES - If you would be interested in working in paradise, with great income and complete freedom - we have the job for you. We are looking for people in Ensenada and Puerto Peñasco (Rocky Point).

Good communication skills, Internet a must. Bilingual helpful. Email today: sales@mexicoliving.info.

DELIVERY - Deliver Mexico Living Magazine, twice monthly to between 60-80 drops depending on city.

We pay by the drop and gas bonuses. Email today: circulation@mexicoliving.info. We are looking for people in Rosarito Beach, Puerto Peñasco (Rocky Point).

SERVICE Air Conditioning re-charge. Get ready for the San Felipe summer heat. Call Bill (686) 231-4921 to schedule an appointment.

PRINTING SERVICES NEED BUSINESS CARDS OR BROCHURES? Go to www.theprintsupplier.com or 800-576-0919 Ext. 3 or 686-577-1377. DELIVERY TO SAN FELIPE. WANTED Wanted all and any vehicles working or not $$$. Please call 686-173-0424 ask for Ray. ROSARITO/ENSENADA RENTALS Mexico Living is looking to trade for business accommodations. 5 days per month needed for magazine staff in exchange for free advertising. San Felipe: 686-230-9933 USA Phone: 800-576-0919 Ext. 3 List Your Classified Today. No minimum, no maximum. up to 20 characters for non-business ads FREE (2 lines). ONLY $4 per additional lines. 45 character per line. PLACE ADS BY PHONE: San Felipe: 686-230-9933, Puerto Peñasco: 638109-4771, USA Phone: 800-576-0919 Ext. 3. PLACE ADS BY EMAIL: info@mexicoliving.info.

A

Real Estate

Playa de Oro New Construction 3 Bed, 2 Bath and Fireplace

Stainless Steel Appliances $375,000

La Ventana del Mar 3 Bed, 2 1/2 Bath Exquisitely Furnished

All Available Upgrades $648,000

El Dorado Home Sites ...................................................................................................................... $ 23,000 San Marino Home Sites Starting at ................................................................................................. $ 29,950 El Dorado Ranch Homes from ......................................................................................................... $ 49,000 Playa de San Felipe Lots from ......................................................................................................... $ 46,000 New Construction Homes in Town Starting at ............................................................................... $116,000 In Town Condos Starting at ............................................................................................................. $108,900 Large Land Parcels Starting at ........................................................................................................ $120,000 La Ventana del Mar Golf Course Home Sites from ........................................................................ $135,000 New Golf Course Condos Starting at ............................................................................................. $299,000 VISIT OUR WEBSITE FOR OVER 100 LISTINGS Voted "Best Real Estate Broker 2007" - Thank you for your Support!

8 Different Condo Units Available 2 Bed, 1 Bath 4 Blocks to Beach

WE HAVE

MOVED! Visit us Next to People’s Gallery 1st Flr $108,900; 2nd Flr $113,900

U.S.760-494-3639 Mex. 577-0611 www.AmorProperty.com 64 - Guide to Resort Living in Northwest Mexico