$20 MEX / $3.00 USA No. 25 - www.mexicolivingguide.com
June / junio 2009
The Giant Mexican Fish Dried-up Colorado Takes Toll on the Giant Totoaba
Got Boat? Take it to the Sea of Cortez
Boating in Mexico
Fishing Licenses Fishing Calendar for Northwest Mexico
LIVE • WORK • PLAY • INVEST • RETIRE
Welcome to Northwest Mexico
2 - The ONLY Monthly Guide to Northwest Mexico
WELCOME / BIENNVENIDO
Welcome to Northwest Mexico
Get more info: www.mexicolivingguide.com - 3
Welcome to Northwest Mexico
Mexico Living Team & Contacts
Table of Contents EACH SECTION IS COLOR CODED ON THE RIGHT MARGIN
USA: 800-576-0919 Ext. 3 Ensenada: 646-192-6965 San Felipe: 686-2314921 Puerto Peñasco: 638-388-5004 San Carlos: 622-111-2624 Website: www.mexicolivingguide.com Email: info@mexicoliving.info Mexico Living is a guide committed to promoting Northwest Mexico to the limits of our abilities and to provide a valuable resource to visitors and residents, while 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. $20 MEX / $3.00 USA No. 25 - www.mexicoliving.info
June / junio 2009
The GiANT Mexican Fish Dried-up Colorado Takes Toll on the Giant Totoaba
GoT BoAT? Take it to the Sea of Cortez
Boating in Mexico
Fishing Licenses Fishing Calendar for Northwest Mexico
Cover photo by Derek Heasley of Scuba Break, derek@scubabreaks.com
LIVE • WORK • PLAY • INVEST • RETIRE
Published by John Benjamin Pack
Welcome: Regional Map.......................................................2 Letters to the Editor..............................................5 Contributors.........................................................6 Welcome to Northwest Mexico.............................7 Northwest Mexico Almanac..................................9 Calendar & Events: Calendar Dates...................................................10 Navy Day...........................................................10 6th Casa Blanca Charity Golf Tounament............11 Bad News Blues Band to Return.........................12 41st Annual Tecate SCORE Baja 500..................14 A May Evening Under the Stars..........................15 Art & Design: San Felipe Initiates An Art Co-Op........................16
Publisher/Editor, John Pack, john@mexicoliving.info Publisher, Rachel Pack, rachel@mexicoliving.info Managing Editor, Brenda Judy, editor@mexicoliving.info Golf Editor, Hal “Paco” Clark, bajapaco@gmail.com
People & Voices: SAIL . . . or . . . SALE.........................................18 An American in Baja: Brett..................................19
Regional Sales Associates Carlos Duran Rosarito Beach carlos@mexicoliving.info
Russ Black Puerto Peñasco russ@mexicoliving.info
Dining & Lodging:
Bill Maine San Felipe billmaine@gmail.com
Lynn Prince San Carlos lynnprinceformlg@gmail.com
Rachel Pack Ensenada rachel@mexicoliving.info Distribution Gene & Darcy Jensen, Regional Carlos Duran, Gold Coast Nuria Holly Bocanegra, Ensenada
Nuria Holly Bocanegra Ensenada nuriaholly@mexicoliving.info Russ Black, Puerto Penasco Bill Maine, San Felipe
Writers Bob Ham, Carlos Durán, Russ Black, Naomi Black, Gretchen Ellinger, Penny Nask, Beverly Arrowood, Linda Shiflett, Carlos & Julia Bono, Lynn Prince, Steven Forman, Lisa Shannon, Steve Dryden, Alfonso Arambula, John Pack, Benjamin Eugene, Rachel Pack, Rita Pizarro, Audery Coffman, Ron Saunders, and Christa Thomas. Ad Graphics GreetScape adart@mexicoliving.info
Production Layout Carolyn Sheltraw info@csheltraw.com
Mexico Mailing Address: Yetmail Box #460 San Felipe, B.C. Mexico 21850
USA Mailing Address: PO Box 9019, PMB#460 Calexico, CA 92232
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 - The ONLY Monthly Guide to Northwest Mexico
Wine Country Cuisine at Hacienda Restaurant.....20 Travel & Road Trips: Take a Mexican Fishing Vacation.........................21 Destination Hot Springs–Not Yet!........................22 Real Estate & Development: You – Mexico – And Your IRA.............................24 News & Politics: Presidents Obama and Calderón Vow Cooperation in War on Drugs.............................26 San Luis Port of Entry Improvement...................28 Swimming with the Great White.......................30 The Giant Mexican Fish....................................32 Got Boat? Take it to the Sea of Cortez...............34 Fishing Licenses...............................................36 Destinations.....................................................37 Marketplace......................................................90 Brain Games.....................................................92 Classified...........................................................94
IN BOX - Letters and eMails
SEND US FEEDBACK
Do you have a comment? Email us at mexicoliving@gmail.com
I like to think of all of us at Mexico Living as artists, maybe not in the same sense John and Rachel Pack as the artists we cover in our pages, but rather in process. Each month, we get to create something new from our ideas and passions, then we give it to the public to determine the value and joy it will provide to each individually. It’s that process that make us like artists. And as artists, this edition of Mexico Living is certainly one of my personal favorites; from Shark Diving on the Pacific side of Baja, to the plight of the Giant Totoaba in the northern Sea of Cortez, we go below the waves to bring you some of the most adrenaline-pumping experiences available in the world and show you the Giant Mexican Fish that is nearing extension if something isn’t done.
Letters to the Editor
Of course, Northwest Mexico is one of the best locations in the world for boating and fishing, whether on your own or on a charter, and in this edition we’ll tell you everything you need to know to bring your own boat to Mexico, and we’ll be heading to Cabo San Lucas for some sport fishing. If that isn’t enough, we’re going in search of the illusive hot springs in the mountains above San Felipe; we discuss you, Mexico and your IRA; and last but not least, in our ongoing effort to expand our audience and readers, we’ve added five more cities to the guide: Mulege, Loreto, La Paz, San Jose del Cabo and Cabo San Lucas. As Schumann once said, “To send light into the darkness of men’s hearts - such is the duty of the artist.” We couldn’t agree more and as artists we hope to enlighten all to the wonders of northwest Mexico. Enjoy!
WELCOME / BIENNVENIDO
Publishers Letter
Welcome to Northwest Mexico
SEND US FEEDBACK
Do you have a comment? Email us at mexicoliving@gmail.com
Your articles covering the border crossings in the last couple of issues are very informative to us who like to travel to Northwest Mexico. I am sure Mexico Living cannot do anything about it, but I do wish the group of agencies which developed the new Border Crossing Master Plan, discussed in the April issue, would have recommended a new Port of Entry located just east of the Bull Ring in Playas de Tijuana. The U.S. could build a new freeway heading west from I-5 to Border Gate State Park and Mexico could extend the toll road from Ensenada straight to the border. A Port of Entry less than a mile from the Pacific Ocean would eliminate considerable traffic at the San Ysidro crossing. I would have rather have a new border crossing there than one east of Otay Mesa. – Nick Philips Nick, thank you for your kind words. While we couldn’t agree more that such a configuration would make sense for those of us who travel extensively beyond the border cities, the people who plan for border infrastructure have to consider many factors when deciding where and how to build new facilities. Unfortunately, the area west of the present San Ysidro crossing includes the Tijuana River Estuary and the Borderfields State Park. Both areas are considered too environmentally sensitive to accommodate the level of impact that a border crossing would bring. However, the new crossing east of the present Otay Mesa port will be fairly close to the new bypass route that connects Rosarito Beach with Tecate. Once all of that is in place, you should be able to miss most of the Tijuana area congestion by using this route to quickly access Rosarito and points south. Get more info: www.mexicolivingguide.com - 5
Welcome to Northwest Mexico
Contributors
Mexico Living is only possible through the continued contributions from all these knowledgeable and talented people. If you would like to become a contributor, please email mexicoliving@gmail.com Carlos Durán, Playas de Rosarito – Born in Calexico. Carlos owned a Latino publication for the Long Beach/LA area for five years. Today he is a dual citizen and enjoys traveling the peninsula as often as possible. bajayadayada@gmail.com
Russ and Naomi Black, Puerto Peñasco – Russ and Naomi grew up in Phoenix, AZ, and have been married for over 26 years. They owned Peñasco RV Club and conducted RV Caravan tours in Northern Mexico for many years.
Steve Dryden, Ensenada – Steve is a wine, food and travel writer living in Mexico’s premier wine country of Guadalupe Valley. He is a former Napa Valley winery manager who now guides private, small groups and motor coach wine tours. sbdryden@hotmail.com
Rita Pizarro, Puerto Peñasco – In addition to freelance writing, Rita also offers vacation rentals by owner, massage, home inspections, yoga, kite surfing, pet sitting and adventure camps. It seems like a lot, but it fits her active lifestyle. ritapizarro@gmail.com
Centavo – aka Pamela Esther Nask (“Penny”). Co-owner of Simpatico Arts, she is a writer and an art historian, whose luck in these fields has given her an early retirement. She attributes “laughter” as the best possible stimulus for life. pennynask@yahoo.com
Lynn Prince, San Carlos / Guaymas – Lynn is a researcher and freelance journalist, and the fundraising event coordinator for Casa de Hogar orphanage in Guaymas. She was the feature editor and staff writer for the San Carlos Times/Tribune. lynnprinceformlg@gmail.com
Lisa Shannon, San Felipe – A frequent visitor to San Felipe since 2007. Lisa has been involved in printing and graphic design for over two decades. She enjoys working hard to establish a good life for herself, her partner, Bill Maine, and their two dogs. lisa@mexicoliving.info
Christa Thomas – Christa Thomas is a lawyer as well as a freelance writer and photographer. She was also the copy editor, and a writer and photographer for the San Carlos Times/ Tribune. jchristathomas@gmail.com
Carlos and Julia Bono, San Felipe – Carlos and Julia moved to San Felipe from the San Francisco Bay area. Today, they are proprietors of the Sahuaros.net Internet Café in San Felipe, where they offer Internet, English/Spanish translation and more.
Anita Kaltenbaugh, Puerto Peñasco – Living here full time for over two years ignited Anita’s love for the Mexican culture, coastlines and boating. She is a travel writer and real estate consultant, and now spends her time in Phoenix and Puerto Peñasco. anitainmexico@aol.com
Bob Ham, San Felipe – In 2006, Bob was inducted into the Off Road Motorsports Hall of Fame. He now works for Imperial County and is responsible for transportation planning efforts, including border crossing infrastructure. jamon@telnor.net
Rosie Glover, Puerto Peñasco – Rosie grew up in Pitiquito, Sonora, and Los Angeles, CA. She owns ProAlliance Insurance and the Rocky Point News Online; organizes Uncommon Women on Common Ground events and sits on the board for Peñasco Healthcare Foundation. rosie@proalliance.com.mx
Audrey Coffman, San Felipe – East Coast born and raised, Audrey has done a lot of things and lived in a lot of places. She’s had many different careers, raised two kids and is in love with Baja and the people who have made it their home. audreyc206@gmail.com
John Ashman, La Paz – Married to a Paseña (La Paz dweller), John divides his time between writing, doing audio/video work and flipping cheesesteaks. He’s also thankful that his wife, Carmina, helps him do research for his articles. john@audiobaja.com
6 - The ONLY Monthly Guide to Northwest Mexico
Welcome to Northwest Mexico
Northwest Mexico
Marina at the port of Cabo San Lucas
he Mexican states of Baja California and Sonora T make up Northwest Mexico as covered by our guide. 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 011-52664-634-6330, -634-6918, -634-6574, or toll free from the U.S. (888) 775-2417 Secretary of Tourism, Baja California Sur Carr. al Norte Km. 5.5 Fracc. Fidepaz, CP 23090 La Paz, B.C.S.; Tel: (112) 4-0100, Fax: (112) 4-0722; E-mail: turismo@lapaz.cromwell.com.mx Ensenada Baja California, www.enjoyensenada. com , 011-52-646-172-3022, or (800) 310-9687; www.enjoyensenada.com Rosarito Baja California, www.rosarito.org 011-52-661-612-5222, or (800) 9622252; www.rosarito.org San Felipe Baja California, sanfelipe.com.mx (COTUCO) 011-52-686-577-1104 Tecate Baja California, tecatemexico.com.mx
WELCOME / BIENNVENIDO
Live, Work and Play in Paradise.
Photos by Darryl Brooks of Atlanta Georgia
Welcome to Northwest Mexico
Tijuana Baja California, seetijuana.com, 011-52-664-6840537, or toll free from the U.S. (888) 775-2417; www.tijuanaonline.org. Mexicali Baja California, mexicaliturismo.com/cotuco/prueba/ ingles. Mexicali is the capital of the State of Baja CA. Sonora State Government http://www.gotosonora.com/ Hermosillo Sonora, www.gotosonora.com/hermosilloson-mx.htm. Hermosillo is the capital of the State of Sonora. Puerto Peñasco www.cometorockypoint.com. Guaymas/SanCarlos www.gotosonora.com/ san-carlos-son-mx.htm.
Get more info: www.mexicolivingguide.com - 7
Welcome to Northwest Mexico WHAT DO I NEED? Passport. On June 1, 2009, the U.S. government implemented the full requirements of the land and sea phase of WHTI. The new rules require most U.S. citizens entering the United States at sea or land ports of entry to have a passport, passport card, or other travel document approved by the Department of Homeland Security. Additional information can be found at: http://travel.state.gov/passport What can I bring into Mexico? As you approach the order, there are generally multiple lanes labeled “Nothing to Declare - Nada que Declarar” and “Declaration Lane - Carril de Declaración.” Nothing to Declare Lane ($75 per personal value or less) This lane is used when you are bringing, as a tourist (FMT) $75 or less. Your personal luggage and other merchandise up to the allowed exemption - US $75 per person. The amount is cumulative per number of person in the vehicle. For example two people would have a $150 exemption. You must have receipts and invoices to qualify for the exemption. Personal Items Allowed: • New or used such as clothes, shoes and toiletries in quantities that would be considered not for resale. • Two photographic or video cameras and charger. • Two cellular phones or walkie-talkies, • Laptop, notebook, etc. • Two sports equipment items. • Portable radio recorder and/or player, speakers and accessories. • Five laser discs, 10 DVDs, 30 CDs or cassette tapes. Five storage devices or memory cards. • Books and magazines in quantities that would be considered not for resale. • Five toys, video game console and video games • Medicine for personal use, one blood pressure instrument, one glucose testing device. In the case of psychotropic drugs, make sure you bring the prescription. Note: Be careful not to bring a large quantity of your prescription medication. • One set of binoculars, one telescope. • 2 (two) cartons of cigarettes, 25 cigars or 200 grams of tobacco if you are of age if bringing more than allowed, you must declare it and pay duties). • Up to three liters of liquor and six liters of wine (if bringing more than allowed, you must declare it and pay duties). • Strollers and baby walkers • Two musical instruments and accessories. • Tent and equipment for camping. • Crutches, canes, walkers, and wheelchairs for personal use. 8 - The ONLY Monthly Guide to Northwest Mexico
• Tool sets including hand drills, wire cutters, wrenches, screwdrivers, cables, etc. • Bedding sets including one sheet set, one towel set, a set of table linens. • Two dogs or cats and pet items. • Up to $10,000 in US currency or equivalent in other currencies, foreign or national checks, and/or other monetary instruments. Declaration Lane ($75 - $1000) If you are bringing more than US $75 worth of merchandise per person, but not more than US $1000, you may declare it by driving into the customs facility thru the declaration lane (carril de declaración). There you will be able to fill out the proper documents and pay any duty. Duty can be between 15% and 25% of the value of the merchandise. IMPORTANT NOTES: • Guns are illegal in Mexico. Do not attempt to cross the border with a gun and/or ammunition. You will be put in jail even if you were not aware of the Mexican law. • If you have more than $10,000 in US currency or equivalent or other monetary instruments you must declare this with Mexican customs, otherwise it is a crime. • You must declare if you are bringing any animals, agricultural products, medicine other than personal use. • Amounts over US $1000 require the use of a Mexican customs broker. 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. 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. 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.
Welcome to Northwest Mexico
Mexico Living Northwest Mexico Almanac Mexico is identified to be the world’s 14th largest country. Formally called the United Mexican States, it shares its borders with the North Pacific Ocean, the United States, the Carribean Sea, Guatemala, Belize and the Gulf of Mexico. It is also known for being the most populated Spanish-speaking country in the world. Mexico is a federation of 31 states and one federal district. The capital, Mexico City, is one of the most populated cities in the world. More interesting facts about Mexico: • Rich in bio-diversity, Mexico is one of the 17 mega-diverse countries in the world. With a wide range of flora and fauna, it has been ranked second for species of animals, first for reptiles, fourth for amphibians and fourth for flora. • Mexico ranks second in the world of ecosystems. It houses about 34 untouched ecosystems and numerous parks. It also has 17 sanctuaries and 26 protected areas for flora and fauna. • Mexico boasts of a free-market economy; it is the world’s 12th largest. In Latin America, it has the highest per capita income. • Mexico City hosted the Olympic Games in 1968. Thus far, it is the only Latin American country to do so. It was also the venue for the FIFA World Cup (in 1970 and 1986). • Bullfighting is the National Sport of Mexico. Almost every big city has a bullring. La Monumental, in Mexico City, is the largest bullring in the world. Besides bullfighting, football and baseball are also very popular.
JUNE 2009
Sunrise and Sunset Times Sunrise | Sunset a.m. | p.m.
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30
5:43 | 8:00 5:43 | 8:01 5:42 | 8:01 5:42 | 8:02 5:42 | 8:02 5:42 | 8:03 5:42 | 8:03 5:42 | 8:04 5:42 | 8:04 5:41 | 8:05 5:41 | 8:05 5:41 | 8:06 5:41 | 8:06 5:41 | 8:06 5:42 | 8:07 5:42 | 8:07 5:42 | 8:07 5:42 | 8:08 5:42 | 8:08 5:42 | 8:08 5:42 | 8:08 5:43 | 8:08 5:43 | 8:09 5:43 | 8:09 5:44 | 8:09 5:44 | 8:09 5:44 | 8:09 5:45 | 8:09 5:45 | 8:09 5:45 | 8:09
JUNE AVERAGES Playas de Rosarito, BC
WELCOME / BIENNVENIDO
FACTS ABOUT MEXICO
Temp* 64
Rain 0
• Mexican cuisine is famous for its intense flavors, colorful decoration and range of spices. Some of the popular dishes are fajitas, quesadillas, enchiladas and tacos.
Ensenada, BC
64
0
Mexicali, BC
86
0
San Felipe, BC
79
0
• The Acapulco Convention Center is the largest convention facility available in Latin America. It is one of the main concert and performance centers in the world.
El Rosario, BC
70
0
San Ignacio, BCS
75
0
Loreto, BCS
81
0
• Mexico City is believed to be built over a river. Every year, it is sinking at a rate of 6 to 8 inches because pumps are incessantly drawing out water for the city’s growing population.
La Paz, BCS
81
0
Ciudad Constitution, BCS
73
0
Cabo San Lucas, BCS
79
0
• Mexico City is the largest city in the Americas and the second largest in the world.
Puerto Peñasco, SON
82
0
San Carlos, SON
85
0
Get more info: www.mexicolivingguide.com - 9
Northwest Mexico Calendar & Events
NORTHWEST CALENDAR
Important Dates June 1: Marina Nacional (Marine Day in Mexico) June 14: Flag Day (U.S.) June 21: Father’s Day/Dia del Padre Photos by Christa Thomas
June 21: Summer Begins—shortest night of the year June 24: Quebec National Day (Canada) July 1: Canada Day July 4: Independence Day (U.S.)
LOCAL MONTHLY EVENTS
See The Community Calendar on www.mexicolivingguide.com for a weekly schedule for each city.
ROSARITO BEACH June 6: Wine Dinner, first Saturday of each month,7:30 p.m. in Chabert’s Restaurant. Please reserve early. (800) 343-8582. June 6: Spring Motocross Series Round 5 Finals, Motocross Championships with the best riders from both sides of the border competing. U.S. (619) 819-6323. June 14: Rosarito Shooting Club “22 Caliber Riffle Tournament.” Come and compete in this exciting event! (661) 612-1028. June 18: Pairing Dinner, third Thursday of the month. 7-course dinner with 5 exquisite award-winning wines from a Baja vineyard. All for $38 dollars, 7 p.m., Hotel Festival Plaza. June 27–28: International Volleyball Tournament/Cfest at Papas & Beer. Music, tournaments, plenty of school spirit. (661) 612-0444. July 2–25: Rosarito Beach Fair. Live music, arts and crafts, carnival rides, activities for children, extreme zone, food court and much more. (661) 612-0700. July 4: Wine Dinner, first Saturday of each month,7:30 p.m. in Chabert’s Restaurant. Please reserve early. (800) 343-8582. July 11–12: 2nd Summer Festival, The “Steak & Lobster Festival,” “Rosarito Art & Furniture Expo,” “International Seafood Fair” 10 - The ONLY Monthly Guide to Northwest Mexico
Navy Day (Dia de la Marina) by Christa Thomas
On June 1, Mexico will honor those who make their living on the sea, an important celebration in our seaport. In Guaymas, the celebration will start the night before (May 31) with the crowning of the Navy’s queen, followed by a torchlight parade down Serdan, ending at the Three Presidents Plaza. The parade will be led by a marching band of Marinos and the Navy queen’s car. Relatives of the Marinos will also march, all carrying lit torches. The torch parade commemorates the historical custom, which began prior to the town having a lighthouse, of the fishermen’s wives going to the shore at night with lit torches to guide their husbands safely home. On the morning of Sunday, June 1, at the “El Pescador” Plaza (Fisherman’s monument), the Governor, together with the mayors of Guaymas and Empalme and many other government and military representatives, will gather to honor the flag and read the president’s speech. Flowers are often thrown from shore in memory of sailors, both civilian and military, whose lives have been lost in the performance of their duties. Performances by the state’s band will liven up the celebration, and this alone is worth the trip downtown to experience this unique coastal event.
Northwest Mexico Calendar & Events
Jan Miller, Cathy Riedlinger, and Kathleen Mayers, the volunteers responsible for coordinating the 6th Casa Blanca Charity Golf Tournament, presented the Peñasco Children’s Foundation a check in the amount of $4,945 on April 23. SBR Realty and Seaside Reservations were the cash sponsors for the tournament. They both gave generous donations that covered the vast majority of the expenses, and provided staff to assist with many aspects of the planning and execution of the event. Tecate was a major sponsor as they donated beer, tables, chairs and tents. Agua Cristal (Crystal Water) donated the ice. Coca Cola donated beverages. Si I Do Wedding Planners sponsored the entertainment with the Los Duvalines Mariachi. Rubi Pino of Casa Blanca arranged for the Tecnologico de Peñasco Dancers to perform. The local Puerto Peñasco businesses were overwhelmingly generous and anxious to sponsor the charity golf tournament through their gift donations. The donations included many dining, food and liquor gifts, artwork, gifts for sporting events and water activities, and so much more. The private Casa Blanca professional putting golf course was open to the public on April 18 for the charity event. The money presented to the Peñasco Children’s Foundation was raised through the registration fees, raffle tickets, auction items, photos and hole-in-one contest. Thanks to the very generous community of Puerto Peñasco. Fun! Fun! Fun! Was had by all!
July 12: International Seafood Festival at the Rosarito Beach Hotel, 1 p.m. Enjoy fish tacos to ceviche, from Costa Azul Shrimp to Fresh Lobster! (661) 612-0700. July 16–19: Mexicali En La Playa Beach Festival. The largest beach festival of the region is celebrating its 23rd anniversary. This will be an event you won’t want to miss. U.S. (619) 819-6323. July 16: Pairing Dinner, third Thursday of the month. 7-course dinner with 5 exquisite award-winning wines from a Baja vineyard. All for $38 dollars, 7 p.m., Hotel Festival Plaza. July 19: Rosarito Shooting Club “38 Revolver Tournament” at Rosarito Shooting Club Range. (661) 612-1028. clubdetiro_rosarito@ yahoo.com July 31–Aug 2: Papas & Beer Anniversary. Over 50,000 sq. ft. of fun in the sand. (661) 612-0444.
Ensenada June 5–7: 40th Tecate SCORE Baja 500 Ensenada Race. International off road, where intrepid drivers travel 500 miles through mountains, valleys, deserts, forests and beaches. www.score-international.com
C AL ENDAR & EVENTS
6th Casa Blanca Charity Golf Tournament Raises $4,945 for the Peñasco Children’s Foundation
and “The Pavilion of Tequilas.” The most spectacular events of summer come together at the Rosarito Pavilion. (661) 612-0700.
June 7: 12th Mushroom Festival. Food samples and recipe contest. (646) 174-0448. June 13: Mariachi Vargas de Tecalitln & Carlos Cuevas in Concert, 4 p.m. at the Plaza de Toros of L.A. Cetto Winery in Valle de Guadalupe, Km. 73.5. (646) 175-2363. June 19–21: Ensenada-San Felipe Baja 250 Record. Drivers travel 250 miles through mountains, valleys, deserts, forests and beaches. www.recordoffroad.com July 13–15: 4th Annual Baja Rosario Festival. Baja Cactus Hotel (616) 165-8850 or (664) 154-4910.
San Felipe June 1: Marina Nacional (Marine Day in Mexico). Fiesta begins at the Fisherman Statue on the Malecon. There will be a Fiesta Queen elected, cockfights, fireworks, celebrations and FREE boat rides. Get more info: www.mexicolivingguide.com - 11
Northwest Mexico Calendar & Events
“House Burning” BAD NEWS BLUES BAND to Return
Bad News Blues Band smokin’ musicians playing on the beach at Soggy Peso Bar.
by Lynn Prince
A month ago, one of the hottest bands to hit San Carlos in a long time, the Bad News Blues Band (BNBB), stormed into town and played to ecstatic crowds at La Palapa and Soggy Peso Bar on the beach. BNBB has gained a reputation for “house burning” live performances all over the U.S., Canada, Turkey, Romania, Mexico, and even Moscow, Russia! KDHX Radio in St. Louis broadcasted recently, “They hit the ground running and never look back. Scintillating horns . . . born to play the blues.” BNBB is also the first blues band to be added to the artist roster for the Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts. Among other awards are Tucson Area Music Awards’ Best Blues Band in ‘98, ‘99, ‘00, and ‘01. Mike “Johnny Guitar” Blommer and his blistering guitar is powerful and passionate without being overblown. He plays from the heart, giving soulful nods to legends Freddy King, Albert Collins and Buddy Guy. 12 - The ONLY Monthly Guide to Northwest Mexico
Alex “The Reverend Vegas” Flores is multitalented as he plays, piano, guitar, wind and reed instruments . . . but it’s his rich singing style and “sax appeal” that pump an audience to attention. He is a superb front man with homegrown wit and charm that will steal your heart. Glen Vilardi does his rich rhythmic phrasing on his hot drums to complete the smouldering ensemble. BNBB will be in San Carlos for a return concert on Friday, June 19, at La Palapa Restaurant, 5–8 p.m., and on Saturday, June 20, at Soggy Peso Bar, 4–7 p.m. BNBB tore the place down last trip here with their fire and intensity. So, make plans now to be in San Carlos and enjoy this smoking-hot group. There is NO COVER CHARGE – CONCERT IS FREE! For more information, contact Mike Huhn at Ocean Sports, www.desertdivers.com or (622) 226-0696.
meets Rocky Point Times
C AL ENDAR & EVENTS
Photo by Robin Waters
Northwest Mexico Calendar & Events
On April 18, John and Rachel Pack traveled to Puerto Peñasco along with San Felipe Lions Club President Hal Clark, former President Gary Dilley, Treasurer Robin Kissee and Public Relations Robin Waters to discuss the formation of a new club. The morning following the meeting the group went to John and Rachel’s favorite breakfast spot, Giuseppe’s, on Fremont and had an incredible breakfast buffet. During breakfast the group had the pleasure of meeting Rocky Point Times publishers Tom and Sandra O’Hare, a family publication in Puerto Peñasco, Sonora, since 1991.
June 5–7: 40th Tecate SCORE Baja 500 Ensenada Race. International off road, where intrepid drivers travel 500 miles through mountains, valleys, deserts, forests and beaches. www.score-international.com June TBA: “La Travesia” Concert Cotuco June 19–21: Ensenada-San Felipe Baja 250 Record. Drivers travel 250 miles through mountains, valleys, deserts, forests and beaches. www.recordoffroad.com July TBA: San Felipe Fest “Canal 66.” www.sanfelipeinfo.com
Puerto Peñasco June 5: Hot Dog and a Smile charity event at JJ’s Cantina. Raises money for Esparanza para los Niños orphanage. Music by P.H. Naffah and The Railbenders. Hot dogs served for donations. All proceeds will be donated. www.jjscantina.com, www.azpeacemakers. com, www.railbenders.com June 6: Roger Clyne and the Peacemakers, 2009 Circus Mexicus at Chango’s Bar & Grill. The opening band is Dead Rock West from
Los Angeles.Tickets: www.peacetimegoods. com. Band info: www.azpeacemakers.com, www.deadrockwest.com June 6: CEDO World Environment Day— Tide Riding. 11 a.m.–5 p.m. www.cedointercultural.org June 7: 2009 Mañanathon at JJ’s Cantina with Roger Clyne and the Peacemakers. June 8: CEDO Oceans Day—Isla San Jorge. www.cedointercultural.org June 26–28: Angler of the Year Torney (Phase II) at JJ’s Cantina.
San Carlos June 3: Masonic Club Business/Breakfast. 8 a.m. at Tequila’s. Contact Dick Winter, 226-1907. July 4: Billfish Blowout. 4–6 p.m. Contact John Hilderbrand, jonjencharters@yahoo.com July 31–Aug 3: 61st International Billfish Tournament at Marina San Carlos. Registration 5–9 p.m. Phone: (622) 224-0082, 2240011; Fax: 224-0084; Email: claudiaciare@ hotmail.com. Get more info: www.mexicolivingguide.com - 13
Northwest Mexico Calendar & Events
41st Annual Tecate SCORE Baja 500 Desert Race Round three of the five-race 2009 SCORE Desert Series will be held in Ensenada, Mexico, June 4–7. Over 250 entries from 24 States and 10 countries are expected to compete in 28 Pro and 6 Sportsman classes for cars, trucks, motorcycle and ATVs.
Schedule of Events (all times PDT and are subject to change) Thursday, June 4 1–6 p.m., Racer Registration—Grand Ballroom, San Nicolas Hotel 2–6 p.m., Media Registration—Grand Ballroom, San Nicolas Hotel Friday, June 5 8:30 a.m–4:30 p.m., Racer Registration—Grand Ballroom, San Nicolas Hotel 9 a.m.–5 p.m., Media Registration—Grand Ballroom, San Nicolas Hotel 10 a.m.–5 p.m., Contingency Row—Blvd. Costero, next to Riviera del Pacifico Cultural Center 10 a.m.–6 p.m., Tech Inspection—Blvd. Costero, next to Riviera del Pacifico Cultural Center 7 p.m., Mandatory Racer Meeting—Cathedral Room, Riviera del Pacifico Cultural Center Saturday, June 6 5:30 a.m., Late Registration—Red Room, Riviera del Pacifico Cultural Center 5:30 a.m., Late Tech—Start Line, next to Riviera del Pacifico Cultural Center 5:30 a.m.–Midnight, Media Center Open—Red Room, Riviera del Pacifico Cultural Center Saturday, June 6, RACE SCHEDULE (431.76-mile course) Start/Finish Line: Blvd. Costero in front of the Riviera del Pacifico Cultural Center 6 a.m., MOTORCYCLES/ATVs (One every 30 seconds)—22, 21, 30, 40, 20, 50, 60, 25, 24, SPT M/C 250cc>, SPT M/C 250cc<, SPT ATV, 26 10 a.m. (approx.), CARS/TRUCKS (One every 30 seconds)—TT, 1, 10, SL, 8, PT, 1-2/1600, 5, 6, 7, 5/1600, 7SX, SF, SM, 9, 3, SPT-T, SPT-B, 11, SPT-UTV TIME LIMIT: All vehicles will have a 20-hour time limit from the time each vehicle starts to cover the course Sunday, June 7 8 a.m., Posting of Unofficial Results—San Nicolas Hotel 9 a.m., Competition Review Board—San Nicolas Hotel 10 a.m., Awards Celebration—Poolside, San Nicolas Hotel 14 - The ONLY Monthly Guide to Northwest Mexico
Northwest Mexico Calendar & Events
A May Evening Under the Stars The evening of May 5 found many Puerto Peñasco residents attending the 6th Annual Cinco de Mayo Fiesta & Fundraiser. Dinner was served in the large outdoor terrace behind Hacienda las Fuentes Restaurant with happy, bright sunflowers decorating each table. The traditional Mexican dinner was wonderful, the music enjoyable, the conversations were lively and the entire community seemed to get into the spirit with two sessions of a live auction. The Larry D. Large Foundation was established in 2001 and continues advancing its mission to work with local families by providing needed support. The Foundation is known for promoting education through scholarships and other contributions, good family health care, food and other necessities to local families who could use a helping hand. A new project that was promoted throughout the evening was the Ernest G. Large Community Youth Center. This project is located north of Samuel Ocana Blvd in Puerto Peñasco. The old buildings have been cleared and the project is now underway. It is a four-acre property that will become home to a state-of-the-art facility. The complex will not only will be a safe and drug-free youth center; but will also provide a variety of outdoor activities including soccer, baseball, basketball and volleyball; along with the multi-functional community center and a garden. Details can be found at www.larrydlargefoundation. org or by contacting the Foundation’s U.S. phone at (520) 547-1970.
C AL ENDAR & EVENTS
by Russ and Naomi Black
Get more info: www.mexicolivingguide.com - 15
Arts & Design of Mexico
Photos by Penny Nask
ART & DESIGN
SAN FELIPE INITIATES AN ART CO-OP Desert Mothersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; first Playshop a huge success! by Penny Nask
There is wonderful news about an organization of artisans willing to take part in the community by bringing Mexicans and Americans together to create works of art in our picturesque little town! Donna Roberts, and all of her unyielding energy, has challenged San Felipe to work towards a dream that she has had for many years. A co-op can be many things. But in Donnaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s heart, it is a plan to give Mexican women a chance to create art and to be able to sell it for profit. This is not a new idea. Many countries have been given seed money to start small, women-owned businesses. The women
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involved in these projects are successful because of the organizational skills learned, their productivity and the self-esteem gained. It can be difficult to make connections between Mexican and Americans with language and transportation problems. However, Donna has been rethinking and revising her plans. These issues will not stop her. When Donna called a meeting to brainstorm ideas for a co-op, she already had engaged a famous mosaic artist to travel here and offer a ceramic workshop. We tested the waters. Would local
Arts & Design of Mexico one thing, she has aptly named our co-op Desert Mothers. As you read this we are “birthing” this organization with love and hope. What is next? Stay tuned . . . but for now these photos inspire and validate the progress of the dream. There will be other Playshops featuring other art mediums. For more information or to get on our emial list, contact bajadonna@gmail.com.
AR TS & DESI GN
Americans be interested in paying for a three-day workshop to learn how to create a mosaic art piece? Would these participants let our Mexican locals come for free? The answer was a resounding YES! . . . and the workshop was renamed “Playshop” in honor of the fun we anticipated having. Our co-op artworks will be displayed and honored. Americans and Mexicans will work together to create these art forms. They will be categorized as “fine art.” We have commitments Alejandrina to make this happen. Garcia Felix The first Playshop was . . . matching so successful that we had smiles with her completed to limit participants because mosaic! of space! No one seemed to mind that it was a bit crowded. All of us produced, in three days, mosaic pieces that made our instructor, Aida Valencia, proud! You didn’t have to have any artistic talent going into this project, but I am sure many of us can now reevaluate our artistic skills because if it. So what is the future of Donna’s idea? Well, for
Get more info: www.mexicolivingguide.com - 17
People & Voices
PEOPLE & VOICES
Centavo’s Two Cents SAIL . . . or . . . SALE
Photo by Penny Nask
by Penny Nask
One of the most vital elements of retirement is the fact that you now have plenty of time to devote to your dreams. You can no longer be stymied by lack of time, energy (well, maybe energy) or resources. You always said, “When I retire I’m going to do what I always wanted to do_______ (fill in the blank.)” Right? Now that you are finally retired, and your excuses are waning, it is time to review your possibilities. I have always been somewhat unrealistic about what I could do in my life. Although I consider myself successful, I have been categorized as a dreamer. That description and . . . Oh yes, a romantic. My partner has spouted these words to me over the years, and not necessarily as compliments. Now, when you have a little extra cash floating 18 - The ONLY Monthly Guide to Northwest Mexico
around, and opportunity presents itself, you can acquire the “toys” that eluded you while you were working on your career, raising kids and trying to stabilize your investments. If you live in Baja, you must have at least one ATV . . . maybe a sand rail, or a VW dune buggy (for desert escapades), some craft that will get you on the ocean . . . and a tan that tells the world that you have plenty of time for these things! The ATV came by way of Wisconsin. It was shipped to Phoenix and trailered (yep . . . you need one of those) to San Felipe. It had only been used for 27 hours . . . perfectly broken in. The dune buggy was purchased from Baja neighbors who were trying to complete their swimming pool. Win-win situation, right? The kayak belonged to a friend who called us from the Phoenix airport telling us that it couldn’t board the plane as luggage on route to China. If we didn’t pick it up it would be sent to Goodwill. No way was that happening. The Jet Ski and Topper sailboat were items too reasonably priced to pass up on a Saturday run to the Cachanilla Swap Meet at El Dorado Ranch. At this point, I was reminded that I already had a 10-foot Walker Bay Boat purchased before we moved to Baja—because I had dreamed about fishing in one. I had exchanged the 8-foot Walker Bay for a 10-foot because on its maiden voyage on a Phoenix lake it promptly sunk as I was trying to get in it. The 10-foot boat became too difficult to throw in the back of our truck (another story purchase), so in order for me to use it, I had to get a boat trailer to haul it around. The electric motor that I had for the boat would not do well in salt water so I bought a small gas motor and all the things gas motors need to propel a boat at sea. We can’t store the Walker Bay in my garage yet . . . too much stuff. Our little Topper sailboat? Well, if we don’t sail it soon, we’ll sell it. Watch for the flyer . . .
People & Voices
An American in Baja: BRETT
Brett and Annette in Puerto Penasco, with one of Brett's boats "Tenacity" in the background.
in Colorado, he looked around and asked, “What now?” It was 2007, and he swears that a voice in his head told him to go to San Felipe. It was here that he sensed, as many of us have, the specialness, the vibe, the energy that washes over anyone who stops here to breathe it in. It was the sea that showed him the way, that gave him the idea that there was a need for him to be here and that others needed his understanding of how to use power and speed to enhance our lives here on the water’s edge. Once he did extensive research, he determined that a trio of boats with differing size, power capability and speed would meet his needs, his passengers’ comfort requirements and the rapidly changing conditions on the open water. Brett is a spiritual guy, one who believes that many of us are led to do what we do, to be where we are, by a force greater than ourselves. The trick is to listen to that voice trying to give you direction, do all the research you can to know how to do it, then check with your mom. If you’re looking for a water adventure with speed, comfort and safety, call Brett at (686)116-6977 or check out www.captntolkensbaja.com.
PEOPL E & VOI C ES
Brett loves boats. Yes, I know. Everybody loves boats. But, Brett LOVES boats. He owns three, and I had the ride of a lifetime in the Nauti Too, a high-performance, big-water 38-footer. Now, I’m more mechanically uninformed than just about anyone, and so an engines cc’s and horsepower are pretty much yadda yadda to me. Miles per hour I understand, especially when I’m rocketing over water one gorgeous, sunny morning. Brett estimated we were cruising along at 70 miles per hour. It felt like we were flying. When you see Brett around town, he probably will not be alone. Carlos is his friend, co-pilot and sidekick, and their friendship was born out of their mutual love and respect for the Sea of Cortez. Think “Batman and Robin” in shorts, flip-flops and baseball caps. Maintaining and operating a small fleet of powerful sea craft takes a massive amount of hard work and energy, and these two friends understand and rely on one another. Brett’s finding Carlos was serendipity, but his being here in the Baja was “divine intervention,” as Brett describes it. For some reason, he reminds me of Tom Selleck. A little shorter, more compact, with a little bit of Huckleberry Finn behind the smile. He’s fun to talk to (or shout at when you’re doing 70 on the open water). As a So-Cal “surfer dude,” he shared with many of his contemporaries a passion for the water along with a fascination with the Baja. Back in the1970s he made a “misguided trip” to San Felipe, which he describes as “nightmarish” and never expected to return. The U.S. Navy grabbed him up and utilized his talents as a diver specializing in underwater recovery and pilot rescue. Following his stint with the navy and a resort venture-project
Photo by John Pack
by Audrey Coffman
Get more info: www.mexicolivingguide.com - 19
Dining & Lodging
Wine Country Cuisine at Hacienda Restaurant by Steve Dryden
Culinary options in Mexicoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s premier wine country of Guadalupe Valley are limited when it comes to quality and consistency. As a wine tour operator who offers lunch options it is important to find venues that provide good food at reasonable prices along with excellent service. Over the years Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve given all the valley restaurants business, but few have lived up to my expectations for service, quality, reliability and reasonable pricing. Finally, I discovered Hacienda Restaurant in the village of San Antonio de las Minas that met and exceeded all the details I had been hoping for to compliment my wine tour business. Now 99 percent of my clients love this place for the food, service and the natural ambiance. This outdoor restaurant is situated in the midst of a retail plant nursery where guests are surrounded by lush ferns, diverse flowers and exotic blooms under the canopy of ancient oak trees. Light jazz and soft rock music flows through the trees and the daily breeze from the ocean is often perfumed with scents from the blooming flowers scattered about the plant
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nursery. Hospitality and great service enhances the atmosphere, but the menu really captures the show with a diversity of great options. The artisan cooks in the kitchen offer great presentations and large servings of fresh fruits, vegetables, seafood, pasta, poultry, meat, as well as traditional Mexican cuisine. Fresh soups are made daily, most of the produce is grown locally and transformed into savory salads. Their menu has a focus on healthy cuisine with an emphasis on unique salads and fresh seafood. Finding Hacienda Restaurant is somewhat challenging, but simple if you follow these directions. As you enter San Antonio de las Minas from Ensenada on Highway 3 look for a large Corona beer sign on the right side of the road as you enter town. Turn right there on the only paved road and follow it to the third stop sign, turn left, follow the dirt road across the creek and turn right into their driveway. They are open everyday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and offer a brunch on Sunday for US$10 that is very popular.
Travel & Road Trips Around Mexico
by Teahupoo
If you have never been to Mexico for a fishing trip, you are missing a treat. With the Pacific Ocean and the Sea of Cortez on the west, and the Gulf of Mexico and Caribbean on the east, Mexico offers something for almost every type of fisherman, unless you are a lover of ice fishing! Mexico offers some of the best fishing in the world and has some interesting areas to explore as well. The latest “secret” spot of globe-trotting anglers is the Pacific coastal town of Huatulco in the area called the Oaxacan coast. This area is more off the beaten path and is not a tourist trap like many other areas of Mexico such as Cancun and Cozumel. If you are like most anglers, myself included, you are looking for a place to get away from it all and enjoy the beauty of the outdoors. Huatulco offers exactly that with clear turquoise waters loaded with pelagic game fish such as Sailfish. Huatulco is kind of in between the categories of primitive and luxury with nice hotels and restaurants, but nothing pretentious; and the local natives are very friendly as well. As far as the fishing goes, Huatulco is an incredible fishing ground for sailfish and marlin. We focused on fishing for sailfish the last time I was there. In seven days of fishing we saw probably a dozen or so worldrecord class fish, and of those we caught and released four, and landed two and that’s not even mentioning the fact that overall we raised over a hundred fish while trolling! We even got the attention of a couple of large blue marlin but couldn’t get them to take the bait. Another hotspot on Mexico’s west coast is Cabo San Lucas, the destination of many Hollywood movie stars. This area which is located on the Baja Peninsula is the quintessential fishing vacation for all sport fishermen and in particular those seeking the elusive Marlin as the waters off of Cabo are known as the Marlin Capital of the World. The Sea of Cortez, which was created by an enormous earthquake millions of years ago, effectively works as a huge fish trap to the large pelagic species that run the Pacific Ocean. You will see hundreds of boats chasing after the marlin with craft of every size from the local’s small pangas to luxurious motor yachts from California and all over the world. If you are looking for a great fishing trip, Cabo San Lucas will not disappoint you.
CABO SAN LUCAS SPORT FISHING CHARTERS Cabo Fishing USA: Toll-Free 1-866-348-6286 OR 1-866-464-6205 OUTSIDE USA: +(52) 322-222-4935 MEX: Toll-Free 01-800-822-4577 MEX: Toll-Free 01-800-832-3632 info@cabo-fishing.net www.cabo-fishing.net Earth, Sea & Sky Vacations USA: Toll Free 1-800-745-2226 OUTSIDE USA: 1-831-724-5800 info@cabovillas.com www.fishcabosanlucas.com Marlin Master Sport Fishing USA: 770-573-0334 USA: 678-602-7866 (Cell) MEX: 011-52-624-144-4481 MEX: 011-521-624-161-3110 (Cell) www.marlinmasterssportfishing.com
T R AVEL & ROAD TR I P S
Get Off The Beaten Path And Take A Mexico Fishing Vacation
Robert Fuerstenberg of Ft. Lauderdale, FL, catches a 475 LB. BLACK MARLIN while fishing with Cabo Fishing charters in Cabo San Lucas Mexico.
Picante Sportfishing MEX: 011-52-624-143-2474 USA: 714-572-6693 steve@picantesportfishing.com jini@picantesportfishing.com www.picantesportfishing.com Bad Company Sport Fishing USA: 1-619-251-2910 edward@sdro.com www.badcompanysportfishing.com Doña Meche Cabo San Lucas MEX: 624-122 2070 info@dmechesportfishing.com www.dmechesportfishing.com Rosa del Mar Fishing Charters MEX: 011-52-624-151-6013 MEX: 619-251-2910 capitan_pezc@hotmail.com www.rosadelmarsportfishingcabo.com Get more info: www.mexicolivingguide.com - 21
Explore, Discover, Get Out and See Mexico
TRAVEL & ROAD TRIPS
Destination Hot Springs–
Chris and I have known each other our whole lives and we both love to explore. Chris is more into the hiking and I’m into ATV riding. We’re both from Flagstaff, Arizona, retired teachers, and have places in El Dorado Ranch. When we heard there were hot springs back in the mountains, we knew we had to find them. People we talked to seem to think they knew where the springs were but no one seemed to have really found them. Chris and I started our hunt in January taking her 4-Runner and scouting roads south of Morelia Junction (also known as Dead Cow Junction). We drove through plenty of sandy roads, washes, rock outcrops, and deserted ranches, but nothing that resembled hot springs, vegetative canyons or crystal clear water that had been embellished through various conversations with different people. The next trip we took my 4-Runner and were thrilled to find unique and shimmering rocks and a couple of large, deserted ranches with picturesque old tractors and windmills. Still no hot springs! The third trip up to the same area, we talked to some men at a remote, rehab center and they assured us that if we traveled one mile directly west, there would be cascading falls and, yes, the springs. So, we headed out on a marginal, sandy trail, which became more marginal and then it ended. We got out and hiked around but found nothing. 22 - The ONLY Monthly Guide to Northwest Mexico
Not Yet!
by Judi Anderson
Two weeks later, we were on a small, remote road when we came upon four Mexican men who told us that we were close. They pointed up the road and said, “Yes, agua caliente three to four miles on a very bumpy road. Your car won’t make it.” We got so excited! Now, we were finally going to get there (and yes, we did have our bathing suits). We went a mile and the road crossed a creek a couple of times with the road getting much too rough and rocky for my 4-Runner. The steep canyon walls were spectacular though. We got out and hiked up about a mile, but with dark approaching, we were forced to head back down. A saddened Chris had to return to Arizona, but I assured her that I would not give up until I found them and get the pictures to prove it.
On April 7, a group of us gals with two rails and my Rhino UTV headed up again. Our group consisted of Sharron and Lynda from Canada, Jan and Carol from Arizona, and Meg and Cindy from California. As we entered the canyon we were amazed at the beauty of the flowering cacti, clumps of green grass and smoke trees in full pink bloom. The canyon was rugged with boulder outcrops, large caves that made it look like “mountain lion” country, and a narrow, rocky road. As we went deeper into the canyon, it became more and more green, quite lush, and we crossed the water-filled creek many times. Now, we’ve gone farther than Chris and I ever got and I’m hyped. I was so glad that we all had brought towels and suits on this outing. I was the lead vehicle and when Cindy and I rounded a narrow curve, we realized we had suddenly driven into a deep water swamp. As far as we could see the road continued on and was filled with water. We got out thinking maybe this was the hot springs, but the water was cold and stagnant. We hiked through the thick underbrush on the side of the road for about a half mile and the water continued filling the road path. We knew we couldn’t take our vehicles on through this “river road,” so we were forced to turn around. Despite not finding the hot springs, the consensus of the group was that it had been a fabulous adventure with many memorable pictures. As we were heading home, I wondered, “Will I ever find these hot springs? Or, do they really even exist?”
T R AVEL & ROAD TR I P S
–
Travel & Road Trips Around Mexico
Get more info: www.mexicolivingguide.com - 23
Real Estate & Development
REAL ESTATE & DEVELOPMENT
You – Mexico – And Your IRA by Tom Phelan, Rocky Point Real Estate
It is estimated there are 45 million IRAs (Individual Retirement Accounts) in America. These 45 million IRAs hold $4 trillion even after the recent Stock Market and Banking debacles. Most Americans with IRAs do not know they can use IRA funds to purchase real estate, including foreign real estate. Yes, even Mexican real estate inside its “Restricted Zones” where the fideicomiso or Bank Trust is used can be purchased. “Why haven’t I heard about this?” you ask. Wall Street controls 97 percent of four trillion IRA invested dollars (it was six trillion a few months ago). Its agents, Stock Brokers and Financial Planners aren’t about to educate you and lose lucrative commissions from buying and selling products to your IRA. Also, most Realtors® don’t know an IRA can buy real estate. This is painfully evidenced by the
Most Americans with IRAs do not know they can use IRA funds to purchase real estate, including foreign real estate.
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minuscule amount of Realtor® IRA held property, the very product they sell. If Wall Street isn’t going to tell you and your Realtor® isn’t going to tell you, who will? Ah, the very point of this article. Most IRAs were created by Wall Street Affiliates who will not accommodate an IRA buying real estate. You need to open a Self-Directed IRA to gain total control. Transferring IRA funds to a Self-Directed IRA Custodian is simple and not subject to taxes or penalties, and can cost as little as $50. Note, however, there are several variants of the Self-Directed IRA and the recent Individual 401(k) that are best discussed on an individual basis. Okay, you have a Self-Directed IRA that can buy real estate. Don’t throw caution to the wind like “investors” did a few years ago; mailed hefty Earnest Money checks to Realtors® they had never met, in cities they never visited, for developments they had never seen. Due diligence is mandatory. That being said, IRA opportunities abound including Mexican real estate. With the recent deflation of the “Real Estate Bubble” (35 percent to 60 percent), the timing could not be better. My preference has always been beachfront real estate. True, your IRA could snap up a San Diego or Cabo San Lucas beachfront Condo reduced from $2.5 million to $1.5 million, but how many of us have millions in our IRA? My wife and I chose a beachfront condo in Puerto Peñasco on Mexico’s fabulous Sea Of Cortez because of the beauty, affordability and proximity to Phoenix (4-hour drive). Most foreign-owned condos, homes and beach lots in Puerto Peñasco were bought by Arizonans, but with the new Costera highway cutting the drive from San Diego to 4.5 hours and Los Angeles to 6.5 hours, investing here is now much more attractive to Californians who no doubt will soon join Arizonans to enjoy Puerto Peñasco. Come take a look, you’ll be glad you did. For information on Rocky Point Real Estate visit www.PhelanTeamRockyPoint.com. For more information on how an IRA can buy real estate contact Tom Phelan at YourIRA@yahoo.com.
R EAL ESTATE
Northwest Mexico Real Estate
Get more info: www.mexicolivingguide.com - 25
Northwest Mexico News Briefs
NEWS & POLITICS
Presidents Obama and Calderón Vow Cooperation in War on Drugs by Christa Thomas
Photo courtesy of "Alternativos Magazine".
In his first official trip to Mexico, U.S. President Obama praised Mexican President Calderón for his efforts in fighting the drug cartels. President Obama stated that Mexico had acted very firmly against drug trafficking and said that President Calderón has done “an excellent, heroic job” in tackling the “extremely serious problem” of the drug cartels. Historically, the U.S. media and elected officials in Washington have laid the blame for the drug war solely on Mexico. And, the U.S. has left Mexico to try to fix this problem on its own. President Calderón has frequently asked the U.S. to aid Mexico in the war on drugs by stopping the flow of weapons and drug money from the U.S. into Mexico, and by dealing with the U.S.’s seemingly insatiable appetite for cocaine and marijuana. Mexico’s ambassador to the United States, Arturo Sarurkhan, recently told media in the U.S. that 90 percent of weapons were brought into Mexico from the United States, where gun laws are looser than in Mexico. He said that in 2007 there were 7,600 federally licensed arms dealers in U.S. border states and 50,000 nationwide, but the U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms inspected
26 - Guide to Resort Living in Northwest Mexico
just 5 percent of them. Sarurkhan urged “shared responsibility” for the drug problem. Following a Congressional Subcommittee hearing in March, the U.S. finally admitted shared responsibility. Violence Policy Center Senior Policy Analyst Tom Diaz told the Congressional Subcommittee that weak regulation of the U.S. civilian gun market and the gun industry’s focus on increasingly lethal militarystyle firearms have combined to fuel the drug war in Mexico and violence in the United States. “If one wanted to design a system to pour military-style guns into criminal hands, it would be hard to find a better one than the U.S. civilian gun market,” Diaz testified before the Subcommittee. “It is unacceptable to have 90 percent of the guns that are picked up in Mexico and used to shoot judges, police officers, mayors, kidnap innocent people and do terrible things come from the United States,” Senator Dianne Feinstein said at the hearing. “I am appalled that you can buy a 50-caliber sniper weapon anywhere and it’s not restricted to a federal firearms dealer—you can just buy it.” In addition to the shocking number of weapons smuggled into Mexico from the U.S., it is estimated that drug cash as high as $25 billion a year also makes its way south. Legislators from both parties repeatedly told the hearing that Washington’s inattention to decades of rampant drugs use by Americans has played a central role in the crisis. Senator Dick Durbin, an Illinois Democrat,
Northwest Mexico News Briefs
NEWS
was one of several lawmakers at the hearing who In response, President Obama promised to push said Congress will begin considering ways of for U.S. ratification of a treaty designed to reduce reducing U.S. demand for illegal drugs through the cross-border flow of weapons. The treaty, treatment and other methods. which outlaws the unauthorized export of guns and U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton told outlines stricter licensing rules and better means of reporters during her flight to Mexico City that “our tracing weapons by police agencies, was adopted insatiable demand for illegal drugs fuels the drug by the Organization of American States in 1997. The trade. Our inability to prevent weapons from being United States never ratified it. illegally smuggled across the border to arm these President Obama stated that he will urge the U.S. criminals causes the death Senate to finally ratify the of police officers, soldiers treaty, saying that the armsIn addition to the and civilians.” trafficking treaty was needed shocking number of In his recent trip to as part “of the battle against Mexico, President Obama drug cartels that are robbing weapons smuggled said he would not “pretend so many of a future.” this is Mexico’s responsibility But, President Obama into Mexico from alone. A demand for these signaled that he will not seek the U.S., it is drugs in the United States the reinstatement of a U.S. is what’s helping keep these assault weapons ban. The estimated that cartels in business. This 1994 ban on military-style drug cash as high as war is being waged with assault weapons outlawed guns purchased not here [in 19 types of weapons, banned $25 billion a year Mexico], but in the United certain features on firearms also makes its States.” President Obama such as bayonet mounts, further stated that the U.S. and limited ammunition way south. has “a responsibility as well; magazines to 10 rounds. It we have to do our part.” He expired in 2004. said the U.S. must crack down on drug use and the President Calderón had hoped to persuade flow of weapons into Mexico. Obama to follow up on a campaign pledge to To that end, the Obama administration has push for a revival of the ban. President Obama did promised to put more law enforcement agents along acknowledge that sales of military-style assault the border and to improve southbound inspections. weapons should be banned in the U.S., but he did Further, President Obama has agreed to accelerate not commit to push for legislative change—a move the release of the $1.4 billion in aid allotted under that would be highly controversial in the U.S. the Merida Initiative to combat the drug trade. Most At the meeting in Mexico with President Calderón, of it will go to Mexico to buy eight used helicopters President Obama also sought to put a focus on the and two surveillance planes for its military. more upbeat parts of the U.S.-Mexico relationship— Recently, the Obama administration attacked such as shared commerce and culture—and not just the financial bases of the cartels. It named three on drug violence. “What makes us good neighbors drug cartels as organized crime gangs, which is a simple truth that our people share so much more allows the government to freeze the organizations’ than common challenges and common interests,” accounts and assets, deny visas to their relatives Obama said. “We also share values and ideals.” and sanction Americans that conduct business with President Obama also said, “I see this visit, as I cartel members. know President Calderón does, as an opportunity to President Calderón welcomed Washington’s launch a new area of cooperation and partnership initiatives, but also called on the U.S. to “apply between our two countries.” Sources: www.presidencia.gob.mx, Associated Press, existing legislation that prohibits the exportation of Violence Policy Center arms to countries where they are banned.” Get more info: www.mexicolivingguide.com - 27
Northwest Mexico News Briefs
San Luis Port of Entry Improvements by Bob Ham
Late this summer a brand new border crossing will open near the San Luis port of entry near Yuma. Unfortunately for most recreational border crossers this new crossing will be a commercial port of entry for inspection of big rigs. That’s the bad news, the good news is that the relocation of the commercial port to this new site that is designated as “San Luis II” will free up the real estate that formerly housed the commercial port to allow CBP to add new inspection lanes for northbound passenger vehicles.
The reconfiguration of the existing San Luis port, now designated as San Luis I, will be the final phase of a $200 million project that began with the plans to move the commercial port to a new location to the east of the current congested port of entry. One of the most difficult challenges to modernizing any of the existing ports along the southern border is the lack of available space to install the high-tech security enhancements that are now required after 9-11.
The existing San Luis Port of Entry. Vacating the commercial facility at the left side of this photo will allow for the addition of new passenger lanes including SENTRI. Photo courtesy of the Greater Yuma Port Authority
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Northwest Mexico News Briefs
NEWS
The challenge of adding new inspection lanes to construction on the reconfiguration of the port in accommodate the increased 2011 with completion to occur international travel since sometime in 2013. While this Last year Congress the original construction of seems like a long time to wait appropriated $7 million these ports has been an even for those travelers who use more daunting problem for San Luis I as an access point to design the the planners who are trying to travel to Puerto Pe単asco or reconfigured to ensure that our ports San Felipe, the GYPA along do not overly constrain the with the CBP are planning San Luis I port. legal passage of goods and interim measures that will people across our international borders. Moving immediately create temporary new inspection lanes out the commercial port to an entirely new location including a long awaited SENTRI lane for the San provided the Greater Yuma Port Authority (GYPA) Luis/Yuma commuter community. an opportunity to make plans for a more efficient The Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) movement of manufactured goods and produce and the City of San Luis are also busy planning a across the borders, and it created an opportunity to more efficient transportation that will facilitate the modernize the existing San Luis I port and to add flow of cross border traffic through and around the badly needed new lanes. community of San Luis and on to Interstate 8. The Last year Congress appropriated $7 million to grand opening of the new commercial port is set for design the reconfigured San Luis I port. The design September of this year, and interim improvements, contracts were awarded and the design work has including the new SENTRI could be underway within been underway since March. GYPA plans to begin months of that milestone.
Get more info: www.mexicolivingguide.com - 29
Cover Feature
Swimming with the
Great White Patric Douglas CEO of Shark Diver, www.sharkdiver.com
by Jenna Rose Robbins
The red rocks of Isla Guadalupe blazed in the morning sun, a clear sky welcoming us after a stomach-churning 14-hour crossing. Lapping waves and the cries of fur seals on the nearby shore were the only sounds to be heard 150 miles from the mainland. The water roiled as foothigh fins sliced the surface like a knife through cerulean silk. It was a perfect day for a dive. “We’ve got a 16-footer,” announced Patric Douglas, CEO of Shark Diver, the outfit leading our expedition. From beneath his shades, Douglas beamed like a proud papa as he pointed out the great white circling the cages. Not wanting to miss the action, I hustled to join the other divers, who had already scurried to squeeze themselves into wetsuits before the great white disappeared back into the cobalt depths. Moments later, after almost getting thrown into the water by the surge, I was safe within the 100-squarefoot cage, the hookah regulator looping from between my clamped teeth to the deck above. The current tossed the cage—and us—only slightly more gently than a washing machine. And then it appeared. Like a phantom shadow, the shark approached from below, slowly swishing its massive tail side to side as if it had all the time in the world. This was nothing like spotting a shark confined in an aquarium’s tank. With our cage dangling over 30 - The ONLY Monthly Guide to Northwest Mexico
the side of the 88-foot MV Horizon, my cagemates and I were well aware that we were but visitors in the shark’s domain. As the behemoth approached, we determined it was a female, and as she glided past just inches from our cage, her length was so great it seemed forever before she passed. I’d heard that great whites could reach such lengths—and longer—and for better perspective, I’d told myself I’d be seeing creatures roughly the length of a VW bus. What I hadn’t counted on was the girth. I’d joked to landlubber friends that I was going to ride a shark, but after seeing how wide a female could grow, there was no conceivable way I could have saddled one, even had I been suicidal enough to try such a ridiculous (and illegal) feat. The six-foot-wide creature slid past, her black eye so close we could see the pupil, which made the shark even eerier than when she appeared to have two black, unseeing orbs.
Cover Feature
Underwater shot was taken by Shane Plymyer and his dad Tom while diving with Great Whites many miles off northern Baja coast.
After dinner our second night, Hoyos presented his most recent findings to a galley of rapt shark aficionados. We felt special, privileged even. Not only were we among an elite few—a couple hundred a year at most—to visit these waters, but we were getting a firsthand account with the most up-to-date information on sharks available. Shark Diver provides a great deal of aid, both financial and practical, to Hoyos and his project. The crew has provided almost all of the research photos of the sharks, duplicates of which exist in a massive binder in the ship’s galley, each labeled with the shark’s name and distinguishable markings so that passengers can identify underwater visitors. Divers, inspired by Hoyos’ shipboard stopovers, often go on to send donations or even specifically requested equipment. Shark Trust Wines, which has graced the table of many a Shark Diver meal, donates a portion of its profits to both shark conservation and research. The combination of firsthand encounters, freshly caught scientific knowledge and cultured respect for the creatures we came to visit was but one of the many aspects of the trip that made it unique. As we entered the galley our final night at Guadalupe, we did so solemnly, well aware that our once-in-a-lifetime experience was drawing to a close. It was then we discovered that our congenial chefs had taken it upon themselves to whip up a farewell meal we wouldn’t forget, which included the 60-pound yellowfin tuna that had been caught the day before. Divers and crew retold the tale of how we’d almost had two such tuna on our tables that night, and those who’d had the good fortune to be in the cages at the time shared their photos and video. Unlike the tuna caught earlier that last day, the dinner yellowfin had been landed whole, without a shark-sized chunk missing. There had been quite a ruckus onboard—and below—as Melanie Marks, founder of Shark Trust Wines, began reeling in a yellowfin, much to the excitement of a patrolling white just below the boat. The occupants of the cages had a spectacular view as the great white circled slowly toward the fish struggling on the line then zipped towards its prey with astonishing speed. With a single chomp, the fish was severed just behind the gills, and Marks had no problem reeling in what remained of her catch. She shrugged, well aware that’s what you get when you fish at the “sharkiest place on Earth.” For more information, visit www.sharkdiver.com or www.sharkstrustwines.com.
C OVER STORY
When I emerged 45 minutes later, I had a grin as toothy as a great white’s. Douglas slapped me on the back after helping me out of the cage and back on deck. “Pretty boring, eh?” He guffawed at his own joke as I racked my brain for an appropriate adjective. What emerged from my mouth cannot be printed in most publications of repute. Only in the last few years have these waters, under the jurisdiction of the Mexican state of Baja California del Norte, earned fame for its white shark population. Other locations around the globe—Australia’s Great Barrier Reef, South Africa’s notorious Shark Alley and even San Francisco’s Farallon Islands—have long been renowned for their notorious aquatic residents, but Isla Guadalupe has quickly become a favorite, as much for its convenient location (an overnight sail from San Diego) as for its warm waters and astounding visibility, which can reach up to 100 feet. Such ideal conditions attract not only adventure-seeking divers, such as my shipmates, but also scientists in search of primo research conditions. During shark season (September through November) at least 50 white sharks—and possibly as many as 100—patrol the waters, estimates marine biologist Mauricio Hoyos, who spends several months a year camped out in a tin shack a couple yards away from a fragrant fur seal colony. He and a couple dozen lobster and abalone fisherman comprise the whole of the population of the island, a desolate red rock long since made devoid of vegetation by a marauding pack of abandoned goats.
Jenna Rose Robbins is a freelance writer and editor based in the Los Angeles area. She can be reached via email at jenna@ jennarobbins.com.
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Cover Feature
The Giant Mexican Fish
Dried-up Colorado Takes Toll on the Giant Totoaba by John C. Cannon
Image provided by Desert Fishes Council at http://www.desertfishes.org
The Colorado River vanishes before it reaches the Sea of Cortez in all but the wettest years. Companies in California and the southwestern U.S. have diverted its once-vibrant flow to quench their thirst for water and power. Now, a new study from the journal Biological Conservation reports that the dwindling of this major artery has changed the way some marine fish in the Gulf of California grow and develop. The study focused on the totoaba, a giant endangered fish that once thrived in the region. The damming of the Colorado River has choked the natural flow of sediment and nutrients, causing sandbars and beaches to erode. Similarly, a protective estuary in the Gulf of California once formed by the river no longer exists, leaving few places for young totoaba to find food and hide from predators. According to the study, these drastic habitat changes—along with pressures on the totoaba from overfishing—have made it impossible for the young fish to grow quickly enough for the population to recover. Weighing in at nearly 300 pounds, the totoaba, a fish in the drum family, was a tasty staple in the diet of people in what is now Mexico for millennia before the fishery collapsed in the mid-20th century. In 1975 Mexico designated the totoaba as an endangered species and closed the fishery, attributing the decline to overfishing. However, the totoaba population has not bounced back since the ban. Shrimp and gillnet fishermen probably take a share of protected totoaba
and don’t report the by-catch to authorities, but in the absence of a directed fishery, biologists expected the totoaba population to climb. Recently, a team of scientists hypothesized that the difference might have something to do with the loss of fresh water from the Colorado. This river flow once infused the Gulf with nutrients and food sources, creating the estuary that was prime habitat for young totoaba. The team, led by University of Washington aquatic biologist Kirsten Rowell (formerly based at the University of Arizona), thought the construction of the Hoover Dam in 1935 might have triggered the problem. Rowell and her colleagues compared the ear bones—or otoliths—of fish that lived after construction of the dam with totoaba otoliths found in the refuse heaps, or middens, of civilizations dating back 1,000 to 5,000 years. The team sliced the bones in search of clues about the comparative growth rates of these animals. “They grow concentrically,” Rowell said, “so it’s sort of like taking a jawbreaker and cutting it down the middle.” Analogous to the rings of a tree, thicker bands appear in the otoliths during years of more growth. From this comparison, the scientists found that young totoaba had grown more quickly if they lived before the damming of the Colorado. Further, they discovered those “pre-dam” fish matured sooner—in some cases, as many as five years earlier than their “post-dam” counterparts. That’s a major change for a fish with a lifespan of up to 25 years. “Fishing wouldn’t cause that upheaval in life history,” Rowell said, so her team guessed that it might have something to do with losing the estuary created by the Colorado River. An estuary, like a pot of soup, depends on the mixing force of flowing water. River water brings its own nutrients from the interior of a continent, but it also stirs up particulates from the river bottom when it approaches the sea, making a According to photographer, L.M. Huey, this huge totoaba photographed on the beach at San Felipe, Baja California in April 1926, weighed in at 132 pounds after head and tail had been removed. (Photo data provided by Dr. Lloyd Findley, 2003).
32 - The ONLY Monthly Guide to Northwest Mexico
Accidental harvest: Though protected, totoaba (above), as well as the small porpoise known as the vaquita (below), fall prey to fishing nets in the Gulf of California — just another factor stifling the recovery of both species.
FISHING CALENDAR
life-giving broth. Some 60 percent of fish that end up on American tables spend part of their lives in these fish nurseries around the world, where food is more abundant. Critically, vulnerable baby fish can find shelter from predators among more numerous plants in healthy estuaries. Since the Gulf of California estuarine habitat started to disappear in the 20th century, younger totoaba haven’t been able to find food as easily. As a result, they were smaller than pre-dam fish of a similar age. Over generations, this also led the fish to start breeding at an older age. “It’s a general rule in fisheries that the larger you are, the more resources you have to give,” Rowell said. The post-dam fish, smaller than their forebears, now don’t have enough energy to spare to reproduce until later in life. All of this becomes doubly concerning when the pressure from indiscriminate fishing tactics like gillnets cull many young fish. A century ago, such fish might have already spawned and left a new generation to ply the waters of the Sea of Cortez. But today, adolescent totoaba snagged in nets aren’t as likely to be mature enough to have bred. Because of the relentless drawdown and diversion SPECIES Albacore Barracuda Black Sea Bass Bluefin Tuna Bonito Cabrilla Comber Pinta Comber Pintita Comber Cochito Corvina Dorado Mahi Mahi Garoupa Grouper
C OVER STORY
Photo by Omar Vidal
Cover Feature
of the Colorado, the estuary may be beyond saving. However, the U.S. Department of the Interior did attempt to restore some of the lost habitat in a controversial move. The department, which operates the Glen Canyon dam above the Grand Canyon, released some of its water to flush sediment downstream. But many environmental groups criticized the action as destructive, arguing that this simulated flood—much bigger than a natural spring flood would be—was too concentrated and would likely be too harsh for the sediment to stick and form the sand bars. The results still aren’t conclusive. “The impact of this research extends beyond the fortunes of a single species,” Rowell said. The implications might require some tough choices as the global community faces potential food shortages. She added, “Fisheries seem like a really great way to get protein. Are we going to give water to this ecosystem that may fuel fisheries? Or are we going to build more houses? Population growth in waterstarved areas only increases the need for freshwater and hydroelectricity.” “This is an example of something that’s happening all over the world,” said Jorge Torre, a conservation biologist and executive director of the conservation group Comunidad y Biodiversidad (COBI), based in Guaymas, Mexico. Torre called the research “a very nice proof” that altering an ecosystem, even from great distances in space and time, can dramatically affect the species that call it home. It may be too late to transform the Colorado River delta back into the habitat it once was. Torre said, “We need to be practical—we’re never going to have that water again.” But he noted that as the world population grows, fresh water and the fish it supports will become more precious resources. Torre hopes policymakers will pay attention to the hard lessons learned from the totoaba.
John C. Cannon is a graduate student in the Science Communication Program at the University of California, Santa Cruz.
Ensenada San Quintin San Felipe Puertecitos S.L. Gonzaga Bahia de LA June-Oct. June-Oct. April-Oct. April-Oct. April-Oct. July-Sept. July-Aug. Jan.-Dec.
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Cover Feature
Got Boat? Take it to the Sea of Cortez Boating in Mexico
Most boat enthusiasts are unaware how easy it is to travel with a boat to Northwest Mexico. Not by boat, but with boat! Yes, I mean hitching your favorite floating friend to your truck or SUV and hauling it across the Mexican border to the beautiful Sea of Cortez. Crossing the border with a boat is not as difficult as one may think. In fact, quite the opposite is true; it’s a relatively simple task. To all those gringos who imagine they will lose their boat, wreck their boat or encounter foul play if they cross the border and sail on the Sea of Cortez, we outlined the skinny on how to cross the border with the boat and what to do with it once you arrive in Mexico. Checklist for a boat to cross the border: • Current boat registration • Title to the trailer • Owner’s passport (passport required as of June 9, 2009) When arriving at the border, stay in the same lanes as any other vehicle. If you see the Green Light at the border, that means keep going nice and slow. If you receive the Red Light, there is room to pull over and they may ask you to pull the cover off the boat, show the boat registration and the trailer title. Very simple and quick as long as you have your paperwork, proper ID and are prepared. Numerous marinas exist in Northwest Mexico; typically larger towns have more than one marina where you can launch, dry dock, and rent a slip by the day, weekend or year. Additionally, most marinas will flush the boat out for around $5 and wash the boat for a small fee. This will clean the saltwater out and get your boat ready to return back to the States. Puerto Peñasco, San Felipe, San Carlos, Guaymas, Puerto Escondido, Santa Rosalina and La Paz all have marinas on the Sea of Cortez with available slips, water, power, showers, fuel docks and boat launch. Ensenada and Rosarito Beach also have marinas on the Pacific Ocean. The best thing in many of these small villages (besides the clear blue, spectacular Sea of Cortez) is the proximity of the marinas to the condos, hotels and homes. There are not many affordable places left in the world where you can drive your boat in the slip, jump out and head to your condo or hotel, and be door-to-door in 5–10 minutes. Depending on where you are in Northwest Mexico will determine your boating adventure. Depending on the type of boat, speedboat, sailboat or cruiser will determine how far you can travel. The weather, time of the year and your experience level will also determine what type of journey you embark on. 34 - The ONLY Monthly Guide to Northwest Mexico
Photo by Lorraine Fisher
by Anita Kaltenbaugh
Regardless, whether you find yourself on a long overnight adventure or a short day trip, floating on the calming waters with the sun in the sky and the clear blue water below you should be on the top of your not to be missed list. One way to cross the Sea of Cortez is to travel from San Felipe to Puerto Peñasco, either direction 73 nautical miles across with full-service marinas in both ports. Depending on the speed of your boat will determine how long it takes you to cross the sea. My experience tells me with a cruiser or a sailboat plan on 6–8 hours across. If you have a speedboat and flat seas you’re looking at 2–3 hours. From either Puerto Peñasco or San Felipe you can head south and explore the Sea of Cortez. Puerto Peñasco to San Carlos/Guaymas will be a little longer trip, roughly 290 miles. Plan a week for this trip (one way) and get ready to take pictures and a journal, and be prepared. San Felipe to La Paz will provide a beautiful long sea journey through Bahia De Los Angeles, Santa Rosalina, Mulege, Loreto to La Paz. And of course, if you would rather head down the Baja Passage, depart from Ensenada or Rosarito Beach and head south the whole way to Cabo San Lucas. It is exciting how many choices exist for cruising the Sea of Cortez. Obviously, plan ahead, be safe and be prepared. In my opinion, the worst part about boating is getting off the boat. Leaving the crystal blue waters of the Sea of Cortez is the hardest part, not because of crossing the border with your boat, but merely due to the outrageously perfect weather you just boated in for the weekend and now have to leave. Actually, besides the heartache that the vacation is over, crossing the border to reenter the USA is very simple. Follow your standard rules of crossing and be prepared for a few questions from the U.S. border, such as: • Who owns the boat? • How long have you owned the boat? • Did you sleep on the boat? • Where did you go in the boat? Pretty simple. So, if you have a fishing, cruising or fun-loving boat you’ve been hauling around to the lakes, try something new and enjoy the gorgeous waters of the Sea of Cortez with dolphins, sea lions and flying fish. This marine jewel, teeming with life, is a beautiful ocean with plenty of room for everyone. Happy Boating Amigos!
Cover Feature
Frequently asked questions about taking a boat to Mexico
Do I need to have a special vehicle permit to take the boat across the border? • No special permit or vehicle registration is needed to go into the State of Sonora or Baja Norte; it is part of the free zone. Is there any cost to bring my boat into Mexico? • No cost or charge—it’s absolutely free to enjoy the Sea of Cortez. Where can I keep my boat once I arrive in Mexico? Puerto Peñasco • Marina Puerto Peñasco—11 slips, services, fuel. Email: palvarez@singlar.gob.mx • Safe Marina & Laguna de Juan—slips, dry dock long term and short term. Email: zaida.f.rembao@ hotmail.com; or miguelacevedo71@live.com.mx San Felipe • Marina San Felipe—15 slips, facilities, fuel. Email: vmartinez@singlar.gob.mx San Carlos/Guaymas • Marina Real—356 slips full services fuel marinareal@prodigy.net.mx • Marina San Carlos—336 slips full services, fuel www.marinasancarlos.com Puerto Escondido • Puerto Escondido Marina Singular—10 slips, water power fuel dock 117 mooring buoys throughout the bay • www.fonatur.gob.mx/mar_de_cortes/Escalas_ Nauticas/en/index_escondido Santa Rosalia • Santa Rosalia—20 slips, water power, fuel • www.fonatur.gob.mx/mar_de_cortes/Escalas_ Nauticas/en/index_sta_rosalia.asp La Paz—4 marinas with over 500 slips and full services and fuel • Costa Baja Resort & Marina • Marina Palmira • Marina de La Paz • Marina Fidepaz Singular • Go to www.exploringcortez.com and click on Marina’s link for details on each marina Rosarito Beach • Marina Puerto Salina—over 200 slips 60 miles south of San Diego, full services, www.marinapuertosalina.com Ensenada • Ensenada Cruiseport Village- over 198 slips full services and fuel provisions, www.ecpvmarina.com
Is there gas at the marina? • Yes, both gas and diesel are available at Puerto Peñasco, San Felipe, Guaymas, San Carlos, Puerto Escondido, Santa Rosalia, La Paz, Ensenada and Rosarito. Do I need to make a reservation prior to coming down? • A reservation can be made by calling any of the marinas; this is suggested for busy weekends. What happens if my boat has a problem or needs repair? • Contact any of the marina’s and they will refer you to a local contact. Always know the VHF channels of the closest marina. A good guidebook will go a long way. Where do I go cruising on the Sea of Cortez? • Anywhere and everywhere; how much time do you have? • Day trip to Bird Island (about 30 miles from Puerto Peñasco) • Enchanted Islands south of San Felipe • Various anchorages around the coast • Bahia de Los Angelas • Bahia Conception • Whale watching (seasonal) • Dolphin watching (play some Jimmy Buffet on your boat and watch them appear)
C OVER STORY
What do I need to cross the border with a boat? • Boat title and trailer registration • Passport (required as of June 1, 2009)
Can I go fishing on The Sea of Cortez? • Absolutely, there is more sea life in the Sea of Cortez than anywhere else in the world. • Dorado, grouper, flounder to name a few • You must have a fishing license (approximately $10 a day or $40 a year) Do I need to watch the tide charts? • Most local newspapers or magazines have a tide chart. It is a good idea to look at one before your trip. Just be aware of high and low tides and reefs close to the shore. Visit www.mexicolivingguide.com or subscribe to the print edition of Mexico Living and receive one monthly. What do I need to reenter the United States? • Passport (mandated as of June 1, 2009), boat registration and trailer title. Photo by Paco Clark
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Cover Feature
Fishing Licenses
FISHING CALENDAR
Continued from page 33
When you buy your sport fishing licenses directly at the state tourism offices, you are helping Baja California’s great recreational sports activity. The revenue obtained from the sale of these licenses stays in Baja California and are reinvested to maintain and promote this important tourism activity. Join us in this effort, by obtaining your permits online: https://www2.ebajacalifornia.gob.mx/Pesca Procedure: You can easily obtain your fishing licenses in and Calle Las Rocas no. 1477, (646) 172-5444 any state tourism offices in Tijuana, Playas de Rosarito, PUERTO SALINA LA MARINA Marina Puerto Salina, Ensenada, San Quintín, Bahía de Antonio Palacios, Km.73 Scenic Road, Tijuana – San Luis Gonzaga, San Felipe or Bahía de los Ángeles. Ensenada, (646) 155-4106 or 155-4186 1. You need a valid photo ID. BAHIA DE SAN LUIS GONZAGA 2. You can purchase these licenses individually or in a Rancho Grande, Rafael Rodriguez Murillo, Bahia de group directly at the premises—you will be issued an San Luis Gonzaga B.C., (555) 151-4065 official receipt and corresponding licenses. SAN QUINTIN Type of Permits* Ave. Benito Juarez No. 209, Sur Carretera Individual sport fishing permits: Transpeninsular, Col. Vicente Guerrero, (616) 166One day – $136 One week – $284 4058 One month – $408 One year – $531 BAHIA DE LOS ANGELES Boat permits (one year): Estacion de Servicio Bahia, Sergio Armando Lopez Up to 7 meters (23 feet) – $364 Escobedo, Carretera El Parador-Bahia Km 63+800 From 7.01 to 9 meter (24–30 feet) – $734 Bahia de Los Angeles Over 9 meters (31 feet) – $1,101 US Customs Regulations: Sportfishermen may bring into Boat permits for sport fishing service providers: the United States only fish for personal consumption. Up to 3 gross tons registered – $787 Anyone bringing fish into the United States will be Over 3 gross tons registered – $2,361 asked by customs officials to present a valid Mexican Payment Form: In cash directly at the state tourism offices fishing license or a Mexico Department of Fisheries and authorized sales points, conveniently located in: form covering the purchase of the fish. ENSENADA * Prices quoted are Mexican currency. State Secretariat of Tourism, Blvd. Lazaro Cardenas Jack Crevalla Kelp Bass Halibut King Mackerel Ling Cod Mackerel Machete Marlin, Blue Marlin, Black Marlin, Striped Mero Claro Needlefish Pacific Whitefish Palomera Picuda Pargo Rockfish Roncador Roosterfish Sailfish Sierra Sea Bass Shark Skipjack Red Snapper Snook Tuna Wahoo White Sea Bass Yellowfin Tuna Yellowtail
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June-Dec. Aug.-Nov.
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Destinations
Baja California is the northernmost state of Mexico. Before becoming a state in 1953, the area was known as the North Territory of Baja California. Consisting of 3.57 percent of the land mass of Mexico, it comprises the northern half of the Baja California peninsula, north of the 28th parallel. The state is bordered on the west by the Pacific Ocean; on the east by Sonora, the U.S. state of Arizona and the Gulf of California (also known as the Sea of Cortez); and on the south by Baja California Sur. Its northern limit is the U.S. state of California. Baja California Sur is one of the 31 states of Mexico. Before becoming a state in 1974, the area was known as the South Territory of Baja California. It has an area that covers 3.57 percent of the land mass of Mexico and comprises the southern half of the Baja California peninsula, south of the 28th parallel. It is bordered to the north by the state of Baja California, to the west by the Pacific Ocean and to the east by the Gulf of California (also known as the Sea of Cortez). The state also has maritime borders with Sonora and Sinaloa to the east across the Gulf of California. Sonora is one of the 31 federal states of Mexico and is located in the northwest of the country. The Sonoran coastline is 1,208 km long. Sonora borders the state of Chihuahua to the east, Sinaloa to the south and Baja California to the northwest; to the north it shares an extensive border with the U.S. state of Arizona and a shorter one with New Mexico. To its west lies the Gulf of California; the state of Baja California Sur also shares a maritime boundary with Sonora. The state's total perimeter is 2,505 km. Sonora is the second largest state in Mexico, representing 9.2 percent of the nation's total area.
Baja California • Playas de Rosarito........... 38 • Ensenada......................... 42 • Mexicali........................... 48 • Los Algodones................. 49 • San Felipe........................ 50 Baja California Sur • Mulege............................. 68 • Loreto.............................. 69 • La Paz.............................. 70 • San Jose del Cabo........... 72 • Cabo San Lucas............... 73 Sonora • Puerto Peñasco............... 74 • San Carlos....................... 88
Pacific side of Lover’s Beach in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico by Jeffery Campbell
Rosarito Beach, Baja California
Rosarito Beach, Baja California
Photo by Lynn Gatch
Rosarito Beach Hotel Pier
P
layas de Rosarito, or Rosarito Beach as it is referred to in English, 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 from San Ysidro merge into the right lane and follow the signs to the PLAYAS DE TIJUANAROSARITO. You’ll see the border fence to your right as you travel west. Take the right turn-off to the road ENSENADA CUOTA. 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. You can get dollars from an HSBC ATM. 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.
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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 Beach, Baja California
ROSARITO DIRECTORY ICON Descriptions
#
- Pool/Spa
- Accept Credit Cards
- Pet Friendly
- Wi-Fi / Internet
- Serves Breakfast
- Kitchen/Restaurant
- Beer/Spirits
- Map Number
- Reader Poll Winner
DIALING INSTRUCTIONS: USA to MX Cel Phone: 011+52+1+Area Code+(Tel #) USA to Mexico: 011+52+Area Code+(Tel #) Mexico to USA: 001+Area Code+(Tel #) MX Landline to MX Cell Phone: 045 or 044+Area Code+(Tel #) MX Cell Phone to MX Landline: Area Code+(Tel #) DIALING 800 NUMBER:
Playas de Rosarito
Mexico Living Contact Information
Associate Publisher Carlos Durán 661-614-3019 / carlos@mexicoliving.info 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 wellknown 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.
Get the Guide At: La Bamba Restaurant Medio Camino (Halfway House) Rosarito Beach Hotel Lobby Coffee Shop D’Groomer - dog grooming Click On - Puerto Nuevo
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: MX 411 (Spanish only).................................040 Tourist Assistance Hotline............................076 Green Angels (MX toll Free)......1-800-903-0092 Worldwide Emergency No.for Mobile is....... 112 Emergencies.................................... 060 & 066 Sky Medical (from Mexico)...001-866-805-9624 Air-E-Vac ............................001-880-321-9522
R OSAR I TO BEA C H
Some international fees may apply on landlines.
WHERE TO EAT American Food .............................................661-100-2560 La Bamba 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 French Chabert’s.....................................................661-612-1111 Le Cousteau.................................................661-612-2655 Italian Portofino......................................................661-612-2950 Mexican Calafia.........................................................661-614-9815 El Patio........................................................661-612-2950 La Cazuela Del Mole.....................................661-612-2910 Magaña’s La Misión Restaurant Bar.............646-155-0586 Maria Sabina................................................661-613-1532 The Palm Grill (Puerto Nuevo)......................661-614-1203 Pizza Virgilio’s Pizza..............................................661-612-1210 Steak & Seafood .......................661-614-1135 Bobby’s Baja by the Sea El Nido.........................................................661-612-1431 La Guerita Restaurant . ................................661-612-1019
Get more info: www.mexicolivingguide.com - 39
Rosarito Beach, Baja California
Jorge Cuadros Will Take Care of Your Utilities and Insurance Needs He can also assist you with your FM3 filing and mucho mas by Carlos Durán
Jorge Cuadros and Associates have been taking care of the needs of full- and part-time expat residents of Rosarito since 1972. You don’t stay in business that long unless you are doing a good job and making a positive contribution to the community. In addition to the above services, they can take charge of renting your property as they now also offer property management. Need a CPA for accounting or assistance with your bank trust? Sí, también. All these high-quality services are available for the entire Rosarito area. They are the only ones that allow
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you to view your account 24/7 online. And to save you a trip to the bank or post office, you are now able to pay for their services and your utilities using PayPal, the safest way to send funds. That’s only half the story for the Jorge Cuadros Sr. location at “Quinta Plaza” south building next to the “Caliente Sports Book” in Rosarito, phone (661) 6121295. His son Jorge Cuadros Jr., located at “Oceana Plaza” Module A, Ste. 4, phone (661) 612-5826, offers many other services you may need, such as: HOA Management, Maintenance (including painting, plumbing, electric, add-ons, pool maintenance; and all the work is guaranteed), Construction (new construction projects, design, remodeling, supervision, contracts), Full Public Accounting (set up new business or Mexican corporations, Municipal State and Federal permits), Tax Consulting (strategies to minimize Capital Gains taxes), Trust Legal Assistance (new buyers, extensions, transfers, probates, bank substitutions, titles, escrow and appraisals) and Building inspections. Email him with questions or concerns: jorgecuadros@mail.com. On their website they also offer a newsletter with the latest news from how long the wait is to cross the border, new stores in town, police announcements to useful information for foreign residents living in Rosarito, as well as links to media and government services. Check it out. www.jorgecuadros.com, a one-stop shop for all your needs.
Rosarito Beach, Baja California
Around Town in Rosarito with Carlos Durán a voice in City Hall as well as to distribute important contact information in case of emergencies. He visited three strategic locations. The area between Ortega’s and the Tienda Eléctrica; Ejido Mazatlán strip mall; and the Quinta Plaza Commercial Center, as well as Oceana Plaza and the Artisan Marketplace. Rosarito BBVA Bancomer’s Luke Bocanegra says, “Not because we speak your language, but because we understand you.” In a letter to the English speaking community of Rosarito, he is inviting the public to peruse the services his bank is providing to ease your banking challenges while living in Mexico. A free event at Abelardo Rodriguez Park (CEMAC) to celebrate International Dance Day took place on April 25. Thirteen dance companies took part and there were also exhibits of art and photography of local artists. The event was sponsored by the city. Rosarito celebrates “Children and Journalism” as part of the International Children’s Day program. Last year’s winner of the journalism award, Jazmín Mendoza Mejía, was present and welcomed the participants, and Mayor Torres emphasized the importance of young people’s involvement in civic affairs. The “Angels” chorus from Holy Sacrament Church was very well received by the audience of children and city staff.
Los Pelicanos..............................................661-612-1757 Villa Ortega’s...............................................661-614-0706 ..............................661-612-1253 Vince’s Old Pier
INSURANCE Jorge Cuadros y Asociados.......................... 661-612-1295 Lynda’s Insurance (English speaking)........... 686-577-1622
WHERE TO STAY RV Park/Parque de RV Baja Season RV Parks..................................661-628-6128 Popotla R.V. Park......................................... 661-612-1501 Motel Camino Inn..................................................661-612.2803 Hotel / Condo Baja Rentals.................................... www.BajaCatalina.com Bobby’s Baja by the Sea ...................661-614-1135 ...........................................800-800-9632 Costa Azul Grand Baja Resort (Puerto Nuevo) ..............................................877-315-1002
Click On
INTERNET ................................................661-614-0513
Click On
MAILING SERVICES ................................................661-614-0513
REAL ESTATE AGENTS/AGENTES DE BIENES RAÍCES Nicolas Santos (Rosarito).............................619-917-5695 Laura Miller . .................Rosarito Beach 661-612-5844 Member NAR (US) AMPI (Mx) US 619-888-6171 REAL ESTATE/BIENES RAÍCES Ensenada Remax.........................................661-612-1132 REAL ESTATE SERVICES Baja Closing & Escrow Services...................760-494-7053
BUSINESS DIRECTORY A-Z
Satellite TV Installation Cisco-Sat.....................................................661-616-0779
CHURCH Rosarito Beach Christian Church .................661-613-1985
STORAGE SERVICES Baja Public Storage............. 619-272-3271, 661-614-1642
DOG GROOMERS D’ Groomer Dog Grooming ....................661-100-6218
utilities/empresas de servicios públicos CFE ................................612-143 0064 or 612-142 0237 TELMEX . ....................................................612-142 0001 CALIGAS......................................................612-142 0122
Elevators/Elevadores To The Top Elevators....................................661-614-1434
R OSAR I TO BEA C H
On a request by Rosy Torres, Rosarito Beach Mayor Hugo Torres donates an 11,000-square-meter plot of land to the Rosarito Boys and Girls Club. Rosy Torres has also invited the school of architects for ideas and plans for the project and the firm Sánchez & Montoya Arquitectos stepped up and offered their service to the club. The club will benefit 450 to 500 children in two sessions, which will be coordinated with school schedules. The only requisites for membership are that the children be between the ages of 6 to 16, of lowincome, attend school and be from single-parent homes. There are 4,000 clubs in the U.S. and one in Tijuana. The Rosarito facility will consist of proven techniques and building facilities. It will provide a safe place for children to learn from professional adults with sports and academic programs, as well as an opportunity for artistic expression. There’s a new pie and deli store in the downtown area that, to date, has been a big hit with the expat community. Diego’s Deli on Juarez Blvd, up the street from the Rosarito Beach Hotel, offers great soups, sandwiches and homemade pies. Their French Onion soup is to die for, a must try. Mayor Torres visits with merchants along Juárez Blvd to listen to their concerns and assure them that they have
FINANCING/FINANCIAMIENTO Baja Lending Company................................686-576-0653 FISH/PESCADERÍA Vince's Old Peir ...........................................661-612-1253 Home Furnishings Baja Nueva Decorating Studio......................686-211-4676 Custom contemporary furniture & home accessories Serving Rosarito, Ensenada, Puerto Penasco, San Felipe
Get more info: www.mexicolivingguide.com - 41
Ensenada, Baja California
DRIVING DISTANCES
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
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Ensenada, Baja California
E
Ensenada, Baja California
Ensenada
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.
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.
GETTING TO ENSENADA
GETTING AROUND TOWN
Get the Guide At: Baja Mart & Deli - at Baja mar Baja Country Club Magañas La Misión Restaurant La Vendimia Restaurant CasaMar Restaurant El Rey Sol Restaurant El Rey Sol Hotel The Happy Pharmacy
Associate Nuria Holly Bocanegra 661-114-8007 / nuriaholly@mexicoliving.info
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. Taking The Bus from San Diego is another option. 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. If you Arrive By Ship to the Ensenada port terminal,
Mexico Living Contact Information
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 Autobuses. 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 646-176-3344, located at 1442 Blvd. Lazaro Cardenas or Renta-Car 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. Get more info: www.mexicolivingguide.com - 43
Ensenada, Baja California
“After a two-year search of over 70 possible property sites, we chose the only oceanfront, 1,800 acre, private reserve available in Northern Baja California that met our requirements. A spectacular oceanfront whitewater setting with miles of hiking, biking and walking trails that offered an extremely safe and secure location within minutes of the San Diego/Mexico International border. A community that offered over 300 existing residences, a hotel, restaurant and 27 holes of golf were just bonus features that set Bajamar apart from any other location between the border and Ensenada. These were just a few of the reasons that we chose Bajamar to create the ultimate in luxurious living with a true sense of community featuring a country club atmosphere” –Douglas Welch, Corporate Director of Sales, Santa Barbara At Bajamar
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Ensenada, Baja California first opportunity for a select few to buy a unit under their “CLUB Santa Barbara Co-Ownership“ plan. This offers a full one-sixth ownership of a fully-furnished model to utilize eight weeks per year starting at only $89,000! The CLUB level is only available on the second floor of each building. Other great features of living in this private gated community are the challenging 27 hole Bajamar Oceanfront Golf Course, the 81 room Bajamar Hotel and Restaurant as well as the planned Greg Norman 18 hole signature golf course. There are countless paths of walking trails on this beautiful private playground for hiking, biking and oceanfront relaxing just waiting to be explored. Why not visit Santa Barbara At Bajamar . . . You won’t be disappointed! Contact Douglas Welch to schedule an appointment. From the U.S., call (800) 791-9881; from Mexico, call the office at (646) 1554020 or on his cell (646) 947-7244.
ENSENADA
This pretty well describes the beautiful new development just a short, safe 45-minute drive south of the San Diego/Mexico border along the beautiful Scenic Highway 1 approximately 15 miles north of Ensenada and 20 miles northwest of the Guadalupe Valley “Wine Country”—named by the New York Times as “the next Napa Valley.” Santa Barbara At Bajamar is the crown jewel of the Baja coastline as it features a beautiful four-building condominium community of up to 106 units. Phase one was completed in September and was instantly successful as the unique and lavish style features an exquisite fusion of Early California Mansions and luxurious Spanish Haciendas. Each building offers a total of 24 single-level units starting at a 1,930 square feet, 2 bedroom/2 bath. “Santa Ynez” from $360,000 . . . all the way up to the “La Cumbre” 4,150-square-foot penthouses from $720,000. The other two plans are the 2,050-squarefoot, 3 bedroom/2 bath “Montecito” from $432,000, and the 2,630-square-foot, 3 bedroom/3 bath “Carrillo” from $526,500. A unique feature of Santa Barbara At Bajamar is that they have also introduced into Northern Baja the
Get more info: www.mexicolivingguide.com - 45
Ensenada, Baja California
Around Town in by Carlos Durán
a Ensenad
Adalberto Meillón Gallery welcomed racers that participated in the Newport-Ensenada Regatta. After visiting his gallery in the Artisan Center near the cruise port, he invited several sailors and their wives for a ceviche lunch and a tour of his personal art collection. In addition to his own artwork, he carries clay pots similar in style to the New Mexico Pueblo indigenous pieces. But his clay creations come from similar cultures just south of the border in Chihuahua. Participants were also treated to the event New Wine Festival, hosted by the local vintners. Ensenada maintained a festive atmosphere, though not as crowded as in previous years. Baja California loses a good friend. The archeologist Felipe Solís Olguín, director of the National Archeological Museum passed away on April 23 due to a heart attack. He was a promoter of national and local cultural heritage. He is related to the Olguín Hermida family of Ensenada as his uncle was Jorge Olguín Hermida, an Ensenada pioneer. Before he took on Mexico City’s greatest museum, Mr. Solís supported INAH (federal archeological agency) in Baja California with an exhibit called “Antique México” at Ensenada’s Regional Museum, and other exhibits still open for viewing at the Ex Aduana Marítima Museum in downtown Ensenada. On the international stage his expositions on Olmeca, Aztec, and Mesoamerican cultures have appreared in London, Berlin and Bonn as well as at the Guggenheim in New York and Bilbao. May he rest in peace after a life a dedication to preserving and promoting Mexico’s national identity.
ENSENADA DIRECTORY ICON Descriptions
- Accept Visa/credit cards - Wi-Fi / Internet - Kitchen/Restaurant
- Pool/Spa - Pet Friendly - Serves Breakfast - Beer/Spirits
DIALING INSTRUCTIONS: USA to MX Cel Phone: 011+52+1+Area Code+(Tel #) USA to Mexico: 011+52+Area Code+(Tel #) Mexico to USA: 001+Area Code+(Tel #) MX Landline to MX Cell Phone: 045 or 044+Area Code+(Tel #) MX Cell Phone to MX Landline: Area Code+(Tel #) DIALING 800 NUMBER:
Some international fees may apply on landlines.
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: MX 411 (Spanish only).................................040 Tourist Assistance Hotline............................076 Green Angels (MX toll Free)......1-800-903-0092 Worldwide Emergency No.for Mobile is....... 112 Emergencies.................................... 060 & 066 Sky Medical (from Mexico)...001-866-805-9624 Air-E-Vac ............................001-880-321-9522
WHERE TO EAT Coffee & Breakfast La Casa Antigua ......................................646-175-7320 Chinese . .....................................646-178-2516 Bamboo Garden Italian Gondolieri Ristorante Italiano...........................646-174-0976 Mexican Amigos Cantina...............................................619-917-5696 Casa Mar Restaurant Bar.................................646-174-0417 www.restaurantcasamar.com . ..................................646-108-4702 Brisa del Mar Broncos Steakhouse .........................646-176-4900 Costa Azul . ......................................646-154-2540 Hussong’s Cantina ............................646-178-3210 Magana’s........................................................646-155-0586 Haliotis ............................................646-176-3720 Steak & Seafood El Rey Sol.......................................................646-178-1601 . ...................................646-176-1044 Las Cazuelas La Finca de Ensenada ...............................646-172-5833 La Embotelladora Vieja .....................646-174-0807 La Mansion de Ensenada . ................646-178-3271
Photo by Carlos Durán
WHERE TO STAY
Adalberto Meillón, Ensenada artist.
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RV Park/Parque de RV Mona Lisa RV Park..........................................646-177-5100 Popotla R.V. Park.............................................661-612-1501 Motels/Moteles America Motel ..........................................646-176-1333 Rudis Motel . ...........................................646-176-3245 Ensenada Inn..................................................646-176-1361 Hotel El Joker..................................................646-177-5151 Posada Don Fernando.....................................646-177-0127 Azteca Inn.......................................................646-177-4015 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 Posada El Rel Sol . ...................................646-178-1601 San Nicolas Hotel............................................646-176-1901 Oxidox Cafe....................................................646-178-8827 Rentals Baja Rentals.......................................www.BajaCatalina.com
BUSINESS DIRECTORY A-Z
Aeropuerto/Airport Aeropuerto ....................................................646-273-1984 Art Gallery Garery Art & Stuff...........................................646-175-8859 ARTIST Alfonso Arambulua..........................................646-149-3866 DEVELOPMENT MANAGEMENT/MANEJO DE FRACCIONAMIENTOS Baja Mar Country Club ..........................1-800-434-2252 FINANCING/FINANCIAMIENTO Baja Lending Company...................................686-576-0653 Home Furnishings Baja Nueva Decorating Studio..................... 686-211-4676 Custom contemporary furniture & home accessories Serving Rosarito, Ensenada, Puerto Penasco, San Felipe HEALTH SPA La Fonda.........................................................646-155-0394 INSURANCE Lynda’s Insurance (English speaking)..............686-577-1622
ENSENADA
Ensenada, Baja California
MEDICAL SERVICES/SERVICIOS MÉDICOS ISSSTE ..........................................................646-176-2230 IMSS .............................................................646-120-7771 Centro de Salud..............................................646-152-1371 MUSIC/MUSICA Pharmacy Regia & House of Music.................646-174-0557 Professional Services PSN Mexico Professional Services..................646-178-8280 Legal/Immigration Assist FM3/FM2/FMT Import documentation www.psnmexico.com POLICE/POLICÍA Policia Ministerial............................................646-176-3636 Policia Federal Caminos................................. 646-683-8040 Policia Federal Preventiva ...............................646-176-2579 Prefectura Naval........................................... 469-0376/2948 public transportation/ el transporte público Terminal de Buses...........................................646-224-1041 REAL ESTATE AGENTS/ AGENTES DE BIENES RAÍCES Nicolas Santos (Rosarito)................................619-917-5695 REAL ESTATE SERVICES Baja Closing & Escrow Services......................760-494-7053 utilities/empresas de servicios públicos CFE ...................................612-143 0064 or 612-142 0237 TELMEX . ....................................................... 612-142 0001 CALIGAS......................................................... 612-142 0122 Vinos Fuentes Winery
Winery ..............................646-171-7070
Get more info: www.mexicolivingguide.com - 47
Mexicali, Baja California
Mexicali, Baja California
M
exicali is on the Mexico border adjacent to Calexico and is the northernmost city in Latin America, located at 32°40´0˝N 115°28´0˝W. Mexicali is the capital of the Mexican state of Baja California. Mexicali is also the seat of the Municipality of Mexicali. For centuries, the Colorado River fertilized these lands, which would eventually become one of the most important cotton hubs in the world. Americans, Chinese, Mexicans, East Indians and Japanese were so involved in productive endeavors that they forgot to formally found the city. Combining the words “Mexico” and “California,” they came upon the name Mexicali. Years later, on March 14, 1903, Mexicali was officially founded and gradually transformed into the capital of Baja California. Today, it is a progressive
city and its main industry has gone from agricultural to industrial. The standard of living is the highest in Mexico. It is recognized in Mexico for its sizable investment in education and low unemployment. Annually, thousands of people arrive in Mexicali for a variety of reasons—business, family, hunting, those who are looking to enjoy the surrounding nature. Mexicali’s geographical location and modern infrastructure has also made it a prime location for business meetings, fairs, expos and conventions. Offering a variety of quality products and services, as well as sports and cultural activities, Mexicali has what it takes to suit every visitor’s needs. Source: Mexicali Tourism Board and Wikipedia.org.
EMERGENCY PHONES Policía, Cruz Roja, Bomberos.......................................... 066
Hospital General..................................(686) 556-1123 Al 29
Asistencia Turistica.......................................................... 078
ISSSTE................................................(686) 557-2240 Al 44
Comisión Federal De Electricidad.................................... 071
ISSSTECALI.................................................(686) 557-2626
Comisión Estatal De Servicios Publicos De Mexicali...... 073
IMSS.............................................................(686) 555-5151
Policia Federal De Caminos.........................(686) 554-2909
Centro de Salud............................................(686) 554-4686
Rescate Brigadas del Sol.............................(686) 568-7878
Procuraduria Federal del Consumidor.........(686) 557-3085
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Los Algodones, Baja California
Los Algodones, Baja California
los algodones
of Mexicali, appro-ximately 16 km (10 miles) west of Yuma, Arizona, USA. It is the northernmost town in Mexico, and at its northeastern tip is the northernmost point in Mexico. Its official name is Vicente Guerrero, although most people use Algodones when referring to it. It reported a population of 4,021 as of the 2005 Mexican census (Segundo Conteo de Población y Vivienda 2005). Situated near the borders of both southeastern California and southwestern Arizona, Los Algodones has become a popular tourist attraction in recent years due in part to inexpensive shopping and restaurants as well as inexpensive medical care and prescription medicines. The warm, dry climate of the area attracts a number of older tourists from across the United States and Canada who settle during the winter in the nearby U.S. towns of Yuma, Arizona, and Winterhaven, California, and Mexican resort towns of Puerto Peñasco, Sonora, and San Felipe, Baja California. From the U.S. side, Los Algodones is most easily reached via Interstate 8 and south a short distance (3.33 Km/2.07 mi) along State Route 186/Andrade Road to the international border at Andrade, California. From Andrade, visitors can elect to park their vehicles for a small fee and walk across the border or to drive across. The exact geographical location is 32°42´55˝N 114°43´44˝W at an elevation of 110 feet/33.5 meters above mean sea level. The Spanish-language name Los Algodones translates into English as “The Cotton (plants).”
Los Algodones
os Algodones, Baja California, is a L small Mexican town located on the extreme northeastern tip of the municipality
Los Algodones
Mexico Living Contact Information
Associate Publisher Bill Maine 686-231-4921 / billmaine@gmail.com
BUSINESS DIRECTORY A-Z Dentist Dr. Mario A Garibay, DDS ...............................658-517-3286
Source: wikipedia.org
EMERGENCY PHONES Bomberos Algodones (FIRE)......................... 658-517-7777
Get the Guide At:
Policia............................................................................... 066
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San Felipe, Baja California
The San Felipe Arches The monument at the entrance to San Felipe 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.
DRIVING DISTANCES 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
IMPORTANT NUMBERS Emergency Help (Like USA 911) 066 Airport 686-577-1368 Civil Protection Unit 686-577-1433 Comision Federal de Electricidad 071 District Attorney 686-577-1110 Fire Dept. 686-577-1182 Health Dept. 686-577-1521
Baja 24/7 Baja Nueva Blowin Smoke BBQ Botica Pharmacy
Hospital Immigration Office Mayor’s Office Police Local Police Federal Police State Judicial Port Captain
686-577-0117 686-577-1083 686-577-1021 686-577-1134 686-577-1045 686-577-1203 686-577-1577
Red Cross 686-577-1544 Secretary of Tourism 686-577-1155 Telnor 686-577-1000 Tourism Dept. 686-577-1155 Tourist Assistance (Green Angels) 078
Get the Guide At: Charley AM/PM Chumpos Pizza & Ice Cream CSI Baja
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Fatboys Pizza Lighthouse Restaurant LilyAnna’s Day Spa
Photo by Rachel Pack
San Felipe, Baja California
San Felipe, Baja California
San Felipe
Mexico Living Contact Information
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.
GETTING TO SAN FELIPE
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.
Los Arcos Happy Jackass Maderas de San Felipe Maxivision Optical
Associate Publisher Bill Maine 686-231-4921 / billmaine@gmail.com
ATM/GETTING CASH
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.
SAN FEL I PE
S
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. 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.
Get the Guide At: Rancho Otro Mercado Rosita Restaurant Sand & Sea Market & Deli
Santa Fe Pharmacy SunRunner Mail Service YetMail
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San Felipe, Baja California
Around Town in
ipe San Fel
Ahhh. Another spring in San Felipe coming to an end and the beginning of the summer feels like it is upon us. Semana Santa has come and gone without much incident, from what I heard. The usual pilgrimage to San Felipe brought business to downtown and parties to the beach. In celebration of Earth Day, April 22, and in an attempt to clean up the beaches in our little town, Casey Hamlin hosted a beach clean up and Mexico Living helped pickup and launched the Beautiful San Felipe T-shirt program to fund such clean up projects. Many volunteers showed up with gloves in hand to pick up trash all along the beach. Personally, I got about 8 pounds of garbage! So, imagine how much more was actually picked up! The Marina Police were also there in full force getting all the big stuff. (California Dental & Optical’s) David and Melina’s wedding on April 25 could be dubbed the social event of the year. They wed on the beach and had an amazing reception near their home. Simultaneously, Agave Blues had a private party to entertain in the South Campos in celebration of Ruben’s birthday. ¡FELIZ COMPLEAÑOS, RUBEN! Of course, on band’s return from down south, they
stopped in at the wedding to wish their friends lifelong happiness! Jim Moore and Bill Maine performed Dave and Melina’s band-favorite song, Song For You. It was truly amazing. Club de Pesca’s 7th Annual Chili Cook-off brought hundreds of people out to try San Felipe’s finest chili creations. Smokin’ Tonsils won this year, with the People’s Choice going to South
Photo by Robin Waters
David and Melina’s April 25th Wedding.
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Chili Cook-off Winners
Campo’s Rob Nikel, Georgia and Jim. Agave Blues played music well into the late afternoon and even welcomed local Ian Thompson to the stage to sing his Rolling Stones favorites. And let’s not forget the San Felipe Ladies’ Yacht Club who sang backup for the boys on I Shot the Sheriff. Many thanks to Pancho and Jorge Limon and Joseph Malek for their hard work and dedication to make the cook-off a great success...AGAIN! For some local schedule updates, Mac and Nan’s Karaoke is now being held at Playa de Oro’s Beach Bar each Saturday night. They are always great hosts for this San Felipe pastime. Porky J’s is now open at Fandangos at 2 p.m. each day the bar is open. You will find amazing pork ribs and BBQ there. North folks, don’t forget about Blowin’ Smoke for your BBQ delights! Jolly Mon Bar, located in Plaza Paraiso (KM 178.5) has something for everyone EVERY NIGHT OF THE WEEK! San Felipe’s Best Karaoke 2008, Sing-out Sisters and Chuey, can now be found there each Tuesday at 6 p.m. Check the Jolly Mon calendar left in your mailbox or on their door to see what you might want to participate in. And lastly, let’s hit this swine flu right in its pig nose! There is no swine flu in San Felipe, and according to the Mexican health officials in Mexicali, there have been no reported cases of this strain of the virus in Baja. Happy Summer, Everyone!
SAN FEL I PE
Photo by Robin Waters
San Felipe, Baja California
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San Felipe, Baja California
by Carlos and Julia Bono
By George, a surprising number of businesses now share that name in San Felipe! The most recent addition is the New George’s Café located on Manzanillo near Mar Bermejo Sur that serves a casual combination of Mexican, American and Seafood dishes. Sporting a new facelift is the more established and formal George’s Steakhouse Restaurant and Bar, which is located between George’s Motel and YetMail on Mar Caribe. Also, a new bilingual sign appeared on the Malecon in April featuring a beautiful picture of nearby Consag Island and a map that serves as a reminder to all of the protected nature of the local biosphere surrounding San Felipe. The sign also mentions the nearby Vaquita porpoise preserve, and the fact that the Vaquita is the only marine mammal native to Mexico. Visitors are also asked to help keep the area clean by taking their trash with them. Infrastructure development continues in San Felipe, as road construction progresses steadily on the planned four-lane highway between San Felipe and Mexicali. Also, the street next to the San Felipe Police Station has now been paved, as was the access road to Las Minitas, and Av. Veracruz. The Topolobampo and Mar Negro roads have recently been resurfaced, and public bathrooms on the Malecon have been improved and enlarged. Local children are especially pleased about the construction of the newly-fenced children’s play park in the Gavilanes neighborhood, which features modern swing sets, shade structures, slides and other new playground equipment. Also, a ramada was built at the Jaime Nuno primary school as part of the “Escuela Digna” or Dignified School program. Regarding events in San Felipe, April featured the
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Photo by Julia Bono
San Felipe News Briefs
Upgraded George’s Steakhouse Restaurant and Bar with George’s Motel next door.
huge, annual Easter or “Semana Santa” festivities that ran from April 7 to 12. The event was attended by an estimated 70,000 people from all over Mexico, but primarily tourists from Mexicali and Tijuana. A highlight occurred on Good Friday when Father Julio Bustillos coordinated the crucifixion passion play events for the Parish of Our Lady of Guadalupe in San Felipe. While the town was certainly crowded, attendance was down 50 percent from last year, making this year’s Semana Santa celebration comparatively peaceful. The strong police presence reported no major incidents, and the crowd generally had a good time on the Malecon enjoying the beautiful beach, live music, carnival rides and other entertainment. Also notable was the first annual Guty Miranda Fishing Tournament that was held on April 17. Prizes were awarded on the Malecon, right across the street from Rosita’s Restaurant, an event sponsor. Yet another major event was held on May 2 as the Club de Pesca hosted its 7th Annual International Chili Cook-Off with a great turnout. Local band Agave Blues played, and great chili was prepared by the contestants to the considerable enjoyment of those who attended. Finally, San Felipe’s local American football team the Tiburones (Sharks) de San Felipe played their first game against the Tigres de Tijuana and won 14-0.
San Felipe, Baja California
What are the South Campos? by June Snow, Editor of the Gringo Gazette
president, treasurer and secretary. A Compo can elect not to belong to the ejido, but then they are not privy to the legal protection of the ejido. Most people are unaware of the fact that most of the peninsula of Baja is ejido land! On the west side of Baja the ejidos are mostly used for farming. The owners are called “campecinos.” However, when it came to this desert land, farming was impossible, so small camps were formed and beach and desert lots began being offered for rent. I have tried to give you a partial rundown regarding the development in the past, but now it is the time to concentrate on the present. Many foreigners have taken this magic land into their hearts. Took the challenge of moving here! They come from every walk of life, some discover this is not their bag and go back. Many jumped in with both feet, opened their arms wide and embrace it wholeheartedly! I was one of them, 24 years ago!
SAN FEL I PE
Traveling south from San Felipe, just outside of town you will enter a two lane highway. Soon you come to a curve that obviously turns left, do so. You are now on the road towards the South Campos. The town of San Felipe ends at Km 13, just two kilometers beyond the last telephone pole. You are now entering a very long and sparsely populated area. Many people are unaware of the fact that once you go beyond Km 13, you are under the jurisdiction of Ensenada and legal matters must take place in Ensenada, not Mexicali. Most Oceanographer’s maps show that even parts of San Felipe are under Ensenada jurisdiction, curious but true! About 40 years ago there were only a few developments south, other than for fishing. Among those were Santa María, Percebú, Coloradito and Puertecitos, to name a few. Men traveled south from Mexicali to cut Ironwood trees (Palo Fierro) to sell to bakeries, etc., for firewood. One day, a man from Delicias, Chihuahua, Mexico, named Elutherio Ramirez happened upon the scene. He told the men that he believed this place could be a very lucrative location to build a community. None of them believed him saying that the only things there were scorpions, rattle snakes and cacti! Ramirez spread his arms wide and pointed to the magnificent “Golfo de California” in front of them. Fifty men eventually signed up, Ramirez then went to Mexico City, obtained the necessary documents and put into motion an ejido for this area. That was the beginning! Ejido is pronounced “eh hee tho,” and is foreign to many people, but in reality means a small settlement, not unlike “homesteading.” The new campo owners, ejidatariors, must attend an ejido meeting the last Sunday of each month to discuss any problems or new ideas for the benefit of their camps and the general area. They are fined if they fail to show up. They elect officers every three years, a president, vice-
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San Felipe, Baja California DIALING INSTRUCTIONS: USA to MX Cel Phone: 011+52+1+Area Code+(Tel #) USA to Mexico: 011+52+Area Code+(Tel #) Mexico to USA: 001+Area Code+(Tel #) MX Landline to MX Cell Phone: 045 or 044+Area Code+(Tel #) MX Cell Phone to MX Landline: Area Code+(Tel # DIALING 800 NUMBER: Some international fees may apply on landlines.
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: MX 411 (Spanish only).................................040 Tourist Assistance Hotline............................076 Green Angels (MX toll Free)......1-800-903-0092 Worldwide Emergency No.for Mobile is....... 112 Emergencies.................................... 060 & 066 Sky Medical (from Mexico)...001-866-805-9624 Air-E-Vac ............................001-880-321-9522
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San Felipe, Baja California
SAN FELIPE DIRECTORY ICON Descriptions
#
- Pool/Spa
- Accept Credit Cards
- Pet Friendly
- Wi-Fi / Internet
- Serves Breakfast
- Kitchen/Restaurant
- Beer/Spirits
- Map Number
- Reader Poll Winner
PLACES TO EAT American Los Arcos . ............................686-577-2585 Baja Java ......................................686-577-2465 Baja Jimmys...............................................686-139-7373 Beach Bar & Grill .....................686-577-3144 Blowin’ Smoke BBQ ....................................686-576-0710 Breakfast The Bistro “Java Jitters”
.........686-114-7735
Rancho del Sol . .....................686-231-4921 Redwagon Property Services.......................686-576-0081
Burgers Baja Burger..................................................686-577-2465 Chilis & Burgers...........................................686-577-6196
SAN FEL I PE
Ice Cream Chumpo’s Pizza and Ice Cream....................686-577-0085 Japanese Oshii Japanese Restaurant...........................686-184-9790 Mexican The Beach Bar and Grill ...........686-577-3144 El Club.........................................................686-577-1175 La Palapa Bar & Grill ...............686-200-4083 Mi Casa es Tu Casa......................................686-577-1495 Rancho Alegre ..........................686-576-0648 Rice & Beans .........................................686-577-1770 Rosita . ...........................................686-577-1903 Pizza Fatboy’s ..............................686-577-4092 Los Arcos - Happy Jackass . ............686-577-2585 Popeye’s Pizza.............................................686-577-1122 Rabbit Pizza Delivery....................................686-577-0987 Spanish Miguel & Paco
Sandollar Condotels.....................................686-123-7688 Places to Stay…Rentals…Sandollar Condotels Seaside Shangri-La Apartment.....................686-577-1573 Su Casa Elegante ..........................686-577-0745 Motels/Hotel Marina Resort
.............................686-577-1569
BUSINESS DIRECTORY (A-Z) ACCOUNTING/CONTABILIDAD CP E&A Accounting...........................................686-577-0836
..................................686-111-2257
Steak & Seafood Al’s Backstreet Cantina ...................686-577-1580 Green House................................................686-181-6358 El Nido ..................................................686-577-1028 Lighthouse Restaurant ..............686-577-2540 Los Arcos . .....................................686-577-2585 Fine Dining The Latin Garden..........................................686-209-6369 2-Highway 5 KM 183, San Felipe, BC Pavilion Restaurant .................686-577-0022
PLACES TO STAY 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
Alterations/sastre San Felipe Seamstress (Vickie Silva)............686-175-5420 ARCHITECT/ARQUITECTO Freddy Hernandez........................................686-946-7897 Licensed, CAD, Blue Prints, Graphic Design
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San Felipe, Baja California Rosa Lina Ramos Lazcano...........................686-184-6172 ART GALLERY Oasis Fine Art Gallery...................................686-221-1245 ARTIST/ARTISTA ....... E-mail: andrenajoyce@yahoo.com Andrena Joyce Melody Ashley..............E-mail: melodya2004@yahoo.com Robin Waters...............................................686-115-0526 Sandy Colomb "The Gourd Lady" . ...............686-576-0384 Watercolors by Mary Lou.............................686-171-5513
BARS/CLUBS ....................686-577-1580 Al’s Backstreet Cantina ..........686-577-3144 The Beach Bar and Grill . .............................................707-237-1906 V Lounge . .....................................686-577-0060 Fandango’s JollyMon......................................................686-213-5647
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......................686-576-0661 AUTO REPAIR/REPARACIÓN DE AUTO Automotive PIT STOP...................................686-173-0424 Km 183.3 Repair & Services-All electronic & Mechanical Reasonable rates. Call Now! Panaderia Especial
BAKERY/PANADERÍA ................................686-577-2948
BANK/BANCO BBVA Bancomer...........................................686-577-2224 Silvia Elizabeth Urbea, Preferred Customer’s Unit Ext. 13 BANDS/BANDAS Agave Blues.................................................686-184-9237
Los Arcos - Happy Jackass
..............686-577-2585
BEAUTY SALONS/SALONES DE BELLEZA .......................................686-113-3682 Hair By Nancy ..............................686-577-6253 Lilly Ana’s Day Spot 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! ..........................686-577-1515 Maderas de San Felipe
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SAN FEL I PE
San Felipe, Baja California
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San Felipe, Baja California CHOCOLATE/CHOCOLATE . .........................686-576-0348 Baja Chocolate Lovers
church Mission San Felipe.......................................686-577-0877
Mission San Felipe
Non Denominational Church
(English Speaking)
2 Blocks west of the Glorietta at Chetumal and Mar de Irlanda
SUNDAY SERVICE 8:45 AM Please call 577-0877
CITY SERVICES/SERVICIOS DE LA CIUDAD District Attorney’s........................................686-577-1110 Mayors Office..............................................686-577-1021 COFFEE & TEA/CAFÉ Y TE The Bistro (Java Jitters)...............................686-114-7735 COMPUTER SERVICES Computing Integral Solutions........................ 686-577-2370 CSI Baja....................................................... 686-577-2928 CONSTRUCTION MANAGEMENT/MANEJO DE CONSTRUCCIÓN San Felipe Management Services.................686-576-0553
Sweitzer Construction Management
.......686-577-0195
SWEITZER CONSTRUCTION MANAGEMENT COMPANY
Consultorio Dental Y de Ortodoncia .............686-577-6212
DEVELOPMENTS/FRACCIONAMIENTOS Casablanca..................................................686-157-1728 Diamante Residencial...................................686-569-2347 El Dorado Ranch..........................................686-577-0015 La Perla Del Mar...........................................760-458-7602 ..........................................686-576-0223 Playa de Oro Playa del Paraiso................................ 888-647-5292 x 704 San Marino..................................................686-577-0611 San Rafael...................................................686-576-0223 Discount Store El Cheap-O...................................................686-577-6263 DOCTORS/DOCTORES Dr. Victor Abasolo............ 686-577-1706 or 686-573-0174 ENTERTAINMENT/ENTRETENIMIENTO Name That Tune - Denny Flannigan...............686-576-1683 .. 686-576-0047 The Singout Sisters & Chuey (Karaoke) EVENT SERVICES/servicios acontecimiento Produciones Baja.........................................686-576-1683 FINANCING/FINANCIAMIENTO Baja Lending Company.......... ......................686-576-0653
MexQuest Mortgage Corp........... Toll Free: 1-888-257-9162 FILM DEVELOPMENT/IMPRESION DE FOTOS Fotografia Alvarez.........................................686-577-1144
BJ Sweitzer Consultant Carlos Mora Contractor
Phone: 577-0195 USA: 011-52-686-577-0195 Email: bejota10@aol.com
Perez Construction.......................................686-576-0650 COUNSELING-THERAPY/CONSULTA TERAPÉUTICA Inner Connection..........................................686-255-5447 DELI ......................686-577-3168 Sand & Sea Market & Deli .......................................686-576-0369 SunDance Deli DENTIST/DENTISTA . ............................686-577-0708 California Dental Spa Dr. Felix Rodriguez........................................686-577-1919
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Baja Nueva
FURNITURE/MUEBLERÍA ...........................................686-187-7795
San Felipe, Baja California Muebles Coloniales Rosy.............................686-577-1214 GENERAL CONTRACTOR/CONTRATISTA GENERAL See HOME BUILDERS/CONTRATISTAS GLASS SHOP & GARAGE DOORS/VIDRIERA Y PUERTAS DE GARAGE Ka-Va Hermanos..........................................686-147-3145 GOLF/GOLF Las Caras de Mexico....................................686-576-0517 Graphic Design/Diseño Gráfico GreetScape..................................................686-188-2393 GYNECOLOGIST/GINECÓLOGO Annel Becerra Prado....................................686-577-6350
HEALTH FODDS Sea Star Health Food Store...........................686-577-6250 HEALTH & fitness/SALUD Y ejercicio KenSue Martial Arts.....................................686-577-6023 Excerise, Taewaonndo, Mixed Martial Arts Heaven & Earth............................................ 686-182-3513 .......................................... 686-125-1555 Squats Gym
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HATS/sombreros Band It......................................................... 686-123-5147
HOME BUILDERS/CONTRATISTAS Baja 24/7 Construction & Real Estate...........686-577-6196 BC Homes...................................................686-569-3730 www.bajahomes.com.mx, riccardo@bajahomes.com.mx Construcciones Luevano..............................688-576-0304 HouSing.......................................................686-577-0810 M & O Construction.....................................686-124-3908 Oscar Parra..................................................686-163-6514 Oscar Perez.................................................686-120-6506
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San Felipe, Baja California Perez Construction.......................................686-236-4927
PMD Developments......................................638-105-9182 Quartermoon Construction . ........................686-228-7480 San Felipe Home Builders.............................686-577-3176
HOME CLEANING/LIMPIEZA DE CASAS Redwagon Property Services.......................686-576-0081 Housekeeping - Jackie’s Home Help.............686-228-7480
Kitchen/Bath Cocina/Bano Concepto Casa .......................686-576-0731
LANDSCAPING/JARDINERÍA Mauricio's Landscaping................................686-151-8002
Prestige Landscape and Maintenance...........686-170-8651 Your Paradise...My Passion ................................................ 686-576-0664 Versoleil
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 HOTEL/MOTEL - See Lodging/Dinning Guide Section IMPORT SERVICES/SE RVICIOS DE IMPORTACIÓN San Felipe Storage Company........................ 686-576-0432 Insurance Alani’s Mexican Insurance............................686-577-2464
Lynda’s Insurance (English speaking)...........686-577-1622 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 Orval Insurance............................ orvalquotes@gmail.com INTERIOR DESIGN/DISEÑO INTERIOR Baja Nueva..................................................686-211-4676 INTERNET CAFE/CAFE DE INTERNET Soluciones Integrales en Computacions........686-577-2370
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LOCKSMITH/CERRAJERO Gomez Locksmith........................................686-221-8337 24 HR Service, Professional Service. Homes, Cars, Boats, Motorcycles, English Spoken Pest Control Luis Lagarde................................................686-573-0258
POSTAL SERVICES/SERVICIOS POSTALES Yetmail......................................................... 686-577-1255
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San Felipe, Baja California
Hands On Baja.............................................686-171-6885 No phone? Make an appointment at the Call Margaret. Sea Star Health Food Store........................... 686-577-6250
MEDICAL SERVICES/SERVICIOS MÉDICOS Ambulance..................................................686-577-0500 Baja Medical Center.....................................686-576-0200 Health Center.............................................. 686-577-1521 Red Cross....................................................686-577-1544 Dr. Victor Abasolo............ 686-577-1706 or 686-573-0174 Sand & Sea.................................................. 686-577-3168 .......................... 686-147-6752 SunRunner Mail Center MASSAGE/MASAJE Casey’s Place (Massage).............................686-577-1431
Optometrists/Opthamologists California Optical..........................................686-577-0708 OpticaMaxi Vision....................................... 686-577-0320
PAINT/PINTURA John B. Ross...............................................686-109-9544
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San Felipe, Baja California PHARMACY/FARMACIA Santa Fe Pharmacy .....................................686-576-0546
Gary Gold....................................................686-211-9952 Kathy Preppernau.........................................686-210-4458 Katy Asimus................................................686-211-5474 Nate Morace................................................686-171-3257 REAL ESTATE/BIENES RAÍCES ......................................686-577-0611 Amor Property Baja Ranch & Sea Realty..............................686-577-1304 Baja 24/7 Construction & Real Estate...........686-577-6196
Botica “Sagrado Corazon”............................ 686-577-1294 PHOTOGRAPHY/FOTOGRAFÍA Casey Hamlin.com.......................................686-577-1431 Francisco Romo...........................................686-577-1193 Ron Saunders..............................................686-576-0007 Victor Rodriguez Ratliff.................................686-573-0222 California Real Estate & Construction...........686-576-0420 Call Margaret Realty.....................................686-577-1156 Desert Hawk................................................686-577-1244 Desert Mother..............................................686-577-2552 Desert Realty...............................................686-577-6336 Enjoy Baja....................................................686-576-0697 Sea Mexico Realty (SMR).............................686-576-0223 REAL ESTATE SERVICES/servicios DE BIENES RAÍCES Baja Closing & Escrow Services...................686-576-0653 RECREATION/RECREACIÓN San Felipe Sailing-Sailing Lessons................686-114-3259 Aerodynamic - Ultralight flights . ..................686-116-2933 ROOFING/TECHOS San Felipe Professional Roofing....................686-590-6818 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 PROPERTY MANAGEMENT/MANEJO DE PROPIEDADES Baja Bill’s Property Management..................686-577-4014 Casey’s Place..............................................686-577-1431 Custom Vacation Homes..............................928-277-6863 928-277-7559 & visit www.sanfelipevacations.com Enjoy Baja....................................................686-576-0697 Redwagon Property Services.......................686-576-0081 PUBLICATIONS/PUBLICACIONES Gringo Gazette............................................. 686-111-3692
SATELLITE TELEVISION & INTERNET/ TELEVISION SATELITALES Y INTERNET CSI - Computer & Satellite Installation..........686-577-2928
Computer & Satellite Installation • Dish Network TV • Satellite Internet
686-577-2928
• Computers • DVD Rentals
shane@csibaja.com
SERVICE ORGANIZATIONS/ORGANIZACIONES DE SERVICIO Club Las Amigas..........................................686-202-0455 San Felipe Lions Club...................................686-212-3599 San Felipe Rotary.........................................686-576-0112 SHOPPING MALL/CENTRO DE COMPRAS La Plazita.....................................................686-577-2119 Solar Baja Solar Systems......................................686-111-0504 SPANISH LESSONS Kelly Walsh..................................................686-149-6747
Mexico Living Magazine............................... 686-577-1377 San Felipe Newsletter...................................686-577-2898 REAL ESTATE AGENTS/AGENTES DE BIENES RAÍCES Bill Maine.....................................................686-231-4921
64 - The ONLY Monthly Guide to Northwest Mexico
SPECIALTY STORES Sea of Cortez Salt........................................686-209-0074 STORAGE/ALMACÉN Lock Box..................................................... 686-576-0606 San Felipe Storage Company........................ 686-576-0432
San Felipe, Baja California
Caminata Contra El Cancer Says
Thank You, San Felipe!
(donated by the Clayton Valley Concorde Sunrise Rotary), and provides services for the early dectection of breast and cervical cancer. We will be doing cancer awareness education programs throughout San Felipe and surrounding communities. And gentlemen, we haven’t forgotten you; there will be PSA testing available in the near future! All of this is possible because of you and there are not enough words to tell you how very much you are appreciated. You are part of something very special and we are proud and happy to have you share in this with us. We invite everyone to come and see us. Maybe it’s time for your annual mammogram and pap test? The center is located at Av. Mar Caribe Sur, #1088. For appointments, please call (686) 577-6350.
SAN FEL I PE
Thank you for walking with us in our 3rd Annual Caminata Contra el Cancer/Walk Against Cancer on March 21. We asked for your support and contributions and, once again, you rose to the occasion helping us to exceed all expectations! The yellow ribbon of walkers approaching the Malecon brought tears to the eyes of many committee members and volunteers. We’d also like to acknowledge some very special people for their generous donations: Clayton Valley Concord Sunrise Rotary, Jill Reinstadler, Cathy Nagy and her Hope Rises Team, Sea of Cortez Salt Co., Ocean’s Flavor Salt Co. and the San Felipe Rotary Club. We thank the local businesses who donated fabulous items for the live auction . . . we heard that some winners used their certificates the very same day! We give a heartfelt thank you to all of our volunteers for their tireless, unwavering support of this cause; we couldn’t do it without you! Where does the money go? We are thrilled to announce that on May 11, Caminata opened the doors to the Centre de Deteccion y Educacion del Cancer/ The Cancer Detection & Education Center right here in San Felipe. The center has a mammogram machine
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San Felipe, Baja California
66 - The ONLY Monthly Guide to Northwest Mexico
SAN FEL I PE
San Felipe, Baja California
TATTOOING/TATUAJES Baja Ink Spot Tattoo & Body Piercing............686-577-0746 TIRE SHOP/lLANTERA Llantera Aguilar............................................686-192-8462 TRANSLATION/TRADUCCIÓN Carlota Villagran B........................................686-212-9951 TRANSPORTATION/TRANSPORTACIÓN Airport.........................................................686-577-1368 Taxi Service.................................................686-577-1293 Bus Station .................................................686-577-1516 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
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Mulegé, Baja California Sur
Mulegé, Baja California
Mulege Oasis, Baja California Sur, Mexico
Mulegé DIRECTORY PLACES TO EAT Mexican La Palapa Best little restaurant on Mexico Highway 1 Highway 1 - South Approx. 4 km from Downtown Mulegé
M
ulegé is situated at the mouth of the Río Santa Rosalía (26°53´17˝N 111°58´53˝W), in the state of Baja California Sur, 38 miles south of Santa Rosalia, at the mouth of Bahía de Concepción. In 2005, the reported population was 3,317. Nestled between two hills in a lush tropic palm oasis divided by a shaded river that runs towards an estuary that flows to the sea, Mulegé is rich in history with lots of great sites to see, including the Misión Santa Rosalía de Mulegé, founded in 1705; the old state penitentiary, finished in 1907; and the Sierra de Guadalupe cave paintings. Outdoor activities abound, from mountain biking, scuba diving and kayaking to deep sea fishing. The cold northern current and the warm southern current come together to create an environment great for catching some of the 100 different species of fish in the Mulegé waters. By land, Mulegé is 650 miles south of the San Diego/Tijuana border crossing on Mexican Highway 1, and in 2010, via Highway 5 through San Felipe. By Air, Mulegé is served by three airstrips: Hotel Serenidad Airstrip (El Gallito), the Mulegé Municipal and Punta San Pedro. Regional flights are available at the Palo Verde Airport, and international flights are available at the Loreto Airport. 68 - The ONLY Monthly Guide to Northwest Mexico
Seafood FEl Patron Calle Playa (North River Road) before el Faro (Lighthouse) Jungle Jim’s Always warm and friendly, located on the south side of the river between the Oasis and Villa Maria Parks. Friday night spaghetti dinners.
PLACES TO STAY Bed & Breakfast Clementine's Bed & Breakfast.......................615-153-0319 info@clementinesbaja.com Hotel Hotel Serenidad.................................... 011-52-115-30530 APDO Postal 9; Fax: 011-52-115-30311; www.bajaquest.com/serenidad Hotel Cuesta Real...........................011-52-615-153-03-21 Apartado Postal No. 74, email: htl_cuesta_rl@hotmail.com; www.cuestareal.com
BUSINESS DIRECTORY (A-Z) Internet Servico Internet Minita.....(615) 153-0212 & (615) 153-0010
Alfonso Acosta Alvarez, Prop., Ave. Fco 1, Madera S/N, Cerca, de La Plaza Benito Juarez, Col. Centro; email: mulegepueblo@hotmail.com
Loreto, Baja California
Loreto, Baja California
oreto, founded in 1697 L by Jesuit missionaries, was the first Spanish
LORETO DIRECTORY
PLACES TO EAT Mediterranean Mediterraneo................................................613-135-2571 Lopez Mateos and Avineda Miguel Hidalgo (on the Malecon) Mexican 1967............................................................613-135-2538 Considered by many to be one of the top restaurants in Loreto. 13 Calle Davis La Cascada Restauran.................................613 135-0550 Heart of the downtown Loreto district. Salvatierra & Zapata. Seafood 1967............................................................613-135-2538 Considered by many to be one of the top restaurants in Loreto. 13 Calle Davis Augie’s Bar and Bait Shop Great sushi and amazing happy hour. Blvd. Lopez Mateos.
PLACES TO STAY Hotel Inn at Loreto Bay..... 613-133-0010 or US: (877) 522-9466 Blvd. Misión de Loreto Hotel Posada de las Flores Loreto.................613-135-1162 Avenida Salvatierra y Fco y Madero La Mision Loreto...........................................613-1350524 US & Canada: (877) 53LAMISION La Mision Hotel Hacienda Suites.... 01 (800) 224 3632 or US: 1-866-207 8732 Salvatierra #152
temperatures are hot from June through October. These summer days have highs around 93 degrees Fahrenheit and high humidity. Emergency Phone Numbers Emergency Highway Road Service 078 and 613-133-0794 Emergency Assistance 060 Federal Police , Nopolo (Loreto Bay) 613-133-0794 Municipal Police, Paseo Tamaral 613-135-0035 or 613-135-2270 Fire Department 613-135-1566 Red Cross 613-135-1111 Ambulance , Paseo Tamaral 613-135-1566
Loreto
settlement on the east coast of the Baja California peninsula. Loreto, situated on the Sea of Cortez, 26º00’46” N 111º20’36” W, served as the capital of the province of Las Californias from its founding until the capital was moved to Monterey on February 3, 1777. The 2005 census reported a population of 10,283. Today Loreto is a tourist resort, catering mostly to U.S. travelers, with daily flights from California arriving at Loreto International Airport. Many of the American tourists enjoy fishing in “pangas” for “dorado” (Mahi-mahi or Dolphin Fish). Local restaurants will even prepare the daily catch of the tourists. Loreto has an excellent museum alongside the historic, but still active, parish. The Spanish Fathers found a steady spring of fresh water on this site. Loreto’s climate is hot and humid, with abundant sunshine (desert with some rainfalls in summer). The medium temperature is 76 degrees Fahrenheit. The
Hotel Luna...................................................613-135-2288 Calle Benito Juarez / Davis y Lopez Mateos (Malecon) Hotel Oasis (in Mexico).......................... 01-800-624-9449 Toll free US: 1 866 482 0247 Baja California y Blvd. Lopez Mateos Hotel Plaza Loreto........................................613-135-0280 Located centrally in downtown Loreto. Ave. Hidalgo # 2 Hotel Coco Cabana......................................613-135-1729 One block from Sea of Cortes Sukasa Bungalows.......................................613-135-0490
BUSINESS DIRECTORY (A-Z) AIRPORT Loreto International Airport...........................613-135-0565 Located on Blvd. Juarez, between Calle Misioneros and Calle Zapata. BUS Loreto Bus Terminal..................................... 613-135-0767 Located on the corner of Av. Salvatierra and Blvd. Juarez. TOURISM Loreto Tourism Office................................... 613-135-0411 MEDICAL Red Cross.................................................... 613-135-1111 Hospital Centro de Salud A new 24-hour hospital (2007) on the way into town, just off Highway 1 (Salvatierra #68).
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La Paz, Baja California Sur
La Paz, Baja California La Paz beach walk in the morning.
La Paz Phone Numbers Tourism Department Police Emergency Legal Assistance Fire
078 060 061 068
Ferry Office Green Angels Immigration Red Cross
122-5005 124-0100 124-6349 066
a Paz (“The Peace”) is the capital city of Baja L California Sur located at 24.1405°N 110.3123°W and is an important commercial center. Its surrounding
municipality, which is the fourth-largest municipality in Mexico in geographical size, in 2005 reported a population of 219,596 living on 7,828.2 square miles of land. La Paz is typically dry and warm with averages of 75–77 degrees Fahrenheit, and 300 days or better of sunshine annually. Summer months are often in the 90’s and can be humid. The winter months can drop below 60, but stays mostly in the mid-60’s. During the summer the cooling Coromuel winds, a weather phenomenon unique to the La Paz area, blow from Bahia de La Paz keeping the temperature mild. By Air, La Paz is served by Manuel Márquez de León International Airport with flights to the U.S., Mexico City, Guadalajara and Monterrey. Two ferry services operate from Pichilingue outside the city, connecting the Baja California peninsula to the mainland at Mazatlán and Topolobampo. By Road, La Paz is served mainly by two highways, Highway 1 that links the south of the state from Cabo San Lucas to the north of the peninsula until Tijuana, and Highway 19, which connects La Paz with the population of the South Pacific towns like Todo Santos and El Pescadero.
LA PAZ DIRECTORY PLACES TO EAT Cafe Capri....................................................624-123-3737 Amazing location with a wonderful view of the harbor. Enjoy their exquisite pastas, salads, desserts, breakfast and drinks in a romantic and pleasent environment. Calle Marquez de Leon & Topete, Local 4-A Gorilla’s Grill................................................612-128-8095 Over 60 Breakfast items to choose from, plus International favorites such as salads, Texas style sandwiches, grilled chicken, BBQ ribs plus Mexican combinations & more. Revolucion #865. Le Bistrot Francais.......................................612-125-6080 Serving French cuisine in an old colonial building. Indoor and garden patio dining. Calle Esquerro #10.
PLACES TO STAY Araiza Inn Palmira $$...................................612-121-6200 Hotel with swimming pool, restaurant/bar and convention center. Blvd. Alberto Alvarado Aramburo Club El Moro $$...........................................612-122-4084 Moorish architecture, wide gardens, jacuzzi, pool, palapa bar and amenities. Great place to enjoy the marina and harbor of beautiful La Paz. Pichilingue Hwy. Km. 2. Crowne Plaza $$$........................................612-124-0830 Crowne Plaza is the most elegant, fun and functional hotel in La Paz. Their suites, pools, restaurant and other features will make your visit to La Paz a most memorable one. La Concha Beach Resort $$$.......................612-121-6344 La Concha Beach Resort is located on a secluded beach along La Paz Bay just five minutes from the picturesque waterfront city of La Paz. Pichilingue Hwy.
70 - The ONLY Monthly Guide to Northwest Mexico
La Paz, Baja California Sur
Around Town in La Paz with an m h s A n oh
J
put on hold. Costa Baja, La Paz’s most established development with its magnificent marina and a soon to be completed golf course, is building yet another group of condominiums overlooking the current complex as preparations continue for more. Paraiso del Mar on “el magote” has its golf course already open with at least one of the new condominium buildings completed and sold out. Just down the road from Costa Baja, La Concha Pearl is starting to deliver condos in its beautifully done new building right on the beach with Playa de La Paz coming up just behind it. If you’re looking for land for future building or investment purposes, Lomas del Centenario, Maravia Estates and Bahia de Los Sueños have excellent properties just minutes from town with the latter two having their own golf courses. Almost an island, Baja California Sur continues to be the safest state in Mexico, even remaining completely untouched by the media-hyped swine flu. But to further this, the governor has upped security measures coming in and out, such as increased searches and personal identification of those entering and leaving the state in order to make sure it retains its sense of security. In some ways, the best news is nothing new at all—La Paz remains, as ever, the city of “peace by the ocean.”
La Posada de Engelbert $$...........................612-122-4011 Nestled on an inviting white sand beach on the outskirts of La Paz, is the Hotel La Posada de Engelbert, lovingly restored to its old world charm by its owner, the worldrenowned singer Engelbert Humperdinck.
modern architectural design, a fresh minimalistic-style decor, Mediterranean specialty restaurant, and the very best and unique view of the Bay of La Paz * Alvaro Obregon #1710
La Posada de Las Flores $$$$.....................612-125-5871 Eight room boutique hotel is located on the malecon and offers beautiful sunset views. Ave. Alvaro Obregon #440 Los Arcos $$$.............................................612-122-2744 The beautiful Hotel Los Arcos is the only five-star hotel in La Paz. The hotel offers charm and grace combined with a colonial feel * Ave. Alvaro Obregon #498 Marina Hotel $$$.........................................612-121-6254 The beautiful swimming pool and jacuzzi are surrounded by lush gardens, plus a lighted tennis court. Poolside bar, international cuisine restaurants “Dinghy Dock” and an exquisite Italian restaurant “Liparoli” * Pichilingue Hwy. Mediterrane $...............................................612-125-1195 A small hotel on the great Bay of La Paz, expresses the personalities of its creators, Norbert and Saul. The Swiss and Mexican partners have transformed an abandoned house into sunlit studio suites gathered round a palm fringed courtyard. Allende #36 Seven Crown Hotel $$$$..............................612-128-7787 Hotel Seven Crown is located downtown La Paz and oceanfront. Recently open in May, 2002 with a new and
L a Pa z
Amid constant media blather about economic news and the nearly non-existent swine flu, La Paz in Baja California Sur shrugs it off and keeps on keeping on with continued development of housing and business. Shopping plazas, a relatively new concept for the semi-old-fashioned town are beginning to pop up all over town. The foreign part of the local economy has slowed for the time being, but La Paz still thrives as investments from other parts of Mexico fund more growth. Newer and more high-end stores have been built such as Muebleria San Diego, as well as several plazas already filled with new home-grown stores and restaurants. Another plaza at Calle Abasolo is being completed as this goes to press with yet another plaza called Tiendas de La Paz is to be built across from the also new Walmart and Sam’s Club. With these new plazas come American and Mexican franchises as well as local businesses and more food variety including a new wings and beer place, a new italian restaurant, new upscale clothing stores and more. Coffeeshops are popping up everywhere in La Paz, including the constant expansion of the local Cafe Exquisito. Real estate is slow worldwide, and while La Paz isn’t immune to this, only a few projects have been
BUSINESS DIRECTORY (A-Z) FERRY SERVICE Baja Ferries..................................................612-125-7443 Ferry service between La Paz and Topolobampo (Los Mochis) and Mazatlan. ventas@bajaferries.com, www. bajaferries.com GOVERNMENT SEMATUR....................................................612-125-8899 This the Secretariat of Environment and Natural Resources office responsible for permission to visit La Paz’s offshore islands. Ferry service between La Paz and Mazatlan. email: gsc_rlopez@hotmail.com; www.sematur.com.mx Baja California Sur State Government...........612-124-0199 Official website of the state government in Spanish. Fax: 612-124-0722; email: dcortez@gbcs.gob.mx; www.gbcs. gob.mx La Paz Post Office The Post Office in La Paz is located between Revolucion and Constitucion, a block Northeast of the Cathedral. Monday – Friday: 8 a.m. – 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. – 5 p.m.
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San Jose del Cabo, Baja California Sur
San Jose del Cabo, Baja California
SAN JOSE DEL CABO Phone Numbers
Police 624-142-0361 Emergencies 066 Fire Dpt. 116 Airport - AEROPUERTO 624-146-5111 Ambulances. 624-143-4020 City Hall 624-142-2960 Consumer Protection (PROFECO) 624-42-8076 Chamber of Commerce (CANACO) 624-143-0437 Drinking Water 624-142-1392 Electric Power Co. - (CFE) 624-142-0337 Family Protection - (DIF) 624-142-0141 Federal Police - (PJF) 624-143-1210 Fire Department(116) 624-142-2466 Gas Leaks 624-142-0122 Harbor Master 624-142-0722 Health Center 624-142-0241 Highway Patrol 624-146-0573 Immigration 624-146-5229 Public Services 624-142-0624 Red Cross 624-142-0316 Secretary of Tourism 624-142-3310 Social Security Hospital (IMSS) 624-142-0180 State Police 624-142-4104 TELMEX 624-142-0001 Tourist Assistance 624-142-0057
an José del Cabo is located in Baja California Sur and S is the seat of the municipality of Los Cabos at the south end of the Baja California peninsula. In the 2005 census it
entertainment you seek. Or you can just relax on one of our many pristine white sand beaches. For nature lovers, a beautiful protected estuary with a variety of fish, turtles, dolphins, exotic marine animals and over 100 species of birds is located on the southeast edge of the city. And the historic artist colony of Todos Santos is an easy onehour drive to the north, along the scenic Pacific Ocean. Local residents take pride in restoring the town’s 18th century architecture and preserving its quiet, laid-back ambiance.
SAN JOSE DEL CABO DIRECTORY
Casianos Restaurant.................................... 624 142 5928 Brisa Beach Club and Restaurant....................624-142-244 Mexican fusion menu. Live music. Fire shows. Daily specials. Habanero's Restaurant.................................624-142-2626 Great Mexican fusion cuisine with reasonable prices. Jazmin Restaurant........................................624-142-1760 Mexican food, seafood and vegetarian dishes with full bar. Seafood La Panga Antigua Restaurant and Bar...........624-142-4041 In the heart of colonial San Jose del Cabo in a charming courtyard set in a colonial mansion. Steak La Bodega Steak and wine house.................624-142-6619 Great selection of domestic and imported liquors and wine.
had a population of 48,518. Together with neighboring Cabo San Lucas it forms a major tourist destination for travelers, particularly from North America. The two cities are served by Los Cabos International Airport. San José del Cabo offers you tranquility and old world charm, wonderful gift shops showcasing the art of Mexico, fabulous restaurants, fishing, golf, surfing and all the nighttime
PLACES TO EAT
American Applebee’s...................................................624-172-6472 Carretera Transpeninsular KM 29.5. Asian Baan Thai Pan Asian Restaurant and Bar......624-142-3344 Delicious Pacific Rim cuisine. Burgers & More Baja Brewing Company................................624-146-9995 Burgers, onion rings, pizzas, steaks, seafood, sheppards pie, fresh salads, best french fries in Los Cabos. Cactus Jack's Bar and Grill...........................624-142-5601 Good Food! Good Prices! Blvd. Mijares at Benito Juárez. Die Trying Cafe............................................624-142-5657 Good hamburgers and great beverages. Blvd. Mijares. Coffee & Baked Correcaminos Cafe......................................624-142-3510 Baked goods, coffee bar, sandwiches and desserts. International Local Eight Restaurant.................................624-142-6655 Int'l specialties and fine wines, featuring local artisans' work. Havana Supper Club.....................................624-142-2603 Musical entertainment and sophisticated menu. Italian & Pizza Buon Appetito..............................................624-142 4040 Traditional Italian dishes with their chef's imaginative touch. La Dolce Italian Restaurant...........................624-142-6621 Known for daily fresh pastas and traditional Italian pizzas. Mexican Don Emiliano Restaurant..............................624-142-0266
72 - The ONLY Monthly Guide to Northwest Mexico
PLACES TO STAY
Hotel Baja Vacations.............................................877-462-2226 A unique concept in residential condominium vacationing. Barcelo Hotels and Resort......................... (624) 146-7500 A beachfront paradise and exquisite Mexico resort for the ultimate in adventure and relaxation. Cabo Surf Hote............................................624-142-2666 Located in one of the top surfing beaches in Los Cabos. Desire Resort & Spa....................................624-142-9300 The wonderfully exotic, erotic, adults only resort where each moment is an adventure. Posada Chabela...........................................624-172-6495 Surrounded by nature and the magic of paradise, gardens overlooking the blue Sea of Cortez. Carr. Posada Real Best Western..........................624-142 - 0155 A semi all inclusive hotel totally renovated in 1998-1999. Suites Las Palmas........................................624-142-2131 A leading value-priced hotels.
Cabo San Lucas, Baja California
Cabo San Lucas DIRECTORY PLACES TO EAT
Mexican Panchos.........................................................624-143-2891 Recipes from Puebla, Sonora, Oaxaca and Baja. Live Music Nightly. Calle Hidalgo Ay... Chihuahua...............................................624-143-3280 Mezquite Grill & Bar. Live Latin Music. Next to Banamex Bank Baja Cantina....................................................624-143-0225 Food and drinks on the Marina, near Pedregal. Margaritaville.................................................624) 143-7401 On the marina. Mi Casa..........................................................624-143-1933 Authentic Regional Cooking. Courtyard Setting with Live Music Seafood La Golondrina.................................................624-143-0542 Lobster & Fresh Seafood, Homemade Recipes, Romantic Outdoor Garden Lorenzillo's......................................................624-105-0212 Lobster and Fresh Seafood, Steak House, On the Marina The Blue Turtle................................................624-143-1118 Fresh Seafood and Live Music.Behind Marina Sol Villa Serena.....................................................624-145-8244 Lobster Specials and Magnificent Views. Km. 7.5, Hwy 1 International Peacocks........................................................624-143-1858 Traditional European Cuisine, Extensive Wine List
PLACES TO STAY
Hotel Bahia Hotel.....................................................624-143-1888 Overlooking the outer harbor, town and beach. Walking distance to the beach. Best Western Cabo Las Flores Hotel................624-143-6199 Full-service hotel with a courtyard setting just one block from marina and shopping center.
C abo San L ucas
Emergency Phone Numbers Emergencies 066 Fire Department 116 624-143-3577
C
Cabo San Lucas, Baja California
abo San Lucas (aka Los Cabos or San José del Cabo in Mexico, and Cabo in the U.S.) is at the southern tip of the Baja California peninsula at 22.88°N 109.90°W, in the state of Baja California Sur. As of the 2005 census, the population was 56,811. It is the largest community in Los Cabos, and the second-largest in Baja California Sur. The warmth of the waters, the beauty of its beaches, the abundance of fish, the raucous party atmosphere, a resort-studded Tourist Cabo San Lucas Marina. Corrider that stretches between the twin towns of Cabo San Lucas and San José del Cabo in miles of pristine white beaches, and other qualities is quickly making Cabo San Lucas a high-end vacation destination. Cabo San Lucas has the largest Marlin tournament in the world. In the Photo by Dave Park winter, pods of whales can be observed in the ocean bearing their calves in the warm waters. Served by the Los Cabos International Airport for general aviation flights and air taxi service, the town is also a popular port of call for many cruise ships. Exclusive hotels and gated residential communities attract the rich and famous in this wondrous region known as “The Corridor.” Considered some of Latin America’s top resorts, many of these properties have become havens to Hollywood stars, Fortune 500 CEOs and even the U.S. president during the 2002 Asia-Pacific Economic Conference (APEC). Casa Pablito....................................................624-143-1971 A small, intimate hacienda hotel in the center of Cabo San Lucas Hotel and Plaza Los Arcos .............................624-143-0702 Mar de Cortez Hotel........................................624-143-0032 A charming, Mexican-style hotel just a short walk to beaches. Economical, good value and good service. Siesta Suites Hotel..........................................624-143-2773 Clean, quiet, comfortable hotel, now with a pool and restaurant; two blocks from the marina.
BUSINESS DIRECTORY (A-Z) Police State Police.....................................................624-143-0296 Highway Patrol................................................624-143-3977 Federal Police..................................................624-143-1210 Medical Alcoholics Anonymous....................................624-147-5516 Ambulances....................................................624-143-4020 Social Security Hospital...................................624-143-1548 Health Center..................................................624-143-0102 Red Cross.......................................................624-143-3300 City Chamber of Commerce...................................624-143-0437 Family Protection............................................624-143-0586 Gas Leaks.......................................................624-143-1292 Marine Harbor Master.................................................624-143-4771 Cabo San Lucas Marina..................................624-143-1766 Utilities TELMEX..........................................................624-143-0001 Tourist Assistance...........................................624-143-0016 Drinking Water................................................624-143-0228 Electric Power Co............................................624-143-0064 Tourism & Immigration Services Public Services...............................................624-143-2786 Immigration....................................................624-146-5229
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Puerto Peñasco, Sonora
PUERTO Peñasco 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
Get the Guide At: Reggies 8-12 - 13th Street Reggies 8-12 - Sinaloa street
JJ Cantina Thirsty Parrot Betos Place Disenos Furniture Jerry’s Restaurant-Bar
Mini Market “”La Cholla”” in Cholla Bay Aladinos Restaurant Al Capones Pizza Capones Pizza Changos bar Home Plate Seafood Hotel Playa Inn Mariscos el Conchal Pollo Lucas
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Puerto Peñasco, Sonora
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 large hotel/resorts with more under construction. East of Puerto Peñasco, there is a long coast with several 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.
GETTING TO PUERTO Peñasco FLYING
No commercial flights. Puerto Peñasco airport supports private and charter flights and AeroCalifa. has initiated air travel; there are flights scheduled to depart Puerto Peñasco to Hermosillo Tuesdays and Thursdays at 1 p.m. and will depart Hermosillo en route to Peñasco at 11:45 a.m. Fares will run between MX$1,300–1,500.
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
Puerto Peñasco
Mexico Living Contact Information
Associate Publisher Russ Black 638-113-4591 / russ@mexicoliving.info 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.
PUER TO Pe ñasco
Photo by Rachel Pack
Puerto Peñasco, Sonora
THINGS TO DO
Puerto Peñasco has a wide variety of activities available for everyone, from the lazy days relaxing in the sun, to the action filled wild ride. Activities including shopping, scuba diving, sport fishing, sunset cruises, off-road adventures, horseback riding, kayaking, parasailing, watercraft rentals and much more. HASSLE-FREE SONORA 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. The “Only Sonora” program, unique in Mexico, allows Americans and Canadians to visit Sonora. Get more info: www.mexicolivingguide.com - 75
Puerto Peñasco, Sonora
and Tom Thomas
PhotoS by Rita Pizarro
Around Town with ta by Rita Pizarro om & Ri
T
What a busy month we had in Puerto Peñasco, Easter or “Semana Santa” week was packed like we have never seen it before, the streets were filled with cars from all over the country, as well as many from California, Baja California and Texas. Looking at license plates around town was a lot of fun. We saw a lot more than just Arizona and Sonora plates this holiday, and we are very pleased to see that people are using the new highway. We have opened a market with many new visitors to this wonderful area including people from L.A., San Diego, Mexicali and San Luis Rio, Colorado. Thank you to all the visitors who made this Easter week such a great success for our beloved beach town! The 3rd Annual Beach Bash was held in front of Playa Bonita Hotel. We had several bands including The Dirty Heads, BallyHoo, Another Day and more. There were lots of gorgeous girls in bikinis, lots of Uncommon Women on Common Grounds.
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Fun at the 3rd Annual Beach Bash.
good music, tacos, plenty of beer and, the best part, everyone had a great time by the water having fun. The next day J’J’s Cantina hosted the Hangover Beach Bash and many people listened to the music while watching the extremely high tide come all the way up to the wall at JJ’s in Cholla Bay. The Uncommon Women on Common Ground Meeting was held at Latitude 31 where we had an evening of introductions on what each lady is doing in this town, and a summary of her life. We have done this in previous meetings but the event keeps growing and now there are so many new faces that we needed another introduction event. Business cards passed around and we heard all sorts of funny ways people find Puerto Peñasco as their new home, including: “I always joked about moving to
Mexico to sell real estate, so one day I did just that and here I am!” We were also given a 10 percent discount from Latitude 31. Overall, a great dinner with ladies from all over full of energy and projects. This monthly meeting is a good way to make new friends, network and share your talents. We meet every second Tuesday of the month in a different locale. Contact Rosie Glover for more info at rosie@ proalliance.com.mx. The Peñasco Children’s Foundation hosted the 6th Casa Blanca Charity 18th Hole Putting Golf Tournament. The event takes place every year in this fabulous location with a beautiful landscape and a gorgeous ocean view. This fun event is a great way to show your support to the needs of the children of the community. The Peñasco Children’s Foundation is dedicated to provide medical care to children of families who cannot afford it, offer education assistance and enriching children’s life. For more information about the foundation and events, contact info@penascochildrensfoundation.org. Hope to see you this summer basking in the sun and enjoying the wonderful warm waters and beautiful beaches of Puerto Peñasco!
PUER TO Pe ñasco
Puerto Peñasco, Sonora
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Puerto Pe単asco, Sonora
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Puerto Pe単asco, Sonora by Naomi Black
I wrote this one day when I was at my office working at my desk and the Sea was literally hundreds of miles away. However, I really could not concentrate on my paperwork. I was distracted and could almost hear the waves crashing and calling to me!
Up from the Silence it comes Calling me again. Lapping at my Memory Building in my Head. Pounding the Beach in my Mind Calling me back. The Waves are fierce now Crashing and booming and breaking. The Swells overwhelm me
(and, I cannot finish my Work!) Thoughts of the Ocean beating in my ears.
Just like every other time when the Water Reaches the high tide Crescendo. When the white foam breaks over the top Pouring through my Memory. Roaring in my head
Calling me again.
Return to the Sea . . . to me . . . to me . . .
There will be no Peace No Calm. No Release. Until it Recedes. Flows out of my head Pools quietly into a subtle low tide. The waves just a whisper Return to me The sea quietly begs
Again and again Return to me . . . the sea . . . the sea.
PUER TO Pe 単asco
The Sea Is Always Calling
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Puerto Peñasco, Sonora
Fishing in
Puerto Peñasco by Braden Black
Many people travel to various areas on the coast
various shops and vendors around the “barrio.” You
of the Gulf of Mexico, but did you know that this
will need a half a pound or more of either shrimp or
small gulf is actually teeming with fish? Not many
squid—you can usually find someone selling them
people know that there are over 350 species of fish
very cheap out of the back of their truck on the side
in this seemingly small body of water, and many of
of the road. You may also need some weights or
those fish can mean a delicious Saturday night fish
hooks, which can be found at one of the few fishing
fry if you just take some time to spend a little bit of
shops scattered around Puerto Peñasco. And, of
money, throw some bait on a hook and relax.
course, you will need an ice chest full of beer, cola
If you own your own boat, or know somebody
or whatever you prefer.
that may be able to loan you one for the day, it will
Finally, you are ready to launch the boat. If you
be much cheaper. Once you arrange a boat, you may
have a small, private boat, I would recommend
need to pick up a few things that can be found at
launching from Cholla Bay, as this area always
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Puerto Peñasco, Sonora seems to be packed with
If you aren’t fortunate enough to own a boat or have
fish. You may want to head
a free arrangement for one, you can always go to
out 400 yards or more if
the fishing port and find a fishing tour for as little as
your boat can comfortably
$25 a person.
take you there. In the waters around this area, bottomfishing is the best tactic, and more than likely you will be pulling in triggerfish, rock bass, and small grouper in no time. If you would like to keep your catch, I suggest you fillet them on the boat—this way you don’t have to deal with the unused don’t catch the most fish, or the biggest fish, you can be assured that you will still reel in a fine afternoon.
PUER TO Pe ñasco
remains later on. Even if you
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Puerto Peñasco, Sonora
Puerto Peñasco News Briefs by Rosie Glover
6th Annual Casa Blanca Golf Tournament raises $4,945 for Peñasco Children’s Foundation. Volunteer event coordinators Jan Miller, Cathy Riedlinger and Kathleen Mayers delivered the money in a ceremony a few days later. SBR Realty and Seaside Reservations were the major sponsors of the tournament, with generous donations to help cover most expenses. Among the 58 sponsors were Tecate, Agua Cristal, Coca Cola, Si I Do Wedding Planners, Casa Blanca Condos, and several Arizona businesses. Las Palomas Resort, Clifton Family of Las Conchas, donate to new DIF children’s shelter. Las Palomas Resort donated stoves, an industrial refrigerator and other furniture valued at more than 80,000 pesos to furnish the children’s shelter, scheduled to be complete by September 2009. Puerto Peñasco Mayor Heriberto Renteria Sanchez and his wife, Minerva Ramirez, also received a donation from philanthropists Rodger and Jeanette Clifton that will
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allow for the completion of the shelter. Clifton said he and his family are enthusiastic about the project that will go far to alleviate what is a big social problem in Peñasco. The shelter will provide a safe haven for children who have suffered abandonment and/or abuse, and it will give them an improved quality of life along with hope for the future. Proud Sonorenses lauded by Governor Eduardo Bours. The Governor of Sonora feted 21 honorees at the first Medalla de Orgullo Sonorense (Medal of Sonoran Pride) ceremony, where he awarded medals to 21 distinguished people from this great state. With his wife, Lourdes Laborin, by his side, Bours welcomed scientists, athletes, actors, singer/ composers, teachers, and politicians. Soprano Teresa Navarro, from Hermosillo, presented Canto Sonora accompanied by the Philharmonic Orchestra of Sonora. In attendance were President of the State Supreme Court of Sonora, Max Gutiérrez Cohen; State Representative and President of the Congress of
Puerto Peñasco, Sonora
Sonora, Melesio Chavarín; and Archbishop Emeritus Carlos Quintero Arce, among many others. The Girls of Rocky Point selected—watch for calendar! After months of auditions and photo shoots, 12 of the most beautiful young women have been selected to represent this city in its first ever calendar. Now that the ladies have been selected,
shooting has begun in earnest. Watch for sales of the 2010 calendars featuring the 12 lucky ladies in and around Puerto Peñasco! Game Planet offers family fun. The opening of a new (and first-ofits-kind) Gaming and Entertainment Center called Game Planet was a hit with all who attended. Imagine an indoor entertainment center where there is something to do . . . no, not something . . . rather lots to do for all ages. Puerto Peñasco families now have somewhere they can go where the kids can have fun and play while the adults are also entertained. Two indoor levels, a huge screen with projector, many, many games, pool tables, a terrace, restaurant, bar, and private theater!
PUER TO Pe ñasco
The 2010 Rocky Point Calendar Girls
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Puerto Peñasco , Sonora
Puerto Peñasco, Sonora
Puerto Peñasco DIRECTORY ICON Descriptions
#
- Pool/Spa
- Accept Credit Cards
- Pet Friendly
- Wi-Fi / Internet
- Serves Breakfast
- Kitchen/Restaurant
- Beer/Spirits
- Map Number
- Reader Poll Winner
DIALING INSTRUCTIONS: USA to MX Cel Phone: 011+52+1+Area Code+(Tel #) USA to Mexico: 011+52+Area Code+(Tel #) Mexico to USA: 001+Area Code+(Tel #) MX Landline to MX Cell Phone: 045 or 044+Area Code+(Tel #) MX Cell Phone to MX Landline: Area Code+(Tel #) DIALING 800 NUMBER: Some international fees may apply on landlines.
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: MX 411 (Spanish only).................................040 Tourist Assistance Hotline............................076 Green Angels (MX toll Free)......1-800-903-0092 Worldwide Emergency No.for Mobile is....... 112 Emergencies.................................... 060 & 066 Sky Medical (from Mexico)...001-866-805-9624 Air-E-Vac ............................001-880-321-9522
PLACES TO EAT
American Maxs Cafe ..................................................638-383-1011
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Breakfast Giuseppe’s Coffee . .....................................638-383-5181 Marios Coffee – On the entrance to the Malecon Charbroiled Chicken Pollo Lucas – Blvd Benito Juarez “under the big Palapa” Chinese Rocky Point Chinese ...................................638-383-5940 International Aladinos Restaurant.....................................638-383-6175 Changos Bar and Cantina.............................638-382-8648 In front of Sonora Spa Debbie’s Restaurant – On the Malecon upstairs Old Port . ..........................................636-388-7068 Thirst Parrot On the Malecon
Mexican Betos Place ................................................638-383-5198 On the Malecon Old Port #40 Charros Restaurant – Blvd Benito Juarez in the Jim Bur Plaza Cocodrilos ..................................................638-383-6376 La Cocina de Ramon – Ave FCO Gonzales Boca Negra #261 La Curva . ...................................................638-383-3470 Manny’s Beach Club ...................................638-383-3605 Pizza Augustin’s Pizza and Wings..........................638-383-1699 13th Street in front of Kenos Capones Pizza – Sinaloa Street next to Playa Inn Steak & Seafood Friendly Dolphin ..........................................638-383-2608 Jerrys Restaurant – On the Malecon Old Port Lighthouse . ................................................638-383-2389 Latitude 31 Rest. & Sports Bar.....................638-383-4311 Mariscos el Conchal – Blvd Benito Juarez #79
PLACES TO STAY
RV Park/Parque de RV Bonita RV Park.............................................638-383-1400 Playa Bonita.................................................638-383-2596 Rentals/Se Rente Casa Encanto Beach House..........................638-383-4549 Casa Monica Cholla Bay...............................638-382-5147 Bed & Breakfast with First Class Accommodations on the Beach in Cholla Bay”
Puerto Peñasco, Sonora
Motels/Moteles Baja Hotel....................................................638-383-6878 El Mirador Village.........................................638-383-6333 Paraiso Hotel ..............................................638-383-6175 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
BUSINESS DIRECTORY (A-Z)
ACCOUNTING/CONTABILIDAD BBBS Inc.....................................................928 329-8000 ARCHITECT/ARQUITECTO Plinio Rivero Architects & Builders . ......638 383-4710 ARTIST Marianne Menditto.......................................638-383-7616 BARS/CLUBS JJ’s Cantina ............................................ at Cholla Bay BooBar........................................................683-476-2665
GSA Corporation.........................................638-388-7632
Monex Financial...........................................638-388-5764 FURNITURE/Mobiliario Disenos Furniture.........................................638-383-8633 Designs by Eddie Wharez Consign and Design ...................................638-110-6121 Home Furnishings Baja Nueva Decorating Studio......................686-211-4676 Custom contemporary furniture & home accessories Serving Rosarito, Ensenada, Puerto Penasco, San Felipe HOME INSPECTIONS Tom Thomas................................................602-748 4134 Immigration Services/Servicios de Inmigración Sun Valley Immigration Services .................638-383-8891 Ask for Bianey or Dynora INSURANCE Services/Servicios de SEGUROS Alejandro Portugal Insurance........................638-383-2390
CAR RENTAL/alquiler de autos The Point Rent-A -Car..................................638 388-5823 church/iglesia Family of God Christian Fellowship Non-Denominational 044-638- 107-7150 Church Worship Services, Sundays at 9 a.m. Placita Melanie, Suite #211 Blvd. Fremont
Lynda’s Insurance (English speaking)...........686-577-1622
PUER TO Pe ñasco
Cyndi’s Beachfront Home Rentals................638-383-5145 Sylvia’s Condos...........................................638-383-5429 Go 2 Rocky Point.........................................602-748-4134
Clothing/ropa Mad Gringo Clothing...........................mex.madgringo.com CONTRACTOR PMD Developments......................................638 105-9182 Casas Colibri Tom Swanson.........................638 383-7616 Convienience Stores Reggies 8-12 – On Sinaloa Street across from Playa Inn Reggies 8-12 – On 13th Street and Luis Encinas Tienda La Cholla – In Cholla Bay
ProAlliance Insurance................................... 638-383-2390
Curio SHOP Jose’s - Rosy’s - Carlos’s Curios.................638 383-8508 Just under Augustin’s Pizza and Wings DEVELOPMENTS/FRACCIONAMIENTOS ..............................................638-388-7194 Bella Vista "Parayso" Desembembogue Devept..............638 388-5707 DOCTORS/DOCTORES Dr. Luis Vasquez, M.D. ................................638 383-3014 Fire Department/Departamento de Bomberos Fire Department................................... 638-383-2828/068 Fish Markets Home Plate Sea Food – On the Malecon next to Betos Place FINANCING/FINANCIAMIENTO Baja Lending Company......... ......................760-494-7053
LEATHER Manny’s Leather Factory..............................638-388-0609 Rita Pizarro
MASSAGE/MASAJE ........................................... 638-386-5203
MEDICAL SERVICES/SERVICIOS MÉDICOS Clinica Hospital........................................... 638-383-2447 City (Municipal) Hospital ............................638-383-2110 Central Clinic ..............................................638-383-2110 Hospital IMSS ............................................638-383-2777 Red Cross . .................................................638-383-2266
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Puerto Peñasco, Sonora
REAL ESTATE/BIENES RAÍCES Baja Lending Co...........................................760-494-7053 Buena Vide Real Estate.................................638-110-4127 Century 21 Cholla Bay ...............................638-382-5147 From the US 602-412-3311 ask for Grechen GretchenEllinger@century21penasco.com
Rocky Point Parasailing................................638-107-5922 www.RockyPointParasailing.com Rocky Point Jetski........................................638-110-8115 Jet Ski rental, fishing charters Choya Bay at JJ’s Cantina PARTY SUPPLIES/Fiestas provisiones Tips.............................................................638-383-3002 Stuff for your Events, Parties and Meetings POLICE/POLICÍA City Police Department . ..............................638-383-2626 State Police................................................. 638-383-2783
Century 21 Puerto Peñasco USA Office # 480-626-4687
. .................638-388-1295
Puerto Peñasco, Mexico Fremont Blvd., Plaza Palmillas century21penasco.com
Mexico Office # (01152) 638-388-1295 Susie Flinn - Remax Puerto Penasco............638-360-5876 REAL ESTATE SERVICES/servicios DE BIENES RAÍCES Baja Closing & Escrow Services...................686-576-0653 RECREATION/RECREACIÓN Kayak Rocky Point ................................638-103-2038 Ranas del Mar Ocean tours – At the Marina..638-107-3739
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RECREATION/RECREACION OCEAN SPORTS in Marina San Carlos..........638-226-0696 E mail: deportesoceano@prodigy.net.mx We offer - Scub Diving, Snorkeling, Fishing, Kayaking, Horseback Riding, Margarita Cruises, & Private Charters. Seamstress/Modista Naomi Black (habla ingles)...........................638-388-5004 naomi@rhipeo.com TEQUILA Manny’s Tequila Factory...............................638-388-0607 Translation / Transducciones Shandra (Sami) Keesecker-Rivero................638-383-8217 www.recursosmexico.com info@recursosmexico.com utilities/empresas de servicios públicos Power Company ..................................638-383-2492/071 Propane .....................................................638-383-2630 Telephone Office .........................................638-383-2288 Water Co. ..................................................638-383-2060 Window Coverings Blinds Depot................................................638-105 1275 Seaside Window Coverings..........................638-383 5181
San Carlos Puerto S/anGPC uaymas eñasco arlos, Sonora
San Carlos
water in its shallow bays. It lies on the body of water known as the Gulf of California or Sea of Cortez. Given the size of the city, with nearly 7,000 inhabitants, there are nine hotels of diverse categories with 567 rooms; 280 RV spaces, two marinas with enough space to berth 570 boats, one 72 par 18 hole golf course and endless natural attractions. Due to the great diversity of marine species, San Carlos is the best place in the State of Sonora for the sport of diving. San Carlos is approximately a five-hour drive (241 miles) from the United States on Mexican Interstate Highway 15, 20 minutes from Guaymas, and only an hour from the state capital Hermosillo and an International Airport. The trip from the United States requires that foreigners obtain a tourist visa. Car permits are only required to travel south of Guaymas.
TRAVEL INFORMATION
FLY TUCSON AIRPORT – grab a cab from Tucson Airport to Tufesa Bus Terminal (5 minutes away), then take a bus from the bus terminal to Guaymas. This is the least inexpensive way to get to San Carlos. HERMOSILLO INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT – 75 miles north of San Carlos. Flights to Tucson, Phoenix, Las Vegas, Los Angeles, as well as most cities in Mexico. If you are close to the border (Tijuana, Ciudad Juarez), check flights leaving out of those airports in Mexico, they are generally cheaper than flights from U.S. cities into Hermosillo. Once in Hermosillo is easy to hop a bus to Guaymas. GUAYMAS – GENERAL JOSE MARIA YANEX INTERN’L Services at airports in Guaymas is 9am to 7pm. Costly, but close (20 minutes) to San Carlos. Private planes may land here also. Administrator is Juan Jose Jauregui Kawakita. Tel: +52 (01) 622 1-00-44 +52 (01) 622 1-06-34 +52 (01) 622 1-08-04 More information on private aircraft is available from AOPA at: 1 800/USA-AOPA www.aopa.org/members/resources/international.html Transportation from the airport to San Carlos – the taxi union at the airport has set their fares to a standard rate of $30 usd (300 pesos) from the airport to hotels in town. Car rental at the Guaymas airport for about $70 usd (700 pesos). Budget Car Rental and Hertz have local offices. You can catch the San Carlos bus for .70 cents (7 pesos). It shows up at the airport every hour and will take you into Guaymas where you get off at Ley Shopping Center and can catch a bus back to San Carlos for .90 cents (9 pesos)-not recommended if you have more luggage than you can carry on your own!
Associate Agent Lynn Prince 622-111-2624 / lynnprinceformlg@gmail.com BUS TUFESA bus line runs from Arizona, California and Nevada to Hermosillo. The buses are new and the fares are inexpensive. Phoenix (602) 415-9900; Tucson (520) 670-1534.
PUER SAN TOCARLOS Pe ñasco
an Carlos is a beachfront subdivision within the port city S of Guaymas, in the northern state of Sonora in Mexico. It is noted for the exceptional clarity and warmth of the ocean
Mexico Living Contact Information
DRIVE From Nogales take Mexico Interstate 15 to Hermosillo. It is a well-paved 4-lane highway. What makes this road unique is their dependence on toll funding rather than taxation to pay the development cost. There are 3 toll booths; Nogales, Magdalena De Kino, and Hermosillo north. You can pay in either USD or pesos. You must stop at the Kilometer 21 checkpoint and obtain a tourist Visa. Go to the white building marked “tourist permits.” You will be asked to show your citizenship documents and to fill out a form. Once filled out, the official will stamp it and you are ready to head south to San Carlos. Breakdowns – The highway is patrolled by Los Angeles Verdes (The Green Angels). If you need assistance dial 078. If your cell phone is not working, raise the hood of your vehicle and they will stop to help you. In an emergency, dial 066 (Sonora’s equivalent of 911). OTHER INFO: Ferry – Guaymas to Santa Rosalia. Departures: Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays & Saturdays 8:00pm. Phone 622-2220204 Mexican Toll Free #01-800-505-5018 U.S. Consulate – in Hermosillo: Monterrey #141 Rosales Street and Galeana Col. Esqueda. Open Mon-Fri 8:00am to 4:30pm Phone: 622-289-3500.
Get the Guide At: La Palapa Griega Greek Restaurant Joyas de Country Long Realty Seaside Tesoro Decoracion Tequila’s Seaside Reservations Paradiso Resort San Carlos Plaza Hotel
Santa Rosa Market Rosa’s Cantina Piccolo’s Baracuda Bob’s Captains Club Marinaterra Hotel Izzy’s Soggy Peso Bar Remax
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Around Town with
ince r P n n y L
Spring has arrived once again in San Carlos. We survived Semanta Santa (Holy Week, which was anything but holy!) and the sirens, bands and thousands of young people on spring break. And our little beach town is dwindling in numbers, as many residents’ visas expire and they head for the U.S., Canada and other parts unknown. Local balladeer Eric Holland and I had dinner at Hotel Fiesta Real Friday night, which incidentally is under new ownership and management. Located next to the ocean, the cozy palapa was warm and inviting as we listened to Omar Arriaga gently work his magic on the piano. Omar’s beautiful wife Kathy Bereza joined us while I dined on Yellow Tail Vera Cruz that was excellente! Looks like Manager Jorge Aceves has a winner on his hands! While there, I ran into Dave Walker and his lovely wife, Linda, having dinner with France’s Minister of Health and his wife. Dave oversees a local medical clinic that specializes in cancer treatment. He introduced us to his guests and Eric stunned us all with his adept French with the Minister. Ambitious new plans are in the works which we will share when Dave gives us the go ahead. SILENT MOVIE NIGHT at Captains Club on Monday evenings at 7:30 is great fun! Steve Smersh birthed the idea with Omar Arriaga improvising the background piano music. Held outdoors under the stars, it’s a super way to enjoy their great fish tacos or Cahuamanta Soup while Fatty Arbuckle, Buster Keaton, Charlie Chaplin and other silent cinema greats romp across the screen. La Palapa Restaurant has a sensational new female vocalist/guitarist, Lorena Robles, on Friday, 5–8 p.m., that is packing the place to capacity! Lorena’s stunning voice is able to do an amazing range of music from old American tunes, South American ditties, to Cuban and Mexican music. At one point she sang the Andrea Bocelli/Sara Brightman favorite, Time to Say Goodbye, and received a standing ovation. Get there early if you want a seat. Hats off again to Rotary Club for building a library at the secondary school in the Ranchitos. Dedicated on April 14, they are now looking for books in Spanish and English to fill the shelves. If you have any books you would like to donate, contact Dixie Gleason at 226-0106. 88 - The ONLY Monthly Guide to Northwest Mexico
Opera great, Placido Domingo, was in San Carlos on April 17, for the baptism of a grandson. And, Mark Mulligan and his the same day, a fiancé Elsa Osuna. former Presidente of Guaymas held a wedding and reception for his son at Marina Terra Hotel. Orange blossoms and wedding bells are in the air for singing icon Mark Mulligan who announced his engagement to beautiful Elsa Osuna. The wedding is planned for June 13 here in San Carlos. You can take a peek at some pretty cute pictures of Mark proposing to his captivating fiancé at www.markmulligan.net. Our heartiest CONGRATULATIONS, MARK. Enjoy spring and I’ll see you next month as we head into summer. DIALING INSTRUCTIONS: USA to MX Cel Phone: 011+52+1+Area Code+(Tel #) USA to Mexico: 011+52+Area Code+(Tel #) Mexico to USA: 001+Area Code+(Tel #) MX Landline to MX Cell Phone: 045 or 044+Area Code+(Tel #) MX Cell Phone to MX Landline: Area Code+(Tel #) DIALING 800 NUMBER: Some international fees may apply on landlines.
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: MX 411 (Spanish only)............................ 040 Tourist Assistance Hotline....................... 076 Green Angels (MX toll Free).1-800-903-0092 Worldwide Emergency No.for Mobile is.. 112 Emergencies................................060 & 066 Sky Medical (from Mexico).001-866-805-9624 Air-E-Vac ....................... 001-880-321-9522
Photo courtesy of http://markmulligan.net
San Carlos,/SGonora uaymas, Sonora
SAN CARLOS DIRECTORY BUSINESS DIRECTORY (A-Z)
Commisario Sergio Garcia............................622-226-0004
PUER SAN TOCARLOS Pe ñasco
San Carlos Puerto S/anGPC uaymas eñasco arlos, Sonora
ATTORNEYS Lic. Ma. del Carmen Ordaz Aguiar................622-226-0000 Professional License No. 2020630
PROPERTY MANAGEMENT/RENTALS Seaside Reservations..........................1-888-502-2761 US www.seasidesancarlos.com 1-800-830-9592 MX Vacation Rentals - beautiful Views, biggest inventory!
DENTISTS American Dental.......................... San Carlos 622-226-2167 ...................................................... Nogales 520-631-5263
PSYCHOLOGISTS Psychologist Isis Ceja..................................622-112-3283 Bilingual - Marital, Family, Child, & Individual Counseling
Fire Department/Departamento de Bomberos Fire Department (call Rescate)..................... 622-226-0911 Rescue Squad/EMT's (Rescate).................... 622-226-0911
Real Estate Long Realty Seaside.....................................622-226-2188 Joyas de Country.........................................622-226-1406 Posada Condominiums de San Carlos.... US 520-232-2147 www.PosadaCondominiums.com MX 622-226-1031 Star Realty...................................................622-226-0000 www.costabellaliving.com Siesta Realty, S.A. De C.V............................622-226-2066
FURNITURE Tesoro Furniture...........................................622-226-2210 MEDICAL SERVICES/SERVICIOS MÉDICOS Ambulance.......................662-255-9181 or 662-253-0776 Clinica San Carlos........................................ 622-226-0062 CIMA Hospital.............................................. 662-259-0900 Surgical Medical Center................................ 662-222-0267 MISCELLANEOUS Dolphin Assistance Foundation.....................622-227-7657 POLICE/POLICÍA San Carlos Policia........................................622-226-1400 State Policia.................................................622-226-1540
ReSTAURANTS La Palapa Griega..........................................622-227-3751 Tequila’s......................................................622-226-0545 Food, Pool & Live Music El Gallo Restaurant.......................................622-226-1087 utilities/empresas de servicios públicos Power Company (CFE) ................................622-229 4400 Telmex.............................622-226-0026 or 622-226-0050 Water Co.(CEA)............................................622-226-0909
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Mexico Living Marketplace
Marketplace
mexicolivingmarket.com
Custom T-Shirts
Hats & Caps
Custom T-shirts in a variety of styles and designs.
Baseball caps and other hats in a variety of colors and designs.
MLG T-Shirts (light)
Babies & Kids
Light-colored Mexico Living “Guide to the Good Life” T-shirts in a variety of styles and colors.
Start ’em young. Great gift ideas and rags for the rug rats.
90 - The ONLY Monthly Guide to Northwest Mexico
Mexico Living Marketplace
Our new online store is up at www.mexicolivingmarket.com! Mexico Living is now selling a number of unique products designed for those that love Northwest Mexico. We have a large variety of apparel form to T-shirts to outerwear and underwear. We have something for the home and office, great gifts for babies and pets, and other wonderful products for living the good life.
Pets
Mugs & Cups
Your pet can live the Good life too. Pooch apparel and delightful doggie dishes.
Mexico Living Mugs & Cups are great for home and office.
Bags
Housewares
Bags and totes to carry all the great stuff youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll need in Mexico.
Fun, and creative houseware products for your home or office.
Marketplace
All Major Credit Cards Accepted
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Little things to do while relaxing
Brain Games
Exercising your brain and getting your “laugh on” are two very important requirements of “Living the Good Life.” Plus, these games and puzzles are great while waiting at the border or terminal. To maximize the benefits of brain exercises you should relax, laugh often, be of good cheer, and stay curious.
Fixate on the red appearing dot. The two dimensional drawings give an appearance of three dimensional cubes. Ambiguity exists in the three dimensional information and as you continue to look, you will see a shift. Note which surface appears closest in each cube. Do the cubes shift independently or as a unit? What is the importance of the way that they shift?
92 - Guide to Resort Living in Northwest Mexico
Brain Games & Fun
Difficulty : ď&#x201A;Ť
BR AI N GAMES
SUDUKO
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More Great Information
CLASSIFIED ADS NON BUSINESS ADS ARE FREE up to 20 words, each additional word is $.50. BUSINESS &REAL ESTATE ADS are $0.50 per word. SEND ALL CLASSIFIED ADS TO MEXICOLIVING@GMAIL.COM with “CLASSIFIED ADS” in the subject line. Once your e-mail is received, you will get a confirmation e-mail and invoice returned.
ANNOUNCEMENTS SAN FELIPE, B.C. San Felipe Lions Club meets in the 2nd and 4th Thursdays of the month at 6 p.m. at Los Arocs Restaurant In San Felipe. SAN FELIPE, B.C. “Help Fix My Broken Jaw” local Lisa broke her jaw in an ATV accident a year ago, and insurance will not cover her treatment. Visit her blog: http://mybrokenjaw.blogspot.com to learn more. SAN FELIPE, B.C. El Cortez Barefoot Bar. Enquiries for membership. Please contact Bennie Curutchet 686-140-8646. PUERTO peñasco, SONORA Ampi real estate association holds a mixer every month on the 2nd Wednesday starting at 5:00 p.m. the event is for the purpose of meeting and networking with other Puerto Penasco professionals. All are welcome membership is not required to attend, We look forward to seeing you at the next mixer! Chango’s restaurant in front of the Sonoran sea resort. Chango’s will have drink and appetizer specials. Any questions, please call Liane at 638-107-7164. SAN FELIPE, BC Rotary Club of San Felipe meets every Monday Morning 8:00 a.m. at the El Cortez Barefoot Bar. Enquiries for membership Please contact Bennie Curutchet 686-140-8646. SAN FELIPE, BC Alcoholics Anonymous: AA Spanish Group - Meets every evening 8 p.m. Contact: (686) 577-2231. AA and NA English Groups The block south of the traffic circle on the airport road Meet every Wed. 6-7 p.m. Sat.& 8 a.m. and Sat. 6-7 p.m. SAN FELIPE, BC The San Felipe Association of
Retired Persons More info email: sfarpers@gmail.com SAN FELIPE, BC ZAPP - zero population is the goal. How you can help contact Steven bajaanimalrescue@yahoo.com PUERTO PENASCO, SON Rotary Club of Puerto Penasco for more info contact Charlie Salem 638-383-0800 PUERTO PENASCO, SON Profesional& Business Womens Club meet every Tues 8pm, more info contact Lorenia Reyna 638383-24-07 FOR SALE SAN FELIPE, B.C. Sleeps 6, Kitchen fold out bed, futon bed, bonus small child bed (or storage) & full size bed w/ private room. Shower, Microwave, new re-built fridge. Interior is in good condition and has been very well maintained, leveling jacks are installed. 001-760-801-7102 or Kkrusing1@sbcglobal.net. SAN FELIPE, B.C. Baja Mija Popcorn Dust, flavored toppings for microwave popcorn: email for information bajamija@ gmail.com REAL ESTATE LISTINGS SAN FELIPE, B.C.
Artist Designed - Unique tire construction, 2 mstr suites. roof deck, patio, fenced, garage, landscaped, city util. $159,000. owner financing avail. andrenajoyce@yahoo.com or 686210-4598.
94 - The ONLY Monthly Guide to Northwest Mexico
SAN FELIPE, B.C. Ejidolots REDUCED 1 ac.View 39,000., 2 ac. Fill Blk 39,000. andrenajoyce@yahoo.com or 686210-4598. SAN FELIPE, B.C. 120’ x 120’ lot , util avail. may divide $25,000. andrenajoyce@ yahoo.com or 686-210-4598. SAN FELIPE, B.C. 60’ x 120’ lot with septic installed, water, elec and fenced $16,000. andrenajoyce@yahoo.com or 686210-4598. PUERTO PENASCO, SON Sandy Beach Bella Sirena B 202. Beautifully furnished and decorated2br/2ba condominium overlooks pool and offers ocean views. Well priced at ONLY $299,000, financing available. View details at www.century21penasco. comContact Century 21 Sun & Sand Jim Ringquistjimringquist@ century21penasco.com Ph: 638388-1295 or 480-626-4687 PUERTO PENASCO, SON Playa Miramar Absolutely Gorgeous beachfront home! 3br/3.5ba, Second story observatory & 2 garages. So many features and offered at only$875,000, Trust & LLC in place. View details at www. century21penasco.com. Contact Century 21 Sun & Sand Heidi Wosak heidiwosak@century21penasco. com Ph: 638-388-1295 or 480626-4687 PUERTO PENASCO, SON Puerto Peñasco In Town Opportunity. This home is a perfect starter home to customize. Lot is 385 sm. View details atwww.century21penasco. com Contact Century 21 Sun & Sand Jaclyn Alasjacalynalas@ century21penasco.com Ph: 638388-1295 or 480-626-4687
More Great Information PUERTO PENASCO, SON Las Conchas Beachfront Dream Home Reduced For Quick Sale. 3br/2bahome sits on the beach, step off the patio onto the sand. Seawall in place and home is ready for a new owner now! Bring an Offer! View details at www.century21penasco. com Contact Century 21 Sun & Sand Brad Henderson brad@ century21penasco.com Ph: 638388-1295 or480-626-4687
$349,000 Contact Century 21 Sun & Sand Jim Ringquist638-388-1295 or 480-626-4687.
PUERTO PENASCO, SON Sandy Beach Resort Blvd. Parcel For Sale- 1817sm. Perfect for Commercial/Residential Development, enjoy Views of Ocean & Golf Course.
Rosarito, B.C Baja Malibu. Cute furnished studio with DISH TV and utilities included. Walk to beach, secure and private $260 mo. 646-614-1270
RENTAL LISTINGS Rosarito, B.C Large House for rent. 2 bedrooms, 2 baths, furnished, fireplace, garden, carport, view, big porch llocated in La Mision. $650 per month. MX 646-155-0011 or US 619-2708991.
SAN FELIPE B.C. “Casita for rent at Cantu’s Cove, Winner of Best Beach for two years in a row! Enjoy the Cove and Beach by the day, week or month. Email vcantu@thegrid.net for information. SERVICE AC/Refrigeration Service and Evaluation by qualified, certified technician. Cell number 686-2314921.
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686-230-9933
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Send inquiries to packmagazines@gmail.com Writers - Do you love Mexico and want to help us spread the word. We’re looking for writers to cover business, real estate, news, local gossip, travel, recreation, arts and entertainment and much more.
Sales - Advertising sales position. Have fun and make money while getting to know people. Great commissions and opportunities. Must be legal to work in Mexico and have Internet access.
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Mexico Living is looking for motivated individuals for freelance positions in the Rosarito, B.C., Ensenada, B.C., San Felipe, B.C., Mexicali, B.C., Puerto Peñasco, SON., San Carlos, SON.
ANSWERS FROM PREVIOUS PAGE NO PEEKING UNTIL YOU HAVE AT LEAST TRIED
Suduko
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