Edition 26 - July 2009

$20 MEX / $3.00 USA No. 26 - www.mexicolivingguide.com

Paving the Way for Growth and Tourism

July / julio 2009

The Gypsy Journal The Fabulous Beaches of Puerto Peñasco, Mexico Cabo San Lucas On Any Budget

LIVE • WORK • PLAY • INVEST • RETIRE

Welcome to Northwest Mexico

Shop from home with the comfort of knowing that your order is backed by a 100% Money Back Guarantee. This 30-Day Guarantee gives you plenty of time to check items for color, high quality and size. If for any reason you need to return or exchange, cancel or change an order, just contact our Customer Service department and you’re done! Please include the order number of the item that you would like to cancel to ensure accuracy.

ac

To order by phone, please call us toll-free at (877) 809-1659 during our customer service hours. Before calling, please note the Product Numbers of the items you wish to order. To find the Product Number, simply click on the item you wish to order and locate the Product Number below the item name (such as White T-shirt).

n Guaran tio te e

sf

Order Status is quick and simple. Visit our Order Status page, the easiest and fastest way to get the most current information regarding your current or past orders. If your order has been shipped via UPS, you may track it using links provided in your order detail.

www.MexicoLivingMarket.com

Sati sf

ac

e

Sati

ntee k Guara ney Bac o M % 0 10 tio

n Guaran te

MLG T-Shirts (light)

Babies & Kids

Pets

Mugs & Cups

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.

Your pet can live the Good life too. Pooch apparel and delightful doggie dishes.

Mexico Living Mugs & Cups are great for home and office.

Custom T-Shirts

Bags

Housewares

Hats & Caps

Custom T-shirts in a variety of styles and designs.

Bags and totes to carry all the great stuff you’ll need in Mexico.

Fun, and creative houseware products for your home or office.

Baseball caps and other hats in a variety of colors and designs.

www.MexicoLivingMarket.com 2 - The ONLY Monthly Guide to Northwest Mexico

All Major Credit Cards Accepted

Welcome to Northwest Mexico

www.theprintsupplier.com FROM USA: 1-800-576-0919 FROM MEXICO: 001-880-576-0919

Lowest Overall Prices in North America We’ll beat any competitors price!

For the last 6 years, The Print Supplier has been serving small printers, graphic designers and print brokers with the nation’s lowest overall prices on high quality color business printing.

Customer service is available to serve you from 9AM - 5PM Monday-Friday, Pacific Time.

US:1-800-576-0919 www.theprintsupplier.com support@ theprintsupplier.com

OTHER PRODUCTS & SERVICES

WELCOME / BIENNVENIDO

Now we’re offering it to the public. Same low prices, fast turnaround and untouchable quality.

Same Day Service Brochure / Flyer Special Print & Mail Package Business Cards Business Card Special Postcards Brochures / Flyers Letterhead Envelopes Rack Cards Door Hangers Posters Catalogs Catalogs, Mini Folders Bookmarks Bargain Bin Promotional Cards Bulletins & Inserts Greeting Cards CD and DVD Announcement Envelopes Postcard Special Table Tents Stickers and Labels Metallics 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 Rosarito: 661-614-3019 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.

Paving the Way for Growth and Tourism

The Gypsy Journal The Fabulous Beaches of Rocky Point, Mexico

Cover photo by Maxfx | Dreamstime.com

Calendar & Events: Angel Diamond and the Blue Disciples................10 Steel Drums & Rum Caribbean Night..................11 Calendar Dates...................................................12 Humor & Tidbits................................................15 People & Voices: The Lady is . . . a Bug........................................16 An American in Baja: Sandi................................17 Leaving Our Brains at the Border........................18 The Gypsy Journal.............................................19 Travel & Road Trips: The Fabulous Beaches of Puerto Peñasco, Mexico....20

Cabo San Lucas On Any Budget LIVE • WORK • PLAY • INVEST • RETIRE

Published by John Benjamin Pack 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 Regional Sales Associates Carlos Duran Rosarito Beach carlos@mexicoliving.info

Russ Black Puerto Peñasco russ@mexicoliving.info

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

Welcome: Contributors.........................................................5 Editor’s Angle......................................................6 Letters to the Editor..............................................7 Welcome to Northwest Mexico.............................8

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

News & Politics: National News....................................................23 Nationwide Plus Mexico Verizon.........................25 Paving the Way for Growth and Tourism...........26 Summer’s Unloved Visitors..............................29 Baja California.................................................33 Cross the Border Reducing the Waiting Time......35 Around Town in Rosarito....................................36 Guateque Wine Festival ....................................40 Around Town in San Felipe.................................46 California Optical................................................47 Baja California Sur..........................................60 Mission Santa Rosalía de Mulegé.......................63 Parque Nacional Marino Bahía de Loreto.............65 Around Town in La Paz.......................................67 The First Gold Course Opens in La Paz...............68 San Jose del Cabo Thursday Night Art Walk.......71 AeroMexico........................................................72 Cabo San Lucas On Any Budget.........................74 Sonora..............................................................76 Around Town in Puerto Peñasco.........................80 They Grabbed Their Passports and Came!..........83 A Great Neighborhood Bar..................................85 Around Town in San Carlos................................91 Brain Games.....................................................93 Classified..........................................................94

Welcome to Northwest Mexico

Contributors

Carlanne McCrystal is a freelance travel journalist/photographer. She is also the owner of TopDawg Travel, an independent agency located in the Northwest, specializing in designing individualistic and unique experiences for clients. Traveling, and documenting her travels, is her passion.

Communicating about travel is her mission.

Carlanne lived for 28 years in Hawaii, mainly on the islands of Oahu and Hawaii, the Big Island. She is a Certified Travel Associate as well as being destination certified for Hawaii, Mexico, Cancun, Puerto Vallarta, Los Cabos, Acapulco, Aruba, Las Vegas, Alaska and Mexico.

Read her stories at www.examiner.com/x-4622-Romance-Travel-Examiner.

WELCOME / BIENNVENIDO

Featured Contributor

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.

Bill Maine, San Felipe – Bill has played as a professional musician for over 33 years and plays today with San Felipe’s Agave Blues band. He moved to San Felipe in 2006 and in 2007 began working in real estate sales and with Pack Publishing. He thoroughly enjoys life by the sea here in the Baja.

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

La Huerita – La Huerita has spent more than two decades living in and visiting Mexico. An artist and writer, she and her husband operated an online travel magazine for nearly a decade—until they noticed they were doing more writing than traveling. Their philosophy: When it stops being fun, stop doing it. She now operates the blog Rocky Point Tides, and she’s having fun!

Get more info: www.mexicolivingguide.com - 5

Welcome to Northwest Mexico

’S R O T LE I D E NG A

Let’s Talk!

It’s an honor to finally

The “three are a jackpot” principle applies in

meet all of you, our loyal

more ways than one. As the new editor, I would like

readers.

to take this opportunity to ask what you like about

John

and

Rachel

the changes and additions we have made recently,

Pack, the publishers,

what you don’t like, and what YOU would like to

appointed me as the

read more about in future editions.

Editor several months ago. I’ve now had the

Reader Submissions: Do you like reading “true” Mexico Blunders? How about the “Tidbits”?

privilege of working with the writers for over eight

Cover Stories: Starting last month, we added

months. And, as you may have noticed, a lot has

more FEATURE stories and fewer “local/city”

changed.

articles. Should we be getting in “deeper” with

My goal is to continue with

the

policies

developed by these two entrepreneurs,

while

striving to raise the guide’s standards, reputation and visibility even further. To do this, I already work with

longer

articles

or

When it comes to reader interest,

should they contain

one letter is a response,

What subjects would

two letters are feedback and

about?

three are “jackpot!”

you like the “Around

the journalists to ensure quality and consistency of articles submitted, encourage them to think outside the box, and actively pursue interesting topics.

more/fewer photos? you

like

to

read

Around Town: Do Town” articles in each

city? Would you like to see more or less of them?

Well, I could go on and on, but you’re getting the point. We truly want your feedback. This is

Now, it is time to start working with you!

YOUR guide to the Good Life in Pacific Baja & Sea

There’s an old axiom in the publishing business

or Cortez. So, tell us what YOU want!

that says something like: When it comes to reader

We are interested in hearing from you, what

interest, one letter is a response, two letters are

you think of Mexico Living, and the topics you’d

feedback and three are “jackpot!”

like for us to cover. Send your suggestions and

I take this literally—when we get more than one

comments to editor@mexicoliving.info, and we’ll

response or inquiry about a subject, I know it’s

get to work on them before we even read “three

something that we must pursue. Let me give you

for the jackpot!”

a great example: The May edition was supposed to be “Yard and Gardening”; but, we received so many letters regarding the “so-called” safety issue in Mexico that, at the last moment, we sent a journalist out to get the “real” scoop.

6 - The ONLY Monthly Guide to Northwest Mexico

Welcome to Northwest Mexico

Letters to the Editor

$20 MEX / $3.00

No. 24 - www.m

exicoliving.info

USA

May / mayo 2009

Mexican Men With great respect, I direct myself to you to express my great discontent caused by the article “Mexican Men,” May 2009 edition. I welcome and appreciate that people like you dedicate

In

Search

themselves to the task of writing about Mexico,

of Dolphins

but as a Mexican, the way she talks about Mexican

WPrivorld’sateLarYacgesht t

men is an insult.

PASSPORTS REQUIRED ON JUNE 1st see page 10

LIV E • WO RK • PLAY • INV EST • RE TIR E

I refuse to accept her comments, because I like that. I know and have faith that Mexicans

said, “Honestly, this could pertain to any man of

receive Americans with open arms and without

any nationality. But, for American men, we’d have

judging them. I find the way in which she says

to replace ‘eggs’ with ‘nuts!’” So, some thought it

how Mexican women use eyeliner or how we

was funny; others did not.

Mexicans think about”‘balls” when we order eggs for breakfast insulting—please! Maybe the

We appreciate your feedback and hope that you accept our sincere apology.

lady wanted to appear “funny or amusing,” but it wasn’t; not for many people.

I await a public apology; and you should be more careful about what is published. Thank you

May Edition I’ve read the May issue cover to cover and love

and have a nice day.

how much wonderful info is packed in. For the

— Lilian Vega

most part the writing is fun to read. Please pass

WELCOME / BIENNVENIDO

believe that the lady is no one to interpret Mexicans

on my comments to the appropriate person(s). You Lilian, on behalf of the entire Mexico Living

guys are doing a great job with the guide and it

staff, I apologize to you and everyone else that this

shows Northwest Mexico in a good light for those

article offended. It was intended to be humorous,

considering living here. Thanks for your great

and in no way meant to belittle Mexican men.

work!

If you’ll read it again, there is no reference to

— Sue McDevitt, Ensenada

Mexican women; it merely says, “young good looking woman.”

After receiving your letter, I asked my American husband to read it. He thought it was funny and

Sue, thank you so much for the wonderful feedback. I will definitely share your compliments with all the writers and the publishers.

SEND US FEEDBACK As always, we are interested in hearing from you, what you think of Mexico Living, and the topics you’d like for us to cover. Send your suggestions and comments to editor@mexicoliving.info.

Get more info: www.mexicolivingguide.com - 7

Welcome to Northwest Mexico

Northwest Mexico

Welcome to Northwest Mexico

Live, Work and Play in Paradise.

he Mexican states of Baja California, Baja T California Sur, and Sonora 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 011-52-661-612-0396, (661) 612-0396 or (800) 962-2252; www.rosarito.org San Felipe Baja California, sanfelipe.com.mx (COTUCO) 011-52-686-577-1104 Tecate Baja California, tecatemexico.com.mx 8 - The ONLY Monthly Guide 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.

Welcome to Northwest Mexico

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.

• 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.

WELCOME / BIENNVENIDO

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 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.

Get more info: www.mexicolivingguide.com - 9

Northwest Mexico Calendar & Events

NORTHWEST CALENDAR

Angel Diamond and the Blues Disciples Coming Soon!

by Lynn Prince Vocalist Angel Diamond and the Blues Disciples will be at La Palapa Griego on July 17 and 18 in San Carlos. Born in Chicago, Angel was a backstage baby of one of Motown’s first jazz artists, Hank and Carole Diamond. Her voice is silk for your ears. A “diamond” of many facets, versatile Angel croons jazz, blues, country and gospel. Her tantalizing music is an exciting blend of all her influences.

Her hot rhythm section consists of California blues veteran Bob Nussmeier on drums and homegrown bassist Veikko Kanto. On lead rhythm guitar we have seasoned musicians John Kasokkie and Ron “Slow Hand Jr.” Elias. The Disciples’ blues sound is filled

10 - The ONLY Monthly Guide to Northwest Mexico

Angel Diamond and the Blues Disciples

out to completion with the harp of Dave Gagnon.

Big on the Tucson music scene, this group will pull your heartstrings with haunting blues sounds you won’t forget!

Northwest Mexico Calendar & Events

On August 15, 2009, there will be an event like nothing San Felipe has ever seen. Under the promotions of VIP Earth Events out of Las Vegas, Nevada, and sponsored by Mexico Living, Island Rhythms Production will be performing at the JollyMon Bar, 7 p.m., in north San Felipe.

Island Rhythms Production has traveled and toured through 16 countries and features musicians from the Caribbean Isles. The founder of the group, Noel Lawrence, is son of Raymond Lawrence. Ray and his two brothers, Gerald Lawrence and the late Kenneth Lawrence, were all original Trinidad Steel Drum Band members. They began touring various parts of the world back in 1958 beginning in South America. They were the first known steel drum band in the United States back in 1960. Authentic Caribbean sounds inspired by years of experience will fill the night at the JollyMon, with drink specials and appetizers themed for the event.

The band has also played at many famous attractions in the United States, including Disneyland, Universal Studios, Magic Mountain and Sea World, as well as on cruises all over the world. With unique style, the bands’ repertoire includes: Soca, Calypso, Salsa, Rhythm and Blues, Country Western, Rock and Roll, Classical and Jazz music. But this night?

It’s all Caribbean Steel Drums!

Tickets for the event are $20 in advance, $25 at the

C AL ENDAR & EVENTS

Steel Drums & Rum Caribbean Night at the JollyMon in San Felipe

Noel Lawrence, founder of Island Rhythms Production.

door. We are limited to 180 occupancy, so get your tickets fast, or you will miss out on this incredible event. You can get tickets by calling (686) 231-4921, emailing vipearthevents@gmail.com or order online securely with PayPal by visiting the VIP Earth Events website at www.VIPEarthEvents.com.

VIP Earth Events was founded by locals Bill Maine and Lisa Shannon to provide events worldwide, and they decided to start in their own backyard! It is a division of the parent U.S. corporation, GreetScape, Inc. JollyMon Bar is owned and operated by John and Lynn Hall, also proprietors of the Sundance Deli.

For more information about upcoming events as the schedule becomes available at the JollyMon, please visit the VIP Earth Events website.

Don’t miss this event!

Get more info: www.mexicolivingguide.com - 11

Northwest Mexico Calendar & Events

Important Dates 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 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: La Bamba’s July 4th Hot Dog Eating Competition! During the month of June Come in and qualify Call for more info 661-100-2560.

July 11–12: 2nd Summer Festival, The “Steak & Lobster Festival,” “Rosarito Art & Furniture Expo,” “International Seafood Fair” and “The Pavilion of Tequilas.”

The most spectacular events of summer come together at the Rosarito Pavilion. (661) 612-0700.

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 awardwinning 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.

July 31–Aug 2: Papas & Beer Anniversary. Over 50,000 sq. ft. of fun in the sand.

(661) 612-0444.

Aug 7: Rosarito Beach Pro Surf Competition more Info Call 1-800-962-2252 Aug. 16: Rosarito Shooting Club “22 Caliber Tournament” at Rosarito Shooting Club Range. (661) 6121028.

Ensenada July 4: Valle sunset en Pizzeria Covelli Live concert and wine tasting; More Info (646) 178-7770.

July 4: The 4th of July Bash at the Baja Mart Whale’s Tail Bar and Grill on the grounds of the Bajamar Golf Resort. The main course is a homeroasted whole pig Memphis BBQ style. Wine and dine, and live music from 2 p.m. until 11 p.m. for only $7.

July 11: Fernando Delgadillo live in Concert, more Info call 646-185-1299.

July 13–15: 4th Annual Baja Rosario Festival. Baja Cactus Hotel (616) 165-8850 or (664) 154-4910.

July 16: Mexicali Festival at the Beach, more Info www.toomuchfun.com.mx.

July 18: Kalima in Concert More info call Call Oscar S. Acevedo 664-685-3031.

12 - The ONLY Monthly Guide to Northwest Mexico

Northwest Mexico Calendar & Events

July 19: Caminata Playera Ecológica, Ecotourism route in the Bay of Todos Santos set out at 8 a.m., more info email haciendolonecesario@hotmail. com.

July 19: 5KM Run from Papas & Beer For more info call at 646-174-0145.

July 26: Gertrude Pearlman Theatre - Alex DePue and Miguel De Hoyos; 2:00pm at Campo La Jolla, Punta Banda. More info. Call Heather Hamilton at (646) 154-2452.

August 6–23: Fiestas del a Vendimia. A wine tasting event you won’t want to miss!

Aug. 7- 23: Fiestas de la Vendimia, celebration are held from August 7- 23 of 2009 in many different wine yards of Valle de Guadalupe.

More Info Call Association of Wine Making of B.C. in Ensenada at (646) 178-3038.

Please go to www.fiestasdelavendimia.com or wwwmexicolivingguide.com Calendar section for the all the Detailed Events for Fiestas de la Vendimia.

Aug 8: Taurovinomaquia - Bullfighting Festival, held at Los Dolores, located at Valle de Guadalupe.

Festivities will start at 12:00PM, for more Information call 646-178-3038.

Aug 16: VII Festival del Taco y la Cerveza, for more info contact Olivia Herrera (646) 177-0732.

San Felipe July TBA: San Felipe Fest “Canal 66.” www. sanfelipeinfo.com August 15: Steel Drums and Rum Event, JollyMon Bar. Visit www.VIPEarthEvents.com for tickets and information.

Aug 22: 2nd annual Bikini Contest More info www. sanfelipeinfo.com

C AL ENDAR & EVENTS

July 19: Papas & Beer Beach Party, An event of live music, drinks promotions, and more. Call 646-174-0145.

Get more info: www.mexicolivingguide.com - 13

Northwest Mexico Calendar & Events town.

Puerto Peñasco October 3: Rocky Point will enjoy its 3rd annual Jazz by the Sea Festival. Besides the great music there will be other events all over town. To whet your appetite while you wait for the event (and the best weather of the year!), here is a short clip of last year’s festival. For more information about this year’s event: from Mexico call 01800-5522820; from the USA call 602-288-6710.

August 2–6: Bisbee East Cape International Fishing Tournament - Buenavista to this international tournament, for more info visit www. bisbees.com.

CABO SAN LUCUS

San Carlos July 31–Aug 3: 61st International Billfish Tournament at Marina San Carlos. Registration 5–9 p.m. Phone: (622) 224-0082, 224-0011; Fax: 224-0084; Email: claudiaciare@hotmail. com.

LORETO July TBA: Torneo de las Misiones. Fishing Charity Tournament that started in 1993, more info contact Troy Cline at (969) 600-6960 or email fishinforthemission@yahoo.com.

July TBC: Loreto International Fishing Tournament.

August 17–31: San Bartolo Festivities during the 3rd & 4th weeks of Aug; try the burritos and empanadas that they are famous for.

Dorado

LA PAZ July TBA: Santa Rosalia’s Foundation Festivities; enjoy the celebration in this lovely town north of La Paz. July TBA: Santiago Festivities; Well after Santa Rosalia, drive here and continue the party!

July TBA: San Ignacion Festivities; you don’t miss this one!

July TBA: San Juanico’s Scorpion Bay Surf Tournament And Car Race; surfing is one of the mayor activities here in town.

August TBA: El Trunfo ‘Pitahaya Festivities;” feel just like a part of the old west in beautiful western 14 - The ONLY Monthly Guide to Northwest Mexico

July 11–12: Town Square Race - Pre-register (USD10) at the square the first day of the event.

For hotels for this event contact 1-800-745-2226.

July 12–16: Discover Baja’s Neil Kelly Memorial Tournament will take place in East Cape.

July 16: A festival in honor of a woman who is believed to be a protector of Mexico, craft vendors , parades, the bullfights & a small fishing tournament.

July 22–25: East Cape Big Game Blowout sponsored by Hotel Buenavista Beach Resort and Western Outdoors News. $20,000 in prizes. For more information please call (800)752-3555.

Event held in East Cape.

July 29–August 2: Baja Capers Fishing Tournament is an exciting billfishing tournament. Event held in East

Cape.

July 25: Festival of St. James, the parades begin at 2pm with street parties, the event takes place throughout downtown.

Aug 2–6: Bisbee’s East Cape Sportfishing Tournament Anglers compete for Black or Blue Marlin, Dorado and Tuna. For more info www. bisbees.com Aug TBA: Los Cabos Summer Dive Fiesta - A celebration of the sea, this annual event is filled with terrific diving locations, evening events, parties, treasure hunts, slide shows and more.

Hotel packages and a details, call (800)745-2226 or (877) 479-3483.

Humor & Tidbits

not first time a few years ago. We’re definitely My husband and I visited Mexico for the co.

Mexi west north t ghou le and drove throu the “tourist trap” type, so we rented a vehic stayed we if had have d woul we than fun more We met some amazing people and had in the “tourist trap” places. ly, and kept seeing signs for Salida. Final However, one day we were driving along said (sign exit next the took we E town. So, we decided that this must be one HUG silly g and driving . . . and never found this “Salida”). Well, we kept driving and drivin Then . miles few a back went and the highway, town. We turned around, got back on g . . . no driving . . . and driving . . . and drivin we took another exit. Again, we kept Salida.

Well, we —you get the picture—same routine.

So, we went back a couple more exits they After ). town E HUG (this a Salid to get to decided to stop and ask someone how !

EXIT s mean da” “Sali them finally told us that quit rolling on the floor laughing, one of — Lucy E. Jackson, Florida, USA

Iro ny at its Bes t Ninety people get swine flu and everyone wants to wear a mask.

A million people have AIDS and no one wants to wear a condom.

— Unknown

H UMOR & TI DBI TS

R ea de r B lu nd e r s

Reader Connection

R ea de r Tid bi ts

at how beautiful the tile our home in San Carlos, I was thrilled My Favorite Appliance – When we built ping it. A cotton mop left I cleaned the tile by sweeping and mop floors looked. For the first six months, tile. shiny real the master bedroom, a fuzz, especially noticeable on the tile in Surface Cleaner, which the Hoover FloorMate SpinScrub Hard After some “browsing” online, I found ver.com, the list price .hoo www at y, Toda 50. red. We paid US$1 looked to be just what the doctor orde is $186.99! So, shop around.

Hoover. But, I could ! Now, mind you, I am not being paid by The tile in our house never looked so good ! ance appli And, yes, this is my favorite not help but share this with all of you.

— Linda Shiflett, San Carlos

EVERYONE has a funny or embarrassing story, joke, or tidbit to share with the world.

Send your jokes, tidbits and anecdotes to mexicoliving@gmail.com and put a bit of sunshine in someone’s day! All contributions may be edited for content and language.

Get more info: www.mexicolivingguide.com - 15

People & Voices

PEOPLE & VOICES

Centavo’s Two Cents

The Lady is . . . a Bug!

by Penny Nask

I don’t know why, but for some reason I never expected to see ladybugs in Baja. Maybe it’s because I didn’t think they could survive in the desert. There is very little shade here and I imagined that their little Centavo “hard tops” would be fried aka Pamela Esther in the gleaming, sizzling Nask (“Penny”) sun. Besides, what would they eat?

Co-owner of To my surprise, during Simpatico Arts, she is a writer an early morning of and an art histogardening, I took a double rian, whose luck take on what I thought in these fields has were “berries” on a tree given her an early that doesn’t bear fruit. retirement. She atLadybugs! There they tributes “laughter” were! Impossible . . . but as the best posupon further scrutiny there sible stimulus for life. pennynask@ were six or seven crawling yahoo.com on a newborn branch of my Manzanita tree.

In my youth I would have grabbed a fruit jar with a lid from my kitchen . . . remember? Yeah, those ladybugs would be unwilling prisoners in that jar that would eventually have airholes in the lid . . . but only after I caught as many as I could. Wasn’t it scientific, or something? (Research told me recently that a gallon jar could hold 72,000 to 80,000 of them!)

The Baja has its own unique vegetation and it took me awhile to find the emerging beauty of a spring in the desert, irresistible. I am also a gardener who believes plants hold secrets to happiness. So yes, I tend to as many plants and trees as I can without the guilt of water shortage. San Felipe, I’m told has plenty of water underground.

On the other side of the mountains, which outline my magnificent backyard view, are some of the most fertile lands for growing crops. Maybe the la16 - The ONLY Monthly Guide to Northwest Mexico

dybugs flew in from there.

Regardless, it was obvious to me that my personal ladybug “miracle” needed more research.

Centavo’s Two Centsan Elytra. It That hard shell on a ladybug is called The Lady is . . .

Bug! covers wings that you can hardly asee . . . they are by Penny Nask so thin. The wings beat 85 times a second, which I find to be unfeasible, but apparently true.

There are 5,000 different kinds of ladybugs of I don’t know why, but for some reas which 450 varieties make their homes in North it’s because I didn’t think they could America. They have organs on their feet to help them and I imagined that their little “hard t smell . . . really! . . . and they produce a chemical Besides, what would they eat? that smells and tastes terrible so that birds and other predators won’t eat them. Bizarre!

To my surprise, during an early mor A ladybug can produce 1,000“berries” eggs in her thought were onlifetime. a tree tha (Now, who counted those?)

They are smart enough scru Impossible . . . but upon further to hatch thembranch in an aphid their food of mycolony, Manzanita tree.of choice. Six generations can hatch in a year making the idea of a family In myreunion youthunattainable.

I would have grabbed a At best these little can still getwould agitated.

Yeah, beauties those ladybugs be unw If you squeezeairholes them they will bite you . . but after it in the lid . . . but .only I won’t hurt. What’s the point(Research of that feature? something? toldFrom me rece my mosquito them!) infested homeland I would have been laughed at—beyond ridiculous—for telling anyone that I had beenThe bitten by ahas Ladybug!

Baja its own unique vegeta There are two bits ofof information that irre beauty a spring about in thethem desert, I am totally jealous hold of: secrets to happiness. So yes, I guilt of they water San Feli 1. Duringthe hibernation feedshortage. on stored fat.

2. As the ladybug ages her spots fade.

Onattributes, the otherI side the up mountains, If I had these wouldofwake from some the .most lands a nap not needing to of snack . . andfertile my age spotsfor gro Regardless, it was obvious to me th would be gone!

research.

People & Voices

Sandi

An American in Baja:

I first met Sandi at “Name That Tune,” the weekly event where we used-to-be teenagers act goofy; where we stand up in front of 100 of our peers for the sole purpose of looking dumb.

Sandi sits up on stage and monitors the answers we Audrey Coffman give, while her husband San Felipe Denny runs the much-loved East Coast born show. She is soft and pretty, and raised, Audrey with blond curls, and dressed has done a lot of in something flowing and things and lived in a colorful. lot of places. She’s Sandi has a somewhat had many different Bohemian way of dressing, careers, raised two soft and comfortable, yet kids and is in love arty. She dresses “happy,” with Baja and the in mauves and pinks, with people who have a little bling and often a made it their home. cute hat. In stark contrast audreyc206@ to Denny’s intensity and gmail.com showmanship, she is calm and focused, but always smiling and obviously having fun. She reminds me of a Roman emperor observing the gladiators from the royal box above; thumbs up, you get 10 points and highfives from your teammates, thumbs down, you get to embarrass yourself. It is exhausting good fun.

You probably heard of the “Bucket List.” As defined in the movie of the same name, starring Jack Nicholson and Morgan Freeman, a bucket list reminds us of all we still want to do before we “kick the bucket,” “take a dirt nap” and “meet our maker.” (Sorry, but when you get up in years, you avoid the “D” word.) The number

ONE item on Sandi’s “bucket list” is riding in a Baja chase car— again. She did it once before and “loved it.”

For her, it’s the most important thing left to do—the wildest of rides—a sand-in-your-mouth, tire-blowing, kidney-busting ride. The choice suits Sandi perfectly.

She seeks adventure and excitement, with a little danger thrown in the mix. I am somewhat taken aback to learn this about her. The most dangerous thing on my bucket list is growing mint.

Like many Americans here, Sandi came by way of the circuitous route. Born in Omaha, Nebraska, where she spent her early years—marrying and having kids— she then moved on to Denver. While tending to her family, she also discovered the vital music scene that rocked the Denver area in the late’70s and ’80s. The friendships she made there followed her to California as she established a career in the financial services business. One Denver friend she stayed in touch with was Denny Flannigan. A good thing, too. She and Denny were married in 1990 in Belize.

Sandy loves the beach with a passion. If you come looking for her, you will most likely find her there . . . or somewhere out in the desert. The beach affects her like it does many of us here; it calms us, yet gives us energy to live more fully, more creatively, more spiritually. She’s doing things now she never dreamed of in Omaha. She’s learning more about what she loves and why she’s here. As Sandi put it so well, “I love standing close to the wind.” She embraces adventure and fun. In fact, she thrives on it.

Someday, if you are in a cranky mood and run into Sandi, don’t tell her to “get lost.” She will . . . and she’ll adore every minute of it.

PEOPL E & VOI C ES

by Audrey Coffman

                                  

                                 Get more info: www.mexicolivingguide.com - 17

People & Voices

Baja Blunders

Leaving Our Brains at the Border

by Katrina Tinco

Photo by Ken Bondy

I realize that when we go on vacation, we go to relax and get away from it all. But, some people take this to extremes and forget to pack all of their “gray matter.”

During my years working Katrina Tinoco Ensenada aboard various cruise ships and dealing with the general Originally from public, I had to answer an England, Katrina array of dumb questions. came to Ensenada “What time is the midnight whilst working on a cruise ship and buffet?” is a classic, but met her husband.

“Do these stairs go up They married in or down?” was always a 1987 and have good one. One gentleman three children, all asked one of the ship’s born and raised in Ensenada. She photographers, who had and her husband taken photos the previous currently own evening and was displaying La Vendimia them in the lobby, “How do restaurant.

I know which one is mine?”

To which the reply was, “Well, sir, go to your cabin, look in the mirror and remember that face. Then

18 - The ONLY Monthly Guide to Northwest Mexico

come back here and match it to one of the photos on the wall.”

Here in Mexico, however, blunders are a way of life, mainly due to the language difference. My friend, who had been coming to Baja for many years, told me that she was always worried about getting a flat tire on the highway because it is against the law to change a tire on the toll road. “What do you mean you are not allowed to change a tire on the toll road?”

I asked.

She replied, “Well, all the signs say, ‘NO TIRE BASURA.’” After picking myself up off the floor, I explained that the verb “tirar” means “to throw” in Spanish and “basura” is trash. So, instead of dreading a blow out, just don’t throw your rubbish on the street!

Another friend of mine had a company called Ballena Gris, which means “the gray whale,” but she would always mispronounce “Ballena.” So, when she answered the phone in Spanish, it always translated to “Good morning, the gray vagina here.” (I have to get new friends!)

There is one day, however, that will stick in my memory for a good many years. A group of older gentlemen were standing outside one of the local pharmacies and they were extremely perturbed when they saw the sign advertising Viagra. “I ain’t paying no nine ninety-nine for some used Viagra.”

Used Viagra? . . . He had been looking at the price, which next to it had the abbreviation USD (U.S. dollars). Now, think about it.

How on earth could there be such a thing as used Viagra?

Maybe it had something to do with that gray vagina!

People & Voices

The Gypsy Journal

Rachel with Cai bike riding.

perfect, or so we thought until the only pumps in town were out (service and gas). Fortunately, we were able to purchase five gallons for 36 pesos a gallon, not bad considering. We stayed at Rancho Santa Inez for $6.

Nice big ranch, where we could literally setup anywhere we wanted.

Once setup, we took both Cai and Max out for a walk . . . Yes, even Max the cat walks on a leash—when he wants. The night was bitter cold, but when the sun rose in the morning it was spectacular; warm and breathtaking with large trees and palms that ran the length of our site.

We arrived in Loreto late in the afternoon, June 7.

We spent an hour driving around town looking for the two RV parks listed in both our RV guides, which we never found. Instead, we came across a real gem, the Del Mar RV Park. It is quiet, has free Internet, laundry, and is completely fenced in with high hedges and tall trees shading our site. And it’s only 1.5 blocks from the beach, marina and Malecon.

Loreto is a gorgeous fishing town, with lush gardens of bright subtropical flowers in every color. On the Malecon the sea literally slashing up to the sidewalk.

Our first couple of days, although beautiful, was spent working. Yesterday was the first day we actually went to the beach; we went swimming in the warm waters and let Cai run nuts on the beach. The water is as clear as a swimming pool with the islands of Isla Coronado, Isla Carmen and Isla Danzantes as a backdrop.

We needed to stock up, so we walked to the biggest grocery store about 2.5 miles away. Not an easy walk with groceries. We got a little turned around and walked another 5 miles. I know this because my lovely bride owns a pedometer, so I know I actually walked 9,963 steps.

I didn’t want to do that again, so we took our bikes to the shop and now we have wheels in good running condition; better than we are. It’s a good thing the majority of places we stay are at sea level, or I’d be dead meat.

Our plan is head south next week. Our first stop is Puerto Escondido. Then we’re off to Ciudad Insurentes, Cuidad Constitucion, La Paz, San Jose del Cabo, Cabo San Lucas, Todos Santos and destinations beyond.

PEOPL E & VOI C ES

You’re never ready when you think you are, but if you wait until everything is perfect, you may never leave the dock—or hit the road in our case. The day before we needed to leave, our most important RV system stopped working—no 12John & Rachel Pack volt power. We left anyway.

After marrying We figured one way eight years ago, or anther things would they traveled the work out; they always do.

United States full Besides, Rachel and I have time producing learned from a friend, Bob live events and Bitchin, publisher of Latitude DVD titles for retail, & Attitude, that the only then moved to San real difference between an Felipe Baja to slow ordeal and adventure is your down. That only attitude. This was going to lasted a couple of be an adventure and we months. Since then were going to have a good they’ve dedicated attitude, no matter what. their lives to sharThe last time we packed ing Baja California up and hit the road, we and Sonora with loaded up three teenagers the world, and have and a cat, and explored the fallen in love with United States for almost so many of you that three years. This time, we they want you to join plan to explore Mexico, with them as they explore two cats, a dog and you. the wonders of Baja Our first leg was from California Sur. San Felipe to Ensenada and the adventure began. We left at 6:30 p.m., June 5, and arrived at Estero Beach at 1:30 a.m., June 6. This is a trip that we’ve made many times in less than three hours, but we hadn’t been on MEX 3 the night before the SCORE Baja 500.

By the time we got to Ensenada, this adventure was already becoming an ordeal. But after getting directions, we found Estero Beach RV Resort. Our full hookup site was on an estuary in front on an open bay, across from the point where La Bufadora (the blowhole) is located.

On the northern end of the park are the point and some amazing mansions. A beautiful park, clubhouse, restrooms, laundry facility and swimming pool are located between the mansions and the RV park. We took time in the morning to explore the area before heading out on June 6.

We had filled up in Ensenada before leaving, so when we got to Catavina we had three-eighths of a tank;

Photo by John Pack

by John and Rachel Pack

Get more info: www.mexicolivingguide.com - 19

Explore, Discover, Get Out and See Mexico

TRAVEL & ROAD TRIPS

The Fabulous Beaches of Puerto Peñasco, Mexico

by La Huerita

It’s all about beaches and the ocean in Puerto Peñasco.

Sandy beaches, rocky beaches, beaches for swimming, shelling or just bumming around. There is wind surfing, fishing, sailing or jet skiing, and tide pools to explore when the tide is out. With miles of beaches available stretching from northwest to southeast of the town, whatever you want from a beach you can find here.

Note that in Mexico all beaches are are, by law, open to the public. Along the beaches of Puerto Peñasco there are rarely any lifeguards available, so although the water is generally very safe for swimming, do take reasonable precautions. The best swimming is from May through October, as it is generally too cold for swimming during the winter months. And remember: All vehicles are prohibited on the beaches of Puerto Peñasco.

You will find many references to beaches in the region as being “west” or “east” due to the way the land curves away as you head south. For instance, Playa Encanto and Playa La Jolla might be described as “eastern beaches,” while Sandy Beach is a “western beach.” I find that somewhat confusing, so in case it confuses you, too, I will be describing the beaches as going from north to south, as indeed they ultimately do. On the next page is a Google satellite view showing the general lay of the land.

I’ll start this description of Puerto Peñasco’s beaches at the northern end with Pelican Beach and head south as far as Playa San Jorge.

Pelican Beach: Beginning north of town are the beaches fronting the Laguna Shores and Laguna del Mar developments, which are located along the curve of Cholla Bay. These two master-planned developments share a pristine estuary teeming with wildlife—bring your binoculars and camera! Part of the larger Estero La Cholla, you are encouraged to help keep this estuary as clean and pristine as it is today. You know: Take only pictures

20 - The ONLY Monthly Guide to Northwest Mexico

Destinations Around Mexico

of downtown and is the main beachfront for that area.

Technically an extension of Sandy Beach, this beautiful stretch of beach is loved by both locals and visitors, with easy access throughout most of its length. When the tide is very low the seaweed, rocks and tide pools are exposed.

This provides a perfect time to explore the pools for the strange and wonderful variety of marine creatures that live there. Kids of all ages love this, but do be careful what you touch.

At the northern end of this beach you will find the wellestablished Playa Bonita and Laos Mar hotels. Anchoring its southern end, as already mentioned, is the Peñasco del Sol (formerly Plaza Las Glorias). Within walking distance of the Peñasco del Sol are many shops and restaurants, which makes this a very popular location. On a busy day, parking anywhere near it can be challenging. This is also where the rocky area of the beach that circles most of the town begins.

Mirador Beach: Located right around the corner from Old Port’s Malecon, this is the closest beach to the oldest parts of downtown Puerto Peñasco. Comprised of both sandy and rocky shores, it is only about three blocks south of the Peñasco del Sol. Besides having the advantage of an excellent beach and superior tide pooling when the tide is out, this area is home to many of the town’s favorite night spots such as Manny’s, Pink Cadillac, the Pithaya and Baja Cantina. Mirador is Spring Break country, the center of action for partying for the young crowd every spring. The process of sprucing up the Mirador area is well underway, with upscale mixed-use development planned for the area.

DESTI NATI ONS

and leave only footprints. Future plans for this area also include the Laguna del Sol and Marina Real communities.

Pelican Beach (so called because of the number of brown pelicans that hang out in the area) is located near the bottom edge of Laguna del Mar. It is a good place to go clamming or crabbing. This lovely stretch of beach curves to the southwest until it reaches the little jut of land where the La Cholla community is found. From the main highway north out of town, take the clearly marked turnoff going to Laguna Shores/Laguna del Mar. La Cholla (sometimes spelled La Choya): La Cholla is the oldest established foreigner-dominated enclave in the area. Set at the end of a little peninsula that juts like a finger into the Sea of Cortez at the southern end of Cholla Bay and Laguna del Mar, there is not much in the way of sandy beaches here. Probably the best one is called Tucson Beach. Though small, Tucson Beach offers calm water for wading and swimming when the tide is in. It also affords easy launching and retrieval of watercraft if you happen to be living or renting in the area and have a boat.

This peninsula is often called Pelican Point. Its rocky shores are part of a submerged 15-mile reef, and when the tide goes out it goes waaaay out! This is an advantage, however, for anyone who loves to explore tide pools, and due to the prevailing on-shore winds and shallow water it is excellent for kite sailing. This is also a great fishing spot for red snapper, whitefish, halibut, gold spotted bass and black sea bass! Don’t count it out.

Sandy Beach (Playa Arenosa): At the southern edge of the La Cholla peninsula begins the miles-long sweep of Sandy Beach. The construction along its edges (Sandy Beach Resorts) is the first thing you see when approaching town; you can see the high-rise condos from 10 to 15 miles out. There are a lot of activities available at this beautiful beach area, including swimming, snorkeling, SCUBA diving, water skiing, parasailing, jet skiing, surfing, fishing, clamming, or just basking in the sunshine. The crescentshaped beach has miles of largely undisturbed sand dunes flowing inland. At its southern end it merges into Playa Bonita, and the two areas share many attributes.

Playa Bonita/Playa Hermosa: Playa Bonita/Playa Hermosa sweeps from the bottom of Sandy Beach in a great arc southward to the Peñasco del Sol resort area

Get more info: www.mexicolivingguide.com - 21

Explore, Discover, Get Out and See Mexico

Cholla Bay estuary

Las Conchas: Las Conchas is a six-mile-long straight stretch of beautiful, pristine beaches with low bluffs and big sand dunes punctuating its length. Located along the northwestern shores of the Morua Estuary, this beach is mostly sandy and shallow; you can walk way out in many places even when the tide is not out. Excellent for shore fishing and shelling (and star gazing at night).

Playa La Jolla: Located at the East Beach development area, about 15 minutes south of town by car and separated from Las Conchas’ beach by the mouth to the Morua Estuary. Playa La Jolla offers a perfect place to take in the sun, go for a walk, collect shells, and enjoy the scenery and serenity. While close to town, it is not uncommon to find yourself almost alone on this beautiful beach. The beach here is wide, sandy and rock free.

Playa Encanto: Ditto Playa La Jolla, which essentially shares the same beach with La Jolla, and you already know what this beach area is all about. Both are excellent for shelling, so bring along a baggie to save your treasure in.

NORTH BEACH: North Beach is a development area that has been very controversial for a decade, and the controversy continues to this day. You can find out more about the real estate debacles there via Google, but for our purposes I will say only that the beaches are outstanding.

Playa Dorada and Playa Miramar are two of the beaches/ developments in this area.

Playa Dorada: Playa Dorada is almost a 30-minute drive from town. Like most of the beaches in the area, it is wide, sandy and covered in shells—some of them HUGE. If you like deserted beaches and quiet, you can’t go wrong with Playa Dorada.

Playa Miramar: Ditto Playa Miramar, just below Playa Dorada and sharing all of the latter’s attributes.

Mayan Palace: Located in the La Pinta Estuary, at kilometer 24 along the Peñasco– Caborca highway (a 30- to 40-minute drive), this massive resort development has about two miles of unspoiled beachfront. Located along 22 - The ONLY Monthly Guide to Northwest Mexico

the La Pinta Estuary, this place is an ecological haven for marine creatures and birds, and has excellent shelling. On the southeastern part of the beach, about a mile from the resort, many sea creatures can be found during low tide, along with huge, hand-sized shells. The sand is also great for building sand castles.

Playa San Jorge: Just across the bay from the new Mayan Palace Resort, where the land curves more toward the south, is the San Jorge Estuary, with beaches that rival those of its neighbor. Though there is some development in the area, if you make it all the way down to Playa San Jorge, you can be assured of isolation. Bring your own shade, water and plenty of sunscreen. And don’t forget your binoculars (for bird and critter watching) and camera.

This is what beaches are all about.

And there you have it. Enjoy the fabulous beaches of Puerto Peñasco, Mexico!

About the Author: La Huerita is the author of the popular blog Rocky Point Tides (http://rptides.blogspot.com/), with daily news, opinions, information, photos, recipes and anything else that comes to mind about Puerto Peñasco, Mexico.

NEWS & POLITICS

Northwest Mexico News Briefs

NATIONAL NEWS

by Christa Thomas

NEWS

The World Health Organization (WHO) praised Mexico’s professionalism, responsibility and transparency in handling the influenza A(H1N1) virus.

President Calderón expressed gratitude for the “exceptional work” of the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Canadian government in their coordination with Mexico in curbing the epidemic. Health officials in Mexico said that the impact of the The New Multimodal Corridor Guaymas-Mexicali epidemic appears to be waning and the country can gradually get back to normal. workers and the closure of firms caused by both “Is it safe to travel?” WHO answers, “Yes. WHO the economic crisis and the influenza A(H1N1). is not recommending travel restrictions related to Calderón said, “Small and medium firms that lack the outbreak of the influenza A(H1N1) virus. Today, the cash to be able to cover their quotas . . . will global travel is commonplace and large numbers be exempted from the 40 percent fine the Mexican of people move around the world for business Social Security Institute usually levies in response and leisure. Limiting travel and imposing travel to non-payment.” restrictions would have very little effect on stopping President Calderón declared that Mexico’s the virus from spreading, but would be highly economic prospects are looking good. He added disruptive to the global community.” that the Federal Government is doing everything According to International Living, “Mexico possible to encourage the viability of the national offers the perfect mix of centuries-old traditions and productive sector, and pointed to several large contemporary lifestyles—and it tops the list in the investments in the aeronautical sector as evidence #1 spot on International Living’s Global Retirement that better times lie ahead. Cessna Aircraft will Index . . . If you’re looking for the home of your invest US$21 million and will create 520 direct dreams, you can find it in Mexico—for much less and 1,500 indirect jobs. Textron International will than it will cost you most anywhere in the U.S. or invest US$85 million to assembly Bell commercial Canada.” For the second year in a row, International helicopters; creating 375 direct jobs. “Federal Living has ranked Mexico one of the best places to Government is working to make aeronautics one of retire in style, comfort, and at very little cost. the pillars of our productive apparatus. Mexico is one In May, President Calderón signed a decree of the 10 leading suppliers of the aerospace industry that includes measures to prevent the dismissal of for the U.S. market because it has an industry with

Get more info: www.mexicolivingguide.com - 23

Northwest Mexico News Briefs an enormous capacity to create assets with a high added value,” Calderón said.

Other recent investments in Mexico (source: Mexico Investor Digest 2009): • The Ford Motor Company announces a $3 billion investment. Ford plans to move away from truck production and focus on small cars.

• General Motors Corporation will keep its Mexico plant, but will also move away from truck production in favor of small cars.

• Audi is developing a sales and marketing strategy for Mexico.

• The Chinese car company Geely plans to invest $269 million to build its cars in Mexico. Their goal is to produce 120,000 cars annually, using a labor force of 1,104. As a result, 12 Geely suppliers also have plans to open operations in Mexico, investing an additional $231 million.

• The German company Q-Cells plans to build a plant in Mexicali. The total investment is valued at $3.5 billion.

• Finnish company Cargotec is relocating a moving cargo plant from the U.S. to Mexico.

• The Golden Dragon Precise Copper Tube, a Chinese company, is establishing a plant to elaborate copper pipes in Coahuila.

• Mexican company BioFields is building a plant to produce energy from seaweeds.

The company will invest $850 million.

The Multimodal Corridor Guaymas-Mexicali was approved with the goal of promoting international transit by rail between Guaymas and Mexicali; providing an efficient interconnection of infrastructure services in the transit of cargo by the railroad. The first year, the goal is to mobilize 2 million tonnes of ore to be mined in the U.S. and shipped to China via the Port of Guaymas. The multimodal corridor Guaymas-Arizona recorded a 206 percent increase in movement in 2008.

The United Nations General Assembly re-elected Mexico as a member of the Human Rights Council for the period from 2009 to 2012. The council is made up of 47 Member States, eight of which are in the Latin American and Caribbean Group. The Council’s goal is the promotion and protection of human rights throughout the world.

24 - Guide to Resort Living in Northwest Mexico

Northwest Mexico News Briefs

Nationwide Plus Mexico Verizon Wireless launches Nationwide Plus Mexico Plan (USA) Verizon Wireless, the USA’s leading mobile operator, has introduced the Nationwide Plus Mexico plan that enables mobile subscribers to make calls to any number in the U.S., Puerto Rico and Mexico, including mobile phones, without long distance charges, 1000 night and weekend minutes for use in the U.S. and Mexico, and unlimited mobile-to-mobile calling minutes while in the U.S. Family Share plans for Nationwide Plus Mexico are priced at US$84.99 monthly with access for two lines of service. Activation fees, taxes and other charges apply.

For a limited time, you can activate or switch to the Nationwide Plus Mexico plan and receive a one time US$15.00 bill credit. New subscribers must sign a twoyear agreement.

The promotion ends June 30, 2009. These plans are also eligible for the company’s no-cost Friends and Family feature that allows subscribers to make calls up to 10 phone numbers—landline or mobile—at no additional cost, regardless of the day or time.

More information is available at: http://b2b. vzw.com/productsservices/businesscallingplans/ nationwidemexico.html

NEWS

by Bob Ham

Get more info: www.mexicolivingguide.com - 25

Cover Feature

Paving the Way for Growth and Tourism

by Christa Thomas

Current federal and state initiatives aim to build a better Mexico. These projects will construct new and improved roads, rails, airports and ports to increase the coverage, quality, and competitiveness of Mexico’s infrastructure. The improved infrastructure means a brighter economic future for Mexico, and safer and more efficient travel for both residents and tourists.

President Calderón launched an aggressive initiative, the National Infrastructure Program (NIP), which plans to generate and spend a staggering amount of money over the next five years. The NIP began implementation in the second half of 2008.

In announcing the initiative, President Calderón stated, “Infrastructure is synonymous with social and

human development. Nowadays, competitiveness, economic growth and countries’ opportunities for well-being depend largely on the solidity and modernity of their infrastructure. As Mexicans, we have the opportunity and historic responsibility to make the decisions that will conclusively promote the country’s development.”

The World Economic Forum’s 2007 Global Competitiveness Report ranked Mexico 61 out of 131 countries. According to President Calderón, in order to improve these results, the NIP has set the following general objectives: 1. increase the coverage, quality and competitiveness of infrastructure 2. make Mexico one of the world’s main logistic platforms, particularly in transport and energy 3. improve Mexicans’ access to public services, particularly among the most disadvantaged 4. promote balanced regional development without reducing the growing competitiveness in the north of the country

Photo by Francisco Romo Victorio

5. create more permanent jobs through the investment and economic growth that will be created by the development of infrastructure 6. promote sustainable development through projects that respect the environment 7. promote the infrastructure required to increase tourist activities that will trigger employment and regional development.

26 - The ONLY Monthly Guide to Northwest Mexico

"Infrastructure is synonymous with social and human development."

The NIP seems to be more than just political rhetoric as it is backed by the National Infrastructure Fund which signals a decisive step in the financing strategy for the modernization and expansion of the country’s infrastructure. The National Infrastructure Fund started with a $40 billion investment in 2008, with increases promised during the following five years.

International Support The U.S. government also signaled its commitment to Mexico’s infrastructure development by signing grant agreements totaling more than US$1.7 million.

U.S. Trade and Development Agency Acting Director Leocadia I. Zak said that the grants are to further five projects that support NIP objectives. The grants will be used to fund separate studies on plans to expand Puebla International Airport, Querétaro International Airport and San Luis Potosí International Airport; a study on a proposed municipal water desalination facility for the Municipality of Puerto Peñasco in the State of Sonora; and technical assistance to the Comisión Federal de Electricidad in strengthening environmental management at the power plants, substations, and power transmission and distribution facilities that it operates.

Highways, Roads and Bridges President Calderón stated that this year $22 billion will be allocated to building and modernizing roads.

The Program includes plans for the construction or modernization of more than 100 miles of highways and rural roads.

Over $1 billion will be spent on works such as the Toluca-Palmillas, Toluca-Naucalpan and TexcocoCalpulalpan highways. Another $9 billion will be assigned for conservation and maintenance.

Tourism Minister Rodolfo Elizondo said top projects include Huatulco, a beach resort that will receive $108 million in investment from the federal budget plus $1.48 billion in private funds for a development that is expected to be finished by the end of the current administration. Riviera Nayarit, Golden Beach and Puerto Escondido will also benefit from the planned investments.

Early this year, the President inaugurated the Chalco 1 Junction, which involved a $120 million investment and is part of the Mexico-Cuautla highway project.

Also recently opened is the Coastal Highway north of Puerto Peñasco. Hal “Paco” Clark, President of San Felipe’s BC Lions Club says that the new highway makes a “very pleasant difference” as the trip, which used to take about 6.5 hours by car, is now reduced to 4.5 and is very scenic—passing miles of beautiful farmland and rugged coastline.

C OVER STORY

The Program identifies over 300 infrastructure projects, divided into four main areas: • highways, roads and bridges • railroads, ports, airports, urban and inner urban transport • water, irrigation, drainage and sanitation • projects designed to preserve the environment and biodiversity

Cover Feature

Railways Mexico’s government and private partners will invest $47 billion in nine projects to expand Mexico’s railroad network. The NIP plans to expand the country’s railroad system by 881 miles of additional track over the next five years. This includes 10 multimodal Get more info: www.mexicolivingguide.com - 27

Photo by Francisco Romo Victorio

Cover Feature

corridors, which will be added to the current eight by 2012, as well as three new suburban train systems in Mexico City.

Maritime Ports The Program will add five new ports to the existing 114. The new ports will be located in Baja California, Manzanillo, Veracruz, Campeche and Puerto Morelos.

In January 2009, Mexico’s Communications and Transport Ministry called for bids on seven tenders to expand ports’ infrastructure. The budget for these projects is $9.72 billion, out of which 60 percent will come from public funding and 40 percent from private investors. Alejandro Chacon, head of ports and marine transportation, said that these tenders include the construction of a container terminal, facilities for fertilizers and minerals in Guaymas, an upgrade of the infrastructure in Mazatlan, a service station for oil platforms in Dos Bocas in Tabasco, and a container terminal in Manzanillo. Chacon said $23 billion of public and private funds will be invested between 2009 and 2013.

Airports The NIP plans to construct three new commercial airports in Cancun, Sonora and Baja California. Other airports will be expanded, including those in Puebla, Cancun, Toluca, Loreto, Puerto Vallarta, Guadalajara, Monterrey and Merida. Most of the projects, valued at $5.4 billion, have already started.

Current Status of NIP Like the rest of the world, Mexico’s economy has been hurt by the international financial crisis. In 28 - The ONLY Monthly Guide to Northwest Mexico

response, the Mexican government has introduced an economic stimulus program to support households and foster employment in the country. This includes accelerating the implementation of the NIP. President Calderón has announced that the government will use public spending to drive the economy and plans to execute the bulk of infrastructure investments during 2009. The construction of a new refinery, the expansion of ports and highways, new tourism projects and an aggressive home building program are part of the government’s plan.

Conclusion President Calderón stated that his “government is making important decisions that will set us on the right path to putting Mexico on the world tourist map.”

And that “although the goal we have set is ambitious, I know it can be achieved. We are determined to turn Mexico into a leader as regards infrastructure development in Latin America and among emerging economies and by 2030 for it to be among the top 20 percent of [the] world’s most highly rated countries as regards the competitiveness of its infrastructure.”

Mexico paving its way to economic recovery is good news for the tourist industry as it becomes easier to get to and move about the country. With already completed projects ranging from the new coastal highway out of Puerto Peñasco to the new cruise ship terminal in Guaymas, arriving in Mexico by car, plane or boat has never been easier. Plan your arrival soon, and plan to stay for awhile. But be careful—like thousands before you, you may not want to leave! * $ represents pesos unless stated otherwise.

Cover Feature

potent tissue-destroying agent. A true brown recluse bite may cause chills, fever, nausea, muscle pain and flu-like symptoms along with blisters. These become open sores which take up to 45 days to heal. If they become infected it can create serious complications and severe scarring.

Oftentimes minor skin irritations are mistaken for spider bites. Remember, even in homes where brown recluses have been found, seldom have the occupants experienced a bite. Many bites will cause just a little red mark that heals without event, and 90 percent of brown recluse bites heal without severe scarring.

Sometime this summer you will probably hear that familiar hum of a Mosquito. There are approximately 2,700 species of these pests and they use keen chemical, visual and heat sensors to locate their prey (that would be you!). They are attracted to heat, light, perspiration, body odor, lactic acid and carbon dioxide.

Only female mosquitoes bite. She sticks a very sharp, thin proboscis into your skin and sucks your blood into her abdomen. Her saliva has an agent that prevents your blood from clotting, and this saliva makes your body’s immune system respond by creating a “wheal” or swollen bump around the bitten area. Swelling soon departs leaving an itch that remains until your immune cells break down her saliva’s proteins.

To treat mosquito bites, wash the area with soap and water. Avoid scratching the area. Anti-itch medicines such as Calamine or Cortisone creams will relieve the itching. You probably don’t need to seek medical attention (unless you feel dizzy or nauseated, which indicates an allergic reaction).

It is reassuring to know that the HIV virus cannot survive in a mosquito and, therefore, cannot be

C OVER STORY

brings with it a host of spiders, insects, bugs and snakes, which are generally regarded as unwanted visitors in our homes and yards. Actually, less than 2 percent of insects are harmful; but that small percent should be taken seriously. Whether they are spreading disease or causing us pain, it is good to remind ourselves about these unwanted visitors and what we can do to protect our homes and families.

The Black Widow Spider is considered the most venomous spider in North America. Only the female is dangerous to humans. However, her venom is 15 times more toxic than an equal amount of rattlesnake venom! If it was not for this potent venom, the black widow would be considered a welcome guest as she preys on cockroaches, earwigs and crickets.

The adult female may reach over an inch in length and is identified by her shiny black and bulbous abdomen with its famous hourglass design. In the summer, after mating (and possibly making a meal of the male!) the female will begin constructing egg sacs, each containing up to 250 eggs.

There’s no reason to panic if bitten by a black widow, since often she will not even inject venom into the bite. According to statistics, death from a black widow bite is extremely unlikely. It is best to wash the wound well with soap and water to prevent infection.

The very young or old should see a doctor. Otherwise, if muscle cramps, spasms or severe pain develops, there is medical treatment available to care for these symptoms. Black widow spider antivenin is available but seldom necessary.

Another unwelcome guest in the Northern Baja area is the Baja Recluse (Brown Recluse) Spider.

These spiders have six (rather than the typical eight) eyes, arranged in a horseshoe pattern in three clusters of two eyes each. They are known for their necrotic bite, which means their venom contains a

Get more info: www.mexicolivingguide.com - 29

Cover Feature transmitted by mosquitoes. However, mosquitoes do carry other serious diseases. One of these is dengue fever, which has no vaccine available and has symptoms of headache, fever, exhaustion, joint and muscle pain. In September of 2008, the Sonoran newspaper El Imparcial reported that, at that time for the 2008 year, there had been 23 confirmed cases of dengue fever in the state of Sonora. However, all 23 people had been restored to good health.

Another common visitor to your home is the Bark Scorpion, which is found throughout Arizona, California, Baja California Norte, Baja California Sur and Sonora. They may be three inches long and is the only scorpion that does not burrow, but lives above ground and climbs. They live in palm trees and any rocky crevices, and can easily climb block or stucco.

They need only a one-sixteenth-inch crack to enter your home! Scorpions feed on other insect and, thus,

are attracted to outdoor lights where they will find these insects.

The venom of the bark scorpion may produce severe pain at the site of the sting. Generally, the most severe symptoms are numbness, difficulties in breathing, muscle twitching and convulsions. Some people are allergic to the venom and there is an antivenin available.

Our last unloved and unwelcome visitor is the venomous snake! Sonora and the Northern Baja have venomous Rattlesnakes and Sidewinders. Usually rattlesnakes give us plenty of warning as they rattle away! Only about 75 percent of rattlesnake bites will have any venom injected into the bite. And of the approximately 8,000 people who are bit each year (statistics from the U.S.) about 5 persons will die.

My uncle once got “snake-bit� on a gold mining expedition. He drank a bottle of whiskey and went

Source Information & Additional Information: www.calpoison.org www.desertusa.com http://ag.arizona.edu/urbanipm/pest_press/2006/november.pdf http://spiders.ucr.edu/avoidbites.html http://spiders.ucr.edu/recluseid.html http://animals.howstuffworks.com/insects/mosquito5.htm http://www.medicinenet.com/dengue_fever/article.htm http://www.ipm.ucdavis.edu/PMG/PESTNOTES/pn74110.html http://ag.arizona.edu/pubs/insects/az1223/#ARIZONABARKSCORPION 30 - The ONLY Monthly Guide to Northwest Mexico

Cover Feature GENERAL SAFETY MEASURES TO DISCOURAGE ALL UNWELCOME GUESTS: • Keep all debris and trash cleaned up outdoors.

• Keep grass and shrubs trimmed or cut short.

• Stack wood far from your home.

• Do not have standing water on your property.

• Use gloves when doing yard work.

• Be careful when picking up any objects that have been sitting for awhile.

• Do not bring items from outdoors inside without thoroughly cleaning them first.

• Check your home for cracks and crevices and seal them when found.

• Keep window screens tightly in place.

C OVER STORY

to sleep. He claims he woke up a few days later feeling fine . . . While I definitely would NEVER recommend this “treatment,” it does seem that treating a venomous snake bite is controversial and recommended procedures vary. However, according to the American Red Cross, the bite area should be washed with clean water and soap. The bite area should be immobilized and kept lower than the heart, and medical help should be sought immediately. Most all professionals agree that it is NOT wise to apply ice, tourniquets, or make an incision in the area.

Summer is a great time to enjoy the outdoors. Those long days of summer may find us in an entertaining mood. But with some forethought, we can make sure that we do not invite these unloved and unwelcome guests into our lives!

• Seal doors with weather stripping.

• Vacuum and mop your home often.

• Keep all clothing and other “clutter” off the floor.

• Always check shoes and gloves before putting them on.

• Remove spider webs and egg sacs.

• Always be alert . . .

• Use appropriate pest control and/or pesticides as directed.

• Use mosquito repellant (it is recommended that it contains DEET).

Get more info: www.mexicolivingguide.com - 31

Baj a Calif ornia

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.

Playas de Rosarito................... 34 Ensenada................................ 38 Mexicali................................... 42 Los Algodones........................ 43 San Felipe............................... 44

San Felipe Lighthouse Photo by John Pack

Playas de R osarito

Playas de Rosarito, Baja California

Get more info: www.mexicolivingguide.com - 33

Playas de Rosarito, Baja California

Playas de Rosarito

Playas de Rosarito, Baja California Las Rocas Roca

Mexico Living Contact Information

Photo by Lynn Gatch

Associate Publisher Carlos Durán 661-614-3019 / carlos@mexicoliving.info

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.

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 Baja Open House, km 38 Bobby’s Baja by the Sea, km 42

34 - Guide to Resort Living in Northwest Mexico

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-aday 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.

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

Rosarito offers 20 miles of white sandy beaches with endless activities including golfing, surfing, fishing, horse back riding, or relax in spa, ATV riding, visit Fox Studio Baja, or enjoy any of the many nightclubs. Rosarito is also the host to the third largest bike ride in North America, held twice annually.

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

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

Playas de Rosarito, Baja California

Finally! A way to Cross the Border Reducing the Waiting Time to the U.S.!

by Carlos Durán

Finally! A way to cross the border reducing The Fast Track Border Line at the San Ysidro With the border fast pass, you will significantly the waiting time the U.S.!

Crossing Border is a project developedto by the Tijuana reduce your wait time at the border. The average time Convention & Visitors Bureau, the Baja California Secretary Tourism and the Tijuana Economics Development Consul, for those tourists who visited certain merchants that are part of this program.

with the pass is 30 minutes or less. Is very important to emphasize, that is a single-use coupon and that The Fast Track Border Line at the San you still need to present your official documents (U.S. Passport) the crossing border.

Ysidro Crossing at Border is a project You can obtain the border pass by visiting developed by the Tijuana Convention & and consuming on the following establishments: Visitors Bureau, the Baja California

In Tijuana:Tourism and the Tijuana Secretary • Vita Spa

• Hotel Realwho del visited Rio certain those tourists • Caliente • La Carnicería Restaurant • the Vivamex Health Care you will With border fast pass, significantly reduce your time the • La Casa del Mole at wait Playas de at Tijuana merchants that are part of this program.

border. The average time with the pass is 30 minutes or less. Is very important In Rosarito Beach: to emphasize, that is a single-use coupon Rosarito Beach Hotel and• that you still need to present your official documents • Hotel Festival (U.S. Plaza Passport) at the

crossing border.

• Hotel Calafia

• Hotel Brisas del Marestablishments: You can obtain the border pass by visiting and consuming on the following

Est. 1972

In Tijuana:Jorge Cuadros & Associates • Vita Spa Best Reasons to be with George

Hotel Corona For•a long time, we’ve Plaza been saying that you should • Hotel Real del Rio do your Utilities, Property management, Insur• Caliente ance• and papersRestaurant with George Cuadros. He’s La FM-3 Carnicería the •most professional with Care a flawless reputation.

Vivamex Health But,• forLathose to know our Casawho delreally Mole want at Playas de what Tijuana reasons are, here is our priority list:

In 1.

Rosarito Beach: The best auto and home insurance policies with

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

affordable rates in Baja.

staff.Beach •A friendly Hotelbi-lingual Rosarito only on-line service that keeps you up to date 24/7.

•TheHotel Festival Plaza 38 years experience, so they know what they’re doing.

•Over Hotel Calafia service with minimal waiting.

•Fast Hotel Brisas del Mar excuses... just Resort results! & Spa •NoLas Rocas • La Casa de la Langosta

Dial from U.S. 1 (619) 819-5137 Local Tel. (661) 612-1295 or FAX (661) 612-1285 Quinta Plaza Shopping Center, Ste 3B, Central Rosarito

Stop by or contact us: jorge@jorgecuadros.com or log www.jorgecuadros.com

• Las Rocas Resort & Spa • La Casa de la Langosta • Grand Baja Resort • Restaurante Puerto Nuevo II • Fausto Polanco Hacienda Furniture

Playas de R osarito

Economics • Hotel Development Corona Plaza Consul, for

In Ensenada: • El Rey Sol Restaurant • Posada El Rey Sol • Adobe Guadalupe Hotel • Hotel Estero Beach • Hotel Cortez Baja Inn • Hotel Santo Tomas Baja Inn • Hotel Desert Inn • Best Western El Cid • Sano’s Steak House • Playitas Club del Mar For you, to obtain the border pass, is necessary to spend the amount of $70.00 dollars or $1000 pesos on the mentioned establishments only. The pass IS FREE, once you have met the requirements. More info: http://www.tijuanaonline.org/EN/FastTrack/.

Get more info: www.mexicolivingguide.com - 35

Playas de Rosarito, Baja California

Around Town

in ito Rosar

ROSARITO DIRECTORY ICON Descriptions

July Promises To Be Too Much Fun in Rosarito

by Carlos Durán

#

Photos courtesy of Rosarito’s Papas & Beer

May gray is over and June gloom will morph into a sunny, warm July that promises many fun activities and excuses to visit Playas de Rosarito. Play on the beach as “Mexicali en la Playa” desert residents rock out on our beaches with music, soccer and volleyball tourneys in mid-July. Or relax listening to local musicians at Saturday afternoon FREE concerts at the Rosarito Beach Hotel.

Here are some events to pencil in on your calendar for July.

The 4th of July Bash at the Baja Mart Whale’s Tail Bar and Grill on the grounds of the Bajamar Golf Resort.

The main course is a home-roasted whole pig Memphis BBQ style. Wine and dine, and live music from 2 p.m. until 11 p.m. for only $7.

Don’t know what to do Saturday afternoons? Enjoy the FREE concerts at the Artist’s Plaza at the Rosarito Beach Hotel every Saturday at 4 p.m. Meet new people, listen to local singers and have a great relaxing afternoon.

This year’s annual Rosarito Beach Fair (July 2–25) will offer attractions, music, arts, crafts, carnival rides, activities for children, food and an extreme sports zone.

The fair’s location is tentatively at the San Fernando area opposite the downtown PEMEX. Want to trade that traditional hot dog and beer for a gourmet dinner with fine wines instead for this year’s 4th of July? The first Saturday of each month at 7:30 p.m. you can make that happen at Chabert’s Restaurant of the Rosarito Beach Hotel. Make your reservations at 800-343-8582.

Three events in one will be celebrated from July 11–12 at the Pabellón Rosarito (site of the new Walmart and Home Depot): The Steak and Lobster Festival; Rosarito Art & Furniture Expo; and The Pavilion of Tequilas.

Enjoy the art of furniture making, tastings of steak and

36 - Guide to Resort Living in Northwest Mexico

- 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

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

Playas de Rosarito, Baja California

July 31–August 2. It is the premier party event with over 50,000 sq. ft. of fun in the sand. Papas & Beer is not only the largest beach club on the West Coast, but it is also one of the most famous and respected nightclubs in North America. More info: www.papasandbeer.com.

So load up on sunscreen, hit the ATM and head over to fun in beautiful, sunny and safe Playas de Rosarito this month.

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

Playas de R osarito

Photos courtesy of Rosarito’s Papas & Beer

lobster, sampling of tequila, mariachi music and folk dancing. Also on July 12, at the 20th International Seafood Festival, you can enjoy seafood delicacies from fish tacos to ceviche, Costa Azul shrimp to fresh lobster starting at 1 p.m. at the Rosarito Beach Hotel.

The 23rd Annual Mexicali en la Playa Beach Festival will overpower Rosarito’s beaches with way too much fun on July 15 and 16. The best music groups from Mexico will be performing traditional rock and down-home Mexican country music at the beach festival. To work off the partying you can join the athletic beach run, or participate in soccer and volleyball tournaments.

As an antidote to beach fun and activites, Portofino Restaurant at the Festival Plaza Hotel is hosting a Pairing Dinner on July 16. The $38 fee covers a sevencourse pairing dinner with five exquisite award-winning wines from Baja vineyards at 7 p.m. Reservations are required: 800-453-8606.

And if you have not yet partied at Papas & Beer, the celebration of the year for the famous club happens from

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 - 37

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

38 - The ONLY Monthly Guide to Northwest Mexico

E

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

GETTING TO ENSENADA

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

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,

Get the Guide At:

Baja Mart & Deli - at Baja mar Baja Country Club Bajamar Golf Resort Magañas La Misión Restaurant La Vendimia Restaurant CasaMar Restaurant El Rey Sol Restaurant El Rey Sol Hotel The Happy Pharmacy

Ensenada

Mexico Living Contact Information

Associate Nuria Holly Bocanegra 661-114-8007 / nuriaholly@mexicoliving.info 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 AROUND TOWN

ENSENADA

Photo by Stockton Hill

Ensenada, Baja California

Ensenada, Baja California

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 - 39

Ensenada, Baja California

Guateque Wine Festival

by Stockton Hill

The first weekend in June featured tasting artisan wine created by a diverse group of local wine producers at this year’s Guateque wine festival held at the vineyards of Liceaga in San Antonio de las Minas, Ensenada.

The Guateque 2008 was an exclusive wine event focusing on new artisan wines and winemakers, with over 25 participants that shared samples of their first and second year wine releases. And, with each year, the wine and event just keeps getting better and better!

There were lots of new quality wines by Tres Mujures, Cruz, VI, Agosto, Enigma and many more.

Baja wine aficionado and Mexico Living contributor Steve Dryden was on hand once again. In addition to great wine, and charming people, there was a wonderful selection of cheese, olive oil, grilled sausage, seafood, ceviche tostadas, paella, tacos and so much more.

Keep your calendars open for next year’s Guateque wine festival; and don’t miss the Fiestas de la Vendimia (wine festival) in Ensenada August 6–23, 2009.

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

WHERE TO STAY 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

40 - The ONLY Monthly Guide to Northwest Mexico

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 - 41

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

42 - The ONLY Monthly Guide to Northwest Mexico

Los Algodones, Baja California

Los Algodones, Baja California

los algodones

EMERGENCY PHONES Bomberos Algodones (FIRE). . . . 658-517-7777 Policia. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 066

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).”

Source: wikipedia.org

Get the Guide At: The Mine

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

PLACES TO EAT Bars and Club The Green Door Bar.........................................658-517-7347

PLACES TO STAY Motels/Hotels Olympia Motel.................................................658-517-7347

BUSINESS DIRECTORY A-Z Dentist Dr. Mario A Garibay, DDS ...............................658-517-3286

Get more info: www.mexicolivingguide.com - 43

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

Hospital Immigration Office Mayor’s Office Police Local Police Federal Police State Judicial Port Captain

Get the Guide At: Baja Nueva Blowin’ Smoke BBQ Botica Sagrado Corazon Charley AM/PM Airport Road

Chumpos Pizza & Ice Cream CSI Baja Fat Boy’s Pizza Juanitos Restaurant

44 - The ONLY Monthly Guide to Northwest Mexico

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

Lillyana’s Day Spa Lighthouse Los Arcos Happy Jackass Maderas de San Felipe Maxivision Optical Oasis Market Playa Azul Restaurant

Rancho Otro Market Redwagon Rosita Resturant Santa Fe Ph. SunRunner Mail Srvc.

Yetmail Z Market

San Felipe, Baja California

San Felipe, Baja California

Lonely Shell

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.

ATM/GETTING CASH

Because of the close proximity of Northwest Mexico

San Felipe

Mexico Living Contact Information

Associate Publisher Bill Maine 686-231-4921 / billmaine@gmail.com

SAN FEL I PE

S

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.

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 more info: www.mexicolivingguide.com - 45

San Felipe, Baja California Photo courtesy of http://www.noelirp.com

Around Town in

ipe San Fel

It’s been pretty quiet around San Felipe this month. Most of our snowbirds have left and the only ones who remain are the die-hard Baja fans! Like this author! So, now we are left wondering what great things are coming to San Felipe for the summer months.

Well, to recap a little, JollyMon had a full house on May 23. The UFC fights were going on in one area, another spot featured the Cleveland vs. Orlando Basketball game and all the while, DJ Bubba was spinning tunes for the crowd. Recognizing one of our local campo owners and business men, Rafael Navarro came to the rescue for a house in El Dorado that had plumb ran out of water. Yes. He called his guy, Armando, and had him deliver a full tank to the panicking residents on a SUNDAY, no less. Many thanks for his help in this community.

This writer had the opportunity to see Carlos Bono perform classical guitar on May 17. What a pleasure that was—listening to the music and enjoying a great breakfast! Another event in May was the wedding of

46 - The ONLY Monthly Guide to Northwest Mexico

Island Rythms Production.

Chocolate Bob to his sweetheart, Yolanda, and an amazing reception that followed at the Latin Garden.

Agave Blues played at the reception. Many thanks to Jesus and Stephanie who catered the event.

Coming up in August, VIP Earth Events, based out of Las Vegas, Nevada, is bringing in Island Rhythms Production, a Caribbean steel drum band from the Los Angeles area, to perform at the JollyMon. This is expected to be a sold-out event, so if you plan to be here, get your tickets soon. At least there will be something to entertain us during the baking season in San Felipe.

Have a safe and pleasant summer.

San Felipe, Baja California

California Optical

Quality Eye Care at Affordable Prices Many people who have settled in San Felipe have had the opportunity to try their skills as an entrepreneur. They typically start out with a business or trade they are familiar with. Sometimes it’s working David DesRochers. with a partner or subcontracting with an established business. Others discover something totally new that they’ve never done before and find their niche in business with total gratification.

David DesRochers moved to San Felipe from Canada in 2006 and began working as a construction superintendant at El Dorado Ranch. Being fluent in Spanish, he had the advantage to supervise construction crews and get things done on time. David became known as a person you could depend on to be there when he said he would be and do what he said he was going to do. He continues to be that same person today and has helped many people along the way.

Today, David owns California Optical and provides quality eye care services and exams at a low cost.

You will be greeted by David who is always happy to help you find attractive eyeglass frames with great

personal attention. Here you will find state-of-the-art lens treatments as well as lens types to fit individual lifestyles. When you need an eye examination California Optical will arrange an appointment for you with Dr. Efrain Castellanos who is there every week. The thorough exam checks for cataracts and glaucoma, and advise for diabetes and high blood pressure.

California Optical opened for business in August 2008 in San Felipe, and they are already giving back to the community like many other foreign business owners do here in Mexico. Three times a year California Optical hosts a free eye clinic in conjunction with the Flying Samaritans and the San Felipe Lions Club with the goal being to provide exams and eye glasses to the less fortunate residents in San Felipe who would not be able to afford glasses. In 2008, David and a group of friends started Juventud Sin Fronteras (Youth Without Boundaries), which successfully raised enough money to provide 10 families with special needs children a hot Christmas meal, dry food goods, toiletries and gifts for the holidays.

On April 25, 2009, David married his sweetheart, Dr. Melina California Fierros, DDS, owner of California Dental. They now both live, work and play in this paradise called San Felipe.

California Optical is located on 1088-5 Mar Caribe in San Felipe. Tell them Mexico Living referred you and receive a discount. Visit their website at cadentaloptical.com; or contact them by phone, (686) 577-0708, or email californiaoptical@hotmail.com.

SAN FEL I PE

Photo courtesy of Victor Rodriguez Ratliff

by Bill Maine

Get more info: www.mexicolivingguide.com - 47

San Felipe, Baja California     



  

    

48 - The ONLY Monthly Guide to Northwest Mexico

San Felipe, Baja California 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

Pizza ..............................686-577-4092 Fatboy’s . ............686-577-2585 Los Arcos - Happy Jackass Popeye’s Pizza.............................................686-577-1122 Rabbit Pizza Delivery....................................686-577-0987 Spanish Miguel & Paco

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

Steak & Seafood ...................686-577-1580 Al’s Backstreet Cantina Green House................................................686-181-6358 ..................................................686-577-1028 El Nido ..............686-577-2540 Lighthouse Restaurant . .....................................686-577-2585 Los Arcos Fine Dining The Latin Garden..........................................686-209-6369 2-Highway 5 KM 183, San Felipe, BC .................686-577-0022 Pavilion Restaurant

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

SAN FEL I PE

SAN FELIPE DIRECTORY

Rancho Alegre ..........................686-576-0648 ..........................686-120-9051 Restaurant Playa Azul Rice & Beans .........................................686-577-1770 . ...........................................686-577-1903 Rosita

PLACES TO EAT

American . ............................686-577-2585 Los Arcos ......................................686-577-2465 Baja Java Baja Jimmys...............................................686-139-7373 .....................686-577-3144 Beach Bar & Grill Blowin’ Smoke BBQ ....................................686-576-0710 Breakfast The Bistro “Java Jitters”

MySanFelipeVacation.com......................... (686) 109-0579

.........686-114-7735

Burgers Baja Burger..................................................686-577-2465 Chilis & Burgers...........................................686-577-6196 Ice Cream Chumpo’s Pizza and Ice Cream....................686-577-0085 Japanese Oshii Japanese Restaurant...........................686-184-9790 Mexican ...........686-577-3144 The Beach Bar and Grill El Club.........................................................686-577-1175 .........................686-133-6500 Juanitos (El Colorado) ...............686-200-4083 La Palapa Bar & Grill Mi Casa es Tu Casa......................................686-577-1495

Get more info: www.mexicolivingguide.com - 49

San Felipe, Baja California Rancho del Sol . .....................686-231-4921 Redwagon Property Services.......................686-576-0081

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

Sandollar Condotels.....................................686-123-7688 Places to Stay…Rentals…Sandollar Condotels Seaside Shangri-La Apartment.....................686-577-1573 ..........................686-577-0745 Su Casa Elegante Motels/Hotels Marina Resort

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

BUSINESS DIRECTORY (A-Z)

BANDS/BANDAS Agave Blues.................................................686-184-9237 BARS/CLUBS Al’s Backstreet Cantina ....................686-577-1580 The Beach Bar and Grill ..........686-577-3144 V Lounge . .............................................707-237-1906 Fandango’s . .....................................686-577-0060 JollyMon......................................................686-213-5647

ACCOUNTING/CONTABILIDAD CP E&A Accounting...........................................686-577-0836

Los Arcos - Happy Jackass Alterations/sastre San Felipe Seamstress (Vickie Silva)............686-175-5420 ARCHITECT/ARQUITECTO Freddy Hernandez........................................686-946-7897 Licensed, CAD, Blue Prints, Graphic Design Rosa Lina Ramos Lazcano...........................686-184-6172 ART GALLERY Oasis Fine Art Gallery...................................686-221-1245 ARTIST/ARTISTA Andrena Joyce ....... E-mail: andrenajoyce@yahoo.com 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 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

50 - The ONLY Monthly Guide to Northwest Mexico

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

BEAUTY SALONS/SALONES DE BELLEZA Hair By Nancy .......................................686-113-3682 Lilly Ana’s Day Spot ..............................686-577-6253 BUILDING MATERIALS/MATERIALES DE CONTRUCCIÓN Pro-Construction..........................................686-576-0430 Building Materials, Plumbing, Paint supplies Brick Block, Wood, & Hardware. Delivery Services Call us!

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

SAN FEL I PE

San Felipe, Baja California

Get more info: www.mexicolivingguide.com - 51

San Felipe, Baja California CHOCOLATE/CHOCOLATE Baja Chocolate Lovers . .........................686-576-0348

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

52 - The ONLY Monthly Guide to Northwest Mexico

San Felipe, Baja California DENTIST/DENTISTA . ............................686-577-0708 California Dental Spa Dr. Felix Rodriguez........................................686-577-1919 Consultorio Dental Y de Ortodoncia .............686-577-6212

EVENT SERVICES/servicios acontecimiento Produciones Baja.........................................686-576-1683

DEVELOPMENTS/FRACCIONAMIENTOS Casablanca..................................................686-157-1728 Diamante Residencial...................................686-569-2347 El Dorado Ranch..........................................686-577-0015 La Perla Del Mar...........................................760-458-7602 Playa de Oro ..........................................686-576-0223 Playa del Paraiso................................ 888-647-5292 x 704 San Marino..................................................686-577-0611 San Rafael...................................................686-576-0223

MexQuest Mortgage Corp........... Toll Free: 1-888-257-9162

FINANCING/FINANCIAMIENTO Baja Lending Company.......... ......................686-576-0653

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

Discount Store El Cheap-O...................................................686-577-6263 Baja Nueva

FURNITURE/MUEBLERÍA ...........................................686-187-7795

ENTERTAINMENT/ENTRETENIMIENTO Name That Tune - Denny Flannigan...............686-576-1683 The Singout Sisters & Chuey (Karaoke) .. 686-576-0047

SAN FEL I PE

DOCTORS/DOCTORES Dr. Victor Abasolo............ 686-577-1706 or 686-573-0174

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 HATS/sombreros Band It......................................................... 686-123-5147

HEALTH FODDS Sea Star Health Food Store...........................686-577-6250

Get more info: www.mexicolivingguide.com - 53

San Felipe, Baja California HEALTH & fitness/SALUD Y ejercicio KenSue Martial Arts.....................................686-577-6023 Excerise, Taewaonndo, Mixed Martial Arts Heaven & Earth............................................ 686-182-3513 Squats Gym .......................................... 686-125-1555

Insurance Alani’s Mexican Insurance............................686-577-2464

Lynda’s Insurance (English speaking)...........686-577-1622

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 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 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 IMPORT SERVICES/SE RVICIOS DE IMPORTACIÓN San Felipe Storage Company........................ 686-576-0432

54 - The ONLY Monthly Guide to Northwest Mexico

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 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 Versoleil ................................................ 686-576-0664

San Felipe, Baja California LAUNDRY SERVICE/LAVANDERÍA Wash Tub..................................................... 686-577-2001

Meat Markets/Carnecerias Mercados Zsamaniegos Carnecerias (Z Market)............ 686-577-1676

LIFEGUARD/SALVAVIDAS San Felipe Lifeguards...................................686-233-7730 Ask for Franscio LIQUOR/LICORERÍA Tecate Six - Julio..........................................686-119-0030 LOCKSMITH/CERRAJERO Gomez Locksmith........................................686-221-8337 24 HR Service, Professional Service. Homes, Cars, Boats, Motorcycles, English Spoken Markets/Mercados Hipon/El Pelicano................................686-577-0104/0204

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

SAN FEL I PE

Optometrists/Opthamologists California Optical..........................................686-577-0708 OpticaMaxi Vision....................................... 686-577-0320

PAINT/PINTURA John B. Ross...............................................686-109-9544 Pest Control Luis Lagarde................................................686-573-0258

PHARMACY/FARMACIA Botica “Sagrado Corazon”............................686-577-1294

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

Santa Fe Pharmacy .....................................686-576-0546

Hands On Baja.............................................686-171-6885 No phone? Make an appointment at the Call Margaret.

Sea Star Health Food Store........................... 686-577-6250

PHOTOGRAPHY/FOTOGRAFÍA Casey Hamlin.com.......................................686-577-1431 Francisco Romo...........................................686-577-1193 Ron Saunders..............................................686-576-0007 Victor Rodriguez Ratliff.................................686-573-0222

Get more info: www.mexicolivingguide.com - 55

San Felipe, Baja California

56 - The ONLY Monthly Guide to Northwest Mexico

San Felipe, Baja California

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 POSTAL SERVICES/SERVICIOS POSTALES Yetmail......................................................... 686-577-1255

Sand & Sea.................................................. 686-577-3168 SunRunner Mail Center .......................... 686-147-6752 PUBLICATIONS/PUBLICACIONES Gringo Gazette............................................. 686-111-3692

Mexico Living Magazine............................... 686-577-1377 San Felipe Newsletter...................................686-577-2898 REAL ESTATE AGENTS/AGENTES DE BIENES RAÍCES Bill Maine.....................................................686-231-4921 Kathy Preppernau.........................................686-210-4458 Katy Asimus................................................686-211-5474 REAL ESTATE/BIENES RAÍCES Amor Property ......................................686-577-0611 Baja Ranch & Sea Realty..............................686-577-1304 Baja 24/7 Construction & Real Estate...........686-577-6196 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

SAN FEL I PE

POLICE/POLICÍA Federal Preventive Police .............................686-577-1045 Police .........................................................686-577-1134

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 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

Get more info: www.mexicolivingguide.com - 57

San Felipe, Baja California

58 - The ONLY Monthly Guide to Northwest Mexico

Solar Baja Solar Systems......................................686-111-0504 SPANISH LESSONS Kelly Walsh..................................................686-149-6747 SPECIALTY STORES Sea of Cortez Salt........................................686-209-0074

San Felipe, Baja California

SAN FEL I PE

San Felipe, Baja California

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

STORAGE/ALMACÉN Lock Box..................................................... 686-576-0606 San Felipe Storage Company........................ 686-576-0432 TATTOOING/TATUAJES

WELDING SERVICES/SERVICIOS DE SOLDADURA Waldo The Welder........................................686-226-3127 WINDOW CLEANING/LIMPIEZA DE VENTANAS Pro Window Cleaning...................................686-590-6594

Get more info: www.mexicolivingguide.com - 59

Baj a Calif orn ia Sur

San Felipe, Baja 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.

MulegĂŠ.......................... 62 Loreto........................... 64 La Paz........................... 66 San Jose del Cabo......... 70 Cabo San Lucas............ 73 MulegĂŠ River Photo by Rachel Pack

60 - The ONLY Monthly Guide to Northwest Mexico

SAN FEL I PE

San Felipe, Baja California

Get more info: www.mexicolivingguide.com - 61

Mulegé, Baja California Sur

Mulegé, Baja California

Bay of Conception, Coyote Bay south of Mulege

Mulegé DIRECTORY Photo by Rachel Pack

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.

62 - 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

THINGS TO SEE

Mulegé

Mulegé, Baja California Sur

Mission Santa Rosalía de Mulegé

Mission Santa Rosalía de Mulegé was founded in 1705 by the Jesuit missionary Juan Manuel de Basaldúa at a ranchería of the local Cochimí which was known as Mulegé, in Baja California Sur, Mexico.

was founded in 1705 by the Jesuit missionary Juan Manuel de Basaldúa at a ranchería of the local Cochimí, which was known as Mulegé, in Baja California Sur, Mexico.

The site lies near the entrance of Bahía de Concepción, on the Gulf of California coast.

A few odd details of the mission's history are known. A hurricane in 1717 devastated the agricultural fields that supported the settlement. Construction of a stone church was begun in 1766.

In 1768, when the Franciscans took over responsibility for Baja California from the Jesuits, there were reportedly still some 300 Indian neophytes at Mulegé. However, by 1770, the mission was virtually deserted. The Dominicans, who succeeded the Franciscans in 1773, began rebuilding, but the population remained less than 100.

The mission ceased to function in 1828.

The present church buildings have been extensively restored.

Source: Wikipedia

Get more info: www.mexicolivingguide.com - 63

Loreto, Baja California Sur

Loreto, Baja California Sur

oreto, founded in 1697

by Jesuit missionaries, L was the first Spanish

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” (Mahimahi 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 temperatures are hot from June through October. These summer days have highs around 93 degrees Fahrenheit and high humidity.

The Loreto Municipal Building. The Loreto Mission tower can be seen in the background on the left.

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 Damiana Lan...........................................613-135-0356

64 - The ONLY Monthly Guide to Northwest Mexico

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

Get the Guide At:

La Cas Cada Restaurant Silver Desert Jewelry & Gifts Bar Eclipse Hotel Luna

El Canaveral Dali Gourmet Coco Cabanas La Damiana Inn

La Mision Loreto..........................................613-135-0524

US & Canada: (877) 53LAMISION La Mision Hotel Hacienda Suites....01 (800) 224 3632 or US: 1-866-207-8732 Salvatierra #152 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

Parque Nacional Marino Bahía de Loreto (Baja California Sur) The National Marine Park in Loreto occupies the southeast peninsula, in front of the Sierra de La Giganta mountain range, with the towns of Loreto, Nopolo and El Juncalito.

The bay is a treasure with its many islands— Coronado, Del Carmen, Danzante, Montserrat, Santa Catalina and several islets—with pristine beaches along beautiful and well preserved coastal areas. Here lives the largest number of marine mammals with about 30 Mexican species, such as dolphins, blue whales, fin whales, minke whales tropical, humpback whale, sperm whale, orca and sea lions; there are also soft corals, lobsters, snails, turtles and a huge variety of birds, such as pelicans, gulls and other species.

To get to the National Marine Park in Loreto, just follow the Transpeninsular highway south from Mulegé or arrive by sea to Puerto Escondido, a small coastal town located at 28 km south of Loreto.

Tourism is an important activity in the region and, with so much to do, it clear to see why. Whatever you’re into it’s here. You can go sport fishing, parasailing, enjoy eco-tourism or visiting the missions and cave paintings in the mountains.

Loreto

Loreto, Baja California Sur

For more information on Parque Nacional Marino Bahía de Loreto, email loreto@conanp.gob.mx, or call (613) 135-0477 or 1429.

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).

Get more info: www.mexicolivingguide.com - 65

La Paz, Baja California Sur

La Paz, Baja California

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

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

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.

66 - The ONLY Monthly Guide to Northwest Mexico

La Paz, Baja California Sur

Around Town w i t h man sh

John A

within the next 10 months. Other smaller plazas are rapidly being finished. Plazas are a very recent concept for the “walk and shop” La Paz! The choices for good American food has widened a bit with La Meta (the finishing line) on Forjadores serving large, excellent burgers; Wings Army serving a variety of wings and beer in the new San Diego plaza; and Americano’s Cheesesteak Grill on Nicolas Bravo serving a wider variety of classic American dishes as well as the Philadelphia favorite.

And, in case you think the Baja 1000 is the only race event during the year, two smaller races just finished in La Paz with local fans camping out near the course to take pictures and cheer on the racers. The recurring Dos Mares 500 (two seas) race starts and ends in La Paz, racing up one side of the ocean and down the other, finishing after midnight. The shorter Pueblo Magico race, from Cabo San Lucas to La Paz, followed a week later, with many more off-road events scheduled for the rest of the year.

L a Pa z

Recession? What recession? La Paz keeps growing with new projects and business plazas being announced or started almost daily. The governor was in attendance as Paraiso del Mar on “El Magote” opened up its 18-hole golf course with ferries shuttling eager players back and forth across the bay.

Not to be outdone, Azul de Cortes had its ribbon cutting ceremony, also with the governor there to help get the project rolling. Azul de Cortez is scheduled to be a 15 year, $2 billion development northeast of La Paz with a golf course, marina, hotel, residences and condominiums. Nearly $10 million will be spent on roads this year alone for the project. Governor Agundez Montaño has been highly visible, cheering development and tourism in La Paz and Los Cabos.

New business plazas continue unabated, bringing businesses and franchises from the U.S. and mainland Mexico. Plaza Comercial Punto de La Paz promises to be the largest so far, with 61 available spaces and a very large parking lot, to be finished

Get more info: www.mexicolivingguide.com - 67

La Paz, Baja California Sur

The First Golf Course Opens in La Paz Paraiso del Mar provides an

the most experienced, highly regarded golf course architects in the world. His firm, Arthur Hills/Steve Forrest and Associates, has designed 180 courses over the world.

The First Gold Course Opens inallLa Paz Mr. Hills’ design at Paraiso del Mar is the first in La Paz and his first in Mexico, inspiring him to achieve Paraiso del Mar provides an outstanding golf and country club experience. the very highest international standard possible. Mr. The golf course was designed by Arthur Hills, one of the most experienced, Hills said, “Paraiso del Mar is one of the most natural highly regarded golf course architects in the world. His firm, Arthur Hills/ and beautiful sites for a golf course that I have seen Steve Forrest and Associates, has designed 180 courses all over the world. in my 40-year career as a golf course architect. The rollPaz of theand topography [is] in like the great Mr. Hills' design at Paraiso del Mar is thesandy firstgentle in La his first courses of theinternational British Isles. [Paraiso del Mar] will no Mexico, inspiring him to achieve the very highest standard be recognized as onenatural of the world’s possible. Mr. Hills said, "Paraiso del Mar doubt is one of the most and foremost links seen style courses.” beautiful sites for a golf course that I have in my 40-year career as a have a golf school members golf course architect. The sandy gentle rollThe ofclub thewill topography [is]and like the will receive tee no times and special great courses of the British Isles. [Paraiso del preferred Mar] will doubt be perks. The firstlinks 18-holestyle coursecourses." is now open and will be followed recognized as one of the world's foremost by a second 18-hole course. The first course will The club will have a golf school and members willcourse receive preferred be a private for members whiletee the times second and special perks. The first 18-hole course is now will be followedThe course will beopen publicand and open to everyone. by a second 18-hole course. The first course will beclub a private course for facility, future country will include a fitness members while the second course will be public and open to everyone. a traditional swimming pool and a tennis The facility.

Members will gather at the bar and grill for cocktails and conversation in a special atmosphere unique to Baja, Mexico.

Come and enjoy the sand, the sea and the golf!

Email golf@paraisodelmar.com.mx for tee times, or visit www.paradiseofthesea.com for more information. outstanding golf and country club experience. The golf course was designed by Arthur Hills, one of

68 - The ONLY Monthly Guide to Northwest Mexico

L a Pa z

La Paz, Baja California Sur

La Concha Beach Resort $$$.......................612-121-6344 La Concha Beach Resort is located on a secluded beach along La Paz Bay just five minutes from the picturesque waterfront city of La Paz. Pichilingue Hwy. La Posada de Engelbert $$...........................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.

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

69 - The ONLY Monthly Guide to Northwest Mexico

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 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

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.

Get more info: www.mexicolivingguide.com - 69

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

70 - 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.

San Jose del Cabo, Baja California Sur

San Jose del Cabo Thursday Night Art Walk

by Carlanne McCrystal, CTA, National Romance Travel Examiner

San Jose del C abo

It is only six miles from the Marquis San Jose del Cabo Art Walk tour guide Rico Los Cabos Resort to San Jose del Cabo, a quaint town that is working hard to freshen its image while maintaining its authenticity and colonial flavor. I spoke with a gentleman who is a small-restaurant business owner with deep involvement in the renovations and repairs of the city. While owners of similar small businesses, most all family-owned and run, need the updating of the town, they are all adamant about keeping their culture and environment intact.

On Thursday evenings there is an Art Walk in the Historic Art District of San Jose del Cabo. Our guide for this evening was Rico who was provided to us by Terramar Destinations. I specifically to showcase emerging contemporary highly recommend that if you want to have an escort artists as well as established artists, even the resident cat is welcoming and artistic in her meandering for your evening excursions, you ask for Rico.

Rico entertained us with stories of the region through the property. The gallery is owned by Ida from the 1400s on up through today’s culture and Victoria, who studied art at Tulane University as well environments. This was a matriarchal society with as the prestigious Parsons School of Design in NYC. the belief that women came from the moon and men The frame studio is owned by Peter Signorelli. He came from the sun. Until the Jesuits arrived, the trained at the American Picture Framing Academy community lived in the village where all people were in Connecticut under well-known Gorilla Framer, equal and everyone owned everything. There were no Paul Casico. After studying with Margaret Walters, “this is mine, and that is yours” attitudes. The Jesuits a professional preservation framer in Taos, NM, he came and took land to build their churches, insisting helped to build the gallery and framing studio. Ida and the natives wear clothes, learn language and mate Peter are available for private home consultations for only with someone they “married.” Lore has it that those interested in collecting and preserving a variety the women of the village did not agree with the Jesuit, of art.

Also on the walk that evening was the Corsica preferring their polygamous ways, and in a few years took back their village and disposed of the Jesuits. Galeria De Arte, owned by Jean Pierre Renucci.

We went to the mission church; and while it is not the Corsica is located at Alvaro Obregon 10 in downtown exact structure built in those early years, it was built San Jose del Cabo. This gallery is dedicated to the works of contemporary Mexican artists. on the site of the original church.

Another gallery we visited was Muvezi, owned by From the church we walked through the streets of San Jose del Cabo to various stores, restaurants and Marcelo Pradas, which centers around fine African art galleries. There are wine tastings, canapés, art art. They are working to save lives with art, providing and sculptures. I met several of the artists as well as the stones needed for the Shona stone sculptures gallery owners during this walk. There is an immense and malarial medication to the artists, their families and beyond. amount of talent on display during these evenings.

As we wandered the streets of the village, we One of the first galleries we visited was the Galleria de Ida Victoria, which contains original works of art visited several stores, one in which I tasted a sweet as well as a custom, preservation frame shop. This is Vanilla liqueur (VAI-NIUM Licor de Vanilla) and saw a husband and wife business, she with an art studies handmade shawls and cloths woven with intricate background and he with the frame studio inside the designs. There were jewerly shops, home decor gallery. This gallery has been touted by local press shops, shops filled with glass and stone. Rico knew to be the “finest gallery south of Los Angeles.” where the best shopping bargains, as well as the best Occupying a tri-level building designed and built quality goods, were located.

Get more info: www.mexicolivingguide.com - 71

San Jose del Cabo, Baja California Sur Arenas Gallery

For More Information: About Terramar DMC www.terramardestinations.com (624) 142-9200 Owned and operated by Kim Clapham

There are several restaurants that have yummy margaritas and other snacks for the art walk evening. One we visited, La Panga Antigua, was quite delightful. The owner/chef is Jacobo Turquie, a graduate from the Culinary Institute of America. The dinner menu looked good enough to eat, although I regretfully had to say no as there were reservations elsewhere for the evening.

For a delightful evening before heading out to dinner, I recommend the Art Walk through the Historic Art District of San Jose del Cabo. There is much to see and do in this historic town and is definitely on the “do not miss list.”

As a Certified Travel Associate (CTA) and media maven, Carlanne’s passion and mission is to travel, write about and photograph her travels. As a personal travel concierge, she shares that passion with her clients through TopDawg Travel, www.topdawgtravel.com. She can be reached at carlanne@ topdawgtravel.com.

Galleria de Ida Victoria www.idavictoriaarts.com 1128 V. Guerrero Art District, Colonia Centro (624) 142-5771 info@idavictoriaarts.com Corsica Galeria de Arte www.galeriacorsica.com (624) 146-9177 Muvezi Fine African Art www.muvezi.com (624) 122-2728 La Panga Antigua www.lapanga.com (624) 142-4041 Zaragoza #20 Col. Centro

AeroMexico Seeks to Broaden Transborder Offerings

by Megan Kuhn

Mexican operator Aeromexico has asked for destinations of Toronto and Montreal. regulatory approval to launch three U.S. transborder SkyTeam member Aeromexico will also face offerings on July 1. competition on its newly proposed routes if it receives Aeromexico plans to offer a new route from regulatory approval to launch the city pairs.

San Jose del Cabo–San Francisco, in addition to Mexicana flies between Guadalajara and San Jose Guadalajara–San Jose, California; Puerto Vallarta– six times per week, according to schedules published San Francisco; and requests for the latest city pairs in Innovata. come as Aeromexico continues to bolster North U.S.Transborder carriers Alaska Airlines and United Airlines Aeromexico Seeks to itsBroaden Offerings American presence with more U.S. service this currently connect San Jose del Cabo and San year.

The carrier has launched at least three new Francisco, while United, Mexicana and Alaska also

by Megan Kuhn U.S. gateways since February, and has increased offer Puerto Vallarta–San Francisco flights. competition with rival Mexicana into the Canadian Mexican operator Aeromexico has asked for regulatory approval to launch three U.S. 72 - The ONLY Monthly Guide to transborder offerings onNorthwest July 1.Mexico

Cabo San Lucas, Baja California

abo San Lucas (aka Los C 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 resortstudded Tourist 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 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).

C abo San L ucas

Emergency Phone Numbers Emergencies 066 Fire Department 116 624-143-3577

Cabo San Lucas, Baja California Sur

Cabo San Lucas DIRECTORY PLACES TO EAT

Land’s End

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.

Get more info: www.mexicolivingguide.com - 73

Cabo San Lucas, Baja California Sur

Cabo San Lucas On Any Budget

by Lewis Pennington

Pristine beaches, fishing off of your private rented yacht, a wedding in the beautiful land south of the border. Whatever your preference, you will find that there is nothing quite like the beauty of Cabo San Lucas. Whether for a honeymoon or a weekend trip, vacationing on the beautifully virgin sands of Mexico is a reality that can be afforded regardless of age, gender or budget.

What is it you can do when visiting the shores of Cabo San Lucas on the gorgeous Baja Peninsula?

If you had to ask this question, you are asking the wrong question. The right question would be, what is you cannot do while you stay in this gorgeously warm coastal city on the tip of the Baja peninsula.

Whatever your budget, you will find that these shores are ripe for the taking. Appreciate a weekend building sand castles with the children, or enjoy soaking up the rays with your fiancĂŠ as you plan the best wedding and honeymoon combo in history. You will find that you will even fall for the exotic fishing found in the waters off Cabo San Lucas.

Snorkeling, scuba diving or rock climbing are just within your reach, and depending on your budget, you will find that the going has never been so perfect.

Even the lodging will fit within any budget. No wonder this Baja destination is a popular one for timeshares, vacation rentals and even home ownership.

Yes, the sky is the limit when you consider all that Cabo San Lucas has to offer!

There is even more to your stay in this gorgeously perfect destination. Consider the hospitality of the local residents. You will never find a more hospitable

or friendly group of individuals anywhere in the world.

Everything is geared at ensuring you have the best holiday or vacation while you stay. Whether you choose to stay in the hotel or soak up those Baja rays, you will find this is a destination where what you want and need are always at the forethought in everyone’s mind.

The weekly fishing reports along with private yacht charters make for a weekend of fishing a reality. Leave the kids on shore or take them with you, but enjoy the comfort of being waited on as you sit back and reel in your catch. This is going to give you stories to tell, and you will finally catch the one that almost got away with these trained experts.

Of course, some people enjoy Baja for its gorgeously pristine golf courses as well!

Needless of what it is you prefer, you will find that the sky is the limit when you choose to vacation in this gorgeously perfect region. The waters are blue, and the fishing is good. But the most important thing is that you will find plenty of activities that will fit within any budget. When you get here, all you have to do is relax.

Cabo San Lucas has a stable infrastructure and is a premier resort destination for vacationers around the globe. You will get more for your money and your time when you explore what the Baja peninsula has to offer.

For more information about vacationing in Mexico or investment properties in Mexico, visit AllAboutCabo.com.

by Darryl Brooks of Atlanta Georgia

Marina at the port of Cabo San Lucas

74 - The ONLY Monthly Guide to Northwest Mexico

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.

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.

C abo San L ucas

Cabo San Lucas, Baja California Sur

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

Get more info: www.mexicolivingguide.com - 75

Sonara

Puerto PeËœnasco, Sonora 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.

Puerto PeĂąasco....................... 77 San Carlos.............................. 88

Beautiful beach on the Sea of Cortez.

76 - The ONLY Monthly Guide to Northwest Mexico

Photo by Cherilyn Derusha

PUER TO Pe ñasco

Puerto Pe˜nasco, Sonora

Get more info: www.mexicolivingguide.com - 77

Puerto Pe˜nasco, 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: La Cocina de Ramon Mariscos el Conchal Jerry’s Restaurant-Bar Pollo Lucas Betos Place Home Plate Seafood Aladinos

Reggies 8-12 on Sinaloa St Reggies 8-12 on 13th St Capones Pizza Disenos Furniture Hotel Playa Inn Changos bar Debbies Restaurant

78 - The ONLY Monthly Guide to Northwest Mexico

Thirsty Parrot Charros JJ’s Cantina Tienda La Cholla Playa Inn - in the Mirador Sonora Market Viva Mexico Taco Stand

Puerto Pe˜nasco, 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 El 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 - 79

Puerto Pe˜nasco, Sonora

Around Town with ta

by Rita Pizarro om & Ri

T

Summer is now upon us and the water in the ocean is warm and inviting. Come down to the beach, feel the sand between your toes and the sun warming your skin. What a great time of the year to try a new water sport, with the heat of a northern Mexico summer, being in the water is the place to be. Here in Puerto Peñasco we have many options for water play. Windy summer days bring us great kitesurfing, this is an adventurous sport that combines the ecological wind energy with great thrills; you can go from peacefully cruising in the water with no motor to doing high jumps and other challenging tricks. Other sports you might want to try are kayaking, skimboarding, diving, snorkeling or just swimming.

The last AMPI Mixer took place at Las Palomas Beach and Golf Resort where John Hibert organized the event at a spectacular condo with breathtaking views of the Sea of Cortez. The meeting was carefully planned to allow all guests the pleasure of an incredible sunset. There was a great selection of wine and cheeses to the style that Las Palomas has been renowned for. Vania and Tony artfully filled the occasion with their melodic voices and guitars. It was a beautiful day here in Paradise.

The 2009 Environmental Contest from CEDO “Flying Until the End” came to an end. More than 150 students from 6 different schools participated.

For the contest the teams adopted an estuary and used scientific methods to study the migratory species of birds that inhabit the estuaries. They also analyzed the major threats to their environment such as the presence of all-terrain vehicles and

80 - The ONLY Monthly Guide to Northwest Mexico

Photos by Rita Pizarro

and Tom Thomas

Left to Right: Robin Miller, Liane Armstrong, Theresa King and Lynette Ringor. Theresa and Lynette are sisters and partners in Mexico Services Unlimited.

the destruction of habitat due to real estate developments. Hurray to the first place team, The New Explorers. They won 5,000 pesos and 10 dinners at Aqui es Con Flavio. They also earned the respect of the community and the pride of helping migratory species of bird’s through knowledge and respect for their environment.

The annual Cinco de Mayo, Larry D. Large Foundation event took place at Hacienda Las Fuentes. More than 200 people attended the party, including Roger Clyne and friends, Mr. Alejandro Zepeda (candidate for mayor), Tab Gray (event MC) and many notorious people. Larry Large thanked everyone who attended, and sponsors and donors of items for the live auction; one of the most popular items was donated by Mercedes from her wonderful shop at the Old Port. The event raised over US$24,000 that will help finish the Ernest G. Large Youth Center.

More info: www.larrydlargefoundation.org.

There is a new business in town: Mexico Services Unlimited. They can pick up mail at the Lukeville Post Office as well as from UPS for $25 per month. They offer money orders, stamps,

Puerto PeËœnasco, Sonora

PUER TO Pe Ăąasco

priority mail, etc. They also offer a concierge service with everything from real estate and longterm rentals to pet sitting and FM3 processing; the office is open in Placita Melanie, suite 101, located on Freemont Blvd. For more information, visit www. mexicoservicesunlimited.com.

Get more info: www.mexicolivingguide.com - 81

Puerto PeËœnasco, Sonora

82 - The ONLY Monthly Guide to Northwest Mexico

Puerto Pe˜nasco, Sonora

They Grabbed Their Passports and Came!

“

The first weekend in Mexico after the passport law was to go into effect . . . What would it hold? Business owners across Mexico were certainly pondering this question. However, for Puerto Peñasco the answer is a resounding positive! Weddings, fishing trips and, of course, the widely advertised Roger Clyne & The Peacemakers Circus Mexicus concert brought visitors to Peñasco en masse! Local business owners were certainly relieved to see that this first weekend in June did not suffer from the passport issue. Here are a few Monday morning responses about the weekend:

“

After the dust cleared and the last bag of ice melted.... all I can say is that Roger’s fans are ‘awesome.’ I never met so many polite and generous people who were living the life in Mexico. Even when our beer wasn’t as cold as it could be, no one complained . . . living the life in Mexico. Like I always say, ‘If you are not living in Mexico, you are not Living!’”

— Mike Tobin of Chango’s

I had a wonderful week! The Roger Clyne and the Peacemakers concert brought over 2,000 people to enjoy the great music, sand, full moon and fireworks. But there was a fabulous wedding at Las Palomas…my [employees] were busy all week, not just the weekend, and we still have appointments from people who came down for the concert on Monday! Weather was fantastic and the energy in the air is great!”

— Rita Pizarro of Rita’s Spa Services

“

Yes! It was a great weekend in Rocky Point.

And we are happy to report that Pancho Villa Boat Charters stayed consistently busy throughout the weekend. We had a group of El Mirage police officers onboard for an overnight fishing trip that was an awesome success bringing in one 65 pound grouper and five large red snapper. The guys were so excited that they were planning their second trip as they were loading their trucks to leave.

PUER TO Pe ñasco

Contributed by Penasco Recreation

Get more info: www.mexicolivingguide.com - 83

Puerto Pe˜nasco, Sonora

“

This shows that Rocky Point is very safe, swine flu free and an awesome vacation destination. There is no denying that the weather has been awesome. Everyone onboard went home with a big fish story.

They also said that they were going to let everyone in the El Mirage police department know what a great place Rocky Point is for a great vacation.”

— Captain Ray Ramirez of Pancho Villa Boat Charters

“

What a weekend we had here in Puerto Peñasco. This weekend was a shining testament to what we have here in Mexico.

Roger Clyne and the Peacemakers kicked it at Changos. It was an awesome setting as the full moon highlighted the festivities.

Roger and the band once again did a great show. Good times were had by all, evidenced by the full house ‘till the band finally stopped after several encores. Oh yes, and there were lots of real estate clients down here as well. Investors are

84 - The ONLY Monthly Guide to Northwest Mexico

““

really starting to search for their piece of our paradise, realizing that this market has tipped in their favor in a serious way.”

— Kent B White of Realty Executives We had the best weekend in two years!”

— Maxi at Sonoran Grill It’s been great for business . . . the day before and today after the concert [The Tequila Factory] has been booming with people.

This weekend was good for business from the Mirador area to Cholla Bay. Although my employees did not attend the concert, they sure enjoyed the amount of people, work and tips they had. It was a fun weekend all round from clients to workers. Even as I write this, there are three groups of visitors tasting, learning and just having a good time here at the Tequila Factory.”

— Manny Sanchez of Manny’s Tequila Factory

Puerto Pe˜nasco, Sonora

A Great Neighborhood Bar

by Naomi Black

Tom Abbl and his wife Bobbi have enjoyed Puerto Peñasco for the last 10 years. They divide their time between Willcox and Cholla Bay, Mexico. They say that a BET brought them to Puerto Peñasco. Want to know the details? Just ask them when you see them around. And they do get around as they enjoy getting out and patronizing as many local places as they can.

Stop by JC’s for an ice cold beer or your favorite drink concoction. (Don’t forget about the beer pong.)

Or you can just hang out on the patio overlooking Calle 13.

JC’s features seven flat screen HD TVs with all the sports action! Missing your favorite game? Just ask. Play some pool or join the dart tournaments on Thursdays and Sundays. JC’s IS your Neighborhood Bar & Grill.

JC’s Bar & Grill is located on Calle 13 above Keno’s Market. For details locally, call 388-1222. www.jcsbarandgrill.com.

PUER TO Pe ñasco

For several months now you may have noticed JC’s Bar & Grill ad in this guide. We say that JC’s is a “Neighborhood Bar & Grill.” And, JC’s really is just that—a neighborly place that is friendly and safe.

JC’s feels comfortable! By comfortable, we mean that the management will go out of their way to make you feel welcome. The atmosphere is totally laid back. When you stop in you will feel at home.

Their VIP room feels like a family room with large TVs, XBox 360 and Wii. There is plenty of fun for everyone.

On January 1, 2009, Tom Abbl, a machine shop owner from the small Arizona community of Willcox became Javier Ortega’s partner. Although, there have been management changes, everyone you know and love is still there! You will see familiar faces both behind the bar and at the bar. You may recognize The Beer Boys, Javier, Chili, and Saul from the Sunset Cantina. Tavo is in the kitchen ready to prepare a variety of tasty Mexican and American favorites for you!

Get more info: www.mexicolivingguide.com - 85

Puerto Pe˜nasco, Sonora

Puerto Peñasco DIRECTORY ICON Descriptions

#

Charbroiled Chicken Pollo Lucas – Blvd Benito Juarez “under the big Palapa”

- 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 #)

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 Thirsty Parrot On the Malecon

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 Breakfast Giuseppe’s Coffee . .....................................638-383-5181 Marios Coffee – On the entrance to the Malecon

86 - The ONLY Monthly Guide to Northwest Mexico

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 Viva Mexico Taco stand just off the Malecon Fundadore 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 Bestos Place................................................638-114-3917

Puerto Pe˜nasco, Sonora El Conchal Seafood......................................638-383-8173

Sonoran Spa Resort.....................................638-383-1044 Playa Inn......................................................638-383-5015

BUSINESS DIRECTORY (A-Z)

ACCOUNTING/CONTABILIDAD BBBS Inc.....................................................928 329-8000 ARCHITECT/ARQUITECTO Plinio Rivero Architects & Builders . ......638 383-4710 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

ARTIST Marianne Menditto.......................................638-383-7616 JJ’s Cantina

BARS/CLUBS ............................................ at Cholla Bay

PLACES TO STAY

RV Park/Parque de RV Bonita RV Park.............................................638-383-1400 Playa Bonita.................................................638-383-2596

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

BooBar........................................................683-476-2665

CAR RENTAL/alquiler de autos The Point Rent-A -Car..................................638 388-5823

PUER TO Pe ñasco

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” Cyndi’s Beachfront Home Rentals................638-383-5145 Sylvia’s Condos...........................................638-383-5429 Go 2 Rocky Point.........................................602-748-4134

Get more info: www.mexicolivingguide.com - 87

Puerto Pe˜nasco, Sonora

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 Clothing/ropa Mad Gringo Clothing...........................mex.madgringo.com

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

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 Lynda’s Insurance (English speaking)...........686-577-1622

Tienda La Cholla – In Cholla Bay Curio SHOP Jose’s - Rosy’s - Carlos’s Curios.................638 383-8508 Just under Augustin’s Pizza and Wings

ProAlliance Insurance................................... 638-383-2390

DEVELOPMENTS/FRACCIONAMIENTOS Bella Vista ..............................................638-388-7194 "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 GSA Corporation.........................................638-388-7632

Monex Financial...........................................638-388-5764

LEATHER Manny’s Leather Factory..............................638-388-0609 MASSAGE/MASAJE Rita Pizarro ........................................... 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 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

FURNITURE/Mobiliario Disenos Furniture.........................................638-383-8633 Designs by Eddie Wharez Consign and Design ...................................638-110-6121 Home Furnishings Alexa Home Furnishings...............................638-388-6409 Century 21 Puerto Peñasco USA Office # 480-626-4687

. .................638-388-1295

Puerto Peñasco, Mexico Fremont Blvd., Plaza Palmillas Baja Nueva Decorating Studio......................686-211-4676 Custom contemporary furniture & home accessories Serving Rosarito, Ensenada, Puerto Penasco, San Felipe

88 - The ONLY Monthly Guide to Northwest Mexico

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 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 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

PUER TO Pe ñasco

Puerto Pe˜nasco, Sonora

Get more info: www.mexicolivingguide.com - 89

San Carlos,/SGonora uaymas, Sonora

San Carlos

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

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!

90 - The ONLY Monthly Guide to Northwest Mexico

Mexico Living Contact Information

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.

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

San Carlos Puerto S/anGPC uaymas eñasco arlos, Sonora

Around Town with ince Lynn Pr

Our favorite sailorette musician, Kak Urpani, is back in town rockin’ and rollin’ with her guitar and battin’ her baby blues along with her upbeat voice and style at Captains Club on Wednesday nights, right after the sensational Sandra’s Mariachi’s.

Kak sailed her 46-foot sailboat into town all on her lonesome a few years back and continues to return to our beloved beach town.

Dolphin expert Alecs Gomez Rubio, El Jefe at the Delfinario and owner of Dolphin Assistance Foundation, sustained serious injuries in a motorcycle accident, but the “Iron Man“ is back home recovering nicely. Alecs and his beautiful wife, Debbie, are also on the Board of Directors for Make a Wish Foundation.

Well, that’s how the anchor drags for this month.

If you got something of paranormal interest, a tad bit of gossip, etc., send an email to lynnprinceformlg@ gmail.com. Those who send me really juicy tidbits will be guests at my monthly class, Cooking 101.

PUER SAN TOCARLOS Pe ñasco

What a month! Since the 4 Pigs of the Apocalypse hit, life changed overnight from a fun-filled community to deserted streets. But sunrise is on the horizon, as the CDC lifted the ban on travel to Mexico. The good news stimulated residents to come out in droves. So good to see happy faces again!

In lieu of that, our very own token Greek, Raphael Nissim, owner of La Palapa Restaurant, hosted a Singles Dinner that featured a fabulous buffet of pork chops, Dorado and barbecued chicken, salads and side dishes. And Danny Moreno, lead singer for Utopia, enhanced the evening with his vocal expertise.

Speaking of singles, whose that good-looking guy that’s been seen around town with the captivating and very eligible Karen Stuart? Hmmm . . . resembles the dapper Tom Fry. For you Parrot Heads, Mark Mulligan has a new CD, Live From Coyote Creek. It’s available at his Sunday gigs at La Palapa Restaurant or at Longs Realty Seaside.

Stopped off at Azteca Stationary & Copy Shop, across the street from Marina Terra Hotel, to say “Hi” to Amanda and the aroma from the new pizzaria next door, TOPO’S, lured me in. To my surprise, my friend, Alex Calvo, is the owner and chef. And let me tell you, he makes the greatest pizza! His sensational crust and sauce are made from scratch . . . he’ll soon be “Pizza King” of Sonora!

Joe and Cole Noonkester moved her parents to Oregon. The Noonkesters, like so many others (Jan Reins and her brother Bob of Barracuda Bob’s fame at the Marina, Captain Bob Forrier and many more) sailed into San Carlos and never left . . . proof of the beauty and mystic that seduces all that enter her magical portal.

If you like armchair mystery and adventure, pick up a copy of Joe Noonkester’s latest thriller, Twisted Delusions. Joe’s novels are based on his years as a police officer in North Hollywood, California. He has hours of fascinating stories of celebrities, life and death encounters, and a few years as a bodyguard for Elvis Presley. My favorite hangout for a cultural afternoon of artwork, The Galleria, carries Joe’s book.

Alecs Gomez Rubio

Joe Noonkester with his latest book, Twisted Delusions

Get more info: www.mexicolivingguide.com - 91

San Carlos,/SGonora uaymas, Sonora

SAN CARLOS DIRECTORY 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

BUSINESS DIRECTORY (A-Z) ATTORNEYS Lic. Ma. del Carmen Ordaz Aguiar................622-226-0000 Professional License No. 2020630

92 - The ONLY Monthly Guide to Northwest Mexico

Fire Department/Departamento de Bomberos Fire Department (call Rescate)..................... 622-226-0911 Rescue Squad/EMT's (Rescate).................... 622-226-0911 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 POLICE/POLICÍA San Carlos Policia........................................622-226-1400 State Policia.................................................622-226-1540 Commisario Sergio Garcia............................622-226-0004 PSYCHOLOGISTS Psychologist Isis Ceja..................................622-112-3283 Bilingual - Marital, Family, Child, & Individual Counseling Real Estate Long Realty Seaside.....................................622-226-2188 Siesta Realty, S.A. De C.V............................622-226-2066 RECREATION OCEAN SPORTS in Marina San Carlos..........622-226-0696 E-mail: deportesoceano@prodigy.net.mx We offer - Scuba Diving, Snorkeling, Fishing, Kayaking, Horseback Riding, Margarita Cruises, & Private Charters STORAGE San Carlos Storage Services........................622 226-0866 www.sancarlosstorageservice.com 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

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.

Brain Games & Fun

BR AI N GAMES

Brain Games

Get more info: www.mexicolivingguide.com - 93

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 638383-0800 PUERTO PENASCO, SON Profesional& Business Womens Club meet every Tues 8pm, more info contact Lorenia Reyna 638-383-24-07.

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.

SAN FELIPE, B.C.

1988 cougar new paint, runs good, U.S. plates, tags good till May 2010, would like 1200$ for it, more info contact Mike at 686-577-0746.

REAL ESTATE LISTINGS SAN FELIPE, B.C. Fraccionamiento del Mar – premium lot, all city services, next to commercial area. 39,000 dollars, negotiable.

Desert Hawk Properties, US 760370-0090, MX 686-577-1244, www.deserthawkproperties.com.

94 - The ONLY Monthly Guide to Northwest Mexico

SAN FELIPE, B.C. Club Cortez – 229,000 OBO. Private community, new home, great views, furnished, all paperwork in order with bank trust. Owners anxious.

Reduced to 189,315.00. Desert Hawk Properties, US 760-3700090, MX 686-577-1244, www. deserthawkproperties.com.

D L O S

SAN FELIPE, B.C. La Hacienda – Lot on second row from beach. Great views with plans available.

Just reduced to $95,000 75,000 dollars. Best value in development.

Desert Hawk Properties, US 760370-0090, MX 686-577-1244, www. deserthawkproperties.com.

SAN FELIPE, B.C. La Hacienda – Unbelievably priced at $279,000. Unobstructed views, pool, double garage, workshop, servant’s quarters. Make offer! Desert Hawk Properties. US 760-370-0090, MX 686577-1244, www.deserthawkproperties. com.

SAN FELIPE, B.C. Villa de las Palmas – Located directly in front of beach access this lovely home boasts a total of 5 bedrooms, 3 full baths and 2 half baths, 2 complete kitchens, 2 car garage and is being sold fully furnished. 480,000 OBO. Desert Hawk Properties, US 760370-0090, MX 686-577-1244, www. deserthawkproperties.com.

SAN FELIPE, B.C. Villa de las Palmas – Beachfront lot located in prestigious private community with full services in the midst of the most upscale developments. Best value priced below market at $295,000. Desert Hawk Properties, US 760-3700090, MX 686-577-1244, www. deserthawkproperties.com.

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

More Great Information

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 480-626-4687 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

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: 638-388-1295 or480-6264687 PUERTO PENASCO, SON Sandy Beach Resort Blvd. Parcel For Sale- 1817sm. Perfect for Commercial/Residential Development, enjoy Views of Ocean & Golf Course. $349,000 Contact Century 21 Sun & Sand Jim Ringquist638-388-1295 or 480-626-4687.

RENTAL LISTINGS

carport, view, big porch llocated in La Mision. $650 per month. MX 646155-0011 or US 619-270-8991.

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 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.

Rosarito, B.C Large House for rent. 2 bedrooms, 2 baths, furnished, fireplace, garden,

WORK IN THE MAGAZINE BUSINESS

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.

Send inquiries to packmagazines@gmail.com Writers - Do you love Mexico and

NO PEEKING UNTIL YOU HAVE AT LEAST TRIED!

ANSWERS FROM PREVIOUS PAGE

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.

CL ASSI FI ED

$299,000, financing available. View details at www.century21penasco. comContact Century 21 Sun & Sand Jim Ringquistjimringquist@ century21penasco.com Ph: 638-3881295 or 480-626-4687

Sales - Advertising sales position. Distribution - Manage local and

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.

regional routes with twice monthly deliveries. Earn a great income on a part-time bases. Must be legal to work in Mexico and have reliable transportation.

LIST YOUR ITEM 20 words or less for FREE

686-230-9933 Get more info: www.mexicolivingguide.com - 95