BajaTraveler® 2011-2012

FEATURES

16. Karin Leperi Gets Our Very Own Pulitzer Prize!!!

36. Hispanic Heritage Foundation Holds Another Spectacular Annual Awards Ceremony

38. Amazing Destination LORETO

42. SHAKIRA Receives the…

The Latin Recording Academy Person of the Year

44. Sofia Loves Baja! Cover Story

50. The Latin Grammy Awards

56. The Alma Awards

60. Eva Longoria’s “Girlfriend Getaway” at the One&Only Palmilla

64. HIGH PROFILES

Movers and shakers who make the Baja peninsula the unique place that we all know and love.

66. Armando Carrasco

68. José Manuel Galarza

70. Javier Plascencia

72. Ruben Reachi

74. Hugo Torres

76. Tony Yahyai

90. SUCCESSFUL WOMEN in BAJA

Four amazing women, whose backgrounds are as varied as their career goals.

92. Cathy Dammann

94. Marlen Marroquin

On the cover: Sofia Vergara

Photographer: Norman Jean Roy

96. Gloria Zuñiga de Wehber

98. Dora Villarino

104. TIJUANA… More ALIVE Than Ever Before!

122. Bajamar… Simply Breathtaking!

126. Gray Whales Annually Visit the Coast of Baja

164. Punta Pescadero You’ll Find Paradise in EastCape

42. 50.

44. COVER STORY SOFIA VERGARA

Secretary of Tourism

To talk about Mexico is to discuss history, tradition, warmth, culture, archeological zones and great wonders which make this country a unique nation.

Our country is geographically privileged and we want you to enjoy our hospitality, a factor which characterizes us on a world level.

In order for you to get to know more of our natural beauties, archeological zones, magical towns, colonial cities, ecological reserves, sustainable areas and our sun and beach destinations, the Secretariat of Tourism has developed various routes which will allow you to visit within our country.

Mexico is one of the nations with the most diversity, it counts with more than 30 thousand archeological sites, more than 110 thousand historical monuments and it occupies the fourth place internationally of places declared “Heritage of Humanity.”

In addition, some of the richness of our country includes Gastronomy, in which it is among the top five in the world, without forgetting that Mexico also holds first place for Spa Destinations in the world and the second in Luxury Tourism, all of these guaranteeing you a unique experience while visiting Mexico.

Through this publication, I extend to you the most cordial welcome and a very special invitation, so that all the readers of BajaTraveler® will get to know the cultural diversity, history and natural beauties which Mexico embodies, namely a fascinating country, hospitable and with its doors open wide.

Lic. Gloria Guevara Manzo Secretary of Tourism

Beth Purcell Cordasco reviews three great books; The Deer Dancer, Miraculous Air; Journey of a Thousand Miles Through Baja California, The Other Mexico and Jimm Budd’s ¡Mexico!

176. Social Circles

View photos from the various social events that attracted out attention!

192. Just Back From Mexico

Mayté Rodríguez Cedillo talks to Eduardo Verástegui

ANNUAL XIV COLLECTORS’ EDITION

CEO / Publisher / Editor-in-Chief

Pat Tyson

Executive Editor

Karin Leperi

Associate Executive Editor

Beth Purcell Cordasco Senior Editor

Rick Stedman

Senior Travel Editor

Jeanie Casison

Senior Travel Editor

Giselle Fernandez-Farrand

Emme Aronson

Special Correspondent Editors

Greg Norman Golf Editor

Jessica Rubinstein Assistant to the Editor-in-Chief

Kerrie Briggs

Cover / Design Director

Al Delino Design Director

Stacie Gottsegen

Travel Editor / Celebrity Correspondent

Michelle McDermott

Travel Editor / Europe

Jeanette Sánchez Travel Editor/ Mexico/ Latin America

Tere Cedillo

Travel Editor

Dale Rosenstock Travel Editor

Katie McElveen Travel Editor

Sylvia Mendoza Travel Editor

Boyd Contreras & Davis Legal Representation in the U.S.

Xavier Moreno / MD&M Legal Representation in Mexico

Allan Miller / Allan Miller & Assoc. Consulting Art Editor/ Logo

TRAVELER PUBLICATIONS

A division of Traveler International, Inc.

BajaTRAVELER® is an annual publication with a twelve-month distribution schedule, edited in six languages, sold and distributed throughout the U.S., Canada, Mexico and parts of Europe, South America and Asia. Reaching a highly upscale and influential audience.

CUSTOMER SERVICE & SUBSCRIPTIONS: For 24/7 service, please use our Web site, bajatraveleronline.com The magazine assumes no responsibility for the safekeeping or return of unsolicited manuscripts, photographs, artwork, or other material. All rights reserved. Reproduction in part or in whole without the written permission of the publisher is strictly prohibited. To order back issues: (619) 216-8035. To order article reprints of 500 or more: (619) 216-8035. Printed in Mexico.

Mayté Rodríguez Cedillo

ANNUAL XIV

COLLECTORS’ EDITION

Mayté Rodríguez Cedillo

CEO / Publisher / Editor-in-Chief

Mario Alberto Rodríguez V.P. Corporate Sales & Marketing Director

Barbara Garcia Pedraza

Miguel Angel Rodríguez Account Executives

Benjamin Mendez Mexico/Latin America P.R.

Contributing Editors:

Jim Berger

Armando Carrasco

Lulu Lopez

Mike Massman

Scott Serven

Contributing Photographers: Thank you to the Secretaries of Tourism of Baja California and Baja California S ur

Thank you to Norman Jean Roy for Sophias’ photo shoot

Phillip Dixon

Tim Fagan

Waldo Franco

Mike Massman

Mily Wehber

Jim Berger/ Mendoza Berger

Certified Public Accountant

Teri Combs

Circulation Manager U.S./ Canada

Francisco Vazquez

Circulation Manager

Mexico / Europe / Asia / Latin America

Uriel Reyes Botello/ Boxell Inc. Webmaster/ Social Media

Marianne Martinic

Filippo Petralia

Katsuji Sugie

Translators

TRAVELER PUBLICATIONS

A division of Traveler International, Inc.

Mailing Address P.O.Box 210485 Chula Vista, CA 91921-0485

Message from the Editor-in-Chief

Ican’t believe another year has gone by already, it seems like only yesterday we were celebrating our past cover and here we are again. The current economical climate – which seems to not want to leave us, is certainly making all of us work that much harder–making time fly by.

As with anything else, hard times also have their virtue and, for the tourism industry in Mexico, it has only made us stronger. Those of us who have survived it KNOW the benefits of working hard and the rewards of a job well done. This issue was extremely challenging to produce, yet I’m confident it was all worth it and, in turn, I’m sure you–the reader–will find it extremely valuable in your search for a beautiful vacation or future retirement destination.

I am so pleased and excited over our cover–Sofia Vergara is not only beautiful outside–but inside as well. I had the opportunity to meet and interview her back in 2002 when she adorned our cover and it is so refreshing to see that fame and fortune has maintained her feet on the ground. Thank you Sofia for granting us yet another award winning cover!

We also celebrate SHAKIRA; another one of our cover girls, who is this year’s “Person of the Year” for the Latin Recording Academy–what an inspiration! And Greg Norman–also an inspiration! We are thrilled that he edited our GOLF section.

Though times have been hard, nevertheless there are tremendous bargains for travelers who want to explore the depths and breadth of Mexico. Experiences of a lifetime can be enjoyed from the luxury resorts in Los Cabos to the breathtaking views of Loreto–featured in our “Amazing Destinations” section. Now is the time for incredible travel deals that mix luxury, exotic, culture, adventure and sports in convenient packages that are most affordable. Don’t miss our special feature on La Paz–a peaceful paradise waiting to be re-discovered!

There are unbelievable deals in the real estate market as well. For those looking for an affordable retirement home, Baja has lots to offer, including locales where the purchasing power of your dollar buys more than ever before. Since many “baby boomers” have watched their retirement savings shrink because of the stock market, “value” is the new mantra for those seeking a quality lifestyle. Be sure to read the editorial on Hacienda Residences, Cabo Riviera and Club Polo.

Finally, I would like to thank my wonderful staff, writers, photographers, designers and assistants. You know who you are and this magazine would not be possible without your truly top-notch talents. And a special thanks to you–the reader and advertiser of BajaTraveler®–your endorsements and support through these challenging times are heartwarming and comforting. And remember–don’t be misinformed! The media lives from sensationalism, Get all the facts! Put negative headlines into perspective and ALWAYS use your best judgment–No matter where you are–At home or in a foreign country. The Warmth of Mexico Awaits You!

Mayté Rodríguez Cedillo

Vote for Your Peninsula Favorites in our Annual Awards Contest

BestOfBaja ReadeRs’ ChoiCe awaRds

In a land of superlatives, where one day is better than the next, one resort more beautiful than its competition, one fishing spot more “lucrative” than another, one watering hole more fun than the next, each world-class golf course a better play than the one the day before, it is difficult to choose the best in every category. But we asked you to try. And you will have the unselfish pleasure of seeing your favorite establishments displaying their new “Best of Baja Award 2011-2012.”

BEST RESTAURANTS & BARS

BEST DESTINATIONS

BEST ACCOMMODATIONS

BEST RECREATION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

BEST NEWS & MEDIA

BEST WINERY

BEST REAL ESTATE DEVELOPMENT

PERSON OF THE YEAR

BEST ARTIST

BEST SPA

BEST AQUATIC EXPERIENCE

BEST HOT SPOT

BEST GOLF COURSE

BajaTRAVELER® congratulates all winners!

Karin Leperi

Our very own “Pulitzer” prize is presented to Karin Leperi for her dedication to Traveler Publications. Traveler Publications has been promoting the Best of Mexico in its annual glossy presentations and distributing them all over the world.

Karin has served as Associate Executive Editor for Traveler Publications for almost a decade. Over the years, Karin’s creative talents have served the pages of this publication well. An awardwinning writer and photographer, Karin has bylines in print, broadcast and Internet media. She writes on a variety of subjects including a wide array of travel topics, entertainment, cuisine, culture and the environment with an emphasis on people and places. Recently, Karin has been in demand for her writing expertise about luxury resorts and fine-dining establishments for a variety of upscale publications.

A former naval reserve officer and federal manager at U.S. Department of Energy and Department of Agriculture, Karin brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to her writing. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and a Master of Science in Public Administration from the California State University at Los Angeles. She has been a freelance travel writer for nearly a dozen years with bylines in more than 65 publications, including Baja Traveler, Mexico Traveler, Islands Magazine, Blue Ridge Country Magazine, Home & Away, GEICO Now Magazine, Aviation for Women Magazine, Global

Woman Magazine, JustLuxe.com, and many others. A gypsy at heart, she has traveled to more than 75 countries worldwide, and hopes to soon reach the century plateau.

In addition to being a member of the Society of American Travel Writers – the preeminent travel organization in the country – Karin also holds memberships in the North American Travel Journalists Association and the International Food, Wine & Travel Writers Association.

A resident of the Washington, D.C. area, Karin recently received a Silver Medal from the North American Travel Journalists Association for her story “Fantastic Voyage: Recreating the Sacred Mayan Journey,” which published in Matador Network/Brave New Traveler. The Fantastic Voyage” also took a Second Place for Best SelfIllustrated article from the Atlantic Caribbean Chapter of the Society of American Travel Writers. In 2009, Karin received a First Place from Society of American Travel Writers for her article, “A Tri-Nation Migration - Flight of the Monarch” which appeared in our Mexico Traveler Magazine.

“What I love about having Karin on staff, is that it feels like you’re working with family,” says Mayte. “In addition, we applaud her ambition and dedication in support of Mexico tourism and to Traveler Publications. It is with sincere appreciation that we thank Karin Leperi for her years of service in promoting the best of Mexico as told within the pages of Traveler Publications.”

Traveler Publications would not be where they are today if it wasn’t for the devotion of Ms. Karin Leperi. Mayté

2011-2012

CONTRIBUTORS I Pat Tyson

Born and educated in England, Pat Tyson traveled around Europe, lived for a year in Lausanne, Switzerland, perfecting her French. In search of a new life, she moved to the United States in the early 60s. Landing in Chicago, she worked for two large advertising agencies, then later moved to San Diego where again academia called and she earned a master’s in telecom and film at SDSU. She taught college journalism 10 years, as well as joining San Diego Home/ Garden magazine when it was first published in 1979. As Executive Editor, Pat has written for Traveler Publications since the beginning in 1998, traveling to many wondrous spots in Mexico to write about them. The journey by train through the spectacular Copper Canyon was unforgettable; the dolphins cavorting around the boat in the Sea of Cortés – thrilling! She has never ceased to be enchanted by the people, cuisine and scenic beauty of Mexico. Now she lives in New Jersey; still loves to write – and enjoy her grandchildren.

Karin Leperi

Karin Leperi is an award-winning writer and photographer with an admitted passion for diverse cultures and the natural environment. With specialties ranging from travel, cuisine and culture to entertainment, natural resources and the environment, she enjoys crafting her words and articles around images of people and places. Karin has been a Traveler Publications Associate Executive Editor for almost eleven years now and is excited about the growth and diffusion the magazines have attained.

Beth Purcell Cordasco

Beth has a Masters degree in Latin American Studies, and delights in both reading about and traveling to all parts of the region. She has traveled extensively in Mexico, from summer-long stays to study Spanish in Guadalajara (where she met her husband, in fact!), to long weekends in Los Cabos – she loves it all. Oaxaca, Tulum, and Zihuatanejo are three of her favorite spots, and a monthlong mexican yoga retreat is about the best thing she can imagine. Beth is the editorial director of a medical publishing company, and has written various health and lifestyle pieces for travel magazines and websites such as Travel Hat, Mexico Traveler, Baja Traveler and more. Mexico is a subject that Beth loves to write about, as its beauty and slower pace of life are two things she greatly values. Additionally, the warmth of the Mexican people cannot be matched, and, well, who doesn’t love a perfect margarita?

Stacie Gottsegen

Stacie Gottsegen is a television producer, writer and culinary junkie. She began her career at NBC Burbank with “Baja Traveler” publisher Mayté Rodríguez Cedillo…Their bond was sealed the day they put on their navy blue page uniforms. Stacie is the cofounder of Brune/Gottsegen Entertainment, a production company that specializes in talk, reality and food programming. A native “Angeleno” known for her calm demeanor and her sense of humor, Stacie lives in Brentwood, California with her fiancé, Gregory Gieras. Stacie is thrilled to be contributing to both Baja Traveler and Mexico Traveler as the “Celebrity Correspondent.”

CONTRIBUTORS II

Jeanie Casison

Born in San Diego, California and raised in the suburbs of Washington, D.C., Jeanie Casison was on the move starting at an early age when family trips brought her everywhere from the provinces of the Far East to the amusement parks of Florida. After graduating from New York University, Casison was fortunate to find a writing job that allowed her to pursue her passion for foreign places and reveling in new experiences. Over the years she has traveled extensively throughout Europe, Asia, North America, South America, the Middle East and the Caribbean to cover destination developments. During a brief stint as senior writer for NYC & Company, the official tourism marketing of New York City, Casison worked behind the scenes to bring more visitors to the Big Apple, where she currently resides. Casison considers watching the whales of Cabo, visiting Petra in Jordan, and shopping in Hong Kong and São Paulo, Brazil among her favorite pursuits on her growing list of travel adventures. Jeanie enjoys writing forTraveler Publications as she is a frequent traveler to Mexico.

Rick Stedman

Rick Stedman is an experienced freelance writer and editor from Yakima, Washington. He’s traveled extensively throughout North America and Europe, and has lived in Africa and the Middle East. A regular visitor to the Baja region, Rick has written numerous golf and travel features for a variety of publications, including RV Life magazine, The Oregonian, Golf Online, Marine Digest, Snowshoemagazine, Visit Los Cabos, Best Places Northwest, iGolf.com and Your Health. When not traveling or writing, Rick loves to read, golf, and snowshoe. Rick is excited to join Traveler Publications!

Jeanette Sánchez

Jeanette Sánchez started her career as a Journalist in Tijuana back in 1999 as part of a journalism team for Newspapers Healy where she colaborated for nine years. She started out as a reporter and eventually became an editor. (Ironically enough she interviewed our Publisher back when BajaTraveler first launched.) In 2008 she becomes a free lancer and has been colaborating

since then in special suplements, specialized magazines and within the coordination in the area of communications for the festival EnTijuanarte, Color is Baja in Tijuana, Mexico and Two Eales/ Dos Aguilas in San Diego, CA. Sánchez also colaborates for D’Garay Public Relations. During 2011 she was co-editor for a newspaper in Oaxaca, Mexico called El Imparcial. She is passionate about cultural journalism and the difusión of positive news between our bordersTijuana and San Diego. Sánchez is excited to start collaborating with BajaTraveler.

Katie McElveen

Travel writer Katie McElveen has spent the last ten years covering the globe for publications like Real Simple, Business Traveler, Town & Country, Destination Weddings & Honeymoons, Modern Bride and AAA Go. McElveen’s travel adventures started at the age of 17 when, en route from Maryland to a family vacation in coastal South Carolina, she ended up lost in rural North Carolina. She eventually found her way to Charleston and liked it so much that she eventually married a South Carolinian and moved to the Palmetto state. McElveen has always loved Mexico, from her first visit, when she was invited to a beachfront hacienda and discovered lion and tiger cubs roaming the house, to her most recent, in Cabo San Lucas, where she watched, in awe, as half a dozen whales spent nearly half an hour frolicking just yards from the shore. Although McElveen usually sticks to wine and Mexican beer (Pacifico is her favorite), she enjoyed her research for her story about Clase Azul tequila tremendously and is thrilled to be writing for BajaTraveler.

Sylvia Mendoza

As an award-winning journalist for a variety of publications, Sylvia Mendoza believes in the power of the written word and that every person has a story to tell. Her passion is writing feature stories and profiles that bring out the best of people. She learns something from every person she interviews, every topic she researches—women’s issues, human interest, diversity, education, and success stories. As a Navy brat, she lived in Hawaii, Guam and later, Puerto Rico; perhaps that is why traveling is another passion—but she always loves coming home to San Diego. Sylvia serves as president of Southern California Media Professionals, is the author of The Book of Latina Women: 150 Vidas of Passion, Strength & Success, and several novels, and is now thrilled to write for Mexico Traveler and Baja Traveler magazines.

CONTRIBUTORS III

Luke Inman

Originally from Great Britain, Luke Inman is an award winning lighting cameraman, photographer, and adventurer. He is passionate about shark conservation, and loves being underwater. He has filmed and photographed above and below the sea for the BBC, National Geographic, Lucas Films, Castle Rock Entertainment, The Monterey Bay Aquarium, The Discovery Channel, and Animal Planet, to name a few.Luke’s photography includes diverse subjects like legendary golfer Gary Player, and extraordinary archeologically sites deep underwater. He owns La Paz´s only fully serviced photographic studio: Studios Calavera. After graduating from the University of the West of England with a degree in business and marketing, Luke attended the London International Film School. He has settled in La Paz, Mexico and now holds both British and Mexican passports.Lukes is excited to be contributing to BajaTraveler.

Los Cabos. In photographing for BajaTraveler and MexicoTraveler, Mariano captures the essence of the subjects he shoots, as evident in the magnificent images within the Social Pages in this edition of BajaTraveler.

Aleph Alighieri

Two years ago Aleph was hired by the Tourism Office of Baja California Sur to take photos around the state so in turn they could be used to promote the state. And this assignment was his favorite as he loves the state and is currently residing in Los Cabos. Aleph is a photographer who specializes in underwater and time-lapse photography. He has collaborated with different type of productions from websites, to television and film productions, the diversity of projects he has collaborated in provide skills and knowledge and the ability to visualize from multiple perspectives. Alephs’ photos can be seen through this magazine.

Mariano Lemus Angel Zapién

Mariano has been working as a professional photographer, which has been his passion for more than 20 years. Mariano began his career photographing a variety of subjects, like car racing, models and Mexican artists. He was the official photographer for the Champ Car World Series racing circuit, as well as the Mexican Tennis Federation. His photography has been widely published in various magazines, newspapers, collector books and year books, like Ford Mexico 50-Year edition, Tennis Year Book 1999 and Canon Calendar 2007. He also served as a photographer with high end magazines like Auto Mundo Deportivo.Recently, Mariano’s assignments have included taking photos for the popular CaboFaces.Net, a web site devoted to photographing the most important events in

Angel Zapien is an acclaimed wedding cinematographer based in Los Cabos, Mexico for the past five years. Working either in production or post production he has found that it is through weddings he is able to reflect his passion for movies and story-telling. The result is that his final product has a different feel and gives a completely different sense to the wedding films concept. Zapien collaborates with his business partner Leonardo Batis, who share his passion in wedding photography: Together they founded Cinematic Touch. Zapien captured our past cover-girl Eva Longoria and also produced the video you can view on our website. The video is a testament to Eva’s love of being on the cover of Baja Traveler Magazine.

2012 MEXICO PREPARES FOR THE G20 SUMMIT

Los Cabos To Host This Major Event

Mexico is to chair the Group of Twenty (G20) leading economies in 2012. Mexico’s President Felipe Calderon has officially selected Los Cabos as the host city for the G20 summit, comprising the leaders and finance ministers of twenty countries. This major event is estimated to attract some 16,000 visitors.

“As you know, Mexico will be the host of G20 this coming year,” said President Felipe Calderon. “For the first time, a developing country will be the host of the leading countries in the world– especially in a moment as significant as this one; not only for the current global economy we are facing, but for the need to define common public politics that permit the human development of our countries.” For the summit, President Calderon signed a check for Los Cabos in the amount of $180 million for a new convention center in San José del Cabo, and the building of the second fourway highway from San José del Cabo to Cabo San Lucas.

The G20 is an informal group of 19 countries and the European Union, with representatives of the International Monetary Fund and the World Bank. The finance ministers and central bank governors began

meeting in 1999, at the suggestion of the G7 finance ministers in response to the global financial crisis of 1997-99. Since then, there has been a finance ministerial meeting every fall. Creating the first summit in November 14-15 2008, U.S. President Bush invited the leaders of the G20 countries to Washington, D.C. to coordinate the global response to the aftermath of the financial crisis in the United States. The leaders then decided to meet again.

Therefore, British Prime minister hosted the second meeting in London in 2009; the third was hosted by U.S. President Barack Obama in Pittsburgh later in 2009; the fourth co-chaired by Canadian prime minister, Stephen Harper and Korean president Lee Myung-bak in Toronto in 2010; the fifth took place in Seoul, South Korea. In 2011, the sixth summit was held in Cannes, France. (At a meeting in 2010 of the G20 leaders’ personal representatives in Mexico, it had been decided that after the sixth summit the G20 leaders would begin meeting once annually.) Mexico will chair the seventh G20 summit in 2012.

“The true objective that we must have–the objectives of my government–is that Mexican people can live better; this is the

objective of every government,” affirmed President Calderon. “This is why the exchange of these financial ideas is mandatory. This is why Mexico will continue promoting these financial exchange of ideas.”

The G20 was created as a deliberative rather than decisional body, but one designed to encourage “the formation of consensus on international issues” (Canada 1999). However, it was one with a policy focus, a mandate to promote international financial stability. Chair Paul Martin suggested it “will focus on translating the benefits of globalization into higher incomes and better opportunities everywhere,” including working people around the world. Although concentrating on longer term rather than immediate policy issues, Martin declared: “There is virtually no major aspect of the global economy or international financial system that will be outside of the group’s purview.”

The broad economic base and large membership of the G20 make it highly influential on the management of global economy. The choice of Los Cabos as the 2012 site exemplifies the safety and security that is found there.

GIVING BACK

to

BAJA III

In the spirit of responsible travel and tourism, many travelers to Baja California and Baja California Sur these days are looking for ways to give something back to Mexico through charitable organizations that benefit the communities of Baja.

In a previous edition of Baja Traveler®, we listed many health and welfare charitable societies operating in Baja. In this follow-on listing, we identify additional charities that range in focus from protecting animals to providing children with sports opportunities in Baja. Be sure to check with your accountant regarding the tax deductibility of any donation or in-kind contribution.

Door of Faith Orphanage (www.dofo.org/) is located in La Mision, Baja California, Mexico – approximately one hour south of the U.S. border crossing at San Diego. Their mission is to provide the best home possible to children entrusted to them and to become a base where people seeking to minister can come for supplies, training, and support.

The Sportfishing Association of California (SAC) in partnership with the Ensenada Rotary Club and several San Diego Rotary clubs donate food bags and blankets to Baja charities through their “Fish Across the Border” program (http://californiasportfishing.org/). Marine recreational fisherman can donate their catch to a nonprofit cannery run by Fisherman’s Landing, where they are canned and packaged for shipment to needy families in Ensenada.

Liga MAC is a service organization that raises funds through events like JazzFest. They operate San José del Cabo’s three programs to benefit low income families in San José del Cabo: Medical Aid, Basic Needs, and Educational Aid. This last year alone their programs helped over 2,000 families and offered educational support to 465 students from elementary school to college. Liga MAC is a registered non-profit in Mexico and has applied for Donatario status. Donors may also make contributions online through ICF for a U.S. tax receipt.

Founded in 1990, the International Community Foundation (www.icfdn.org/) is a public charity that channels donations made by San Diegans to nonprofit organizations in various parts of the world. The organization has a special emphasis on Baja California.

Some of the recent causes they have supported include the longterm treatment of more than 80 children with cancer in Baja California, creating homes for homeless and neglected children in Ensenada, and establishing educational programs in rural areas in Mexico.

The ICF is committed to assisting U.S. donors with charitable giving needs from Tijuana to Los Cabos. For individuals wishing to make a difference in Baja California or anywhere else in Mexico, ICF also offers a reliable and efficient tax deductible vehicle.

The US Motorsport Community (http://raceinbaja.com/index. php/giving-back) has focused on giving back by supporting the El Oasis Orphanage in Valle Trinidad since 1996. Starting with only one building and one group home, today the site hosts 10 group homes, an Edu-Center, administrative building and the original hall. In addition, Baja riders funded and built a basketball court, a play ground, planted over 400 fruit and shade trees and installed over 2.5 miles of underground irrigation.

Tortugueros Las Playitas (www.todostortugueros.org/) protects and conserves the environment of Baja California Sur. Their special emphasis is on the Endangered Sea Turtle population recovery, habitat protection, as well as environmental education in Todos Santos, B.C.S., Mexico

In particular, the organization focuses on protecting the Leatherback, Olive Ridley and Black sea turtles through a special Incubation Greenhouse that is used to ensure hatching success during the cold winter months. A new open-air corral just north of La Pastora is used during the summer months to protect the nests of the Olive Ridley and Black sea turtle from coyotes, raccoons and predatory birds.

Volunteers run nightly patrols relocating nests to protected incubation areas, monitor the hatcheries, organize beach clean-ups and educate school-aged children, fishermen and residents on environmental conservation, sea turtle restoration and sea turtle restoration and water safety.

Youth with a Mission (www.ywamsandiegobaja.org) was founded in 1991and now hosts thousands of volunteers annually in building homes as part of their Homes of Hope program. Since its inception, YWAM has built 3,000 homes in Baja with the aid of nearly 60,000 volunteers. The homes are built for children and families to have a chance to experience better living conditions and thus improve social, economic, health and educational benefits that it can bring.

Our marketing campaign continues going STRONG…

Posters of our covers can be found throughout Airports, Car Rental Agencies, Gift-Shops and Restaurants in Baja California and Baja California Sur –all year long!

Meet Merrell and Anneke Simonsen and Renata Melanie Erickson …three of our favorite fans!

Win

Your

• 5-night stay for two

• GOLF included - daily

• One dinner for two

Sweepstakes Rules: NO PURCHASE NECESSARY. Entries must be received by August 30, 2012. Entrants must be a resident of the U.S. or Canada and 21 years of age or over as of date of entry. One entry per person. Not responsible for late, lost, postage due, illegible or misdirected mail. Mechanically reproduced entries not eligible. Entries must be on official entry form or on a 3x5 card with name, address, e-mail, daytime phone and age. Sweepstakes winner will be selected in a random drawing of all completed entries on or around September 2012 and contacted by BajaTRAVELER® promotions department by phone or mail. One grand prize winner will be awarded a 5-night stay for two at Bajamar which includes daily GOLF for two and ONE dinner for two (gratuities, additional meals not included.) Employees of Traveler International, Inc., promotional partners and agencies and immediate family are not eligible. No cancellation or transfer of reservation to another date after reservation has been made. Income and all other taxes, if any, on prize are the sole responsibility of winner. Acceptance of prize constitutes consent to use winner’s name and likeness for editorial, advertising and publicity purposes. Winner and travel companion may be required to sign an Affidavit of Eligibility and Liability/ Publicity release, which must be returned ten days from date of notification or an alternate winner may be chosen. Entries become the property of Traveler Publications and will not be acknowledged or returned. Odds of winning depend on the number of eligible entries received. Subject to all federal, state and local laws and regulations. All expenses other than those mentioned above must be assumed by the winner; i.e., other meals, taxes, gratuities, transportation and incidentals. The prize is non-transferable and must be redeemed between September 2012 and August 2013. No extensions will be granted. All reservations are subject to space availability and are restricted to off-holiday periods. Void where prohibited by law. Sponsors not responsible for damages, losses or injuries sustained as a result of acceptance use of any prize.

Reader Service & Advertising Directory

A number appears in front of the advertisers who have offered to send FREE information on their products and services. When using their services, mention to them that you saw their ad here, in BajaTraveler® and you’ll receive the best possible price. To receive their free information, simply fill in your complete mailing address on the adjoining reply card, circle the corresponding numbers to the information you would like to receive and mail us the reply card.

The First 25 Years: Los Cabos News

Pioneer of the bilingual independent newspaper in Los Cabos

bout 25 years ago, Los Cabos News came on the media scene in Baja California Sur as the only bilingual newspaper in the area. And today, Los Cabos News is still the only bilingual independent newspaper to be found. It is read not only in Cabo San Lucas, but also San José del Cabo, the Tourist Corridor, Todos Santos, La Paz, San Carlos and surrounding area. Readers include English-speaking (foreign residents) as well as local Spanish-speaking natives, in addition to tourists who come from around the world to visit Los Cabos and the surrounding area.

The newspaper is printed in a traditional full-color tabloid format and is recognized by readers for the journalistic experience and prestige. While the paper promotes the natural beauty and resort convenience of Los Cabos, it also focuses on the literature, cultural life, social events, golf, gastronomy and politics of the region. Past covers highlight natural and cultural wonders and have included the Canyon of the Zorra, San Dionisio, Cabo Pulmo, San Javier Mission and Loreto –all places that hold mystique and appeal to residents and visitors alike.

The content includes news articles, anecdotes and interesting peculiarities in specific sections such as Letters to the Editor, Restaurant Review, the central social “Lower Windows”, Books, Reading and Review,

Today Spanish/Español Lesson, Know the Law, Economic Comments, Tourist Information and Wine. All this is presented with photos and wrapped in an attractive cover. In short, Los Cabos News is the source of bilingual news and information. “I am thrilled when we accomplish this,” said Owner, Director and Editor Javier Valdez.

Back in 1987, a group of innovators and investors came together to create Los Cabos News and included: Alfonso “Poncho” Fisher, José Luis Sanchez Amezcua, Jorge Biana, German Alexandre and Jorge Romo. Then, in 1995, Javier Valdez joined the group and expanded coverage to include La Paz. In 2000, he bought the rights and became the current owner.

Los Cabos News is more relevant than ever before as it lets the readers know about local issues, human interest stories as well as commentaries on issues that are important to the region. It also lets readers express their opinions, and this is valued. “Whereas our first 25 years allowed us to focus on service to our readers and advertisers, we are hoping the next 25 years allows us to do this and more – to be the premiere newspaper on the peninsula,” remarked Valdez.

Over 25 years ago, President Ronald Reagan and White House staffers Rudy Bali Sanchez and Rudy Beserra created the Hispanic Heritage Awards and Hispanic Heritage Month. At the time of its inception, the Awards ceremony took place on the lawn at the White House while Archbishop Patrick Flores was honored leadership while Ernest B. Robles was honored for Education and Jesse Treviño for Arts.

Since then, the Awards have moved to the venerable Kennedy Center stage, where hundreds of giants in Hollywood, literature, sports and music have been honored. More importantly, the superstars shared the stage with superstar educators, physicians, community leaders, elected officials, business leaders, innovators and even astronauts. That is what makes the Awards so unique. “It was truly an amazing experience to be there- at the Kennedy Center and be one of the sponsors,” said our Editorin-Chief, Mayté Rodríguez Cedillo.

“And the 2011 event was no different as we honored another group of Latino leaders who have made an impact on America and the world through their hard work, vision and perseverance” said José Antonio Tijerino, President and CEO of the Hispanic Heritage Foundation (HHF). He expressed his thanks to the distinguished guests for celebrating

with the organization.

The 2011 Honorees were: for Arts, Ruben Blades; for Business, Jorge Vergara; for Leadership, Dr. Juan Andrade Jr.; for Legend, Roberto “Chespirito” Gomez Bolaños; for Sports, Hugo Sanchez; for Education, Dr. Elizabeth Molina Morgan; and for Vision, Juanes. William Levy, Maite Perroni and Eugenio Derbez hosted the exhilarating occasion.

Sports Honoree, Hugo Sanchez was born in Mexico. He is a former professional soccer striker with a highly successful career with teams in Mexico, Spain, Austria and the United States. Sanchez is considered the best Mexican soccer player ever.

Business Honoree, Jorge Vergara is a successful Mexican businessman who also process internationally recognized movies and owns professional soccer teams from the USA to China and in between.

Stem Education Honoree, Dr. Elizabeth Molina Morgan is a native New Yorker and first-generation American. She is leading school transformation, creating equal academic opportunities for all students, and urgently raising standards for teaching and learning are some of her key goals and favorite endeavors.

Jorge Vergara

Juanes and Janet Murguia

Juanes, Janet Murguia, Joaquin Cortes and a presenter

William Levy, Maite Perroni and Eugenio Derbez

Juanes

Dr. Elizabeth Molina Morgan

Hugo Sanchez

Leadership Honoree, Dr. Juan Andrade, Jr. is a Mexican-American who is amongst the 100 most influential Hispanics in the United States and one of the most decorated Latino leaders in the nation. Dr. Andrade, a Presidential Medal recipient is President of the United States Hispanic Leadership Institute.

Arts Honoree, Ruben Blades was born in Panama. He can aptly be described as a Renaissance Man- a person with many talents and interests. He is a singer, songwriter, actor, Harvard-graduated lawyer and political activist. His work has crossed geopolitical borders, cultures and musical genres. He has won Grammys, Emmys, Honorary Degrees and National Orders.

Vision Honoree, Juanes is from Colombia. He is an international Rock Star who has sold more than 13 million albums and is the winner of 17 Latin Grammy Awards and one Grammy Award. Juanes is also known for his humanitarian work, his dedication as a global activist extends far beyond his passionate lyrics.

Legend Honoree, Roberto Gomez Bolaños “Chespirito” is a Mexican writer, actor, director, humorist and songwriter best known throughout Latin America, the United States and Spain by his stage name “Chespirito.” The multifaceted honoree was an amateur boxer before becoming an actor and he studied engineering in Mexico City.

“Past Hispanic Heritage Awardee, Dr. Pedro José Greer took over as Chair in late 2001, and myself as President and CEO,” Tijerino explains. Together they focused the mission beyond the Awards on inspiring, preparing and positioning Latino youth for leadership in the classroom, community and workforce. The Youth Awards and the Latinos On Fast Track (LOFT) programs build an online community for Latino students and young professionals. The programs, through which 75,000

18-to-28-year-old emerging leaders connect, have become as well-known and respected as the Awards and focus on “helping one Latino help one hundred more.”

“We are now over 50 million,” he states, “one in six Americans is Latino. Our buying power is close to a trillion dollars, and the 2012 elections will be decided by the Latin vote. And one in four Americans under 18 is Latino. But the numbers mean nothing if we don’t come together as a community to promote leadership, education and workforce development. America needs us more than ever to move forward—and we need to be ready to answer the call.”

Throughout history, Latinos have always been prepared to serve. The Hispanic Heritage Foundation is ready to do its part through its unique continuum for leadership, which works with young leaders from high school through college as young professionals and, eventually, into boardrooms. Teach For America and HHF bring together young leaders for an “Actionable Leadership” year-round training summit in D.C. Fifty students are selected as Fellows to represent 35 colleges and 15 states for Interactive Training. The goal for each student is to impact 300 others through community projects.

“They are the innovators who build robots, business plans and community development programs,” maintains Tijerino. “They are the true mission of the Hispanic Heritage Foundation.”

The Awards Ceremony included performances by Joaquin Cortes, Dulce Maria, Rey Ruiz and Carlos Baute.

September 15, 2011

I send greetings to all those attending the 25th Annual Hispanic Heritage Awards.

Our legacy as a Nation of immigrants is part of what makes our country strong. The diversity of our people enriches our national identity, helping define who we are and what we can become. As doctors and scientists, lawyers and engineers, public servants and service members, Hispanic Americans have played a pivotal role in shaping the character of our country and the progress of our nation.

Events like the Hispanic Heritage Awards celebrate the rich history and culture of Latinos in America and pay tribute to the countless contributions and exemplary leadership of this year’s honorees. These occasions help connect individuals to their past and reaffirm our founding ideals for future generations.

Antonio Tijerino

Dr. Juan Andrade Jr.

Jorge Vergara

Mayté Rodríguez Cedillo and Bob Debbas

Amazing Destination: Loreto -

A Love Affair With Nature!

By

Loreto, a sleepy small fishing town located by the sparkling Sea of Cortez, is waking up to the world. Known as the oldest town in Baja California Sur, it is becoming one of the best sustainable investments on the Baja peninsula. In 2011, New York Times designated Loreto as the “8th place to visit in the world” from a list of 41 places, citing the recent opening of the $60 million Villa del Palmar resort as to why Loreto is a main attraction. Other resort developments – in various stages of completion - include Loreto Baja by Homex and Marina San Cosme.

Accessible Loreto

And now it is easier to fly to Loreto, more than ever before. AeroCalafia (www.aerocalafia.com.mx) has started up flights from Tijuana to Loreto on to Cabo and back. Plus, Alaska Airlines and Horizon conveniently service the new international airport. Driving up north from La Paz, Todos Santos and Los Cabos is also a beautiful road-trip… Not to mention driving down from the International border in San Ysidro – about a ten hour drive.

During the past three years, Loreto and Fonatur have invested over $300 million in the infrastructure of Loreto. This includes a lot of “newness” such as an airport, highways, bridges, and parks to a new hospital, police station and fire truck.

Location, location, location…

Located about 220 miles north of the capital of La Paz, Loreto has over 155 miles of incredible coastline and 14 islands, making it a marine paradise. Whether you come to sport fish, dive, snorkel, kayak, or watch the gentle giants of the deep on their annual migration, there’s plenty to do. Ecotourism abounds here with an abundance of unique flora, fauna, marine life and culture. As Mayor Jorge Alberto Avilez of Loreto said, “There is a culture of sustainability here in Loreto along with a deep understanding of our caretaker role involving the natural wonders that surround us.”

Originally founded by Jesuit missionaries in 1697, when they found a steady spring of fresh water; today, Loreto is a resort town for those who enjoy nature and the outdoors. The Sierra de La Giganta mountain range majestically towers over Loreto to the west as the surrounding Sonoran desert supports a rich array of

Photos by Aleph Alighieri

Karin Leperi

plant and animal life – including the world’s largest cactus – the cardon cactus. (The cardon cactus can grow to 70 feet and live over 3,000 years.) . Loreto is home to the historic Mission of Our Lady Loreto, one of the first “California” missions. The baroque Mission of San Javier can be found nearby in the Sierra de La Giganta Mountains… and it is truly a breathtaking experience when you see it for the very first time.

National Marine Park of Loreto Bay

One of the major ecotourism draws to Loreto is the National Marine Park of Loreto Bay. The park has approximately 800 square mile of sea, islands, wetlands, lagoons, mangroves, seagrass beds, and marine areas that are essential to preserving many marine species and providing protected breeding habitat. First established in 1996, the park includes five large islands: Coronado, del Carmen, Danzante, Monzerrat and Santa Catalina. In 2005, these islands and all the other islands in the Sea of Cortez were designated a UNESCO Natural World Heritage site.

This is a great place to whale watch as several kinds of whale frequent these waters. Known as the “big five” they include: blue, humpback, finback, pilot and gray whales.

Gentle Giants – the Gray Whales

Each year, the gray whale begins an annual migration between their Nordic feeding and Baja breeding grounds that is a round trip from 8,000 to 14,000 miles. This is considered to be the longest annual migration of any mammal.

And Loreto is strategically located to see the gray whales as they are midway between the two most highly recommended places: 1) the San Ignacio lagoon to the northwest and, 2) the Bahia de Magdalena to the south. Prime time is from January through March, when the gentle grays seek warm lagoon waters to birth and mate.

The Murals of Mulege

Though the origins of the cave paintings in Baja California Sur are unknown, they have been dated as far back as 1,500 years ago. Because of this, UNESCO has designated “The Great Murals” – the most significant groupings of prehistoric rock art in the Guadalupe Mountains - for special protection. The paintings are located outside of Mulege, about 84 miles north of Loreto. Some paintings are larger-than-life and some of the human forms seem like aliens. It is unknown what the purposes of these paintings were intended for – symbolism, ritual, or perhaps fertility?

Cuisine

Cuisine is incredible in Loreto, with an obvious focus on fresh seafood. Ceviche, lobster, seafood dishes and fish tacos can be found at just about any restaurant as well as fajitas, fillet steaks and the very famous tatemadas or chocolate clams. From fine-dining to locally-owned family restaurants, the choice is yours.

Why Come to Loreto?

So, the question becomes: Why come to Loreto? Besides the ecotourism, sport fishing, marine activities, culture, and recent luxury resort accommodations, it’s fairly simple to explain. As Mayor Avilez points out, “It is the people! Whether fisherman, businessmen, or service providers, the people of Loreto are noble and friendly and take care of the environment and visitors with gratitude and respect for everyone. In Loreto, one can still feel that authentic culture which put Mexico on the world tourism map decades ago. It’s a small and safe place with big-hearted people who are committed in a big way.”

Design by Kerrie Briggs

By Karin Leperi

She’s done it again and grabbed another Latin Grammy. The stunning superstar and songstress Shakira is the youngest person ever to receive the Latin Grammy “Person of the Year” award. Known for her melodic yet throaty voice and sultry mid-section moves, she joins a list of accomplished artists that includes Plácido Domingo, Carlos Santana Gloria Estefan, Gilberto Gil, Julio Iglesias and Ricky Martin.

Shakira was honored at the 12th Annual Tribute Gala which was held at the Mandalay Bay Convention Center in Las Vegas on November 9, 2011 where she received the 2011 Latin Recording Academy Person of the Year. “It is truly an honor to be in the company of some of the greatest artists and legends of Latin Music,” said Shakira about this coveted lifetime award.

A three-time current Latin GRAMMY® nominee (including Album of the Year), seven-time Latin GRAMMY winner, and two-time GRAMMY® winner, Shakira was not only recognized for her musical artistry and international superstar status, but also honored for her lifetime work as a philanthropist.

“I am elated on behalf of The Latin Recording Academy and its Board of Trustees that the much admired Shakira — whose incredible talent and artistic integrity are equaled only by her commitment and dedication to philanthropy and selflessly helping those in need — has been elected the 2011 Latin Recording Academy’s Peron of the Year,” said Gabriel Abaroa Jr., President/CEO of The Latin Recording Academy. “We are honored to pay homage to this dynamic, socially conscious woman whose illustrious career has touched so many people around the world, both musically and personally.”

The Hits Keep Coming

Her first live album was released in 2000, Shakira: MTV Unplugged, which garnished her first GRAMMY Award® for Best Latin Pop Album. At the inaugural Latin GRAMMY Awards ceremony in 2000, Shakira received her first two Latin GRAMMY Awards. Then, in 2001, Shakira released her first crossover album, Laundry Service, which would go on to become one her most successful albums ever.

By 2005, she released Fijacíon Oral Vol. 1, which featured the hit single “La Tortura” with singer/songwriter and musician Alejandro Sanz. The album and single would go on to earn her four Latin GRAMMY Awards. Shortly thereafter, she released Oral Fixation Vol. 2, which included the worldwide hit “Hips Don’t Lie” in collaboration with musician/producer Wyclef Jean.

One Voice with a Cross-Over Appeal

Though known for her pulsating vibrato and richness of tone, Shakira is also known for her fusion of several genres, including mainstream pop and rock, folk, and a mixture of Spanish and middle-eastern influences. Lately, she admits to Oriental influence on her music as well. (Born in Columbia, she is of Lebanese descent from her father’s side and also has Spanish, Italian, and American heritage from which to draw inspiration.)

Along with her commanding vocals and swinging hips, her stage tours are as much about the visual as they are about the vocal, with a cross-over appeal that knows no borders. Her earlier Spanish albums included Pies Descalzos and ¿Dónde Están Los Ladrones?, while her cross-over English album, Laundry Service and her later albums were a combination of pop rock and pop Latino. By 2009, Shakira reflected more dance music in her album, She Wolf while her 2010 album, Sale el Sol, is more reflective of her earlier works.

Shakira’s Philanthrophy

Shakira has always had a streak of philanthropy within her heart. Her first charitable outreach happened when she was only 18, when she founded the Pies Descalzos Foundation, a charity providing special schools for underprivileged children throughout Colombia. Because of her deep commitment to children, she was also chosen as a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador. On her 32nd birthday, Shakira celebrated by opening a new $6 million school in her hometown of Barranquilla, Colombia, which she sponsored along with her Pies Descalzos Foundation.

BajaTraveler congratulates SHAKIRA for her amazing work and this honor we are all witnessing tonight!

The Latin Recording Academy Person of the Year

By Karin Leperi and Mayte Rodríguez Cedillo

Sofia Vergara is one hot tamale. A voluptuous Latin beauty best known for her starring role as ‘Gloria’ on ABC’s “Modern Family,” she is the only Hispanic actress to crossover from U.S. Hispanic Network to a general U.S. market. As a result, she finds herself as role model for many aspiring Latina actresses.

Nominated for the 68th Annual Golden Globe Awards for her endearing and spicy role as ‘Gloria Delgado-Pritchett’ in ABC’s hit comedy series “Modern Family,” the winners will be announced January 16, 2012 in Los Angeles, California. She also received a Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series along with three Screen Actors Guild Awards nominations.

But that’s not all as Sofia was selected as one of this year’s “Faces to Watch” by The New York Times. She has also been named as one of the most talented and powerful women in Hispanic entertainment by the Hollywood Reporter and Billboard.

New Role as Entrepreneur

In 2011, Sofia added “entrepreneur” to her growing resume of talents and expertise when she was named the new face of CoverGirl. When her role as designer was announced later in the year for a K-Mart clothing line for all those “soccer moms,” she added designer to the growing list. Her favorite designers? “I have a few I adore,” Sofia noted, “Especially Dolce and Gabana, Carolina Herrera, Silvia Tcherassi, Vera Wang and Roberto Cavalli.”

Photo by Aleph Alighieri

Earlier that year, Diet Pepsi featured her in a television commercial with David Beckham. Due to its success, she will now be representing Diet Pepsi in future commercials. As for the future? Sofia plans to, “Keep enjoying my family, my “Modern Family” family, do great things with my Kmart clothing line and grow it internationally, do more films, help my country through charity work and see my son graduate happy and healthy.”

Daughter of Colombia

Born Sofia Margarita Vergara on July 10, 1972 in Barranquilla, Colombia, Sofia enjoyed the simple things of life like: “family outings and celebrations, playing with my friends at school, loud music in El Carnaval de Barranquilla, lots of dancing, laughing out loud, eating great food, the happy faces of the care free people in Barranquilla.” She adds, “I had a very happy childhood.”

She began her career as a model, discovered while in high school and reputedly with the blessings of nuns at the private school.

She ventured from model to television host and film actress, with her major break coming in 2003 with the release of Chasing Papi. Sofia went on to play other roles on television and film to include Dirty Sexy Money, Tyler Perry’s Meet the Browns, and Madea Goes to Jail.

Cancer Survivor

Her health took a downhill turn when, in 2000, she was diagnosed with thyroid cancer. However, after following the prescribed treatment course by her doctor, she eventually emerged cancer-free and with a fresh perspective on life.

As for others who may have been diagnosed with cancer, she recommends that they, “Read, learn, investigate, educate yourself about your condition, about the treatments, the prognosis and the best doctors and hospitals… and only then will you be ready for a tough fight that has many battles, many tears, many moments of fear, but that at the end is a war you can definitely win. I believe that the power of science combined with faith or spiritual strength that may come from God, religion, your family or whatever you believe in -- is crucial.”

Birds and Bananas

These days, Sofia says her friends describe her personality as, “Crazy. Loud. Impatient. Hyperactive. Funny and Predictably Explosive.” Asked if there was one thing she could change about herself, what would it be, her response was consistent with her friends. “Mmmm, Impatient maybe? And Hyperactive? I would love to be one of those girls that wakes up singing like Cinderella and dancing with the birds, you know, a calm, gentle soul that pours the coffee and smiles. But no, I just storm in the kitchen like the SWAT team, looking for a banana, waking up everybody, singing to the top of my lungs, cursing if I spill the juice and am definitely the antonym of the word “calm.”

Secrets for a Fabulous Figure

However Sofia may see herself, others focus on different traits by using such alluring adjectives as

voluptuous, curvaceous, seductive, bootylicious and saucy to describe her mystique. Whatever adjective is used, of one thing is certain: Sofia Vergara has a fabulous figure.

Asked about her exercise routine and diet, she replied, “I’d rather dance than do cardio, but I would be lying if I said I really follow a special established dance routine. I just play salsa or cool music and dance like a maniac in my house, burn up calories and lift my spirits. I hate working out, but I do it, and with a trainer because I see it as a responsibility. It’s part of my job to look good. From Monday to Friday I eat healthy, low-fat, high protein and high fiber and work out at least three times a week. On weekends I devour sweets and sleep in late and ditch the gym. I recently got a cotton candy machine for my kitchen… I love it! Cotton candy curves the cravings and is not that unhealthy.”

Sofia Loves Baja!

Sofia enjoys romantic retreats to Cabo and simply adores Acapulco because of its many great hotels and excellent partying. She also loves the Riviera Maya. And then there’s all that great Mexican food. “Of course I love Mexico Food – Who doesn’t? I’m addicted to tortilla soup and can literally eat gallons of it, and of guacamole and frijoles refritos, too. And I love the flans and those sweet mushy candies with chiles.”

Her advice to BajaTraveler readers is: “I hope you enjoyed my first BajaTraveler cover – many years ago, but I hope you love this one more! …and keep on traveling and enjoying life y muchos besos!”

Design by Kerrie Briggs

What happens when 18 electrifying, once-in-a lifetime performances are met by more than 27 presenters (actors, actresses, TV personalities and comedians) and you sprinkle a little Las Vegas flavor into the mix? You get one amazing 11th Annual Latin GRAMMY Awards telecast.

The Latin Recording Academy®, the organization that hands out the Latin GRAMMY, has called Las Vegas’ Mandalay Bay home for three years

Photos by WireImage.com © 2010 and BajaTraveler

and has recently signed an agreement to continue to call “Entertainment Capital of The World” for a few more years. The Academy in 2010 signed an agreement to hold Latin music’s most prestigious awards telecast in Las Vegas for three years, 2010, 2011 and 2012.

On Sept. 8, 2010 at a press conference in Los Angeles the 11th Annual Latin GRAMMY season officially kicked off as the world found out which of their favorite and talented artists were nominated and those who saw their names on the ballots include Pepe Aguilar, Bebe, Ruben Blades, Buika, Enrique Iglesias, Jorge Drexler, Juan Luis Guerra, Jotdog, Mala Rodriguez, Poncho Sanchez, Tommy

Torres, Daddy Yankee and many more. With such talented and amazing lineup of musicians the stage at Mandalay Bay Events Center on Nov.11 will surely shine and showcase the best and brightest in the past year.

The excitement and festivities continued in the months to come as the road to the Latin GRAMMYs showcased some amazing performances by banda music groups Horóscopos de Durango, reggaeton artist Tito “El Bambino” and “the Gentleman of Salsa” Gilberto Santa Rosa as at the annual Latin GRAMMY Street Parties took the enthusiasm of the Latin GRAMMY to local communities in New Jersey, Chicago, Miami, Dallas, Los Angeles and Las Vegas.

Latin GRAMMY week saw icons, up and coming and established artists from Argentina, Dominican Republic, Puerto Rico, Mexico, Brazil and Chile roam the halls of the Las Vegas casinos. At the annual Special Merit Awards Ceremony on Wednesday, Nov. 10 The Latin Recording Academy recognized João Donato, Armando Manzanero, Las Hermanas Márquez, Joseito Mateo, Jorge Oñate, and Susana Rinaldi with the Lifetime Achievement Awards and Manuel Bonilla, Juan Carlos Calderón, and Hebe Camargo were honored with the Trustees Award. The classy and highly attended luncheon, held at the Four Season, was a very special and touching ceremony where the acceptance speeches brought most of those who attended to tears. Later that evening the celebration continued at The Latin Recording Academy’s Person of the Year tribute dinner and gala honoring the internationally renowned tenor Plácido Domingo. The concert featured many of Domingo’s friends Alondra de la Parra, Plácido Domingo Jr., Alejandro Fernández, Natalia Jiménez, Eugenia León, The Lettermen, Lucero, Ana María Martínez, Rosario, Paloma San Basilio, Noel Schajris, and Aleks Syntek performing some of his pop duets as well as some of his favorite music. A portion of the proceeds from the gala benefited one of Domingo’s chosen charities as well as The Academy’s

outreach and educational programs. In a surprise presentation The Latin Recording Academy President/CEO, Gabriel Abaroa and President/CEO of The Recording Academy, Neil Portnow are met my Latin GRAMMY and GRAMMY winner Ricky Martin who presented Domingo with the Person of the Year Award for his philanthropic and professional accomplishments. The stars were out in celebration that night as many other actors, actresses and celebrities attended the highly anticipated gala.

And now the Latin GRAMMY goes to….

Its show day and the halls of Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino are filled with thousands of fans hoping and wishing they get a glimpse of their favorite musician, celebrity, actress or actor on their way to the 11th Annual Latin GRAMMY Awards where 46 categories between the Pretelecast, a ceremony earlier in the day where most of the awards are presented, and the live telecast will be handed out.

Mexican pop trio Camila and singer/songwriter Juan Luis Guerra were the big winners of the night. The night began with Juan Luis Guerra Chris Botti taking the stage and delivering an unforgettable performance of “La Guagua” and “Lola’s Mambo.”

And with no signs of slowing down, the celebration continued on with so many different types of musicians showcasing various types of music from Enrique Iglesias featuring Wisin Y Yandel to Nelly Furtado with Mala Rodriguez, to Ricky Martin featuring Natalia Jimenez to Prince Royce with Ben E. King. Other artists that illuminated the Latin GRAMMY stage included Marc Anthony, Camila, Aida Cuevas, Pedro Fernández, Jenni Rivera, Rosario, Gilberto Santa Rosa, Aleks Syntek, and Johnny Ventura.

But the festivities didn’t end at the end of the three-hour live telecast, The Latin Recording Academy followed the hottest night in Latin music

with one amazing and electrifying after party. The celebration continued immediately after the telecast where 2000 guests celebrated at the Mandalay Bay North Convention Center and danced to the tunes of hip-hop and R&B-infused bachata group Bachata Heightz, Latin GRAMMY-winner Elvis Crespo, bachata singer Iván “La Voz”, salsa icon Victor Manuelle alongside Fania preview band Our Latin Thing, salsa’s new generation group N’Klabe, and tropical music’ band Zone D’ Tambora.

So, how do you top 18 performances, more than 27 presenters, an abundance of events and unsurpassed galas, it’s no small task but The Latin Recording Academy has never disappointed and the 12th Annual Latin GRAMMY will be no exception.

2011 NCLR ALMA Awards Honors the Best in Latino Entertainment

By Karin Leperi

Photos by BajaTraveler

Some of the biggest and most recognizable names in entertainment were honored last September by the 2011 National Council of La Raza (NCLR) ALMA Awards® on NBC.

Celebrating the pioneering spirit of Latinos in television, film and music, the ALMA awards was created to honor the positive contributions of Latinos to American culture. They

are also a tribute to the shared rich Hispanic heritage of the many talented performers who have excelled in various media.

Founded in 1995, the NCLR ALMA Awards promotes a fair and representative portrayal of Latinos in entertainment, and thus seeks to counter prevailing and limiting stereotypes. With role models and awardees such as

Salma Hayek, Shakira, Narciso Rodriguez, America Ferrera, Edward James Olmos and many more, the hope is that younger generations can emulate such success and continue to challenge limiting and confining boundaries for Hispanics.

The executive producers of the NCLR ALMA Awards were Bob Bain, Eva Longoria and Janet Murguia along with a creative and finan-

George Lopez and Eva Longoria

George Lopez and Eva Longoria

Antonio Banderas and Melanie Griffith

Isabel Jimenez, Margarita Gonzalez Perez and Gloria Zuñiga Wehber

cial partnership with NBC Universal and its parent company, Comcast. Co-hosted by the dynamic team of Eva Longoria and George Lopez, the evening proved to be a showstopper of non-stop entertainment.

Performances by Gloria Estefan, International Superstar Pitbull and the Zumba Dancers and Demi Lovato captivated viewers while a parade of celebrities brightened the screen. Stars included Jessica Alba, Antonio Banderas, Maria Celeste Arraras, Jake

T. Austin, Benjamin Bratt, Maria Canals Barrera, Madison De La Garza, David Henrie, Eva La Rue, Mario Lopez, Oscar Nuñez, Michael Peña, Aubrey Plaza, Danny Trejo, Michael Treviño, Lauren Velez, Tristan Wilds, Marcia Cross, Cote de Pablo, Felicity Huffman, Naya Rivera and Adam Rodríguez.

Eva Longoria stressed that the ALMA Awards are extremely important to Latinos because many roles available to Hispanics negatively exploit stereotypical images of ignorance, ghetto and unwed pregnancies. “We must steer away from glorification of stereotypes and need more role models that have professional jobs, political clout and entrepreneurial acumen,” she added.

“It (ALMA Awards) means a lot to me because there aren’t any other platforms that recognize positive images of Latinos in television, music and film. There is no other awards show of this kind. And we’re really proud to have put this on with NCLR, which really walks the walk and does the work for our community

behind the scenes. We’re the stars in front of the camera and NCLR are the stars behind the camera.”

Janet Murguia, President and CEO of NCLR, the largest national Hispanic civil rights and advocacy organization in the United States, sees the venue as one that helps Latino to realize the American dream. “I truly enjoy serving the community and helping to move it forward,” says Murguia. “And opening the door to the American dream is

Courtney Lane Mazza and Mario Lopez

Gloria Zuñiga Wehber, Mayté Rodríguez Cedillo, Maria Bravo and Alina Peralta

Isabel Jimenez, Margarita Gonzalez Perez Arce, Gloria Zuñiga and Mily Wehber

Janet Murguia

a personal passion of mine since I have seen the promise of that dream come true for me and my family.” (NCLR celebrates over 40 years of advocacy by trying to improve opportunities for the 45 million Latinos in this country and help open the door to the American dream. They do this by providing a Latino perspective in policy and program development and by increasing Latino visibility while celebrating their achievements.) With the 2011 ALMA Awards season now behind, there is no doubt that Eva Longoria and George Lopez proved to be a winning team as hosts because of their charm, chemistry and camaraderie.

Madison de la Garza and Demi Levato Benjamin Bratt

As for Longoria’s favorite part of the ALMA Awards, she had this to say: “I love behind-the-scenes. I love producing, I love putting things together. We work with the writers to write the content, we book all of the presenters, we book the music, and so then I was like, we’ve got to get a comedian on this show. And so we got George, who was a natural fit, and it’s so fun to play off of him. We’re just really good friends.”

Naturally, Traveler Publications (BajaTraveler and MexicoTraveler) was a media sponsor covering the event.

Melanie Griffith and Antonio Banderas

Marcia Cross Chelsea Rendon

Cote de Pablo

Maria Canals-Barrera

Gregory Nava

Adam Rodriguez

Jessica Alba

Eva Longorias’ Girlfriend Getaway at the Palmilla, Mexico

By Jeanie Casison

Photos / Video by Angel Zapien and Waldo Franco

Virginia Trinkle, Alina Peralta, Eva Longoria, Maria Bravo and Bonnie Rodezno

Sometimes you just want to spend time with the girls. Between filming the hit show Desperate Housewives, handling multiple business ventures, promoting charitable causes and adjusting to major life changes, Eva Longoria needed a little TLC from the people that know her best. So when BajaTraveler was asked to help them arrange for a weekend at the One&Only Palmilla in Los Cabos, she welcomed the break from her busy schedule to enjoy a fun-filled girlfriend getaway in a place that she absolutely adores.

Here’s what she had to say about being on our past cover, “I love my BajaTraveler cover! It’s one of my favorite photos and I’m so happy that I was on this magazine because every time I visit Baja California I always see other people on the cover and I always find it a really great informational magazine about places to go and things to see and what to do and so I was really honored to finally be asked to be on the cover,” she enthusiastically said. On the tip of Mexico’s Baja California Pen-

insula between San José del Cabo and Cabo San Lucas, One&Only Palmilla is a tranquil haven for the Hollywood elite, offering gorgeous accommodations, attentive service, distinctive details, bespoke

one of my birthdays here so I got to see this resort just evolve into this beautiful, beautiful place that I feel is my second home,” she says. “The service here is -- incomparable. Nothing else compares to the service that I get every time I come to Palmilla. I just find it a very spiritual place for me. Every time I’m here it makes me happy.”

Days of Beauty

experiences and discretion when it comes to high-profile guests. As for Eva and her entourage, the peaceful setting couldn’t be a better location for spending quality time together.

“I’ve been everywhere—Tahiti, Bora, Bora, Paris, the Maldives—and my favorite resort is One&Only Palmilla in Cabo. I celebrated

Elegant beachfront luxury suites facing the Sea of Cortes, signature spa treatments and other surprises contributed to the group’s good spirits during their stay at Palmilla. However, a special dinner alfresco featuring Eva’s favorite dishes exquisitely prepared by Aqua Executive Chef Larbi Dahrouch particularly stands out as a fond memory for all.

The intimate evening under the open sky overlooking Bahia San José began with a private tequila tasting and Mexican canapés followed by a sumptuous feast of Yellow Corn Soup with Baja Lobster Medallion and Huitlacoche Foam; Roasted Parrot Fish

that I was on this magazine because every time I visit Baja California I always see other people on the cover and I always find it a really great informational magazine about places to go and things to see and what to do and so I was really honored to finally be asked to be on the cover,”

with Vizcaina Sauce and Braised Suckling Pig in Banana Leaf and Pibil Sauce with Roasted Sweet Potato and Chayote. Pastry Chef Steve Lindsey created a trio of Tres Leches, Churros and Flourless Chocolate Cake, providing a tantalizing culmination to the night.

The rest of the weekend was simply devoted to recharging and reconnecting, and the ladies did so during heart-to-heart talks over breakfast at Market (the resort’s restaurant by internationally acclaimed chef Jean Georges Vongerichten), lounging by the Agua pool and playing cards and ordering margaritas back in the comfort of Eva’s suite.

“Thank You BajaTraveler! We all had such a wonderful stay, it was as if we had been in paradise re-charging batteries,” commented one of Evas’ closest friends, Maria Bravo.

On Sunday, Eva and friends had the opportunity to unwind just a little longer with the calming effects of music therapy before heading to a private villa to indulge in the Chocolate Synergy Palmilla Treatment—a relaxing two-hour ritual inspired by the Ancient Mayans featuring a combination of Shiatsu, Quenviquido, Lymphatic Drainage and Sports Massage techniques and the therapeutic benefits of chocolate.

Well-rested, Eva and company discovered that traveling with friends can be an enriching and transformative experience, one only a close group of girlfriends could understand. If she has anything to say about it, it won’t be too long before she returns.

“I love Mexico. It’s my favorite country in the whole world. It has so many places that are so magical. Obviously, there’s the culture, the people, the food, the music—it’s just a country that gives you a big hug every time you enter it. Every time I come here I feel like I’m home.”

Girls Just Want to Have Fun

Fantastic activities at the One&Only Palmilla for a few of your favorite females

Girlfriend Spa Adventure offers two and a half hours of pure bliss with mocktails in the garden, a relaxing facial or body massage, and a choice of one activity that the group can do together. So what will it be— Mindful Painting, Meditation, Salsa Dancing, Ritmo Latino, Laughter Yoga, Boot Camp, Transformational Breathwork or Music Therapy?

Aspiring cooks may find inspiration in the new Herb Garden complete with open kitchen space for private cooking classes and chef demonstrations.

“I love my BajaTraveler cover! It’s one of my favorite photos and I’m so happy

Virginia Trinkle, Bonnie Rodezno and Maria Bravo

nce again, BajaTRAVELER® profiles a group of talented, successful men who have materially contributed to the betterment of Baja – its people, local economy, or community infrastructure. Though their contributions and backgrounds are diverse, they are bound together by a common objective -- to continue bringing prosperity to the Baja area. The five honorees are presented in alphabetical order.

The first is a former motorcross and BMX champion who brings his entrepreneurship and leadership skills to his business, “Too Much Fun Promotions.”

Next is a man who, as the Chief Commercial Officer at FONATUR, brings with him his infrastructure expertise to the job.

Third is the owner and chef of Mision 19 in Tijuana – a restaurant that focuses on “farm-to-table” cuisine and who is “…betting everything on Baja.”

His restaurant is just one of many businesses that are helping in the renaissance revival of Tijuana.

Fourth is the Secretary of Tourism for Baja Sur, where one of his biggest tasks to date will be to have his state host the upcoming G20 Summit in June 2012.

Fifth is a man who used to dream of becoming a bullfighter. Instead, he became the mayor of Rosarito and then the owner of Rosarito Beach Hotel. He works tirelessly on improving the image of Rosarito Beach so that people can experience the real Baja – a land of infinite beauty.

The last is a man – a lover of the game of polowho is bringing polo to Los Cabos with “Club Polo Cabo.” He has plans for additional polo clubs in Ensenada, Mexico and Sacramento, California.

Baja Traveler® salutes this amazing group of accomplished men and wishes you continued success in all your endeavors and in the betterment of Baja.

…Shooting for the Stars!

A C Armando Carrasco

By Katie McElveen

It’s hard to catch up with Armando Carrasco. Although the 50-year-old former motocross and BMX champion is training for a half marathon, he still regularly takes his bike on the road or into the rugged landscape surrounding his Rosaritoarea home. “A fifty mile bike ride is nothing,” he says. He is the president of the Rosarito Beach Tourism and Convention Bureau and is a devoted husband and father.

Carrasco is also the president of Too Much Fun Promotions, which creates, manages, directs and promotes events that range from the “Mexicali en la Playa” Beach Festival, Montaña Grande Mountain Bike Rides, La Playa Motocross Series and many International Music Concerts. He founded the company in 1983, when he was just 22.

Carrasco has always been a high achiever. He had a good example. His mother singlehandedly raised Armando and his five brothers and sisters after her husband died when Armando was just five. “She never let us see that things were hard,” he says. At 14, Carrasco went to work loading hay bales. He probably could have done something else, but knew that the heavy lifting would help him excel at his true passion at the time: BMX bike riding. “I got to stay in shape and make money at the same time,” he says. “It made sense!”

The strategy worked. At 15 he was winning races in the 15-17-year-old class, later that year he became the U.S. national champion. He won the title again in 1978 when he was 17. At 18, he gave up bikes for motorcycles, and before long was winning motocross races, grueling off-road events that often requires participants to ride for more than 24 hours at a stretch. From 1978 to 1981 he won four state championships and scores of local races. Today, his son is a professional motocross racer.

Although Carrasco loved winning, what really excited him was being close—elbow to elbow he says—with the legends of the sport. But instead of simply gawking, Carrasco put the opportunity into action and began organizing races himself. Although it was still too soon to become a career, Too Much Fun Promotions was born.

Carrasco might have stayed with racing, but a birthday beach party and his instincts pushed him to the next level. It 1986, Carrasco was working full time as the promotions director for the Tijuana’s Secretary of Tourism. He’d planned a

beach volleyball tournament for the day, and had hired a band and a few vendors to sell hot dogs and hamburgers. With just a few hand-made signs advertising the event, more than 300 people attended. “From there, the event snowballed,” he says. “On the third or fourth year, I brought in Mana, a great rock band. 4,000 people showed up. Suddenly, it was no longer a party where you knew everybody but a huge event.”

Now called the “Mexicali en la Playa” Beach Festival, Carrasco’s event rode the wave of success, expanding to eventually running for ten days, attracting thousands of music fans who came to hear the 35 bands that played and filling hotels and restaurants.

Then, in 2006, tragedy struck. “The day started out beautifully, but then a freak storm blew in,” recalls Carraso. “It only lasted 25 minutes, but in that time it destroyed the stages and everything we’d set up. Hundreds of thousands of dollars were lost.”

For the next two years the festival struggled, never quite breaking even. “We got into a bad partnership, made a few bad decisions and dragged our feet,” he says. “There was nothing we could do.” In 2008, Carrasco suffered a heart attack so serious that his doctors didn’t think he’d live. Always the fighter, though, he pushed back, recovering fully.

Getting a second chance at life was the catalyst Carrasco needed to think creatively about the festival, and before long he had hammered out partnerships with local radio stations and magazines and added a soccer tournament, surf contest and a host of additional events to the lineup. “The easy times are great, but the hard times are what teach you,” he says. “We persevered. We got creative. And it worked. We had 70,000 people at this year’s event.”

Although Too Much Fun Promotions still isn’t back where it was in 2005, thanks to Carrasco’s leadership, the company is poised for success. “Now that we’ve got the Beach Festival back on track, we’re looking back at motocross,” he says. Already in the works is a “point series” race, where participants can earn points toward national standings. “Point series races are huge because they bring in competitors from all over the world, fans and media. If all goes as planned, the officials will be here soon to check out our course.” Carrasco is ready. “I’ve always had big dreams. Now I’m shooting for the stars.” •

2011-2012

JM G Juan Manuel Galarza

Promotes Tourism Development with a Focus on Sustainability

By Karin Leperi

Juan Manuel Galarza is making a difference as the Chief Commercial Officer of FONATUR, the National Trust for Tourism Development. An institution of the Mexican Federal Government, FONATUR was created in 1974 to integrate and develop new Integrally Planned Resorts (IPR), diversify the country’s attractions, and promote the economic and social development of the regions where these destinations are located.

In 2008, Galarza was asked to join the FONATUR team at a time when it was undergoing a major restructure. Because of his consulting expertise in infrastructure, Galarza was asked to manage the ports and marinas of FONATUR through its subsidiary FONATUR Operadora Portuaria. It was after a year in that role that the CEO asked him to head up the commercial area of FONATUR – his current position.

A Focus on Sustainability

Today, Galarza is proud to be part of a team that is committed to sustainability of the environment in the development of Mexican projects. “In FONATUR, we are totally committed to environmentally-friendly and self-sustaining projects. For example, Huatulco is formed by nine spectacular bays and has a National Park declared as a protected area. It is the only LatinAmerican development that has been awarded the Earthcheck Certification for five years in a row.”

Galarza talks proudly about how FONATUR is working on three important developments. These include: 1) Playa Espiritu, located 62 miles south of Mazatlan, 2) Costa Capomo, located on the Mexican Pacific Coast in the state of Nayarit, and 3) Marina Cozumel located in the Mexican Caribbean on the island of Cozumel in Quintana Roo. All will focus on sustainability as a development component.

From Mexico City to Washington, D.C. and Back Galarza was born in Mexico City in 1975 where he would

go on to finish his university studies. Next, he attended Columbia University, obtaining a Masters in Public Administration and thus, setting the stage for his job at World Bank. Here he served as an Economic Analyst for Latin America at the Global Information and Communication Technologies Department in Washington, D.C. from 2004 to 2006.

Galarza moved back to Mexico City where he did consulting for a local firm until he was asked to join FONATUR three years ago. Today, he still lives in Mexico City with his beautiful wife and two baby girls. During his free time he enjoys soccer and training for triathlons. “I play soccer and love participating in triathlons,” says Galarza. “In fact, I have just finished one in Veracruz and I am training for another one in the Riviera Maya next November.”

“I also like scuba diving very much and fortunately, I can enjoy all these hobbies and much more in the magnificent scenarios that my country offers,” adds Galarza, who also enjoys traveling in order to discover new place and different cultures. During his travels and while at home he listens to U2, Pink Floyd, The Cure and Soda Stereo, Cafe Tacuba and Fobia.

In Love with Loreto

When asked about his favorite place in Baja, Galarza quickly replied: “Loreto and its surroundings that includes the ranchos, haciendas, golf courses and the perfect climate that comes from mixing the sea and the desert.” What is there not to love?

The Best of Baja

And as for the best of Baja? “I love Baja’s Sea of Cortez as there is a reason it was described by Jacques Cousteau as the world’s aquarium. The Sea of Cortez invites you to explore it through sailing, diving, swimming, and sport fishing. Also, because of its impressive vistas, turquoise waters, appealing climate and local culture and cuisine, it is a fascinating destination for everyone.” •

High Profile

2011-2012

Javier Plascencia

J P

Leading Tijuana into a Bright New Future

By Pat Tyson

I’m proud of being a leader in this new movement of the new Tijuana,” says Javier Plascencia, owner and chef of Mision 19, his most recent inspirational venture that he opened in the heart of the city’s Zona Río business district this year. “I partnered with the owners of the structure, called Via Coporativo. It is very modern - green, sustainable and leadsomething the city has never before seen.” They are all full of pride over the building, because it represents where the new Tijuana is heading.

“

Plascencia decided to open the restaurant there because he fell in love with the project and the building. It is the ideal setting for what he wants to do with his “farm-to-table” cuisine and allows him to be more freely creative. He works with local purveyors, farmers, fishermen, using 90 per cent local ingredients such as olive oil, cheese, dairy, organic vegetables, heirloom tomatoes and wines. Mision 19 has also received considerable attention from the U.S. press including The New York Times and The New Yorker, among other publications.

“There’s a lot of potential here right now there are opportunities for those who love and want a better Tijuana; young people are reviving the city,” he explains. “We’re also proud of Caesar’s (the originator of the famous salad of that name) that we revived last year, and the area around Revolucion Avenue, which had died many years ago.” Now that revitalization of the city is apparent, families are beginning to return, good tourism, local businessmen and politicians are coming back.

For nearly three decades the Plascencia family has been at the center of a long tradition of fine dining. Its Grupo Plascencia consortium, headed by Juan José Plascencia, is responsible for a number of restaurants around Tijuana. “We are proud to have such a visionary man as our father,” says his

son, Javier, “He still has amazing energy and love for what he does - it is inspiring!”

Born in Tijuana on September 2, 1967, he attended school there then, later, moved to San Diego and went to military school in Carlsbad (army/ navy) for a year. This was followed by Hilltop High School in Chula Vista, California, then he graduated from Bonita Vista High. While attending San Diego Mesa College (culinary arts), he supervised the family restaurant kitchens, working on menus, wine lists, service and new dishes.

Besides Mision 19, Plascencia also owns the elegant marblecolumned Villa Severios, as well as Erizo Fish House and a catering company. With his family he has one more important project, which they hope to start this coming year; that is a restaurant with a small boutique hotel in the Guadalupe Valley, which will feature modern Mexican cuisine using all local products, their own kitchen garden and a vineyard.

“We are betting everything on Baja,” this visionary man asserts. “We know there are great things to come here; we have everything to make it happen - its people, land, sea, weather. Where else can you play a round of golf, visit a winery or two, have wonderful seafood in Ensenada, catch a world-class wave at one of our great surfing beaches along the coast and be back in Tijuana to have dinner at an excellent restaurant - all in one day?! It is easy to see why Plascencia’s hobbies include cooking for friends and family, surfing, and golf (he lives right in front of the second hole of the Tijuana Country Club!).

He also enjoys movies and cooking shows on television. His thirst for knowledge and innovation is boundless but, primarily, he is eager to open again the doors of Tijuana to the world. •

High Profile

2011-2012

R R

Ruben Reachi

Baja Sur’s Biggest Promoter

By Rick Stedman

Ruben Reachi has one of the best jobs in the world – promoting the Mexican State of Baja California Sur. Recently appointed the Secretary of Tourism for Baja Sur, Ruben will soon be able to showcase his wonderful state on the world stage when Los Cabos hosts the G20 Summit in June 2012. The G20 was originally established in 1999, in the wake of the 1997 Asian financial crisis, to bring together major advanced and emerging economies to stabilize the global financial market. Since then, the annual Summit has been held in a different international city each year, including Washington, D.C., London, Toronto, Seoul and this year in Cannes, France. “We are proud to be able to showcase Baja California Sur and specifically Los Cabos when the G20 members gather here next year,” says Ruben.

“It is our intent to support the wonderful destinations throughout Baja Sur, and we fully intend to focus on assisting Los Cabos as they prepare for the world spotlight next summer.”

Ruben is very familiar with Los Cabos, having lived there with his family for several years while serving as the general director of Puerto Paraiso Mall, one of the anchors of the Los Cabos Marina. Having served as the head of one of Mexico’s most popular indoor shopping malls offered Ruben a microcosm of sorts for the position he now holds with the Tourism Board. “You see it all at the mall, and we were constantly changing our offerings to reflect the wants and needs of our visitors, which is the same reactionary approach we take at the Tourism Bureau. In other words, we listen to what our constituents and stakeholders tell us, then act accordingly,” Ruben explains. He was also the President of the “Consejo Coordinador de Los Cabos,” an organization which brings together all the business associations of Los Cabos.

Though Los Cabos is one of the shining stars of the region with its award-winning hotels, championship golf, rejuvenating spas and world-class sport fishing, there’s much more to offer throughout the 1,000-mile long Baja Peninsula. In the last several months, Ruben

has traveled extensively throughout Baja familiarizing himself with all there is to offer. “There are so many hidden gems in Baja and these are the places we will want to publicize,” says Ruben, an avid golfer and marathon runner. He cites laid back Loreto on the Sea of Cortes 250 miles north of La Paz as one of those little-known breath-taking destinations. “Loreto was the first capital of the Californias, and is still a very sleepy fishing village where visitors simply absorb the atmosphere of this quaint Mexican village,” he says. “Up and down the coast, we have the best sport-fishing anywhere in the world, and some of the world’s best golf courses, museums and aquariums. Given the natural beauty of Baja, this makes for an ideal vacation destination.”

As the Secretary of Tourism for Baja Sur, Ruben now resides in La Paz, though his family still lives in Cabo San Lucas. “I am truly grateful to my wife and kids for their patience and support they’ve shown me since I’ve taken on this new role,” Ruben explains. “I’ve been traveling around the state becoming familiar with all the various regions in order to better represent Baja and this too has taken time away from my home life. But it’s time well spent, and I am fortunate to have such an understanding family.”

Growing up in central Mexico in a town called San Luis Potosi, Ruben was fortunate to have his father as a mentor. “My father was a hard-working, honest man with high values, and his example will always be a permanent model for me to follow,” reflects Ruben, who holds and undergraduate and a graduate degree in business administration. Another person who was very influential in Ruben’s life was the past Director of the University he attended; Instituto Tecnológico de Monterrey, Dr. Rafael Rangel Sosmang. “The knowledge he shared and examples he set were also very important in my maturation as a young man,” says Ruben.

Whether promoting the Baja California Sur, teeing it up on a golf course, or wearing the fatherly hat at home, Ruben Reachi knows he is blessed with the best job in the world. •

High Profile

2011-2012

H T

Hugo Torres In The Spotlight

By Michelle McDermott

Hugo Torres, former Mayor and owner of the eponymous Rosarito Beach Hotel, arrived in Rosarito Beach at the tender age of seven. A native of Mexico City, he dreamed of becoming a Bullfighter. Growing up, little did he know that boyhood dreams would be replaced with a long, tough, battle that would result in him raising the profile of this beautiful part of the world.

Father of five, Hugo takes a moment to ponder the future.

When asked, ‘As a grandfather, what do you wish for your grandchildren?’ Hugo replies, ‘At this time in this economy, we have many opportunities and many difficulties. I wish for my grandchildren to grow up with strong family values, to believe in education and to be good citizens.’

The example of Citizenship set by Hugo Torres will have far-reaching implications in Rosarito Beach for many years to come.

Looking back, you have to wonder what drives this man onwards?

Upon his arrival in Rosarito Beach, Hugo went to live with his aunt, the actress Maria Luisa Chabert. He states, ‘Maria Luisa was hugely influential in my life.’ Maria Luisa and her husband, Manuel Barbachano were the original owners of the Rosarito Beach Hotel, a magnet for Hollywood starlets and actors. Some famous names who passed through the doors included Rita Hayworth, Katharine Hepburn, Ava Gardner and Marilyn Monroe.

Rosarito Beach, once a small ranch town, grew over the years to become a major attraction for tourists from the U.S. and Canada. As the tourists enjoyed the breathtaking sunsets, and stunning beaches, workers migrated from the South to take up job opportunities and open new businesses.

As a young man, Torres considered becoming a Doctor and went to work in the local hospital. A change of plan ensued leading him to San Diego State University to study Business Administration followed by studies in Public Accountancy from Monterrey Institute of Technology, from which he graduated with honors.

On his return to Rosarito Beach, he met and fell in love with Rosa Maria Ramírez. Their five children soon followed: Hugo, Gustavo, Laura, Rosy and Daniel.

While raising his family, Hugo became more and more concerned by the rising rates of crime in the local area. He decided to take on the fight of his life, a fight which is ongoing and immensely productive.

From 1983 to 29th June 1995, Torres campaigned to have Rosarito Beach incorporated from Tijuana. This 12 year process resulted in Hugo becoming elected as the city’s first Mayor.

His term lasted three years and in 2007 he elected to run for a further three year term. He won with a 60% margin of the vote. The city of Rosarito Beach was firmly behind him.

Hugo has founded many local committees and organizations, some of which include:

• The Committee for the City of Rosarito Beach, of which he remained active until the incorporation in June 1995.

• The Association of Tourism Development Areas and Baja California.

• Madrugadores Group of Rosarito

• The Committee of Defense of the Property

Throughout these busy years, Hugo fought to clean up the image of Rosarito Beach, both locally and nationally. This involved purging the police force of officers who did not come up to expected standards of conduct. He has also been instrumental in the creation of a special Metropolitan Tourist police force, designed to assist visitors to the city. The officers patrol the area during the Summer months whilst benefitting from improved salaries and more accountability. Another important measure has been the introduction of an Ombudsman, Ricardo Moreno, who has been appointed to serve tourists who have had crimes perpetrated against them.

Torres continues to look at ways to improve the international image of Baja California in the media, as he strives to take his message about Rosarito Beach’s low crime rate, North of the Border. He states, ‘A good relationship with the USA is vital.’ Torres wants tourists to see beyond the much-reported Mexican crime and drug stories, where the whole country is tarnished with the same brush and experience the real Baja California, ‘with its beautiful beaches, the golf, the fishing and the Pacific Ocean.’

The children of Rosarito Beach are not forgotten in this campaign for security. As President of the Cultural Horizons Foundation, AC. –a non-profit agency dedicated to promoting contests, art and culture among children and residents, Torres believes that providing youth programmes will help evade delinquency on the streets and pave the way forward for the next generation. •

High Profile

2011-2012

Y T

Tony Yahyai

Polo Now Part of Los Cabos Landscape.

By Rick Stedman

Tony Yahyai is following his own Field of Dreams. His mantra: “If you build it they will come.” Tony’s lifelong passion is the equestrian sport of polo, and his ambitious plans include building a state-of-the-art polo field in Los Cabos.

“My dream has been to pursue the sport of polo,” says Tony, who was born in Tehran, Iran 57 years ago. “I have always been fascinated with polo, which has been around for more than 2,500 years. But when I was younger, I was too busy making a living and getting my life in order, and my passion for polo was put on the shelf, but not out to pasture.”

Prior to immigrating to the United States in 1976, Tony spent untold hours pursuing his passion. “I did a lot of research and studied the history of polo but never had a chance to fully dedicate myself to this wonderful sport,” he reflects. “Finally, seven years ago at the San Diego Polo Club in Rancho Santa Fe, I finally got on a horse for the first time. And despite my age and being left-handed (polo is only played from the right side of the horse), it was like everything came together, and I was doing exactly what I was supposed to be doing: playing polo. I was fulfilling my lifelong dream.”

It wasn’t long before Tony was practicing polo right-handed six days a week. After a month, he bought his first horse. Suddenly, his life was consumed with polo. He practiced every day, researched and studied the history of how and where it was played around the world, to include tournaments and anything associated with the sport. “I basically condensed a lifetime of experiences into the last seven years,” says Tony.

A successful businessman, Tony worked as a commercial insurance

broker and real estate investor for nearly three decades. His travels brought Tony and his wife Christina frequently to the Los Cabos area, where they have owned property for the last 20 years. Now semiretired, Tony has focused all of his attention on polo. “My business plan includes building a successful polo club in Los Cabos, with future plans of building additional polo clubs in Ensenada, Mexico and Sacramento, Calif.,” he explains. But first things first.

Club Polo Cabo will soon be a reality. Located on the Pacific Ocean just north of Los Cabos, the polo club will comprise 130 acres. “Club Polo Cabo will be offering many services to its guest seeking a true vacation away from home,” says Tony. “From a full service spa, five star accommodations, romantic restaurants, bars, and fashionable boutiques, we will make your experience in Club Polo Cabo unforgettable.”

The master plan includes the following: 125 single family home lots; 65 residential villas; residential club houses; 37 suite five star boutique hotel; Polo Club House; and four polo playing fields. “Our courts will be state-of-the-art polo fields designed by world renowned polo field designer Alejandro Battro,” says Tony. Other features of the polo club will include 500 stadium seats, media room, and rooftop VIP section which offers a fabulous view of the polo field and Pacific Ocean. The season will run from October through June.

“My goal is to promote the sport of polo within the local community,” says Tony. “Though we want community members to get involved and experience the thrill of polo, we will still be offering regular polo matches featuring some of the best players from around the world. I offer you to join us at Club Polo Cabo to discover the magic of this ancient game.” •

Some dreams take a lifetime to fulfill.

High Profile

2011-2012

ART BAJA’S POWER TO IN SPIRE

There are very few opportunities in life in which we are able to introduce our readers to a person who can become a legend.

Please meet an extraordinary artist and painter, Alejandra Phelts.

When you look at Alejandra’s paintings, you can see her creativity and confidence. In each marvelous work you see her passion for color and contrast, truth and beauty, that make her creations come alive.

Art is subjective and Alejandra’s ardent wish to share her delight in having the gift to bring that joy to others is evident in her works of art.

ALEJANDRA PHELTS Has Discovered a Space of Unlimited Artistic Possibilities

by Pat Tyson

Alejandra Phelts was born in 1978 and raised in Mexicali, “A desert city in Baja California, where the weather is extreme, sunsets are beautiful–and where the light is privileged” is how she describes her birthplace artistically.

The youngest of five sisters, she was guided by a creative Mexican mother–a sewing artist who taught her how to love and appreciate the art, to cherish everything that was created by hand and to worry about perfection. Her German/Colombian father was a “wild booklover” who shared with her his knowledge and passion for art history and traveling. She is passionate about colors and contrast; the pursuit of truth and beauty.

“When I was eighteen, I traveled to France to study Philosophy,” she says, “and it was there my vision of the world

changed completely. I took Art History classes, I’d visit museums, galleries and art shows regularly. My taste and knowledge for art was fascinating and exciting. It’s funny how I used to think that artists were only people who had supernatural gifts. I never thought I would become one!” She began her art studies at the Institut Privé de Philosophie et Théologie Saint Jean in Saint Jodard, France. Alejandra enhanced her studies by taking some courses in Art Appreciation and Art History in Northern Italy.

Following her studies in Europe, she returned to Mexico to continue her education at the Institute of Fine Arts, Baja California, completing two years of her degree in plastic arts. She joined Ramon Castillo’s art workshop at the Culture House, where she held her first exhibitions. After her return, she also decided to study Artistic

Education for Children and during that period, in 2002, she married and moved to Tijuana. A year later she visited a museum where she ran into artist with whom she talked for hours. That’s when she says she realized that art was the path she must take to become an artist. Since that time she has worked rigorously, not only to be a professional artist but to turn her talent and creativity into something more.

As a result of her participation in a number of exhibits, she has received many awards. Since 2001, her work has been shown in ten solo exhibitions and thirty group exhibitions throughout Mexico and the United States. Her work has been selected in projects such as the Baja California Fine Arts Biennial in their editions XIV and XV, Codet National Painting Bienniel 2004; the “Center’s International Contemporary Artist Series,” to portray individuality during the 25th anniversary celebration of the “Center for US-Mexican Studies at the University of California, San Diego; as well as participating in the editorial project “Imagining Ourselves” of the International Museum of Women, San Francisco, California.

“It’s been ten years and, to this very day, I’ve always considered art a wonderful journey, full of interesting experiences and people you meet along the way,” she states. She feels art is a daily choice that requires hard work, focus and concentration, a passionate profession that mixes both the public and intimate. “I consider it a gift that life gave me,

along with great experiences, friends and trips.” And now she has a new series of artistic endeavors.

This started because of her personal desire to improve drawing the human figure and, in the process, she discovered the wonder of portraits–a space of unlimited artistic possibilities where, at the same time, techniques are required in order to achieve the similarity with the natural character, reflecting the physical qualities and having the liberty to express the inner qualities, the personality, temperament and state of mind.

She has found this series most enjoyable because it has led to her meeting new people who also appreciate and love art; people who wish to stay around through time with a painting–and who consider their portrait as a way of inheritance. In doing family portraits, her subjects have let her into their world and know the intimacy between brothers and sisters, parents and children. And from whence does she get her inspiration?

“Love!” she declared. My husband Miguel Angel, my beautiful baby boys, Iker and Dante. Traveling,” she added. “I have a great passion for exploring new places. We just got back from a trip to Argentina, Uruguay and Brazil… absolutely amazing! Also sunsets and my obsession with the ocean–due to the great view of the beach I have in my studio.

Greg Norman on Baja, Mexico:

A golfers paradise...a place to discover and enjoy.

By Greg Norman

Iremember my first visit to Los Cabos, like it was yesterday. You could see back then, that this place had all the necessary ingredients to become a world class golf destination. Beautiful natural terrain, incredible ocean and mountain views, clear blue water, long beautiful beaches, hidden rocky coves, friendly people, and most importantly, it’s close to thousands of avid golfers residing in the southwestern United States.

Clearly, the Mexican government and developers had a vision or as I like to say they, “Began with the end in mind.” Careful planning has helped the Los Cabos region evolve into one of the premier golfing and fishing destinations in the world. The fishing was always there, but the golf and resorts have been developed carefully over time. The area offers numerous fantastic golf opportunities, including a world class project at Puerto Los Cabos with nine holes designed by myself and another nine on the way. We are currently in the design phases for two other golf course design projects in the region, Azul de Cortez and Playa Grande.

On the southern tip of Mexico’s Baja Peninsula sits Puerto Los Cabos. The property sits at the base of the Sierra de la Laguna Mountains and features breathtaking views of the Sea of Cortez. We took great care in designing our course as we wanted to take advantage of the natural terrain and the significant elevation changes as much as possible to create a friendly, yet challenging layout that would enhance the homeowner experience. Surrounded on both sides by mountains and ocean, it truly is a site to behold.

My first nine holes are currently being played with nine holes that my good friend Jack Nicklaus designed. When we have each completed our second nine holes, my design will become the private golf course reserved for homeowners and Jack’s design will become the public golf course for resort guests.

Our two other projects in the Baja region, Playa Grande and Azul de Cortez, feature more of the same spectacular landscapes which will make for great golf and provide incredible views during your round of play.

Playa Grande also sits on the southern tip of the Baja Peninsula along the Pacific coastal dune system. The resort will feature a Norman signature course that will provide a true challenge for the better player, while retaining the playability the average resort golfer seeks. This spectacular site features windswept dunes as high as 60 feet and the Pacific Ocean will be visible from virtually every hole. This site, blessed with magnificent sand dunes starkly contrasts the rocky desert scape at Azul de Cortez which resides on the other side of the Baja Peninsula.

Azul de Cortez is located on the Sea of Cortez in the state capital of La Paz. This area, was once an undiscovered jewel of the region, and is known for its incredible rocky topography and spectacular views. The golf course which is currently being designed will be built into the native desert landscape and offer dramatic 180 degree views of the Sea of Cortez. It’s an absolutely beautiful site where the desert environment crashes into the sea.

While these three sites all have their own unique characteristics, they also have one thing in common. They sit on beautiful coastlines and overlook crystal blue ocean waters. All three sites exemplify the beauty of Baja, Mexico and I have truly enjoyed the time I spent working on these projects. It’s no secret that I have always been an avid outdoorsman, and that in addition to golf, I love snorkeling, diving and fishing. So it’s no wonder that I find time in my busy schedule to visit my projects in Baja, and I usually find myself staying a few extra days to enjoy this beautiful playground.

Non-surgical facelift; your skin in a new light

By Beth Purcell Cordasco

Photo by Tim Fagan

You’ve probably heard about the Medilift on Oprah or Dr. Phil, or the Titan on Real Housewives of Orange County or Access Hollywood; these amazing non-surgical facelift procedures are all the rage, especially among the Hollywood jet set.

No cutting, no recovery time, no pain. It almost sounds too good to be true. But is it?

Can you get rid of your twin chin, zap wrinkles, tighten droopy jowls and remedy sagging eyelids all without going under the knife? Is technology catching up with our deepest desires?

For who among us (older than forty, anyway) hasn’t glanced in the mirror and wondered what happened to that wide-eyed and/or single-chinned girl you used to be? Don’t we all long to re-find her? Where did she go anyway?

Well, as we age collagen begins to clump-up under the skin, leading to wrinkles and sagging. We also have less overall collagen and elastin as the years pass, and in addition, the most outer layer of our skin, the epidermis, becomes thinner. The thinning means that we lose water faster, causing the skin to become dehydrated more quickly; consequently, that youthful glow begins to fade.

“Collagen is the most important component of youthful looking skin and the most abundant protein in the human body. Maintaining healthy collagen is the key to having youthful looking skin,” states David A. Colbert M.D. of the New York Dermatology Group, and host of Web MD’s “The Science of Healthy Skin.”

So then, if maintaining healthy collagen is essential for a youthful look, and we naturally lose collage as we age, what can we do?

Enter the Titan, a revolutionary laser process that tightens and stimulates the skins own collagen by using laser infrared light to penetrate deep into the dermis. This dermal penetration

allows for a uniform distribution of energy and collagen contraction, resulting in tighter skin and improved elasticity. The skin’s surface, the epidermis, is protected during the procedure by continuous cooling by the Titan’s hand-piece.

Patients will usually see immediate results, along with continued improvement over the next four to eight weeks post-treatment, as new collagen growth further tightens the skin leading to improvement of wrinkles, lines and lax skin. Results are subtle and cumulative.

How many treatments you’ll require will depend on your individual needs and personal goals. The Titan treatment is an in-office procedure that takes one to three hours to complete, depending on the area being treated. Typically, two to three treatments are required and spaced three to four weeks apart. Results should last for the next couple of years.

Minimal discomfort is experienced during treatment: the laser feels warm, then quickly hot. Side effects can include mild redness and swelling of the treated area immediately after treatment, for up to several hours.

The cost of Titan laser treatments vary, so you’ll want to compare prices before deciding. Unsurprisingly, prices are lower at medical spas in Mexico.

“Titan is the most coveted treatment we have at Spa Cielo” explains Mar Bueno of Spa Cielo, located in San José del Cabo. “We are priced less than quoted for state-side treatment. Titan, our signature treatment, costs $2500 here at Spa Cielo, two sessions included, whereas it’s up to $4500 in the States.”

The Diamond Medilift, another coveted nonsurgical facelift procedure, is somewhat different that the Titan in that it uses micro-currents to tone muscles, providing a specialized facial workout.

“The diamond form wave is a treatment of

macro- and microcurrent, so the muscle is held out tight and then shaken. Any debris that’s on it, whether it be fat or fluid, is then dispersed through the lymphatic system,” explains Australian therapist Wendy Gilbert Gray.

The toning of facial muscles using microcurrent results from accelerated ATP (adenosine triphosphate) generation along with increased production of collagen and elastin.

As with any muscle exercise, repeat workouts are necessary. It will take a few sessions to see sustained changes, and even longer before you meet your goals. The program usually requires twelve or more treatments. These can be done two to three times per week. Once reached, Medilift requires maintenance of once a month.

Many medical spas bundle a combination of services to provide the best results. Spa Cielo in San José del Cabo, for example, offers their Signature Non-Surgical Facelift, which first assesses 6 components of your face, then, based on the results, treats with a combination of some or all of the treatments below:

1. Muscle tone and contour (using Medilift)

2. Skin laxity (using Titan or Lipotron)

3. Excess fat in jowls, under chin and neck (using Lipotron)

4. Wrinkle depth, volume of lips and cheek bone area (using Botox and dermal fillers)

5. Skin texture (using Laser Genesis)

6. Skin tone (employing Lime Light, Solar Genesis, or Excel)

Most people require multiple procedures to achieve changes similar to those seen with a surgical facelift. So let’s take a brief look at those other treatments listed above. The Lipotron uses bipolar radio frequency technology for the treatment of cellulite and both visceral and subcutaneous fat. It is a nonsurgical alternative to liposuction. The Lipotron device actually destroys the fat cell, which is then excreted through the body’s lymphatic drainage system; in other words, it essentially heats then releases

the melted cells. The deep heating effect also stimulates collagen production, so has a tightening effect on the skin.

Reported to feel like a hot stone massage, the procedure causes minimal discomfort, but does require repeated treatments spaced one week apart.

Using infrared energy, Laser Genesis warms the dermis under your skin stimulating collagen growth, similarly to the Titan. Heat combined with light targets pigmented clusters beneath your skin, so it’s an effective treatment for acne scars, rosacea (red splotches) or general diffuse redness of the skin.

Solar Genesis is a pulsed light system that is very effective at treating sun spots, age spots and hyperpigmentation. The discolored areas of your skin absorb the visible light delivered during the procedure; these signs of damage will then flake off after one or two treatments, leaving balanced, younger looking skin. One or two treatments are typically enough to see significant results.

The LimeLight Facial also utilizes intense pulsed light to improve skin tone and surface imperfections associated with aging and photo-damage. It can reduce skin redness, telangiectasia (tiny veins) and brown spots as well as improve overall skin tone and surface imperfections. The Cutera LimeLight is another non-invasive light treatment that similarly treats facial redness, tiny veins and brown spots.

Botox and dermal fillers are different all together, and familiar to most people. Injectables are used to smooth out and create volume in areas of the skin that have aged, thinned and wrinkled. The majority of dermal fillers contain hyaluronic acid as their main active ingredient, which is a natural component of the skin. They can be used to plump thinning lips, smooth wrinkles, soften facial creases, enhance shallow contours and lessen scars. Botox actually paralyzes specific facial muscles, preventing the motion which both displays and creates wrinkles. The most common areas treated with injectable dermal fillers are the smile lines around the nose and mouth, fine lines above the mouth, frown lines between the eyes and on the forehead, and acne scars.

With all these choices it’s not hard to understand how you can address virtually all of your facial needs without undergoing surgery. The choices are many, and the future of increased and even more effective non-surgical procedures to improve aging skin is bright indeed.

Starting Your Own Business

The Entrepreneur’s Guide to Starting a New Business

By James F Berger, C.P.A

Each year I am contacted by entrepreneurs wanting to start a new business. Here is the process I go through in advising these clients how to bring the dream of starting your own business to fruition.

Assemble a Core Team of Expert Professionals

The first step is to assemble a core team of experts to help you establish your company and enable it to begin operations. This core team should be comprised of a certified public accountant, an attorney and a banker. Other professionals will be added at a later date, but the core group of professionals is essential to your business’ success.

The CPA will describe the different the different types of legal entities, set up an accounting system and establish accounting. He can also prepare all of the necessary tax returns for your business including: payroll tax, Forms 1099 and 1098, federal and state income tax, sales tax (if required) and property tax returns. The CPA can also advise you as to available tax credits including: enterprise zone, hiring and general business credits. He can also prepare an annual budget and cash flow projections to determine the amount of the initial investment needed and how much money will need to be raised in the future.

Your attorney will prepare legal documents such as: articles of incorporation, bylaws, partnership agreements, patents and customer/vendor contracts. He will put all agreements in writing to avoid misunderstandings and disputes later.

Your banker will assist you with: lines of credit, other financial instruments (such as letters of credit), foreign currency transactions, business checking/payroll accounts, and short term investments. Your budget will allow your banker to visualize deposit volumes and cash flow needs. Your banker will be able to provide you with a range of products including: remote deposits of your checks, ATM/credit cards, credit lines, fixed term loans, foreign currency exchange, short/long term investment options and checking/savings accounts.

The Legal Form of Your New Business

The following are the business formation options available I will discuss the legal and tax ramifications of each type of entity:

1. A sole proprietorship.

2. A corporation (“C” corporation).

3. A small business corporation (“Subchapter S or “S” corporation).

4. A limited liability company (“LLC”).

5. A general partnership.

6. A limited liability partnership (“LLP”) and limited partnerships (“LP”).

A sole proprietorship is simplest form of business. There is no legal entity to form and the business’ income/expense is reported on the entrepreneur’s Form 1040 personal tax return, on Schedule C. This type of entity has entrepreneur personally liable for all of his business’ liabilities. There is no legal protection for the entrepreneur’s personal assets since there is no legal separation between the entrepreneur’s business and personal assets. The only legal protection the sole proprietor can get is insurance such as: general liability

insurance for workplace claims, product liability insurance for product defects/ claims, and business interruption insurance should an act of nature shut the business down for an extended period. However, the entrepreneur is personally liable for any claim in excess of coverage limits.

“C” and “S” corporations provide the same legal separation between the entrepreneur and his business. Either entity provides a legal “wall” that cannot normally be penetrated by a claim against the company. The only assets at risk are whatever assets owned by the corporation. The financial risk to the owner is his investment made to capitalize it. Significant assets acquired (equipment, buildings, etc.) to operate the company can be placed into another legal entity and leased back to the operating company. This would limit the operating company’s risk.

A limited liability company or LLC provides legal protection similar to a corporation’s. However, an LLC can be treated as a partnership (providing legal protection that a general partnership cannot) or a corporation for tax purposes. It also has the benefit of being able to transfer assets out of the LLC without creating a taxable event. Any asset transferred out of a corporation creates a taxable event.

A general partnership (with two or more partners) does not afford the partners any legal protection from claims. Key to this entity is the partnership agreement, which will provide each partner with a clear understanding on how business will be conducted, who will be in charge, and how net income will be distributed.

Limited Liability Partnerships are used by professionals, such as attorneys and accountants. An LLP is a general partnership in which each individual partner remains liable for his or her own malpractice as well as any liabilities arising out

of wrongful acts or omissions related to the professional’s duties or responsibilities. Limited Partnerships have one or more general partners and one or more limited partners. Limited partners are liable for the amount of their investments only. In a general partnership, all partners are equally liable for the partnership’s liabilities.

The Tax Treatment of Each Entity

A sole proprietorship is taxed at the individual level (Form 1040, Schedule C). Net income is subject to both income and self employment tax (15.3% total, 12.4% on the first $106,800, 10.4% for 2011 only, and 2.9% on all net income).

A “C” corporation is taxed on its net income at the corporate level at rates which range from 15% for the first $50,000 of pretax income to as high as 39% on income between $100,000 and $335,000. The owner is taxed on W-2 wages and/or dividends. “C” corporations have the distinction of being double taxed, once at the corporate level and again when dividends are distributed to owners.

An “S” corporation earnings are passed down its owners via Form K-1 and reported on the individual’s Form 1040 as business income. Shareholders actively working for the corporation must take a salary, which is subject to both employer and employee FICA or Social Security tax (7.65% employer and 7.65% employee except for 2011 where the employee’s rate is reduced to 5.65%). Income above and beyond a reasonable salary is not subject to self employment taxes.

treated as corporations will follow the corporate rules. One unique option for an LLC is the “single member LLC”. A single member LLC can elect to report his K-1 income as if it were a sole proprietorship on Form 1040, Schedule C. Income derived from a single member LLC is subject to both income and self employment taxes as described above.

LLP’s, LP’s and General Partnerships are taxed at the individual level via Form K-1 and income is subject to both income and self employment taxes.

These are the basics. Assemble your team of experts and meet with them frequently avoid making costly mistakes. Select the appropriate entity for your business. Once the entity is established, you and your CPA can then strategize on how to maximize earnings and minimize taxes.

LLC’s earnings are also passed down via a Form K-1 as described above. LLC’s electing to be treated as partnerships will have its owners paying both income and Social Security tax as described above. LLC’s electing to be

SuccessfulWomen 2011-2012 BajaTRAVELER® 2011-2012 Collectors’ Edition 90

In every edition of BajaTRAVELER® magazine, we honor successful women who have made an impact on Baja through their leadership, skills, passion, and commitment. This year we have a stellar lineup of five exceptional women with backgrounds ranging from dancer and surgical nurse to wine tour operator and an executive. We introduce them to you in alphabetical order…

One is a surgically-trained nurse who focuses on beauty and building patient’s confidence and selfesteem. In 2009, she was awarded “Best Medical Spa” by the Mexican Association of Medical Tourism.

Next is a Harvard graduate who works on bringing Baja California and Los Angeles together by supporting a strong connection between the two regions. As the Executive Regional Director of the U.S. – Mexico Chamber of Commerce, she is in a

position to make a difference and she is doing just that.

Third is a woman who is owner of “Baja Wine Tours,” a Tijuana-based company that received the “Distintivo W” award as the “Best Mexican Touristic Route” by W radio station in Mexico City.

The fourth is a dance studio owner who embraces both cultures in her studio, having taught in both Baja and San Diego. She believes that dance develops confidence in her students to help them become leaders.

We know you will enjoy reading the profiles on these four accomplished women as much as we enjoyed interviewing these amazing ladies. Should you happen to encounter someone you feel deserves recognition, please send us your nomination ~ they just might be featured in our next issue.

CCathy Dammann

Beautiful, Inside and Out

By Michelle McDermott

Growing up in Seattle, Washington, Cathy Dammann always knew the career she wanted to pursue.

When asked what she wanted to be when she left school, Cathy responds, ‘I wanted to be a surgical nurse. But after I became a surgical nurse, I realized that I really missed the interaction with the patient. So I really loved it when I went to work with a plastic surgeon and was able to first meet the patient before surgery then follow up, post-op. It was this job, that gave me the desire to pursue cosmetic laser.’

In 1990, Cathy, armed with degrees in Nursing, advanced certificates in Light and Laser Therapies and her Medical Aesthetics Practitioner licence, left Seattle behind and made her way to Los Angeles, where she worked for Variel Health International. In this position, Cathy made guest appearances on shows such as Oprah, HGTV and Good Morning America, speaking about the latest advances in health and beauty products. Behind the scenes, the heavy workload was taking its toll. With many nights away from the family, Cathy and her husband decided it was time to retire across the border.

America’s Loss is Mexico’s Gain

In 2001, the family moved to Todos Santos, but the yearning to make a contribution to the local community was already building. Cathy offers up this sage advice from her parents, ‘My parents always encouraged me to pursue a career that I love and to do something that benefits those around you.’

In 2004, Cathy launched Spa Cielo and immediately set to work providing acne treatments for children. She also offered hyperbaric treatments for diabetic wound healing. It didn’t take long for the word to get out! In 2005, Cathy purchased her premises on the third floor of Plaza los Portales and launched Spa Cielo Laser Center. With purchase of the newest state of the art Cutera laser equipment, Cathy was able to “Turn Back the Hands of Time”, zapping away age spots and spider veins with her magic wands of light and lasers. In 2009, Cathy invited Dr Alma Vazquez to join the Spa as a provider of Botox and filler applications . The Spa’s extensive menu of treatments now includes a medical weight loss center with the HCG Diet protocol and complete in-house laboratory. It is also the only place in Southern Baja that offers Vitamin D testing.

Life Achievement

When asked about her major achievement in life so far, Cathy responds, ‘I have found that my business here in Baja meets both goals of pursuing a career I love making a difference in people’s lives.’ She goes on, ‘Many people think that a cosmetic procedure is superficial, but the change I love seeing is the change in my patients’ confidence and self-esteem. Nothing makes me happier than seeing a teenager, who came in with head bowed in low selfesteem transformed when their complexion is clear again. Or seeing a patient who has been struggling with weight issues achieves a healthy weight and feeling good about themselves. I believe that confidence and self-esteem is the best thing you could ever give a person! I feel very blessed because I’m doing something that I love and that can help people feel so much better about themselves.’

Know Your Numbers

Cathy’s latest endeavour is Community Health Care, with the goal of providing free and low cost health screenings for the entire family. She states, ‘What is life without your health? I believe that it is very important to give something back to the community and preventive health care is greatly needed, here in Baja.’

Definition of Success

Cathy’s parents have been an important influence all through her life. ‘They built a business together and many times, it was not easy, but they always demonstrated that faith in God, hard work and relying on those close to you, would lead to success.’

The proof is in the statistics : With a total of 11 employees, Cielo Spa has treated over 4000 patients and performed over 20,000 procedures. In 2009, the Mexican Association of Medical Tourism awarded the business the title of ‘Best Medical Spa.’

Cathy believes that ‘Success is not measured by the money you have but the difference you make in the lives you touch.’ She states, ‘I firmly believe a person’s success is truly based on the opportunities God gives us and how we use those gifts to bless the lives of others around us. I think it is so very important that you love the work you do and that you find it rewarding.’

What’s Next

I hope to become a Grandmother! And I certainly don’t see me leaving the Baja Community or the work that I love so much.’•

Marlen Marroquin

The Great Organizer!

By Pat Tyson

Active, charismatic and highly energetic are terms used to describe Marlen Marroquin, Executive Regional Director of the United States-Mexico Chamber of Commerce at the California Regional Chapter in Los Angeles, California. To demonstrate the point, she is able to deliver an important project at work under high stress and yet, that same night, entertain ten friends for dinner--looking as fresh and happy as she did when the day began.

As Executive Regional Director since 2003, her vast number of accomplishments includes reorganizing the structure of the Chamber, increasing profits 100 per cent and doubling membership. She has created Entertainment, Transportation and Real Estate Task Forces; opened participation with the Bilateral Committee of the film industry; conducted fundraising, organized major events, invited many highly distinguished speakers and is currently in the process of opening the Phoenix Chapter. And the list goes on.

Born in Morelia Michoacan, Mexico, into a loving family that included two sisters, Titi and Nuria, Marlen grew up there and attended Catholic School. Then, for the first seven years of her life she lived in Chihuahua, Mexico, but later the family moved back to Morelia. Her father, a successful engineer and developer, was devoted to his three daughters and, always focused on her education, her parents sent her abroad to learn and to travel. At age eleven she started to journey to the United States as an exchange student where she lived in Minnesota, Rochester, New York and Arkansas.

Leaving Morelia to attend the Universidad Anahuac del Norte in Mexico City, she studied Business Administration. During the second semester her teacher invited her to be the an Advisor for the PRI (Partido Revolucionario Institucional) of Mexico City. She was co-founder of “PRI AMIGO” a program designed to help Mexican workers who return to Mexico from other countries (primarily the United States) to know their rights as Mexican citizens. Graduating with a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration she went on to represent Anahuac University’s Student Association at the National Private Universities Political Conference, organized by the PRI.

Selected to work for the United Nations Development Program (UNDP) as a researcher for the Human Development Report in 1996, her focus and research was based on creating software programs in developing countries, how these types of jobs impact the economy and if poverty could be eradicated from third

world countries. Based on statistics and data, this research was conducted for the 1997 Human Development Report.

After graduating from Anahuac, she decided to go to Harvard University in Boston, Massachusetts, to study for a Certificate in Administration and Management, which she completed in a year and a half. She became a member of the Harvard University Mexican Association (HUMA), and worked for the Mexican Consulate in Boston. Upon completion of her graduate degree from Harvard in 1996, she was selected as an International Finance Service Trainee at the State Street Bank and Trust Company in Boston.

Marlen was one of sixteen people chosen worldwide to develop projects, gaining the experience that enabled her to later bring back her knowledge to Mexico in management positions. The program included International Custody, International Accounting, Fixed Income, Option Futures, Project Management, Global Banking and computer skills.

With her heart always with her family, she decided to return to Mexico and was employed in 1997 as an Operations and Reengineering Consultant for Deloitte & Touche Consulting Group in Mexico City, where she consulted ICA, the largest construction company in Mexico. She also consulted Grupo Maseca, Worldwide Tortilla Manufacturer (Mission Foods); created a Shared Service Center to centralize operations in Dallas, Texas, Costa Rica and Monterrey, Mexico.

Marlen then got married and moved to Los Angeles, working for the Chamber of Commerce. She currently lives with her two daughters, of whom she is very proud: Ariela, who is nine years old, and Alexa, age six. Both are bilingual and currently studying Mandarin. And she even has time for hobbies.

“I love running, yoga and any spiritual course God is the most important thing in my life,” she declares. “Another hobby is decorating I’d have loved to be an interior decorator. I have decorated all my past homes and enjoyed selling them.” But her focus is trying to bring Baja California and Los Angeles together and make people aware of the great potential and beauty Baja has to offer.

“Baja is a very important area since we like to promote Mexican tourism, real estate development there for the babyboomers,” Marlen explains. “It is a natural locale for Californians to invest, so beautiful; we strongly believe in a strong connection between both regions.” •

GGloria Zuñiga Wehber

Dancing with a Star

By Sylvia Mendoza

Life without music, without dance, is unimaginable for Gloria Zuñiga Wehber. A dancer since the age of three, she knew that dance would guide her, provide for her and inspire her. When she was just twenty years old, she - along with her childhood friend - Alicia Luna, opened her first dance studio in Tijuana where she was raised. When her students started moving to San Diego, however, she knew there was a need to establish herself in the border city ~ her hometown ~ as well.

“Growing up on the border helped me know two distinct cultures and embrace the best from each one,” Zuñiga says. This definitely applied to her passion for dance.

Her biggest dream ~ opening a dance studio in the United States ~ became a reality when she and Alicia Luna opened Pavlova Dance Studio in San Diego this year. “That’s how this beautiful dream began,” she says. Pavlova offers the grace, elegance and beauty of classical ballet, contemporary jazz hop, passionate flamenco and the high energy Latin beat of zumba workouts.

For more than twenty-four years, Zuñiga’s journey as a dance teacher and principal of Pavlova’s ~ now an integrated, binational dance academy ~ has been filled with vision, commitment and motivation. Boasting more than 450 alumni students and a new generation of dancers, Pavlova for her is more than dance; it is teaching students how to work as a team, to coexist peaceably, to develop self-confidence and to realize with time, effort and dedication, dreams can be achieved.

“We have a team that gives 100 percent and whose priority is passing on the discipline and passion of dance to students,” says Zuñiga. “My greatest pride as a teacher is seeing shy girls be transformed through dance. It gives them the confidence to become leaders.”

Constantly taking masters classes from teachers such as Maria del Carmen Padrón and Gus Giordianno makes her a better instructor, she says. “I am aware that my image is a reflection of Pavlova. I am an example of what I demand.”

She studied and performed dance in both countries. At seventeen, Zuñiga was certified as a dance technician and

later earned her teacher’s certificate in Tijuana. While a student at San Diego State University, she performed with its dance company in San Diego, Los Angeles, Tijuana and Ensenada. She has attended the Broadway Dance Center in New York, jazz workshops at the Academy of Performing Arts and Culture Shock in San Diego and others in Los Angeles. She was also part of the Compañia de Danza de Baja California. “My greatest pride was performing as a soloist in The Nutcracker in 1994.”

Following a structured work plan, Zuñiga still strives for creativity ~ always learning, aiming to be innovative and original in her teaching techniques. The foundation of her studios rests on discipline, respect, responsibility, pride and integrity. Her students take this to heart. “But where I have learned the most is in the day to day teaching where your students are your best teachers.”

Her students can become stars. One of the studio’s biggest accomplishments is the end of the year extravaganza. “It’s like a show in Vegas with the best set designs, choreography and dances.” She wanted more.

A year ago, she ~ along with Araceli Arce and Alicia Luna, founded Compañía Oblakov, a dance company based on Pavlova tradition, which brings to the community a new cultural alternative and platform for young talent. Their first musical stage production Viva Esperanza becomes a reality this November. She explains that it is a story about sadness, illusions, happiness and hope and how we must nourish our spirituality to overcome obstacles.

She overcame her own obstacles. When one of her two brothers passed away six years ago, what she learned about family is how important it is to form a united front, especially in the face of adversity. From her father she also learned that hard work can get you very, very far. From her mother, she learned that the woman is the pillar of the home. “I am very fortunate to have had the support of my husband Enrique; whom I’ve been married to for 22 years, as well as that of my family ~ throughout the years ~ without their support, I would not have been able to achieve my goals.” •

Dora Villarino

By Sylvia Mendoza

Coming from generations of a winemaker family, Dora Villarino had a passion for the natural beauty of her homeland and sharing that Baja beauty with others.

“I am the daughter of Ensenada natives,” says Villarino. “My parents were from the Santo Tomas Valley, where I grew up, which is also where my relationship with wine began. “

But it was her background in tourism and transportation that took her passion down a different path. Now she is the owner of Baja Wine Tours, a Tijuana-based company dedicated to giving clients, tourists and locals a glimpse of what makes the wine industry and tourism such a winning combination. Although they offer a variety of different group tours and tourism packages, the wine tours have grown in popularity over the last few years. Major contracts with wineries center mostly around July and August when the “Fiestas de la Vendimia” – the Grape Harvest Festival—occurs, but business is good year-round.

For local tourists, one day tours are offered. For visitors, packages may include airfare, lodging, and transportation. “We want them all to enjoy and get to know our beloved Baja.”

Baja Wine Tours also offers customized tours that can begin in Mexicali, Tecate and Rosarito. Although tours are offered in Spanish, also available upon request is English, Italian or French. Villarino has worked with governors and company presidents, special guests and vacationing tourists. She has set up grand escapes, spectacular special events or cozy, educational ventures. She has worked with wineries such as L.A. Cetto, Monte Xanic, Santo Tomas and Casa Domecq that show the variety of wineries in the region.

A typical tour includes visiting three vineyards, such as an organic one, a mid-size winery and a more established one that has won international awards and sharing a meal at a local eatery. However, what makes the tours unforgettable and unique is that historians are the guides and enlighten visitors on Baja California history, geography, climate, and culture, as well as how vineyards started in Baja.

“Our personnel is local and we value and know our cultural wealth,” Villarino says. “Our goal is for clients to go back home with a sense of a great unforgettable experience and excellent service. It is intangible but very important.”

Villarino started working in the transportation business twenty years ago, promoting the tourist attractions of Baja. She

worked her way up to management positions but the thought of going independent always simmered in her mind. Two years ago she took the challenge. The results have amazed her.

“I flew solo with zero contracts on my desk.” It was April. By June, however, she had closed deals with some of the major wineries of the region. “They trusted me and I focused on bringing them quality service. It was my first test and I could not fail them. I knew if I did it right, it would assure me contracts for years to come.”

She did it right. Her company vision has exceeded her expectations. Voted on by media editors and leaders specializing in the field, Valle de Guadalupe received the prestigious “Distintivo W” award as the “Best Mexican Touristic Route” by W Radio in Mexico City.

Villarino’s interest in transportation began while pursuing a degree in tourism at the Universidad Autonoma de Baja California. She took a private bus rented by students to transport them from Ensenada to the Tijuana campus. She learned the importance of quality service and what she wanted as a client. She became active in student committees that gave her more hands-on experience with the politics of getting things done. Little did she know that this experience would be the platform for her future career.

At the heart of her success now is her family influence. “My great uncle was the founder of Bodegas de Santo Tomas. My grandfather was a winemaker and sold distilled liquor.” Her brother Francisco and cousin, Luis Villarino, are also awardwinning winemakers. Her teenage daughter has already expressed an interest in the family business. “As you can see, I come from a hard working family who is very devoted to this business.”

It is all about making customers happy, Villarino says. Even though there may be times when unexpected, stressful, or even funny situations arise because of the alcohol involved in the wine tours, for example, Villarino has every confidence in her staff. “We come up with a solution so that everyone comes back happy and satisfied from the tour. We work very hard, sacrificing personal and family time, but it gives me great pride and joy.” •

…and her passion will tour you through Baja’s Wine Country!

TMore alive than ever before!

Experience the delights of Tijuana, the most visited border town in the world, where centuries of tradition and modern technology come together. Located along the Baja California coastline, Tijuana offers great weather, luscious cuisine, and first class night clubs.

Tourists will find an amazing selection of merchandise from around the world, along with arts and crafts of México. Internationally known as the “free zone,” Tijuana offers numerous bargains in the city’s shopping centers. Tourists can acquire numerous artifacts, rustic furniture, wines, liquors and clothing.

The city offers an extensive variety of activities that include golf courses and bullfights. Tourists can also spend a day at the planetarium or at the numerous museums. Tijuana offers the opportunity to visit nearby tourist sites like Rosarito and Ensenada to enjoy the beautiful beaches and peaceful settings.

Descubra los encantos de Tijuana, la ciudad más visitada en el mundo, donde siglos de tradiciones y tecnología moderna se reunen. Situada en la costa de Baja California, Tijuana ofrece fabuloso clima, deliciosa gastronomía y centros nocturnos de primera clase.

Turistas encontrarán una gran selección de mercancía de todo el mundo, así como también artesanía de México. Conocida internacionalmente como zona libre, Tijuana ofrece numerosas oportunidades de obtener estos artículos a muy buenos precios.

La ciudad ofrece una extensa variedad de actividades que incluye campos de golf, toros, centros culturales, museos y bellas playas cercanas en Rosarito y Ensenada.

Sperimenta il piacere di Tijuana, la città della frontiera più visitata nel mondo, dove l’insieme della tecnologia moderna e i secoli di tradizioni contribuisce ad offrire ai visitatori questa bella realtà. Localizzata nella costiera di Baja California Tijuana offre un clima meraviglioso, un’ottima cucina e anche una vita notturna di prima classe.

I visitatori troveranno una selezione meravigliosa di prodotti di tutto il mondo e artigianato Messicano. Conosciuta internazionalemente come la “free zone”, Tijuana offre numerosi articoli a buon mercato nei negozi. I visitatori possono acquistare numerosi articoli, mobili rustici, vini, liquori ed abbigliamento.

La città offre una vasta scelta di attività come corsi di golf e anche una tauromachia. I visitatori possono spendere un giorno nel planetario o nei numerosi musei. La sua posizione rende agevole la visita di posti turisti vicini come Rosarito ed Ensenada per godere le meravigliose spiaggie e tranquilli panorami.

Erleben Sie die Freuden Tijuanas, der am meisten besuchten Grenzstadt der Welt, wo Jahrhunderte von Tradition und moderne Technik zusammentreffen. An der Küste von Baja California (Niederkalifornien) liegend, bietet Tijuana großartiges Wetter, eine köstliche Küche und erstklassige Night Clubs.

Besucher finden hier eine überraschende Auswahl von Waren aus aller Welt, zusamen mit kunsthandwerklichen Gegen-ständen aus Mexiko. Tijuana ist international bekannt als Freizone und man kann dadurch in ihren Einkaufszentren zahlreiche günstige Angebote finden. Touristen können eine Vielfalt von Kunsthandwerk, Rustikalmöbeln, Weinen, Spirituosen und Kleidung erstatten.

Die Stadt bietet viele verschiedene Aktivitäten an, einschließlich Golf und Stierkämpfe. Die Besucher können auch den Tag im Planetarium verbringen oder in einem der vielen Museen. Von Tijuana aus kann man auch leicht Ausflüge nach Rosarito oder Ensenada machen, um die schönen Strände und friedliche Landschaft zu genießen.

Découvre les plaisirs de Tijuana, la ville frontière la plus visitée du monde, où des siècles de tradition s’unissent à la tecnologie moderne. Située sur la côte de Baja California, Tijuana offre un climat merveilleux, une cuisine bien approvisionnée ainsi que des boîtes de nuit de première classe.

Les visiteurs y trouveron une incroyable sélection de produits de partout dans le monde ainsi que de belles pièces d’artisanat mexicain. Bien connue comme la “free zone”, Tijuana offre dans ses centres commerciaux toute une varieté d’articles bon marchès. Les visiteurs peuvent acheter de nombreux objets, des meubles rustiques, du vin, des liqueurs et des vêtements.

La ville offre de nombreuses possibilités d’activités sportives comme des cours de golf et ainsi que des corridas de taureaux. Les visiteurs peuvent passer un jour dans le planétarium et dans les differents musées. Tijuana offre la possibilité d’aller d’un endroit à l’autre comme à Rosarito et à Ensenada pour s’amuser sur les plages et contempler des paysages splendides.

Hotels&Resorts

H H H H H

Camino Real 011-52 (664) 633-4000 caminoreal.com

H H H H

Fiesta Inn 011-52 (664) 636-0016

H H H H

Grand Hotel Tijuana 011-52 (664) 681-7000

H H H H

Lausanne 011- 52 (664) 973-7600

H H H H

Marriott 011-52 (664) 622-6600

H H H H H

Palacio Azteca 011-52 (664) 681-8100

H H H H H

Pueblo Amigo Hotel 011-52 (664) 624-2700

H H H H

Real del Mar 011-52 (664) 631-3671

EMERGENCY NUMBERS

Red Cross 066

Fire Department 068

Municipal Police 060

Tourist Assistance (664) 688-0555

Tijuana :

More Alive than Ever Before!

By Jeanette Sánchez

What image comes to mind when you hear the name Tijuana? More than likely your impression may be very different than what the “new” Tijuana is all about today.

For starters, Tijuana is in Mexico and also part of Baja California. It sits at the conjunction of two very distinct cultures–cultures that have blended and fused together into one, with distinctive qualities that define Tijuana as a special and unique Mexican city, different than all others. That’s what produced Herb Albert and the Tijuana Brass and Santana in the 60’s, and it is what continues to produce innovation and a variety of talent such as the Tijuana Sound Machine from the Colectivo Nortec, Julieta Venegas and Lux Boreal.

New and Improved

Tijuana is new and improved these days thanks to the entrepreneurial vision of its mayor, Carlos Bustamante Anchondo. The result? A Tijuana that opens its doors to welcome visitors in search of art, sports, culture, cuisine, entertainment, and the natural beauty that surrounds this city.

Modern Tijuana is home to Caliente, a recreational facility integrated with a casino and the only racetrack in Latin American with daily dog races. A happening popular destination is the famous Avenida Revolución and the favorite eclectic hot spots along Sixth avenue.

Fiesta Brava reigns supreme in the summer months, where bullfights are held in the biggest bullring along the ocean. Nearby is the Real del Mar Golf Resort & Spa, an exclusive development where you can play canyon-style golf throughout rolling hills while enjoying the view of the Pacific Ocean and Coronado Islands. Or try Club Campestre, a championship level golf course designed by world renowned Alister MacKenzie that will challenge golfers of all levels amidst breath-taking natural scenery.

Tijuana is where it is today because of heavy investment by regional, national and international organizations that have confidence in the “new” Tijuana. This investment and renewed confidence was largely brought about by Mayor Bustamante’s insistence on establishing public order through tougher inspections, enforcement and compliance with the law.

Two countries, one region

Because Tijuana is in such close proximity to neighboring San Diego, California on the United States side of the border, it has forged a cooperative relationship that is beneficial to both. “The cities of Tijuana and San Diego are the most important along the U.S./Mexico border, which is why I am very interested in promoting this Binational Region as one. This means that we must focus on developing and sharing business opportunities and promoting tourism,” said Tijuana Mayor Carlos Bustamante.

This is why Tijuana has been working diligently on improving traffic at the border crossing, improving installations and granting permits. It is expected that with the building of a new border crossing at El Chaparral, that traffic and congestion will be relieved.

The continuing cooperation between Tijuana

and Southern California has resulted in a facilitation of medical services between the two countries. Projects such as “Fast Lane” permit quick access to those crossing the border for medical reasons as well as providing medical passes for those patients. This essentially cuts through “red tape” and allows documented patients to seek the best medical treatment. This also means that U.S. citizens can seek medical services in Tijuana.

Urban Sophistication and Social Development

Tijuana is the fifth largest economy in the country of Mexico, with a diversification that includes industry, commerce, services and tourism. Combined with Rosarito, Tecate and San Diego, California, this is an area called a “Mega Binational Region” with more than 5 million residents.

Currently, architectural firms are developing ambitious plans designed to attract urban sophisticates in specialized areas such as medical, cultural, artistic and business endeavors. And in the next few months Tijuana is rolling out several projects such as the Centro Metropolitano de Convenciones, the Plaza 11 de Julio, as well as the sustainable city, Valle de las Palmas.

Mayor Bustamante and his family have been pioneers in the areas of industry and tourism, where they were among the first developers of industrial parks. It was over 20 years ago when the family first built the twin towers–an icon of the city that houses the Grand Hotel Tijuana

with more than 400 guest rooms, a medical center, stores and offices.

A Culinary Scene of Flavors Galore

Tijuanese cuisine is known world-wide and is due to a cadre of talented chefs who have taken traditional dishes created with local ingredients to new levels of freshness and taste. Sometimes referred to as “BajaMed” the flavors incorporate the best of Baja and the earthiness of Mediterranean cuisine. Such innovation is based on tradition: After all, Tijuana is where Caesars Salad originated!

With so many restaurants from which to choose, the gamut runs from elegant, eclectic and ethnic to dining experiences that focus on regional specialties that favor the freshest of seafood and produce.

Food-pairing with award-winning regional wines is a must as it truly brings out the local flavors and tastes. The historic Ruta del Vino wine route connects numerous local wineries and large grape vineyards with tourist attractions for sightseeing, shopping, restaurants for fine dining, resorts and hotels. (The climate and soil of the region are ideal for producing some of the finest grapes for wine making. As such, much of the local grape harvest is used to produce fine Mexican wines for sales around the world.)

Restoration of Downtown–Avenida Revolución

Local authorities have worked hand-in-hand with the state in order to ensure the cleanliness and safety of Tijuana for residents and visitors alike. One of the first priorities was to remodel the legendary Avenida Revolución–the cornerstone of history, commerce and art. Walk inside the restored Palacio Municipal (city hall) where you will find a museum on the history of Tijuana and the hall of Rutas, in which a permanent art exhibition by the master Raul Anguiano is located.

To visit Tijuana is to experience a renewed border town that welcomes all with open arms. With quality service, welcoming accommodations, and home-town hospitality with a Mexican twist, you will love the pulse of this new vibrant city. It is a city filled with passion and compassion. From award-winning wines and haute cuisine to a thriving cultural scene with music and art galore –this is THE NEW TIJUANA

–More Alive Than Ever Before!

For more information please visit: www.tijuanaonline.org and www.seetijuana.com

Tijuana

The Cultural Center

Continues to Exhibits

Mexico’s Art and Culture

by Pat Tyson

Ashining star in the center of Tijuana, Mexico, the Centro Cultural Tijuana (CECUT) presents a look into the world as seen through Mexican eyes throughout history. Celebrating its 29th Anniversary, it is the main center for regional arts, offering the highest expression of art and culture in the northwestern border region of Mexico.

In September 2008 CECUT proudly celebrated the opening of El Cubo (The Cube), designed to serve as architectural counterpoint to the massive landmark La Bola (The Ball) IMAX Cinema that dominates the Cultural Center. With three new galleries, El Cubo extensively expanded the Center’s size and programming capacity.

The unique set of buildings that house CECUT is admired by visitors from all over the world. Built by two renowned Mexican architects: Pedro Ramírez Vázquez and Manuel Rosen Morrison, it is a cosmopolitan symbol of the city, an icon, and the pride of the state of Baja California. Vázquez also built the National Museum of Anthropology, the new Basilica of Guadalupe and the Aztec Stadium in Mexico City.

CECUT features two museums with a permanent collection of historic and archaelogical objects, music, opera, dance and theatre programs presented alongside exciting exhibitions, spectacular large format IMAX films and documentaries. Multi-media programs are shown in the state-of-the-art video theater.

Also featured are lectures, book presentations, art workshops and courses, and myriad educational programs. Childrens’ activities attract hundreds of youngsters and their families and enrich their leisure time. All exhibits and programs are designed for a varied public with diverse

interests and a thirst for art and culture.

For example, to those interested in the history of the Baja California peninsula, the Museum of the Californias offers a permanent collection of historical objects and scaled replicas of ships and buildings characteristic of the region’s ancient life and culture. Each of the eras of Baja California’s history are presented in chronological order. They range from before the arrival of the Europeans, to the missionary era, the Independence period and the 19th century, the boundaries of the border in 1848, the early 20th century with its tourism boom, and the Second World War.

For both first-time and repeat visitors to the region, as well as Mexican-Americans, in search of their historic and cultural roots, the Museum of the Californias is especially interesting. The replicas of vessels used by the first Europeans arriving on the Peninsula are particularly attractive to audiences, due to the great detail and accuracy of the models.

El Jardín Caracol (Snail Garden), an outdoor area exhibiting a collection of replicas of archeological monuments from different prehispanic cultures that inhabited Mesoamerica before the arrival of the Spaniards, is particularly inviting. Walking in an environment of flowers and greenery, the visitor is able to enjoy the reproduction of an Olmec head, a Zapotec stone column, the reclining figure of the Mayan ChacMol, as well as many other pieces that allow the visitor to appreciate the finer details of the work. To add to the pleasure of viewing the exhibit, a small coffee shop there offers refreshment.

Other fascinating exhibitions are to be found in the lobbies of the Museum of the Californias, the Performance Center and Galería El Cubo.

CECUT, with its world-class facilities and ample parking, is centrally located and safe. Those who have visited CECUT with its remarkable expression of art and culture, will never forget it; those who have not, now have a reason to do so.

101,500 population

Rosarito

18 miles from the international border

63  ˚ average temperature

“Known for its beautiful wide beaches”

Rosarito is located about 15 miles south of Tijuana. This port is known for its beautiful wide beaches, lively night clubs, international cuisine and the famous Puerto Nuevo style lobster.

The Rosarito County area encompasses 20 miles of magnificent coastline: white sandy beaches, incredible clifftop views, powerful surf and quiet bays. The nearby private communities offer breathtaking secluded beaches. The area also has rugged mountains and peaceful valleys to explore.

One spot highly recommended is the “Titanic” museum located in the 20th Century Fox Baja studios near downtown Rosarito. Movie afficionados will enjoy the props used in the Oscar-winning movie filmed here.

Rosarito se encuentra a 15 millas al sur de Tijuana. Este puerto es conocido por sus bellas y amplias playas, exitosos centros nocturnos, cocina internacional y la famosa langosta estilo “Puerto Nuevo.”

El municipio de Rosarito abarca 20 millas de magnífica costa, playas, increíbles vistas, poderoso surf y bonitas bahías. Existen fraccionamientos privados que cuentan con unas playas maravillosas. La zona también tiene montañas y valles tranquilos para explorar.

Un lugar que se recomienda visitar es el museo “Titanic,” situado en los estudios 20th Century Fox Baja. Aficionados al cine les encantará ver artículos que se usaron en la conocida película, ganadora de varios oscars, que lleva el mismo nombre.

Rosarito si trova a circa 25 chilometri a sud di Tijuana. Questa città portuale è nota per le sue bellissime ed ampie spiagge, la vita notturna movimentata, la cucina internazionale, e le aragoste cotte in stile “Puerto Nuevo”.

L’area della Contea di Rosarito vanta oltre 30 chilometri di costa con spiagge di sabbia bianca, scogliere di una bellezza mozzafiato, onde altissime e baie calme. Le comu nità vicine offrono spiagge private di una bellezza senza pari. La regione vanta anche montagne aspre e tranquille valli da esplorare.

Un luogo assolutamente da visitare è il museo “Titanic” ubicato negli studi cinematografici 20th Century Fox – Baja, vicino al centro di Rosarito. Gli appassionati di cinema potranno vedere da vicino gli arredi scenici impiegati nell’omonimo film che ha vinto l’Oscar e che è stato filmato a Rosarito.o.

German French Japanese

Rosarito liegt ungefähr 24 km südlich von Tijuana. Diese Hafenstadt ist für ihre bildschönen breiten Strände, lebhaften Nachtclubs, ihre internationale Küche und den berühmten Hummer auf “Puerto Nuevo”Art bekannt.

Der Landkreis Rosarito umfaßt mehr als 30 km großartige Küstenlandschaft mit weißen Sandstränden, unglaublicher Aussicht hoch von den Klippen, kräftigem Wellengang fürs Surfen und auch stille Buchten. In der Nähe bieten private Siedlungen atemraubende, einsame Strände. In diesem Gebiet gibt es außerdem zerklüftete Berge und friedliche Täler zum Auskundschaften.

Ein sehr zu empfehlender Ort ist das “Titanic”-Museum in den ChurubuscoFilmstudios der Filmgesellschaft 20th Century Fox in der Nähe von Rosarito. Filmfreunde können dort die Filmrequisiten bewundern, die im hier gedrehten, Oscargekrönten Film benutzt wurden.

Rosarito se trouve à 24 kilomètres au sud de Tijuana. Cette ville portuaire est réputée pour ses vastes plages magnifiques, ses boîtes de nuits animées, sa cuisine internationale et son fameux homard à la Puerto Nuevo.

Le comté de Rosarito s’étale sur un littoral grandiose d’une trentaine de kilomètres, alternant plages de sable blanc, falaises saisissantes, vagues déferlantes et baies tranquilles. Les communautés privées, nonloin de là, cachent des plages solitaires à couper le souffle. La région révèle également des montagnes escarpées et de paisibles vallées qui valent la randonnée.

Les touristes ne manqueront pas non plus de se rendre au musée Titanic situé dans les studios Baja de la 20th Century Fox, près du centre-ville. Les fanas du cinéma apprécieront les décors du célèbre film vainqueur des Oscars tourné ici.

Hotels&Resorts

H H H H H Baja Vacation Villas 011-52 (664) 631-3422 U.S. (619) 296-7913 bajavacationvillas.com

H H H H Brisas del Mar 011-52 (661) 612-2547

H H H H Festival Plaza

1 (800) 453- 8606 011-52 (661) 612-2950

H H H Grand Baja Resort 011-52 (661) 614-1484

H H H H Pacifico 011-52 (661) 612-2516

H H H H Rosarito Beach Hotel & Spa 011-52 (661) 612-1111

H H H H Rosarito Inn (888) 849-4500

EMERGENCY NUMBERS

By Armando Carrasco

That’s how we can describe the once mystic, folkloric beach destination. Despite the natural and traditional activities that Rosarito has to offer, like the awesome surfing spots, delicious culinary offered exclusive from this area such as the Puerto Nuevo Lobster, the tasty regional wines, plus many restaurants with dishes hard to find anywhere else, that includes hefty beef stakes, quail, deer and all the seafood you can find in our vast pacific ocean. There’s more to it to top it off.

With more than 40 programmed events, every year Rosarito presents to local, regional and international visitors from all over the globe, activities that include the largest beach festival with over 35 bands performing live, professional and amateur beach volleyball and soccer tournaments, surf contests, food festivals, off-road rides, bicycle rides, motocross races with three tracks in town. As well as miles of relaxing white sandy beaches.

Many people don’t know, that there’s plenty of room to play with your dirt bikes, ride mountain bikes, hike in the local ranches and enjoy the back country scenery. All you need to do is contact the local tour operators that will guide you

through the best trails available. Rides can extend in length from five, ten and as long as the Baja peninsula goes, since there are trails that make a nice half day ride to Pancho’s Place, behind the Mesa Redonda hill, a full day ride to Hacienda Santa Veronica, or even a coast to coast ride from Rosarito Beach to San Felipe in the Sea of Cortez on a three day 300 mile extreme ride.

There are plenty of mountain bike single trails from downtown to the backlands and these are available for beginner and expert riders. And for the motorized weekend warriors there’s a huge sand pit at the local Cantamar Sand Dunes, which for years held the La Playa Motocross Series, with a beautiful ocean front facility all at nearby resorts with all the amenities required to make a full weekend or even a week gateway. Rosarito is only 25 minutes south from the US Border, 15 minutes from Puerto Nuevo (Lobster Village) and 45 minutes from Valle de Guadalupe (Baja’s Wine Country).

Guided tours are programmed over the year and some of them are all inclusive tours. Contact Too Much Fun Promotions at (619) 819 6323 in the US, (661) 612 2525 in Baja, or Visit www.toomuchfun.com.mx for details and more info.

Imagine living in the midst of vineyards, of harvesting your very own vines, without having to buy an entire winery to do so. Imagine tending to the grapes yourself, something deeply satisfying but not overly time consuming because the Mediterranean climate and fertile land are perfect for viticulture.

Imagine if this possibility also included resort amenities and a custom home built on the lot of your choosing. Imagine lakes, creeks, giant “flying” boulders and clean mountain air.

Can you picture it? Does it sound too good to be true? Well it’s all available at Rancho Tecate Resort, located just southeast of Tecate, on the road to Ensenada.

The developers of the project, Grupo Valcas, are working exclusively with Bustamante Realty Group and have been having amazing success since they opened sales at Rancho

Tecate Resort in November of 2009.

Prior to the sale of the property to Grupo Valcas, it was owned for decades by the Alessio family. It was originally purchased in 1954 by John Alessio, the charismatic and controversial entrepreneur who is a well known figure in both California and Baja California, and whose most well known former ownership holdings include the Caliente Racetrack in Tijuana, the Hotel del Coronado in Coronado and Mr. A’s Restaurant in San Diego.

John Alessio, or “Don Juan” as he was known in Baja, was active in both philanthropy and politics on both sides of the border, and during his tenure of Rancho Tecate the property hosted transborder governmental meetings, with Governors from California, Arizona and Baja California in attendance. The property was also visited by the likes of President Nixon and several

of Alessio’s Hollywood movie star friends. But mostly, Alessio used Rancho Tecate as a personal and family retreat.

In 1996, after John Alessio’s death, the Alessio family continued to own and operate the property, which at the time consisted of a 48-room hotel, restaurant, pool and small golf course. Eventually they approached Grupo Valcas, with whom they had longtime ties, and whose other developments include Bajamar Ocean Front Golf Resort, and other resort properties in the Riviera-Maya, Cancun and elsewhere they were familiar with.

Grupo Valcas is thrilled with the acquisition of Rancho Tecate Resort because of its great beauty and its rich and interesting history. The group is in fact passionate about the history of the property, and done extensive research into the land’s past uses.

It was registered under the jurisdiction of the San Diego Mission in the 18th century, and in 1833 the government granted Juan Bandini the ranch’s concession, stipulating that the land was to be used for agriculture, cattle raising and later, for mining. After Bandini’s death in 1859, Jose Mogort, the then head of the Auxiliary Court of Tecate, asked for the land concession, but was denied. In 1861, a title that included Tanamá (current day Rancho Tecate) was obtained by Lic. Benito Juarez García.

It was under his tenure that Sr. Humberto Tena Bonilla established the first winery on the premises, aptly called Bodegas de Tanamá, and although the vineyard was one of the first in the region, and produced wine for several decades, it was not a financial success and the land was eventually sold to Lic. Lemus Calderón, who in turn sold it to “Don Juan” Alessio in the 1950s.

But today the region, especially the Valle de Guadalupe just to the southwest of Rancho Tecate, is the heart of Mexico’s wine country–its prestige and influence increasing each year. Commonly referred to as the “Napa Valley of Mexico,” the wines produced here continue to win awards worldwide.

But don’t let the potential of a fabulous home harvest be the only thing to lure you.

Rancho Tecate Resort covers almost 2,000 acres in total, so there are numerous other attractions. The property boasts natural lakes and creeks–not common in this area–so fishing is available, as is kayaking. There are also horse stables, ten currently, but with more in the works. Although horseback (and motorcycle) riding are not permitted within Rancho Tecate Resort itself, there are plenty of areas to ride outside of its borders. Miniature horses, sheep, goats, roosters and more are housed in a small petting-zoo area, and walking and mountain bike trails abound.

There is even an “extreme” sports area offering rock climbing and zip lines. Rancho Tecate Resort is home to magnificent “flying” boulders, amazing rocks so large it’s hard to imagine how they came to rest there, but which are excellent for climbing, exploring and taking in the panoramic views from the top.

The entire project is dotted with amenities and common areas that are maintained by the Home Owner’s Association. In addition, a boutique hotel with nine rooms is open and the restoration of the former hotel,

will be complete in soon.

The restaurant has recently re-opened after nearly decade-long closure and has revived the cherished old tradition of serving a large and lavish Sunday brunch. A newly redesigned nine-hole, par-three executive golf course is also included in the developer’s plans, so golfers will be well served too.

Originally, when Grupo Valcas began planning the project began in 2006, it was thought that the primary market would be Americans, seeing as the property is so close to the USTecate border and the climate so ideal. But the global economy thought otherwise; various economic forces converged that led the project in a new direction. The focus shifted to domestic sales, and the reception has been fabulous!

Affluent families, primarily from Tijuana and Mexicali, are finding Rancho Tecate Resort to be the perfect place for a second home; a place to get away from the fast pace and clamor of the city, and to relax and take in the natural beauty of the land. Those who come to visit typically fall in love with the project.

“Rancho Tecate Resort is not only in the geographic heart of Baja California, but it’s in the hearts of all Baja Californians,” states Rudy Valdes, Vice-President & Director of Marketing for Grupo Valcas. “After visiting and experiencing the project, people truly connect with the land and its rich history. They want to be part of the next chapter in its great legacy”

It won’t be long until Americans discover this jewel too, even without direct marketing. It’s simply too unique to stay under wraps for long. The current thinking is that Rancho Tecate Resort will be introduced to the American market by 2012. By then there will be various model homes from which to choose if buyers prefer this convenience to drawing up their own custom architectural plans.

Rancho Tecate Resort promises to be something very special, a small and unique oasis – place of refuge, wine and great natural beauty.

Ensenada

494,500 population 70 miles from the international border

65  ˚ average temperature

E“Baja’s Wine Country”

Known as the “Cinderella of the Pacific,” Ensenada is located 70 miles south of the international border. Its warm Mediterraneanlike climate, friendly atmosphere and accessibility to land, air and sea have made Ensenada a favorite tourist spot any time of the year.

Located on the beautiful Todos Santos Bay, Ensenada features incomparable international dining including some of the best seafood in the region. Fresh fish, lobster and abalone are some of the specialties, as are authentic Mexican dishes prepared from traditional recipes. The fine cuisine is complemented by exquisite local wines of international acclaim which are produced from grapes grown in the nearby Guadalupe and San Antonio de las Minas valleys. Ensenada’s mild climate provides numerous opportunities for recreation throughout the year.

Outdoor aficionados can enjoy golf, tennis, hiking, auto racing, bike and horseback riding as well as aquatic sports like surfing, sailing, sport fishing, kayaking, jet skiing and scuba diving.

Conocida como la “Cenicienta del Pacífico”, Ensenada se encuentra a 70 millas al sur de la linea internacional. Su clima cálido como el mediterraneo, la atmósfera amable y la accesibilidad por tierra, aire y mar, han hecho a Ensenada un destino predilecto para el turista en cualquier temporada del año.

Situada en la preciosa Bahía de Todos Santos, Ensenada cuenta con una gastronomía internacional incomparable, incluyendo uno de los mejores mariscos de la región. Pescado fresco, langosta y abulón, son algunas de sus especialidades. Así como auténticos platillos mexicanos, preparados con recetas tradicionales. Estos platillos están complementados por exquisitos vinos locales de fama internacional que son producidos con uvas de los Valles de Guadalupe y San Antonio de las Minas.

El clima cálido de Ensenada ofrece numerosas oportunidades para recreación en el transcurso del año. Golf, tenis, excurcionismo, carreras de carro, bicicleta y equitación, así como el surf, navegar, pesca deportiva, kayac, ski acúatico y buseo.

Nota come la “Cenerentola del Pacifico”, Ensenada si trova a circa 110 chilometri a sud del confine. Il suo clima mediterraneo, la sua atmosfera ospitale e la sua accessibilità per via terra, via aerea e via mare hanno fatto di Ensenada il centro di vacanza preferito dai turisti in qualsiasi stagione dell’anno.

Situata nella splendida baia Todos Santos, Ensenada si caratterizza per la sua incomparabile cucina internazionale, che include alcuni dei migliori frutti di mare della regione. Pesce fresco, aragoste e orecchie di mare sono solo alcune delle specialità, così come i piatti tipici messicani preparati con le ricette tradizionali. A questa cucina raffinata si accompagnano i prelibati vini locali di livello internazionale, prodotti con uve coltivate nelle valli di Guadalupe e San Antonio de las Minas.

La temperatura mite di Ensenada offre numerose opportunità di divertimento nell’arco di tutto l’anno. Gli amanti dell’aria aperta possono giocare a golf o a tennis, fare lunghe passeggiate, assistere alle corse automobilistiche, fare lunghi giri in bicicletta o praticare l’equitazione, e anche attività sportive acquatiche come il surf, la vela, la pesca sportiva, fare kayak, sci d’acqua e immersioni subacquee.

Bekannt als das “Aschenputtel des Pazifiks”, liegt Ensenada 120 km südlich der internationalen Grenze. Mit seinem warmen Mittelmeerklima, der freundlichen Atmosphäre und aufgrund seiner Erreichbarkeit zu Land, Luft und Wasser wurde Ensenada zu einem beliebten Urlaubsort für jede Jahreszeit.

An der landschaftlich schönen Bucht Todos Santos liegend, bietet Ensenada unvergleichbare internationale Küche, unter anderem, manche der besten

Meeresfrüchtegerichte der Gegend. Frischer Fisch, Hummer und Seeohr sind nur einige der Spezialitäten, wie auch die mexikanischen Gerichte, die nach altüberlieferten Rezepten zubereitet werden. Zur feinen Küche gesellen sich die ausgezeichneten heimischen Weine von internationalem Ruf, die aus Trauben der nahegelegenen Täler Guadalupe und San Antonio de las Minas gepreßt werden.

Das milde Klima von Ensenada macht Freizeitaktivitäten das ganze Jahr über möglich. Liebhaber von Aktivitäten im Freien können Golf oder Tennis spielen, Wandern, Autorennfahren, Fahrradfahren oder Reiten, sowie verschiedene Wassersportarten betreiben, wie Surfen, Segeln, Sportangeln, Kajakfahren, Jet-Skifahren und Tauchen.

Appelée la « Cendrillon de l’océan Pacifique », Ensenada est située à 112 kilomètres au sud de la frontière. Son climat méditerranéen, son ambiance chaleureuse, son accessibilité par route, air et mer en ont fait une destination touristique privilégiée en toute saison.

Située dans la superbe baie Todos los Santos, Ensenada se distingue par son incomparable cuisine internationale, dont des fruits de mer parmi les meilleurs de la région. Les poissons frais, le homard et les ormeaux font partie de ses spécialités, sans oublier les plats mexicains préparés selon les recettes traditionnelles. Cette fine cuisine est rehaussée par les vins locaux d’appellation mondialement connue, produits à partir du raisin provenant des proches vallées de Guadalupe et de San Antonio de las Minas.

Le climat tempéré d’Ensenada permet aux visiteurs de s’adonner à une multitude de loisirs tout au long de l’année. Les amoureux du plein air peuvent pratiquer le golf, le tennis, la randonnée pédestre ou équestre, la course automobile, le vélo, ainsi que tous les sports aquatiques comme le surf, la voile, la pêche sportive, le kayak, le jet-ski et la plongée sous-marine.

Hotels&Resorts

H H H Bahia 011-52 (646) 178-2101

H H H H H

Casa de los Siete Patios 1 (888) 311-6871 casadelossietepatios.com

H H H H H

Casa Natalie 011-52 (646) 174-7373 casanatalie.com

H H H H H

Coral Marina Hotel & Spa 011-52 (646) 175-0000 hotelcoral.com

H H H Corona 011-52 (646) 176-0901

H H H H

El Cid 011-52 (646) 178-2401

H H H

Estero Beach Resort & RV Park

011-52 (646) 176-6225

011-52 (646) 176-6230

H H H H H

Hacienda Bajamar 011-52 (646) 155-0151

H H H

Las Dunas 011-52 (646) 177-2408

H H H H H

Las Rosas Hotel & Spa 011-52 (646) 174-4360

H H H H

Posada Rey Sol 011-52 (646) 178-1601 elreysol.com

H H H H

Punta Morro 011-52 (646) 178-3507

H H H H

San Nicolas Resort 011-52 (646) 176- 901 to 03

EMERGENCY NUMBERS

4585

3675

U.S. Consulate in Tijuana (664) 681-7400

U.S.A. Consulate 24 hr. line U.S. (619) 692-2650

ajamar Ocean Front Golf Resort has been a favorite getaway for travelers since its inception in the 1970s. Located an hour’s drive south of San Diego, Bajamar offers a spectacular coastal setting with breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean. This Baja California resort has often been equated to Pebble Beach as several of its 27 holes of championship golf sit directly on the ocean. The beauty of the surrounding hills and cliffs naturally compliment Bajamar.

In addition to Bajamar’s head professional golfer Patrick Shaw, local resident Carla White knows a great deal about the course nuances. Carla and her husband Jim have called Bajamar home for the last eight years, but more importantly, Carla has served as a course marshal. “More than most, I am familiar with most of the course’s nooks and crannies and definitely its highlights,” says White. She says that what really differentiates the Bajamar course is its sheer natural beauty, coupled with the fact that a desalination plant ensures green fairways year-round.

White described the Bajamar course as follows: “It sounds like an ad for the tourism board, but it is true that the course is framed by rolling hills, craggy canyons, and the vast blue

SIMPLY BREATHTAKING!

By Rick Stedman

ocean. I think I speak for residents and golfers when Isay that one of our favorite times of year is during the gray whale migration (December through March). We can see them spouting away right from the tee boxes and fairways. Frankly, it is distracting because it is so amazing! Whales aside, it is not unusual to see bobcats, hawks, osprey, blue heron and other creatures – that’s one of the benefits of having a golf course on a largely uninhabited peninsula.”

was built in 1976 and designed by Percy Clifford. The course was revitalized in 1991 by David Fleming. As its name would suggest, there’s lots of water, but the terrain is relatively flat with rolling terrain and spectacular views of the Baja coastline. “Lagos is a little bit shorter, but with two holes featuring elevated tee boxes, it is perhaps the most fun,” suggests White.

was also designed by David Fleming in the 1990s and offers a little more up and down play. It’s a beautiful desert style course.

The Oceano (Ocean) ithat visitors enjoy

the most, mainly because of the five holes that front the ocean. Built in 1994 and designed by world-renowned golf course architect Robert von Hagge, the Ocean nine features several stunning holes, with crashing waves and beautiful scenery competing for your attention – as you’re trying to putt! Hole 5 – the signature hole – is the focus of the entire Bajamar golf experience. This spectacular par 3 measures 185 yards from the tips, but you need to carry over a cove, while the surf is crashing onto the lava rocks just beneath the tee box. Many visitors spend a little extra time here taking photos and savoring the experience. There might be a back up here on busy days. But fortunately, there’s a snack bar, restroom and small putting green to accompany that superb view.

According to White, a lot of people think Bajamar is off-limits to the public because its entrance features a huge,

Carla and Jim White

staffed front gate, which is quite typical for many Mexican resorts. But once they know that they can visit, stay at the hotel, golf and so forth, they are hooked.

It has a European feel to it, one of privacy, serenity and safety. “I would also say that one of the things that attracted me and my husband to Bajamar is its visual beauty, with its red-tiled roofs, whitewashed houses, stately palm trees and abundant geraniums, it looks a lot like Spain to us,” says White.

The master plan for this sprawling 1,367 acres estate includes a variety of options that will accommodate various lifestyle experiences, featuring the secluded luxury of an Ocean Front Golf Resort community that is just 20 minutes north of Ensenada, one of Baja California’s most beautiful seaside cities. The real estate opportunities at Bajamar are many and varied. You can choose from lots and homes, town homes or condominiums, or build your out dream home on a prime piece of resort property.

For those coming to visit, comfortable accommodations are waiting for you in the magnificently Mexican Colonial Hotel. Many of the rooms open up to an ocean or golf course view. All of the 81 rooms and suites are stylishly decorated, allowing guests to enjoy not only sophisticated accommodations, but also fine dining right on the property. Other resort amenities include outdoor tennis courts, an outdoor pool, spa tub and sauna. Complementary wireless Internet access is available in public areas, as well as a 24-hour business center. This familyfriendly resort offers a coffee shop/café, bar/lounge and snack bar/deli.

Dos Lagos Restaurant is a full-service restaurant and serves breakfast, lunch and dinner. The menu offers both Mexican and American delicacies along with Puerto Nuevo style lobster. On the weekend, breakfast and dinner are both buffet style with an abundant variety of food options. The Sand Trap Bar, appropriately named, offers live music on Friday and Saturday nights. Overall, visitors to Bajamar Ocean Front Golf Resort will not be disappointed in their experience. Whether it’s a relaxing getaway or a golfing weekend, the Bajamar experience will stay with you forever.

Ensenada -

AN ABUNDANCE OF FOOD, WINE & NATURAL SPLENDOR

Located only 78 miles south of San Diego on the Baja California Peninsula, Ensenada is a coastal city that is both convenient and easily accessible by car, plane, and boat or cruise ship. Plus, the city offers attractions and accommodations that cater from top-ofthe-line to rustic (i.e. camping) and can fit just about any budget.

As the third largest city in Baja, the city is locally referred to as, The Cinderella of the Pacific – perhaps because of its fairy tale setting. With Mediterranean weather and a warm and welcoming environment, Ensenada is the perfect destination: From its cruise ship port and ecotourism to its award-winning wines from the famous Guadalupe Valley, it offers something for everyone.

Today, Ensenada is a rich blend of diverse heritage that includes Spanish, Russian and American influences. First came the Spanish missionaries – the Jesuits and Dominicans - and then came the Russian settlers who started the wine industry in Ensenada. American influence magnified during prohibition, as many went south of the border for entertainment and alcohol.

A “Foodie” Destination

Ensenada has a rich history of food: from fish tacos which are considered to have originated here, to shrimp cocktails, ceviche, carpaccio, and siete mares (seven seas), a stew consisting of fish, shrimp, octopus and vegetables. Dishes are usually accompanied by side dishes of avocado and salsa. It is even said that the margarita originated in this town.

A visit to the famous fish market, known locally as El Mercado Negro, offers an abundance of fresh seafood for sale. From octopus, smoked fish, oysters, tuna, shrimp, and shark, you can be guaranteed that it is fresh and delicious. Surrounding the fish market is an abundance of small eateries where you can enjoy many of the local dishes. At night, First Street is where Ensenada’s night life begins.

Grapes & Olives from the Guadalupe Valley

The city’s Mediterranean climate allows for the cultivation of grapes and olives, which has fostered a flourishing industry in both wine and olive oil. It was late in the 19th century that immigrant Russians cultivated the first grapes in the nearby town of Guadalupe. Now, 90% of wine production in Mexico comes from the valley of Guadalupe and adjacent Calafia. As a result,

wine tourism is burgeoning as Guadalupe Valley wines are increasingly recognized as some of the finest in Mexico

The wine harvest season becomes an international event as people from around the world come celebrate Fiestas de la Vendimia (Wine Harvest Festival) for two weeks in August. Festivities include cultural and culinary events that showcase the bounty of the region.

From Fishing to Whale-Watching

Commercial fishing is vital to Ensenada, with more than 90 species of fish caught in off-shore waters. The most important are tuna, shrimp, California spiny lobster, abalone, sea urchin, sardine and mackerel.

Ecotourism gets a big nod in Ensenada in the form of “whale-watching.” This is due to Ensenada having a strategic location for the gray whale annual migration: Many come here to mate and birth. From December through March and then April and May, gray whales can be spied from

Todos Santos Bay. If lucky, you might even spot a mother and her calf in late spring.

Splendors of Nature

Blessed with an abundance of natural beauty, Ensenada is known for its many beautiful beaches that appeal to swimmers, sunbathers, and surfers. Estero Beach is the most popular, and is also where one can watch migratory birds while adding over 60 species of birds to their life list.

Take your surfboard and catch a boat ride to Isla de Todos Santos (Isle of All Saints) for some of the best surfing on the peninsula. Be sure to visit the two lighthouses, one of which is still in use today.

Back on the mainland; catch the power of La Bufadora – the second largest blowhole in the world. It is thought that the blowhole is the result of an earthquake causing a slit in one of the massive boulders, causing water to funnel upwards up to 65 feet in the air.

Gray

Annually Visit the Coast of Baja

By Rick Stedman

Every year, hundreds of gray whales migrate to the warm waters of Baja California Sur. These gentle giants provide a viewing spectacle for throngs of Mexico visitors who want to get up close and personal with one of the world''s great animal migrators.

Each winter, usually from December through March, gray whales make their annual trek from Alaska’s Bering Straight to the warmer, protected waters of Baja’s Pacific bays and lagoons, where the females give birth to their calves. Traveling in groups called pods, some of these giants swim more than 12,000 miles round-trip. The whales winter and breed in the shallow southern waters and balmier climate.

Like all whales, gray whales surface to breathe, so migrating groups are often spotted from North America’s west coast as they journey south to Mexico. These whales were once the target of extensive hunting and by early in the 20th century they were in serious danger of extinction.

Today gray whales are protected by international law, and their numbers have grown. In 1994, the gray whale was removed from the United States’ endangered species list.

The gray whale is a baleen whale or filter feeder, with two to four throat grooves, each about five feet long. These grooves allow their throat to expand during the huge intake of water during filter feeding. The baleen plates in the gray whale’s jaws have about 160 pairs of short, smooth baleen plates. The largest plates are about 15 inches long and 10 inches wide.

The baleen bristles are thicker than those of the other baleen whales and are gray with yellowish bristles. The huge, narrow–pink tongue of the gray whale is used to dislodge the food from the baleen and weighs about a ton.

Gray Whale Facts

Size

Mid-range for baleen whales, 35-50 feet and 20-40 tons. Like other baleen whales, females are slightly larger than males. Calves average 15 feet at birth and weigh 1,500 lbs.

Life Span

Average 30 to 40 years, but as long as 60 years.

Color

Slate gray heavily mottled with white from natural pigmentation, barnacles and barnacle scars.

Swimming and Diving

Cruising speed: 2-4 knots; Top speed: approximately 10 knots

Normal dive depth: 120 feet; estimated maximum: 500 feet. Normal duration of dive: 3-5 minutes, occasionally longer than 15 minutes.

Predators

Killer whales, large sharks and man.

Friendlies

Visitors to the calving and breeding lagoons sometimes encounter the phenomenon of the “friendlies;” gray whales that closely approach small boats and allow themselves to be touched by humans.

11,847 population

Loreto

687 miles from the international border

80  ˚ average temperature

The city of Loreto was founded on an extraordinary bay of islands by Jesuit priest, Juan María de Salvatierra, on October 25, 1697. Here he founded the first mission Nuestra Señora de Loreto, as well as the Capital of the Californias.

Loreto is a natural playground for anyone who loves the outdoor life. Its azure, clear waters and tranquil coves provide scuba divers and snorkelers unparalleled underwater beauty and an explosion of marine life. Around the island, sportsmen will find perhaps the greatest fishing in the world, with record catches of sailfish, tuna and dorado.

Sea kayakers glide across Loreto’s bays to camp at remote beaches and sleep under the stars. For people with more land-bound interests, the Sierra provides many oportunities for mountain biking, horseback trail rides and hiking over ancient trails used for hundreds of years.

Whether land or sea, Loreto offers visitors a diverse range of things to do and see.

La ciudad de Loreto fué fundada en una extraordinaria bahía de islas por el Padre Jesuita, Juan María Salvatierra, el 25 de Octubre de 1697. Aquí fué donde fundó la primera misión, Nuestra Señora de Loreto, así como también la primera Capital de las Californias.

Loreto es un paraiso para todo el aficionado al aire libre, incluyendo posiblemente el mejor buceo, snorkel, y pesca.

El kayac se practica e incluso los aficionados utilizan las bellas playas para dormir debajo de las estrellas. Excursionismo y equitación son excelentes para la Sierra. Ya sea tierra o mar, Loreto le ofrece al visitante una variedad de cosas para ver y hacer.

La città di Loreto fu fondata su una straordinaria baia d’isole il 25 ottobre 1697 da un padre gesuita, Juan Maria de Salvatierra. In questa città egli fondò la prima Missione, Nuestra Señora de Loreto, così come la città capoluogo delle californie.

Loreto è un luogo ideale per chi ama la vita all’aperto. Le azzurre acque chiare e le insenature tranquille offrono agli amanti delle immersioni una bellezza subacquea incomparabile e flora e fauna marine abbondanti. Attorno all’isola, gli appassionati della pesca troveranno forse la miglior pesca al mondo con pescate record di pesce volante, tonno e pesce dorato.

Gli amanti del kayak attraversano con le loro imbarcazioni la baia di Loreto e vanno a campeggiare su spiagge fuori mano, per dormire sotto le stelle. Per coloro che invece preferiscono restare a terra, la Sierra offre molte opportunità di fare lunghi giri in bicicletta, a cavallo o passeggiate in montagna. Sia sulla terra che sul mare, Loreto offre ai visitatori una varietà di cose da fare e da vedere.

Japanese

Die Stadt Loreto wurde vom Jesuitenpfarrer Juan Maria de Salvatierra an einer außergewöhnlichen Bucht voller Inseln am 25. Oktober 1697 gegründet. Er erbaute hier auch die erste Missionskirche Niederkaliforniens “Nuestra Señora de Loreto”, und eine zeitlang war Loreto auch Hauptstadt der beiden Kalifornien.

Loreto ist ein natürlicher Tummelplatz für all jene, die sich gerne im Freien vergnügen. Seine klaren Wasser und kleinen Buchten bieten Sport- wie auch Schnorcheltauchern unvergleichbare Unterwasserlandschaften und eine unglaubliche Vielfalt an Meereslebewesen. Um die Insel herum gibt es für den Angelsportler das vielleicht beste Angeln der Welt mit Rekordfängen von Arten wie Fliegende Fische, Thunfische und Dorados.

Wer gerne im Meereskajak fährt, kann durch Loretos Buchten gleiten, um an abgelegenen Stränden unter dem Sternenhimmel zu übernachten. Wen aber mehr die Festlandaktivitäten reizen, der findet in der Sierra (Hügelkette) viele Möglichkeiten zum Mountain Biking, Reitwandern und Wandern auf Pfaden, die schon seit Hunderten von Jahren benutzt werden.

La ville de Loreto fut construite sur l’extraordinaire baie des îles le 25 Octobre 1697 par Juan María de Salvatierra, père jésuite. C’est là qu’il fonda la première mission Nuestra Señora de Loreto ainsi que la capitale des Californies.

Loreto est une région naturelle pour les amateurs de la vie en plein air. Son ciel azur, sa mer sereine et ses anses tranquilles offrent aux plongeurs sous-marins un spectacle subaquatique unique au coeur d’une vie marine fabuleuse. Dans l’île, les sportifs trouveront probablement les meilleurs endroits de pêche au monde, avec des prises records de voilier, thon et grande coryphène.

Les amateurs de kayak en mer peuvent glisser le long de la baie de Loreto et camper à la belle étoile sur les plages solitaires. Pour les personnes préférant la campagne, la Sierra offre tout un éventail d’activités telles vélo tout terrain et randonnée équestre ou pédestre sur des sentiers vieux de plusieurs siècles. A la montagne ou au bord de la mer, Loreto ne manque pas de divertissement et de points touristiques.

Six years ago I stood in front of what is now the all-new La Mision Loreto Hotel. It was broken down in disrepair and was literally falling apart. But, in spite of all that it needed this hotel had charm and glory. Situated in the heart of Loreto’s historic district on the water overlooking the Islands it was more than I could resist. This beautiful old building needed help and I knew I was the person who could give it. I set out in 2005 to restore it’s beauty, the many much needed jobs it provided for the Loreto people and a tranquil haven of comfort and luxury for it’s guests.

I am an adventure seeker and have traveled most of the world, riding bicycles, wind surfing, Scuba diving and generally seeking fun and adventure. At the end of a long day of activity I am looking for comfort, rest and good food. The bar on standards is set high at La Mision, because it is based on what I want when I travel.

The Sea of Cortez, Loreto Marine Preserve and The Gianta Mountain Range in the Loreto area provide and ideal playground for a multitude of activities, so unique that both independently are UNESCO World Heritage sites. Every trip I take into the Loreto outdoors no matter how big or small is a new adventure and is so rewarding that it keeps me coming back for more. Come down and see for yourself.

Without doubt my greatest Baja adventure was to build and now operate La Mision Loreto Hotel. I thrive on seeing the happy faces of both our customers and employees. I love people enjoy each other and their special experiences. Our customers come for many different reasons, but most of all; to spend quality time to connect with friends and loved ones and to encounter Loreto’s very own special ecological environments.

Last week we were out with friends on the sea and were completely surrounded by what had to be at least

one thousand Dolphins in the wild. They followed in our wake jumping high into the air. Others were bow riding, which is where they swim right in front of the boat. It’s a low-pressure area and the dolphins are able to travel rapidly through the water with almost no movement. We sit on the bow of the boat and enjoy looking down at them as they travel with us for miles. It’s as if they are making friends with us and are intentionally performing for our entertainment. A show that never grows old.

In January through March The Great Grey Whales are calving in nearby bays. We do daily trips to show visitors the whales. It is an incredible experience. The baby whales come up to the boat and put their faces right up to you. You can touch them or even kiss them if you want.

With as much as I enjoy adventures in the wild outdoors, I was most attracted to Loreto because of the wonderful people here. It is like no other place

on the world. Loving hospital, fun and friendly people. When going to new places Travelers are concerned with their personal safety. We have served thousands of happy guests in this way. I personally have never enjoyed such a sense of freedom, anywhere. Loreto has the second lowest crime rate in all of Mexico. A large number of retired American and Canadian people live in and enjoy Loreto. I know some of them who have lived there for over 40 years and do not even lock their doors at night.

La Mision Hotel arranges tours and activities for their guests. The available activities include Whale Watching, Dolphin Encounter in the wild, Scuba, Snorkel, Fishing, Mt. Bike Adventures, Historic Tours, cave paintings, Beach parties, Weddings, Business meetings and much more.

Call today to arrange your own special getaway. 1 877- 535-2647 or visit us at: www. lamisionloreto.com

La Paz

230,078 population 800 miles from the international border

82  ˚ average temperature

L P Beautiful serene beaches

La Paz was founded by Hernán Cortés in 1535. It has been the capital of the State Baja California Sur since 1829, and is lately becoming a favorite spot for tourists. This is due to its beautiful serene beaches, wonderful restaurants, great shops offering duty-free items and excellent diving and sportfishing activities. With the longest history of any settlement in the Californias, La Paz has probably had the most turbulent one. But in spite of its challenges, it has managed to evolve from a “sleepy” little port into a vigorous, modern state capital.

This port is located between cactus-covered foothills and the cactus-covered shore of beautiful Bahia de la Plaza - largest bay on the west side of the Gulf of California. Although its current population is just over 176,000, there is a small-town atmosphere here. The architecture is charming and very typical, but perhaps the most valuable asset this port has for a tourist is the tranquility that is acquired just by being in La Paz.

La paz fué fundada por Hernán Cortés en 1535. Ha sido la capital del estado de Baja California Sur desde 1829, y recien ha sido convertida en un destino favorito por el turismo. Esto ha sido por sus bonitas playas, exquisitos restaurantes, buenas compras que ofrecen precios sin impuestos y excelentes actividades de buceo y pesca deportiva. Con la larga historia de Baja California, La Paz tal vez ha tenido los mas grandes retos. Pero a pesar de estos, ha logrado evolucionar de un pueblito dormido a una vivrante, capital de estado.

Este puerto está situado entre montañas cubiertas de cactus y la bella Bahía de La Paz con sus costas cubiertas de lo mismo en el lado oriental del Golfo de Baja California. Aún cuando su actual población supera 176,000, hay una sensación de un pueblito pequeño. La arquitectura es simpática y muy típica, pero tal vez lo mejor que éste pueblo tenga para ofrecerle al turismo, es la tranquilidad que se siente al estar en La Paz.

La Paz fu fondata da Hernán Cortés nel 1535; dal 1829 è il capoluogo dello stato della Baja California e recentemente è diventata un’importante meta turistica, grazie alle sue belle spiagge tranquille, agli ottimi ristoranti, agli eleganti negozi che offrono articoli dutyfree e alle numerose possibilità di praticare le immersioni subacquee e la pesca sportiva. Oltre ad essere il più antico insediamento delle Californie, La Paz ha anche avuto probabilmente la storia più turbolenta. Ma nonostante molte difficoltà, è riuscita a trasformarsi da un piccolo porto in una città moderna e vivace.

Questa città portuale è situata tra falde collinari ricoperte di piante di cactus e le rive, anch’esse ricoperte di cactus, della bellissima Bahia de la Plaza, la baia più grande sul lato occidentale del Golfo della California. Nonostante i suoi 176.000 abitanti, si respira un’atmosfera da piccola città. La sua architettura è incantevole e molto tipica, ma forse la cosa più preziosa che questa città portuale può offrire ai visitatori, è la tranquillità che si prova stando semplicemente a La Paz. Mexico

La Paz wurde 1535 von Hernán Cortés gegründet. Es ist seit 1829 die Hauptstadt des Bundesstaates Baja California Sur (Südliches Niederkali-fornien) und wird in letzter Zeit immer mehr zu einem Lieblingsurlaubsort für Touristen. Der Grund dafür sind seine schönen, ruhigen Strände, seine wunderbaren Restaurants, großartigen Läden, die zollfreie Waren verkaufen, und ausgezeichneten Tauch- und Sportangelangebote.

La Paz hat die längste und wahrscheinlich stürmischste geschichtliche Vergang-enheit aller Ansiedlungen der beiden Kalifornien. Doch trotz dieser Heraus-forderungen, konnte es sich von einem verschlafenen kleinen Hafen-städtchen zu einer kraftvollen, moder nen Hauptstadt eines Bundesstaates entwickeln.

Diese Hafenstadt liegt zwischen Hügeln voller Kakteen und der auch von Kakteen bewachsenen, landschaftlich zauberhaften Bucht “Bahía de la Plaza”, der größten Bucht der westlichen Seite des Golf von Kalifornien. Obwohl hier zur Zeit etwas mehr als 176 000 Menschen leben, spürt man noch die Kleinstadtatmosphäre. Die Architektur ist charmant und sehr typisch, jedoch der Hauptreiz dieser Hafenstadt liegt für den Urlauber in der inneren Ruhe, die er in La Paz (auf Deutsch: der Friede) findet.

La Paz fut fondée par Hernán Cortés en 1535. Elue capitale de l’état de Baja California Sur dès 1829, elle est récemment devenue une région touristique prisée pour ses belles plages, ses merveilleux restaurants, ses grandes boutiques hors taxe, ainsi que ses zones de plongée sous-marine et de pêche sportive.

Non contente de posséder la plus longue histoire des Californies, La Paz a sans doute connu la plus turbulente. En débit de ces conflits, elle a réussi à évoluer du stade de petit port paisible à celui de capitale moderne et dynamique.

Le port se devine dans un paysage de cactus, entre des collines et le superbe littoral Bahía de la Plaza, la baie la plus grande à l’ouest du golfe de Californie. Bien que sa population dépasse désormais les 176 000 habitants, elle a su garder un charme campagnard. Son architecture typique révèle un caractère pittoresque, mais plus marquant encore aux yeux du touriste est sans doute le sentiment de paix qu’elle inspire.

Hotels&Resorts

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Grand Plaza 011-52 (612) 124-0830

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Heritage 011-52 (612) 123-6000

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La Concha Beach Resort 011-52 (612) 121-6161

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La Perla 011-52 (612) 122-0777

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Los Arcos 011-52 (612) 122-2744

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Marina 011-52 (612) 121-6254

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Palmira 011-52 (612) 121-6200

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Seven Crown 011-52 (612) 128-7787

sevencrownhotels.com

City of Peace and Abundance on the Sea of Cortez

Asecluded town on the east coast of Baja California Sur facing the Sea of Cortez, La Paz – whose name literally means “peace” – is famous for beaches as beautiful as the Caribbean’s, and sport fishing as exciting as anywhere in the world. Yet somehow La Paz has escaped the crowds. It has only quietly been discovered – just as it was discovered by Cortez in 1535, John Steinbeck in the 1940s, and Jacques Cousteau in the 1960s, and by the closeknit community of North Americans and mainland Mexicans who now mix happily with the native Paceños.

Those fortunate enough to find La Paz are careful about sharing their secret. They are passionately protective of its white sand beaches guarded by dreamlike rock formations and forests of cardón cactus, its bay after aqua bay open to discovery and teeming with sea life.

Deemed “the world’s aquarium,” the Sea of Cortez offers one of the planet’s most diverse ecosystems which is home to harbor porpoises, whales, dolphins, sea lions, mantas and sharks, while its rocky coasts are home to hundreds of resident and migratory birds.

The diversity of La Paz is social as well as natural. Its friendly and open residents admire the city as much as its visitors. With a population of approximately 220,000, La Paz is blessed with natural, recreational and cultural abundance, offering a rare combination of overwhelming beauty, sense of community and well-balanced infrastructure.

It is a close-knit community that feels like a small town but with the conveniences of a city. An important regional commercial center, it offers advanced medical, educational and social facilities, a cultural life that extends to international cuisine and shopping, a new state-of-the-art General Hospital, and its own dedicated airport.

La Paz’s cultural life mixes sophisticated international tastes with pure Baja values and allures with valuable opportunities for real estate and investment. Recently, La Paz launched an awareness campaign in conjunction with approximately $1 billion in well-planned economic development over the next five years. At the same time, its low cost of living supports an exceptionally high quality of life, which is why CNN Money Magazine and the New York Times named La Paz one of the Top Ten Places to Retire in the world.

All this and more is what makes La Paz one of the most coveted destinations in the world.

Los Cabos

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L“Attracting tourists from all over the world”

Located at the tip of the Baja California Peninsula, Los Cabos (the capes) has been one of Mexico’s fastest growing resort areas for the past 10 years, attracting tourists from all over the world! A flourishing resort area with strong combination appeal as a leisure, beach, ecotourism, diving and sportfishing destination, Los Cabos hosts more than 150 flights a week totaling approximately 30,000 visitors per month.

Los Cabos is essentially divided into three different regions. The colonial town of San José del Cabo has a flavor of its own and is steeped in Old World charm. Mango, avocado and orange trees grow abundantly in the region.

Twenty miles south is Cabo San Lucas, which still retains its original feeling of a fishing village. Here you’ll find impressive fishing fleets and boats available for rental. Los Cabos has been long known as the “Marlin Fishing Capital of the World.” Connecting these two towns is “The Corridor,” home of gorgeous beaches, championship golf courses and world-class five-star resorts.

Situado en la punta de la península de Baja California, Los Cabos ha sido el destino con mayor crecimiento en México en los últimos diez años, atrayendo turismo de todas partes del mundo. Una zona con cantidad de hoteles de lujo y alimentando una fuerte combinacion de diferentes gustos cómo los que buscan descanso, playa, eco-turismo, buceo y pesca deportiva. Los Cabos recibe más de 150 vuelos por semana que equivalen a aproximadamente 30,000 visitantes por mes. Los Cabos está dividido en trés partes. El pueblo colonial de San José del Cabo tiene un sabor único de un pueblo antiguo. Ahi el mango, aguacate y las naranjas crecen en abundancia. A veinte millas hacia el sur se encuentra Cabo San Lucas, que aún conserva su original sabor de un pueblito de pescadores. Los Cabos se ha dado a conocer cómo la capital de pesca de Marlin, a nivel mundial. Conectando a estos dos pueblos se encuentra el corredor, donde encontrará preciosas playas, campos de golf de campeonato y hoteles de lujo.

Situata sulla punta della penisola di Baja California, Los Cabos è ormai da dieci anni uno dei centri turistici in più rapida espansione del Messico, e attrae visitatori provenienti da tutto il mondo. È una regione prospera che si presenta come un luogo di divertimento, ricco di spiagge, perfetto per praticare l’ecoturismo, le immersioni e la pesca sportiva. A Los Cabos giungono ogni settimana oltre 150 voli, per un totale di circa 30.000 visitatori al mese.

Los Cabos si suddivide essenzialmente in tre regioni diverse. La città coloniale di San José del Cabo ha un’atmosfera particolare, imbevuta del fascino del vecchio mondo. La regione abbonda di alberi di mango, avocado e arance.

A circa 30 chilometri più a sud si trova Cabo San Lucas, che ancora mantiene la sua caratteristica originale di villaggio di pescatori. Qui si possono noleggiare molti tipi di imbarcazioni da pesca. Los Cabos è nota come “la capitale mondiale della pesca al marlin”. Queste due località sono unite da spiagge impareggiabili, campi da golf di fama internazionale e complessi turistici a cinque stelle.

An der Spitze der Baja-Halbinsel gelegen, ist Los Cabos (die Kaps) seit nunmehr zehn Jahren eines der am schnellsten wachsenden Urlaubsgebiete Mexikos, das Touristen aus aller Welt anzieht. Ein blühendes Ferienziel mit einem starken Reiz zum Kombinieren verschiedener Urlaubs-vergnügen, wie Ausruhen, Strand, Ökotourismus, Tauchen und Sportangeln. Los Cabos wird über 150 Mal pro Woche angeflogen und heißt ca. 30 000 Besucher pro Monat willkommen.

Das Gebiet von Los Cabos läßt sich grundsätzlich in drei verschiedene Gegend-en einteilen. San Jose del Cabo, eine Stadt aus der Kolonialzeit, hat ihren eigenen Stil, voll des Zaubers der Vergangenheit. In der Gegend wachsen reichlich Mango-, Avocadound Orangenbäume.

Zwanzig Kilometer weiter südlich kommt man nach Cabo San Lucas, das noch immer das Gefühl eines Fischerdorfes vermittelt. Hier werden Sie beeindruckende Fischereiflotten und Boote zum Mieten finden. Los Cabos ist schon seit langem als “Welthauptstadt des Marlinfischens” bekannt. Im Verbindungskorridor zwischen diesen beiden Städten befinden sich sagenhafte Strände, Golfplätze von Meisterschaftsqualität und Fünf-Sterne Hotels und -Seebäder von Weltklasse.

Située à la pointe de la péninsule de Baja California, Los Cabos (les caps) est depuis une dizaine d’années l’une des régions touristiques les plus dynamiques du Mexique et attire les visiteurs des quatre coins du globe ! Destination touristique prospère et rendue attrayante par ses divertissements, ses plages, son écotourisme, ses zones de pêche sportive et de plongée, Los Cabos accueille plus de 150 vols par semaine et compte près de 30 000 visiteurs par mois.

Los Cabos se divise en trois grandes régions. La ville coloniale de San José del Cabo a un cachet unique et respire le charme du vieux continent. Les mangues, les avocats et les oranges y poussent en abondance.

A 32 kilomètres au sud se trouve Cabo San Lucas, fidèle à l’ambiance caractéristique d’un village portuaire. Flottilles de pêche et bateaux impressionnants sont disponibles à la location. Los Cabos est connue comme étant « la capitale mondiale de la pêche au macaire ». Le couloir rel iant ces deux villes dévoile de magnifiques plages, des terrains de golf de compétition et des lieux de villégiature cinq étoiles.

Hotels&Resorts

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Cabo Surf

011-52 (624) 142-2676

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Cabo Villas Beach

Resort & Spa

011-52 (624) 143-9166

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Casa Natalia

011-52 (624) 142- 5100

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Esperanza Resort

011-52 (624) 145-6400

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Fiesta Americana Grand

011-52 (624) 145-6200

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Finisterra

011-52 (624) 143-3333

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Hilton Los Cabos

011-52 (624) 145-6500

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Las Ventanas al Paraiso

011-52 (624) 144-0300 to 01

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ME Cabo

011-52 (624) 145-7800

mebymeliacabo.com

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One&Only Palmilla

011-52 (624) 146-7000

oneandonlyresorts.com

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Playa Grande Resort

011-52 (624) 143-7575

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Pueblo Bonito Rosé

011-52 (624) 142-9898

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SECRETS

Marquis Los Cabos 011-52 (624) 144-2000 marquisloscabos.com

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Sheraton Hacienda del Mar 011-52 (624) 145-8000 sheratonhaciendadelmar.com

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Villa La Estancia

011-52 (624) 145-6900

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Villas del Palmar

011-52 (624) 143-2694

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Westin Resort & Spa

011-52 (624) 142-9000 westin.com

EMERGENCY NUMBERS

Red Cross 143-3300

Fire Department 143-3577

Municipal Police 143-0057

Green Angels (612)124-0100

Highway Patrol (612)122-0369

Tourist Assistance (612)124-0100

Positano

Sheraton Hacienda del Mar

Westin Regina Marquis los Cabos

ME Cabo Cabo Villas Resort

Tesoro los Cabos

Cabo del Sol Golf Club

Raven Golf Club CABO SAN LUCAS

SAN JOSÉ DEL CABO

Cabo Real Golf El Dorado Golf Palmilla Golf

Querencia Golf

Tourist Attractions Hotels

* Detailed view of area

East Cape

Todos Santos

One&Only Palmilla Los Cabos International

BeachHaciendaClub and Residences

A VACATION OASIS IN CABO

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Hacienda Beach Club & Residences is a premier luxury resort destination centrally located in the heart of Cabo San Lucas, on the famed Medano Beach. Perched on a quarter-mile of spectacular beach and overlooking the iconic rock formations of Land’s End, Hacienda’s elegant Beach Club provides the gateway to the best that Los Cabos has to offer. Available for both vacation rental and purchase, the residences at Hacienda, which were recently recognized in Elite Traveler’s “Top Suites of the World” issue, range in price from $550/night to more than $5 million for purchase.

Celebrity guests like Paris Hilton, LeAnn Rimes and Eddie Cibrian have enjoyed the property’s world-class accommodations and amenities, including a fully staffed Beach Club with Palapa Bar, private cabanas, multi-tiered infinity edge swimming pools, recreational equipment, and the signature restaurant, Hacienda Cocina y Cantina which overlooks the Sea of Cortez. The restaurant is open to the public and serves family-style authentic Mexican cuisine showcasing fresh ingredients, including regionally grown produce. Guests can also enjoy a variety of Mexico’s best tequilas, an extensive wine list including many

Mexican wines, locally brewed beers, and unique rum-infused drinks called Curas.

The full-service Hacienda Spa offers four treatment cottages, including a spa suite for couples and a menu of rejuvenating treatments and therapies steeped in Mexican traditions and rituals of renewal. The spa’s reputation is built on its careful blend of signature services and classical treatments. The new Tequila and Sage Massage showcases the powerful healing properties of tequila and sage while detoxifying your body. The purifying aroma reenergizes and connects guests with the spirit of Mexico. Yoga, Pilates and spinning classes are also available complimentary for guests and owners, and only $10 for the public. The newly opened Spa Café, located inside Hacienda Spa offers a special menu and fresh smoothies.

Hacienda’s rental program offers an exquisite portfolio of accommodations that range in size from 887 to 3,657 square feet for those seeking an unparalleled Mexican getaway. Guests receive daily housekeeping, access to the fitness center, Hacienda Spa, Beach Club, Kid’s Club, and all dining outlets as well as complimentary beach activities. For guests inclined to venture beyond the resort,

Hacienda’s concierge can arrange a myriad of activities including; cultural tours, hiking, sport fishing, sea kayaking expeditions or a preferred rate on tee times at the Palmilla golf course. Hacienda’s coveted location provides unprecedented access to Cabo San Lucas and the marina. Visitors can enjoy a modern array of restaurants, shopping and nightlife just steps away from home.

Hacienda Beach Club & Residences also features an array of real estate options ranging from magnificent one- to four-bedroom Resort Residences and fourbedroom Beachfront Villas with private infinity pools. All residences are thoughtfully designed with artisan touches, including natural stone, ceramic and hardwood finishes. Resort Residences offer marina and Sea of Cortez views from private, sun-soaked terraces while the two-story Villas are appointed with every modern convenience, capturing the spirit of Old Mexico.

For reservations, please call 1-866-300-0084 or visit www.haciendacabosanlucas.com (rates vary by season). For details on the real estate available for purchase, please call 1-800-670-0310.

Cabo Riviera!

The ship logs of the Spanish galleons, refer to the East Cape as “aguada segura” or safe watering place, and named the bay, Bahia de Las Palmas, for it’s fine, calm anchorage, fresh water springs and peaceful beaches, Cabo Riviera’s privileged location today,

Sharing the bay with one of the world’s great treasures, Cabo Pulma National Marine Park and with a strong commitment to the sustainability of this special habitat, Cabo Riviera has taken on preservation tasks that include a turtle protection program and shore bird nesting sanctuary. Within the development, you’ll find extensive use of solar lighting, underground utilities, native hand laid stone, a state-of-the-art water process and great care taken to create and maintain the cleanest marina water in the Americas.

Thoughtfully planned, Cabo Riviera Marina and Golf represents a new and unique integration of a world-class marina and “all water access” lifestyle. What will be a community of the finest destination resort hotels, restaurants, tiendas, galleries and beach club with all the outdoor activities an active sea-side community would want, a delightful combination of an energized village and gated waterfront residential retreats. The luxurious ambiance of Mexican architecture influenced by historic European design.

Low density allows for privacy and the collection of home sites feature Oceanfront Estate lots with frontage on both the beach and the marina basin and unique Marina Harbour Island lots for creating your dream. For those who prefer a green front lawn instead of blue, thirty-two lots front the championship golf course. Cabo Riviera owners will appreciate the gated community and underground Triple Play Fiber Optic cable with excellent connectivity.

Private seaside community on the East Cape of Los Cabos, embracing the Sea of Cortez.

In the same amount of time it takes to drive to Cabo San Lucas, you can be in the heart of the untouched splendor that is the East Cape....

Low density allows for privacy and the collection of home sites feature Oceanfront Estate lots with frontage on both the beach and the marina basin and unique Marina Harbour Island lots for creating your dream. For those who prefer a green front lawn instead of blue, thirty-two lots front the championship golf course. Cabo Riviera owners will appreciate the gated community and underground Triple Play Fiber Optic cable with excellent connectivity.

Built within a naturally created basin and protected by the shallow waters of Bahia de Las Palmas, Marina Cabo Riviera will be operated by Almar Marinas out of California, where they control 6,000 slips. This community will add around 285 to their numbers and is taking great care to have the marina function as self-flushing with tidal flow and to see it’s being built to the highest standards. The dock master, fuel station, dry dock and launching ramp will be anchored by a “Baja’s Best” first class yacht club, complete with patio overlooking the marina and cozy fireplace for the occasional chilly desert night. By land, you’ll enter into a unique and intimate environment of a village designed by world famous architect Carlos Herrera. Just inside the majestic stone walled portal, complete with massive iron-work gates, arrive onto a large square, hand laid with local stone, centered with a charming fountain and splashes of cascading bougainvillea. You might catch a wedding party leaving their ceremony from the quaint church. As you stroll the stone paved streets, winding through the village, a romantic lifestyle unfolds. Soothed by the washed colors of the walls and ocean breezes, you will soon pass the boutiques and galleries displaying their beautiful works of art, handcrafted furnishings, apparel and jewelry, a market filled with fresh local produce, thriving art galleries and sidewalk cafes, seen from the balconies of the “rooms” over the shops. It will be a lovely village for enjoying music and art festivals on the narrow streets and plazas, for joining a cooking class. A thriving village, whose members live and interact with a sense of identity, a shared interest in their community and the cultural and historical heritage of this wonderfully peaceful part of the world.

Whether a home on the Harbour or Marina Islands, a spectacular Oceanfront Estate, all but a few come with Los Cabos’ only private dock option, just out your back door. Super Pangas to Super Yachts, Cabo Riviera beckons all who have dreamed of an opportunity that offers this distinctive lifestyle.

and Cabo Riviera.

With the ability to approach the different elements of the resort by water, picking up a neighbor for a ride to a sidewalk cafe’ in the Villages for lunch or for a round of golf, makes for a fun and responsible lifestyle. A round on the championship signature golf course that plays to the shore along the edge of this “oasis” and uniquely onto the Marina Harbour with the majestic Sierras as backdrop... Invigorating!

Boasting two miles of the friendliest swimming beach in all of Los Cabos, you and your significant other, in quiet isolation, or, if you choose, with your whole family, can enjoy days of seaside memories. And, there’s always the option of just doing nothing but enjoy the sound of the soft shore.

Close to what you love, the Cabo Spirit of adventure, fun and Sea, yet, far from life’s nonstop demands, Cabo Riviera, the gem of Los Cabos, secluded and connected to everything.

Being an owner in Cabo Riviera Marina and Golf is not just about having a home on the beach– it’s a lifestyle within a unique community, a gated peaceful and secure private Paradise for you, your friends and your family– for generations to come.

Make your claim. Discover the Opportunity that is Cabo Riviera.

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Club Polo Cabo to Feature Residential Options on the Pacific Ocean

Los Cabos is one of those special places on the planet. It’s no secret that 350 days of sunshine annually, along with an array of snow-white beaches, have attracted visitors to the region for the last two decades. Now, you have the opportunity to call Los Cabos home. Club Polo Cabo is a unique real estate project that blends the equestrian sport of polo with exquisite living options. The company, Pacific Resort International, is laying the groundwork and completing all the initial plans on the 130-acre development just north of downtown Los Cabos.

With the crashing waves of the Pacific Ocean just steps away, Club Polo Cabo is sure to appeal to those wishing to escape for a short vacation, or a lifetime. “Club Polo Cabo will offer many appealing amenities for guests,”

says company president and founder Tony Yahyai. “In addition to the polo field and regular matches, guests will enjoy a full-service spa, fivestar accommodations, romantic restaurants and stylish bars, as well as fashionable boutiques.”

The master plan also includes 125 single family home lots; 65 residential villas; residential club houses; a five-star boutique hotel featuring 37 suites; a Polo Club House; and four polo playing fields. The state-of-the-art polo fields will be designed by world-renowned polo field designer Alejandro Battro. Other features of Club Polo Cabo will include a 500-seat stadium for viewing polo matches, a media room, and roof-top VIP section that not only features exquisite views of the polo field but also the nearby ocean. The polo playing season will run from October through June.

Pacific Resort International has a strong managerial team and world-class marketing and financial backers. In addition to Yahyai, the company partners include Dennis Withsosky, Jose Alexander, and Dagoberto Gil. The master title policy is with Fidelity National Title Company, and Sothebys International Real Estate Company will market the project world-wide where polo is played. “All of our preparatory planning is falling into place,” says Yahyai. “We are in the final stages of the various permit processes and have already begun cutting roads within the development. We hope to have our model homes ready for showing in 2012, with the remainder of the infrastructure complete as well.”

To get a glimpse of the thrilling sport of polo first-hand, Club Polo Cabo will feature the fourth annual Club Polo Baja Gold Cup in November. For more details on the event or to learn more about the Club Polo Cabo development, visit HYPERLINK“http://www.clubpolocabo.com” •

In addition to the polo field and regular matches, guests will enjoy a full-service spa, five-star accommodations, romantic restaurants and stylish bars, as well as fashionable boutiques.

VILLA VALENTINA TOP Designer in Cabo

The moment you step into Villa Valentina’s beautiful foyer you are transported to another time, another era straight out from the pages of Mexico’s magnificent history. An Alice in Wonderland-like discovery that leads you to an open courtyard filled with the sound of fountains, unique sculptures, sun-aged frescos, hand-carved furniture, enchanting gardens and paintings, objets d’art, music. So like Alice, you know you have arrived to a magical place filled with endless treasures and enchanted places to discover and enjoy.

VV Restaurante

What a better way to dine than al fresco! VV Restaurante’s idyllic setting amidst the unique charm of Villa Valentina’s beautiful courtyard, reminiscent of the splendor of the historic Baja Missions of days gone by, provides the perfect setting for the most charming dining experience. The enchanting Mexican-Tuscan inspired decor features a hand-painted mural that captures the essence of Baja’s old missions. Comfortable tables and lounges under spreading market umbrellas are set with hand-painted Mexican crockery.

Enjoy specialties from Baja, using only the freshest of local ingredients. Baja is known for its spectacular abundance, a diverse harvest from the sea as well as the fields and gardens of the peninsula – giving the Restaurant” Chef, a rich selection that inspires creativity and blends light and healthy cooking techniques.

Exquisite mouth-watering dishes range from traditional Eggs Benedict to Lobster Enchiladas, Buttered Scallops and the popular “Pepito”, a rustic bread sandwich filled with flank steak marinated in achiote, served with black beans and pickled red onions. A succulent blend of local produce accented by the heavenly flavors of Baja Mediterranean cuisine. Menus change seasonally.

To complement VV Restaurant’s cuisine, ask for its exceptional selection of Baja wines, also available by the glass.

Sip on premium coffee blends and organic teas while you read the latest best seller on your I-Pad or surf the Internet in the Café’s Mac computer in the relaxed lounge setting.

The sunny atmosphere makes for extremely enjoyable lunches and coffee breaks during the day. A popular spot for evening cocktails and delectable dinners enjoyed under the glory of the starstudded Baja sky. Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner daily.

El Rincón de la Villa

El Rincón de la Villa celebrates a great tradition of arte popular that reaches, 2,000 years into the Mesoamerican past. The works of great masters of Mexican folk art. Ceremonial and profane, parodic and whimsical, art that reflects communal lives and values. El Rincon’s exceptional collection of arts & crafts is made out of raw materials such as clay, wood, stone,

textiles, metal, paper, leather, plant fibers, and other materials. Behind each object is an artist with a name, an individual who represents a collective tradition that reflects the creative capacity and unending vitality of the Mexican people.

El Rincón de la Villa honors this enduring tradition by showcasing works of art by Mexico’s greatest living folk artists. The result: singular artistry for your collection of arts & crafts.

Talamante Atelier

There’s a lot happening at the Talamante Atelier! This is the place to check-out what’s happening in the emerging local art scene. Explore your artistic skills and participate in a variety of workshops. Hand-on instruction with local artist Tanya Talamante. All levels. Youth and adult workshops and art classes. As well as Tanya’s art expositions.

VV Interiores

Drawing from an extensive collection of stylish furnishings, glorious art and intriguing accessories made exclusively at the Talamante-Fernandez design group’s workshop, VV Interior’s team of talented designers and skilled craftsmen provide a complete range of residential and commercial interior design services.

Objects and furnishings

imbued with a sense of utility as well as aesthetic richness. Made from Mexican and South American textiles.

Vvalentina.com

By Karin Leperi

Photos by Seth Romans

There is no doubt that dolphins are one of the most iconic and lovable species of the marine world. With their playful behavior and high degree of intelligence, few people can resist their charm let alone forego an intimate encounter with these friendly swimmers of the ocean. “It’s like playing with magic in the water,” said one excited young boy from California.

Known also for their agility, dolphins perform a variety of water acrobatics that include: leaps, spy-hopping where they rise vertically out of the water to see their surroundings, and bowriding where they swim alongside ships, often in synchronization with other dolphins. Since dolphins bounce high-pitched sounds off objects and listen to echoes in order to navigate, they easily sense movement by fish as well as humans.

Now there’s a way to experience the intimacy and thrill of a close encounter with dolphins in their natural habitat. Dolphin Discovery Los Cabos is located in the beautiful Marina Puerto Los Cabos in San José del Cabo, only 25 minutes from Cabo San Lucas. This is the newest location for Dolphin Discovery, with established locations already in place at Cozumel, Vallarta, Costa Maya, Six Flags, Puerto Aventuras – Mayan and Cancun – Isla Mujeres.

Dolphin Discovery Los Cabos can be experienced in five different ways:

1) Dolphin Encounter

2) Dolphin Kayak

3) Trainer for Life

4) Dolphin Royal Swim and 5) Dolphin Swim. As a bonus and by request, guests can also experience Park Wirikuta – a botanical garden with over 1,500 types of cacti from Africa, South America and Mexico as well as three pyramids.

Dolphin Encounter

Designed for all ages, the Dolphin Encounter allows you to experience the affection of dolphins from a platform that covers half your body. Swimming is optional. Experience the thrills of a dolphin handshake, and pet your new friend while you swim in place. Listen and watch as the gentle dolphins sing and dance for you.

Dolphin Kayak

Experience dolphin fun from a new level as you team with dolphins for kayak racing, obstacle jumping, and twist in the water. Then feed, pet and play with your aquatic admirer. You may even get a kiss!

Trainer for life

Learn all about dolphins as you embark

on your VIP tour that is a combination of the Royal Swim Program plus an interactive educational class, a medical and training session, and playtime with the dolphins. Then with the guidance of a human trainer, prepare dolphin food at the fish house, learn how to make a medical checkout, and marvel as you train dolphins to obey your signals. At the completion, you will receive a Training Certificate and Graduation photo with your new friends – the dolphins.

Dolphin Royal Swim

The most dynamic of the swim programs, you interact with the dolphins as they give you handshakes, kisses, and then pull you with their dorsal tows for a speed ride. Then – for the great finale – go “dolphin flying” as they push your feet and raise you up to the water surface.

Dolphin Swim Adventure

Designed for all ages, thrill to a dolphin kiss as they greet you with a wave of their fins and sing for you. Then pet your friend and enjoy a belly ride through their aquatic home.

RESTAURANTS IN CABO! The BestOfBaja

WINNERS OF THE PENINSULAR FAVORITES

Again it is time to bring you the results of the readers’ nominations of their favorite restaurants for the Best Of Baja Award. It was a real challenge to choose from the many glowing reports we received. However, BajaTRAVELER is delighted to present the winners for which our readers voted “Best Of.”

Executive Corporate Chef Tadd Chapman is the owner and Executive Chef of both Habanero’s and Don Sanchez restaurants. Professionally trained in Canada, he has been in Cabos for fourteen years and won the Los Cabos Best Chef 2010 Award.

Habanero’s Gastro Grill and Tequila Bar

Voted Best Bistro-style Restaurant in Baja California Sur

Blvd. Mijares s/n Int. #4

Plaza la Mision

San José del Cabo, B.C.S.

Opened October 2004, this bistro-style restaurant offers eclectic Mexican Fusion cuisine while, at the

same time, keeping the ambiance of Baja Casual. It is recognized among locals since its inception as one of San José’s best restaurants for offering top quality cuisine at reasonable prices. The diverse menu boasts the best hamburgers in Los Cabos and featuring Designer Tacos, the freshest salads and its famous Sushizzas. “This is where we really shine!” declares Executive Chef Tadd Chapman. Also specially featured is the Surf and Turf. In the bar, you will find more than 125 premium tequilas, hand selected by the Tequila Expert and Chef Tadd. Reservations are highly recommended. “We are only one of three restaurants in Los Cabos with the Distintivo T (Distinction in Tequila recognized by the CRT). Designer cocktails are served, featuring a large variety of Mojitos and Margaritas. A mother/son business enterprise, together Chef Tadd and Christine Chapman offer more than fifty years experience.

Don Sanchez Restaurant Social Club

Voted Best Mexican Fushion Cuisine in Baja California Sur Blvd. Mijares s/n Int. #1

Edificio Eclipse

San José del Cabo, B.C.S..

San José’s only Restaurant Social Club, Don Sanchez was opened in January 2010. It’s yours to enjoy the finer things in life, with fine upscale food, live music, decadent drinks and good friends–all without overpaying, “because life is too short for the average,” jokes Executive chef Tadd Chapman. His goal is to reach beyond your expectations and fulfill any and all of your dining and entertainment needs. Specializing in fine Mexican Fusion cuisine, Don Sanchez offers a relaxed rustic atmosphere

in the heart of San José. Designed in the image of Old Mexico, live Latin music can be heard five nights a week, featuring the best of Latin jazz, cumbia and salsa, with a Cuban orchestra. On Mondays, friends may gather to enjoy Monday Night Football and a fabulous Rib Eye Steak Special. Find on the unique “Snack and Share” menu the Festival of Shrimp–a succulent combination of two each of Red Dragon with peach and red chile chutney, Coconut Crusted with mango chipotle coulis, and frazzled with chipotle aioli. When you see the menu, you’ll want to try it all! The most versatile and creative bar in Los Cabos, more than fifteen different Mojitos, a wide variety of Margaritas and Martinis are featured. It is one of the three restaurants in San José del Cabo with the Distintivo T, offering more than 150 different 100 per cent agave azul premium tequilas.

Nick San Japanese Restaurant & Sushi Bar

Voted Best Sushi Restaurant in Baja California Sur– For the fifth year in a row!

This culinary jewel of Cabo San Lucas, Nick San, is perched on the edge of land that divides the Sea of Cortez and the Pacific Ocean. Since its opening ten years ago, Nick San has been shedding new light on the definition of sushi. Owners Angel and Nick have combined skills to mesh all that is sacred in Japanese cuisine with local Mexican elements at their finest.

The only thing fresher than fish off the dock daily, is fish that is hand-caught by the chef himself. Giving new meaning to the saying “Location is Everything,” Chef Angel has an advantage unlike most sushi chefs worldwide as he couples French and Japanese culinary expertise with fishing mastery, controlling all aspects of quality from the water to the table.

French technique is reflected in truly unique signature sauces with the use of local spices and produce. Though wasabi and ginger are always available, many dishes present variations on these flavor elements of heat and pungent using traditional Mexican forms, such as minced habanero and red onion, fresh fruits and herbs. You’ll see the local influence in the lobster roll, balanced with crunchy lobster, mango and avocado. Large sea scallops are graced with lemon, olive oil and thin slices of fried garlic. Oysters are marinated in sweet saki ponzu. Soft lighting, sleek white walls and a long hardwood bar create a calm, casual energy. One can come in from the beach or dress for a special occasion and feel comfortable. The decor is subtle, even minimalist, allowing the spotlight of elegance to be on the plate. The music is muted by the rustle and bustle of the dining room.

The wine list covers essential ground, but focuses on a variety of specialty sake–hot, cold and unfiltered. There is also a full bar. Sit near the door and catch an earful of praise as the chef greets new and long-time guests on their way out, feeling pleasantly stunned.

Located in San José del Cabo, Baja California Sur, Los Cabos International Airport is the seventh busiest airport in Mexico, serving the Los Cabos area, namely San José del Cabo and Cabo San Lucas. The airport has three terminals with four concourses–and has become the most important airport in the state of Baja California Sur.

San José

Welcomes World-Known Celebrities

By Pat Tyson

Many celebrities can be seen arriving here, to enjoy the beautiful and exclusive destination that lies at the southernmost tip of the Baja Peninsula. The climate is warm throughout most of the year, with an average temperature of 26 degrees C (79 degrees F). John Travolta is a frequent visitor arriving in his private airplane.

Among other familiar faces that have been spotted there are Will Smith, Paris Hilton, Jennifer Aniston, Enrique Iglesias, Shakira, Luis Miguel, Juan Gabriel, Harrison Ford, Ricky Martin, Vin Diesel, Leonardo Di Caprio, Vaqueritas de Dallas, George Clooney, Eva Longoria, Nicolas Cage, Maria Carey, Jonas Brothers, Jessica Simpson, Silvester Stallone, Michael Jordan and Jessica Alba.

Some twenty-three airlines fly into this most desirable destination at different times of the year; some of the major carriers in and out of Los Cabos are Alaska Airlines, American Airlines, United Airlines, Continental Airlines, Virgin America, USA 3000 Airlines, Frontier Airlines and Delta Airlines. The airport gained its first nonstop service to Asia when Aeromexico began flights to Shanghai, China on September 7, 2011.

Los Cabos is an excellent destination for the entire family with its gorgeous beaches that offer quality services, Kayaking, scuba diving, champion golf courses and fine sports fishing. During the winter you can admire one of the most beautiful natural phenomena for which the area is famous: the courtship, mating and birth process of the gray whale.

The 33-kilometer highway, called the Corredor Turistico, stretches along the coast from San José to Cabo San Lucas, where the Pacific Ocean and the Sea of Cortez meet together.

You’ll Find Paradise in East Cape

By Rick Stedman

If you are searching for a piece of paradise, you’ll find it at Punta Pescadero

Paradise Hotel & Villas. This relatively unknown slice-of-heaven is tucked away on the white sandy shores of East Cape 60 miles north of San José del Cabo International Airport. This remote fly-in resort features 24 modern, spacious, and fullyequipped villa suites, each with a terrace overlooking the tranquil Sea of Cortes. Each unit is air conditioned, and includes a small refrigerator and TV. The geranium-draped balconies and well-manicured grounds complement nicely the surrounding natural beauty provided by Mother Nature.

Whether your interests are activeoriented or those of a sedentary nature, Punta Pescadero offers something for everyone. As its name indicates – Punta Pescadero means fishing point in Spanish – you can hardly go wrong by grabbing a fishing pole and trying your luck. One

can fish for yellow fin tuna, Dorado, sailfish, and blue or striped marlin. Snorkeling, scuba diving, kayaking, tennis, and beach combing are other alternatives. With the wide, sandy beach just a few steps from the veranda of each room, the coral reef formations provide snorkelers and divers with an underwater palette of unforgettable scenery. Horseback riding, mountain biking, ATVs, and a nearby golf course are also available.

If your secluded getaway calls for none of the above, you’re in luck. Grab that latest bestseller, relax by the pool, and sip a cold Margarita or two. After witnessing a

gorgeous sunset, look skyward towards the constellations. With no ambient light, stars in the sky are revealed like nothing you’ve ever seen.

Whether you catch the fish yourself or order off the menu, Punta Pescadero Paradise provides tasty meals for your enjoyment. There are regular chef specialties to choose from, along with standard local favorites like steaks and Mexican dishes. And, the bar is always open.

Many visitors choose to fly their private airplanes to visit Punta Pescadero Paradise. Located adjacent to the hotel, a 3,500-foot paved air strip, with a run up pad and tie downs, is available exclusively for hotel guests. Guests also have the option of taking a guest shuttle from the San José del Cabo International Airport. If driving to the hotel, simply drive north on Hwy. 1 out of San José, exit at Los Barriles, then drive nine more miles.

For more information on Punta Pescadero Paradise Hotel & Villas, visit “www.puntapescaderoparadise.com” •

Todos Santos

4,078 population 950 miles from the international border

80  ˚ average temperature

“An artists’ Colony in Baja”

Todos Santos is one of the most flourishing oases in southern Baja California. With its red brick buildings and wide streets, Todos Santos is still a quiet, charming and picturesque town.

Directly on the Tropic of Cancer, this town of about 4,000 residents is laid out in a small, rolling coastal plain called the Valle del Pilar, 64 kilometers from the Pacific Ocean shore.

This small, colonial village is centered around Nuestra Señora del Pilar, a beautiful church, and a town square. There is also a museum, Casa de la Cultura, which contains materials on the history of Southern Baja California, as well as items that reveal the town’s civic pride. Several buildings bear plaques honoring noted residents who fought in various struggles for Mexican independence.

Todos Santos is a beautiful virgin paradise that tourists, especially artists, won’t want to miss.

Todos Santos es uno de los oasis en el Sur de Baja California. Con sus edificios de ladrillo rojo y sus calles anchas, Todos Santos aún es un pueblito callado, bonito y pintoresco.

Exactamente en el Trópico de Cancer, con aproximadamente 4,000 habitantes y 64 kilometros de costa en el Oceano Pacífico. Este pequeño, pueblito colonial se concentra alrededor de Nuestra Señora del Pilar, una bonita Iglesia y un parquesito. También hay un muséo, Casa de la Cultura, que contiene artículos de la historia del Sur de Baja California así como también objetos simbólicos para el orgullo de sus habitantes. Varios edificios en el pueblo tienen placas honrando a sus antiguos residentes que pelearon en varias ocaciones para la independencia Mexicana.

Todos Santos es un precioso paraiso virgen, que el turismo, especialmente los artistas, no deben dejar de visitar.

Todos Santos è una delle oasi più sviluppate della Baja California meridionale. Con i suoi edifici di mattoni rossi e strade ampie, Todos Santos è ancora un paese calmo, incantevole e pittoresco.

Direttamente sopra il Tropico di Cancro, questa località di circa 4.000 abitanti è situata sulla piccola pianura costiera appena ondulata, chiamata Valle del Pilar, ad 64 di chilometri dalle sponde dell’Oceano Pacifico.

Questa piccola località coloniale si raccoglie intorno alla bella chiesa della Nuestra Señora del Pilar, e alla piazza del paese. C’è anche un museo, Casa de la Cultura, che ospita testimonianze della storia della Baja California meridionale, così come oggetti che riflettono l’orgoglio di questa città. Su molti palazzi sono affisse placche in onore di notabili del luogo che parteciparono alle varie lotte per l’indipendenza del Messico.

Todos Santos è un paradiso incontaminato che i visitatori, ed in particolare gli artisti, dovrebbero assolutamente visitare.

Das östliche Kap (Los Barriles), das am Ufer der Bucht “Bahía de Palmas”, nur 104 km südlich von La Paz und 80 km von San José del Cabo entfernt liegt, entwickelt sich schnell zum beliebtesten Kap für Sportangler aus der ganzen Welt. Die einzige Sprache, die Sie beherrschen müssen, heißt “Sportfishing” (Sportangeln) und “Catch and Release” (Fangen und Wiederfreilassen).

Dieses Kap ist leicht mit dem Auto, dem Boot oder dem Privatflugzeug erreichbar. Wenn Sie nach La Paz fliegen, brauchen Sie ungefähr 1_ Stunden mit dem Auto, und von San Jose del Cabo aus sind es ca. 1_ Stunden. Falls Sie mit dem Privatflugzeug kommen, können Sie direkt die örtliche Landebahn benutzen.

Mit seinen 3000 Einwohnern ist das östliche Kap ein Fischerdorf, mit hübschen Hotels, Restaurants, Cafes, Märkten, einem Autoersatzteilladen, einer Start- und Landebahn für Privatflugzeuge, einem kleinen Krankenhaus, Schulen und vielen Booten zum Sportangeln. Falls Sie ein Sportangelabenteuer in einer nicht überlaufenen Atmosphäre suchen, müssen Sie Ihre Buchung bei einem der vielen Hotels des Urlaubsgebietes am östlichen Kap vornehmen.

Todos Santos est un des oasis les plus prospères du sud de Baja California. Avec ses bâtiments de briques rouges et ses larges rues, Todos Santos reste une ville tranquille, charmante et pittoresque.

Située sur le tropique du Cancer, cette ville de près de 4,000 habitants se niche dans une petite plaine onduleuse appelée Valle del Pilar, 64 kilomètres de la côte Pacifique.

Cette petite ville coloniale s’articule autour de la superbe église Nuestra Señora del Pilar et d’une place centrale. Elle abrite aussi un musée, La Casa de la Cultura, exposant des vestiges de l’histoire du sud de Baja California ainsi que des objets faisant l’orgueil de ses citadins. Beaucoup de bâtiments sont ornés de plaques commémoratives en honneur à des notables présidents ayant lutté lors des diverses batailles pour l’indépendance du Mexique.

Todos Santos est un paradis encore vierge qu’aucun touriste, encore plus artiste, ne doit manquer d’explorer.

Red Cross (612) 122-1111

Fire Department (612) 122-0054, 6807

Municipal Police (612) 123-9700

EMERGENCY NUMBERS

Green Angels (612) 124-0100, 03

Highway Patrol (612) 122-0369

Tourist Assistance (612) 124-0100

Hotels&Resorts

H H H H Alegria 011-52 (612)145-0700

H H H H H

Guaycura Boutique Hotel 011-52 (612) 175-0800 Toll free (877) 448-2928 guaycura.com

H H H H

Hacienda Todos Los Santos 011-52 (612)145-0547

H H H H

Hotel California 011-52 (612)145-0522

H H H H

Las Puertas de Todos Santos 011-52 (612)145-0373

H H H H

Posada de las Flores 011-52 (612)166-2256

H H H H

Posada La Poza 011-52 (612)145-0040

H H H H

The Todos Santos Inn 011-52 (612)145-0040

H H H H

Todos Santos Hacienda Inn 011-52 (612)145-0193

The truth about Hotel California

By Mike Massman

Known traditionally as an artist’s colony, Todos Santos is about a 45-minute drive from Cabo San Lucas. In 2006, Todos Santos was designated as a Pueblo Magico – also known as a “magical “village” because of prevailing symbolism, legends, history, important events, or day-to-day life that are “magic” in terms of the social and cultural manifestations. (A total of 40 towns and villages in 28 different Mexican states have been awarded the title Pueblo Magico.) In the center of this literally “Magic Town” is the Mission Church of Pilar, and directly adjacent, sits the legendary Hotel California - where you really can hear mission bells ringing in the courtyard.

The original Hotel California was founded in 1948 by a Chinese immigrant named Mr. Wong. He lived in the 16-room hotel with his wife and seven daughters. Wanting the locals to believe he was Mexican, he changed his name to Don Antonio Tabasco, though changing his name didn’t work as well as originally planned since he became known as El Chino, meaning “The Chinese Man.”

In the 1950’s, El Chino brought ice from La Paz to Todos Santos for the first time ever, making Hotel California the only establishment in town to serve cold beer. This, of course, made him quite popular and fittingly he opened a general store named La Popular. Later he

opened the first gas station in Todos Santos, further establishing his reputation as a visionary. This was just the beginning of the hotel’s colorful story.

During the 1960’s and 1970’s, the precise details of the hotel’s history are a bit “hazy” – not uncommon for the culture of that era. There are numerous stories, whether fact or myth, and nobody knows for sure. Although the present owners of the hotel do not have any affiliation with “The Eagles,” one of the most successful rock musical acts of the 1970’s, most visitors are mesmerized by the “coincidences” between the lyrics of the hit song and the physicality of the hotel and its surroundings.

• Hotel California is accessed by driving down a long desert highway from either Los Cabos to the south or La Paz to the east.

• The Mission Church of Pilar is located directly adjacent to the hotel and mission bells are heard daily.

• The Hotel California in Todos Santos was built in 1948, which predates the “Hippie” or “Classic Rock” eras.

During the 1980’s and 1990’s, the picture became clear again. In 2001, after completing a masterful renovation that later won numerous awards for design and décor, the original 16 rooms were transformed into the eclectic 11- suite hotel it is today. La Coronela,

the hotel’s restaurant and bar, were added and the area of the original gas station became the Emporio, the hotel’s boutique gallery/bazaar. Today the “legendary” Hotel California is an icon, shining brighter than ever. It continues to evolve, changing with the times as it has since its birth in 1948.

Today, Todos Santos is a lure not only to artists, but international chefs as well. While artists are drawn to the unique light spectrum, chefs are drawn to the abundance of fresh ingredients. Huertas, which are local organic ranches, offer a wide variety of fresh meats and produce, herbs, eclectic teas, spices, oils and seasonings. On a daily basis, local fishermen deliver the seasonal catch to the numerous gourmet restaurants sprinkled throughout Todos Santos. With the Tropic of Cancer running straight through the town, positioning the sun directly overhead, vibrant colors are created leaving casual visitors without words to describe what is irresistible to artists.

Both Todos Santos and The Hotel California are unique experiences which should definitely be at the top of your list of places to visit in Baja.

Book Reviews

By Beth Purcell Cordasco

THE DEER DANCER

By Gary Winters

In his father’s footsteps Juan leaves his tiny pueblo for Guadalajara, determined to return home able to build his mother better housing; he quickly finds, however, that making a living is no easy task. He works various jobs, ending up as a hired hand on Don Heriberto’s Chihuahua ranch. During his tenure with Don Heriberto, Juan consistently impresses the patron with his resourcefulness, work ethic and sharp mind. It’s not long before he’s able to return to his village to build his mother a fine straw bale home, a turning point for Juan.

C.M. Mayo’s’ “Miraculous Air; Journey of a Thousand Miles

“The Deer Dancer,” both a University of California at Irvine Chicano/Latino Literary Prize and San Diego Book Awards finalist, as well as Best Novel Winner of the San Diego Mensa Creative uRGe Award, is written by Gary Winters, a long time feature writer for a Baja California newspaper, and author of other award-winning short stories, poetry, novels and articles.

Winter’s 2010 novel is an interesting coming-of-age story of Yaqui Indian boy, Juan Araiza, who desperately longs to meet the father he never knew.

On the day of his fourteenth birthday, determined to learn something of his absent father, he approaches his mother who reluctantly tells him that he left rural Sonora headed for Guadalajara shortly after Juan’s birth, with a promise to return when he made enough money from his deer dancing to build them a bigger house.

The news that his father was an expert deer dancer made a big impact on Juan, as did his father’s unfulfilled promise to build his mother and siblings a bigger home.

As time goes on he takes on more and more responsibility, eventually going on to secure a job with the central government, working on clean water legislation and other issues important to the common man. But like many involved in politics, he becomes disillusioned with his and others inability, or in many cases unwillingness, to fight the entrenched system. He meets and starts to identify with Zapatista leader Subcomandante Insurgent Marcos. The novel ends with a deeply conflicted Juan–a man who has made something of himself personally, but is deeply disturbed with the status quo, with the fact that the majority of indigenous peoples have remained oppressed and unable to do what he has done. Throughout the novel, his father’s absence makes itself present, and is a driving force behind Juan’s determination to succeed and do right in the world.

“The Deer Dancer” is an interesting read, its style sparse and no-nonsense. I was pleasantly surprised by the book, I found it more rewarding than I expected; for some reason I was put off by the cover. But after finishing the book in two sittings, I must admit to re-learning something I first learned long ago–you (literally) can’t judge a book by its cover. Winter’s newest novel is a satisfying, and at times, eye-opening read.

Through Baja California, The Other Mexico” is a captivating work, a shining tribute to the Baja California peninsula. A travel memoir by genre, it offers more than most, as Mayo did an extensive job of interviewing myriad Baja Californianos, whose insights have helped her to better tell the story of modern (and past) Baja California. She also did meticulous research and has relayed innumerable historical facts in a unique literary style, deftly weaving in and out of modern day reality.

Mayo’s success with this book also stems from the fact that she both lives and works in Mexico. She currently splits her time between Mexico City and Washington D.C. She was born in Texas and raised in Northern California but was a longtime permanent resident of Mexico City. She is now a translator of contemporary Mexican poetry and fiction and the author of the novel “The Last Prince of the Mexican Empire,” which was selected as one of the best books of 2009 by “Library Journal.” Other awards include three Lowell Thomas Travel Journalism Awards and three Washington Independent Writers Awards. Her personal bilingual website is fantastic, and offers much for the Mexicofile or aspiring writer: http://www.cmmayo.com/.

MIRACULOUS AIR; JOURNEY OF A THOUSAND MILES THROUGH BAJA CALIFORNIA, THE OTHER MEXICO

By C.M. Mayo

Originally published in 2002, a paperback edition of “Miraculous Air” is now available. The book is the culmination of Mayo’s travel experiences throughout Baja California over the course of about five years in the 1990s. The book’s title is a reference to John Steinbeck’s “The Log from the Sea of Cortez,” in which he writes, “The very air here is miraculous and outlines of reality change with the moment.” Miraculous and mercurial is how Mayo herself seems to view Baja California.

The book is divided up into 5 chapters, which concentrate on different regions of the Peninsula. The first covers Los Cabos and Todos Santos, and delves into the region’s strong American influence. The next focuses on the Baja interior–its unique offerings and rich missionary past. The Sea of Cortez is center stage in the third chapter, from the sports-fishing industry in Cabo San Lucas, to legends of the East Cape, to past pearl fishers in the Bay of La Paz and more, it is the Sea and its bounty that sustains. The focus then shifts to the Pacific Coast in the fourth chapter–its ecotourism, salt industry, agriculture and more. The final section highlights the US/Mexico border region and its unique characteristics and challenges.

A literary travel book, the prose in “Miraculous Air” is deft and poetic, Mayo’s eye for detail amazing. She offers offbeat tidbits you’ll not find elsewhere. I found myself nodding in recognition over and over, and loved hearing her take on Baja locals I too have met. She seamlessly shifts from historical fact, to modernday locals’ antidotes, to her own private musings.

Especially appealing is Mayo’s use of reappearing themes throughout the book–the first plane to land in San Jose del Cabo, the impact of certain art pieces, Steinbeck’s words, for example, are all examined, then re-examined, viewed from different angles as time and place dictate.

“Miraculous Air” is a true gem, a book that all those who are interested in Baja should not miss. The book is well indexed and also includes an extensive bibliography, so there is plenty of fodder for future reading as well.

“Miraculous Air” is now available in paperback and can be found in bookstores or ordered from Milkweed Editions.

Aself-published e-book, “Jimm Budd’s ¡Mexico!” is authored by, you guessed it, Jimm Budd. He posits the work as a collection of “quick glimpses of places that you thought you knew, places that you would like to know and places that you never have heard of.” The raw material for the book is the weekly travel columns Budd has been writing for the last decade for the Mexican newspaper, “Reforma.” He’s brought these up to date and bundled them together.

“Jimm Budd’s ¡Mexico!” covers all of Mexico, but those especially interested in Baja California will find chapters specific to Los Cabos, Loreto, La Paz, Tecate, Todos Santos and Tijuana. As he claims, each chapter is a quick shot of (often one aspect of) each place. Take for example, Budd’s chapter on Tecate, its focus is on Rancho Tecate and

its key role in the health and fitness movement. Tijuana’s chapter highlights the growing importance of gastronomy in the region, whereas the Los Cabos piece looks at tourist development and trends over the past few decades. Some chapters, however, are more guidebooklike, providing a broader overview of what to do during a visit. But not all chapters focus on locations, he also covers events like the Day of The Dead, and more general topics like Talavera pottery and pyramids.

Budd has a wry sense of humor and tells it like it is, or at least how he thinks it is. You may not always agree with Budd’s conclusions, but you have to give him props for knowing his own mind and opinions. A resident and journalist in Mexico City since 1958, he certainly has the experience and credentials to give them freely.

His claim that you will learn of things you didn’t know before is likely true too; who knew, for example, that Watusi Watoto, a camp for young people from 5 to 14 years old at Africam (a zoological park outside of Puebla), accepts guests for as little as one or two nights, is bilingual, accredited in the United States and, and during the summer cares for many kids from all over North America? Not me. But I just may look into it.

“Jimm Budd’s ¡Mexico!” is a quirky yet entertaining read. I chuckled much of the way through it. With seventy-two chapters in all, there is definitely something for everyone. It’s also a good value – only five dollars to download. The book’s Kindle edition can be ordered directly through Amazon.com

“LITTLE BOY”… the production at Baja Studios…produced by Metanoia Films

In theaters 2012 ROSARITO, B.C.

Photos by Claudia Talavera

Kevin James, Eduardo Verástegui and Emily Watson

Jakob Salvati

Leo Severino

Emanuel and Alexader Acha and Eduardo Verástegui

Alexader and Emanuel Acha and Eduardo Verástegui

Eduardo Verástegui

...the cast with the directors

Tom Wilkinson

An evening with the honorable Gloria Guevara

Secretary of Tourism of Mexico

…FOUR SEASONS HOTEL, BEVERLY HILLS, CA

Photos by Eddie Sakaki and BajaTraveler Gloria Guevara

Antonio Cúe Sanchez Navarro and Michelle Fastlicht

Andres Dubin, Jorge Gamboa Patron, Rhoda Jimenez and Gabriel Juarez Malu Yunez, Aurelio Lopez, Adriana Hart and Sara Bugarin

Ken Shapiro and and Jorge Gamboa Patron

Jorge Gamboa Patron Mayté Rodríguez Cedillo and Gloria Guevara

Alberto Petrearse, Gloria Guevara Rodolfo Lopez Negrete Coppel

Juan Martin and Charles Dabby

Jorge Gamboa Patron, Liane Augustine, Antonio Cue Sachez Navarro and Sarah Meeks

Jean Loup Bitterlin and Lourdes Garcia

Alberto Petrearse and Rachael Rees

Marc Murphy, Giancarlo Mulinelli, Jorge Gamboa Patron and Oscar Mejia

FITA

2011 OPENING CEREMONY ... MEXICO CITY

Tere Cedillo and Dale Rosenstock

Cecilia and Alejandro Rojas

Photos by BajaTraveler

Mayté Rodríguez Cedillo and Gloria Victoria

Daniel Martinez and Eduardo Cardona

Ivette Wichtendahl, Susana Palazuelos and Eduardo Wichtendahl

Mayté Rodríguez Cedillo

Dora Villarino

Lupita McMains and Rosanna Moreno

ITALIA SPECIAL DINNER PROMOTING ITALY …FITA 2011_MEXICO CITY

Photos by BajaTraveler

Roberto Spinelli, Mayté Rodríguez Cedillo and Roberto Rocca

Roberto Spinelli

Tere Cedillo, Dale Rosenstock, Roberto Rocca, Mayté Rodríguez Cedillo, Dora Villarino, Ilda Erickson and Margarita Gonzalez Perez Arce

Alberico Peyron

Dale Rosenstock

Tere Cedillo and Dale Rosenstock

Rosella Spinelli and Marco Cannizzo

Xiomara Cannizzo and Roberto Spinelli

Rodrigo Gonzalez and Paloma Aguilar Gonzalez

La Paz’ Awareness Campaign ...WITH GOV. MARCOS COVARRUBIAS VILLASEÑOR

LA PAZ, B.C.S.

Photos by BajaTraveler

Luis Cano and Jeffrey Curtis with friends…

Luis Cano and Jeffrey Curtis with friends…

Governor Marcos Covarrubias Villaseñor and wife with friends

Manuel Angulo, Carlos Mendoza, Genaro Ruiz and Luis Cano

Ricardo Garcia Soto, Arturo Mussi Ganem and Ruben Reachi Lugo

Ingrid Duarte and Rafael Peña

Gaby Benavente and Gaby Aragon de Angulo

Agustin and Adriana Olachea

Jeannie Penner-More and Humberto Urquidez

Cynthia Cano, Raquel Bessudo, Luis Cano, Claudia Gold Dorenbaum and Anahi Fonseca

Malcom Shroyer, Enrique Castillo, Karina Montaño, Rosa Romero and a friend

Governor Marcos Covarrubias Villaseñor Luis Cano and Jeffrey Curtis

Photos by BajaTraveler

Mayor Michael A. Gin

Renee Chaves and Julia Rosenberg

Ruben Reachi Lugo

Gentil Smith, Mayor Michael A. Gin, Mayor Esthela Ponce and Jeannie Penner-More

Jeannie Penner-More, Jorge Gamboa Patron and Darlene Wyland

Mayor Jorge Alberto Avilez and wife with friends

Ana Luisa Yuen Santa Ana, Mayor Esthela Ponce and Geoffrey Luján Pruitt

Charles Freedman,Verónica Ruíz, Bill Adams and Mark Paolucci

George Berks, Mayor Michael A. Gin, Mayor Jorge Alberto Avilez and wife Nancy

Joshua Schroeder, Jorge Gamboa Patron, Ruben Reachi Lugo, Mayor Michael A. Gin, Mayor Esthela Ponce, Verónica Ruíz, Arturo Peña and Jeffrey Curtis

Agustin Olachea

Mayté Rodríguez Cedillo and Ruben Reachi Lugo

Mayté Rodríguez Cedillo and Jorge Gamboa Patron

Jorge Gamboa Patron and Agustin Olachea

Verónica Ruíz, Jeffrey Curtis and Karla Perez

STARLITE Gala 2011

…with Eva Longoria & Antonio Banderas MARBELLA, SPAIN

Inmanol Arias and Irene Meritxell

Photos by Bernardo Doral

Octavi Pujades, Marilo Montero, Inmanol Arias with his girlfiriend Irene Meritxell

Maria Bravo, Eugenia Silva, Eva Longoria and Elisabetta Briatore

Eugenia Silva

Maria Bravo, Melanie Griffith, Antoni Banderas, Jermaine Jackson, Halima Rashid, Eva Longoria and Sandra Garcia-Sanjuan

Eva Langoria and friends

Cabo

Faces Anniversary Gala …at Passion’s in Los Cabos LOS CABOS, B.C.S.

Rebeca Cuesta Iturralde

Roberto Guzman, Letty Coppel, Mariano Lemus and friends

Chris Peña, Ella Messerli, Mariano Lemus and Roberto Hernandez

Sandy Torreblanca, Adi Galindo and Edith Navarro

Miroslava Bautista

Gabriel Larrea and wife

Gerry Burchard and friends

Lilly Alejandra and Danny Rojas

Paulina Leal and Mariano Lemus

Modu Seye and friends

Rene Shaefer and wife

Augusto D’Otaduy and wife

Federico Hidalgo and Edith Navarro

Letty Coppel and Mariano Lemus

Jacobo Turquie, Mariano Lemus and friends

Mariano Lemus and friends

Photos by Mariano Lemus

Paws ‘n Claws 2011

…GOLF & DINNER PARTY

LOS CABOS, B.C.S.

Photos by Sabrina Lear

Gail and Jim Norman

Lucia Nordstrom, Ron Hatfield and Aida Trujillo

Chris Snell and Greg Filardi

Debra Hoag, Lisa Bell and Teresa Wieck

Sergio Castillo and Linda Aven

Gerry Burchard and Dianne Mattei

Les and Chris Marks and Juliette and Ed Jonneck

Dr. Fenton Sanger, Carl Froebel, Hugh Eland and Richard Hewitt

Shelley Martinez Clint Higgins

Peter and Carrie Walsh, Dave Doyle and Greg Tallman

Cynthia Wickerink and Blanca Roblero with Liga MAC ACE Students

Blanca Roblero Todd Clouser with parents Chris and Patsy Clouser

Daline Jones

Daline Jones

Liga Mac JAZZ FESTIVAL

LOS CABOS, B.C.S.

Photos by Sabrina Lear

Jene Buckner and Armando Figaredo

Tom Walsh and wife Daline Jones, Diego Ramirez, Luciano Callado and Marilyn Graham

Judy Green, Gloria Graham, Lorrie Schmuck, Irmgard Duncan and Jene Buckner

Todd Massey and Cherine Khouzam

Denis Gabriel and Amy Abbott

Erika Amador and Pete Escovedo

Pete Escovedo Kym Salafranca

LInda Aven, Patty Sherry and Kathy Sherry

Richard Erickson

Photos by Mariano Lemus

Tony Yahyai, Joseph Stuart, Scott Zimmer and Nicolai Galindo

Miguel Vadell

Tony Yahyai and friends

Tony Yahyai, Jose Alexander, Dennis Withsosky and Dagobert Gil giving their donation to Casa Hogar Orphanage

Tony and Cristina Yahyai with Miguel and Mariana Vadell and Gaston Vonwernich

ENSENADA, B.C.

Photos by BajaTraveler

Gerardo and Karla

Arch. Mauricio Rocha and Francisco

Francisco and Jorge

Jean Loup Bitterlin

Irene and Eduardo

Victor Torres

Mercedes Golf Cup

LOS CABOS, B.C.S.

Celestino Atienzo, Marco Nuñez, Miguel Mena and Juan Luis Sampol

Xochitl, Gabriel, Maru, Luis and Ignacio

Jacobo Torquie, Volk Romike and Juan Zamora

BajaTravelers present at the event

Gaby, Maru, Meny and Xochitil

Sergio Garcia

Roberto Lomelin and Victor Gasca

Mario Villamichel and Julio Cesar Alarcon

Sergio Garcia and Ma. Eugenia Ulloa Ma. Eugenia Ulloa

Marco A. Magdaleno, Joaquin Tello, Sergio Garcia and Julio Alarcon

Jacobo Turquie, Ma. Eugenia Ulloa, Antonio Agundez and friend

Photos by Mariano Lemus

ARPCA Los Cabos

RITMOS COLORES y SABORES 2011 LOS CABOS, B.C.S.

Elena Cornejo and Margarita Díaz

Ivonne Montes de Oca, a friend and Ivette Bonifaz

Ivonne Montes de Oca , Miroslava Bautista, a friend and Maria Ampudia

Daniel Uribe, Maria Ampudia, Ivonne Montes de Oca

Ladies enjoying the BajaTraveler®

Photos by Miguel Ventura

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BajaTRAVELER® Scoop Neck T-Shirt | $87

7oz. heavy weight pique, pre-washed, 100% combec cotton. This shirt will wear well and retain its original color after multiple washings. BT logo made with exclusive high quality Swarovski crystals.

BajaTRAVELER® Cosmetic Bag | $62

The perfect companion for everyday carrying or to use only on those special travel occasions. Zippered and lined. BT logo made with exclusive high quality Swarovski crystals.

BajaTRAVELER® Tote Bag | $102 18 oz. cotton canvas, water repellent padded gusset and inside pocket with velcro closure, outer pocket and 1 1/2" wide cotton web handles of same canvas. BT logo made with exclusive high quality Swarovski crystals.

For additional products, please visit our web site: BajaTraveler.com

Maris Angelica Rodríguez

Back From Mexico: Eduardo Verástegui Making a Difference

by Mayté Rodríguez Cedillo

came to Hollywood because I want to make a difference,” Verástegui told me during the Alma Awards three years ago after he had just received the Alma for Outstanding Performance in his film, “Bella.” “I want to show Mexico the way it is–a beautiful country,” he added. I–of course, was enchanted as it is precisely my vision with BajaTraveler.

And “making a difference,” is just what Verástegui is currently doing in Baja California as he is producing his latest film, “Little Boy,” starring two-time Oscar nominee Emily Watson and Tom Wilkinson, with David Henri and Kevin James. Here’s what he had to say when I asked him, “Why Baja California?”

“We looked for locations in various destinations, yet Rosarito went perfect with the story– as the real story developed in an oceanfront village… We found a goldmine here–an oceanfront top-of-the line studio with the most professional staff! And next to it was a lot, perfect to build our village – you’ll see… you’ll think it’s a painting from Norman Rockwell,” he said enthusiastically. “We’ll also be shooting throughout Baja California, around Tijuana, Tecate, the vineyards… I’m very happy with the location as well as with the production, everyone has been just wonderful.”

Production is scheduled for eleven weeks and “Little Boy” is expected to hit theaters mid 2012.

And what is it that Verástegui has liked most about Baja California? “Its people, the way they treat and welcome you–that has been definitely the best part of this production. Not to mention the food, the lobster–Puerto Nuevo style… the vineyards… Mexico is a jewel. It’s very important that everyone knows this and comes to visit us,” he said.

“Being Mexican– one always looks for the opportunity to put the name of Mexico up high, especially during these difficult times we are living. I’m not talking about the economic crisis, but a crisis of values. One would think that there are no solutions to overcoming these challenges,” he said. “Presently, Mexico is sad,” he continued… “as is the rest of the world… so I thought to myself… this is a wonderful opportunity to come to my country and light up a candle and be a light in the darkness,” he said. “And show the entire world that during these hard times, we must not run–on the contrary, we should face our challenges with excitement and see this as a great test with an opportunity to succeed.” “I love Mexico and it’s always in my heart.”

Actor and producer Eduardo Verástegui started his career at 18 by becoming a part of the music and TV industry. He’s been featured on countless international magazine covers, including “People En Español,” which voted him one of “50 Most Beautiful People.” He’s toured the world as a singer in the pop sensation Kairo, and as a recording artist. He was featured in a music video with Jennifer Lopez and most recently has starred in award winning films. He, along with two friends started Metanoia Films and their first movie earned several awards including the “People’s Choice Award.” He’s toured the world doing philonthrophy work and even started a charity called Manto de Guadalupe to help pregnant Latin women. Verástegui is truly making a difference! The complete interview and his entire career will be featured in the upcoming Mexico Traveler where he will be adorning our cover–Don’t miss it!

And what message would he like to send to you–our readers?

“Dear Readers, It’s a pleasure for me to say hello to you through this wonderful magazine. I encourage all of you to visit Baja California, and allow yourselves to be hugged by the soul of its people, its wines, its food, its beaches–in other words, allow yourselves to be hugged by one of the most beautiful peninsulas on the planet.”