Baja Norte

Because Your Vacation Fund Shouldn’t End at a Traffic Stop”
 Articles, Baja Norte

Baja’s New Hotline Keeps Tourist Trips Trouble-Free

Baja California is stepping up its game when it comes to keeping your vacation stress-free. The state’s Tourism Office is inviting everyone—locals and visitors alike—to take its shiny new complaint system for a spin. Yes, it’s real. Yes, it works. And no, you don’t need a law degree to use it.

The idea is simple: if something goes wrong with a tour operator, hotel, rental car agency, or even a public official while you’re here, you can report it quickly through official, government-backed channels. It’s part of a permanent campaign to make sure service quality stays high and shady behavior gets addressed.

How it Works

Before you even book your adventure, you can check PROFECO’s “Buzón Comercial” (Commercial Mailbox) to see if your chosen provider has a clean track record—or a history you should avoid.

If trouble strikes during your trip, just send an email to assistance@baja.gob.mx. Include the name of the person or agency involved, their license plate or badge number, and the date, time, and place of the incident.

For those who like instant action, you’ve got options:

  • 911 for emergencies
  • 089 for anonymous tips
  • 078 for roadside help from Ángeles Verdes
  • (664) 624 2020 ext. 6411 for direct assistance from Baja’s Tourism Office

If you prefer to go digital, the State Attorney General’s virtual complaint portal is ready for you at https://cdtec.fgebc.gob.mx/cdtec/.

Why This Matters

Tourism is big business here, and the last thing Baja wants is for a bad experience to ruin your time—or our reputation. Officials say the goal is to protect both visitors and locals while keeping service standards high.

More importantly, this is your chance to actually try the system. It’s not just a dusty suggestion box. Reports go into a process designed to track, follow up, and resolve issues, whether you’re a weekend visitor or a full-time resident.

Baja’s Got Your Back—And a Hotline to Prove It
#Bad service? Shady cop? Weird extra charge? Baja’s official hotline is here to keep your trip smooth and drama-free.

Industry Involvement

Tourism providers are also being encouraged to get on board. Hotels, tour operators, and other service businesses can participate by promoting the complaint system to customers. The more it’s used, the faster issues can be caught and fixed—something that benefits both sides.

Your Time to Shine

And if your complaint starts with, “The cops robbed me,” this is your moment to shine—or to finally tell your novella-worthy story. In fact, you can even share it in our comments (in addition to making the formal complaint, of course). Just don’t forget to have all the details the officials require, or your plot twist might flop.

Peace of Mind, Baja Style

In a place famous for sunny beaches, whale watching, and tacos worth crossing a border for, the last thing you should worry about is poor service or a questionable charge on your bill. This system helps keep things honest, fair, and fun.

So go ahead—plan that trip. If something’s not right, speak up. The government says it’s listening, and this time, it looks like they mean it.

After all, in Baja, the only thing that should be salty is your margarita.

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This Is Where the Story Literally Starts
 Events, Mexicali, Tijuana

Watch Baja’s Best Films Free in Tijuana and Mexicali Tonight

Baja California is known for wine festivals, fresh seafood, and weekend gossip. However, there’s another story worth telling—our movies. We make them here, we win awards with them, and tonight, you can watch two of them for free.

The BC by BC program, backed by Governor Marina del Pilar Ávila Olmeda through the Baja California Film Commission, is bringing local talent into the spotlight. The goal is simple: combine art, economy, and identity, then show the results on the big screen.

Free Screenings in Tijuana and Mexicali

Starting at 6 p.m., Cinépolis Plaza Río in Tijuana and Cinépolis Plaza San Pedro in Mexicali will feature two Baja-born productions: Soy lo que nunca fui (2023) and Entre las cuerdas (2024).

Both have made an impact far beyond Baja’s borders. Now, they return home for a night of free cinema.

Soy lo que nunca fui (2023) — Tijuana Up Close

This is not your typical “border story” full of clichés. Instead, director Rodrigo Álvarez Flores offers an intimate look at a fractured family navigating emotional boundaries that run deeper than any wall.

Because the film was shot mostly at Estudios Baja and on real Tijuana streets, it captures the city’s true character. Each main character has a distinct visual style: wide shots for the restless, close frames for the introspective, and calm tones for those hiding chaos.

The cast includes Ángeles Cruz, Andrés Delgado, César Kancino, plus graduates from UDCI. Over the past year, the film has collected an impressive list of awards. Among them are Best Mexican Feature at GIFF, Audience Award at Cine Las Américas, and Best Picture at “Hola México” in Los Angeles. It has also been honored in Calcuta and Ensenada.

Clearly, Álvarez proves that Baja doesn’t just have stories—it has stories worth sharing with the world.

  • Tijuana, City Lights and Midnight Cinema
    #Some see the city asleep… others are filming it so it wakes up on screens around the world.
  • When Baja Talent Shows Even Behind the Mask
    #You don’t need to see the smile to know he’s directing pure gold. Tonight, 6 p.m., on the big screen

Entre las cuerdas (2024) — Tijuana in the Ring

If Soy lo que nunca fui is a slow burn, Entre las cuerdas throws the first punch early. Directed by Fernando A. Fisher, who grew up in Tijuana, the film follows Martín, a boxer fighting battles inside and outside the ring.

Filmed entirely in Tijuana over 17 days, it features a cast made up almost entirely of local talent. Because of its authenticity, it has earned international recognition, winning Best Picture and Best Director in Sweden, Audience Choice in London, and another Best Picture in Los Angeles.

Fisher’s film doesn’t sugarcoat the struggle. Instead, it shows the fight in its raw form, told by people who know it well.

Why This Matters for Baja

For decades, Baja was a backdrop for Hollywood pretending to be somewhere else. Although local crews got work, the stories weren’t ours.

Now, with directors like Álvarez and Fisher, Baja is telling its own stories. These films prove that local talent is not only strong but growing. That is why events like Séptimo 2.0 are essential. They provide a stage, and our filmmakers fill it with stories that travel far beyond the state line.

Tonight’s the Night

If you are in Tijuana or Mexicali, this is your chance. Two films, two directors, dozens of local actors, and hundreds of hours of Baja talent—all for free.

Head to Cinépolis Plaza Río or Cinépolis Plaza San Pedro by 6 p.m., grab some popcorn, and watch Baja’s stories unfold. By the time the credits roll, you will see it too: Baja is not just making movies—it is making its mark.

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Unforgettable Flavors Await at Bajas Paella Party
 Ensenada, Events, Wine

Baja’s Paella Contest Celebrates 35 Years With Wine and Music

This isn’t just another cook-off. The Dr. Ramón García Ocejo Paella Contest is the grand finale of Ensenada’s 25-day Fiestas de la Vendimia—and this year marks the 35th anniversary. On Sunday, August 17, 2025, Viña de Liceaga will once again welcome wine lovers, foodies, and anyone who appreciates a proper campestre party under 120-year-old oak trees (plus one majestic 500-year-old roble that’s basically a celebrity).

A Tradition Worth Savoring

Since the late 1980s, this event has honored the memory of Dr. Ramón García Ocejo, who championed Ensenada’s wine and culinary culture. Today, more than 90 paella teams will light their wood fires (gas is strictly forbidden) and serve their creations to the crowd. Meanwhile, 80 Baja wineries will pour more than 160 wine labels—a perfect match for a plate of smoky, saffron-infused goodness. Two live music stages will keep the energy high all afternoon.

Seafood Royalty in a Pan

#Lobster tails, shrimp, and scallops—this paella team isn’t here to play. A true showstopper at the 2025 Paella Contest

The Competition & Prizes

The judging is handled by the Asociación Gastronómica y de Paelleros de Baja California (Spanish acronym: AGAPE – The “Asociación Gastronómica y de Paelleros de Baja California”). Paellas are coded for anonymous tasting and scored on color, appearance, flavor, and texture.

Two categories take the spotlight:

  • Quality: flavor, texture, and presentation.
  • Visual Presentation: beauty and order of the cooking station.

Winners receive trophies, wine, paella pans, aprons, commemorative merch, and consumption vouchers worth around $14,000 MXN from sponsors like Afirme and La Canasta. And yes—tour packages are raffled among all attendees to close the day with a bang.

By the way, if you spot me near a good glass of Sauvignon Blanc, please come say hi. I’ll probably be there.

Family-Friendly (With a Few Rules)

Kids under 12 get in free, but no pets are allowed. The setting is pure countryside charm, with activities for children and plenty of shaded spots for adults to sip and chat.

Baja’s Biggest Paella Party Returns
#Mark your calendar—August 17 at Viña de Liceaga. Over 90 teams, 160 wines, live music, and zero excuses to miss it.

Your Insider’s Guide to Enjoying the Paella Contest

Get There Early

Gates open at 12 PM, but parking and prime shady spots go fast. If you arrive late, you risk long lines and missing the first tastings.

Parking & Transportation

On-site parking is limited and fills up quickly. Therefore, consider ride-sharing with friends or using local transportation services. Many guests arrange drop-offs to avoid the parking scramble.

Dress for the Occasion

Comfortable shoes are a must—remember, you’ll be walking on dirt paths. A hat and sunglasses will help you handle the Baja summer sun, and a light jacket can be handy for the evening breeze. Additionally, some people treat this event like a Valle de Guadalupe-style fashion show—think wide-brimmed hats, cowboy boots, and crisp white linen.

Cash or Card?

Vendors may accept both, yet cash tends to be faster. Moreover, don’t forget your ticket includes all wine and paella tastings—no surprise charges for the essentials.

Plan Your Tastings

With 90+ paella teams and 160+ wines, you won’t try everything—but you can come close. Therefore, pace yourself, and don’t ignore the lesser-known wineries; they often have the hidden gems.

Stay for the Raffle

The prize drawings happen toward the end of the event. Consequently, many people miss out because they leave early. Stick around—you might just win that vacation.

Quick Facts

  • Date: Sunday, August 17, 2025
  • Time: 12:00 PM to 7:00 PM
  • Place: Viña de Liceaga, Ensenada, Baja California, MX
  • Price: $1,450 MXN (kids under 12 free)
  • No pets allowed
  • Dress code: Comfortable, summer-friendly, or go full Valle chic

Thirty-five years, thousands of paellas, and countless wine pours later, the Paella Contest remains Ensenada’s tastiest tradition. Therefore, mark your calendar, gather your crew, and get ready for a day of wine, wood smoke, and friendly competition. Just remember—show up early, stay hydrated, and save room for seconds.

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Baja’s Moving… in Its Own Way
 Articles, Breaking News, Ensenada, San Diego, Tijuana

Baja’s New Ferry Waits, Tijuana’s Viaduct Shrinks—Progress, Baja Style

Baja California is on the move… sort of. Ensenada has a shiny new ferry sitting pretty at the dock. Tijuana’s long-promised viaduct is, well, shorter than promised. It’s progress—just not the fast-lane kind.

Ferry Fantasy Meets Dockside Reality

The Azteca Express I made its grand entrance into Ensenada’s port on July 25. Locals cheered, phones snapped, and Instagram lit up. But anyone hoping to hop on for San Diego this week is in for a plot twist—the first passenger trip won’t be until late August.

Phase one will carry people only—no cars until next year—but it will have a bar on board. Because priorities. It’ll seat about 230 passengers and take 2.5 to 3 hours each way.

Tickets aren’t on sale yet, but early chatter points to $70 USD one-way or around $130 USD round trip. The experience promises full customs and immigration checks at both ends—think “airport with a sea breeze.”

The San Diego–Ensenada ferry arrived on July 25 with room for 330 passengers, but no launch date or tickets are available yet. Here’s everything we know so far.
#The San Diego–Ensenada ferry arrived on July 25 with room for 330 passengers, but no launch date or tickets are available yet. Here’s everything we know so far.

Viaduct Loses the Beach

Meanwhile, in Tijuana, the Viaducto Elevado—that elevated road designed to whisk drivers from the airport toward Playas—has officially been downsized. The new plan ends the road at Cañón del Matadero, about 1.5 kilometers short of the beach.

The change trims the original 10.5-kilometer project and cuts Playas de Tijuana out of the direct link. Local residents worry this will dump traffic into their neighborhoods and worsen the rush. Officials say the viaduct is still on track to open late 2025 or early 2026.

Same Goal, Different Routes

In a way, both projects have the same mission—make it easier to move people and goods in and out of Baja. But like a good Baja road trip, there are always detours.

The ferry is stuck in “coming soon” mode. The viaduct is trimming its route. Neither is a total win yet, but each inch forward matters for a region that relies on cross-border travel like fish rely on water.

We’ll take the progress, even if it comes in small, slightly salty steps.

Viaduct in Action
#Workers and machines hustle under the sun, assembling what might just be the fastest road Tijuana has never seen… yet.

Quick Facts:

ProjectStatusETAFun Fact
Ensenada–SD FerryDocked, delayedLate August 2025Has a bar before it has car space
Tijuana ViaductRoute shortenedLate 2025/Early 2026Lost the beach but kept the traffic

Baja’s building momentum—just not at the speed locals (or drivers) might hope for. But hey, at least we’re not bored.

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La Verbena 2025 Gets the Green Light
 Articles, Events, Mexicali, Wine

La Verbena Brings Bold Flavors and Big Energy to Ensenada

Ensenada is about to pop the cork on one of its most beloved harvest season traditions. La Verbena de Santo Tomás returns this Saturday, August 16, and it’s ready to prove that wine, art, and food can still throw a better party than Netflix.

This is the 33rd edition of the event, set in the heart of downtown at the Plaza Santo Tomás. Organized by the Fundación Elías Pando and the Centro Cultural Santo Tomás, it’s part of the Fiestas de la Vendimia—aka Ensenada’s annual excuse to celebrate wine like it’s an Olympic sport.

Why “La Verbena”?

The name comes from an old Spanish tradition where towns gathered at night for music, dancing, food, and drink. It also happens to be the name of a plant (Verbena officinalis) once used in folk celebrations. In other words, “verbena” is basically code for “let’s party, but classy.”

A Local Icon

Yes, it’s emblematic. La Verbena isn’t just another Vendimia event—it’s a love letter to Ensenada’s cultural and wine roots. It also puts the spotlight on Bodegas de Santo Tomás, the oldest winery in Baja California, founded in 1888. This year’s edition brings back the intimate, community vibe with a 150-pesos cover that includes tastings, a commemorative glass, and enough reasons to call a taxi.

Wine First, Beer… Maybe Later

Traditionally, it’s all about the wine—especially when you’re standing in the shadow of one of Mexico’s wine pioneers. This year, beer will also be available. We’re not saying you shouldn’t enjoy it, but if you’re here for hops, you might be missing the point. The focus is still on wine in all its forms: experimental blends, food pairings, and guided tastings.

What’s On the Menu?

Expect live music from electronic beats to Latin rhythms, performance art, grape stomping, and wine workshops. The Plaza’s restaurants will serve up local flavors, while pop-up kitchens and tasting bars keep your glass and plate full. Look for the “Cata y Coto” sessions at Bar Escala and bites from chefs working right in front of you.

Behind the Scenes at La Verbena
#Loic Barbara, the mastermind behind La Verbena’s cultural mix, promises a celebration with wine, flavor, and more dance moves than you expect.

Culture Meets Celebration

Art installations, creative markets, and kids’ activities make this a family-friendly affair. That said, don’t be surprised if you spend most of your time hopping between wine stands like a well-dressed scavenger hunter.

La Verbena runs from 1:00 PM to 1:00 AM, which means you have 12 solid hours to experience one of Ensenada’s most charming traditions. It’s not just a party—it’s a taste of the city’s history in every sip.

Bottom line: If you’ve never been, you’re overdue. And if you have, you already know this is the event where Ensenada shows off its true flavor—one pour at a time.

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Claudia Agatón Makes History at the Grito
 Articles, Ensenada

Historic First Woman Grito in Ensenada With Edith Márquez 

Ensenada’s about to swap its sandals for sombreros. This September 15, the city will celebrate Fiestas Patrias like never before — and make history in the process.

Mayor Claudia Agatón Muñiz will be the first woman in Ensenada’s history to lead the Grito de Independencia. About time, right? She’ll be up on the Playa Hermosa stage, ready to shout ¡Viva México! to thousands of locals, tourists, and anyone within earshot — probably including a few confused pelicans.

And because historic moments deserve a proper soundtrack, Mexican pop legend Edith Márquez will follow the patriotic yelling with a full-on concert. Bring tissues. She’s famous for songs that make you cry, sing, and question your last breakup — sometimes all at once.

What’s in Store Before the Grito

The fun starts at 7:00 PM. Playa Hermosa’s esplanade will turn into a giant, family-friendly block party. Expect tacos, tamales, pozole, churros, and that smell of grilled corn that makes you instantly hungrier than you thought possible. Drinks? Oh, plenty. From aguas frescas to Baja’s craft beers — and yes, the grown-up margaritas will be there too.

There will be live performances before the main act, because nothing says “We love you, Mexico” like dancing in the sand while holding a plate of street food.

The Moment Everyone’s Waiting For

At around 11:00 PM, lights dim, the crowd pushes forward, and Mayor Agatón grabs the microphone. Cue the bell ringing — the tradition that’s been part of the Grito since 1810. She’ll shout out the heroes of independence, and the crowd will shout back ¡Viva! after each name. By the time she yells ¡Viva México! the energy will be electric — and slightly sticky from all the cotton candy in the crowd.

Edith Márquez Lights Up Ensenada’s Fiestas Patrias
#Edith Márquez Lights Up Ensenada’s Fiestas Patrias

Then the stage belongs to Edith Márquez. Her set list will likely include Fue mi Error, Mi Fantasía, Entiende Que Ya, and Mírame. If you’re not singing along, don’t worry — the crowd will carry you.

Day Two: The Parade Showdown

On Monday, September 16, the party switches gears. The Plaza Cívica de la Patria will host the official ceremony marking 215 years since the start of Mexico’s independence movement. Then comes the Desfile Cívico Militar — part marching band, part military precision, part “wait, is that a horse in the middle of downtown?”

You’ll see school kids marching in perfectly imperfect lines, veterans in polished uniforms, and community groups waving flags like their lives depend on it. The parade route will snake through Ensenada’s main streets, so plan ahead if you want a good spot — or if you just want to avoid being stuck behind a drum line for an hour.

Why You Should Go

It’s not every year you get to see history, music, and churros in the same night. This is the first time a woman has ever led Ensenada’s Grito, and the first time Playa Hermosa hosts the city’s biggest patriotic bash. Plus, the weather in mid-September? Warm enough for sandals, cool enough to survive the crowd.

So, September 15 and 16 — two days of ¡Vivas!, music, and patriotic calories. We’ll see you there. And yes, you can bring your dancing shoes… but flip-flops work too.

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 Articles, Events, Rosarito

Rosarito Brings the Opera Back to the Beach—Free for All

Rosarito’s seaside stage gets ready for its second grand operatic comeback—yes, with real high notes and no high drama.

If you’ve ever wanted to sip wine, watch the sun dip into the Pacific, and hear a soprano hit a note that could crack glass—this is your moment. Rosarito’s XIII Opera by the Sea is back for its second official Operatic Encounter, and it’s not your grandma’s opera night (though she’s totally invited).

From Street Corners to Sea Stages

Back in 2009, inspired by Tijuana’s “Ópera en la Calle,” a group of cultural movers and shakers brought the drama (the good kind) to the beach. Their goal? Take world-class opera out of the theater and into the heart of Baja—with ocean views and free admission.

#Flyer from 2016

For a few years, it became a local favorite. Then, after a break, the festival returned in 2023. This time, it wasn’t just about singing—it added workshops, lectures, and more ways to get the crowd involved.

What’s Happening This Year?

From August 9 to 15, Rosarito’s CEART will host the Second Operatic Encounter (ENOR). This means a full week of masterclasses, rehearsals, and musical happenings—all open to the public and completely free.

Moreover, the grand finale takes place on Saturday, August 16, from 3 PM to 9 PM at the Explanada de las Artes, an outdoor space just steps from the sea. Expect theatrical performances, powerful voices, and the best sunset backdrop on the coast.

Why Should You Go?

First off, it’s fun. This isn’t a black-tie event where clapping at the wrong time gets you the side-eye. Instead, think flip-flops, food trucks, and open-air arias.

Second, it brings the arts to everyone. Whether you’re an opera regular or have no clue what a mezzo-soprano is, there’s something for you here. Even kids get into it.

Plus, you’ll support local talent, meet artists from around Mexico, and enjoy Rosarito’s food scene in one go.

A Cultural Boost, Baja Style

Opera can sometimes feel distant, but this festival makes it approachable. During the week, performers offer workshops and Q&A sessions. As a result, you get to see how the magic happens—no ticket required.

This effort also boosts Rosarito’s profile as more than just a beach town. Thanks to events like this, it’s becoming a cultural destination too.

Know Before You Go

  • ENOR Events: August 9–15, 9 AM–6 PM
  • Location: CEART Playas de Rosarito
  • Final Performance: August 16, 3 PM–9 PM
  • Entry Fee: $0 pesos. Yep, free.
  • What to Bring: Curiosity, sunscreen, and maybe a chair.

Final Notes

Whether you’re an opera buff or just opera-curious, Opera by the Sea makes for a great day out. It’s free, it’s cultural, and it’s got wine. What else do you need?

Besides, where else can you hear Verdi while wearing sandals?

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Listen to The Deep Dive, our new podcast with real news, sarcasm, and no bad news—unless it’s funny. Quick episodes made for multitasking. Subscribe now!
 Articles, Baja Norte, Breaking News

Turn Up the Fun: GGNorth Now Has a Podcast

Subscribe now to The Deep Dive podcast by GGNorth

Reading is great—until you’re flipping tortillas, walking the dog, or forgot your glasses again. So, we made listening an option.

Say hello to The Deep Dive, the new audio spin-off from Gringo Gazette North. It’s still us, just louder—and hands-free.

The brains behind it? Luisa Rosas-Hernández (yes, that Luisa—the one who writes all this) and Oliver Quintero, our publisher and chaos coordinator.

The subjects? Based on Luisa’s original articles, crafted into quick audio episodes with our signature style.

We kicked things off Tuesday with “Margaritas, Music & Mat Time: Ensenada’s 77th Party”. Missed it? Don’t worry—episode two just dropped. We keep things moving around here.

Now, you can stay informed without putting down your spatula or opening a laptop. Whether you’re on the road, cooking dinner, or pretending to be busy, we’ve got you covered.

Also, if a topic grabs your attention, you can find the full article on our website—or follow us on social media.

  • ✅ Real news
  • ✅ Sarcasm included
  • ✅ No bad news (unless it’s hilarious)

We made this for our loyal readers—and all the curious souls who found us while waiting at the DMV.

🎧 Click here to listen and subscribe before your margarita melts.

No Bad News. Unless It Matters. Or It’s Funny.

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Family
 Articles, Rosarito

Dreaming off the Grid A Family Takes the Leap, Part I of 2

June fog was just burning off the coast when I pulled into Tempest Traders just south of Rosarito. I’ve long been wanting to write about this family’s story as they are building a life off the grid. This idea has become a popular topic of late. Of course, here in Baja there are many original families who have been living for decades in the wilderness on ranchos with no conveniences. I’m thinking as I get out of the car that a lack of conveniences is not what you would call an American dream. In this age of instant living everything is within a touch of the finger tips. What would inspire a family to make this kind of move? Drew, Annel and Sasha Mattews greeted me with warm hugs and we took seats in the shade.

Drew started with, “We had no idea of moving to Baja, let alone living off grid. But something happened in 2016 and we just knew that we were going to make a move. Our dream had started out wanting to travel.” But on one of their visits to Annel’s parent’s home in Rosarito they were bitten by the Baja Bug. Sometimes it takes a while to realize it. They were doing quite well in North County San Diego. Annel and Drew’s Kitchen was a very popular place at the weekend Farmers Market. Drew had graduated from a culinary school in upstate New York and it aligned perfectly with Annel’s background as she came from the family’s restaurant business. Coming together they created a fresh farm to table menu, as well as a very successful catering business for outdoor events. Annel added about the leaving, “It was the toughest decision we ever made as a family. Drew quipped, “Friends and family were really concerned about our mental health.”

#Rainbow

It became clear they wanted a home outside of Rosarito. With no effort they found just the place in La Misión. It was perfect for continuing their culinary best. The couple created home delivery service to the communities. Later they opened a retreat center following the shamanic practice of the sweat lodge and the lovely Cacao ceremony. (link here). While inviting people into their retreat center a new dream arose to own land. Twelve acres in the pristine hills and a 1960 vintage travel trailer became their getaway place. Drew joked, “A tiny space and big land.” When they lost the lease on their home it forced them into looking at the idea of living permanently off the beaten path. Often times committing to one’s long held dreams comes with a period of sacrifice.

I asked, “What are the first most important things you had to focus on?” Drew nodded, “Water, power, and where the waste goes.” This is rarely considered when purchasing a home in an urban setting. We tend to take for granted that these very important things are provided. Annel giggles about the waste, “No one is interested in knowing where “it” goes.” We all laughed, and a lusty riff began amongst us adding jokes to where “it” went and what to do with “it.”  Yep, living off the grid means you have to be responsible for “it.”

The first need is water. Drew explained, “The camper has a water pump, shower and a hot water heater for a little comfort.” Water, the most important element in life is answered by the water trucks. Their water is hauled from a local well and fills the large storage tanks. Kumiai neighbors came to locate well sites on their property. Using willow branches for dousing they found several well drilling opportunities. Very good luck.

Editor’s Note: Martina is a freelance journalist and storyteller. She has been gathering stories of Baja California for nearly 40 years and has written many of them in her book, Dust in My Sandals, Tales from a Baja Traveler. See our ad and order now!

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Detour Route (in yellow):
 Breaking News, Tijuana

Heads Up Drivers: Detour Ahead on the Way to Rosarito

Partial Closure Hits Key Tijuana Bypass This Week

If your plans this week involve cruising down to Rosarito, better map out a new route.

Starting Saturday, August 2 through Wednesday, August 7, a portion of Boulevard Cuauhtémoc Sur, near Nodo Morelos, will be partially closed. The cause? The state is finally fixing a damaged concrete slab that’s been bumping everyone around for a while.

Arturo Espinoza Jaramillo, Baja’s head of Infrastructure and Urban Development (SIDURT), said the repairs require closing the exit ramp from Libramiento Salvador Rosas Magallón that heads toward Playas de Rosarito.

Before you shout ¡no mames!, there’s a workaround.

SIDURT recommends this scenic little detour:

  • Use the three ramps of Nodo Morelos to hop onto Boulevard Cuauhtémoc Sur but head toward downtown Tijuana.
  • Then, take the ramp to Libramiento Rosas Magallón in the Playas de Tijuana direction.
  • Finally, take the last ramp to get back onto Boulevard Cuauhtémoc Sur heading south to Rosarito.

Yep—it’s a mini roller coaster, but it’ll get you there.

Important note: This closure has nothing to do with the recently built Nodo Morelos bridge, which is still standing tall and flowing smoothly with over 100,000 vehicles per day.

The real reason? Just wear and tear.

SIDURT is asking drivers to be extra careful: follow speed limits, respect warning signs, and brace for possible congestion. The smoother ride after August 7 should make up for the temporary headache.

Heading out of town? Maybe leave five minutes early, bring a good playlist, and skip the road rage. After all, this is Baja. You’ll get there—with a taco in hand and sand between your toes.

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