Baja Fishing in Popotla

During this past week I was invited to go to the small fishing town of Popotla, which is a couple of minutes of South of Rosarito and literally a few meters walk from Fox Studios Baja. At first glance, the idea of going fishing for only the second time in my life seemed enticing. However, final projects and exams are coming up quickly and I still have some catching up to do. Nonetheless, I chose to forget about school for a couple of hours and go looking for adventure. After enjoying a full day of fishing, sitting in a boat in the middle of the ocean contemplating the horizon and eating fish tacos, I can confidently say I made the right choice.

If you are at all familiar with fishing, then you probably know that the fishes usually go near the coast in the morning. That means you have to wake up fairly early if you want to actually catch anything. So at 6 in the morning we started our trip toward Popotla. Traveling through the Tijuana-Ensenada scenic road, Popotla is located less than a half a mile south of Fox Studios Baja. At the town entrance, there are big white arches that signal your arrival to the colorful town. We went underneath the arches through a narrow road and finally reached our destination. The sun was just appearing in the horizon when we were ready to start our adventure. It looked something like this:



source: BlakeRead

We rented all the equipment we needed (since it's quite tricky to catch fish with your bare hands) and ventured forth into the sea. Five people (including a fisherman, some friends and me) tried our luck for about six or seven hours. I should remind you, fishing, although simple in theory, is not as easy to pull off as it seems. To attract the fish, you need bait. You can either use live bait, or, as was our case, plastic bait that looks exactly like a small fish. You cannot use a generic "plastic fish" and expect to catch something. You have to use the plastic bait according to the type of fish you want to attract. To put it in simpler terms, if your fish likes to eat little yellow fishes with dark spots, you need to have bait that closely resembles that. Otherwise, you won't have much luck.

According to the fishermen that kindly gave me some tips, all you have to do is throw your fishing rod as far as possible and then start pulling. I asked him: Why do I pull if I haven't caught anything? Because if you don't pull, the fish won't be attracted to something that does not move, he responded. That made sense, since a moving fish is more likely to be mistaken for a real fish than one that does not move. Duh. Having all the theoretical information, I proceeded to get on the small boat before putting the knowledge I just acquired in practice. Here is a picture of the how the modest boat we rented looked:

source: Antonio Martinez

As you noticed, our budget was not great and we had to settle for a practical option. Either way, I was fully prepared to lure some fish with my fanciful plastic bait. The early morning sun reflected playfully across the calming swell of the ocean, and I smiled at the thought of our little boat drifting lazily across the water. I hoped to stay there as long as possible, completely absorbed in my quiet thoughts in the middle of the ocean, without having to worry about my upcoming final exams. I desperately needed a dose of relaxation before a potential stressful week at school. Fishing was the perfect solution. My mind and body were completely engaged in trying to grasp the unexpected joy of capturing a fish. The contrast of the long periods of pensive daydreaming and the exhiliraing jolts of reeling in a live fish were the perfect emotional seesaw. The serene undulations of the boat and near perfect weather completely lulled me into losing all track of time. Almost eight hours passed, yet it felt more like two hours. I only caught a couple of small fishes, but by the end of the day, I began to experience the subtle discomfort of the day long fatigue.

It was the most fun I've had in a while, especially since it felt like I had embarked on a mini vacation. Later that day, when the sun was already setting and it was time to go, I struggled to let go of that place. It was only my second time fishing, but I can confidently say it is one of my favorite things to do. You will not fully appreciate the essence of fishing until you experiment it yourself. This picture captures the tranquility you imbibe when you're down in Baja:

source: BlakeRead

Simply breathtaking. Whenever I look at that picture I wish I could be inside one of those boats, gliding gently across the scenic waters with nothing but beauty to occupy my time. The fading sunrays reminded me that the day was nearly over, and despite my best efforts to linger there longer, my stomach reminded me that I had not eaten yet. To keep up with the running theme of the day, fish tacos were our next destination. Popotla, famous for its fishing, naturally offers a wide array of seafood restaurants with excellent dishes. Part of the reason why the food is so good can be attributed to the fact that the fish are fresh, and the difference is evident once you have a sample. Just take a bite out of one of these:

source: BlakeRead

Not only was the food excellent, it came at a very reasonable price. The atmosphere is truly unique. Several places, including the one I attended, have live music, either popular Mexican music performed by a band, or typical pop songs performed by a semi-professional singer the restaurant hires. The singers are dedicated to attend to the customer's request, and even let the customers sing karaoke style if they choose to do so. It definitely felt like a party. In fact, it was an actual party. Both locals and tourists were delighted with the food, music and overall good vibe the place had. It's not hard to see why Baja has gotten increasingly popular over the years. Once you experience it, you fall in love with the scenery, surroundings, culture, and lifestyle. Maybe this week I'll be studying day and night for my final exams, but once I'm done with that, I already know where I'm going to be. Till next time.

Baja Bike Ride: Rosarito to Ensenada

source:rosaritoensenada

This past Saturday (April 21^st), the 28^th Annual Rosarito-Ensenada “50 mile fun bicycle ride” was celebrated. More than 8,000 people signed up for the race across Baja, with other thousands who preferred to watch from the sidelines and cheer the riders. This is one of the most popular events that take place in Baja, as it attracts locals and tourists alike. In fact, many of the riders are California locals who are already familiar with the race and decide to go south for some exercise, relaxation, and fun.

The Rosarito-Ensenada bicycle ride is unlike any other. It is definitely competitive, as several semi-professional cyclists join the event, but the main purpose of the race is not to win, but rather, to enjoy the beautiful and exceptional landscape that Baja has to offer. The 50 mile ride starts in Rosarito’s main boulevard, which leads to the scenic road until Ensenada is reached. This means that riders have the rare chance to travel along the Pacific Coast and inland through the rural countryside. Furthermore, the ocean is clearly visible from the road, so cyclists got to enjoy that too. It's no wonder so many people show up every year, just look at this aerial view.

source: BajaBound

Not only does the race offer unmatched visuals of some of the most stunning locations in the region, but it is also an award winning event recognized worldwide. It was called the best cycling event by readers of Los Angeles Sports & Fitness Magazine, and the best cycling tour by readers of Competitor magazine. Internationally, it is one of the most popular cycling events, comparable with the Tour de France and the Giro d'Italia, according to Competitor magazine. The difference of Baja's race resides in being more recreational and informal than the other two. It is authentically a party on wheels.

Competitive cyclists and ordinary people like you and me put on their helmets, grab their bike, and head to Baja for one memorable day. In fact, just about everyone goes the race! Little children with their small tricycles, teenagers, couples, adults, and even grandparents. I’m not kidding. There is no need to be Lance Armstrong or be in perfect shape. Most participants are not like that. People from all shapes and sizes gather for this event. Here is a photo of the start line in Rosarito’s main boulevard, Blvd. Benito Juarez, where everyone was eager to start their trip.

source: GrandBaja

Saturday’s Rosarito-Ensenada ride was the perfect escape. Riding by yourself or with your friends by your side and soaking the Baja scenery can be one of the most rewarding activities you can imagine. Snaking through the hills on the winding asphalt, you are continuously soothed by the faint whisper of the waves clashing against the shoreline. As each pedal propels you forward through the light ocean breeze, the scenic landscape unfurls before you at each curve, luring you deeper into Baja's lore. Here is a glimpse of the view the riders had on Saturday. This photo will probably make you wonder why you didn't attend this past race. Luckily, this is a biannual event, so you have a chance to attend the next one this upcoming September 29th.

source: GrandBaja

In case you are not so serious about cycling and only want to have fun in Baja, Saturday’s ride also has another appeal you should consider. Known for their fun-loving, easy going personality, many locals embraced the opportunity to showcase their comical prowess and entertain the visitors. Several participants could be spotted with typical Mexican wrestling masks in their faces, others with silly wigs. SpongeBob Squarepants was also seen giving the children a joyful surprise when they saw their idol live. Of course, seriousness can be also be combined with entertaining the audience, as this photo shows. The local is dressed as one of the most popular characters in Mexican culture, “El Chapulin Colorado,” a clumsy and comical crime fighter beloved in Mexico. Here he is eyeing the finish line.

source: EnsenadaMx

But just like the rest of the people who wore something funny to the race, he was dead serious about getting some exercise, soaking in the beautiful Baja scene, and just having a good time.

If that still doesn't draw your eye, there is an added bonus the organizers planned. A huge party always takes place after the race. On the Ensenada waterfront, a “fiesta” with live rock-n-roll awaits everyone willing to attend. As you can see, the Rosarito-Ensenada bike ride offers all a good time. The only thing you need is to bring your energy. I guess bringing a bicycle would help too. There is also a $35 charge for participating in the race, but its free to watch as a spectator and join the party later. It’s definitely a can’t miss event, designed for people of all ages and interests. The race exemplifies much of what makes Baja a mystical destination. Once you go, you will begin to understand. I hope to see you here soon. Till then.

Descanso - Respite

So there I am. I have to be at San Diego State by 4:30pm but instead I’m stuck in traffic. God, I hate traffic. Naturally, I’m not going to make it to class on time, and even worse, I’m stuck in my car with an empty stomach. The hunger pangs are getting to me and I am getting really grumpy. I haven’t had time for much of anything lately with the tax deadlines and school work, and the stifling bumper to bumper traffic is a reminder of how badly I want to escape my daily routine.

My whole rant on urban lifestyle may seem kind of depressing, and it can be sometimes. But summer is not far away, which means rest and relaxation draws near. After all, what we all desire is getting away from our worries and enjoying ourselves; having little pleasures like sleeping in or staying up late without having to worry about anything else. No worries about being late for work, school, or avoiding traffic. I really hate traffic.

As I was thinking about all these things, I suddenly remembered that as a part of my duties with LEI Mexico, I had the opportunity to explore Rosarito the next day. I was finally getting a chance to glimpse one of the developments that the company works with: Descanso Homes. I was eager to see if the ocean views were that beautiful, if the houses had such fine details, and if the mood was truly so soothing.

That Friday, after meeting Isaac (my colleague at LEI Mexico), we began our drive south toward Baja. Passing by the multitude of brightly colored artisan shops and charming small restaurants, we witnessed a glimpse of Mexican culture. We also couldn't help but laugh at the absurdly decorated donkeys proudly displayed by the street vendors. Luckily, the ocean view as we drove by was not bad.

Weaving through the various shops and the streams of tourists, we cruised beyond Rosarito and closer to Descanso. It was a fairly short trip, passing by Fox Studios Baja and the famous lobster town of Puerto Nuevo. The conspicuous Descanso billboards guiding us ever closer, we finally darted around a bending road and curved up the welcoming security entrance. From the first glance, I was very impressed. Neatly trimmed patches of grass and radiant flowerbeds lining the paved entrance cordially greeted our arrival. After a brief conversation with the courteous guard, we were waived ahead.

In front of us, a climbing road led up to an array of residences. The structural design and placement of the homes made it clear this was a master planned community. This wasn't a winding loop of houses sprinkled across a roughshod landscape. Instead, one could observe the houses blending with the natural surroundings. It was particularly pleasing to note that Descanso was encased on a rolling hill with a sprawling valley on both flanks, but it was even better to turn my gaze due West and feel the vastness of the ocean envelope my senses.

Looking inside the model homes only confirmed my hunch. The interiors were spacious, full of intricate details, and rich in color. The floor tiles, the stylish lamps, and the paintings, were all of first class quality. The chandelier and the chimney, although quite striking, harmoniously blended size and shape without disturbing the open space of the room. The carefully adorned table in the dining area was partnered with distinctive handmade chairs. Whenever I thought I could no longer be impressed, I found a new detail to admire. The architecture and overall style of the houses was exquisite. Here is a photo of the kitchen so you can judge for yourself.

Aside from the aesthetic beauty the house offers, we knew that the next step was going to the roof and admiring the view. As soon as my feet clambered up the last step, I was ecstatic. I had that dumb little smile in my face that people have when they imagine something happy. The elegant layout of the patio sofas and centerpiece table invited me to grab a seat; however, I was too busy musing, daydreaming about countless hours I could spend here. The view itself elicited the most wistful of sentiments. With ample inspiration, I absorbed the cooling breeze deeply into my lungs.

Just look at the picture and imagine the dazzling array of reds and yellows cast by the sunset.

Imagine the sun setting into the calm ocean while fresh gusts of wind gently massage your face. Imagine what it feels to be there enjoying this exceptional view, and to know that it could easily belong to you.

I have officially been sucked into this whole luxury real estate thing. I mean, who wouldn’t want to live in a place like Descanso Homes or the many other first-class residences across Mexico? No wonder there were so many people there to view these homes that day. If I plan things right, I too will have my own piece of Mexico. Till then, I'll have go bear with school and traffic, the routine. Until I plan my next escape to Rosarito...

Baja Time

If you want to escape from all the hassle of the urban lifestyle, we have a suggestion: go and visit Baja. Just minutes south of the border you will find friendly people, beautiful scenery, inexpensive living and overall peacefulness and tranquility. Oh, and tequila, in case you also like to party. Want to relax and stay by the beach? Go to Rosarito. Want to have fun and enjoy another culture? Visit Ensenada.

In fact, this is one of the best times of the year to drive south. Spring is in full swing, summer is fast approaching and the sun is bright. So why not visit Baja today? Are concerns about bad roads and safety keeping you away? In an effort to catch up with the most developed countries, as well an attempt to attract more foreign tourism, Baja is no longer lagging in roads, guidance or safety measures for visitors.

This past week, the government of Baja California announced a significant investment in highway and road infrastructure that is being done as you read this post. A special effort is being made to improve roads that are more frequently traveled by tourists, such as the ones that lead to Rosarito and Ensenada. Moreover, Mexican police officers have been instructed to give information, orientation, and directions to tourists in the highways to compensate the current lack of signs and directions on the road. There is no need to worry if you don’t know how to get to a certain place you want to visit. A friendly officer will be your guide. Also, highway inspections will be shorter and more efficient to accommodate tourists, as Tijuana’s Tourism and Conventions Committee director, Miguel Ramos Ramirez, recently made public.

Once you take the newly improved roads, there are several safety organizations created by CAFUPE (“Caminos y Puentes Federales”, or “Federal Roads and Bridges”) to protect you in case of any problem, such as the Red Cross, the Preventive Federal Police, and a special unit of panic emergency police. These services are monitored by satellite.

Let’s sum it up. First, you need a vacation and decide to go to one of the most beautiful and fun places around, Baja. Next, you find out that infrastructure and services for tourists are better than you thought, leading you to enjoy yourself fully and appreciate the many great things Baja has to offer, which leads us to the final step. If you enjoyed it so much the first time, why not do it again? Maybe even permanently. More and more Americans are acquiring property in Mexico and settling there for good. A little over a million Americans have chosen Mexico as their permanent residency.

Investing in property in Mexico has become very common nowadays. This is the time to go to Baja, and if you become enchanted by the idyllic lifestyle, as you undoubtedly will, you already know who to contact to acquire property. Until next time.

A little bit about this writer

For the next couple of weeks, and hopefully for much longer, I will be writing in this blog, providing you with valuable and insightful information about Baja. Relevant news and events that have an effect on Baja real estate will be the main focus of my writing. I will also report on the regular trips I will be making to see what is happening down south in Baja. In other words, I am the official Baja Correspondent for LEI Mexico.

Why will I be doing this?If I have to answer that in one sentence, I would say it's because I find it fascinating. Being born and raised in Tijuana, Mexico, I have seen flocks of tourists visit the many enchanting sites and beaches Baja has to offer. Initially just visiting Baja to escape their daily routines, these tourists are now becoming residents and buying properties all over the coast. I have witnessed the construction of several real estate developments in what seemlingly appears to be the middle of nowhere, only to find out a couple of years later a full scale development already sold out and populated to its maximum capacity.
Since real estate is a passion of mine, especially the boom that Baja is experiencing, I was genuinely excited when I discovered that LEI Mexico needed an intern. I immediately called, and the next thing I knew, I had the chance to contribute to this blog. As an International Business student from San Diego State University that will be graduating this semester, I felt extremely frustrated when I was looking for companies where I could do an internship. They were either unappealing or having an intern was not feasible for them at that time. However, this opportunity came along and I was lucky to find a place where I could learn about something in which I have a sincere interest and have even considered doing in the future. So, as a part of my experience here at LEI Mexico, I will be contributing to this blog one or two times a week to keep you informed on all things concering Baja Real Estate, politics, travel, sports, and leisure.

I hope you enjoy reading this blog as much as I enjoy doing the research and writing for it. If you have any particular questions or comments, please feel free to contact me. I will be more than happy to read your thoughts and help you in any way I can.

Sincerely,
Jose ZatarainBaja CorrespondentLEI Mexico