BajaNomad

Critique of Baja Cactus in El Rosario

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Barry A. - 10-20-2007 at 12:16 PM

Thank you, Toneart----------I appreciate this, as I always appreciate and respect your intelligent posts.

I don't know if any of my "ego" comments actually apply to David, but I was addressing the accusation and speculation that his "ego" was distressing some of the NOMADS.

Generally speaking egotistical people do not bother me, in fact I really enjoy them as long as they have something to be egotistical about. But you are right-----ideally humility will come with wisdom, experience, and intelligent reflection on "what works, and what doesn't", eventually replacing egotistical manifestations with those of humility. Thereby I probably DO feed some peoples egos, and doing so does not bother me--------I certainly do not want to do the opposite, and try and shut them down. It is a fine line, but I much prefer to feed, rather than starve, their (?) egos, and reap the results which hopefully is more good info.

As always, you make me think, and that is good. (tho sometimes I probably do not fully understand)

My best to you.

Viva Baja Cactus, and yes we need more.

barry

DianaT - 10-20-2007 at 12:33 PM

Most of us have gotten some good information from DavidK----- but when someone disagrees with his "facts", he goes on the attack----then claims it never happened----

Really like Baja Cactus, but when I said we didn't like Coco, good god one would have thought we committed a crime against humanity----we don't all like the same places nor the same people --- there are some who don't like the Baja Cactus Hotel, and that is OK, or at least it should be OK.



[Edited on 10-20-2007 by jdtrotter]

Barry A. - 10-20-2007 at 12:40 PM

Jdtrotter----------

--------and I say, "so what?" He is simply defending himself (tho I do not agree that David "goes on the attack").

I say, "let it go".

Viva Baja Cactus (and the Cabanas de Los Arcos of La Paz) :lol:

toneart - 10-20-2007 at 12:41 PM

Barry,
The "ego" reference was not specifically directed at you. It was brought on by an emerging general tone in this string, and others, about David K. It was intended to be a gentle reminder to all, including David and myself, regarding matters of the ego. We are all guilty to some degree.

Barry A. - 10-20-2007 at 12:43 PM

ToneArt---------

Ahhhhhhhhh, thank you. You are right again, of course. :yes:

Oso - 10-20-2007 at 01:10 PM

RE: Chu Foon

Dave, apparently he does discriminate since he doesn't bite EVERYBODY. But he won't tell me his criteria. It doesn't seem to have anything to do with ethnicity or gender. Maybe it's "vibes". He accepts some people and mistrusts others. But, he does seem to be mellowing out a bit now that he's getting some gray whiskers on his chin. He's also suffering from arthritis and losing his hearing. What is that thing about dogs and owners growing alike?

Roberto, by well-behaved I mean he doesn't bark, crap on the floor or get up on the furniture. Also, he never bothers people away from his own "turf". He usually doesn't pay any attention to little dogs even when they yap at him. But it is true that I have to keep him restrained if there are any other male dogs his size or larger in the area. I can't see any trace of Pit Bull in him. I guess it's the Chow half.

Lencho, don't worry. I'll keep him in the truck if we get to La Paz. Actually, he may stay in the truck even if I'm staying at a dog-friendly place if the parking isn't too secure.

Roberto - 10-20-2007 at 07:19 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Oso
Roberto, by well-behaved I mean he doesn't bark, crap on the floor or get up on the furniture.


All true, but Barry, with all due respect, this is a potentially dangerous animal. I find it difficult to equate that with "well-behaved".

Oso, re Chu Foon

Gypsy Jan - 10-20-2007 at 10:13 PM

With respect and being absolutely sincere,

I would like to suggest that you check out the information available from Cesar Milan, the "Dog Whisperer".

As he says, he rehabilitates dogs and trains people.

Barry A. - 10-20-2007 at 10:40 PM

Oh boy----------------and the bit on "Chu Foon" came from where???? (I am going to regret asking that question, I know) :?:

bajabound2005 - 10-21-2007 at 02:43 AM

Getting back on topic, we stayed at the Cactus last night. What a delight! The room was huge, clean, well appointed and the price extremely reasonable. Personally, we love pets under our table when we are eating (not that that has anything to with the lodging but seems to have leaked into many a post on this thread ) and the Cactus welcomed our 3 dogs, all of which were out-of-the ordinary well behaved on this trip. Usually when we stay in motels/hotels they spend the whole night growling at every little noise. Not so at the Cactus -- they just slept right through the night and the place was full! Must be some kind of karma.

There was even one of those little coffee makers, complete with coffee in the room! We found the lighting adequate for reading in bed (Bajamigo would have liked a littlle more light over the sink for shaving), the pillows and beds comfy, everything very clean, and the staff amiable. We love this place!

Russ - 10-21-2007 at 06:31 AM

:light:
If only Antonio could acquire all of Mama's corner I'm sure that area would become a destination instead of Rest Stop. There is so much to offer in that area for the curious.

Oso - 10-21-2007 at 10:27 AM

Sheesh!

"Every time I go to town
Boys all kickin my dog around
Even if he is a hound
Shoudn't be kickin my dog around."

For the record, it's been five years since Chu bit anyone. That was a guy who made the mistake of draping his elbow over our fence right next to a very clearly marked Beware of Dog sign. He spent 10 days in dog jail for that even though there were no charges and it was conceded we were "legal" with the fence and sign. This was for "observation". We have several friends and neighbors who are perfectly comfortable around him. When visited by those who aren't or those he doesn't know well, we shut him in the bedroom. He does his job, home security, very well. I don't want the kind of watchdog who will "watch" while we get ripped off. Chu does have a "rep" in the neighborhood. Where we live, that's an asset.

Oso - 10-21-2007 at 10:49 AM

Now THIS is a dog I'd worry about:o

http://www.ebaumsworld.com/video/watch/43224/

David K - 10-21-2007 at 10:58 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by Russ
:light:
If only Antonio could acquire all of Mama's corner I'm sure that area would become a destination instead of Rest Stop. There is so much to offer in that area for the curious.


Russ, You will find El Rosario is a destination with so much to see and do in the area!

Please click on Viva Baja Self Guided Tours and check out the many sites in El Rosario and the surrounding area!

(Nomads, I enjoy helping people by giving them a bit of info or photos of places so they can decide to go there or not. If that is 'ego', so be it... I am no different than other travel guide authors except I give it away for free here on Nomad... is that really so terrible?)

I think an ego showing itself here is more when I have recommended a place and someone else jumps in to say I am wrong because they had a different experience there! As if what they experienced was a better indicator?

Like I said, I have eaten at the El Rosario area places many times and I suggested three (including a note about flys and animals for Baja's Best)... Was there really a need to come into this thread and say more? Did it add anything? Or, did it detract from it? I also said that conditions change, places go out of business or change cooks and that will change what you find. I told you what I experienced when I was there several times over the past 3 years...

One thing is for sure, for you it will be better, worse, or the same as when I was there!:light:

Vaya Con Dios!

DianaT - 10-21-2007 at 11:23 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by David K
Quote:
Originally posted by Russ
:light:
If only Antonio could acquire all of Mama's corner I'm sure that area would become a destination instead of Rest Stop. There is so much to offer in that area for the curious.


Russ, You will find El Rosario is a destination with so much to see and do in the area!

Please click on Viva Baja Self Guided Tours and check out the many sites in El Rosario and the surrounding area!

(Nomads, I enjoy helping people by giving them a bit of info or photos of places so they can decide to go there or not. If that is 'ego', so be it... I am no different than other travel guide authors except I give it away for free here on Nomad... is that really so terrible?)

I think an ego showing itself here is more when I have recommended a place and someone else jumps in to say I am wrong because they had a different experience there! As if what they experienced was a better indicator?

Like I said, I have eaten at the El Rosario area places many times and I suggested three (including a note about flys and animals for Baja's Best)... Was there really a need to come into this thread and say more? Did it add anything? Or, did it detract from it? I also said that conditions change, places go out of business or change cooks and that will change what you find. I told you what I experienced when I was there several times over the past 3 years...

One thing is for sure, for you it will be better, worse, or the same as when I was there!:light:

Vaya Con Dios!


How profound!

John

Oso - 10-21-2007 at 03:10 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by lencho
Quote:
Originally posted by Oso
...a guy who made the mistake of draping his elbow over our fence right next to a very clearly marked Beware of Dog sign.

Sounds like normal, healthy behavior to me. Why the bad rep? :?:

--Larry


I didn't say "bad". I just mean the neighborhood (and hopefully friends of friends by extension) knows the "Caution, Security Dog" sign is not BS. Right below it are instructions to "use el timbre". Almost everyone does use the doorbell by the gate. It's a great screening device. If it's a neighbor or friend, we lock Chu up and open the door. If it's llejobas or the ilk, they eventually go away.

But hey, I didn't mean to hijack this thread to talk about my dog, I just wanted to know if we could stay at Baja Cactus.

[Edited on 10-21-2007 by Oso]

Barry A. - 10-21-2007 at 03:52 PM

Oso----

As a Ranger, when I entered someone's camp to check a permit, or something, and their dog acted aggressive (in MY opinion) I ALWAYS told the owners to gain control over the dog or I would shoot it-----period.

I never had to shoot one, but I was bitten several times and came really close. We are not paid to get bitten------when it's me or the dog, the dog almost always would LOSE.

A person with an aggressive dog is very liable for that dogs actions------private property or no.

Debra - 10-21-2007 at 04:28 PM

Russ: About Anitonio aquiring Mama's corner..............:lol::lol::lol::lol::lol:

Ain't goona happen! Ask Antiono (in person) sometime to tell you the history of the familys........... WARNING: your cheeks and ribs will hurt the next day from laughing. :lol::lol::lol::lol::lol::lol:

bajamigo - 10-21-2007 at 06:24 PM

Stay at Baja Cactus, Oso. We had a room with two king-size beds, one for us, one for the perros. We brought blankets to cover the "dog bed" because Antonio is rightly concerned about dog hairs on the bed covers. The room was spacious and nicely furnished, and very quiet except for the late-night arrival of an extended Mexican family. The staff was friendly and courteous. Cost was 400 pesos.

The only downside for me was the absence of wi-fi and some decent lighting for shaving. But I'd definitely stay there again.

Skipjack Joe - 10-22-2007 at 12:34 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by Oso
For the record, it's been five years since Chu bit anyone. That was a guy who made the mistake of draping his elbow over our fence right next to a very clearly marked Beware of Dog sign.


Am I the only one who sees the humor in this statement? To me it suggests that the dog understood what the sign said and felt free to bite the man. Now that's a smart animal. :lol:

Oso - 10-22-2007 at 08:26 AM

Maybe we ought to switch this to the "Chu Foon" thread.:rolleyes:

Barry, we've had this conversation before. I agree that in that situation you have the right to warn people of consequences and to defend yourself if the dog came at you. But, I've had an A-hole Customs guy in secondary threaten to shoot my dog when he was restrained on a leash and NOT exhibiting any aggressive behavior whatsoever, not barking, not growling not even giving a dirty look. THAT, IMO, was uncalled for, unnecessary, unprofessional, macho posturing. As for my private property, I have the responsibility to keep him fenced in and post appropriate signs. I am not responsible for fools who ignore such warnings. (We do now have 6' wrought iron gates that don't invite elbow resting.) Also, when camping I usually keep him tethered on a cable for two reasons; 1) So he won't bother other campers' dogs and 2) So he won't be lured off by some coyote ****. Please bear in mind that not everyone silently approaching a campsite is there for the purpose of law enforcement. Announcing yourself and giving people the opportunity to make sure their dog is restrained is both the polite and the prudent thing to do.

Antonio, don't worry. Chu never gets up on the bed and almost never uses his own dog bed. For some reason he seems to prefer the bare tile floor. Cooler maybe?

Barry A. - 10-22-2007 at 08:30 AM

Oso----

As you lay it out here, I TOTALLY agree.

DonBaja - 11-27-2007 at 08:55 AM

Back to the original subject....i don't think I can convince my wife to stay at Baja Cactus again. We have stayed at hotels/motels all over Baja and this last time at Baja Cactus left us with a smell that lasted for 2 weeks.

The room was nice and clean as usual. There is no heater in room 103 because the thermostat is missing but we had sleeping bags to keep us warm. Unfortunately the deodorizer (simple green?) was just way too overwhelming. I got used to it quickly but once the wife got a headach from the smell that was it for her, and all our clothes and sleeping bags held the smell for the next 2 weeks as we traveled to Cabo San Lucas. Unfortunatly it looks like we will be staying in San Quentin or Catavina on our next trip south :(

Scent???

bajaguy - 11-27-2007 at 09:52 AM

Hotel cleaning product......I believe it may be "Fabuloso" a cleaning solution.

We always travel with a couple of inexpensive candles that have a vanilla scent. Always use them in hotel/motel rooms.

Marie-Rose - 11-27-2007 at 10:19 AM

Oh my god.. I LOVE the smell of Fabuloso!!!!!:yes::yes:(purple) We can't get it here in Canada so I have so "import" it.:tumble::tumble: When I am here in Victoria it is the one scent that brings me right back to Mexico!!!! My housekeeper in TS goes thru gallons of it!!

Paula - 11-27-2007 at 11:41 AM

I'm with you on the fabuloso, Marie-Rose! And the green citrus is nice too. I hadn't thought of taking some along to Montana in the summer-- good idea!:dudette:

Just another good thing about Baja Cactus for me.

vacaenbaja - 11-27-2007 at 02:53 PM

Went down for a Thanksgiving week stay at Asuncion.
Stayed at the Catus twice, once on the way down the next time on the way back up. had the Four bed split level new room upstairs.
Both times it did smell rather strongly of the Fabulosa, but then I thought to myself, at least I KNOW that some kind of clening is going on between users. Opened a window and took it as a plus. Run the ceiling fan with the window open for a few minuites and problem solved. It is rather dark for
shaving and the bath room fan is getting a bit loud. The toilet
valve is sticking and makes noise until it is properly seated.
Maintenance stuff that should be taken care of soon .
Was advised next time to call in reservations, as we were quite lucky to have secured the room from a person that had reservations but did not call or show up by shifts end.
On my way out I forgot one of my shirts which was qucikly returned to my after the room inspection on our way out.
Still a great value. The coffee is quite drinkable too.

DENNIS - 11-27-2007 at 03:08 PM

Pinol / Pino / Pinesol...........It's everywhere.

Acuity - 11-27-2007 at 03:24 PM

We stayed at Baja Cactus on the way down this year, after reading all the positive reviews. I have to say - they are all true! This is truly one of the good values in the peninsular. The rooms, the quality of finishing and the amenities, are excellent, and you can hardly complain about the price.

Maybe I also just like the smell of Fabuloso!

Now, if only we could find somewhere equally nice to eat at in the town ...

David K - 11-27-2007 at 06:10 PM

I am surprised! All the times we stayed there the past three years, I never had noticed a cleaning product or other strong smell. I am typically very sensitive to bad smells (smoke, etc.)...

Be assured that Antonio is very reactive to our comments here. Perhaps when Soulpatch and DonBaja stayed there, something new was being used???

A place with the quality and ammenities like those at Baja Cactus cannot be found for under $40 in very many places... or for any price in the rest the the motels most of us have stayed in!

oxxo - 11-28-2007 at 06:24 AM

I have always been a big fan of Baja Cactus Hotel and Pemex and have stated this on this forum. However my last couple of experiences at the Baja Cactus Pemex have not been positive.

We always stop at Antonio's Pemex to fill up with gas, whether we need it or not, just to use the restrooms. They were always kept sparkling clean. But on the trip down and back last July and again for Thanksgiving, they were filthy. Almost as bad as any we have seen in Mexico.

Second, they now require that you hand over a 500p bill prior to filling up. The attendent takes it over to the cashiers cage and it disappears there. After filling, the attendent goes back to the cage and retrieves the change. There has never been a dispute about the amount of my intial deposit, but this is NOT a good business practice. I have never been required to do this at any other Pemex station in Mexico.

We are reconsidering our options on our trip down in two weeks. We may just fill up in San Quintin and bypass Baja Cactus.

vacaenbaja - 11-28-2007 at 03:51 PM

I filled up there twice and did not have to leave any type of deposit.Maybe someone had just finished 'stiffing" them when you came along.
Our attendant was very good and was tipped well.
I generally do not like filling up in San Quintin. However the new Pemex stations that they are putting up out side of town look good. I will always fill up at Cactus. It is the last honest and reliable source of fuel for many miles. Catavina and or Punta prieta need a Pemex.

Holdups en route from Mulege

Sharksbaja - 11-28-2007 at 04:14 PM

Military checks = 5-10 minutes
State Line = 0 mins
accidents = 0 mins
Border = 30 mins
El Rosario Pemex = 30+ minutes (reading meters?}

There must be a faster way. Just thought I'd share....:lol:

btw, that is a first. Usually very prompt there.

Slowmad - 11-28-2007 at 04:34 PM

If it fits your trip, staying at Baja Cactus is pretty much a no-brainer.
Wish he had the horsepower to take over the La Pintas at San Quintin, Cataviņa, and GN.
He could own Bahia de los Angeles with the right parcel, too. That town is begging for something better than C-.
Antonio's a good man.

Oso - 11-28-2007 at 05:01 PM

I filled up there on the way north the week before T-day and nobody said anything about a deposit. It did take a little while to get served but the place was packed with chase trucks and race spectators heading home. I thought about staying, asked if Don Antonio was there (no), but it was only around noon so I went on to SQ and stayed at Jardines (a 10!). I do intend to stay over someday, just a question of timing.

El mismo

Sharksbaja - 11-28-2007 at 05:04 PM

Yo tambien.

Scent/deposit...

BajaCactus - 11-28-2007 at 06:23 PM

Hello my friends,

First of all allow me to deeply thank everyone for your nice comments about our motel... we really are doing our best effort to have a decent place to rest and recharge the batteries while traveling through Baja... Thank you so much for your support and beautiful reviews.

Now... regarding the scent of our cleaning products at the motel... usually, our staff, after having cleaned the room, does a last sweep with "Fabuloso", which has different types of scent and it is not very strong, however I had not realized about any strong odors until some of you posted it on this thread... so I began to investigate what was going on.

It turns out that one of our suppliers has been randomly delivering a US made brand cleaner called "Now", not "Fabuloso", which has a very strong and annoying smell, specially if you over use it. Of course I gave orders to immediately dispose of this product and not to receive it anymore.. our apologies to anyone who did not spend a pleasant night because of this. I hope this resolves the issue.

Regarding the Gas Station, just a brief comment since this thread is about the Motel... I have NO idea what you are talking about a deposit... this is not something we practice at the Gas Station... OXXO, if you please e-mail me with some details like the date, time of day and exactly what your experience was, I promise I will find out and correct any possible misbehavior of our attendants... about the restrooms, this was supposed to have been solved several months ago, when we hired a person specifically to take care of them... I just informed my supervisor about this situation... I will do my best to take care of it.

Again... Thank you so much for your honest and straightforward opinions about our businesses... your input is very important to us... it is the best way to better ourself and try to improve our services... they are more than welcome.

As you know, I am always available at info*at*bajacactus.com for anything you may need.

Antonio Munoz
BajaCactus
"Where the Baja is so much more than a dream..."

[Edited on 11-29-2007 by BajaCactus]

DENNIS - 11-28-2007 at 06:48 PM

Amazing......

Almost 8000 hits and just under 150 replys.......
The Vatican wouldn't draw this much attention. Well.... maybe it would if they had dirty bathrooms.

DianaT - 11-28-2007 at 07:02 PM

Antonio,
One of the things that makes your place very special is your response to any problems or suggestions.

It is good that people are honest so that you know what is happening at all times.

Looking forward to your store and food.

Diane

oxxo - 11-30-2007 at 05:57 AM

Antonio has kindly sent me a U2U explaining the policy at his Pemex station in El Rosario. Antonio is very good with his customer service responses.

"You see, our Gas Station operations are organized as a "Self Service", which means that every client has to prepay whatever amount they think their tank will take (like in the States). My attendants are mainly to provide assistance helping with whatever is needed ... perhaps they did not explained this to you.

Usually every customer just walks to the cashier, pays certain amount, pumps the fuel in their car and then go back to the cashier for change... our attendants can help you with that if you ask them to."

I don't know of any other self service stations in the Baja. Now that I understand the situation, I'll know what to do next time.

mtgoat666 - 11-30-2007 at 08:37 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by oxxo
Antonio has kindly sent me a U2U explaining the policy at his Pemex station in El Rosario. Antonio is very good with his customer service responses.

"You see, our Gas Station operations are organized as a "Self Service", which means that every client has to prepay whatever amount they think their tank will take (like in the States). My attendants are mainly to provide assistance helping with whatever is needed ... perhaps they did not explained this to you.

Usually every customer just walks to the cashier, pays certain amount, pumps the fuel in their car and then go back to the cashier for change... our attendants can help you with that if you ask them to."

I don't know of any other self service stations in the Baja. Now that I understand the situation, I'll know what to do next time.


So the attendants are just scrounging for action when they present themselves as a full service attendant? Self-serve stations should have a sign that says "self-serve, ignore wanna-be-attendant if you desire self serve"

bajaandy - 11-30-2007 at 08:43 AM

You know, the thing about trolls is, if you just ignore them, they go away to another thread. :)

Keep up the good work Antonio!

vivaloha - 11-30-2007 at 08:55 AM

Hi Baja Cactus or others - How much is it a night at your joint?

DianaT - 11-30-2007 at 09:14 AM

Baja Cactus,

That is interesting because we have always been treated just like it was a full service station. The attendant fills the tank, takes the money and brings us change.

If they was the windshield, we tip them---had not idea it was supposed to be self-service. Are the attendants paid and should they be tipped for pumping gas.

Diane

Hook - 11-30-2007 at 09:33 AM

95% of all problems people have with paying at Pemex stations all over Mexico would be solved if people would just PAY AT THE WINDOW.

Antonio, you are the greatest!

David K - 11-30-2007 at 09:49 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by vivaloha
Hi Baja Cactus or others - How much is it a night at your joint?


Only $35 for one of the best motels you will experience... Baja or anywhere else.

Some photos...

805 041.jpg - 45kB

David K - 11-30-2007 at 09:50 AM

We prefer upstairs, no walking or stomping noise from above.

805 032.jpg - 40kB

David K - 11-30-2007 at 09:52 AM

King size bed with custom, U.S. made, pillow top mattress...

805 027.jpg - 40kB

David K - 11-30-2007 at 09:53 AM

Huge showers, always hot water, and pressure boosted water supply!

805 033.jpg - 43kB

David K - 11-30-2007 at 10:05 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by mtgoat666
Quote:
Originally posted by oxxo
Antonio has kindly sent me a U2U explaining the policy at his Pemex station in El Rosario. Antonio is very good with his customer service responses.

"You see, our Gas Station operations are organized as a "Self Service", which means that every client has to prepay whatever amount they think their tank will take (like in the States). My attendants are mainly to provide assistance helping with whatever is needed ... perhaps they did not explained this to you.

Usually every customer just walks to the cashier, pays certain amount, pumps the fuel in their car and then go back to the cashier for change... our attendants can help you with that if you ask them to."

I don't know of any other self service stations in the Baja. Now that I understand the situation, I'll know what to do next time.


So the attendants are just scrounging for action when they present themselves as a full service attendant? Self-serve stations should have a sign that says "self-serve, ignore wanna-be-attendant if you desire self serve"


How do you come up with such a negitive view on most everything? No, if the attendant is wearing a Pemex uniform then he/she is an employee of Antonio... there to offer assistance to customers... If they offer to fill your tank or take the money to the cashier or wash your windows, or all of the above, then I think a tip is the right thing to offer. You are in Baja on a vacation afterall... like giving them a buck is going to break you? Good service should be rewarded and that will encourage more good service from others as well... Don't you think?

Photo of Baja Angel with Antonio's daughter (Lorenia), two years ago at Baja Cactus... Notes the old gravity gas pump in the back ground... from the old gas staion in El Rosario run by Antonio's family for over 50 years!

[Edited on 11-30-2007 by David K]

805 018.jpg - 47kB

Barry A. - 11-30-2007 at 10:16 AM

I can remember having to "pay at the window" at the PEMEX station in El Rosario years ago, when it was remodeled------this was probably before Antonio even owned it. I always thought that it was a great idea, and we had no problems EVER with it.

The only problem I EVER had with the El Rosario PEMEX, and it was many years ago, was the over-zealous window washers------I normally do not use these "window washers" as they tend to scratch the windshield, due to the dusty conditions-----but it was hard to keep the "window washers" away from the windows. I would tip them to stay away, and they always looked at me like I was a little insane. :lol:

David K - 11-30-2007 at 10:58 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by Barry A.
I can remember having to "pay at the window" at the PEMEX station in El Rosario years ago, when it was remodeled------this was probably before Antonio even owned it. I always thought that it was a great idea, and we had no problems EVER with it.

The only problem I EVER had with the El Rosario PEMEX, and it was many years ago, was the over-zealous window washers------I normally do not use these "window washers" as they tend to scratch the windshield, due to the dusty conditions-----but it was hard to keep the "window washers" away from the windows. I would tip them to stay away, and they always looked at me like I was a little insane. :lol:


The station and property next to Espinoza's has been in Antonio's family for a few generations... Do to health issues Antonio's dad took it over from his uncle... and once Antonio was done with college and ready to assume control over the station and motel, he did... His dad still helps and his brother does the accounting....

vacaenbaja - 11-30-2007 at 11:07 AM

If I remember correctly the newer Pemex in Constitution has a "pay before you pump feature when they first opened it. I do not know if this is still true.

Hook - 11-30-2007 at 11:24 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by Barry A.
I can remember having to "pay at the window" at the PEMEX station in El Rosario years ago, when it was remodeled------this was probably before Antonio even owned it. I always thought that it was a great idea, and we had no problems EVER with it.

The only problem I EVER had with the El Rosario PEMEX, and it was many years ago, was the over-zealous window washers------I normally do not use these "window washers" as they tend to scratch the windshield, due to the dusty conditions-----but it was hard to keep the "window washers" away from the windows. I would tip them to stay away, and they always looked at me like I was a little insane. :lol:


Barry, I am sure you remember the mute guy (seemed like maybe he had a cleft palette) who was almost impossible to deter from window washing. Mid 90s, I think.

I usually gave up trying to stop him. Couldn't tell if he understood me or not, even with my Spanglish Sign Language.

[Edited on 11-30-2007 by Hook]

Jack Swords - 11-30-2007 at 11:27 AM

Antonio: just got gas at your station 2 days ago. No waiting (Baja 1000 over), helpers asked if I wanted help. Chatted with them about weather etc. Nice folks. No "deposit", just paid them and they made change. Left a "binder" of mission photographs and locations with Dulce in the office. She will keep it in her locker. The binder is for the upcoming library. Saw the cabinet for the Baja books. Very nice. We're lucky to have you!

Barry A. - 11-30-2007 at 11:34 AM

Hook------

Now that you mention it, I do remember that guy, and yes he was really persistant, but very friendly as I remember.

I don't believe I EVER went thru El Rosario without topping off at that Pemex------if they had ever shut down I would have been in a heap of trouble, especially when south-bound. :yes:

Skipjack Joe - 11-30-2007 at 01:09 PM

The greater the handicap - the more persistant they become. Cause there's no other way to make a living.

I remember an earlier baja that has changed in that respect. Whenever you pulled up to a hotel someone would insist on carrying your bags to the doorway. They just wouldn't take a no for an answer. The same was true when you came in with your fish at the beach.

The people of baja are more well off now and less desparate for the tips we give them. And that is a good thing.

CaboRon - 12-1-2007 at 10:26 AM

From what I have seen in my short time here in La Paz....
It is not a good place to be handicapped...
This may be true for all of Mexico,,, I wouldnīt know

The sidewalks alone are a huge impediment.

I wish them well.

CaboRon

DENNIS - 12-1-2007 at 10:32 AM

Pizza Hut in Ensenada has wheel chair ramps on each side of the front entrance steps that go up to the wall. The franchise was evidently supplied with building plans which were handicap friendly but didn't quite make it through the translation stage.

Paulina - 12-1-2007 at 11:31 AM

Barry and Hook,

I remember that guy quite well. He was very pushy about washing windows, even got mad at me the time I pulled in with a new truck with the windshield too high for him to reach.
I haven't seen him at the station in a while, but he is still around town, at least as of last summer. Maybe Antonio will kindly tell us his name so that we can use that in greeting him next time we see him.

P<*)))><

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