BajaNomad

Single Ladies Living in the Baja?

pponcy11 - 11-4-2009 at 12:31 AM

Hello All,
I am considering moving down to the East Cape - Los Cabos area. I have been down there many times by plane several times by truck. I was wondering if there are any single ladies like me who have made the transition and if so tell me about your adventures. This December I am planning a 3+ week trip solo driving and camping. I am going to take my time, in the past I was always rushed to get to Cabo and I think I have missed so much of the beautiful baja. Reading your comments I have decided to stop and check out Punta Banda - La Bufadora and at least two days near Bahia Concepcion. I am a great fan of seeing wildlife and I will have my 21 ft Four Winns so I am looking for a boat ramp on the Sea of Cortez. I would love to hear any suggestions or stories. I m not too concerned with crime. I know to drive during the day and I will have insurance etc. Enough said, tell me what you think. :)

shari - 11-4-2009 at 06:52 AM

go for it girlfriend....I travelled sola for many years then moved to baja full time as single mom for many years and had a blast. Then I found my media naranja here and lived happily ever after.

Being single has it's advantages...you meet lots of great people and can come and go as you please whenever you please=more freedom...less hassle=more fun....just make sure you dont give out the wrong signals to mexican men ...best to tell em you are married and waiting for your jealous husband.

[Edited on 11-4-2009 by shari]

TMW - 11-4-2009 at 08:05 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by shari
..just make sure you dont give out the wrong signals to mexican men ...best to tell em you are married and waiting for your jealous husband.
[Edited on 11-4-2009 by shari]


Well that could put a damper on having fun.

Cyanide41 - 11-4-2009 at 08:11 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by shari
Then I found my media naranja here and lived happily ever after.

[Edited on 11-4-2009 by shari]


:?:

shari - 11-4-2009 at 08:18 AM

media naranja is a spanish saying for "your other half"...half an orange.

pponcy11 - 11-4-2009 at 08:59 AM

Yippee! All I wanted was some encouragement! Thanks Shari. My daughter and I used to travel together everywhere. Now she is married and lives in Alaska :tumble: No way I want to live where there is always snow and no sun. I live in Southern Oregon right now but I dread the winters and am very excited to get to Baja. Your place looks great. What are the road conditions off the Hwy1?

Martyman - 11-4-2009 at 09:07 AM

21 foot four winns!! You go girl! Do you have a chainsaw?

pponcy11 - 11-4-2009 at 09:16 AM

Why yes I do have a chainsaw, how did you know? Use it often here in Oregon. Will I need it in Baja?

Martyman - 11-4-2009 at 09:28 AM

No, I don't think you'll need it. But I do think you will do well in the southland. Have fun!

Terry28 - 11-4-2009 at 10:07 AM

Please post pictures of boat and chainsaw!!

oldjack - 11-4-2009 at 10:31 AM

As much as I would like to see more "independent" women living in the East Cape area... you need to know that there are no public boat ramps(and very few private ones should you get to know someone)... making use of your boat challenging... IF you choose Cabo(yuk!!) then you will have access to the marina... enjoy your trip and take a look at Los Barriles as you go by....

Heather - 11-4-2009 at 12:33 PM

Well, in the summer of 1995 I went to Cabo as a single lady...but 2 years later I married my Cabo man, and now we've got our little family on the north side of the border.

That summer, I had a lot of single girlfriends that were in Cabo for various reasons:
Adriana, the Colombiana, was living at the Finisterra and later Plaza Las Glorias and working as a receptionist at one of the Golf Courses.
Penny, from Canada, was working as a dive master and climbing the rocks at Lover's Beach.
Barb (another Canadiense) was doing some tutoring and hanging out on the Pez Gato.
Shawn, from South Africa, was crewing on various tourist boats.
Jan, from Northern Cal., was taking pictures and making videos on the Pez Gato.

There were a few other gringas around town. Most of us went down by ourselves, but became friends as we saw each other out and about around town. None of my friends are still there! I think I'm the only one that left with a husband, although a couple of them left with children!

Cabo can be a rough city, and a lot of people will bash it on this forum...but I still see the beauty in the place, and am lucky that we still have ties to the place and friends and family to visit down there.

Most of my friends that lived there for 2-3 years were able to get jobs and support themselves. I only know one that got in on the "time-share" business...(actually she is still there with her husband and 2 little boys).

My original plan was to make a life in Cabo, but I am accustomed to earning a US wage and living a US life-style, and my little trailer in Cabo, doesn't quite cut it for my comfort! My husband keeps wondering when we will make the move back to his hometown, but he has also grown accustomed to the US and the lifestyle that we have here...it's a little different than his bachelor-pad -tin-roofed shanty, that I first encountered him in!

I hope you enjoy your drive down and take some time to look around Baja. If you do make the move to Cabo, I wish you the best of luck. Many of us that tried to live there grew disillusioned by the life that is Cabo...it's a small town, everyone knows your business, there is a lot of partying that goes on, drug use is rampant, many people will take advantage of you, watch your back, etc., etc. Many people have great lives in Cabo, but let's just saw that back in the day, it didn't work out as expected for my 20-30 year old girlfriends...but, most of us still visit! Saludos, Heather

Natalie Ann - 11-4-2009 at 02:09 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by shari
media naranja is a spanish saying for "your other half"...half an orange.





nena

Skeet/Loreto - 11-4-2009 at 02:38 PM

Nat: Thanks for Posting Viginia and My Photo! Was not sure if you would use it or Not.

Thanks Again.
Skeet

pponcy11 - 11-4-2009 at 03:28 PM

Quote:

Many of us that tried to live there grew disillusioned by the life that is Cabo...it's a small town, everyone knows your business, there is a lot of partying that goes on, drug use is rampant, many people will take advantage of you, watch your back, etc., etc. Many people have great lives in Cabo, but let's just saw that back in the day, it didn't work out as expected for my 20-30 year old girlfriends...but, most of us still visit! Saludos, Heather


Thanks for the feedback Heather! This is exactly what I was looking for. I am long past partying all night long and drugs have never been my thing. I will celebrate my 51st birthday on Saturday and em looking to slide into retirement having fun. I want to really love where I am and enjoy just getting up in the morning! I have had some great jobs, but the adventurer in me is wanting to shed this routine life for something a little more unconventional. I have no major obligations to keep me here in So Oregon other than an ailing mother. I love being on my boat and have a waverunner I am going to sell before I go south. I am not sure if the boat thing will work sounds like there may be limited number of boat ramps and access. But I would be happy to get out on the Sea of Cortez and the Pacific and just check out the view. I would like making new friends, especially some who share a love for the Baja. Most of my compadres here simply think I am crazy to even think of going anywhere south of the border especially alone. I try to explain I have rarely ever ended up alone, I always meet new and interesting people.
I feel the draw of the Sea of Cortez described in the Steinbeck quote on this website. My hope is I can find others who share that desire for a simpler life and just enjoy the sunrises.

Back to what you wrote: Who would try to take advantage of me? How will I know when to watch my back? Any suggestions are very much appreciated.

:saint:

pponcy11 - 11-4-2009 at 03:30 PM

I love the picture!!!! Now I get it! No tengo mi Media Naranja! So is that REALLY someone (Skeet) on this board? Or are you guys pulling my leg?:lol::lol::lol:

pponcy11 - 11-4-2009 at 03:33 PM

Boat and chainsaw pictures on their way. Terry28. Ad thanks for the heads up about boats and the East Bay oldjack.

You all are great! :)

Woooosh - 11-4-2009 at 03:53 PM

Every single gringa living alone around me is absolutely whacked in the head. Seriously. I finally had to start a house rule of "I don't do crazy". We choose not to engage in their gossip and mischief and that's pretty much all they have to do all day... no wonder they are alone and single in a foreign land.

motoged - 11-4-2009 at 03:57 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by pponcy11
Who would try to take advantage of me? How will I know when to watch my back? Any suggestions are very much appreciated.
:saint:


Oh Oh....:no:

Do I sense a story down the road?

Baja ain't Mayberry. Dorothy !:light:

Heather - 11-4-2009 at 04:02 PM

In Cabo, they'll all try to take advantage of you..you're a rich American, right? That's what many will think!

and always watch your back!

Once you get down there, you'll see where the locals gringos hangout and who to hang out with.

There may be some people on this board who are down there, so may get some more replies.

If you want to go for boat rides, the Pez Gato is a nice group of guys. The owners are an American couple and really nice people. They do sunset and snorkeling cruises. The captains are good friends of mine who've been at their jobs for about 15 years (you can probably trust them).

Another good person down there, who you'll see around the docks is a guy named, Isaac, with the Zaida boats. Really nice guy, speaks English, and he won't steer you wrong.

Did you say you were going down for the holidays? We'll be in Cabo and La Paz for New Years, maybe we'll see you down there! Saludos, Heather

HaciendaCerritos - 11-4-2009 at 05:35 PM

pponcy11 - check your u2u

BajaBoomerBabe - 11-4-2009 at 05:58 PM

pponcy 11

Sounds like an exciting trip. I have just recently purchased a condo in San Jose and love it there. Not quite retired there yet but soon. I think you may find that SJ is a great place to socialize. Lots of single women, friendly and helpful. Someday I would like to drive down (from Canada) and stop at all the beaches to do some kayaking. I will u2u with more info. as I will be in SJ for the month of Dec.:spingrin: Can't wait to get back there.

alafrontera - 11-4-2009 at 07:23 PM

"Please post pictures of boat and chainsaw!! "

I thought it was "boat and motor" ;D OK, old joke...

Mulegena - 11-4-2009 at 08:58 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by pponcy11
and at least two days near Bahia Concepcion. I am a great fan of seeing wildlife and I will have my 21 ft Four Winns so I am looking for a boat ramp on the Sea of Cortez.


In Mulege the Donation Pier is open, I believe. Stop in to Jungle Jim's, rest yourself and ask. The Jungla is just south of town off the highway on the south river. The pier is nearby at the mouth of the river and behind The Hotel Serenidad and airstrip.

You'll love the beaches of the Bahia Concepcion just south of Mulege-- a string of pearls!

BajaNuts - 11-4-2009 at 09:18 PM

here's a link to something you should be aware of. It's a very helpful link. Not to say anything weird would ever happen but it will make you AWARE and if something raises a red flag, maybe this will help you spot it, stop it, or not even get there...

http://forums.bajanomad.com/viewthread.php?tid=36760

And there are other single women living full time in Baja who haven't chimed in on the forum yet. Perhaps they will send a u2u...

GO FOR IT!

BajaBoomerBabe - 11-4-2009 at 10:21 PM

On the above note:

So far the men I have met in Baja have been very respectful . I have not heard anything to the contrary from any of the single women I know there. Somehow I think you can handle yourself.

bajabass - 11-5-2009 at 08:34 AM

Sell the Four Winns and buy a panga or a 17-19ft center console. Much more suited to Baja launching. There is a very good book "Trailer Boating Baja". Get it, read it, believe it. I envy your ability to get away so young. I'll be 51 in Feb. and have at least 3-5 years left before I can grab my wife and boat and gat out of here. Enjoy, you will do just fine!!:tumble:

You Go Girl!

Dianamo - 11-5-2009 at 08:51 AM

I'm driving down to the Los Barriles/East Cape area in early to mid-December, plan to take my time on this trip also, and stay until early to mid-January. Lots of wonderful people! Let's try to get together in LB. I'll send a U2U.

BajasBabe

pponcy11 - 11-5-2009 at 09:07 AM

I am so embarassed! I so wanted to post a great shot of the boat and this is all I have. My nephew messing around. Never thought about it but I am always captain and usually take pics FROM the boat not of the boat. LOL

pponcy11 - 11-5-2009 at 09:20 AM

I will have to figure out how to upload pics. Will post them when I can. I think they are too big

I am now beginning to wonder if I should sell the boat instead of bringing it along but I REALLY like being out on the water and just hanging out. Thanks again for all the info

DENNIS - 11-5-2009 at 09:24 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by pponcy11
I will have to figure out how to upload pics. Will post them when I can. I think they are too big



Here ya go, PP........

http://forums.bajanomad.com/viewthread.php?tid=24603

Woooosh - 11-5-2009 at 09:24 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by BajaBoomerBabe
On the above note:

So far the men I have met in Baja have been very respectful . I have not heard anything to the contrary from any of the single women I know there. Somehow I think you can handle yourself.


Are you kidding me? Blatant sexual harassment and intimidation is a daily thing mexican ladies just deal with in all of Mexico (Mexico city now has pink cabs and designated subway cars for ladies only). You think the Mexican culture of machoism is less in Baja? We don't even allow our 20 year niece to walk from our house to the taxi stand, we drive her. Construction workers howl and whistle- even at girls so very young- it is creepy. Every man thinks he's the "one for them" and they are very vocal about it.

Sadly, we watched the single gringa lady next door decline over the past three years. She befriended the local men- first to do some light work around the house for her. She let her guard down, drank a little too much wine and soon became a toy for them all. She started drinking too much daily and more than once I had to go out to the street to intervene and keep her safe. She gained some weight but made new "girlfriends" who were skinny with even worse male friends. She ended up strung out on crystal meth. And this is a lady in her mid-40's no less.

Unless you are 100% mentally strong and stable and smart enough to know when you are being conned or scammed, you will eventually have at least a few very bad experiences IMHO.

DENNIS - 11-5-2009 at 09:30 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by Woooosh
Are you kidding me? Blatant sexual harassment and intimidation is a daily thing mexican ladies just deal with in all of Mexico


Yeah....it's a part of the culture women should be aware of. I think I've seen mentioned here that a woman should wear rings to indicate that she's married. That, and carry a big container of pepper spray and don't be afraid to use it.

BajaNuts - 11-5-2009 at 09:33 AM

I've heard pepper spray is illegal in Mexico. ( correct me if I'm wrong about that...)

A big can of RAID Yellowjacket/Wasp spray is a legal alternative, can keep it in the truck, close at hand or around the house...

DENNIS - 11-5-2009 at 09:35 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by BajaNuts
I've heard pepper spray is illegal in Mexico. ( correct me if I'm wrong about that...)



Where did you hear that?

pponcy11 - 11-5-2009 at 10:03 AM

Thanks Dennis for the photo reference.

I have been down through the Baja many times vacationing with friends and family. While I have been approached I simply say no gracias and I haven't had any trouble. I'm not naive enough to think I can't get into trouble, so asking how others handle things seems like a good idea. I think I understand the culture and I do speak a fair amount of spanish. I don't drink in excess and definitely not interested in drugs, so I am usually not anyplace where I will get into too much trouble. Okay lets be honest I am 5'8" and pretty sturdy as my father would say. Who do you think loads and unloads the boat and waverunner. I am not someone who would put out the submissive vibe. I wanted to hear how the day to day stuff is for those gals that live it on their own.

What is IMHO Whoosh?

Bajabass I know its not easy to choose to be happy as opposed to do what is expected of you or what is common. Some of us can not live without adventure or challenge and that usually means lots of change. I would gladly give up financial stability for laughter and joy anyday. It just took me awhile before I gave myself permission. I reached out on this board because most of those around me, my family and friends think I am absolutely out of my mind. Why would a woman travel alone in the US let alone Mexico. Sometimes you can't explain why you have to do what you have to do. But who could resist the beautiful sunrises and sunsets that are posted on here all the time. Obviously not me.
Have a great day eneryone! I have to get back to it.

I appreciate ALL of your comments!

comitan - 11-5-2009 at 10:43 AM

The following blogsite is a single woman doing what she wants, you will have to go into her archives to see Mexico adventures.




http://sweettooth.typepad.com/mst/

BajaBoomerBabe - 11-5-2009 at 11:19 AM

I have lived in and travelled thru Mexico over the past 30 years. Never worn a fake wedding ring or carried pepper spray. I am 5'4" and not big or unattractive. Just used common sense and didn't walk around alone late at night uninhibited. Yes, Mexican men will make comments and whistle but I have never had a problem with them in my travels. I have had many Mexican men work for me, I treat them like I would in Canada. I have Mexican friends from all walks of life, they are welcome in my home as I am welcome in theirs. I love the culture there and can't wait to return there to live.

JESSE - 11-5-2009 at 11:26 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by Woooosh
Quote:
Originally posted by BajaBoomerBabe
On the above note:

So far the men I have met in Baja have been very respectful . I have not heard anything to the contrary from any of the single women I know there. Somehow I think you can handle yourself.


Are you kidding me? Blatant sexual harassment and intimidation is a daily thing mexican ladies just deal with in all of Mexico (Mexico city now has pink cabs and designated subway cars for ladies only). You think the Mexican culture of machoism is less in Baja? We don't even allow our 20 year niece to walk from our house to the taxi stand, we drive her. Construction workers howl and whistle- even at girls so very young- it is creepy. Every man thinks he's the "one for them" and they are very vocal about it.

Sadly, we watched the single gringa lady next door decline over the past three years. She befriended the local men- first to do some light work around the house for her. She let her guard down, drank a little too much wine and soon became a toy for them all. She started drinking too much daily and more than once I had to go out to the street to intervene and keep her safe. She gained some weight but made new "girlfriends" who were skinny with even worse male friends. She ended up strung out on crystal meth. And this is a lady in her mid-40's no less.

Unless you are 100% mentally strong and stable and smart enough to know when you are being conned or scammed, you will eventually have at least a few very bad experiences IMHO.


C'mon, theres good and bad people everywhere. It all comes down to the individual, and its preferences and or problems. Blatant sexual harrasment is NOT a daily thing here.

wadeinthewater - 11-5-2009 at 11:33 AM

Send me a private e and I'll be more than happy to share my experiences and answer any questions I can. Shari is a great person and great resource. (Hi girlfriend!)

I am a single gal in my mid 50s who moved down here a few years ago to follow MY dream and I live in Buena Vista (East Cape.) My kids, friends, co-workers and family thought I was crazy too. My best protection is my 2 dogs, who are also my best friends. Mexicans don't like dogs and I feel very safe, even though there are few gringos around here most of the time. Watch your back with gringos that live here, too!!

If you need a place to stay, I have a second bedroom. You're welcome to visit.

JESSE - 11-5-2009 at 11:38 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by wadeinthewater
Mexicans don't like dogs


What???:?: its going to be one of those days.

comitan - 11-5-2009 at 11:50 AM

The following is an event for La Paz people.:?::?::?:

Sunday the 15th of November

2nd annual Canine Expo 2009 in La Paz starting at 9 am at the Guaycura Stadium.

This competition is similar to AKC dog shows- purebreds only, males may not be
fixed, no pitbulls, must use training collar and leash.

Lots of fun, see great doggies and their human families. Last year there were
over 100 dogs.

DENNIS - 11-5-2009 at 12:00 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by wadeinthewater
Mexicans don't like dogs


Well, of course Mexicans like dogs. Especially in a spicy tomatillo sauce. :biggrin:

comitan - 11-5-2009 at 12:06 PM

I think what she really meant to say is Mexican are afraid of dogs, but that really doesn't apply ether only some Mexicans are afraid of dogs, but then so are some gringo's.:tumble::tumble:

wadeinthewater - 11-5-2009 at 12:20 PM

You're right-another one of "those days" I guess. lol. Just meant that when "people" come to my house and see/hear the dogs, they won't come in until I say "it's okay."

Of course they generally like/love their dogs. Geeez guys.

As a single woman, it's just nice to know when someone is coming around, especially after dark. Sorry I didn't explain it better. I am still new to this site too, but am still finding it easier to just talk to one person at a time. Think you guys may all have been editors in a previous life:biggrin:

Pescador - 11-5-2009 at 12:34 PM

I have been pulling a boat down to Baja since the early 80's and you learn all the spots. Get a copy of Gene Kira's book called "The Baja Catch" and Zack Thomas' book, "The Angler's Guide to Trailer-Boating Baja" and you will find all you need to know. You can go to the major tourist areas like Mulege, Los Barilles, Loreto, Cabo, or San Jose, or get off the beaten path in little burgs like San Lucas Cove, San Bruno, Asuncion, La Bocana, and Abreojos. Everyone will have an opinion of which is the best place, but I found long ago that I traveled around till I found a place that matched me and not every one elses idea of the perfect place.

bajabass - 11-5-2009 at 01:02 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by DENNIS
Quote:
Originally posted by wadeinthewater
Mexicans don't like dogs


Well, of course Mexicans like dogs. Especially in a spicy tomatillo sauce. :biggrin:
Bad Dennis! Simmer 3 hours in a chipotle salsa!

Bajahowodd - 11-5-2009 at 01:12 PM

Dennis or the dog?:?:

bajabass - 11-5-2009 at 02:55 PM

The latter, I hate tough old meat!:lol:

Baja Macho Culture

Gypsy Jan - 11-5-2009 at 04:01 PM

Is just like anyplace else.

As a woman on your own, be aware of your environment and set your limits.

Mexico is a third world country with lots of poverty and grifters. A perceived "rich" foreign female on her own without male escort will be approached by individuals with their own agenda, some more or less skilled at being charming.

On the other hand, there is an innate latin male sense of gallantry, with reverence and regard for women, and you will encounter that in unexpected situations.

Walk softly and with a big dog and you will do fine!

Dennis, Yes Pepper Spray is Illegal in Mexico

Gypsy Jan - 11-5-2009 at 04:03 PM

But, a squirt gun filled with ammonia is not.

DENNIS - 11-5-2009 at 04:31 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Gypsy Jan

Dennis, Yes Pepper Spray is Illegal in Mexico



How do you know that? Give me first hand references.

Third World Country

Bajahowodd - 11-5-2009 at 04:40 PM

I just ran some errands here in Orange County. Went to three stores at different locations and was accosted outside for money at two of them. I see folks pushing shopping carts loaded with who knows what all over the place. Maybe it's just the moderate weather that attracts them. I mean, who would want to be homeless in Minneapolis? That said, and I know we've been through this before on other threads, but I'd like to know if there's such a thing as a second world country. After all, with due respect to Mexico, they are way ahead of the pack as compared to many nations around the world. Take India. We're outsourcing all kinds of service jobs there, mostly because thanks to our British cousins, English is widely spoken there. India has many educated people, and is technologically advanced. Yet, some of most heart-wrenching abject poverty I've ever seen was in India.

Pepper Spray in Mexico

Gypsy Jan - 11-5-2009 at 04:56 PM

Dennis, here is a link to a two-year old discussion on the subject.

http://answers.yahoo.com/question/index?qid=20080126161720AA...

Ten years ago, we were told that pepper spray in Baja, specifically Rosarito, was illegal, but the fireworks stores would sell it to you, no problem and a cop would be waiting outside to "arrest" you.

Like so many things in Mexico, the laws and enforcement are very fluid.

Third World, Second World, First World

Gypsy Jan - 11-5-2009 at 05:10 PM

Here is a link to an explanation of the meaning and history of those designations: http://www.thirdworldtraveler.com/General/ThirdWorld_def.htm...

BajaBoomerBabe - 11-5-2009 at 05:41 PM

wadeinthewater - check your u2u's.

Woooosh - 11-5-2009 at 05:46 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by pponcy11
Thanks Dennis for the photo reference.

I have been down through the Baja many times vacationing with friends and family. While I have been approached I simply say no gracias and I haven't had any trouble. I'm not naive enough to think I can't get into trouble, so asking how others handle things seems like a good idea. I think I understand the culture and I do speak a fair amount of spanish. I don't drink in excess and definitely not interested in drugs, so I am usually not anyplace where I will get into too much trouble. Okay lets be honest I am 5'8" and pretty sturdy as my father would say. Who do you think loads and unloads the boat and waverunner. I am not someone who would put out the submissive vibe. I wanted to hear how the day to day stuff is for those gals that live it on their own.

What is IMHO Whoosh?

Bajabass I know its not easy to choose to be happy as opposed to do what is expected of you or what is common. Some of us can not live without adventure or challenge and that usually means lots of change. I would gladly give up financial stability for laughter and joy anyday. It just took me awhile before I gave myself permission. I reached out on this board because most of those around me, my family and friends think I am absolutely out of my mind. Why would a woman travel alone in the US let alone Mexico. Sometimes you can't explain why you have to do what you have to do. But who could resist the beautiful sunrises and sunsets that are posted on here all the time. Obviously not me.
Have a great day eneryone! I have to get back to it.

I appreciate ALL of your comments!


IMHO= in my humble opinion.

My response was geared towards a single lady moving to baja, not visiting. The problems I mentioned happen after you settle-in and the english speaking deportees take notice and start hanging around...

DENNIS - 11-5-2009 at 05:48 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Gypsy Jan
Ten years ago, we were told that pepper spray in Baja, specifically Rosarito, was illegal


You again raise my question, Jan....by whom? Expats in Mexico are driven by so many unqualified rules and regulations that, for the most part, have no basis in fact. Rumor runs their life.

I've see stun guns in the glass showcases in the TJ international airport gift store, very pre 9-11. Who would believe that if they didn't see it.

If mace / pepper spray is illegal to have in Mexico, I want that fact verified.

Can anybody here do that? I would appreciate it.

"Badges? We Don't Need No Stinking Badges!"

Gypsy Jan - 11-5-2009 at 05:53 PM

We were so informed by the then current head of immigration who then went on to be vice-president of Rosarito serving with the last mayor prior to the current.

He also warned us away from visiting Popotla, stating that it was the car theft capital of Baja and that eating there was a sure way to get sick because of the poor sanitation.

We've never gone to Popotla.

DENNIS - 11-5-2009 at 06:18 PM

I still see no real verification of, well...anything.

Dennis, Just Trying to be Servicey

Gypsy Jan - 11-5-2009 at 06:23 PM

The information I offer is what it is.

DENNIS - 11-5-2009 at 07:04 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Gypsy Jan
The information I offer is what it is.


Thanks Jan.

"what it is."

What is it? Fact...fiction...inuendo...rumor...lie....truth.....fantasy.......dream....nightmare......propaganda.....confession.....hallucination....What?

We need answers.

Woooosh - 11-5-2009 at 07:59 PM

I've eaten there, brought family friends there and actually prefer Popotla to Puerto Nuevo nearby. Less desperate menu hawkers and better value. My truck was there when I got back too- but I had a 125 pound barking alarm in it so I expected it to be. It was also lunchtime- not later in the evening. Then again- I had deep fried whole fish a few ice cold beers and usually stick with deep fried and more acidic items because I know things sit out a long time.

:?:

wedding rings and ammonia!

Dianamo - 11-6-2009 at 07:09 AM

When I was single for many-many year by choice, I wore a wedding ring often in the States. I felt like it kept me from being hit on sometime, but many men don't care, they'll try anyway. I always wear one a plain band in Baja, although now with price of gold, I may get a sterling one instead.

I also know about the ammonia in a squirt gun, it's just hard to find a squirt gun that doesn't leak. If anyone knows of a sturdy, non-leaking squirt gun, please fill me in.

Also, I have never found ammonia in Baja, I bring it from the States when I drive. I've been told it is great on scorpion stings, luckily I haven't had to try it yet!

DENNIS - 11-6-2009 at 07:18 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by Dianamo
If anyone knows of a sturdy, non-leaking squirt gun, please fill me in.



Here ya go. A model for every occasion:

http://www.hdhudson.com/

bajaguy - 11-6-2009 at 07:49 AM

Been carrying pepper spray in Mexico since 1970, no problems.....although I don't wear or carry it openly. Another great deterrent is a green laser......aim it at the nose, then a slight shift to the left and right.........will stop anyone!!!!

Oh, and by the way, guns are MOSTLY illegal in Mexico, but I see that law is also ignored.