BajaNomad - Driving first time and with kids!

Driving first time and with kids!

Pages: 1 2

hairwild - 7-2-2010 at 11:36 PM

Hi to all, I feel so blessed I found this website! I want to thank you all for helping me figure out insurance (bajabound), and for all the tips I've been reading every chance I get. I love the fact that I haven't found a "you'll get killed/ robbed/ kidnapped" nasty comment like I've received from friends and family after announcing our plans. I want to believe Baja is still safe even thou I confess, I'm more weary of policemen than robbers.
As a typical newbie, I'd like to ask you all to share comments, suggestions, and the like regarding driving Baja with DH, toddler, and two teenagers. We will be staying in La Paz, and we have 3 days to get there, one because we want to enjoy the ride, and 2, because our 2 year old will go nuts strap in the car for more than a few hours at a time. We plan to do a quick stop in Cabo once we're in La Paz (our teen girls say it's "THE" place to go of course), but we really just want to see, learn and enjoy the real Baja. Please, any advice where to spend the first night? how far can we go if we keep stopping for bathroom breaks, pictures, etc? That is my DH's main concern. Not finding a place to sleep. We know we won't drive at night, and it's very scary to find ourselves at sunset not knowing where to go. Thank you so much for helping us out, and hopefully this will be the first of many trips down Baja!

DavidE - 7-3-2010 at 01:08 AM

Call me a sentimental old fool but I love the cataviña area with it's "whatever the heck it's called these days" hotel. Used to take me four hours to drive from Ensenada to El Rosaio (but I drive slow) and then it's another 76 miles to Cataviña. The hotel was/is mid scale. Others on this forum will have vastly more current information about this and where to eat. This place is still thankfully a wide spot in the road so directions are useless.

Regardless, gas up at the gasolinera in EL ROSARIO, and let the kids do their bathroom thing. Around two hours later you'll arrive in Cataviña.

Second night in Mulege or Loreto may be an option.

These are going to be long but not killer driving days. Start out after breakfast. You'll have another shot at what you passed on your way back.

wilderone - 7-3-2010 at 08:22 AM

3 Days is about right for one way, which allows for plenty of stops along the way. I would agree that the hotel in Catavina would make a good stop for the first night. A nice spring-fed swimming pool there, and restaurant. If you're up to it, go down the road just a tad to Rcho. Sta. Inez, have a soda, and take a walk in the arroyo - see the blue fan palms, lupin. Get the driving kinks out. Maybe Mulege the next night. Start early to allow a diversion of 1 hr-2 hr. to see the Mision San Fernando - just enough off-road without risk for a real Baja look-see. The mission, pot sherds, stream, birds, history, quiet. Or a drive to El Marmol - awesome onyx quarry, Baja desertscape. Guerrero Negro for a meal and trinket shopping? It's the little things that make a trip fun. When you come upon Vizcaino (so of Guerrero Negro), there's a gas station on the right, and there might be someone near there selling honey, dried mango, oranges, candied figs and other stuff. The honey is wonderful; the oranges so sweet. Stop and get some. Get some tamales at the trailer at the gas station on the left of Hwy. 1 at Jesus Maria. There are plenty of hotels in Guerrero Negro too. San Ignacio is a nice stop for an hour or so - see the mission, trinket shopping, sit by the river and picnic, restaurants. Task the teenagers with taking photos, learning Spanish; bring some stuff for them to give to less fortunate.

Diver - 7-3-2010 at 09:09 AM

You will have to remember that you will be on "kids time".
Our youngest in now 9 but did his first trip at age 2.
Here are some suggestions;
Day 1 plan on either the Desert Inn (whatever they are calling it these days) in San Quintin or if you get farther, BajaCactus in El Rosario. If you are amazingly speedy or get a really early start, there is a Desert Inn affair in Catavinia also.
For day 2 consider 3 options depending on how far you get.
1. San Ignacio - the Bed and Breakfast (morning brain can't come up with the name).
2. Santa Rosalia - the motel just south of town on the water.
3. Mulege - the Serinidad so the kids can hit the pool.
You can make La Paz from any of these three in one day.

If your 2 year old normally sleeps late, consider starting your days early and getting some driving time in while he's asleep. Also, no stops while he's napping !!

Bring books and kids music and plan to read to him and sing silly songs !
Also keep lot's of his favorite snacks within easy reach.

Good one-hour stops (there are many others) along the way include numerous eateries in El Rosario, the rocks and desert in Catavinia, The town square in San Ignacio, the town and bakery in Santa Rosalia, the town of Mulege, the beaches south of Mulege, the town of Loreto; and go SLOW through CC !

Alan - 7-3-2010 at 09:17 AM

Baja Cactus - El Rosario
La Serenidad - Mulege
La Paz

redhilltown - 7-3-2010 at 09:22 AM

a few thoughts. past maneadero you'll come to your first military checkpoint (unless there are sporadic ones at the toll booths or the tj one is open again) and it can be a bit disconcerting to those not used to young men in uniforms carrying guns coming up to your car. right before you go up the hill to this checkpoint is a really nice grocery store/restaurant called acamabaro...on the left...clean restrooms and nice people. after the checkpoint you drop into the santo tomas valley (the palomar here is a fun place to stop too) and really get a nice taste of baja. make SURE your spare is in good shape and however careful you are driving in the u.s., double that in baja with eyes open for potholes and cows. maybe google "driving highway one in baja" or similar to get a feel for it...sounds like you are spending a few bucks on the trip so why not a few more for the piece of mind of a sat. phone? and if you are going soon, it can be way hot south of catavina (which indeed is a great place to stop) so have plenty plenty plenty of water/fluids and have a blast.

KASHEYDOG - 7-3-2010 at 09:27 AM

Hey, Hairwild : ) I see you're getting a lot of great responses as to where to stay. However, it might help us to know where you are starting from.

[Edited on 7-3-10 by KASHEYDOG]

KASHEYDOG - 7-3-2010 at 09:52 AM

Here's a web site to check out : )

http://inlapaz.com/Driving_to_La_Paz.html

If you decide to stop in the San Quintine area I would suggest the old "Desert Inn Hotel". It's a great place for the kids because it"s right on the beach and is great for discovery walks and last I heard a few day ago it's only $40 a night. I'll attach a link and picture below.

http://www.desertinns.com/SanQuintin/#

DESERT INN FROM THE WATER

[Edited on 7-3-10 by KASHEYDOG]

DESERT INN 2.JPG - 25kB

KASHEYDOG - 7-3-2010 at 09:59 AM

Another pic from the outside patio with a friend.

GRUPO PIÑOS ACQUIRES BAJA HOTELS: San Quintin -
Discover Baja Club:
The mega-agricultural firm on Highway 1, Grupo Piños, has purchased the former Desert Inn (was La
Pinta - El Presidente) on Bahia Santa Maria in
San Quintin. Promotional rates are still about $40 USD/night plus tax or $565 pesos total.
The manager of the Hotel Mision Santa Maria is
Nelson Santos Pedrin.
Reservations: 616 165 9008 or email:

hotelmisionsantamaria@hotmail.com

Directions: Hotel Mision Santa Maria, from
H1 look for large plant Los Piños in the grove of
screened green houses, at ‘new’ Pemex station, turn West, go through the grove 2.5 miles to beach, the Hotel off to the left. Dog friendly too.

[Edited on 7-3-10 by KASHEYDOG]

DESERT INN 1.JPG - 36kB

KASHEYDOG - 7-3-2010 at 10:11 AM

you might want to check out this TRAVEL PASS SPECIAL too.

http://www.desertinns.com/SanQuintin/index.cfm?type=travelpa...

Have fun :bounce:

[Edited on 7-4-10 by KASHEYDOG]

BajaBlanca - 7-3-2010 at 11:05 AM

bathrooms are at the gas stations

or any bush on the way since the gas stations are sometimes few and far between. have tp handy, even at gas stations. never throw tp in the toilets

make sure you have water and snacks in the car

on your way south, Bahia Concepcion is one of the most beautiful beaches you will ever see. Take time to jump in the warm 80 degree water there

bajafam - 7-3-2010 at 11:10 AM

3 days to get there?! Wow you guys travel fast

We have two kids, 4 1/2 and 2 and we get nowhere fast!! We are hoping this time to get to Asuncion in 4 days....of course, we are coming from Northern Arizona, so it's takes a full day just to get to Yuma, and then the second day into Baja. This is our usual itinerary for the first couple of days:
1 ~ Yuma
2 ~ La Fonda
3 ~ Baja Cactus, El Rosario
4 ~ Malarrimo, Guerrero Negro

We've only ventured south of here, twice. Once to Asuncion and Abreojos, once all the way to Todos Santos. We enjoyed several hotels along the way:
Shari's San Roque Casa, Asuncion
Serenidad, Mulege
Kuyima, Laguna San Ignacio
Oasis Hotel, Constitucion
Hotel Perla, La Paz
Santa Rosa, Todos Santos

Bottom line, expect delays, and always, always Enjoy the Journey, no matter what it may include. We find that if we just relax and not worry about when we'll get where we want to go, we have more fun along the way. Have a great trip!!

KASHEYDOG - 7-3-2010 at 11:10 AM

Dead sea Lion on the beach near The Desert Inn Hotel. Sept 09 :no:

[Edited on 7-3-10 by KASHEYDOG]

DEAD SEA LION SAN QUINTIN 2009.JPG - 27kB

hairwild - 7-3-2010 at 12:53 PM

Thank you so much for all your advice! We live in San Diego, so we figure we'll cross the border around 5 or 6 in the morning. Some people say to buy insurance before leaving, some say right when crossing. I think it'd be more convenient to buy it before that way we only have to deal with the "green light/ red light" while crossing San Ysidro. Do you guys go to the "Nothing to declare" or the other lane? I want to take stuff to give away to children whom we might encounter on the road, toys, clothes, etc., and also we're taking boogie boards and stuff, but our truck doesn't have a camper shell so hopefully we'll get hotels with covered parking!

KASHEYDOG - 7-3-2010 at 01:12 PM

I used to use this for all my short term trips. You can get it on line and print it out at home so there's no stoping for anything. Don't forget your Mexican visas at the border. BTW....... print 2 copies. Keep one in the car and one on you, "just in case"

https://www.mexicoensurance.com/quote_form.php?agente=bi

[Edited on 7-3-10 by KASHEYDOG]

Bajahowodd - 7-3-2010 at 02:30 PM

We've been making the trip for many years from Central Orange County. There was a time when we tried to put as many miles behind us as we could, but came to find that taking it slower and enjoying the hospitality of the many fine hoteliers and restaurateurs was part of the fun experience. Coming from San Diego, as you will, my suggestion, noting that each day will involve somewhere between 200 and 260 miles of highway is:

San Quintin. While I prefer the Jardines de Baja hotel there for its intimate, family- run atmosphere, it beautiful garden setting, and great adjacent restaurant, I would agree with previous posters that traveling with kids, the once Desert Inn, now called Hotel Santa Maria would be a good choice for you. The place was completely renovated recently and it is right on a fantastic beach.

Guerrero Negro. Accommodations here are not great, but plenty to choose from, with my top three picks being Malarrimo, Los Caralcoles, and Cowboy Hotel.

Loreto. Although many prefer to be up by the beach, we have enjoyed Hacienda Suites, a family run topnotch hotel that has a big pool. It is right next door to one of the better restaurants in town, Domingo's Place. Also, recently opened is the Hotel Santa Fe on the adjacent block. It also has a pool.

As I mentioned, making these your overnight stops, you will not have to drive more than 260 miles in any given day. I would also recommend that you don't miss stopping in such places like San Ignacio, Santa Rosalia and Mulege during the day to sightsee and give the kids a chance to run around.

elgatoloco - 7-3-2010 at 03:28 PM

http://www.bajabound.com/

This is the fast, easy way to get insurance. We use it when we go down for short trips in the wife's car.

Bajahowodd - 7-3-2010 at 03:34 PM

Oh, what the heck!

http://www.mexadventure.com/

There are a number of very reliable websites from which you can select your insurance. It's easy and fast and most store your info, so the next time you go, it's even faster to get a policy. The only suggestion I can make is that considering all of the online sites are California surplus lines brokers, you would likely be best served by whichever offers the widest selection of carriers from which you can select.

hairwild - 7-3-2010 at 07:34 PM

It sure looks complicated to buy insurance, 15 days is almost as expensive as a 6 month coverage! I can't decide which one to buy

Bajame - 7-3-2010 at 08:46 PM

Be sure to stay a nite in San Ignacio, it so pretty! A great place to stay is Casa Leree, just a half a block from the Plaza. Juanita will be your host. You get to experience staying at the first guest house in this cute town. The enclosed courtyard is beautiful! A little Stream runs through the flowered covered yard and there a lot of things the kids can do there. Her place has so much of the history of the town and maps of the great hiking places in the local area. The San Ignacio Festival is the last week in July. Other places to check is San Ignacio Springs B&B, on the river with the best breakfast in town! Check out their websites for reservations. San Ignacio an Oasis in the desert!

KASHEYDOG - 7-3-2010 at 10:09 PM

Regarding the car insurance. My rule of thumb is "get the best coverage you can for as long as you need" or more, do not cheap out now and be sorry if you get into an accident later. Get "FULL COVERAGE" I repeat "FULL COVERAGE" and save yourself the stress while your're down there and if you have a problem while there. Some of the companies will include "roadside assistance" with their policies. GET IT !!! If you're a member of Costco try this link below. If it's the same for 6 months GET IT. If it's the same for 1 year GET IT. Always go by the "golden rule" C.Y.A. ten times over. It makes for a much more pleasant trip.

http://www.costco.com/Browse/Productgroup.aspx?ec=BC-EC12628...

A full year for me is like $245 it's not that expensive considering the risk. get the best and have less stress :yes:

Call me if you need to talk to someone. my # is on my profile and I'm happy to help. After all it's even a local call for you :lol:

yes:
Do not forget PRINT SAVERAL COPIES AND KEEP ONE COPY IN THE CAR AND ANOTHER ON YOURSELVES. Just in case your car winds up missing. On that note, you should each have an extra key in your pocket for the same reason "just in case"

[Edited on 7-4-10 by KASHEYDOG]

hairwild - 7-3-2010 at 10:32 PM

Costco offers insurance? Awesome! I'll check them out, thank you! Thank you Kasheyd! I was about to ask about getting a Telcel phone because a satellite phone is quite expensive. I'm thinking of driving to Tij and buy a prepaid one, hopefully will have coverage in BCS. For some reason I want to be able to keep in contact with the US when I really should be getting names and phone numbers of people actually living in Mex who could actually help in case of an emergency or worst. Am I being too paranoid?

KASHEYDOG - 7-3-2010 at 11:04 PM

There's no such thing as being too cautious when traveling in ANY country outside of your own. I always try to anticipate the obvious things and plan for what I would need "JUST IN CASE". I've traveled all over the world and the rule hasn't changed. And it's so much better when you get home and realize you saved your BUTT by having "TOO MUCH" of anything that got you out of trouble. No matter what it costs.

dizzyspots - 7-4-2010 at 02:37 AM

might I suggest you try bajabound.com...Geoff is a Nomad sponsor, has a very user friendly on line purchasing and MOST of all offers a personalized approach, NOT available from the big box vendor
always been very happy with BajaBound especcially his support of www.disabledexplorers.com

just my 2 cents

Mike

cutexianchick - 7-4-2010 at 06:36 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by hairwild
Costco offers insurance? Awesome! I'll check them out, thank you! Thank you Kasheyd! I was about to ask about getting a Telcel phone because a satellite phone is quite expensive. I'm thinking of driving to Tij and buy a prepaid one, hopefully will have coverage in BCS. For some reason I want to be able to keep in contact with the US when I really should be getting names and phone numbers of people actually living in Mex who could actually help in case of an emergency or worst. Am I being too paranoid?

I have Mexico insurance from Costco. It costs me $145 for a whole year on an 02 Tundra. I took the limited terriotory, It covers all of Baja and 4 or 5 uppers states on the main land. I travel at least once a month to mexico and after paying 2 years of insurances through another source in San Deigo I realized my very own costco makes it available. I ended up saving $200 a year with costco for the same insurance.

Bajame - 7-4-2010 at 07:52 AM

Sounds Great! a change is coming!

DavidE - 7-4-2010 at 08:08 AM

Get LEGAL AID supplement on whomever and whatever you select. Insurance claims can take MONTHS to settle on big fender benders and you do not want to expose yourself to this issue with just plain insurance. Most reputable surplus line brokers insist on including LEGAL aid along with their basic PL/PD policy. It is not a ploy to sell you the Brooklyn Bridge. Legal aid is a must have.

wilderone - 7-4-2010 at 09:28 AM

Re the "nothing to declare", etc - si, you have nothing to declare even though you'll be bringing a few donations. If you don't get your visas beforehand, you'll all have to stop anyway at the migra office to get them. (If you get them a few days before, you each have to go in person to get them). Don't remember if anyone mentioned pesos, but exchange at least enough to pay for gas in pesos.

cutexianchick - 7-4-2010 at 12:00 PM

I can tell you what my insurance certificate has from costco provided through Bonita west mexico ins. serv. I went with Quelatis insurance (spell?). Collision/overturn/glass $500 deductable, Fire or theft $1000 deductable, liability $100,000, medical $4000/person or $20,000 per accident, legal and travel asssitance included. You submit your own policy online, look up the car value in kelly blue book... submit, pay and print the policy out. Carry several copies and I always leave one with my mom in the states just in case.

hairwild - 7-4-2010 at 12:12 PM

I truly appreciate everyones input about insurance. Being a newbie, I feel like getting Bajabound, my tight wallet tells me Costco... decisions decisions!

KASHEYDOG - 7-4-2010 at 03:14 PM

http://www.costco.com/Browse/Productgroup.aspx?ec=BC-EC12628...

COSTCO INS IS THROUGH QUALITAS AND ALL THE COVERAGE AS IN THE ABOVE POST BY cutexianchick . Just Costco pricing. Link is above.

cutexianchick - 7-4-2010 at 10:43 PM

hairwild. I had bajabound for 2 years... changed over to costco, both are basically just writers (i think that is the correct lingo). There was nothing wrong with bajabound, but I saved $200 a year and to me that was worth changing over.

Bugman - 7-4-2010 at 10:54 PM

I have two little kids (now 5 and 2) and we take them to Baja at least a couple times per year and have been doing so since they were tiny babies. We always camp at least part of the trip so I will leave the hotel advice to the others that have offered very good suggestions. I just wanted to toss in my 2 cents that the best investment we ever made for these trips was an inexpensive DVD player. My little guys will ride happily in the car for hours with a good movie to watch. My 5 year old also loves to play games on my ipod so between that and movies he is content for long drives. Some paper and crayons for coloring work well too but every kid is different so you will know what works best for yours. We just went to Bahia de Los Angeles last weekend which is a solid 9+ hours each way and they did fine with just a couple quick stops for food. We went down on a Friday and back on Monday. They are already asking when we are going back! Have a great trip.

cutexianchick - 7-5-2010 at 09:24 AM

I agree with Bugman. :light:

We have done two "round trip" trips to Cd. Jaurez with a DVD player. We have a three year old and though our first trip was when she was only one that DVD player helped so much. I travel to MX at least once a month, the hour trip on the freeway going down... that alone makes it worth it.

We started with the portable kind and then I bought a mounted one. I bought it through Walmart and also bought the installation card to go with it (install card, prepaid installation). I think the whole thing was just under $400, compair it to car shops that are at least $800. Never had any problems yet, 2 years going strong.

BajaBlanca - 7-5-2010 at 09:54 AM

Discover Baja in San Diego is a great option for getting real information. They have been doing this for 18 years !!

hairwild - 7-5-2010 at 04:11 PM

DVD, checked! Insurance, still procrastinating and we leave the 9th! :?:

cutexianchick - 7-5-2010 at 04:25 PM

Hairwild...we leave the same day!!!

Maybe we'll run to each other here and there... our first stop for friday night will be San Quintin. As far as the insurance, you have to to wait... its basically a sumbit click and print and you have it.

woody with a view - 7-5-2010 at 04:27 PM

buy the yearly policy. then, next year you can go again right before the policy runs out.

this method works for mex fishing license also.....

hairwild - 7-5-2010 at 05:03 PM

Cutexian, awesome! We'll be in a white Ford 150. Our plan is to drive to Guerrero Negro and spend the night there, while stopping here and there to sightsee, let the girls take pictures, etc. OT, I called Verizon and they didn't guaranty phone coverage there, but if I do use it, it'd be like a 1.00 a minute. Has anybody used Telcel? like a prepaid phone or something.

bajario - 7-5-2010 at 06:29 PM

I'm glad to see other travelers are coming w/ there kids. We leave midday thurs. the 8th. Probably stop at El Rosario and finish up our next leg to Loreto on friday the 9th. Our 4 year old son and 10 year old(on friday) daughter are joining us.

cutexianchick - 7-5-2010 at 06:45 PM

My husband has a prepaid from mexico, its cheap... we dont use it that much. I have verizon, Verzion is a hit and miss you turn around your not roaming go the other way you are! yea and its $1 a min... but I think my texts are only an extra 5 cents, but I cant gaurentee that.

We will be in a grey Tundra... the bed of the truck will probably be overloaded.

El Rosairo or San Quintin... either one, then onto San ignacio, reservation for Sat night.

So when I see a family with kids Ill ask, are your from BajaNomad? LOL

hairwild - 7-5-2010 at 09:09 PM

Ha, now I want to make a sign for my windshield: "Bajanomad Families Rock!" . Our girls are 2, 14, and 15. I'd love to say hi to all of you and post pictures! Never crossed my mind about making reservations ahead of time. We'll need a place to stay in Gro. Negro, and most likely in Sta. Rosalia. Oh I'm so excited! 3 more days and we'll be on our way!

DavidT - 7-5-2010 at 10:23 PM

Here are my drive time records from last October. Keep in mind our trip was with three seasoned Baja'ers and one FNG. We stopped in Camalu for lunch, the rest of the time marks were for a quick fuel or smoke break. Have a great trip.

October 2009
Drive times to Bahia Asuncion with an overnight at http://malarrimo.com/ in Guerrero Negro
Tourist cards at the San Ysidro border 7:20 AM
End of the toll road Ensenada 8:50 AM
Santo Tomas 10:00 AM
Camalu 11;30 AM
El Rosario 1:35 PM
Catavina (Santa Ynez) 3:00 PM
Punta Prieta turnoff to Bahia de Los Angeles 4:09 PM
Guerrero Negro border 5:45 PM
Note time change at border

hairwild - 7-5-2010 at 10:48 PM

David, I think for us it'll be more like starting around 5:00 am, and getting to GN at sunset (fingers crossed). We want to get there so we don't have to drive too long to the Loreto/ Sta. Rosalia area so the kids can spend some time at the beach.

cutexianchick - 7-7-2010 at 09:21 PM

Okay hariwild.. what did you decide on for insurance?

hairwild - 7-7-2010 at 09:35 PM

We went the cheapskate route and bought Costco... (fingers crossed).

cutexianchick - 7-7-2010 at 10:27 PM

You will be fine... I have the insurance that costco supplies. I have never had to use my insurance, I have bought it straight for three years and Sept will be the start of my 4th and I hope I will never have to use it. Remember, Costco will give you the superior product ($7 for 12 nectarines that are the best piece of fruit you can eat... on sale down the street for $1/lb and you throw them all away). You pay for quality with costco whether you save or dont save money... but you get the cream of the crop!

Will look for you on the road, be safe!!!

hairwild - 7-8-2010 at 12:12 AM

You are so right! I'm pretty sure Bajabound is great, but we're on a tight budget so we're trying to make the best of what we have. I'm still amazed at the amount of stuff I managed to put together to load in the truck tomorrow...

cutexianchick - 7-8-2010 at 06:47 AM

LOL... you must pack like me! I also am bringing beach chairs and the Shade Canopy. We are staying at a resort in cabo... but these to take with us as we find different beaches to enjoy. So far, one large suit case, 4 large duffle bags, chairs, tent, plastic container with food, ice chest, plus a ton of bags with stuff cramed in it that I am not sure where to put or what to put it in. There is only three of us!

Bajame - 7-8-2010 at 07:54 AM

Can a member of Costco buy insurance for a non-member?

cutexianchick - 7-8-2010 at 08:07 AM

Good question.. try it, the worse that can happen is that it wont go through (you would know immediately)!! Maybe the person can put you on their card. I have an business executive card and can add as many people to it. For every one paid membership, you get their "spouse" free.

disregaurd my typos please, I need spell check!

oldlady - 7-8-2010 at 08:12 AM

These two could generate some of the more interesting trip reports! The "prep" has been fascinating.

Ya'll have a real good time!!!!

cutexianchick - 7-8-2010 at 09:55 AM

Old Lady... what are you trying to say?!?! :lol:

oldlady - 7-8-2010 at 12:59 PM

:lol:

That I think you and hairwild have a great attitude and your families are fortunate you are putting so much effort into the trip. It brings back memories of my planning 5 years ago...didn't use half the stuff I insisted had to be in the SUV....but I was prepared!

hairwild - 7-8-2010 at 01:00 PM

Cutexi, a tent is a great idea! OT, this morning I went to Costco and BajaMex (San Ysidro) to compare money exchange rates and Bajamex gave me 12.54 vs. 12.33 at Costco. Now I'm trying to remember where I put the funny pack (So 80's I know!) and see if it'd be big enough for my waist. Do you have better ways to hide money?

oldlady - 7-8-2010 at 01:20 PM

Feminine products.

hairwild - 7-8-2010 at 01:39 PM

Definitely! 3 girls and the Moon...ugh

cutexianchick - 7-8-2010 at 06:44 PM

old lady... you are right... i am prepared and probably wont use half of it. I have done this all before... wont wear half the clothes but if I didnt take it then I would need it.

[Edited on 7-9-2010 by cutexianchick]

cutexianchick - 7-8-2010 at 06:48 PM

Hairwild... I didnt get to the border in time to make it the bank to exchange for pesos. My husband knows some people at Soriana and they exchanged $400 at 12.82, which is good. IF you stop at OXXO, they were at 12.91 which is not much difference, but when it is high we pay dollars.

I am going to hide some on my body, also... I will U2U you.

hairwild - 7-8-2010 at 11:46 PM

12.93 is my kind of exchange. Any OXO? It's midnight and I'm doing laundry! :biggrin:

hairwild - 7-8-2010 at 11:54 PM

I have a confession to make. I can't sleep because I'm dreading the Aduanas part crossing the border, and the mordidas part while driving... sorry, just venting...

Alan - 7-9-2010 at 02:33 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by hairwild
I have a confession to make. I can't sleep because I'm dreading the Aduanas part crossing the border, and the mordidas part while driving... sorry, just venting...

You are worrying needlessly. Getting your FMM at the border is quick, easy and definitely painless. While mordita certainly does exist, I have been driving the peninsula for 40 years and have only been bitten twice. (Yes, once in CC) Not an ordeal, just a hassle.

snowcat5 - 7-9-2010 at 06:51 AM

Don't sweat it: go have fun. Be smart and you'll be safe. Make sure to stop in Catavinia and check-out rock art and to let the kids climb around. Have a great trip!

cutexianchick - 7-9-2010 at 08:30 PM

hairwild... we made it to Guerrero Negro... stayn at los caracoles very nice room from what we saw down the road. We ate at a nice restaurant 1/2 block away it was recommended on here... lobster and fish.

hope all is well and you are safe

hairwild - 7-9-2010 at 10:24 PM

Alan & Snow, yes, you are right! I managed to go to bed shortly after my last post, and this morning we were happy campers on our way to Baja... they did send us to secondary inspection but let us go shortly after.

Cutexi, we're neighbors! We ended up staying at the malarrimo, and we had tacos and quesadillas at Cowboy since nobody was really hungry.
Cataviña is on our list for a place to stay coming back from LP since little one was sleeping, we just kept driving, but those rocks are fascinating!
Any tips for a nice mi/ upper end hotel to stay in Sta Rosalía? or Mulege?

hairwild - 7-9-2010 at 10:33 PM

BTW, Newbie mistake #1: not asking for menu prices before eating. Case in point: we stop at San Quintin for lunch and just stop at the first restaurant that caught our attention. 35 dollars for 4 plates with potaotes, rice, beans and entree, nothing special and high prices.
Newbie mistake #2: not filling up on gas every chance we got. CIP: we were so distracted by the scenery after Cataviña that we almost had to use one of our emergency fuel containers, but managed to get to Jesus Maria with still a 1/4 tank full.
We're learning, and we are so happy with the decision to come to Baja driving, thank you again Bajanomads! Couldn't have done it without you! :biggrin:

irenemm - 7-10-2010 at 12:11 AM

Bajame
I believe you have be in the same household.
My son is on my card but we live in different homes. so he could not get the insurance.

cutexianchick - 7-10-2010 at 06:47 AM

hairwild... what time did you get in town? we got here around 5:30. we left the house in TJ at 5:30, took longer than I thought. we did stop in san quintin and found teh santa maria and ate there, food was good not excellent... and we t oured their beutiful beach. Yes those rocks were awesome. I wanted to pull over and get a pic but I was hesitant, i should have just done it. We ate at Malarrimo, which was suggested on here somewhere. It was very very good, pricey but i DIDNT care, I deserved it after that 12 hour drive.

sta. rosalia, someone just posted this topic on the forum, look it up (i think it was this town). we are not driving far today, going to San Ignacion and enjoying their water and town.

cutexianchick - 7-10-2010 at 06:59 AM

btw... that post fwas for el rosario city. sorry. go on here adn time in mulege in the search.

hairwild - 7-10-2010 at 08:59 AM

Cutexi, we got here around 7:00 pm. WWe're getting ready to take off, maybe we'll meet along the way!

hairwild - 7-11-2010 at 02:09 PM

Greetings from suny and HOT Loreto. This town is charming, people are super nice, and food is super expensive! But I've been talking to locals to find out where they eat, and so far there's a little shack next to Paletas La Michoacana, unfortunately closed today but we'll sure go visit tomorrow before taking off to LP.
BTW, we stopped at Santispac Beach and we were ready to buy a lot on that beach, it's so beautiful! The girls snorkeled, and asked for a kayak for Christmas :wow:

I'm so happy they're actually enjoying the trip, specially now that we are close to beaches!

Interesting

Bajahowodd - 7-11-2010 at 03:02 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by hairwild
Alan & Snow, yes, you are right! I managed to go to bed shortly after my last post, and this morning we were happy campers on our way to Baja... they did send us to secondary inspection but let us go shortly after.

Fact is that many folks do it just the opposite. Stay at Cowboy and eat at Malarrimo.

BajaBlanca - 7-11-2010 at 03:30 PM

wow...sounds like you are having a great time !! Do you have a place to stay in la paz ???? there is the HOTEL LA PERLA on the malecon (boardwalk) which we have stayed at ...... but a friend found the nicest B & B which we visited a coule weeks ago when we went to la paz. the owner is a really nice American woman

CASA TUSCANY INN run by CAROL DYER.
address: Nicolas Bravo, #110A between Mutualismo and Madero. It is half a block from the beach / boardwalk. should you go there, tell Carol that Blanca the Brazilian from La Bocana sent you !!

Bajahowodd - 7-11-2010 at 03:51 PM

While it may not be a 5 star, inasmuch as you are traveling with kids, Suite El Morro would be a good choice. They have rooms of varying sizes that can accommodate a large group. They also have a pool. And while they are not exactly in the heart of the action on the malecon, they are not far away.

cutexianchick - 7-11-2010 at 05:33 PM

Hi hairwild. we stopped along the way at several of the beaches, I liked that beach too, it was the first to stop at and stopped at many more along the way.

We just made it to Loreto at 6pm, staying at Sukasa Bungalows across from the water. We got a front Bungalow (i dont care about the noise) for $65. Nice and cool inside, still hot outside. I think we are going to eat at Loreto Island down the street and then hit the beach before the sun goes down. We are off early in the morning for Cabo, any suggestions for breakfast?

hairwild - 7-11-2010 at 06:34 PM

Cutexi, how about that place next to paletas Michoacana? it's behind hotel La Mision (relatively speaking), they told me they open at 8:00 am.
Bajahow, we should do that in our way back; we didn't care much for Malarrimo).
Will post some more later, Isa's screaming "swimming" at the top of her lungs!

BajaBlanca - 7-11-2010 at 07:27 PM

El Morro is so beautiful. What didnt you like about Malarrimo ?? Just curious to know ....

Bajahowodd - 7-11-2010 at 08:06 PM

We have often hit the road early out of Loreto and driven 90 minutes or so to the Insurgentes/ Constitucion area for breakfast. That said, the little cafe in Hacienda Suites does a pretty decent breakfast. Seen many locals there when we've been there.

cutexianchick - 7-11-2010 at 08:16 PM

bajahwodd thanks. maybe we will do just that. So is this in the gaunlet? sounds better to get outta here and get to cabo, im tired of dragging stuff all around.

if we dont do that we will try the place hairwild suggested it is just around the corner from where we are staying

hairwild - 7-11-2010 at 09:30 PM

Bajablanca, I don't want to sound too picky but the floors were dirty and sticky, and the bed noisy (is this tmi?) :saint:

I don't mean to say we might not stay there again. I need to write down El Morro for a place to stay or maybe even Mulegé since it's closer to the beaches in Bahía Concepción, we definitely want to spend a day/ night there rather than in Loreto.
And re: LP, we rented a house thru vrbo.com, which for us beats staying in a hotel anytime. Thank you for the suggestions, I'll keep them handy in case anything goes wrong.

Cutexi, I'm with you, I'm ready for a few days in the same place! We're dragging so many suitcases and little bags around I feel like we're gypsies.

cutexianchick - 7-12-2010 at 06:11 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by hairwild
Cutexi, I'm with you, I'm ready for a few days in the same place! We're dragging so many suitcases and little bags around I feel like we're gypsies.

LOL... that is the word that best describes it!

Bob and Susan - 7-12-2010 at 06:18 AM

all you need right now are shorts, flip flops, and a swimsuit :biggrin:

cutexianchick - 7-12-2010 at 07:55 AM

bob and susan... okay as we were driving from mulege and loreto... is your place visiable (saw a light house)? good to know of the way back, we want to stay in the area to visit; donkey beach, san tispanc, lrequeson. Also how is your beach there? thanks!

David K - 7-12-2010 at 08:06 AM

You will love Bob & Susan's... WONDERFUL LUXURY, swimming pool too!

Here is what you see along Hwy. 1, a few miles south of Mulege:

See the rooms at http://vivabaja.com/709/page4.html

wessongroup - 7-12-2010 at 08:14 AM

As always... thanks for the pictures DK.. you are my hero.. on that one..

pacside - 7-12-2010 at 11:24 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by David K
You will love Bob & Susan's... WONDERFUL LUXURY, swimming pool too!

Have to concur...VERY nice and comfortable...after a long hot drive to have a cold Pacifico with the friendly and knowledgable proprietors (Bob and Susan...who else) and swim in their refreshing pool. Then sleep soundly in their air conditioned rooms. The beach is very nice and the kids would love collecting shells.

pacside

Bob and Susan - 7-12-2010 at 11:29 AM

remember if its breeeezzzzzy you get to sail

hobbie.jpg - 45kB

Bob and Susan - 7-12-2010 at 11:31 AM

if its smooth...boating

all included in the price

5 kayaks too

boat3.jpg - 45kB

hairwild - 7-12-2010 at 09:43 PM

Cutexie, I thought the same thing! Bob and Susan, we totally missed your place but will definitely look for it on our way back to the States. I hope you have a room available next week!

cutexianchick - 7-13-2010 at 07:12 AM

Hairwild, when do you leave? How is La Paz... when did you get there?

We got to Cabo yesterday and to the hotel at 6pm... daughter went swimming at dusk...LOL We ate next door because that was the only "snack bar" open with the prices I was willing to pay. The first group of people we spoke to were from San Diego... I told them I could pick um!! LOL

hairwild - 7-14-2010 at 08:29 AM

We got here Monday, sorry for the delay replying, our little one has been going to bed way past her bedtime, I fall asleep the moment I hit the pillow. Sadly, we have to head back to SD on Saturday morning due to changes in the school district, now kids have to go back to school on July 21st grrr...

hairwild - 7-15-2010 at 08:26 AM

Visited Cabo yesterday... jellyfish!! ugh.. i can see the allure of Cabo but it's not our cup of tea, it's too much like the States, and for me, the USA is the perfect place to live, not to vacation in. We're ready to go back to the warm beaches of Bahia Concepcion!

cutexianchick - 7-15-2010 at 12:04 PM

Hey hairwild.. i havent seen any jellyfish yet, but havnt been on the beach except for the lands end tour and lovers beach which a wave crashed on me and it was so strong I feel, and felt stupid! LOL My hotel is on the beach and I havnt laid out on the beach here yet, that is sad. So much to do. We have extended until the 23rd, (friday)... staying next door at the Arco, we cancelled our 3 nights in san jose... i love it here.

Bajahowodd - 7-15-2010 at 12:46 PM

Same ownership.

cutexianchick - 7-15-2010 at 04:24 PM

ohh I know it is the same ownership.. I couldnt get anything good for palmar so I booked in the arco. It was actually cheaper than Palmar

hairwild - 7-16-2010 at 05:19 PM

Our last night in La Paz... and the mood is sad but excited to go back to Bahia Concepcion! I've been searching for the name of the hotel you guys recommended while staying in the Cataviña area, but can't find it. Any thoughts?

David K - 7-16-2010 at 08:56 PM

There is only ONE 'hotel', the over-priced Desert Inn (formerly La Pinta, formerly 'El Presidente')... on the highway. A rather poor quality motel is just north of the hotel, on the opposite side of the highway... and there are bunk rooms (actually kind of nice) at Rancho Santa Ynez, a mile south of Cataviña on a paved side road.

cutexianchick - 7-16-2010 at 09:33 PM

hi hairwild... have a great trip back and enjoy. If you stay in Catavina talk them down in price, someone on here I think talked 20 off the top.

hairwild - 7-16-2010 at 10:41 PM

David, I totally can relate to your quote, can't wait to do this again, and again, again!
Cutexi, I hope we get to meet someday! I checked the Dessert Inn website and yes, I think they're overpriced, but I'm not sure if they'd barge in when they see me with three kids. It doesn't hurt to ask, I know, yet, they probably take advantage of weary travelers....

woody with a view - 7-16-2010 at 10:51 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by Bob and Susan
all you need right now are shorts, flip flops, and a swimsuit :biggrin:

or one out of two! :light:

Pages: 1 2