BajaNomad

Best place to move for a couple and 2 dogs

Erika128 - 2-21-2016 at 01:48 PM

Hi guys, I'm glad I found this forum! Seems honest ;)

My boyfriend and I are wanting to move to MX this autumn. Mainland Guanajuato is a strong option, but we are also kicking around the idea of Baja Sur for 6m-1 year and do the beach thing for a little while. Especially given that I don't need to deal with the hassle of getting my auto permit (it's financed).

Opinions on the best place to live and rent with 2 dogs? Thinking Loreto, la Paz..I want to stay on the Cortez side. My grandparents lived in Mulege for a couple years until they got flooded one too many times - it's a little smaller town than we were hoping for, but not out of the question either. What's the non-touristy vacation rental market like? It's hard to find any local info that's not aimed at retirees who golf.

I work remotely for a company here in the US, so I'll need regular and reliable internet access. We'd love a little casa with a yard, but I don't want to pay more than $600/mo furnished with utilities. Possible? Cost of living is a big factor.

Thanks so much for your opinions!

woody with a view - 2-21-2016 at 01:49 PM

it's possible. look in the classified section of this site for some ideas on rentals.

woody with a view - 2-21-2016 at 01:51 PM

http://forums.bajanomad.com/forumdisplay.php?fid=8

i'd ask any and all of them that suit you. they may not frequent the site to update regularly.

SFandH - 2-21-2016 at 02:03 PM

Try some of the Mexican real estate web sites. For example:

http://casas.mitula.mx/casas/renta-casas-la-paz-baja-califor...

I found this by typing casas se renta la paz into google

A lot fewer ads targeted at gringos

[Edited on 2-21-2016 by SFandH]

Lee - 2-21-2016 at 02:32 PM

Loreto.

Udo - 2-21-2016 at 02:42 PM

Bahia Asunción is a great place and about three hour's drive from Mulege.

Here is a place for sale or rent:
http://www.bajabargainbeachfrontcutie.com

Erika128 - 2-21-2016 at 02:56 PM

Awesome everyone, I'll check it out! Thank you!

I'm sure to have more questions as the time gets closer, but I'm so encouraged to know its not an issue. :)

bajaguy - 2-21-2016 at 02:59 PM

Here is another site that you might want to post on

https://www.facebook.com/groups/TalkBaja/

rhintransit - 2-21-2016 at 04:26 PM

good luck on "regular and reliable internet." you ARE moving to Mexico, after all. Telmex is 'it' regardless of who sells it to you, under what name or whatever bandwidth they claim...it all comes thru Telmex.
sometimes the internet works well, most of the time it works okay, sporadically, it will be out...for how long, quien sabe? certain hours of the day (school's out or businesses opening or just plain folks around you streaming video), things may slow down. way down. in Loreto, there aren't any new land lines nor WiMax units available at the current time, so be sure any rental actually does currently have internet, how you get it, who else is on the system, etc. try it out at the hours you would normally use internet, including weekends and nights.
if the retirees who golf (check the current furor on Loreto Bay Village Voice Yahoo Group), and whose budgets are undoubtedly larger than yours, can't get reliable internet, don't expect the unobtainable.
not a reason to stay home but if it's essential to your work...???


[Edited on 2-21-2016 by rhintransit]

Meany - 2-21-2016 at 04:35 PM

Come to Punta Chivato. The Best place in Baja. And Just ask the DOGs they love it.:biggrin:

SFandH - 2-21-2016 at 04:43 PM

Surprised nobody has mentioned Todos Santos. And then there is Santa Rosalia for the (place adjective here) Mexican seaside experience. Not many gringos living there. :o

Bajahowodd - 2-21-2016 at 05:43 PM

A number of posters seemed to have overlooked the fact that Erika specifically stated Sea of Cortez side.. Have no problems with Asuncion or Todos, but...

My two cents would be to look into anything along the SOC from South of Santa Rosalia, down to Loreto.

Depending on your need for amenities like shopping and restaurants, Loreto would be my top choice. But Punta Chivato and Mulege Are also awesome; just not so good for supermarkets ans alike.

Erika128 - 2-21-2016 at 06:32 PM

Thanks guys. I'm grilling my grandparents too, as they still know some people in Mulege.

Regarding the Internet, I'm not gaming or anything, so it doesn't need to be crazy fast. My work is mostly email, chat, and online spreadsheets. We are hoping to use my appleTv however for Netflix and all that. I've heard that using a phone hotspot might end up being better anyhow?

Groceries: meaning produce and meats, pantry staples - cuanto Cuesta? We don't eat a lot of junk or packaged foods. Average cost for a sixer of Mexican beer? 1lb of pollo? carton of eggs? Frutas y verduras? Right now, in Portland I spend anywhere between $40-80 per week on fruits, veggies, and eggs depending on season...

I see the cost comparisons on expatistan for la Paz, but I'm wondering how accurate that is regionally.

[Edited on 2-22-2016 by Erika128]

23S52N - 2-21-2016 at 07:34 PM

My own opinion, I think you will find La Paz is what you are looking for. I have had very few problems with the Telmex phone/internet system, and at $389 pesos/month, it is dirt cheap. It doesn't cater to tourists the way Cabo does, and it directs more to the Mexican tourist market. It is a Mexican city with a pop. of approx. 250K and I have found everything i want, with the exception of access to air travel, since Air Alaska stopped flying here a couple of years ago. I now have to drive to San Jose del Cabo to pick up my guests, but that is only a 2 hr drive on great 4 lane/toll road. You might find summers a little uncomfortable as it isn't uncommon to hit the mid to high 30sC or even into the low 40s. Check out the real estate market....most realtors also have their hands on rentals. I have two medium/large dogs, but I own so i can't comment on rentals and pups. We also have all the major department stores, lots of marinas, home depot, walmart etc. A very well equipped town without the craziness of Cabo.

Best of Luck
Keith

Lee - 2-21-2016 at 07:37 PM

Quote: Originally posted by Erika128  
Right now, in Portland I spend anywhere between $40-80 per week on fruits, veggies, and eggs depending on season...
[Edited on 2-22-2016 by Erika128]


I buy fruit/veggies at a friend's farm or in Todos. -$20 a week.

BigBearRider - 2-21-2016 at 08:31 PM

Quote: Originally posted by Meany  
Come to Punta Chivato. The Best place in Baja. And Just ask the DOGs they love it.:biggrin:


I am a bit biased (wearing a Punta Chivato t-shirt and all), but I think Punta Chivato is a really nice place. I wonder if there are houses to rent within that budget though.

The nearest mini-marts are in Palo Verde. They have a surprising assortment of stuff that you may need. Palo Verde is about 15-30 minutes from the Punta Chivato Hotel (depending on what car you drive, and how you drive). It takes me 15 minutes from the Hotel to Palo Verde in a Jeep Wrangler. If you are farther south in the area, like on Shell Beach, it's a lot closer. Maybe half the distance.

In addition, there are people who come by and sell fresh vegetables and seafood every week.

Mulege is another 15 minutes from Palo Verde, and Santa Rosalia is another 30 minutes.

Others can answer regarding internet. I don't have it, except on my Telcel phone and it is spotty at my house. I understand that Exede satellite internet is the way to go now.

SteveWil - 2-21-2016 at 09:24 PM

Here a blog that may have some useful information. The first part has more information. http://www.losogradysinmexico.com/

I would look at BLA, La Paz, Loreto.
I do not know about e-net in BLA.
There maybe some places south of La Paz. Also better air service if needed.

Mulegena - 2-21-2016 at 09:46 PM

Erika128, check your U2U (upper right blue letters under your logged in name).

Erika128 - 2-21-2016 at 11:27 PM

Awesome feedback everyone, I SO appreciate it! I'm feeling pretty optimistic it's easily doable. :) It seems like, come moving time in August or so, we can just pack up and head down and it'll be pretty simple to land somewhere that feels right between Mulege to La Paz.

Now I know that this forum is an amazing resource, and will certainly be in touch come moving time! I'll be lurking around in the meanwhile :)

BigBearRider - 2-22-2016 at 12:47 AM

It will be quite hot on the Sea of Cortez side in August...

ehall - 2-22-2016 at 04:31 AM

Quote: Originally posted by BigBearRider  
It will be quite hot on the Sea of Cortez side in August...




Especially coming from Portland. Sounds fun though.

rhintransit - 2-22-2016 at 05:21 AM

Quote: Originally posted by ehall  
Quote: Originally posted by BigBearRider  
It will be quite hot on the Sea of Cortez side in August...




Especially coming from Portland. Sounds fun though.


And hurricane season, too...

Mula - 2-22-2016 at 05:51 AM

Alaska Airlines is flying in to La Paz again from LAX.

AKgringo - 2-22-2016 at 08:30 AM

Quote: Originally posted by Mula  
Alaska Airlines is flying in to La Paz again from LAX.


That is good news! Since this thread mentions taking dogs to Mexico, I would like to point out that Alaska airlines has restrictions on carrying 'short nose breeds' in the cargo area. Be sure and check their website to see if your dog's breed is listed before you go to check in.

Lie if you have to! my long legged pit bull mix is listed as a 'retriever mix' on the health certificate when I check in. I think next time, I may call her a 'ridge back mix'. With her eyes, long legs, and disposition, I think she can pull it off!

Dogger's

captkw - 2-22-2016 at 09:26 AM

That means My Beautiful " Baja Purebreed" can fly First class !!

Erika128 - 2-22-2016 at 04:53 PM

Hell, Portland is hot in August too! We may end up waiting until September or October also- it depends on how quickly we can get the house rented and other things tied up. Thank you for the info on flying, but we are going to drive down, dogs and all :) the pitbull is 13 years old and wouldn't do great on a plane - if they'd even let her on.

AKgringo - 2-22-2016 at 05:24 PM

Are you aware that you are supposed to have the same proof of vaccinations, and health certificate from a veterinarian as if you were to fly down? In four trips exploring Baja with my old dog, I was never asked for them by US or MX checkpoints, but the requirement is still there, so I always have them.

Other things your dogs should have;

A beach to run on, even better if it has smelly things to roll on.
Shady spots to hang out in
A space with out spiny, thorny things all over it, at least until they learn about them
They should be able to bark in Spanish so they can properly claim their territory.
Lots of water, not just to drink, get them wet

Have a great trip!

David K - 2-22-2016 at 05:30 PM

Make sure they don't eat any pufferfish!!!

BigBearRider - 2-22-2016 at 05:35 PM

Quote: Originally posted by Erika128  
Hell, Portland is hot in August too! We may end up waiting until September or October also- it depends on how quickly we can get the house rented and other things tied up. Thank you for the info on flying, but we are going to drive down, dogs and all :) the pitbull is 13 years old and wouldn't do great on a plane - if they'd even let her on.


Is Portland "five-showers-a-day-and-still-sweating"-hot in August?

Bajahowodd - 2-22-2016 at 06:11 PM

Quote: Originally posted by Erika128  
Hell, Portland is hot in August too! We may end up waiting until September or October also- it depends on how quickly we can get the house rented and other things tied up. Thank you for the info on flying, but we are going to drive down, dogs and all :) the pitbull is 13 years old and wouldn't do great on a plane - if they'd even let her on.


Seriously? August on the Sea of Cortez will make Portland seem like a deep freeze.

David K - 2-22-2016 at 06:22 PM

Quote: Originally posted by BigBearRider  
Quote: Originally posted by Erika128  
Hell, Portland is hot in August too! We may end up waiting until September or October also- it depends on how quickly we can get the house rented and other things tied up. Thank you for the info on flying, but we are going to drive down, dogs and all :) the pitbull is 13 years old and wouldn't do great on a plane - if they'd even let her on.


Is Portland "five-showers-a-day-and-still-sweating"-hot in August?


It is more the humidity and the difficulty sleeping without at least a fan to move the air... speaking as a camper on the Cortez in late July to early September. If you have a/c or a ceiling fan at night, then it is possible to live in La Paz or other Cortez side places all year.

However, don't disregard the recommendation for Bahia Asuncion made by Udo earlier in this thread. It is on the Pacific coast of Baja Sur, but the Vizcaino Peninsula seems to be free of the typical Pacific gloom and fog. Perhaps it is the way it juts out from the Baja peninsula or has south facing beaches?

Erika128 - 2-22-2016 at 10:52 PM

Lol @Akgringo - definitely! the girls will be in heaven there, especially the old one, and I'm sure they'd love to eat and roll in all the smelly things if I'd let them. One has to be leashed all the time because she bolts, but the old pitbull is as reliable (and gluttonous) as they come.

I'll keep an a/c in the budget for nights :) I sleep with a fan on and a window cracked year round as is because I get weird about stuffy air. My boyfriend spent 2 summers ago in Beijing which seemed like literal filhy hell, so I'm sure he can handle it too. Seems like the further north from La Paz, the temps go down slightly.

Bahia Ascencion looks like a lovely community, but it seems more like a place to disconnect. I have to have daily internet for my job, for the next 30 years most likely :/

My grandparents told me that "Internet is easy in Mulege" but I'm not convinced that they have a good grasp on what that really means.

Vehicles: I've got a 4wd xterra, 2008 with 122k on it currently. Foresee any issues? It seems like most of Baja Sur is pretty well populated with mechanic-types..

Whale-ista - 2-23-2016 at 12:46 AM

Welcome to Nomad, good luck with the move.

Agree with pet health documents to be safe. I've often traveled with dogs, never been asked but there's always a first time.

Also bring a good supply of flea/tick treatment and other meds which can be harder to find in MX. And fave pet food as you transition to common brands. (As with meds, not as many options)

Your Xterra should do well for rough spots. (Many of the baja sur highway is in better shape than northern.)

Enjoy!

mtnpop - 2-23-2016 at 10:46 AM

So far as internet. we are in Mulege and have had very good luck with Telmex Infintium service at our casita.. We have been able to stream live tv through a slingbox and have several computers running at the same time since we wound up being the internet café for the park. Maybe we were just one of the luckier ones. We have heard tho that since Odile it would not so lucky... We have not had it connected since then...
As for a laid back great place to live Mulege to us is great.. Having visited several towns it just has a feel most don't, even with the hurricanes and flooding aftermath.. Couple of good markets, several good eateries, very friendly locals, not the big resort at all... Other shopping is not that far away.
good luck and happy house hunting

Udo - 2-23-2016 at 10:56 AM

Good weather analogy, David. The average year-round weather on our side of Bahia Asunción is about 73 degrees.
Quote: Originally posted by David K  
Quote: Originally posted by BigBearRider  
Quote: Originally posted by Erika128  
Hell, Portland is hot in August too! We may end up waiting until September or October also- it depends on how quickly we can get the house rented and other things tied up. Thank you for the info on flying, but we are going to drive down, dogs and all :) the pitbull is 13 years old and wouldn't do great on a plane - if they'd even let her on.


Is Portland "five-showers-a-day-and-still-sweating"-hot in August?


It is more the humidity and the difficulty sleeping without at least a fan to move the air... speaking as a camper on the Cortez in late July to early September. If you have a/c or a ceiling fan at night, then it is possible to live in La Paz or other Cortez side places all year.

However, don't disregard the recommendation for Bahia Asuncion made by Udo earlier in this thread. It is on the Pacific coast of Baja Sur, but the Vizcaino Peninsula seems to be free of the typical Pacific gloom and fog. Perhaps it is the way it juts out from the Baja peninsula or has south facing beaches?

vandenberg - 2-23-2016 at 11:17 AM

Check your U2U, top right of the page.

AKgringo - 2-23-2016 at 11:20 AM

I also like Mulege. It has retained a certain feel that other towns in Baja have lost over the years, but if I had to pick a place right now to relocate to, my first choice would be Los Barriles.

It may be a smaller community than you want, but it is as close to an airport, shopping centers and night life as I will ever want to be. Kind of like Cabo forty years ago. There is even a computer tech support shop there, run by a young guy that I think is from the Pacific northwest area.

I am still exploring, but you should add it to your list of places to consider. La Ribera is nearby, and might also work for you, but I am not familiar with it well enough to make a recommendation. Keep in mind that I have spent no time in Baja during summer months!

willardguy - 2-23-2016 at 11:26 AM

Quote: Originally posted by Udo  
Good weather analogy, David. The average year-round weather on our side of Bahia Asunción is about 73 degrees.


about the same as the wind speed! :lol:

]

toronja - 2-23-2016 at 01:56 PM

As long as you don't require high speed internet for work, you'll be okay most places. I've spent ~3 months telecommuting from Bahia Asuncion and various other locations in Baja. Even small villages have internet access through mobile phone connections these days - you can get a plan and use your phone as a wifi hotspot if need be. That said, high speed connections and reliability are certainly better near urban centers. You do need to prepare for things to happen at the speed of Mexico, though - the power will go out or a connection will fail and it may take hours or a day or two to come back up. Have a back up internet plan or flexible deadlines and good communication with folks back home.

Bajahowodd - 2-23-2016 at 05:47 PM

So, at the end of the day, Erika, You and your family will have to make choices.

Climate- On the Pacific side such as Asuncion, relatively cool.

On the SOC side, hot, very hot.

Internet access is just about available everywhere; just that if you feel the need to stream videos, it won't work well everywhere.

In my experience, heading down the the Cuesta de Infierno into Santa Rosalia is jaw dropping.

And again, what are your needs for shopping? Mulege is a wonderful place, but, if you need to shop for more than the basics, Loreto offers much more. And you can take a day trip to La Paz to shop at the BIG stores such as Walmart and alike.

As a long time Baja traveler, my opinion is that you should really research the Loreto area.

La Paz is a big city and has just about all the amenities anyone would want, including traffic. But you can easily make a day trip to La Paz from Loreto.

Not so much in the way of amenities in Loreto. But so much more peaceful.

Best of luck in making your decision.

BigBearRider - 2-23-2016 at 06:26 PM

To be clear, IMHO, the weather is unbearably hot on the Sea of Cortez only in July, August and September. The rest of the year it is pretty fantastic. AC is a requirement for me to sleep during the summer months, a fan won't do.

Santa Rosalia has a Super (?) Ley supermarket, and a Koppel. I think Santa Rosalia may have bigger stores than Loreto, and is closer to Mulege than Loreto. Of course, La Paz has much more.

norte - 2-23-2016 at 07:16 PM

Save your self some grief. Rent!... you will eventually move and Mesico is no investment. "Move here, move here...I have something to sell you" should tickle the brain cell some where.

BajaBlanca - 2-23-2016 at 08:11 PM

How exciting! You really can be flexible and try a couple months here and a couple months there to find out what you like. After reading a lot, at one point in time, I thought we would love Merida on the mainland. I was so disappointed LOL Would not ever live there and I knew that within hours....

What is really going to make you love a place are the people - different crowds in Mulege and Loreto and Punta Chivato (gorgeous but no internet so that is out).....and this you can only discover by actually being there in person.

you asked about expenses so I will try to give you our perspective:

elec - every 2 months we average 500 pesos (we have a freezer)
water - 150 pesos a month
food - for 2 and we eat well - 1500 a week

we live on the Pacific side and in a small community, so we don't have cinemas or restaurants or concerts to go to, so we spend little on entertainment.

Each community usually has its own site for locals - really good way to get up to the moment information on a product you want, a local vet etc.

Good luck!

BajaMama - 2-24-2016 at 07:31 AM

I vote for Punta Chivato, too. You mentioned you are moving in August - I can't speak for the west coast of the peninsula, but the east, especially South of Santa Rosalia, is REALLY HOT in August, so where ever you decide, make sure you have air conditioning at least to the beginning of October.

Punta Chivato is where I spend my Baja oats, however, it is off the power grid. Look on the "gallery" forum link, and ask Russ (he posts sunrise pics of PC on a regular basis) about internet. I think those who have it do satellite; I know when one of my neighbors is in PC she makes it available to us. Also, I receive TelCel and Movistar with good connection as it is a direct line of site from Mulege. Good luck!

Erika128 - 2-24-2016 at 10:28 AM

This forum is amazing. Thanks SO MUCH for everyone's personal opinions!

I'm pretty certain I don't want to live on the Pacific side, although the weather seems more consistent. I've just spent a lot of time on the Pacific coastline from San Diego all the way up to the Washington Border, and I'm ready for something different. Even if it's in name only. We are looking for real cultural immersion for my boyfriend (eventually myself) to attain fluency, and not to just hide out in a remote place (as nice as that sounds sometimes).

Perhaps we'll wait until late October to make the move and avoid the heat. We'd remain in Portland for the best of the season, and considering we are driving with dogs... it might be for the best to not have everything roasting inside, especially given we'll likely wandering for a couple days trying to find the right place.

Does anyone know from experience if they check vehicle paperwork at all coming into Baja? I'm going to try and pay off the car before we go, but if I can't manage that and have to play the lienholders permission game, Baja won't be any easier than mainland Mexico.

I'm also considering applying for a residency permit online, for myself. I exceed the minimum income requirements. Would my boyfriend just get a 180 day tourist visa, or can I list him as a dependent? (good grief, he'd hate that title, lol). Does this have any impact on vehicles in Baja?

bajaguy - 2-24-2016 at 10:44 AM

Quote: Originally posted by Erika128  
This forum is amazing. Thanks SO MUCH for everyone's personal opinions!

I'm also considering applying for a residency permit online, for myself. I exceed the minimum income requirements. Would my boyfriend just get a 180 day tourist visa, or can I list him as a dependent? (good grief, he'd hate that title, lol). Does this have any impact on vehicles in Baja?





Methinks you have to prove residency (utility bills rental agreement or a sales contract/bill of sale) to apply for a Residente Temporal/Residente Permanente status. Don't think you can list him as a dependent. Why don't you both get the FMM tourist card. 180 days should allow you plenty of time to find the "perfect" spot, then you can decide about your residency status

SFandH - 2-24-2016 at 10:45 AM

IMHO it's probably best for the both of you to get 180 day FMMs (tourist permits) to start and car insurance from here.

https://www.bajabound.com/

Call them if you have insurance questions.

You'll both need US passports BTW.

Erika128 - 2-24-2016 at 10:50 AM

Great, I've heard that recommendation from other forums and resources as well. Thanks!

Passports are completed. I've heard conflicting opinions as to get the FMMs online beforehand, or just do it across the border. My biggest concern is driving around unnecessarily with the dogs in the car.

Quote: Originally posted by SFandH  
IMHO it's probably best for the both of you to get 180 day FMMs (tourist permits) to start and car insurance from here.

https://www.bajabound.com/

Call them if you have insurance questions.

You'll both need US passports BTW.

bajaguy - 2-24-2016 at 11:02 AM

Quote: Originally posted by Erika128  


Passports are completed. I've heard conflicting opinions as to get the FMMs online beforehand, or just do it across the border. My biggest concern is driving around unnecessarily with the dogs in the car.





I don't think you save much time getting them on line. You have to stop at the border (INM office) anyway to get them stamped before they are vaild. My experience has been about a 10 minute stop (depending on day/time you cross). Dogs should/will be OK

Bajahowodd - 2-24-2016 at 05:56 PM

Quote: Originally posted by bajaguy  
Quote: Originally posted by Erika128  


Passports are completed. I've heard conflicting opinions as to get the FMMs online beforehand, or just do it across the border. My biggest concern is driving around unnecessarily with the dogs in the car.


I'm in with SFandH and this.




I don't think you save much time getting them on line. You have to stop at the border (INM office) anyway to get them stamped before they are vaild. My experience has been about a 10 minute stop (depending on day/time you cross). Dogs should/will be OK

Alm - 2-28-2016 at 11:43 PM

Somewhat immature approach, IMO.

I have a bad news for you, Erika128. NOBODY but you will tell what place is "the best" for you. Or - for your dogs (you may of course try and ask them, but I don't think it matters as long as the landlord allows dogs).

Now, if you are looking for "the cheapest", this is easier. The farther from towns with airport and Highway 1 - the cheaper. No good beach in town - cheaper again. Ex, Sta Rosalia used to be cheap because there is no beach, though it lost its charm since copper mine re-opened. Google is your friend. Keywords "rentals sh-thole" (substitute with town name), or "arriendos (town name again)", or "casas".

As others noted, fast and reliable internet outside major towns is not guaranteed.

baja sur rentals on craigslist

Whale-ista - 2-29-2016 at 12:42 AM

try this for rental ideas

http://bajasur.craigslist.com.mx/

this caught my eye
http://bajasur.craigslist.com.mx/apa/5389399546.html

Whale-ista - 2-29-2016 at 11:46 AM

I travel w/a dog also and share the "hot car" concern, but the
parking area at the San Diego-Tijuana crossing is covered so less of a concern.

Approach the building from the north for covered parking before crossing through the inspection lanes.

Discover Baja club is worth exploring (maybe was mentioned before in this thread) for answers to many of your questions.

They can help with insurance, FMM, maps, books, directions, discounts on hotels etc. while traveling in Baja/Baja Sur.

Quote: Originally posted by Erika128  
Great, I've heard that recommendation from other forums and resources as well. Thanks!

Passports are completed. I've heard conflicting opinions as to get the FMMs online beforehand, or just do it across the border. My biggest concern is driving around unnecessarily with the dogs in the car.

Quote: Originally posted by SFandH  
IMHO it's probably best for the both of you to get 180 day FMMs (tourist permits) to start and car insurance from here.

https://www.bajabound.com/

Call them if you have insurance questions.

You'll both need US passports BTW.

rts551 - 2-29-2016 at 11:52 AM

Rent before you decide...Everyone has their own idea of paradise.

beachbum1A - 3-1-2016 at 09:12 PM

Quote: Originally posted by Bajahowodd  
So, at the end of the day, Erika, You and your family will have to make choices.

Climate- On the Pacific side such as Asuncion, relatively cool.

On the SOC side, hot, very hot.

Internet access is just about available everywhere; just that if you feel the need to stream videos, it won't work well everywhere.

In my experience, heading down the the Cuesta de Infierno into Santa Rosalia is jaw dropping.


Well said!


And again, what are your needs for shopping? Mulege is a wonderful place, but, if you need to shop for more than the basics, Loreto offers much more. And you can take a day trip to La Paz to shop at the BIG stores such as Walmart and alike.

As a long time Baja traveler, my opinion is that you should really research the Loreto area.

La Paz is a big city and has just about all the amenities anyone would want, including traffic. But you can easily make a day trip to La Paz from Loreto.

Not so much in the way of amenities in Loreto. But so much more peaceful.

Best of luck in making your decision.[/
quote]

Erika128 - 3-2-2016 at 05:30 PM

Quote: Originally posted by Alm  
Somewhat immature approach, IMO.

I have a bad news for you, Erika128. NOBODY but you will tell what place is "the best" for you. Or - for your dogs (you may of course try and ask them, but I don't think it matters as long as the landlord allows dogs).


Asking expat locals on their opinions is the immature thing to do? Of course "best" is relative - but "best" is also a tidy word to envelop a lot of things.

I'm getting so much amazing information from this thread, enough that I can start to possibly define my own "best" even before we get there in regard to my various needs/wants. What I want to avoid doing is driving a thousand miles with all our necessities and two dogs, and not have ANY narrowed-down ideas of where to land.

I strongly dislike the fact that I have dogs to worry about, but it is what it is. I wish we could just drive, camp or stay in a hotel in a couple different cities, then decide, but I can't fathom how that would be doable with two big dogs.

Thank you for your opinion, and again to everyone else. I'm learning so much!

Erika128 - 3-2-2016 at 06:02 PM

Right now I seem to be leaning towards Loreto. Not too small to be without some amenities or culture, but not so big as to be the city I left (only nicer weather). I just can't seem to find any example rentals at all in Loreto. Lots for La Paz & Mulege though. The rental budget may end up being the final deciding factor between Baja and heading inland to GTO, because they both are appealing and are equal on the positives/negatives scale.

SFandH - 3-2-2016 at 06:05 PM

Quote: Originally posted by Erika128  

I strongly dislike the fact that I have dogs to worry about, but it is what it is.


Oh no no no. They're worth the effort, by a mile. Especially when you see them running free, digging holes, chasing birds, on a baja beach. Dogs and Baja are like bacon and eggs, the sum is greater than the parts.

Plus they offer the best security system you can get, whether in a house or a tent on the beach.

Dogs are a good, even great, thing.

[Edited on 3-3-2016 by SFandH]

wessongroup - 3-2-2016 at 06:13 PM

Agree with that ... they actually become dogs

We had two when down .. and they really enjoyed the place

We stay in Baja Norte ... km 44.5 for over a year ...

Wife liked being even closer to her friends and relative .. so we came back ... I could have stayed without a second thought

But, age and physical condition wouldn't allow for it

So if you are healthy .. Go for it ...

Been 5 years now since down ... and will not be making it down anymore .. such is life

[Edited on 3-3-2016 by wessongroup]

Erika128 - 3-2-2016 at 06:18 PM

Quote: Originally posted by SFandH  
Quote: Originally posted by Erika128  

I strongly dislike the fact that I have dogs to worry about, but it is what it is.


Oh no no no. They're worth the effort, by a mile. Especially when you see them running free, digging holes, chasing birds, on a baja beach. Dogs and Baja are like bacon and eggs, the sum is greater than the parts.

Plus they offer the best security system you can get, whether in a house or a tent on the beach.

Dogs are a good, even great, thing.

[Edited on 3-3-2016 by SFandH]


LOL, I appreciate your enthusiasm. Dogs are essentially my business, and I'm very experienced in care/training/etc. One dog is good (mine). She's old and behaves and is never too big of a problem. She'll stick by us, and it warms my heart to see her warm her old bones in the sunshine. She's so happy at the beach too <3.

The other.. well.. I'm worried about taking her anywhere. She WILL run away. Has to be leashed at all times. No training. Frankly, she's cute, but she's a bane to me, and my boyfriend refuses to consider rehoming her to a more appropriate family. (it's a long story). This is why I'm looking for something with a fenced yard, hopefully. And that may not even stop her. If she gets away in Mexico, I wonder if we'll see her again. :no:

SFandH - 3-2-2016 at 06:27 PM

I travel with 3 dogs and one is a wanderer. Tags with phone numbers and an assortment of leashes, short and long. I buy the end clips at Home Depot and make my own out of rope. Dog friendly hotels are there and rental houses shouldn't be a problem.

wessongroup - 3-2-2016 at 06:33 PM

We had a Jack Russell (RIP) and a Border Collie (RIP) .. The Jack Russell was a trip :lol::lol:

Here we were getting some water .. Bear didn't want to give up "shotgun" on the Bronco ...



The owner of the property where we lived ... Loved Scout the Jack Russell ... as he really did a number on "rats" ... Exactly what he was bred for :biggrin::biggrin:



[Edited on 3-3-2016 by wessongroup]

bajaguy - 3-2-2016 at 06:33 PM

Take some recent photos of each dog. Will come in handy if you need to make lost dog posters

Collars and tags........one tag in Spanish

Also take a photo of each dog with you in the photo, helps prove ownership

[Edited on 3-3-2016 by bajaguy]

rhintransit - 3-3-2016 at 06:01 AM

Quote: Originally posted by Erika128  
Right now I seem to be leaning towards Loreto. Not too small to be without some amenities or culture, but not so big as to be the city I left (only nicer weather). I just can't seem to find any example rentals at all in Loreto. Lots for La Paz & Mulege though. The rental budget may end up being the final deciding factor between Baja and heading inland to GTO, because they both are appealing and are equal on the positives/negatives scale.


Have lived In Loreto for about eleven years. You won't find examples. There are no newspapers, no rental post boards in Loreto. Gringo rentals tend to be vacation type and not in your price range, which is low for the area and very low for your specifications. Not to say you can't find something, but it's going to be feet on ground and word of mouth.

[Edited on 3-3-2016 by rhintransit]

[Edited on 3-3-2016 by rhintransit]

Erika128 - 3-3-2016 at 10:35 AM

Cute dogs! I guess my biggest concern is driving around with them and stopping places when it's hot, but that's a concern all the time anyhow.



dogs1.jpg - 33kB

AKgringo - 3-3-2016 at 11:36 AM

The old girl that I made four tours of Baja with was a lot like the one on the right of your photo, only black with white feet and chest.

I drive with the windows down, and rarely use A/C, so I would make fairly frequent stops for water and potty breaks. Dogs can't sweat, so whatever she did not drink, I would use to wet her down with and let the circulating air cool her down.

I also capture the water I drain from my Ice chest for that purpose, unless something has spilled in it.

As far as your obedience challenged youngster, have you tried training using an electronic collar? I have had quite a few dogs over the years, and held a dim view of using one, but not any more!

After almost a year of failure to control my current companion off leash, I finally took my neighbors suggestion to give it a try. The model I have gives me the option of making the collar beep, vibrate, or stimulate (the PC word for shock) while giving her a command.

The main thing is to get her attention! I tested the shock settings on myself first so that I know what she is getting, and only use it if she ignores the audible or vibrating mode.

The improvement in her obedience was amazing, and immediate! She has only been shocked a hand full of times, and just wearing the collar makes her a much better dog, even when I don't use it. She like putting it on, because it means we are going somewhere, but she is very aware of what the controller that I put around my neck does.

She is a year and a half old now, and I am getting to the point where I can remove the studs that deliver the shock, and just rely on the vibrate and audible mode. That will make it more comfortable for her, and I won't have to be yelling in a campground or park to get her attention.

I wish I had decided to get this collar a year ago, it might have saved her from a bad encounter with a large buck with a harem of doe's. She doesn't chase deer anymore!

[Edited on 3-3-2016 by AKgringo]

Erika128 - 3-3-2016 at 02:25 PM

Quote: Originally posted by AKgringo  


As far as your obedience challenged youngster, have you tried training using an electronic collar? I have had quite a few dogs over the years, and held a dim view of using one, but not any more!

After almost a year of failure to control my current companion off leash, I finally took my neighbors suggestion to give it a try. The model I have gives me the option of making the collar beep, vibrate, or stimulate (the PC word for shock) while giving her a command.

The main thing is to get her attention! I tested the shock settings on myself first so that I know what she is getting, and only use it if she ignores the audible or vibrating mode.

The improvement in her obedience was amazing, and immediate! She has only been shocked a hand full of times, and just wearing the collar makes her a much better dog, even when I don't use it. She like putting it on, because it means we are going somewhere, but she is very aware of what the controller that I put around my neck does.

She is a year and a half old now, and I am getting to the point where I can remove the studs that deliver the shock, and just rely on the vibrate and audible mode. That will make it more comfortable for her, and I won't have to be yelling in a campground or park to get her attention.

I wish I had decided to get this collar a year ago, it might have saved her from a bad encounter with a large buck with a harem of doe's. She doesn't chase deer anymore!

[Edited on 3-3-2016 by AKgringo]


Thanks so much for posting this - I made my boyfriend read it, because I've been hinting around getting an E-collar for a while. I think the only thing that will get through to her is that instant negative reinforcement, followed by a food reward. It's impossible to motivate her to pay attention when we are outside. She takes off like a bat out of hell, and poof! Gone. I could be waving a sizzling pork chop and she wouldn't even bother to sniff from afar. And I think the only thing that will get through to my boyfriend is the idea that she could A: be a happier dog with more freedom, and B: be safer.

I'd be a hell of a lot happier too (that's my primary reason!). I've done competitive obedience with my old girl and other dogs in the past, so having basically a coyote that gives me the middle finger all the time is frustrating, to say the least and makes the idea of moving anywhere with her overwhelming.

Thanks also for the traveling tips! I'm considering investing in a small gear trailer to haul our stuff in, as I really don't think I'll have any room at all in the car on the way down with the dogs in the back. I'll have the back seat, and the roof otherwise. :?:

AKgringo - 3-3-2016 at 05:24 PM

Erika, you are correct about 'A', and 'B', and then there is 'C'.... I am much happier when I don't have to be tied to my dog every time we go for a walk! I actually had the collar a couple of months before I worked up the resolve to use it, and have no regrets now, other than delaying it!

My girl is smart, and learns tricks for treats in a heartbeat, unless she thought the trick was putting a leash on her, then she would bolt when I brought the treats out. She is still not problem free, but much,much better now!

About pulling a trailer....my little 4x4 is a bit smaller than your Exterra, and I towed a small, heavy duty, but lightly loaded utility trailer on my last trip with no problems. If you tow one, make sure it is well built, with large tires.

I used wheel adapters on a trailer built for a Jeep, so that I run the same tire and rim as the tow vehicle (a 2 door Kia Sportage}. This way I have two spares that can be used on the car or trailer, except that I run half the PSI on the trailer to soften the ride.