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bajabass
Super Nomad
Posts: 2016
Registered: 10-4-2006
Location: La Paz,BCS
Member Is Offline
Mood: Want to fish!!!
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That looks like a man with plenty of stories to tell!! Gentlemen like he and his gringo counterparts abound in Baja.
Keep your eyes on the road, and your hands upon the wheel!
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Mengano
Banned
Posts: 1238
Registered: 9-26-2011
Member Is Offline
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sanquintinsince73
Super Nomad
Posts: 1498
Registered: 6-8-2010
Location: Los Angeles, CA
Member Is Offline
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| Quote: | Originally posted by Mengano
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Perfect likeness of you, Mengano. All's that's missing is the pork chop they use to tie around your neck so that your puppy would play with you.
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mcfez
Elite Nomad
Posts: 8678
Registered: 12-2-2009
Location: aka BN yankeeirishman
Member Is Offline
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KO
Old people are like the old cars, made of some tough stuff. May show a little rust, but good as gold on the inside.
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sanquintinsince73
Super Nomad
Posts: 1498
Registered: 6-8-2010
Location: Los Angeles, CA
Member Is Offline
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| Quote: | Originally posted by mcfez
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Mengano's only friend when he was growing up in El Salvador.
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Woooosh
Banned
Posts: 5240
Registered: 1-28-2007
Location: Rosarito Beach
Member Is Offline
Mood: Luminescent Waves at Rosarito Beach
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| Quote: | Originally posted by dirtbikr
With my wife retireing shortly, we would like to relocate to baja, I have been down many times mainly just guys dirt motorcycle trips, zeroing in on
good trails,tacos and beer. I have been reading everything I can to learn more. Just wondering what are the things you miss most about the usa, It
seems with the internet you can stay connected, satellite etc. What do you miss? |
The reality of Mexico today is it is good to have an escape plan, including a home north of the border if you can swing it. I love living here, but
keep a home in Colorado that I rent out- but only short term, "just in case." I have a vintage dirt bike and enjoy riding it in Baja when I don't
have to walk it back home. We live close enough to the border (Rosarito Beach) to get to San Diego in a medical or security emergency. We buy most
of our food in the states because of price, quality and horomones/chemicals--- I also don't like the taste of the chicken eggs down here. You may
consider renting closer to the border to try things out. If you feel comfortable- ween yourself off the NOB trappings and move further south. just
my two cents after being here seven years.
\"The only thing necessary for the triumph of evil is for good men to do nothing\"
1961- JFK to Canadian parliament (Edmund Burke)
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capitolkat
Senior Nomad
Posts: 510
Registered: 3-9-2006
Member Is Offline
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After being a visitor for about 35 years I retired last year. We had bought property in La paz and began construction in february. They are supposed
to deliver our new house Friday ( doubtful but close). We lived in La paz for the last year and have adjusted well as the city provides pretty much
everything I need- good wine is problematic but I bring some each time I travel and friends load their suitcases when they visit. Also, good
reasonable cigars are a problem but anyone visiting gets a delivery from me before they fly and bring me what I want.
I have dish network and all the channels I could want, internet keeps me in touch and it's snowing at the farm in MI today and close to 80 here in La
Paz. There are theatres with current movies--most are english with Spanish subtitles. Went to a spanish language school for 6 weeks and can get by in
most situations.
The culture is sometime difficult to understand. Why would they have such a great emphasis on ecological concerns in my building and every beach goer
dumps trash to and from their day at the beach along the roads and on the beach. Why do they tell me yes when they know what I want is not within
their reach? But, you adjust and understand the culture really wants to give you what you want even if they know they can't deliver it.
Learn how to deal with gas stations and corrupt cops. Don't accept the discount on any ticket by paying the cop who stops you- it works. Ask for
things you want at the grocery and be surprised when they do get it. we asked for Marscapone cheese and they got it in a few weeks. My wife wanted a
selection of soy milk and they got it for her. Enjoy the fresh baked stuff and try the small tacos stands where the locals go. There is a local who
makes original style bratwurst and italian sausages. Good as any we could get in the states.
The local military stops can be unnerving with kids with automatic weapons but I look at them in the eye and smile and they now want to talk about
Obama and America- knowing the language has made a world of difference.
let the people you meet know you care about them and they in turn care about you. We had car trouble in a remote area and every car that went by
stopped- all Mexicans and one husband and wife sent the tow truck back for us from the next town 20 miles away. All asked if we needed anything-
water. A long-haul driver stopped his rig in the middle of the highway and discussed our options-but we declined his offer of a ride to stay with the
car. When we passed back through SAn Ignacio a few months later we looked up the mechanic and tow driver and told them all was Ok and they were
delighted to see us and see us well.
We do enjoy creature comforts and chose a larger town because of the shopping and cultural events. The local doctor and dentist have been great. My
wife had minor infection that could have turned serious and the Dr. took a complete history did blood work and properly diagnosed the problem and
prescribed the right medications. 500 pesos. She needed injections for a week- we bought the medicine and syringes at the drug store and went to the
local clinic where they administered the shots for 5 pesos per shot. I had a tooth problem and got a root canal and several cavities repaired and the
dentist filled out the report and we submitted to our US insurance and -- they paid the claim. It takes time but probably no less than it would have
in the states and the costs were rock bottom.
Like others have said- spend some time where you think you might want to live- we find the Americans and Canadians have not been our closest allies as
those who have been here tend to be clique oriented. Our favorite restaruant now recognize us and one genrally brings us something special gratis
before the meal.
Oh and good gin is hard to find- we stock up on our annual trip to Phoenix to visit family,but you adjust and find ways to make it work.
I guess I have other thoughts but I think you get the drift. Good luck-- Norm
Life is too short to drink bad wine
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sanquintinsince73
Super Nomad
Posts: 1498
Registered: 6-8-2010
Location: Los Angeles, CA
Member Is Offline
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| Quote: | Originally posted by capitolkat
After being a visitor for about 35 years I retired last year. We had bought property in La paz and began construction in february. They are supposed
to deliver our new house Friday ( doubtful but close). We lived in La paz for the last year and have adjusted well as the city provides pretty much
everything I need- good wine is problematic but I bring some each time I travel and friends load their suitcases when they visit. Also, good
reasonable cigars are a problem but anyone visiting gets a delivery from me before they fly and bring me what I want.
I have dish network and all the channels I could want, internet keeps me in touch and it's snowing at the farm in MI today and close to 80 here in La
Paz. There are theatres with current movies--most are english with Spanish subtitles. Went to a spanish language school for 6 weeks and can get by in
most situations.
The culture is sometime difficult to understand. Why would they have such a great emphasis on ecological concerns in my building and every beach goer
dumps trash to and from their day at the beach along the roads and on the beach. Why do they tell me yes when they know what I want is not within
their reach? But, you adjust and understand the culture really wants to give you what you want even if they know they can't deliver it.
Learn how to deal with gas stations and corrupt cops. Don't accept the discount on any ticket by paying the cop who stops you- it works. Ask for
things you want at the grocery and be surprised when they do get it. we asked for Marscapone cheese and they got it in a few weeks. My wife wanted a
selection of soy milk and they got it for her. Enjoy the fresh baked stuff and try the small tacos stands where the locals go. There is a local who
makes original style bratwurst and italian sausages. Good as any we could get in the states.
The local military stops can be unnerving with kids with automatic weapons but I look at them in the eye and smile and they now want to talk about
Obama and America- knowing the language has made a world of difference.
let the people you meet know you care about them and they in turn care about you. We had car trouble in a remote area and every car that went by
stopped- all Mexicans and one husband and wife sent the tow truck back for us from the next town 20 miles away. All asked if we needed anything-
water. A long-haul driver stopped his rig in the middle of the highway and discussed our options-but we declined his offer of a ride to stay with the
car. When we passed back through SAn Ignacio a few months later we looked up the mechanic and tow driver and told them all was Ok and they were
delighted to see us and see us well.
We do enjoy creature comforts and chose a larger town because of the shopping and cultural events. The local doctor and dentist have been great. My
wife had minor infection that could have turned serious and the Dr. took a complete history did blood work and properly diagnosed the problem and
prescribed the right medications. 500 pesos. She needed injections for a week- we bought the medicine and syringes at the drug store and went to the
local clinic where they administered the shots for 5 pesos per shot. I had a tooth problem and got a root canal and several cavities repaired and the
dentist filled out the report and we submitted to our US insurance and -- they paid the claim. It takes time but probably no less than it would have
in the states and the costs were rock bottom.
Like others have said- spend some time where you think you might want to live- we find the Americans and Canadians have not been our closest allies as
those who have been here tend to be clique oriented. Our favorite restaruant now recognize us and one genrally brings us something special gratis
before the meal.
Oh and good gin is hard to find- we stock up on our annual trip to Phoenix to visit family,but you adjust and find ways to make it work.
I guess I have other thoughts but I think you get the drift. Good luck-- Norm |
Very well stated, CapitolKat.
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mcfez
Elite Nomad
Posts: 8678
Registered: 12-2-2009
Location: aka BN yankeeirishman
Member Is Offline
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| Quote: | Originally posted by capitolkat
I need- good wine is problematic but I bring some each time I travel and friends load their suitcases when they visit. |
Fantastio post capitolkat.
I was just watching a Rick Bayless show a few weeks ago...on Baja wine. Watch this video if you can find it on line...and then you know where to get
some of the best wines around :-)
http://www.rickbayless.com/tv/season8/804presenting.html
[Edited on 11-8-2011 by mcfez]
Old people are like the old cars, made of some tough stuff. May show a little rust, but good as gold on the inside.
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capitolkat
Senior Nomad
Posts: 510
Registered: 3-9-2006
Member Is Offline
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McFEz-- I've devoted quite a bit of my time to wine over the last 25 years and have visited vineyards in lots of CA, ore, and Washington areas as well
as some in France and Italy. I have friends who are growers and one is quite famous , usually making the wine Spectator cover at least once a year.
While I don't consider myself a wine snob I have tasted a lot of wine through the years and my cellar is full of wines at all price levels and
origins.
I'm not adverse to Mexican wines and I do taste them all the time at all price points-- so far no luck- according to my taste buds. There are others
that are cheaper and from the southern hemisphere that are good quality and meet my needs. The Rothschild family - famous for great Bordeaux wines has
partnered with some Chilean folks and produces a great bordeaux style wine and for a good cost.
There are some wines at Sam's Club here from Spain that I fill up on every time I see them. Average cost less than $4 per bottle and it's one I call a
cellar protector as I can drink as much as I like and serve it to less concerned guests and they all enjoy it. I haven't found a good Mexican pinot as
that grape is very fragile and difficult to grow and pinot noir is my favorite.
So that said -- if I find some Mexican wines I would recommend I'll let you know as that is my standard- If I wouldn't recommend it to a friend I
won't buy it again.
Norm
Life is too short to drink bad wine
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beachbum1A
Nomad
Posts: 442
Registered: 6-17-2006
Location: Punta Banda, BC
Member Is Offline
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Regardless of what I truly miss in the US there are many things here in Baja that I couldn't have in the US - things that I really, really love and
wouldn't want to do without.
And that's just part of the reason I retired here full time.
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capitolkat
Senior Nomad
Posts: 510
Registered: 3-9-2006
Member Is Offline
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Beachbum-- we are in accord-- life here is good for us and we are planning to live most of the year here-- even this past summer was fine for us as
you adjust to the heat by scheduling activites to avoid the worst heat.
Life is too short to drink bad wine
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bajaguy
Elite Nomad
Posts: 9247
Registered: 9-16-2003
Location: Carson City, NV/Ensenada - Baja Country Club
Member Is Offline
Mood: must be 5 O'clock somewhere in Baja
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| Quote: | Originally posted by capitolkat
McFEz-- I've devoted quite a bit of my time to wine over the last 25 years and have visited vineyards in lots of CA, ore, and Washington areas as well
as some in France and Italy. I have friends who are growers and one is quite famous , usually making the wine Spectator cover at least once a year.
While I don't consider myself a wine snob I have tasted a lot of wine through the years and my cellar is full of wines at all price levels and
origins.
I'm not adverse to Mexican wines and I do taste them all the time at all price points-- so far no luck- according to my taste buds. There are others
that are cheaper and from the southern hemisphere that are good quality and meet my needs. The Rothschild family - famous for great Bordeaux wines has
partnered with some Chilean folks and produces a great bordeaux style wine and for a good cost.
There are some wines at Sam's Club here from Spain that I fill up on every time I see them. Average cost less than $4 per bottle and it's one I call a
cellar protector as I can drink as much as I like and serve it to less concerned guests and they all enjoy it. I haven't found a good Mexican pinot as
that grape is very fragile and difficult to grow and pinot noir is my favorite.
So that said -- if I find some Mexican wines I would recommend I'll let you know as that is my standard- If I wouldn't recommend it to a friend I
won't buy it again.
Norm |
Norm, you should visit Ensenada during the Annual Wine Festival............plenty of outstanding wines from the Santo Thomas Valley and the Guadalupe
Valley!!!!!!
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rob
Senior Nomad
Posts: 509
Registered: 10-19-2004
Location: Pacific Coast, BCS
Member Is Offline
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Dirtbikr - something here for everyone. We made a rural choice (although it looks like we will be a dormitory suburb all too soon) - we live on the
Pacific coast west of La Paz in the boonies - source of farm cheese, lobsters, oysters, fish off the beach and slaughter our own beef and lamb. Large
organic garden and an Argentinian friend who makes incredible sausage - all we need for total independence is a small oil refinery . . .
We miss #4 coffee filters (or rather, paying $3/100 rather than $6), French/Italian roast coffee, decently-priced wines and PBS (sorry DavidK).
Capitolkat - please try the KWV Pinotage at Sam's Club (from my old hometown) at about $180MN. Heavy red - perfect for that chilly La Paz winter
evening.
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David K
Honored Nomad
Posts: 65410
Registered: 8-30-2002
Location: San Diego County
Member Is Offline
Mood: Have Baja Fever
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PBS is fine with me, but if they really had faith in what they show, they could survive without my tax dollars, right? Instead of hours spent each
week begging for money to be donated (and still listing 'corporate sponsors'), run 5 minutes of commercials and be done with it!
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rts551
Elite Nomad
Posts: 6700
Registered: 9-5-2003
Member Is Offline
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| Quote: | Originally posted by David K
PBS is fine with me, but if they really had faith in what they show, they could survive without my tax dollars, right? Instead of hours spent each
week begging for money to be donated (and still listing 'corporate sponsors'), run 5 minutes of commercials and be done with it!
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We were doing fine without the off-topic comment. Pls keep your comments relative to living in Baja
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capitolkat
Senior Nomad
Posts: 510
Registered: 3-9-2006
Member Is Offline
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Rob and bajaguy-- Thanks-- there is a good wine store in CAbo called vintoteca. They actually deliver weekly to La Paz-- call Saturday or Sunday and
they deliver on Tuesday-- no charge. They will be opening a new store here in la paz in 2012 in the new Liverpool shopping center. They have many of
the Mexican wines and I've tasted a bunch-- many from the regions bajaguy mentions-but no home runs yet and I'm surprised by the pricing of some of
those wines as I have many years ago developed a QPR of my own. ( quality price ratio) if a wine is over $30 per bottle it must compare favorably to a
$30 bottle I can get from Australia, Spain, Chile, Argentina, South Africa or the US. None of the Mexican wines can do so in the QPR system. The
system is the same for other price ranges and if a wine goes up in price the competition is more fierce as for above $50 I can get a Wine Spectator
top 100 wine. WS rates over 14,000 wines every year and pick the top 100 from those tastings based on quality, price, availablity.
Rob I'll look for the pinotage as it's one of my favorites- earthy, full bodied, generally well balanced but can get heavy on tannins for young wines
but also doesn't age as well as cabernet or pinot.
Life is too short to drink bad wine
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mcfez
Elite Nomad
Posts: 8678
Registered: 12-2-2009
Location: aka BN yankeeirishman
Member Is Offline
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| Quote: | Originally posted by capitolkat
McFEz-- I've devoted quite a bit of my time to wine over the last 25 years and have visited vineyards in lots of CA, ore, and Washington areas as well
as some in France and Italy. I have friends who are growers and one is quite famous , usually making the wine Spectator cover at least once a year.
While I don't consider myself a wine snob I have tasted a lot of wine through the years and my cellar is full of wines at all price levels and
origins.
I'm not adverse to Mexican wines and I do taste them all the time at all price points-- so far no luck- according to my taste buds. There are others
that are cheaper and from the southern hemisphere that are good quality and meet my needs. The Rothschild family - famous for great Bordeaux wines has
partnered with some Chilean folks and produces a great bordeaux style wine and for a good cost.
There are some wines at Sam's Club here from Spain that I fill up on every time I see them. Average cost less than $4 per bottle and it's one I call a
cellar protector as I can drink as much as I like and serve it to less concerned guests and they all enjoy it. I haven't found a good Mexican pinot as
that grape is very fragile and difficult to grow and pinot noir is my favorite.
So that said -- if I find some Mexican wines I would recommend I'll let you know as that is my standard- If I wouldn't recommend it to a friend I
won't buy it again.
Norm |
You are lucky (maybe) that you dont live down in our campos....
Before I go to Baja...I load up a few cases of Trader Joes "2 Buck Chuck" for a handful of my neighbors down there.....they LOVE this stuff! I don't
consume alcohol products...so I dont know if this stuff is really tasty...or being used for their car fuel :-)
[Edited on 11-9-2011 by mcfez]
Old people are like the old cars, made of some tough stuff. May show a little rust, but good as gold on the inside.
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Gypsy Jan
Ultra Nomad
Posts: 4275
Registered: 1-27-2004
Member Is Offline
Mood: Depends on which way the wind is blowing
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Missing U.S. Items - Adjustment of Expectations
What is great about Baja and Mexico is the pretty much lack of branding and chains.
The street vendor, the homemade provider is still pervasive.
If you want a burger, there is a guy. If you want a hot dog, there is a guy.
Try to find a tamalera, she is right next to the taxista stand.
What frightens people is that they do not understand that the little, independents who do not have mega-corporate logo ID.
Get brave, stop by a place that has a lot of locals. Look at the food prep and the cleanliness and enjoy.
“Travel is fatal to prejudice, bigotry, and narrow mindedness.”
—Mark Twain
\"La vida es dura, el corazon es puro, y cantamos hasta la madrugada.” (Life is hard, the heart is pure and we sing until dawn.)
—Kirsty MacColl, Mambo de la Luna
\"Alea iacta est.\"
—Julius Caesar
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Mulegena
Super Nomad
Posts: 2412
Registered: 11-7-2006
Member Is Offline
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I miss fresh-cut flowers
... but there's more than enough natural beauty all about.
"Raise your words, not your voice. It's rain that grows flowers, not thunder." ~Rumi
"It's the mark of an educated mind to be able to entertain a thought without accepting it." ~ Aristotle
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