2018-fall

One of Bruce Purcell’s Campsites during his 2017 Solo One of Bruce Purcell’s Campsites during his 2017 Solo Bike Adventure from Thousand Oaks, CA, to Cabo San Bike Adventure from Thousand Oaks, CA, to Cabo San

Lucas.. Read his adventure story on page 9. Lucas.. Read his adventure story on page 9.

Dee Eberle with her wonderful sons Eric and Brent Dee Eberle with her wonderful sons Eric and Brent

PHOTO CREDITS PHOTO CREDITS

Front Cover Front Cover

“Baja Sunset” “Baja Sunset” Bruce Purcell, 1st Place Bruce Purcell, 1st Place 2017 Photo Contest – Scenery 2017 Photo Contest – Scenery

Giant Cardon Cactus, by Leslie Reams Giant Cardon Cactus, by Leslie Reams 2017 Photo Contest Honorable Mention 2017 Photo Contest Honorable Mention

Amy Halverson, Mel Mello, Gloria Jones and Past Amy Halverson, Mel Mello, Gloria Jones and Past President Tony Schuck receiving the Crab of the Year President Tony Schuck receiving the Crab of the Year

OFFICERS
President – Carrie Wilson
Acting Vice President – Bill Karr
Secretary – Amy Halverson

BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Fred Eberle
John Henigin – ﬁ shtalkradio.com
Gloria Jones
Bill Karr
Gary Kirkman
Tony Schuck
Freddie Washington
Carrie Wilson

STAFF
Executive Manager – Gloria Jones
General Manager – Fred Jones
Operations Manager – Amy Halverson
Insurance Specialist – Kathy Schmidt
Insurance Specialist – Michelle Ralston
Insurance Specialist – Shawna Newcomb
Ofﬁ ce Assistant – Veronica Porras
Webmaster / Photo Editor – John Jones
Chubasco Editor – Fred Jones

PRESIDENT EMERITUS – Chet Sherman
COMMODORE ETERNAL – Ray Cannon

AMBASSADORS-AT-LARGE
Robert Amma
Mike Bales
Solveig Franklin
Bill Gesswein
Roland Heuschele
Sidney “Skip” Huwaldt
Sidney “Skip” Huwaldt

Mike Trible
Mike Trible
Larry Young
Larry Young

NOTICE When matters of importance must be announced to Club Members, the Chubasco, our Website and Hot- box at Vagabundos.com, Facebook page (Facebook. com/vagabundosdelmar), Twitter page (twitter.com/ vagabundosdmar) and periodic Email Bulletins will be the ofﬁ cial means of doing so. Add michelle@ vagabundos.com and [email protected] to your address book to assure email delivery. Please read them carefully so that you are fully informed.

VAGABUNDOS DEL MAR
190 Main Street
Rio Vista, CA 94571
(800) 47-4-BAJA (2252) Fax (707) 374-6843
[email protected]

LOGGING INTO YOUR ONLINE ACCOUNT FOR MEMBERSHIP & INSURANCE

Go to our website Vagabundos.com and click on Vag Go to our website Vagabundos.com and click on Vag member “Login”. Enter your login name and pass- member “Login”. Enter your login name and pass- word if you’ve already created one. word if you’ve already created one.

If you’ve forgotten your login or password, click on If you’ve forgotten your login or password, click on the “Need Help Logging In” link on the login page the “Need Help Logging In” link on the login page and enter your email address. An email will be sent and enter your email address. An email will be sent to you with instructions on how to reset your pass- to you with instructions on how to reset your pass- word; please ensure you’re able to receive emails word; please ensure you’re able to receive emails from Vagabundos.com. Once you enter your new from Vagabundos.com. Once you enter your new password and conﬁ rm it, your login will be updated password and conﬁ rm it, your login will be updated to your email address and your password will be to your email address and your password will be updated to the new password you entered. updated to the new password you entered.

If you have never created a login and password If you have never created a login and password click on “Current Member Who Needs To Create A click on “Current Member Who Needs To Create A Login” on the login page and enter your last name, Login” on the login page and enter your last name, member number and zip code. An email will be sent member number and zip code. An email will be sent to you with instructions to create a password. Once to you with instructions to create a password. Once your password is set your login will be your email your password is set your login will be your email address and you will be able to log into your mem- address and you will be able to log into your mem- ber page. ber page.

From your Membership page you can renew a From your Membership page you can renew a policy, create a new policy, update your address, use policy, create a new policy, update your address, use the Travel Buddies calendar or ﬁ nd the Chubasco the Travel Buddies calendar or ﬁ nd the Chubasco online PDF version. You will be able to locally print online PDF version. You will be able to locally print your policy immediately after you purchase it. your policy immediately after you purchase it.

The Ship’s Store online has available all of our The Ship’s Store online has available all of our Vagabundos logo clothing, as well as burgees, mag- Vagabundos logo clothing, as well as burgees, mag- netic signs, Baja & Mexico books, charts, maps, etc. netic signs, Baja & Mexico books, charts, maps, etc.

FINDING THE FINDING THE CHUBASCO CHUBASCO ONLINE ONLINE Follow the instructions in the ﬁ rst three paragraphs above. You will then be on your membership page. You will then be on your membership page. Click on “Chubasco” to view the current issue or Click on “Chubasco” to view the current issue or click on Member downloads to view previous issues. click on Member downloads to view previous issues.

ALL CHUBASCO CONTENTS © 2018 VAGABUNDOS DEL MAR

EDITOR’S NOTES EDITOR’S NOTES

TIP’S TIP’S

The Mexican consulate located in Sacramento recently The Mexican consulate located in Sacramento recently had Aduanas agents at their ofﬁ ce assisting in canceling had Aduanas agents at their ofﬁ ce assisting in canceling Temporary Import Permits. This was a great opportunity Temporary Import Permits. This was a great opportunity for anyone that had not canceled their permits at the for anyone that had not canceled their permits at the border, or no longer owns the unit or units listed on border, or no longer owns the unit or units listed on their TIP. Staff from Vagabundos were there and had their TIP. Staff from Vagabundos were there and had the opportunity to speak and ask a few questions to the opportunity to speak and ask a few questions to an Aduanas agent. The questions and responses are as an Aduanas agent. The questions and responses are as follows. follows.

Q: Do Motorhomes need a TIP for Baja California? Q: Do Motorhomes need a TIP for Baja California?

A: Motorhomes are required to obtain a TIP before A: Motorhomes are required to obtain a TIP before entering Mexico. It is advised that you obtain one at entering Mexico. It is advised that you obtain one at the border or apply for one before you start your trip. the border or apply for one before you start your trip.

Q: What happens in the event that you are told at the Q: What happens in the event that you are told at the border that you do not need a permit and continue your border that you do not need a permit and continue your trip into Mexico without one? trip into Mexico without one?

A: If you are asked to present your import permit in A: If you are asked to present your import permit in Mexico and you do not have one, your Motorhome Mexico and you do not have one, your Motorhome may be impounded. Therefore, we recommend you may be impounded. Therefore, we recommend you obtain a TIP before entering Mexico. obtain a TIP before entering Mexico.

Q: What should be done if a Banjercito agent informs Q: What should be done if a Banjercito agent informs you that the TIP is not required for Baja? you that the TIP is not required for Baja?

A: You can tell the agent that you were informed by A: You can tell the agent that you were informed by Aduanas in Mexico City that a TIP is necessary in Aduanas in Mexico City that a TIP is necessary in Baja and you would like to obtain one. If they continue Baja and you would like to obtain one. If they continue to insist you do not need one, tell them you may be to insist you do not need one, tell them you may be traveling to mainland Mexico. traveling to mainland Mexico.

Q: Where can you apply for, and obtain a Motorhome Q: Where can you apply for, and obtain a Motorhome TIP? TIP?

A: If you are driving into Mexico you will need to A: If you are driving into Mexico you will need to obtain your TIP before entering the Country. You can obtain your TIP before entering the Country. You can obtain it at the border, apply online or at a Mexican obtain it at the border, apply online or at a Mexican consulate near you. Not all consulates have a Banjercito consulate near you. Not all consulates have a Banjercito Ofﬁ ce. Please contact them to make sure this service Ofﬁ ce. Please contact them to make sure this service is available at their location. As of September 3, 2018 is available at their location. As of September 3, 2018 some consulates give you the option to schedule an some consulates give you the option to schedule an appointment online. The link to the website where appointment online. The link to the website where

you can schedule an appointment and see a list of these you can schedule an appointment and see a list of these consulates at www.banjercito.com.mx/citasconsulares. consulates at www.banjercito.com.mx/citasconsulares. The option for English is at the top right corner. The option for English is at the top right corner.

Vagabundos can assist you in getting your Motorhome Vagabundos can assist you in getting your Motorhome TIP if no towed units are to be listed. TIP if no towed units are to be listed.

Temporary residents can still obtain a TIP. If you are Temporary residents can still obtain a TIP. If you are a Permanent resident you will need to permanently a Permanent resident you will need to permanently import your vehicle. import your vehicle.

They also provided us with a list of requirements to They also provided us with a list of requirements to obtain your temporary or permanent residency. obtain your temporary or permanent residency.

The ofﬁ ce will process TIP’s for you, just as with The ofﬁ ce will process TIP’s for you, just as with insurance and other permits, allow two weeks to insurance and other permits, allow two weeks to process, especially this busy time of the year. process, especially this busy time of the year.

CHECKPOINTS CHECKPOINTS

When passing through Federale checkpoints, if you are When passing through Federale checkpoints, if you are pulled over for inspection, it’s best to stay with the pulled over for inspection, it’s best to stay with the agent who is doing the inspection. Occasionally we hear agent who is doing the inspection. Occasionally we hear of problems if you are not present with your belongings. of problems if you are not present with your belongings. We keep hearing time and time again, the Vagabundos We keep hearing time and time again, the Vagabundos magnetic signs with our logo and the larger decals magnetic signs with our logo and the larger decals facilitate pass through with just a wave and no further facilitate pass through with just a wave and no further inspection. Thanks to the Members who report back inspection. Thanks to the Members who report back their experience – please continue to do so, and share their experience – please continue to do so, and share with other Members. with other Members.

MEDEVAC MEDEVAC

Vagabundos is now offering reliable Emergency Travel Vagabundos is now offering reliable Emergency Travel MedEvac Insurance! This is not your average MedEvac MedEvac Insurance! This is not your average MedEvac membership or insurance program. Beware of other membership or insurance program. Beware of other plans that provide evacuation coverage only to the plans that provide evacuation coverage only to the “nearest suitable facility”, rather than to your home “nearest suitable facility”, rather than to your home hospital. Travel MedEvac plans are underwritten by hospital. Travel MedEvac plans are underwritten by Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company and Afﬁ liated Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company and Afﬁ liated A+ rated insurance companies. A+ rated insurance companies.

If you are traveling more than 150 miles from your home If you are traveling more than 150 miles from your home and you are admitted to a hospital for a critical injury and you are admitted to a hospital for a critical injury or illness, and you are in need of a medical evacuation, or illness, and you are in need of a medical evacuation, our partner Air Ambulance Worldwide will manage our partner Air Ambulance Worldwide will manage your medical evacuation. They have a highly accredited your medical evacuation. They have a highly accredited network of experienced air ambulance providers to network of experienced air ambulance providers to bring you home. bring you home.

Wherever you may travel throughout the world, a Wherever you may travel throughout the world, a Travel MedEvac premium medical evacuation plan Travel MedEvac premium medical evacuation plan may be the single most important coverage you should may be the single most important coverage you should obtain when traveling. obtain when traveling.

For a quote and full details please visit https://www. For a quote and full details please visit https://www. vagabundos.com/tme.html vagabundos.com/tme.html

YEAR PINS YEAR PINS

Graham Clarke – 20 years
Graham Clarke – 20 years
William & Gia Cosbie – 20 years
William & Gia Cosbie – 20 years
Mark Langheld & Kathy Bartholomew – 20 years
Mark Langheld & Kathy Bartholomew – 20 years
Donald & Mildred Tischmacher – 15 years
Donald & Mildred Tischmacher – 15 years
Steven Waggoner – 5 years
Steven Waggoner – 5 years
Roy & Sally Wells – 10 years
Roy & Sally Wells – 10 years

CHUBASCO CHUBASCO

We endeavor to keep We endeavor to keep publishing the hard copy of publishing the hard copy of the Chubasco, but sometimes experience technical the Chubasco, but sometimes experience technical difﬁ culties. We print in-house. There were 15 E-mail difﬁ culties. We print in-house. There were 15 E-mail Bulletins sent out last year to supplement the Chubasco. Bulletins sent out last year to supplement the Chubasco. Check our Hotbox on the Website Home Page, E-mail Check our Hotbox on the Website Home Page, E-mail Bulletins and Social Media pages for up-to-date Bulletins and Social Media pages for up-to-date information. Check to see we have your very latest information. Check to see we have your very latest email address, and that you have Vagabundos.com email address, and that you have Vagabundos.com added to your spam whitelist. Thanks to Members who added to your spam whitelist. Thanks to Members who let us know they like the hard copy of the Chubasco and let us know they like the hard copy of the Chubasco and carry it with them when they travel. carry it with them when they travel.

SHIP’S STORE SHIP’S STORE Holidays will be coming up before too long, Holidays will be coming up before too long, so remember when making your list (and so remember when making your list (and checking it twice) to check the Ship’s Store checking it twice) to check the Ship’s Store form on Page 16, or visit the Store online at form on Page 16, or visit the Store online at Vagabundos.com/shop/index.html. Vagabundos.com/shop/index.html.

ACTIVITIES ACTIVITIES

The 41st Annual Crab Feed & Fiesta on May 31 – June The 41st Annual Crab Feed & Fiesta on May 31 – June 2 was a great time at Tower Park Jellystone Resort. The 2 was a great time at Tower Park Jellystone Resort. The weather was perfect for all events — the Pig Roast on weather was perfect for all events — the Pig Roast on Thursday night, the Barbecue Dinner on Friday night, Thursday night, the Barbecue Dinner on Friday night, and the Chili Cookoff and main Crab Feed event on and the Chili Cookoff and main Crab Feed event on Saturday. Mahoney’s Seafood did another outstanding Saturday. Mahoney’s Seafood did another outstanding job of providing the best Dungeness crab and shrimp job of providing the best Dungeness crab and shrimp

ever. The fresh baked sour dough from San Francisco ever. The fresh baked sour dough from San Francisco and the artichokes added to the delicious menu. and the artichokes added to the delicious menu.

This event depends on the many volunteers who step up This event depends on the many volunteers who step up to assist our able staff with the many tasks required for to assist our able staff with the many tasks required for a successful event, year after year. This year assisting a successful event, year after year. This year assisting at the Pig Roast and all the events was the family of at the Pig Roast and all the events was the family of Fred and Dee Eberle. Their wonderful sons were there Fred and Dee Eberle. Their wonderful sons were there helping out with everything – mil gracias – a thousand helping out with everything – mil gracias – a thousand thanks to the Eberle family. This was Dee Eberle’s last thanks to the Eberle family. This was Dee Eberle’s last Fiesta Grande event, she passed away not too long after Fiesta Grande event, she passed away not too long after the Crab Feed from cancer. Our deepest condolences. the Crab Feed from cancer. Our deepest condolences. We and all will miss this special lady and long-time We and all will miss this special lady and long-time Vagabundo friend. Vagabundo friend.

Many thanks to our Ofﬁ ce Staff and volunteers – Amy Many thanks to our Ofﬁ ce Staff and volunteers – Amy Halverson, Michelle Ralston, Shawna Newcomb, Halverson, Michelle Ralston, Shawna Newcomb, Veronica Porras, Lupita Carpenter, Kyle Halverson, Veronica Porras, Lupita Carpenter, Kyle Halverson, Craig Barker, Jared Goar, Jennifer Bourdo, Kendra Craig Barker, Jared Goar, Jennifer Bourdo, Kendra Bourdo, Alfonso Gilebarto – Ivy, Mel Mello, Greg Bourdo, Alfonso Gilebarto – Ivy, Mel Mello, Greg Leptich, Michael Perri, Levar Carpenter, Daneen Leptich, Michael Perri, Levar Carpenter, Daneen Carpenter, Mark Blackwelder, Marie Thompson, Paul Carpenter, Mark Blackwelder, Marie Thompson, Paul Boe, Shelley Boe, Gary Kirkman, Carol Kirkman, Mel Boe, Shelley Boe, Gary Kirkman, Carol Kirkman, Mel Lake, Barbara Johnson, Ron Johnson, Leroy Knapp, Lake, Barbara Johnson, Ron Johnson, Leroy Knapp, Mark Martinez, Faith Martinez, Howard Knapp, Bill Mark Martinez, Faith Martinez, Howard Knapp, Bill Palmer, Michael Bridges, Jane Bridges, Nancy Bridges, Palmer, Michael Bridges, Jane Bridges, Nancy Bridges, Marti Williams, Fredie Washington, Roberta Saling, Marti Williams, Fredie Washington, Roberta Saling, Sue Grieb, Bruce Purcell, Lorraine Purcell, Craig Sue Grieb, Bruce Purcell, Lorraine Purcell, Craig Carbrey, Mary Carbrey, Marcia Covert, Bud Mcferon, Carbrey, Mary Carbrey, Marcia Covert, Bud Mcferon, Carol Mcferon, Keith Swarts, Angie Swarts; and Carol Mcferon, Keith Swarts, Angie Swarts; and Chili Cookoff Leaders Marryann and John Gottfried. Chili Cookoff Leaders Marryann and John Gottfried.

Past President Tony Schuck was surprised to be honored Past President Tony Schuck was surprised to be honored with the Crab of Year Award. with the Crab of Year Award.

Jellystone Tower Park Resort will not be able to host Jellystone Tower Park Resort will not be able to host us next year. The way the park has been reconﬁ gured us next year. The way the park has been reconﬁ gured just doesn’t ﬁ t for our group. We will be returning to just doesn’t ﬁ t for our group. We will be returning to Lighthouse RV Park and Marina on May 30 – June 2. Lighthouse RV Park and Marina on May 30 – June 2. Please reserve early. Space is limited. Please reserve early. Space is limited. Gloria “Wahine” Gloria “Wahine” Jones Jones

ADVENTURE TOURS 2018-2019 ADVENTURE TOURS 2018-2019

CST# 2044242-40 CST# 2044242-40 PASSPORTS WILL BE REQUIRED PASSPORTS WILL BE REQUIRED

BAJA DIRECT CARAVAN January 2019

This caravan introduces ﬁ rst-time Baja RVers to an easy way to experience Baja’s warmth and hospitality. Travel south to escape the northern cold winter before it really gets going. Head down Baja 1 with leaders who are well-experienced Baja travelers who know all the ropes for making Baja travel as easy as driving to your local supermarket. The price is low, $680 per rig. We also have the highest quality, low-cost Mexican vehicle insurance for your RV and towed vehicle. We will meet near the San Diego border. We’ll plan to drive at no more than 50 mph, covering between 170 and 250 miles a day and driving between 4 to 7 daylight hours. Overnight stops will be in San Quintin, Guerrero Negro, Concepcion Bay, La Paz and Cabo San Lucas – 10 days traveling. You are free to drop out where you wish or return with the Wagon Master. Non- members will receive membership free. Call the Vag Ofﬁ ce at 800-47-4-BAJA (2252) or visit the website at Vagabundos.com.

BEACHES AND WHALES ROUND-TRIP BEACHES AND WHALES ROUND-TRIP

February 2019 February 2019

The past recent years have seen record numbers of gray The past recent years have seen record numbers of gray whales in the lagoons on the Paciﬁ c side of Baja. All whales in the lagoons on the Paciﬁ c side of Baja. All indications are numbers are still increasing and 2019 indications are numbers are still increasing and 2019 will be even better. The 2018 Caravan found blue whales will be even better. The 2018 Caravan found blue whales (the largest animal ever on the planet), humpbacks, (the largest animal ever on the planet), humpbacks, ﬁ nbacks and gray whales. We are amazed that year ﬁ nbacks and gray whales. We are amazed that year after year as we have made the trek to Baja to seek the after year as we have made the trek to Baja to seek the whales, we have not had a trip without an opportunity whales, we have not had a trip without an opportunity to actually touch a gray whale in their habitat. For us to actually touch a gray whale in their habitat. For us it is a humbling experience each time we view these it is a humbling experience each time we view these intelligent mammals in the place they’ve chosen to birth intelligent mammals in the place they’ve chosen to birth their calves – as the Mexicans say – the gray whales are their calves – as the Mexicans say – the gray whales are Mexican by birth. In one of the most remarkable annual Mexican by birth. In one of the most remarkable annual migrations nature offers, Paciﬁ c gray whales make the migrations nature offers, Paciﬁ c gray whales make the 5,000 mile trip from the chilly feeding grounds of the 5,000 mile trip from the chilly feeding grounds of the Arctic to the safety of warm, shallow waters of the Arctic to the safety of warm, shallow waters of the Baja Peninsula for their breeding and calving season. Baja Peninsula for their breeding and calving season.

We will introduce you to these two favorite things to We will introduce you to these two favorite things to do and see in Baja and will take you down to Cabo do and see in Baja and will take you down to Cabo San Lucas and back to California in both RV’s and San Lucas and back to California in both RV’s and passenger cars. We’ll spend some nights on Baja’s best passenger cars. We’ll spend some nights on Baja’s best beach campgrounds. During the height of the season, beach campgrounds. During the height of the season, we will experience whale watching with gray whales in we will experience whale watching with gray whales in Scammon’s Lagoon and another lagoon, depending on Scammon’s Lagoon and another lagoon, depending on timing and number of whales present. These gray whale timing and number of whales present. These gray whale

wintering areas have developed “friendly” mothers who wintering areas have developed “friendly” mothers who bring their calves right up to the boats and enjoy being bring their calves right up to the boats and enjoy being stroked. Mostly it’s the babies, pushed to the boat by stroked. Mostly it’s the babies, pushed to the boat by mama whale, who probably learned the behavior as a mama whale, who probably learned the behavior as a baby herself, who seem the most friendly and want to baby herself, who seem the most friendly and want to play with us. To connect with these friendly whales from play with us. To connect with these friendly whales from a small panga, looking right into their eye rolled toward a small panga, looking right into their eye rolled toward you, creates a distinctive awareness of these intelligent you, creates a distinctive awareness of these intelligent creatures, enhances the mind and exhilarates the soul. creatures, enhances the mind and exhilarates the soul. In Loreto we will search for magniﬁ cent blue whales In Loreto we will search for magniﬁ cent blue whales and other whale species like humpbacks and ﬁ nbacks. and other whale species like humpbacks and ﬁ nbacks. In La Paz we’ll seek another incredible gentle giant – In La Paz we’ll seek another incredible gentle giant – whale sharks. Again the 2018 Caravaners were able whale sharks. Again the 2018 Caravaners were able to swim with the whale sharks – a lifetime experience to swim with the whale sharks – a lifetime experience to be with these gentle giants in the water. Sometimes to be with these gentle giants in the water. Sometimes you have to keep kicking your swim ﬁ ns pretty fast to you have to keep kicking your swim ﬁ ns pretty fast to keep up with them. keep up with them. The fee per rig with two people is to be determined. Be sure your CB radio or two-way family radio is working. For more information visit the Beaches and Whales Tour page on our website at Vagabundos.com/beaches_whale.htm, or call Vag Headquarters at 800-47-4-BAJA (2252).

BEACHES, BEAUTY AND BEACHES, BEAUTY AND

BIODIVERSITY
BIODIVERSITY
by
by PREMIERE TOUR LEADERS
PREMIERE TOUR LEADERS

DAVID & CONNIE JONES DAVID & CONNIE JONES

November 2019 November 2019

That’s what Costa Rica offers and that’s what we are That’s what Costa Rica offers and that’s what we are offering to Vagabundos at a phenomenal price and an offering to Vagabundos at a phenomenal price and an itinerary that suits our unique and independent travel itinerary that suits our unique and independent travel preferences. Put these dates on your calendar and sign up preferences. Put these dates on your calendar and sign up quickly; this will be a very small group and will sell out fast! quickly; this will be a very small group and will sell out fast!

Day 1, November 22: Fly independently to San Day 1, November 22: Fly independently to San José, Costa Rica. You will be met at the airport and José, Costa Rica. You will be met at the airport and transported to our hotel where we will have dinner transported to our hotel where we will have dinner and orientation. (Hotel: Studio Hotel; Meals: dinner) and orientation. (Hotel: Studio Hotel; Meals: dinner)

Day 2, November 23: We leave our hotel early and Day 2, November 23: We leave our hotel early and drive through Braulio Carrillo National Park on our drive through Braulio Carrillo National Park on our way to the boat that will take us along the river channels way to the boat that will take us along the river channels to the picturesque town of Tortuguero in Tortuguero to the picturesque town of Tortuguero in Tortuguero National Park; there we will learn about the lifestyle of National Park; there we will learn about the lifestyle of the local people and the conservation efforts to protect the local people and the conservation efforts to protect the sea turtles. (Hotel: Evergreen Lodge; Meals: BLD) the sea turtles. (Hotel: Evergreen Lodge; Meals: BLD)

Day 3, November 24: Tortuguero is an excellent place Day 3, November 24: Tortuguero is an excellent place for ecotourism. During the day and depending on the for ecotourism. During the day and depending on the weather conditions, we might enjoy a guided walk weather conditions, we might enjoy a guided walk through the jungle where you will learn how different through the jungle where you will learn how different animals, insects and birds interact with the forest animals, insects and birds interact with the forest plants, achieving a perfect balance between each plants, achieving a perfect balance between each species. We will take boat tour through the different species. We will take boat tour through the different natural channels of the National Park, where we natural channels of the National Park, where we can see different species of mammals, birds and can see different species of mammals, birds and reptiles. (Hotel: Evergreen Lodge; Meals: BLD) reptiles. (Hotel: Evergreen Lodge; Meals: BLD)

Day 4, November 25: Today we head back to the Day 4, November 25: Today we head back to the mainland to the town of La Fortuna, home of the mainland to the town of La Fortuna, home of the colossal Arenal Volcano with its remarkable cone, colossal Arenal Volcano with its remarkable cone, springs of healing thermal waters and well-tended springs of healing thermal waters and well-tended gardens. There will be independent time to enjoy gardens. There will be independent time to enjoy these healing waters at our fabulous hotel hot these healing waters at our fabulous hotel hot springs. (Hotel: Arenal Kioro Hotel; Meals: BL) springs. (Hotel: Arenal Kioro Hotel; Meals: BL)

Day 5, November 26: We will experience a forest Day 5, November 26: We will experience a forest in a very different way, walking over the canopy in a very different way, walking over the canopy in the Arenal Hanging Bridges Park and then a hike in the Arenal Hanging Bridges Park and then a hike along the base of the Arenal Volcano ending in a along the base of the Arenal Volcano ending in a delicious picnic served at the volcano viewpoint. delicious picnic served at the volcano viewpoint. The afternoon is at leisure to enjoy other activities The afternoon is at leisure to enjoy other activities in the area. (Hotel: Arenal Kioro; Meals: BL) in the area. (Hotel: Arenal Kioro; Meals: BL)

Day 6, November 27: A beautiful, scenic drive will Day 6, November 27: A beautiful, scenic drive will take us to Monteverde, stopping to enjoy a traditional take us to Monteverde, stopping to enjoy a traditional lunch in a local restaurant. Once in Monteverde, get lunch in a local restaurant. Once in Monteverde, get comfortable and prepare to explore this diverse area comfortable and prepare to explore this diverse area during our stay. (Hotel: Trapp Family Lodge; Meals: BL) during our stay. (Hotel: Trapp Family Lodge; Meals: BL)

Day 7, November 28: This is a day to explore the Day 7, November 28: This is a day to explore the cloud forest. We’ll start with a visit to the Santa Elena cloud forest. We’ll start with a visit to the Santa Elena Biological Reserve and a moderate wildlife hike. Lunch Biological Reserve and a moderate wildlife hike. Lunch will be on your own in one of the restaurants in Santa will be on your own in one of the restaurants in Santa Elena village. (Hotel: Trapp Family Lodge; Meals: B) Elena village. (Hotel: Trapp Family Lodge; Meals: B)

Day 8, November 29: Happy Thanksgiving! What Day 8, November 29: Happy Thanksgiving! What can be better than celebrating our Thanksgiving in can be better than celebrating our Thanksgiving in the breathtaking landscapes of the Gulf of Nicoya. the breathtaking landscapes of the Gulf of Nicoya. Our catamaran adventure is on board one of the Our catamaran adventure is on board one of the largest catamarans in Central America; it includes largest catamarans in Central America; it includes two Jacuzzis, two resting nets, two cross water two Jacuzzis, two resting nets, two cross water slides and snorkeling equipment. What a way slides and snorkeling equipment. What a way to enjoy the evening sunset! (Hotel: Si Como to enjoy the evening sunset! (Hotel: Si Como No Resort Spa & Wildlife Refuge; Meals:BD) No Resort Spa & Wildlife Refuge; Meals:BD)

Day 9, November 30: Today we will explore Manuel Day 9, November 30: Today we will explore Manuel Antonio, one of the most famous national parks in Antonio, one of the most famous national parks in the Costa Rican park system. We’ll take a moderate the Costa Rican park system. We’ll take a moderate three-hour walk where our guide will share secrets three-hour walk where our guide will share secrets of the Coastal Wet Forest and the wonders of the of the Coastal Wet Forest and the wonders of the park, including the diverse variety of wildlife. After park, including the diverse variety of wildlife. After the hike, enjoy some time on the beautiful beaches the hike, enjoy some time on the beautiful beaches within the park. This evening we will enjoy a special within the park. This evening we will enjoy a special farewell dinner at a local restaurant to re-live our farewell dinner at a local restaurant to re-live our Costa Rican adventure and cement our newfound Costa Rican adventure and cement our newfound friendships. (Hotel: Is Como No Resort; Meals: BD) friendships. (Hotel: Is Como No Resort; Meals: BD)

Day 10, December 1: After breakfast we will be Day 10, December 1: After breakfast we will be transported back to San Juan Santamaria International transported back to San Juan Santamaria International Airport in San José for our ﬂ ights home. (Meals: B) Airport in San José for our ﬂ ights home. (Meals: B) Double occupancy $5,300. Double occupancy $5,300.

OUR FIRST TRIP TO BAJA
OUR FIRST TRIP TO BAJA

by
by Michelle Ralston
Michelle Ralston
Vagabundos Insurance Specialist
Vagabundos Insurance Specialist

My husband Harry and I took our ﬁ rst trip to Baja My husband Harry and I took our ﬁ rst trip to Baja in February. We ﬂ ew out of Sacramento to LA and in February. We ﬂ ew out of Sacramento to LA and then ﬂ ew to Loreto. Flying into Loreto the water was then ﬂ ew to Loreto. Flying into Loreto the water was gorgeous, and I couldn’t wait to land. We received our gorgeous, and I couldn’t wait to land. We received our FMM’s on the plane and had them ﬁ lled out before we FMM’s on the plane and had them ﬁ lled out before we landed. Going through customs was easy, immigration landed. Going through customs was easy, immigration took our FMM’s and passports asked where we were took our FMM’s and passports asked where we were staying and how long. They stamped the bottom portion staying and how long. They stamped the bottom portion of our FMM’s and gave them back to us. We picked of our FMM’s and gave them back to us. We picked up our bags and scanned them through customs. We up our bags and scanned them through customs. We got a cab in front of the airport and went to El Palmar got a cab in front of the airport and went to El Palmar Casas. The casa was very nice and homey. After we Casas. The casa was very nice and homey. After we settled in we went to get some groceries and got lost. settled in we went to get some groceries and got lost. I had gotten Oscar’s (local cab driver) phone number I had gotten Oscar’s (local cab driver) phone number from Vagabundos ofﬁ ce before we had left, so I called from Vagabundos ofﬁ ce before we had left, so I called him, and he picked us up within 10 minutes. Neither him, and he picked us up within 10 minutes. Neither one of us spoke Spanish, so it was nice contacting one of us spoke Spanish, so it was nice contacting Oscar, who speaks great English and turned out to be Oscar, who speaks great English and turned out to be a great guide. He took us to the town square, showed a great guide. He took us to the town square, showed us where the banks were, took us to the grocery store us where the banks were, took us to the grocery store and told us some good places to eat. The ﬁ rst few days and told us some good places to eat. The ﬁ rst few days we walked around the town checking out all the little we walked around the town checking out all the little gift shops, the Mission and ate at a couple different gift shops, the Mission and ate at a couple different places. Our favorite place to eat was at Orlando’s, places. Our favorite place to eat was at Orlando’s, highly recommend it, the food was delicious, and highly recommend it, the food was delicious, and the atmosphere was great. Loreto is a wonderful the atmosphere was great. Loreto is a wonderful little town; the people are very friendly and helpful. little town; the people are very friendly and helpful.

On our third day, we contacted Oscar and asked him On our third day, we contacted Oscar and asked him about whale watching. He had told us that the last two about whale watching. He had told us that the last two days he had taken some people out of Loreto to see the days he had taken some people out of Loreto to see the blue whales with much success. He told us he was blue whales with much success. He told us he was going to Lopez Mateo with a small group of people going to Lopez Mateo with a small group of people to see the gray whales and we could join them, which to see the gray whales and we could join them, which we did. The next morning Oscar picked us up at the we did. The next morning Oscar picked us up at the casa and we headed out. A little over an hour later we casa and we headed out. A little over an hour later we were getting onto a panga to see if we could see some were getting onto a panga to see if we could see some gray whales. The day started out cold and windy but gray whales. The day started out cold and windy but after about 30 minutes on the water the wind stopped, after about 30 minutes on the water the wind stopped, and the day turned out to be amazing. Cruising along and the day turned out to be amazing. Cruising along the water we spotted a gray whale in the distance and the water we spotted a gray whale in the distance and headed toward it. Then we would spot another one and headed toward it. Then we would spot another one and go that direction. Once we would get there the whale go that direction. Once we would get there the whale would surface right next to the panga. This giant but would surface right next to the panga. This giant but gentle creature would just ﬂ oat on top of the water gentle creature would just ﬂ oat on top of the water and let us touch her. Her baby would surface and be and let us touch her. Her baby would surface and be playful by rolling on its side, going under then coming playful by rolling on its side, going under then coming back up to the surface again. We saw so many whales back up to the surface again. We saw so many whales in the two hours we were out on the water. It was in the two hours we were out on the water. It was truly an amazing experience that I will never forget. truly an amazing experience that I will never forget.

The next day we met up with Freddie “Boom Boom” The next day we met up with Freddie “Boom Boom” Washington and the Beaches and Whales Caravan. Washington and the Beaches and Whales Caravan. Freddie had arranged for the caravan to go to San Javier Freddie had arranged for the caravan to go to San Javier Mission on Saturday with Oscar. We joined them on the Mission on Saturday with Oscar. We joined them on the outing. As soon as we turned on to the road to head up to outing. As soon as we turned on to the road to head up to the mission, Oscar pulled off the main road onto a road the mission, Oscar pulled off the main road onto a road that looked like you would need a 4wheeler to drive that looked like you would need a 4wheeler to drive down it. We ended up in the arroyo at a beautiful ﬁ g down it. We ended up in the arroyo at a beautiful ﬁ g tree growing on the side of a cliff. As we were loading tree growing on the side of a cliff. As we were loading back up a herd of goats crossed the arroyo and came back up a herd of goats crossed the arroyo and came right over to us. We pulled back onto the main road right over to us. We pulled back onto the main road and continued our journey up to the mission. The main and continued our journey up to the mission. The main road is a very nice paved road with gutters along the road is a very nice paved road with gutters along the entire shoulder that the locals had done by hand. Our entire shoulder that the locals had done by hand. Our next stop was at a small chapel, at Rancho Las Parras, next stop was at a small chapel, at Rancho Las Parras, where we got freshly made empanadas. A little further where we got freshly made empanadas. A little further up we pulled off the road at a turn out to look down at up we pulled off the road at a turn out to look down at the lush green valley of fruit trees (mangos, papayas, the lush green valley of fruit trees (mangos, papayas, ﬁ gs, guavas, chilies, and citrus). It was a beautiful view. ﬁ gs, guavas, chilies, and citrus). It was a beautiful view. We ﬁ nally made it to the mission. For being the second We ﬁ nally made it to the mission. For being the second oldest mission in Baja, Mexico, it is very well preserved. oldest mission in Baja, Mexico, it is very well preserved. When we were in the mission, Oscar our guide, gave us When we were in the mission, Oscar our guide, gave us the history of the mission. Once we were outside Oscar the history of the mission. Once we were outside Oscar walked us around the grounds, showing us the beautiful walked us around the grounds, showing us the beautiful 300-year-old olive tree that is behind the mission. 300-year-old olive tree that is behind the mission.

Our journey was not over yet, Oscar took us on up the Our journey was not over yet, Oscar took us on up the

road to the goat farm where we were shown the process road to the goat farm where we were shown the process of making goat cheese, which was very interesting. of making goat cheese, which was very interesting. Once we loaded in the car again Oscar took us to our Once we loaded in the car again Oscar took us to our ﬁ nal stop of our outing, which was at his family’s ﬁ nal stop of our outing, which was at his family’s ranch. They welcomed us in to their home and prepared ranch. They welcomed us in to their home and prepared us a wonderful lunch with fresh tortillas that we got to us a wonderful lunch with fresh tortillas that we got to watch be made and try to make them ourselves, which watch be made and try to make them ourselves, which we weren’t very good at doing. After lunch we loaded we weren’t very good at doing. After lunch we loaded back up into the van a headed back to Loreto. We had a back up into the van a headed back to Loreto. We had a wonderful trip to Baja and can’t wait to go again. wonderful trip to Baja and can’t wait to go again. Oscar is a great tour guide wherever you want to go Oscar is a great tour guide wherever you want to go – contact him by email – [email protected]; cell – contact him by email – [email protected]; cell Loreto (044) 613-109-7156; from US cell phone 011`- Loreto (044) 613-109-7156; from US cell phone 011`- 52-1-613-109-7156; house phone 01 (613) 135-0801 52-1-613-109-7156; house phone 01 (613) 135-0801

ROAD REPORT ROAD REPORT October 2, 2018 Road Report – Tourism in San Felipe October 2, 2018 Road Report – Tourism in San Felipe just informed us MX 5 from Mexicali to San Felipe is just informed us MX 5 from Mexicali to San Felipe is passable. South of San Felipe at km123 the bridge is passable. South of San Felipe at km123 the bridge is washed out and is not recommened for motorhomes or washed out and is not recommened for motorhomes or cars. cars.

September 21, 2018 Road Report – Highway 5 We are September 21, 2018 Road Report – Highway 5 We are recommending not to take this road south of San Felipe recommending not to take this road south of San Felipe – Two members have reported yesterday not to take this – Two members have reported yesterday not to take this road. South of San Felipe the road goes from bad to road. South of San Felipe the road goes from bad to worse and the dirt section after Coco’s is horrible. worse and the dirt section after Coco’s is horrible. Rick Rick Dyer Dyer

September 18, 2018 – My wife and I just traveled from September 18, 2018 – My wife and I just traveled from San Felipe down Mexico 5 towards Coco’s corner over San Felipe down Mexico 5 towards Coco’s corner over to Hwy 1 North. Lots of road construction starting just to Hwy 1 North. Lots of road construction starting just south of South Beach all the way to Puertecitos. There south of South Beach all the way to Puertecitos. There is a detour as the road is being completely replaced with is a detour as the road is being completely replaced with culverts under the road eliminating all the dips for water culverts under the road eliminating all the dips for water runoff. You will travel right next to the construction but runoff. You will travel right next to the construction but it is very bumpy and dusty. The road south is nice once it is very bumpy and dusty. The road south is nice once you pass Puertecitos and then is really bad again as you pass Puertecitos and then is really bad again as you cross from Coco’s to Hwy 1. Seems like they just you cross from Coco’s to Hwy 1. Seems like they just stopped the construction of the new bridges. Driving stopped the construction of the new bridges. Driving south of San Felipe in a Motor-home or car is not south of San Felipe in a Motor-home or car is not recommended. recommended. Scott and Patti Harmier Scott and Patti Harmier

I have been driving Baja for over 35 years and I am I have been driving Baja for over 35 years and I am seeing more corrupt police in Southern Baja than ever seeing more corrupt police in Southern Baja than ever before. They were always thick in Tijuana but now they before. They were always thick in Tijuana but now they are getting more aggressive in Southern Baja. are getting more aggressive in Southern Baja.

A warning to our friends that are driving the Baja. The A warning to our friends that are driving the Baja. The cops in Constitución are giving tickets for running stop cops in Constitución are giving tickets for running stop signs hidden behind trees and the like. The cops in La signs hidden behind trees and the like. The cops in La Paz are stopping gringos for excessive speed in a 20 km Paz are stopping gringos for excessive speed in a 20 km zone even though you are flowing with traffic. They zone even though you are flowing with traffic. They want a large payoff for not taking you back to the police want a large payoff for not taking you back to the police station and spending the day cooling your heels. Travel station and spending the day cooling your heels. Travel in groups so you have witnesses. in groups so you have witnesses. Don Bare Don Bare

Mil Gracias (a thousand thanks) to Members who Mil Gracias (a thousand thanks) to Members who share current information with other Members. share current information with other Members. Editor. Editor.

MEMBERS SPEAK MEMBERS SPEAK

Solo Bicycle Trip Adventure Solo Bicycle Trip Adventure Thousand Oaks, Ca., To Land’s End Thousand Oaks, Ca., To Land’s End

by by Bruce Purcell Bruce Purcell

Thousand Oaks to Cabo San Lucas by bicycle. Thousand Oaks to Cabo San Lucas by bicycle. 9/24/17 12:00 Noon 9/24/17 12:00 Noon Day one is finally here, after years of wishing, Day one is finally here, after years of wishing, planning, practice and preparation it is time to put planning, practice and preparation it is time to put up or shut up. After retiring 7/28/17, I now have the up or shut up. After retiring 7/28/17, I now have the freedom to do some of the things that were out of freedom to do some of the things that were out of reach while working full time and at the top of my list reach while working full time and at the top of my list was to ride my bicycle from my home in Thousand was to ride my bicycle from my home in Thousand Oaks Ca. to Cabo San Lucas BCS. My bike is loaded, Oaks Ca. to Cabo San Lucas BCS. My bike is loaded, sleeping bag, sleeping pad, tent, tools, spare tubes, sleeping bag, sleeping pad, tent, tools, spare tubes, spare tire, minimal clothes etc. Even without any spare tire, minimal clothes etc. Even without any frills (deodorant, cell phone) my bike weighs in at 80 frills (deodorant, cell phone) my bike weighs in at 80 pounds but I have been making overnight camping pounds but I have been making overnight camping trips to ensure that I have what I need and my one trips to ensure that I have what I need and my one concession to comfort is a book to read (James concession to comfort is a book to read (James Michener’s Hawaii). A final hug and kiss from my Michener’s Hawaii). A final hug and kiss from my wife Lorraine and I’m on my way. wife Lorraine and I’m on my way.

Today will be a short ride to my brother’s home in Today will be a short ride to my brother’s home in Pacific Palisades, no reason to leave early as he and Pacific Palisades, no reason to leave early as he and his wife won’t be home from a long weekend at his wife won’t be home from a long weekend at Santa Catalina island until later this afternoon. Taking Santa Catalina island until later this afternoon. Taking Malibu canyon to the coast I arrive at PCH and have Malibu canyon to the coast I arrive at PCH and have a beautiful view of Santa Monica bay and Santa a beautiful view of Santa Monica bay and Santa Catalina island. It’s an easy ride down PCH and then Catalina island. It’s an easy ride down PCH and then up Temescal canyon to my brother’s (34 Miles). up Temescal canyon to my brother’s (34 Miles).

9/25/17 Day 2 Pacific Palisades to San Elijo State
9/25/17 Day 2 Pacific Palisades to San Elijo State
beach (Carlsbad) – 126 Miles
beach (Carlsbad) – 126 Miles

After breakfast and good-byes it’s time to hit the road. After breakfast and good-byes it’s time to hit the road. A mild Santa Ana wind has brought beautiful weather A mild Santa Ana wind has brought beautiful weather and I make good time down the coast stopping only to and I make good time down the coast stopping only to eat and drink. After checking at several state beaches eat and drink. After checking at several state beaches I finally locate a beach with hiker-biker camping at I finally locate a beach with hiker-biker camping at San Eligo SB, further than I had intended to ride but San Eligo SB, further than I had intended to ride but I feel great. Turns out San Eligo SB is not a great I feel great. Turns out San Eligo SB is not a great choice for tent camping as the Amtrak is only about 50 choice for tent camping as the Amtrak is only about 50 yards away due to a grade crossing, the trains sound yards away due to a grade crossing, the trains sound their horn right as they pass my camp, oh well the their horn right as they pass my camp, oh well the commuter trains only run until about 10:00 p.m. commuter trains only run until about 10:00 p.m. 9/26/17 Day 3 Carlsbad to Pacific Beach (San 9/26/17 Day 3 Carlsbad to Pacific Beach (San Diego) 23 Miles Diego) 23 Miles A quick ride to P.B. and I am at our son’s house. Time A quick ride to P.B. and I am at our son’s house. Time to relax and prepare for the border crossing. to relax and prepare for the border crossing.

9/27/17 Day 4 Pacific Beach to Rosarito Beach BC 9/27/17 Day 4 Pacific Beach to Rosarito Beach BC 52 Miles 52 Miles After more good-byes I head for the border via Chula After more good-byes I head for the border via Chula Vista and Imperial Beach. Immigration was a snap Vista and Imperial Beach. Immigration was a snap but I did get a few odd looks when they saw I was but I did get a few odd looks when they saw I was riding a bicycle with a destination of CSL. With a riding a bicycle with a destination of CSL. With a final Bueno Suerte from the customs inspector I final Bueno Suerte from the customs inspector I follow the pedestrian traffic into Tijuana, asking a follow the pedestrian traffic into Tijuana, asking a flower vendor for directions I am directed to turn flower vendor for directions I am directed to turn right at El Monumento and join the traffic headed right at El Monumento and join the traffic headed to Rosarito. After a seven mile climb up what will to Rosarito. After a seven mile climb up what will turn out to be one of the worst parts of my trip due to turn out to be one of the worst parts of my trip due to narrow shoulders, heavy traffic and lots of road debris narrow shoulders, heavy traffic and lots of road debris I finally reach the crest and coast down to Rosarito I finally reach the crest and coast down to Rosarito Beach. A crude sign indicates campsites are available Beach. A crude sign indicates campsites are available at what turns out to be someone’s backyard and I at what turns out to be someone’s backyard and I am done for the day. A rustic trail leads down to the am done for the day. A rustic trail leads down to the ocean and I go for a nice long swim to clear my head. ocean and I go for a nice long swim to clear my head.

9/28/17 Day 5 Rosarito Beach to Maneadero 9/28/17 Day 5 Rosarito Beach to Maneadero After a good night’s sleep I am up early and on After a good night’s sleep I am up early and on my way, beautiful weather still prevails and I am my way, beautiful weather still prevails and I am in good spirits. After breakfast of delicious “car in good spirits. After breakfast of delicious “car trunk” burritos I head for El Tigre which I know well trunk” burritos I head for El Tigre which I know well from past Rosarito to Ensenada rides and it does not from past Rosarito to Ensenada rides and it does not disappoint, 13 miles to the final crest with a stop disappoint, 13 miles to the final crest with a stop at the top for a photo and then it’s downhill, Yay! at the top for a photo and then it’s downhill, Yay! Stopped for tacos at El Chente and then down the Stopped for tacos at El Chente and then down the malecon before rejoining Mex 1. Got a campsite at malecon before rejoining Mex 1. Got a campsite at El Balneario (spelling ?) south of Maneadero which El Balneario (spelling ?) south of Maneadero which has grass tent areas, a pool and hot showers, mmmm. has grass tent areas, a pool and hot showers, mmmm. Traveled 296 miles so far, about a quarter of the way Traveled 296 miles so far, about a quarter of the way to CSL. to CSL.

9/29/17 Day 6 Maneadero to Colonet – 63 miles 9/29/17 Day 6 Maneadero to Colonet – 63 miles Many long hot grades. Finding the truckers to be very Many long hot grades. Finding the truckers to be very courteous, buses….not so much. Stayed in a nice hotel courteous, buses….not so much. Stayed in a nice hotel south of Colonet, food and Margaritas very tasty. south of Colonet, food and Margaritas very tasty.

9/30/17 Day 7 Colonet to El Rosario – 80 miles 9/30/17 Day 7 Colonet to El Rosario – 80 miles As expected traffic was real bad through San Quintin As expected traffic was real bad through San Quintin which included a minor collision with a car that which included a minor collision with a car that suddenly turned in front of me, fortunately no damage suddenly turned in front of me, fortunately no damage to me or my bike. Stayed at the Cactus hotel because to me or my bike. Stayed at the Cactus hotel because Mama Espinosa’s had no power. Spent the afternoon Mama Espinosa’s had no power. Spent the afternoon reading and drinking cold beer. reading and drinking cold beer.

10/1/17 Day 8 El Rosario to Catavina – 80 miles 10/1/17 Day 8 El Rosario to Catavina – 80 miles Now it gets real, even though I know there is really Now it gets real, even though I know there is really not much difference it FEELS like this is where Baja not much difference it FEELS like this is where Baja begins. Beautiful desert scenery but lots of grades to begins. Beautiful desert scenery but lots of grades to climb. Arrive in Catavina to find that Cabanas Linda climb. Arrive in Catavina to find that Cabanas Linda is closed and when I check at the restaurant on the is closed and when I check at the restaurant on the south end of town I find it closed also but a fiesta is south end of town I find it closed also but a fiesta is going on out back so I park my bike and ask if this is going on out back so I park my bike and ask if this is a private or public affair and get only shrugs. After a private or public affair and get only shrugs. After walking around a bit I am approached by a young guy walking around a bit I am approached by a young guy that speaks English, his name is Jaime and he is from that speaks English, his name is Jaime and he is from Spain and that he and his girlfriend, Lydia were in Spain and that he and his girlfriend, Lydia were in Gurerro Negro when they were invited to a Quincinera Gurerro Negro when they were invited to a Quincinera in Catavina so of course they said yes, only in Baja! in Catavina so of course they said yes, only in Baja! I get introduced to the father of the girl whose party I get introduced to the father of the girl whose party this is and am invited to stay and eat which I gratefully this is and am invited to stay and eat which I gratefully accept very aware that I don’t exactly blend in with accept very aware that I don’t exactly blend in with my bicycle attire among all the cowboys. After my bicycle attire among all the cowboys. After some tacos and a cold beer it is time to find a camp, some tacos and a cold beer it is time to find a camp, I make a donation along with a note of thanks and I make a donation along with a note of thanks and congratulations to the young girl and I’m off. I set up congratulations to the young girl and I’m off. I set up camp at Rancho Santa Ynes and Oscar who runs the camp at Rancho Santa Ynes and Oscar who runs the place along with his wife stops by to collect my 50 place along with his wife stops by to collect my 50 pesos camp fee. pesos camp fee.

10/2/17 Day 9 Catavina to Punta Prieta – 81 miles 10/2/17 Day 9 Catavina to Punta Prieta – 81 miles The weather turned cold and windy last night and I The weather turned cold and windy last night and I am wearing virtually all my clothes to keep warm am wearing virtually all my clothes to keep warm as I head back to the highway. A strong west wind is as I head back to the highway. A strong west wind is blowing and except for the infrequent times that it blowing and except for the infrequent times that it becomes a tailwind I am having to work extra hard to becomes a tailwind I am having to work extra hard to maintain a decent pace. Winds finally die down and maintain a decent pace. Winds finally die down and the temperature rises to the point that I can remove the temperature rises to the point that I can remove some extra clothing. The road is rougher as I continue some extra clothing. The road is rougher as I continue south but there is new pavement being laid starting south but there is new pavement being laid starting about three miles north of the L.A. bay turnoff. I stop about three miles north of the L.A. bay turnoff. I stop for a late lunch / dinner in Punta Prieta and then head for a late lunch / dinner in Punta Prieta and then head

south looking for a place to camp. Following a seldom south looking for a place to camp. Following a seldom used dirt track I head into the desert until I am far used dirt track I head into the desert until I am far enough from the highway that traffic noise will not be enough from the highway that traffic noise will not be a problem for sleeping and set up camp. As has been a problem for sleeping and set up camp. As has been my custom I spend the last hours of daylight reading my custom I spend the last hours of daylight reading and playing solitaire until it’s too dark to see and then and playing solitaire until it’s too dark to see and then I watch first the planets and then the stars come out. I watch first the planets and then the stars come out. Very light traffic today. Very light traffic today.

10/3/17 Day 10 Desert camp to Gurrerro Negro – 69 10/3/17 Day 10 Desert camp to Gurrerro Negro – 69 miles miles A beautiful dawn greets me as I break camp and A beautiful dawn greets me as I break camp and head south with a light northwest breeze that is often head south with a light northwest breeze that is often a tailwind. Road is better and traffic remains light. a tailwind. Road is better and traffic remains light. Arrive in G.N to find it mostly deserted because it is Arrive in G.N to find it mostly deserted because it is not whale season, get a room at the Malarrimo hotel not whale season, get a room at the Malarrimo hotel and go in search of cold beer and talcum powder for and go in search of cold beer and talcum powder for my tender parts. 674 miles, halfway there. my tender parts. 674 miles, halfway there.

10/4/17 Day 11 Guerro Negro to San Ignacio – 91 10/4/17 Day 11 Guerro Negro to San Ignacio – 91 miles miles Made excellent time to S.I. due to mostly flat terrain Made excellent time to S.I. due to mostly flat terrain and light breezes which actually turned out to be a and light breezes which actually turned out to be a bad thing because my brother (without telling me) bad thing because my brother (without telling me) had alerted a good friend from Bahia Asuncion that had alerted a good friend from Bahia Asuncion that I would be passing through Viscaino and to intercept I would be passing through Viscaino and to intercept me. I arrived at Ricardo Romo’s Hotel Rice and Beans me. I arrived at Ricardo Romo’s Hotel Rice and Beans to find that Ricardo was out of town but his wife to find that Ricardo was out of town but his wife Hilda was there and after a Tecate and a Margarita Hilda was there and after a Tecate and a Margarita (best I’ve had anywhere) I retired to my room for a (best I’ve had anywhere) I retired to my room for a shower and to wash my riding gear which gets done shower and to wash my riding gear which gets done at the same time. After donning my swim trunks in at the same time. After donning my swim trunks in preparation for the pool I hear voices in the parking preparation for the pool I hear voices in the parking lot and look outside to see an unfamiliar red pickup lot and look outside to see an unfamiliar red pickup with a motorcycle in the back, the two men conversing with a motorcycle in the back, the two men conversing turn out to be our friend from Bahia Asuncion, Miguel turn out to be our friend from Bahia Asuncion, Miguel Angel Arce and my brother in law, Bill Jenkins who Angel Arce and my brother in law, Bill Jenkins who had promised to meet up with me if I did this ride. had promised to meet up with me if I did this ride. After much hugging and questions we stashed Bill’s After much hugging and questions we stashed Bill’s bike in my hotel room and headed for Miguel’s house bike in my hotel room and headed for Miguel’s house in Asuncion. Feels strange to watch the desert go by at in Asuncion. Feels strange to watch the desert go by at such a fast pace. such a fast pace.

10/5/17 Day 12 No riding today 10/5/17 Day 12 No riding today Up early for a day of fishing in Miguel’s panga, a slow Up early for a day of fishing in Miguel’s panga, a slow day for that area with only 7 yellowtail landed, all in day for that area with only 7 yellowtail landed, all in the 30lb class. A delicious dinner of grilled yellowtail the 30lb class. A delicious dinner of grilled yellowtail and it’s off to bed. and it’s off to bed.

10/6/17 Day 13 No riding today 10/6/17 Day 13 No riding today After breakfast and a quick truck ride, Bill and I are After breakfast and a quick truck ride, Bill and I are back in San Ignacio and spend the day walking around back in San Ignacio and spend the day walking around the town and surveying the damage from the last the town and surveying the damage from the last hurricane to hit this area, washed out roads, downed hurricane to hit this area, washed out roads, downed power poles and the baseball field covered in debris. power poles and the baseball field covered in debris.

10/7/17 Day 14 San Ignacio to Bahia Concepcion 10/7/17 Day 14 San Ignacio to Bahia Concepcion 101 miles 101 miles Today is my 60th birthday and I am feeling strong Today is my 60th birthday and I am feeling strong and ready to hit the road again. Ricardo is back and ready to hit the road again. Ricardo is back and welcoming and gracious as ever, after a and welcoming and gracious as ever, after a complimentary birthday breakfast it is time to go. A complimentary birthday breakfast it is time to go. A strong headwind is blowing from the east and makes strong headwind is blowing from the east and makes going tough until I descend Cuesta Del Infierno, going tough until I descend Cuesta Del Infierno, reach the Cortez and turn south. Bill meets me in reach the Cortez and turn south. Bill meets me in Santa Rosalia and says he has changed his mind about Santa Rosalia and says he has changed his mind about camping with me at Santispac because it is too damn camping with me at Santispac because it is too damn hot and after good-byes he heads back to Ricardo’s hot and after good-byes he heads back to Ricardo’s and A/C and I head south once more. It’s a long day and A/C and I head south once more. It’s a long day and I am grateful to finally reach Santispac and set up and I am grateful to finally reach Santispac and set up camp at one of the beachside palapas, grab a cold beer camp at one of the beachside palapas, grab a cold beer at the café and go for a swim. at the café and go for a swim.

10/8/17 Day 15 Santispac to Loreto – 74 miles 10/8/17 Day 15 Santispac to Loreto – 74 miles Hot and hilly with a headwind all day, I run low on Hot and hilly with a headwind all day, I run low on water about 25 miles from Loreto and come across a water about 25 miles from Loreto and come across a rancho with a Tecate sign out front that for once is not rancho with a Tecate sign out front that for once is not a relic from the past, just in time too! After a couple a relic from the past, just in time too! After a couple of cold cervezas and a gallon of water I am back in of cold cervezas and a gallon of water I am back in the saddle and off to Loreto. Arriving in Loreto I head the saddle and off to Loreto. Arriving in Loreto I head for the downtown Pemex to check my tire pressure for the downtown Pemex to check my tire pressure and as I am doing so I hear someone call my name, and as I am doing so I hear someone call my name, it’s Jaime and Lydia from the Quincinera! As it turns it’s Jaime and Lydia from the Quincinera! As it turns out Jaime and Lydia had traveled from Spain to the out Jaime and Lydia had traveled from Spain to the Yucatan area of Mexico, bought an old VW camper Yucatan area of Mexico, bought an old VW camper van and have been traveling for several months van and have been traveling for several months having visited Arizona, New Mexico and California having visited Arizona, New Mexico and California as far north as Eureka. They have been supporting as far north as Eureka. They have been supporting themselves by cutting hair and selling postcards that themselves by cutting hair and selling postcards that they make showing the places they have been, really a they make showing the places they have been, really a great couple. I buy them dinner and cerveza and swap great couple. I buy them dinner and cerveza and swap stories until it’s time for bed, only in Baja. stories until it’s time for bed, only in Baja.

10/9/17 Day 16 Loreto to Insurgentes – 81 miles 10/9/17 Day 16 Loreto to Insurgentes – 81 miles Felt strong climbing over the Sierra Gigantes and Felt strong climbing over the Sierra Gigantes and expected an easy ride into Insurgentes but the west expected an easy ride into Insurgentes but the west wind had other plans for me and I had to work for wind had other plans for me and I had to work for every mile. My rear tire developed a bad twist in the every mile. My rear tire developed a bad twist in the casing so I stopped to change it and while doing so a casing so I stopped to change it and while doing so a

bicycle rider appeared from the south, the only rider bicycle rider appeared from the south, the only rider I would meet on the entire trip. His name was Mark I would meet on the entire trip. His name was Mark and he had flown from England to Argentina and had and he had flown from England to Argentina and had ridden through south and central America and Mexico ridden through south and central America and Mexico and taken the ferry from Mazatlan to La Paz, his plan and taken the ferry from Mazatlan to La Paz, his plan was to ride north to San Francisco then east to New was to ride north to San Francisco then east to New York and then fly home to England, made me feel York and then fly home to England, made me feel like a real beginner. Tire fixed and I am on my way to like a real beginner. Tire fixed and I am on my way to Insurgentes, hotel and cold beer, hmm there seems to Insurgentes, hotel and cold beer, hmm there seems to be a pattern here. Over a thousand miles done. be a pattern here. Over a thousand miles done.

10/10/17 Day 17 Insurgentes to El Cien 90 miles 10/10/17 Day 17 Insurgentes to El Cien 90 miles Pretty good road, flat with two lanes both directions Pretty good road, flat with two lanes both directions most of the way to Santa Rita and then it gets hilly. most of the way to Santa Rita and then it gets hilly. No where to camp at El Cien so I continued a few No where to camp at El Cien so I continued a few more miles and asked the owner of a small restaurant more miles and asked the owner of a small restaurant if I could camp out behind his place and Alberto was if I could camp out behind his place and Alberto was more than happy to let me camp and would not accept more than happy to let me camp and would not accept payment so I was sure to leave generous propinas for payment so I was sure to leave generous propinas for both dinner and the next day’s breakfast. Well, it was both dinner and the next day’s breakfast. Well, it was bound to happen at some point, I got my first flat tire, bound to happen at some point, I got my first flat tire, it was my own fault, I was not watching where I was it was my own fault, I was not watching where I was going and walked my bike right through a patch of going and walked my bike right through a patch of “goat heads” and woke up in the morning with a flat “goat heads” and woke up in the morning with a flat front tire. front tire.

10/11/17 Day 18 El Cien to La Paz – 61 miles 10/11/17 Day 18 El Cien to La Paz – 61 miles Good pavement most of the way with a few wash outs Good pavement most of the way with a few wash outs and then long stretches of new asphalt wee! Quite a and then long stretches of new asphalt wee! Quite a bit of climbing and descending but great to see the bit of climbing and descending but great to see the Cortez again and the final descent to La Paz. Got a Cortez again and the final descent to La Paz. Got a room at the Hotel San Bernardino, not fancy but clean room at the Hotel San Bernardino, not fancy but clean and quiet and I have stayed there on several occasions. and quiet and I have stayed there on several occasions. Relaxed until evening and then went out for a papa Relaxed until evening and then went out for a papa rellena, which is a baked potato stuffed with your rellena, which is a baked potato stuffed with your choice of meat, something I always look forward to choice of meat, something I always look forward to when I am in BCS. After dinner it’s time for a long when I am in BCS. After dinner it’s time for a long walk on the Malecon and a stop at the polka dot tree walk on the Malecon and a stop at the polka dot tree for ice cream and then back to the hotel and bed. for ice cream and then back to the hotel and bed.

10/12/17 Day 19 La Paz to Cabo San Lucas – 103 10/12/17 Day 19 La Paz to Cabo San Lucas – 103 miles miles Left La Paz not knowing if I would try to push all the Left La Paz not knowing if I would try to push all the way to CSL or stop at Todos Santos but the road here way to CSL or stop at Todos Santos but the road here is flat and I am making good time so why stop! Why, is flat and I am making good time so why stop! Why, Because I had forgotten about all the long grades Because I had forgotten about all the long grades between Todos Santos and CSL that’s why. Oh well between Todos Santos and CSL that’s why. Oh well too late to stop now, just keep drinking water and too late to stop now, just keep drinking water and Gatorade and resting in the shade when I can find Gatorade and resting in the shade when I can find some. Finally the last summit, I can see lands end some. Finally the last summit, I can see lands end

in the distance and it’s downhill from here. Lots of in the distance and it’s downhill from here. Lots of traffic with trucks and buses crowding the roadway traffic with trucks and buses crowding the roadway but I can deal with that as I take the road past the but I can deal with that as I take the road past the marina to where the pavement ends at the beach, a marina to where the pavement ends at the beach, a few pictures and I am done. I ride back to the marina few pictures and I am done. I ride back to the marina along the waterfront and get scolded by a security along the waterfront and get scolded by a security guard for riding, I dismount, walk for 50 yards and guard for riding, I dismount, walk for 50 yards and then continue riding until I reach the dock where my then continue riding until I reach the dock where my brother Jim keeps his 44’ Pacifica “Por Que no”, going brother Jim keeps his 44’ Pacifica “Por Que no”, going aboard I find Sergio who takes care of my brother’s aboard I find Sergio who takes care of my brother’s boat and many others doing some maintenance. After boat and many others doing some maintenance. After greeting Sergio it’s time for beer but to my shock and greeting Sergio it’s time for beer but to my shock and dismay there is none aboard so off to the Mercado for dismay there is none aboard so off to the Mercado for supplies. supplies.

Spent the next day helping with maintenance on the Spent the next day helping with maintenance on the boat and flew home the following day. It was really boat and flew home the following day. It was really something to watch the peninsula that took me over something to watch the peninsula that took me over two weeks to travel pass by in two hours. I was glued two weeks to travel pass by in two hours. I was glued to the airplane window as I picked out landmarks to the airplane window as I picked out landmarks and bits and pieces of Mex 1, truly a special place. and bits and pieces of Mex 1, truly a special place. Lorraine was waiting for me at LAX with a hug and a Lorraine was waiting for me at LAX with a hug and a kiss, great to be home. My bike was shipped back by kiss, great to be home. My bike was shipped back by truck arriving about three weeks later. So would I do it truck arriving about three weeks later. So would I do it again? Yes but I would want to have someone to share again? Yes but I would want to have someone to share the experience. the experience.

Why did I do it? Why did I do it? That’s a tough question, but in the end I did it because That’s a tough question, but in the end I did it because I said I would. When you are alone on the road you I said I would. When you are alone on the road you see and hear things that you miss by car or even on see and hear things that you miss by car or even on a motorcycle, the creaking of the metal guardrails a motorcycle, the creaking of the metal guardrails as they are warmed by the morning sun, the jingle as they are warmed by the morning sun, the jingle of cowbells as they wander through the brush, the of cowbells as they wander through the brush, the rustle of a raven’s wings as they fly past or the call of rustle of a raven’s wings as they fly past or the call of coyotes as they pass your camp in the night. coyotes as they pass your camp in the night. That’s it………for now. That’s it………for now. Adios Vagabundos!…. Adios Vagabundos!….Bruce Bruce

On The Hunt In Bahia De Los Angeles On The Hunt In Bahia De Los Angeles

by Scott McKewen by Scott McKewen Just back from an awesome Baja adventure to Bahia Just back from an awesome Baja adventure to Bahia de Los Angeles with two of my sons and a couple of de Los Angeles with two of my sons and a couple of friends. Our group of 5 live in the California central friends. Our group of 5 live in the California central coast and we pull two boats, a 17’ center counsel coast and we pull two boats, a 17’ center counsel Trophy and a 18’ cuddy cabin Trophy. This year makes Trophy and a 18’ cuddy cabin Trophy. This year makes the 10th consecutive year we have made this trip. The the 10th consecutive year we have made this trip. The key to a great trip is to be prepared for any unexpected key to a great trip is to be prepared for any unexpected

occurrence . Thanks to the Vagabundos who keep us occurrence . Thanks to the Vagabundos who keep us informed on road conditions and other important issues informed on road conditions and other important issues and make it easy to purchase insurance and other and make it easy to purchase insurance and other necessary documentation. necessary documentation.

After meeting on Saturday afternoon to pack the trucks After meeting on Saturday afternoon to pack the trucks and get all the gear in order, we shove off early on and get all the gear in order, we shove off early on Sunday morning, 0600 hours. First stop is the Chula Sunday morning, 0600 hours. First stop is the Chula Vista Costco at about 1300 hours, to pick up any Vista Costco at about 1300 hours, to pick up any forgotten items and exchange money. We’ve never have forgotten items and exchange money. We’ve never have had a problem exchanging money at the border, but had a problem exchanging money at the border, but Costco is convenient and seems a little safer. Plus we Costco is convenient and seems a little safer. Plus we hit the food court for a bite to eat. Gassed up in Chula hit the food court for a bite to eat. Gassed up in Chula Vista and on our way. Crossed into Mexico around Vista and on our way. Crossed into Mexico around 1400 hours. No problems with Mexican customs and 1400 hours. No problems with Mexican customs and the vehicle X-ray. Got our FMM cards and on our way. the vehicle X-ray. Got our FMM cards and on our way. As you enter Mexico, stay in the right lanes and follow As you enter Mexico, stay in the right lanes and follow the signs to the right marked buses if your pulling a the signs to the right marked buses if your pulling a boat or trailer. If not, just go with the ﬂ ow but stay in boat or trailer. If not, just go with the ﬂ ow but stay in the right lanes. If you need your FFM, just after you get the right lanes. If you need your FFM, just after you get thru Mexican customs, pull to the right where you might thru Mexican customs, pull to the right where you might see a bus. Park where you don’t block anyone, there see a bus. Park where you don’t block anyone, there are ample places. Back on the road thru Tijuana and are ample places. Back on the road thru Tijuana and Ensenada with no problems. Our next stop; El Jardines Ensenada with no problems. Our next stop; El Jardines in San Quintin. Road construction in the mountains in San Quintin. Road construction in the mountains south of Ensenada slowed us down a bit, but it wasn’t south of Ensenada slowed us down a bit, but it wasn’t too bad. We arrived at El Jardines around 2000 hours… too bad. We arrived at El Jardines around 2000 hours… long day of driving, no problems and we’re looking long day of driving, no problems and we’re looking forward to a great meal…certainly not disappointed. forward to a great meal…certainly not disappointed. El Jardines is a great stop, they have a wonderful El Jardines is a great stop, they have a wonderful restaurant and hotel, very nice, clean and quiet… restaurant and hotel, very nice, clean and quiet… Rooms for about $50.00 per night. We were traveling Rooms for about $50.00 per night. We were traveling with a small freezer which we were able to plug into with a small freezer which we were able to plug into one of their outdoor electrical outlets. In past years we one of their outdoor electrical outlets. In past years we stayed at the Old Mill and Don Eddies and love both, stayed at the Old Mill and Don Eddies and love both, but this year we thought we’d try something different. but this year we thought we’d try something different.

Next day, 0730 hours, up and on the road to El Rosario Next day, 0730 hours, up and on the road to El Rosario about 45 minutes away. Topped off the gas tanks about 45 minutes away. Topped off the gas tanks and had breakfast at one of our must stops, Mamma and had breakfast at one of our must stops, Mamma Espinoza’s, just south of the Pemix gas station. Great Espinoza’s, just south of the Pemix gas station. Great stop, good food and an interesting little shop inside the stop, good food and an interesting little shop inside the restaurant. Back on the road around 0900 hours. The restaurant. Back on the road around 0900 hours. The road was in the best shape in years. New pavement has road was in the best shape in years. New pavement has been laid, however there are no center lines painted as been laid, however there are no center lines painted as of yet…it does make you appreciate those lines when of yet…it does make you appreciate those lines when you meet a semi…yikes!! After a few stops along the you meet a semi…yikes!! After a few stops along the way for photos and gooﬁ ng off, we arrived at what we way for photos and gooﬁ ng off, we arrived at what we call “Primira Vista”, the spot where you top the hill and call “Primira Vista”, the spot where you top the hill and get the ﬁ rst view of the Sea of Cortez and Bahia de Los get the ﬁ rst view of the Sea of Cortez and Bahia de Los

Angeles. Another must stop to celebrate, enjoy a cold Angeles. Another must stop to celebrate, enjoy a cold beverage and take pictures, beautiful. The road from the beverage and take pictures, beautiful. The road from the turn off from Mex-1 into the Bahia is showing it’s age. turn off from Mex-1 into the Bahia is showing it’s age. Pot holes are showing frequently, but nothing crazy. Pot holes are showing frequently, but nothing crazy. Just go slow and be careful. All the bridges that washed Just go slow and be careful. All the bridges that washed out a few years ago have been replaced. On to our home out a few years ago have been replaced. On to our home for the next week with Ruth at Raquel and Larry’s. The for the next week with Ruth at Raquel and Larry’s. The set up at Raquel and Larry’s is very accommodating and set up at Raquel and Larry’s is very accommodating and Ruth, who runs the place is wonderful. She is located Ruth, who runs the place is wonderful. She is located right next door to Daggets, who run a top notch ﬁ shing right next door to Daggets, who run a top notch ﬁ shing operation. We arrived around 1500 hours and moved operation. We arrived around 1500 hours and moved into our accommodations, a small three bedroom into our accommodations, a small three bedroom house on the beach, 24 hour power and kick butt air house on the beach, 24 hour power and kick butt air conditioning…then drove into town that afternoon and conditioning…then drove into town that afternoon and checked everything out. Filled the boats with fuel, checked everything out. Filled the boats with fuel, bought our park passes and some items like milk, bought our park passes and some items like milk, veggies and fruit. Had dinner with Ruth in her Cocina veggies and fruit. Had dinner with Ruth in her Cocina and cantina…very good. and cantina…very good.

Fished every day for the next 6 days. A little hard to Fished every day for the next 6 days. A little hard to make bait some mornings, but we gave it a shot. As make bait some mornings, but we gave it a shot. As early as you get on the water, sitting still trying to early as you get on the water, sitting still trying to catch bait can get old fast, it was hot and humid, not catch bait can get old fast, it was hot and humid, not my favorite past time. With making bait completed, my favorite past time. With making bait completed, out in the channel looking for kelp patties, which were out in the channel looking for kelp patties, which were not to plentiful but some were holding dorados. Great not to plentiful but some were holding dorados. Great ﬁ shing, releasing most ﬁ sh caught, keeping only the ﬁ shing, releasing most ﬁ sh caught, keeping only the larger ones. We caught plenty, yellowtail and dorados. larger ones. We caught plenty, yellowtail and dorados. We even hooked a marlin, but lost it when it spit the We even hooked a marlin, but lost it when it spit the lure…what excitement!! The sea was full of life with lure…what excitement!! The sea was full of life with birds, dolphins, blue whales and even a pod of orcas!! birds, dolphins, blue whales and even a pod of orcas!! That was a ﬁ rst, I have viewed videos of killer whales That was a ﬁ rst, I have viewed videos of killer whales in Bahia de Los Angeles, but this was my ﬁ rst time in Bahia de Los Angeles, but this was my ﬁ rst time viewing them. How cool! It got windy in the afternoon, viewing them. How cool! It got windy in the afternoon, which we expected so we normally start heading which we expected so we normally start heading towards the shelter of the islands late morning or so. In towards the shelter of the islands late morning or so. In the past we would go ﬁ nd some whale sharks and don the past we would go ﬁ nd some whale sharks and don masks and snorkels and swim with them. This year we masks and snorkels and swim with them. This year we didn’t ﬁ nd any as they were late in showing, according didn’t ﬁ nd any as they were late in showing, according to the folks at the park headquarters. Goofed off in the to the folks at the park headquarters. Goofed off in the afternoon till we pulled the boats out of the water. We afternoon till we pulled the boats out of the water. We did ﬁ nd a great street taco place, “Chinas”. Good eats did ﬁ nd a great street taco place, “Chinas”. Good eats after a day on the water…Over the years I’ve never had after a day on the water…Over the years I’ve never had a bad meal in Bahia de Los Angeles and I’ve eaten just a bad meal in Bahia de Los Angeles and I’ve eaten just about everywhere. One of my favorites is Guillermo’s, about everywhere. One of my favorites is Guillermo’s, right next to launch ramp. However, Ruth really hooked right next to launch ramp. However, Ruth really hooked us up cooking some of our catch three different ways us up cooking some of our catch three different ways with all the trimmings. Ate dinner on the second ﬂ oor with all the trimmings. Ate dinner on the second ﬂ oor outdoor patio overlooking the Sea of Cortez…enjoyed outdoor patio overlooking the Sea of Cortez…enjoyed some adult beverages, ate till we were stuffed, made it some adult beverages, ate till we were stuffed, made it

back to our casa and called it a night. We repeated this a back to our casa and called it a night. We repeated this a couple of nights. Just doesn’t get any better than that!! couple of nights. Just doesn’t get any better than that!! With the fun over after a week, we said goodbye to Ruth With the fun over after a week, we said goodbye to Ruth and headed home, hitting the road around 0600 hours. and headed home, hitting the road around 0600 hours. We had gassed up our rigs the previous afternoon as We had gassed up our rigs the previous afternoon as there are really no gas stations until El Rosario. Not there are really no gas stations until El Rosario. Not even ten miles out of the Bahia I hit a pot hole and had even ten miles out of the Bahia I hit a pot hole and had a ﬂ at on my boat trailer. We come prepared and the tire a ﬂ at on my boat trailer. We come prepared and the tire was changed in no time. Bought a used tire, $15.00 US, was changed in no time. Bought a used tire, $15.00 US, and had it mounted on the rim as a spare at Lake Chapala and had it mounted on the rim as a spare at Lake Chapala road side tire shop. A few miles down the road we road side tire shop. A few miles down the road we noticed smoke coming from the wheel bearings of my noticed smoke coming from the wheel bearings of my sons boat trailer. Off to the side of the road and a quick sons boat trailer. Off to the side of the road and a quick wheel bearing change. If you pull a boat or trailer in Baja wheel bearing change. If you pull a boat or trailer in Baja you must carry tools, spare tires and wheel bearings. you must carry tools, spare tires and wheel bearings. After that excitement we continued down the road and After that excitement we continued down the road and ate lunch at Mamma Espinoza’s in El Rosario, topped ate lunch at Mamma Espinoza’s in El Rosario, topped off the gas tank and on to Rosarito. Once again we hit off the gas tank and on to Rosarito. Once again we hit road construction in the mountains south of Ensenada. road construction in the mountains south of Ensenada. We came to a complete stop for nearly 45 minutes as We came to a complete stop for nearly 45 minutes as only one lane could pass. Good to see improvements only one lane could pass. Good to see improvements are being made. On to Hotel Puerto Nueva (Lobster are being made. On to Hotel Puerto Nueva (Lobster Village) for the night and a lobster dinner. The hotel Village) for the night and a lobster dinner. The hotel was able to provide an electrical outlet for our freezer, was able to provide an electrical outlet for our freezer, keeping our ﬁ sh frozen solid. When you spend the night keeping our ﬁ sh frozen solid. When you spend the night at a hotel in Rosarito, between Ensenada and Tijuana, at a hotel in Rosarito, between Ensenada and Tijuana, you get a pass that allows you to use a special “medical” you get a pass that allows you to use a special “medical” lane that cuts the wait at the boarder. It’s not the ready lane that cuts the wait at the boarder. It’s not the ready lane or the century lane but it does cut a bunch of time off. lane or the century lane but it does cut a bunch of time off.

Got through Tijuana the next morning and crossed the Got through Tijuana the next morning and crossed the border back into the US with no problems. Our wait border back into the US with no problems. Our wait was just over one hour, which isn’t too bad. US customs was just over one hour, which isn’t too bad. US customs folks who after checking us out waved us through folks who after checking us out waved us through without having to go through secondary inspections… without having to go through secondary inspections… nice. Even at the Mexican military inspections, going nice. Even at the Mexican military inspections, going both south and north, the interaction was short and both south and north, the interaction was short and courteous, no issues. courteous, no issues.

This was a great trip. Great times with two of my This was a great trip. Great times with two of my sons and good friends…couldn’t have been better, sons and good friends…couldn’t have been better, I’m a lucky guy. The roads are in good shape and I’m a lucky guy. The roads are in good shape and improvements are being made. Baja and Bahia de Los improvements are being made. Baja and Bahia de Los Angeles welcomed us and treated us like the guest we Angeles welcomed us and treated us like the guest we were. There is certainly a police and military presence were. There is certainly a police and military presence in the Bahia, which is nice to see. I look at these trips in the Bahia, which is nice to see. I look at these trips as an adventure, can’t wait till next year. as an adventure, can’t wait till next year.

REMINISCING CRUISING REMINISCING CRUISING

STORIES STORIES

by by Phil McCauley Phil McCauley

This installment of Phil’s story begins where it left This installment of Phil’s story begins where it left off in the last Chubasco: Another will follow this off in the last Chubasco: Another will follow this installment of Phil’s adventure. installment of Phil’s adventure.

Salute Salute

We found the renowned anchorages in the Solomons We found the renowned anchorages in the Solomons and up St. Leonards Creek off the Patuxent River. and up St. Leonards Creek off the Patuxent River. We stopped at the quaint village of St. Michaels and We stopped at the quaint village of St. Michaels and bought soft shell crabs out on the old ﬁ shing Island bought soft shell crabs out on the old ﬁ shing Island of Tangiers near the eastern shore. Got punched by of Tangiers near the eastern shore. Got punched by another thunderstorm while tied to a dock at Crisﬁ eld, another thunderstorm while tied to a dock at Crisﬁ eld, Maryland. A few days wasn’t enough to absorb Maryland. A few days wasn’t enough to absorb all the history at Annapolis but we were rewarded all the history at Annapolis but we were rewarded by an impressive tour of the Naval Academy. Our by an impressive tour of the Naval Academy. Our ﬁ nal stop on the Bay was at Baltimore. They have ﬁ nal stop on the Bay was at Baltimore. They have reclaimed their old worn out waterfront and developed reclaimed their old worn out waterfront and developed an excellent small boat basin for pleasure craft and an excellent small boat basin for pleasure craft and onshore tourist attractions. Busy place. onshore tourist attractions. Busy place.

AN ALTERNATE ROUTE AN ALTERNATE ROUTE

The passage out through the Chesapeake and The passage out through the Chesapeake and Delaware canal put us into Delaware Bay. With the Delaware canal put us into Delaware Bay. With the weather and tide in our favor for a change the early weather and tide in our favor for a change the early morning run down the Bay gave us a good chance morning run down the Bay gave us a good chance to get the boat up on the plane after months of just to get the boat up on the plane after months of just poking along. It was a 50 mile run down the open poking along. It was a 50 mile run down the open and potentially nasty Delaware into Cape May at the and potentially nasty Delaware into Cape May at the southern tip of the New Jersey coast. Here we decided southern tip of the New Jersey coast. Here we decided to try some of the New Jersey Waterway and ran to try some of the New Jersey Waterway and ran

inside to Harrah’s Casino/Marina at Atlantic City for inside to Harrah’s Casino/Marina at Atlantic City for some play time. We had been told this inside route some play time. We had been told this inside route through Jersey would be a challenge and that certainly through Jersey would be a challenge and that certainly was the case. It was very shallow and some of the was the case. It was very shallow and some of the markers were either missing or off station. The tide markers were either missing or off station. The tide wand currents at the many inlets almost required local wand currents at the many inlets almost required local knowledge for safe passage. After a day at Atlantic knowledge for safe passage. After a day at Atlantic City the weather turned funny so we were forced City the weather turned funny so we were forced to stay with the waterway. Two days and several to stay with the waterway. Two days and several groundings later we made it to the Manesquan Inlet. groundings later we made it to the Manesquan Inlet. For here you must go the rest of the way around Sandy For here you must go the rest of the way around Sandy Hook on the outside. We were almost thankful. Hook on the outside. We were almost thankful.

More Later More Later

The next chapter includes the excitement of running The next chapter includes the excitement of running the Erie Canal (30 locks) and Canadas Trent-Severn the Erie Canal (30 locks) and Canadas Trent-Severn Canal (45 locks) as we make our run on the Great Canal (45 locks) as we make our run on the Great Laker heading for Chicago. Stay tuned folks, there’s a Laker heading for Chicago. Stay tuned folks, there’s a lot more ahead. Adios for now! lot more ahead. Adios for now!

The Good ship Rainmaker and Crew. The Good ship Rainmaker and Crew.

ADVERTISING ADVERTISING

We accept ads in good faith and screen them for We accept ads in good faith and screen them for

applicability to the Vagabundos lifestyle, but applicability to the Vagabundos lifestyle, but cannot attest to the quality of products or services. cannot attest to the quality of products or services.

LOS BARRILES Area home rental available. Spa Buena Vista, $650 weekly, $1650 monthly, fruit trees, plants and ﬂ owers, vacuum packer for ﬁ llets, off street parking, a block from Buena Vista Beach Resort.

If you’re RV’ing, take a break and rent a nice house for a week or so. Info at HOMEAWAY.com # 368541. Email [email protected], or call Bill at (530) 306-1910

Casa 7 Dining Room and Kitchen

Casa 7 Living Room and Bedroom in Loft

EL PALMAR CASAS Vag Rental in Loreto

Casa For Rent
Two Weeks Maximum
(If you want more time, call Vag HQ to see if vacant)

Patio, Pool Secure Parking For Small Vehicles Internet & Wi-Fi Service

Three Blocks From Sea of Cortez Walking Distance to All Facilities in Loreto International Airport in Loreto

Call Club Headquarters at (800) 47-4-BAJA (2252) For Details and Reservations

CASA 7

$80 Per Night For up to four Members $90 Per Night For up to ﬁ ve Members $100 Per Night For up to six Members Two Full Baths With Shower Two Bedrooms (One in Loft) Maximum of Six People Living Room, Kitchen TV

Fishing in the Loreto Bay National Marine Park can be exceptional for migratory dorado, yellowtail, sailﬁ sh, marlin and many other resident species.

Diving around the nearby islands is very popular, as is kayaking and viewing several species of whales. Pangas can be chartered for a delightful day picnick- ing and snorkeling on a lovely white-sand beach with several adjoining reefs and numerous tropical ﬁ sh. Several businesses cater to these activities.

Fascinating side trips can be made to Puerto Escondido to the south and the village of San Javier high in the Sierra de La Giganta to the west. Nopolo a few miles south of Loreto has a ﬁ ne golf course and a tennis complex.

MEXICO MAPS and FISHING CHARTS Baja Directions 11”x17” laminated Fishing Maps Sportﬁ shing Atlas, Baja California Edition Ensenada L.A. Bay/Upper Midriff Islands San Quintin Mulege Loreto La Paz East Cape Cabo San Lucas Mag Bay Offshore New Paciﬁ co Norte & Sur Bahia Asuncion The Lower Banks Cortes Norte & Sur Puertecitos Baja North or South Adventure Map, National Geographic Baja North Paciﬁ c Ocean Fishing Chart Baja North or South Sea of Cortez Fishing Chart Mexico Map – National Geographic San Diego-Ensenada Fishing Chart – Outer Banks

No $

50.00
14.00
14.00
14.00
14.00
14.00
14.00
14.00
14.00
14.00
14.00
14.00
14.00
14.00
14.00
12.00
8.00
8.00
12.00
9.00

MEXICO BOOKS
Anglers Guide to Trailer Boating Baja – Thomas
Baja California Plant Field Guide – Jon P. Rebman
Baja’s Wild Side – Daniel Cartamil, PhD
Birds We See in Baja California Sur – C.E. Llewellyn
Cave Paintings of Baja California – Harry Crosby
Complete Book of Saltwater Fishing – Milt Rosko
Field Guide to Marine Mammals of Paciﬁ c – Allen
Gulf of California Coastal Ecology-by Johnson &Vazquez
Lagoon Time – Steven L Swartz
Mexican Camping 4th ed. – Mike & Terri Church
Mexican Camping Baja 6th ed – Mike & Terri Church
Mexico Health & Safety Travel Guide – Page&Page
Moon Handbook Cabo 7th ed.- Niki Goth Itoi
Sea of Cortez Cruising Guide-Breeding & Bansmer
Spanish Lingo for the Savvy Gringo-by Elizabeth Reid
Unforgettable Sea of Cortez – Gene Kira
Whales & other Marine Mammals – Tamara Eder

30.00
35.00
20.00
40.00
40.00
20.00
29.00
20.00
30.00
22.00
19.00
25.00
17.00
50.00
15.00
50.00
13.00

GUY HARVEY CLOTHING
Men’s Tanks
grand slam – c blue-2X; highlight – aquash-L-2X
kaleidoscope – navy-M-XL; marlin boat – gray – L
Men’s T-shirt’s
army – black-L-3X
blue – stonewashed gr-L; white-L-3X
bull dorado – black-L-3X; denim-L; white-M-3X
cabo billﬁ sh – navy – L-XL
cruisin – aqua-L-3X; orange-L-2X
double dodo – white, yellow-L-3X
foursome – aqua, white, yellow-L-3X; red-L-2X
grandslam – marine- L-2X; aqua, navy, white-L-3X
hoodat – charcoal, orange-L-2X
island marlin – ocean blue-L-2X
marlin – navy-L white-L-3X; ocean blue-L
marlin boat – cardinal, denim-L-2X; aqua, white-L-3X
navy – navy-L-3X
patriot – pale blue-L-2X
pirate reef – black, white-L-3X
save our seas – navy-2X; white-L-3X
saving our seas – cardinal-L; white-L-3X
spring tide – mint-L-3X
swordﬁ sh ﬂ ag – white-XL

14.00

16.00

16
16

SHIP’S STORE ORDER FORM

No $
21.00
21.00
21.00
17.00
15.00
17.00
17.00
21.00
17.00
17.00
17.00
21.00
17.00
17.00

GUY HARVEY CLOTHING (cont.)
Men’s Long Sleeve
cruisin – white – L-2X
double dodo – charcoal – L-2X
Women’s T-shirt’s
king of spades – coral – S-XL
marlin boat – black – L-2X; mint – L-2X
marlin dorado – caribbean – XL
marlin yellowﬁ n – pink – XL
no time to spare – pink – L,XL black – L-2X
queen angel – black – S-2X
sailﬁ sh twist – raspberry – L-2X
santiagos dream – white – L-2X
soft sail – mocha – S,L-2X
under the sea – white – S-2X
underwater sail – black – XL,2X
watercolor blue – white – S-L
VAG LOGO CLOTHING
Zipper Hooded Sweatshirt
black, burg, gray, navy, white – S-M;
black, burg, gray, navy – L-XL
black, burg, gray, navy, white – 2X
black, burg, gray, navy, white – 3X
Crew Neck Sweatshirt
burg, navy, white – M; burgundy, gray, red, white –
L; burg, navy, red, white – XL
burg, gray, navy, red, white – 2X
gray, navy, white – 3X

33.00
33.00
37.00
39.00
28.00
28.00
30.00
32.00
20.00

Men’s Beefy T’s – Vag logo screen printed front/back burg-L; burg,-XL; burg, forest, white-2X; stwash blue, white-3X Beefy T w/pocket – dk choc, denim, forest, lt steel, maroon, navy, sand, white-L; dk choc, forest, lt steel, maroon, navy, sand, white-XL; forest, lt steel, maroon, navy, sand, white-2X; forest, denim, lt steel, maroon, navy, sand, white-3X Pocket Polo Shirts – black, burg, lt blue, navy, red – L black, burg, lt blue, navy, red, white -XL black, burg, gray, lt blue, navy, red, white-2X black, lt blue, white-3X Women’s Scoop Neck T’s – Vag logo screen printed front/back heather sapphire, purple-S; antique cherry, aqua, coral, navy, purple, red, sapphire-M; coral, heather sapphire, lime, sapphire-L; purple, sapphire-XL ; antique cherry, coral, lime, purple, sapphire-2X; antique cherry, coral, heather sapphire, navy, white-3X Hats Mesh Cap w/Vag logo embroidered black, navy, Mesh Cap w/Vag logo silk screen – royal, white MISCELLANEOUS Burgee Magnetic signs, 10” x 12” (2) Membership name badge w/Vag logo

20.00

25.00
25.00
27.00
27.00

18.00

20.00

14.00
10.00

28.00
21.00
11.00

Sub Total

Shipping and Handling
Grand Total

SHIP STORE PAYMENT FORM

Method of Payment (circle) Personal Check Visa MasterCard Discover Card

Card Number ______________________________

Expiration ______________ V-code ____________

Member No. _________________ Non Member ____

Ship To: Name _____________________________

Address __________________________________

City ________________ State __ Zip ___________

Phone Number _____________________________

Email ____________________________________

Vagabundos del Mar, 190 Main St. Vagabundos del Mar, 190 Main St.

Rio Vista, CA 94571
Rio Vista, CA 94571

Fax (707) 374-6843
Fax (707) 374-6843

MEXICAN VEHICLE INSURANCE License 0A06282 As a non-proﬁ t social club we have gone to great As a non-proﬁ t social club we have gone to great lengths to provide low-cost Mexican vehicle insur- lengths to provide low-cost Mexican vehicle insur- ance for our members with competitive rates based ance for our members with competitive rates based on the size of our club. We have also insisted on on the size of our club. We have also insisted on solid claims service, which is really the only rea- solid claims service, which is really the only rea- son to have insurance. Our standard annual tourist son to have insurance. Our standard annual tourist full coverage rates start at $186, with a $300,000 full coverage rates start at $186, with a $300,000 liability. We also have $500,000 options. If you liability. We also have $500,000 options. If you want to add special services for uninsured motorist, want to add special services for uninsured motorist, increased cost of repair, increased medical expenses increased cost of repair, increased medical expenses the lowest rate annual tourist is $225. Travel Aid is the lowest rate annual tourist is $225. Travel Aid is included in all vehicle policies, Standard or Premier. included in all vehicle policies, Standard or Premier. We also offer liability only starting at $117 for our We also offer liability only starting at $117 for our annual tourist. The Annual Driver’s License Liabili- annual tourist. The Annual Driver’s License Liabili- ty Only Policy starts at $116.61 and Boat Liability in ty Only Policy starts at $116.61 and Boat Liability in the water at $150.70 annually. You can ﬁ nd all the de- the water at $150.70 annually. You can ﬁ nd all the de- tails and purchase a policy on the insurance pages on tails and purchase a policy on the insurance pages on our website,www.vagabundos.com.Please make sure our website,www.vagabundos.com.Please make sure your membership is current. If you need assistance, your membership is current. If you need assistance, call Vag Headquarters at call Vag Headquarters at (800) 47-4-BAJA (2252). .

CURRENT BOOK

“Lagoon Time:
Our Life and
Times Among
the Gray Whales
of Laguna San
Ignacio” is an
extraordinary
ﬁ rst-hand account
of the experiences
and discoveries
made by Dr. Ste-
ven Swartz and his
colleagues in San
Ignacio Lagoon,
Baja California
Sur, Mexico, that

provides visitors a look into the human and natural history of Laguna San Ignacio. It is also a ﬁ eld guide to gray whale behavior and the diverse botanical and avian wildlife in the area. It presents information on the Paciﬁ c gray whales that winter in Baja California beginning in 1977 to the present, and provides the La- goon visitor and adventure traveler an accurate look into the human and natural history of San Ignacio,

BAJA DIRECT AND RETURN

Easiest Way To Find The Easiest Way To Find The Warmth of Baja California Warmth of Baja California

Relaxed 10-Day Trip Each Night In An RV Park 5 Destinations – Stop Where You Want Experienced Wagon Masters Low Cost $680

Departure Point Near San Diego, California January 2019

Low-Cost Mexican RV Insurance FREE $35 Club Membership for Non-Members Renewal Memberships Free for Members Call: Club Vagabundos del Mar (800) 47-4-BAJA (2252) www.vagabundos.com

JOIN THE VAGABUNDOS DEL MAR BOAT AND TRAVEL CLUB BAJA’S OLDEST, LARGEST AND ONLY NON-PROFIT CLUB ANNUAL MEMBERSHIP ONLY $35 A YEAR

JOIN OUR MORE THAN 10,000-MEMBER FAMILY, ALL OF WHOM SAVE MONEY, TRAVEL SAFELY AND HAVE FUN THROUGHOUT NORTH AMERICA—BUT ESPECIALLY IN BAJA CALIFORNIA. OUR SOLE PURPOSE IS TO SERVE YOU—WE ARE NON-PROFIT.

READ EVERY ISSUE OF THE CHUBASCO (THE ONLY BAJA CLUB WITH A PRINTED MAGAZINE) AND KEEP ABREAST OF WHAT IS GOING ON WHERE WE TRAVEL.

WE HAVE BEEN TRAVELING BAJA SINCE 1966 AND KNOW IT LIKE NONE OTHER.

SAVE A TON OF MONEY ON OUR MEXICAN INSURANCE.

I’M COMING ABOARD! Name _____________________________________ Email ______________________________________

Address ____________________________________ City ____________________ State ____ Zip ______

Phone _____________________________________ Cell Phone _________________________________

Credit Card _________________________ Expiration _______ Vcode (3 numbers on back – required)____

Mail to: Vagabundos del Mar, 190 Main St., Rio Vista, CA 94571 or fax: (707) 374-6843 Or call: (800) 47-4-BAJA (2252) or (707) 374-5511 and pay by Visa, MasterCard or Discover Card Or join online: www.vagabundos.com

FISH TALK RADIO Fish Talk Radio holds numerous awards for Best Outdoor Radio Show. https://www.ﬁ shtalkradio.com

Baja Expeditions La Paz, Baja California Sur World Leader in Eco Adventures to Baja The oldest, larg- est, and most environmentally responsible adventure travel expedition operator in Baja California, Mexico. Abundant wildlife, natural wonders and warm clear waters make Baja one of the best ecotourism destinations. We have ﬂ exible itineraries for our Eco camps. Marvel at the wonders on Isla Espiritu Santo on a relaxing daytrip or discover grey whales in Laguna San Ignacio – diving, whale shark trips, sea kayaking, sailing adventures and more. Baja Contact Info: Sonora #585, La Paz, BCS 23060 +52 (612) 125 3828 (341) 457-5384 U.S. Contact Info: 3096 Palm Street, San Diego, CA 92104 Toll-free (800) 843-6967 Local ( 858) 581-3311 [email protected]

Vagabundo and future Veterinarian Vagabundo and future Veterinarian Isabella Bono participating in a Sea Turtle release Isabella Bono participating in a Sea Turtle release

program in Los Barriles. Photo by Joe Bono. program in Los Barriles. Photo by Joe Bono.

Vag Larry Wilkinson with a buddy ﬁ sherman in Vag Larry Wilkinson with a buddy ﬁ sherman in

Don Juan Cove.
Don Juan Cove.

Seaside Bed and Breakfast Near Puerto Vallarta CASA LA VIDA

This beautiful Colonial Style home has views of the Paciﬁ c Ocean and is three minutes walk to one of the best beaches in Mexico. It is a quiet beach that is not overrun with tourists and a great viewing spot for migrating humpback whales. You can relax on the beach, read a good book or venture out in the waves with a surfboard or boogie board. If you want activities there are numerous activities nearby including a Greg Norman designed Litibu Golf Course set against virgin jungles with some holes over- looking the Paciﬁ c Ocean. Other activities include Zip Lining, horseback riding, Quad and Razer tours through country roads, mountains the jungle and streams. Fishing, sailing, snorkeling and whale watch- ing tours are also available nearby.

This three bedroom, two baths home will be open as a bed and breakfast from November through April and the whole house can be rented anytime during the year by arrangement with the owners, Susan and Keith Levy. Susan and Keith will provide a hardy breakfast for their guests and will pick them up and deliver them back to the Puerto Vallarta airport. Local transportation, sailing lessons, whale watching and art and pickleball lessons can be arranged. Rooms rent for $150 a night. There is a 10 percent dis- count for Vagabundos Members. For long term rental and renting the whole home please check with owners.

Please check our Web Site at: Playalitibu.net

Susan and Keith [email protected]

BAJA HOTBOX Check Hotbox on Vag Website for Latest News

Travel – DON’T DRIVE AT NIGHT OR CAMP ALONE. Road Conditions – Mexico 5 towards Coco’s corner over to Hwy 1 north. Lots of road construction starting just south of South Beach all the way to Puertecitos. Driving south of San Felipe in a motorhome or car is not recom- mended.The potholes around Catavina have been ﬁ lled. The road is new north of Catavina. Be cautious driving in the newly paved areas as the driving lines have not yet been painted. Peso – 18.62 to the dollar. Fuel – Fuel – Magna (87 octane) 20.11 pesos/liter, $4.05 gal; Premium (93 octane) 21.61pesos/liter, $4.37 gal; diesel 21.11 pesos/liter, $4.26 gal; scarce at Guerrero Negro. At Catavina Magna & L.A. Bay Junction Magna & diesel from barrels – 5 gal minimum. Mainland Vehicle Fee – $44. Prepaid FMM’s – We have them for Members with a small handling fee. Fishing Licenses – $23.20/week, $34.80/month, $46.40/ year, with a small handling fee. Travel Buddies Calendar – Planning a Mexican trip? Go on our website to get on our Calendar or call our ofﬁ ce at (800) 47-4-BAJA (2252).

PRSRT STD
US POSTAGE
PAID
SAN RAMON
CA
PERMIT 79

Vagabundos del Mar
190 Main Street
Rio Vista, CA 94571

TIME SENSITIVE MATERIAL PLEASE EXPEDITE

“Bahia Los Angeles Sunrise” “Bahia Los Angeles Sunrise” 2018 Vagabundos LA Bay Tournament 2018 Vagabundos LA Bay Tournament

by Larry Wilkinson
by Larry Wilkinson

You must be logged in to post a comment.