ACTIVITY-SPECIAL-2024
We will be raising the membership cost by $5.00 per year. We have held off for many years keeping the price at the $35.00 per year but unfortunately, we are being hit with cost increases across the board, postage, materials to publish our newsletter, labor, just keeping the lights on. I have been a member since 1997, the membership dues at that time were $35.00 per year.
We are sure you will understand that we have to keep up with the rising costs. We have always strived to be a member friendly club and will continue to do so, please reach out to the club with any questions or comments you may have, write an article to be published in the Chubasco, we would love to hear about your travel adventures. Hope to see you on the road someday.
Mark Martinez Board Member
OFFICERS
President – Carrie Wilson
Vice President – Scott McEwen
Secretary/Treasurer – Amy Halverson
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Larry Lammon
Mark Martinez
Tony Schuck
Mike Trible
Freddie Washington
STAFF
Executive Manager – Karen Connolly
General Manager – Maria Hernandez
Manager/Insurance Specialist – Michelle Ralston
Office Assistant – Michael Gilpin
Office Assistant/Bilingual – Margarita Mercado
Office Assistant – Laurie Lucas
Chubasco Editor – Michelle Ralston
AMBASSADORS-AT-LARGE
Robert Amma
Mike Bales
Bill Gesswein
Roland Heuschele
Sidney “Skip” Huwaldt
Larry Young
PRESIDENT EMERITUS – Chet Sherman
COMMODORE ETERNAL – Ray Cannon
FOREVER GRATEFUL – Fred & Gloria Jones
Club Managers for over 30 years
STAY UP TO DATE WITH
THE VAGABUNDOS
Website and Hotbox – www.vagabundos.com.
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Twitter – twitter.com/ vagabundosdmar
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Email Bulletins from [email protected].
VAGABUNDOS DEL MAR
190 Main Street
Rio Vista, CA 94571
(800) 47-4-BAJA (2252)
Fax (707) 374-6843 [email protected]
JOIN THE VAGABUNDOS DEL MAR BOAT AND TRAVEL CLUB
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JOIN OUR 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
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ALL CHUBASCO CONTENTS ©2024 VAGABUNDOS DEL MAR
More than 57 Years Covering the Western Waterfront
from Alaska to Cabo San Lucas
2024 ACTIVITY PLANNER
When it comes to Baja and Mexico, there is still no other club that does what we do. The Vagabundos are the only non-profit social club specializing in Baja and Mexico travel. We are the Go-To place for all Mexico travel, with low-cost dues, all-Mexico Vehicle insurance with one of the most reputable brokers in the business and we are the only Club with both a hard-copy and digital publication. We strive to provide a Safety Net for travelers, providing the latest information from our contacts in Mexico and depend on the reliable information shared by Members currently on the road. It makes the difference in fulfilling our Mission – To help Members travel safely, economically, and to enjoy all North America, especially Baja California. We are Not for Profit and All for Members.
Activity, Tournament Leaders and Wagon Masters
We are always looking for help with Activity events and Tournaments and in finding new places. Think about your favorite outdoor area or fishing spot and how much fun it would be to share time there with your Vag Buddies. There are incentives — some expenses and one week at the Loreto Casa. Before joining Vagabundos we adventured by ourselves. After our first trip years ago crossing the Sea of Cortez with Ralph “Padre” Lucas and crew, we realized how much more fun it was to share those experiences with good buddies. You will make life-long friends and be safer cruising on the water and traveling on the road – the reason for your Club’s inception. For Wagon Masters, if you are an experienced traveler, take some buddies with you and receive compensation and expenses for your trip, and a week at the Loreto Casa. Our friendly staff in the office, who still answer the phone live, will be right there to help you with arrangements, reservations and working with participants for both Activities and Caravans. Call the office at 800-47-4-BAJA (2252).
In every beginning of the year issue of the Chubasco we list the Activities that will be coming up in the ensuing year, and if possible, the following year. This is the best measure we have of what the Vagabundos do. Members can go over the list time and again to find the activities that most interest them and mark their calendars, so they won’t miss out.
Active people looking for fun, adventure and companionship from Alaska to Mexico by Boat, RV or vehicle can see that we are like them, get on aboard and take advantage of Vagabundos activities and many money saving services.
Here are some of the fun things the Vags will be doing in 2024. If you have an idea for an Activity, please call the office to express your idea.
2024 IMPORTANT DATES
January 25 – 28, 2024 – Bart Hall Long Beach Boat Show
February 17 – March 4, 2024 – Beaches and Whales Caravan
February 25 – March 8, 2024 – Whale Watching Tour
May 4 – May 15, 2024 – Sierra Spring Caravan
May 16 – 18, 2024 – Annual Crab Feed Fiesta Grande
June 20 – 22, 2024 – Padre Lucas Yellowtail Tournament
July – Fishin’ for the Mission (Dates to be announced)
August 4 – 10, 2024 – Tony Reyes Fishing Trip
September – San Quintin Tournament (Dates to be announced)
EDITORS NOTES We were camping at Bahia De Los Angles and Peter, one of the caravan participants, is a longtime friend of Graham. Both are from the UK and were members of a Baja Travel and camping club in San Diego. Peter contacted Graham and he graciously came to our campground to visit with us. Graham now spends his time in Bahia de Los Angeles, San Diego and the Ensenada area. He and his sidekick Coco, his faithful Baja rescue dog, spend their days kayaking, hiking and enjoying the beauty of Baja.
We at Vagabundos would like to express our sympathy to Board Member Freddie Washington on his father’s passing.
CALL FOR BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Tony Schuck, long-time Board Member and Freddie “BoomBoom” Washington, long-time Board Member are up for re-election to the Board of Directors. If you are interested in becoming involved in the Club, send in a statement setting forth your background and interest in the Club. Three-year Membership required for becoming a Board Member. Please mail submissions to 190 Main Street, Rio Vista, CA 94571 or email to [email protected] by February 15, 2024.
FRIENDS IN BAJA by Vice President Scott McEwen
Travel affords us an opportunity to experience new things, I especially enjoy meeting people and learning their interesting stories. During our Baja Explorer 2023 Caravan, I had the pleasure of meeting one of my favorite Baja authors, Graham Mackintosh. Graham has written four books about his adventures in Baja, each is full of adventure, humor and history. Great reads; “Into a Desert Place,” “Journey With a Baja Burro,” “Nearer My Dog to Thee,” and “Marooned With Very Little Beer.” He has also authored some e-books available on Kindle; “My Amigo Coco” and “Guardian Angel Island.”
Graham’s writing chronicles his adventures while hiking the coastline of the entire Baja peninsula, his journey walking from Tecate to Loreto with his companion Baja burro, camping with his canine friends in Parque Nacional Sierra de San Pedro Martir and his time camping on Isla Angel de la Guarda, offshore from Bahia de Los Angeles. Each is chock full of history and descriptions of the local areas. I first discovered Graham’s work while on a Baja caravan. His account of his adventures taking place in areas where I was familiar with or was planning on visiting was fun. His books are full of the history of areas and the accounts of the welcoming Baja culture. Reading into the night, I traveled vicariously with Graham as he adventured in the Baja desert, or camped near the ruins of an ancient mission, what fun!
Peter, Graham Mackintosh (with ball cap) and David and Karen
Friends of Baja (continued) Prior to becoming a Baja explorer in 1983, Graham taught and lectured at West Kent College in the UK, teaching social science. Becoming restless, the self-described “least adventurous person in the world,” set off to explore the entire coastline of Baja California. Two years and 3000 miles later, his life had changed. Bitten by the Baja bug, he has made Baja his home, Lucky for us. If you enjoy the many wonderful things that we enjoy about Baja, take a walk with Graham, what an adventure.
RECIPES
HONEY-GARLIC SLOW COOKER CHICKEN THIGHS
These Honey-Garlic Slow Cooker Chicken Thighs are so easy thanks to the slow cooker. Plus, the ingredients are likely already in your pantry!
4 chicken thighs
½ cup soy sauce
½ cup ketchup
1/3 cup honey
3 cloves garlic, minced
1teaspoon dried basil
Place the chicken thighs in the bottom of your slow cooker. In a small mixing bowl, combine the soy sauce, ketchup, honey, garlic, and basil. Pour mixture over the chicken thighs. Cook on low heat for 6 hours.
By: Judy Husted
AINT’ YOUR MOMMA’S BANANA PUDDING
1 small instant French vanilla pudding 1 (8oz) pkg. cream cheese (room temp) 1 can eagle brand milk 1 small cool whip 2 large bags of Pepperidge Farm Chess cookies 5-6 bananas
Mix pudding according to directions Mix milk and cream cheese until smooth Blend pudding and fold in cool whip
Line a 9×13 pan with cookies. Pour ½ of pudding mixture over cookies. Slice bananas into ¼ in slices. Place on pudding then pour the remaining pudding over bananas, then cover with remaining cookies
By: Donna Amma
2024 ACTIVITES
Bart Hall Long Beach Boat Show January 25-28, 2024
Long Beach Convention & Entertainment Center 300 E. Ocean Boulevard Long Beach, CA 90802
Bart Hall Show at the Long Beach Convention Center is the world’s largest sportfishing show, California’s largest boat show and an international leader in hunting and fishing travel and the Vagabundos will have a booth there. We love this show! For decades Mike Bales ran the booth, providing knowledge and discounts to everyone who stopped by.
LBBS (continued) This year Scott McEwen and a group of Member Volunteers will be at the booth. If you would like to volunteer, please contact the Vagabundos office at 800-474-BAJA(2252). If you are in Southern California on these dates and want to exchange BS (Baja Stories) stop by the booth. We will send out an email bulletin with the booth number and show details closer to the show date. We look forward to hearing your BS!
ANNUAL CRAB FEED
FIESTA GRANDE
May 16-18, 2024
We are pleased to announce the Annual Crab Feed will be held May 16-18, 2024, at the Lighthouse Marina and Resort.
RV sites will be $80/night, one-time fee of $10 per pet, 4 person cabins $150/night and 6 person cabins $170/night, plus a one-time cleaning fee of $50 for the cabins and one-time fee of $25 per pet. Limited cabins with pets allowed.
Crab Feed on Saturday. More information to follow. If you are willing to help, let the office know when you make your reservations. Call the Vagabundos office at 800-47-4-BAJA(2242) to make your reservations.
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PADRE LUCAS YELLOWTAIL TOURNAMENT
June 20-22, 2024
This is a fun filled, no drama fishing tournament. Bring the family, everyone is welcome. The 2024 Yellowtail Tournament will again be the week after Father’s Day – Thursday, Friday and Saturday. The cost will be $50.00 per entry, includes a welcome party with chips and margaritas. Saturday the 22nd , we will have the awards dinner with trophies.
Director Larry Lammon continues to grow the tournament with more anglers, awards and prizes. The tournament becomes bigger and better every year. Tournament headquarters is Casa Diaz, which has accommodations, guides, etc. You may dry camp at Casa Diaz. Sign up at the Vagabundos office 800-47-4- BAJA (2242).
Director Larry and Janet Lammon
2024 ADVENTURE TOURS CST#2044242-40 PASSPORTS WILL BE REQUIRED
BEACHES AND WHALES
CARAVAN
February 17 – March 4, 2024
We will be returning to Baja to explore this beautiful country and interact with the magnificent California Gray Whales. This is an incredible experience. Imagine being able to touch and pet these giant mammals that swim right up to the boat.
Beaches and Whales Caravan (continued) We will travel out to the lagoon where the calves are born and observe the mothers and babies from a panga boat, an amazing experience. We will also visit missions and explore beautiful beaches, enjoy four group meals (included) and a guided, escorted trip to San Javier Mission near Loreto. This caravan drives at a leisurely pace and makes frequent rest stops. The group is limited to eight RVs, so not to overwhelm to local services.
February 17: We will gather at the Desert Trails RV Resort in El Centro, where we will introduce ourselves and discuss driving and safety matters.
February 18: We will cross the border into Mexico at the Mexicali Port of Entry (POE) and travel south to San Felipe where we will make a brief stop for fuel and groceries. Our first night in Mexico will be on the shore of the Sea of Cortez in Puertecitos at Octavio’s Camp. Dry camping.
February 19: On to Guerrero Negro and Malarrimos RV. That evening, we will enjoy a group meal at the onsite restaurant.
February 20: Whale watching. We will be transported from Malarrimos out to Ojo de Liebre Lagoon and load up in a panga boat and go enjoy the Gray Whales. This is approximately 4-5 hours in length.
February 21: Traveling south, we’ll stop in San Ignacio for lunch and visit the beautiful plaza and mission. Afterwards, continue south and arrive at Santispac Beach for the night. Dry camp.
February 22: Arrive in Loreto, our home for three nights at the Rivera Del Mar RV campground. We’ll have time to explore this beautiful town with its amazing mission, the first in all of California.
February 23: We will be driven to the San Javier Mission along with a docent guide who will describe the flora and fauna and the history of the area. After touring the mission, we will visit a goat farm, then be driven to a working rancho where we will enjoy an authentic Mexican lunch. This is a wonderful, interesting day.
February 24: Free day in Loreto to shop and explore. In the evening we will be driven to a local restaurant for a group meal, always fun.
February 25: We begin our trek north, arriving at Santispac Beach. Relaxing and enjoying the beauty of the area is in store. Dry camp.
February 26: Santispac Beach. Those who want, can head up to Mulege to tour the mission and explore the town of Mulege. That evening we will enjoy a group meal at a wonderful, open-air beach front restaurant, “Armandos”. Always a favorite.
February 27: Bahia Asuncion, Campo Sirena. Bahia Asuncion is on the Pacific side of the peninsula, a small working fishing village. The campground overlooks the Pacific Ocean and wonderful sunsets. Shore fishing is popular. Dry camp.
February 28: We return to Guerrero Negro and Malarrimos.
February 29: We journey on to Bahia de Los Angeles, camping at Daggetts Campground. Dry camp.
March 1: Eco tour with White Bay Tours, exploring the offshore islands and looking for marine life. That evening we will walk a short distance and enjoy a group meal with my friend Ruth, who makes a killer margarita.
Beaches and Whales Caravan (continued) March 2: We head to San Felipe; Victors RV. Victors is within walking distance to the San Felipe Malecon for any last-minute shopping. Victors also has a nice beach front restaurant.
March 3: San Felipe, relaxing, shopping and just enjoying our last day of the adventure.
March 4: Head to the border and back to the USA. After being processed at the US Customs, we’ll gather together to say our goodbyes. Always bitter-sweet.
Travel in Baja is an adventure, it’s always rewarding and keeps you young. Caravans are a great way to explore and experience new cultures. Our caravan leaders are experienced Baja travelers with years of knowledge, keeping you safe. Plus, they know where the best taco stands are!! Come join the fun!!
The cost per rig will be $2,115 for two people. Call the Vags office (800) 47-4-BAJA(2252)
Vice President Scott McEwen
Whale Watching Tour
RV & Possible Car/hotel
without RVs too!
February 25 – March 8, 2024
Mark and Faith Martinez will be leading a whale and beach camping tour February 25 – March 7, 2024. This trip will be open to RVers and those without RV’s.
February 25: Meet in San Diego (location to be determined).
February 26: Cross border at Tijuana and travel to El Rosario (RV lot and hotel available or dry camping).
February 27: Leave El Rosario and travel to Guerrero Negro.
February 27 – 29: Dry camping on beach at Ojo de Libre lagoon, 10–15 miles south of Guerrero Negro.
March 1: Back to Guerrero Negro to stay overnight at Malarrimos campground. (RV full hook-up to dump etc.).
March 2 – 4: Leave Guerrero Negro to Bahia de Los Angeles (dry camping) Sea of Cortez side. (RV and Hotel available)
March 5 – 7: Leave Bahia de Los Angeles and head to San Felipe Sea of Cortez side. (RV and Hotel available)
March 8: Cross back into the US through Mexicali.
Most days are in the vicinity of 200 miles, approximately 5 to 6 hours’ drive time.
The last two years that Mark and Faith have been at the Guerrero Negro lagoon has been fantastic. One year we got to hold a cannon ball jellyfish which is not there every year.
Contact the Club for more details. This is open to 8 to 10 reservations. 800-47-4-BAJA(2252)
Thank you,
Director Mark and Faith Martinez
Gray whale coming up to panga to get petted
SIERRA SPRING CARAVAN
May 4 – 15, 2024
In an effort to shake the winter doldrums, we’re going to explore the eastern Sierras and Lake Tahoe. Traveling at a leisurely pace, ensuring time to explore the beauty of the eastern Sierra. We will camp in some of the most beautiful areas in California, spending two nights in many places. This will afford time to explore, fish or just goof off. The Eastern Sierra has some of the best trout fishing in the West, very close to our campgrounds. Here is the tentative itinerary:
May 4: Gather together at the Boulder Creek RV in Lone Pine, California.
May 5: Visit the Museum of Western Film History and tour the Alabama Hills, site of countless film and TV locations.
May 6: Continue northbound, headed to Bishop, with stops at Manzanar National Historic Site and the Mt. Whitney Fish Hatchery. In Bishop we will camp at Brown’s Mill Creek campground.
May 7: Free day to explore the area. Experience some of the best trout fishing in California in the many close by rivers, lakes and creeks.
May 8: Head to June Lake
May 9: June Lake
May 10: Bridgeport, California. Camping at Willow Creek campground.
May 11: Explore the Bodie State Historic Park. In 1875 gold was discovered in the hills north of Mono Lake and the town of Bodie sprung up built by gold miners. A well-preserved ghost town. This is a self guided walking tour, very interesting.
May 12: Continuing north to the Carson City area. We will stay at the Carson Valley Inn RV. This is a full-service casino with gaming and restaurants, a nice stop.
May 13: Continue to south Lake Tahoe
May 14: Lake Tahoe, perhaps a dinner cruise on the lake.
May 15: Arrive at the beautiful Jackson Rancheria for one night. We will enjoy a goodbye, group meal at the casino restaurant.
For those who choose to attend, we will continue to the Lighthouse Marina and Resort campground and participate in the Vagabundos Crab Feed on May 16, 17 and 18, a good time.
This caravan is brand new, and we hope to see some interest. It’s going to be fun with pot lucks, a chili cook-off and good friends. There will be lots of time to explore the areas and perhaps catch a trophy trout…you never know. Details are being worked on and as soon as everything is finalized, we will advise everyone. Keep an eye out.
Vice President Scott McEwen
VAGABUNDOS RV CARAVANS
Are you or someone you know a member of a RV travel club or group? Popularity of RV travel has certainly grown in recent years and the number of these fun-loving groups has also grown. The Vagabundos Del Mar travel club can assist your group with planning a trip to Baja and can even provide an experienced caravan leader to ensure a smooth, safe adventure. What better way to enjoy the wonders of Baja than with your group of friends. Contact the office at 800-47-4- BAJA(2252) for more information or if you have any questions, This can be fun!!!
MEMBERS SPEAK
YEAR PINS ISSUED
Joe & Anita Archibald – 25 Years
Mark Atkinson – 35 Years
Daniel & Joanne Barnett – 10 Years
Gregg G Fischer – 25 Years
James Green DDS – 50 Years
Thomas & Donna Jones – 35 Years
Eileen M Katica – 30 Years
John Negrych – 30 Years
Paul J Ratcliffe – 35 Years
LORETO VAGABUNDO CONCIERGE
I would like to introduce myself, Howard Winderbaum, Vags Member for over 20 years and I have a residence in Loreto. I have been visiting Loreto for the past 25 years. I would like to offer to the club members, if you are staying, passing through, or interested in Loreto. I would offer my knowledge and hopefully answer any questions you might have prior to your visit or in Loreto regarding restaurants/bars, shopping, banking, car mechanic, RV sites, fishing, etc. Or any other questions you might have. Unfortunately, I’m not familiar with the hotels/resorts south of Loreto such as Loreto Bay and Villa del Palmar. It is the joy of sharing my knowledge of Loreto to those interested. You may contact me at 310-940-8882 or [email protected].
2023 PADRE LUCAS YELLOWTAIL TOURNAMENT
We had another great tournament, we had 21 participants & the fishing was very good. The bait was easy to make & awards dinner at Lizetts was excellent & air conditioned. She has some of the best Margaritas in all of Baja.
Day 1 Yellowtail: 1st place – Jamie Garcia
27.64lbs., 2nd place – David Mantooth 24.52lbs.
Other Species: 1st place – Rich Doctor 30.42lbs.
Black Sea Bass, 2nd place – Tyler Andrews
28.40lbs. Grouper.
Day 2 Yellowtail: 1st place – Rick Taylor 22.28lbs.,
2nd place – Noah Andrews 21.91lbs.
Other Species: 1st place – Rich Doctor 17.31lbs.
Pargo, 2nd place – Tyler Andrews 16.55lbs. Pargo.
Day 3 Yellowtail: 1st place – Rich Doctor
22.01lbs., 2nd place – Tyler Andrews 17.13 lbs.
Other Species: 1st place – Tyler Andrews 18.19
lbs. Pargo, 2nd place – Noah Andrews 17.13lbs.
Pargo.
As you can see by the results it was a very successful tournament. The Grand Copa De Margarita champion was RICH DOCTOR with a very good combined weight of 52.43lbs. We are looking forward to seeing all of you next year.
Director Larry Lammon
2023 TONY REYES
FISHING TRIP
On August 6th through the 11th, the Vagabundos sponsored a fishing trip on the Tony Reyes fishing boat out of the port of San Felipe, Baja, Mexico. Vagabundo Board Member Larry Lammon made all the arrangements as he had made this trip in the past. 12 Vagabundos members joined in the fun.
The Tony Reyes is 107-foot boat that can take 27 people out onto the Sea of Cortez to fish what is called the midriff islands. The Tony Reyes is a “Mothership” operation, you live on board and then fish from panga type boats launched from the mothership.
Tony Reyes (continued) We had first timers, like me, and guys who had made previous Tony Reyes trips. The veteran fishermen were really helpful filling us in on what to expect and do. The comradery was wonderful, everyone got along, a great group of fishermen, and one fisherwoman, Larry’s wife Janet.
On the boat you are assigned to a panga, three fishermen to a panga. You have an experienced Mexican skipper; most have been with Tony Reyes for years and know all the hot fishing spots. We mostly fished for yellowtail, grouper, cabrilla and whatever. I was assigned to a panga with a father and his 19-year-old college student son. Great guys, the son out fished both his father and I!!
Up before first light, down to the galley for breakfast. While eating, your panga skipper was loading your gear into the panga. Then out to the fishing grounds. You fish until noon, then back to the boat to unload your catch, have lunch, a nap or just relaxing. About three in the afternoon, back on the water for more fishing. Most days you stayed out on the water until around eight PM. Then back for dinner, shower and early to bed.
During the afternoon break and each night, the Tony Reyes moves to another spot, so the scenery is always changing. Quite an operation, totally competent crew.
After five days of fishing, we returned to San Felipe and unloaded. Our catch was cleaned and processed by the crew, packed into our cooler and filled with ice.
This was a fun adventure. The group ranged in age from ten years old to seventy-seven. For the most part the weather was great, it got a little windy once or twice. I have to admit, I was exhausted after this trip. I had never done anything like this, and I slept better than I have for years. Keep watching for updates on this trip and other adventures, as the Vagabundos hope to make it an annual outing.
Vice President Scott McEwen
2023 BAJA EXPLORER CARAVAN
The Vagabundos Baja Explorer Caravan was a fun, exciting adventure. We drove 2150 total Baja miles without incident, enjoyed authentic Mexican food, ate lobster tails on a beach and enjoyed the company of our fellow travelers. We even had to dodge a hurricane in the Cabo San Lucas area! Our group consisted of only four rigs, a small and fun group.
We met up at the Desert Trails RV in El Centro and introduced ourselves and shared some safety information and other pertinent information. Up early the next morning and on the road towards the border to be processed into Baja. The border crossing and obtaining our FMM, Mexican Tourist Visas, was a breeze and we headed to San Felipe. We topped off our fuel tanks and did some grocery shopping in San Felipe before arriving at our first night’s campground, Octavios Camp in Puertecitos. We had the campground to ourselves, camping right on the beach, really nice.
The following day we continued south, headed to Guerrero Negro, the first 80 miles on Mex Highway-5. Highway-5 is a somewhat new, beautiful highway, which intersects with Mex-1 at Laguna Chapala. The next 110 miles on highway-1 are some of the most challenging roads in Baja. We always take a slow, safe pace and had no problems, arriving in Guerrero Negro early in the afternoon. We camped at Malarrimos and enjoyed a wonderful group meal at their onsite restaurant.
Back on the road, we made a lunch stop at the beautiful town square in San Ignacio. There we were able to tour the incredible Mission San Ignacio Kadakaaman, founded in 1728 with the existing mission building built in 1786. This is a great place to enjoy an hour or so, with lots of shops and places to eat. After lunch, back on the road, headed to one of the most beautiful beaches
Baja Explore (continue) in Baja, Santispac. First, we had to navigate the infamous Cuesta del Infierno, a steep, long down hill road leading into Santa Rosalia. Putting along in low gear, we had no problems and arrived at Santispac and set up on the beach.
We were in no hurry the following morning, as our drive to Loreto was less than 100 miles. We are spending three nights in Loreto, ensuring enough time to enjoy the local scene. Once we arrived in Loreto, we set up at Rivera Del Mar RV, our home for the next three nights. The following day we were picked up by our friend Oscar and docent guide Judy Leighton and driven in Oscar’s taxi van up 22 miles to Mission San Francisco Javier de Vigge-Biaundo (San Javier), established in 1699 and is still in use today. This is one of the best preserved and most beautiful missions in Baja. Judy does a great job sharing the history of the area and the lives of the missionaries and native inhabitants. After the mission tour, we headed to a nearby working rancho for an authentic Mexican lunch of machaca burritos, fresh, handmade tortillas and quesadillas, wonderful. We returned to Loreto for a lazy afternoon with time to explore and do some shopping. The next day was free to do some chores and some looking around this beautiful town. That evening we piled into a taxi and headed to one of our favorite local restaurants, Super Burro, for a wonderful group meal, good food and fun.
Back on the road continuing our southerly drive, headed to La Paz. La Paz is the capital of Baja Sur and is a large, modern city. Our home for the next two nights is the super nice Campestre Maranatha. We set up and enjoyed the evening, kicking back and relaxing. The following afternoon we were driven through the La Paz embarcadero and out to Tecolate Beach. After, we returned to La Paz and enjoyed a group meal on the La Paz Malecon, really nice.
The fun over in La Paz, we headed towards Todos Santos and Pescadero area. Todos Santos is a lovely town which hosts many art galleries and interesting restaurants. Unfortunately, there is little or no parking for RV’s, so we continued to our campground at Rancho Escondido. Rancho Escondido is in Pescadero, a few miles south of Todos Santos, and is up in the hills at the end of a dirt road. The campground is brand new with super nice cooking palapa and restrooms. However, it does not have power or sewer. We were planning on staying two nights, but with hurricane Norma gaining strength and headed to the Cabo area, we decided to head to higher ground and return to Loreto.
Up early to begin the long drive back to Loreto. As mentioned, La Paz is a large busy city that we had to drive through, and I managed to get us lost when we missed a turn. We ended up driving through the downtown area and narrow city streets. Thanks to GPS, we were able to get our bearings and had no further mix ups, glad to see La Paz behind us. The drive was uneventful, and we set up at Rivera Del Mar RV in Loreto. The wind was picking up and the next morning it began to lightly rain. During the next night, the wind really began whipping up and it began to really rain. We were high and dry, safely parked in the campground. We spent the next few days enjoying Loreto and relaxing. We enjoyed a group meal at one of our favorite restaurants La Palapa. Never disappoints, the food and service are excellent.
It became apparent that cutting our time in the Cape region of Baja to avoid Hurricane Norma was the right decision. Cabo San Lucas and La Paz sustained significant damage, roadways were washed out and travel was impossible. Having to spend some extra days in Loreto was no problem as the hurricane did no damage. Safety on our caravans is always a priority, no reason to take unnecessary chances.
Baja Explore (continue) Back on schedule, we departed Loreto for Santispac Beach in the Bahia Concepcion area. Santispac is a beautiful area, camping on the beach. The weather had calmed down and we had a lovely time. We enjoyed a group meal at Armandos, an open air, beach front restaurant. I had purchased some fish fillets while in Loreto and had Armando’s fix us a wonderful fish dinner. Everyone really enjoyed this, a wonderful meal while enjoying a million-dollar view of the Sea of Cortez and offshore islands. The following day, our group enjoyed a boat tour of the area, digging for clams and exploring isolated beaches.
Fun over at Santispac, we continued our drive north, arriving at Rice and Beans RV in San Ignacio. Rice and Beans has always been a fun stop with a cantina and a swimming pool. Upon arrival we discovered the pool was lime green, not suitable to swim-bummer. We were only there one night before pushing on to Bahia Asuncion and Campo Serina. Campo Serina is small dirt lot with a restroom and overlooks the Pacific Ocean. While there, we met a local who advised us where to enjoy a good meal. He directed us to Sunset Mary’s, down a dirt road, a true Baja restaurant, which serves great food and margaritas. Good times. While in Bahia Asuncion, I was able to purchase some lobsters to enjoy later.
We only spent one night in Bahia Asuncion before heading out, back to Guerrero Negro and Malarrimos RV. Before checking in at the campground, we visited Tony’s Muelle, a food truck that serves the best fish and shrimp tacos in all of Baja. Always a fun stop which everyone really enjoys.
The next morning, up and on the road to Bahia de Los Angeles and Daggetts campground. That evening I pulled out my bar-b-que and cooked up lobster tails…holy cow, they were wonderful, really enjoyed by all. The following day, we had an Eco- Tour planned with White Bay Tours, but the wind
was really blowing, making boat rides impossible. Too bad as this is a fun trip, exploring the offshore islands and looking for marine life. That evening, we walked over to my friend Ruth Cocina at Raquel and Larry’s Resort and had a great group meal. This is always a fun evening with good food and fun.
Back on the road, headed to San Felipe and Victors RV. We settled in and enjoyed one last group meal at the on-site beach front restaurant, very enjoyable. Up early the next morning, preparing to cross back into the USA. One of our group elected to remain in San Felipe, so we said our goodbyes and headed out. We arrived at the border at about 11:45 AM and was processed and back in the US at 12:25, not bad. We all were able to cross back with no problems, breezed right through.
We had a great adventure exploring Baja, even dodging a hurricane! The group handled the Baja roads like seasoned pros…we traveled over 2150 Baja miles without incident. No issues at any of the military check points, we were treated professionally by young soldiers. We ate like kings and enjoyed each other’s company. Our caravans are a wonderful way to experience new and wonderful things and places. We are always striving at making the experience better and more enjoyable. Come join the fun!!
Vice President Scott McEwen
2023 PROSTHESES CLINIC
IN LA PAZ
Hola Michelle (and the rest of the fantastic staff at
VDM):
This autumn’s clinic lasted 7 days and during that time there was a total of 53 patient visits. 17 artificial limbs were delivered and consisted of 8 above knee prostheses, 9 below knee prostheses (2 patients were bilateral or both legs amputated). Also 5 AFO’s (aka below the knee braces) were
La Paz clinic (continued) delivered along with many patients who came in for repairs – new feet, liners, sleeves, shrinkers, socks, etc. We already have a waiting list of 28 patients for our next clinic which is to be held in the spring of 2024. We are hoping to coincide the next clinic with the Solar Eclipse on April 8, 2024, and close the clinic down for one morning so all of the volunteers can drive down to lands end and observe the 95.1% eclipse, then return to La Paz and see patients that afternoon.
Donations for the clinic are always greatly
appreciated. You can send your tax-deductible
donation to:
Limb Restoration Project a Nonprofit
Corporation
c/o Doug Pinkley, CPO
411 12th Avenue
Seattle, WA 98122-0000
Thank you for any donations and thanks to the wonderful staff at the Vagabundos office for allowing us the opportunity to inform all of you Vags about our clinic (established 2004!)
Paul and Shelley Boe
Volunteers’ at this autumn’s clinic
Garth Knapp, CPO takes a mold from the first patient seen this clinic, a left above knee amputee.
Doug Pinkley, CPO takes molds for bilateral below knee amputee.
Casa 7 Dining Room and Kitchen
Casa 7 Living Room and Bedroom in Loft
EL PALMAR CASA
Vag Rental in Loreto
Find the casa on Pino Suarez between Agua Dulce and Benito Juarez
Three blocks from Sea of Cortez Walking Distance to all facilities
Loreto International Airport
CASA 7 $80 per night for four
$90 per night for five
$100 per night for six
Two full baths with shower
Two bedrooms (one loft)
Maximum of six people Living room, kitchen, TV, patio, pool, secure parking for small vehicles, internet available
Fishing in the Loreto Bay National Marine Park can be exceptional for migratory dorado, yellowtail, sailfish, marlin and many other resident species.
Diving around the nearby islands is very popular, as well as kayaking and whale watching with several different species. Pangas can be chartered for a delightful day of picnicking and snorkeling. The area has lovely white-sand beaches with several adjoining reefs and numerous tropical fish. 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 fine golf course and a tennis complex.
The first edition Baja
California Road &
Recreation Atlas
showcases the diverse
recreation
opportunities
found along the full
length of the Baja
California Peninsula.
State maps illustrate and
describe both states, Baja
California
&
Baja
California Sur. Regional maps provide a wider view of
the region and Recreation Guides list an array of
attractions for trip planning.
A new atlas was released early May 2023. If you would like to order a copy, please contact the office at 800-47-4-BAJA (2252) or email us at [email protected] or visit our store www.vagabundos.com/shop/. Find under Maps and Charts.
MEXICAN VEHICLE INSURANCE License 0A06282 As a non-profit social club, we have gone to great lengths to provide low-cost Mexican vehicle insurance for our members, with competitive rates based on the size of our club. We have also insisted on solid claims service, which is really the only reason to have insurance. Our standard annual tourist full coverage rates start at $186, with a $300,000 liability. We also have $500k options. If you want to add special services for uninsured motorist, increased cost of repair, increased medical expenses, the lowest rate annual tourist is $225. Travel Aid is included in all vehicle policies, Standard or Premier. We also offer liability only starting at $117 for our annual tourist. The Annual Driver’s License Liability Only Policy starts at $116.51 and Boat Liability in the water at $150.28 annually. You can find all the details and purchase a policy on the insurance pages on our website www.vagabundos.com. Please make sure your membership is current. If you need assistance, call Vag Headquarters at (800) 47-4-BAJA (2252).
FOR A TRAVEL MEDEVAC QUOTE Visit www.vagabundos.com and Click on
Travel Med Evac Insurance
As we further develop plans for a wider range of coverage options, we recently enhanced the Travel Medical plan (Hospital of Choice Medical Evacuation and Emergency Medical Expense coverage) to now include Trip Delay coverage which includes a unique quarantine provision. Even more important is the fact there are no infectious disease exclusions in any of our plans – which means COVID-19 is covered as any other illness. The addition of the Trip Delay with the quarantine provision provides a great complement for both domestic and international travelers seeking that added peace of mind when planning a trip.
Check Out Our Ship Store www.vagabundos.com/shop/index.html
Books and Maps
Magnetic Signs
Vagabundos Sweatshirts
Vagabundos Men’s & Women’s T-shirts
Guy Harvey Men’s & Women’s T-shirts
2023 Padre Lucas Yellowtail Tournament Bahia de Los Angeles
1st Place Rich Doctor 22.01-pound Yellowtail
1st Place Jamie Garcia 27.64-pound Yellowtail
2nd Place David Mantooth 24.5-pound Yellowtail
2nd Place Tyler Andrews 28.40-pound Grouper
Grand Copa De Margarita went to Rich Doctor combined weight of 52.43lbs.
Tournament group at Lizetts for awards Dinner
TIME SENSITIVE MATERIAL
PLEASE EXPEDITE
Steven Zigler Yellowtail catch