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The Ultimate Baja, Mexico, Travel Guide

Mexico’s 775-mile-long Baja Peninsula is a magnet for travelers in search of their own arid slice of adventure paradise. From surfing to mountain biking to beach lounging, here’s how to get off the beaten path and do it right.

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More than 75 percent of Baja’s 3.3 million residents live in the northern cities of Tijuana and Ensenada . Much of the rest of the 55,366-square-mile peninsula—surrounded by the Pacific Ocean on the west coast and the Gulf of California on the east coast—is wide-open space, an increasing amount of which is becoming preserved as federal lands, private reserves, and community projects. In total there are more than 14 million acres of protected land and water, including seven national parks, like Sierra de San Pedro Mártir in northern Baja, where Picacho del Diablo, the peninsula’s highest peak, rises to 10,154 feet. The rocky hike to the top is rewarded with views of the Pacific and the Sea of Cortez. Mountain bikers can get in on ocean views, too, with an exponentially growing network of trails in the mountains surrounding La Paz, Todos Santos, and Los Cabos.

But Baja’s most celebrated feature is its 2,038 miles of jagged coastline , which courts surfers, stand-up paddleboarders, sailors, scuba divers, snorkelers, paddlers, and anglers. Jacques Cousteau famously coined the Sea of Cortez, home to 800 varieties of fish, “the world’s aquarium.” Many of those species are protected in reserves like 27-square-mile Cabo Pulmo National Marine Park on the southern tip of Baja. On the Pacific side, the new, nearly three-million-acre Baja California Pacific Islands Biosphere Reserve   is a protective sanctuary for gray whales and sea turtles.

My first experience in Baja started in Tijuana with a fish-bowl sized margarita. It was 1988, and the city was festive and gritty. Its complexity intrigued me. A decade later, I hopped a flight to the pastel-hued 17th-century mission village of Loreto to find it full of Hawaiian-shirt-clad fishermen en route to compete in a tournament for dorado, marlin, and sailfish in the Sea of Cortez. I headed south to the solitude of a nine-room eco-resort (which has since closed) on a searing white-sand beach looking out on the mysterious, cacti-studded Isla Danzante.

Three years ago, my boyfriend and I rented a car to explore the southern tip of the peninsula, mountain-biking the foothills above Los Barriles, snorkeling with sea lions off Isla Espí‪ritu Santo, and eating whole grilled red snapper while sipping jalapeño margaritas at an under-the-radar restaurant on the edge of La Paz’s marina. Along the way, we found a wind-carved canyon pierced by sunlight above the Sea of Cortez and long stretches of empty Pacific white sand.

A few months ago we returned, going deeper into the peninsula, exploring a network of new mountain-bike trails, paddling the newly protected waters of the Pacific Islands Biosphere Reserve, and meeting with a young entrepreneur, Adolfo de la Peña, in the old mining community of San Antonio, where he is trying to resurrect his historic community. As quickly as things are changing in Baja, some of the best things remain the same, like that La Paz restaurant, where we returned to eat grilled red snapper. The fish was as exquisitely fresh as we remembered it.

What You Need to Know Before Visiting Baja

Prepare for warm days and cold water: The Baja sun is hot, but the Sea of Cortez and Pacific Ocean can be cold, so pack protective Buffs, hats, UPF 50, and quick-drying cover-ups. Also bring a solid pair of shoes beyond flip-flops—cactus spines are omnipresent, from the beaches to the mountain-bike trails.

Get supplemental car insurance: If you plan to drive your car into Baja, make sure it’s in prime working order. Pending how remote you plan to get, you may not be able to find replacements parts if needed. For an idea of spare parts to bring along, visit All About Baja’s  Vehicle Preparation Checklist . And be sure to buy a Mexican car-insurance policy as U.S. plans don’t work south of the border. Get a quote from  Lewis and Lewis , a company that has been selling Mexican auto insurance since 1983, from one-day to one-year policies.

Or rent a car: If you aren’t driving down yourself, unless you plan to never leave a resort, you’ll want a car to explore. Note that the minimum age for car rental is 25 years old, but some companies accept drivers 21 and older with a valid driver’s license from another country and add a surcharge to the rental fee. American car-rental agencies like Hertz and Thrifty are ubiquitous at the Los Cabos airport—and be sure to buy the Mexican rental insurance. According to Mexican law, uninsured drivers can be arrested and held for liable damages.

Drive only during the day: For three key reasons: there are wandering cows, the roads are narrow with no shoulders, and in the evening, there are a lot more big-rig cargo trucks.

Find a less expensive flight across the border: Fly to San Diego, then take a 30-minute shuttle, Uber, or taxi to the  Cross Border Xpress  (CBX) facilities, a 390-foot-long pedestrian skybridge that crosses from California into Mexico and goes directly to Tijuana International Airport. If you use the CBX service (from $16 one way, and an additional $12 one way if you use the CBX shuttle), there’s no need to enter Tijuana airport’s main departure lounge. You’ll pass through the CBX’s security and go directly to your gate. On a good day, it’s possible to reach your gate in about twenty minutes (though you should always allow for extra time pending high volume travel days and other factors). Domestic Mexican airline  Volaris offers direct flights to Loreto, La Paz, and Los Cabos, and Calafia Airlines has direct flights to Loreto and La Paz.

Check travel advisories for the region: The Baja Peninsula is safer than most of mainland Mexico, but the situation is fluid, so keep an eye on U.S. State Department travel advisories.

Do your camping homework: Unlike the U.S., camping is not strictly regulated in Baja, which has its pros and cons. You can find yourself alone on a stretch of golden sand savoring the sunset of a lifetime, but there are also fewer amenities, like toilets and trash receptacles. The best places to camp are near small coastal towns and away from mega resort corridors, like Los Cabos. Read online forums and feel out the vibe of the place before staking the tent.

What’s the Best Time of Year to Visit Baja?

January to March is prime whale-watching season and the height of tourist visits. Summer is the best time to surf and brings temperatures that can soar into the nineties. Spring (May and June) and fall (October and November) have more moderate temperatures—the seventies to eighties—and fewer crowds, but beware that the Pacific Ocean hurricane season runs mid-May through November. In the fall of 2019, the area around La Ventana was deluged with rain, which made the desert lush and green but also left roads impassable in some places. The calmest water for sea kayakers can be had from October through early December, the best time for kiteboarders and windsurfers is mid-October to early April, and anglers can try their luck year-round, depending on what they want to catch.

Where to Go in Baja

We’ve separated the peninsula into four general regions and chosen the best adventures and activities to do in each, from drinking world-class wine in Baja Norte, the official designation of the northern half of the state, to surfing off Los Cabos, at the southernmost tip. Driving the entire 775-mile-long peninsula, as many Americans do annually with their dogs, tents, mountain bikes , surfboards , and SUPs , takes a solid week.

Baja Norte 

For a great starter Baja road trip, complete with surfing, hiking, canyoneering, kayaking, and an opportunity to redefine your notion of what constitutes Mexican food, try this 346-mile loop, which starts and ends in Tijuana, going through Valle de Guadalupe and its vineyards, the coastal city of Ensenada, and the little-known Constitution of 1857 National Park along the way. Add stuffing yourself with the world’s most authentic fish tacos, and you’ve got way more fun than you can fit into a five-day outing, the ideal amount of time for an introduction to this area. Or simply choose a couple of the destinations or adventures below.

Day 1: Cross the border from San Diego into Tijuana

Tijuana is experiencing a cultural renaissance, with cutting-edge architecture, colorful murals, and a spicy food scene. Enter into Mexico at Mercado Hidalgo, a plaza flapping with Mexican flags and brimming with piñatas, sombreros, and sweet dulces . Stop for lunch at  Telefónica Gastro Park , a former vacant lot turned food-truck haven where creative eats like octopus-and-corn-fungus tacos go well with smoky cucumber margaritas. In the afternoon, meander the mural-and-graffiti-filled pasajes , or artistic corridors, of El Centro. Head to Border Psycho Brewery for a smooth cream ale, then on to 52 Kool for an explosion of traditional central-Mexico flavors and classic Baja ingredients, like seafood, quail, and organic chicken.

Day 2: Head east to Tecate and then on to Valle de Guadalupe

From Tijuana, head east on Highway 2D for 36 miles to Tecate. Stop at Restaurante Amores  in Tecate, where the husband-wife owner-chefs have impressive culinary pedigrees. Order the chile- and garlic-infused tortilla soup, garnished with octopus. From Tecate, turn south on Mexico 3, and drive 46 miles to Valle de Guadalupe. The award-winning wines in this region are the handiwork of a little-known sect of Russian Christians who planted grapes when they immigrated here in 1905. In the past decade, the valley has become Mexico’s answer to Napa, with chic tasting rooms and sleek hotels with infinity pools. At Fauna , a relaxed restaurant within the exquisite hotel Bruma , local David Castro Hussong has created an organic oasis on 200 acres of vineyards, where the stark elegance enhances the surrounding arid landscape.

Day 3: Surf in Ensenada

A tranquilo fishing port 30 miles south of Valle de Guadalupe, the surf here stretches north and south of the city, with serious waves at beaches like La Fonda, El Pico, and Stacks. Gentler breaks are farther south, at Playa Hermosa. Stop in at  Playa Hermosa Surf and Skate Shop for rentals, lessons, or to watch owner Alfredo Jaro and his crew shape boards. About 45 minutes south of the city, you’ll find La Bufadora , the second-largest marine geyser in the world. It’s a well-touristed spot, but it’s awe-inspiring to watch the salt water blow and is also a good way to scout the incredible coasteering options available alongside the rugged Pacific. Ensenada-based X Tour  offers canyoning, rappelling, hiking, kayaking, or a combination of all four in one day.

Day 4: Hike and seek wildlife in Constitution 1857 National Park

The Sierra de Juarez is 60 miles east of Ensenada on Mexico 3. An oasis for mule deer, bighorn sheep, cougars, coyotes, bobcats, and soaring falcons, the 12,380-acre forested park sits at about 5,000 feet and boasts high-alpine Hanson Lake. Hike Jeffrey Route, a two-mile loop from the visitor center. Along the path sits a representation of a Kumeyaay camp, the indigenous people who settled in what is now the southwestern U.S. and Mexico more than 12,000 years ago. Or hike to the top of Hanson Hill, the summit of which is almost 6,000 feet.

Day 5: Head back to Ensenada

Take advantage of the incredible array of fish and shrimp tacos sold at stands on nearly every Ensenada corner. They go well with the locally brewed Aguamala Astillero Imperial IPA. Tijuana is a 70-mile drive north on coast-hugging Mexico 1D.

Where to Stay in Baja Norte 

Tijuana:  One Bunk Tijuana , a 14-room boutique hotel in the center of everything, with clean, modern lines, exposed brick walls, and beds so comfortable you can sleep off an all-nighter. Doubles from $55

Valle de Guadalupe: At  Bruma , eight glass-and-wood suites surround a main living room, pool, and deck and are so organically designed that you feel immersed in the surrounding landscape. Doubles from $438

Ensenada: There’s a good array of Airbnbs here, or book an ocean-view room at Torre Lucerna , an updated old-school resort hotel with clean and peaceful rooms. From $131

Camping: There are a few gated campgrounds, like Playa Saldamando, eight miles north of Ensenada. For a more private option, drive south of Ensenada, boot up Google Earth, zoom in, and find dirt tracks that lead to any empty remote coastline, where you can camp as long as you leave no trace.

Los Cabos and Todos Santos

On the southern tip of Baja, you’ll find Los Cabos, a collective term for the town of Cabo San Lucas, to the west; the 18th-century mission village of San José del Cabo, to the east; and the 20-mile corridor of sand and rock escarpments in between. Los Cabos deserves its rap as the hub for tequila-slamming, scantily-clad spring breakers, largely because it’s easily accessed by Los Cabos International Airport. But the region still has gorgeous bones, like Cabo El Arco, the craggy rock arch that delineates where the Pacific ends and the Sea of Cortez begins, and, on the far east end of San José del Cabo, Estuary Beach, which is backed by a freshwater lagoon that harbors more than 350 species of vegetation and wildlife. In between are resorts for every budget, 11 major surf breaks, ample opportunities to watch whales or deep-sea fish for wahoo, marlin, and tuna, and culinary oases, like  Flora Farms , a 25-acre organic working farm and an open-air restaurant in the foothills of Sierra de la Laguna. For those who prefer more solitude with their sand and waves, the laid-back village of Todos Santos is about an hour’s drive north of Cabo San Lucas on Mexico 19. Beware: many beaches in Los Cabos are often closed to swimming due to deep drop-offs near the shoreline that create dangerous riptides and currents, so heed the signs. The most swimmable spots are Medano Beach, in the heart of Cabo San Lucas; Chileno Beach, in the luxury hotel zone northeast of Cabo San Lucas (and it has lifeguards on duty); and Playa Acapulquito, or Old Man’s Beach, near San José del Cabo.

What to Do in Los Cabos and Todos Santos

Find surf action for everyone in Los Cabos: From the hard-charging surfer to the adventurous family of five that wants the ultimate multisport ocean vacation, there’s something for everyone in Los Cabos. The string of breaks around Playa Costa Azul is the center of Los Cabos surf culture. Zippers, the rocky right-point break close to the beach, is home to the Los Cabos Open of Surf in June and has been part of the women’s and junior World Surf League pro tours for the past few years, while Old Man’s Beach and Pescadito are favorites for longboarders and beginners.  Costa Azul Surf School  offers rentals, lessons, and expert guides who lead excursions to lesser known breaks.

See a humpback whale breach: It’s one of the most awe-inspiring phenomena in the animal kingdom. Whales begin migrating south to the Los Cabos region in the middle of November, birth their calves in late December and January, nurse them through March and April, then begin their migration north. During this generous six-month window, take a two-and-a-half-hour Zodiac tour with  Whale Watch Cabo (from $89). It’s led by a marine biologist and is the most exciting way to see the whales as safely for them—and for you—as possible.

Go deep-sea fishing: Los Cabos has been hit hard with the illegal harvesting of billfish, so it’s imperative that you do your research on the most ethical charter company before signing up for a day of deep-sea fishing. One of the most long-standing is  Pisces Sportfishing , which started operating in La Paz in 1978 and eventually migrated south to Los Cabos. In 1995, it was honored with a Lifetime Achievement Award for Conservation by the International Game Fish Association. Since then several of its captains have been recognized with the Billfish Foundation Award for most striped marlin released worldwide. The company charters everything from 22-foot skiffs to mega yachts (from $112).

Lose the crowds in Todos Santos: This beautifully preserved 18th-century mission village an hour north of Los Cabos isn’t exactly a secret, but it’s still a nice big resort antidote, with artisan shops, boutique hotels, and Hotel California , mistakenly believed to be the inspiration for the famous 1976 Eagles song. Mountain bikers will want to stop in at Over the Edge , a full-service bike shop that rents current models and full-suspension mountain bikes and can guide riders or point them in the direction of the area’s 30 miles of hand-built trails that roll over dunes and into the foothills and show off panoramic Pacific views.

While Todos Santos is near the Pacific, it’s not actually on the Pacific. Drive west of town, and almost any road will dead-end at a dune from which you can walk the seemingly endless stretch of golden sand known as La Cachora beach. Its water is so rough that surfers gravitate five miles north of town to La Pastora, a sandy beach with fun right breaks. You’ll need four-wheel drive to get there, but it’s worth it, especially since it’s also home to the  Green Room restaurant, named for the ephemeral feel and color on the inside of a wave. The restaurant’s mezcal margaritas and smoked tuna pâté, served right on the beach, are the perfect way to wind down a busy day.

South of Todos Santos is Pescadero, a reef break close to shore, and Cerritos, a sandy-bottom beach break with the most consistent surf in Baja Sur. Los Cerritos Surf Shop rents boards at the beach from sunrise to sunset.  Mario Surf School and  Pescadero Surf Shop , in the small hamlet of El Pescadero, also offer surfboard rentals, in addition to lessons and excursions (including kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding). Fuel up for the morning with a cup or two of organic, honey-processed java and a veggie frittata with spicy Mexican salsa from  Baja Beans , an outdoor café nestled among mango trees.

Three species of endangered sea turtles nest on the beaches of Todos Santos from October through March: the olive ridley, black, and critically endangered leatherback. Help them out by volunteering with  La Sirena Eco Adventures , a nonprofit that needs people to care for hatchlings, relocate nests, clean up the beach, and guard the turtle sanctuary.

Where to Stay in Los Cabos and Todos Santos

Airbnb and VRBOs are a ubiquitous option Los Cabos—Todos Santos alone offers more than 200 VRBO listings and endless Airbnb rentals, from canvas tents to palatial beachfront haciendas.

Todos Santos:  At the end of a dirt road on isolated Punta Lobos beach, 3.5 miles south of town, the newly opened, 32-room Hotel San Cristóbal  is a throwback to simpler times, where guests gather around a bonfire at night to sip cervezas. The on-site restaurant serves locally harvested bounty, from fish caught earlier in the day to herbs and greens pulled from nearby fields. From $270

Or check out  La Sirena Eco Adventures , which offers basic, clean eco-casitas, some with fully equipped kitchens, for their volunteers. From $60

Los Cabos:  Los Milagros , a 12-room boutique hotel, is a surprisingly inexpensive and peaceful oasis in the heart of Cabo. It was founded by a cyclist who rode his bike the length of the Baja Peninsula and loved Los Cabos so much that he founded the property in 1996. The walled courtyard and trellised bougainvillea are welcome respites from the action outside. From $70

Another great option is the  Montage Los Cabos , the first Montage property to open outside the U.S. This luxurious and intimate new resort fronts a sandy crescent beach on Santa Maria Bay, which protects swimmers and snorkelers from the riptides and waves. There’s a 40,000-square-foot spa, but lounging by the exquisite infinity pool is a meditation unto itself. From $825

The East Cape and La Paz

Long the haunt of sea-loving luminaries like John Steinbeck and Jacques Cousteau, Baja’s Sea of Cortez on the east coast is a marine biologist’s dream. It’s also a wind machine from mid-November to early March for kiteboarders and windsurfers. The less traveled East Cape stretches from the marina of San José del Cabo some 90 miles north through Cabo Pulmo National Park to the gentrifying coastal villages of Los Barriles and La Ventana. Fifty miles farther north is La Paz; this city of 240,000 residents, with its hopping malecón, or seaside promenade, is the jumping-off point for the 244 protected World Heritage site islands, the largest of which is Isla Espíritu Santo. Drive 221 miles farther north and you’ll find the 17th-century mission village of Loreto, the original point from which Jesuit priests set out to evangelize the peninsula, and San Ignacio Lagoon, the winter sanctuary of the eastern Pacific gray whale. The best way to access this part of the peninsula is to fly to San Diego, cross the border to the Tijuana airport, and book a flight directly to La Paz on a regional airline. The other option is to fly into Los Cabos International Airport and rent a car. Reliable shuttles like Ecobajatours make multiple trips between the Los Cabos airport and La Paz daily.

What to Do in the East Cape and La Paz

Snorkeling and scuba diving at Cabo Pulmo National Marine Reserve: In the 1990s, local fishermen stopped commercial fishing to let the waters and reefs regenerate. Since then, the reefs have rebounded, biodiversity has increased more than fourfold, and every formerly endangered major species has rebounded. Experience the comeback by snorkeling with Cabo Pulmo Sport Center , owned by the descendents of Jesus Castro Fiol, a pearl diver who was born here in 1897 and was instrumental in creating the national marine reserve. The center’s two-and-a-half-hour tour (from $55) explores coral gardens and the sea life that lives in them. Go deeper with  Cabo Pulmo Beach Resort , whose expert instructors offer diving at 14 sites, like the 45-foot deep  El Vencedor  wreck, and possible encounters with tiger and bull sharks at the coral reef La Esperanza (from $139).

Kiteboarding and windsurfing at Los Barriles and La Ventana: November through March, it’s not uncommon for “ El Norte ” to howl down the coastline at almost 30 miles per hour, which is why the fishing villages of Los Barriles and La Ventana, 50 miles farther north, come alive with wind fanatics in the winter months. Based in the beachside  Hotel Playa del Sol (from $140),  Vela Baja is a one-stop shop for kiteboarding, windsurfing, stand-up paddling, freediving, mountain biking, and, now, foiling. The laid-back little enclave offers special foiling clinics from world-champion pros like Daniela Moroz, updated equipment rental, and a community of like-minded souls. La Ventana has a long beach with a natural arc that, thanks to the wind direction, ensures even beginners will eventually wash ashore. The hotel, restaurant, and surf school  Baja Joe’s is situated in the heart of the beach, which means instantaneous action when the wind blows. It  offers International Kiteboarding Association –certified instruction for all levels, three-day camps, equipment rentals, or storage for surfers who bring their own gear.

Mountain biking at Rancho Cacachilas: Mountain bikers head to the hills at  Rancho Cacachilas , a solar-powered adventure resort that sprawls across 35,000 acres in the Sierra Cacachilas between La Ventana and La Paz. With 24 miles of existing and 43 miles of planned International Mountain Biking Association–sanctioned singletrack on the ranch, the riding is designed for all skill levels and and offers great ocean views. There’s also 37 miles of trails for running and hiking, and the ranch offers sustainability-oriented classes like beekeeping, artisan cheesemaking, seed storage, and water collection.

Sea kayaking and snorkeling: La Paz has a three-mile-long seaside promenade that makes for fun people watching during a sunset stroll after dinner at  La Costa , a low-key seafood restaurant tucked into the marina with tables in the sand. Spend a night in the city, then launch into the Sea of Cortez to kayak, snorkel among sea lions and whale sharks, and stretch out on the sand at one of many empty beaches.  Sea Kayak Adventures offers one-to-ten-day journeys from La Paz up to Loreto and over to the Pacific Ocean’s Magdalena Bay. Trips include everything from kayaking to whale-watching to hiking. To take a deep dive into outdoor leadership and personal communication skills, sign on to one of  NOLS ’s three Baja adult expeditions, an eight-day coed or women-only coastal sailing expedition, or a seven-day women’s sea-kayaking expedition.

Surfing: The waves on   the Sea of Cortez are less consistent than the Pacific. Most breaks require a big south swell or a strong storm. If you hit the timing right, you’ll find a nice, lonely right break at Nine Palms Beach in Santa Elena Bay, about an hour east of San José del Cabo. BYO boards.

Hiking: This region of Baja has a rich human history that dates back at least 10,000 years. The aforementioned Sea Kayak Adventures offers a five-day Cowboys and Cave Paintings journey from Loreto to the Sierra de San Francisco, where guests hike to visit many of the thousands of Unesco World Heritage cave paintings of people, deer, snakes, birds, and even whales. Another great day hike between La Paz and La Ventana that offers an opportunity to interact with locals is the old, partially cobblestoned Camino Real de Santa Ana, the route miners used for 300 years to transport precious metals north to San Diego. Start at the Museo Ruta de Plata  in El Triunfo, then hike roughly five miles along the Camino to the town of San Antonio, where local Adolfo de la Peña, whose father was a miner, has started the the cooperative Las Realeños de San Antonio . You can book an appointment with Adolfo, who will guide you through the town’s mining history, complete with a hike to two nearby mines—one of which is underground—and the best local sites, including the home of Bertholita, who cooks visitors spicy empanadas and queso fresco, and a local art cooperative.

Where to Stay in the East Cape and La Paz

Cabo Pulmo:  Cabo Pulmo Beach Resort has various-size villas and bungalows, all of them clean and colorful, some with full kitchens, and most within a few steps of the beach. From $89

La Ventana:  Camping La Ventana has ten campsites and three RV sites for rent just 200 feet away from the beach, hot showers, and a washing machine. From $20

Rancho Cacachilas: Chivato Base Camp , the rustic main lodging area at the ranch, has ten cabin tents in addition to six bunk rooms that sleep two people each, plus outdoor showers, composting toilets, and a central outdoor kitchen and gathering space. Or try Los Pisos, a ranch camp higher in the mountains that offers platform safari-style tents surrounding an outdoor kitchen. From $175 all-inclusive, minimum stay two nights; open October 1 to April 30

La Paz:  Posada Luna Sol , within a few blocks of the promenade, is a delightful jumping-off point for Sea of Cortez adventures, with breakfast by the pool, a third-floor terrace with views to La Paz Bay, clean rooms, and cruiser bike rentals for $10 per day. From $55  

On the other end of the promenade, Seven Crown La Paz Centro Historico is located in the heart of La Paz’s historic district and within steps of chic new restaurants, like Marinera Poke and Seafood (try the gyozas del puerto and the pin-up margarita), and offers free breakfasts at a street-side café next door. From $73

How to Be Conscious in Baja

Go local: A common practice in Baja is for gringos to buy up rental properties, fishing charters, and yachts, then use them to provide under-the-table tourist services to other out-of-town “friends” without paying local taxes or using local guides. This depletes residents’ resources. Be sure any U.S-owned entities—from fishing guides to hacienda owners—are doing fair and honest business that benefits the locals by providing training and income and puts money back into the communities. Better yet, look for locally owned businesses and guides, like Adolfo de la Peña in San Antonio.

Speak the language: It’s always respectful to speak the language of the country you’re visiting, so study up on your rusty high school Spanish.

If camping, pack out what you pack in: Garbage collection isn’t always consistent, so keep it with you until you can find a place to properly dispose of it.

Be frugal with your water use: Baja Californians have the country’s   lowest availability of fresh water per inhabitant—785 cubic meters per year—when the Mexican  national average is 4,200, according to data from the National Institute of Statistics, Geography and Information Technology. The lack of water will become a serious issue soon, especially if resort development remains unchecked. Be conscientious of your usage, and choose lodging and outfitters who are as well.

See marine life and other wildlife in an ethical way: Baja is one of the only places in the world guests can get within close proximity to gray whales after they’ve birthed calves in the Sea of Cortez lagoons or humpback whales as they start to migrate north to cooler Pacific waters. The most ethical way to see these giants is with boat operators who give them wide berths and heed local rules, like obeying limits on the numbers of vessels allowed on the water at any given time.

Looped video (seen on the desktop version) by ianmcdonnell/Getty

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For travelers celebrating a special occasion, Mexico’s Valle de Guadalupe is the perfect destination for wine lovers: it offers unforgettable scenery, extraordinary cuisine, luxurious accommodations and welcoming locals eager to share their love and pride in their country.

Château Camou Wins Grand Bacchus Gold 2018

Château Camou proudly announces that its Gran Vino Tinto 2014 has won the Grand Bacchus Gold Medal in the 16th Bacchus Wine International Competition, which took place from the 8th to the 12th of March in Madrid.

Los Cabos with kids? Make it Cabo Azul!

Ah, the yearly family vacation – a time for getting-away-from-it-all and making memories; and perhaps for some epic sibling squabbles and a little more “quality” time and togetherness than you’re accustomed to.

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Editor’s Letter

Travel is a gift we give ourselves…

To see the what is happening beyond our doorstep, to understand different cultures, to see how society and the planet is changing. Travel opens our eyes and gives us greater insight into the world, as well as into other cultures. I know it has made me a wiser, more understanding human being and, yes, even more appreciative of what I have.

“BajaTraveler would not be where it is today without your top notch talent!”

Mayté Rodríguez Cedillo Editor-in-Chief

Sip & Savor

Sip & Savor Tacos & Tequila at Grand Velas Los Cabos – 2017 to benefit  Los Cabos Children’s Foundation

Sammy Hagar & Adam Levine

Sammy Hagar & Adam Levine Co-create World’s First “Mezquila.” The crafted drink they shared was created with a combination of tequila and mezcal. Surprisingly, both found the drink to be quite satisfying in structure, flavor, and taste. It proved to be an “aha” moment for both, one that embraced their shared passion and eventually would tap the entrepreneurial blood they both shared alternative to tequila. A unique quality blend of blue and espadin agave, the drink presented with a smoky-sweetness that had firm structure and body. It was the best of both worlds.

Adam Levine and His Family Soak in the Sun

Adam Levine and his family soak in the sun. At the start of the year, he was seen on the beaches of Cabo with his beautiful bride Behati Prinsloo and their new daughter Dusty Rose Levine, born in September of 2016.

Stacie Gottsegen

Stacie Gottsegen is a Senior Travel Editor and the Celebrity Correspondent for Traveler Publications. As a contributor, she enjoys learning more about the culture of the cities and personal passions of the subjects she writes about.

Gastro Bar at Paradisus

Gastro Bar at Paradisus, a luxury resort in Los Cabos, one of the many attractions is the variety of culinary delights that are sure to thrill every visitor.

Grand Velas

Expectations ran high when Velas Resorts opened their third Grand Velas property (fifth overall) in December 2016, this time in the Los Cabos Corridor.

Yoga Retreats

Yoga retreats continue to gain popularity worldwide as more and more people realize the benefits of the practice for themselves.

Cabo Wabo Cantina

When I first went to Cabo, it was just a little fishing village with dirt streets and you could walk on the beach and see only your own footprints for miles.

Guadalupe Valley Wines

Wine has been made in Guadalupe Valley since 1836, but the current rage for Mexican wines originated some 25 years ago.

Imposters of the Heart at Home or Abroad

Used to be that the number one crime in America was identity theft. No more. According to the Federal Bureau of Investigation (F.B.I.), more than $200 million dollars was swindled by victims of online romance scams in 2016.

Beyond the Border

Our shared border to the south with Mexico has become both a source of controversy and intense dogma, one with an uncontrolled complexity that defies simple solutions.

17th Annual Latin Grammy Awards

The 17th Annual Latin Grammy Awards spanned a number of categories, from classical to urban. Big winners included Marc Anthony, the 2016 Person of the Year, and Carlos Vives and Shakira, who won Record of the Year and Song of the Year for La Bicicleta.

Fred Duckett Challenge

The Fred Duckett Challenge is about Raising Funds to Help Thousands of BCS Children. The 11th annual Fred Duckett Challenge was a truly inspiring event, bringing hundreds of guests together to support the children of Baja California Sur.

NFL Stars Blitz Baja

NFL Stars Blitz Baja with an inaugural Baja Athletic Conference (BAC) brought together current and former National Football League players for a weekend of golfing, fishing, networking, and schmoozing with football fans.

Los Cabos Developers’ Association Annual Golf Tournament

Los Cabos Developers’ Association Annual Golf Tournament raises funds for local charities and it is committed to providing economic resources that local charities need to carry out their work.

Ensenada Wine Festivals

Ensenada Wine Festivals Celebrate Rich Culture. The first activity is in Spring, the moment when the wineries release their new products and present them at the Festival de las Conchas y el Vino Nuevo (Festival of Shellfish and New Wines).

Within less than a year in the United States, Andrea Tankovitz has already established herself as a successful fashion designer. Her vision and mission with Tankovitz Couture is to “Bring Class and Elegance Back” by setting a positive example for those in and out of the fashion industry.

Marco Monroy

As a co-owner of Cabo Wabo Cantina, Marco Monroy knew from the very first time he visited Cabo in the late seventies that, someday, it would become a “hot vacation destination!”

Radomir Bojanic

Radomir Bojanic started working in the tourism industry by pure accident, but after spending the last 23 years working at the Palacio Azteca Hotel, he says it was the best thing that could have happened to him.

Chef Tadd Chapman

Sit down to a good meal with Chef Tadd Chapman and not only will you notice an immediate appreciation for the ingredients that were used to create it, but of the region where the ingredients were cultivated and the hands that worked to grow them.

Investing in Mexico

Investing in Mexico: Buying a second home in Mexico, whether as a vacation home or possibly a future retirement home, is a good way to experience a new culture and can offer a good value for the investment.

Kathy Bowling

“My journey began in England in the county of Kent – in what is called the Garden of Eden,” says Kathy Bowling, an International Interior Decorator.

Marisa Comella

Since February 2015, Marisa Comella has been the Executive Director for Los Cabos Children’s Foundation, which has been around Southern Baja for the past 14 years.

Letty Coppel

At the Letty Coppel Foundation her primary responsibility is to ensure that those who collaborate with her have the tools to perform the tasks necessary to meet their goals.

Daly Negron Allen

As one of the owners of Vinicola El Cielo in the Valle de Guadalupe, Daly Negron Allen has realized the dreams she has long shared with her husband, Gustavo.

Jane Waterous

“Everything that matters happens when people come together,” according to internationally renowned artist Jane Waterous. While most of the creative spark takes place in her studio on Paradise Island in the Bahamas, her vibrant pieces can be found all over the world, gracing galleries, foundations, corporations and the homes of Hollywood A-listers, Fortune 500 executives, athletes, politicians, royals and avid art collectors.

The Present and Future of Real Estate in Baja California

The Present and Future of Real Estate in Baja California: The growth of investments in the region continues to increase and many buyers have found that investing in our property is among the safest and cost-effective way to gain a return on investment.

Real Estate Market Perspective in Baja California Sur

Real Estate Market Perspective in Baja California Sur: Visitors are responding positively to the new Los Cabos. The destination ended 2016 with a 70% occupancy rate.

Norman Estates

The Norman Estates are the first Mexican property for Golf-Legend Greg Norman. In addition to Norman Estates, the resort will include a village with shopping, dining and entertainment; an expansive community park with a lake, biking and hiking trails and family picnic areas; as well as a luxury resort, tennis center and much more.

Quivira Los Cabos

The location of Quivira Los Cabos is outstanding. In a destination well-known for its mountain-desert-ocean environment, Quivira sits at the southernmost point, the tip, of the Baja peninsula, where the Sea of Cortes meets the Pacific Ocean.

Solaz, a Luxury Collection Resort, is conveniently located between Cabo San Lucas and San José del Cabo, on Cabo’s most celebrated stretch of beach by the azure waters of the Sea of Cortez, the richest body of water on our planet.

El Encanto is a community of individually-owned luxury homes, is being developed just outside of town, on the pristine coastline adjacent to the development of Puerto Los Cabos. El Encanto is evidence of how policy changes are making real estate in Cabo a great investment.

Culinary Trends in Baja

Culinary trends in Baja continue to garnish accolades from chefs, food aficionados, gourmands, and travelers alike for its boldness, freshness, and above all, its ability to explore and mine the full range of flavors from the sea and land.

One&Only Palmilla

Long known as one of the world’s most exclusive ultra-luxury resorts, the iconic One&Only Palmilla resort re-opened on 20 April 2015 and introduced the most comprehensive integrated spa, beauty, men’s grooming and fitness centre in the Baja region.

Underwater photographer, filmmaker and PADI Course Director Luke Inman opens up about his passion for diving, his connection with the Sea of Cortez, and his relationship with the sea lion.

Come Spot A Dolphin

Come Spot A Dolphin! For a vacation that would please those who are in search of peace and privacy, Baja Vacation Oceanfront Villas in the San Antonio del Mar complex offer a perfect alternative to staying at a hotel.

The Resort at Pedregal

luxurious resort stay in Baja may not be enough for discerning jetsetters with bold bucket lists and an adventurous spirit. For them, the AAA five-diamond The Resort at Pedregal might be the answer.

Todos Los Santos

Todos Los Santos, a thriving colonial town located near the Pacific coast and nestled at the base of the Sierra de la Laguna Mountains in Baja California Sur, lies less than an hour’s drive north of Cabo San Lucas on Highway 19 and about an hour south of the capital city of La Paz.

Baja Books features 3 great recommended reads that will give you an insightful perspective of Baja California too good to pass up!

Golf in Mexico

Golf in Mexico Takes Centerstage By Greg Norman The PGA TOUR finally put the “world”…

Sylvia Mendoza

Sylvia has served as Senior Editor for Traveler Publications for the past five years. An award winning writer, growing up a Navy brat, Sylvia lived in different versions of paradise like Hawaii, Guam, San Diego and – later in life – Puerto Rico.

Imagine watching Cabo’s breathtaking sunset with margaritas and Mexican canapés after a session in the private spa treatment room while a dedicated culinary team prepares dinner to your exact specifications.

The Health Quest

Who doesn’t long for optimal health? From New Year’s resolutions with specific weight loss goals, to promises of engaging in more physical fitness activities weekly to making healthier food choices daily, most all of us are on a continual quest to be healthier.

Todos Santos

Plan to make Todos Santos more than a day trip from Los Cabos this year, because there is plenty to do to keep the whole family busy, and the Guaycura Boutique Hotel & Spa is the perfect place for a family stay.

The Cabo Wabo Cantina

Who better to tell the story of Cabo Wabo Cantina than Mr. Cabo Wabo himself, Sammy Hagar…

The Magic of Golf in Mexico

Golf was introduced in Mexico just over a hundred years ago, which is shocking considering today it is the type of golf destination that will make you wonder if it is the best you have ever visited.

Known as the “Cinderella of the Pacific,” Ensenada is located 70 miles south of the international border.

Los Cabos Restaurants

The corridor connecting Cabo San Lucas and San José del Cabo is a culinary minefield exploding with a plethora of fine dining options.

Noche de Cofradía

The art of wine making in the food industry extends to pairing the right wine with the foods placed in front of them for the best culinary experience.

Every summer for the last two decades, the Association of Developers in Los Cabos has gathered at a local golf course for the group’s annual golf tournament.

Genaro Ruíz

In a state where 74 percent of the gross domestic product is generated by tourism, Genaro Ruíz feels honored to have been named Secretary of Tourism of Baja California Sur by Governor Carlos Mendoza.

Ron Hatfield

One of Cabo’s original visionaries, Ron Hatfield has spent more than 20 years creating a lifestyle that has not only set a precedent in Mexico but has been recognized worldwide as an exemplar of the luxury residential resort lifestyle.

Raul Petraglia

In addition to the traditional responsibilities of a General Manager, Raul Petraglia, Managing Director of ME Cabo, must be involved in every aspect of the customer’s experience.

Fernando Favela-Vara

As co-founder and CEO of Winery Chateau Camou, Fernando Favela-Vara continues to fulfill the wishes and dreams of his father.

Gustavo Ortega

As Chief Executive Officer of Vinicola El Cielo in the Valle de Guadalupe, Gustavo Ortega has created a destination that offers a unique wine-tourism experience that is comparable to that found anywhere else in the world.

Tanya Talamante

As a resident of Los Cabos for over 20 years, Talamante has seen first-hand how dirt roads became two-lane highways and how property values soared.

Tavo Vildósola

Born into a family where off-road racing was the driving force in life, Gustavo Vildósola Jr., aka Tavo, is blessed with a talent he inherited from his father.

The Intersection of Cross-Border Divorce and International Property

Getting divorced can be complicated enough, but if you live in the United States and own property in Mexico, it can be even tougher.

Real Estate Market Perspective in Baja California

The past year has brought some interesting developments to Northern Baja’s real estate market. A market once dominated by the golden coast of the tourism corridor between Playas de Tijuana and Ensenada has given way to a wave of vertical urban developments in Tijuana and vineyard estates in the foothills and valleys of Tecate and Ensenada.

Baja California Sur is glistening anew, and not just its pristine shores, blue-water bays and colorful sunsets. Nearly all of its world-renowned hotels have completed major renovation projects while several new resorts and real estate offerings have arrived on the scene.

Cristina Romero-Peri

It would not be easy to find anyone more delighted with her profession than Executive Director Cristina Romero-Peri, who oversees the strategic direction of Sales and Marketing for One&Only Palmilla

Janet Jensen

It’s easy to fall in love with Cabo, just ask Janet Jensen. A transplanted Canadian who’s lived in the region for the last two decades, Janet felt the immediate draw of this placid paradise when first stepping off the plane.

Cristina Artigas

As owner of a catering company known as Cristina’s Feasts, Cristina Artigas feels blessed to be doing what she loves – which is running a Catering, Event Planning and Culinary Consulting Business on both sides of the Border.

Araceli Ramirez

The intensity in the way she expresses her feelings is evidence of how Araceli Ramírez, owner of Viajes Turibaja – Tours and Travel, approaches her job. She knows that, for many people, this is going to be the trip of a lifetime.

Experience the delights of Tijuana, the most visited border town in the world, where centuries of tradition and modern technology come together.

Rosarito is located about 15 miles south of Tijuana. This port is known for its beautiful wide beaches, lively night clubs, international cuisine and the famous Puerto Nuevo style lobster.

The Concierges of Baja Provide Service Through Friendship

It’s no secret to travelers the world over that when you visit Los Cabos, the customer service meter goes up a notch, if not more. Great customer service at the tip of the Baja Peninsula doesn’t just happen on its own.

The city of Loreto was founded on an extraordinary bay of islands by Jesuit priest, Juan María de Salvatierra, on October 25, 1697.

La Paz was founded by Hernán Cortés in 1535. It has been the capital of the State Baja California Sur since 1829, and is lately becoming a favorite spot for tourists.

La Paz Love

La Paz is the best kept secret. The thing about cliches though, is that they are generally true, and in this case, completely true.

Located at the tip of the Baja California Peninsula, Los Cabos (the capes) has been one of Mexico’s fastest growing resort areas for the past 10 years, attracting tourists from all over the world!

Reborn and reinvigorated, the iconic and ultra-luxurious One&Only Palmilla resort re-opened its doors on April 20, 2015.

There is Los Cabos luxury, and then there is The Cape. One of the newest properties in Los Cabos, The Cape, a Thompson Hotel…

ME Cabo is one of the most dynamic resorts in Los Cabos. Located in the fashionable – El Medano Beach – ME Cabo is a luxury…

Todos Santos is one of the most flourishing oases in southern Baja California. With its red brick buildings and wide streets, Todos Santos is still a quiet, charming and picturesque town.

Lewis Hamilton

British Formula One racing driver Lewis Carl Davidson Hamilton, recently spent some quality time in Baja. With an upcoming birthday on January 7, he flew to Cabo for the weekend and spent time at the super luxurious One&Only Palmilla Resort for some workouts, recreation, rest, and a general celebration of his birthday.

Esai Morales

Award-winning Esai Morales, has won the hearts and minds of audiences everywhere. A self-described “actorvist,” Morales has combined his passion of the human condition to build bridges across and beyond ethnic lines.

Rick Stedman

An award-winning writer, Rick has been a travel writer for 15 years, Rick has written extensively about Mexico over the last decade to include business profiles and golf course reviews.

Beth Purcell Cordasco

Beth has served as a Senior Editor for Traveler Publications for 13 years. An award- winning writer, Beth has grown up right along with Traveler Publications, from its infancy to its current standing as the most widely distributed English language travel magazine focused on Mexico in the world.

As Executive Editor, Pat has written for Traveler Publications since the beginning, in 1998. Her long-term involvement has entailed traveling to many wondrous spots in Mexico to interview people, attend events and gather data.

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HOW IT ALL STARTED

EVA’S TESTIMONIAL

EDITOR’S PICKS

A Border Kid from Reynosa, Mexico by Mayté Rodríguez Cedillo Photos courtesy of the Latin Grammy Academy   Edward Barrera was a triple winner at the LatinGRAMMY® held in Seville, Spain.  He…

By Mayté Rodríguez Cedillo Photos courtesy of the Latin Grammy Academy   For the first time in its 23-year history, the LatinGRAMMY® held its 24th edition of the show across the Atlantic……

Golf in Mexico Takes Centerstage By Greg Norman The PGA TOUR finally put the “world” into the World Golf Championships by bringing its first international WGC event to the world’s fourth most…

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Season of the Humpback Whales

5 faqs about los cabos, mexican holidays: 8 fantastic traditions that define the guadalupe-reyes extravaganza, weathering the storm: how to be prepared for los cabos’ hurricane season., 5 frequently asked questions: foodie edition, who’s that whale, rituals of renewal: pura salon’s transformative hair treatments.

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AllAboutBaja.com

Travel Guide to the Baja California Peninsula

Main Content

All about baja.

Welcome to Baja

The Amazing Baja California The Baja California (Mexico) peninsula is one of the most unique travel destinations in the world! Baja is home to over 2,000 miles of magnificent coastline, beachfront resorts, economical hotels, enchanting villages, ancient cave paintings and remote fish camps on both the … [Read More...] about Welcome to Baja

BAJA TOURISM

Cabo San Lucas Tourism

Tourism in Cabo San Lucas Cabo San Lucas Tourism is hot during this time of year. Why, you ask? Well, you'll just have to take our word for … [Read More...] about Cabo San Lucas Tourism

East Cape Tourism

Tourism in East Cape The undisputed capital of East Cape Tourism is the Village of Los Barriles. This is home to thousands of Gringos, for part … [Read More...] about East Cape Tourism

BAJA TRAVEL TIPS

Top 10 Tips for a Smooth Road Trip Adventure Through Baja

Top 10 Tips for a Smooth Road Trip Adventure Through Baja Embarking on a road trip adventure through Baja, California is a thrilling adventure that promises breathtaking landscapes, vibrant culture, and … [Read More...] about Top 10 Tips for a Smooth Road Trip Adventure Through Baja

Top 5 Reasons to Invest in Camper Van Insurance for Your Baja Adventure

Top 5 Reasons to Invest in Camper Van Insurance for Your Baja Adventure Embarking on a road trip through Baja, California in a camper van promises an exhilarating adventure filled with stunning landscapes, cultural … [Read More...] about Top 5 Reasons to Invest in Camper Van Insurance for Your Baja Adventure

15 Must-Visit Destinations in a Camper Van

Exploring Baja, California: 15 Must-Visit Destinations in a Camper Van Baja California, a stunning peninsula stretching south from the United States-Mexico border, offers an array of diverse landscapes, vibrant … [Read More...] about 15 Must-Visit Destinations in a Camper Van

Do You Need Different Car Insurance to Drive in Baja California?

Do You Need Different Car Insurance to Drive in Baja California? A Guide to Car Insurance for Different Vehicles in Baja Baja California, Mexico, is a popular destination for travelers seeking stunning landscapes, … [Read More...] about Do You Need Different Car Insurance to Drive in Baja California?

BAJA BUSINESSES

4th Annual Marina Puerto Escondido Tournament

4th Annual MPE Loreto Tournament May 19-21, 2023 For Images or Additional Information That Baja Guy - Gary Graham [email protected] Cellular (760) 522 3710 Loreto, B.C.S., Mexico The 4th Annual MPE Loreto … [Read More...] about 4th Annual Marina Puerto Escondido Tournament

Marina Puerto Escondido 2nd Annual Sportfishing Tournament

The recent Marina Puerto Escondido Tournament highlights Loreto’s Sportfishing as 30 teams traveled to the iconic, peaceful, Loreto area to compete during the 2nd annual MPE 2-day offshore event. Coincidentally, … [Read More...] about Marina Puerto Escondido 2nd Annual Sportfishing Tournament

Introducing Decadent Outdoors

Decadent Outdoors is now offering the full line of Struxure brand pergolas on the Baja Peninsula! As of October 1, 2020, Decadent Outdoors will now be servicing the Baja Peninsula. Struxure brand pergolas are … [Read More...] about Introducing Decadent Outdoors

Luxury Villas in Cabo and Baja for a Perfect Romantic Vacation

Luxury Villas in Cabo & Baja for a Perfect Romantic Vacation If you’re seeking the ultimate romantic vacation to impress your significant other, look in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico, which is located on the southern … [Read More...] about Luxury Villas in Cabo and Baja for a Perfect Romantic Vacation

Marina Puerto Escondido’s Grand Opening Ceremony

What You Should Know about Marina Puerto Escondido’s Grand Opening Ceremony Explorers, adventurers, and travel lovers have raved about Puerto Escondido since the 1400’s. Author John Steinbeck described the area as … [Read More...] about Marina Puerto Escondido’s Grand Opening Ceremony

Moving to Baja?

Discover 2 Gorgeous Retirement Spots You Didn’t Know Existed You’ve finally made it… The kids are grown up, you are near retirement, and now it is finally time to live the dream. Moving to Mexico is on your list, … [Read More...] about Moving to Baja?

Timeshares in Baja

Timeshares in Baja, Mexico Timeshares in Baja, also known as fractional ownership vacation models, are an excellent way to vacation comfortably in beautiful Baja, Mexico. Enjoy the luxuries of a spacious suite … [Read More...] about Timeshares in Baja

Cabo Luxury

Cabo Luxury “What’s in a name?” for a company like Cabo Luxury, it’s everything! Their name really says it all. Whether you are planning an extravagant anniversary, perfect family vacation, or hosting corporate … [Read More...] about Cabo Luxury

Rancho Leonero Resort

Rancho Leonero Resort Please note: Rancho Leonero Resort permanently closed on December 1, 2023. Rancho Leonero Resort is probably the last of a dying breed of destinations that was extremely popular from the … [Read More...] about Rancho Leonero Resort

New Resorts Coming to Cabo

New Resorts Coming to Cabo JW MARRIOTT® LOS CABOS: 300-room resort that will be spread out over 14-acres overlooking the Sea of Cortez. The hotel will feature 3 restaurants, 13,000 square feet of banquet space, an … [Read More...] about New Resorts Coming to Cabo

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The 5 Best Baja Trips for Backpackers

Click your way through our adventure guide to baja california, mexico..

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Loreto to La Paz

The best way to see more of Baja? Pack in more mileage. This route covers a lot of ground (and water), but crafty paddlers will think it’s worth it for the mix of geology, sea life, and swimming. Starting in Loreto, paddle down the coast of Baja (the 20-mile detour around Isla San Jose is worth it) to reach La Paz, where you can camp on a white-sand beach beneath the Sierra de la Giganta mountains. Here, embrace your indecisiveness and throw some hiking into the mix.

Trip type: Paddling and hiking | Distance: 155 miles | Length: 10 days

Sierra de la Laguna

Baja may be known for its beaches, but its rugged interior deserves some recognition. This 35-mile point-to-point trip packs in two peaks and a handful of ecosystems. Start in Santiago on the Sea of Cortez side (reachable by bus or car from La Paz) to avoid day-trippers in the west. Along the way, tiptoe along 3,000-foot bluffs that yield huge ocean views. Spend nights at Rancho San Dionisio and La Laguna before reaching Todos Santos on the Pacific.

Trip type: Hiking |  Distance: 35 miles |  Length: 4 days

Isla Espiritu Santo Circumnavigation

Use the coastline as your map on this trip around Isla Espiritu Santo , a 978,000-acre island in the Sea of Cortez. Espiritu Santo—20 miles from the La Paz launch—features unique uplifts and land formations created by the faults below, which you can explore on foot. Keep your eyes peeled for sea lions, whales, and manta rays in the Sea of Cortez’s clear, warm water, and camp on beaches as you go. Tip: Bring a snorkel and fins.

Trip type: Paddling | Distance: 35 miles | Length: 7 days

Long Trail, Sierra Cacachilas Mountains

This reconstructed dirt path is part of a private trail network that provides more of a groomed experience—great for mountain bikers and rookie backpackers. Mix and match trails to create an itinerary to your liking, or go for the 13-mile Long Trail , a point-to-point along the route that was previously used to transport goods during weather too treacherous for sea travel. If your goal isn’t speed, camp like cattle ranchers once did at Paraje del Culantrillo.

Trip type: Hiking or biking | Distance: 13 miles | Length: 2 days

Mulegé to Loreto

Conception Bay forms a natural barrier between civilization and this paddling route . Starting in Mulegé, kayak 7 miles across the bay and continue around the peninsula to the Cortez side of Baja. Follow the coast and hop over to remote islands for seaside camping and exploration as you continue south toward Loreto.

Trip type: Paddling |   Distance: 90 miles |  Length: 10 days

Take your pick of hikes and paddles (and hike-and-paddles) in this adventurer’s paradise south of the border. No matter where you end up, white-sand beaches, water warmer than the air, and quiet waterfront campsites are all but guaranteed.

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RV Touring: Baja Adventure

Story by Dan and Lisa Goy

Photos from Maggie Dumbarton

B aja has always been Mexico’s frontier, not unlike the north in Canada. Even the Conquistador, Hernan Cortez, who first arrived on the Yucatan Peninsula and eventually conquered the Aztecs, never stepped on the Baja Peninsula until 1536. The two Baja States were the last to become proclaimed in the United Mexican States – Baja California in the north (1953), and Baja California Sur in the south (1974).  

The Baja Peninsula states have twice as much coastline as their northern US sister known in Mexico as Alta California (State of California) with the Pacific Ocean on the west and Sea of Cortez on the east. The Mexican Federal Highway No. 1 (Hwy 1) was completed in 1973 and runs 1711 km (1061 miles) from the US Mexican Border to Cabo San Lucas. RV’ers have made this magnificent peninsula a snowbird destination since the highway opened, staying on beaches, RV parks, campgrounds and on the desert.

Is Baja Mexico Safe?   What about the Banditos?  

Sadly, we never seem to be able to talk about RV’ing in Baja without someone asking these questions. Not surprising given the significant negative media campaign about violence in Mexico over the past few years. The reality is that bad things happen everywhere in the world including Canada and the United States and these facts should not make us afraid to travel or leave our homes. We travel through the region on a regular basis, and we have never felt threatened or afraid.  

Steeped in History  

Mexico has a very colourful and interesting history, which makes it fascinating to explore. This country hosted many Pre-Columbian Mesoamerica cultures and advanced civilizations including Olmecs, Toltec, Teotihaucans, Maya, and Aztec. After 4,000 years, these civilizations were destroyed with the arrival of Hernan Cortez and Spain in 1519.

Several groups of indigenous people populated the Baja prior to the Spanish arriving and sadly the vast majority of the Baja Indians have disappeared. Those that have survived in the north are represented by as few as a dozen individuals or as many as a few hundred.  

Preparing for your Visit

The most important preparation for a trip to Mexico begins in Canada. You must have a valid passport. Be sure to check the expiration date, you should not be travelling with a passport that will expire within 6 months. You must also have Mexican Vehicle Insurance, which can be purchased on-line through many companies. We buy ours at a discount through the Discover Baja Travel Club. https://www.discoverbaja.com/ This insurance must also be purchased for your towed vehicle if you have one.

What Should you Purchase Before you Go?  

As with any RV trip outside of Canada, always buy extra health insurance.  

Mexico has good medical facilities at very reasonable rates, but you should consider your travel through the States. We purchase our medical insurance through BCAA at good rates. MEDIPAC is also a great optional provider.  

A good Baja camping book is also a must! We recommend “Baja Camping” by Mike & Teri Church. It is always good to have American dollars and Mexican pesos prior to entering Baja. We suggest purchasing some of each before you leave home. ATM’s for pesos are readily available throughout Baja and credit cards are usually accepted in larger centres.  

Where Should you Cross   the Border into Baja?  

There are four main crossings into Baja, which include San Ysidro, Otay Mesa at Tijuana, Tecate and Mexicali. We usually cross just east of San Diego at Tecate and avoid the big city scene of TJ and Mexicali.  

When you cross into Mexico this is a good time to get your Tourist Permit or Visa ( FMM ) which are obtained at the Immigration office. A small fee is then payable at the bank. You are then required to return to the immigration office to complete the process. You will need two pieces of I.D. including your passport. We always get our pre-paid FMMs from the Discover Baja Travel Club, which eliminates the bank visit and makes this experience one stop shopping. When you return with your RV to start your Baja adventure you will be required to stop and your RV will likely be inspected for items that may be taxed, if you have nothing to declare you can just drive on through and watch for signs to the Mex 2 or Highway 3 and signs to Ensenada. We always take our RV Caravans south on Mex 2 Toll and return on Highway 3.

Military Checkpoints are something you will encounter several times as you travel the Baja.  These can be a little intimidating with young men standing around in camouflage uniforms carrying guns, but they are here for our protection. Going south they usually wave us through (this is why we like to have the Canadian Flag stickers on the back of the side mirrors), they are looking for guns and drugs, as Canadians we pose no threat.  On our return north we will be asked to stop and inspected.  Sometimes they want to see your passports and will ask where you came from and where you are going (today).  Usually they will ask you all to get out so they can do a quick inspection.  They are looking for drugs.  We have always found the soldiers to be very pleasant, courteous and trustworthy.  When it is your turn at the checkpoint, remove your sunglasses before speaking to the soldier.  If you have a pet it should be somewhere they can see it as you approach the checkpoint.  If they request you to get out of the vehicle, take the time to leash your pet and bring it out with you.  We advise you do not pick up hitchhikers because you do not know who they are or what they are carrying.

What is Important to Know About In-town Driving?  

Often when you get off the main highway in a city, town or village you can experience narrow roads which can be a challenge driving a large RV. Add parked vehicles on either side, jaywalking pedestrians, barking dogs and running children and it really gets exciting! In addition you may find very unique road signage, including stop signs.  

Highway driving can also be a challenge in Mexico. Much of Mex 1 can be narrow and without a shoulder, however for the most part this highway is very good and always undergoing improvement, with wider lanes and paved shoulders. Take your time, its part of the adventure.  

The do’s and don’ts about passing and turning are vital to know. On the highway, when it is OK for passing, the vehicle in front of you will put on their left turn signal – this is giving you the all clear to pass. When a vehicle actually wants to make a left turn, 4-way flashers are used.  

No Night Driving!  

This is a rule that should be strictly followed on Baja. This is an extremely dangerous practice and it is not because of Banditos! Animals come to the roads at night for the warmth and greenery on the edge. Outside of town there are no street lights, it is really dark. Remember these are roads you are not familiar with.  

Have you Heard of the   Green Angels?  

This is Mexico’s Roadside Assistance who patrol Mex 1 on a regular basis. We know breakdowns do happen! The Government operated Green Angels travel the entire length of Baja twice a day, once in the morning then again in the afternoon.  

The Mexican government maintains a large fleet of these green vehicles across Mexico’s major highways on the lookout for travelers and tourists alike that have broken down. In many ways this is very similar to the service offered by BCAA or AAA. They normally travel in pairs and on the Baja speak some English. They are in radio communication with their base and can call for a tow. The service is free except any supplies you might use. In the event you use their service please provide a tip!  

What About Fuel?  

PEMEX is the gas station of choice for both gas and diesel as they are the only company (government owned) selling these products. This is a cash transaction (pesos or US dollars); however receipts are available on request. Normally this is a full serve experience and we recommend you do not leave your vehicle when the attendant is filling. Paying in US $ means you are paying more.  

Where Should we Camp?  

There are many full service and partial hook-up RV parks which include hot showers, flush toilets and laundry. Most have WIFI; some parks have pools and small restaurants. Often they are somewhat rustic compared to the RV Parks available in the US or Canada, but remember they are half to a third the price.  

Rule number 2; NEVER, NEVER, NEVER CAMP ALONE! Any incidents we have ever heard of (count on one hand) always involve people camping alone, on a beach, in the middle of nowhere. Travelling in pairs always eliminates this or simply camp with others.

El Requeson is the 10th of 12 camping beaches on Bahia Concepcion and a favourite for many RVers. This is a short sand spit which connects a small island to the mainland at low tide, very picturesque indeed. Only pit toilets, nothing else. Vagabundos del Mar Trailer Park in Cabo San Lucas is very popular and one of our favourites.  

This is a full service RV park that includes laundry, 2 washrooms and Hot Showers, a heated swimming pool, an excellent Restaurant, walking distance to Cabo San Lucas, close to everything.

What About the water?  

This is the second most commonly asked question about RV’ing in Mexico. Although Baja has aquifers across the entire peninsula, purified water is available everywhere from Mini-Supers to Purified Water Outlets designed specifically to refill your water bottles.  

What About our Pets?  

You must ensure you have all pet shots up to date with papers. Although it is doubtful anyone will check on the way into Mexico, the American Border Services may check as you re-enter the US. Pet food availability is good; however not all brands! You should know that only “made in USA” dry food is permitted across the US Border when you return north.  

What to do on Baja?  

Where do we start? You can touch Grey Whales in Scammon’s Lagoon in Guerrero Negro , Malarrimo provides an excellent Eco-Tour. Visit the stunning 2nd oldest Mission in all of the Californias’ 35 km from Loreto in San Javier. Tour the historic “Hotel California” made famous by the Rock Band “Eagles” in Todos Santos. The list is truly endless!

We believe no matter what method you choose for your Baja adventure it is well worth it! We promise this magnificent peninsula is far more than just a spectacular RV destination, for many it is a life changing journey that you are likely to repeat for years to come.

For more information, please   contact Dan and Lisa Goy at   Baja Amigos RV Caravan Tours,   1-866-999-BAJA (2252),   e-mail [email protected] or   visit http://bajaamigos.net/

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Choral Pepper: A Baja Explorer and Author By David Kier

Choral pepper: a baja california explorer and author.

By David Kier

One of Baja California’s biggest promoters from the 1960s until her passing in 2002 was author Choral Pepper. Choral Pepper’s books and magazine articles kept her readers motivated and inspired to go outdoors to make their own discoveries. Those that could not travel were kept fully entertained by her writings.

My awareness of Choral Pepper came about from reading about her and seeing her in many photos in mystery novelist Erle Stanley Gardner’s 1967 adventure book, Off the Beaten Track in Baja . Choral and husband Jack Pepper wrote for and published Desert Magazine during the 1960s. One day, Mr. Gardner dropped in on the Desert Magazine office in Palm Desert, California, and invited the Pepper’s to join him and his crew on an upcoming Baja expedition. Erle Stanley Gardner explored the desert southwest and Baja California when he was on break from writing and reviewing scripts for the Perry Mason television show (Gardner created the character Perry Mason).

Gardner took care of all expenses for these expeditions and that included using helicopters to reach places and see things nobody has seen since the primitive Indians lived in the remote Baja California mountains. Giant cave paintings that few knew of outside of the mountain ranchos were publicized. They continue to be a major income source for the local economy nearly fifty years later.

While riding in a helicopter, Choral spotted a large painting at the top of a 100-foot cliff. It could not be seen from the canyon floor. On board the copter was Mexico’s national archeologist, Dr. Carlos Margain who insisted the site be known as “Pepper Cave.” Choral vowed to have such an honor would require her to actually go to the cave, which she and J.W. Black did by climbing up the cliff face. The helicopter pilot and Dr. Margain watched and took photos from across the canyon.

Desert Magazine had many great Baja California travel articles from Choral and others. Choral continued to write for the magazine after she and Jack split-up and after he sold the magazine. Her 1973 book, Baja California: Vanished Missions, Lost Treasures, Strange Stories Tall and True was a fantastic motivator for me (then in high school) to research and write more about the missions. Choral inspired me to search for the mysteries of Baja’s past, and to someday meet this interesting lady. Choral had reminding me of my own mother who also could mix class and camping with ease.

The next 25 years found Choral Pepper traveling the world and writing many books, and painting art too. However, Baja California retained a special connection with Choral (she liked to be called “Corke”, with a silent e). Choral’s last home was a condo in Coronado, California with a view south to the coast of Baja California. This is where I met her after an exchange of emails because her popular Desert Lore of Southern California book publisher asked her to revise the 1973 Baja missions and mysteries book and she knew of my passion in this subject. The Baja mission book revision was postponed as Choral’s health deteriorated. Some of Choral’s writing will find a home in a new book I am currently working on about the Baja California missions.

In May 2001, Choral asked me to read the following to my guests at the Viva Baja celebration:

Dear Baja Buffs,

Behind his back, I call David " the new Erle Stanley Gardner." His love for Baja shares the same dedicated clarity and eagerness to share it as did Uncle Erle's. I am fortunate enough to have been one of those recipients in both cases. Erle shared it with his books. David shares it with his Viva Baja adventures.

I have reached a stage in life in which there is more to look back upon than forward to. It is not depressing. What I have to look back upon was so filled with adventure, learning and beauty that nothing in my limited future could surpass it. There are very few places in the world that I did not explore during my exciting years as a nationally syndicated travel columnist after selling Desert Magazine, but of all the places in the world, Baja stands alone. Not just because it was more isolated in those days (places like Yap and Zamboanga were isolated, too), but because there is a spiritual quality about Baja that seeps into the very soul of those who respond to it. Everyone doesn't., but you who are here at David's Viva Baja event tonight know exactly what I mean. We Baja buffs share a space foreign to superficial types unaware of the peninsula’s unique nature, mysterious history, and tantalizing lore.

During my early days of exploring the desert, I found that the public can be induced to respect such back country areas as Baja -- not by rules and regimentation, but by education. And the education begins by making its history exciting and adventurous. When someone goes looking for a lost treasure, for instance, they are forced to thoroughly research the area. They aren't just spinning wheels over meaningless, empty land. With knowledge, comes respect.

You all who participate in David's Viva Baja are doing your part to insure a secure future for Baja. I salute you and would love to be sharing this evening with you. Sometimes when you are out there trampling through dry, rock-studded arroyos or watching the moon rise above a cardón forest, send a thought to me. I'll be sharing it with you in spirit.

Choral Pepper

Choral requested that her manuscript, along with the collection of photos and letters from her Desert Magazine Baja trips, be passed on to me. It was in this collection that the letter from Walter Henderson was found, providing directions to a “rock-pile” he found in the 1930s while exploring northwest of San Felipe. Research performed by Henderson seemed to indicate the rock-pile was the lost 1541 grave of Spanish explorer Melchior Diaz, the first European to walk into California. Baja is indeed a land of adventure and historic wonders!

To see many of the photographs from the collection, visit the Choral Pepper website.

About David

David Kier is a veteran Baja traveler and the co-author of 'The Old Missions of Baja and Alta California 1697-1834. Visit The Old Missions website.

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Is Zero-Waste Travel Actually Even Possible?

Travelers today are more conscious of their environmental footprint, even if it often seems abstract. but what about the trail of waste travelers create.

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Todos Santos is beloved for its rugged coastline and water.

Josh Withers/Unsplash

The shimmering emerald cove beckons; reaching it requires a trek up the cacti-dotted cliffs under the Baja sun, then a scramble across boulders on a small beach. But if you arrive at the right time, the water is calm enough for a swim, and you may spot sea lions on the rocks or a whale in the distance. You might also, unfortunately, see a few plastic bottles.

This popular trail in Todos Santos, Baja California Sur, became a favorite of mine during the nearly two years I was based there. Now the small town is grappling with the effects of enchanted visitors who end up staying (hello, me), and it’s trying to avoid going the way of other overdeveloped coastal areas—ones without the infrastructure to support rapid growth, thus ending up with overflowing landfills and waste that leaches into the ocean (hello, Tulum).

“How do we prevent ourselves from becoming just another overrun beach town?” Bryan Jáuregui says. She’s a founding member of Alianza Cero Basura - Zero Waste Alliance , a community-led initiative to implement a plan for a zero-waste future for Todos Santos and the neighboring town of El Pescadero. Jáuregui’s question has urgency: These towns are located in Baja California Sur, the least populated but fastest-growing state in Mexico. As the co-owner of Todos Santos Eco Adventures and Los Colibris Casitas boutique hotel, she calls it “enlightened self-interest” to take on her town’s waste problem.

This tension is not unique to Baja. Around the world, destinations are struggling to balance tourism and economic growth for locals while protecting their natural resources. And even though travelers are more conscious of their environmental footprints than ever, what can they realistically do about them? Is leaving behind zero waste during travel even possible?

Born out of the 1970s ethos of environmental advocacy, the zero-waste movement is focused on sending as little material waste to landfills as possible. The “five Rs” of a zero-waste lifestyle, coined by Bea Johnson in her book, Zero Waste Home , are the movement’s mantra: refuse, reduce, reuse, recycle, and rot (i.e., compost).

A growing number of individuals are embracing these concepts at home: They are eschewing single-use plastics, purchasing bulk items at grocery stores, and taking their food scraps to community compost centers. It gets harder, however, to keep this mindset on the road: Most travelers eat out for most meals and, depending on where they go, don’t necessarily have access to potable drinking water. Travelers are inherently overconsumers.

In some places, tourists generate up to twice as much waste as residents due to the packaged goods they buy, including travel-size toiletries. Eight out of 10 tourists visit coastal areas, contributing to the 8 million tons of plastic that enters oceans and kills 100,000 marine animals a year, according to the United Nations Environment Programme. But it’s more than plastic; often overlooked is food waste. The hotel industry alone produces 79,000 tons of food waste yearly. Cruise ships can generate about 1.3 pounds per person per day on average . Cutting down can make a significant difference, says Vishal Kumar, CEO of Waste Warriors , a nonprofit in the Indian Himalayan Region.

“The creation of less waste means less demand for the production, packaging, and distribution of goods, which results in reduced greenhouse gas emissions throughout the value chain,” Kumar says. When organic waste is dumped into landfills, it releases methane, which has 20 to 80 times more global warming potential than CO2. Aiming for zero waste, then, is a climate solution.

We don’t need 12 people doing zero waste perfectly each year. We need 12 thousand, or 12 million people doing it imperfectly.

In 2007, Natural Habitat Adventures eliminated plastic water bottles from their trips and became the world’s first carbon-neutral travel company. It then took on another ever-growing environmental issue: waste.

Twelve years later, in July 2019, the company led the world’s first zero-waste trip in Yellowstone National Park. To divert 99 percent of the trip’s waste—which would otherwise end up in a landfill—guests carried bamboo cutlery that they washed between meals and a compost bucket for all uneaten food scraps.

While Natural Habitat Adventures isn’t leading 100 percent zero-waste adventures anymore, that doesn’t mean the experiment failed. “We learned that zero waste is possible. However, it is indeed very resource- and time-intensive,” says Court Whelan, chief sustainability officer of Natural Habitat Adventures , of the 18 months researching and planning for the trip.

“I don’t think the extreme confines of zero-waste travel is the end goal. I think examples of zero waste, whether it’s on a certain trip or camp, leave an inspirational echo across the industry.” It’s more about instigating change, and any “waste-lessening movement” is moving toward the goal line, he adds.

“We don’t need 12 people doing zero waste perfectly each year. We need 12 thousand or 12 million people doing it imperfectly.”

One of the best ways travelers can work toward a zero-waste mindset on the road is to dig deeper into where their dollars are going.

Alianza Cero Basura created a way for travelers to support businesses in Todos Santos and El Pescadero that self-assess their waste-reductions impact with a directory of Waste Wise All Stars . Beyond using this guide to find local restaurants and hotels actively working to reduce their waste, travelers can fill up their water bottles at one of Alianza’s refill stations installed throughout town. Alianza also created the first community-led organic waste farm and research center in Baja California Sur; it produces soil-enhancing products and compost, diverting 60 percent of the town’s organic waste from the landfill.

Meanwhile, Norwegian cruise company Hurtigruten—which banned single-use plastics in 2018 and has introduced zero-emissions vehicles and hybrid-powered cruise ships—in April 2024 launched a zero-edible-food-waste program with a goal to, well, reduce food waste to zero grams per guest. Edible food waste from Hurtigruten’s Original Coastal Express ships, which sail along the coast of Norway, will be composted and sent to a local farm that will use it to cultivate products that Hurtigruten will use in its menus. “Farm to fleet to farm” is its goal.

Still, the most obvious and easiest way to create less waste is by refusing. Consider: The more things we acquire, the more things will become waste. On the road, think about what you need. Can you split dishes with your fellow travelers? Get bulk snacks for your road trip? Share some gear instead of everyone packing their own?

Another simple habit is employing reusables—and not just a water bottle. You can buy a zero-waste travel kit , or make one of your own, which could include a reusable tote bag (I carry my trusty Baggu bag on every trip); a reusable silverware kit that doesn’t look like camping gear; and bags and capsules to carry toiletries. My collection of silicone Stasher bags are for more than packing snacks; I use them to carry all my toiletries, which are poured into my magnetic, stackable Cadence Refillable Travel Capsules .

Pack light, and pack items that have multiple uses. Not only does doing so lessen your carbon footprint, but also it can save your sanity and budget. Instead of buying new gear for every trip, consider renting or buying used gear: On a ski trip in Aspen this year, I rented ski pants from Suit Yourself , a mobile ski clothes outfitter. Kit Lender rents outdoor gear and apparel, and Patagonia and REI let you buy and sell your clothing . (Check out AFAR’s guide to places to buy used clothing gear .) Root Adventures also discourages buying new gear by offering a subsidy for any pretrip gear repair, and it includes gear rentals in the trip price.

Mindsets change— maybe not overnight, but slowly, actions create momentum and conservation culture grows. One of the best ways to do this is to let your dollars do the talking, Whelan says. “Single-use is technically easier. Are we happier people because we are consistently able to make and do the easiest thing possible?”

Zero-waste travel is indeed complicated to attempt and even more difficult to adopt perfectly. When we travel, we’re always pushing ourselves—to climb that mountain, to make that plane connection, to attempt that phrase in Spanish. When we put the effort in, we’re rewarded. Leaving nothing behind is just another mindset to get used to.

Travel | April 26, 2024 11:17 a.m.

Marvel at These Bold, Beautiful Bridges

See 15 superbly suspended structures from the Smithsonian Magazine Photo Contest

Text by Tracy Scott Forson

Photographs selected by Jeff Campagna

Bridges have been helping connect us for centuries. Whether they’re natural phenomena or enduring feats of architecture, our lives wouldn’t be the same without them. As  the recent collapse of Baltimore’s majestic Francis Scott Key Bridge  reminded us, these iconic spans are not just beautiful to look at, they represent the lifeblood of our communities and economies.

Spanning waterways and canyons, supporting pedestrians and locomotives, bridges are everywhere, used by just about every civilization in the modern world to bring people together. With these 15  Smithsonian  Magazine Photo Contest images, we bring a few to you. Take a look.

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Tracy Scott Forson | READ MORE

Tracy Scott Forson is a senior editor at Smithsonian magazine.

Jeff Campagna | | READ MORE

Jeff Campagna is a photo editor at Smithsonian magazine. You can follow him on Instagram at @jeffcampagna .

Florence in California: Carnival launches new Italian-style cruise ship

Carnival Cruise Line is bringing a touch of Italy to Southern California.

The line launched Carnival Firenze, inspired by its namesake city, this week. The vessel sailed its maiden voyage from its Long Beach homeport on Thursday.

“We carry more guests than any other cruise line from California, and now this ship is giving us the opportunity to offer more fun to more people sailing from Long Beach,” Christine Duffy, the line’s president, said in a news release . “The recipe combining this ship’s beautiful Italian theming with the familiarity of our friendly team’s hospitality is, in a word, perfecto!”

The ship is the second in the Carnival Fun Italian Style concept after sister ship Carnival Venezia joined the fleet last summer. Both were originally part of Costa Cruises – also owned by parent company Carnival Corp. – before being rehomed.

Where will Carnival Firenze sail?

The roughly 5,000-guest ship will offer Baja Mexico and Mexican Riviera cruises ranging from three to seven days. Stops include destinations like Cabo San Lucas, Puerto Vallarta and Catalina Island.

What can guests expect on board?

Built in 2020, Firenze was refurbished earlier this year to add Carnival-specific touches. Those include staple venues like the Fahrenheit 555 steakhouse and JavaBlue Cafe.

But the line leans into the ship’s Italian motif. The ship’s atrium was designed with Florence’s Piazza del Duomo in mind and the Lido deck takes influence from the Italian Riviera. There’s even a replica of Michelangelo’s David on board that was previously on Carnival Pride (the real sculpture is located in Florence’s Accademia Gallery).

The theme extends to the food and drink options, with eateries like Italian specialty restaurant Il Viaggio, Mexican-Italian fusion venue Tomodoro and La Strada Grill, serving Italian street food. Frizzante specializes in bubbly drinks, and passengers can sip craft cocktails and Italian coffee at Amari.

Other features include the WaterWorks water park and Serenity Adult-Only Retreat.

How long should I take a cruise?: Here's how short and long cruises compare

How much does Carnival Firenze cost?

Prices vary based on sailing date and other factors, but a five-day Mexican Riviera cruise departing on May 30 currently starts at $409 per person based on double occupancy, according to Carnival’s website . The fare includes much of the food on the ship, drinks like regular coffee and iced tea and more.

Nathan Diller is a consumer travel reporter for USA TODAY based in Nashville. You can reach him at [email protected].

Conan O’Brien Talks Returning to Television for Max’s Travel Series Conan O’Brien Must Go in May 1 Issue of emmy Magazine

Writer-turned-talk-show-host-turned-podcaster Conan O'Brien returns to television with the new Max travel series Conan O'Brien Must Go, in which he travels the globe meeting friends he made through his wildly popular podcast, Conan O'Brien Needs a Friend. The four-time Emmy winner talks with emmy about his new show and doing what he loves most: engaging with people. The award-winning official publication of the Television Academy is on sale May 1.

O'Brien started writing while in college for The Harvard Lampoon and became the only freshman on the literary board. "The minute that happened, I was like, 'This is what I'm doing with my life.' It was an epic moment," said O'Brien, who would go on to write for Saturday Night Live and The Simpsons before becoming the host of NBC's Late Night with Conan O'Brien and The Tonight Show . O'Brien's Emmy-winning show Conan aired for 11 seasons on TBS. 

"I really do like connecting with people, [and] you can see it in the podcast," O'Brien says. His critically acclaimed podcast launched in 2018 and has since been sold, along with his production company, Team Coco, to Sirius XM for $150 million. For O'Brien, it's less about money and more about the search for connection that keeps him going. "If I get a good riff going, I get a contact high," he says. "My wife always notices that when I get stopped on the street and someone wants a selfie, I'll keep talking and asking them questions. They'll look at me and say, 'You know, Conan, I have to go."

In "Here Comes the Fun," O'Brien talks with emmy about his life and career that led to the four-part travel series in which the comedian visits callers from his podcast who suggested he drop by if he was ever in their area. Doing exactly that, O'Brien travels to Norway, Thailand, Argentina and the land of his ancestors, Ireland. "I've spent my life in pursuit of the intersection between smart and silly," he says. "There's this weird place where the two beams can meet. It's very hard to get to it. But if you can get the smart and the silly to intersect, there's something really miraculous about it."

Sona Movsesian, O'Brien's assistant and podcast cohost, considers her boss a "comedy god," and even after working together for years, she is still shocked "by the things that man's warped brain comes up with." "I don't know whether it's a gift or if he's defective in some way, but it's frightening. He always chooses just the right words to make everything an extra bit funnier," Movsesian says. What drives O'Brien to keep going? "As my father once said to me, 'Your whole career is making money off something that should probably be treated,'" O'Brien says. "He's not wrong. There is something driving me, and I do need to talk to people." 

Additional featured highlights from the new issue include:

• In "Gold Standard," emmy talks with the creative team behind The Golden Bachelor , the spinoff series of The Bachelor franchise that showcased the journey of 72-year-old Gerry Turner and his ultimate choice, Theresa Nist. Although the couple didn't find happily ever after (recently announcing their divorce), the show was a pop culture sensation that garnered the largest season finale audience in the franchise's history.
• Peacock is becoming a big player in the streaming space with satisfying, steady growth. In "Track Record," emmy explores the four-year-old subscription-based service and how it found momentum with the delayed Tokyo Olympic Games, live-sports investments, original programming and next-day streaming for NBC shows.

About emmy Emmy , the official publication of the Television Academy, goes behind the scenes of the industry for a unique insider's view. With wide-ranging, inclusive subjects representative of the Television Academy membership and the medium as a whole, emmy showcases the scope of television and profiles the people who make it happen, from the stars of top shows and artisans behind the cameras, to programming trends and technological advances. Honored with dozens of awards for editorial excellence, emmy is published 12 times per year and is available on selected newsstands and at TelevisionAcademy.com for single print and digital copies as well as subscriptions.

Download the press release here . 

Stephanie Goodell [email protected] 818.462.1150

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Recipients of 17th Television Academy Honors Announced

Television academy foundation to present ‘the power of tv: flipping the script on work, family & care’ may 8, 43rd college television awards winners announced by television academy foundation , andrew scott talks empathizing with his complex character in netflix's ripley in april 13 issue of emmy magazine, tina perry elected chair of television academy foundation , masters of the air's austin butler and callum turner talk friendship taking flight in april 1 issue of emmy magazine, browser requirements.

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This Quaint Town in Portugal Was Just Named the Best Place to Invest in Europe — and It Has Stunning Beaches

Lush pine forests, cobblestone streets, endless ocean views, and low real estate prices await in this quaint community in northern Portugal.

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Portugal is on everyone's mind these days. The country's sunny weather , many beaches , and affordable cost of living have made it a popular choice for retirees and digital nomads. However, as is often the case, real estate prices in some of its most sought-after regions, like the capital, Lisbon and Algarve , have soared. But that doesn't mean you should give up on your dream of owning property in Portugal.

A new report by International Living ranked the small, under-the-radar- town of Caminha the best place to invest in real estate in Europe for its value and growth potential. 

The community is located in the northwest along the mouth of the Minho River, which separates Portugal from Spain, and is home to about 16,000 residents. International Living gave Caminha a perfect score of 10 in the relative value category and nine for quality of life and stability.

"Caminha, which is only separated from Spain by a river, completely charmed me," Ronan McMahon, founder of Real Estate Trend Alert and author of International Living's Global Real Estate Index, told Travel + Leisure . "It has a beautiful Old Town surrounded by a verdant and bucolic countryside, with mountains, rivers, forests, and fields overflowing with brightly colored flowers and fruit trees heavy with their bounty. And then there are the stunning Atlantic beaches."

The ancient town has plenty of character, with fountains, churches, and other buildings dating back to the 16th and 17th centuries. And it's easily accessible from Porto, which is just an hour and 15 minutes south, providing access to an international airport. 

Jeff Opdyke, International Living's personal finance editor, called Caminha a "holdover of Portugal before tourism and modernity swept over Lisbon, the Algarve, and Porto," where affordable real estate is still the norm. 

Potential buyers can find apartments downtown for as low as $150,000 and stand-alone houses for $280,000 .

And while Caminha is the best place to invest in Europe, another destination took the top prize for global real estate value: Mexico's Los Cabos. International Living ranked first with almost perfect scores in categories such as income potential, climate, and international appeal. Riviera Maya and Estepona in Spain, a town in the country's famous Costa del Sol region, are tied for the third place.

You can see the full ranking at internationaliving.com .

Russia establishes special site to fabricate fuel for China’s CFR-600

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A special production site to fabricate fuel for China’s CFR-600 fast reactor under construction has been established at Russia’s Mashinostroitelny Zavod (MSZ - Machine-Building Plant) in Elektrostal (Moscow region), part of Rosatom’s TVEL Fuel Company. 

As part of the project, MSZ had upgraded existing facilities fo the production of fuel for fast reactors, TVEL said on 3 March. Unique equipment has been created and installed, and dummy CFR-600 fuel assemblies have already been manufactured for testing.

The new production site was set up to service an export contract between TVEL and the Chinese company CNLY (part of China National Nuclear Corporation - CNNC) for the supply of uranium fuel for CFR-600 reactors. Construction of the first CFR-600 unit started in Xiapu County, in China's Fujian province in late 2017 followed by the second unit in December 2020. The contract is for the start-up fuel load, as well as refuelling for the first seven years. The start of deliveries is scheduled for 2023.

“The Russian nuclear industry has a unique 40 years of experience in operating fast reactors, as well as in the production of fuel for such facilities,” said TVEL President Natalya Nikipelova. “The Fuel Division of Rosatom is fulfilling its obligations within the framework of Russian-Chinese cooperation in the development of fast reactor technologies. These are unique projects when foreign design fuel is produced in Russia. Since 2010, the first Chinese fast neutron reactor CEFR has been operating on fuel manufactured at the Machine-Building Plant, and for the supply of CFR-600 fuel, a team of specialists from MSZ and TVEL has successfully completed a complex high-tech project to modernise production,” she explained.

A special feature of the new section is its versatility: this equipment will be used to produce fuel intended for both the Chinese CFR-600 and CEFR reactors and the Russian BN-600 reactor of the Beloyarsk NPP. In the near future, the production of standard products for the BN-600 will begin.

The contract for the supply of fuel for the CFR-600 was signed in December 2018 as part of a governmental agreement between Russia and China on cooperation in the construction and operation of a demonstration fast neutron reactor in China. This is part of a wider comprehensive programme of cooperation in the nuclear energy sector over the coming decades. This includes serial construction of the latest Russian NPP power units with generation 3+ VVER-1200 reactors at two sites in China (Tianwan and Xudabao NPPs). A package of intergovernmental documents and framework contracts for these projects was signed in 2018 during a meeting between Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping.

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What Joey Fatone Can’t Live Without

If you’re like us, you’ve probably wondered what everyday stuff famous people add to their carts — like  hair spray  or an  electric toothbrush . We talked to singer, actor, and television host Joey Fatone — who recently partnered with Screwball Whiskey — about the gaming console he travels with, his favorite pink sneakers, and the boxer briefs he can’t live without.

A friend of mine actually suggested I try this. She was like, “Trust me. People will like it.” I smelled it and liked it, so I got myself a bottle. I’m not kidding you: I’ve never gotten many compliments with any other cologne I’ve worn. For some odd reason, when I started wearing Creed, people suddenly started asking me, “Hey what is that? You smell really good.” I bought myself the family-size bottle, which is expensive as hell. However, it lasted me for almost two years. I literally just ran out of it the other day and am about to restock.

My dad would say to me, “You always have to have clean underwear .” So it’s essential for me. I prefer boxer briefs. Boxers are very loosey loosey. They’re not the greatest. When I’m dancing around on stage, I want things to be in place so I don’t hurt myself. Stance’s boxer briefs are comfortable, and they have this little pouch, which sounds kind of funny even saying it out loud. And they come in lots of different fun designs, sometimes with cartoon characters on them. Because why not? You can still be a kid as an adult, right?

Speaking of being a kid, this is another thing I don’t really leave home without, even when I’m traveling. God forbid there’s nothing around and I can’t get WiFi, but I can watch movies on it, get on social media, and play video games . I play the heck out of Population , which is kind of like Fortnite . I also play Ghostbusters with my buddies. I haven’t played lately, but sometimes three or four of us get on at the same time, and we bust ghosts. I’m huge with VR. I got hooked on it when it first came out and was still called Oculus.

VocalMist is a necessity, especially when I’m traveling for work. It’s been a real game-changer for me on the tour I’ve been doing with AJ from the Backstreet Boys. It’s like a personal mister or humidifier with saline. It’s this itty-bitty thing that comes in a little case. I’ll use it before the show, during breaks, or even sometimes onstage to help open up my vocal cords. It loosens and warms everything up and lubricates my vocal cords.

My SBs. Nike, obviously, comes out with great sneakers, and I love them a lot. Lately I’ve been on a kick with the SBs, the Dunks. I love all the colors, but I just keep going back to the pink ones with the orange swoosh on it. They’re dope. They’re comfortable. I love ’em.

More shoes. I’ve been traveling lately, so I needed slippers . People wear Crocs and other brands, but I like these Simpsons Adidas ones. They look like clouds and they’re boxy. And they’re comfortable as hell. It’s like I’m actually walking on clouds. I’m also a huge Simpsons fan. Back in the day, NSYNC did an episode on the show. Funnily enough, Adidas did a whole line of Simpsons sneakers, so I have those ones, too. They’re made to look like the house. The front of the shoe is the rug, the tongue of the shoe has the pink wall and frame of the sailboat, and the back has Santa’s Little Helper and Snowball. I’m a sneakerhead. I can’t help it.

I’m not gonna lie. I think I was drunk at one point during the pandemic when I bought this online. When it came in, I was like, Well, is this thing going to work? It is awesome. It’s almost like a little AC unit that cools your bed. You can even travel with it. I mean, you would need a bigger suitcase , but it’s doable. It goes in between the sheets, so it kind of puffs up when you’re lying in bed. The cool thing is that it has a dual sheet, so if your spouse or whoever you’re sleeping next to you wants to be warm and you want it cold, it can adjust the airflow and temperature on each side. It’s a game-changer, especially if you’re a hot person or you heat up like I do. Dropping it down to a cold temp feels amazing.

I am a dork with these theme parks. I can’t help it. A friend of mine actually is a Club 33 member, so he hooked me up with an annual pass for my daughter. And then we love Universal, too. We live in Orlando, Florida, so we can’t live without those passes. For instance, if we want to go somewhere when my kid’s done with school or something, we just take a break and walk around the park. We don’t have to necessarily even go on the rides; it’s just to go out. It’s right in my backyard, so I never leave home without these.

I’m not a huge whiskey person to be completely honest. But, I’m a huge peanut-butter fan. With this, you can’t really taste that it’s whiskey. Screwball came up with this idea to do a take on a Moscow mule called a “PB&G” for the Kentucky Derby. The drink’s the Screwball peanut-butter whiskey with ginger beer, pomegranate juice, and lime juice. At first, I was like, I don’t know about that . But holy crap, it’s fricking amazing.

The Strategist is designed to surface the most useful, expert recommendations for things to buy across the vast e-commerce landscape. Some of our latest conquests include the best acne treatments , rolling luggage , pillows for side sleepers , natural anxiety remedies , and bath towels . We update links when possible, but note that deals can expire and all prices are subject to change.

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