Luisa Rosas-Hernández

Luisa Rosas-Hernández

Luisa Rosas-Hernández is a writer for the Gringo Gazette North, where she covers Baja’s wine scene, good eats, and public safety—with a healthy dose of wit and no bad news allowed. By day, she’s a health researcher recognized by Mexico’s National System of Researchers (SNI), and by night, she handles the Gazette’s finances and dabbles in social media—making sure the numbers add up and the posts pop. When she’s not chasing stories or crunching data, you’ll likely find her in the Valle enjoying a glass of red (or a crisp white with oysters)… for research purposes, of course.
This Ain’t Your Average Wine Tour
 Articles

Experience Baja’s Wildest Wine Party of the Year

More than 4,000 people showed up, and not one of them regretted it. The 33rd Verbena de Santo Tomás wasn’t just a wine fest — it was a time warp. One where art, music, and food collided so beautifully that you forgot what decade you were in.

A Label You’ll Want to Frame

For those who love wine and meaning, Duetto 2022 stole the show. Not just because it’s a Tempranillo–Cabernet Sauvignon Gran Reserva, but because its label was a story in itself. During the event, attendees got a first look at the original painting by artist Héctor Herrera, the creative force behind this year’s bottle design.

You don’t sip this wine without feeling something first. Herrera’s signature? Right there in red. This label matters.
#You don’t sip this wine without feeling something first. Herrera’s signature? Right there in red. This label matters.

The piece was bold, messy, handwritten, and emotional — much like Baja’s history. Displayed indoors, the artwork pulled in visitors like a magnet. Later, many stood in front of the wine barrel where the final product sat: Duetto 2022, wrapped in art, filled with character.

Glass in Hand, No Plan in Mind

The plaza turned into a maze of flavor. Guests sipped wine and sangría (yes, canned sangría) while wandering between booths. Each glass was branded with “Verbena 33°,” and yes, it became the weekend’s most cherished souvenir.

Meanwhile, food from Comal Bistró, Altabaja Cervecería, La Destilería and others made it impossible to stay on a diet. Wine tastings flowed from Santo Tomás and guest producers like Viñedos Enkanto, making “just one more” the unofficial motto.

Music Everywhere, Silence Nowhere

Music blasted from every corner. And that’s not a complaint.

At Santo Ritmo, Banda Arremangadora and Loquera Tradición fired up the crowd. Meanwhile, Callejoneada delivered raw energy through bands like Mora and Knights. If that wasn’t your style, R.U.D.A. offered breakdancers, lucha libre, stand-up comedy, and even live art auctions.

Santo Tomás Smackdown
#When the wine hits and suddenly you’re ringside yelling for a masked dude named “La Sangría Mortal.”
Totally normal. Totally Baja.

Still not enough? BUNKR had electronic sets that made your knees move without asking. La Perlita paired video art with cocktails (because of course it did), while Fronteo and La Bete Noir took turns flipping genres and moods.

There was no “main stage” because the whole event was the stage.

Where Wine Meets Wall Art
#Not your average wine fest. Santo Tomás brought the drinks, the mural brought the drama, and nobody wanted to leave.

A Taste of Baja’s Soul

Beyond the music and wine, this event served heritage. Grape stomping brought together kids, parents, tourists and winemakers in a messy tribute to the old ways. Nearby, the museum featured an exhibit on Santo Tomás’ 135-year story, and Don Camillo Magoni’s 60 vintages were honored with photos and experimental pours.

It wasn’t just about the past, though. The Centro Cultural Santo Tomás teamed up with private sponsors like Banorte, La Canasta, Xochicalco University, and the Baja Sur Tourism Trust to keep things fresh and future-facing.

So What Was It?

A wine festival? A culture bomb? A pop-up museum with dance-offs?

Let’s just say this: The Verbena de Santo Tomás 2025 felt like Baja showing off its best side — loud, proud, and with wine on its breath. If you missed it, well… you better hope they let you into the next one.

Because some parties are just too good to stay quiet.

Sip Happens
Duetto 2022: The Bold One
Tiny Feet, Big Tradition
Sangría Goes Pop
A Grape in the Dark
0 733
Welcome to Baja Without Crossing the Border
 Articles, Baja Norte, San Diego, Tourism

Baja Steps Into the Spotlight in San Diego

If Baja California wants Californians to cross the border, it’s meeting them halfway—on India Street.

This month, the Mexican Consulate in San Diego is hosting the Explore Baja exhibit. It’s part of the Ventana a México series, and it’s basically Baja California saying, “Hey neighbor, look at all the cool stuff you’re missing.”

And honestly, they’re not wrong.

Wait, What Is It?

It’s a pop-up cultural and tourism exhibit inside the consulate building—yes, that one across from the pizza joint downtown. The goal? To convince more Americans that Baja California is more than tacos and dental work.

The exhibit kicked off August 1 and runs until August 31. It’s open Tuesday through Saturday, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., which is perfect if you like your tourism with a side of brunch.

Who’s Behind This?

This diplomatic display of deliciousness was made possible by the Secretaría de Turismo de Baja California and the Consulado General de México en San Diego.

It was co-launched by Consul General Alicia Kerber Palma and Baja’s Secretary of Tourism Zaida Luz López Sánchez, who both know how to sell Baja without saying a single word about spring break.

Pan Dulce Diplomacy
Team Tecate Shows Up Strong
Scissors, Smiles, and Sunshine
Two Women, One Mission: Promote Baja
Revolutionary Flavor, No Passport Required

And What’s On Display?

Glad you asked. Baja’s full tourism arsenal is on show: wine, beaches, local crafts, food, and routes that don’t require a surfboard or GPS nightmares. But the star of the exhibit is Tecate, Baja’s official Pueblo Mágico.

Tecate brought its A-game with artisan goods, cultural flair, and of course—pan dulce that could melt international tensions.

You’ll find info on scenic routes, food festivals, and places you didn’t know existed 20 minutes south of the border. Think of it as a weekend inspiration station.

But Didn’t It Just Open August 17?

Nope. The Explore Baja exhibit quietly launched August 1. The August 17 event? Probably a media boost or a VIP walkthrough with extra pastries.

Ventana a México is a rotating exhibit that has already featured other Mexican states. Baja took over this month, and it’s Baja’s turn to shine through photos, posters, and promotional magic.

Why Should I Care?

Because if you’re already in San Diego, this is your teaser trailer for an easy Baja getaway. It’s also a solid plan B if the border line looks like a Disneyland ride.

More importantly, it’s free, short, and indoors. So, if you can’t make it to Valle, this might just inspire your next long weekend.

TL;DR:

  • 📍 Location: Mexican Consulate, 1549 India Street, San Diego
  • 🗓️ Open: Tues–Sat, 9 AM–2 PM, through August 31
  • 🌮 Includes: Wine routes, Tecate crafts, cultural exhibits, food recs
  • 💸 Cost: Free
  • 🇲🇽 Vibe: Friendly, fragrant, and fully Baja
0 804
Officially Open: Cutting the Ribbon in El Florido
 Articles

New Marriott Hotel Opens in East Tijuana

A Big Win for East Tijuana

Tijuana’s East Side just scored a major upgrade: City Express by Marriott El Florido is officially open. This isn’t a pop-up Airbnb or a motel with questionable reviews—it’s the first-ever chain hotel in the Zona Este.

Located in El Florido, the six-story hotel becomes Tijuana’s 7th City Express and the 12th Marriott-branded property in Baja California.

Why This Matters

For years, Zona Este has grown in industry, commerce, and housing. Yet, the hotel scene? Practically nonexistent. Travelers had to stay downtown or rely on extended family (and hope the chihuahua stayed quiet).

Now, with this new hotel, there’s finally a quality lodging option on the east side—and that’s a big deal.

More Than Just a Bed

Backed by the Baja California Secretary of Tourism, Zaida Luz López, the project isn’t just about comfort—it’s about community.

“This hotel expands our lodging offer, creates jobs, and supports the state’s economic growth,” said López.

Business Trip, But Make It Comfy
#A modern space with all the essentials: sofa, desk, city view, and bed that won’t break your back. El Florido just got a serious upgrade.
No Filters Needed: A Room Tour with the Bosses
#City Express execs and Baja officials inspect one of the sleek new rooms. Spoiler: it has A/C, a desk, and no scary carpets. Approved

The hotel features:

  • 121 modern rooms
  • Business center and meeting spaces
  • Free breakfast
  • Easy access to industrial parks, maquilas, and the Tecate highway

Whether you’re an engineer in town for work, a road tripper avoiding downtown traffic, or a local just needing a night off-grid—this place covers the bases.

More Jobs, More Development

One major perk? Jobs. From front desk to housekeeping, dozens of Tijuanenses now have work closer to home.

This opening reflects a broader tourism strategy. Baja isn’t just investing in beach towns and border zones anymore. Areas like El Florido are stepping into the spotlight.

Should You Stay Here?

  • Got business in the industrial corridor? Book it.
  • Visiting family in Otay? Stay here.
  • Want to be one of the first to review it? Go for it.

This isn’t just a new hotel. It’s a symbol of progress for a part of Tijuana that’s long deserved attention.

So yes—finally—East Tijuana has something fancy too. And it doesn’t involve crossing the border.

1 1034
Governor Marina del Pilar beams in Tecate as she champions Corazones Viajeros—the program putting everyday Baja residents on the road, not just the rich and tanned.
 Articles

Free Trips for Locals? Baja’s New Travel Program Says Yes

Tired of hearing that only influencers can afford to “live their best life”? So is Baja California’s government.

In a refreshing twist, Governor Marina del Pilar Ávila launched a program that doesn’t cater to digital nomads, influencers, or luxury tourists. It’s called Corazones Viajeros—or Traveling Hearts—and it’s aimed at giving real people a real chance to explore the state.

Think of it as Airbnb meets social justice—but with fewer hashtags.

The program is built around a simple idea: tourism is a right, not a luxury. It’s funded by the state and coordinated through the Baja California Secretary of Tourism, led by Zaida Luz López Sánchez. And no, it’s not just for retirees with wanderlust.

So, who qualifies?

Glad you asked. The list includes:

  • Seniors who haven’t seen the ocean since disco was a thing.
  • Low-income families who dream of a weekend away but can’t spare the gas money.
  • People with disabilities.
  • Indigenous communities.
  • Teens who’ve never been to Valle de Guadalupe—because nobody takes their TikToks seriously.

You just have to live in Baja California, earn less than 13,000 pesos a month (around $770 USD), and not be allergic to fun.

What do they actually get?

Two options:

  • Day trips: Think cultural outings or beach runs. Up to 10 hours, fully covered.
  • Overnighters: Two days, one night, with up to $1,600 MXN ($95 USD) in support for lodging and transportation.

Trips include transportation, insurance, entry to attractions, and tour guides who (hopefully) know more than your cousin who “did a wine tour once.”

Best part? It’s free to apply. No fine print. No bait and switch. You just sign up—until the money runs out, that is. If you snooze, you literally lose.

Hearts on the Move: Baja’s Governor Doubles Down on Tourism for All
#Hearts on the Move: Baja’s Governor Doubles Down on Tourism for All

To apply, head to bajacalifornia.gob.mx/secture. Or visit your local tourism office before your spot ends up with someone who already got three trips last year.

But wait—there’s more!

The program didn’t just warm local hearts—it also caught international attention.

Corazones Viajeros was nominated for the 2024 ISTO Awards, an international recognition handed out by the International Social Tourism Organization (ISTO). This group actually promotes tourism that doesn’t revolve around overpriced spa menus and infinity pools.

Baja was nominated in the “Destination Initiatives” category—alongside entries from France, Spain, and Brazil. The awards ceremony happened in Costa Rica last October, where, spoiler alert: Baja didn’t win.

Still, being nominated isn’t nothing. It puts the program on the global radar for doing something truly novel: giving regular folks a chance to travel.

And if that’s not worth a round of applause (and maybe a road trip), what is?

So if you’ve got a grandma who’s never seen the murals in Tecate, or a nephew who thinks Tijuana ends at the mall—send them this link.

It’s not a giveaway. It’s just giving back.

1 1095
Gridlock Diplomacy: Protest Hits the Brakes on Reforma
 Articles

How Protest Cripples Ensenada Traffic—Act Now

Ensenada, August 15, 2025 — If you’re reading this while stuck in traffic on Avenida Reforma… well, welcome to the party.

This Friday afternoon, Ensenada’s busiest avenue turned into a real-life version of bumper cars (minus the fun and music). Dozens of police officers and firefighters—both retired and active—parked their official vehicles sideways, smack in the middle of Reforma, bringing traffic to a screeching halt.

Why the chaos? They’re protesting. And not the usual picket-line-and-bullhorn type. This is the park-your-cop-car-and-leave-it-there variety.

The blockade is happening right in front of the Municipal and State Government buildings, stretching all the way to the Government Center stoplight. Drivers have reported being stuck for over 90 minutes, and some probably still haven’t moved as you read this.

And honestly? If you’re heading out now, don’t. Grab a snack, pour a cold drink, and wait it out.

What Are They Protesting?

According to protestors, the City of Ensenada has been making “excessive and unjustified deductions” from their paychecks and pensions. They’re not talking a few pesos—they say the deductions exceed legal limits set by the SAT (Mexico’s tax authority) and are being labeled as “otros descuentos” (other deductions). That’s as vague as it sounds.

Retired police officer Efraín Ávila Cruz, speaking on behalf of the group, said that despite promises from officials and previous meetings, nothing has changed. One woman, Adriana Quiles, told local reporters she’s been waiting nine years to receive the pension of her late husband, a firefighter.

They’re also upset that vacation bonuses are being taxed like regular income, even though pensioners are legally exempt from ISR (income tax). That’s why they’re calling out Mayor Claudia Agatón and her team to stop hiding and finally fix the mess.

Meanwhile, on the Streets…

Frustration is boiling over—not from the protesters, but from drivers trapped in the gridlock. Some have taken to social media to document their impromptu car karaoke sessions. Others are trying to escape down side streets, only to find more red lights and more red brake lights.

So far, the protest has been peaceful—just painfully slow for everyone else. No reports of violence, just a whole lot of honking, sweating, and texting, “I’ll be late” for the fifth time.

Alternate Routes (If You’re Lucky)

If you’re brave enough to venture out, Reforma and Ciprés are a no-go. Locals suggest trying Lázaro Cárdenas, Ryerson, or Álvaro Obregón, but honestly, it’s hit-or-miss. The traffic backup is reaching far beyond the protest zone.

Also, maybe don’t rely on Google Maps. Even it seems confused.

Our Advice?

Stay where you are. Pour another glass of wine (or agua mineral, if you’re driving). Text your boss, your date, or your dinner plans and tell them Ensenada’s finest are taking over the city’s main road today—and you’re not going anywhere fast.

But hey, there’s a bright side. You now have a front-row seat to one of the most polite, civic-minded traffic jams in Baja history. No burning tires. No flipped cars. Just a sea of uniforms, official trucks, and frustrated drivers listening to rancheras and reruns of Bad Bunny remixes.

Final Thoughts

In a city where the beach is always calling and the wine is always flowing, today’s vibe is a little less “vino under the sun” and more “engine idling under stress.” But don’t worry—this too shall pass. Eventually. Probably.

We’ll have full video coverage soon at www.ggnorth.com. Until then, hang in there, Ensenada. You’ve got this.

2 815
Because Your Vacation Fund Shouldn’t End at a Traffic Stop”
 Articles, Baja Norte

Baja’s New Hotline Keeps Tourist Trips Trouble-Free

Baja California is stepping up its game when it comes to keeping your vacation stress-free. The state’s Tourism Office is inviting everyone—locals and visitors alike—to take its shiny new complaint system for a spin. Yes, it’s real. Yes, it works. And no, you don’t need a law degree to use it.

The idea is simple: if something goes wrong with a tour operator, hotel, rental car agency, or even a public official while you’re here, you can report it quickly through official, government-backed channels. It’s part of a permanent campaign to make sure service quality stays high and shady behavior gets addressed.

How it Works

Before you even book your adventure, you can check PROFECO’s “Buzón Comercial” (Commercial Mailbox) to see if your chosen provider has a clean track record—or a history you should avoid.

If trouble strikes during your trip, just send an email to assistance@baja.gob.mx. Include the name of the person or agency involved, their license plate or badge number, and the date, time, and place of the incident.

For those who like instant action, you’ve got options:

  • 911 for emergencies
  • 089 for anonymous tips
  • 078 for roadside help from Ángeles Verdes
  • +52 (664) 624 2020 ext. 6411 for direct assistance from Baja’s Tourism Office

If you prefer to go digital, the State Attorney General’s virtual complaint portal is ready for you at https://cdtec.fgebc.gob.mx/cdtec/ or e-mail: assistance@baja.gob.mx.

Why This Matters

Tourism is big business here, and the last thing Baja wants is for a bad experience to ruin your time—or our reputation. Officials say the goal is to protect both visitors and locals while keeping service standards high.

More importantly, this is your chance to actually try the system. It’s not just a dusty suggestion box. Reports go into a process designed to track, follow up, and resolve issues, whether you’re a weekend visitor or a full-time resident.

Baja’s Got Your Back—And a Hotline to Prove It
#Bad service? Shady cop? Weird extra charge? Baja’s official hotline is here to keep your trip smooth and drama-free.

Industry Involvement

Tourism providers are also being encouraged to get on board. Hotels, tour operators, and other service businesses can participate by promoting the complaint system to customers. The more it’s used, the faster issues can be caught and fixed—something that benefits both sides.

Your Time to Shine

And if your complaint starts with, “The cops robbed me,” this is your moment to shine—or to finally tell your novella-worthy story. In fact, you can even share it in our comments (in addition to making the formal complaint, of course). Just don’t forget to have all the details the officials require, or your plot twist might flop.

Peace of Mind, Baja Style

In a place famous for sunny beaches, whale watching, and tacos worth crossing a border for, the last thing you should worry about is poor service or a questionable charge on your bill. This system helps keep things honest, fair, and fun.

So go ahead—plan that trip. If something’s not right, speak up. The government says it’s listening, and this time, it looks like they mean it.

After all, in Baja, the only thing that should be salty is your margarita.


28/08/25 UPDATE: We’ve added the +52 country code to the phone number and included the email address directly in the article. This information was previously available only in the image, but we were informed it could be confusing for international readers. Thanks Steve McCoy!

0 930
This Is Where the Story Literally Starts
 Events, Mexicali, Tijuana

Watch Baja’s Best Films Free in Tijuana and Mexicali Tonight

Baja California is known for wine festivals, fresh seafood, and weekend gossip. However, there’s another story worth telling—our movies. We make them here, we win awards with them, and tonight, you can watch two of them for free.

The BC by BC program, backed by Governor Marina del Pilar Ávila Olmeda through the Baja California Film Commission, is bringing local talent into the spotlight. The goal is simple: combine art, economy, and identity, then show the results on the big screen.

Free Screenings in Tijuana and Mexicali

Starting at 6 p.m., Cinépolis Plaza Río in Tijuana and Cinépolis Plaza San Pedro in Mexicali will feature two Baja-born productions: Soy lo que nunca fui (2023) and Entre las cuerdas (2024).

Both have made an impact far beyond Baja’s borders. Now, they return home for a night of free cinema.

Soy lo que nunca fui (2023) — Tijuana Up Close

This is not your typical “border story” full of clichés. Instead, director Rodrigo Álvarez Flores offers an intimate look at a fractured family navigating emotional boundaries that run deeper than any wall.

Because the film was shot mostly at Estudios Baja and on real Tijuana streets, it captures the city’s true character. Each main character has a distinct visual style: wide shots for the restless, close frames for the introspective, and calm tones for those hiding chaos.

The cast includes Ángeles Cruz, Andrés Delgado, César Kancino, plus graduates from UDCI. Over the past year, the film has collected an impressive list of awards. Among them are Best Mexican Feature at GIFF, Audience Award at Cine Las Américas, and Best Picture at “Hola México” in Los Angeles. It has also been honored in Calcuta and Ensenada.

Clearly, Álvarez proves that Baja doesn’t just have stories—it has stories worth sharing with the world.

  • Tijuana, City Lights and Midnight Cinema
    #Some see the city asleep… others are filming it so it wakes up on screens around the world.
  • When Baja Talent Shows Even Behind the Mask
    #You don’t need to see the smile to know he’s directing pure gold. Tonight, 6 p.m., on the big screen

Entre las cuerdas (2024) — Tijuana in the Ring

If Soy lo que nunca fui is a slow burn, Entre las cuerdas throws the first punch early. Directed by Fernando A. Fisher, who grew up in Tijuana, the film follows Martín, a boxer fighting battles inside and outside the ring.

Filmed entirely in Tijuana over 17 days, it features a cast made up almost entirely of local talent. Because of its authenticity, it has earned international recognition, winning Best Picture and Best Director in Sweden, Audience Choice in London, and another Best Picture in Los Angeles.

Fisher’s film doesn’t sugarcoat the struggle. Instead, it shows the fight in its raw form, told by people who know it well.

Why This Matters for Baja

For decades, Baja was a backdrop for Hollywood pretending to be somewhere else. Although local crews got work, the stories weren’t ours.

Now, with directors like Álvarez and Fisher, Baja is telling its own stories. These films prove that local talent is not only strong but growing. That is why events like Séptimo 2.0 are essential. They provide a stage, and our filmmakers fill it with stories that travel far beyond the state line.

Tonight’s the Night

If you are in Tijuana or Mexicali, this is your chance. Two films, two directors, dozens of local actors, and hundreds of hours of Baja talent—all for free.

Head to Cinépolis Plaza Río or Cinépolis Plaza San Pedro by 6 p.m., grab some popcorn, and watch Baja’s stories unfold. By the time the credits roll, you will see it too: Baja is not just making movies—it is making its mark.

0 483
Unforgettable Flavors Await at Bajas Paella Party
 Ensenada, Events, Wine

Baja’s Paella Contest Celebrates 35 Years With Wine and Music

This isn’t just another cook-off. The Dr. Ramón García Ocejo Paella Contest is the grand finale of Ensenada’s 25-day Fiestas de la Vendimia—and this year marks the 35th anniversary. On Sunday, August 17, 2025, Viña de Liceaga will once again welcome wine lovers, foodies, and anyone who appreciates a proper campestre party under 120-year-old oak trees (plus one majestic 500-year-old roble that’s basically a celebrity).

A Tradition Worth Savoring

Since the late 1980s, this event has honored the memory of Dr. Ramón García Ocejo, who championed Ensenada’s wine and culinary culture. Today, more than 90 paella teams will light their wood fires (gas is strictly forbidden) and serve their creations to the crowd. Meanwhile, 80 Baja wineries will pour more than 160 wine labels—a perfect match for a plate of smoky, saffron-infused goodness. Two live music stages will keep the energy high all afternoon.

Seafood Royalty in a Pan

#Lobster tails, shrimp, and scallops—this paella team isn’t here to play. A true showstopper at the 2025 Paella Contest

The Competition & Prizes

The judging is handled by the Asociación Gastronómica y de Paelleros de Baja California (Spanish acronym: AGAPE – The “Asociación Gastronómica y de Paelleros de Baja California”). Paellas are coded for anonymous tasting and scored on color, appearance, flavor, and texture.

Two categories take the spotlight:

  • Quality: flavor, texture, and presentation.
  • Visual Presentation: beauty and order of the cooking station.

Winners receive trophies, wine, paella pans, aprons, commemorative merch, and consumption vouchers worth around $14,000 MXN from sponsors like Afirme and La Canasta. And yes—tour packages are raffled among all attendees to close the day with a bang.

By the way, if you spot me near a good glass of Sauvignon Blanc, please come say hi. I’ll probably be there.

Family-Friendly (With a Few Rules)

Kids under 12 get in free, but no pets are allowed. The setting is pure countryside charm, with activities for children and plenty of shaded spots for adults to sip and chat.

Baja’s Biggest Paella Party Returns
#Mark your calendar—August 17 at Viña de Liceaga. Over 90 teams, 160 wines, live music, and zero excuses to miss it.

Your Insider’s Guide to Enjoying the Paella Contest

Get There Early

Gates open at 12 PM, but parking and prime shady spots go fast. If you arrive late, you risk long lines and missing the first tastings.

Parking & Transportation

On-site parking is limited and fills up quickly. Therefore, consider ride-sharing with friends or using local transportation services. Many guests arrange drop-offs to avoid the parking scramble.

Dress for the Occasion

Comfortable shoes are a must—remember, you’ll be walking on dirt paths. A hat and sunglasses will help you handle the Baja summer sun, and a light jacket can be handy for the evening breeze. Additionally, some people treat this event like a Valle de Guadalupe-style fashion show—think wide-brimmed hats, cowboy boots, and crisp white linen.

Cash or Card?

Vendors may accept both, yet cash tends to be faster. Moreover, don’t forget your ticket includes all wine and paella tastings—no surprise charges for the essentials.

Plan Your Tastings

With 90+ paella teams and 160+ wines, you won’t try everything—but you can come close. Therefore, pace yourself, and don’t ignore the lesser-known wineries; they often have the hidden gems.

Stay for the Raffle

The prize drawings happen toward the end of the event. Consequently, many people miss out because they leave early. Stick around—you might just win that vacation.

Quick Facts

  • Date: Sunday, August 17, 2025
  • Time: 12:00 PM to 7:00 PM
  • Place: Viña de Liceaga, Ensenada, Baja California, MX
  • Price: $1,450 MXN (kids under 12 free)
  • No pets allowed
  • Dress code: Comfortable, summer-friendly, or go full Valle chic

Thirty-five years, thousands of paellas, and countless wine pours later, the Paella Contest remains Ensenada’s tastiest tradition. Therefore, mark your calendar, gather your crew, and get ready for a day of wine, wood smoke, and friendly competition. Just remember—show up early, stay hydrated, and save room for seconds.

0 703
Baja’s Moving… in Its Own Way
 Articles, Breaking News, Ensenada, San Diego, Tijuana

Baja’s New Ferry Waits, Tijuana’s Viaduct Shrinks—Progress, Baja Style

Baja California is on the move… sort of. Ensenada has a shiny new ferry sitting pretty at the dock. Tijuana’s long-promised viaduct is, well, shorter than promised. It’s progress—just not the fast-lane kind.

Ferry Fantasy Meets Dockside Reality

The Azteca Express I made its grand entrance into Ensenada’s port on July 25. Locals cheered, phones snapped, and Instagram lit up. But anyone hoping to hop on for San Diego this week is in for a plot twist—the first passenger trip won’t be until late August.

Phase one will carry people only—no cars until next year—but it will have a bar on board. Because priorities. It’ll seat about 230 passengers and take 2.5 to 3 hours each way.

Tickets aren’t on sale yet, but early chatter points to $70 USD one-way or around $130 USD round trip. The experience promises full customs and immigration checks at both ends—think “airport with a sea breeze.”

The San Diego–Ensenada ferry arrived on July 25 with room for 330 passengers, but no launch date or tickets are available yet. Here’s everything we know so far.
#The San Diego–Ensenada ferry arrived on July 25 with room for 330 passengers, but no launch date or tickets are available yet. Here’s everything we know so far.

Viaduct Loses the Beach

Meanwhile, in Tijuana, the Viaducto Elevado—that elevated road designed to whisk drivers from the airport toward Playas—has officially been downsized. The new plan ends the road at Cañón del Matadero, about 1.5 kilometers short of the beach.

The change trims the original 10.5-kilometer project and cuts Playas de Tijuana out of the direct link. Local residents worry this will dump traffic into their neighborhoods and worsen the rush. Officials say the viaduct is still on track to open late 2025 or early 2026.

Same Goal, Different Routes

In a way, both projects have the same mission—make it easier to move people and goods in and out of Baja. But like a good Baja road trip, there are always detours.

The ferry is stuck in “coming soon” mode. The viaduct is trimming its route. Neither is a total win yet, but each inch forward matters for a region that relies on cross-border travel like fish rely on water.

We’ll take the progress, even if it comes in small, slightly salty steps.

Viaduct in Action
#Workers and machines hustle under the sun, assembling what might just be the fastest road Tijuana has never seen… yet.

Quick Facts:

ProjectStatusETAFun Fact
Ensenada–SD FerryDocked, delayedLate August 2025Has a bar before it has car space
Tijuana ViaductRoute shortenedLate 2025/Early 2026Lost the beach but kept the traffic

Baja’s building momentum—just not at the speed locals (or drivers) might hope for. But hey, at least we’re not bored.

1 994
La Verbena 2025 Gets the Green Light
 Articles, Events, Mexicali, Wine

La Verbena Brings Bold Flavors and Big Energy to Ensenada

Ensenada is about to pop the cork on one of its most beloved harvest season traditions. La Verbena de Santo Tomás returns this Saturday, August 16, and it’s ready to prove that wine, art, and food can still throw a better party than Netflix.

This is the 33rd edition of the event, set in the heart of downtown at the Plaza Santo Tomás. Organized by the Fundación Elías Pando and the Centro Cultural Santo Tomás, it’s part of the Fiestas de la Vendimia—aka Ensenada’s annual excuse to celebrate wine like it’s an Olympic sport.

Why “La Verbena”?

The name comes from an old Spanish tradition where towns gathered at night for music, dancing, food, and drink. It also happens to be the name of a plant (Verbena officinalis) once used in folk celebrations. In other words, “verbena” is basically code for “let’s party, but classy.”

A Local Icon

Yes, it’s emblematic. La Verbena isn’t just another Vendimia event—it’s a love letter to Ensenada’s cultural and wine roots. It also puts the spotlight on Bodegas de Santo Tomás, the oldest winery in Baja California, founded in 1888. This year’s edition brings back the intimate, community vibe with a 150-pesos cover that includes tastings, a commemorative glass, and enough reasons to call a taxi.

Wine First, Beer… Maybe Later

Traditionally, it’s all about the wine—especially when you’re standing in the shadow of one of Mexico’s wine pioneers. This year, beer will also be available. We’re not saying you shouldn’t enjoy it, but if you’re here for hops, you might be missing the point. The focus is still on wine in all its forms: experimental blends, food pairings, and guided tastings.

What’s On the Menu?

Expect live music from electronic beats to Latin rhythms, performance art, grape stomping, and wine workshops. The Plaza’s restaurants will serve up local flavors, while pop-up kitchens and tasting bars keep your glass and plate full. Look for the “Cata y Coto” sessions at Bar Escala and bites from chefs working right in front of you.

Behind the Scenes at La Verbena
#Loic Barbara, the mastermind behind La Verbena’s cultural mix, promises a celebration with wine, flavor, and more dance moves than you expect.

Culture Meets Celebration

Art installations, creative markets, and kids’ activities make this a family-friendly affair. That said, don’t be surprised if you spend most of your time hopping between wine stands like a well-dressed scavenger hunter.

La Verbena runs from 1:00 PM to 1:00 AM, which means you have 12 solid hours to experience one of Ensenada’s most charming traditions. It’s not just a party—it’s a taste of the city’s history in every sip.

Bottom line: If you’ve never been, you’re overdue. And if you have, you already know this is the event where Ensenada shows off its true flavor—one pour at a time.

1 504