Oliver Quintero

Oliver Quintero

Oliver Quintero is the publisher of the Gringo Gazette North, wrangler of deadlines, and occasional chaos coordinator. When he’s not steering the ship of Baja’s favorite English-language paper, you’ll find him chasing stories, taming tech gremlins, or enjoying a good taco.
Baja Norte, Healthcare

Rolling for Life in Baja’s Pink Route

October rolled in, and with it came a familiar sight across Baja, pink ribbons, smiling nurses, and the humming of mobile health trucks pulling into dusty plazas and town centers. The government’s “Ruta Rosa” campaign is back on the road, taking free mammograms to women who might otherwise never get one.

Governor Marina del Pilar kicked off the campaign in Mexicali this week, flanked by Health Secretary Adrián Medina Amarillas. The message was simple but strong: early detection saves lives.

“We want to make sure that every woman in Baja California has free access to this service, no matter where she lives”

This year the Ruta Rosa will roll through all seven municipalities with three mobile mammography units. The plan is to visit 22 rural and suburban zones that don’t have a single mammogram machine nearby. The health department says they can perform up to 220 screenings per day, completely free.

Last year, thanks to this program, over a thousand women were diagnosed with breast cancer in time to get treatment. Baja California is now slightly above the national average in early detection, which means more women are getting a fighting chance.

Medina Amarillas said the state has managed to keep a 95-percent supply rate for oncology medications, a rare achievement these days. The oncology unit in Mexicali alone has given more than 5,000 radiotherapy sessions.

What stands out this year is how many different groups are joining in, from IMSS and ISSSTE to private clinics and civil associations. There’s even a plan to honor local nonprofits at the end of October in Tijuana’s Parque Esperanto for their work supporting cancer patients.

The governor reminded women that October isn’t the only month to think pink.

“It’s a year-round campaign,” she said, adding that women should practice self-exams regularly and visit clinics whenever they notice something unusual.

It’s easy to forget that breast cancer still tops the list of cancer-related deaths among women in Mexico. Campaigns like the Ruta Rosa might not solve everything, but they sure make the road to prevention a little shorter.

If you spot one of those pink trucks in your town this month, stop by, get checked, and maybe bring your neighbor along. A few minutes could save a life.

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 Articles, Baja Norte, Development

Federal Plan Moves Forward for Tijuana–Ensenada Bypass

They call it the “Bypass,” but it’s really a lifeline in waiting. The plan is to open a third route between Tijuana and Ensenada that also threads through Jatay, bringing together roads, cargo, and communities in a new alignment. Claudia Agatón Muñiz, Ensenada’s mayor, has long spoken of the idea. Now, the federal government has pledged support, and the project is gradually stepping into view.

The new bypass would stretch about 24 kilometers, built with two lanes, and cost close to 3,500 million pesos. The federal infrastructure agency SICT aims to begin construction in 2026, expecting completion in about four years. The goal isn’t just to add another road; it’s to provide a real alternative when the scenic highway gives way to landslides or congestion. And it’s about redirecting the flow of trade toward the industrial zones growing just north of the city.

That’s where Jatay comes in. The planned route will pass through this area, located right across the toll road from Bajamar, a spot better known for its golf resort and ocean views than for industry. But Jatay has been quietly evolving into something else. Grupo Jatay and local authorities have pitched a sprawling industrial park there, with investment figures reaching into the billions of pesos and talk of more than 5,000 new jobs. The bypass would give that project exactly what it needs: fast, direct access to Ensenada’s port and the main transport corridors to Tijuana.

The idea of a Jatay connection isn’t new. Business and civic leaders have pushed for years for a “ruta alterna” between Bajamar and Rancho Bonito, especially after sections of the scenic road collapsed. In 2013, a 300-meter stretch near kilometer 93 gave way, closing the road for nearly a year. That collapse was a wake-up call. Tourism, freight, and local trade all stalled. Ever since, a safer and more reliable inland route has been a recurring promise.

The new bypass is supposed to solve that once and for all. By channeling freight through Jatay and away from residential corridors, it would ease pressure on Ensenada’s entry points and cut down the clutter of trucks parked along urban roads. Mayor Agatón said it would also help move the city’s growing container traffic toward a new industrial park, freeing the port’s immediate surroundings from pollution and congestion.

Still, there are challenges ahead. The terrain between Jatay and Ensenada is tricky — steep, unstable, and environmentally sensitive. Land rights, permits, and public consultation will all play a role. And with a project of this scale, long timelines and shifting budgets are almost guaranteed. Local fishing communities have already voiced concerns about how expansion might affect their livelihoods, and environmental groups are watching closely.

The federal funding is in place, but the real test will be in how the project balances progress with preservation. Done right, the Ensenada Bypass could change the region’s logistics map, turning Jatay from a quiet patch of land across the highway into a key link in Baja’s trade network. Done wrong, it could just be another line on paper.

For now, optimism is cautiously on the rise. A third way between Tijuana and Ensenada — built not just for speed, but for resilience — may finally be more than just talk.

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 Cruise Ships, Ensenada, Tourism

36 Cruise Calls Set to Splash Cash in Ensenada

If Ensenada feels a little busier this October, it’s not your imagination, it’s 36 cruise ship calls on the calendar. According to the Hutchison Ports ECV arrivals list, the month is stacked with repeat visits from Carnival Radiance, Carnival Firenze, and Royal Caribbean’s Quantum of the Seas, plus calls by Nieuw Amsterdam, Island Princess, Ruby Princess, Royal Princess, Koningsdam, Norwegian Bliss, Navigator of the Seas, Carnival Panorama, and Carnival Legend.

How many visitors are we talking about?

To get a reasonable estimate of how many people will step ashore, we used each ship’s double-occupancy (the industry’s standard planning number) and multiplied by the number of Ensenada calls listed for October.

Here are the headline capacities used:

  • Carnival Radiance: 2,984 guests (6 calls). 
  • Carnival Firenze: 4,126 guests (7 calls). 
  • Quantum of the Seas: 4,180 guests (7 calls). 
  • Navigator of the Seas: ~3,388 guests (4 calls). 
  • Carnival Panorama: 4,008 guests (3 calls). 
  • Nieuw Amsterdam: 2,106 guests (2 calls). 
  • Island Princess: ~2,200 guests (1 call). 
  • Ruby Princess: 3,080 guests (1 call). 
  • Royal Princess: 3,560 guests (2 calls). 
  • Koningsdam: 2,650 guests (1 call). 
  • Norwegian Bliss: ~4,010 guests (1 call). 
  • Carnival Legend: 2,124 guests (1 call). 

Crunching those ship-by-ship counts against the October schedule yields an estimated 127,000 cruise passengers arriving in Ensenada this month (127,018 using the exact tallies). That’s double-occupancy only; on peak sailings with families in third and fourth berths, loads can run higher.

What that means in pesos and dollars

How much do visitors actually spend in town? Recent reporting on Ensenada’s cruise economy pegs average passenger spending at US$63.68 per person, with crew spending averaging US$47.84 when they go ashore.

Apply that passenger average to October’s expected arrivals and you’re looking at ~US$8.1 million in direct on-shore passenger spending in a single month—money that filters into taquerías and tasting rooms, tour operators, drivers, pharmacies, souvenir stalls, and yes, the place that sells the “I heart Ensenada” hoodies.

For context, wider cruise research for the Caribbean and Latin America found that a single 4,000-passenger call typically generates about US$369,100 in on-shore spending by passengers and crew, useful to remember when two large ships overlap on a weekend. 

Why it matters locally

  • Jobs & small business: Shore tours, wine-valley excursions, fishing charters, guides, mariachis on the malecón, and micro-entrepreneurs all benefit from predictable ship traffic.
  • Tax base & services: Visitor spending supports municipal revenues that help keep the waterfront, roads, and public spaces functioning for residents and guests alike.
  • Season smoothing: October sits between high summer and holiday travel; a packed cruise calendar helps smooth out the shoulder season for hospitality workers and vendors.

Ship “regulars” this month

  • Frequent callers: Quantum of the Seas (7), Carnival Firenze (7), Carnival Radiance (6).
  • Busy weekends: Watch the mid-month and Oct. 24–25 stretch, when Koningsdam, Carnival Panorama, and Norwegian Bliss cluster around the same weekend.

One policy note to watch

Mexico approved a new immigration levy on cruise passengers for 2025; after industry pushback, reports indicate it’s starting at US$5 per guest from July 1, 2025, with the possibility of gradual increases. Any changes to fees can influence itineraries, pricing, and ultimately local spending, so we’ll keep an eye on how this develops.

With 36 ship calls and roughly 127,000 passengers expected, October is set to be a strong month for Ensenada’s waterfront economy, good news for everyone from ceviche stands to the Valle’s tasting rooms. If you’re heading downtown on a ship day, expect lively sidewalks and longer lines at the churro cart.

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 Business, National

Starbucks Plans 1,000 Stores in Mexico by 2026

Because Apparently, We Still Need More Places to Wi-Fi and Complain About Wi-Fi


Mexico’s long-standing love affair with frappuccinos, “personalized” cups that never spell your name right, and air-conditioned workspaces with exactly three available outlets is going strong. Starbucks just announced that by 2026, the country will hit 1,000 stores. Yep, a thousand. That’s one Starbucks for every person currently trying to finish their thesis in one.

The announcement came on International Coffee Day, which seems fitting since half of us were probably celebrating it at a Starbucks anyway. The company’s partner, Alsea — the same group behind many of our favorite restaurants — has been running the show here for over two decades. Together, they’ve turned coffee time into something more like a daily ritual: a mix of community, creativity, and just the right amount of foam art.

And Starbucks isn’t stopping there. The brand will open 145 new stores across Latin America next year and expand into new cities like Guayaquil, Ecuador, and Tegucigalpa, Honduras. They’re even launching something called Casa Bou in El Salvador — their first flagship store in the region, dedicated to art, youth, and, presumably, very slow jazz playlists.

How much gear can you bring to Starbucks to “work”? This guy in Playas de Tijuana said yes to two monitors and a two laptops — and honestly, we respect the commitment. We’ve seen people with full-size printers too and even desktop computers, so the bar keeps rising.

Ricardo Arias-Nath, President of Starbucks Latin America and the Caribbean, said the move shows the company’s confidence in the region’s future and its commitment to creating meaningful connections through coffee. In simpler terms, they’re betting big on the idea that a good cup of coffee can still bring people together — one latte at a time.

And if you need another reason to stop by, Starbucks Mexico is celebrating with a special promo: when you buy any grande or venti drink, you can get a commemorative cup for just 29 pesos. That’s a small price to pay for a piece of coffee history.

Still, the truth is, Starbucks has done what few brands have — become part of Mexico’s urban life. Whether you’re escaping traffic, freelancing for “exposure,” or pretending to read while waiting for someone two hours late, there’s a Starbucks nearby ready to charge your laptop and your wallet at the same time.

From Yucatan to Ensenada, Starbucks has become more than just a pit stop. It’s the place where students finish essays, freelancers find Wi-Fi, friends catch up, and where this writer does a lot of his work — fueled by caffeine, background jazz, and the occasional slice of banana bread.

So here’s to 1,000 stores — and to all those coffee-fueled moments that make life a little warmer, a little busier, and a lot more delicious.

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 Articles, Baja Norte, Business

Insurance Pros Gather at Corona del Valle

On September 26, 2025, the vineyards of Corona del Valle in Ensenada swapped their usual symphony of cork pops and clinking glasses for something a little different: the buzz of insurance talk. The Mexican Association of Insurance and Bonding Agencies (AMASFAC) held its 21st Regional Pacific North Congress, drawing in agents from all over Baja California, plus colleagues from Sonora, Sinaloa, and beyond.

This wasn’t just another corporate mixer. It was a full-scale meet-up where Mexico’s most trusted insurance agents traded strategies, heard inspiring talks, and—of course—did some serious networking. Bernabé “Bernie” Hernández, president of AMASFAC’s Tijuana section and our good friend from Bernie’s Insurance, personally invited us to attend and cover the event.

Ana Gabriela León Vegas, president of AMASFAC Ensenada, summed up the purpose of the gathering perfectly:

“These events are designed to keep us informed and updated in the insurance field so we can do better business. Most of the agents belonging to AMASFAC attend, and we are recognized by society, our colleagues, insurance companies, and institutions as the most reliable insurance agents.”

For anyone shopping for coverage, that’s the key point—when you deal with an AMASFAC agent, you know you’re working with a licensed professional recognized at the national level.

Ana Gabriela Leon, president of AMASFAC, Ensenada Chapter.

Throughout the day, attendees discussed industry changes, customer experience, and the everyday realities of selling trust in uncertain times. Panels and presentations touched on everything from motivational stories to practical agreements with hospitals—yes, even free parking at Hospital Ángeles in Tijuana made the list of perks negotiated for clients.

It wasn’t all spreadsheets and policy talk. There were lighter moments too—like the gifting of fancy chocolates, jokes among colleagues, and remembering leaders who left a mark on the organization. The atmosphere was more family reunion than dry convention, proving once again that AMASFAC isn’t just about policies, it’s about people.

For Ensenada, hosting the congress meant putting the region on the map as more than a wine destination. The Corona del Valle backdrop made sure every conversation came with a side of vineyard views. Between the barrels and the PowerPoints, the message was clear: the insurance sector in Baja is alive, well, and working hard to stay relevant for the clients who depend on it.

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 Arts & Literature, Events

Dead Artists Make More Money? DAMMM Hits the Stage

If you think the art world is full of egos, scandals, and ridiculous schemes — you’re right. And now, you can watch it all unravel (with jazz hands) at the world premiere of Dead Artist’s Make More Money — or simply DAMMM: The Musical — opening September 26 at the La Misión Performing Arts Center (LMPAC).

Created by Baja resident Scott Haynes, this original production isn’t just theater, it’s a tongue-in-cheek dive into the chaotic world of contemporary art. Imagine the art market in the ‘80s, where a painting wasn’t worth much until the artist stopped breathing. Add toe-tapping songs, a crew of absurd characters, and a little tequila-soaked scheming, and you’ve got a show that’s exactly as unhinged as the real art scene.

The story drops us in Los Angeles, 1981 — neon suits, booming galleries, and everyone chasing the next Warhol. Dealers want fortune, artists want fame, collectors want bragging rights. The catch? Value skyrockets when an artist dies. Cue the hustlers, hangers-on, and over-the-top plots to cash in. This is not your average Broadway tear-jerker.

At the center of it all is EiD, a mysterious portrait painter in disguise — hoodie, shades, and all. Played by Matthew Noakes, EiD paints while he sings, hiding a past and a talent that just won’t stay buried. His sidekick Sancho, brought to life by Enrique Geronimo, is a dance instructor by day and a hustler by night. Think charm, chaos, and a little too much cologne. Together, they tumble through schemes outrageous enough to make even Picasso raise an eyebrow.

If you’re lucky, you might crack EiD’s true identity before the final curtain. The creators promise it’s hiding in plain sight, tucked into lyrics, glances, and that classic theater “ah-ha!” moment.

The soundtrack alone is worth the ticket — with cheeky numbers like “I Smell a Rat,” “It Has to Pass the Smell Test,” and “Drinking with a Purpose.” If you’re not humming on your way out, you probably fell asleep (which, frankly, seems impossible).

One of the quirks that makes DAMMM unique is the cast itself. Fifteen actors, each with speaking, singing, and dancing roles. Some are seasoned vets — like Danny Ingersol as A. Wormhole, a boozy insurance investigator who deserves his own spin-off. Others are first-timers stepping on stage for the first time, including performers over 60. According to director David Cattanio, this blend created unexpected chemistry: “Every cast member has lines, sings, and dances… the mix creates something truly special.”

Behind the humor, DAMMM marks a milestone for the La Misión Performing Arts Center. It’s the first original production staged at the venue, and it highlights LMPAC’s mission to bring innovative, cross-border theater to Baja California. And yes, whispers of future Spanish-language productions are already floating around.

Scott Haynes, the show’s creator, summed it up perfectly: “We wanted to create a world where the art world’s absurdities are on full display… and have fun doing it.” Mission accomplished.

The run kicks off September 26 at the La Misión Performing Arts Theater, Km 56.5 on the free road. Matinee shows run from 2–4 PM: September 26, 27, 28, October 2, 3, and 4. The cast will then head south for a final performance at the Gertrude Pearlman Theater in Punta Banda on October 10.

Tickets for the La Misión shows are available now on Eventbrite at tinyurl.com/DAMMM-tickets. For the Punta Banda finale, tickets are only through the Gertrude Pearlman Theater box office. Pro tip: don’t wait — sell-out buzz is already circling.

So, if you’re looking for a fall season outing that’s equal parts art, comedy, and chaos — DAMMM is the show to see. Just don’t be surprised if you leave wondering if maybe… dead artists really do make more money.

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 Articles, Off-road races

Baja 1000 Makes History with Los Cabos as Start and Finish in 2026

For the first time in its nearly six-decade history, the legendary Baja 1000 will both start and finish in Los Cabos. The announcement came after the Los Cabos City Council unanimously approved a deal with Score International, the event’s promoter, during its September 8 session. The 59th edition of the race, set for November 2026, will mark a historic milestone for Baja California Sur.

Never before has the Baja 1000 launched and wrapped up in the same city at the southern tip of the peninsula. Cabo San Lucas has hosted the finish line before—first in 2000 and again in 2007—but this will be the first time Los Cabos holds both the start and the finish.

“This will put Los Cabos in the eyes of the world,” said Councilman Celestino Atienzón Beltrán, who called the move “historic” and a massive boost to the local economy. Councilwoman Valerie Olmos Domínguez added that while it’s a moment of pride for locals, safety and proper organization must remain priorities to ensure a smooth event.

The Baja 1000 isn’t just about roaring engines and desert dust. It’s an economic engine of its own. When the 2023 edition took place in La Paz, more than 320 teams from Mexico, the U.S., and abroad showed up. That single race pumped nearly 100 million pesos into La Paz’s hotels and businesses, with occupancy hitting 98 to 100 percent in more than 3,100 available rooms. Across the peninsula, the economic impact was estimated between 10 and 12 million dollars, along with worldwide media coverage.

With Los Cabos playing host in 2026, the financial ripple effect is expected to be even bigger—boosting hotels, restaurants, shops, and tour services, while also driving improvements in infrastructure and public services. In short: the Baja 1000 is more than a race—it’s a cash cow on wheels.

Score International had already hinted back in July that a route change was on the horizon for 2026. The full championship calendar for that year is now set:

  • San Felipe 250: March 25–29
  • Baja 500: June 3–7
  • Baja 400: September 9–13
  • Baja 1000: November 9–15 (Los Cabos debut as start and finish line)

Los Cabos’ loop will stretch north as far as Guerrero Negro in Mulegé before turning back south, making this one of the most ambitious routes in recent memory.

Meanwhile in Ensenada…

While Los Cabos celebrates, Ensenada faces a bittersweet reality. Right now, the city is hosting the Baja 400 (Sept. 10–14, 2025), part of the current SCORE World Desert Championship. For decades, the Baja 1000 has been Ensenada’s crown jewel—the biggest event the city has, hands down. Losing it will sting.

Critics of the race, however, see things differently. Protests against SCORE events have been growing louder. Residents and activists complain of chaos in the city, environmental damage from tearing up natural landscapes, and frequent dangerous accidents. Still, the economic benefits in tourism, restaurants, hotels, and services are undeniable. Without the Baja 1000, Ensenada’s local economy could feel the shockwaves.

What Comes Next?

The move south marks a bold new chapter for SCORE and for Baja California Sur. Los Cabos gains international spotlight and millions in revenue, while Ensenada faces questions about its future as an off-road capital.

One thing is certain: when November 2026 rolls around, the world’s eyes will be on Los Cabos—and the roar of the Baja 1000 will echo all the way up the peninsula.

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 Articles, Baja Norte, Economy

Baja’s Credit Score Gets a Boost – Just in Time for the Governor

In case you missed it between tacos and sunsets, Baja California just got a financial thumbs-up from Moody’s. That’s right — the international credit rating agency gave the state an A-.mx rating with a stable outlook, which is kind of like getting an A-minus on a math test you didn’t even study for. Except this time, they actually did study. A lot.

This is the highest rating Baja California has received in the last four years, and it didn’t happen by chance. The upgrade is thanks to Governor Marina del Pilar Ávila Olmeda’s administration, which has been slowly climbing the ranks since 2022. Apparently, someone finally decided to stop setting fire to the financial paperwork.

And let’s be honest — this news couldn’t come at a better time for the Governor, who’s been dealing with political turbulence after she and her husband reportedly had their U.S. visas revoked, a move that sent her approval ratings into a tailspin. A shiny new credit rating? That’s a much-needed talking point.

Wait—What’s A-.mx, Anyway?

Before you go thinking Baja is now on par with Switzerland, a quick note: A-.mx is what’s called a national scale rating. The “.mx” means it’s graded relative to other entities in Mexico, not the entire world. So while it’s not the same as a global Moody’s A-, it’s still a very strong sign of financial health — kind of like being voted Most Responsible in a room full of tequila drinkers.

Moody’s gave the nod not just because the numbers looked good, but because the whole plan looked good. The state has been showing what the agency calls “disciplined financial management, strategic investment, and long-term vision.” Translation: They’re not just patching potholes—they’re planning roads that actually lead somewhere.

From Financial Freefall to Surplus

Back in the not-so-distant past (pre-2021), Baja’s credit rating was heading downhill faster than a beer on a beach slope. Investors were nervous, debt was piling up, and confidence was, well, somewhere in the basement.

But Marina del Pilar’s team hit the brakes and flipped the script with a six-year financial plan. The pillars? More revenue, tighter spending, strategic infrastructure investment, boosted social spending, and yes—embracing technology.

And guess what? It worked. The state has racked up three years of financial surpluses, something no one thought possible after back-to-back deficit-heavy administrations. Starting from a BBB rating with a negative outlook in 2022, Baja made it to BBB with a positive outlook by 2023, climbed to BBB+ in 2024, and finally earned the A- crown in 2025.

That puts the state back to solvency levels not seen since 2018. Not bad for a government everyone used to accuse of being more familiar with burritos than budgets.

So, What’s Driving the Recovery?

It’s not just clever accounting. Baja California has a diverse, healthy economy with a solid industrial base. According to Moody’s, the state’s GDP per capita is about 130% of the national average. That’s like saying your piggy bank has more coins than the neighbor’s entire bank account.

Even better? In 2024, 31% of the state’s operating income came from its own revenue, far above the national median. That’s a big deal in a country where many states rely heavily on federal transfers.

How’d they do it? Moody’s credits smart tax reforms and effective collection measures implemented since 2020. In plain English: they found better ways to bring in money without just hiking taxes.

So yes, the boring stuff—like budgeting and planning—is finally paying off. Baja California isn’t just waiting for good news. It’s building it, one spreadsheet at a time.

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 Articles, Events, Rosarito, Sports, Video

Rosarito’s Ultimate Fun Run: ‘Corre con Don Pisto’ Charity Race for Fitness and Community

Rosarito is lacing up its running shoes — or maybe just its walking shoes — for the first ever Corre con Don Pisto, a community race with a cause that blends exercise, charity, and a splash of local pride.

The press conference introducing the event felt less like a stiff announcement and more like a family reunion. That makes sense, because Don Pisto isn’t just a liquor company; it’s part of the Rosarito DNA. For over 30 years, the brand has been pouring not just drinks, but also steady support into local projects.

This first edition is dedicated to Bernardo Pérez, founder of Don Pisto, who passed away two years ago. Pérez was remembered as a strong, athletic, big-hearted man who rarely turned down an opportunity to help his community. His legacy is now running forward — quite literally — through this race.

The Cause Behind the Course

Proceeds will go to DIF Municipal, specifically to bolster rehabilitation services in Rosarito. Plans include a playful outdoor space for patients beginning the tough process of physical recovery, plus a circuit designed to help restore mobility after injuries. Organizers stressed this is more than just a race: it’s a way to fund hope, therapy, and second chances.

The Route & Rewards

The 5.5 km race kicks off September 7th at 8 a.m., starting and finishing at Don Pisto Castillos on Boulevard Popotla. The route winds through key intersections, with local authorities promising full security, ambulances on site, and traffic control so runners (or walkers, stroller-pushers, and wheelchair participants) can move safely.

Cash prizes are on the line: 3,000 pesos for first place, 2,000 for second, and 1,000 for third, with categories for men, women, and wheelchairs. Registration costs $250 pesos per person and can be done at Don Pisto branches, DIF offices, INDER, or even via WhatsApp if you’re out of town. The first 400 finishers will also score a commemorative medal at the finish line.

A Race for Everyone

Worried you’re not fast enough? Don’t be. As organizers said with a smile, “It’s okay, let’s walk. Bring the stroller, bring the dog, bring the neighbor. The important thing is to show up.”

And yes — because this is Rosarito — the press conference closed with an invitation to enjoy a cold Don Pisto beer. After all, it’s not every day you get to hydrate post-race with the sponsor’s finest brew.

So mark your calendars, Rosarito. Whether you’re sprinting, strolling, or rolling, Corre con Don Pisto is your chance to support the city, honor a local legacy, and maybe even earn a medal. Or at the very least, a well-deserved beer.

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 Articles, Cruise Ships, Ensenada

Royal Caribbean’s Navigator of the Seas Makes a Splash in Ensenada

Ensenada’s cruise port got a bit of extra sparkle yesterday with the arrival of the Navigator of the Seas, one of Royal Caribbean’s most iconic vessels. Towering 15 decks above the ocean, this floating resort brought over 3,000 passengers to our charming port city—and we were there to capture it. (Scroll down for our exclusive 360° photo and video!)

The Navigator of the Seas belongs to Royal Caribbean’s Voyager Class and first launched in 2002, though you’d never guess it by looking at her. A major renovation in 2019 gave the ship a full facelift—think laser tag arenas, a blow-dry bar, brand-new waterslides, and a totally revamped pool deck. It’s a resort on water, complete with a three-story main dining room, an ice skating rink (yes, really), and enough food options to keep you full from sunrise to sunrise.

Step into our immersive 360 experience and see the Navigator from the sky like never before. And don’t miss the video to see the excitement unfold in real time:

At over 1,020 feet in length and a gross tonnage of 139,999, this ship is no small visitor. She’s designed to carry more than 4,000 guests at full capacity and operates mainly out of Los Angeles, sailing short trips to the Mexican Riviera, including Cabo San Lucas and—lucky us—Ensenada.

Locals may have noticed the buzz near the Malecón as excited tourists disembarked, flooding the shops, grabbing fish tacos, and hopping onto wine tours to Guadalupe Valley. The ship’s arrival is a clear sign that cruise tourism is alive and well in Baja. Port officials told us the Navigator is scheduled to return multiple times throughout the season, injecting a welcome boost to the local economy.

With ships like this docking in our backyard, it’s safe to say: Ensenada is cruising into the spotlight.

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