Articles

The Beat Begins on Revolución
 Articles, Music, Tijuana

Why the World Keeps Singing About Tijuana

The Musical Magnetism of Tijuana

It all started with a message from reader Sergio J. Castro. He sent me a curious discovery: a band called The Rebels of Tijuana. Sounds like they should be playing surf-rock at a dive bar on Revolución, right? Well, not quite. They’re from Geneva, Switzerland. They sing in French. And according to their label, they mix psychedelia, folk rock, pop, and Latin jazz — no tequila-soaked mariachi solos in sight.

Sergio’s find made me dive into a musical rabbit hole. Apparently, the world has an ongoing crush on Tijuana, using the name as a muse, metaphor, or marketing hook.

Not From Here, Yet All About Here

There’s a Tijuana Cartel in Australia, a Tijuana Panthers in California, a Tijuana Brooks in Japan, and even Dukes of Tijuana rocking somewhere in Germany. There’s also Boston’s Tijuana Sweethearts — because apparently, no one can resist a little border flavor.

And then, of course, there’s the real deal: Tijuana No! and Los Tucanes de Tijuana, both proudly local and unapologetically loud. Herb Alpert’s Tijuana Brass made the name famous in the 60s, and decades later the fascination continues — from Europe to Spotify playlists full of “Tijuana” in every other title.

So why Tijuana? What is it about this messy, melodic border town that makes even Swiss musicians hum in French about it?

So, Is “Tijuwant” a Genre?

Not yet — though give us time, and someone will surely try.

“Tijuwant” isn’t a style; it’s a feeling. The term was coined by an Australian band, Didion’s Bible, in a song that turns the city’s name into a verb:

“I Tijuwant ya / I Tijuwant ya so bad / Do you? / Tijuant me too?”

It’s not about rhythm; it’s about desire — that restless urge to cross borders, to live the chaos, to feel the push and pull of two worlds colliding.

Most of these songs aren’t written in Tijuana. Many of the artists have never even been here. But the name evokes something universal: danger, freedom, neon lights, and tacos at 2 a.m. It’s the same fascination that made Hemingway romanticize Havana — only here, the soundtrack includes banda trumpets, surf guitars, and car horns.

Blame It on the Border (and the Beat)

Tijuana’s musical magnetism comes from its contradictions. It’s the city where you can hear a brass band and a techno DJ sharing the same block. The place smells like carne asada and sea salt, where Spanglish is its own instrument.

Artists sense that. They feel the border’s tension, the resilience of its people, and the stubborn joy that keeps the city dancing even when headlines scream otherwise.

Herb Alpert saw it in the 60s; Los Tucanes live it daily. And somewhere in Geneva, those Rebels of Tijuana probably dream of Baja sunsets they’ve never seen — yet somehow sound like they have.

So… Do You Tijuwant Ya?

Whether you’re into jazz, rock, or regional Mexican beats, the Tijuana Effect keeps echoing worldwide. There’s even a Spotify playlist with over 260 songs that mention the city — in English, Spanish, French, Turkish, and Italian.

Because Tijuana isn’t just a place. It’s a state of mind — one that can’t be confined by a border fence or a genre label.

So thank you, Sergio J. Castro, for reminding us that even when the world gets noisy, Tijuana still sets the rhythm.

Hit play. You might just Tijuwant ya too.

The Pulse of the Border City
Where chaos meets charm — downtown Tijuana spins to its own tune, one honk and taco at a time.

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Calle Segunda Takes the Wheel
 Articles, San Diego, Tijuana

New SENTRI Route Gives Border Crossers Hope for Shorter Waits

UPDATE OCT/29/2025: We had previously stated that the SENTRI traffic was moving from Blvd. Padre Kino to Calle Segunda, authorities have now confirmed to us that the new Calle Segunda SENTRI lanes will be IN ADDITION to the ones already available at Blvd. Padre Kino.

Starting mid-November, SENTRI traffic will have additional lanes on Calle Segunda under a four-month pilot to unclog the world’s busiest border.

If you’ve ever crossed back into USA on a Sunday night, you know the smell of despair — exhaust fumes mixed with cheap coffee. We at Gringo Gazette North know it too. Many of our readers — and yes, our reporters — have survived those endless lines crawling toward San Ysidro, trapped somewhere between Spotify playlists and lost patience. You’ve probably seen our Instagram stories from those traffic purgatories, headlights melting into infinity.

That’s why this time, we’re cautiously hopeful. Maybe, just maybe, this new border plan will save us all a few hours — or at least a few nerves.

What’s changing

Come mid-November 2025, Tijuana plans to roll out new SENTRI lanes on Calle Segunda and move All Traffic over to Paseo de los Héroes. Officials describe it as a four-month pilot project designed to untangle congestion at the world’s busiest border crossing. If it works, the setup may become permanent by spring.

The plan’s goal is simple: reduce the massive queues clogging Padre Kino and Vía Rápida, where traffic can stretch all the way to Lázaro Cárdenas High School.

Interactive map detailing current and new Sentri routes. Current Sentri route shown in red, new one shown in green.

Why now

According to Pedro Montejo Peterson, Tijuana’s Secretary of Economic Development, the data made the decision obvious. “Four times more vehicles use SENTRI than general lanes,” he explained. “So we flipped the layout to match demand.”

It’s a rare case of logic in government form. The move also reflects months of coordination with U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), whose staffing levels often determine real-world wait times.

Years in the making

This change didn’t appear overnight. Since 2024, city engineers and border task forces have studied lane flow, traffic density, and the impact on local businesses. For years, SENTRI lanes were limited to Padre Kino, even though demand ballooned. Now, after two studies and multiple consultations, the city finally pressed “go.”

Local business leaders support the effort. “Every minute lost in line is money lost for both sides of the border,” said a member of Tijuana’s Chamber of Commerce. With over 70,000 vehicles crossing daily, improving flow isn’t just about convenience — it’s about keeping the region’s economy breathing.

What people are saying

Regional outlets like Telemundo 20, SanDiegoRed, and Uniradio Baja confirmed the timeline and route changes. The reaction? Mostly relief — with a healthy dose of skepticism. Drivers welcome any solution, but they’ve heard promises before. For now, the plan’s success depends on clear signage, driver cooperation, and a touch of border magic.

What it means for crossers

Here at Gringo Gazette North, we’ve lived those epic waits ourselves. Our team has spent hours inching forward with only podcasts and sarcasm for company. So we’ll be watching closely to see if Calle Segunda becomes the miracle lane we’ve all been praying for.

For SENTRI users, the change could save precious minutes heading north. For “All Traffic” drivers, the hope is less chaos — and fewer wrong turns. Still, expect a learning curve as everyone adjusts to the new route.

City officials promise daily monitoring during the pilot phase. Adjustments will be made as needed, and by early next year, Tijuana will decide whether to make the move permanent.

A cautious optimism

No one expects miracles overnight, but this is the most promising attempt in years to restore flow to San Ysidro. If the experiment works, it could mark a rare moment where border bureaucracy bends to common sense.

And if it doesn’t? Well, you’ll probably see us back in line — phones out, documenting every inch of progress (or lack thereof) for your reading pleasure.

2 1522
Words Turn to Water in La Rumorosa
 Articles, Tecate, Water Watch

Tecate’s Picachos Finally Feel the Flow of Hope

It’s not champagne they’re toasting with in Picachos—it’s running water. After 15 long years of dry promises, the mountain community in La Rumorosa finally hears a new sound: clean water flowing through pipes and into their homes.

The State Water Commission of Tecate (CESPTE) has started the first stage of a long-awaited project that’s turning words into water and patience into progress.

From Waiting to Flowing

For years, families depended on water trucks that arrived whenever luck allowed. Deliveries were uncertain, and storage barrels ran dry faster than paychecks. Because of that, daily routines revolved around rationing and improvising.

Now, that long thirst ends. CESPTE’s new system installs 764 meters of hydraulic PVC pipe, a valve box, a fire hydrant, and 31 home connections. These may sound like technical details, yet for more than 120 neighbors, they represent dignity—and relief that doesn’t come by the gallon.

Turning Promises into Pressure

CESPTE Director Alex Castro explained that the plan was presented in July and is already in motion. “We shared the project with residents, and now it’s real,” he said. Considering typical government timelines, that’s record speed.

The investment—almost 2.5 million pesos—doesn’t just pay for pipes. It pays for trust restored. For the first time in years, residents see that something promised is actually delivered.

When Water Works Begin, Flags Rise in Tecate
Local leaders wave the start of something that actually matters — the long-promised water project for Picachos finally in motion.

A Plan That Finally Connects

This effort aligns with Baja California’s 2022–2027 State Water Program, led by Governor Marina del Pilar. The initiative aims to make clean water a universal right rather than a luxury. Moreover, Tecate’s own Urban Development Plan identified Picachos as a critical zone for basic services, so this project hits a long-standing target.

In addition, the new hydrant improves safety. That’s a big deal in mountain areas where dry winds turn small sparks into wildfires faster than anyone can call for help.

Small Changes, Big Difference

Turning a faucet may seem routine to most people, but for Picachos, it’s a daily victory. Now, families can brush their teeth without counting liters. They can wash dishes without guilt. They can finally take a real shower instead of pouring water from a plastic drum.

As a result, health, hygiene, and peace of mind rise together. Clean water not only hydrates—it dignifies.

When Hope Finally Pours

This first stage might look modest, yet it sets a strong precedent for what’s possible. Because once a community learns that persistence pays off, it rarely stops asking for more progress.

In Tecate, the hum of new pipes has become a soundtrack of renewal. It’s not just infrastructure—it’s faith restored, drop by drop.

Sometimes, hope doesn’t trickle—it pours.

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The Trail Begins with a Conversation
 Articles, Baja

Zelzin Aketzalli Walks the Length of Baja

When people say they want to “see Baja,” they usually mean a wine weekend in Valle (not my fault) or a quick flight to Cabo. But Zelzin Aketzalli isn’t most people — she’s walking it. All 2,117 kilometers of it.

A Journey Born from Grit and Blisters

The 34-year-old trailblazer from Mexico City just started her hike from Tecate to Los Cabos — solo, on foot, and with a pack lighter than your average beach tote.

Her goal? To chart Mexico’s first official long-distance hiking route, the Baja California National Trail.

If her name sounds familiar, it’s because Zelzin already made history. She’s the first Mexican to complete the Triple Crown of U.S. hiking — the Appalachian, Pacific Crest, and Continental Divide Trails. That’s 12,000 kilometers of endurance, grit, and way too many protein bars.

Now she’s taking that experience back home. Her mission is to show that Mexico’s landscapes aren’t just beautiful — they’re built for world-class adventure.

The Launch Baja Spirit Meets Global Vision

Her expedition began in Valle de Guadalupe, during a press event hosted by Baja California’s Secretariat of Tourism. Indigenous communities joined the ceremony to bless her journey, while Kous Kous del Valle filled the air with Moroccan spices and Anatolia Winery poured the first toast to the trail.

“This is more than a walk,” Zelzin said. “It’s a journey through identity, nature, and the strength of women who lead the way.”

Zaida Luz López Sánchez, Secretary of Tourism, called it a milestone. “She embodies the strength and resilience of Mexican women,” she said. “This project will place Baja on the global adventure map.”

Trail, Land, and People

The route snakes through the Sierra de San Pedro Mártir, crosses the Peñablanca mountains, and dives into the Sierra Giganta before reaching Los Cabos. She’ll walk through deserts, forests, and sacred indigenous lands — the real Baja, raw and unfiltered.

But this isn’t about glory or fame. Zelzin spent months meeting with local native groups like the Kumeyaay and Pai Pai, asking for permission to cross their lands and discussing how tourism can help them thrive.

“Before opening trails for visitors,” she said, “we must ask locals what they need — water, electricity, opportunities. Locals first, tourists later.”

A Film That Listens

The project is being documented in a feature film titled BST, short for Baja California National Trail. Zelzin directs it herself with filmmaker Julián Velasco, who insists it’s not just about walking — it’s about listening.

“If your documentary doesn’t change you,” Velasco said, “you weren’t really paying attention.”

The film will capture more than landscapes. It will weave together voices from across the peninsula — people, stories, and cultures that make Baja what it is.

Ready to Walk Baja
Zelzin Aketzalli stands at the start of her 2,117-kilometer journey, armed with a backpack, hiking poles, and a quiet kind of courage.

The Road Ahead

Zelzin expects the trek to last five or six months, although, as she puts it, “the mountain decides the pace.” Every step will be mapped, filmed, and shared online to inspire support for the trail and the communities it touches.

She’s not chasing records — she’s building a legacy. If she succeeds, Mexico could soon have its first official national trail, a route that combines adventure, culture, and pride.

“This is history in the making,” she said. “If I make it to Los Cabos, we all make it together.”

Some chase sunsets. Zelzin walks straight into them — forty kilometers at a time.

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 Articles, Ensenada, Off-road races

Baja 1000 Returns to Downtown Ensenada with a Roar

The Baja 1000 is coming home. After years of debate and environmental hurdles, Ensenada’s mayor Claudia Agatón Muñiz has officially greenlit the return of the race’s start and finish lines to the city’s iconic Arroyo Ensenada. The decision came after SCORE International presented its long-awaited environmental impact authorization—something race fans have been crossing their fingers for.

Mayor Agatón called the move a win for both the city and spectators, saying the arroyo setting will offer unbeatable views for the live broadcast, photos, and videos that circle the globe each year. She added that her administration is working closely with SCORE International to roll out a reinforced safety plan to protect both racers and the thousands of spectators expected to flood the route.

The arroyo section will begin at Primera Street and wrap up just before Calle Ámbar, bringing the action right into the heart of Ensenada. And the lineup? Packed. So far, more than 150 teams from around the world have signed up—representing countries like Australia, Japan, New Zealand, Spain, Peru, the United States, and of course, Mexico.

According to Mayor Agatón, the 58th edition of the BFGoodrich Tires SCORE Baja 1000 is set to give Ensenada’s tourism a strong year-end boost, with an estimated $10 million in economic impact expected between October 25 and November 16.

If you’ve ever wanted to feel the ground shake as the world’s toughest off-roaders tear through Ensenada’s dry riverbed, this is the year to do it. Just bring earplugs, sunscreen, and maybe a spare sense of sanity—because the Baja 1000 doesn’t do quiet.

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After Years of Bumps, Blvd. 2000 Gets a Real Fix
 Articles, Tijuana, Transportation

Tijuana’s Blvd. 2000 Finally Gets a Smooth New Start

If you’ve ever driven down the infamous Blvd. 2000 in Tijuana, you’ve probably asked yourself if your car’s suspension deserved such punishment. Between the potholes, cracks, and random dips, the so-called “express route” connecting Tijuana to Rosarito has been anything but express. But after years of complaints, memes, and broken shocks, the long-awaited reconstruction finally began—and this time, there are actual machines moving, not just promises.

A Road Long Overdue for Help

According to Arturo Espinoza Jaramillo, head of the state’s Infrastructure and Urban Development Secretariat (SIDURT), the official work started on September 15, 2025, along the stretch between the second and fourth kilometer marks of the boulevard. Crews are currently clearing the central median, removing old light posts, and leveling the ground for what will become the first stage of new confined lanes.

That technical term basically means lanes designed to better separate heavy traffic from everyday commuters—something anyone who’s been tailgated by a loaded semi will appreciate. The goal: make this chaotic highway safer and faster for everyone.

What’s in the Plan

This first stage covers 12 kilometers of the total 40 that make up Blvd. 2000. Yes, only 12—but hey, at least it’s a start. As every local knows, the road stretches from the free road to Tecate all the way down to the Tijuana-Mexicali toll booth, and eventually connects to Rosarito. Fixing all of it at once would be ideal, but we’ll take progress over perfection.

SIDURT’s plan includes:

  • Full rehabilitation of existing lanes.
  • Reconstruction of access points and U-turns.
  • Installation of new lighting and drainage systems.
  • And, believe it or not, a three-for-one tree replanting program to replace vegetation removed during construction.

If all goes according to schedule, the project should wrap up by early 2027.

Why It Matters

For years, Blvd. 2000 has been the lifeline between the growing eastern suburbs of Tijuana and the coast of Rosarito. Every day, over 120,000 vehicles travel this route—commuters, families, truckers, and yes, the occasional overconfident Uber driver. But its poor condition turned what should have been a 25-minute drive into a daily obstacle course.

The road’s cracks weren’t just cosmetic. They slowed emergency services, damaged vehicles, and frustrated everyone who depended on it. So, for locals, this project isn’t just about asphalt—it’s about finally seeing public investment where it’s needed most.

A Greener Side of Progress

One of the most interesting parts of the plan is environmental. SIDURT announced that for every tree removed from the central divider, three new ones will be planted in nearby parks. In a city where construction often wins over nature, that’s a refreshing idea—if they actually do it. Tijuana residents have learned to celebrate promises cautiously, but at least this one sounds like a step in the right direction.

Drive Safe, People

Espinoza Jaramillo also asked drivers to behave like civilized humans during construction. That means slowing down, respecting cones and signs, and resisting the urge to test whether their car can jump over heavy machinery. Accidents have been common in the area, and a little patience now could mean a much smoother ride later.

What’s Next

The crews are currently focusing on the northern section of the boulevard, but SIDURT says a southern work front will open soon. Once both sections are underway, residents should see noticeable improvements in traffic flow.

It’s hard not to be a little skeptical—after all, Tijuana drivers have seen their share of half-finished projects—but something about this one feels different. Maybe it’s the scale, or maybe it’s the fact that people have stopped rolling their eyes and started taking pictures of actual progress.

The Big Picture

Whether you call it Corredor 2000 or Blvd. 2000, it’s the same battered road locals have cursed for years. The official name sounds fancier, but everyone from cab drivers to delivery trucks just calls it “the two-thousand.” And while 12 kilometers of repair won’t change everything overnight, it’s a visible start—proof that the government finally noticed that eastern Tijuana exists.

When finished, the boulevard should be smoother, safer, and maybe even a little greener. Drivers will spend less time dodging craters and more time actually getting somewhere.

Sure, we’d love to see all 40 kilometers rebuilt, but as every Tijuanense knows: you can’t drive the whole road until someone fixes the first stretch.

For now, engines are rumbling, dust is flying, and optimism—believe it or not—is back on the road.

After years of bumps, Blvd. 2000 gets a real fix
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United for a Safer Rosarito
 Articles, Rosarito, Security

A Safer Rosarito Begins with a Single Step

PLAYAS DE ROSARITO — This time, the police didn’t show up with flashing lights or handcuffs. Instead, they brought flyers, smiles, and a mission: to build trust with the community.

The State Citizen Security Secretariat (SSCBC) and Rosarito’s local police organized a march of recognition through the Real de Rosarito neighborhood. Their goal was simple—to bring safety information directly to families and strengthen the culture of prevention.

Walking the Talk

Officers from Baja’s Violet Squad joined local police and crime prevention staff for a neighborhood walk. Together, they visited homes and small businesses, greeting residents and sharing practical safety advice.

They encouraged people to use 911 for emergencies, 089 for anonymous reports, and the official mobile security apps. With these tools, residents can respond faster and feel more protected in their daily routines.

Building Awareness and Confidence

Moreover, the team focused on identifying the roots of violence rather than just reacting to it. They explained how to recognize early signs of abuse—physical, emotional, or financial—and where to seek help when needed.

“Safety begins with awareness,” said one officer. “When people understand the signs, they can protect themselves and their neighbors.”

During the walk, residents asked questions, voiced concerns, and shared personal experiences. As a result, the exchange turned into something more meaningful—a bridge of trust between locals and law enforcement.

Trust That Stays on the Streets

Because the SSCBC plans to continue these visits across other neighborhoods, this won’t be a one-time event. The idea is to stay close, listen often, and work hand in hand with residents. After all, a friendly conversation can go further than a patrol siren.

As one neighbor put it, “We’ve seen patrol cars drive by for years. This time, they stopped and talked. That’s new—and it matters.”

Through these actions, Rosarito is proving that prevention doesn’t just live in offices or press conferences. It lives in the streets, between people willing to look out for each other.

Real security isn’t about fear. It’s about connection, cooperation, and trust.

No Bad News.

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Ensenada Cruises Past One Million Visitors
 Articles

Ensenada Sets Sail with a Million New Visitors

Ensenada just hit another milestone—over one million cruise visitors in a single year. That’s right, more than a million sunscreen-scented travelers in Hawaiian shirts stepped onto our shores, proving that when it comes to cruise tourism, Baja’s got serious pull.

According to Baja California’s Secretary of Tourism, Zaida Luz López, the record was sealed on October 9 when the Navigator of the Seas from Royal Caribbean docked. That single arrival pushed Ensenada past 1,009,128 passengers for 2025, outpacing last year’s total and reaffirming the city as Mexico’s cruise queen of the Pacific.

“Ensenada stands as the leading port on Mexico’s Pacific coast,” López said. “We’re delivering unforgettable experiences and strengthening our global competitiveness.”

Ships Mean Pesos

Behind those shiny numbers lies a lot of cash flow. Cruise passengers might only stay for a few hours, but they sure don’t do it empty-handed. According to Mexico’s Ministry of Tourism, each visitor spends about $75 to $100 USD during a stop. Multiply that by a million, and it’s no wonder Ensenada’s souvenir shops, taco stands, and wineries are smiling.

Locals feel it too. From the tamal lady who parks her cart near the port to the guides shouting “La Bufadora tour, amigos!”—everyone gets a slice of the floating pie. The flow of visitors boosts restaurants, wineries, hotels, and transport services. Even Uber drivers are getting more five-star ratings (and more sand in their back seats).

  • A View Worth a Million Visitors
    The Ensenada coastline from above — where desert meets sea, and cruise ships keep the city thriving
  • Sun, Smiles and Shore Leave
    Happy cruise visitors explore Ensenada’s port, fueling local businesses and Baja’s booming tourism.

Baja’s Big League Ports

Ensenada isn’t sailing alone in this success. Only Cozumel and Mahahual, both in Quintana Roo, share the same million-passenger bragging rights. Together, these three ports handle over 70% of Mexico’s cruise tourism. But Ensenada offers something neither of its Caribbean cousins can: the taste of Baja—where the sea breeze smells like salt and Sauvignon Blanc.

Here, cruise passengers can hop from a port margarita to a vineyard Nebbiolo within 30 minutes. It’s not just tourism; it’s an experience that goes from sea spray to grape tannins in one afternoon. And that mix—ocean blue and wine red—is what sets Baja apart.

Teamwork at the Dock

This record didn’t appear out of thin ocean mist. It’s the result of teamwork between the state government, ASIPONA (the Port Authority), and the Ensenada City Council. Over the last few years, they’ve worked to improve docking facilities, streamline logistics, and polish the city’s reputation as a safe, organized, and genuinely welcoming destination.

Ships keep coming back because Ensenada makes it easy. Ports are efficient, tours are smooth, and the tacos never disappoint.

Beyond the Horizon

The impact goes far beyond the coastline. The Valle de Guadalupe wine region has seen an increase in tastings booked by cruise passengers looking for a sip of Baja’s terroir before sailing away. Local artisans report better sales, and more families depend on tourism-related jobs.

Baja California isn’t just riding a wave of success—it’s steering it. The millionth passenger is more than a number; it’s proof that the region’s charm, flavor, and effort pay off.

So yes, while Cozumel might have turquoise waters and Mahahual its coral reefs, Ensenada has personality—and wine—and that’s a winning combination.

When the next ship pulls into port, raise a glass. Because in Baja, even the tides bring good news.

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 Articles

The Myth of Thousands Living on Tijuana’s Streets

If you’ve lived in Tijuana long enough, you’ve probably heard it. Someone mentions downtown, and suddenly the conversation turns into a guessing game about how many people live on the streets. The numbers get bigger with each retelling. Two thousand, three thousand, maybe more. Everyone seems sure, but until recently, nobody actually knew.

That changed when the government decided to find out the hard way. Not with statistics or estimates, but by walking the streets at night and counting every person they could find. They called it the First Nocturnal Census, and it took place in the city’s toughest areas — Zona Norte, the downtown corridor, and the neighborhoods of Playas de Tijuana and San Antonio de los Buenos.

More than 400 public workers joined the effort, including nurses, social workers, and police. They went out with flashlights, clipboards, and patience. What they found wasn’t what anyone expected. Instead of thousands, there were 338 people living on Tijuana’s streets. About 70% were men and 30% women. Most were from other Mexican states, and only one person was from another country, Honduras.

That number may sound low, but it comes with an important caveat. The census only counted people sleeping outside. It didn’t include those staying in shelters, rehabilitation centers, or with friends. It also didn’t include anyone who refused to talk or was already asleep. Even so, it shattered the myth that the city’s homeless population had ballooned into the thousands.

One of the coordinators, Beatriz Olivares, said the team found people from nearly every state in Mexico. Some had been in Tijuana for years, others had just arrived hoping to cross the border, and a few had been deported and had nowhere else to go. A handful were reunited with their families, including a teenage girl who was placed back into the care of the DIF after being found alone on the streets.

The numbers also told a more complicated story about addiction. Only a small fraction of those counted used hard drugs. About 73 people reported using marijuana, 112 drank alcohol, and 31 had accidentally become addicted to fentanyl after being sold drugs laced with it. That last part says a lot about how easy it is for someone’s life to collapse here. Not all of them chose addiction. Some just didn’t know what they were buying.

Then there’s the question of disability. The census found more than 100 people living with physical, visual, or mental disabilities while on the street. Many couldn’t walk well, some couldn’t see, and a few were diabetic and in need of insulin. That night, doctors treated wounds, gave out medicine, and even performed minor procedures right there on the sidewalk.

The real surprise wasn’t in the data, but in what it disproved. Officials had been told that up to 3,500 people were living on the streets of Tijuana. Some local YouTubers and commentators claimed the city was a “zombie zone.” The census walked those same streets and found something very different — a harsh reality, yes, but not the apocalypse people had been describing.

What this effort showed is that rumors grow faster than facts, especially in border cities where the line between perception and fear blurs easily. It also showed that the government, for once, is trying to base social programs on real numbers instead of recycled assumptions.

The next census is scheduled for December. This time, they’ll expand into the eastern neighborhoods, places like La Presa and Otay Centenario. The goal isn’t just to count people again, but to track whether anyone from the first round is still on the streets, or if they’ve found help.

Tijuana still has a homelessness problem, but maybe not the one everyone imagined. It’s not a tidal wave of lost souls; it’s a steady trickle of people slipping through the cracks, one by one. And for the first time, someone is out there counting them, not to shame them, but to bring them back into view.

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 Articles, Events, Wine

Day of the Dead Ensenada Brings Wine and Catrinas Alive

Every November, Ensenada trades plastic pumpkins for marigolds and good wine. The town doesn’t do gloomy. It paints its face, raises a glass, and celebrates life with style. The Day of the Dead in Baja isn’t ancient tradition, but it’s quickly becoming one—thanks to the crew at Provino Baja California.

This year marks the fourth edition of the Velada Cultural del Día de Muertos at Bodega Santo Tomás, a venue that always feels half winery, half movie set. What started as a cultural experiment in 2022 has turned into the grand finale of Provino’s calendar. And honestly, who wouldn’t want to end the year with a toast to both ancestors and vineyards?

The Afternoon of Offerings

The day begins with Tarde de Ofrendas, a free event at Plaza Santo Tomás from 2 to 7 p.m. The plaza bursts with color—papel picado sways in the breeze, children chase each other with churros, and someone’s abuela insists you try her tamales.

For grown-ups, 120 pesos buys a tasting card with three pours of Baja wine. That’s not indulgence; that’s cultural participation. “We wanted to mark the end of the grape harvest and pay tribute to our origins,” said Héctor Corona, Provino’s treasurer.

This edition also celebrates 25 years of Provino and 35 years of the Vendimia festivals. More milestones mean more toasts, and no one in Ensenada is complaining.

Two spirits, one celebration—where wine meets Wixárika art under a sky of papel picado.



When Night Falls, the Catrinas Arrive

As daylight fades, the Noche de Catrinas begins inside the historic cellars. The setting glows with candles, laughter, and the faint clink of wine glasses. Tickets cost 1,200 pesos and include a commemorative glass, unlimited tastings, and access to over 100 wine labels from 48 Baja wineries. Think of it as trick-or-treating for adults—no cavities included.

Food lovers are in for a treat too. Twelve restaurants, including Comal, Terranoble, MIHLE, and Malva, will serve up comfort classics like tamales en mole negro, tortas de chilaquil, and the traditional pan de muerto. Soft, buttery, and sugar-dusted, it tastes like nostalgia with a side of powdered sugar.

A Guest with Spirit

This year’s guest state is Nayarit, bringing its culture, art, and rhythm to the mix. The highlight is a breathtaking altar that fuses Baja’s wine heritage with Wixárika (Huichol) artistry. Each bead and stitch tells a story—of stars, spirits, and the cosmos. It’s not decoration; it’s devotion in color.

Music, Art, and Magic in Motion

Music fills every corner. Mariachi Tlaquepaque, Melissa Carrasco’s trio, and Son del Puerto set the tone, blending tradition with joy. The Danzares de Nayarit troupe adds a dynamic touch with their performance, “Nayarit, el México por descubrir.” It’s a show full of movement, folklore, and heart.

Meanwhile, local women artisans from Ensenada’s cartonería workshop will display their handmade Catrinas. The star of the show? A monarch butterfly–inspired figure unveiled at the press preview. Each piece is available for purchase, supporting the artists and their craft—proof that beauty can also be community work.

Fewer Guests, More Charm

Last year, the event packed 600 attendees. This time, organizers capped it at 500 lucky souls to make the experience more personal—and to improve everyone’s selfie angles. Tickets are available at provino.mx, Hotel Coral y Marina, Cava Santo Tomás, and Provino’s office.

“Every year, more people show up painted,” said Juan Carlos Ochoa, Provino’s General Manager. “It’s what gives the night its magic.”

So, bring your face paint, your grandmother’s earrings, and your favorite wine buddy. The Velada isn’t about mourning. It’s about celebrating life—Baja-style. Bright, bold, and slightly buzzed.

A Huichol jaguar, a skull-labeled wine, and a wooden barrel—Provino Baja brings color, culture, and Cabernet to Ensenada’s Day of the Dead celebration.
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