Articles

Baja’s Film Fest That Actually Feels Like Baja
 Articles

Wine, Movies, and Magic in the Valle

A festival worth swirling over

I’ve never been to a film festival like this—and honestly? It looks amazing.

From September 26 to 28, the Valle de Guadalupe will host the second edition of the Festival Internacional de Cine del Valle de Guadalupe (FICVG). If you’re thinking red carpet and awkward speeches, think again. This is Baja, after all.

Instead of glitter and egos, you’ll find wine, cinema, art, and native culture—all beautifully blended, much like the Syrah-Cabernet mixes this valley is known for.

What makes this event different?

To begin with, the entire festival is themed around wine. Not just as a drink, but as a lifestyle, a landscape, and a source of local pride. Whether you’re a filmmaker or a Merlot fan, there’s something here for you.

The event includes free film screenings, workshops on writing and editing, an art exhibit by Julio Orozco, and yes—brunches and themed dinners that sound too good to miss.

Moreover, the festival includes a spiritual ceremony led by native communities, reminding us that this land has stories older than cinema itself.

This Isn’t Just a Film. It’s a Homecoming.
#A still from “Kumeyaay Land,” one of the most intimate films ever shot in Baja. No filter needed—just truth and tenderness.

Who’s showing up?

For one, Sergio Arau and Yareli Arizmendi, the creative duo behind A Day Without a Mexican, are debuting scenes from their new documentary, The Mexican Files. That alone should get your film-loving heart racing.

In addition, expect appearances by director Carlos Bolado, producer Salvador Aguirre, and actor Jesús Ochoa. If that name sounds familiar, it’s because he’s been in everything. (And probably in your aunt’s novelas too.)

Also featured is the 2024 film Amor a Fuego Lento, with director René Bueno, producer Barbarella Pardo, and actress Isaura Espinoza joining the conversation.

It’s more than a red carpet

According to Nora Bringas, the festival’s coordinator, FICVG is as much about inclusion as it is about cinema. Pueblos originarios will not just be honored—they’ll participate directly through ceremonies, handmade crafts, and community spaces.

This mix of film, culture, and local tradition is exactly what makes FICVG unique. It’s not just another stop on the festival circuit. It’s a window into Baja’s heart.

The festival is co-produced by Carlos Sarabia and Bringas, with support from Virgilio Muñoz and the Fundación Alberich. Institutions like COLEF, the Secretaría de Cultura, Secretaría de Economía, and local wineries are also on board.

Why should Baja care?

For starters, this event puts Valle de Guadalupe on the global cultural map—not just the wine map. And that’s a big deal. It adds depth to what tourists (and even locals) expect from the region.

In fact, over 1,500 people attended last year’s first edition. Organizers aim to beat that number in 2025. While most activities are free, the fancy brunches and dinners require a ticket. Worth it, if you ask me.

Beyond tourism, the festival fuels something deeper: pride in Baja’s diversity, creativity, and voice. And yes, it’s okay to enjoy that with a glass of Tempranillo in hand.

🗓️ Event Snapshot

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Tijuana’s Viaduct Rises Above the Border Wall
 Articles

New Tijuana Viaduct: So Close, Yet Matadero

Tijuana’s sky-high road project is nearly finished—91% complete, to be exact. But it comes with a twist: the elevated viaduct will no longer reach Playas de Tijuana as originally planned.

Wait… It Doesn’t Go to the Beach Anymore?

Correct. The project will now end at Cañón del Matadero, cutting out the final 1.5 kilometers that would have taken drivers straight into Playas. That change reshapes traffic expectations, especially for locals who were counting on a smooth, direct bypass.

The Big Picture: Still a Game-Changer

Stretching about 10.5 kilometers in total (before the trim), the viaduct offers more than 6.5 km of elevated lanes. It’s designed to connect the Otay area to the western side of the city, avoiding the slow grind through downtown. This should dramatically reduce drive times for commuters, airport travelers, and anyone who dreads the Vía Rápida crawl.

Construction is in the hands of SEDENA, Mexico’s military engineers. And they’ve moved fast. Columns, beams, and the primary structure are in place. What’s left? Paving, ramps, signage, and final safety tests.

Officials still expect it to open by late 2025 or early 2026.

Toll Booths? Not Here


Let’s settle this once and for all: no tolls. That rumor’s been dead since 2024—when the president shut it down. We covered it. You’re welcome.. No concessions, no surprise fees, no “express lane” pricing. This road is funded by the federal government and built for public use.

The materials? All made in Mexico. That means no tariff drama, no import delays, and fewer budget headaches.

It’s one of the few roads where you won’t have to pay in time, tolls, or sanity.

Viral Collapse Video? Nope.

You may have seen the clip floating around social media—a structure buckling, people gasping, dramatic captions. The rumors? False. The viaduct didn’t collapse.


That viral video? It captured a crane collapse during a concrete pour—not a structural failure. The columns didn’t flinch, the platform stayed put, and no one was hurt. Big projects like this come with big equipment, and sometimes that equipment fails. But the viaduct? Still standing. Still solid.

Traffic Fallout for Locals?

The rerouted design raises concerns for residents near Soler and El Mirador. With the project ending short of Playas, local streets could take the hit, absorbing diverted traffic that was meant to glide over them.

City officials haven’t offered a full traffic mitigation plan yet. So while the viaduct solves some problems, it may create others. As usual, it’s complicated.

Is It Still a Win?

Yes. Even trimmed down, this elevated route will shave time off daily commutes and keep cars out of the urban bottleneck. You’ll still get faster access from the airport and major corridors.

Just don’t expect to coast all the way to the malecón. You’ll need to finish that leg the old-fashioned way—through city streets and with a little patience.

Final Thoughts

At 91%, this mega-project is almost ready. With SEDENA at the helm, federal funds backing it, and local steel holding it together, it’s one of the most ambitious infrastructure efforts in recent Baja history.

So what do you think?

Still excited about Tijuana’s sky highway—even if it makes a slightly earlier exit?

🛣️ Watch the updated video and see for yourself.

📰 Gringo Gazette North – No Bad News

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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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Independence by the Sea
 Articles, Ensenada, Events

Everything You Need to Know About Ensenada’s Oceanfront Grito

Independence With a Splash
For the first time in history, Ensenada will shout “¡Viva México!” with the Pacific as backdrop. On September 15, thousands will gather at Playa Hermosa for the Grito de Independencia. Forget city hall balconies—this year, the waves get the VIP seats.

Mayor Claudia Agatón Muñiz invited the community to join, promising an event that mixes civic pride with beachside charm. Moreover, the celebration kicks off at 7 p.m. with a monumental stage, fireworks, and Mexican pop star Edith Márquez.

Edith by the Ocean

Fans can sing along as Edith Márquez performs hits like “Mi error, mi fantasía” and “Mírame.” Meanwhile, the Pacific will provide the best natural backdrop in Baja. In addition, organizers say the concert crowns a night of patriotism, music, and oceanfront vibes. Best of all, admission is free.

Edith Márquez Rocks Ensenada
#The voice, the hits, the drama—Edith Márquez brings her magic to Playa Hermosa for a free concert under the stars

The First Lady of the Grito

This year also makes history. Claudia Agatón will become the first woman to lead the Grito in Ensenada. Furthermore, she emphasized Playa Hermosa as a symbol of local pride and identity. Translation: Ensenada just upgraded its party credentials.

Food, Drinks, and the Crowd Factor

Naturally, no fiesta is complete without food stalls and drinks. Expect tacos, elotes, and more—at prices that won’t ruin your mood. At the same time, thousands are expected to fill the coastal zone. Therefore, the city rolled out a special traffic plan.

From north to south, lanes on Boulevard Costero will close between Esmeralda and Estancia. However, the south-to-north lanes will remain open, easing circulation. In addition, officers will help direct traffic to prevent chaos in nearby streets.

#
Good news, drivers. The south-to-north lanes on Boulevard Costero stay open during the Grito. You’ll still move—slowly, but you’ll move.
Northbound Closed for the Party
#Heads up! North-to-south lanes on Boulevard Costero close between Esmeralda and Estancia. Plan ahead or spend Independence Day parked.

Safety First, Fiesta Second

Authorities also boosted security. In total, 120 officers will patrol the festival, supported by cameras, a drone, and security arches at entrances. Consequently, visitors can focus on the fireworks and music, not on their wallets.

In addition, mobile units and checkpoints will ensure the party remains family-friendly. The goal is simple: keep the mood festive, safe, and loud enough to drown out the waves.

A Free and Open Party

The schedule starts at 7 p.m. with local bands. Then comes the Grito led by the mayor, followed by fireworks, and finally Edith Márquez rocking the beachfront stage. And remember, no ticket is needed—entry is completely free.

Why It Matters

Patriotic celebrations happen everywhere. Nevertheless, Ensenada is adding a twist by moving the fiesta from the city center to the coast. As a result, locals can celebrate Independence Day in a way that reflects the city’s identity.

So pack your flag, your appetite, and maybe a folding chair. Because this Independence Day, Ensenada is offering fireworks, music, and ocean views—without charging a peso.

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Governor and Military Commanders Map Baja’s Next Security Moves
 Articles, Security

Baja Wins Big with Record Meth Bust, $640M Lost

Meth Mountain Meets Its Match

Baja California just pulled off a drug bust that makes Netflix narco-dramas look tame. Between October 2024 and August 2025, authorities seized 20 tons of methamphetamine. Yes, tons—the kind you measure with cranes, not kitchen scales.

Governor Marina del Pilar Ávila Olmeda announced the haul, proudly stating it dealt cartels a $640 million punch in the wallet. Moreover, officials said the losses are crippling enough to make cartel accountants weep.

A Big Jump in Numbers

According to Mexico’s Defense Ministry (SEDENA), the seizures represent a 382 percent increase compared to the same period last year. Consequently, authorities credit tighter coordination between federal, state, and local forces. For once, everyone played on the same team—and it showed.

Ensenada Bust Steals the Spotlight

One recent example made headlines: Defense forces and the National Guard stopped two vehicles near Ensenada. Inside, they discovered more than 3,600 kilograms of meth. As a result, cartels lost another $116 million.

For Ensenada residents, this means fewer shady deliveries speeding past vineyards. Instead, bottlenecks return to being about corks, not kilos.

Numbers that Matter

Ávila stressed these aren’t just statistics—they’re lives impacted. The government’s push aims to keep drugs off the streets, and the results already echo across Baja. In fact, in President Claudia Sheinbaum’s latest report, homicides dropped 25 percent nationwide. Meanwhile, Baja managed a sharper 36 percent decrease.

Sure, a single percentage point won’t earn you a taco discount. Nevertheless, these drops translate into quieter neighborhoods and fewer sirens interrupting carne asadas.

The Team Effort Angle

Ávila praised the combined strength of military, federal, and state forces. She framed it as proof that teamwork really does make the dream work—even in crime fighting. Additionally, she emphasized the mission remains clear: “tranquility and peace” for Baja families.

No Time to Relax

Despite the wins, the governor warned the state will not relax the fight. Instead, every available resource—human, technological, and probably caffeinated—will stay in play. Consequently, Baja’s message to organized crime is simple: don’t unpack those yachts just yet.

We’ve covered similar stories before, showing how Baja’s security strategy has moved from patchy crackdowns to coordinated efforts. Therefore, while skepticism remains, the numbers suggest the tide is shifting.

A Rare Kind of Good News

In a state often making headlines for crime stats, these figures feel refreshingly different. Indeed, the fight isn’t over. Still, Baja’s record seizures mark a small but solid victory.

And in a region where good news is as rare as free Nebbiolo at a wine festival, that’s worth raising a toast.

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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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Baja Rallies for Organ Donation
 Articles

Baja Boosts Organ Donation with Bold New Plan

Nobody likes waiting lists. Not at Costco, not at Starbucks, and definitely not when you need a kidney. That’s why Baja California’s State Transplant Council met under the slogan “For a Mexico Without a Waiting List.” The goal: to make organ donation as natural as tacos on a Tuesday.

Leaders Take the Stage

Rosa Erro Aboytia, director of Mexico’s National Transplant Center, led the event with steady conviction. She stressed the importance of cadaveric donations, better hospital access, and smarter transport systems. Imagine an organ flying across town while stuck in the same traffic as your Uber Eats. Not ideal.

She also called on med students to become champions of donation. These are the future doctors, surgeons, and health leaders. If they don’t talk about it now, who will spread the word later? Convincing college kids that organ donation matters may not sound glamorous, but saving lives usually isn’t.

A System That Actually Works

Néstor Saúl Hernández Milán, Baja’s Subsecretary of Health, explained that building a transplant culture requires everyone on deck. It’s not just about the person holding the scalpel. Lawyers, administrators, and logistics staff must also move fast when an organ becomes available. Otherwise, life-saving opportunities vanish.

He emphasized the need for more histocompatibility labs—fancy science rooms where doctors check if an organ and patient are a match. Without them, organs can’t be used in time. “We’re rolling out the ‘Código Vida’ system in hospitals,” Hernández said. That’s a rapid-response alert that activates every step of the process. When an organ shows up, the system blinks like Vegas. And this time, the jackpot is life.

Campaigns, Corneas, and College Leaders

Nelly Razo, technical secretary of the State Transplant Council, kept the optimism rolling. She highlighted fresh awareness campaigns, the long-awaited UABC cornea bank, and the training of university leaders to spread the gospel of donation. Getting students involved means a whole new generation ready to carry the message. Because organ donation shouldn’t be an awkward conversation—it should be part of everyday talk, like debating who makes the best fish tacos.

The cornea bank in particular is a big deal. With more donations, people suffering vision loss could receive transplants without having to wait years. For many, that means regaining independence. Imagine going from blurred shadows to seeing sunsets in Ensenada or the waves in Rosarito again. That’s the real payoff.

Everyone Was in the Room

The event wasn’t just another government meeting with coffee and pastries. Representatives came from UABC, the Red Cross, public and private hospitals, Certus Labs, the State Attorney’s Office, IMSS, ISSSTE, ISSSTECALI, and DIF. Even the Baja California Congress’ health commission made an appearance.

Civil associations also joined in, proving this isn’t a one-agency show. Basically, if you sneezed in Baja’s health system, someone in that room said “Salud.” That kind of collaboration is rare and worth bragging about.

Why It Matters

Here’s the reality: Mexico still struggles with transplant availability. While thousands are on the waiting list, donations are limited, and time is unforgiving. Every organ lost because of red tape means another family left waiting. Baja California’s push to speed things up could make a dent in those numbers.

And remember, organ donation isn’t only about kidneys and hearts. Corneas, skin, bone, and tissue all matter. They can improve lives in ways we often overlook.

Organs You Can Donate
#From heart to skin, these are the organs and tissues that can be donated to give others a second chance at life.

Toward a Future Without Lists

The mission is ambitious: fewer delays, fewer wasted organs, and more patients given a second shot at life. Baja California is betting on better coordination, faster systems, and a culture where donation is the norm.

It’s a tall order, but hey—if we can keep our phones charged 24/7, surely we can keep hearts beating longer too.

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 Articles, Rosarito

Dreaming off the Grid, A Family takes the Leap, Part 2

By Martina Dobesh


Since the family found water on their property, they went to work creating their first garden. It
was a steep learning curve. During the dry season, the garden became a virtual foodie-heaven for the
wild critters and the neighbor’s cows. Annel shared, “We had worked so hard and were so proud of our
flourishing first garden. We admired it as we drove passed it into town.” She stops and gulps, “But when
we returned the garden was gone! The cows had destroyed it.” Annel moaned, “I have never been so
devastated in my entire life.” This followed with battling the rabbits and mice. If you are committed to
living in harmony with the land that sustains you, poison is not the first thing you want to reach for.
Poison disrupts nature in ways rarely thought about in urban communities. When a mouse or rat has
just eaten a poison pellet, it becomes a death meal for an owl or hawk. When your water comes from
ancient aquifers you become very careful about what you put in the soil.
For power Drew had two small solar panels and a couple of batteries. But he wanted something
more adequate. Living off the grid doesn’t mean what it used to in the old days. Now there is the
worldwide web and invisible information flying through the air. Drew said, “I went to work online to find
how to build a solar system large enough for our needs.” He grinned, “It turned out to be really easy just
following the directions. But I did blow out the battery when I first connected everything!” He added,
“One thing you have to learn when you live so away from the city; you can’t just jump in the car make a
quick run into town. You must begin to think differently. There has been a lot of trial and error.”
Of the three most important things for living, water, power and what to do with the poop.
Usually, people don’t need to know what to do with “it.” However, off the grid “it” can’t be overlooked.
Our intrepid family bypassed the old fragrant outhouse method. They chose a composting toilet that is
in harmony with nature, preserve water, and prevent water pollution.
Sasha, now 12 is a respected working member of the family and is hands-on learning the family
business. She attends a five-day online school with changing subjects; sketching, painting, marketing,
first aid, science, public speaking, and entrepreneurship. Good old fashion outdoor fun is known to be
the healthiest activity for the young. Sasha thrives in Mother Nature’s school with her friends. Bright
minds explore the sunrises and sunsets, the moon in its cycles, the star filled night skies and rainbows.
This family has already stretched the boundaries together, but they are not done dreaming.
Currently, they have returned to their earlier success story. Their outdoor kitchen, Alumina Sagrada
translated Sacred Alchemy is open. Drew explained. “We always wanted to bring people back to the
table to share a meal.” The menu features home-crafted meals. Drew looked at his wife, “Annel is the
visionary and I have crazy ideas. We are being called to follow them.” Annel smiled, “We have merged
our goals with our dreams.”
info@alquimiasagradabaja.com
AlquimiaSagradabaja.com

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Fresh Sheets, No Surprises
 Articles

The Easy Way to Keep Baja Hotels Safe and Clean

Summer is over, but dirty sheets aren’t part of the vacation package

As summer winds down, the Baja California State Commission for Protection against Sanitary Risks (COEPRIS BC) is turning up the heat on hotels. After all, tourists expect sandy beaches and tacos, not food poisoning. When hotels skip the basics—clean sheets, pest-free rooms, safe kitchens—guests can do more than roll their eyes. They can file an official complaint.

Training at the Caliente Hotel

Recently, 20 employees at Tijuana’s Caliente Hotel and Casino sat through training led by COEPRIS BC. Instead of learning how to fold swans from towels, they covered Mexico’s Normas Oficiales Mexicanas (NOMs).

For example, hotels must keep a cleaning log. This includes records of room sanitation, fumigation, and air filter cleaning. Without these steps, pests like bedbugs could turn a weekend trip into a nightmare.

Clean Baja Hotels Protect Guests with Strong Rules
#Clean Baja Hotels Protect Guests with Strong Rules

Hygiene Rules Are Not Suggestions

One of the most important regulations is NOM-251-SSA1-2009. It sets hygiene practices for kitchens, from hand washing to grease traps. Food must be stored properly. Meats and dairy go in the fridge, vegetables must be washed, and even cans need cleaning before opening.

Because of Tijuana’s summer heat, poor storage can spoil food quickly. That means tacos that bite back.

Laundry Rooms Matter Too

Guests often overlook the laundry area. However, clean towels and crisp sheets don’t just appear by magic. Machines require regular maintenance, detergents must actually clean, and linens should smell like soap, not mystery mildew.

Other Rules That Hotels Must Follow

Beyond NOM-251, several NOMs keep the tourism industry safe:

  • NOM-245-SSA1-2010 sets pool hygiene standards. No one wants to swim in bacteria soup.
  • NOM-06-TUR-2017 requires hotels to meet minimum standards in hygiene and safety.
  • NOM-07-TUR-2002 forces hotels to carry liability insurance. If something happens, guests aren’t left with the bill.
  • NOM-10-TUR-2001 protects tourists with clear contracts. No fine-print traps.

Together, these rules keep vacation fun instead of risky.

How to Spot a Problem

Look around your hotel room. If you see dust on the fan, smell revenge in the bathroom, or notice shiny food under heat lamps, something is wrong. In these cases, your hotel may not be following the NOMs.

What Guests Can Do

Guests are not powerless. If you spot dirty rooms, pests, or spoiled food, you can act.

  • File a complaint online with COFEPRIS.
  • Or call 800 033 50 50 (only available in Mexico) for help.

These are legal obligations. Therefore, hotels that fail to comply can face real consequences.

Why It Matters for Baja

Tourism keeps Baja alive. Visitors want tacos, tequila, and sunsets—not stomachaches or bug bites. Also, hotel hygiene protects the region’s reputation.

One bad review about cockroaches can spread faster than a hurricane. In today’s travel world, cleanliness is marketing.

Know Your Rights

When you book a stay, remember:

  1. You deserve safety. NOMs are mandatory.
  2. Contracts must be clear. No vague charges.
  3. Insurance is required. Hotels must cover accidents.
  4. Food must be safe. Strange smells or pests? Report them.

GGNorth Bottom Line

Vacations should bring memories, not medical bills. If sheets smell funky, the pool looks cloudy, or the food seems risky, don’t ignore it.

File a complaint. Hotels that break the rules need more than bad Yelp reviews. They need accountability.

So when you check in, remember: margaritas are optional, hygiene is not. Baja deserves better, and so do you.

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HARVESTS
 Articles

Drink, eat, and dance at Casa Luna’s Harvest Bohemia

If you think Valle de Guadalupe is all fancy bottles and whispered tasting notes, think again. Viñadas lifts the dust off the vineyards and invites everyone to sip, chew, and laugh through the valley.

Behind it is Emprendedores del Valle de Guadalupe A.C., a coalition of over 200 local businesses: farmers, winemakers, chefs, brewers, hoteliers—all working together to prove wine culture can be fun and welcoming.

A Saturday for the senses

On September 6, Casa Luna hosts the first edition of Cosecha Bohemia. Tickets are 200 pesos. That buys a welcome glass, free tastings from 2–3 p.m., and access to a feast that feels like a tour of the valley itself.

Pork roasted vuelta y vuelta spins until it gleams bronze, smoky as a campfire night. Lamb tacos arrive dripping, earthy, and comforting. Ceviches sparkle like shards of citrus sunlight. Sushi rolls line up like bright mosaics. Paella steams golden with saffron, heavy and generous. Pizzas bubble with blistered crusts, the kind you burn your tongue on but forgive instantly. And then the cheese boards—little landscapes of nutty, creamy, salty bites waiting for the next sip.

#HARVESTS 2025

Wines worth discovering

You’ll taste pours from Vinos ATP, Don Tomás, Contemplación, Meléndez, Xaroma, and Maglén. These aren’t names plastered on every list, but some already shine.

Full disclosure—I haven’t tried them yet. I plan to on Saturday. Let’s discover together, one pour at a time.

Music, family, and bohemian flair

Wine is just the start. Live music and a bohemian-style show will set the rhythm. Families stroll. Couples dance. Friends laugh between bites, already promising to return for the next Viñada.

This is what Viñadas does best: make the valley approachable. Some say the experience has grown costly. Here, you get another way in—authentic, joyful, and not heavy on the wallet.

A calendar worth following

Cosecha Bohemia is one stop on a twelve-date journey. From May through November, Viñadas spreads across wineries, restaurants, and ranches. Each event blends wine, gastronomy, and culture, keeping weekends full and glasses never empty.

Collaboration is the valley’s secret ingredient. Together, the entrepreneurs keep Guadalupe vibrant, ensuring visitors leave with stained lips, full bellies, and stories worth retelling.

So mark the date. Casa Luna will be ready—doors open, music playing, and a glass waiting in your hand.

Tickets and info: edvg.mx or (646) 103 7653.

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