Articles

Articles, Baja Norte, Events

Get Ready for “El Grito”! Mexico’s Independence Day in Baja

It’s that time of year again—when the air is filled with the smell of tacos, the crackle of fireworks, and the undeniable urge to shout “¡Viva México!” at the top of your lungs. Yes, we’re talking about Mexico’s Independence Day! And this isn’t just your regular run-of-the-mill, let’s-light-a-sparkler type of celebration. No, folks, this is big. Bigger than your neighbor’s oversized sombrero, and possibly louder too (Los Ángeles Azules, anyone?).

So, What’s the Big Deal About September 16th?

Let’s clear this up. September 16th marks Mexico’s official Independence Day. If you thought Cinco de Mayo was the big one, well, you’ve probably spent too much time at tourist bars. Independence Day is when Mexico celebrates breaking free from Spanish rule—think of it as the country’s 4th of July but with way more spice. This year’s festivities are packing a punch across Baja, and you’re definitely going to want to be part of it. And lucky for you, there’s no shortage of events to choose from.

The Grito: Not Just Yelling—It’s Patriotic

First things first: the “Grito de Independencia.” If you’re new to the scene, here’s the deal. It all goes down the night of September 15th when local officials (in outfits that put Uncle Sam to shame) step out onto balconies and reenact the legendary call to arms, originally screamed by priest Miguel Hidalgo in 1810. Thousands gather in town squares, and once the cry is done, the party kicks off. Think of it like when the ball drops on New Year’s Eve, but instead of confetti, there are churros.

Baja’s Events—Where to Be and Why

Tijuana: Tijuana is pulling out all the stops this year with Sonora Dinamita leading the celebrations. The event kicks off at 6:00 PM at the Glorieta del Monumento a Miguel Hidalgo, and let’s just say, if you’re not dancing, you’re doing it wrong. With music that’ll have everyone moving, and fireworks lighting up the sky, it’s a fiesta you won’t want to miss.

Rosarito: For those in Rosarito, the Palacio Municipal will host a lively verbena popular starting at 6:00 PM. Expect delicious Mexican street food, traditional crafts, and artisanal goods. Live music will start at 7:00 PM, keeping the energy high until the Grito at 10:00 PM, delivered by the mayor herself. The festivities continue with music until midnight, ensuring a night filled with joy and community spirit.

Ensenada: If you’re in Ensenada, get ready for a traditional Mexican fiesta at the Explanada del DIF Municipal. There’s no big-name performance this year, but the night will be filled with the authentic spirit of Mexico: live music, dance performances, and, of course, delicious street food at 6:00 pm. So, while you may not have Sonora Dinamita to groove to, the atmosphere will more than make up for it with a strong focus on cultural pride and community spirit.

Mexicali: Over in Mexicali, the party’s getting kicked up a notch with Los Ángeles Azules taking over at 11:00 PM. The Grito will be followed by a massive fireworks show, tons of food stands (you’ll want to visit at least twice), and a crowd that’s as lively as the tacos are spicy. If you’re up for a dance marathon under the Baja sky, Mexicali is the place to be.

Now, before you head out to any of these events, here are a few tips to make sure you’re fiesta-ready:

– Wear something green, white, or red. Yes, you’ll feel like you’re auditioning for a Mexican flag-themed pageant, but it’s all in good fun.

– Get your grito voice ready. Whether you’re shouting “¡Viva México!” or something that sort of sounds like it, volume matters. So don’t hold back.

– Pace your taco intake or pozole, tamales chile en nogada, tinga (Almost all mexican plates you can imagine together) . We get it. The sight of freshly made tacos al pastor can make anyone weak at the knees. But if you’re planning to make it through the night, a slow and steady approach will serve you well. Trust us, you don’t want to tap out before the fireworks.

You might be wondering, “Why should I get involved?” Well, aside from the fact that it’s a blast, celebrating Mexico’s Independence Day is a way to connect with the local community. Whether you’ve lived in Baja for years or just touched down last week, this is a moment where everyone comes together, united by good food, great music, and, of course, the love of tequila.

Besides, who doesn’t love a good excuse to party? You can always tell your friends back home that you’re “immersing yourself in the local culture.” You might even learn a thing or two about Mexican history between cumbia beats. But mostly, you’ll leave with a full stomach, new friends, and a head full of fireworks.

So put on your best sombrero, grab your friends, and get ready for a night filled with fireworks, fun, and lots of gritos. ¡Viva México, indeed! 

0 343
 Articles, Breaking News, Wine

UABC Announces the 2024 Mexico International Wine Competition

The Autonomous University of Baja California (UABC), through its School of Enology and Gastronomy, has officially announced the 2024 edition of the Mexico International Wine Competition (MIWC). The event will take place on October 29 and 30, 2024, at the Department of Informatics and Libraries on the UABC Ensenada campus.

The MIWC is set to bring together top-tier wines from around the world, where they will be evaluated by a specialized jury. The competition aims to recognize excellence in winemaking according to international oenological standards, in a setting that promotes transparency, academia, and institutional integrity.

Alejandro Jiménez Hernández, the director of the School of Enology and Gastronomy, highlighted the event’s long-standing history. Initially organized by Baja California’s winemaking sector, the competition has been under UABC’s management for 17 years. The MIWC holds the distinction of being the first international wine competition in Mexico backed by an educational institution and meets the standards of the International Organisation of Vine and Wine (OIV). Faculty and students from various university programs actively participate in the event, reflecting its academic roots.

Jiménez Hernández emphasized the expertise of the judges, who come with extensive national and international experience in the wine industry. This guarantees that the evaluation process will be both serious and objective.

UABC has also pioneered the use of a computerized wine evaluation system, developed in-house. This system ensures the results are processed and announced quickly, demonstrating the university’s commitment to transparency.

Griselda López González, the competition’s technical coordinator, provided details about the registration process, which is open to all winemaking companies interested in participating. Entries must meet specific technical requirements, such as chemical analysis, and wines will be judged in categories like white, red, rosé, sparkling, and sweet wines. López González also mentioned that the registration deadline is September 27, 2024, with entry fees varying depending on the number of samples submitted by each winery.

Winning labels in each category can earn distinctions such as Grand Gold, Gold, Silver, Bronze, and the prestigious Mexico Medal, awarded to the highest-scoring wine in its category. The total number of medals awarded cannot exceed 30% of the total entries, ensuring a selective recognition process. López González added that labels previously awarded in past editions—those with the same name, varietal, or vintage—are excluded from competing again.

UABC encourages regional, national, and international winemaking companies to take part in the MIWC. The competition not only recognizes excellence in wine production but also fosters collaboration and exchange within the industry.

For more information on registration and the competition’s guidelines, visit the official Mexico International Wine Competition website: https://concursodelvino.ens.uabc.mx.

0 233
 Articles, Cuisine, Food

Indulge in International Chocolate Day: A Celebration of Flavor and Heritage

Every year, September 13th marks a sweet occasion that resonates with chocolate lovers worldwide—International Chocolate Day! This delightful day pays homage to one of the world’s most beloved treats, celebrating not just its irresistible flavor but also its rich history and cultural significance. Whether you’re a fan of dark, milk, or white chocolate, this day is all about indulging in the magic of cocoa and appreciating the countless ways it brings joy to our lives. 

Chocolate has a fascinating history that dates back over 4,000 years to the ancient civilizations of Mesoamerica, including the Olmecs, Mayans, and Aztecs. In these cultures, cocoa beans were revered as a gift from the gods, used both as currency and in ceremonial drinks. The word “chocolate” itself is believed to have originated from the Aztec word “xocolatl,” which referred to a bitter, spiced drink made from roasted and ground cacao beans. 

When Spanish explorers arrived in the New World, they were introduced to this exotic beverage and brought it back to Europe, where it quickly became a sensation. Over the centuries, chocolate evolved from a luxury reserved for the elite to a treat enjoyed by people of all walks of life, thanks to innovations in production and the addition of sugar and milk to sweeten its bitter flavor. 

Mexico has played a pivotal role in the history and production of chocolate. Today, the country produces around 28,000 tons of cocoa annually, making it a significant player in the global chocolate industry. The states of Tabasco, Chiapas, and Oaxaca are among the top producers, where traditional farming practices are still used to cultivate high-quality cacao beans. These regions are known for their unique flavors, which reflect the rich biodiversity of the Mexican landscape. 

Mexican chocolate is often characterized by its deep, robust flavor, which comes from a blend of cacao, cinnamon, and other spices. This distinctive taste has influenced chocolate recipes around the world and remains a beloved staple in Mexican cuisine, where it’s used in everything from mole sauces to sweet hot chocolate drinks. 

While chocolate is undoubtedly delicious, it also comes with a surprising array of health benefits, especially when it comes to dark chocolate. Dark chocolate is rich in flavonoids, a type of antioxidant that helps protect your body from damage caused by free radicals. These antioxidants can also improve heart health by lowering blood pressure, reducing cholesterol levels, and improving blood flow to the heart. 

Moreover, chocolate contains compounds that can boost your mood by increasing the production of endorphins, the “feel-good” hormones in your brain. So, enjoying a piece of dark chocolate not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also contributes to your overall well-being. 

Celebrating International Chocolate Day: Share Your Sweet Moments 

International Chocolate Day is the perfect excuse to indulge in your favorite chocolate treats. Whether you prefer a classic dark chocolate bar, a creamy milk chocolate truffle, or a decadent slice of chocolate cake, today is all about celebrating the joy that chocolate brings. 

We’d love to see how you’re marking this delicious day! Share a photo of your favorite chocolate indulgence and tag us on our post in our social media. Let’s create a virtual celebration filled with everyone’s go-to chocolate delights. 

Fun Chocolate Facts to Sweeten Your Day 

– Chocolate as Currency: In ancient Aztec society, cacao beans were so valuable that they were used as currency. For example, you could trade 10 beans for a rabbit or 100 beans for a turkey. 

– A Chocolate Lover’s Holiday: September 13th was chosen as International Chocolate Day because it’s the birthday of Milton S. Hershey, the founder of the Hershey Chocolate Company. His contributions to the chocolate industry have made him a household name. 

– Chocolate’s Role in World Wars: During World War II, chocolate bars were included in soldiers’ rations as a quick source of energy. It was also used as a morale booster, reminding soldiers of home. 

As we celebrate the sweet side of chocolate, it’s also important to consider its impact on the environment and communities involved in its production. Supporting fair trade chocolate ensures that the farmers who grow the cacao beans are paid fairly and work under safe conditions. Additionally, choosing chocolate from sustainable sources helps protect the environment and supports biodiversity. 

So, as you enjoy your favorite chocolate treat today, take a moment to think about the journey it took from cacao bean to delicious delight—and the people who made it possible. 

Happy International Chocolate Day from all of us at Gringo Gazette North! 🍫 

0 234
 Articles, Arts & Literature, Breaking News

Always, Patsy Cline: A Musical Play Review

BY MARTINA DOBESH

Amazing talent hides out in Baja’s coastal hills. Seldom are we treated to having so many gathered together in one room. But the La Misión Performing Arts held at the Quinta Los Defines gave the community a real treat. It was almost like being present at the Grand Ole Oprea. The setting brought everyone up close and very personal for this musical play, Always, Patsy Cline. It brought the local talent together for a humongous production featuring two powerhouse women to carry the load, Ginevra Altomara as Patsy and Lisa Rath as her friend Louise. The show’s title was inspired by Cline’s letters to Louise, which were consistently signed “Love ALWAYS… Patsy Cline.” It is said that “It has that magic ingredient that just draws you in — the friendship of the women, the incredible music of Patsy Cline, and in our space the intimacy of storytelling,” 

The original production opened in 1988 and went on to be an international hit. The musical is based on a true story about Patsy Cline’s friendship with Louise Seger. You might remember some of Patsy’s  most famous songs, I Fall to Pieces, Crazy, and Sweet Dreams. She recorded nearly 100 songs and Ginevra, as Patsy Cline, sang 27 of them in this two-hour performance! Ginevra hit the songs out of the ball park, all the while looking beautiful. The power of her voice astounded the audience. And we wanted to know how was it possible for her to remember all those lyrics?! Each with a wardrobe and scene change. One answer might be the years of commitment to developing her art. 

Photos by Kathey Fatica

Enter stage left is Lisa Rath, as Patsy’s friend Louise Seger who became a fan and had the starstruck good luck to have her idol actually stay overnight in her home. Lisa played her part with big bold brightness. Her blond wig, her bawdy movements had us all captive and laughing. And again, we were flabbergasted that she carried off seven separate dialogues of 330 to 500 words and each lasting about five minutes! This is beyond believable. All this with her own scene and costume changes to remember. Both women were truly remarkable and enthralled the audience with their prowess.

Now it takes many passionate people to produce a musical play. Director Danny Ingersoll exclaimed, “Theatre is magic!” And he has been committed to creating this magic for the community, and proud that he has “learned theatre by doing theatre.” This was a huge production he took on and brought the magic of real life to the stage. One of the brilliant additions were the separate band members playing parts as actors. Usually we never see the band, only hear them as background. Each member has a long list of credits to their names and all very seasoned performers. The “Bodacious Bobcats” all had Bob names for the fun of it. Jim Bob played by Miguel Korsa on Guitar, Billy Bob by Bruce Erickson on lead guitar, Ray Bob, by David Finch on the fiddle, Jay Bob, by Glen Brown, Jr. on Bass Guitar, Bob Bob, by Randy Seol on drums. Joe Bob, was played by Derek Wille a MYNDSTREAM recording artist who made the baby grand piano come alive. All this amazing talent provided the feel of the Gand Ole Opry. Assistant Director Jan Folsom pulled all this together managing the stage. Set design by Michael Fatica were cute little intimate sets for certain scenes. Paul Ross was the set master builder of a flashy juke box and nice detail sets to support all the action. And part of this fun was they called for participation from us to sing along. We would be remiss to not acknowledge the beautiful location provided by David Cattanio of the lovely Quinta Los Defines.

So, could it get any better? You bet! I had been invited to the last dress rehearsal before opening night. Part of that invitation was to follow the cast to Splash where David Finch, “Ray Bob” would take his fiddle to join the master guitarist, Miguel de Hoyos for a jam session. We really got to see David’s fiddle in action to resounding cheers from the diners. David has played beside many diverse artists Alan Cuming, Tony Bennett, and Dee Snider to name a few. He has acted on Broadway and the West End in London, as well as the BBC Symphony Orchestra in London and so much more. 

Of course, we know Miguel! We have come to think of him as our own. He has traveled the world and played for presidents and dignitaries. He has performed more than 80 concerts in Germany. As well as all over Europe and Mexico. He is also known as part of our community and teaches guitar and Spanish to the locals. How could we be so lucky to have Miguel living nearby and playing Wednesday nights for an early evening performance? Well, just lucky I guess. One visitor said that in San Diego his performance would be a $200 gig!

You will want to check in for all the upcoming productions like the Halloween Murder Mystery and other events for the holidays. Check in with David Cattanio at Quintalosdelfines@gmail.com

Editor’s Note: Martina is a freelance writer, columnist for Baja Bound and author of Dust in My Sandals, Tales from a Baja Traveler. Give the gift that keeps on giving to friends and family.

0 396
 Articles, Breaking News, Food, Wine

No Paella Left Behind in the 2024 Paella Contest

BY LUISA ROSAS

If you’ve ever wondered what happens when you mix a competitive spirit with delicious food and fine wine, look no further than the Dr. Ramón García Ocejo Paella Contest. Held on August 18, 2024, at Viña de Liceaga as part of the XXXIV Fiestas de la Vendimia, this event is where paella meets pageantry—Ensenada style. With over 2,500 attendees, it was the talk of the town, or should we say, the taste of the town?

Picture this: a balmy summer afternoon, surrounded by the rolling vineyards of Baja California, shaded by ancient oak trees. Now add 160 different wines from 84 wineries, live music, and 90 teams determined to create the perfect paella. If that doesn’t scream “perfect day,” we don’t know what does.

The Fiestas de la Vendimia aren’t just about drinking wine and eating paella (though, honestly, that’s reason enough to go). It’s also about celebrating Ensenada’s rich culture and deep-rooted traditions. The Paella Contest, organized by Provino Baja California, brings together locals and tourists alike to enjoy the fruits of the region’s labor—literally.

The Competition Heats Up

You might think that making paella is just about tossing some rice and seafood in a pan, but you’d be wrong. Very wrong. These 90 teams took their craft seriously, preparing their paellas with the same intensity as a chef on a cooking show—minus the dramatic background music. The rules were simple: cook the paella in the same-sized pans, with the same amount of rice, and over an open flame. The catch? Impress a panel of judges from the Asociación Gastronómica y de Paelleros de Baja California, A.C. (AGAPE) with the best color, appearance, flavor, and texture. No pressure, right?

The judges used a color-coded system to keep everything anonymous and fair. The paellas were graded not only on taste but also on presentation. After all, you eat with your eyes first, and nothing says “delicious” like a perfectly golden paella, glistening in the sun.

And the Winners Are…

Let’s get to the good stuff: the winners. In the “Quality” category, first place went to San Sebastián, followed by Martes de Ricos and Pacífica at Ensenada Bay in second and third, respectively. For “Presentation,” Los Jacaleros took the top spot, with Vivencias and Tía Margarita rounding out the top three.

What did the winners take home besides bragging rights? Trophies, wine, and, of course, paella pans—because you can never have too many. They also got some stylish aprons, t-shirts, and hats, so everyone knows who the real paella masters are. Thanks to sponsors like Banco Afirme and Distribuidora La Canasta, the lucky teams also received promotional goodies and vouchers totaling 14,000 pesos. That’s a lot of paella ingredients.

Music, Fun, and Family

But the Paella Contest wasn’t just about food and competition. It was a full-blown fiesta, complete with live music on two stages. DJ Robbie Solis kept the energy high with his electronic beats, while Ovejas Negras took us back with some classic rock in both English and Spanish. And let’s not forget La Gran Familia, who had everyone dancing for five hours straight—burning off all that paella, no doubt.

For the younger crowd (and those young at heart), the event featured workshops in arts and mural painting by the Prisma Academy, along with a pétanque game hosted by the Mexican Pétanque Federation. It’s not every day you get to throw metal balls around while your parents sip wine and munch on gourmet rice dishes.

The Grand Finale

Just when you thought the day couldn’t get any better, there was a raffle. Courtesy of the Baja California Sur Tourism Promotion Trust, one lucky attendee won a package for two, including round-trip tickets from Tijuana to Loreto, four nights at La Misión Hotel, dinner at Raíz Restaurant, and a tour of Bahía Loreto National Park. Now that’s what we call a grand finale!

As the 34th edition of the Paella Contest wrapped up, it was clear that the event had once again brought together the best of Ensenada’s food, wine, and culture. The only downside? Waiting another year to do it all over again.

In the meantime, don’t worry—there’s no bad news here, only good times and great food. Cheers to that!

0 291
 Articles, Baja Norte, Breaking News, Wildlife

The Albatross and the Accidental Fame of Julio Hernández: National Geographic’s Unlikely Hero

BY LUISA ROSAS

What do you get when you combine an iconic National Geographic cover, a giant bird, and a man who didn’t see it coming? You get the extraordinary tale of Julio Hernández, the man who just wanted a vacation photo but ended up as the face of an environmental campaign. Yep, life’s full of surprises.

Picture this: It’s 1987, and Julio Hernández, a regular guy from Chile, is just trying to enjoy his trip to Midway Atoll, a remote island in the middle of the Pacific Ocean. His goal? Get a cool photo with an albatross. Simple, right? Well, things didn’t go exactly as planned. The albatross, not one for modesty, decided to steal the spotlight, flapping its massive wings at just the right moment to make Julio look like he had transformed into a birdman.

National Geographic caught wind of this quirky shot and thought, “Why not put this on the cover?” And just like that, Julio Hernández became an environmental icon overnight, completely by accident.

This photo, which has since been dubbed “The Man with the Albatross,” didn’t just go viral before viral was a thing—it also shined a light on the plight of albatrosses and their fight for survival against pollution and overfishing. Julio had no idea that his vacation snapshot would become a symbol for wildlife conservation.

But here’s the twist: Julio’s story didn’t end with that serendipitous snapshot. Fast forward to today, and you’ll find him on Isla Guadalupe, a remote island off the coast of Baja California, Mexico. This isn’t your average tourist destination—it’s a critical habitat for some of the world’s most endangered species, including the majestic albatross.

Julio, now deeply invested in conservation efforts, works closely with Grupo de Ecología y Conservación de Islas (GECI), a non-profit organization dedicated to protecting the unique ecosystems of Mexico’s islands. GECI has been leading the charge in one of the most challenging conservation efforts: saving the endemic bird species of Isla Guadalupe from the brink of extinction.

Isla Guadalupe was once a haven for a variety of bird species, including several that were found nowhere else on earth. However, the introduction of invasive species like feral cats and goats, brought by humans centuries ago, wreaked havoc on the island’s delicate ecosystems. These invaders led to the extinction of several bird species and pushed others to the edge.

Enter GECI and conservationists like Julio, who have spent decades working to reverse the damage. Their efforts have included the removal of invasive species, habitat restoration, and reintroduction programs aimed at bringing native bird populations back from the brink. It’s been a monumental task—one that has taken over 20 years of relentless work—but the results are starting to show.

One of the most significant successes has been the restoration of the habitat for the Guadalupe Murrelet and the Guadalupe Junco, both of which were teetering on the edge of extinction. By eliminating the threats posed by invasive species and carefully managing the environment, these birds are now making a slow but steady comeback.

Julio’s role on the island involves monitoring these bird populations, ensuring that the restored habitats continue to thrive, and educating the public about the importance of conservation. It’s a far cry from the accidental fame he encountered decades ago, but it’s a role he’s embraced with passion.

So, what’s the lesson here? Sometimes, life’s unexpected moments can lead to extraordinary outcomes. Julio Hernández may have stumbled into fame by accident, but he’s now using it to make a real difference. Next time you’re on vacation and snapping photos, remember Julio. You might just end up on a National Geographic cover—or, at the very least, with a great story to tell. And who knows? You might even find yourself inspired to join the fight to protect our planet’s most precious places.

0 319
 Articles, Events, Wine

Muestra del Vino 2024 Brings Wine, Music, and Food Together

The 2024 Fiestas de la Vendimia kicked off this friday August 2nd in style as wine lovers gathered at Ensenada’s Riviera Cultural Center for the much-anticipated Muestra del Vino. Now in its 34th edition, this event showcased some of the best wines that Baja California has to offer. Guests had the chance to sample 168 different wines—reds, whites, and rosés—from various local producers. With commemorative glasses in hand, attendees strolled through the event, stopping at different stations to sip and chat with winemakers. And of course, what’s wine without great food? Over 50 top-notch local restaurants brought their best dishes, pairing perfectly with the wines on offer.

It wasn’t just about the wine. Live music filled the air as guests wandered the scenic gardens and halls of the Riviera Center. From norteño beats to smooth jazz and lively cumbia, the music had everyone in good spirits. And to cap off the evening, Kinky rocked the stage, lighting up the night with their electric performance.

This year’s event wasn’t limited to showcasing Baja California wines. Chihuahua was featured as a guest wine region, adding a bit of variety to the offerings and building connections between different wine-producing areas in Mexico.

If you missed it, don’t worry. Muestra del Vino is an annual must-do. With a ticket price of 1,350 pesos, it definitely was a great deal for a night filled with fantastic wine, gourmet food, and live entertainment. Just remember, it’s an adults-only event—no kids or pets allowed.

Just like every year Muestra del Vino isn’t just a wine tasting event—it’s a celebration of Mexican wine culture, where great flavors and good times come together. Ready for next year?

0 795
 Articles, Breaking News, Food

Happy Birthday, Caesar’s Salad!

The overall, all-time favorite Caesar’s Salad turns 100 years old this year, having been created in Tijuana by Italian chef Caesar Cardini at his Alhambra Cafe. That’s an incredible feat for a dish that uses only a few ingredients: Romaine lettuce, egg yolk, garlic, anchovies, olive oil, Worcestershire, apple vinegar, Mexican lime (limón), croutons and parmesan cheese.

Cardini was an Italian immigrant who moved to Mexico during the prohibition era in the early 1900s. He founded the Alhambra Cafe in Tijuana, which later turned into Caesar’s Restaurant, which still exists to date. There are several versions of how he created the world-famous salad, which is considered a delicacy throughout the world.

One version says that some patrons arrived late at his cafe and he had to come up with something from the leftovers in his fridge. 

Another version states that he was given the recipe by the mother of one of his also Italian cooks. 

Caesar Cardini was immortalized early this month with a statue outside his restaurant, currently owned by celebrity Chef Javier Plascencia, who also owns the Jazamango restaurant in Todos Santos and Animalón in San Jose del Cabo.

0 237
 Articles, Breaking News

Here’s What to Expect When Adopting a Dog in Mexico

BY MONICA BELOT

Life is better when you have a dog with you. Here’s how to make that happen while in Mexico. 

In many Mexican cities, a weekend walk through the park will bring you face-to-face with a sight guaranteed to pull at the heartstrings of even the grumpiest of grinches. Pets up for adoption flank the walking paths, meowing, yapping, and napping alongside their brothers and sisters. Several older dogs wear signs saying, “Adopt me!” in Spanish. The presence of these hopeful pets in public spaces is a concerted effort by the multitude of rescue organizations in Mexico to match an increasing number of homeless pups with loving owners. 

Indeed, many travelers to Mexico have returned home with a canine buddy after falling in love with a friendly stray during a trip. Among them is British actress and activist Emma Watson, who recently shared her positive experience adopting her puppy Sofia from Mexico, calling the pup “an angel, not a dog.” 

Why you should adopt a dog from Mexico. The Wild at Heart Foundation of Mexico estimates over 23 million stray dogs roam the country. In Mexico City alone, authorities have reported capturing and euthanizing a heartbreaking 20,000 dogs per month. Additionally, the lack of comprehensive anti-cruelty laws in the country allows for commonplace neglect and violence towards dogs.

Data from the State of Pet Homelessness Project reveals over 96,000 pups seeking refuge in shelters across Mexico. With one of the highest numbers of homeless animals globally, Mexico significantly surpasses figures in many other nations. Adopting a dog helps save canine lives and enrich our own, too.

Mexi-Canine Friends for Everyone. These distressing numbers are not the only reason to consider adopting a pup from Mexico. The sheer number of adoptable dogs in the country allows for a vast variety tailored to one’s lifestyle, needs, and preferences. Options include hairless breeds for those with allergies, high-energy dogs for active families, or calmer temperaments for more laid-back owners.

Due to the abundance of dogs, Mexico is also home to a diverse range of breeds and mixes less commonly found elsewhere. Adopting a dog from Mexico often allows owners to find a truly unique companion with distinct characteristics.

What It’s Like: Adopting Atlas. My own experience adopting my puppy Atlas from a Mexican rescue has provided useful insights. I’ve learned firsthand that raising a puppy is challenging but rewarding work. It’s a significant responsibility, so ensure you’re well-prepared. Street dogs, in particular, may need time to adjust, but with sufficient love and stability, they can become irreplaceable, adoring family members.

After attending puppy adoption events and browsing Instagram accounts of Mexican rescues, my partner and I came across an Instagram post from @adopta.mx featuring an irresistible Silver Lab mix pup (then called Luke). We instantly fell in love and reached out to the organization to ask about the next steps. They had us complete an application and conduct a brief interview where we demonstrated our preparedness and commitment to raising a puppy. We were approved within a few days.

The Pick-Up. In our case, since we lived in Mexico City, we were able to grab an Uber and head to a small residential town about 45 minutes outside of the city. When we received our pup, he was tiny, skinny, and shaking. He peed on my lap during the ride home. 

The following weeks were an anxious whirlwind as first-time puppy parents. We fretted over every detail, wondering if we were providing the proper care. Atlas suffered bouts of diarrhea, nipped incessantly (as puppies do), and swallowed anything on the floor he could fit in his mouth. In one particularly harrowing incident, I rushed him to the vet in a panic after finding one of my candy-colored earplugs in his stool. Despite our worries and with our vet’s guidance, Atlas has grown into a healthy, friendly, and feisty little guy. 

The Basics of Adopting a Dog from Mexico – Step by Step: While there may be some variations, the general process for adopting a dog from Mexico is similar across most rescues. 

Finding Your Furry Companion: The process typically begins by finding a credible rescue organization through online searches, social media, or word-of-mouth recommendations. Adoptist, Adopta.mx, Alamos Dog Foundation, Pets. Yuri, and Caravana Canina are good starting points. Thoroughly vetting the rescue is crucial and reputable organizations should have details on the animal’s medical history and behavior and be able to guide you through the adoption and travel process. If adopting while abroad, select a rescue experienced with sending pets to your country, as they can assist with all the required paperwork, vetting, crates, airport protocols, and customs procedures.

If you’re searching for a pet while outside of Mexico and are unable to meet the pet in advance, be sure to gather as much information as possible to carefully vet whether the dog is the right fit for your family. Ask the rescue for additional details like videos, information on the parents, and behavioral notes. 

In cases where you find and fall in love with a stray dog while in Mexico, the requirements differ slightly but adopting is still fairly straightforward. Take the stray to a local veterinarian to have its health assessed and begin the vaccination process. If possible, try partnering with a local rescue to assist with the process or temporarily care for the animal until it can travel to its new home.

Interviews and Paperwork: Many rescues will require you to fill out a form with questions about yourself and the dog’s future home to ensure it is being placed in a safe environment. They’ll assess if you’re a good fit by asking about previous pet ownership, your preparedness for the responsibility of a dog, reasons for adopting, and your commitment to keeping the pet for life. Other common questions include whether you can provide a comfortable sleeping area and if you are financially stable to care for a dog. Many rescues also request a future commitment to spaying/neutering if the dog is not already sterilized. Some organizations conduct phone or video call interviews, offering an opportunity to ask your questions and demonstrate your readiness to adopt. 

Vaccinations and Checkup Requirements: Most countries mandate a rabies vaccine and health certificate from a veterinarian before entering. Be sure to give yourself enough time to get any vaccines if needed. The health certificate required is typical, like a canine’s yearly “physical”. Oftentimes, the veterinarian will give you something called a “carnet” or a passport-like book with a record of the dog’s vaccinations. Be sure to have the original and make an extra copy.

If traveling to the U.S., you’ll need a certificate showing the rabies vaccine was given within 12 months but over 30 days before the flight. Once you show this document, your dog will also need to pass a physical exam.

Bringing Your Dog Home

If adopting a puppy, aim for them to be at least 4 months old to ensure they’ve completed their initial round of vaccinations. Driving is the easiest to avoid the complexity of air travel, but if flying, book the most direct route possible to minimize stress for your canine companion. For most airlines, small dogs may fly in-cabin if their total weight with the carrier is under 20 lbs. Otherwise, they’ll ride in a specially allocated cargo space. Be sure to check your airline’s pet policies and your country’s regulations regarding quarantines (which are rare, but sometimes happen).

If you’re adopting a dog from outside of Mexico and cannot pick it up yourself, work with the rescue to arrange a “flight angel” escort. Many rescues have volunteers who assist by accompanying animals on their journey to the new home. You’ll be responsible for covering the airline’s pet fee, any applicable import taxes, and meeting the volunteer escort at your arrival airport to welcome your new furry family member.

Enjoy and Love: Finally, be sure to enjoy your new canine companion. Let us know about your experience adopting a dog from Mexico in the comments below!

Monica Belot is a writer, researcher, strategist and adjunct professor at Parsons School of Design in New York City, where she teaches in the Strategic Design & Management Program. Splitting her time between NYC and Mexico City, where she resides with her naughty silver labrador puppy Atlas, Monica writes about topics spanning everything from the human experience to travel and design research. Follow her varied scribbles on Medium at https://medium.com/@monicabelot.

This article was originally published in MexicoNewsDaily.com and is reprinted with permission.

0 379
 Articles, Breaking News, Real Estate

Remax Baja Realty Expands to Todos Santos, Baja Sur

Remax Hidden Paradise Arrives in Todos Santos to Revolutionize the Local Real Estate Market

The magic of Todos Santos merges with the experience of Remax in the newly inaugurated Remax Hidden Paradise office. Located in the heart of our Pueblo Mágico, the agency promises to become a benchmark for those looking to buy or rent properties in the region.

With a team of highly trained professionals and extensive knowledge of the local market, Remax Hidden Paradise offers comprehensive services to meet the needs of its clients. Whether you dream of a beachfront villa in Los Cabos, a refuge in the Todos Santos desert, or an investment in the growing La Paz market, this new office will provide you with the necessary advice and support at every stage of the process.

“Mariela Frias, said, “We are excited to bring the Remax brand to Todos Santos and contribute to the development of this unique community. Our goal is to offer a service of excellence, based on trust, transparency, and commitment to our clients.”

The opening of Remax Hidden Paradise marks a milestone in the real estate market of Baja California Sur, expanding the options and opportunities for those looking to settle or invest in this privileged region.

For more information, visit the Remax Hidden Paradise office in front of Banorte, or call +619-632-70-45.

0 194
Send this to a friend