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Articles, Breaking News

New Baja Highway to Boost Jobs and Connectivity

Big news, amigos! Ensenada is gearing up for a massive road project that promises to ease your scenic drives while beefing up the job market. The upcoming alternative route to the bustling Scenic Road is not just a pathway; it’s a job creator with over 10,500 positions revving up over the next four years. This was all laid out in a recent morning spiel by none other than President Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo, as part of her grand National Road Infrastructure Program.

The focus of the program? Connectivity, with a hearty side of community support, especially for the areas that could really use a leg up. With a total stretch of 24 kilometers and a hefty tag of 3.5 billion pesos, this two-lane construction dubbed the ‘Bypass from Tijuana to Ensenada’ is set to begin its life as a pile of studies and projects this coming year.

Why all the fuss? Well, apart from making your trips smoother, these roads are part of a much bigger picture. The government’s shelling out a cool 35 billion pesos in 2025 alone, aiming to bridge gaps between communities across the country. By the end of the term, they’re looking at pouring nearly 150 billion pesos into roadworks that span 263 kilometers, including new bridges and roadways that are sure to make life a little easier for commuters and Sunday drivers alike.

President Sheinbaum was clear: this year’s plans are just the start. With decisions made in the spirit of enhancing connectivity and supporting the less fortunate zones, it’s clear that the wheels are turning towards a more connected and cared-for Mexico.

So, buckle up, Baja residents and visitors! New jobs, smoother rides, and better bridges are on the horizon, making sure that whether you’re headed to the beach or back to the border, the road ahead looks promising.

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 Articles, Breaking News

Chinese Tourism: A Golden Opportunity for Ensenada

Chinese tourism is emerging as a significant opportunity for Ensenada and Baja California, with visitors from China spending over $181 million in Mexico during 2023, according to Andrés Martínez Bremer, president of Proturismo. This weekend, he and Mayor Claudia Agatón Muñiz met with representatives from five Chinese travel agencies and influential social media figures as part of a commercial mission connecting China and Ensenada.

Chinese tourists have demonstrated an 8.5% increase in spending compared to pre-pandemic levels, making this demographic a lucrative market for the region. Martínez Bremer emphasized the cultural ties between Baja California and China, reflected in local gastronomy and traditions, and called for enhanced efforts to attract more visitors.

Proposed initiatives include Mandarin signage, tailored hospitality training, and customized culinary options. Digital marketing campaigns and participation in international tourism fairs are also essential to capturing this audience’s attention.

Highlighting events like Chinese New Year and the Lantern Festival, Martínez Bremer proposed a yearly cultural calendar to strengthen ties and create unique tourism experiences. Collaborating with Ensenada’s Chinese community will be crucial in executing these plans.

With its rich cultural, gastronomic, and scenic offerings, Ensenada has the potential to become a favored destination for Chinese travelers, boosting its economy while celebrating its multicultural identity.

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 Articles, Breaking News, Rosarito

Rosarito Rocks the First 100!

Hold onto your sombreros, folks, because Mayor Rocio Adame Muñoz just wrapped up her first 100 days in office, and boy, did she come in like a mariachi band at a quiet dinner! In a recent reveal that had the local crowd buzzing more than a beachside margarita mixer, Rosarito’s fearless leader dished out a hefty list of improvements that have the town talking.

Starting with a crime rate that’s dropped faster than a tourist’s inhibitions during spring break—25% to be exact—Rosarito is now less about “watch your back” and more about “watch this space.” But it’s not all about dodging the dodgy; there’s a whole revamp going on with schools, libraries, and sports facilities getting facelifts that would make Hollywood envious.

The flagship project, Plan 10×100, is a gutsy blueprint touching everything from the ground up. Picture this: El Morro school now has classrooms ready to withstand even the gnarliest rainstorms, thanks to some nifty upgrades. And for the bookworms among us, three libraries have been spruced up, with the Octavio Paz library now a beacon of knowledge and free Wi-Fi.

But wait, there’s more! The Santuario Milly is on the verge of being the next hot spot for our four-legged amigos, and Rosarito’s youth are getting their game on in newly pimped-out sports centers. Let’s not overlook the introduction of ‘Gobierno Móvil,’ a roving government service that’s been making the rounds, making sure the older crowd doesn’t miss out on the action.

Safety’s also on the up, with new security measures that include more lights in dark corners and weekly round-tables keeping the peace. Tourists can now wander a bit more worry-free with bilingual help desks and improved infrastructure to sweeten their stay.

So, while the margaritas are still cold, the future in Rosarito is looking pretty sunny. Here’s to 100 days down and many more bustling, less bumbling days to come! Cheers, Mayor Muñoz!

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 Baja Norte, Breaking News, Weather

Baja California Faces the Big Chill: How Cold is Too Cold?

Baja California, where margaritas flow as freely as the sunshine, is now bracing for a rare visitor: a cold front. Yes, folks, it’s time to put away your flip-flops and dig out that jacket you swore you’d never need. With not one but two cold fronts—numbers 9 and 10—set to crash the party, Baja residents are preparing for a taste of what the rest of Mexico calls “autumn.”

Blame It on the Polar Air

The good news? You’re not imagining things. The bad news? The temperature drop is as real as a frozen margarita in July. The cold front isn’t just a breeze; it’s a full-on polar air invasion. Temperatures are predicted to nosedive, especially in the early mornings when Baja’s usual sunny optimism might feel more like a frosty slap in the face.

Rain? Check. Wind? Double-check. And let’s not forget the chill-factor mornings that will have locals considering—gasp!—buying socks. It’s all courtesy of this polar express, sweeping through Mexico and reminding everyone that, yes, weather does occasionally change.

What to Expect in Baja

While the mainland is dealing with frost and even whispers of snow (seriously, Mexico?), Baja’s unique geography spares us from the worst of it. But don’t get too cozy. Winds will kick up, especially in coastal areas, and morning temperatures are expected to dip below the comfort zone for your average Baja native. You know, the kind who thinks anything below 20°C (68°F) is apocalyptic.

For those in northern Baja, temperatures could hit a teeth-chattering low, especially in Tijuana and Mexicali, where residents might even spot a bit of frost. Meanwhile, in southern Baja, Cabo San Lucas is likely to experience cooler evenings that might finally justify all those outdoor fire pits nobody ever uses.

Will It Snow? Don’t Hold Your Breath

Some parts of Mexico are expected to see snow (hi, Chihuahua and Durango), but Baja is, thankfully, not on that list. Our desert landscape might get a little damp and chilly, but the white stuff isn’t in the forecast. You can safely leave your snow shovel dreams for another day—or decade.

What Should You Do?

First, breathe. This isn’t the Ice Age. Second, enjoy the cooler weather—it’s practically a vacation from Baja’s relentless sunshine. Need tips? Here are a few:

                  •               Dust off that sweater you’ve been hiding in the back of your closet.

                  •               Stock up on hot chocolate—yes, you can still spike it with tequila.

                  •               Take a moment to enjoy how much better your coffee tastes when you can see your breath in the air.

For those running on solar-powered lifestyles, keep an eye on your panels. Overcast skies might affect your energy supply, so don’t be shocked if your favorite device takes a little longer to charge.

Sure, a cold front in Baja might feel like Mother Nature lost a bet, but it’s not all bad. The drop in temperatures means fewer mosquitoes (finally!), and you might even get to light that fancy candle that smells like pine trees for “seasonal vibes.” Plus, let’s face it, the chance to complain about the cold is a refreshing change from griping about the heat.

So, bundle up, Baja! This chill is temporary, and soon enough, we’ll all be back to sweating over our cervezas. Until then, enjoy the novelty of waking up and not immediately regretting life. Just remember: winter is coming—Baja style.

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 Articles, Breaking News

Get Your Holiday Spirit On at the Sassy Holiday Arts and Crafts Fair!

Mark your calendars! The Sassy Holiday Arts and Crafts Fair is back, bringing a festive day of creativity, music, and delicious food to Hacienda 43 on Saturday, November 23, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. This beloved event is the perfect way to kick off the holiday season, whether you’re on the hunt for unique gifts, a fan of live music, or just looking to savor some amazing food.

The day kicks off with Sweet Sixx, blending bohemian blues, reggae, swing, and Latin beats to set the vibe. Then, prepare to be captivated by Derek Wille, an internationally acclaimed musician, producer, and composer whose emotionally rich performances are unforgettable. Finally, soak in the artistry of José Enrique Tovar, a Venezuelan virtuoso with a stunning repertoire, including his “Beatles Tribute.” Proceeds from José’s tips directly support his Academy of Young Soloists in San Felipe, where he teaches music to children for free.

Sassy Fine Art Festival back in June 2024

The fair features 35 talented artists and crafters, offering everything from hand-painted jean jackets by Emma Hernandez to stunning mosaic tile pieces by Mexicali artisans Rubi Guzman and Yaneth Montiel. Returning favorites like Narda Velasco and Marlen Castor will also showcase their exceptional works. Don’t forget to stop by the Facebook page “Sassy Events” to preview the artists and grab a program at the event (while supplies last).

As if the art and music weren’t enough, Chef Santos and his team are serving an all-you-can-eat Italian buffet for just 250 pesos, featuring dishes like Chicken Cordon Bleu, Fettuccini Alfredo, and decadent desserts.

Parking has been expanded this year, making it even easier to enjoy the festivities. Come for the art, stay for the music, and leave with a full stomach and holiday cheer! See you at Hacienda 43!

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 Articles, Breaking News, Real Estate, Rosarito, Tijuana

Baja’s New Luxury Towers “The Wavve” Break Ground

The Wavve, a new luxury residential project by Estrategia Urbana, has officially begun construction on the scenic toll road to Rosarito.

Located in Punta Bandera, at kilometer 18 of the coastal highway, The Wavve will feature two towers, each with 150 apartments offering stunning panoramic views.

Today, Thursday, the ceremonial first stone was placed, with company executives from Estrategia Urbana, Bustamante Realty Group, local officials, and invited guests in attendance.

Notable figures at the event included Arturo Espinoza Jaramillo, Baja California’s Secretary of Infrastructure; Mónica Vega Aguirre, Secretary of Environment; Miguel Aguíñiga, Secretary of Tourism; and Tijuana’s Secretary of Urban Mobility, María del Pilar Vázquez, among others.

Leading the ceremony were Jonathan Cohen, CEO of Estrategia Urbana, and Moises Zapan, the company’s CCO. They expressed their gratitude to local authorities, their clients, and everyone who contributed to the company’s establishment in Baja California. Special thanks went to the construction team working on The Wavve.

Héctor Bustamante, the director of the company managing the sales, announced that 60% of the units have already been sold.

Mónica Vega highlighted the project’s environmental efforts, which include a water treatment plant and solar panels for common areas, showcasing the developer’s commitment to sustainability.

With an investment of nearly 1.5 billion pesos, The Wavve is expected to generate over 450 jobs. According to Jonathan Cohen, this is just the first of several projects planned for Baja California by Estrategia Urbana, a company with over 25 years of experience and more than 70 projects completed in Mexico and the U.S.

More information on the project can be found at www.thewavvebaja.com

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 Articles, Arts & Literature, Breaking News, Ensenada

Valle de Guadalupe Film Festival to Honor Mexican Filmmaker Alfonso Arau

Lights, camera, action! The first edition of the Valle de Guadalupe Film Festival is kicking off with a well-deserved tribute to renowned Mexican filmmaker Alfonso Arau. Known for directing hits like A Walk in the Clouds (starring Keanu Reeves), Zapata: The Dream of a Hero, and the iconic Like Water for Chocolate, Arau has made a lasting impact on Mexican cinema. This special homage will take place on Friday, September 20, at 5:30 PM at the Museo de la Vid y el Vino. 

Arau also holds the unique distinction of being the first to direct famed American director Woody Allen in the film Picking Up the Pieces. Intrigued?

You can learn more fascinating details like this at the film discussion led by critic Ernesto Diezmartínez, starting at 6:00 PM right after the tribute. Following this, the visual artist Julio Orozco will unveil his exhibition “Halls of the Past, Projections of the Future” at 7:00 PM.

To round off the festival’s opening day, there will be a concert of “Great Works of the Seventh Art” performed by the Wind Quintet of the Baja California Orchestra at 8:30 PM. And if that’s not enough, stick around for the video mapping presentation “Libélula” at 10:00 PM.

Best of all? Admission to all these activities is free! The festivities start on Friday, September 20, at 5:30 PM at the Museo de la Vid y el Vino in Valle de Guadalupe. The museum is located at Carr. Fed. Tecate-Ensenada Km 81.3371 Fracc. Norte, 22750 Francisco Zarco, B.C.

For the full festival program, visit: https://festivaldecinevalleguadalupe.com

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 Articles, Breaking News, Ensenada, Events

The 2nd Baja Women’s Conference is Here to Save Your Sanity: Ready to Recharge?

Ladies of Baja, it’s time to dust off your best yoga pants and get ready for a day that’s all about you—no kids, no partners, no to-do lists. Just you, a bunch of like-minded women, and an agenda that’s all about recharging those life batteries. 

Mark your calendars for Saturday, September 21st, because from 8:30 AM to 4:00 PM, the Second Baja Women’s Conference is taking over CEART in Rosarito. Think of it as a spa day for the soul, but with more chakras, a splash of creativity, and a side of salsa—yes, dancing, not the dip.

This isn’t your average conference where you nod off after too much coffee. No, this is a day designed to make you feel like the rockstar you are. Whether you’re looking to rediscover your creative side, sort out your chakras, or just want to have a comfortable chat about sex (because, why not?), there’s something here for everyone.

Sessions will be offered in English, Spanish, and even a bit of Spanglish because we know you’ve got that bilingual game down. Here’s just a taste of what’s on the menu:

Bilingual Sessions: Start your day with Gloria Snyder’s “Women’s Circle,” where you’ll find and strengthen your voice in life, speech, and even song with Carol Clary’s “Find and Strengthen Your Voice in Life, Speech, and Song.” If you’re in need of some serious zen, don’t miss Rose Lee’s “Chakras, Reiki, Singing Bowls.”

English Sessions: Things get spicy with Sherri Jaye’s “A Comfortable Chat on Sex,” where nothing’s off-limits. On the more holistic side, Winifred Morice will dive into “Nutrition: Wellness is an Inside Job,” while Sue McDevitt explores the “Role of Creativity in Self Care.”

For those of you who’ve been carrying the weight of the world, Alice Vernoux’s “Female Myth of Servitude: Reframing the Caretaker Role” is a must-attend. Heal through art with Shauna Robeson’s “Healing Art Therapy,” and learn how to stock a pantry that would make any nutritionist proud with Karen Schuppert’s “Building a Healthy Pantry.” 

If you’ve got some thoughts about your end-of-life plans but haven’t quite put them on paper, Marti and Karri Benjamin will guide you through “Making Your End-of-Life Wishes Known.”  Stress got you down? Maria Denzin will help you balance it all out in “Stress and Creating Balance.” Suzanne Mulroy takes a deep dive into what it means to be truly healthy in “Rethinking Dis-ease and What it Means to Be Healthy.” Marti Benjamin returns with “Flourish: The Science of Well-being,” and if you’ve got some old wounds that need tending, Elizabeth Bello’s “Transforming Trauma to Passion” will show you how to turn that pain into power.

And let’s not forget the often-ignored but totally important topic of menopause and andropause—Dr. Gloria Godinez has you covered in “Menopause and Andropause.”

Spanish Sessions: For our Spanish-speaking sisters, Dra. Gloria Godinez will also be discussing “Entendiendo la Menopausia y la Andropausia,” while Dra. Neblina Ninel Vega Salazar will explore “La Otra Cara de la Depresión.” If you’ve been carrying childhood baggage, Lic. Claudia Araujo’s “Sanando a Tu Niña Interior” is where you need to be. Creativity doesn’t just have to be in English—Sue McDevitt’s “El Papel de la Creatividad en el Autocuidado” will be offered en español as well. 

Gloria Snyder returns with “El Poder de tu Palabra,” a session that will have you owning your voice in no time. And for those looking to reclaim their power, Dra. Elvia Moreno Berry’s “Mujeres y Empoderamiento” and Nina Raffaele Aponte’s “Empoderamiento de la Nutrición Holística” will be essential stops on your conference journey.

But wait, there’s more! The day wraps up with a salsa dancing lesson from the fabulous Gabriela López Arnaut. So, not only will you leave with a recharged mind and spirit, but you’ll also have some new moves to show off at your next fiesta.

Why Should You Care? 

Let’s be real. Life gets hectic. Between work, family, and the occasional meltdown over where to put the avocado toast on the food pyramid, we all need a day to step back and focus on number one: YOU. The Baja Women’s Conference is your golden ticket to do just that. You’ll leave feeling refreshed, motivated, and maybe even a little bit wiser—or at least with a better pantry.

And hey, it’s not just about the sessions. It’s about connecting with other women who get it, who’ve been there, done that, and might even have the T-shirt. This is your tribe, and they’re waiting to meet you.

Tickets are going fast (because who wouldn’t want in on this?), so grab yours online for $65.00. If you’re more of a last-minute planner, they’re $75.00 at the door. Head over to Baja Women’s Conference Website for all the details, session info, and to snag your ticket before they’re gone.

And let’s not forget to give a shoutout to the conference’s advertising sponsor, The Shack Sports Bar and Grill, because nothing says “women’s empowerment” like knowing where to grab a cold one after a day of self-care.

So, whether you’re looking to strengthen your voice, balance your chakras, or just have a good laugh while learning a thing or two, the Second Baja Women’s Conference is where you need to be. This isn’t just an event—it’s an investment in yourself. And let’s face it, you’re worth it.

Don’t miss out on this chance to recharge, refocus, and maybe even learn how to dance like nobody’s watching (but if they are, you’ll be ready). See you there, chicas!

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 Baja Norte, Breaking News, Ensenada, Mexicali, Rosarito, Tijuana, Weather

Baja California Braces for Scorching Temperatures This Weekend

Baja California’s Civil Protection authorities have issued a heat advisory for the upcoming weekend, warning of significantly higher temperatures across the region. Residents are being urged to take precautions and stay safe as the heatwave rolls in.

According to the forecast, Mexicali is set to hit a scorching 47°C, while Tijuana may reach 41°C. Other areas like Tecate, Playas de Rosarito, Ensenada, San Quintín, and San Felipe are also expected to see high temperatures, ranging from 32°C to 40°C.

Officials are advising residents to limit outdoor activities, stay hydrated, and seek cool, shaded places whenever possible. For those who must be outdoors, it’s crucial to take extra precautions like wearing lightweight clothing and carrying water.

In case of an emergency, residents should call 911 or contact local authorities.

Stay safe, Baja California! This weekend’s heat is no joke, and it’s best to be prepared.

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 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.

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