Reina Calafia 2009: Fhannya Urbina from Carnaval La Paz, photo by Fernando Sanchez Bernal, La Paz, Baja, Mexico
February and March are a festive time in Baja California Sur with Carnaval La Paz, the Todos Santos Art Festival with the Artist’s Studio Tour, and the Festival de Cine de Todos Santos.
There is still plenty of music going on and two theater plays—one in Todos Santos, “To Salsa with Love,” and another in Los Barriles, “Aloha, A Hawaiian Night’s Dream.” “To Salsa with Love” has a special Valentine’s showing with dinner starting at 6 pm.
You can also enjoy a Valentine’s Dinner in one of the most romantics places in Baja at Hotel Guaycura. The three course dinner menu, specially prepared by Chef Jean Pequignot, is 480 pesos.
See “Events” for more information.
BOA kayak on the Sea of Cortes, La Paz, Baja, Mexico
Baja Outdoor Activities (BOA), the local sea-kayak outfitters based in La Paz, are thrilled by the rebound of interest in sea-kayaking expeditions in Baja. Owner, Ben Gillam, testifies that part of the growth is due to an increased awareness of just how amazing the Baja wilderness is, “sea-kayaking offers a unique and unobtrusive way to explore some of the most spectacular wilderness areas that we have right on our doorstep, well, just outside the back door.” These days it’s a common occurrence to paddle-board alongside a 25’+ whale shark or to be sea-kayaking in amongst a pod of dolphins or a passing sea-turtle. You just have to get outside to enjoy it firsthand! For the rest of this season (until mid-May) BOA is enticing locals to join them by offering a 20% discount on various sea-kayaking expeditions. Contact office manager Beatriz Loubet soon at Beatriz@kayactivities.com or (01-612) 125-5636. To join the BOA community send a friend request to http://www.facebook.com/baja.outdoor.activities or peruse their Baja adventures on www.kayakinbaja.com
Phil and Flute, Sierra de la Laguna, Baja, Mexico
After you kayak around the islands in the Sea of Cortés, take a trip to the sierras and see the magnificent island in the sky. It’s easy to arrange a day hike or multiple day trip with Todos Santos Eco Adventures.
Chocolates La Laguna serves up a variety of locally made luxury chocolates from their shop behind the bookstore in Todos Santos.
You’ve probably sampled some delicious treats from Mayra’s Kitchen at an art opening, wedding or party. See her ad to arrange catering for your next event—large or small.
Robin Austin, the Phairy Godmother, is an expert in cuts, color and hair styling. She specializes in weddings and formal hair. You can find her salon behind the Pura Vida Health Food Store in Todos Santos.
Whether you’re planning your whole vacation in the old town of San José del Cabo, or just spending the night, Hotel Posada Sr. Mañana’s is the traveler’s place on the edge of town—conveniently located to both the historic district and outdoor activities. They can help you with your surf, bike, or kayak adventure and offer wifi, music, books and hammocks for chilling.
Todos Santos Music Festival Plaza Concert, photo: Vivian Johnson
The Todos Santos Music Festival was a huge success again this year, raising money for the Palapa Society of Todos Santos A.C. and children’s education. This year, over 31 musicians, including two bands from Mexico City, entertained crowds at the Hotel California and with two not to be forgotten concerts in the town plaza. Journal del Pacifico is proud to be a sponsor and organizer of this event. The musicians all had a great time exploring Baja California Sur and entertaining visitors and locals—both at the main shows and at more intimate venues around town—including two trips to meet the kids at the new Palapa Society. Photographer Vivian Johnson shared a few of her photos in this issue of Journal del Pacifico. You can see more on the Todos Santos Music Festival Facebook site.