Holiday 2023/24

Posted on December 6, 2023 by janicekinne

Journal del Pacifico Fall 2023 cover by Kate Turning

Thank you for all the compliments on our incredible Bomberos Fall issue cover by the talented Kate Turning! You can help support the Bomberos de Todos Santos by making a donation and/or buying a t-shirt or coffee mug at Nomad Chic or El Tecolote Bookstore in Todos Santos. Como El Sol in Pescadero takes donations for the Pescadero Bomberos. Please support these brave groups.

Journal del Pacifico Holiday 2023/24 cover by Anne Hebebrand

This issue’s Holiday cover is by artist Anne Hebebrand. You can read more about Anne and see details of her recent works in this issue.

Looking for a way to brighten a child’s holiday season? The Kilómetro del Juguete toy drive was started five years ago by Ivonne Benítez of Hablando Mexicano. Every year they have delivered presents to the children and teenagers of the nearby Melitón Albáñez farming community on January 6—Día de Reyes. In this issue, Ivonne shares how you can donate toys, cash, and/or help wrap and distribute the gifts.

Bryan Jáuregui, Todos Santos Eco-Adventures, tells of the dedication of Don Santiago and Doña Matilda of Las Pacas, to protect the fragile ocean environment and their important work with scientists and college institutions. Photographer Sandra Muñoz visited Las Pacas and shared her photographs with us.

Restaurante Tre Galline has opened in their beautiful new location on calle Juarez in Todos Santos!

Galería Enrique Guerrero, on the otro lado, will be showing new works “La Naturaleza de los Símbolos” by Jorge Blue Motorrs, December 7 through January 20.

Galería Logan is having an Art and Jazz Opening December 13. Stop in to see new works by Jill Logan, Lee Mothes, and Linda Lenz.

Artist Oliver Martinez’s works “Windows of Baja California Sur” will open at the Museo de Arte in La Paz on December 15. His works will be displayed there through April.

The Festival del Arte Todos Santos and The Artists of Todos Santos Open Studio Tour take place in early February. Both events showcase the many talented artists of Todos Santos and the surrounding area.

Live theater returns to Todos Santos, with “The Kitchen Witches.” Learn more about the play and upcoming performances in our article.

There are a variety of creative workshops taking place in January and February 2024. Our cover artist, Anne Hebebrand, will be holding three different workshops at Hablando Mexicano.

The Todos Santos Writers Workshop is February 4 through 10, with a public reading by author Michelle Wildgen; and The 13th Annual “Writing Down The Baja” writers retreat will be held mid-February—look for articles on both inside this issue.

PanVero Whole Bakery & Elixir is now open at Desierto Azul Boutique Hotel in Las Tunas. Stop by for healthy 100% gluten and dairy free treats at their takeout window.

Adornos Studio, also in Las Tunas, features artisan made clothing, ceramics, lighting, furniture, art, and jewelry.

Mexico Gourmet / The Third Wave Coffee has moved to a new location in Las Tunas. They still have great mezcales, wines, and serve fresh coffee, waffles, sandwiches, and toast.

Allende Books, in La Paz, is open for another successful season! Every Saturday they host an acoustic open mic “Unplugged in the Yard” in their courtyard. Besides their vast selection of adult and children’s books, you will find maps, travel guides, and language study books. You can also purchase t-shirts supporting the Pro-Paramedic group.

Looking for a sweet treat? Valma Chocolate luxury chocolates and bars are available at Pura Vida Health Food, Bésame Mucho Bazaar and other locations in Todos Santos.

In addition to fresh breads, Madre Santa Bakery has delicious cakes, pies, and now chickpea pastas.

We’d like to welcome some of our new advertisers this season—property manager Amy Rex and Galta Real Estate in Todos Santos; Ronival Real Estate in Todos Santos and Los Cabos; Coldwell Banker Real Estate in Todos Santos and Loreto; Pintu Sayer’s Todos Santos location; and Ballyhoo Fishing Tackle in Todos Santos.

All of us at Journal del Pacifico wish you a peaceful holiday time. We’ll see you in 2024 with our Winter issue. The deadline is January 10, 2024.

Winter 2021

Posted on February 3, 2021 by janicekinne

Welcome to our first Journal del Pacifico of 2021. We are excited about this issue and the great stories and photos and hope that you enjoy them!

Area businesses are working hard to stay open and keep both locals and visitors safe. Be aware that government mandated Covid-19 regulations change and posted business hours and availability as well.

Kaia Thomson of Todos Caballos provided our stunning Kestrel cover and her story and photos of the importance of getting out in nature and birding.

Bryan Jáuregui of Todos Santos Eco Adventures shares the story behind the headlines of a possible new whale species discovered here by Baja California Sur native, researcher Dr. Gustavo Cárdenas Hinojosa, with photos courtesy of the Sea Shepherd and CONANP.

The Todos Santos/Pescadero area has long been known for outdoor activities and art, but it is increasing being known for fashion. In this issue, we introduce you to Zócalo, a clothing store/collective that most importantly is a social enterprise, which focuses on local Mexican artisans and makers.

You can find more rare gems with a stroll through the historic district of Todos Santos: soft colored cottons from Oaxaca and Chiapas, and hand tooled leather at Étnica; carefully curated items from around the world at Nomad Chic (see our story in the Holiday/Navidad 2020/2021 issue); locally designed and made swimsuits, clothing, and jewelry at Ella Bella Boutique; and one-of-a-kind treasures at Bésame Mucho Bazaar.

Brian McGuffey Art is now open in Plaza Amigos with a carefully selected array of custom jewelry and clothing, and of course, Brian’s colorful and whimsical art.

ULULA is a mystical gypsy heart boutique, specializing in magic and selling a curated offering of creations, clothing, and supplies. Everything is specifically and specially selected by Stephanie Penilla and Jessica Chappell for either its amazing story, native roots, magical power, or local beauty. Once you’ve visited, you will be called back for more magic.

Casa de Todos is a beautiful, open space furniture gallery on the otro lado of Todos Santos representing creative Mexican artists and sustainable vegetarian food to go.

Ernesto Vinatier, of Los Torotes in the Las Tunas area, is a Mexican architect specialized in urban planning and is passionate about sustainable architecture—energy efficiency, and high-performance buildings. His current focus is touristic urban planning and minimizing its pressures on the communities and natural environment.

Todos Santos Surf Shop / Explora Baja offers “Personalized Adventures by the Sea” including sport fishing, surf lessons, cliff hikes, whale watching, snorkeling with whale sharks and sea lions, Espíritu Santo island day trips, and La Paz city and beach tours. All activities are at a maximum of 30% capacity.

West Side Surf School, located at Cerritos beach, is a family owned and locally run business, founded by Heli “Tacho” Campos. They offer individual or group lessons for beginners, and surf coaches for surfers looking to improve their technique. Surf guides are also available for those looking to discover local breaks.

The 2021 Todos Santos Writers Workshop is virtual this year. They have commissioned a series of short videos, called “Video Salsa,” produced by Sarah Teale and shot and edited by Ricardo Madrazo. These videos will be posted daily and are intended to give workshop attendees a connection to Todos Santos. The videos are magnificent portrayals of life and culture in Todos Santos from an insider’s point of view, created for no commercial purpose and with no social agenda. Ricardo’s videography is gorgeous and the characters we see are authentic Todos Santos people who add something creative to life in the Pueblo Mágico. Click here to see these videos.

The dates have changed on Galeria Militar’s show Quien Calla, Otorga / Silence is Consent. You can still see it through February 23.

We’ll be back with our Spring/Primavera 2021 issue. Deadline is March 10.

Navidad 2020

Posted on December 10, 2020 by janicekinne

Thank you for all the compliments on our Fall 2020 issue with the fabulous Day of the Dead cover by Kate Turning.

This issue, we are pleased to feature a piece from artist/photographer Emanuela Gardner’s Fantasia collection to adorn our Navidad cover. You can see more of her fun and whimsical photographs throughout the issue and at Galería de Todos Santos.

Bryan Jáuregui of Todos Santos Eco Adventures tells the fascinating story of the Juan Cuevas family that has made their home on Isla El Partido in the Sea of Cortez since 1923.

The Loft @ Nomad Chic is a new private event space that is a welcome refuge for those seeking inspiring experiences while staying safe this season. See the article in this issue and our events listings for all the sensational shows taking place in person and online.

Zócalo by LOVELeigh is excited to be opening, this December, a second location in Todos Santos, on the corner of Topete and Benito Juárez in the Plaza Antigua. Zócalo is an ethical artist collective with artists and brands from México and beyond. A portion of every sale is contributed to three local charities (dog rescue, recycling center, and a children’s not-for-profit). You can still find their fashions at the Pescadero location next to Baja Beans (formerly LOVELeigh Designs).

Madre Santa Panadería is a small Todos Santos family business that was born in the middle of the global pandemic. They offer freshly prepared handmade bread, desserts, and cakes that are fashioned by merging basic and modern techniques. These methods reflect the passion, care, and experience that create delicious and memorable flavors. Madre Santa Panadería unites tradition with the tastes and desires of today’s Todosanteños.

Hacienda Sydney is a luxurious beachfront estate located in the Las Tunas area of Todos Santos. This unique location would be ideal for a boutique hotel, corporate retreat, or one-acre family compound. See their ad for more information.

Ellen Waterston’s Writing Ranch (www.writingranch.com) and Serendipity hotel have teamed up to offer a COVID-safe environment for the eleventh annual “Writing Down the Baja” creative writing retreat–NEW DATES June 26 – July 4, 2021. See our article for more information.

In spite of the Coronavirus pandemic, the Padrino Children’s Foundation continues to grow and serve the children of Todos Santos and the surrounding areas. They welcome pediatrician Dra. Mitzy Cervantes Malagón from Mexico City to their staff in December. Dra. Cervantes Malagón will be the first resident pediatrician in Todos Santos. Jessica L. Avila Franco will also be joining as the second staff psychologist. In addition, Todos Santos community member Adali Parks has been added as a member of the Board of Directors.
The Padrino Children’s Foundation has initiated a new collaboration with the Centro de Salud—the Early Stimulation program for new mothers and their babies—which is designed to support optimal neurodevelopment and identify medical issues early in life, when they are most treatable. For more information or to support the programs, visit
www.padrinocf.org or call 612-145-0506.

Looking for garage doors, windows, doors, and hurricane protection for your home? With Pacific Door’s wide variety of professional brand partners, you’ll find the perfect complement to your home. See their ad for more information.

Have you tried Valma Chocolates? Her handmade chocolates are created from 70% dark organic bean to bar made by solar energy and love. To order for you holiday pleasure, see the Valma Shakti ad.

Baja Mandala and Sueño Tropical have teamed up to offer their certified organic produce, essential oils, chocolates, and handmade personal products at the San José del Cabo Farmer’s market on Saturdays and the new Terra Santa Farmer’s market coming to Todos Santos in the La Cachora huertas on Sundays. They are also offering their farm harvest boxes begining in December and you can contact them for group farm tours too!

La Esquina Café is open on the otro lado of Todos Santos with new hours, offering the same good food and good times. Their popular local’s market is happening every Wednesday and they’ve added Saturday movie nights under the stars.

Kilometro del Jugete is your opportunity to help bring a smile to a child’s face this holiday season. Amamos Nuestro Pueblo is an organization with a focus to help the most vulnerable in our community. President Rouss Ramírez of Bésame Mucho Bazaar, believes in helping others and strengthening Mexican traditions in Todos Santos. Their goal this holiday season is to bring toys and smiles to the children of the agricultural fields, including Melitón Albañez, where there are around 700 children, the vast majority between two and eight years old. Please donate toys, clothes, or other items in good condition. Drop off locations for donations in Todos Santos are at Bésame Mucho Bazaar, Hablando Mexicano, and Hotel Guaycura. In La Paz, in Bisuteria Valentina’s, (calle Agustin Olachea and Tijeretas, local 4), and in Cabo at LocoMotion on Blvd. Paseo de la Marina 181, local 3. For more information, visit: https://www.facebook.com/FiestaDiaDeMuertos

Lic. Norberto López Aguirre is a certified English to Spanish and Spanish to English translator. See his ad for contact information for all your translation needs.

We wish you a safe and happy holiday season! We’ll see you with our Winter 2021 issue. Deadline is January 9, 2021.

Holiday / Navidad 2019

Posted on December 10, 2019 by janicekinne

Thank you for all the compliments on our Day of the Dead fall cover of Ophelia Manik by Kenny Viese. Emmanuel put on an unbelievable show in the plaza for the third annual Día de Muertos Todos Santos event. Kudos to Bésame Mucho Bazaar and the whole team of volunteers who made the event possible. La Paz photographer, Sandra Muñoz covered the concert for Journal del Pacifico.

Mark Gabriel, Galería Militar in Todos Santos and Pez Gordo in San José del Cabo, has shared “El Rey” the humpback whale for our holiday cover. Mark Gabriel is an award-winning multi-media artist who began his career in the underground comics and fanzine world. He is also one of the featured artists in The Palapa Society’s Artists of Todos Santos 2020/2021 calendar.

We have a variety of informative and fun stories for you in the issue. Bryan Jáuregui of Todos Santos Eco Adventures shares the success story of Cabo Pulmo and the Baja Coastal Institute. She also had the pleasure of interviewing a pig for our Life of Colette piece.

Trudi Angell of Saddling South tells the tale of Baja’s first mule pack-trains and their journey to “Alta” California.

Pamela Ambrose interviewed Cate Thomassen, shardArtist. You can see Cate’s mosaic work at her show at the Galería de Todos Santos on January 29.

This holiday season enjoy the abundant activities, specials, events, workshops, and seminars. There is a whole lot going on! Start the season off with The Palapa Society’s Carrera de Todos Santos 5k walk / run on December 28.

Then, live the red-carpet experience at Colette The Pig’s world premiere of her art film at Panteón 19, which benefits the Padrino Children’s Foundation.

Photographer Pablo Marquez, Galería Logan, will be leading a four-day master class in capturing the soul of landscape photography starting January 12.

Artist Anne Hebebrand is offering classes in abstract painting, painting with neutrals, and cold wax January through March.

The Writing Ranch’s 10th annual “Writing Down the Baja” retreat takes place January 26 through February 2, at Serendipity in Todos Santos.

The Todos Santos Writers’ Workshop, now in its seventh year, takes place February 1 through 8, and have added a second week for those enrolled in the first week, February 10 through 15, for writers who want to continue their work.

Baja Blooms, a five-day pottery, creative journaling, and yoga retreat takes place March 22 through 28 at the Hotelito this season.

And you won’t want to miss the Artists of Todos Santos Open Studio Tour, February 7 to 9, a benefit for The Palapa Society of Todos Santos.

The Pelican Theater Company of La Paz is also back this season with shows January 21 through 25. See our article for more details.

La Palapa del Sabor has monthly mariachi nights with delicious Mexican specialties for dinner. See our events listings for all of these and more!

Mailboxes Todos Santos has added a third location, in Cabo in the Walmart complex, location #69.

Pura Vida Health Food Store & Deli in Todos Santos is celebrating 10 years of serving the local community.

Tortugeros Las Playitas will have hatchling releases every day at 5 pm at the Tortugueros Las Playitas greenhouse in Las Tunas. Releases are open to the public and free of charge. Reservations requested for tour and school groups, info at: Whats App 612-177-8393.

Cross2box has moved to a new location at the entrance to Todos Santos. Cross2box doesn’t have individual classes, every hour there is new session based on their clients’ needs.

You’ve probably been hearing about the new dentist in Todos Santos, Dra. Ana Cortez at Smile Up. In addition to general dentistry, she is a specialist in crowns, implants, and cosmetic dentistry.

Panterra Eco Expeditions, at the Fonatur marina in La Paz, offers land-based and cruising expeditions to Magdalena Bay and the Sea of Cortez. And right now, they’re offering special Christmas discounts!

St. Jude’s Medical Center now has a walk-in clinic in Pescadero, next door to their pharmacy.

Shut Up Franks is back with new specials and some old favorites. They also have happy hour weekdays from 3 to 6 pm.

Happy holidays! We’ll see you in February with our winter issue. Deadline is January 10.

Journal del Pacifico

La Revista de Baja California Sur

Category Archives: Baja Retreats

Holiday 2023/24

Winter 2021

Navidad 2020

Holiday / Navidad 2019