The Loft@Nomad Chic

The Loft@Nomad Chic, Todos Santos. Baja, MexicoNew Private Events Space Promises a Silver Lining for winter Travel

Beloved boutique in Todos Santos unveils new private space for rich programming and bespoke events, a welcome refuge for those seeking inspiring experiences while staying safe this season.

Nomad Chic has been a favorite of Todos Santos locals and wanderers alike since its opening in 2004. With glowing mentions in publications like Vogue, Sunset, and Napa Sonoma Magazine, and a history of fabulous events in Todos Santos and Northern California, the carefully curated boutique of global treasures and rare finds has become a destination in itself.

The Loft@Nomad Chic, Todos Santos. Baja, MexicoBut with the world over half a year into the COVID-19 pandemic, the shop now faces the same challenges as any other Baja retailer during these troubling times: how can business flourish and tourists be welcomed while respecting the current risks at hand?
A silver lining has emerged with the addition of The Loft @nomadchicmx, a new oasis of design, style, and indulgence which will cater to small groups looking to enjoy unique experiences and events without sacrificing safety or caution.

Perched directly above Nomad Chic and accessed via private sunwashed stairs, the loft boasts a roof deck perfect for balmy desert nights, a full kitchen, bedroom, and luxurious tiled bath, and unparalleled views of Todos Santos and the Pacific Ocean. Fully styled by Linda Hamilton, owner and creative mind behind Nomad Chic, and serving in part as her interior design showroom, The Loft will immerse guests in Nomad Chic’s trademark whimsical, bohemian style.

The Loft@Nomad Chic, Todos Santos. Baja, Mexico“The Loft @nomadchicmx is my place to combine all my past endeavors and my love for design, events, and retail; I wanted to create a space that allows guests to feel like they’ve entered their own private pied-à-terre, with a bird’s eye view of Todos Santos and the beaches beyond,” says Hamilton. She intentionally designed the space to be shoppable, with most featured pieces and elements available for sale; for those looking for design consultation, Hamilton will happily meet you at The Loft to introduce you to her eclectically cool way of styling spaces.

The focus does not stop at beautiful aesthetics. Hamilton hopes to make The Loft a home for culinary exploration and community-driven events. “When I travel, the first thing I try to do is attend a cooking class; I believe the best way to get to know a new culture is by learning what the people eat,” she says, a smile spreading over her face. “I’ll be working with local chefs to create entirely authentic experiences and incorporating every aspect of preparing a meal, from shopping at the organic market (which could actually mean being in the fields) to meeting the fishermen as they bring the fish ashore, and then heading back to The Loft @nomadchicmx for a cooking class.”

Hamilton also looks forward to developing and hosting her own series of cultural events, reminiscent of past fashion shows held at Hotel California and Casa Dracula. “The space is perfect for intimate, but impactful, events. Having not held anything in Todos Santos for several years, I’m looking forward to the challenge of offering community engagement under these new circumstances.” Hamilton has compiled a winter calendar of events, including book signings with bestselling authors, trunk shows and fashion shows to debut the boutique’s latest finds, and evenings with renowned local chefs. The full schedule is posted on the Nomad Chic website.

The Loft @nomadchicmx will also be available for private events, photoshoots, meetings, and general renting purposes; guests can design their own event or collaborate with the Nomad Chic team to create a perfectly bespoke experience. “We can host any sort of group, from remote workers needing a space to focus, to bridal parties wanting mani-pedis and a private shopping experience, to business groups in search of a tranquil offsite. If someone can dream it, we’ll work with them to make it happen.” Within reason, of course.

More importantly, The Loft’s main goal will be to provide a safe, comfortable environment for locals and travelers to enjoy good vibes and good company; no risk will go unassessed and no detail will be overlooked. Hamilton and the other team members have spent months putting together a comprehensive plan to ensure both the shop and The Loft @nomadchicmx are up to the highest health and sanitation standards.

“We understand the fears around gathering and traveling right now,” Hamilton says, adding that she’s sensitive to local concerns around encouraging outsiders to visit town, as well. “We want to be clear: we take the current health situation very seriously and will be monitoring the trends, just like everyone else. We’re adhering to all required safety standards. But if we’re able to safely remain open and help keep the vibrancy of Todos Santos afloat, then we absolutely will. The entire community will benefit from travelers having comfortable experiences here and from businesses working with travelers to ensure they understand the town’s concerns and requirements.”

The full list of COVID preparations and policies takes up an entire page of the Nomad Chic website, and all guests visiting the shop or taking part in an event or activity at the Loft @nomadchicmx will be made aware of the policies prior to entering. And as an added measure, Hamilton will also be delving into another new space: the online events world. For guests who want to join in on the fun at The Loft @nomadchicmx from the comfort of their own home, digital programming is also under current consideration.

Usually known for offering margaritas to delighted patrons, Hamilton knows this new reality is quite a pivot from the carefree, whimsical experience she usually loves creating. With a laugh and a shrug, she says, “Todos Santos is a bold, resilient town, a town that won’t let its love of art and culture fade in a storm. We’ll get through this.”

She adds, “And in the meantime, our plans for The Loft @nomadchicmx include how to safely serve margaritas.” For queries about reserving The Loft @nomadchicmx for a private event, please contact Linda at linda@nomadchic.mx.

If you’d like to be added to Nomad Chic’s events correspondence, please subscribe at www.nomadchic.mx

Navidad 2020

Journal del Pacifico Fall 2020 cover by Kate TurningThank 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 ChicThe 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.

Spring 2018

JDP Spring 2018Gastrovino cover by Kate TurningThis May 19 & 20, once again people will flock to Todos Santos to celebrate the GastroVino Food & Wine Festival. Now in its seventh year, this popular festival honors and celebrates the traditions of great food and Mexican wines. Tickets go on sale May 3. You can read more about it in our article this issue, and the fun Loteria cards by our cover artist, Kate Turning.

Check out events for the upcoming Noche de Super Salud plant-based, locally sourced, fresh organic dinners at Pura Vida. They will also be having another Full Moon Community Farm Dinner at Rancho Buen Día on April 29. See Facebook: Noche de Super Salud for more details.

Amor D’Vino and Santo Vino have teamed up for an evening of Mexican wines paired with a trio of Chef Dany’s signature dishes Monday nights during April and May on the Wine Deck. See weekly events for more information.

In our Spring 2018 issue, we are celebrating the work of Dr. Robert K. Hall in a fascinating article by Bryan Jáuregui of Todos Santos Eco-Adventures. Translator Elena Ascencio-Ibáñez has studied and worked closely with Robert over the years; Elena provides Spanish translations to many of his Dharma Talks on his website. I have had the pleasure of producing the three books on Buddhism by Robert and translated by Elena: Buddha Now/Buda Ya, Everybody Now/Todos Ya, and Así Es. All are available at El Tecolote Bookstore in Todos Santos.

Congratulations to Besáme Mucho Bazaar on their first anniversary! You can see photos from their grand celebration in this issue.

Nomad Chic, will be popping up at various hotels in Cabo throughout April, visit www.nomadchic.mx for locations and dates.

We’d like to welcome The Agency, Los Cabos, to their newest home in Todos Santos–at the corner of Topete and Centenario in the historic district. Stop in to meet their diverse team of real estate professionals.

Pacifico Storage, at KM45 on Highway 19 outside Todos Santos, will be open soon for all your storage needs—RV, boat, ATV and enclosed storage. They also can help you move your local RV or vehicle. See their ad for more information.

It doesn’t matter who you are, where you are, where you have been or where you would like to see yourself–we can all benefit from support and guidance in times of our life. With academical, clinical and spiritual training and experience in Sweden, Hawaii and Mexico, Northern Light Healing offers services to suit individual needs and to help you on your path through life. Available for individuals, couples and groups. Emelie focuses on healing both past wounds, through counseling, and life coaching to creating a future that her clients would like to have and how to, in practical ways, reach those goals. Whatever you are struggling with there is help and support.

Las Olas Recovery in Pescadero is a sub-acute medical detoxification clinic for those who struggle with drug and alcohol addiction. This unique facility offers a bed and breakfast vibe with personalized medical and psychological care. See our article in this issue for more information.

Nancy Joyce is a local distributor of ionized water filter systems. These medical devices produce filtered, hydrogen rich water using a solid 40-year technology with an amazing track record in the health industry. Nancy holds a Q&A session every Thursday from 11 am to 1 pm at Pura Vida Health Food Store and Deli. You can read more about Nancy’s healing journey at: http://nancyjoyce.com/about/my-story/

Also, in this issue, Patricia Baum interviews the filmmakers behind the controversial film, Patrimonio, which débuted at the Berlin Film Festival in March, was the opening night film for the Festival de Cine de Todos Santos and this April,was shown at the 21st Annual Full Frame Documentary Film Festival in Durham, North Carolina.

Casa Sur yoga lifestyle boutique in Cuatro Vientos on the otro lado of Todos Santos, has a colorful assortment of quality clothing, mats, jewelry and natural products.

Going somewhere? Pickle N Paws provides high quality pet care. See her ad for more information!

In the Summer 2018 issue of Journal del Pacifico, we’ll be doing a feature story on Baja Dream Properties. This issue—will cover June through September 2018. Deadline is May 10. Reserve your space today!

Valentine’s Day

photo by Keenan Shoal for Journal del Pacifico

photo by Keenan Shoal for Journal del Pacifico

Are you ready for Valentine’s Day?

Chocolates La Laguna, behind the bookstore in Todos Santos, has just the right treat for Valentine’s Day. If you’re looking for a Valentine’s night dinner, there are delicious options available at Pura Vida, La Esquina and Garden by Rancho Pescadero.

There are also great gifts available for men and women at Nomad Chic and Étnica in Todos Santos.

Todos Santos resident, Keenan Shoal, provided our cover photo for the Winter 2018 issue well as the interior shots for the start of the Historic Home Tour article and the Camp Cecil on Isla Espíritu Santo on our La Paz Beaches page. You may remember that Keenan’s stunning Pacific Ocean view from La Poza hill was our cover for the Summer 2016 issue of Journal del Pacifico. You can see more of Keenan’s photography at Gallery Ezra Katz in Todos Santos.

Dr. Jon P. Rebman, Baja, Mexico

Dr. Jon P. Rebman, Baja, Mexico

In this issue, Bryan Jáuregui of Todos Santos Eco Adventures, interviewed Dr. Jon P. Rebman, renowned author of the Baja California Plant Field Guide, about the ‘lost plants of Baja.” It’s a fascinating look into the search for Baja California plants that have not been collected or scientifically documented for decades. He covered part of the territory near Loreto by mule with Trudi Angell of Saddling South.

Also, in this issue, Kaia Thomson of Todos Caballos shares her story and photos in The Banana Chronicles with a bunch of fun facts and fabulous pictures.

Café Santa Fé is celebrating its 28th anniversary. I remember meeting Paula and Ezio Colombo when I first came to Todos Santos in 1993 and marveling how such a small town could have a restaurant of this calibre. As Michael Mercer wrote on the occasion of their 20th anniversary:
In late 1990, when the Café Santa Fé opened, there was one restaurant in Todos Santos, a modest Mexican place called the Santa Monica. There were no art galleries (apart from Charles Stewart’s living room). Very few tourists, even fewer gringo residents.
“Our first night, we had 15 or 20 people from the trailer park,” Paula remembers. “One dish, a putanesca.” Everyone loved it, but the peso had just been devalued and no one could afford to pay. “So that night was free.”
Eight years later, they are still serving perfect pastas, pizza, salads, seafood and local meats.

Artist Carlos Diaz Castro is well known for his vivid paintings of Baja and ranchero life. You can see more of his work at his Diaz Castro Studio & Fine Art Gallery on 5 de Mayo in the historic district of La Paz.

La Misión Restaurant at Hacienda Cerritos is now open every day for lunch and dinner, from noon to 9 pm.

Carlitos Place in Pescadero has added Chinese recipes to their expanded menu– Peking duck, Mongolian beef, sweet & sour shrimp and chicken, beef broccoli and fried rice. Cooking classes are coming soon too! See our feature in the issue.

Kimberly’s Supermarket & Café on the road to Cerritos Beach has groceries, coffee and snacks from 7 am to 8 pm. And Shakas restaurant next door, will be open soon!

Sugar Shack is also now serving snacks, including birria, wings, guacamole, onion rings and more and have expanded to outdoor seating in the back.

Las Olas Recovery provides personal attention for their clients’ addiction solutions with medically assisted detox and 24-hour care. Results are their ambition. See their ad for more information.

La Curandería Health and Wellness Centre in Pescadero has lighthearted, Community Yoga Saturdays at 8 am. 100% donations are given to different area groups. Also, at La Curandería, you can enjoy Hesed Najeera’s deep, holistic massage and Ayurvedic bodywork.

Do you drive on the beaches? Do you know it isn’t legal? The Friends of the Todos Santos Dunes ask that you please show some respect for the beauty and magic of Baja and help protect the sea turtles nesting and hatching. You can read more about how the coastal dunes are an important part of the ecosystem in the article in this issue.

by Keenan Shoal for Journal del Pacifico

by Keenan Shoal for Journal del Pacifico

We hope that you enjoyed the Todos Santos’ Artist’s Studio Tour! The next fun tour will be the Todos Santos Historic Home Tour on March 4. Both give a different view of the pueblo mágico and benefit the programs of The Palapa Society of Todos Santos, A.C.

The Baja 100 art walk/drive is another fun downtown Todos Santos event. Check out the The Baja 100 Facebook page for updates on their March events.

Don’t forget, you can see the current issue and every issue online. We will see you next with our Spring issue. Deadline is March 5.