alvarobaja

First Post on WordPress

2010-09-04T12:38:00.000-07:00

Model Home Vero Beach, Florida

I am switching over to Wordpress.
To view my first entry click on the following link:

http://alvarobaja.wordpress.com

Digital Photography Online with BetterPhoto.com

2010-09-04T11:18:00.006-07:00

El Zocalo--Atlixco, México

BetterPhoto is an online photography community from beginners to masters, there's the right course to keep you inspired and motivated. Register for one of their 4 or 8 weeks course: BetterPhoto.com

Annie Smith & Robert Brown Wedding

2010-07-20T13:51:00.004-07:00

Cellist Playing in Stairwell

Our first visit to Guanajuato. We enjoyed staying at Alma del Sol located in the Centro Historico. For highlights from Annie and Robert's wedding, click on the following link for slideshow of their Guanajuato Wedding

New Listing: Casa Artisan Desert Duplex

2010-06-01T14:40:00.001-07:00

Casa Artisan Desert Duplex, Todos Santos BCS, Mexico

After spending time and photographing this house, I've come to appreciate its design and construction. If I was in the market for a new house, I would buy this one for myself. For details click on the following link for Casa Artistan

Northern Migration Pelican Graphic

2010-04-20T19:34:00.001-07:00

The image wasn't anything worth keeping, but I liked the graphic element. I experimented with the various blending modes and brought out more detail in the diagonal artifact. Cool!

Agave Series Triptych

2010-04-14T06:51:00.001-07:00

This week I am experimenting with layer masks and trying out various colored skies and agave. I love starting the day with something fun and creative, for it sets the tone for the rest of the day . . . .

weekend is here with new image--Blue Agave Series

2010-04-10T09:04:00.000-07:00

New York Times Travel Article on Todos Santos, BCS

2010-04-09T14:57:00.007-07:00

Todos Santos has been receiving some good press. Last month an article and video appeared in the L.A. Times. The latest article will appear in Sunday's travel section, New York Times.

Power walking near La Poza

2010-04-06T18:30:00.000-07:00

Just back from an hour power walk on Todos Santos beach. I saw lots pelicans flying in formation and several couples enjoying the late afternoon sun. The couple in the photo were birders and observing a variety of species at the edge of La Poza lagoon. April is the month when birds and seasonal residents start migrating north for the summer. By June it will mostly us locals and European visitors, mostly from Italy and Germany. Some of my best real estate sales have been made during the slowest times of the year, and I have a feeling this summer will not be an exception.

Baja Cottage Virtual Tour

2010-04-06T14:49:00.000-07:00

I've been part of a beta group and working with a new virtual tour program PFRE Tour. What sets this apart from most virtual tours is that is not based on Adobe Flash, so one can view the tour from any personal device such as iPhone and iPad. My latest tour is Baja Cottage and available for viewing at the following link: Baja Cottage Virtual Tour

Another glorious Todos Santos sunset . . .

2010-04-06T01:06:00.003-07:00

The biggest palapa and tallest structure in Todos Santos. Someday a developer will be build condominiums, but I don't think it will be anytime soon. In the meantime, we get to enjoy sunset walks on La Poza mesa.

Sunday Dharma Talks

2010-04-05T00:34:00.013-07:00

Every Sunday Robert Hall offers a dharma talk on a particular subject. He often incorporates current events, classic buddhism, western psychology, quotes and poetry and presents buddhist teachings in such a way that it makes sense. Robert guides us through a session of meditation followed by discussion. Depending on time of year, we can have about 30-100 meditators on a Sunday morning. The talks are held at La A.R.C.A.--a community dojo where aerobics, yoga, meditation, martial art and dancing classes are offered by various instructors. The center was built for the community by the Stoltzfus family (propriertors of The Todos Santos Inn) and an incredible resource for the residents of Todos Santos. La A.R.C.A in an acronym for La Asociacion de Recreación de Cultura y Arte, located on the corner of Calle Topete & Pilar, one block down from the Todos Santos Inn.

El Corazón on Easter Sunday

2010-04-04T07:38:00.004-07:00

Our family was Catholic and my grandmother Baptist. Religion was a source of comfort and conflict in our lives. My mother believed in the immaculate conception and my grandmother believed Jesus was born like everyone else. However, they both believed in the resurrection and, on Easter, the differences didn't matter. Easter was about celebrating life and putting aside differences and taking the time to give thanks and spend time with family and friends. May you be surrounded by your nearest and dearest.

Thinking of Mama Rosa on Easter ... I can still hear the sound of her hands clapping making tortillas . . .

2010-04-03T19:05:00.008-07:00

Mama Rosa was my maternal grandmother who raised me since I was 3. She immigrated from El Salvador to San Francisco in 1964. My parents worked several jobs, so they needed someone to take care of my younger brother and I. We only spoke Spanish in the home, so we grew up bilingual. She taught us about our culture and so much more . . . it wasn't until I moved to Mexico that I realized what a gift she had given me. Rosa Chavez was a devote Baptist and she lived for her church. Easter Sunday was the most important day of the year for her. Here's to Mama Rosa!

The aftermath of the Huerta fire...

2010-04-02T16:09:00.003-07:00

I walked around near where the fire started . . . the ground was covered in ash... stark, but interesting terrain. Now I can see the fence lines.

Palo de Arco Blossoms

2010-03-31T19:36:00.006-07:00

Palo de Arco has been one of my favorite Baja plants since I first discovered it. It grows naturally around Todos Santos and also cultivated in ranches in Pescadero and the Sierras. The yellow blossoms have a delicate scent and they move with the slightest breeze. The bees like the nectar for honey, and local artisans use the stalks to make furniture and woven stick fences. It also makes a good natural barrier and ideal for planting along fence lines. I've been trying to capture this flower without much success. On the night of the full moon just before sunset I found some blossoms close to the ground. I used off camera flash and bounced the light off the ground and was able to freeze the motion and backlit the blossoms. I like the warm tones and luminous light radiating from within.

Junebug Real Weddings

2010-03-26T07:58:00.004-07:00

Last November I worked with a couple to coordinate the wedding of their dreams. I first met Michael and Jeanne on Thanksgiving of 2008. They had spent several days touring wedding venues in Los Cabos and decided to take a last minute day trip to Todos. They met Chef Dany Lamote at the Hotel Calfornia and he called me on the cell and suggested I meet with them. I took Michael and Jeanne on a tour of ceremony sites. They treated to fish tacos and we discussed their wedding over lunch. They decided that Todos Santos was the right balance of rustic and chic, and much more affordable than the venues they visited in Los Cabos. They said some venues were quoting up to $5000 usd just to be married on the beach, and that only included the location fee! Along with designer and stylist (and good friend) Barbara Matthews, I enjoyed working out the details with the bride and producing their wedding. Michael and Jeanne brought their own photographer which turned out to be Ben Chrisman--rated one the top 10 wedding photographers in the USA. After watching him work and viewing his images, I can certainly see why. The rehearsal dinner took place at Michael's Restaurant. We hired mark up artists and hair stylists from Los Cabos for the bride and seven bridesmaides. The ceremony took place at Villa Punta Lobos and the reception was hosted at the Hotel California. Delicia's Restaurant hosted the farewell brunch and everyone enjoyed an amazing weekend. The wedding was featured in Junebug Real Weddings. While you are there, make sure you visit Chrisman's Photography site. Click on the following link for the feature: Junebug Real Weddings

Las Palmas Sale Closed

2010-03-26T07:56:00.002-07:00

I am pleased to report my first real estate closing of the year. The property was on the market for 1.5 years and listed with Coldwell Banker Riveras since November 2009. The 2Bed 2 Bath with 1700 M2 lot was reduced to $330K and closed at $320K. The listing agents were myself and Lisa Welsch, and I was the selling agent. The buyer bought a quality home in one of the best neighborhoods and now the family has a winter getaway from the Northeastern winters.

Fire in the Huerta . . .

2010-03-25T10:37:00.001-07:00

We were home getting ready to go out for the evening and our friend Susan Doyle called. Susan lives in Las Briasas and asked if were alright with the fire. I asked, "Fire, what fire?" I looked out the window and the huerta/palm grove was smoking (first image). I called the fire department and they were already on their way. The fire appeared to be in the middle of the huerta and no immediate threat to homes. We watched the fire as the ocean breezes took it up the palm orchard towards Calle Benito Juarez. Some of the locals said it was the biggest one they'd seen in 40 years. Luckily the winds subsided and the local volunteer fire department were able to bring it under control. Click on the panoramic image to see the damages and path of the fire.

Michael's Restaurant at La Galeria de Todos Santos

2010-03-06T20:12:00.000-07:00

We celebrated our friend Wendy Rain's birthday at Michael's Restaurant. It rained on and off for much of the weekend, which is very unusual for this time of year. Michael moved the tables indoors and we got to dine in the main gallery, which made the evening even more special. We started out with the sweet potato and shrimp fritters, and Pat Cope severed up her famous Ume martini's made from her family's house made plum liquor. Dinner served Thursday-Saturday 5:30-p.m. and reservations recommended 612-145-0500.

Alvaro Colindres featured in El Calendario

2010-03-01T08:33:00.000-07:00

The March issue features photography by yours truly. Also featured is Erick Ohoa the artist who donated the painting "Agave" for the silent art auction benefitting "The Youth in Video Program" sponsored by Festival de Cine de Todos Santos (formerly the Latino Film Festival). The movie festival runs March 4-7th and will include a documentary film on Professor Néstor Agundez produced by local resident John Stoltzfus. Click here to read the online issue of El Calendario March 2010

Weekend Retreat with Robert Hall

2010-02-13T19:41:00.007-07:00

On the weekend of February 13th, El Dharma and Baraka of Todos Santos hosted a three day residential silent meditation retreat at Serendipity Ventures in Las Tunas. There were visitors from the east cape who spent the weekend and lots of local commuters for a total of about 30 participants. The delicious meals were prepared by the proprietors Sharon and Harry Morris, and staff. Serendipity has lots of space and a gorgeous pool and soothing hot tub and the beach is just down a trail. Sharon said they're installing a new outdoor patio for an upcoming wedding. Another fine venue to host workshops, retreats and weddings. Let Sharon know I sent you: Serendipity Ventures.

Rancho Pescadero

2010-02-08T17:33:00.001-07:00

At the benefit for Agua Vale Mas Que Oro, we won a door prize which included two nights at Rancho Pescadero. We've been hearing great things about the place and they are all true. We enjoyed a mini vacation right in the middle of the busy tourist season and we didn't even need to board a plane. You'd be surprised how busy we get living in this little pueblo. If you would like to learn more, read the article which recently appeared in the L.A. Times: Todos Santos featured in the L.A. Times

Todos Santos Photography Contest

2010-02-04T22:38:00.000-07:00

The ARTS group of Todos Santos hosted its first juried photography show. The contest was organized by Vic Kirby and there was over 114 submissions and drew one of the biggest crowds I've ever seen at Cafelix. There was some very talented photographers and the jurors had their work cut out for them. I entered several prints, which made the final round. The winners for Best of Baja were Jack Hamilton, Laurie Bauer and Thomas Ireton. For Best in Show the winners were Vic Kirby, Gail McAllister and Roberta Booth. Congratulations to all the winners! Read more about the show at the following link: ARTS

New Listing Beach Front Santa Cruz

2010-01-15T15:22:00.000-07:00

My associate Dan Binetti lassoed this coveted beach front listing. It includes just over an acre of fertile farmland. The property has about 150 ft of beach front and extends from the beach all the way to Las Playitas Rd. I created a virtual tour and available for viewing at the following link Beach Front Rancho Santa Cruz. Offered at $950K.

Todos Santos 5K 2010

2010-01-05T15:07:00.001-07:00

I hope everyone's year is off to a good start . . . in Todos Santos organizers Mike and Mire Lund , and Oscar Rosales and Tori Sepulveda produced another successful 5K run/walk. The proceeds benefit the Palapa Society's Chino Medical Project.

El Dharma Book Signing

2009-12-28T11:54:00.000-07:00

El Dharma and Michael's Restaurant announce a book-signing party to celebrate the publication of Robert Hall's new book, "Buddha Now, Buda Ya" (featuring photographs by Alvaro Colindres). The book signing will take place on Sunday, January 10th at 3:00pm at the Galleria de Todos Santos. All are invited. Wine, snacks, and no-host bar will be served, and Robert will give a short reading from the English version of the book.

Puebla, Tenancingo, Mexico City and San Cristobol

2009-10-04T21:49:00.000-07:00

September was quiet month, but we were busy planning

for the upcoming season. October started off with a with a series of gestalt workshops and a meditation retreat on mainland México. We just concluded a 7 day Vipassana retreat at Casa Tonalli and on our way to San Christobal for another workshop. Lots to catch up on, but wanted to share an amazing place to host retreats and workshops. I spent the golden hours photographing the center for their new web site. The owner didn't need to advertise and relied on referrals and word of mouth, but with the downtown in the economy they are realizing they need to make themselves more visible and streamline the registration process. I've lots of images to process, but for now here's a sneak peak preview of Casa Tonalli. For more information contact alvarobaja@mac.com.

Back On line . . . .

2009-09-09T13:09:00.000-07:00

It took me a lot longer to set up the household again after Jimena had passed. Predicting an almost category 5 hurricane, we were expecting the roof to blow, so I packed all our valuables especially electronics, such as TV, DvD players, VCR, computers, six hard drives, a 23" monitor, a wide format and office printer, and all the wires, terminals and accessories. All the furniture on our patios was moved against the house or moved into the bodega. After almost of week of unpacking and putting my office back together, it feels like I'm just about back to normal. Upon clearing my office area just before the storm, I remember standing there and admiring my desk with nothing on it--a clean slate-- and for a moment, I was reminded why I enjoy being here during the rainy/hurricane season: when it's storming and the power is off and there's no place to go nor nothing to do, I am forced to sit still. Once I realize I have no control over the situation, I start letting go and begin to enjoy the change in pace. My tendency is to always be "doing" and it's during the Todos Santos summers and hurricane seasons that I return to a baseline of being and reminded why we moved to Todos Santos.

Back to Normal . . . I think

2009-09-02T12:30:00.000-07:00

After all the predictions and commotion regarding hurricane Jimena, she decided to veer toward the Pacific and continue northward. We got rain and wind, but mild to what it could have been. We were without electricity for about 12 hours and as soon as I was starting to enjoy it, the power came back on. Back to normal . . . I think.

Before Jimena

2009-08-31T13:21:00.000-07:00

The skies just before a hurricane are so intense and dramatic. I have often wondered if the Palapa in the photo would withstand a hurricane. We shall see . . . vamos a ver . . . Just started raining again, by this time on Tuesday we should be in the midst of Jimena. We are ready as we can be, so now we wait. An opportunity to meditate!

Hurricane Jimena: Hurricane Watch upgraded to Hurricane Warming

2009-08-31T08:55:00.000-07:00

Hurricane Jimena

2009-08-30T17:46:00.000-07:00

This year the rains came later than usual and we are starting off the Hurricane season with a bang. Hurricane Jimena is predicted to be a category four. Which means we'll need to take all the items off our front and rear patios and put everything in storage, including the furniture. During our first hurricane, we saw the wicker furniture fly away like toys, but the house did really well. Most likely we'll be without communications and power for a day, maybe longer. I'll be posting photographs, so stay tuned.

Pelican in Flight

2009-08-23T14:16:00.000-07:00

Easy Sunday Morning

2009-08-16T08:42:00.000-07:00

Easy Sunday morning enjoying Karla's carrot cake, warm ocean breezes and San Francisco Chronicle.

Canvas Prints Available Online

2009-08-11T11:41:00.000-07:00

I'm pleased to announce Cardon at Dawn, Todos Santos available on line as Canvas Print.

11 x 14" Canvas Print $179

16x 24" Canvas Print $249

16 x 24" Print $120 (Glossy or Matte )

12 x 18" Print $79 (Glossy or Matte)

Todos Santos Landscapes:

Printroom Gallery Click Here

Beach Front Villa Punta Lobos

2009-08-09T16:41:00.000-07:00

Sunday morning I got an early start and hiked up to the top of a hill top near Punta Lobos. I was working on a new real estate listing and the photos I had didn't do the property justice. I kept seeing this shot in my mind, and glad I made the effort: Click here for Beach Front Villa Punta Lobos Listing

Artisan Breads and Baked Goods

2009-08-08T18:39:00.000-07:00

Several people mentioned they meant to buy bread at Karla and Mateo's so . . . reminding everyone their bakery is open Saturdays 9 a.m. until about 1 p.m. Last Saturday they had a bountiful display of whole wheat and rosemary loaves ($25 pesos each) as well as roasted eggplant and mushroom pizzettas ($25 pesos ea.), cheesesticks ($5 pesos ea.), chocolate brownies, date and pecan cookies ( 3 for $20 pesos), loaves of carrot cake and a moist fig bread ($30 pesos per loaf). They tend to sell out, so get their early. Casa Antigua is located on the corner of Topete & Horizonte down the street from La Esquina. Click her for Casa Angitua Listing

Pilates in Todos

2009-08-08T16:14:00.000-07:00

Pilates classes in Todos Santos will continue throughout the summer. Mara Adame of Pilates in Cabo is an internationally certified Pilates Instructor and designs some effective work outs. She incorporates micromovements of abs and pelvic area. The exercises are subtle yet effective for strengthening the abdominals and building flexibility. All right here in Todos, classes held at El Hotelito Friday and Saturday's 10 a.m. & 6:30 p.m. Sundays at 10 a.m. Classes fill up, so reserve your space at mara@pilatesincabo.com.

August Twilight

2009-08-06T09:36:00.001-07:00

As the summer heats up and the days get longer, the twilight takes on a whole new dimension from the rest of year. Due to the high depressions from tropical storms and humidity in the air, the moisture and haze makes for intensely colored skies and dramatic cloud formations. I've often heard visiting photographers comment on the quality of light in Todos Santos; it's as if there were a warming filter on the lens.

August sunsets and sunrises take on a surreal quality and an opportunity to create some unusal landscapes. There's about a 15 minute window where the light seems to illuminate everything it touches. Boulders and hillsides seem to glow from within and the reflections from the water's edge take on the color of sky. The hard edged lines soften and recede into the shadows and, with the release of the shutter, the passage of time stands still for a fraction of a second. While I was having these thoughts and making these images of the lagoon, a family came up to me and the father asked, "What do you see?" So I showed them the images on the LCD monitor on the back of the camera and they nodded in approval.

"What do you do with the photographs? Do you sell them?" Canvas Prints Click Here

Shake? What Shake . . . ?

2009-08-05T09:20:00.000-07:00

A friend of mine from San Francisco called and sounded concerned and asked about the 6.9 shake. My reply was, "Earthquake? What Earthquake?" If you live in southern Baja most likely you missed it as well. The epicenter was near the boarder at Mexicali area and about 400 thousand residents were without power: San Diego 6 News

Mercado La Paz

2009-08-02T21:43:00.001-07:00

After a hearty breakfast at La Fonda, I headed over to central mercado Francisco Madero. The streets seemed a bit subdued for a Saturday morning, but the mercado's seafood and meat vendors were bustling. The fish monger had fresh supplies of sea scallops, mussels, clams, shrimp, dorado and tuna all kept on ice and under glass showcases.

The meat purveyor down the hall was busy butchering a pig and the poultry purveyor also had nice plump chickens fresh from the farm. I noticed the food venders seemed to be doing better than the curio, clothing, dress shops, but the barber shop was busy with people waiting. .

One favorite stop in downtown La Paz is the Parisian fabric store, colorful and vibrant usually filled with women chattering and rummaging through the sale bins, but on this Saturday morning the aisles were quietly empty. I walked back towards Climasters and discovered tortilleria La Rosalia located on Allende near Independencia. The piping hot tortillias were coming off the conveyor belt steamy and puffy and inviting as Krispy Cremes. I bought a kilo for $28 pesos and made a few photos of the workers. On the way home, stopped at the new Burger King at the Soriana Shopping Center and the place was packed. Blockbuster had lines of people at the registers and the mall parking lots were full, so looks like business is good at the mega stores. I've often read about the effects of shopping malls in the suburbs attracting shoppers away from the downtown, but to see it in action--so fast and on a smaller scale such as in La Paz--makes me realize that growth is inevitable, but as consumers we also need to support our local vendors and merchants, otherwise we'll forget why we moved to México.

Cheap Eats: La Fonda Restaurante

2009-08-02T18:02:00.001-07:00

When I'm in La Paz there's usually a check list of errands that need to be accomplished and I need to remember to stop and take the time to enjoy a meal. One convenient and favorite stop for breakfast is La Fonda located on the corner of Bravo & Revolución. I usually like to order the chilaquiles with chicken and salsa verde, but this time I opted for the house specialty which is Nopal (cactus) and Cheese Omelette with their house Pepin Sauce, which is reduction of roasted tomatoes and peppers. The meal was served with refried beans and container of hot corn tortillias. With coffee and fresh O.J. the check came to $65 pesos. The mornings head lines read, "Downtown La Paz in Crises."

With the opening of mega stores on the outskirts of town such as Walmart and Sam's club, the downtown merchants are suffering for business.

The downtown did seem quiet for a Saturday, but it was only 9 a.m.

The restaurant was empty when I first arrived. By the time I left a group of gentleman ranchers filled up the outdoor dining area. The centro and old mercado are a few blocks away and will head in that direction.

Climasters of La Paz--Where to have your car's AC serviced in the heat of summer.

2009-08-02T15:40:00.000-07:00

When it's over 100 degrees and the humidity is climbing, the most popular guys around are the air conditioning technicians and, when it comes to servicing cars and trucks, Climasters in La Paz does a thorough job. If you're AC is wheezing and and barely cranking out cold air, most likely there may be a few leaks and out freon. I dropped my truck on a Saturday morning by 8 a.m. I enjoyed breakfast and ran a few errands and within a couple of hours they called me with a diagnostic. They found one leak in the main line and needed new valve underneath the dashboard. I authorized the work and they ordered the parts and said they would have the truck ready by 3 p.m. They delivered the truck on time and the AC is working like new and cost $1850 pesos, but I would have paid just about any price to have AC for the drive home to Todos Santos.

Climasters is located on the corner of Allende and Independencia and suggest calling the receptionist Ana for an appointment at 612-128-6008.

La Poza Lagoon

2009-07-28T18:25:00.001-07:00

La Poza is a fresh water lagoon on the west side of town and one of the most beautiful places in Todos Santos. The lagoon fills with fresh water from under ground aquifers while the high tide from the Pacific constantly builds and erodes the sand dune. It's a continuous cycle and the landscape is constantly changing with the turn of the tide. La Poza is one of the town's most valued resources and an ideal place to observe wildlife habitats of the area.

Migratory birds will gather along the shoreline. Migrating whales also like to congregate at the mouth of the lagoon and feed on the plankton. You'll also see lovers walking hand in hand, families enjoying the sunset and a few individuals fishing from the surf and catching fresh water shrimp from the lagoon. Be mindful, however. The waters in the La Poza area are unpredictable due to strong under currents between the lagoon and mighty Pacific. It's definitely not a swimming beach, but an ideal place to enjoy wide open space and pristine beauty of a unique eco-system.

Todos Santos Weddings

2009-07-28T15:55:00.000-07:00

When it comes to planning a Todos Santos wedding, the obvious choice for the rehearsal dinner or reception is the Hotel California. The average wedding of 50-100 guests will fill up the majority of rooms in the downtown area. This would include The Todos Santos Inn, Hacienda de Todos Los Santos, Casa Bentley, Jardin del Pilar, Posada El Molino, Motel Guluarte, and Alegria (currently under construction). El Hotelito is also within close proximity and Posada La Poza is about a ten minute drive and Flora del Mar and Serendipity Ventures are not too much further. Rather than have an event limited to a single resort location, why not consider filling up downtown Todos Santos and utilizing the town's resources such as art galleries, restaurants, shopping, and recreational activities for guests? The Hotel California and The Todos Santos Inn would make ideal home bases and most of the town's services are within four square blocks. For additional accommodations there are numerous vacation rentals and casitas with ocean views to select from.

For weddings The Hotel California's Chef Dany Lamote and staff serves up some the tastiest regional specialties. For the rehearsal dinner

consider a taco and salsa bar ($25 per person, plus, bar, tax & gratuity). Chef grills the meat to order so guests will be able to enjoy their meal at their leisure whenever they check-in. It's good to keep the rehearsal dinner flexible and informal, and provide a relaxed atmosphere so guests can

have a place to settle in while in anticipation for the big event. The pool area is the ideal location for a cocktail reception or informal rehearsal dinner. For the reception, Chef Lamote suggests a sit down dinner in the hotel's dining room served family style ($55 per person, plus bar, wine, tax & gratuity usd). The menu could include a plated first course such as Caprese Salad, followed by family style platters of grilled yellowtail with salsa verde, arrachera with chipotle mushroom cream sauce, chicken or pork with citrus jamaica honey sauce, seved with roasted seasonal vegetables, pinto beans and cilantro rice. The menu also includes a series of appetizers for the cocktail hour. Chef Lamote also bakes gorgeous wedding cakes and the most popular are flourless chocolate torte with butter cream frosting and white sponge cake with wild passionfruit filling.

Over the next few weeks, I'll be featuring weddings I've coordinated at the Todos Santos Inn, Flora del Mar, Punta Lobos, Casa Bentley, La Alianza (Pescadero), Café Santa Fe and a few others. Styling, flowers and décor by Pueblo Magico Weddings. . . . Todos Santos Weddings

Hacienda Encantada Sale is Closed

2009-07-28T14:12:00.000-07:00

Congratulations to my associate Lisa Welsch of Encanto Real Estate on the sale and closing of Hacienda Encantada. Encanto Real Estate had the listing for approximately for 1.5 years-- started at $499K, reduced to $399, and closed in the low $300K's. The buyers got a good deal on a great house in one of the best neighborhoods, and it came fully furnished. Lisa also managed to find the new owners a puppy to enjoy in their new home . . . way to go Lisa! And Congratulations and Welcome to Dennis & Nancy Naigle.

Casa Antigua New Listing

2009-07-22T15:17:00.000-07:00

Casa Antigua is a beautifully restored historic house and centrally located for year round living and business venture. The large kitchen and outdoor patio space make this an ideal venue for entertaining family and friends, or make the perfect setting for a destination restaurant. This the location where Mateo and Karla will be hosting their opening and selling specialty baked goods. There's a neighborhood café --La Esquina across the street and Linda Hamilton furniture showroom just a block away at Casa Dracula. The beach is also within short walking distance. Located on Calle Horizonte Street the northside of the downtown: Offered at $375k Encanto Real Estate

Posada La Poza

2009-07-21T20:21:00.000-07:00

Posada La Poza Hotel (orange building on right) enjoys a secluded location and overlooks a fresh water lagoon on the west side of town. Each one of their seven suites is uniquely furnished and include AC, fans, mini bar, WiFi, and binoculars for bird watching. Their restaurant is top notch and features daily specials. Their Whale Deck is available for weddings and private parties, and special events on the beach directly in front of Posada LaPoza. Fine dining and sunsets at their best: Posada La Poza

Highway Sign Magically Appears on the South side of Todos Santos . . .

2009-07-21T18:50:00.000-07:00

This is not a mirage! I had to blink a few times and make sure my tired eyes weren't playing tricks in the late afternoon sun. I was on the way to the Todos Santos Inn and, before turning onto Degollado, I looked right and noticed a massive overhead highway sign on the outskirts of town. Looks like our dented, dinky welcome sign bit the dust to make room for the new highway. In case you're wondering about the Bimbo truck, it's México's version of Wonder Bread. Did you know Grupo Bimbo is one of the largest bakery companies in the U.S. and has plans to become the world's largest bread manufacturing company by 2010? : Grupo Bimbo

Pilates in Todos

2009-07-20T17:09:00.000-07:00

To stay in shape and keep working off the calories in between meals, there are several options for residents and visitors. There's weekly morning yoga classes offered by several instructors at La A.R.C.A. There's Tai Chi, horseback riding, personal training, and there's a serious group of mountain bikers, walkers and runners in our midst. Tennis players meet regularly in Elias Calles and in Todos Santos at Flora del Mar. Within the last year an internationally certified Pilates instructor Mara Adame Fregoso of Pilates in Cabo started offering weekend classes in Todos Santos. The summer schedule is Saturdays at 6:30 p.m. and Sunday's at 10 a.m. at El Hotelito. The classes currently range from 4-6 students to 10-12 students in the high season ($100 pesos per class). Mara recently returned from continuing education training and making us work the abdominals like never before. Visit her web site at Pilates in Cabo, and for El Hotelito.

Pozolé Thursdays at Ataxcon

2009-07-18T20:51:00.000-07:00

Landi Ortega of Ataxcon says in her home state of Guerrero, pozolé is served every Thursday. No one knows why, but it's always been that way, says Landi and no matter where you're at--Acupulco, Taxco, Iguala or Zihuateanejo pozolé is traditionally served on Thursdays and Ataxcon is pleased to carry on the tradition in Todos Santos. Landi has been serving pozolé each Thursday for over a year, for her restaurant recently celebrated their first anniversary. She says her pozolé is made from "real pozolé" and takes a day to prepare and the texture is meatier and heartier than the canned version. I had a choice of white or green pozolé with with either cubes of pork or shredded chicken. The pozole was served in clay dishes and garnished with shredded lettuce, sliced radish, avocado and accompanied by a bowl of crispy house made tortilla chips, a quartered lime, and ramekins of chili flakes, oregano and served with a beverage ($65 pesos). The green version has the addition of green mole made from roasted pumpkin seeds and spices, and gives the soup an earthier taste and fuller body. She also serves a spicier red version and I enjoy alternating flavors with each visit.

(Landi at her 1st year anniversary party) Ataxcon also serves regular breakfast and lunch menu Thursdays 9 a.m.-9 p.m.; breakfast and lunch Mon, Tues, Wed and Friday 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Closed weekends. Next time you're in the mood for some nourishing comfort food at reasonable prices, Landi will make you feel right at home. Located on Colegio Militar between Calle Hidalgo and Marquez de Leon. Tel 044 (612) 176-1275: Click for Photo Gallery

Pequeños Hermanos de Maria Celebrate 37th Anniversary in Todos Santos

2009-07-15T13:37:00.001-07:00

Last Thursday afternoon I noticed they were setting up tents in the church courtyard. When I asked a group of women what was going on, they said a group of special missionaries were returning to Todos Santos for their 37th anniversary and offering special services over the weekend. The photographs were taken at Saturday's 7 p.m. mass.
For more information about the missionaries click on the following link: Pequeño Hermanos

Bastille Day a la Todos Santos . . .

2009-07-15T11:52:00.000-07:00

In honor of France's independence day and our French neighbors, a few of us gathered for Pastis and Bacchi Ball. Bastille day brings back fond memories of when I waited tables at Le Metro French Restaurant in Daly City, California. Between the chef, dishwasher and myself we would crank out about 4o-50 dinners on Bastille Day. It was chef / owner Joseph Garcia (French Algerian) who encouraged me to pursue my studies in hotel and restaurant management. Thank you Chef and Viva la France! Click Here for more photographs

Cheap Eats: Compa Chava Mariscos

2009-07-15T10:34:00.000-07:00

When it's 90 degrees and climbing with 60% humidity, there's nothing like an ice cold seafood cocktail to take the heat off and Compa Chava serves up an array of refreshing sea food cocktails and ceviche. On a recent visit, I ordered a shrimp and octopus cocktail ($70 pesos). Chava chopped the celery, onion and tomato to order and added his home made chilled shellfish broth (no Clamato in these cocktails!). He also makes his own "salsa picante" in a stone mortar right on the spot. My bench mates ordered fish ceviche tostadas ($15 pesos each), shrimp ceviche tostadas ($25 pesos each) and a Campechana (shellfish cocktail with clams, shrimp octopus, veges, broth $65 pesos). Located on Colegio Militar between Hidalgo and Marquez de Leon.

Real Estate News: Mexico In Position to Prosper in Ailing US Economy

2009-07-13T19:40:00.000-07:00

My associate Lisa Welsch of Encanto Real Estate forwarded this article on "The Real Estate Opportunities in Mexico." The article appears online in the editorial section of Bajia Banderas News and written by Charles Simpson of PVNN (Puerta Vallarta News publication). The article discusses how consumers, retirees and babyboomers can be in the position to prosper & avoid the coming storm and prolonged economic stagnation in the USA.

According to Bandera News, the number one retirement destination in the world is Mexico. There are already over 2,000,000 US and Canadian property owners in Mexico. The most conservative number of American and Canadian Baby Boomers who are on their way to owning property in Mexico for full or part time living in the next 15 years is over 6,000,000 . . . Click here for the full article

Michael's at La Galeria de Todos Santos

2009-07-11T12:37:00.000-07:00

I stopped in to see Michael and Pat Cope and curious what's on the menu for dinner and they were busy prepping. Friday night's menu will feature Green Curried Pork with lemon grass, Vietnamese Crab Cakes, and Japanese Style Wild Salmon.

Summer is here and things are still happening in Todos Santos . . .

2009-07-11T11:58:00.000-07:00

Although it's July and just about the middle of the summer, construction is going strong in the historic downtown. The restoration of the historic building on the corner of Topete and Centenario, for example, the owners have been meticulously restoring the facade by chipping away at the stucco and exposing the original brick facade, and resurfacing and sealing the bricks. They are also adding crown molding, which will give the block and corners a unified look. The restoration is being over seen by Gaddo Piazzesi and his new studio La Lucertola will occupy the former space of Todos Santos Eco Adventures. I got a sneak preview and it has dramatic black and red glazed red walls and a stylish black bathroom.

Grupo Salás is also going full force on the renovation of an historical building and almost completed with the second floor. At the rate they are working, it looks they are aiming to open their hotel in time for the tourist season. Also the former Banorte space is being renovated and will accommodate a new gallery and penthouse.

Yucca Abstract

2009-07-08T06:50:00.000-07:00

On the way home from an early morning walk, I came across this yucca in the back of a pick up truck. I noticed it at the beginning of the walk, but didn't pay much attention. On the way back, the diffused light from the over cast sky and blue gate in background made for an interesting composition in line and color. It's times like these that remind to slow down and keep paying attention: El Dharma

The Art of Dessert at Tre Galline

2009-07-07T14:14:00.001-07:00

Many thanks to Magda and Angelo of Tre Galline Restaurant. On July 6 they hosted a dessert tasting "The Art of Dessert" featuring a heavenly array of desserts typically served during the Venetian Carnival, including bite sized bignés, crostatas, panna cottas, biscottis, tiramiso, coffee semifreddo and chocolate pudding with amaretti to name a few. I felt like I was in a pastry shop in the countryside of Italy. Magda says to stop by for coffee, tea, or enjoy a cappuccino con vov, select your favorite dessert and stay a while . . . . Tre Galline also serves lunch, dinner, and features an espresso bar, located on the corner of Calle Juarez and Topete in downtown Todos Santos: The Art of Dessert at Tre Galline

Todos Santos at Dawn

2009-07-07T10:53:00.000-07:00

The photograph was taken at dawn on July 4th from the west side of town from La Poza mesa. We enjoyed a light rain-probably the first of the season, and the early morning mist acted like a diffusion filter and the street lamps reminded me of sparklers. More photographs at the following link: Todos Santos Images

Casa Piedra on 3.2 Acres

2009-07-07T10:07:00.000-07:00

Just updated this listing on the Todos Santos MLS. This custom crafted home is situated on one of the last remaining large parcels in the La Cachora Area. Ocean, mountain and orchard views offered at $1.2 mil. Two 1 acre parcels also available: Casa Piedra Listing