Have been a lurker on this forum for a long, long time. I have made a few posts under a log in I can no longer remember, so I had to create a new one to ask a few questions, but before I do, a few comments.
Like many of you, I joined this forum when it began, migrating over from Rocky Point Online when that forum closed.
And, like many of you, I was grateful that this resource was not going away when the other forum closed as I found it very valuable in terms of finding current info on what was going on in Rocky Point at any given time.
That said, I have been visiting RP/PP for more than 20 years and remember when Sandy Beach was almost ALL beach, so I am far from green with it comes to PP, however, as much as I'd like to, I am unable to travel there as often as I'd like, and while I have never had any trouble when visiting, now that I am married, I want to be sure that my husband and I are fully aware (as well as we can be) about the relative safety of our chosen destination for holiday.
Before I go an further, I should tell you I live in Phoenix.
So, yes, I am aware of what happened in Chandler.
I am also painfully aware of what happened in Tucson, my hometown since the age of 13, however, those tragic incidents have absolutely NO bearing on what may or may not be happening in RP/PP.
So, I am asking, as someone who really does enjoy RP/PP and wants to visit, what is going on down there? We are considering coming down before the end of the month and are looking to this forum to gain a sense of what's really going on down there...no propaganda, no name calling, no grand-standing, no sugar-coating or sticking one's head in the sand...we are simply two people who are trying to do some research on what is going on, from a crime perspective, that may affect our visit so we can make an educated decision as to whether or not it would be wise for us to travel to PP/RP at this time.
Please understand, we are not trying to be all Chicken Little about this, nor are we wanting to be ostrich-like in our approach, and since we respect all of you (even though some of you don't seem to respect each other), we are reaching out to you for information so we can make a good decision.
We have read thru many of the recent posts, but have had a difficult time wading thru all of the sidebar BS and in-fighting (whatever happened to civility? when did snark become acceptable?) to determine the real story, so I figured I'd post a question on its own instead.
Please understand that we are not asking you to tell us whether it is safe for us to travel to RP/PP or not as that is a judgment only we can make, however, you **can** be instrumental in helping to provide the data that will help us (and others like us) make that decision in a very informed manner.
That said, thank you in advance for your time, your patience and most of all, your understanding and your expertise, as it truly is appreciated.
Well little miss cranky I think you will be OK unless you are trying to take over some narcos territory.The bacon rapped shrimp are your greatest danger
IMHO, go have fun, stay on Sandy Beach, Stay in town in a nice place. Mind your manners, go out and eat in town. Go for a drive and look around. Sea the of Sea of Cortez. Sit on the beach. GO
You most likely will not have any problems, However if you feel strength by the number of gringos within your glance you will be surely disappointed. There are just very few american
weekend tourists going down there. As a matter of fact we were absolutely stunned that the aeromexico flight from mexicali to guadalajara was empty and being is considered from daily
flights to weekend flights. The Border Crossing either way is fairly quick and uneventful. There once was confusion in this planned caravan at gringo pass in Lukeville. They all assembled
and proceeded to Mexico being around 12 vehicles. First two got Green Light to pass, third got stopped, next one green but refused to go forward, Customs came up to get them to move
forward, they panicked and quickly turned around back to the US.
Where are you planning on staying? Are you driving, or taking the shuttle? What do you plan to do while you are here? Are you adventurous or sedentary? Do you golf? Do you fish? These are just some of the questions that I came up with to better analyze your personal risk factor. Otherwise pack the car and gas er up and get on down here.
The fact is that crime is happening everywhere, you even mention it in your question. So to say that Puerto Penasco is crime free is just plain silly. I have said this before but it bears repeating in my humble opinion....I do not investigate the current crime stats before my trip to Phoenix or Tucson or wherever I may need to go up North. If I did that and used that as my sole guidance in my trip planning I would probably stay home out of fear. Why should it be different here other than the fact that it is a foreign country that is being slaughtered by the media in the US?
Puerto Penasco has not been overrun of late by marauding bands of misfits looking for trouble. I think if you come down and play on the beach, shop in the stores, behave yourself in general then Jerry is right the only thing you need to fear is the bacon wrapped shrimp. If you want to PM me for details please fell free to do so.
This is my opinion on the safety of RP with no personal agenda included. It is safe! I travel there every few weeks for business and pleasure and have not had any problems what so ever. I do not stay locked up at my place when I'm there. I am generally at some very off the tourist path places and feel safe. In fact, it is not uncommon for a local to come up and thank me for visting their town and not giving in to the negative hype. Bad things can happen anywhere as we have learned. But, I really feel Rocky Point is safe,...as long as you're not a member of a cartel that is.
I have been coming to PP since 1966. I was 9. I owned a cabin in Cholla Bay in college and for a few years afterward and then became trailer trash. I am single. I speak fluent Spanish. I drive down alone and stay alone in my trailer. (Usually) I don't go out alone at night. I don't walk the Mirador alone. I don't go to the known drug areas. I don't drive down at night anymore. I bring my 83 year old mother down with me. I wouldn't risk her life, as well as my own, if I thought there was any danger. There is enough info on this forum as to the past happenings that you should have been able to make up your mind already. The crime in Rocky Point is the same as here IMHO. You have a very small chance of being collateral damage in a shoot-out. Like I tell my non Rocky Point loved ones when they rag on me what about the danger is, the media is making a big deal out of this. They paint all of Mexico with the same brush. They don't go to Rocky Point! I go there. I TELL THEM THAT I WILL LET THEM KNOW WHEN IT IS NO LONGER SAFE BECAUSE I GO THERE AND I WILL KNOW! Argh, the American government is doing a good job of keeping their citizens and their money at home and killing Mexico! Sorry Stuart but that's how I feel. I watch when I'm there tho, every trip. My eyes are open to what's happening. I'll be the first to say when it isn't safe. Come on down and have a good time. You won't be sorry. But, if you have a big fancy 4 wheel drive pick up truck, make sure you have a fail safe anti theft device. I have a gas kill on my Jeep.
Let me know when you are down. Come over for drinks. My bar is always open. PDO north 40 space 367
Thanks for your reply, Miramar! Could not agree with you more there. We really do enjoy our time in RP/PP and want to support the local economy as much as we can and would like others to do the same. This forum is a great way for people to stay informed as to what is going on down there and make informed decisions about when to visit and what to do while down there. Whether folks like it or not, this forum is almost like an unofficial ambassador for our favorite sleeply little beach town.
Looking forward to the other replies as well and sincerely appreciate everyone's expertise :).
Thanks for your reply, Jerry! And, for the record, no cranky pants here, just someone with an itch for the beach.
No interest in taking over the narcos territory either, unless he's blocking my view of the ocean ; - ).
And thanks for the warning about the Bacon Wrapped Shrimp, we'll be sure to keep an eye out for them!
Thanks Terry! Sounds good to us and everything you said is usually what we do! We have been down several time over the last 3 years, but sadly, our last visit was in Jan 10, so it really is time! We miss it and are looking forward to a low key visit to our favorite beach town!
I've been coming for 15 years and moved here full time 3 years ago with my family. One boy in grade school, one in middle school and a girl doing online high school. I work on Sandy Beach and have a business in town. I live in town in a Mexican neighborhood. I know most of my neighbors. I have lots of local Mexican friends and go to all parts of town. I can honestly say that I have never felt threatened or worried about the safety of my family. I don't sell or use drugs. I don't hang out with anyone who I am not comfortable with. I use the same precautions that I did when I lived in Tucson for the past 20 years. Other than the lack of tourists, I really don't see things much differently than they were before all the media hype.
Thanks azdiva! We aren't at all concerned about strength in numbers in terms of gringos as we really enjoy getting to know the locals, but do wish that there were more people visiting for the sake of the local economy (whatever their ethnicity or nationality).
And that's terrible news about the potential schedule change for Aeromexico, but not surprising if they are flying with empty planes. Happy to hear that border crossings have been quick...we've never had an issue with those either, but it's been almost a year since our last visit, so you never know.
Crazy story about the caravan folks! 12 vehicles...talk about safety in numbers, but so sad to have traveled all that way, only to turn back at the border, and only a scant 60 minutes from the beach? Such a shame, but it sounds like they did what was right for them. Wonder what caused them to panic?
I believe everything that is happening in PP has already been said, basically nothing!! the town is sleeping and it is 8:36 pm, a few people here and there, had an avocado surprise at Mary's around 6pm and I was the only customer in the place I know it is Thursday and winter but, a few year back it was hopping, not now, you will have the beach all to yourself with maybe a few locals stralling and a couple of snowbirds that, like most of us regular, do not worry about the false rumors going around and come down to enjoy anyway and agree with Jerry and Russ however I would add to their worries the hot dogs at "El Jefe" opens after 5 pm at the tile store parking lot in Kino Blvd and Benito Juarez, as you go to the fish market at the stop sign in the railroad trucks turn left and about 1/3 of a block on your right hand side you will find the cart, go visit with the locals, you will find that they love it when you enjoy yourself!!
13 year visitor, homeowner the past 8 years on sandy beach. I continue to love PP for all the reasons I chose to build 8 years ago. My children are 14, 14, 12, and 9. We manage 12-15 trips a year. Attempting to be as educated as possible we have made the following modifications in our visits.
1. I don't travel across the border at night anymore
2. We go to dinner earlier with the kids and settle back home by 9
3. On adult trips we head home by 11 and finish our nightlife on the patio
4. I do more grocery shopping and eating out in PP than before to try to put money back
5. We always have a designated driver.
6. I am more aware of my surroundings driving to and from border
Thank for your reply, Russ! Really appreciate your time and your questions. As for us, we usually stay at Penasco del Sol, but have also stayed at a friend's place (the sand shack, we call it) in Cholla Bay, and, many moons ago, camped on Sandy Beach. For this trip, we are considering PdS. Clean, inexpensive and on the water, which works for us.
We always drive and take my husband's 2005 Xterra. We've hit the check points just outside of Sonoyta a few times and those stops have always been uneventful yet slightly unnerving (all that firepower in such young hands is just not something I am used to seeing here at home).
As for what we are planning to do, for this trip, just relax and enjoy the beach. Visit the Malecon, grab a bite, enjoy the sunset, head over to JJ's and maybe Chunga’s, you know, the usual. We rarely head over to the Manny's area of RP/PP anymore, and spend most of our time in between the Malecon, PdS and Cholla/Choylla Bay.
Although we are fairly adventurous, for this trip, we are just looking to unwind and soak up some sea breezes It's been a crazy two months for both of us and we just need a break at the beach and prefer RP/PP over California.
Not big golfers, but my husband has been wanting to get out to fish. Maybe next trip. This one will just be to relax. So yeah, roll out of bed, jump in the car and have lunch on the beach! Love that it's only four hours from my door to the shore!
And yes, I agree with you, crime *does* happen everywhere and often, in the best neighborhoods, so it's important to be informed and mindful where ever you are, which is why we are asking these questions.
Never meant to intimate that Puerto Penasco was crime free. Sadly, no city or town is, however some locations can have more crime than others based on a wide variety of factors.
And I appreciate that you do not investigate the current crime stats before traveling to Phoenix, Tucson or wherever you may need to travel here in the US because (I assume) you have working knowledge that these destinations relatively safe. Additionally, you speak the language, fluently and (again, I assume) have a working knowledge of how law enforcement operates and are a citizen of the country to which you are traveling.
And like you, I would never use crime statistics as the *sole* criteria for determining whether or not I would visit a destination, but I would use that information to plan appropriately.
A perfect example would be the island of St. Martin. Although I have visited several times, because I don't live there and the time span between my visits is usually greater than a year, I always check out what's going on so that when we do visit, we're aware of the current state of affairs and stay away from any known crime hotspots (like the lowlands after dark). The way I see it, it's just a smart thing to do when traveling to a country with which you do not have excessive familiarity.
And to your question as to why should it be different in Mexico other than the fact that it is a foreign country is precisely the reason why *it* is different. Even though I love Puerto Penasco and consider myself fairly familiar with it, it’s still in a foreign country that, like it or not, has gotten some bad media coverage and has had some fairly significant, tremendously violent, recent, visible drug cartel activity.
That said, the fact that the US media has been covering more crime than good news stories about Mexico of late is really of no consequence to me as it was the comments and reports on this board, and not any media coverage here in the US, that prompted me to ask these questions.
Regarding Puerto Penasco being overrun by marauding bands of misfits looking for trouble, just wait until spring break ; - ).
But seriously, I really do appreciate all of your comments and insight as well as your invitation to reach you via PM. My husband and I are really looking forward to our next visit, and will be sure to watch out for those bacon wrapped shrimp!
Thanks again for your insight and hope to see you and teh beach soon!
Thanks for your comments, el jimador! Appreciate your insight as well!
As for us, we don't plan to stay locked up either (what fun would *that* be) and are happy to hear your experience has been a good one!
Like you, we also want to support the local economy and are hoping to make another visit soon.
And that cartel business seems like a pretty dangerous one no matter what country you're in!
Thanks again and see you on the boards or in Penasco soon!
Hi Ladyjeeper! I know this is starting to get a bit repetitive, but THANK YOU for your time and your insight, especially in light of your upcoming surgery (which I know will go well)!
As a long time PP visitor/resident, I sincerely appreciate your insight along with all of the other good folks here. The fact that you travel and stay alone speaks volumes about you and how you feel about your 2nd home! I envy your fluent Spanish! Although I do speak a bit myself, I am no where near fluent, so it, along with French, remain on my bucket list.
I know the Mirador area, but am unfamiliar with the known drug areas you mention, so any info you can provide around that would be most helpful so we can be sure to avoid those areas if they are not apparent.
Like you, we are planning to travel during the day and on a personal note, I think it's really cool that you travel with your 83 year old mother (I mean really, how cool is that?) and know you would not risk her life or your own, so your comments are well taken.
As for the info on this forum, I have read most of it and keep up on the postings (even tho I rarely post myself and actually had to re-register because I could not remember my log-in). Additionally, we have used (and continue to use) the info on this site to gain a sense of what's going on down there and it was some of the dialog and info in those posts that prompted me start this thread.
And I agree that the general crime rate may be similar to here, and maybe even lower given the smaller population, although the per capita rate may be similar, however my concern, like most others I assume, is more around being in the wrong place at the wrong time (like the Circle K on the road to Cholla Bay/Sandy Beach) during an episode between the Narcos and Law Enforcement/Military personnel.
And I hear you about the non-Rocky Point loved ones (I hear it from my mom all the time), which is why I rely on this forum as opposed to potentially ill-informed media reports (actually, I've not heard much in the local media about RP in quite some time, which is a good thing!) And that is precisely why I look to this forum, because many of you are there on a regular basis, are truly aware of what's going on (as much as you can be) and would not risk your life if it were not safe.
And your sage advice to be aware of your surroundings and of what is happening exactly what are do any time we travel. Just because it's familiar or close does not mean that we can be lax when it comes to being aware. I am also aware here in Phoenix and try not to take any unnecessary risks.
On another note, thanks for the advice on the anti-theft device. We don't have a big fancy 4 wheel drive pick up truck (just a 2005 Xterra) but still set the alarm and may consider a gas kill or other option not only for MX, but also for PHX!
Once again, thanks for taking the time to reply to this post and to share your insight. I really do appreciate it and hope that your surgery goes well! And we'd love to join you for a cocktail or two, so we'll be sure to look you up the next time we are down and we'll bring the limes! In the meantime, sending good thoughts to you, your docs and all at the AZ Heart Hospital...it's amazing what they can do these's days, isn't it?
Hiya Jim! At the risk of sounding repetitive, THANK YOU for sharing your thoughts *and* your insight! Another long time visitor who is now a resident! That's great to hear and the fact that you have a family there also provides a unique perspective.
In addition to those who are frequent visitors, I really do appreciate the insight of folks like you, Russ and Ladyjeeper who live most if not all of their day to day in Rocky Point as that is the perspective we more infrequent visitors lack.
As a resident, local business owner and someone who has invested in the local economy, you have a good sense of what it happening, for better or for worse, and I appreciate your willingness to share your thoughts.
The fact that you have never felt threatened or worried about the safety of your family speaks volumes and is very reassuring. And not being involved with drugs or hanging out with anyone who you are not comfortable with is smart *anywhere* you make your home and using the same precautions you did while living in Tucson makes complete and total sense.
As for the lack of tourists, I really wish more folks would do a little more digging to determine the real story behind what the media portrays so that the businesses and the good folks of RP, including you and Russ and the thousands of others who make RP their home don’t suffer any more than they already have from declining tourist revenue. It really is a treasure of a place and it’s a shame that more people don’t visit.
On another note, congrats on your new business partner and the new name for your old place! And best of luck with this next chapter!
Hi gringa....I've been going down to Penasco since 1985....with little kids...now grown. Tent camped, graduating to a trailer. You've received some good advice already, but you don't have to worry about the bacon wrapped shrimp....the "problem" restaurant (as far as I'm concerned...."new" Costa Brava) has long closed!!! There are a few of us who go at each other on here....but I think everyone feels the same about Penasco. As for the violence, we each have our own comfort levels, and act accordingly. I don't head home at 9pm....and have actually closed some of the local places down (3am)....you just have to be aware of your surroundings.
Come down....be aware....enjoy yourself..... I'm heading down on Friday for a few days.
Thanks Rhino! I really do appreciate it and will look you up if we need accomodations.
PM me the details if you'd like so I can have on hand for future reference.
Thx RPR! Nice to see more good news about RP, but have mixed feelings about how quiet things are. It's nice to have the place to yourself, but like everyone else, I worry about the local businesses.
Avocado Surprise @Mary's sounds yum and we'll be sure to add the hot dogs at "El Jefe" to our watch list (great directions, BTW, so thanks!) but still need to figure out where those bacon wrapped shrimp are lurking! Any ideas, let me know, k?
Thanks Costa! Like those before you, I'd like to thank you for both your time and your insight....really, really helpful!
The fact that you are and continue to be comfortable traveling there with your children (and twins, too!) speaks volumes and you really hit the nail on the head with the modifications you have made to adjust to the changing climate in PP.
Good ideas, all and much appreciated! In reading thru your list, we have done much of the same and will continue to do so.
Thanks again for taking the time to share your thoughts and have a great evening!
Thanks rocktptjoe! WOW, since '85 huh? I think my first trip was in '87 (college tent camping on the beach, sand fleas and all...YECH). Rocky Point certainly has changed over the years, hasn't it, but then again, we have, too!
Good to know about those bacon wrapped shrimp. Heard about Costa Brava (both old and new) but never ate there. Seems we have our faves and by the time we hit all those places, it's time to head back home.
And yes, like any family, it seems that there are some heated debates sometime, but in the end, everyone still loves Penasco (and hopefully each other).
Regarding varying comfort levels, I hear you there, too. I travel to New York often for business and have walked thru the city on my own late at night, so it is all about comfort levels, awareness and knowing your surroundings.
Thanks again for your time and insight and for taking the time to reply to this post! And safe travels this weekend! We're still working out our travel dates, bit hope to visit in the very near future,
..............but still need to figure out where those bacon wrapped shrimp are lurking! Any ideas, let me know, k?
luckly you will be able to find shrimp wrap in bacon aka "Carlos V", V as in 5th, basically in any restaurant I personally like to eat them at "La Cocina de Ramon" who has 2 locations one in town kind of hidden and the other is one of the Sonora resorts, not sure which one of the Sonoran resorts there are 3, it is fearly new and have not had the chance to go there yet, however knowing Ramon I know the food is good, no, no EXCELLENT in both locations.
No matter what do not forget to ENJOY your trip!!
My DH is 77 and I'm 70 - we moved down full time end of Sept (my family has been coming down since 1848) - We've driven back and forth to the States a couple of times - once at night although that wasn't a good idea as there were a lot of animals on the road. The guards on both sides of the border have been wonderful. We wander around town - go grocery shopping and visit Ace Hardware a lot. We walk Sandy beach. We talk to people a lot - both Mexican and visitors. We are looking forward to our kids, grandkids and great grandkids coming down this Spring. We will give them common sense advice - DO NOT speed through Soyonita! Watch out for people, dogs and topes. DO NOT bring weapons of any sort (our one son-in-law normally travels with a registered handgun in his glove compartment - that is a major no-no). Bring your passport/card and birth certificates for the kids under 16. If bringing the critters have their paperwork in order. Watch for the Organ Cacti on the Sonoran side of the border - they are fantastic. Bring old shoes for tidepool exploring. Prepare to completely relax and have a wonderful time.
As you can tell, we love it and don't want to be any place else (which is why we ended up doing a night drive that one time - we just wanted to get home and out of the traffic, etc. of Phoenix).
My DH is 77 and I'm 70 - we moved down full time end of Sept (my family has been coming down since 1848) - We've driven back and forth to the States a couple of times - once at night although that wasn't a good idea as there were a lot of animals on the road. The guards on both sides of the border have been wonderful. We wander around town - go grocery shopping and visit Ace Hardware a lot. We walk Sandy beach. We talk to people a lot - both Mexican and visitors. We are looking forward to our kids, grandkids and great grandkids coming down this Spring. We will give them common sense advice - DO NOT speed through Soyonita! Watch out for people, dogs and topes. DO NOT bring weapons of any sort (our one son-in-law normally travels with a registered handgun in his glove compartment - that is a major no-no). Bring your passport/card and birth certificates for the kids under 16. If bringing the critters have their paperwork in order. Watch for the Organ Cacti on the Sonoran side of the border - they are fantastic. Bring old shoes for tidepool exploring. Prepare to completely relax and have a wonderful time.
As you can tell, we love it and don't want to be any place else (which is why we ended up doing a night drive that one time - we just wanted to get home and out of the traffic, etc. of Phoenix).
I think you got a lot of really good advice here. Just chiming in to agree with what has been said. That from a 5 year full timer and 10 year visitor. Take care and don't act too stupid, you'll have a great time. Having lived in NYC I can relate to that caution!
Thanks for the tip/info, RPR! We're working out the details now and hope to be down soon...and will most definitely enjoy our trip!
Thanks again and happy Friday!
Just have a couple of them (probably more in the old family photos the kids now have) - one of my Mom with a fish - one of my parents packing the trunk of the car and a picture of our camp (think it was probably either Choya Bay or Sandy Beach - there weren't many people around to say the least!) - that was in Feb of 1948.
I appreciate all the info on these forums. I often look but have never before replied. We have never felt unsafe. I have been in RP about once a month for past 4 years with my new husband who owned a condo on Sandy Beach. Liked it so much we bought another so as to have a guest casita with enough room for guests' family to stay. They all come down alot too. Prior to this (6 years) I would go with "trailer trash" family....who stayed on Sandy Beach or stay at Playa Bonita. My now grown kids went camping there with friends in the late 80's, and rented a house as college kids after that. I love it there....if I didn't have to work in Tempe we would go down more as my husband is mostly retired. We frequent as many restaurants shops, and markets as we can. We want to contribute to the economy, plus I have many favorites places to eat.....I only hope they can survive the economy.
Re safety: We have never had any problem. One time got a speeding ticket going home...coming into Sonoita, right where the speed limit abruptly drops. Officer was very polite. We deserved ticket as we were guilty. Another time got the RED light crossing the border and had to unload stuff....I tripped on the bumps in pavement and crashed to the ground...The Mexican border personnel were so concerned that I was OK.. brought me a chair .....put everything back in car for me, kept asking if I was OK. Very nice. That's about it for run-ins with authority. I worry more about the crazy U.S. drivers killing us on the road to RP.
We are pretty laid back.....just want to sit at beach or balcony and look at the ocean, swim, paddle around. Love the sunsets. Just want to eat, drink wine and margaritas...by the way .....Anyone know where to buy decent wine in town?
WINE !!
On the right hand side of Benito Juarez going toward the Old Port, just where the railroad crosses Benito Juarez. Crucero I think it's called, next to a pharmacy. Crucero has a huge wine selection, it's in the back room if you stop by there. Be prepared for sticker shock though. I have found decent wine, one French, one Argentinian, for around $6 but the California wines like Kendel Jackson are very high and they don' t have much Italian wine. There are some very expensive , $50 bottles of Mexican wine that I'd love to try but don't want to risk it at that cost. I buy or have friends bring down (thanks Eduardo) 5 Liter boxes of Merlot. Very drinkable, I prefer the Vella brand myself, less than $20. You can legally bring down 5 Liters per person I am told.
Provecho !!
Thanks El Gato! Sounds like you and your sweetie are living the good life in PP! Congrats on your full time move! That's fantastic!
And 1848? Wow, that is some history! I'd love to see some photo from those days if you have any!
We hear you about the night driving as our plans have always included drivng during the day, but we always seem to chase that daylight back to Lukeville if you know what I mean. There is something to be said for that sand gravity!
Sounds like we're pretty low key, like the two of you, and enjoy wandering around town, along the shore and of course a yummy meal. And I think it's great that your family visits, too (wow! great grandkids, how cool is that!!)
And yes, like so many others, you have provided great info and sage advice, esp. about Soyonita (THANK YOU)! And the old shoes for tidepool exploring was a great reminder...I always seem to forget that!
Ahhhhh...to completely relax, now **that** is what we need!
Thanks so much for sharing your story and replying to this post. My husband and I really do appreciate everyone's time and comments and are looking forward to our next trip! Hope to see you on Sandy Beach soon!
I sure did, Roberto, and I am really happy that I posted the question! Good to hear from another full timer, too, so thanks for your reply! I really had no idea there were so many of you and hope to meet you all one day soon!
Tell me, does the forum host regular (like quarterly) get-togethers or is it more informal than that, like maybe happy hour next Friday at Jim's place, the Hideaway?
(now that he's changed the name, we're more apt to go, so thanks Jim!)
Just have a couple of them (probably more in the old family photos the kids now have) - one of my Mom with a fish - one of my parents packing the trunk of the car and a picture of our camp (think it was probably either Choya Bay or Sandy Beach - there weren't many people around to say the least!) - that was in Feb of 1948.
Oh, please post them, if you can, and if you can't, let me know and maybe my husband could scan them for you! I'm sure those old photos are amazing!
WOW! I cannot get over everyone's response to this post! All good news and that is so nice to hear! Thanks for your post, too Marjie and for taking the time to reply with your thoughts. I really do appreciate it!
Like you, I find all of the info and the people on these forums so helpful and really appreciate having it as a resource. And like you, we were lurkers too, but I am so happy I spoke up and posted!
Nice to know that you, too, feel safe and have over the past 4 years and that you have a family compound here now! We hope to have one some day, too.
HA at the "trailer trash" comment! Back in college, we were too poor for even a trailer, so I guess we were tent trash! LOL
Would love to hear about your fav restaurants, shops and markets, too, so please let us know. Like you, we want to contribute to the local economy as much as we can and are eager to try some new places as well!
On another note, sorry to hear about your ticket, but happy to know it was uneventful And that trip at the border crossing, ouch! Happy to know it was not serious and that they helped you put your things back in the car.
And I hear you about the crazy U.S. drivers! Those are the ones you have to watch out for!
Like you, we are pretty low key, too. Just find me a sunny spot on the beach or balcony to I can enjoy the sound of the ocean and I will be just fine. And those sunsets...amazing! Yep, good food, great wine and amazing sunsets...just we need.
DH drinks Padre Kino - costs about $4.50/$5.50 and he said it isn't bad at all (my nose turns like Rudolph's if I drink wine). He has gotten it at Super Ley and Santa Fe Express.
These pictures were actually taken in Feb of 1950. We had been coming down here to camp and fish since 1948 - this was the first time my Aunt & Uncle (from Evanston IL) came down and they were really nervous about the trip - ended up loving it.
New York to Rocky Point! WOW, what a change! How long were you in the City?
Well the route here for me sort of meandered around a bit. I grew up in the Appalachian Mt.s and moved to NY at 17, on my own. Like to say I grew up there! What with being at one University or another accumulating degrees and three different careers, I've been truly blessed. I was in NY for about 8 years, worked at a NIMH regional research center. Manhatten is an incredible place. Actually moved here from New Mexico.
These pictures were actually taken in Feb of 1950. We had been coming down here to camp and fish since 1948 - this was the first time my Aunt & Uncle (from Evanston IL) came down and they were really nervous about the trip - ended up loving it.
Gringa,
Us Trailer Trash proudly wear that label and some of us even have the T shirts that we proudly wear! We even have friends that are pigeon coopers, (Condo people), And we socialize!
We have Thanksgiving dinner there every year at a forum members place. We start planning on the forum in Sept. From time to time, someone will post up a weekend roll call and invite whoever is down to gather at their place for a potluck. Just watch the forum.
I just did a count an in the last 2 and a half years, I have personally met 45 or so here from this forum. Isn't that cool?
Welcome to the group! I'm sure you'll like it here!
You mentioned in a previous post about the "known drug areas". Where is that? Like Gringa we haven't been down since the beginning of 10. This is the longest we have ever gone without our RP fix. We were planning on going down in January, but then I saw a few stories on this board that scared me. After reading this entire thread, I feel a little more safe. As a RP visitor for 30 plus years I don't think I would feel unsafe in town. It almost seems like my second home. I've been down there about a thousand times and never even came close to an incident. I too stayed in our trailer alone many times and I would today if we still had the trailer. It's the road to and from the border that scares us because it's so isolated. From what I just read on this thread the consensus seems to be that the road is safe during the day.
I would also like to add that yes, we do have crime here in the US. The part that scares me is if something would happen, we are concerned about being in a foreign country. If we were hurt, would we get good healthcare. If we were somehow robbed or had our car stolen, would we get help from the police. As I said, we have never encountered a problem with the exception of our car being keyed pretty bad. We have an annual mexican insurance policy, but have never put in a claim so we don't know how smooth that would be if we have a claim.
I never thought in a million years, I would be scared to drive down to RP!
Live here full time and have never seen any trouble personally. Just drove from here to Mazatlan and back, stayed in Hermosillo, Novojoa, Los Mochis and Mazatlan, again no problems just friendly people and great sights. Came back and crossed the border to pick up mail, no troubles on either side. Come on down.
These pictures were actually taken in Feb of 1950. We had been coming down here to camp and fish since 1948 - this was the first time my Aunt & Uncle (from Evanston IL) came down and they were really nervous about the trip - ended up loving it.
I guess by the time my folks came down From Torrance in 55/56 you guy's already had the best camping spot picked out.LOL My dad had heard about Cholla Bay from some of the wild boy's who worked with him at Hugh's ( they camped at Sandy), so they strapped on a bunch of Jerry cans to my Uncles Teddy's Woody for fuel and water, hooked up the old boat, then kissed us kids goodbye and set on out. Us kids didn't get to go until the next year, and by then we'd moved to Phoenix. We stayed in those hut's at Nachos, and it was one great adventure after another.
We used to go crabbing and clamming at Choya Bay when no one else was there (of course always got stuck in the sand a time or two). When we first came there was basically just the old port and the Rocky Hotel. By the early 60's we were camping (and staying at) the Playa Hermosa - the beach stretched in a beautiful curve - nothing else on it. This was before they dredged the harbor and when the tide went out it went waaay out. Shrimp boats had stilts on them to prop them. You came and went according to the tides as you couldn't get in or out of the harbor if the tide was out. When we first came down it was basically only a place the avid fishermen came - they didn't bring their families. Ah, all the memories lol
As long as we're posting pictures. The picure of the girls on the Burro is Rosie's, can you tell which one she is? One picture show's very clearly what the harbor looked like before it was dredged.
Just to set the record straight.....the "trailer trash" comment was in good humor. That's what they called themselves. We had a great time. My brother and sister-in-law would set out a yard-like perimeter with all the fixings, go around to all the neighbors and invite everyone over for food and drinks. It was great. I heard tons of stories of this bro-in-law and my ex's family camping on Sandy Beach in the late '50s and early '60s. Just backed up the stationwagon and put up a tent. The ex (as a college student) apparently took some buddies to RP, arrived at night in a rain, couldn't really see, so decided to pitch the tent for the night where they were cuz they they couldn't see to drive further. Woke up the next a.m. in the Dump. You'd think they would had had a clue..?smell?...Must have had lots of cerveza. Guess I have now turned into a "pigeon cooper"...an affectionate term I'm sure!.....although sometimes remarks about this genre are not so kind. Oh well...RP is good no matter where you stay.
As to restaurants: I love Max's, Mare Blu, Ramons, Rosie's for breakfast, Mary's for lunch; Playa Bonita is walkable for us and good for the day we arrive....get a nice ocean experience. La Curva more inland is good. We recently were going to everything on the Malecon to try them all.
Re wine: Many places serve/sell La Cetta(?sp).which I personally do not like, so hence the question. We of course bring down wine.....but for longer stays I appreciate the info. Thanks all.
Hey Gato,
We must have run into each other there as my family and I used to camp in the campground across Calle Trece from the Playa Hermosa. Showers were a garden hose inside the window of the bath house. I had my first grasshopper there at the age of 15 in the bar at the Playa Hermosa. Spent all day in the beach there by the staircase and watched the sun set into the water...It looked like a pathway to the sun as it went down. Oh, the memories....This was from '71-74 ish.
Marjie, Trailer Trash and Pigeon Coopers are affectionate terms. There are a few here that don't appreciate them but for the most part, we are all good.
I have a thousand old pics in my storeroom somewhere. I'll look for them as I am laid up for a couple of days....
At Hector's cantina (at the Playa Hermosa) we used to play dominos with the kids in the day time as it was a little cooler there - or on the covered patio. My mother's Siamese cat, Baby Cat, used to lay on the bar. Migel & Chewy (bartenders) used to keep the cerveza flowing (Corona). I learned how to do the twist at Hector's. Bar's had to be shut down at a certain time (I think it was midnight but I'm not positive). Of course no a/c so we used to wear our bathing suits - get them wet - then put on a shift to sort of act like a cooling system. No one ever believed that there would be swimming pools or golf courses built - or high rise buildings.
Also in the 60's there was a tourist shop on the road to the Playa Hermosa and the owner loved chess and used to teach the kids how to play it. He would have groups of kids (accompanied by lazy dogs) set up on the floor with chess sets he had for sale and he would go among them teaching them the moves. They would have bought their cokes and end up having a wonderful day after being at the beach. Once some tourists came in and complained about the riff raff kids and dogs and the owner suggested the tourists find a different store.
Gato, Do you have any more info about the cantina. Pic what it looked like? I would like to know more about that era very interesting. Kenny showed a very good pic
and I think Manny has more pics maybe he might want to share. Thanks in advance.
I remember snooping around in the arizona Historical Society pictures archives and they had some good rp pictures.As i remember a guy named Stark had pictures taken in the Pinacates in the 30s of a eclipise .
playaperro said:
Gato, Do you have any more info about the cantina. Pic what it looked like? I would like to know more about that era very interesting. Kenny showed a very good pic
and I think Manny has more pics maybe he might want to share. Thanks in advance.
As long as we're posting pictures. The picure of the girls on the Burro is Rosie's, can you tell which one she is? One picture show's very clearly what the harbor looked like before it was dredged.
in a side note my wife and 15 year old daughter drove in from Tucson an arrived at RP at 10 pm, yes they drove at night but we trully do not believe the exagerated stories you hear in the USA papers, specially the ones that Jerry posts links to!! LOL
Well the route here for me sort of meandered around a bit. I grew up in the Appalachian Mt.s and moved to NY at 17, on my own. Like to say I grew up there! What with being at one University or another accumulating degrees and three different careers, I've been truly blessed. I was in NY for about 8 years, worked at a NIMH regional research center. Manhatten is an incredible place. Actually moved here from New Mexico.
Looks like meandering is a good thing, Roberto! And moving to NYC @ 17 must have been some adventure, too! And to Old Mexico from New Mexico? V. poetic, indeed, and a great choice! Thanks for sharing your story :)
Need to figure out how to become an honorary "trailer trasher".
I was tent trash many, many moons ago, in my college days when we were too broke to afford a trailer and have not yet been a cooper.
Nowadays, we usually stay at Penasco del Sol or at our friends sand shack in Cholla Bay, so not sure what that makes us, but thrilled to be part of this wonderful (and sociable!) community, so thanks for the warm welcome!
Love it here and looking forward to meeting many of you soon!
Thanks again for the warm welcome and all the great info!
Looking forward to seeing you soon!
Thanks so much for taking the time to reply to this post. We echo your sentiment, which is why we posted our initial question, and are thrilled that you have found the replies to be helpful, too!
We're thinking of heading down v. soon, too, and are hoping to connect with some of the fine folks on this forum. Would love to catch up with you someday, too!
And, like you, so we can be in the know and avoid the "known drug areas", I am hopeful that Chari will be able to provide some additional info when she has a moment. It would be good info to know so we don't accidentially wander into the wrong area.
Thanks again for your reply and enjoy your next trip to RP :) .
Live here full time and have never seen any trouble personally. Just drove from here to Mazatlan and back, stayed in Hermosillo, Novojoa, Los Mochis and Mazatlan, again no problems just friendly people and great sights. Came back and crossed the border to pick up mail, no troubles on either side. Come on down.
Thanks Mel! Another full-timer (we are so envious of all of you!)
Really appreciate your post, too, and happy to know all went well with your trip!
We'll be down soon...and given the restaurant post, it seems like Ramons will be on our agenda!
...As I said, we have never encountered a problem with the exception of our car being keyed pretty bad.
Oh, and so sorry to hear about your car :( but if that's the worst that's ever happened, that's not too bad. Even tho it's terrible in and of itself, the same (or worse) could have happened anywhere I guess and happy that it won't keep you away.
I guess by the time my folks came down From Torrance in 55/56 you guy's already had the best camping spot picked out.LOL My dad had heard about Cholla Bay from some of the wild boy's who worked with him at Hugh's ( they camped at Sandy), so they strapped on a bunch of Jerry cans to my Uncles Teddy's Woody for fuel and water, hooked up the old boat, then kissed us kids goodbye and set on out. Us kids didn't get to go until the next year, and by then we'd moved to Phoenix. We stayed in those hut's at Nachos, and it was one great adventure after another.
Kenny, between you El Gato and LadyJeeper, I could listen to these stories all day!
Thanks so much for sharing them!
These histories and memories are priceless :)
We used to go crabbing and clamming at Choya Bay when no one else was there (of course always got stuck in the sand a time or two). When we first came there was basically just the old port and the Rocky Hotel. By the early 60's we were camping (and staying at) the Playa Hermosa - the beach stretched in a beautiful curve - nothing else on it. This was before they dredged the harbor and when the tide went out it went waaay out. Shrimp boats had stilts on them to prop them. You came and went according to the tides as you couldn't get in or out of the harbor if the tide was out. When we first came down it was basically only a place the avid fishermen came - they didn't bring their families. Ah, all the memories lol
YAY! More wonderful stories! These are such a treat! Thanks so much for sharing, El Gato!
I wonder if there is an official RP historian? Or a historical society?
As long as we're posting pictures. The picure of the girls on the Burro is Rosie's, can you tell which one she is? One picture show's very clearly what the harbor looked like before it was dredged.
Oh WOW, Kenny! These are great! Thanks so much for posting! Any more? Please keep them coming!
(thinking that maybe I should change the name of this post to better reflect all the great info/content here!)
More great stories, Marjie! Thanks!
And thanks for the restaurant recs...I think we're gonna ck out Ramon's on the next trip, for sure!
And maybe Mare Blu, too, or Portofino.
We've been to Max's but have also been wanting to try Rosie's. So many wonderful places, so little time!
And thx for the info on La Cetta...for shorter trips, we may just bring our own. Althou I enjoy a good Merlot or Cab, we lean a little bit lighter, esp. when enjoying fresh seafood.
I have a thousand old pics in my storeroom somewhere. I'll look for them as I am laid up for a couple of days....
Oh, can't wait to see those! What a treasure...and the image of you time a Playa Hermosa with the stairs and the pathway to the sun! Sounds lovely!
Wouldn't be cool if you and El Gato met ages ago?
At Hector's cantina (at the Playa Hermosa) we used to play dominos with the kids in the day time as it was a little cooler there - or on the covered patio. My mother's Siamese cat, Baby Cat, used to lay on the bar. Migel & Chewy (bartenders) used to keep the cerveza flowing (Corona). I learned how to do the twist at Hector's. Bar's had to be shut down at a certain time (I think it was midnight but I'm not positive). Of course no a/c so we used to wear our bathing suits - get them wet - then put on a shift to sort of act like a cooling system. No one ever believed that there would be swimming pools or golf courses built - or high rise buildings.
Also in the 60's there was a tourist shop on the road to the Playa Hermosa and the owner loved chess and used to teach the kids how to play it. He would have groups of kids (accompanied by lazy dogs) set up on the floor with chess sets he had for sale and he would go among them teaching them the moves. They would have bought their cokes and end up having a wonderful day after being at the beach. Once some tourists came in and complained about the riff raff kids and dogs and the owner suggested the tourists find a different store.
Almost all the roads were dirt/sand :)
Gawd, I love these stories. El Gato! The are **priceless** and I so appreciate you sharing them! You learning how to do the twist and LadyJeeper's 1st Grasshopper!
What wonderful memories! Keep the stories and amazing photos coming and thanks so much for sharing!
Gato, Do you have any more info about the cantina. Pic what it looked like? I would like to know more about that era very interesting. Kenny showed a very good pic
and I think Manny has more pics maybe he might want to share. Thanks in advance.
Ditto! I am so loving the stories and pics! Thanks so much for sharing!
I remember snooping around in the arizona Historical Society pictures archives and they had some good rp pictures.As i remember a guy named Stark had pictures taken in the Pinacates in the 30s of a eclipise .
Ooooh, good info, Jerry, thanks! We'll have to ck it out! Do you recall if they were in the archives in Tucson near the University or the PHX location?
in a side note my wife and 15 year old daughter drove in from Tucson an arrived at RP at 10 pm, yes they drove at night but we trully do not believe the exagerated stories you hear in the USA papers, specially the ones that Jerry posts links to!! LOL
Good to know, Inka! Thanks!
Happy they arrived safely and hope you all have a wonderful stay!
Gawd, I love these stories. El Gato! The are **priceless** and I so appreciate you sharing them! You learning how to do the twist and LadyJeeper's 1st Grasshopper!
What wonderful memories! Keep the stories and amazing photos coming and thanks so much for sharing!
My parents had a trailer with a BIG screened in porch (where we all slept) on the south side of the Playa Hermosa (as you looked at the Playa Hermosa from the beach it would have been on the right). There were 6 trailers parked there full time - all six families were very close and most had kids. My parents' names were Bob and Chavela Gehrandt.
One time the kids decided to build a basement house on the beach - a very big hole and they made sand couches and stuff - played in it all day. Next morning came out and there was a sand buggy stuck in it! Someone had been driving the beach the night before and hadn't seen it and in they drove. Kids were forced to fill in their hole after the buggy was finally removed.
Their best friend was Roberto Fleischer - his parents managed the Playa Hermosa - then the old Rocky Hotel, before they build the Villa Granada.
Ladyjeeper - I also had my Hungarian Puli dogs with me so you might have noticed them. They are a medium sized dog with long black corded coats (like like a walking mop) - hard to miss. We were usually down for Easter week, summer, Thanksgiving. My parents were there just about every weekend. My Dad was a real big guy and the only Spanish he ever really learned was "Por favor, dame un otra cerveza."
My parents had a trailer with a BIG screened in porch (where we all slept) on the south side of the Playa Hermosa (as you looked at the Playa Hermosa from the beach it would have been on the right). There were 6 trailers parked there full time - all six families were very close and most had kids. My parents' names were Bob and Chavela Gehrandt.
One time the kids decided to build a basement house on the beach - a very big hole and they made sand couches and stuff - played in it all day. Next morning came out and there was a sand buggy stuck in it! Someone had been driving the beach the night before and hadn't seen it and in they drove. Kids were forced to fill in their hole after the buggy was finally removed.
Their best friend was Roberto Fleischer - his parents managed the Playa Hermosa - then the old Rocky Hotel, before they build the Villa Granada.
Ladyjeeper - I also had my Hungarian Puli dogs with me so you might have noticed them. They are a medium sized dog with long black corded coats (like like a walking mop) - hard to miss. We were usually down for Easter week, summer, Thanksgiving. My parents were there just about every weekend. My Dad was a real big guy and the only Spanish he ever really learned was "Por favor, dame un otra cerveza."
Another great story, El Gato! It sounds like an idyllc experience! And I love the name Chavela! Like Chavela Vargas, no? One of my v. favorite singers! Her sound sound is so unique and haunting. Such passion and such a story. I just love her!
Tell me, is your mom's given name Chavela or was it a nickname for Isabella (as I have heard it was for Ms. Vargas).
Funny story about the basement house...and reminds me of a story from my Spring Break, way back in the '80's. I have to tell you about it someday over a cold Corona and some grilled camarones!
Is the Playa Hermosa still standing? Has it be renamed something else, or is it now the Playa Bonita?
And the Puli dogs sound adorable but wonder how their coats fared in the sand and the surf...I am picturing a dog with sandy dreadlocks!
Funny that as often as you all were there, your dad only learned a few words in Spanish, but I guess they were the only words he really ever needed :)
Gato, did you know the Lindburgs from Tucson (sp?): Sue, Beth, Katie, Bob, etc.? They talk about being kids in the 60s or 70s in a trailer at Playa Hermosa, and all the fun associated with that.
Is his Dad still living here? I had heard that both of them had left town. Went over to the old Villa Granada and it was being turned into a mission (boy did we have wonderful times sitting on the patio there drinking Coronas (or drinking coffee in the mornings) under the hugh bougainvilleas that covered everything.
I did too. Those were the days. I believe Luisa has passed. I don't know about their dad..... I weathered Hurricane Eduardo out at the Villa in Sept. '76. The power went out and the band just kept playing without amps and we all kept dancin' What a memory! It was a blast!
Luisa died at St. Joseph's in Phoenix some time before 1995 (can't remember the year). She was truly wonderful and did a lot to help Penasco. She was very active in promoting Penasco and working to do away with the need to stop for visas. We still miss her constantly. So many fantastic memories of her.
Another great story, El Gato! It sounds like an idyllc experience! And I love the name Chavela! Like Chavela Vargas, no? One of my v. favorite singers! Her sound sound is so unique and haunting. Such passion and such a story. I just love her!
Tell me, is your mom's given name Chavela or was it a nickname for Isabella (as I have heard it was for Ms. Vargas).
Funny story about the basement house...and reminds me of a story from my Spring Break, way back in the '80's. I have to tell you about it someday over a cold Corona and some grilled camarones!
Is the Playa Hermosa still standing? Has it be renamed something else, or is it now the Playa Bonita?
And the Puli dogs sound adorable but wonder how their coats fared in the sand and the surf...I am picturing a dog with sandy dreadlocks!
Funny that as often as you all were there, your dad only learned a few words in Spanish, but I guess they were the only words he really ever needed :)
Yes, Chavela was her nickname - her name was Isabel and she hated it - loved Chavela. My Dad named his boat The Chavela - he wasn't good about taking care of it and everytime it went out everyone was on the alert to rescue it.
Hey Just come on down have a great time and find the good life.
Been going down to RP for over 33 years and to mexico on the California side for 68 years. I started camping on the beach 39 K below California when I was about 3 or four years old. Never have I felt unsafe except about 10 years ago we crossed into Juarez for about 5 min and turned around and came out. No question we were not wanted there.
Hey Just come on down have a great time and find the good life.
Been going down to RP for over 33 years and to mexico on the California side for 68 years. I started camping on the beach 39 K below California when I was about 3 or four years old. Never have I felt unsafe except about 10 years ago we crossed into Juarez for about 5 min and turned around and came out. No question we were not wanted there.
Thanks Wood Spinner! Really appreciate your info! Always nice to hear from another long time visitor! And we took your advice, came down, met some wonderful people, tried a few of the recommended restaurants from the other thread and enjoyed a bit of the good life!
And I hear you about Juarez...always good to leave when you don't feel safe! We had no worries RP and hope to never have any! We really did enjoy ourselves and are looking forward to another trip soon!
Thanks again for your reply and continue to enjoy the good life! :)
Yes, Chavela was her nickname - her name was Isabel and she hated it - loved Chavela. My Dad named his boat The Chavela - he wasn't good about taking care of it and everytime it went out everyone was on the alert to rescue it.
Another great story, El Gato! Thanks so much for sharing! Now, everytime I hear Chavela Vargas, I will think of you, your family and your dad's boat!
It was also a real pleasure to meet you, your DH, your lovely neighbors and, of course, your lovely gato! Thanks so much for joining us for Dinner at Ramon's and for your wonderful hospitality! Meeting all of you was one of the highlights of our trip and we look forward to seeing you all again soon!
