Somewhere South of Normal

In early January of 2024 we again find ourselves headed south of the border continuing our explorations of Baja California.

Be sure to watch our latest video in 1080p and on a large screen with the volume knob turned all the way up!!

In the first part of this Baja adventure (there is a second part) we travel with our good friends from Oregon, Mark and Phyllis Motsko. We revisit some our favorite places but also discover some new remote locations.

Last Night In the USA 
Our First Trip Along Hwy 1 Traveling From La Paz to Tijuana 1975

Denise and I  have been exploring the Baja peninsula since 1975 (my first visit was in 1963 with my grandparents)

Because of my long term relationship with Baja and the current impact that social media and overcrowding is having on this special place, I often struggle to find that sense of discovery it once held, this narrow peninsula is only so big.

Our First Night Camped Along the Sea Of Cortez
Vegetation in North Central Baja
Phyllis Enjoys Our Remote Camp in Central Baja

But Baja continues to amaze me and if one is willing to put the effort into getting off the main highway and visit some of the more remote locations you will almost always be assured of unforgettable scenery, adventures and memories.  

The Wild looking Cirio Tree
One of Our Favorites, The Elephant Tree

Mark and Phyllis are experienced travelers but this being their first time on the peninsula we were able to again see Baja for the first time through their eyes and their enthusiasm, they of course adapted immediately.

Ruby Relaxes On the Side of the Baja 1000 Road
Hotel Mision Catavina
Small Road Side Fruit and Vegy Market

Together we spend time in central Baja, the Sea of Cortez and along the Pacific Coast traveling about 700 miles south of the border.

 View of the Sea of Cortez From Our Bedroom Window
Mark and Phyllis Enjoying Morning Coffee Along the Shores Of the Sea Of Cortez
Mark Monitors His Pole, Sea of Cortez

Mark, an avid fisherman, spent many an hour casting his line into the Pacific and the Sea of Cortez, supplying many a meal of delicious fish tacos.

Denise Looks for Dolphins, Sea Of Cortez
Ruby and Otis Wander the Sea Of Cortez Together
Sand Dunes, Pacific Coast
Enjoying the Evening Light, Pacific Coast

Having the opportunity to spend time in this fantastic country every winter is a real privilege. With its surrealistic landscapes and friendly locals, Baja makes for a very relaxed way of life. 

Toasting Our “Lives So Far” Around the Evening Fire

 

In our next post we will travel farther south and spend time on some of the remote Pacific coast beaches and then eventually head back to the Sea of Cortez.  Stay tuned for more fun.

Ruby Plays With Her Best Friend Lola, Pacific Coast
Setting Up For Another Sunset, Pacific Coast Baja

Has anyone else felt that “the longer I live, the more convinced I am that this planet is used by other planets as an insane asylum”?

George Bernard Shaw

 

14 thoughts on “Somewhere South of Normal

  1. Wonderful video once again! Love the superimposed images (like Otis looking out the window) too! They’re getting even better. Looks like another great Baja trip, and so nice to share with friends from Oregon. Ruby and Otis were obviously enjoying it too!

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    1. Thanks Teresa, It was a heck of winter as you know but beyond the hard times we enjoy capturing our travels so when we get older (maybe next year 🙂 we will have then to reflect back on. Enjoy your summer!!

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