Fourth of July brought this seaside city 30 miles south of San Diego its best tourism of 2009, with hotel occupancy at 70 percent on the holiday and some near capacity.
“This is encouraging to us and indicates some comeback, although we remain well below years past and need more gains,” said Rosarito Beach Mayor Hugo Torres.
Concerns in the United States that Mexico’s crackdown on drug cartels has made the area unsafe for tourists have been a main cause of the decline in tourism this year. Most Rosarito visitors come from the U.S.
“But time has shown emphatically that our visitors are not at risk,” Torres said. “We have had no major incident.”
“Our frequent visitors and thousands of expatriate residents are among those who have helped us convey the fact that Rosarito is safer and more welcoming than ever. We know that more needs to be done to convey that message.”
The drop in visitors has had a harsh effect on the economy of the city, which is significantly dependent on tourism.
“We believe that in part because of some unbalanced stories, some people remain uneasy about visiting Baja,” Torres said. “But we hope that responsible U.S. media will join with us in conveying the message that the area is safe.”
“It was so good to see our hotels, restaurants, shops, spas and other attractions busy again,” he added. “Not only are people secure here, they’ll find extraordinary bargains this year.”
Rosarito under Torres’ leadership in the past 18 months has created a special Tourist Police Force, city office for tourist attention and special ombudsman to assist visitors.
Mostrando entradas con la etiqueta mexico safety. Mostrar todas las entradas
Mostrando entradas con la etiqueta mexico safety. Mostrar todas las entradas
martes, 7 de julio de 2009
miércoles, 1 de julio de 2009
Rosarito esta mi Corazon!
I am a 70 yr. old female and I have Lived full time in Rosarito for almost 6 years by myself with 2 dogs and a cat and feel safer here than the US. Where else can you live when someone comes to change your tire who is a stranger and suddenly all your neighbors come to visit. Do I feel protected you better believe it. The cost of living is much better, perfect weather 98% of the time, clean white beaches, I can walk to town, Know my bank manager, pharmacist, etc. Fresh food we can trust. I can go on and on. I love Rosarito the rich social life I have. Do I go out at night of course, do I use common sense of course just like anywhere else in the world.
Marilu Shah
*feel free to use my name. Rosarito esta mi Corazon!
Marilu Shah
*feel free to use my name. Rosarito esta mi Corazon!
Hooked on Baja
I have been in love with the Baja peninsula, especially the area between Playas Tijuana and Ensenada, since my first visit to the region in the 1950’s. The unparalleled primitive beauty of Baja’s volcanic coastline and the adjacent seas beyond offer visitors a rare opportunity to temporarily escape from the frustration of modern existence, and peacefully reflect upon the things in life that are truly important.
Many have ultimately chosen to live the rest of their lives here. The strong, family oriented Mexican culture is warm, friendly and welcoming. It also stands in stark contrast to the mindlessly materialistic and socially depreciating culture north of the border.
It pains most of our longtime American residents in Baja deeply when U.S. media interests unscrupulously magnify the inter-drug cartel conflicts that are currently being dealt with summarily by Mexican military and police authorities. Their sensationalistic content falsely insinuates that it is not safe for travelers to visit Baja Norte; a magical place where they could otherwise collect a multitude of blissful memories to be carried with them for years to come.
TOM GATCH
Author & Columnist
Many have ultimately chosen to live the rest of their lives here. The strong, family oriented Mexican culture is warm, friendly and welcoming. It also stands in stark contrast to the mindlessly materialistic and socially depreciating culture north of the border.
It pains most of our longtime American residents in Baja deeply when U.S. media interests unscrupulously magnify the inter-drug cartel conflicts that are currently being dealt with summarily by Mexican military and police authorities. Their sensationalistic content falsely insinuates that it is not safe for travelers to visit Baja Norte; a magical place where they could otherwise collect a multitude of blissful memories to be carried with them for years to come.
TOM GATCH
Author & Columnist
jueves, 18 de junio de 2009
My Baja Real Experience
My husband and I own a condo 7 miles South of Rosarito and a home in La Mesa, Ca. I have owned the condo for 17 years and love Baja. We ride our Harley down here as much as we can.
Last Tuesday we rode our motorcycle on the free road to Ensenada and then cut across to The Guadalupe Valley on the newly paved road. It is a beautiful ride. Horses, cows, beautiful ranches and very peaceful. Absolutely wonderful.
We stopped along the way by the roadside so that my husband could stretch his back. A little white car with "Bimbo" decals on the side when by and then turned round and came back to check on us. They had turned around to see if we were OK and did we need help. Awesome!
I thanked the very nice gentlemen in the "Bimbo" car and thought to myself that all everyone hears about in the news and internet anymore is the bad things that seem to happen in Mexico. There are so many good things that happen here every day.
This is just one good thing that happened here in Mexico. Wouldn't it be nice if more people who live here or love Baja as much as I do could mention good things!
I sent an e-mail to the "Bimbo" company that day to thank their employees for stopping to see if we were OK. Also, I complimented "Bimbo" on how their employees looked so professional and being so caring about our welfare.
I went out and bought a loaf of Bimbo bread that afternoon!
Thank you,
Sherry Stevenson-Mahoney
Last Tuesday we rode our motorcycle on the free road to Ensenada and then cut across to The Guadalupe Valley on the newly paved road. It is a beautiful ride. Horses, cows, beautiful ranches and very peaceful. Absolutely wonderful.
We stopped along the way by the roadside so that my husband could stretch his back. A little white car with "Bimbo" decals on the side when by and then turned round and came back to check on us. They had turned around to see if we were OK and did we need help. Awesome!
I thanked the very nice gentlemen in the "Bimbo" car and thought to myself that all everyone hears about in the news and internet anymore is the bad things that seem to happen in Mexico. There are so many good things that happen here every day.
This is just one good thing that happened here in Mexico. Wouldn't it be nice if more people who live here or love Baja as much as I do could mention good things!
I sent an e-mail to the "Bimbo" company that day to thank their employees for stopping to see if we were OK. Also, I complimented "Bimbo" on how their employees looked so professional and being so caring about our welfare.
I went out and bought a loaf of Bimbo bread that afternoon!
Thank you,
Sherry Stevenson-Mahoney
jueves, 11 de junio de 2009
Rosarito Beach! Your Nearway Getaway!
So close yet so different from the ordinary!
Check out this San Diego Channel 6 Segment
on Rosarito Day Trips
Check out this San Diego Channel 6 Segment
on Rosarito Day Trips
miércoles, 10 de junio de 2009
Baja Is Safe For Visitors,Says Ranking U.S. Diplomat
ROSARITO BEACH, BAJA CALIFORNIA, MEXICO---Baja is safe for visitors and he hopes its vital tourism sector quickly rebounds, a leading U.S. diplomat told El Mexicano newspaper in a front-page story published Monday.
Ronald Kramer, head of the U.S Consulate in Tijuana, said that some coverage of Mexico’s war against drug cartels had falsely created the impression in the U.S. that the area is unsafe for visitors.
While the bi-national effort against drug cartels is a serious one, visitors are not targeted, Kramer said. He also praised the Mexican army and authorities for their successes in the effort.
Kramer expects efforts by Mexican leaders, including Rosarito Beach Hugo Torres, to be successful in rebuilding Mexico’s image, but said the country’s economy and many of its people currently are suffering because of the significant loss of tourism dollars.
Kramer also said concerns in past weeks about the H1N1 virus (also known as the swine flu) had hurt the area’s economy.
He cited as an example some cruise lines canceling voyages to Ensenada and diverting them to San Diego, which actually had more confirmed cases of the flu.
MEDIA CONTACT: Ron Raposa
619-948-3740
ronraposa@hotmail.com
Ronald Kramer, head of the U.S Consulate in Tijuana, said that some coverage of Mexico’s war against drug cartels had falsely created the impression in the U.S. that the area is unsafe for visitors.
While the bi-national effort against drug cartels is a serious one, visitors are not targeted, Kramer said. He also praised the Mexican army and authorities for their successes in the effort.
Kramer expects efforts by Mexican leaders, including Rosarito Beach Hugo Torres, to be successful in rebuilding Mexico’s image, but said the country’s economy and many of its people currently are suffering because of the significant loss of tourism dollars.
Kramer also said concerns in past weeks about the H1N1 virus (also known as the swine flu) had hurt the area’s economy.
He cited as an example some cruise lines canceling voyages to Ensenada and diverting them to San Diego, which actually had more confirmed cases of the flu.
MEDIA CONTACT: Ron Raposa
619-948-3740
ronraposa@hotmail.com
martes, 26 de mayo de 2009
Rosarito Beach Reminds U.S. Visitors, Of New June 1 Document Requirements
ROSARITO BEACH, BAJA CALIFORNIA, MEXICO---This tourist destination reminds visitors from the United States that as of June 1 they’ll need a passport or similar document to re-enter the U.S. by land or sea.
That is the date for full implementation of the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative. Since January 2007 the requirements have been in effect for air travelers returning from Mexico or Canada.
Under the provisions, U.S. citizens age 18 or older re-entering the country will be required to show a passport, passport card, or approved traveler document such as a NEXUS or SENTRI pass.
Previously, a birth certificate and proof of identity were sufficient. For those under 18, a birth certificate still will be acceptable. Full requirements and application procedures are available at www.cbp.gov
Rosarito has posted notice of the changes on its Convention and Visitors Bureau website (www.rosarito.org) and shared them with city businesses and residents, which include an estimated 14,000 U.S. citizens.
The new requirements, according to U.S. officials, are intended both to make the border more secure and speed processing by providing inspectors with a more standard set of re-entry documents.
“We hope that the transition goes smoothly and that the new procedures do indeed make the border crossing more efficient for our visitors and others who use it,”
said Rosarito Beach Mayor Hugo Torres.
The San Ysidro port of entry, used by many of the one-million annual visitors to Rosarito, is the busiest border crossing in the world.
www.rosarito.org
That is the date for full implementation of the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative. Since January 2007 the requirements have been in effect for air travelers returning from Mexico or Canada.
Under the provisions, U.S. citizens age 18 or older re-entering the country will be required to show a passport, passport card, or approved traveler document such as a NEXUS or SENTRI pass.
Previously, a birth certificate and proof of identity were sufficient. For those under 18, a birth certificate still will be acceptable. Full requirements and application procedures are available at www.cbp.gov
Rosarito has posted notice of the changes on its Convention and Visitors Bureau website (www.rosarito.org) and shared them with city businesses and residents, which include an estimated 14,000 U.S. citizens.
The new requirements, according to U.S. officials, are intended both to make the border more secure and speed processing by providing inspectors with a more standard set of re-entry documents.
“We hope that the transition goes smoothly and that the new procedures do indeed make the border crossing more efficient for our visitors and others who use it,”
said Rosarito Beach Mayor Hugo Torres.
The San Ysidro port of entry, used by many of the one-million annual visitors to Rosarito, is the busiest border crossing in the world.
www.rosarito.org
Rosarito Beach Reminds U.S. Visitors, Of New June 1 Document Requirements
ROSARITO BEACH, BAJA CALIFORNIA, MEXICO---This tourist destination reminds visitors from the United States that as of June 1 they’ll need a passport or similar document to re-enter the U.S. by land or sea.
That is the date for full implementation of the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative. Since January 2007 the requirements have been in effect for air travelers returning from Mexico or Canada.
Under the provisions, U.S. citizens age 18 or older re-entering the country will be required to show a passport, passport card, or approved traveler document such as a NEXUS or SENTRI pass.
Previously, a birth certificate and proof of identity were sufficient. For those under 18, a birth certificate still will be acceptable. Full requirements and application procedures are available at www.cbp.gov
Rosarito has posted notice of the changes on its Convention and Visitors Bureau website (www.rosarito.org) and shared them with city businesses and residents, which include an estimated 14,000 U.S. citizens.
The new requirements, according to U.S. officials, are intended both to make the border more secure and speed processing by providing inspectors with a more standard set of re-entry documents.
“We hope that the transition goes smoothly and that the new procedures do indeed make the border crossing more efficient for our visitors and others who use it,”
said Rosarito Beach Mayor Hugo Torres.
The San Ysidro port of entry, used by many of the one-million annual visitors to Rosarito, is the busiest border crossing in the world.
www.rosarito.org
That is the date for full implementation of the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative. Since January 2007 the requirements have been in effect for air travelers returning from Mexico or Canada.
Under the provisions, U.S. citizens age 18 or older re-entering the country will be required to show a passport, passport card, or approved traveler document such as a NEXUS or SENTRI pass.
Previously, a birth certificate and proof of identity were sufficient. For those under 18, a birth certificate still will be acceptable. Full requirements and application procedures are available at www.cbp.gov
Rosarito has posted notice of the changes on its Convention and Visitors Bureau website (www.rosarito.org) and shared them with city businesses and residents, which include an estimated 14,000 U.S. citizens.
The new requirements, according to U.S. officials, are intended both to make the border more secure and speed processing by providing inspectors with a more standard set of re-entry documents.
“We hope that the transition goes smoothly and that the new procedures do indeed make the border crossing more efficient for our visitors and others who use it,”
said Rosarito Beach Mayor Hugo Torres.
The San Ysidro port of entry, used by many of the one-million annual visitors to Rosarito, is the busiest border crossing in the world.
www.rosarito.org
lunes, 18 de mayo de 2009
The Baja Car Fest A Great Succes!
More than 4000 people atended, 25 Car Clubs, 300 Cars, Music, Food and Fiesta!, soon more info on the Event!
lunes, 11 de mayo de 2009
Rosarito Furniture and Art Expo
The Manufacturers Association of Furniture and Accessories of Playas de Rosarito announces its eighth edition of the Furniture and Art Expo Rosarito, a traditional event organized to showcase the wonders that are manufactured by the hands of Mexican craftsmen, these displays will consists of over 1,500 Sq. m. of furniture and accessories exhibition manufactured in the city; wood, Ironwork, decorative marble items, floors, doors, talavera and much more as well as an exhibition of household items. Come join us for a fun filled weekend, spark the 4th of July with us; we will have fireworks and much more for your entertainment.
This event will take place from July 3rd to 5th in the new Pabellon Rosarito shopping center, located in the northern city entrance.
To make this exhibition an enjoyable event and with the support of the National Chamber of Restaurants and Food Industry Rosarito delegation will organize gastronomy and Artistic festivals during the month of July and keeping up within the main theme of the International Furniture will have other events at other headquarters like the Rosarito Beach Hotel, these events will include the “Paella Festival”, “Summer Festival of Mexican Food” and the traditional “Fish and Shellfish Fair”
More info: www.bajaevents.com.mx
This event will take place from July 3rd to 5th in the new Pabellon Rosarito shopping center, located in the northern city entrance.
To make this exhibition an enjoyable event and with the support of the National Chamber of Restaurants and Food Industry Rosarito delegation will organize gastronomy and Artistic festivals during the month of July and keeping up within the main theme of the International Furniture will have other events at other headquarters like the Rosarito Beach Hotel, these events will include the “Paella Festival”, “Summer Festival of Mexican Food” and the traditional “Fish and Shellfish Fair”
More info: www.bajaevents.com.mx
lunes, 20 de abril de 2009
Rosarito to Ensenada bike race proves festive, friendly and safe
Longtime fans of the twice-annual Rosarito to Ensenada Fun Bike Ride who missed Saturday's spring version because of concerns stemming from drug-related violence in Mexico's border areas might note two things:
1) The 50-mile ride was staged without major incident and, according to race promoter Gary Foster, not one of the 3,500 participants fell victim to organized crime, and 2) sign-ups are being accepted for the Sept. 26 ride.
This from Foster: "At the start line, I thanked the participants for coming, especially those from the United States, and asked them, 'When you go back home, tell your friends and families about your experience. You can see for yourself that this is not a dangerous place for tourists.' "
Fastest time to the finish-line party was 2 hours, 5 seconds. No official word on how much beer was consumed. But the unofficial word: lots.
-- Pete Thomas
http://latimesblogs.latimes.com/outposts/2009/04/rosarito-to-ensenada-bike-race-festive-and-surprise-without-incident.html
1) The 50-mile ride was staged without major incident and, according to race promoter Gary Foster, not one of the 3,500 participants fell victim to organized crime, and 2) sign-ups are being accepted for the Sept. 26 ride.
This from Foster: "At the start line, I thanked the participants for coming, especially those from the United States, and asked them, 'When you go back home, tell your friends and families about your experience. You can see for yourself that this is not a dangerous place for tourists.' "
Fastest time to the finish-line party was 2 hours, 5 seconds. No official word on how much beer was consumed. But the unofficial word: lots.
-- Pete Thomas
http://latimesblogs.latimes.com/outposts/2009/04/rosarito-to-ensenada-bike-race-festive-and-surprise-without-incident.html
miércoles, 15 de abril de 2009
What Americans Think about Rosarito
HI!!
I just wanted to let you know that I just returned from my second trip to Rosarito this year. As always I had a great time and was totally safe.
I visit my Time Share at La Paloma every January which is totally safe. We go and do whatever we want without ever having a problem. I always have to spend time at Iggy's on the Corner. All the people that work there are the greatest!!! I feel very welcome and comfortable in Rosarito. I have made many friends there and look forward to seeing them every year. I will continue the visit Rosarito and bring friends with me.
Sincerely,
Sandy Pratt
Sacramento, CA.
I just wanted to let you know that I just returned from my second trip to Rosarito this year. As always I had a great time and was totally safe.
I visit my Time Share at La Paloma every January which is totally safe. We go and do whatever we want without ever having a problem. I always have to spend time at Iggy's on the Corner. All the people that work there are the greatest!!! I feel very welcome and comfortable in Rosarito. I have made many friends there and look forward to seeing them every year. I will continue the visit Rosarito and bring friends with me.
Sincerely,
Sandy Pratt
Sacramento, CA.
martes, 7 de abril de 2009
Come to the Fiesta! You are cordially invited to Rosarito
The City of Rosarito in association with AMPI, the local Board of Realtors and many of the City Associations are inviting you to our 1st Annual Cinco de Mayo Fiesta, a fun filled weekend which will focus on the vibrant colors, alluring flavors and lively sounds of Mexico.
The date is Saturday and Sunday, May 2nd and 3rd,2009. There will be something for everyone! Starting at 12 noon on Saturday, there will be continuous live music with Folkloric dancers, Mariachi, Ballet, Salsa, Marimba, guitar and a versatile Mexican Big Band for the evening , followed by a fireworks show. Sunday activities begin at 12 noon. The setting will be the beautiful grounds behind the Rosarito Beach Hotel. You are encouraged to dress in Mexican style clothing as there will be a “best dressed” contest just for the fun of it. Don’t forget to wear your dancing shoes.
There will be a restaurant cook-off competition highlighting the scents and flavors of early Puebla Mx. and throughout the venue food and beverages will be offered by local restaurants for your enjoyment.
Many Rosarito associations including Rosarito’s very talented artists’ group as well as the local furniture designers will be displaying their works. AMPI as well as others will be hosting booths.
The Hotel Association is offering special hotel rates, some with spa packages and others with golf packages. If there are groups of 10 or more people that would prefer to come down on buses rather than drive, this will be available, free, with advance planning.
This is our way to remind you that Rosarito is diverse and fun.
There is no charge for admittance to the event. Everyone is welcome!
For more information on the event, hotels and transportation, go to:
http://www.rosarito.org/cincodemayo or dial toll free: 1.800.962.BAJA
The date is Saturday and Sunday, May 2nd and 3rd,2009. There will be something for everyone! Starting at 12 noon on Saturday, there will be continuous live music with Folkloric dancers, Mariachi, Ballet, Salsa, Marimba, guitar and a versatile Mexican Big Band for the evening , followed by a fireworks show. Sunday activities begin at 12 noon. The setting will be the beautiful grounds behind the Rosarito Beach Hotel. You are encouraged to dress in Mexican style clothing as there will be a “best dressed” contest just for the fun of it. Don’t forget to wear your dancing shoes.
There will be a restaurant cook-off competition highlighting the scents and flavors of early Puebla Mx. and throughout the venue food and beverages will be offered by local restaurants for your enjoyment.
Many Rosarito associations including Rosarito’s very talented artists’ group as well as the local furniture designers will be displaying their works. AMPI as well as others will be hosting booths.
The Hotel Association is offering special hotel rates, some with spa packages and others with golf packages. If there are groups of 10 or more people that would prefer to come down on buses rather than drive, this will be available, free, with advance planning.
This is our way to remind you that Rosarito is diverse and fun.
There is no charge for admittance to the event. Everyone is welcome!
For more information on the event, hotels and transportation, go to:
http://www.rosarito.org/cincodemayo or dial toll free: 1.800.962.BAJA
viernes, 3 de abril de 2009
What Americans Think about Rosarito
I want to share with the US State Department my experience yesterday (03-31-09) with armed security.
Out in El Morro where I've been staying, I heard the Chihuahua from across the way doing some excessive barking. I looked out the window to see why and saw two Army guys in full camouflage uniform and holding very big guns knocking on the door where the Chihuahua lives.
My neighbors had left about a 1/2 hour earlier. I opened my door and called across to let them know there was no one home. In perfect English, not even an accent, one of the fellas said, "Thank You, Thank You very much"............and they walked away to where another of their group was talking to another neighbor and the handyman. I watched from the window. Soon they were joined by others and the 6 of them went up the drive to where the Landlord resides. After about a 1/2 hour the troop came back and went the way they had come thru the settlement and exited the area.
In this neighborhood there are 6 occupied homes at present.. I am the only American.
After the Soldiers left I was out talking with a neighbor and was told the Soldiers had just completed a 'walk thru' of this community and did a 'look n see' of the homes where someone was home and they were invited in, or asked to enter. Routine mission.
I was very impressed! My neighborhood in St. Louis, Missouri would have benefited from the S.W.A.T. team doing an unannounced walk through of homes on my street, I know for a fact, they could have confiscated many items of interest right out in the open.
Mexico has a very impressive Security System in place for Tourists and Residents. They have 'profiling' check points on the roads and now I've witnessed 'walk thru's of neighborhoods'
I hope these neighborhood patrol missions include all neighborhoods and high rises. No one should be exempt. Not only does it make you feel like they are keeping the country safe for you but you are assured your neighbors aren't putting you in harms way either.
I just want to say to President Hugo Torres Chabert and the Army...........................you are doing a great job in keeping a watchful eye on neighborhoods and the people who are behind closed doors. You will always be welcome at my door. I hope my fellow Americans feel the same and welcome the opportunity to play their part in making Mexico safe for everyone.
I'm sad to say, I'll be leaving in less than a week, going back to Utah. I will come back this summer and make Mexico my home.
I hope the US State Department takes a better look at Mexico and sees it's as safe here as it is in Washington D.C. for a tourist.
Sincerely,
Jackie Jackels
Out in El Morro where I've been staying, I heard the Chihuahua from across the way doing some excessive barking. I looked out the window to see why and saw two Army guys in full camouflage uniform and holding very big guns knocking on the door where the Chihuahua lives.
My neighbors had left about a 1/2 hour earlier. I opened my door and called across to let them know there was no one home. In perfect English, not even an accent, one of the fellas said, "Thank You, Thank You very much"............and they walked away to where another of their group was talking to another neighbor and the handyman. I watched from the window. Soon they were joined by others and the 6 of them went up the drive to where the Landlord resides. After about a 1/2 hour the troop came back and went the way they had come thru the settlement and exited the area.
In this neighborhood there are 6 occupied homes at present.. I am the only American.
After the Soldiers left I was out talking with a neighbor and was told the Soldiers had just completed a 'walk thru' of this community and did a 'look n see' of the homes where someone was home and they were invited in, or asked to enter. Routine mission.
I was very impressed! My neighborhood in St. Louis, Missouri would have benefited from the S.W.A.T. team doing an unannounced walk through of homes on my street, I know for a fact, they could have confiscated many items of interest right out in the open.
Mexico has a very impressive Security System in place for Tourists and Residents. They have 'profiling' check points on the roads and now I've witnessed 'walk thru's of neighborhoods'
I hope these neighborhood patrol missions include all neighborhoods and high rises. No one should be exempt. Not only does it make you feel like they are keeping the country safe for you but you are assured your neighbors aren't putting you in harms way either.
I just want to say to President Hugo Torres Chabert and the Army...........................you are doing a great job in keeping a watchful eye on neighborhoods and the people who are behind closed doors. You will always be welcome at my door. I hope my fellow Americans feel the same and welcome the opportunity to play their part in making Mexico safe for everyone.
I'm sad to say, I'll be leaving in less than a week, going back to Utah. I will come back this summer and make Mexico my home.
I hope the US State Department takes a better look at Mexico and sees it's as safe here as it is in Washington D.C. for a tourist.
Sincerely,
Jackie Jackels
jueves, 2 de abril de 2009
Rosarito Spring Break or Spring Broke
I must say, our media has done their job. Scare the crap out of people, get a ratings boost. I think what upsets me most is how few media outlets have actually been down and checked the place out. I asked numerous vendors and no one had seen any reporters lately. Well, from this journalist, I can honestly tell you, it’s a safe place to go and you be welcomed with open arms. Sandy Huffaker, Graphic Journalist :AP,Education Week, Navy/Marine Times, Newsweek, The New York Times, USA Today
Read Full Story Here
Read Full Story Here
miércoles, 25 de marzo de 2009
Message to LA Times From Rosarito Mayor Hugo Torres Chabert
I wish the Obama administration would recognize the effort we are making in cleaning up our cities, our police forces, our state and country. Certain elements in the US government have reacted very quickly in telling people not to come to Mexico, talking only about the problems we have and that we have a lot of narcos.
We do, but you have more over there in the United States. Our criminals sell the drugs wholesale, you distribute them retail and the amount of money handled by U.S. distributors is probably 10 times as much. There has to be some recognition of that aspect.
For our city in particular, the travel warning is very important, as is recognition by the United States of what we're doing to fight trafficking. The US warning was issued after they saw some of the drug traffickers killed among themselves.
We have had lots of killings between traffickers. Ninety-six percent of the killings we have had in our area are between traffickers and that also happens in New Orleans or Baltimore or other cities with high crime rates. But all of a sudden, there is a campaign to stay away from Mexico.
In Rosarito, we have lost about 70% of tourists since the middle of last year. It had already dropped at the beginning of last year, but by mid-year, when the leader of the Arrellano Felix cartel was taken to the United States, the group was left headless and two guys wanted to get control and they started killing each other.
We haven't had any tourist or visitor caught in any crossfire in 20 years. We have 20million visitors a year in Baja California, so really the risk is not there for a tourist. I would really like the travel advisory to be investigated. They put it on because of what they read in the press and that's not exactly what happens here.
Hugo Torres
htorres@hotelrosarito.com.mx
We do, but you have more over there in the United States. Our criminals sell the drugs wholesale, you distribute them retail and the amount of money handled by U.S. distributors is probably 10 times as much. There has to be some recognition of that aspect.
For our city in particular, the travel warning is very important, as is recognition by the United States of what we're doing to fight trafficking. The US warning was issued after they saw some of the drug traffickers killed among themselves.
We have had lots of killings between traffickers. Ninety-six percent of the killings we have had in our area are between traffickers and that also happens in New Orleans or Baltimore or other cities with high crime rates. But all of a sudden, there is a campaign to stay away from Mexico.
In Rosarito, we have lost about 70% of tourists since the middle of last year. It had already dropped at the beginning of last year, but by mid-year, when the leader of the Arrellano Felix cartel was taken to the United States, the group was left headless and two guys wanted to get control and they started killing each other.
We haven't had any tourist or visitor caught in any crossfire in 20 years. We have 20million visitors a year in Baja California, so really the risk is not there for a tourist. I would really like the travel advisory to be investigated. They put it on because of what they read in the press and that's not exactly what happens here.
Hugo Torres
htorres@hotelrosarito.com.mx
martes, 24 de marzo de 2009
Testimonials for Rosarito Beach, Baja California, Mexico
While driving to my home in Bajamar from the US my car broke down on the highway at 1AM a Rosarito Policeman made sure I was ok and then found a shop that would fix my car at that late time,2 hours and $ 50.00 USD I was on the road.........Mucho Gracias
B. Larsen, Bajamar
B. Larsen, Bajamar
lunes, 23 de marzo de 2009
Testimonials for Rosarito Beach, Baja California, Mexico
I am a native Californian who has been visiting Baja since I was a child. There have been many changes over the years, but few as dramatic as in the decade or so since Rosarito became an incorporated city. Particularly in the recent years, Rosarito has faced a crisis and stepped forward with deliberate speed and leadership to bring order and safety to its residents and visitors.
Now as a full-time ex-patriot foreign resident, my real-life experience in Rosarito is far different from the one I see portrayed in the media. Of the 14, 000 or more full-time foreign resident Americans and Canadians living here, I am unaware of a single incident where any innocent foreign residents or tourist visitors have been victims of the violence visited upon us by the drug cartels. All but a few of the incidents between drug dealers have taken place, while technically within the city limits of Rosarito, far into the deserted canyons and hills surrounding the population center.
Teen-agers are not, perhaps, the most prudent tourists, but even these young people have ventured into our city for years and not one has encountered the predicted danger. In 2009, there are fewer of them so far, but they are coming here, and they are having fun-filled, violence-free vacations at bargain prices. Even the State Department "alert" stated calmly that Mexico is one of the most visited countries by Americans, who are advised to stay in tourist areas! All of the business zone in central Rosarito is a "tourist area" where visitors walk from taco stands to fish markets, from disco bar to family restaurant, from motels to luxury condos, and from sidewalk cafe to art gallery.
I am a member of the Rosarito Friends of the Library, and we visit libraries throughout the city without fear, even in outlaying colonias. Recently major corporations such as Wal-Mart, Home Depot, Applebees, Burger King and GNC Nutrition have opened locations in Rosarito. Others are coming. They share our confidence in the safety and sunshine we enjoy in Rosarito.
Just so you know... I am semi-retired, but have nothing to sell. I don't own a business here, don't sell real estate, and don't have a financial interest in the tourists who either visit or don't visit Rosarito and Baja. It is simply an injustice to watch repeated media reports that use years old video tape and information from other parts of the country while they stand in San Ysidro, California and do their reporting with cameras pointing toward Mexico... where they have never visited.
Ken Bell
Rosarito, Baja California
RosaritoKen@gmail.com
Now as a full-time ex-patriot foreign resident, my real-life experience in Rosarito is far different from the one I see portrayed in the media. Of the 14, 000 or more full-time foreign resident Americans and Canadians living here, I am unaware of a single incident where any innocent foreign residents or tourist visitors have been victims of the violence visited upon us by the drug cartels. All but a few of the incidents between drug dealers have taken place, while technically within the city limits of Rosarito, far into the deserted canyons and hills surrounding the population center.
Teen-agers are not, perhaps, the most prudent tourists, but even these young people have ventured into our city for years and not one has encountered the predicted danger. In 2009, there are fewer of them so far, but they are coming here, and they are having fun-filled, violence-free vacations at bargain prices. Even the State Department "alert" stated calmly that Mexico is one of the most visited countries by Americans, who are advised to stay in tourist areas! All of the business zone in central Rosarito is a "tourist area" where visitors walk from taco stands to fish markets, from disco bar to family restaurant, from motels to luxury condos, and from sidewalk cafe to art gallery.
I am a member of the Rosarito Friends of the Library, and we visit libraries throughout the city without fear, even in outlaying colonias. Recently major corporations such as Wal-Mart, Home Depot, Applebees, Burger King and GNC Nutrition have opened locations in Rosarito. Others are coming. They share our confidence in the safety and sunshine we enjoy in Rosarito.
Just so you know... I am semi-retired, but have nothing to sell. I don't own a business here, don't sell real estate, and don't have a financial interest in the tourists who either visit or don't visit Rosarito and Baja. It is simply an injustice to watch repeated media reports that use years old video tape and information from other parts of the country while they stand in San Ysidro, California and do their reporting with cameras pointing toward Mexico... where they have never visited.
Ken Bell
Rosarito, Baja California
RosaritoKen@gmail.com
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