Yesterday was busy with arrival tasks: clearing in with immigration, port captain, customs, banking, setting up cell phone service. The manager of our marina helped us get all of our paperwork in order, and the process went smoothly. Waiting in various lines was more enjoyable due to the companionship of fellow cruisers John and Naomi on s/v Renova from Campbell River, BC. We wish we could continue south with them, but we need to linger here for a week while I grade papers and administer exams.
Our first impressions of Mexico are very positive. The economic downturn, along with media reports of swine flu and violence wrought by drug traffickers, have severely impacted tourism. Everyone, from officials to storekeepers to folks on the street, seem to be making an extra effort to be gracious and welcoming.
Ensenada is a port of call for cruise ships, and one just arrived this morning. We're glad we had a chance to stroll downtown yesterday without throngs of tourists. Today will be different.
In case anyone forgets we are in Mexico, there is an enormous flag flying above the malecon (waterfront walkway).
We're docked near the cruise ship terminal. This is the last place where we will spend any length of time in a marina. Marinas in Mexico tend to be more expensive than in the US. After we leave here, we will be anchored out for nearly a month as we head south towards Puerto Vallarta.
2 comments:
Contratulations on making it South of the border!
I'll trade you my bicycle for your boat. It comes furnished with water storage, sleeping area, kitchen, etc. What do you say? Maybe we'll see you at the next port.
Post a Comment