Over the past few years, we’ve gotten a considerable number of questions on our Baja travels, as well as a lot of interest from others who want to follow in our path. It’s important to remember these five tips as you cross international borders.
Go with the Flow
One of the best parts of about Baja is that life here tends to move at a much slower pace. Perhaps it’s the lack of cell service or solid WiFi, but it’s an incredible place to lean into slow travel and soaking in all that is Baja – beautiful beaches, rich culture, delicious food. Enjoy the moment and let the land and people you meet guide you along your travels!
Learn Some Spanish
Do your part to learn some Spanish basics, and have a Spanish app downloaded on hand to help with those tricky translations. Trust us, it’ll make all the difference! The locals appreciate it, and while you might run into some people who do speak English, you’ll encounter many more who don’t.
Support the Local Economy
While you’re here, support the locals. Eat a meal at an outdoor restaurant or taqueria. Buy baked goods or a blanket from the local vendors. Book a tour. Leave a generous tip every time you grab a meal or a coffee. Don’t haggle with vendors – many folks here earn about $8-10 dollars per day, so remember this before you try to get $5 off your purchase. Do your part to contribute back to this economy!
Pack It In, Pack It Out
Much of Baja is overran by garbage, but that doesn’t mean you get to leave behind your trash too. This includes making sure you seek out the proper locations to dump your grey and black tanks. Do NOT dump directly into the ground – no matter what someone may advise. Not only is it unsanitary, but it is extremely harmful to the wildlife, sea life and ecosystem that thrives up and down the peninsula. Help keep Baja’s beaches and communities clean!
Respect the Locals and their Culture
Life in Mexico is much different than what we experience in the States or Canada – and to be honest, they have it figured out. No one wants to hear about politics or encounter an entitled tourist.
In Summary
This is how we live full-time in our Airstream, whether in America or Baja. We don’t have all the answers, but we do our due diligence. Honor the places you live, and the places you’re going. It’s the right thing to do!
To get our complete, 100+ page eBook on RVing the entire Baja peninsula, head here!
