March 25, 2014 – We arrived yesterday after a short uneventful drive from Rancho Verde at km 142 on Hwy 1. It was cool when we awoke, about 14C (57F) then we started but heated up quickly, still a far cry from when we arrived; our thermometers indicated 99F (37C), really darn hot.
Our hosted Loreto Fiesta Night Dinner at Paul & Jeff’s house a few days ago was a blast, lots of fun for sure. They were great hosts and had some Canadian neighbours and friends over to share the festivities with which went well past Baja midnight (maybe an hour). Everyone really enjoyed the setting, what a wonderfully decorated house and fantastic layout that include a pool, hot tub, large patio, bar and much more. Their house is very private with extremely hospitable guests who clearly love to entertain. The housekeeper Ramona was helping out and the musicians arrived at the perfect time and as expected put on a terrific performance. Lots of great Baja memories made at this event, thank you again Paul & Jeff for agreeing to host this event for Baja Amigos.
The next day we headed to the next destination, Ciudad Constitucion and Palapa 206 owned by Mike & Bertha. Lots of road construction and some delay at the overlook just north of Juncalito, then again just before you enter Ciudad Insurgentes, yes Baja roads continue to improve! After a shopping stop at Super Ley we were off to the RV Park where Lisa made some Summer Beer for the Happy Hour, good thing because it had warmed up considerably.
Heading to Tecolote the next morning we encountered yet more construction just south of town however the delay was short lived and we arrived on the beach at lunch time. Not many RVers remain as most have now started their trek home. Being a Friday and Saturday we did share the beach with some locals who always have a wide range of music for those around to listen to, real cultural immersion I would say. We did get both the Kayak & Paddle Board out for a spin and many of the group enjoyed the ocean for a swim. Out Pot Luck was a real hit, the wind was down and party was on.
2 days on the beach at Tecolote then off we headed on our short drive to Rancho Verde with our stop at El Triunfo. The gang was looking forward to our only brunch stop on tour at the El Triunfo Cafe and Mark’s crew did not disappoint. Yes it was a long time coming for some but well worth the wait. The group always find the town interesting and new shop opened up run by Mario, an enterprising Mexican who sees the future here as this little town emerges from a long decline, anchored by the El Triunfo Cafe. Later well after set up at Rancho Verde we pulled out are propane campfire and had a hotdog roast which the group enjoyed, some even used the bread they bought in El Triunfo.
Last night after all the excursion were finished we Peter picked Lisa and I up an headed over to Geraldine’s Casa in Cabo Real next door. They had organized dinner and a movie plus a swim, I really nice end to our first day in Los Cabos, very gracious of both of them, thanks guys.
Today we head off for Artesano’s for some shopping and photos then San Jose Del Cabo, tonight dinner at Vags for those who want to try it out. Peter & Joe’s restaurant is our favourite these days on tour.
Did you know?
Día de la Constitución, or Mexican Constitution Day, is celebrated on February 5th. The Mexican Constitution was drafted in Santiago de Querétaro by a Constitutional Convention during the Mexican Revolution. It was approved by the Mexican Constitutional Congress on February 5, 1917, with Venustiano Carranza serving as the first president under its terms. This national holiday is usually recognized with festivals and street celebrations. The most important articles, 3, 7, and 13, displayed profound changes in Mexican political philosophy that would help frame the political and social backdrop for the rest of the century. This included abolishing firearms except for the Army and Police.
The official name of the constitution is the Political Constitution of the United Mexican States, and is also often called the Fundamental Law or Magna Carta. The first truly Mexican constitution is that of 1824, as it discards any type of foreign legislation and proclaims absolute sovereignty. However, prior to this, there were already various laws in existence, among them the Spanish Constitution of Cadiz in 1812, the “feelings of the Nation” by Jose Maria Morelos, and the Constitutional Decree for liberty of Mexican American, or the Constitution of Apatzingan of 1814. The Constitution of 1857 was the fundamental element in national defence against the French invasion and Emperor Maximiliano de Hasburgo. It was fully valid following the expulsion of foreigners and remained in effect until 1917.
In 1910, the armed Mexican Revolution began, based on the social, economic and political conditions that arose during the time of President Porfirio Diaz who remained in power for more than 30 years. This movement was precisely the context for the creation of the Constitution that governs Mexico through today.
Venustiano Carranza, as first leader of the constitutionalist Army, in charge of the executive branch, called congress together on 1916 in order to present a project to reform the constitution of 1857. The document went through tremendous modifications and additions to adjust to the new social reality of the country. On February 5th 1917, the current Magna Carta was presented at the theatre of the Republic in Queretaro. This document was able to bring together the revolutionary ideals of the Mexican people. It included principles for social reforms and farmers. In addition, it was drawn up to govern all Mexicans without distinction to race, creed, or social or political condition, offering the liberty of thought and beliefs.
