On our way to San Felipe and a tour of El Dorado Ranch community, a bus tour took us through Yuma, into Mexicali on the Mexican side of the border, and on down Highway 5 for a two-day tour of the picturesque community.

Customs heading south were a breeze – the tour guides told us to expect some Mexican officials to walk through the bus.  They did.  I guess we looked inoffensive,since no one was stopped or questioned more closely.

Then, we started driving.  Along the way in Mexicali and other well-populated parts of the area, we even saw a Costco – and wondered if they sold lots of hot dogs like back in the U.S.

On the road to San Felipe

And, then we drove for what seemed like forever.  For segments, the highway was two-lane and narrow, at that.  The bus driver, experienced on this drive, was not fazed by how narrow the road seemed.

Are we there yet?

Arriving in San Felipe

Finally, after about three hours of driving from Yuma, we found our destination, which was actually on both sides of the highway.  We were to be guests of the El Dorado Ranch community that was hoping we would be interested in spreading the word about their developing retirement community.

Just as in other real estate, location, location, location is the mantra of the day.

And, San Felipe has quite a location!

Located on the Sea of Cortez on the eastern Baja Peninsula, San Felipe is a juxtaposition of the old and modern.  A fishing village is at the center of the old town, with a boardwalk (the “malecon”), shops and even a couple of nightclubs.

Low tide on the beach

The fine, white sandy beaches are mesmerizing.  Anyone who loves the lure of the ocean could probably just walk the beaches or stare at the ocean for hours. The water is calm and, especially during low tide, the water’s edge leaves a long distance to travel to the shore.

Come back Monday as we explore more of San Felipe…