As a family that loves every moment of traveling, we eagerly set out on a journey to explore the beautiful coastal city of Ensenada, Baja California, Mexico. While our trip was filled with incredible experiences and cherished memories, like any adventure, there were a few aspects that left us less than thrilled. In this blog, I’ll share the five things that our family didn’t particularly enjoy during our stay in Ensenada.
Construction Traffic Woes
As we navigated the streets of Ensenada, we were met with a rather unexpected challenge – construction traffic. Roadwork was underway at certain points, which occasionally caused delays and added some frustration to our travel plans. While we understand that infrastructure improvements are essential for any growing city, it did hinder our mobility at times, especially when trying to make the most of our limited vacation days.
Our route from La Bufadora to Ensenada which usually took 1 hour as opposed to the normal 30 min. If traveling south from Ensenada, the traffic usually ended at Maradero.
Propane Conservation for Warm Water and cooking
Staying in a cozy vacation rental had its perks, but we encountered an issue that took some getting used to – conserving propane for warm water. As part of the eco-friendly practices in the area, many accommodations use propane for heating water for showers and dishwashing. This meant being mindful of our water usage to ensure we had enough warm water for everyone. While we appreciate the focus on sustainability, it did require some adjustments to our daily routines, especially when it came to scheduling showers for the whole family.
The Stray Dog Situation
Ensenada’s picturesque streets and alleys were occasionally dotted with stray dogs, which was a concern for us as a family. While most of the dogs were friendly, we still had to be cautious around them, especially with our young kids. Although we understand that this issue is a part of many cities around the world, it was disheartening to witness. Thankfully, the locals and organizations are working diligently to address this problem and provide care for the stray animals.
Toilet Tissue Troubles
One thing that took our kids by surprise was the request to refrain from flushing toilet tissue. Due to the plumbing system in some areas, it’s common practice in Ensenada (and many other places around the world) to dispose of used toilet tissue in a wastebasket provided in the restroom. While this is done to prevent clogs and maintain the plumbing, it was an adjustment for our family, especially the kids.
Coping with the Crowds of Tourists, especially from the cruise ship.
Ensenada’s natural beauty and vibrant culture attract tourists from all over, and while we love sharing experiences with fellow travelers, the large number of tourists sometimes led to overcrowding in certain areas. Popular attractions, restaurants, and landmarks were often bustling with visitors, making it a bit challenging to fully immerse ourselves in the local ambiance.
Despite these minor inconveniences, our time in Ensenada was nothing short of unforgettable. Exploring its stunning coastline, savoring mouthwatering Mexican cuisine, and creating lifelong memories with our family made it all worthwhile. Traveling always comes with its unique challenges, but it’s these very experiences that help us grow as adventurers and create lasting bonds with the places we visit. Ensenada’s charm, warm hospitality, and breathtaking views will forever hold a special place in our hearts, making it a destination worth exploring despite the occasional hiccups along the way.
