This past May, our adventurous family of five embarked on a journey of a lifetime – to travel to as many countries as possible, embracing a nomadic lifestyle with our three kids receiving “homeschooling.” Excitedly, we packed our bags, bid farewell to our Las Vegas home, and set off on our whirlwind adventure. The first stop on our epic trip was the enchanting coastal city of Ensenada, Baja California, Mexico – a place of stunning sunsets, breathtaking wildlife, and unforgettable experiences. And not to forget, we were accompanied by our ever-enthusiastic family doggo, Lady!
Planning the Ensenada Adventure
Our plan was to keep the first few countries well-planned with booked Airbnb accommodations and flight tickets, while remaining flexible to adapt our budget to our new way of living. After some intense yet exciting discussions and laughter-filled debates, we decided to begin our journey by driving our trusty Jeep from Las Vegas to Ensenada. The Tijuana/San Ysidro border crossing was surprisingly smooth, and soon we found ourselves navigating the charming streets of Ensenada. Our destination was Rancho Packard, a picturesque cliffside home that treated us to stunning sunrises and sunsets and offered spectacular views of cruise liners docking and playful dolphins by the famous Ensenada shipwreck.
Embracing Nature and Wildlife
Ensenada welcomed us with a diverse array of wildlife, a delightful change from the desert fauna we were accustomed to in Las Vegas. Our neighbors included coyotes, cottontail rabbits, squirrels, quails, lizards, and some fascinating spiders! The abundance of nature in Ensenada was a refreshing and unforgettable experience for the entire family.
Exploring Punta Banda and La Bufadora
The beach area of Punta Banda provided us with countless outdoor activities to enjoy as a family. From hiking and biking along the rugged coastline to paddle boarding, kayaking, and surfing, there was never a dull moment. Additionally, we were fortunate enough to visit La Bufadora, one of the world’s largest natural blowholes. The sight of water dramatically shooting into the air from underwater caves left us in awe, and we captured some incredible pictures to cherish forever.
Adjusting to the Ensenada Lifestyle
As we settled into our month-long stay in Ensenada, we encountered a few quirks unique to the region.Unpaved roads meant dealing with a fair amount of dust, and the presence of stray dogs taught us to be cautious with leaving our belongings unattended. Nonetheless, the friendly locals and helpful expats made our stay enjoyable and eased us into the local way of life.
Savoring Ensenada’s Culinary Delights
No trip to Ensenada is complete without indulging in its culinary delights. The original fish taco is an absolute must-try, and we sampled them at various locations, rating each one based on our taste buds’ verdict. Among the numerous taco joints, Taco Fenix stood out with their perfectly flavored batter and mouthwatering fish and shrimp tacos. For a change of pace, we also relished delicious pizza at Mama Bear Pizza, run by friendly expats. When it came to dining with a view, La Marina and Gordos at La Bufadora were top contenders, offering both delectable food and breathtaking oceanside vistas.
Continuing the Adventure
As I write this, we find ourselves in the midst of our journey, currently enjoying the lush beauty of Guatemala with its occasional torrential downpours. Our love for exploration and new experiences only grows with each passing day, and we hope you’ll follow along as the Romans continue to travel the globe.
Whether you’re an avid traveler or a family seeking unforgettable experiences, Ensenada promises an enchanting and thrilling journey. From its captivating wildlife and outdoor activities to its delectable cuisine and friendly locals, this Mexican gem offers a delightful blend of adventure and relaxation. So, why not take a leap of faith and embark on your own Ensenada adventure with your loved ones? The memories you create will undoubtedly be cherished for a lifetime.
Jody
Roaming Romans
