The Kids were looking for a new/different beach to have a chance of scenery. In MX that is not hard to find , in fact we have another excellent beach about 25 KM north of Rincon. This beach is not commercialized to the extend of Rincon and Sayulita but it is an excellent surfing area with miles and miles of sandy beaches and many small restaurants. There is one small area ( room for 10 or 15 Rigs ) where you can dry camp ( no facilties ) for a small price but you have to get here early in Oct to get a spot and it is "Clicky ".
The kids spend most of the day surfing and combing the beach for treasure, if you call a rotten cocoa nut and old beer caps as treasures. The kids liked the beach so much, they intended to return before they go home.
I said it was not commercialized but is a very attractive spot for Mexican who come here for a day at the beach, normally arriving by buses. During the Christmas season , it is very common to see 25 to 30 Buses parked on these beach because those folks who live in Big cities love to visit these beaches.
Our tow car is a Blazer that seat 4 adults, or maybe 5 if 3 are kids so we did not go to the beaches with the kids. However, we did go to the Santa Clause parade Mexican style; 3 kids in the back , less the seat belts. When in Rome; do as the .......
So Carroll and I walked a few blocks in town to pick up veggies for supper . We had to walk because the town has increased about 10 fold due to the holidays and it would take 15 mins to drive 5 blocks due to the crowd. People walk down the street because the stores move there "wares " out to the sidewalk so the people have no choice of where to walk. It is an unbelievable scene as there are many " mobile" Taco stands all along the streets but everyone is happy. cheers
Wednesday, 31 December 2014
Tuesday, 30 December 2014
Winter in MX ( Dec 21 )
This day started as a Beach/pool day as the Kids started with the Boggy boards in the ocean then decide to try the pool and before long they bounced back and forth fron the pool to the beach.
However, at 3 PM we had to go to Lo de Marco, some 12 KM away, where they were holding a Santa Clause parade, Mexican style. The kids were excited but I knew they were in for a surprised especially with no snow and such warm weather. The parade consist of Mexican dancers, Mexicans on horses dress in all their regalia, children's marching band, singers and of corse Santa who was a Canadian. Many Canadians were in the parade with there vehicle, throwing candy to the Kids. Our kids had their bags so they got their share.
After the parade , which ends up at the town square, all the kids lined up for a small (donated ) gift by the RVers who spend the winter in this town. Most RVer bring gifts, which the get from garages sales at home. They also bring school supplies, which really excites the Mexican Kids.
Our kids got in line and the boys got a little car and Megan got a stuffed animal. Todd says he is going to gather up about a hundred hot wheels from home and send them down here for next year because his boys would never miss them.
Even thought the Kids never seen a Santa's parade like this one they did really enjoy it. I'm sure they will have lots of stories to tell there friends.
However, at 3 PM we had to go to Lo de Marco, some 12 KM away, where they were holding a Santa Clause parade, Mexican style. The kids were excited but I knew they were in for a surprised especially with no snow and such warm weather. The parade consist of Mexican dancers, Mexicans on horses dress in all their regalia, children's marching band, singers and of corse Santa who was a Canadian. Many Canadians were in the parade with there vehicle, throwing candy to the Kids. Our kids had their bags so they got their share.
After the parade , which ends up at the town square, all the kids lined up for a small (donated ) gift by the RVers who spend the winter in this town. Most RVer bring gifts, which the get from garages sales at home. They also bring school supplies, which really excites the Mexican Kids.
Our kids got in line and the boys got a little car and Megan got a stuffed animal. Todd says he is going to gather up about a hundred hot wheels from home and send them down here for next year because his boys would never miss them.
Even thought the Kids never seen a Santa's parade like this one they did really enjoy it. I'm sure they will have lots of stories to tell there friends.
Winter in MX ( Dec 20)
Today, Todd's family decided to go to Port Adventura in PV so they could swim with the Dolphins and the Sea Lions. They had a wonderful day as everyone got to ride the Dolphins and to hug the Sea Lions. Of course these type of outing always come with a "professional " picture taking of each individual and of course you can not buy one picture you have to buy the whole booklet. Todd says he just "gave " his wallet to the receptionist and said to give back his wallet at the end of the day if there was any money left. He thinks the Mexicans were trained by the people running Disney Land because sure know how to take your money.
We stayed home and intended to get in some Beach Time once we decided on the supper menu. Actually Yvonne did a Beach Walk every morning and there is a Fish market setup everyday of the year close to our RV Park so Yvonne purchase some Shark fillets for supper so the Menu was basically decided.
Around 10 AM some friend staying in an RV park about 12 KM away were in town shopping so they dropped in for a chat. Then we hit the Beach and around noon another couple from BC who we have not seen for a few years , heard we were here so they found us on the Beach and invited us to there park for supper on 6 Jan. That is an important date, as it is Carroll's B'day.
I should have mentioned that yesterday we decided to run the AC for a couple of hours in the afternoon to cool the MH. However, we have the dreaded " Programmable " controller that runs the heat, fan only, AC and Heat pump. Actually for us it doesn't run anything. We read the book, and we each tried out "knowledge " but no luck to get the AC working. Luckily our friend Tom from the next park dropped in and he can figure out anything , given enough time. Tom played with it for about 10 minutes and realized we had to set the Mode first then the temperature. As usual it was " Operator Error" but the book was not specific so I blame the company.
Getting back to the Kids... when they came home ( the 4 Kids ) did not want " Shark and Prawns so Yvonne took them to get a Hamburg while we ( mostly me ) Bar-B-Q the Shark and Prawns. I have eaten Makao shark before ,which I caught and it was tasty but this shark was quite Bland. It is not something I would buy again. Cheers
We stayed home and intended to get in some Beach Time once we decided on the supper menu. Actually Yvonne did a Beach Walk every morning and there is a Fish market setup everyday of the year close to our RV Park so Yvonne purchase some Shark fillets for supper so the Menu was basically decided.
Around 10 AM some friend staying in an RV park about 12 KM away were in town shopping so they dropped in for a chat. Then we hit the Beach and around noon another couple from BC who we have not seen for a few years , heard we were here so they found us on the Beach and invited us to there park for supper on 6 Jan. That is an important date, as it is Carroll's B'day.
I should have mentioned that yesterday we decided to run the AC for a couple of hours in the afternoon to cool the MH. However, we have the dreaded " Programmable " controller that runs the heat, fan only, AC and Heat pump. Actually for us it doesn't run anything. We read the book, and we each tried out "knowledge " but no luck to get the AC working. Luckily our friend Tom from the next park dropped in and he can figure out anything , given enough time. Tom played with it for about 10 minutes and realized we had to set the Mode first then the temperature. As usual it was " Operator Error" but the book was not specific so I blame the company.
Getting back to the Kids... when they came home ( the 4 Kids ) did not want " Shark and Prawns so Yvonne took them to get a Hamburg while we ( mostly me ) Bar-B-Q the Shark and Prawns. I have eaten Makao shark before ,which I caught and it was tasty but this shark was quite Bland. It is not something I would buy again. Cheers
Sunday, 28 December 2014
Winter of 2014 in Mexico ( Decd 19 )
Todd's family went to an excellent surfing beach at a town called Sayulita which is about 25 KM away. This beach is noted for holding the Annual MX Surfing and Boggy Board championship so you know it is a good place to surf. However, the drawback is that everyone in MX knows about the Surf and I never seen it not busy. There are so many cars in the town I often thing that everyone brings two cars.
This is a Tourist Trap type of town with a Zillion stores that will sell you anything you don't need, mostly Jewry and surfing clothes.
All you have to do is find a spot on the Beach and sit down. The restaurants will come and take your order, ( food and Beer ) and deliver it to your beach chair. You don't have to move a muscle.
Anyway, Carroll and I stayed home and did some necessary shopping for supper. We normal shop for fresh fruits and vegetables every other day. The Fruitateria ( vegetable market ) is only 2 blocks away so there is no need to by too much at once.
We thru a chicken in the crockpot so supper was ready when 4 hungry kids arrive home from Surfing. After supper they hit the pool again. I think they lived in their bathing suit most of the time. Cheers
This is a Tourist Trap type of town with a Zillion stores that will sell you anything you don't need, mostly Jewry and surfing clothes.
All you have to do is find a spot on the Beach and sit down. The restaurants will come and take your order, ( food and Beer ) and deliver it to your beach chair. You don't have to move a muscle.
Anyway, Carroll and I stayed home and did some necessary shopping for supper. We normal shop for fresh fruits and vegetables every other day. The Fruitateria ( vegetable market ) is only 2 blocks away so there is no need to by too much at once.
We thru a chicken in the crockpot so supper was ready when 4 hungry kids arrive home from Surfing. After supper they hit the pool again. I think they lived in their bathing suit most of the time. Cheers
Winter of 2014 in Mexico ( Dec 18 )
First I must admit that I amalgamated the 16th and 17 th so that is why this is dated the 18 th. Besides it is not hard to lose track of time when you are enjoying your time in MX.
Today was a stay at our Beach day and by 9 AM the kids were raring to hit the beach because there was a nice Kid size surf. The beach is about 200 feet from our MH so we all moved out there. We only had one Boggy board so refrain was "my turn my turn" . Of course Grandpa had to stand waste deep so I could shoot the board as soon as the wave broke. That was great fun for 10 minutes after that it is a bit tiring. The kids bounce from the surf to the heated pool most of the day.
While they were in the pool it gave Grandma and Grandpa some free time to enjoy soaking up the sun on the beach, reading a book and sipping on a cool one. We ended the day with a Bar-B-Q supper.
Everyone was tired so the evening ended around 9:30. cheers
Today was a stay at our Beach day and by 9 AM the kids were raring to hit the beach because there was a nice Kid size surf. The beach is about 200 feet from our MH so we all moved out there. We only had one Boggy board so refrain was "my turn my turn" . Of course Grandpa had to stand waste deep so I could shoot the board as soon as the wave broke. That was great fun for 10 minutes after that it is a bit tiring. The kids bounce from the surf to the heated pool most of the day.
While they were in the pool it gave Grandma and Grandpa some free time to enjoy soaking up the sun on the beach, reading a book and sipping on a cool one. We ended the day with a Bar-B-Q supper.
Everyone was tired so the evening ended around 9:30. cheers
Saturday, 27 December 2014
Winterof 2014 in Mexico ( Dec 16 )
Todd, Yvonne and their 4 Kids flew into Puerto Vallarta ( PV ) last evening and would spend the next 8 days with us in Rincon. They spent a week in Los Cabo with Yvonne's family and then flew to PV thru MX city and landed in PV at 1 AM so they did not want a pickup until 3 PM.
We ask our Camp management on 16 th to arrange for a Taxi Van to pick them up at the Westin hotel at 3 PM. No Problemo , they said. Then on Thursday morning they advised us that there was no taxi available as they were are busy with Airport pickup. We then moved into panic mode.
I advised Todd that I could only pick up 3 people and the luggage in my car so three people would have to take the Bus PV to Rincon.
Shortly there after our friends Tom and Maureen dropped in to say hello and we told them our dilemma. So Tom said he would pick up the other 3 passengers as he was going to Home Depot in PV for some items. Problem solve.
I left 1 1/2 hours early , as I wanted to stop at Wal-Mart for some groceries. I thought I knew where the Wal-Mart was located . What I did not expect was that Wal-Mart was one of many large stores under one roof so I blew right by it. The bad news is that I had to drive 5 KM before I could find a returno ( U- Turn ). When I find got to the Wal-Mart, parking was at a premium but I finally found a spot. By this time my shopping time was reduced to 15 Minutes so I raced around the store hunting for the goods.
Now I raced into PV and I was pretty sure that I knew where I was going but when you are fighting traffic it is extremely hard to read the street signs so I missed my street. I stop to ask a "street parking attendant / Car washer etc if I could get a short cut to the Westin. I guess he understood me because he showed me the way. I should add that I got in the wrong collector lane and I held up the traffic at the light and then the Horn Honking started. I thought it was New Years Eve. ha ha
Now, most Hotels are gated with Security so I knew it could be problem because I forgot to ask Todd for their room number. When I pulled up to the gate I said I was picking up my family but all the Guard would say is " room number" No matter what I said , he would repeat room number. So I wrote down Todd's name and he went into the guard shack and spoke to someone and then opened the gate.
My friend Tom M came shortly behind me and we picked up the kids and returned to Rincon. The airport is 64 KM from Rincon but it takes 1 1/2 hours one way due to the fact that the road is 2 lanes and very few places to pass, and you always end up behind the olds truck in MX.
As soon as we landed in Rincon the Kids just had to hit the pool, while Carroll and I made a Bar-B- Q supper. By 9 PM the kids where tiered but two of them had to sleep at Grandmas. So the argument started as to which two. It was decided the it would be Boys one night and Girls the other night. Finally a long day comes to a close and we were tired. cheers
We ask our Camp management on 16 th to arrange for a Taxi Van to pick them up at the Westin hotel at 3 PM. No Problemo , they said. Then on Thursday morning they advised us that there was no taxi available as they were are busy with Airport pickup. We then moved into panic mode.
I advised Todd that I could only pick up 3 people and the luggage in my car so three people would have to take the Bus PV to Rincon.
Shortly there after our friends Tom and Maureen dropped in to say hello and we told them our dilemma. So Tom said he would pick up the other 3 passengers as he was going to Home Depot in PV for some items. Problem solve.
I left 1 1/2 hours early , as I wanted to stop at Wal-Mart for some groceries. I thought I knew where the Wal-Mart was located . What I did not expect was that Wal-Mart was one of many large stores under one roof so I blew right by it. The bad news is that I had to drive 5 KM before I could find a returno ( U- Turn ). When I find got to the Wal-Mart, parking was at a premium but I finally found a spot. By this time my shopping time was reduced to 15 Minutes so I raced around the store hunting for the goods.
Now I raced into PV and I was pretty sure that I knew where I was going but when you are fighting traffic it is extremely hard to read the street signs so I missed my street. I stop to ask a "street parking attendant / Car washer etc if I could get a short cut to the Westin. I guess he understood me because he showed me the way. I should add that I got in the wrong collector lane and I held up the traffic at the light and then the Horn Honking started. I thought it was New Years Eve. ha ha
Now, most Hotels are gated with Security so I knew it could be problem because I forgot to ask Todd for their room number. When I pulled up to the gate I said I was picking up my family but all the Guard would say is " room number" No matter what I said , he would repeat room number. So I wrote down Todd's name and he went into the guard shack and spoke to someone and then opened the gate.
My friend Tom M came shortly behind me and we picked up the kids and returned to Rincon. The airport is 64 KM from Rincon but it takes 1 1/2 hours one way due to the fact that the road is 2 lanes and very few places to pass, and you always end up behind the olds truck in MX.
As soon as we landed in Rincon the Kids just had to hit the pool, while Carroll and I made a Bar-B- Q supper. By 9 PM the kids where tiered but two of them had to sleep at Grandmas. So the argument started as to which two. It was decided the it would be Boys one night and Girls the other night. Finally a long day comes to a close and we were tired. cheers
Winter of 2014 in Mexico ( Dec 16 )
Today is scheduled be a beach day but first we had to do some grocery shopping which means driving about 5 blocks. First we hit the butcher shop to get their very tasty bacon and it seems that everyone raves about. Then I dropped Carroll off at the "Fruitieria " ( while I looked for a parking spot ) which is where we get our fruits and veggies. We do not by in large quantities, like we would at home, because we want it fresh and not all veggies are kept cool or on ice.
I picked up a package of raspberries and put them in our fridge for one day and when I checked they were all mouldy. No I did not return them but I will not buy anymore.
By the time we returned home it was getting hot , as it does everyday, so we grabbed our chairs, our umbrella , a book and a beer and headed for the beach. The beach is about 200 feet from our MH. We spent a few hours soaking up the Sun , enjoying a nice swim in the ocean and I may have grabbed a bit of " Shut eye " . ha ha
Happy Hour starts at approximately 4:30 PM so we join the crowd to get the latest gossip. The weather is so nice that we always eat supper outside and of course the meal is usually Bar-B-Q style. Another day in Paradise. cheers
I picked up a package of raspberries and put them in our fridge for one day and when I checked they were all mouldy. No I did not return them but I will not buy anymore.
By the time we returned home it was getting hot , as it does everyday, so we grabbed our chairs, our umbrella , a book and a beer and headed for the beach. The beach is about 200 feet from our MH. We spent a few hours soaking up the Sun , enjoying a nice swim in the ocean and I may have grabbed a bit of " Shut eye " . ha ha
Happy Hour starts at approximately 4:30 PM so we join the crowd to get the latest gossip. The weather is so nice that we always eat supper outside and of course the meal is usually Bar-B-Q style. Another day in Paradise. cheers
Friday, 26 December 2014
Winter of 2014 in Mexico ( Dec 15 )
Yesterday I said I got "organized" but that basically meant digging out 2 chairs, connecting the power and water and opening a beer. Today, I did not like the power as I had a live ground and that is not uncommon in MX. So I called on my friend in the camp next door and he is an Electrical Engr so he checked it out and thinks the problem is internal . To solve the problem he made up a connector and we wired it into the transfer switch and everything works great.
Then I went to connect the sewer line and my connector is a 2 inch diameter connector and the MX sewer drain is 2 inch dia drain so we have a problem. I called the maintenance man and he said No Problemo. I said , good; solve it. He left and returned with a 2 inch coupling... problem solved.
By this time it was getting hot and I did see several of the campers sitting under the umbrellas, by the Happy Hour gathering area so I grab a beer and decided to join them. I ask if there was any special topic but they said no, that they were having a drink and shooting BS. I thought that I could handle that, with all the experience I have doing the same with the Ball Team so it was hard to fit in.
In the afternoon we went to the pool, as it is heated, and we met a few more camper and was surprised that one guy was from Med Hat, and his name is Roger Roy and he is a retailor.
So that is how you kill a day in MX. cheers
Then I went to connect the sewer line and my connector is a 2 inch diameter connector and the MX sewer drain is 2 inch dia drain so we have a problem. I called the maintenance man and he said No Problemo. I said , good; solve it. He left and returned with a 2 inch coupling... problem solved.
By this time it was getting hot and I did see several of the campers sitting under the umbrellas, by the Happy Hour gathering area so I grab a beer and decided to join them. I ask if there was any special topic but they said no, that they were having a drink and shooting BS. I thought that I could handle that, with all the experience I have doing the same with the Ball Team so it was hard to fit in.
In the afternoon we went to the pool, as it is heated, and we met a few more camper and was surprised that one guy was from Med Hat, and his name is Roger Roy and he is a retailor.
So that is how you kill a day in MX. cheers
Thursday, 25 December 2014
Winter of 2014 in Mexico ( Dec 14 )
We and Ken and Miriam left Cerritos, which is on the north end of Mazatlan , at 8AM hoping to arrive at our destination in Rincon around 1 PM. The first hurdle was to get thru Mazatlan. It appears that they are building a bypass but it was not open yet. However, the roads thru Mazatlan have been improved since we were last here but it is the stop lights and the traffic that slows us down.
Once thru Mazatlan it was all 4 lane tolls until we reached Tepic. Oh !! Tepic; we had to drive thru the city and it was busy and to make matters worst, the streets are narrow. We also had to go thru 2 other small town that were not any better.
Finally we reached Compostella and this is the start of a very long narrow ,winding 2 lane road with no shoulders for the next hour. There seems to be about a foot clearance between us and the oncoming traffic, mostly Buses travel way too fast for my liking. In fact it was too close and I went off the road for a few feet and now I have a small scratch about half the length of the MH. I found a body mechanic who says he can polish out the scratch . I also have some scratches that I inherit when I bought the MH. He will repair and paint and polish it all for 150.00. Bonus.
We arrive in Rincon around 1:30 PM and got park quit quickly. It took us a couple of hours to get setup, including the TV of course.
We already know about 6 couples from other years and the others drop by to welcome us. It is a very friendly park, The weather is great and the ocean water in super. They also have a heated pool. Life is great in MX. cheers
Once thru Mazatlan it was all 4 lane tolls until we reached Tepic. Oh !! Tepic; we had to drive thru the city and it was busy and to make matters worst, the streets are narrow. We also had to go thru 2 other small town that were not any better.
Finally we reached Compostella and this is the start of a very long narrow ,winding 2 lane road with no shoulders for the next hour. There seems to be about a foot clearance between us and the oncoming traffic, mostly Buses travel way too fast for my liking. In fact it was too close and I went off the road for a few feet and now I have a small scratch about half the length of the MH. I found a body mechanic who says he can polish out the scratch . I also have some scratches that I inherit when I bought the MH. He will repair and paint and polish it all for 150.00. Bonus.
We arrive in Rincon around 1:30 PM and got park quit quickly. It took us a couple of hours to get setup, including the TV of course.
We already know about 6 couples from other years and the others drop by to welcome us. It is a very friendly park, The weather is great and the ocean water in super. They also have a heated pool. Life is great in MX. cheers
Winter of 2014 Mexico ( Dec 13 )
As mentioned, yesterday we stayed overnight in a field, on a grassy patch next to the Pemex. The gas attendant told us it was OK as if he has the authority over private property. However, we did feel secure and assumed we were not bothering anyone. The police circled around us every hour.
Around 6 AM, I awoke to the sound of loud Mexican music which I thought was coming from the Pemex as they were opening for the day. After turning on the hot water for my tea, I took a peek out the window knowing it was still dark but as normal you look anyway, never knowing what you might see.
Holy Moly... we were surrounded by what I thought was two bus loads of farm workers which I assumed where waiting for a pick up to go to the fields for the day. Two guys were about 2 feet from my door.
"Don't even ask what thru my head next. " Then I looked out the front and there was a guy with his Bicycle cart selling coffee, peanuts and whatever and he was the Music Man. I then told Carroll to get dress as we might be in trouble. I then took another peek and I seen Reg buying something from the Bicycle cart. Within minutes , Ken was out talking ( he speaks passable Española ) to the group so I immediately (brave as I am), went out to ask Ken what the heck was going on. With a smile on his face he says " we are parked on their space to set up their Saturday Market so they want us to move".
We quickly fired up the MH to get enough air to release the brakes and then we move to the Pemex area to decide where we would stop for breakfast. Can you imagine that those friendly Mexican did not want to disturb us so they were willing to wait until we moved. If that had been in Canada or the US someone would have banged on our door and told us to get the Hell out of their area.
We drove about 1 1/2 hours before we could find a spot for 3 Rigs to pull over mainly because one Pemex was not completed yet and another was full of truckers , probably having breakfast so there was not room for us.
After that , the day went pretty smooth except for the overpriced toll fees. We pulled into Cerrito's RV park ; this is were Reg and Bev are staying , about 2 PM. Luckily, they had 3 spaces left. One for Reg and Bev but not the one the reserved, ( as I told Reg... welcome to MX, first come , first served) and one each for us and Ken as long as we were only staying overnight. This park is right on the water ; fishy smell and all but I would never stay here because most sites are permanents , meaning the same people return every year, and they appear to be : Clicky ". Incidentally, they seemed to be mostly Canadians.
After getting set up , TV and all, we went to another park to find some friends from Armstrong , BC whom we travel with in MX a few years ago. We had a great visit as always.
All three of us went for supper at a real nice restaurant on the beach only to realized that we had supper here 11 years ago with the people we met from South Africa. They we the folks who actually convinced us to tour South Africa and were also the people who met us in SA and help us to start our tour over there.
After a great supper and a few drinks, and many stories and laughs it was time to "Hit the Hay" so to speak. Incidentally, Carroll had a Pina Coloa for the first time in many years... no she did not drink it all. Cheers
Around 6 AM, I awoke to the sound of loud Mexican music which I thought was coming from the Pemex as they were opening for the day. After turning on the hot water for my tea, I took a peek out the window knowing it was still dark but as normal you look anyway, never knowing what you might see.
Holy Moly... we were surrounded by what I thought was two bus loads of farm workers which I assumed where waiting for a pick up to go to the fields for the day. Two guys were about 2 feet from my door.
"Don't even ask what thru my head next. " Then I looked out the front and there was a guy with his Bicycle cart selling coffee, peanuts and whatever and he was the Music Man. I then told Carroll to get dress as we might be in trouble. I then took another peek and I seen Reg buying something from the Bicycle cart. Within minutes , Ken was out talking ( he speaks passable Española ) to the group so I immediately (brave as I am), went out to ask Ken what the heck was going on. With a smile on his face he says " we are parked on their space to set up their Saturday Market so they want us to move".
We quickly fired up the MH to get enough air to release the brakes and then we move to the Pemex area to decide where we would stop for breakfast. Can you imagine that those friendly Mexican did not want to disturb us so they were willing to wait until we moved. If that had been in Canada or the US someone would have banged on our door and told us to get the Hell out of their area.
We drove about 1 1/2 hours before we could find a spot for 3 Rigs to pull over mainly because one Pemex was not completed yet and another was full of truckers , probably having breakfast so there was not room for us.
After that , the day went pretty smooth except for the overpriced toll fees. We pulled into Cerrito's RV park ; this is were Reg and Bev are staying , about 2 PM. Luckily, they had 3 spaces left. One for Reg and Bev but not the one the reserved, ( as I told Reg... welcome to MX, first come , first served) and one each for us and Ken as long as we were only staying overnight. This park is right on the water ; fishy smell and all but I would never stay here because most sites are permanents , meaning the same people return every year, and they appear to be : Clicky ". Incidentally, they seemed to be mostly Canadians.
After getting set up , TV and all, we went to another park to find some friends from Armstrong , BC whom we travel with in MX a few years ago. We had a great visit as always.
All three of us went for supper at a real nice restaurant on the beach only to realized that we had supper here 11 years ago with the people we met from South Africa. They we the folks who actually convinced us to tour South Africa and were also the people who met us in SA and help us to start our tour over there.
After a great supper and a few drinks, and many stories and laughs it was time to "Hit the Hay" so to speak. Incidentally, Carroll had a Pina Coloa for the first time in many years... no she did not drink it all. Cheers
Wednesday, 24 December 2014
Winter of 2014 in Mexico (Dec 12)
We left San Carlos around 8 AM and had previously decided that we would not even try to get to Mazatlan which would have been a 12 hour drive. Our target was a Pemex ( MX Truck stop ) somewhere south of Los Mochis. For those unfamiliar with the word Pemex, all gas station in MX are own by the MX government and they always have a confectionarie store ( ie Max Milk store ) attached. Most are free but some charge 5 or 6 dollars which includes a shower. Not all have enough room for MH like us as we can not back up into the space provided.
Anyway, Ken had to lead us out od San Carlos because we had to back track about 5 KM to get on the Autopista ( toll road ) and I was not familiar with that procedure. Incidental, a couple from BC pulling a trailer , pulled out at the same time and followed us for 50 KM mainly because the road was narrow with no shoulders as they were widening the road to 4 lanes. Apparently we were going to slow for his liking so he pulled out to pass and he had to take all 3 of us and a truck in one shot. Due to his speed and the rough road, his trailer got a little out of control and he touched Ken's mirror but did not break. I'm sure he did not realize he had touched the mirror but the white paint made it obvious.
Anyhow , we made it to a Pemex where we planned to spend the night but after filling with fuel we realized we could not stay as it was one of the smaller station. However, I fuelled up first and then realized there was a 20 acre area next to the station with several trucks park close by so I pulled into the field and founded a grassed area , albeit brown grass, where we would camp for the night if we were not ask to leave.
It appear that the area was used for large farm trucks to meet and load their products on to 18 wheelers and this seemed to continue all night but did not bother us. Also the Municipal Police circled around our units every hour so we feel quite safe. Until 6 AM the next morning. cheers
Anyway, Ken had to lead us out od San Carlos because we had to back track about 5 KM to get on the Autopista ( toll road ) and I was not familiar with that procedure. Incidental, a couple from BC pulling a trailer , pulled out at the same time and followed us for 50 KM mainly because the road was narrow with no shoulders as they were widening the road to 4 lanes. Apparently we were going to slow for his liking so he pulled out to pass and he had to take all 3 of us and a truck in one shot. Due to his speed and the rough road, his trailer got a little out of control and he touched Ken's mirror but did not break. I'm sure he did not realize he had touched the mirror but the white paint made it obvious.
Anyhow , we made it to a Pemex where we planned to spend the night but after filling with fuel we realized we could not stay as it was one of the smaller station. However, I fuelled up first and then realized there was a 20 acre area next to the station with several trucks park close by so I pulled into the field and founded a grassed area , albeit brown grass, where we would camp for the night if we were not ask to leave.
It appear that the area was used for large farm trucks to meet and load their products on to 18 wheelers and this seemed to continue all night but did not bother us. Also the Municipal Police circled around our units every hour so we feel quite safe. Until 6 AM the next morning. cheers
Winter of 2014 crossing into Mexico ( DEc 11 )
We were all up and around by 6 AM today as we were anxious to get going. It was decided that we would be the lead Dog and knowing we had full day with a 10 hour drive to San Carlos we got on the road before 7 AM. Since I had not crossed here for 5 years I was somewhat concerned that I would lead the other astray.
When we reached the Border there were no US Customer in sight as per 5 yrs ago when they clear us thru the US customs first. We then "inched " up to the MX Customs where we were all pulled aside ( this was new to us ) and they checked our TIP docs and then bid us a good day.
We are now on a two lane highway and I advised our travel members that if I got behind a 18 wheeler, it was unlikely that I could pass do to the hills and curves. Yes , I got behind a truck but he was motoring right along so there was no need to pass. Finally he signaled for what I thought was a left turn or possible pulling over to let me pass.
So I kicked the MH down for a "quick " pass and OH was I so wrong. What I did not know was that there was a customs check 1 KM ahead and the truck I just past was at the end of a 1 KM long lineup of trucks all parked on the 4 foot shoulder and on 1/2 of my lane. Bare in mind I am on a two lane highway and I'm staring down at an 18 wheeler coming at me. I hit the brakes , not know whether " to shit; go blind or wind my watch. " One of the parked truckers notice my delemia so he waved me thru as if to say the 18 wheeler will move over to the 4 ft shoulder on his lane. By this time , I'm doing about 30 KPH ; the 18 wheeler is probably doing 80 KM and my brain is trying to process the clearance between me and the truck when he arrives. I'm also advising Carroll ( in a louder than normal voice ) to radio the other two that an 18 wheeler is coming. I checked my mirror after the 18 wheeler passed and there was somewhere between a foot and 18 inch clearance. This gave a little more confidence until I notice the next oncoming vehicle was a Bus and they are notorious for squeezing you for room.
When we got to the front of the line we realized this was another check stop but I assumed it would be for Trucks and Bus. Also the sun was in my eyes and I did not see the " gate " for autos. So I entered the line for " Auto Bus " again assuming that must be my lane. Wrong! but I can not back up so Carroll " the radio Man " called to the others to go thru the Auto gate even thought it looked to low. Once they were thru a Soldier wave me to an exit gate which put me back in the auto line. Incidentally there was no line up. Once thru the gate we were again checked for TIP docs. This is obviously a " make work " project as we had already been cleared into the country. However, this was a cursory check and we were on our way in a few minutes.
We now had clear sailing for 1 1/2 hours until we reached Santa Anna we had another cursory check stop probably because we were about to enter a toll road. Our next glitch would be Hermosillo which was 175 KM down the road and we would take the "Perifico " which means bypass. It probably was a Bypass 20 or 30 years ago but now it pretty much "winds " its' way thru the city with many stop lights and turns. Not to mention one stretch that was under construction. One 4 lane street with two way traffic , turned into a one way with 4 lanes and then turned back into two way traffic with 4 lanes. Of course I'm in the wrong lane but there was a Police vehicle in the lane I needed so he politely backed off as soon a I signaled. Luckily Carroll was able to provide directions ahead of time so we managed to exit the city in tact. Reg and Ken were able to keep me in sight so they also cleared the city without a hitch.
Now we only had 175 KM and several overpriced tolls overcome before we reached our overnight accn in San Carlos.
When we arrived at San Carlos around 4 PM, Ken took the lead as he had a better memory to lead us to the camp site.
Upon our arrival at the Camp site the operator ask how long we intended to stay as he parks people in specific areas according to there length of stay. Since we were only staying overnight we get to parked in the exit lane but in such a position that we still have full hookups. This allows us to park without disconnecting our tow vehicles to leave early without disturbing others.
Luckily, I parked beside a very congenial couple for BC so I quickly drummed up a conversation using my best "Alberta " charm , noticing that he had a spare terminal on his ShawDirect satellite well within the reach of my of our MH. After a drink and some more BS I ask if I could Hook up and he said of course. So now we had TV so we could at lease watch the news. RVers are great!!!
The camp operator gave us a coupon for 2 free drinks per Rig if we ate at a local restaurant and since we had no intends of making supper we took the offer after we had a Happy session to discuss the day and for tomorrows launch. Supper was great and not that pricey so the drinks were a nice touch. The first day in MX was now history. cheers
When we reached the Border there were no US Customer in sight as per 5 yrs ago when they clear us thru the US customs first. We then "inched " up to the MX Customs where we were all pulled aside ( this was new to us ) and they checked our TIP docs and then bid us a good day.
We are now on a two lane highway and I advised our travel members that if I got behind a 18 wheeler, it was unlikely that I could pass do to the hills and curves. Yes , I got behind a truck but he was motoring right along so there was no need to pass. Finally he signaled for what I thought was a left turn or possible pulling over to let me pass.
So I kicked the MH down for a "quick " pass and OH was I so wrong. What I did not know was that there was a customs check 1 KM ahead and the truck I just past was at the end of a 1 KM long lineup of trucks all parked on the 4 foot shoulder and on 1/2 of my lane. Bare in mind I am on a two lane highway and I'm staring down at an 18 wheeler coming at me. I hit the brakes , not know whether " to shit; go blind or wind my watch. " One of the parked truckers notice my delemia so he waved me thru as if to say the 18 wheeler will move over to the 4 ft shoulder on his lane. By this time , I'm doing about 30 KPH ; the 18 wheeler is probably doing 80 KM and my brain is trying to process the clearance between me and the truck when he arrives. I'm also advising Carroll ( in a louder than normal voice ) to radio the other two that an 18 wheeler is coming. I checked my mirror after the 18 wheeler passed and there was somewhere between a foot and 18 inch clearance. This gave a little more confidence until I notice the next oncoming vehicle was a Bus and they are notorious for squeezing you for room.
When we got to the front of the line we realized this was another check stop but I assumed it would be for Trucks and Bus. Also the sun was in my eyes and I did not see the " gate " for autos. So I entered the line for " Auto Bus " again assuming that must be my lane. Wrong! but I can not back up so Carroll " the radio Man " called to the others to go thru the Auto gate even thought it looked to low. Once they were thru a Soldier wave me to an exit gate which put me back in the auto line. Incidentally there was no line up. Once thru the gate we were again checked for TIP docs. This is obviously a " make work " project as we had already been cleared into the country. However, this was a cursory check and we were on our way in a few minutes.
We now had clear sailing for 1 1/2 hours until we reached Santa Anna we had another cursory check stop probably because we were about to enter a toll road. Our next glitch would be Hermosillo which was 175 KM down the road and we would take the "Perifico " which means bypass. It probably was a Bypass 20 or 30 years ago but now it pretty much "winds " its' way thru the city with many stop lights and turns. Not to mention one stretch that was under construction. One 4 lane street with two way traffic , turned into a one way with 4 lanes and then turned back into two way traffic with 4 lanes. Of course I'm in the wrong lane but there was a Police vehicle in the lane I needed so he politely backed off as soon a I signaled. Luckily Carroll was able to provide directions ahead of time so we managed to exit the city in tact. Reg and Ken were able to keep me in sight so they also cleared the city without a hitch.
Now we only had 175 KM and several overpriced tolls overcome before we reached our overnight accn in San Carlos.
When we arrived at San Carlos around 4 PM, Ken took the lead as he had a better memory to lead us to the camp site.
Upon our arrival at the Camp site the operator ask how long we intended to stay as he parks people in specific areas according to there length of stay. Since we were only staying overnight we get to parked in the exit lane but in such a position that we still have full hookups. This allows us to park without disconnecting our tow vehicles to leave early without disturbing others.
Luckily, I parked beside a very congenial couple for BC so I quickly drummed up a conversation using my best "Alberta " charm , noticing that he had a spare terminal on his ShawDirect satellite well within the reach of my of our MH. After a drink and some more BS I ask if I could Hook up and he said of course. So now we had TV so we could at lease watch the news. RVers are great!!!
The camp operator gave us a coupon for 2 free drinks per Rig if we ate at a local restaurant and since we had no intends of making supper we took the offer after we had a Happy session to discuss the day and for tomorrows launch. Supper was great and not that pricey so the drinks were a nice touch. The first day in MX was now history. cheers
Sunday, 21 December 2014
Winter of 2014going to Mexico (Dec 10 )
Today we head for the Organ Pipe State Park where we will stay overnight and get an early start to cross into MX at Lukeville. By 10 AM we were hooked up and ready to fly. We did a radio check with Reg and Bev and ask them to delay there start for 20 minutes as I wanted to fill my propane tank as you do not want to "try " to find a propane station in MX if you can help. It is not that MX does not have Propane; it's that not all there stations are "easy in; easy out". Better safe than sorry.
Once we hit the road our next stop was Gila Bend, 3 hours down the I-8 where we would fill up with fuel as we definitely wanted full tanks so we would not have to stop until we reached our overnight stop once we crossed into MX.
Now we headed for the State Park which we found mostly empty when we arrived. Once all three members of the travel group got parked we had a Happy Hour and confirmed our start time for tomorrow which was 0700 hrs sharp. It got dark around 6 PM and State parks do not have street light or lights of any kind so when it is dark it's dark . "Lights out" was about 9 PM as tomorrow will be a long day with a 10 hours to San Carlos. Cheers
Once we hit the road our next stop was Gila Bend, 3 hours down the I-8 where we would fill up with fuel as we definitely wanted full tanks so we would not have to stop until we reached our overnight stop once we crossed into MX.
Now we headed for the State Park which we found mostly empty when we arrived. Once all three members of the travel group got parked we had a Happy Hour and confirmed our start time for tomorrow which was 0700 hrs sharp. It got dark around 6 PM and State parks do not have street light or lights of any kind so when it is dark it's dark . "Lights out" was about 9 PM as tomorrow will be a long day with a 10 hours to San Carlos. Cheers
Winter of 2014 going to Mexico ( Dec 9 )
Travel Documents: As mentioned earlier we already have our Travel Docs, better known as Temporary Immigration Permits ( TIP ). You can obtain the TIP after you enter MX, about 20 KM inside the border. However, to save time when we cross into MX on the 11 Dec I suggested that our travel partners get their TIP in St. Luis, so today I will escort them to St. Luis and hopefully speed up the process.
We agreed to meet at 9:30 AM in St. Luis, on the USA side at a predetermined parking lot about 1 block from the border. Because of a lot of construction at the entrance to the MX Border, it may, to some folks appear as if it is the wrong way but since I did it earlier I assure the two couples that it was the right way.
When you walk into MX, nobody seems to care, if fact the barely lift their heads from their cell phones. I believe Reg and Bev ( who have never walked into MX ) where somewhat surprised that it was so Passive.
I ushered both couples into the office to get their Tourist Visa as this is the first step. While they were doing that I skipped into the Immigration office (about 100 ft away ) to check the line up and luckily there was 3 windows open and only 1 person in the line. Incidentally, you can not pay for your Tourist Visa in that office; it must be paid at a bank facility. The Immigration office is a Bank facility.
Now we moved to the Immigration office and this is not a Speedy operation mainly because the computers are extremely slow. Also Reg got a "Trainee ". We advised Reg and Bev to take 3 copies of every document; ie passports, drivers licenses, Insurance and Vehicle registration. If you do not have 3 copies of these doc you will be sent to a business that does copying but you will lose you spot in line. We did this "Dance" on our first trip to MX so we are always prepared. Ken and Miriam did not have their 3 copies so they got stopped out and had to get copies. It is not a big deal but it adds to the wait time.
After you get the TIP docs "Stickers" for the vehicles and pay for the Tourist Visa you have to return to the Visa office to the Visa Stamped. You are now officially authorized to enter MX with your vehicles.
Now you have to re-enter the US and it is a bit of a route march and you do not get into the US without clearing customs. There was only about a dozen people ahead of us so it appeared to be simple. Except when Bev got to the customs office something jumped up on the screen which was new to the officer so he ask the lady that was about to replace him, what it mean. She did not know either so Bev was escorted into another office to sort it out. Reg was allowed to accompany her but when I walked into the office to see what was going on , I was promptly told to get outside and wait " Discussion Over ". As it turns out it was a computer glitch and it was solve quickly.
Now that we had all our TIPs we returned to the RV site to prepare for a launch date tomorrow. This means we had to pack up since we had to leave at 10 AM on the 10 th at which time we move to State Park near the border for an early crossing on the 11 Dec. This would be our last Happy Hour in Yuma for 2014. cheers
We agreed to meet at 9:30 AM in St. Luis, on the USA side at a predetermined parking lot about 1 block from the border. Because of a lot of construction at the entrance to the MX Border, it may, to some folks appear as if it is the wrong way but since I did it earlier I assure the two couples that it was the right way.
When you walk into MX, nobody seems to care, if fact the barely lift their heads from their cell phones. I believe Reg and Bev ( who have never walked into MX ) where somewhat surprised that it was so Passive.
I ushered both couples into the office to get their Tourist Visa as this is the first step. While they were doing that I skipped into the Immigration office (about 100 ft away ) to check the line up and luckily there was 3 windows open and only 1 person in the line. Incidentally, you can not pay for your Tourist Visa in that office; it must be paid at a bank facility. The Immigration office is a Bank facility.
Now we moved to the Immigration office and this is not a Speedy operation mainly because the computers are extremely slow. Also Reg got a "Trainee ". We advised Reg and Bev to take 3 copies of every document; ie passports, drivers licenses, Insurance and Vehicle registration. If you do not have 3 copies of these doc you will be sent to a business that does copying but you will lose you spot in line. We did this "Dance" on our first trip to MX so we are always prepared. Ken and Miriam did not have their 3 copies so they got stopped out and had to get copies. It is not a big deal but it adds to the wait time.
After you get the TIP docs "Stickers" for the vehicles and pay for the Tourist Visa you have to return to the Visa office to the Visa Stamped. You are now officially authorized to enter MX with your vehicles.
Now you have to re-enter the US and it is a bit of a route march and you do not get into the US without clearing customs. There was only about a dozen people ahead of us so it appeared to be simple. Except when Bev got to the customs office something jumped up on the screen which was new to the officer so he ask the lady that was about to replace him, what it mean. She did not know either so Bev was escorted into another office to sort it out. Reg was allowed to accompany her but when I walked into the office to see what was going on , I was promptly told to get outside and wait " Discussion Over ". As it turns out it was a computer glitch and it was solve quickly.
Now that we had all our TIPs we returned to the RV site to prepare for a launch date tomorrow. This means we had to pack up since we had to leave at 10 AM on the 10 th at which time we move to State Park near the border for an early crossing on the 11 Dec. This would be our last Happy Hour in Yuma for 2014. cheers
Saturday, 20 December 2014
Winter of 2014 going to Mexico ( Dec 8)
Today is wash the MH day; not me but the Mexican contractor called "Sugeio". It was schedule for 3 PM but I've been down this road before so I told him it was Canada time not Mexican time.
We had some time to kill so we dropped into to see the friends from Med Hat who are traveling with us and to invite them over for Happy Hour after the MH got washed.
In the mean time Sergio dropped by to revise his schedule to two PM from 3 PM. Since we were not home he told the neighbours . The neighbour ( Stan ) knew that our windows were open so he told Sergio that he would try to find us but if not he would not let him wash the MH until we got there to close the windows. Well, Stan raced around the Park on his bike and found us so we returned home to prepare the MH for a wash. I also wanted the car washed.
At the same time FedEx dropped of a parcel for a friend in MX, which I expected but I did not know the delivery date. Fifteen minutes later the third member of our travel party ( Ken and Mirim ) from Kelowna dropped in to meet us ( we had not met them yet ) and to set an appointment for me to take them to St. Luis to get their travel documents on Tuesday.
I thinking ; give me a break, this is way to much activity to handle. Would somebody get me a Beer.
At two PM Sergio and his crew of 3 showed and they fly into action. They use Reverse Osmosis water so it does not streak. They wash, scrubbed and wipe dry the entire coach including windows and that included the car also; all for 40.00 USD. I had to tell the guy doing my car to stop wiping it as I though he might remove the paint. My tow car is GM Blazer so I doubt that they put much paint on that piece of crap.
It took them about 45 minutes and they did such a good job I tipped the 3 workers 10 bucks.
We sat down for a Happy Hour and Carroll decide that Reg and Bev ( from Med Hat ) and our 2 friends from Sask should go out for Chinese food. It doesn't take much coaching to convince the women to " eat out " so we did. .The day is done. cheers
We had some time to kill so we dropped into to see the friends from Med Hat who are traveling with us and to invite them over for Happy Hour after the MH got washed.
In the mean time Sergio dropped by to revise his schedule to two PM from 3 PM. Since we were not home he told the neighbours . The neighbour ( Stan ) knew that our windows were open so he told Sergio that he would try to find us but if not he would not let him wash the MH until we got there to close the windows. Well, Stan raced around the Park on his bike and found us so we returned home to prepare the MH for a wash. I also wanted the car washed.
At the same time FedEx dropped of a parcel for a friend in MX, which I expected but I did not know the delivery date. Fifteen minutes later the third member of our travel party ( Ken and Mirim ) from Kelowna dropped in to meet us ( we had not met them yet ) and to set an appointment for me to take them to St. Luis to get their travel documents on Tuesday.
I thinking ; give me a break, this is way to much activity to handle. Would somebody get me a Beer.
At two PM Sergio and his crew of 3 showed and they fly into action. They use Reverse Osmosis water so it does not streak. They wash, scrubbed and wipe dry the entire coach including windows and that included the car also; all for 40.00 USD. I had to tell the guy doing my car to stop wiping it as I though he might remove the paint. My tow car is GM Blazer so I doubt that they put much paint on that piece of crap.
It took them about 45 minutes and they did such a good job I tipped the 3 workers 10 bucks.
We sat down for a Happy Hour and Carroll decide that Reg and Bev ( from Med Hat ) and our 2 friends from Sask should go out for Chinese food. It doesn't take much coaching to convince the women to " eat out " so we did. .The day is done. cheers
Friday, 19 December 2014
Winter of 2014 going to Mexico ( Dec 7 )
We spend most the day wondering what we might have forgotten to be prepared for MX. We where hoping that the couple ( Reg and Bev ) for Med Hat would arrive in Yuma on time to get there Travel documents before we headed for MX. As it turns out they arrived Sunday evening about 6 PM but we did not know it until Monday.
Our other travel companions from Kelowna had contacted us by email so we knew they were in town. So we just while away another day in Yuma knowing full well the action would start to heat up tomorrow.
Our other travel companions from Kelowna had contacted us by email so we knew they were in town. So we just while away another day in Yuma knowing full well the action would start to heat up tomorrow.
Winter of 2014 to Mexico ( 6 Dec )
This was a slow day, and even at that we still had to visit "Fry's " the grocery store because some thing need would pop into heads and if you delay you seems to forget things. I'm sure it is a senior thing. I'm always amazed at the number of Snowbirds shopping at Fry's because you would think that eventually they would have all the groceries, wine and beer that they need. Many of the Snowbirds eat out often, so why would they all those groceries.
We met a couple ( Byran and Angel )from Camrose last year in Yuma and I knew that they bought a " Newer" MH and that they left Camrose in Sept/Oct to travel across Canada and down the east coast. It dawn on me that we had not heard from them for a couple of month so I drop them a note to say Hi. Within an hour I rec a reply " We are in Yuma.... same place as last year.... drop in for drink; so we did. They had many travel stories about what they seen and where they had been. However, one particular incident is noteworthy to us MH RVers.
First I must tell those who do not have a MH, that it is the law in most Provinces and States that you have a simultaneous breaking system ( called a Break Buddy ) activated from the MH to the Tow vehicle. In some states, that are mountainous, we ( present company included ) do not bother to connect the system. However, they were traveling thru Tennessee and they enforce the law in that state so he had his connected. He was travelling at 65 MPH on a 4 lane street, during Rush hour in the right lane, just crossing a bridge and you guessed it, his Break Buddy malfunctioned and locked of all 4 wheels on the tow car. The smoke was so thick he could not see the vehicle behind him but he had no choice but to stop as quickly as possible. He when back and disconnected the Break Buddy , simply by pulling the power supply cable out of the power point ( ie cigarette lighter ) . By this time he had a mile of rush hour traffic backed up , some with activated horns.
Of course he had to replace all 4 tires on the tow car but he has sent the Break Buddy back to the Mfg to have it checked and he has ask them to refund the price of the tires. As of this date he has not had a reply.
Ok , another day shot
We met a couple ( Byran and Angel )from Camrose last year in Yuma and I knew that they bought a " Newer" MH and that they left Camrose in Sept/Oct to travel across Canada and down the east coast. It dawn on me that we had not heard from them for a couple of month so I drop them a note to say Hi. Within an hour I rec a reply " We are in Yuma.... same place as last year.... drop in for drink; so we did. They had many travel stories about what they seen and where they had been. However, one particular incident is noteworthy to us MH RVers.
First I must tell those who do not have a MH, that it is the law in most Provinces and States that you have a simultaneous breaking system ( called a Break Buddy ) activated from the MH to the Tow vehicle. In some states, that are mountainous, we ( present company included ) do not bother to connect the system. However, they were traveling thru Tennessee and they enforce the law in that state so he had his connected. He was travelling at 65 MPH on a 4 lane street, during Rush hour in the right lane, just crossing a bridge and you guessed it, his Break Buddy malfunctioned and locked of all 4 wheels on the tow car. The smoke was so thick he could not see the vehicle behind him but he had no choice but to stop as quickly as possible. He when back and disconnected the Break Buddy , simply by pulling the power supply cable out of the power point ( ie cigarette lighter ) . By this time he had a mile of rush hour traffic backed up , some with activated horns.
Of course he had to replace all 4 tires on the tow car but he has sent the Break Buddy back to the Mfg to have it checked and he has ask them to refund the price of the tires. As of this date he has not had a reply.
Ok , another day shot
Wednesday, 17 December 2014
Winter of 2014 to Mexico ( 5 Dec )
Our first item of the day was to go to St. Luis , MX a border city 20 miles south of Yuma. There are 2 cities called St. Luis, one on each side of the border but we have to cross into St. Luis MX to get our travel, documents. This saves time when you cross into MX for the winter but let me backup for a minute.
We were pre warned by our friends already in MX, that there was a lot of construction at the St. Luis border and there may be a walking "detour" so we would be prepared.
So we left the RV park at 9 AM thinking we would be at MX immigration before the crowd. However, when we got to St. Luis border we had to make sure we were NOT in the " Mexico ... non return line". So I notice a parking lot for 4.00 per day so Turned in . I also see a cop blocking traffic so we parked ask him for directions. Even though he was a Mexican / American or vice versa ha did not understand my request. So we started walking toward the border because there was many Mexicans heading that way and I figure that if you are in the USA heading towards MX there must be an Immigration ahead. One gentleman notice our confused look and said follow me. When we reached the entrance it was less hassle then Wal-Mart because nobody talks to you or even gets of their ass. We had to ask for the office to get our Tourist Visa and a security guard ushered us to the office.
The guy in the Tourist Visa sent us to the Immigration. But the same security guard seen us in the Immigration line up and took us back to the Visa office and explained to them that we had to have our Tourist Visa first. Then we got in the Immigration line up, there was only one person ahead of us so getting to the front of the line was the only thing that was fast. Lucky for us we got a "Trainee " or at it seemed that way. Anyhow, she did process us with the help of a supervisor and I believe it took about 1/2 an hour. It did seem that the computer was slow. We helped to speed up the process because we knew they would need 3 copies of our Passport, and vehicle registration. If you don't have these, they send you to " Mrs Copier Lady " down the street and of course you lose you place in line. One new analogy is that you have to pay a 400.00 deposit on your tow vehicle or truck if you have a 5 th wheel, which is refundable if and only if you stop at the Mexican Immigration BEFORE you leave MX. Now the last step is to return to the Visa office and have your Visa validated. In MX the Banks handle all payment for Immigration procedures.
Now for the route march to the US custom and to our surprise there was 2 lines, 3/4 of an hour long. Actually there was a third line for handicaps, however their line was allowed to go to the head of " you guessed it " our line. Also, each handicapped person had a family with them so that slowed our line down. Oh yes, we are in MX.
After passing thru customs we passed thru the Maze of construction , found our car and returned to Yuma. We were 2 1/2 hours from the time we left the park so it wasn't all that bad.
Now we wanted to change some USD into Pecos and a friend suggested a Western Union Kiosk in a grocery store as they had the best rate. However, when I ask if they sold Pecos the said no so I assumed I had the wrong store. Then I went to a Bank and they said they do not sell Pecos. I'm thinking if a bank doesn't sell Pecos, who the hell does.
So we returned to the MH and I will try to buy some Pecso tomorrow.
We were pre warned by our friends already in MX, that there was a lot of construction at the St. Luis border and there may be a walking "detour" so we would be prepared.
So we left the RV park at 9 AM thinking we would be at MX immigration before the crowd. However, when we got to St. Luis border we had to make sure we were NOT in the " Mexico ... non return line". So I notice a parking lot for 4.00 per day so Turned in . I also see a cop blocking traffic so we parked ask him for directions. Even though he was a Mexican / American or vice versa ha did not understand my request. So we started walking toward the border because there was many Mexicans heading that way and I figure that if you are in the USA heading towards MX there must be an Immigration ahead. One gentleman notice our confused look and said follow me. When we reached the entrance it was less hassle then Wal-Mart because nobody talks to you or even gets of their ass. We had to ask for the office to get our Tourist Visa and a security guard ushered us to the office.
The guy in the Tourist Visa sent us to the Immigration. But the same security guard seen us in the Immigration line up and took us back to the Visa office and explained to them that we had to have our Tourist Visa first. Then we got in the Immigration line up, there was only one person ahead of us so getting to the front of the line was the only thing that was fast. Lucky for us we got a "Trainee " or at it seemed that way. Anyhow, she did process us with the help of a supervisor and I believe it took about 1/2 an hour. It did seem that the computer was slow. We helped to speed up the process because we knew they would need 3 copies of our Passport, and vehicle registration. If you don't have these, they send you to " Mrs Copier Lady " down the street and of course you lose you place in line. One new analogy is that you have to pay a 400.00 deposit on your tow vehicle or truck if you have a 5 th wheel, which is refundable if and only if you stop at the Mexican Immigration BEFORE you leave MX. Now the last step is to return to the Visa office and have your Visa validated. In MX the Banks handle all payment for Immigration procedures.
Now for the route march to the US custom and to our surprise there was 2 lines, 3/4 of an hour long. Actually there was a third line for handicaps, however their line was allowed to go to the head of " you guessed it " our line. Also, each handicapped person had a family with them so that slowed our line down. Oh yes, we are in MX.
After passing thru customs we passed thru the Maze of construction , found our car and returned to Yuma. We were 2 1/2 hours from the time we left the park so it wasn't all that bad.
Now we wanted to change some USD into Pecos and a friend suggested a Western Union Kiosk in a grocery store as they had the best rate. However, when I ask if they sold Pecos the said no so I assumed I had the wrong store. Then I went to a Bank and they said they do not sell Pecos. I'm thinking if a bank doesn't sell Pecos, who the hell does.
So we returned to the MH and I will try to buy some Pecso tomorrow.
Winter of2014 going to MX (4 Dec)
Today was a busy day as we had many task ahead of us. We have a week to get ready to leave for MX but the time will fly by so there is no time to "leave it tomorrow". First I have to wash the car so I took it to the "no Touch " wash which was a waste of 10.00. We came thru a lot of slush especially in Idaho and I guess the nice weather in AZ welds the dirt to the vehicle.
The first thing I did this morrow was to visit the neighbor to phone the Mobile Wash people but they are booked until Monday at 3 PM. I emphasis that we are speaking US time not Mexican time since all the Wash businesses are of Hispanic background. Who else would wash a 40 ft MH and the tow car for 40.00.
Since we never bring much food with us , mainly because we don't need a hassle at the border , so we headed for Fry's which is the main Grocery store in this area. We thought we would go early and beat the rush, but as we forgot that those dam Seniors get up early.
Our next task was to run some error for 3 friends already in MX. I had to pickup 2 tarps and some Tiki oil for guy, the a water pump for another. The third parcel was being delivered to me by a third party who I did not know but we RVers are only glad to help each other when we can.
By early afternoon we decided to return to the Park and do more of the setup, like the TV dish, get out chairs and table etc and of course Happy Hour was bearing down us and don't want to miss that. Busy day
The first thing I did this morrow was to visit the neighbor to phone the Mobile Wash people but they are booked until Monday at 3 PM. I emphasis that we are speaking US time not Mexican time since all the Wash businesses are of Hispanic background. Who else would wash a 40 ft MH and the tow car for 40.00.
Since we never bring much food with us , mainly because we don't need a hassle at the border , so we headed for Fry's which is the main Grocery store in this area. We thought we would go early and beat the rush, but as we forgot that those dam Seniors get up early.
Our next task was to run some error for 3 friends already in MX. I had to pickup 2 tarps and some Tiki oil for guy, the a water pump for another. The third parcel was being delivered to me by a third party who I did not know but we RVers are only glad to help each other when we can.
By early afternoon we decided to return to the Park and do more of the setup, like the TV dish, get out chairs and table etc and of course Happy Hour was bearing down us and don't want to miss that. Busy day
Monday, 15 December 2014
Winter of 2014 going to Mexico ( 3 Dec Wed )
We got an early start after we fueled up in Mesquite. Now, in 1 1/2 hours we will be in the middle of the dreaded Las Vegas ( better known as Loss Wages ) traffic. Everyone must be late for work in Vegas as they are in a hurry and will not give an inch to us RVers or maybe it seems that way. If I need to change lanes I always hope for a trucker to come along as they will always help you. Anyway, it is a little tricky trying to remember the proper lane to exit I-15 on to 515. I-15 goes to CA ; We are heading for AZ so you don't want to pick the wrong lane. Anyway, I need the 3 rd lane from right ... or is the 2 nd lane, I can never remember. Anyway, I'm the driver so I leave it up to Carroll to get me in the proper lane and if she messes up , it is not her fault but I'll blame her anyway. ha ha. As it turns out I had to shift one lane to the right and a trucker was coming up in that lane so I put on the signal light and he flashed his lights for me to move over. I have a lot of respect for those truckers.
Now for the next half hour we will negotiate the 5 lanes of rush hour traffic. This time I got behind a truck and he was doing my speed so I stayed there. However, the view is not the best. As the saying goes: "If you aint the lead dog the view is all the same".
After exiting Las Vegas it now becomes a causal lazy drive to Yuma, which is nice for a change. About 2 hours down the road ( we are now on Hwy 93) we stopped for breakfast at a little town called Search Light. The town police are notorious for grabbing speeders. As you enter the town the speed drops to 45 MPH and by the time you hit the brakes it drops to 35 and then quickly drops to 25.
This is not my first Rodeo in this town so I make sure I slow down before I get there. After breakfast we headed down 93 and decided to stay on this hwy going thru a piece of CA because I did not want to climb the mountain going to Laughlin. After a couple of hours we decide to cut over the AZ at the town of Parker because they have a truck stop that has " cheap... er " fuel and it is on the way to Yuma. As I open the fuel cover it was about this time that remembered that I left the fuel cap in Mesquite. Then I had to listen to Carroll tell me that she reminded ( told ) me not to forget the gas cap.
We arrived in Yuma around 3 PM and I ask for a specific site. Not because it was special but because I knew the guy across the street would sell me some cheap WiFi. Besides the RV park was 1/2 empty so my request was not a problem.
We have two close friends from Sask that are already at the park. One of then invited us to Happy Hour after we got set up and other invited us for supper so that work out great. End of day 3.
Now for the next half hour we will negotiate the 5 lanes of rush hour traffic. This time I got behind a truck and he was doing my speed so I stayed there. However, the view is not the best. As the saying goes: "If you aint the lead dog the view is all the same".
After exiting Las Vegas it now becomes a causal lazy drive to Yuma, which is nice for a change. About 2 hours down the road ( we are now on Hwy 93) we stopped for breakfast at a little town called Search Light. The town police are notorious for grabbing speeders. As you enter the town the speed drops to 45 MPH and by the time you hit the brakes it drops to 35 and then quickly drops to 25.
This is not my first Rodeo in this town so I make sure I slow down before I get there. After breakfast we headed down 93 and decided to stay on this hwy going thru a piece of CA because I did not want to climb the mountain going to Laughlin. After a couple of hours we decide to cut over the AZ at the town of Parker because they have a truck stop that has " cheap... er " fuel and it is on the way to Yuma. As I open the fuel cover it was about this time that remembered that I left the fuel cap in Mesquite. Then I had to listen to Carroll tell me that she reminded ( told ) me not to forget the gas cap.
We arrived in Yuma around 3 PM and I ask for a specific site. Not because it was special but because I knew the guy across the street would sell me some cheap WiFi. Besides the RV park was 1/2 empty so my request was not a problem.
We have two close friends from Sask that are already at the park. One of then invited us to Happy Hour after we got set up and other invited us for supper so that work out great. End of day 3.
Winter of 2014 going to Mexico
We got an early start on day two as our plan was to reach Mesquite , NV which is about a 10 hour drive. Carroll has not yet agreed to get her Air Ticket which is a requirement to drive the MH, so I don't get to have my afternoon snooze as was the norm when we had the 5 th wheel. This drive is usually uneventful trip as we are on I-15 which is a nice highway until we reach Salt Lake City ( SLC ) . This part of the I-15 is 5 and/or 6 lanes wide and is always very busy. I try to grab the 2 lane from the right and stay in it where possible. It takes a good hour to get thru SLC and it is not a casual drive.
Our next short stop was in St. Geo as we wanted to drop in to Camping World and say hello those who treated us so good when we bought the MH. We had a 1/2 visit and then headed for Mesquite which is only 1 hour down the road. It is also where we will " Boondock " in the Casino parking lot along with 25 other " Free Loaders " heading south. Actually, it is not really free because we always have supper at the casino and Carroll usually donates 10 or 20 bucks. While she was doing that; I visited MacDonalds to use there WiFi.
Incidentally, you never fuel up in Utah as it is the most expensive. So I filled up Idaho Falls and we made it to Mesquite. I will top up tomorrow morning. I always top up in Mesquite no matter how little fuel I need because it is less expensive then other places. We hit the sack fairly early as we wanted to get an early start so we could arrive in Yuma before 3 PM. It is approximately an 8 hour drive. Good Night
Our next short stop was in St. Geo as we wanted to drop in to Camping World and say hello those who treated us so good when we bought the MH. We had a 1/2 visit and then headed for Mesquite which is only 1 hour down the road. It is also where we will " Boondock " in the Casino parking lot along with 25 other " Free Loaders " heading south. Actually, it is not really free because we always have supper at the casino and Carroll usually donates 10 or 20 bucks. While she was doing that; I visited MacDonalds to use there WiFi.
Incidentally, you never fuel up in Utah as it is the most expensive. So I filled up Idaho Falls and we made it to Mesquite. I will top up tomorrow morning. I always top up in Mesquite no matter how little fuel I need because it is less expensive then other places. We hit the sack fairly early as we wanted to get an early start so we could arrive in Yuma before 3 PM. It is approximately an 8 hour drive. Good Night
Winter OF 2014 Trip to Mexico
We left our home in Med Hat at 6:30 AM on 1 Dec and the temperature was a - 13 C so we were not sad to leave the cold weather behind. I said to Carroll that we were not stopping until I could wear short knowing full well that was a lie as our first planned overnight stop was Idaho Falls and we new the temp would be around 0 C.
All went well as we did a quick pit stop in Taber at Tim's of course for a coffee and donut. Then we reached the border and we did a pit stop at the Duty Free to pick up 2 bottles of " Medicine " and to visit the " restroom ". As you know our MH is winterized and we don't want to use the bathroom any more the is nec until we de-winterize.
The customs officer was a young lady and she limited her question which suited us.
Our MH hold a lot of fuel so there was no need to fuel up until about 2 PM in Boulder, MT south of Helena, MT. We ran into a 20 mile patch of snow cover roads south of Boulder but after that it was clear sailing until we got about 1 hour out of Idaho Falls. There a 1 inch skiff of snow covering the road and everyone was slowing down so I first thought it was Black Ice and I too slowed right down . I soon realized there was no Black Ice so I geared up and arrived in Idaho Falls at 6 PM. That was a 12 hour day and I might think twice about doing that again.
We took a Motel for the night and as always we met other folks going south or home for Christmas. Two couples were going home to Sask for Christmas, I reminded them that it was still winter. Another couple was from Lethbridge going south and another couple from Montana was going to Lake Havasu and I could believe how excited they were but it was there first time going south. I didn't want to " Break there Bubble " but I suggested they might want to think about going a little farther south. Lake Havasu is not warm. So far all is well.
All went well as we did a quick pit stop in Taber at Tim's of course for a coffee and donut. Then we reached the border and we did a pit stop at the Duty Free to pick up 2 bottles of " Medicine " and to visit the " restroom ". As you know our MH is winterized and we don't want to use the bathroom any more the is nec until we de-winterize.
The customs officer was a young lady and she limited her question which suited us.
Our MH hold a lot of fuel so there was no need to fuel up until about 2 PM in Boulder, MT south of Helena, MT. We ran into a 20 mile patch of snow cover roads south of Boulder but after that it was clear sailing until we got about 1 hour out of Idaho Falls. There a 1 inch skiff of snow covering the road and everyone was slowing down so I first thought it was Black Ice and I too slowed right down . I soon realized there was no Black Ice so I geared up and arrived in Idaho Falls at 6 PM. That was a 12 hour day and I might think twice about doing that again.
We took a Motel for the night and as always we met other folks going south or home for Christmas. Two couples were going home to Sask for Christmas, I reminded them that it was still winter. Another couple was from Lethbridge going south and another couple from Montana was going to Lake Havasu and I could believe how excited they were but it was there first time going south. I didn't want to " Break there Bubble " but I suggested they might want to think about going a little farther south. Lake Havasu is not warm. So far all is well.
Saturday, 18 October 2014
Starting the Blog again in 2014
18 Oct 2014; Tommy's Blog
Hi Folks, I haven't blog for a few years but I will be up and running by 1 Dec 2014 as we are going to Mexico for the winter. We have a 2004 , 40 ft MH so there will be no more stories about my crappy F-350 Ford or our 13 year old 5 th wheel with a zillion hard miles on it.
If any other " important " items pop up then I will blog them sooner so stay too our travelogue etc. cheers tom
Hi Folks, I haven't blog for a few years but I will be up and running by 1 Dec 2014 as we are going to Mexico for the winter. We have a 2004 , 40 ft MH so there will be no more stories about my crappy F-350 Ford or our 13 year old 5 th wheel with a zillion hard miles on it.
If any other " important " items pop up then I will blog them sooner so stay too our travelogue etc. cheers tom
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