Baja Voyages - Useful Information
The peninsula of Baja California is 781 miles long and the average width is 56 miles, which makes Baja California one of the largest peninsulas in the world. It has 1,380 kilometres to the Pacific Ocean and 640 to the Gulf of California (Sea of Cortés). The State of Baja California occupies a land surface of 71,777.589 square km
Los Cabos is one of Mexico's largest destinations in terms of its layout. Basically there are three areas of concentration. San Jose del Cabo and Cabo San Lucas anchor the area's resort strip. San Jose del Cabo is a pleasant city of meandering streets and lush palm groves with the languid pace of a colonial village. Today it is a town of 30,000 people that has a handsome Municipal Palace, charming courtyard restaurants, shops, boutiques, and a lovely tropical estuary.
When it comes to Mexican etiquette the Mexican people enjoy a slower-paced lifestyle then other North American countries. Because of this, the manner in which Americans, Canadians, and some Europeans greet, introduce, and address each other is viewed as rude or smug by many Mexican people. When you are a tourist in a foreign country, such as Mexico, it's always wise to research the country's people, traditions, and culture before travelling. Mexico is steeped in a rich traditional past and Mexicans can take great offence at those who don't respect it.
The Official language in Mexico is Spanish, although still spoken are some 66 indigenous languages, which come from pre-Hispanic cultures. The local language throughout Baja is Spanish.
Mexico's weather is enjoyable year-round, but October to May tend to be the most pleasant months to visit. From May to September Mexico's weather is very hot and humid, particularly in southern Mexico. During the winter months, of December to February, inland Mexico weather temperatures can reach freezing. In general, visitors to Mexico can expect hot, humid weather along the coastal plains and drier temperatures at higher inland destinations such as Guadalajara and Mexico City, for example.
The Baja Peninsula region has only two seasons, the hot summer from mid May through October, and the mild winter from November through mid May. Most of the 800-mile peninsula lies within a coastal desert where the possibility of rain is slim, but not impossible. The southern region is influenced by the tropics and can receive some rain and humidity. Interior Baja can be unbearably hot during the summer when travel is restricted to the coast. During this time waters are warm, calm and visibility for diving and snorkelling is best. The west coast features a climate similar to coastal California with a cool marine influence keeping beach and coastal temperatures mild.
British citizens do not need visas for Mexico or the United States of America However, when you reach the US immigration at the airport; you are issued your "green card" which you must keep safe during your stay, as they will require it when you leave the country. Make sure you have a full passport that has at least six months to run from the return date of travel.
The currency in Mexico is the Peso. Note that the dollar sign is used to refer to pesos in Mexico so don't mix it up with US dollars which are usually marked US$ or USD.
To appreciate this extraordinary country one needs the finest naturalist and ecologists. To this end every cruise has a number of leading experts in their respective field to guide you.
It will help to know where everything is in your pack, and ensure that it is immediately available to you should you need it. When flying out, carry all valuables and 48 hours' worth of gear in the hand luggage in case the main baggage is delayed.
