I went to Mulege’ and Bahia Concepcion several times many years ago. One of my favorite places. It is like Tucson with a coastline. We never had any problems at all.
Haven’t been back, only due to the fact that my kids are 8 now and travelling 15 hours in a car with them has not been feasible. Maybe in a few years.
I have petted whales in San Ignacio Lagoon ! That was awesome.
Mulege is 600 mi. south. The way I remember it, Baja is friendlier once you get that far away from TJ. Just like the US, the crime/unpleasantries seem to congregate around the big cities, but once you get away from it all, life is simpler and worries about crime dissapate dramatically. We had to pay a $20 “tip” to a government official because my friend forgot to fill out his paperwork once. That’s about it.
The tips listed above are all sensible, especially the part about modesty. I would add “travel in groups.” Having two or more groups, each with their own vehicle makes you less of a target.
Also, try to speak Spanish, even if you can’t. That goes a long way towards making friends. My Spanish is decent, and it’s fun to see the locals’ eyes light up when I start talking Spanish. They just love it.
I actually enjoy going to TJ, though I haven’t been for a couple years. I have had upholstery done and a car painted in TJ. $2000K paint job for $800 – 10 years ago. TJ isn’t for my wife or family, but I dig it (during the day), and I love eating there, too. Actually went to a bullfight once. Once and only once. I never knew they actually killed the bull, then I realized “matator” means “killer.” Oops. It’s brutal and surrealistic. Glad I went. Glad I’m not going again.
The Costco in Mexicali is cool, too. Talk about cheap booze!
