This week in Todos Santos has been a mixed bag, as most weeks are. If you’re new to our weekly digest, welcome. I’m your casual observer, your fellow traveler, keeping an eye on the ebb and flow of life in this corner of Baja California Sur. I don’t know everything about Todos Santos, but I do know how to pay attention, and that’s what I share here. If you’re staying at a Todos Santos retreat, or just passing through, I hope you find something of interest.
First off, let’s talk about the weather. If you’ve been around, you’ll have noticed that things are warming up. Not too hot, mind you, more like the kind of weather that makes you think about swapping your morning coffee for a juice. In this kind of temperature, it’s perfect for a stroll along Punta Lobos, or even a hike up to La Poza if you’re feeling adventurous. Just remember to stay hydrated.
On the nature front, there’s been talk about sea turtles. Not many people know this, but turtles have a rather interesting reproductive system. It’s a bit complicated and involves multiple paternity. So, if you see a turtle while snorkeling or diving, remember that it’s part of a beautiful and complex life cycle. Speaking of diving, did you know that Todos Santos has a thriving community of free divers? You might spot them if you hang around the beaches in Pescadero or Cerritos. They’re easy to identify: calm, focused, and with a slightly far-off look in their eyes. They dive not just for the thrill, but also for the peace that comes with being so close to nature.
Speaking of nature, we’ve had a bit of a situation up at the biosphere reserve. Some multinational company wants to set up a gold mining operation. The staff of CONANP, who are in charge of protecting our natural resources, are doing their best to keep them at bay. It’s a David and Goliath kind of situation, but we’re all rooting for David. It’s a reminder that while we enjoy the beauty of Todos Santos, there are those working hard to preserve it.
On the town’s cultural scene, there was an art opening. No fanfare, no drama, just a quiet evening at the cultural center on Calle Benito Juárez. It was a collection of street art — vibrant, thought-provoking, and a little rebellious. It’s good to see that the spirit of San Cristobal de las Casas, a city known for its captivating street art, has found its way to Todos Santos. It’s a reminder that art is not always about polished galleries and hushed tones; sometimes it’s about challenging the status quo and making a statement.
In the end, however, the heart of Todos Santos remains its people. They’re the ones who make every week special, even when it feels like nothing much is happening. They’re the ones who fight for our nature, create our art, and dive into our seas. They’re the ones who welcome every visitor to our retreats and make them feel at home. So, here’s to the people of Todos Santos, the real heart and soul of our town.