As I sit here and write this, the sun is coming up over Todos Santos. It’s been slightly cooler these past few days, a refreshing change after the heat of last week. The weather seems to have settled into a comfortable rhythm – warm, but not sweltering, days followed by cooler nights that make for perfect sleeping weather.
It’s been a week of quiet, everyday life here in Todos Santos. There was a small art opening at the cultural center on Calle Benito Juárez. The artist, a local, showcased some beautifully intricate pieces inspired by the rich biodiversity of the Baja California Sur region. It felt like a gentle reminder of the ongoing fight against the proposed open pit gold mining operation in our UNESCO-certified natural area. The staff of CONANP (The National Commission of Natural Protected Areas) here in Baja California Sur are working tirelessly to protect our precious natural resources. They’re calling in the botanists, invoking the powerful forces of nature to help in their fight. It’s a stark contrast to the calm, laid-back atmosphere of the town.
Meanwhile, down at Punta Lobos, there’s been a flurry of activity. It’s nesting season for the sea turtles and, if you’re lucky and patient, you might get to see a female turtle come to shore to lay her eggs. It’s a beautiful, humbling sight – a reminder of the simple, primal rhythms of nature that continue to play out, undisturbed, in our little corner of the world.
Speaking of nature, there’s been an interesting development in the world of free diving here. A local free diving champion, Estrella Navarro Holm, has been making waves (no pun intended) with her fear-defying dives. There’s something about the way she talks about her experiences in the ocean – the cold, the dark, the solitude, the physiological response to fear – that makes you view the sea in a whole new light. It’s not all tranquil sunsets and gentle lapping waves. There’s a wild, untamed side to it too.
On a lighter note, there’s been talk of a rose party at the winery near Pescadero. It sounds like it’ll be a relaxed, intimate gathering – a chance to enjoy some local wines and live music. A few musicians from Todos Santos will be performing, including Jenelle Aubade Trio, Dylan Lorenzo and José Blanco. It’s these little, spontaneous events that make Todos Santos such a special place. It’s not about big, flashy events or grand tourist attractions. It’s about community, connection, and a shared appreciation for the simple pleasures in life.
As for me, I’ll be spending my weekend exploring the nearby area of Cerritos. I’ve heard great things about the hiking trails there. Or maybe I’ll take a trip down to La Poza to watch the birdlife. Or perhaps I’ll just spend the day wandering around Todos Santos, enjoying the sights and sounds of the town. That’s the beauty of life here. There’s no rush, no pressure. You can take each day as it comes, savoring the slow, steady rhythm of life in this charming Todos Santos retreat.