Los Algodones, Mexico!

December 12 (Tuesday)

Mexico today! We have heard lots about Los Algodones which only about seven miles southwest of Yuma. We took the Interstate into California and down Route 186 past the Quechan Casino to the parking lot ($6) just outside of Mexico. You walk across into the town of Los Algodones. Interesting there is no border guard or any sort of documentation required going into Mexico. Quite a difference from the process required to get back into the US, or Canada.

The border

This was our first time into Mexico. Even though we had heard of the buskers in the stores and on the sidewalk it was still a bit of a shock what we ran into.

Cheryl was looking for a purse and mistake #1 was to indicate that to the first guy we saw that had a very good selection of purses. He showed us quite a selection and one in particular seemed appropriate. He wanted $40 for it, but quickly worked his way down to $30. I offered him $25 and he took that. So, did I pay too much? There was a guy walking by while we were engaged with the salesman. He looked at us and grinned and said "First timers?" Was it that obvious? Anyway, we weren't in Mexico ten minutes and already had a purse. Ok, let's get out of here!

We wandered around the streets and developed a brisk 'no thanks' when approached by the hundred or so salespeople flogging their wares. We were experts now! We were getting a bit hungry so off to search out a reasonable place for a bite to eat. Turns out Los Algodones is in Baja which is the same time as California. That means we were still in time for breakfast!

We stopped at Paraiso Restaurant. I had Heuvos Rancheros and Cheryl had an omelette. Total cost for both with a drink was $8.

We looked around a bit more. You really need to watch your step. The sidewalks are very uneven. After each renovation of a building they put in a new sidewalk in front of the building but with no consideration to the elevation of the adjoining sidewalk. Add that to the holes and broken cement…….an uneven walk.

Watch your step!

We stopped in at the Quechan Casino. Cheryl put $5 in the penny slots and promptly won $20. So minus the $5 investment, subtracted from the cost of her purse……she paid $10 for her new purse. Now that is a good deal!

Back at the trailer it was chore time. I needed to replace the converter/charger. The output was only 11.8 volts. I had ordered a new Progressive Dynamics 9260 from Best Converter a few days ago and it was delivered today. The change-over was straightforward and now have output of 13.6 volts, right were it should be.

The new

The old

Replaced and done!

Another great sunset over the Park again tonight. Amazing!

……..Or View From Here!