We have been in Ensenada Mexico for more than two months. We like the weather here. We love everything in Marina Coral. We decided to stay here until the weather allows us to sail directly to the South Pacific, most likely March 2023. I learned bad weather makes us cranky. Thus, when I am ready to live on land, I will consider a place with “good weather and good water” not just location location location.
Being so close to the USA, I visited San Diego twice by land from Tijuana the last two months. One time was to renew our visa by driving a Mexican rental car and the second time by walking to pick up my friend. It is said the Tijuana border is the most visited border in the world. The waiting line is long unless you have a Global Entry Card or Sentri (Secure Electronic Network for Travelers Rapid Inspection) card. I have been a Global Entry member since 2010 prior to issuing the card. My passport is linked to the Global Entry data. However, the land border accepts the card only. I was directed to enter the States through a regular line. It was early morning. It only took one hour to wait (instead of 5 minutes with card). It could be three hours waiting without sunshade during the day… 🙂
After returning to the boat, I requested for the card online ($25). It doesn’t say when it will be delivered to my address in the States. Getting the card from the States to Mexico is another issue, most likely I need to ask my friend to overnight at FedEx or DHL international to ensure the delivery. I hope I have the card before my next crossing in three weeks. I am flying to Korea departing San Diego via Seattle. ***Finally, Korea lifted the pre-departure COVID test requirement. It lets me save $150 to $300 plus time. I am looking forward to seeing my family after COVID lockdown years.
