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Hospital Boom, Beach Access, and Burrito Wars
This week’s Gringo Gazette South is full of big moves and bittersweet farewells. From a new $84M hospital breaking ground in Cabo to the closure of Mulegé’s iconic Hotel Serenidad, Baja’s changing fast—whether we like it or not. Plus, there’s a Chipotle heading to Mexico (yes, really), a beach rescue by a heroic pup, and even a buried car in the mangroves.
🏥 New Hospital in Cabo Corridor
Christus Muguerza Hospital has broken ground near the Solaz resort with a projected cost of US$84 million. Slated to open in 2028, this 75-bed hospital is part of a global healthcare network, blending international medical expertise with local insight.
🛩️ Plane Crash Survival in East Cape
Mikmac Paddywhack MacDonald recounts a dramatic light aircraft crash into the Sea of Cortez. After engine failure mid-flight, he skillfully ditched the aircraft, and both he and his passenger survived, escaping with help from GPS distress signals and inflatable vests.
🏨 Hotel Serenidad Closes
The iconic Hotel Serenidad in Mulege is permanently closing after decades of welcoming fly-in guests. Known for its Saturday pig roasts and charm, the beloved hotel ends its story in Baja lore.
🌮 Chipotle Heads to Mexico
In a bold culinary twist, Chipotle Mexican Grill is opening its first Mexican location, partnering with Alsea. Though ironic—selling tacos to Mexicans—it’s expected to be in Mexico City.
⛵ British Couple Sailing Around the World
Becka and Zach, a young British couple, have landed in Baja Sur as part of a global sailing adventure. Their motto? “Don’t just do it, bloody do it.” They document their voyage on YouTube and their website Teulu Tribe.
🌊 Beaches Reopened in Todos Santos
Authorities used heavy machinery to remove illegal obstructions at beaches like La Bocana, El Faro, and Palmar de La Pastora, restoring public access. A reminder: the La Paz app can report blocked beaches.
💃 Britney Spears Sighted in Cabo
Pop icon Britney Spears, now a Cabo resident, was seen dancing downtown and in local bars. Her massive Instagram following (48.1M) could mean free global promotion for the region.
🚱 Water Crisis and Response in La Paz
Mayor Milena Quiroga launches the “Más Agua para La Paz” plan, including upgraded wells, tech-driven monitoring, and educational outreach. A new campaign “Taking care of water is taking care of La Paz” targets awareness.
🎣 Bisbee’s East Cape Offshore Preview
The 25th annual fishing tournament is scheduled for July 29–Aug 2, 2025. Last year’s purse hit $1.7 million. Early bird entries may win free registration for next year.
⛽ Gasoline Price Cap in Mexico
President Claudia Sheinbaum announced a voluntary gas price cap at MX$24/L, alongside crackdowns on fuel theft. Yet, 14 gas stations in La Paz are still charging above this.
♿ 100 More Wheelchairs Donated
Thanks to the Wheelchair Foundation and Club Rotario de CSL, 100 wheelchairs were given to locals in need. Sponsors even covered transportation from the U.S.
🏨 Cabo’s Hotel El Presidente Demolished
Once a flagship government hotel, El Presidente (later a Holiday Inn) in San José is being demolished to make way for a new resort.
✈️ Los Cabos Luxury Tourism Up
Los Cabos continues to rise as a luxury destination. Private jet arrivals, high-end hotel occupancy, and tourist numbers are all trending up, according to FITURCA.
🌿 Mangrove Cleanup Yields Buried Car
During a mangrove swamp cleanup in La Paz, volunteers found a buried Toyota Corolla among 8 tons of trash. Authorities were notified.
🏡 Fractional Ownership Grows
A real estate trend allows buyers to own shares of high-end properties rather than full ownership. Unlike timeshares, this includes equity, appreciation, and use flexibility. Platforms like Pacaso, Ancana, and Ronival are leading the way.
🏘️ Real Estate Tips to Sell Fast
Martin Posch outlines how to sell your home quickly without lowering your price: proper pricing, curb appeal, staging, pro photos, flexible showings, and highlighting energy upgrades.
🐢 Cabo Resorts Champion Sustainability
From composting at Four Seasons to turtle conservation along the corridor, local resorts are leading sustainability initiatives. Cabo Pulmo is hailed globally for its 465% increase in marine life.
⚰️ Bereavement Leave Reform Proposed
A bill in Congress proposes 3 to 7 days of paid leave for mourning—including pets. The goal: enshrine grief leave as a constitutional right.
🚰 New Water Dam for La Paz
To combat freshwater shortages, El Novillo Dam will start construction in August 2025 with a $15M investment, as part of a $71M long-term water plan.
🏨 Landmark Cabo Hotel for Sale
Hotel Los Patios, a 76-room hotel near the Marina, is for sale via Ronival Real Estate. It offers existing income, potential for expansion, and low operational costs.
🧼 Cabo Highway Cleanup Removes 36 Tons
A multi-agency campaign removed 36 tons of trash over 6 miles of the four-lane highway. Officials called for shared environmental responsibility.
🛍️ “Made in BCS” Badge Expands
Over 1,000 local products are now certified with the “Made in BCS” badge, promoting local goods like wine, honey, and damiana liqueur.
ℹ️ New Real Info Booth (No Timeshare!)
A real tourist information booth just opened at The Place at Cabo, with no timeshare pitches. Staffed by bilingual municipal employees.
Grab a copy, grab a taco, and enjoy the ride—just not too fast, or you’ll hit a new speed bump.