A while ago Dave decided he wanted to go to Baja. Dave somehow managed to get the Baja veteran, aka the “Almanac,” the “Big Daddy of Baja,” the man who probably goes on more trips than Scott…AlWater to lead a mixed group of us down the peninsula.
We were offered two choices initially. First…Coast, and hang out exploring the area. Second…Coast followed by Laguna Hanson in the Parque Nacional Constitucion, which lies in the Sierra Juarez mountain range. The choice was made for number two. Guaranteeing a great experience encompassing both beaches and deserts for any Baja fan from novice to veteran.
Before the decision was even made where to go the trip was already filling up. The trip started out with a maximum of eight vehicles, but was eventually added to ten. With the participants set, the thread started to take off and fill with anticipation. Just look at the page count, TWENTY-FIVE PAGES!!! A quick glance shows that as the third highest in Expedition Portal history.
We had compiled quite the cast of characters…
1. awalter
2. 05TACODOC
3. Mlachia
4. eurorom
5. whitethaiger
6. blupaddler
7. Gear
8. flyingwil
9. Dirtdog
10. Boston Mangler
About a week before we were supposed to leave, Hurricane John started up the Baja peninsula. Luckily our routes were to be spared, but other areas were not…especially Mulege. Many if not all of the people were left without running water, no sewer system of any kind, and complete devastation of the area.
http://expeditionportal.com/forum/showthread.php?t=2386
With the hurricane disaster looming in the backs of our minds. We all went about our pre-trip routines. Getting tourist permits from the Mexican Consulate (go to the second floor, don't wait in the long line downstairs). Obtaining Mexican Auto Insurance (thanks Scott for the link). Finishing last minute mods (2M radio). General packing and storage issues no matter how big or small your vehicle or trailer.
Unfortunately, two of our Motley crew had to back out at the last minute. They were to be extremely missed, and our thoughts were with them throughout the trip.
So, the meeting time was set…Friday September 8, 2006 @1100 hrs sharp at the Longs Drugs on San Ysidro Blvd. Everyone show up on time with all your paperwork, Pesos, and frosty beverages…Or so we thought…