Ensenada Local Customs

One is reminded that Mexico is a Catholic nation by the twin spires of "Santuario de Nuestra Senora de Guadalupe," which can been seen rising above the city's relatively low skyline. The church is not a tourist attraction. Karen and I walked a mile to reach it, and we were the only gringos in sight. Our Lady of Guadalupe is built in typical Spanish colonial style, and is one of Ensenada's most prominent landmarks.

A major festival is held each year in Ensenada on December 12, with amusement rides and food booths set up in front of the church. It honors Mexico's patron saint: Dia de Nuestra Senora de Guadalupe
(Our Lady of Guadalupe Day).

Directions:
South of the downtown area, at the corner of Calle 6 and Avenida Floresta.

Since Ensenada (and Mexico in general) is very relaxed, you will find no rush to get you to leave the table. The custom is to let diners linger as long as they want so your bill will not be presented until you ask for it.

When you are ready to leave, you can ask for the bill..."La cuenta, por favor", or if you catch the waiter's eye across the room, you can make a gesture with your hand that suggests writing in the air with an imaginary pen. This is common and understood all over the country.

Mexicans absolutely love to help others learn Spanish. Even the most mutilated and mispronounced words or phrases will be greeted with enthusiasm, patience, and appreciation.

If you are interested in a more in depth immersion program here in Ensenada, you may want to check out Baja California Language College (http://www.bajacal.com) or The Center of Languages (http://www.mexonline.com/cllas.htm).

Also, the link below provides some basic travel words and phrases that may come in handy.

I'm not a Catholic, although Karen used to be one. However, a person does not have to be a believer, or even religious, in order to get a sense of awe from this magnificent architecture. No doubt the inspiration works both ways. Religion inspired the building, and the building in turn inspires the religious.

Although our visit to Our Lady of Guadalupe was on a Saturday afternoon, the doors were open and about two dozen people were inside in quite prayer or meditation. The candles in these pictures were along a rail near the front of the church and are an indication of the sincerity of the worshippers.

Mass is held in the church 4 times each week-day, and 10 times on Sunday.

This photo just one example of the many beautiful stained glass windows that adorn the walls on both sides of Our Lady of Guadalupe Church. Through these windows soft rainbow hues of light filter into the hushed sanctuary, giving one a sense of mystery, awe and reverence.

This large statue of Jesus stands in front and to the left of the doorway to Our Lady of Guadalupe Church. His arms are lifted as if in blessing upon those who enter here.

The statue was made in France in 1957. It was brought to Ensenada by ship, erected in front of the church, and consecrated by Cardinal Sebastian Baggio on Nov. 9, 1984.

Directions:
South of downtown Ensenada, at the corner of Avenida Floresta and Calle 6.

November 2nd? (not sure if it changes, but right after Halloween)

This does not apply to Ensenada, but Mexico as a whole. One of the big holidays of the year is “Dia De Los Muertos” or “Day of the Dead” It is a day that the country celebrates (read: not morn) those in their family and circle of friends who have passed.

I had the fortunate opportunity to go to the cemetery with a family. It was a beautiful sight to see the cemetery so colorful with flower and festivities. Families were bringing chairs and blankets and food (don’t forget the tequila and beers) and making a party of it. There were Mariachis and Music del Nortanos that were for hire to play for you. I didn’t see many tears… it didn’t seem to be a time for that.

The photo was taken from the back corner of the cemetary. I didn't want to disrespect anyone...