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RE: North phoenix RV park is awful
Never stay at this park. The management are rude and unhelpful.
Children are not allowed to walk around or ride their bikes.
Our campsite had garbage on it. Low rate, but a real dump!
Never stay here!
I believe you were much too kind.
When looking for a long-term stay for medical purposes, I drove through the park and was very happy when I got out of there and back onto Hwy 17S.
We ended up in Mesa and each time I lamented the long drive to the hospital I consoled myself by recalling my drive-through experience of the North Phoenix RV Park.
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we_rv
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03/29/12 01:31pm |
RV Parks, National Parks, State Campgrounds & More
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Passport America and Camp club merger
Has any Passport America member used their membership at a Camp Club USA campground since the merger on 11/11?
I am curious to know if Camp Club campgrounds are honoring the PA memberships.
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we_rv
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03/28/12 07:31pm |
RV Parks, National Parks, State Campgrounds & More
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RE: Passport America.... to join, or not??
Our experience has been that these are not the nicest campgrounds, as one said, but it is frequently the opposite. The nicer parks in their area do not need the 50% inducement for a camper to stay there.
Pretty blanket statement but do realize you said that is your experience. ALL Ohio State Parks are PA members so thats not the case in Ohio. Varies by area I suppose.I wasn't aware that "ALL" OH State Parks accepted PA, when I looked it up a couple years ago, I only found 12 of them that did, but even that is a big help.
Yes it does help.
I checked the ODNR State Parks website and it appears that 'ALL' of 13 of 56, more or less, parks do honor PA.
I wonder what will happen with the merger (11/11) of Camp Club USA's 600 participants with Passport America? I hope the Camp Club campgrounds will continue with PA.
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we_rv
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03/28/12 08:47am |
RV Parks, National Parks, State Campgrounds & More
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RE: Passport America.... to join, or not??
Our experience has been that these are not the nicest campgrounds, as one said, but it is frequently the opposite. The nicer parks in their area do not need the 50% inducement for a camper to stay there.
Pretty blanket statement but do realize you said that is your experience. ALL Ohio State Parks are PA members so thats not the case in Ohio. Varies by area I suppose.
Since I qualified my statement with “Our experience” there really was no need for the “pretty blanket statement” comment, was there?
When you gain more experience and travel beyond Ohio you may realize that the PA parks within a maximum of “2-3 miles” of major highways are generally not destination parks. There are some extremely nice PA parks but, in our experience, they are further off the beaten path than the parks within sight of major highways.
The OP was asking for input about PA and I gave them the method, which makes PA work for us. I also included “Our experience” because another poster said they felt that PA has some of the nicer parks. I absolutely do not disagree with them. However, WE stay in parks as close to our route as possible. It should be obvious to even the most casual observer that a park so close to a major interstate, that you can feel the vibration of trucks hitting the expansion joints of the pavement, is not going to be a five star resort.
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we_rv
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03/27/12 04:04pm |
RV Parks, National Parks, State Campgrounds & More
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RE: Passport America.... to join, or not??
We use PA extensively when traveling from our summer to winter destination and do the same for the reverse. We do not use any PA parks as destination parks.
Our requirements are; in this order:
East of major city if traveling east, reverse for traveling west.
Distance from route
Easy in, easy out
Wifi
Pull-thru
Southern sky exposure
The most effective way, for us, to use PA is to map our route on Delorme Streets Atlas, then overlay PA data files to determine which are practical, close to our route, to use. To improve your chances of a campground honoring PA is to arrive early because they sometimes allot only a few PA sites.
I choose several PA campgrounds, within our daily driving tolerance, and when we get within 100 miles of our first choice we call and ask if they have space for a 40’ motor home. If the answer is yes, we then ask if they are honoring PA. We book if the answer is yes and call the next on the list if they do not.
The cost of fuel requires the campground be within 2-3 miles of our route or it is not cost effective to use PA.
Our total camping cost for traveling 3,200 miles to our winter destination last year was $148.00, including wifi, for eight stays at a PA campground and two stays at a Flying J. I will not compare fuel cost from coming down to what it will cost going back because it would make me ill.
Our experience has been that these are not the nicest campgrounds, as one said, but it is frequently the opposite. The nicer parks in their area do not need the 50% inducement for a camper to stay there.
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we_rv
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03/26/12 02:57pm |
RV Parks, National Parks, State Campgrounds & More
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RE: To bribe or not, a study on mordida
Well here it is, LEGAL MORDIDA, in the USA.
http://www.startribune.com/local/144099386.html?page=all&prepage=1&c=y#continue
Cool, so the guy driving the porsche gets his daily ticket on the way to work, sends his secretary out to pay the ticket in the "right" county, his insurance rates stay low and he drives as fast as he wants and how he wants with impunity, the county gets rich and everybody wins. Well except for the working class schmuck who gets caught, has to pay his fine, sees his insurance go up and can eventually lose his license with too many repeat offences. Seems fair...
"Well except for the working class schmuck who gets caught, has to pay his fine, sees his insurance go up and can eventually lose his license with too many repeat offences"
Agree,and it is probably this poor schmuck's family who is T-Boned in an intersection by the 'Beautiful Person' who is speeding, with impunity, in the Porsche
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we_rv
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03/25/12 08:36pm |
RVing in Mexico and South America
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RE: Hijacking (Shooting) on Toll Road Near Minatitlan
Jumping in as someone with some limited business experience, but almost zero leisure experience in Mexico for a moment.........
I don't think the fear that many Americans exhibit with regard to Mexico is so much with the odds of encountering a problem, as much as it is with how to deal with it if it does! Those who have not spent a lot of time in the country, would have no idea where to turn if they were robbed, assaulted, etc..... Concerns about health care, law enforcement, laws, etc. Those of us who don't frequent the country hear these horror stories and ask..... What would I do? Where would I turn for help? How much help can I get there?
A number of years a go, before all this drug war stuff, my company had a factory in Juarez, so I know what it's like to spend time in the down and dirty sections of the country. I felt the same way there as I did in parts of New Haven CT! Scared! ;-)
You may have "almost no leisure experience in Mexico for a moment...."
but you have succinctly described the most significant reason most are afraid to travel to Mexico.
We are always aware of the circumstances, which could put us at risk but are becoming more comfortable each year as we learn how to ‘navigate’ the system.
Well said!
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we_rv
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03/12/12 10:18pm |
RVing in Mexico and South America
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RE: El Mirador's legacy continues
Can't get into the El Mirador I recommend this Hotel and RV park.
Playa de Cortes Hotel
Click on Gallery to see the RV park. You can see some of the RV spots in the main photo. Lower right hand corner.
It's not in San Carlos but not far away over near Guaymas.
Has a good restaurant and a very nice pool.
Close the the amenities of Guaymas yet very quiet and you can use the hotels facilities.
We stayed going down and coming back on our 2010 trip.
Loved the place!
Oh yes compare the RV space rental of $19 US per night to the hotel's room rates.
Yes, the restaurant is great and the park is well kept but the electric is not too good on some sites.
It is a very nice place to stay especially if your activities are centered in Guaymas.
Best price in the area and very quite as well.
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we_rv
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03/12/12 07:13pm |
RVing in Mexico and South America
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RE: El Mirador's legacy continues
However, the damaged legacy of El Mirador, the present ownership has created, would take three years, or more, to overcome.
Can you expand on 'damaged legacy'...I've visit the El Mirador but never stayed there. It was on my list though.
The El Mirador has opened and closed several times during the same season, no phone number most of the time, no one to answer the phone or return calls, website down, or non-existent, most of the time, restaurant opened for two weeks before closing then reopened again during that season, pool and spa closed most of the time. It has been virtually closed for the last two seasons and the continuous lawsuits do not help.
In a word: unreliable, since the original owner died in a plane crash.
It has huge potential with two disadvantages: Wind and distance from town.
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we_rv
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03/12/12 07:08pm |
RVing in Mexico and South America
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RE: El Mirador's legacy continues
So we-rv: Are you planning on making a bid? I think you would make a fine RV park owner!! Moisheh
Hi Moisheh,
DW and I have often talked of the possibilities of modeling this park after the Punta Cerritos RV Park in Mazatlan as an individual long-term lease option. The leaseholders would be able to landscape/build Bodegas, etc.
However, the damaged legacy of El Mirador, the present ownership has created, would take three years, or more, to overcome.
In actuality, the damage of the parks legacy too closely matches the damage created in our portfolio over the last eight years.
The short answer is NO. :)
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we_rv
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03/11/12 09:46pm |
RVing in Mexico and South America
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RE: 167 bodies found in Mexico
'Ugly American' was italized. should have included a smiley emoticon.
"Although rving is just a small drop in the bucket for the Mexican economy (a niche market), I would hope someday though that Mexico follow the same rules on food products entering the country that the U.S. does. I've never understood bringing six months worth of food with you when it is all fresh product and super super cheap here in Mexico. "
Vegetables, yes, they are the moderators of any discussion about Mexico. However, meat, fowl or fish may, occasionally, need the assistance of the forum Moderator.
This year we visited "the Valley" where vegetables are grown and could not believe the quality/price of the produce.
We toured the farms and processing plant and the cleanliness of the facility was spectacular. As we watched the sorting and grading of the vegetables we could easily determine which were going to Whole Foods and those destined to Safeway.
We buy our veggies and fruit from the Central Market because the freshness of the produce there exceeds the supermarkets by 5X and US prices by 10X.
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we_rv
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03/11/12 11:57am |
RVing in Mexico and South America
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RE: 167 bodies found in Mexico
"Just like my blog which I closed yesterday, it was about living and boondocking in Mexico. Those who live in Mexico pestered me about where to find cheddar cheese, organic peanut butter or how to get U.S. television channels and wonder why people in stores and government offices don't speak English."
You are correct. However, this goes both ways.
Mexicans who reside in the US are always looking for Tortillas, Chorizo, etc., they watch Spanish TV programs and, by law, the US is required to provide Spanish for those who need it.
"My point is that if you don't travel here, make an attempt to speak the language, insist on sticking close to your own kind (ex-pat communities),............."
Would you offer the same advice to Mexicans in the US? The ESL mandated programs are necessary in the US because parents do not learn English nor teach their children the language. Have you ever seen Barrios in the US?
I suppose I fall into the 'Ugly American' category because I would not dream of traveling to Mexico without a six month supply of US toilet paper or Mayonnaise made with Olive oil. I also admit that I watch American TV through Direct TV.
However, I am sure the Mexicans will forgive these indiscretions because I also bring about $24,000.00 USD to spend each year (6-7Months) to compensate for my impertinence.
Hmmm, how much do those Mexicans, crossing the border, bring to support the American economy? Oops, I digress!
Chris you have always been a great help to those traveling to Mexico and are a wonderful resource. You keep directing Americans to the Cheddar and I’ll direct Mexicans to the Chorizo Aisle.
Have a good day
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we_rv
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03/11/12 10:27am |
RVing in Mexico and South America
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El Mirador's legacy continues
El Mirador RV park in San Carlos has closed, again.
The gates are locked, the Federales have towed the caretakers Bounder and there is a new for sale sign on the entrance.
Coldwell banker has had the listing for a considerable time but in the typical Mexican business model, Manana syndrome, has not posted the listing information on their website.
I will post the listing info when Manana happens.
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we_rv
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03/11/12 09:28am |
RVing in Mexico and South America
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RE: El Mirador RV Park of San Carlos is opening
Same or different owner? We'll check it our on our way home in March.
Not the best timing though, they have missed the long term campers for this year any way. Always liked the place in the past even as it was going down hill. Close enough to the beach for the dogs to swim.
Yes, it is the same owner.
The attempted 'land grab' by his neighbor did not succeed and the Las Angeles restaurateur owner has prevailed-for now.
The Park’s fate is probably sealed by the fact it has an absentee owner depending on local management.
Too bad, because there is a fantastic opportunity at this site.
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we_rv
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01/28/12 07:14pm |
RVing in Mexico and South America
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El Mirador RV Park of San Carlos is opening
The rates ($28.00/day-$595.00/month) are the same as before the closure in 2010.
They are opening the Oasis Restaurant, Tennis Court and swimming pool.
The electric is one 30 AMP and one 20 AMP plug.
Free Wifi.
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we_rv
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01/27/12 07:00pm |
RVing in Mexico and South America
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RE: Tucson Direct TV spot beam radius
Good info thgoodman , thanks
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we_rv
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12/14/11 05:34am |
Technology Corner
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Tucson Direct TV spot beam radius
What is the greatest distance, to the northeast, has anyone received the Direct TV Tucson local network feeds?
We have lost our Los Angeles local network feeds (total US coverage) and will have to use DTV Tucson Local network feeds.
Thanks
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we_rv
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12/13/11 04:32pm |
Technology Corner
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RE: NEED REPORTS OF BORDER CROSSING
Crossed at Mariposa border crossing in Nogales a little over a week ago on a Sunday. It was fast as we arrived early and had almost no one ahead of us. We were required to unhook at the aduana and no amount of arguing the point was going to change the young woman's mind. I had to drive back out of the aduana area, make a U-turn and then go back through the lights for inspection of the car. I had to follow DH to KM 21, where we hooked back up. No problems and no deposit on car since we are limiting our travels to Sonora this year. No need for copies of anything.
Unhooking seems to apply only to cars from the US -- not Canada -- but we know of someone with US plates who did not have to unhook.
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we_rv
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10/18/11 08:41am |
RVing in Mexico and South America
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RE: Mariposa RV crossing on Sundays
Update: We were fortunate to get an e-mail address from Moisheh for a person in the Office of Tourism in Hermosillo. Late Saturday I fired off an inquiry, and in the wee hours of the morning he responded that yes, we could cross on Sundays, same hours as any other day. Only commercial trucks can't cross. We headed out before the sun was up, hoping to beat the rush.
On the US side at Mariposa we pulled into our lane and found it blocked by a cone. A number of CBP were standing around visiting and took plenty of time to acknowledge us and then saunter over and begrudgingly move the cone. A very disagreeable agent then asked the perfunctory questions about arms and cash on board and what we were doing. I must say that we never have a problem with people being rude on the Mexican side -- it always seems to come from the Americans.
By 6:30 a.m. we were at the aduana. Things got interesting at that point. A very pleasant young lady in street clothes approached -- nothing to identify her as being there in an official capacity. She asked us to unhook the car and for me to drive back beyond the aduana, turn around and come back through the lights again. I asked why us and not everyone. According to her, this rule applies only to Americans, not Canadians. However, we know of other Americans who have not had to jump through this hoop as well as some who have. She said the rule makes no sense, that she knows we are not going to be hauling a car down for parts but that some Mexicans are, so we all have to be checked. She said there are a lot of silly rules and that it is embarrassing to have to enforce them, but it is her job. She had very little command of the English language, and if I had not been there, she and DH would have had one heck of a time communicating just what was to happen.
I drove out and back in, at which point the car got inspected -- for FOOD! There was no food in the car because, of course, it was all in the refrigerator in the MH, but the MH was never inspected. Go figure!
We asked if we could hook the car back up at that point but were told that I had to follow him in the car to km 21. I asked what would happen if he were alone or if I were unable to drive. She said he would have to drive to km 21 in the car and then either find a way back to the MH or go to the OXXO just beyond km 21, leave the car and have someone there bring him back for the MH. (I think I had better keep my thoughts to myself on this one.)
Getting the FMM's was a snap. Quick in and out. Since we are not going beyond Sonora this year, we did not have to leave a deposit on the car. Everyone we dealt with at km 21 was extremely pleasant and efficient. That put us in a better frame of mind. . . until we saw the condition of the road from there to Magdalena. Dreadful! The MH really took a beating, and we were sure nothing would be in tact once we arrived at our destination, but so far everything seems to work.
As for the park at Santa Ana, the first one you come to had an open sign out front but we couldn't really see if anyone was there. We could not have gotten to the more southerly one because the road was blocked off at that point.
Hermosillo is an absolute mess at this point. If we had to do it again we would go right through town instead of taking the periferico. The construction is really a mess and extensive. There is one point where you come to two orange signs overhead. One says for Trafico Pesado a Guaymas to go left. Trafico Ligero a Guaymas is to continue the way we always have. We debated and decided we were 'pesado' because we certainly are a lot heavier than a car or pick-up. We went left and realized very soon that according to our mapping program we were headed way out of our way. Not finding a place to turn around, we found a wide spot in the road and did one HUGE U-turn -- we have a pretty good turning radius on our MH. Our last one would not have made it. We went back and took the old route and it was quite a challenge, but do-able.
From Hermosillo to Guaymas, the roads just got worse and worse. The pounding was awful. We found ourselves driving 45 mph and feeling like we were doing 70. The slides began to squeak. Rattles were developing all along the way. It was not fun!
By the time we arrived at our destination, DH was ready to swear off Mexico in the future. Then friends began showing up, the breeze and warm air felt great, people gathered for Happy Hour, and life was good.
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we_rv
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10/10/11 09:05pm |
RVing in Mexico and South America
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RE: Mariposa RV crossing on Sundays
Thanks for the reply, Rocmoc. We think you are right, but we are still debating. We called customs, border patrol, the Mexican Consulate(not open on the week ends). BP didn't know but thought it should be open. We called Customs twice. One fellow said definitely not open -- the other said 'yes.' We did an extensive search on the internet and came up empty. It should not be this hard. We have now heard from someone who said trucks can't get through but motorhomes can. One couple said no one over 3 meters; another couple said they know someone who has done it recently but we are not sure in what. We are just hoping to hear from someone who has recent experience in a big rig. We are over 13' high.
Either way, we will post what we find out.
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we_rv
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10/08/11 08:52pm |
RVing in Mexico and South America
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