Baja California (Northern) is the northernmost state of Mexico. It is located in the polar part of the arid peninsula of California. It borders the US state of California. Previously (before the appearance of the state), Baja California was called the lands in the north of the California Peninsula.
The western border of the state is the Pacific coast, the eastern - the Gulf of California. The southern border is the administrative border with the state of Baja California Sur. This region is spread over an area of 70,113 km2. This is only 3.5% of the total area of Mexico. The region is not very rich, so some establishments are closed or may close in the future.
State History
The first people appeared here 11 thousand years ago. It is believed that they moved along the Pacific Ocean from the north. The tribes of the Indians settled in the south, and the tribes of the Hokan group settled in the north. The Indians were hunters and gatherers. Tribes in the north, besidesthis, they developed agriculture in the floodplain of the river. Colorado, favored by a more comfortable climate.
The arrival of Europeans in these areas dates back to 1539. These were the Spaniards. In 1697, the first Jesuit colony appeared on the peninsula.
State population
In the state of Baja California in 2010, more than 3 million people (-3,155,070 to be exact) lived. This is much more than in the south of the California Peninsula. The capitals of the state are the cities of Mexicali and Tijuana, where ¾ of the total population of this region lives. They are located at the northern border of the state, close to the US.
The main part of the population are mestizos: a mixture of Spaniards and Indians. There are also a small number of people of European origin, migrants from Africa, the Middle East and East Asia.
Economy
The territory is deprived of significant natural resources, and therefore the extractive industries are not developed here. The electronic, chemical, textile, automotive and woodworking industries predominate. The advantage for the state is a good transport infrastructure: roads and railways, airports and seaports. Tourism, hotel business, car assembly, agriculture, animal husbandry and fishing are developed here. Products are exported to the US and Canada.
Baja California Tourism
Recreation and tourism are important areas of the region's economy. Three cities located near the northern border of the state: Tecate, Tijuana and Mexicali are the centers of popular shopping in the West. So, Tijuana passes through itself 20-30million buyers a year. There was even a modern direction of tourism: shop tourism. In addition, there is a large children's entertainment center in Mexicali, replete with rides and slot machines. There is also a museum of Indian tribes "Kukala", designed in the form of a hat. And for people with strong nerves, an arena of extreme entertainment has been created.
Rosarito is a coastal resort with white sand beaches, small coves and cliffs. Many hotels and villas have been built here. Seasoned travelers advise you to definitely visit restaurants that are known for their gourmet dishes based on seafood. There are quite a lot of comfortable beach areas on the territory of the state.
Each tourist, if desired, can buy a Mexican souvenir as a keepsake: a sombrero hat, poncho, hammock, tequila or Mexican wine. You can also buy stone jewelry.
Main Attractions
There are quite a few attractions in Baja California (Northern). Basically, these are artificial objects built relatively recently. Beach holidays and entertainment are the dominant theme here.
Three Heads Square - Civic Plaza
This unusual place is located in the city of Ensenada. Its characteristic feature is three giant male heads made of bronze and standing on trapezoidal white pedestals. Ornamental plants grow in pots between them. The sculptures symbolize the three heroes of Mexico. According to tourists, they look quite realistic. From there it also opensPanoramic view of Ensenada.
The size of the square is quite significant, which allows it to hold concerts and other public events.
Revolution Avenue
Of course, he has nothing to do with the Soviet Socialist Revolution. The name was given because it was from here that the development of the city of Tijuana took place, on which this avenue is located. It is a wide street with a very ancient asph alt pavement and a wide pavement with a pinkish-brown artificial turf. The runny palm trees don't provide enough shade, so you can assume it's very hot.
Another reason why this attraction is probably not very attractive is poverty. Previously, nightclubs, bars, restaurants, cultural institutions worked along the street. Now there are only striptease clubs with cheap beer. In the past, this place was popular with American sailors.
Cabo Pulmo Diving Center
This object is located in the very first of the local resorts. It is not at all like the recreation areas with modern buildings familiar to domestic tourists. But for diving, it's probably even better. According to experienced travelers, there is everything you need for a full dive in the best area of the Sea of Cortez. The staff is well trained and has considerable experience and knowledge of the area.
Golden Cactus Gallery
This gallery is known for displaying hundreds of works by American artists. The building itself is very cozy and will leave a pleasant impression. However, due to financi althis beautiful place may someday disappear.
Arenia Casino
This large entertainment establishment is located in the city of Mexicali. In addition to the casino, the building has a restaurant, car service and a cinema. There are slot machines in the main hall. There is also a night club where noisy events are often held. The restaurant serves classic European cuisine.
Baja California Sur State
This state is less well-known than its neighbor to the north and is also sparsely populated. The climate here is hotter and arid. Deserts and semi-deserts are ubiquitous. Here you can look at picturesque beaches, beautiful seaside cliffs, mountains covered with succulents and arid vegetation. According to tourists, these are excellent places for a romantic and secluded vacation, except for such a problem as daily heat.
The capital of Baja California Sur is La Paz. There are mining and food enterprises, educational and cultural facilities. The transport network is well developed.
