Where In The World Is Nellie?

HONG KONG ... LAS VEGAS .... LORETO ... I spent a week in Hong Kong which is vastly different from Singapore and it feels like New York on steroids.   While Singapore only became a nation in 1965, is a planned city with great vision using the newest technologies, transport and amenities; Hong Kong has been the commercial center of Asia for over 100 years.    It is a city that has grown literally on top of each other and a true mix of old and new.    There are older districts where the buildings are 50+ years old, with street markets and stalls, to the new ultra office towers and hotels.    The people themselves have found a way to coexist with all the foreigners, China Nationals, and locals who have inhabited this jewel for a century.    You cannot escape the crowds of people everywhere.     Most foriegners I met at the Hotel rarely strayed far from the safety and tranquility of the hotel and areas.    This i...

In a Land Far Far Away … As I continue on my Singapore Adventure, there are so many things to do each day ... including exploring the many food options!    The choices are extensive from every culture imaginable; and ranging in price from $5 to $150 USD per person.    You have to do your homework to get the best possible experience, but that is part of the journey and satisfaction of finding the perfect spot to fit your mood, palette and budget!     Most good hotels offer free cell phones for calling, texting, data plans with google search and apps with tour recommendations already loaded and waiting for your inquiries.    It’s wonderfully easy! I was most impressed that Singapore Zoo and Wildlife Reserves are committed to ensure their animals receive world class welfare and care through conservation, biodiversity and education to each staff member and visitor.    It is evident at all stations that they are adopting sus...

Good Morning Singapore!    I have travelled halfway around the world and now in Singapore, located One degree from the Equator.   I could not be further away from Loreto … geographically, culturally, and among culinary diversity.      My last visit to Singapore was over 30 years ago when it was a developing country with a grand vision for the future.    The social progress and geographical changes have been remarkable.     While there are the tall skyscrapers of any affluent city, there remains a wealth of historical treasures from the past, older buildings nestled between the maze of parks and glass towers.   I was impressed by the abundance of gardens, nature reserves and lush, tropical greenery.   Public transportation is excellent, taxis/car ride services are easy and reasonably priced, and walking is the best way to explore any city.    I walk 10 to 15 miles a day … mostly to compensate for the cons...

We LOVE the Nopolo Wine Cellar!! Do you remember the summer of 2011 in Loreto Bay?   Probably not as there were just a few people here.    I think there was only ONE flight a week and the negativity was oppressive.   The Home Owners were agonizing over the $2MM USD Special Assessment to complete all the necessary capital expenditure projects; the BECK Solution was underway in Aqua Viva and we were surrounded by 200 unfinished homes.     There were 20 Property Managers, 3 Banks, and rumors of Loreto Bay Hotel and Golf Course being sold.    I was responsible for commercial leasing at the time, and the only businesses were Baja Boss Property Management; Bahia PM, the HOA, Security Offices, and Evan's grocery store.    There was no place to get a meal, coffee or drinks without going into town.   This was the definition of being a Pioneer.   Buying food was literally a hunting and gathering exercise that required a trip to...

Raining in Loreto, Baja!   It’s been raining lightly but steady for the past 12 hours in Loreto.    There is little wind and it’s wonderful to be snuggled up at home listening the pitter patter that we seldom hear this time of year.    It is 63F and warm.    In a few days the sun will be bright and everything will be fresh and clean.    The mountains will bloom with foliage that we forget is there, and the lush green hillsides will welcome all our spring visitors.    The beginning of each new year is a time for reflection, resolutions, and often revamping our routines, priorities and practices to live fuller, kinder and with wellness.   For many 2018 was a year of change, trials and tribulations filled with experiences that we should learn from.    Yes, truly every year has its ups and downs, but as I grow older and hopefully wiser, I feel that there is no time like the present.   No better day tha...

LORETO - HAPPY NEW YEAR 2019!!  As I celebrate 15 years in Loreto Bay, I find myself regularly astonished and swelling with pride at what this Community has achieved.   It took hundreds of dreamers, risk takers, and visionaries to believe in the concept of a friendly, safe community that offered more than our creature comforts in home towns across the USA and Canada.   These Pioneers put their faith in the concept and each other, against formidable odds and incomprehensible challenges to complete the vision and finally becoming Settlors to enjoy the benefits and rewards of Living Fully and Treading Lightly.   Along the way, we have been joined by others who feel the tranquility and magic of our special, unhurried and respectful way of life.   It is interesting to note that 40% of all new buyers are younger than 58 years old and desiring to have simpler, yet fuller lives.  We are seeing more families of grand parents, adult ...