I've been to Rosarito, Mexico several times in recent years when I've wanted a cheap vacation, good food and a quick change of scenery. My restaurant Spanish has always sufficed when I'm down there, endearing me to the locals who appreciate my stabs at their native tongue. Don't speak Spanish? No problemo. English is widely understood.

Who doesn't enjoy the splash of several margaritas, cheap lobster and an avoidance of airports? Rosarito, once a sleepy fishing and hunting town, is growing rapidly to attract well-heeled investors, families, and those wanting vacations not too far from home. The infusion of American dollars into the condo scene is evident with the sprouting of several monoliths along the shoreline, giving you an affordable coastline view at a fraction of what it would cost to purchase beachside property in the states.

From Los Angeles, Rosarito is an easy drive south, about an hour below San Diego. You'll pass through the border town of Tijuana, a bustling city with bullfighting, jaialai and a bunch of places to shop, drink or eat before your half-hour trip south.

If traveling by car, once you cross the border, you can bypass Tijuana, by following the signs to the scenic road. This costs less than a few dollars, and gives you a panoramic view of the Pacific. Enjoy the influx of luxury that is cropping up quickly. For a few hundred thousand, you could have a ringside seat on the Pacific and sip your cares away. Go for the high-rises so your views aren't obstructed.

Once in Rosarito, you can indulge yourself in spa treatments, art tours, cheap lobster and inexpensive retail items, all of which adds to an affordable vacation. With gas prices taking their toll on your wallets, perhaps Mexico is one of the easiest places to enjoy.


Mary McGrath is a freelance writer and photographer whose work has appeared in Newsweek.com, MSNBC.com, Copley Newspapers, Rangefinder Magazine, Takegreatpictures.com and many other publications. www.marymcgrathphotography.com