LEMONS & LEMONADE

Originally Published the Week of Jan. 14, 2023 in Western Outdoor Publications

No doubt, Mexico is a great place to escape to, especially in the winter.  This year, in particular, with all the storms criss-crossing the U.S. and repeatedly battering some areas, it’s a no-brainer.

The idea of shedding your thermals, rain gear or snow-boots and sticking your bare toes into warm sand with any icy cold one in your hand is awfully appealing.

There’s just one thing wrong with that visualization.

Folks think that nasty weather respects the political borders that separate the two countries.  No, the weather does not simply stop at the border.

If there’s weather north of the border, there’s weather south of the border as well.  Generally, it’s not as severe, but there can be enough weather to impact your vacation plans whether it’s that sunset booze cruise, a snorkel trip, and of course, fishing.

The sun is generally out so you can keep your toes in the sand.  And for sure  it’s going to be warmer than South Dakota and dryer than California or Oregon, but beware.

Waters can be rough and windy.  Or, at worst, your trip could get cancelled.  It definitely won’t look like the post card or website photos that enticed you to visit in the first place.

So, what recourse do you have?

Listen, common sense.

We know you REALLY want to get out on the water to do whatever it is you planned to do. 

There are unscrupulous operators and outfitters who know darned well they shouldn’t go out and  still take your money.  They will give you an abbreviated trip then apologize and go back to port.

Or, they’ll try to do the best they can and gut-it-out and everyone gets seasick and has a miserable time.

Or, simply cancels things and is honest and says it’s too windy and dangerous or the port has been closed.  And hopefully refunds everyone’s money.

Use common sense.  If it’s looks too rough, it’s really not worth it to get seasick and have a terrible time. Believe me. 

If you’re going fishing and the captain himself says you shouldn’t go out, don’t go out!  The guy wants your business more than anything. 

But, the guy know his waters and if an experienced waterman like him says not to go, no one is more disappointed than him.

The best thing to do in any of those situations, short of getting your money back, is staying flexible with your schedule.  Especially important during this time of year.

Check if there’s a different day you can go out and get a credit or rain check.  Most reputable operators will jump at the chance.  They want you to have a good time as much as you want to have a good time.

And they certainly need the business.

And no one wants to go out there if it’s unsafe.  That’s a given.  Don’t take that chance either. 

Whatever amount you paid, it’s not worth it to jeopardize anyone’s safety.  Even if you’re not getting a refund. Walk away.  

One other big thing…

We never travel without travel insurance.  We recommend all of our clients who come to fish with us in La Paz to purchase it as well.

You just never know.  And it’s very economical.

Believe me, if you get cancelled for some reason, refunds are generally non-existent.  Weather is part of being on the water.  No one’s fault.  It can’t be controlled.

But, even if you do get a refund, it might take time and some wrangling to get all or part of your dinero back.  Don’t count on it.  

Travel insurance can be a big help.

Whatever happens and you do get cancelled…

Go sit on the beach.  Console yourself that it still beats being on the freeway or back at work.

That’s my story!

Jonathan