Baja tried to put a beating on Miss Blanca. She had several minor casualties that needed repair, she was also due for a service. We headed into Cabo San Lucas for parts and supplies.
After finding the necessary components, we posted up in an rv park for the weekend to work on the van. Out of 50 spaces, only six were kept available for travelers, the rest were full time residences. It was an interesting place, with people living full time out of huge campers and palapas. The residents were extremely friendly, mostly retired expats.
With me rolling around in the dirt, miscellaneous pieces of Blanca scattered around, and coupled by our traveling circus, we made quite the spectacle. A cocktail in hand, the residents would ask, “How in the world can you travel in such a small place with two large dogs?” Or, “What in the world are you doing under that thing? There is a very reasonable mechanic in town.”
With Blanca back in tip top shape, we headed towards the ferry terminal to get our ducks in order, and with a little luck, hop the ferry.
When we arrived at the banjercito we were immediately crushed. Vehicles over a certain gross vehicle weight, or commercial vehicles can not be issued the import permit that is required for mainland. Our camper van is home built, meaning it is still titled as a commercial vehicle. No mainland for Blanca!?
There must be a way around this we questioned? Insisting Blanca is a camper. The lovely woman at the banjercito walked with us to the parking lot, looked at the van, and decided it was in fact our home, not a commercial vehicle. She said that if customs would do an override and stamp our title she would issue the permit. It would all be up to customs. With much confusion, running in circles between the banjercito and customs, we were finally approved. Not only approved, but with a 10 year Rv permit. Awesome!
Next, I headed to the TMC office, which runs the trucker ferry, to buy a ticket. The office was full of energetic women, Spanish speaking only. With more confusion and circle running I was finally issued our ferry ticket. Whew! They informed me, “El barco sale en una hora, izquierda, derecha, izquierda.” (the boat leaves in one hour, left, right, left)
We followed the directions through the terminal, and pulled onto the deck beside a big rig. We popped the top and made ourselves comfortable for the 16 hour romantic cruise ahead. Adios Baja, mainland awaits!
