Travel to La Paz

Description

La Paz is bordered by a huge bay, forming a very long inlet. These geographical conditions make for tranquil beaches and spectacular views of the sea. The arid landscapes contrast with high cliffs and the blue colors of the sea. An island known as Espiritu Santo is located fifteen miles away, right in front of La Paz. The main island is surrounded by islets and limestone formations. La Paz is a magnificent natural scenario as well as a lovely getaway spot.

Baja California Sur is the Mexican state with the largest area of coastline, made up of more than one thousand miles of beautiful beaches. Both recreational activities and commercial production of the area have something to do with the sea. La Paz offers visitors an ample variety of options in tourist services: hotels of diverse categories, water sports and ecotourism. Also, La Paz is distinguished for its tranquil atmosphere which renders homage to its name (La Paz means the peace in English).

History

Although it is uncertain, it is commonly believed that the first humans came here about 12,000 years ago. They were nomadic tribes that came from along routes that border the Pacific Ocean. They were the descendants of the first inhabitants of America who came from Asia. In pre-Hispanic times, the zone was inhabited by three tribal groups: Pericues, Guaycuras and Cochimies. They were hunter gathers and were not developed in agriculture.

Since the 16th century, when Europeans had arrived to the New World, the history of this area became very particular. La Paz suffered attempts at colonization through several expeditions. The first attempt was in 1533, when Hernan Cortes sent two ships and only one arrived. The excessive behavior of the crew clashed against the indigenous communities and there was an armed conflict. The few Spaniards who survived, escaped. After that, Cortes himself arrived on May of 1535 to this place and named it Bahia de la Santa Cruz (Bay of the Holy Cross).

Due to the difficulties that Hernan Cortes faced, he lost interest in the colony and after two years, left it. In 1537, Francisco de Ulloa was left in charge of this colony and he tried to form a Catholic mission in order to evangelize the indigenous population. The lack of food and water, as well as the dry weather forced the Viceroy to order the abandonment of the settlement.

In 1596, the Spanish explorer, Sebastian Vizcaino, arrived to the bay and gave it its current name: La Paz. He established a settlement and the population became involved in extracting pearls, nearly depleting this resource. Many years after that, in 1720, the Jesuits constructed the Mission of Nuestra Senora del Pilar de La Paz Araipi. In 1749, the mission was again abandoned due to the extreme living conditions. The missionaries and some converted locals settled nearby and, in the 19th century, settlements near other old missions were also established.

Nowadays

Nowadays, La Paz is a destination that offers tranquil beaches to its visitors, nice architecture with beautiful colonial details, a lot of life in the streets and friendly people. It is a modern city with the proper infrastructure for the enjoyment of its inhabitants and its tourists: movie theaters, hotels, shopping malls, restaurants and nightlife.

During summer, the weather in the low zones is very warm. The evenings, however, features a night wind known as Corumuel, which is a wind that blows from offshore and cools the city. During the winter, the weather is mild which incites one to take a stroll about town. The malecon is a seafront promenade. This is an ideal spot for walking or jogging, but above of all, for contemplating the infinite beauty of the Sea of Cortez.