Happy February 1st! Another month has swiftly passed, and I'm finally adjusting to writing 2024 on documents. It's astonishing how time flies. The weather has been cooperative and mild, especially in comparison to the majority of the USA at this time of year. Having grown up in Minnesota, I can't fathom enduring another winter there. Thankfully, I'm here, and I'm confident we're in for another fantastic month in paradise.

Construction continues ahead of schedule on our new Sonoran Star Resort. Check out the photos and videos on our Facebook and Instagram pages or, better yet, come on down to see it for yourselves. We're on track to deliver Phase I (Tower #1 and 80% of the amenities) in early 2025. Currently the crews are working on the 3rd floor and, when finished, you should see approximately one floor going up every two weeks. Very soon, you'll be able to see Tower #1 from all over Rocky Point.

The Sonoran Resorts once again proudly served as sponsors at the Scottsdale Barrett Jackson Show and Auto Auction last month. This marked our 11th year, and by all indications, it was our best year yet. We successfully concluded our Annual Food Drive, and I extend a big Thanks to everyone who participated and contributed.

As we usher in the month of February, notable events like the Super Bowl and Valentine's Day are on the horizon. There are numerous places around town to celebrate and enjoy these occasions. Our very own Sonoran Sky is gearing up for both events. La Cantina Sports Bar will feature food and drink specials before, during, and after the big game, while the Sonoran Sky Restaurant is preparing a special menu for a romantic Valentine's Day celebration. If you need more information, feel free to reach out, and I'll point you in the right direction. January Jam was postponed, but I'm happy to report that it was rescheduled for the 15th - 18th of this month. Come down and enjoy the music, the festivities, and the atmosphere.

The whales have returned, and some cruise captains have already reported sightings. Several boats are available to take you out to witness these majestic creatures, and most have an excellent track record of finding them. If you've never experienced whale watching, consider coming down and giving it a try. Bring a camera, perhaps some binoculars, and definitely dress warmly. If you need a recommendation for a vessel, let me know.

Enjoy this beautiful month, and if you can, come to Rocky Point. If you need anything, don't hesitate to ask. Feel free to take advantage of my 16 years of full-time experience here. I'm more than happy to assist you with anything that I can, whether it's Sonoran Resorts related or not.

Feel free to call or email anytime, and I'll do my very best to help you. If I can't address your needs directly, I'm confident I can guide you in the right direction and connect you with someone who can.

Besides the links below, you can our listings at the following:

www.sonoranstar.com

www.sonoranresorts.mx

www.sonoranresortsresales.com

AMPI Puerto Penasco MLS

Point 2 Agent Multinational MLS

Pick up a handout at any of our Sonoran Resorts

Scottsdale Barrett Jackson Show

Various Real Estate and Trade shows in AZ, NV, and CA

www.SonoranStar.com

NOW SELLING!

Progress Continues on the New Sonoran Star Resort!

January Jam - February Edition!

Year 16 will bring the best of old and new to President's Day Weekend, February 15th- February 18th! Yes, that's 4 days people. We've added a special, limited ticket show at JJ's Cantina on Thursday night featuring RCPM doing a special mix of unplugged, acoustic, rarities, and rock on the same stage where January Jam began in 2008 at JJ's.

Due to capacity restraints, this is a separately ticketed event. All other events on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday can be purchased in advance at a discounted price as a GA or VIP combo or sold as separate days.

Rocky Point Builds Monument to Welcome Visitors

This is how the north entrance to Puerto Peñasco is shaping up with the new obelisk to welcome our residents and visitors.

The northern gateway to Puerto Peñasco is undergoing a transformation with the installation of a striking new obelisk that will serve as a welcoming landmark for both residents and visitors. The obelisk, with its unique design, stands as a symbol of the city's identity and hospitality.

Rising proudly at the entrance, the obelisk is not merely an architectural feature but a testament to the community's commitment to creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. This iconic structure not only adds aesthetic value to the landscape but also reflects the city's dedication to enhancing its public spaces.

The obelisk is strategically positioned to make a lasting impression, providing a sense of arrival and a focal point that captures the spirit of Puerto Peñasco. Its presence is symbolic, signaling the start of a memorable experience for those entering the city. Whether one is a long-time resident or a first-time visitor, the obelisk serves as a visual anchor, creating a sense of place and pride.

Charitable Institutions Receive 224,000 Pesos in Donations; Aid Distributed from the 2023 Rocky Point Rally

Part of the economic impact generated by approximately 9,000 motorcyclists who participated in the Rocky Point Rally 2023 last November translated into a donation of 224,000 pesos for eight charitable institutions and service organizations in Puerto Peñasco and Sonoyta. This amount represents almost a 40% decrease compared to the previous year.

In a brief ceremony held at the Civil Protection and Fire Department auditorium, individual sums of 28,000 pesos were handed over to representatives of the Fire Department, La Montaña Center, Red Cross, José Dávalos Elderly Home, George Papanicolaou Association, Sonoyta Municipal DIF, Casa del Estudiante Peñasquense in Mexicali, and Peñasco Municipal DIF.

Oscar Palacio Soto, president of the rally's organizing committee, reported that unfortunately, the donation amount decreased in the 2023 edition due to many motorcyclists not officially registering. To address this in 2024, efforts will be made to reinforce registration by setting up registration tables at the entrances of Caborca and El Golfo de Santa Clara, in addition to the one traditionally located at the Sonoyta entrance.

He recalled that last year, donations totaling 370,000 pesos were given to the same institutions, emphasizing the importance of strengthening contributions to avoid another decrease.

Palacio Soto affirmed that these donations and the positive impact of the rally on the local economy are largely due to the significant participation of businesses, sponsors, and all three levels of government, which have contributed to the growth of this major tourism event, the largest in the fourth quarter of the year.

Highlighting the achievement of a peaceful event last November, the influx of nearly 9,000 motorcyclists, and the significant economic impact it represented, Palacio Soto expressed encouragement to continue promoting this 23-year tradition of the Rocky Point Rally in Puerto Peñasco.

Mayor Jorge Pivac Carrillo echoed the positive impact of the Rocky Point Rally on the entire Puerto Peñasco community, emphasizing its contributions to charitable institutions, economic stimulus, and tourism generation. He pledged continued support from the Municipal Government for future editions, emphasizing the rally's 23-year history and the benefits it brings, as seen in the recent edition with donations totaling 224,000 pesos.

The Mayor shared that his administration is committed to promoting tourism through various events scheduled for the year, coordinated by the Municipal Tourism Department, aiming to strengthen this economic activity and counter the negative impact of the one-month closure of the Lukeville-Sonoyta border.

Both the organizing committee of the Rocky Point Rally and the Municipal Government confirmed that they are already working on the logistics and organization for the 24th edition of the motorcycle gathering scheduled for November 2024.

Why are Gasoline Prices Higher in Mexico than the US?

Taxes on gasoline in Mexico are five times higher than in the United States, making fuel at least 60% more expensive, according to an analysis by newspaper El Economista.

By comparing data from the consulting firm PETROIntelligence and the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA), El Economista calculated that 46% of what consumers currently pay for a liter of gasoline in Mexico goes to taxes, compared to 15% in the U.S.

Volaris, Mexico’s largest airline, says 35% of operating costs are related to the cost of fuel. Transport companies across the country have reported struggling with the increased costs. As a result, the average price of a liter of gasoline in Mexico was 22.13 pesos per liter (US $1.28) on Monday, while gasoline in the U.S. sold for $3.058 per gallon, or $0.81 per liter.

The taxes on a liter of regular Magna gasoline in Mexico comprise 6.18 pesos in the federal Special Tax on Production and Services (IEPS), 0.55 pesos in state IEPS and about 3.54 pesos in value-added tax. This adds up to 10.27 pesos of taxes (US $0.60) on each liter, compared to 2.06 pesos (US $0.12) on an average liter in the U.S. — although the final price paid by U.S. consumers varies depending on local state taxes.

The fuel tax in the U.S. is updated every six months, while in Mexico, fuel prices are controlled through the IEPS, which varies each week depending on the fiscal stimulus applied by the Ministry of Finance and Public Credit (SHCP).

In times of hardship, such as the oil price spike following Russia’s 2022 invasion of Ukraine, the SHCP can cushion the blow to consumers by reducing IEPS or even applying an additional subsidy. It can later use the IEPS to recoup these subsidies, helping to reduce the impacts of fuel price volatility over time.

As global oil supply chains adapted during 2023, Mexico steadily restored IEPS and reduced fuel subsidies. This pushed fuel prices up 3.21% over the year, while they fell by 2.37% in the US and in many other countries around the world.

“The collection of the IEPS did not allow the low prices seen internationally to be observed in 2023, because the government had to recover the revenues used to prevent the price from reaching levels of 30 pesos per liter (US $1.74) last year [2022],” Alejandro Montúfar, director of gasoline market research firm PETROIntelligence, told El Economista.

These comparatively high fuel prices have presented challenges for Mexican businesses. For instance, low-cost airline Volaris and transportation firms such as Grupo México Transportes and Traxión all reported struggling with higher costs.

For Volaris, this was one factor leading to a 25% fall in share price over the first nine months of 2023, as fuel represents about 35% of its operating costs.

The Whale Watching Season for 2024 has Begun in Puerto Peñasco

From January to March, these mammals arrive in the warm waters of the Sea of Cortez to feed, mate, and give birth to their calves.

As is the case every year, the thousands of kilometers traveled by whales to the Sea of Cortez bring about the spectacular whale-watching season along the coasts of Puerto Peñasco. This season started this January and concludes at the end of March.

This natural spectacle generates high expectations for both tourists visiting the destination and its residents, who take advantage of the trips and promotions offered by tour operators. The whale-watching season should be enjoyed by everyone, providing the opportunity to observe the most important cetaceans that traverse the Sea of Cortez. The humpback whale, fin whale, and occasionally sperm whales are the species that can be spotted.

However, it's important to remember that there is a regulation issued recently that now governs this activity, protecting both the species and those who admire them by following a set of guidelines.

It was in 2020 that Puerto Peñasco received the official designation as an authorized area for whale watching from SEMARNAT, under the Mexican Official Standard NOM-131-SEMARNAT-2010. This standard establishes regulations for the development of whale-watching practices during the January to April season.

Some of these regulations specify that vessels engaged in this activity must meet certain characteristics, such as not exceeding 22 meters in length, having a non-crowded passenger capacity, maintaining a speed not exceeding five knots, and spending a maximum of 30 minutes with one or more whales, among other regulations.

The whales that arrive in the Sea of Cortez cover a journey of 20 to 25 thousand kilometers, starting from frigid waters to the warm waters of the upper Gulf of California, where they settle for several months before returning to their point of origin.

What is the SENTRI Pass and How Does it Work?

Travelers can encounter massive lines to cross the borders by car. Travelers who are on a tight schedule may wonder: Are there faster ways to reenter the U.S. by land from our North American neighbors? The short answer is yes — NEXUS for travel in and out of Canada and SENTRI for travel back into the U.S. from Canada or Mexico.

What is the SENTRI Pass?

SENTRI is one of five Trusted Traveler Programs from U.S. Customs and Border Protection that allow expedited entry into the U.S. when crossing international borders. Where a program like TSA PreCheck seeks to expedite screenings for air travel, SENTRI, along with NEXUS and FAST, have similar intentions for U.S. land border crossings.

SENTRI is the only program that allows preapproved, low-risk travelers to reenter the U.S. from Mexico on foot or by vehicle using special SENTRI lanes at the land border ports. In addition, it also grants expedited access into the U.S. from Canada through dedicated NEXUS lanes. That said, SENTRI doesn't expedite entry into Mexico or Canada from the U.S.

How does the SENTRI Pass work?

After completing an application process and screening, SENTRI users are issued a Radio Frequency Identification card identifying valid membership. When crossing the U.S.-Mexico border, the SENTRI card automatically populates information for U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers who can choose to let the vehicle and its passengers continue into the U.S. without further inspection.

How much is a SENTRI Pass?

At $122.25, SENTRI membership is the most expensive of the Trusted Traveler Programs. But more than expedited land crossings, U.S. citizens and U.S. lawful permanent residents approved for SENTRI can automatically get TSA PreCheck and use Global Entry kiosks with their passport or resident card. These benefits come at no extra cost.

It’s important to note that the fee, which is paid with your application, is nonrefundable. Even if you're not approved after applying and paying, it won't be refunded.

Once accepted for SENTRI, membership is valid for five years. Note that each passenger traveling through a SENTRI lane must be approved individually for membership. It’s not enough to travel in a member’s car without your own SENTRI membership.

How do I get a SENTRI Pass? You can apply for SENTRI in five steps.

Create a TTP account. Note that each applicant must have a separate TTP account, regardless of age, even if all applicants plan to drive in the same registered vehicle.

Log in to your TTP account and complete the online application.

Pay the $122.25 membership fee, which is good for five years.

Upon conditional approval, schedule an interview at a SENTRI Enrollment Center.

Attend your interview and bring your passport, one other official form of identification, vehicle registration and a copy of your U.S. auto insurance policy. Bring your permanent resident card if you are a lawful permanent resident. If you are at least 14 years old, you must also have your fingerprints taken.

Why should I get the SENTRI Pass? The SENTRI Pass makes a lot of sense for particular travelers and circumstances.

You live near a U.S.-Mexico border and cross frequently

Hours-long lines are common at international land borders between the U.S. and Mexico. Getting SENTRI for yourself and your travel companions could translate to hours of time saved. Multiply these hours by the number of times you cross, and the value in a SENTRI membership increases greatly.

Given that SENTRI is primarily intended for those who cross the border frequently, enrollment centers are found exclusively in cities close to the U.S.-Mexico border. There are 11 centers currently:

Arizona: Phoenix, Tucson, Douglas, Nogales and San Luis.

Texas: El Paso, Hidalgo, Brownsville and Laredo.

California: Calexico and San Diego.

An in-person visit at an enrollment center is required for membership approval.

Is the SENTRI Pass worth it?

If you live within a few hours of a SENTRI Enrollment Center and cross the U.S.-Mexico border even a few times a year, the SENTRI Pass is well worth getting. Though the application fee of $122.25 per member is higher than other Trusted Traveler Programs, saving hours at the border every single time can feel priceless. Plus, the bonus benefits of Global Entry, TSA PreCheck and the use of NEXUS lanes make it even more worthwhile for frequent travelers.

Ambitious Repaving Projects Underway

The rehabilitation project for Benito Juárez and Francisco Eusebio Kino boulevards has commenced, with a total investment of 28 million pesos. The initial phase, started in mid-January, focuses on resurfacing the boulevards located in the Centro neighborhood of Puerto Peñasco. The project is funded directly by the municipality.

In a press release, it was disclosed that the initial actions involve asphalt removal along the stretch from No Reelección Street to Simón Morúa Street on Benito Juárez Boulevard, a vital and heavily trafficked thoroughfare in the city.

Jorge Pivac Carrillo, the Municipal Mayor, announced prior to the commencement of the project that the decision to revitalize these key arteries was driven by their significant deterioration and longstanding citizen demands.

The renovation scope for Benito Juárez Boulevard encompasses the stretch from 11th Street to No Reelección Avenue. Simultaneously, the rehabilitation efforts for Kino Boulevard extend from the Sonora Boulevard roundabout to Constitución Avenue.

Premaco, a company based in Caborca, has been entrusted with the roadworks, utilizing specialized equipment to treat the asphalt layer for a superior finish and an extended useful life. Pivac Carrillo stated that the project is expected to conclude within a month or a month and a half. During this period, appropriate signage and security measures will be implemented to minimize disruptions to vehicular traffic in the Centro neighborhood.

The Municipal Mayor emphasized that the combined investment of 28 million pesos for the rejuvenation of Juárez and Kino boulevards marks a positive beginning for 2024, showcasing impactful projects stemming from the municipality's efficient and transparent resource management.

Furthermore, Pivac Carrillo mentioned that additional street rehabilitation announcements will follow, funded by the regularization program of the Public Vehicle Registry and the Puente Río Colorado Trust. Additionally, ongoing works in sports infrastructure within the city, amounting to 21 million pesos, were highlighted.

Bucket List Whale Watching Tour Available

Explore the route the ship will take from February 23rd to 25th on the Fiesta Yacht! Embark on the wonders of the Sea of Cortez and witness the majesty of humpback and blue whales. Become part of the heart of marine life and witness breathtaking landscapes that will create unforgettable memories. Contact them for an adventure of a lifetime!

Ticket: $990 USD

Departure: Friday, February 23rd.

Return: Sunday, February 25th.

Ticket includes:

Accommodation.

Breakfasts, lunches, and dinners.

Open bar for mixology and beer.

Expedition to the islands and whale watching.

Explore:

Puertecitos

Isla el Muerto

Isla Sacuo

Isla Jaime

Isla San Luis

Isla Willard

Bahía San Luis Gonzaga

Isla Mejía

Isla Ángel De La Guarda

Isla San Jorge

Whale Watching in the Canal de Ballenas.

fiestayachtandclub@gmail.com

Update on Popular Mermaid's Market

The Mermaid's Market is once again working under the "oversight" of the local DIF program. This relationship should allow us a much more successful & efficient process to receive necessary permits for our markets. (For 10 years we had previously worked with DIF to attain the necessary permits for the Mermaid's Market. It should prove to be advantageous to work with their office once again.)

What is DIF? It is a government - and locally supported - entity which offers assorted help to local disadvantaged families, children and older shut-ins. They provide food packets for those who are in need. And daily meals to some of the elderly in the community who are shut-ins for various reasons and have no family support. They also offer some scholarships for schooling.

DIF will have a Bin available at each market, collecting donations of Laundered Clothing and TOYS. Your donations will be appreciated!

The Mermaid's Market is in its twelfth season and we have grown significantly over that time. From just a handful of vendors to nearly filling the park with dozens of artists and vendors! We call our artists "mermaids" and they bring new treasures to each market. We also have several food vendors along - with the bar serving artisan drinks using our Mermaid-entrusted secret recipes. . . Including our nearly-famous blue Mermaid Margarita, an Italian Margarita and our popular Bloody Maria - with a proprietary recipe of infused white tequila.

You know what we say: EAT. DRINK. SHOP.

Mark your calendars for these dates! www.mermaidsmarket.com

Mexico's Viridiana Álvarez - Mastering Land, Sea & Sky

Growing up in Aguascalientes, Mexico, Viridiana found herself captivated by her natural surroundings. Her passion for athletics emerged early, starting with 10,000-meter races and progressing to half marathons and full marathons. The convergence of Viridiana's love for the environment and athletics materialized when she participated in a half IRONMAN race - comprising a 1.2-mile swim, a 56-mile bike ride, and a 13.1-mile run.

Yet, Viridiana's adventurous spirit extended beyond the land and sea; she aspired to conquer the skies.

Setting Sail to New Horizons

Trading her running shoes for climbing boots, Viridiana embraced a new challenge — scaling mountains. In a mere two years, Viridiana transitioned from her first race to ascending Mexico’s tallest mountain, Pico de Orizaba (5,636 m; 18,491 ft). Unsatisfied with her accomplishments, Viridiana aimed higher. She set out to break the record for the fastest ascent of the top three highest mountains with supplementary oxygen.

Becoming the Swiftest Female Climber

Her epic journey commenced in 2017 with the world’s highest peak: Everest (8,848 m; 29,029 ft). In 2018, Viridiana conquered K2 (8,611 m; 28,251 ft), the second-highest and deemed the most perilous mountain globally. On May 15, 2019, Viridiana etched her name in history by summiting Kangchenjunga (8,856 m; 28,169 ft), the third-highest mountain. Viridiana accomplished the feat of conquering all three mountains within an impressive span of 1 year and 364 days. She also earned the distinction of being the first Latin American woman to successfully summit K2.

“My journey as a mountaineer began with an unconventional yet inspiring purpose: a personal challenge for fitness, but it led me to abandon my office job, forsaking comfort to experience the enchantment of the mountains. It served as proof that dreams need not remain lifelong aspirations; anyone who dares to set them can achieve what may seem 'unattainable goals,' such as breaking a world record,” expressed Viridiana.

Viridiana's next ambition involves conquering the 14 highest mountains globally — an endeavor for which she has already triumphed over five. Beyond mountaineering, Viridiana serves as a public speaker at youth conferences and events, spreading her message of shattering barriers and attaining the seemingly impossible. She imparts the importance of emotional intelligence, maintaining a positive attitude, discipline, and consistency to achieve one's goals.

Newmark Executive Hails Mexico’s Manufacturing Potential

Mexico has the potential to become a key player in global manufacturing, particularly in industries such as automotive, electrical, household appliances, and metalworking according to Sergio Pérez Castilleja, executive managing director of Newmark, a global commercial real estate firm.

“Mexico is prepared to become a leader in the manufacturing sector, with a different production and supply structure. And we are ready for it,” Pérez said speaking at the Real Estate Symposium in Mexico City.

According to Pérez, nearshoring has opened opportunities to attract foreign direct investment (FDI) given the current geopolitical situation and the rise of electric and self-driving vehicles.

“Two fundamental things are about to happen,” Pérez anticipated. “Electric and self-driving cars will totally change the entire assembly and supply base, representing an immense opportunity.”

The United States Department of Commerce (DOC) has said that the market for electric vehicles, or EVs, is “evolving rapidly in Mexico as automakers have announced ambitious strategic goals to transition their offerings from gasoline to electric vehicles.”

BMW, Tesla, Volkswagen and Chinese companies BYD and SEV are among the automakers with plans to make EVs in Mexico.

Nearshoring has also increased industrial demand, Pérez said, but there is not enough space with the required infrastructure to meet it. “While there is land in the country, little land has infrastructure, primarily electric,” Pérez said.

According to Pérez, the availability of industrial space in Mexico is currently at merely 1.5%, a historic figure that poses a challenge for property developers.

Although the number of vacancies in the national industrial market is shrinking fast, custom-made projects are still being undertaken and Mexico is responding to this great challenge in an important way, Pérez said.

Meet the Sonoran's Family of Beachfront Resorts

Sandy Beach Resorts Road Lights Up

With an investment of one million pesos, the final phase of lighting for the Coastal Boulevard of Puerto Peñasco has commenced, further enhancing safety and improving traffic conditions in this busy area of Puerto Peñasco, as reported by José Luis Montijo Torres. The Director of Municipal Public Works revealed that this initiative will complete a circuit of 254 solar-powered streetlights spanning a length of 4,300 linear meters, with a total investment of 8,422,254.93 pesos. This project, which began in stages since August of last year, aims to illuminate the entire boulevard.

He communicated that this new phase covers the stretch from the entrance of the Bella Sirena tourist complex to the Esmeralda condominium development, involving the installation of 32 solar-powered lights with 100-watt LED lamps. He added that 16 poles, each 9 meters tall with a 2.40-meter-long bracket, will be installed at a cost of 1,062,000 pesos from 100% municipal funds.

He emphasized that significant progress has been made to complete this vital 4.3-kilometer street lighting project at 100% capacity, with the goal of finishing in the upcoming weeks.

The Director of Public Works recalled that in August of the previous year, the first phase of lighting for the Coastal Boulevard was completed and operational, ending a 17-year period of darkness since its construction. Additionally, he noted that the second phase of lighting for the thoroughfare was completed and operational in October.

He reiterated that this public works project is a top priority for the government, given the high traffic flow of tourists, residents, and workers commuting to their places of employment. This aligns with Mayor Jorge Pivac's directive to reinvest municipal government resources in public works and social benefit programs.

Enchiladas Suizas: How to Make one of Mexico’s Flavorful Classics

Enchiladas are tacos smothered in sauce and there are many different types, but the tangy and gooey version known as enchiladas suizas is a classic Mexican favorite.

But have you ever wondered what could be Swiss about corn tortillas stuffed with shredded chicken, smothered in green salsa, and topped with lots of melted cheese? Here is the history of this version of the beloved enchiladas.

In 1861, France, Britain, and Spain invaded Mexico after Mexican President Benito Juárez suspended the payment of foreign debt. While the British and Spanish withdrew after negotiations with Juárez, France’s Napoleon III pursued a more ambitious plan to establish a new empire in Mexico.

As a result, Maximilian Habsburg became Emperador Maximiliano of Mexico in 1864, but after Napoleon withdrew his troops in 1867, Benito Juárez quickly led Mexican forces to victory and the hapless Maximilian was executed.

During his brief reign, Maximilian and his wife Charlotte had a long list of dedicated staff. The most famous story about the origin of enchiladas suizas is told by the historian Rodrigo Llanes, believed to be the great-great-grandson of Maximiliano’s butler.

When the Empire fell and Maximilian was executed, the unemployed butler and his family returned to their ancestral home of Coahuila. In their luggage they carried precious cargo, they had packed the recipes that were served at the palace. However, the recipe for Enchiladas Suizas was not in the rescued stash.

In 1910, decades after the fall of the Empire, the Revolutionary War broke out, with the worst violence concentrated in northern Mexico. Rodrigo’s ancestors sought safety by moving back to Mexico City. With a pile of old recipes and the need to earn a living, they decided to open a restaurant called “Café Imperial” The menu served many of the recipes they had recovered from the palace, often with a European flair.

To offer a version of enchiladas worthy of an emperor, Rodrigo’s grandmother added copious amounts of melted cheese and cream to traditional green salsa. One story says that enchiladas suizas were named because the colors of the dish mirror the Swiss Alps, the other says it pays homage to Switzerland’s world-famous dairy products. Whatever the reason for the name, this dish quickly became a favorite on the menu at Café Imperial.

In 1903, American brothers Walter and Frank Sanborn acquired Café Imperial and renamed it Sanborns. While the modern Sanborns chain boasts 129 restaurants across Mexico, Enchiladas Suizas are still a firm favorite to this day.

Here’s the recipe for you to enjoy this hearty dish at home. You can skip a step by using store-bought green salsa.

Ingredients

For the sauce:

1 lb. tomatillo

3 serrano jalapeño chiles

2 cloves garlic

½ onion

1 medium bunch fresh cilantro

1 tbsp powdered chicken broth

8 oz. cream cheese

2 oz. cream

Salt to taste

For the enchiladas:

2 cups shredded, cooked chicken breast meat

12 corn tortillas

Vegetable oil

2 cups grated melting cheese

Preparation method

Drizzle skillet with oil, lightly roast the tomatillos, onion, garlic and chiles. Transfer to a blender and blitz with the powdered broth, cilantro and cream cheese until smooth.

Add 1 tbsp. of oil to a saucepan over medium heat. Pour in the salsa and cook for 2 minutes. Add the cream and salt to taste. Cook for two more minutes and turn off the heat.

Heat 3 tbsp. of oil in a heavy skillet over medium heat. Fry tortillas, one at a time, until blistering but still soft enough to roll, 10 to 20 seconds per side. Drain on paper towels.

Place 2 heaped tablespoons of shredded chicken down the center of each tortilla and roll. Arrange, seam-side down, into a shallow baking dish. Repeat to fill and roll the remaining tortillas.

Pour sauce over the tortillas, top with the grated cheese and bake uncovered in an oven preheated to 350°F, until sauce is bubbly and cheese is melted and starting to brown, about 20 minutes. Serve and enjoy!

There you have it, the story of how there’s nothing Swiss about enchiladas suizas but they’re delicious and you can enjoy at home or your favorite restaurant. ¡Buen provecho!

Mexico in Numbers: Religion

From roadside shrines and spectacular cathedrals to the traditional Catholic Holy Week processions and the syncretic celebration of Day of the Dead, religion permeates Mexico’s physical and cultural landscape. But how many people in Mexico are actually religious?

The most accurate answer comes from the Population and Housing Census, conducted every ten years by the National Institute for Statistics and Geography (INEGI). The most recent 2020 census contains a detailed breakdown of Mexico’s religious panorama and provides intriguing insights into how faith in Mexico has changed over time.

How many Mexicans identify as religious?

In 2020, only 8.2% of the population said they had no religion at all – a total of 10.2 million Mexicans. In addition, 3.1 million people, or 2.5% of the population, said that they believed in a higher power, but did not adhere to a formal religion.

How dominant is Christianity in Mexico compared to other religions?

Unsurprisingly, most Mexicans identified as Catholics – 77.7%. Another 11.2% of the population identified as Protestant or Evangelical, while only 0.2% practiced a different religion. This means that Christian denominations still represent 88.9% of the Mexican population.

Of the non-Christian religions, just under 59,000 Mexicans identified as Jews, while just under 8,000 identified as Muslims. Just under 41,000 practiced religions with African roots, and around 33,000 practiced religions with “ethnic roots” – a term INEGI does not clearly define, but appears to describe Indigenous beliefs.

How have religions grown or declined in the last decade?

While Catholicism is still Mexico’s primary religion, INEGI’s historical data show that its dominance has steadily declined over the last century. From 99% in 1910, Catholics fell to 98.2% of the population in 1950, 92.6% in 1980, 87.9% in 2000, and 82.7% in 2010, before reaching 77.7% in 2020. In other words, the Catholic population has dropped by more than 10 percentage points in the last 20 years alone.

Meanwhile, the Protestant population has steadily grown – from 0.9% in 1940, to 1.8% in 1980, 7.3% in 2000, and finally 11.2% in 2020. The growth in Protestantism was particularly marked during the 1980s, when alternative branches of Christianity gained traction in Mexico’s economically marginalized southern states.

As for non-believers, they have jumped from 0% in 1950 to 1.6% in 1970, 3.1% in 1980, 4.7% in 2010, and finally 10.6% in 2020 – including both the non-religious and informal belief categories.

Which religions predominate in larger urban areas vs rural areas?

Christian congregations predominate in Mexico’s rural areas. A Protestant presence is most common in localities with fewer than 10,000 inhabitants, while Catholicism is most dominant in towns with 1,000 to 99,000 inhabitants, and Judaism in cities of 100,000 or more.

Religious affiliation by population density across Mexico in 2020.

Mid-sized cities with 100,000 to 250,000 inhabitants have the presence of Catholic, Protestant and non-religious groups, but in these locales, the proportion of non-religious people is significantly higher than the national average. In Mexico’s largest cities, Catholics and non-religious people are most represented.

How do religious affiliations vary by state in Mexico?

In 1990, Catholics made up less than 75% of the population in only two states: Chiapas and Tabasco. In 2020, this number had grown to ten, with the addition of Baja California, Campeche, Quintana Roo, Tamaulipas, Baja California Sur, Chihuahua, Morelos and Yucatán.

Broadly speaking, these are also the states with the largest Protestant populations. In 1990, Protestants made up more than 11% of the population only in Campeche, Chiapas, Quintana Roo and Tabasco. By 2020, this number had grown to 15 – the states listed above, plus Coahuila, Oaxaca, Veracruz, Nuevo León and Sonora.

In 1990 and 2000, Chiapas was the only state where non-religious people made up more than 10% of the population, joined in 2010 by Campeche, Quintana Roo and Tabasco. By 2020, 14 states were in this category, with the highest proportions of non-religious people living in Quintana Roo (22.5%), Baja California (20.4%) and Mexico City (15.6%).​