casa LA VIDA
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Your suites say a maximum of 4 in the one bedrooms and two in the Studio. What if we have extra people at the last minute, especially children?
We want casa La Vida to be a special place for all that stay with us. We have recently had problems with this. Our one bedroom suites accommodate a maximum of two adults and two children, and the studio- two adults. We have a nice sized pool, but we like to also make sure people are comfortable there. Thus, if more people arrive than confirmed in your reservation, you will either need to rent an extra suite, if available, or find another place for them to stay. Cash will be required upon arrival if another suite is available.
How do I get to San Felipe?
San Felipe is located about 125 miles from Mexicali, Mexico. If you are flying, San Diego is the best airport, and then it is a four to five hour car trip from San Diego to San Felipe, taking I-8 to Hwy 111, following the signs to Calexico. The main street (Hwy 111) will take you across the border. We suggest you fill your gas tank to be on the safe side. There are several gas stations in Mexicali and San Felipe, but none in between! Once across, take the first right fork (about a half block left of the border) and follow the signs to San Felipe - there are about 3 as you go through town. If you pass a Home Depot on your right and a Costco on the left as you are driving through Mexicali, you are on the right road. The drive from Mexicali is 2 1/2 hours if you drive about 70 after getting out of Mexicali. You will go through a military checkpoint about a half hour before you arrive in San Felipe. They will ask where you are coming from, where you are going.
Once in San Felipe, how do I find Casa La Vida?
Casa La Vida is located about two miles south of the main portion of San Felipe. When you come past the arches that are the entry to San Felipe, stay on the main road until you reach the "glorieta" (circle). This is also known as the Island of Trees and contains a "Bienvenidos a San Felipe" sign. Turn right at the glorieta, which is Mar de Caribe, or also known as Airport Road. Stay on Airport Road for about two miles until you see a sign to your left pointing to Playa Club. At that sign, turn left, come one block and turn right at the corner. Casa La Vida will be up the hill about a half block, and on your left, with a smiling sun greeting you from the entry, a fountain out front, and most noticeable, our Casa La Vida logo painted on our garage door. We are the third house on the left. We also have three palms out front that are lit at night. (Note: If lost, ask directions for Playa Club. We are directly above their swimming pool area.)
How far is Casa La Vida from the beach?
Casa La Vida is a block from the beach. You can walk to the beach below, or drive to lovely beaches just south of the marina.
Can you walk to downtown?
You can walk if you are a hardy walker. However, most people prefer to drive and parking is not a problem in downtown San Felipe. Taxi service is also available.
Are there grocery stores close by?
There is a convenience store within walking distance, about a block and a half from Casa La Vida. There are several larger grocery stores in town.
Are there many restaurants in San Felipe?
San Felipe has many wonderful restaurants, many specializing in shrimp and seafood, but most also serve traditional Mexican dishes. There are also restaurants specializing in Italian dishes as well as Chinese dishes. San Felipe also has delicious ice cream available.
Being in a new area, one's stomach can be more sensitive. So, most people prefer bottled water. The restaurants in town also serve bottled or purified water.
What recreational activities are available?
The San Felipe area has many wonderful beaches. Do you like sea shells and sand dollars? They abound on the beaches near us. San Felipe has several places to rent quads. There are water activities available as well. Desert tours are available. San Felipe has so much to offer explorers! See our link to events to see special activities in San Felipe. Need a massage - $40 per hour!
What about night life in San Felipe?
San Felipe has night clubs and sports bars available, along with the multitude of restaurants that border the town's malecon.
What is the weather like in San Felipe?
Sun, sun, sun! Temperatures from mid-October to mid-may run 65-85. Summers can reach into the 100's, with 90's being very common. San Felipe averages 1-2 inches of rain per year.
What about medical and dental care in San Felipe?
San Felipe has several doctors and dentists. In fact, a new infirmary has recently opened with an excellent doctor and includes emergency and x-ray facilities.
Are there many churches in San Felipe?
San Felipe has several churches, including Catholic, Baptist, Later Day Saints and non-denominational.
Do I need Mexican auto insurance while in Mexico?
Yes, Mexican auto insurance is highly recommended. U.S. auto insurance does not cover you in Mexico. If you rent a car to bring in to Mexico, it is mandatory to purchase this coverage from the rental agency. If you drive your own car, there are several places to purchase coverage just prior to crossing the border.
What is acceptable currency in San Felipe?
Businesses in San Felipe accept both pesos and dollars. There are two ATM's available in San Felipe for extra cash. Remember, San Felipe is a cash society, not many stores or restaurants accept credit cards.
What about driving at night?
Driving after dark is not a problem within San Felipe. The road from Mexicali to San Felipe is not recommended after dark, not because of crime, but because many local cars either have no head lights, one headlight only, or only high beams. This can make driving more dangerous.
What can I take back to the US?
You are allowed one bottle of liquor going back across the border. You are allowed to bring back just about any souvenirs, up to $400 without paying duty. No fireworks or Cuban cigars are allowed to be taken back across the border to the US.