For ages the community known as Puerto Penasco to Mexicans has been called "Rocky Point" by Americans. (It was 1826 when retired Lt. Robert William Hale Hardy of the British Royal Fleet was sailing along the coasts of Sonora and Baja California searching for pearls and precious metals.  He christened this point as Rocky Point and so the marine maps identified it as Rocky Point until General Lzaro Crdenas changed it to Puerto Punta Penasco (Port Rocky Point). Americans dropped the Port, and Mexicans the Punta.)  But whatever you choose to call it, this oasis situated on the Sea of Cortez - Gulf of California in northern Sonora, Puerto Penasco is where you should be.

So once you arrive in Rocky Point, what is there to do?  For starters, there is fishing, whale watching in the wintertime, quad riding, sailing, scuba diving, snorkeling, and skydiving.  Rocky Point's Sandy Beach - Playa Arenosa - is a beautiful seaside retreat where you can enjoy the sand and surf and many fun water sports. The miles-long, crescent-shaped, flashing white sand sandy beach on the Sea of Cortez is magnificent with miles of sand dunes flowing inland. With pristine beaches and undisturbed dunes in the background, it is one of the most enviable stretches of luxurious lodging in Mexico. The 45-degree rocky angled area has leveled out for walking. Puerto Penasco's 51-mile reef near Sandy Beach is an excellent fishing spot for red snapper, whitefish, halibut, gold spotted bass and black sea bass.

Ready to eat?  You will be thrilled at the amazing dining options (even some American chains for the ones who aren't ready to give in to the local cuisine).  A tip about the restaurants, though: Don't expect genie service. Typically, a server won't bring you a check unless you ask for it, because they don't want you to think they are rushing you. Stay relaxed. And for those worried about the hot tamales, the food is generally mild but they will spice it up for you on request.

Old Port is the place for shopping, eating, and bars. If you aren't spending your time boating or swimming in the Sea of Cortez, or on the beach, or taking a nap, this is where you are likely to end up. Across the water you can see all the new high-rise condos and resorts being built along the shore. Bring cash and your negotiating skills when you shop. Haggling tip: Don't be rude if they don't agree to the price you offered; just leave.

Ready to get gone? Before you depart, remember the following laws:

    No guns or ammunition into Mexico.
    Do not try to work in Mexico without the proper forms.
    No buying property in Mexico without the proper forms.
    If you will be driving outside of the free zone, you will also need a visa and a permit for your vehicle.
    If you'll be going anywhere other than Rocky Point, research this in advance.While in Rocky Point, secure your vehicle at all times.

This tidbit of real travel advice was brought to you by Garima Pathania Laud.

Every day that you spend in Mexico is a day that you are not at work.  (Unless you live and work in Mexico.  In which case, you would probably go somewhere else to get away from it all.  But we digress...) Remember that when you are stuck at work.  You COULD be in Puerto Penasco, Mexico, chilling on the beach or relaxing by the pool in your gorgeous vacation rental home.  Now start trying to find a way to expense your vacation.