
It wasn't easy getting here, but it was well worth it!


Since April of 2013, tourists with passports have been allowed to cross the Rio Grande in Big Bend into Mexico by checking in at the new Boquillas Crossing Port of Entry Station. In February, my husband and I had a chance to try out the new crossing. We arrived early morning and chatted with rangers before heading down to the river. It was a beautiful morning and we could hear a couple voices from across the river, "Welcome to Mexico!" Then we heard the voice of Victor, who is the official singing greeter for Boquillas.

Carmello rowed us across the river. We could have waded, but this was all part of the experience. We also wanted to support the community with our 5 dollar tickets.



We brought along a silly collection of monkey socks from the US and these became handy gifts now and then. Some of the children were eager to pick out a pair. Even some not so little kids liked the socks.




And here is the food that inspired a dining blog entry. Obviously the food was just a tiny part of the whole experience. But our simple and authentic beef tacos and chicken enchiladas were mouth watering. You will notice there is a small bear near the tacos. He has his own blog and that's another story.

Soon after lunch, we headed back on our burros for the river. There had been no charge for our "tour" with Joel, but we handed him a gracious tip. Even though he struggled with his English, he made us feel comfortable and welcome. Victor the singing greeter, got a tip as well. We so hope the Village of Boquillas continues to get generous tourists, to keep this tiny village alive. If only the border between Mexico and the US could be like this everywhere!