[youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y7tSBZ0Yq2k?wmode=transparent&autohide=1&egm=0&hd=1&iv_load_policy=3&modestbranding=1&rel=0&showinfo=0&showsearch=0&w=500&h=281]

Loreto, Baja California Sur

Loreto was the first Spanish settlement on the Baja California Peninsula. Founded in 1697 by Jesuit missionaries, Loreto served as the capital of Las Californias from 1697 to 1777.

The city of 14,724 people (2010 census) is located on the coast of the Sea of Cortés, about 350 km (220 mi) north of the state capital, La Paz.

The town served as the capital of the province of Las Californias from its founding until the capital was moved to Monterey on February 3, 1777. 

The city is now a tourist resort, catering mostly to U.S. travelers, with daily flights fromCalifornia to Loreto International Airport.

Many American tourists enjoy fishing in “pangas” for “dorado” (Mahi-mahi or Dolphin Fish), and local restaurants will willingly prepare the daily catch of the tourists. Loreto has an excellent museum that coexists alongside the historic, but still active, parish.

Note: I wrote this yesterday, but can find no evidence that it published properly.  If you’ve already received this, I apologize for the duplicate entry.

(Source: http://www.youtube.com/)