In the latest episode of The Nick Fong Podcast, Nick welcomes Oscar Ortiz, a long-time friend whom he has known for over 15 years. Oscar shares his inspiring journey of moving to Baja California Sur from Mexico City in 1997, arriving with only 200 pesos and two plastic bags.
He recounts living on the beach in Medano for two months and working odd jobs before getting his first break as a snorkeling guide.
Eventually, Oscar was offered the chance to buy his first boat, which led him to pioneer whale-watching tours in Cabo, starting in 1999. This marked the beginning of his growth into a successful business, employing nearly 100 people and providing services to cruise ships arriving in Cabo.
Oscar reflects on the transformative experience of growing a company but eventually deciding to downsize and reconnect with his love for nature, culture, and Baja’s rich environment.
Now, he offers customized experiences, focusing on authentic, immersive interactions with Baja's natural beauty and local culture. His experiences include activities such as witnessing the sunrise and sunset in a single day, snorkeling in the Cabo Pulmo marine reserve, and visiting places like El Triunfo, a historic mining town with first-class museums.
Oscar's passion for Baja extends to his new project of curating unique travel experiences that highlight the area's natural wonders and cultural richness. He shares his admiration for places like Sierra de la Laguna, a mountain range that plays a crucial role in the region's ecosystem and is home to self-sufficient ranching communities. Through these experiences, Oscar aims to give visitors a deeper appreciation for Baja's environment, history, and people.
For Oscar, Baja means abundance and generosity, as it has given him friendships, natural encounters, and the opportunity to raise his family in the region. His work is his way of giving back to Baja, sharing its beauty and culture with others. Nick Fong expresses excitement for the continued collaboration and highlights the importance of sharing Baja's lifestyle, culture, and environment with the world as the area grows.
Soon, Oscar will also be present at Ronival's San José office during the Thursday art walks, offering presentations and opportunities for people to learn more about the curated experiences he provides.
