So We Pulled Over

Barra de Navidad, Jalisco

Moseying

February 5, 2026 · Words and photographs by Michael Berglund

Our little piece of Barra de Navidad.
Our little piece of Barra de Navidad.

We have landed. Settin’ a spell. Two months or so. In stark contrast to the last several months, we have a space to call “home” in the town of Barra de Navidad, Jalisco, Mexico. (See the little animated map!) We will be here until early April (or longer). Still in the van, but we have a remarkable spot--a private place to park our van, with our own patio, fridge, kitchenette area, and bathroom with awesome shower. We are walking distance from groceries and supplies--and of course, restaurants and bars. The town is definitely catering to expats and retirees--mostly Canadians--but doesn’t feel overly touristy, no big hotels and such.

The goal here is to slow down, and just . . . live. Aside from work, hope to make art, play guitar, speak more Spanish, read books, interact with locals, and just be in the moment. I contend that staying in one place for an extended period is a type of travel; one in which the attractions and experiences unfold more gently. Getting to know a place is so much different than checking a “been there, done that” box.

Staying in one place for an extended period is a type of travel; one in which the attractions and experiences unfold more gently.
The outdoor office is open.
The outdoor office is open.
Getting oriented, one street at a time.
Getting oriented, one street at a time.
Moseying, photograph 3
Moseying, photograph 4
Moseying, photograph 5
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Moseying, photograph 8
Moseying, photograph 9

So we are getting to know where to get tortillas, and who the water delivery guy is, and where the sun rises and sets. I have had my workstation on the patio, so my “office” is outdoors now. Ahh.

Already I have commented as we stroll around in the evening--the town is alive in a way that no American town is. The streets are full of life and music and folks doing all sorts of things. This sort of atmosphere just does not exist in the US or Canada. People are unfailingly kind and it feels as safe to walk the streets late at night as anyplace we’ve ever been. Kids and families and old folks and couples, locals and gringos, just living. The tropical vibe doesn’t hurt of course. It gets hot for a few hours in the afternoon but the mornings and evenings are glorious. (This may get more oppressive as we approach April of course!)

Anyway. Here’s a bit of a potpourri of pics to orient you. We don’t plan to move much so not sure how frequently I’ll post but I’m sure there will be stories!

But mostly, perfecting our moseying.

Moseying, photograph 1
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Now: the Southlands
Morning—and southward
Next stop: Twain country
South along the river
One more night in town
And then the plan went sideways
Now turn up the music
Keep driving south

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