Plan your trip to Estado de Baja California, Mexico

Baja California is a state in northern Mexico that borders California. Within its borders lie Tijuana, Ensenada and Mexicali, the capital. The area is known for its historical architecture that documents the lives of indigenous groups, some of which still reside there: El Vallecito contains rock formations decorated with pictographs from ancient times; Guadalupe Valley is home to cliff and rock paintings made of white markings.

Be sure to pick up plenty of perfumes, jewelry and art to bring back home—prices tend to be cheaper in outdoor markets, where bartering is common. Arts and crafts like cloth dolls, scented baskets from the Pai-Pai indigenous tribe and alabaster stone and wood sculpting from the Kumia are just a few items to look for.

Paella, fish tacos, sweet rolls from Tecate and margaritas are a few must-have culinary dishes to sample while in Baja California. Each summer wineries partake in the Vendimia festival, which consists of tastings, concerts and dinners.