twice went to a small town on the east side of the land thru Cali. in general, hotel/motel are safe, pay a little more find a good place (no guarantee even in the U.S., right?) do expect pot holes along the way. no center dividian on most rodeways. be safe, drive at 65 Km (NOT MILE). NO entry VISA needed if driving within Baja, however, insurance is required. you can buy one from many places along the way leading to border crossing ( in my case, in Cali), for about US$20-30 a day. fill up the tank, bring enuf water, and all the stuff just like you'd travel in your home state. coming back will take hours, so just be prepared. most places will take your US$, the rate is around US1=10 peso, last not least -- US passport, or green card, etc. or we will see you again next time crossing the boarder :)