Slow Baja Travel Podcast Building Life and Business in Baja

TravelValle de Guadalupe
Written By Jesse in Ensenada

Was fun to talk to Mike on Slow Baja Podcast about how I ended up overcoming cancer in Mexico, getting dogs, settling in Ensenada, and building a life around wellness that resulted in Ensenada Massage and Valle Mobile Spa. Many are curious about how I ended up here and why I stayed, so this is my chance to share it. Thanks, Mike!


Listen
Listen

Episode Description:

In today's Travel Talk with Slow Baja, we sit down with Jesse Atkinson, massage therapist, and owner of Ensenada Massage and Valle de Guadalupe Mobile Spa. Jesse shares his life story. From growing up in Wisconsin, to his work in Central America as a consultant, to surviving cancer and making life changes that led him to become a certified massage therapist.



As we were ping-ponging back and forth trying to coordinate our schedules to record this conversation, Jesse knowing we were on the last day of the BajaXL Rally booked one-hour, hot stone, deep-tissue massages for Ted and me. After ten days behind the wheel of my 50-year-old Land Cruiser and 3000 miles of brutal Baja backroads, we were delighted to receive one hour of healing care. Ensenada Massage was clean and quiet, and our massages were top-notch! The hot stones were an unexpected delight. They melted the pain and tension away from my abused back.


You can find more information and book your massage at Ensenada Massage or Valle de Guadalupe Mobile Spa. You can find them at: 1278 Avenida Ruiz Ensenada, B.C., 22800, Mexico. Ensenada Massage is Slow Baja approved!


Jesse in Ensenada

I moved to Ensenada 15 years ago in 2011 in search of a simpler, healthier life after burnout, heartbreak, and cancer—and ended up building a life and business here that I truly love.

I started Ensenada Massage to create a space for relaxation and wellness, which later expanded into Valle Mobile Spa, serving travelers across Valle de Guadalupe and the Baja coast.

After experiencing cruise travel firsthand, I saw how limited and crowded shore excursions could be. That led to the creation of Ensenada Excursions & Tours, focused on private, flexible experiences and reliable transportation—so guests can enjoy Ensenada safely, comfortably, and on their own terms.

Today, our team also provides private transportation throughout Baja, including pickups from San Diego and Tijuana through Baja Tours & Transport, helping travelers explore the region with ease.

I split my time between Ensenada and San Diego, usually near the ocean, and still spend as much time as I can exploring Baja by road.

When I’m not working, you’ll find me swimming, playing harmonica, attempting capoeira, or listening to audiobooks on health, mindset, and personal growth.

If you have questions about Ensenada, your cruise stop, or planning the perfect day here—feel free to reach out.

https://wa.me/526461285160
Previous

Facial Care in Ensenada

Next

Things to do in Valle de Guadalupe Beyond Wine