When asked to describe herself in three words, Aracely de Jesus Navarro Mendoza—longtime housekeeper at Casago Rocky Point—chose them thoughtfully: grateful, loyal, and understanding. Above all, she sees herself as a true buena compañera, a reliable teammate who adapts seamlessly to any situation. “I adapt well,” she says with quiet confidence.

Her flexibility has been key throughout more than two decades with Casago. Aracely started at Marina Pinacate condos and has since cared for units at Princesa de Peñasco, Sonoran Sun, and now Las Palomas, where she handles several properties alongside her ongoing work at Sonoran Sun. She notices the unique personality of each resort—the amenities, the quiet corners, the green spaces—and brings that keen awareness to every unit she prepares.

Aracely de Jesus Navarro Mendoza: Home between the desert and sea

Born in Los Mochis, Sinaloa, Aracely once vacationed in Puerto Peñasco when it was little more than open desert. She remembers Calle 13, Luis Encinas, and the old Jim Bur Plaza on Blvd. Benito Juárez (now a large TelCel store). Back then, wandering the Old Port, she never dreamed she would one day call this stretch of desert and Sea of Cortez home.

After marrying and welcoming her son, Aracely and her family settled here. Her daughter arrived a year later, and together they built their lives in Rocky Point. Her son, born with a cleft palate, required multiple surgeries in Los Mochis; later, the Mexico Children’s Foundation helped with dental care in Mexicali. Now an adult, he works at the mines just south of town. Her daughter owns Dulce Bocado, a popular pastry shop on Blvd. Sonora specializing in cakes. Aracely often lends a hand after her shifts—making her the go-to source for the best cakes when celebrating Casago teammates or events.

The Early Days

One of Casago’s earliest housekeepers, Aracely first worked with local businesswoman Esthela Hernández at Marina Pinacate, next to the former Hotel Las Glorias. She began helping Esthela personally with chores and school pickups before joining the housekeeping team. “Plus,” she laughs, “I didn’t really know how to drive, but I was truly motivated.”

Today, as an independent housekeeper, she drives her own car. She fondly recalls the humble beginnings: a single small pickup truck (sometimes the boss’s) that shuttled the team, laundry piled high. “We’d climb on top with the dirty linens and head back to the office laughing,” she remembers. “It never bothered us. Now people wouldn’t dream of it—but back then, it brought us joy. Today we have multiple staff vehicles and cover several resorts.”

Those early days also meant close collaboration with founder Steve Schwab, who often pitched in with linens and condo turnovers. “Steve would drive us back and forth,” Aracely recalls. “We saw him all the time.”

Change and Growth

Aracely has witnessed Casago’s impressive growth from its roots (once known as SeaSide). She acknowledges the challenges along the way but speaks with pride: “I think it’s the only rental company in Peñasco that rose from the ground up. Now, I’d say it’s the best, and I’m excited for what’s ahead.”

Technology has evolved with the company. Aracely and her colleagues now prepare detailed reports, document with photos, and track inventory—going well beyond cleaning to maintain full control of the units. “It’s not just cleaning,” she explains. “It’s managing the properties and anticipating needs.” While changes can spark initial resistance, the team has adapted well. She appreciates how tools help her plan the week, prepare for owner arrivals, and deliver personalized touches.

Owners & Guests

As a Sandy Beach specialist, Aracely has formed warm relationships with many homeowners—some greet her with hugs, others bring thoughtful “Christmas” gifts. She knows the difference between readying a condo for guests versus owners and tailors each space accordingly. “I need to know them well so everything is just as they like it,” she says.

She also connects with repeat guests. One memorable couple of photographers rented the same unit for about six years, heading into the desert to film eagles. They left a book with emergency contacts and shared stunning videos of their work. The condo later sold, and Aracely lost touch with them about two years ago, but the memory lingers.

Aracely de Jesus Navarro Mendoza at Casago

Now nearing 60, Aracely envisions a future that might include slowing down and revisiting La Paz and its beautiful boardwalk. “I’m not retiring yet,” she clarifies, “but I’m getting my paperwork in order. This year I’m giving it everything I’ve got. I can’t picture just staying home, though I may ease up a bit and take better care of myself.”

For anyone considering joining the Casago team in Rocky Point, her advice is straightforward: be honest. “Honesty is fundamental,” she emphasizes. “When condos are occupied, owners and guests trust that everything will be okay. It’s a big responsibility.”

Aracely feels truly at home with Casago. “The company has given me a lot and provided real stability for my family, especially while my children were growing up.” Reflecting on her self-description, she adds one more word: appreciated. Most people in the company know her, and the trust runs deep. “I don’t need to introduce myself,” she says with a smile.

True to form, Aracely loves organizing—from cakes for coworkers to thoughtful touches for homeowners. And yes, she knows exactly where to get the best ones: Dulce Bocado.

Staging environment