What our Destination Experts are saying about Cabo

Noelle and I spent a few days in Cabo San Lucas recently to tour some of our inventory and to learn more about the area so that we can be TRUE Destination Experts. If you were to ask me today, “What should we do while we’re in Cabo?” here are some ready responses for you:

ACOMMODATIONS

Whether you want an all-inclusive hotel, condo or villa, we have inventory to suit all. One of my favorite hotels was Pueblo Bonito Pacifica. PB Pacifica is a tranquil retreat located about 5 minutes outside of downtown Cabo San Lucas, on the Pacific Ocean side of the peninsula. This full service property has 5 restaurants, 2 pools, an incredible spa and a secluded beach.  The rooms are top-notch and with a very professional staff. Our guide, Jesus, met us upon arrival with cool towels and a fresh glass of Jamaica (ha-MY-ka) juice. As we toured the guest rooms, we were greeted by a welcome message on the bed. We felt very special, but apparently ALL of their guests are treated the same way.

If you’re traveling with a family and need some more space, I’d recommend a condo at the Hacienda Beach Club in downtown Cabo San Lucas. Not only is the location convenient, but the property itself is exceptional. Situated on Medano Beach, Hacienda Beach Club is within walking distance to the marina and downtown. Our top choice, unit 501-C, is expansive with a gourmet kitchen, sizeable living space and terrace with three en-suite bedrooms. The property itself offers 5-star services including restaurants and room service, a top of the line spa including fitness center, fitness classes and an infinity pool overlooking Land’s End. Unfortunately, we did not have an opportunity to try out the restaurant, but rumor has it, it’s one of the best in town.

Our villa options are plentiful and diverse, ranging in size, location & amenities. It really is hard to pick just one favorite, so I chose three:  Villa de los Suenos de Pedregal, Villa Gran Vista and Villa Turquesa. All of these properties are located in Pedregal, just outside of downtown Cabo San Lucas, and overlook the Pacific. Villa de los Suenos de Pedregal is a luxurious home offering up to 8 bedrooms. The vaulted ceilings and elegant furnishings make this home feel grand, yet extremely cozy. Villa Gran Vista is a true home away from home, offering comfortable living spaces, a gaming room with pool table, media room, office space and 7 en-suite bedrooms. Five of the bedrooms could be used as masters, so no need to fight over whom gets the best room in the house. Villa Turquesa sits on the hilltop with amazing views of the Pacific. This home has some flexibility to be rented as either a 4 or 9 bedroom home. Some fun features of Villa Turquesa include a putting green, theater room, indoor shuffleboard, and kid’s room with bunk beds and a jungle gym.

RESTAURANTS

If you’re looking for some good, not too fancy, fun places to eat, here are a few of my favorites:

Baja Cantina- Located at the marina, the Baja Cantina has a really fun atmosphere. It is definitely a popular spot and always hopping with tourists and locals alike. If you’re looking for a place to watch your favorite sport (it was a must for me to watch the Ravens vs. Steelers game), this is the place.  As for food, I had the pizza and it was delicious!  www.bajacantina.com.mx

Sharkey’s- Of the beaten path a little, Sharkey’s is located about 2 blocks from the marina. Looking for some great authentic Mexican food? This is the place. And if you happen to catch a fish while you’re in town, Sharkey’s can prepare it for you.  www.sharkystacos.com

Baja Brewing Company- If you’re tired of drinking Corona, head to the Baja Brewing Company. They have 3 locations: at the marina in Cabo San Lucas, in the historic art district in San Jose and rooftop at the Cabo Villas Resort on Medano Beach.  The beer was great and you have to try the arrachera burger…yum!  www.bajabrewingcompany.com
MUST DO ACTIVITIES

Drinks at The Office- The Office is an icon! Right on Medano Beach, The Office is great place to hang out day or night. The buckets of beer are CHEAP and the people watching couldn’t be better.

Boat tour of the harbor- We took a tour around sunset for just about an hour and I’d highly recommend it. Take out a bottle of wine (or 2), enjoy the sunset, the skyline and the views of Land’s End.

Spend a day in San Jose- San Jose is the epitome of “quaint.”Get away from the hubbub of Cabo, walk around, do a little shopping and be sure to stop for a beer at the Baja Brewing Company in the Historic Art district.

These are just a few insider tips, but our knowledge of Cabo San Lucas is comprehensive. So feel free to give us a call and we’d be happy to help you plan your next trip to the Baja Peninsula! To speak with a Destination Expert, call (844) 258-8144 or visit www.mexicandestinations.com to plan your Cabo vacation!

- Stephanie W

Where’s the best place to stay in Cabo and what’s the deal with San José?!

Before I got the opportunity to really spend time in and around Cabo San Lucas, I had a hard time wrapping my head around the lay of the land. How far is San José from downtown Cabo? Which homes are located on swimmable beaches? Where are said beaches, in relation to downtown? What’s the difference between homes on the “Pacific side” vs. homes on the “Marina side?” What the heck is the “Corridor?” Sound familiar? Well, I’m happy to say I finally mastered Cabo’s layout and am here to share my newly-acquired knowledge. And, yes, it is all that it’s cracked up to be (just in case you were wondering)!

Okay, so let’s get started. When you fly into Cabo, you fly into Los Cabos International airport, which is about 20 minutes inland from the coast. You have two choices once you enter into the heart of San José: you can continue straight through the roundabout into oldtown San José, or turn right onto the coastal highway to make your way up the coast to Cabo San Lucas. If you choose the former you will enter into San José‘s Hotel Row (beautiful hotels and condos that line the SWIMMABLE beach in SJ). This area has a more authentic “Mexican” feel than downtown Cabo, so if you’re looking for that experience, you should stay on Hotel Row (ex. Costa Azul Resort or Las Mananitas condominium) or at least make a day trip from Cabo to check it out. If you choose to go straight ahead into Cabo you will pass through the area between San José and downtown Cabo: the “Corridor.” You won’t see many homes because they are hidden on either side of the highway, however, this is where most of the SWIMMABLE beaches are located. You can stay along the Corridor and be anywhere from 10-30 minutes from downtown Cabo. Beaches are the Corridor‘s main attraction and is a great area for those looking for quiet and privacy.

Continuing past the Corridor is downtown Cabo. Downtown is not very large, about a 20 min walk from end to end, but it's full of shopping, bars, restaurants, and hotels (Pueblo Bonito Rose & Pueblo Bonito Blanco and the 5 star Hacienda Cabo condominiums are just behind the beach and great for a central location). Medano beach is the place to be if you are looking for water sports, day drinking or maybe interested in the singles scene. Also, if you are staying in downtown Cabo, Medano is really your only option for a SWIMMABLE beach. In addition, it has the best vantage point for viewing The Arches – unless you take a boat out to see them, which I highly recommend!

Now, if you continue along the waterfront (Bay of Cabo San Lucas), you will enter the Marina. This is where the fishing boats, charters and boat slips are located. There are also several restaurants ranging from Ruth’s Chris to local fare. Most gringos dine here at night and have a few drinks before hitting the clubs (i.e. Giggling Marlin, El Squid Roe – all located just behind the Marina, downtown). The food is good and all restaurants have outdoor seating. Two blocks inland from the Marina is Pedregal; a gated hill community comprised mostly of homes owned by the local gringo population. The homes on the lower side of the hill are only a couple of blocks from downtown, making it convenient to walk into town.

Now, here’s where it can get confusing: Pedregal is a hill with homes located on all sides. It is split up into two areas the “Pacific side” or “Marina side.” If your home is on the west side of the hill, you are on the Pacific side; if your home is on the east side, you are on the Marina side. Homes on the Pacific side have expansive views of the ocean and tend to have light later in the day. Anything facing the Marina or the east has views of the Sea of Cortez. The Pacific Ocean is not swimmable in this area. Should you stay in Pedregal, it’s easiest to catch cabs to and from town unless you choose to rent a car for day excursions. There are a few hotels on the Pacific side, such as Pueblo Bonito Sunset Beach, Pueblo Bonito Pacifica and the Monte Cristo Estates. They are located just behind Pedregal and offer beautiful beach access (though not swimmable). This location is perfect for weddings, large groups or couples that wish to spend most days by the pool, enjoying one another’s company. The hotels are all full-service and the villas have private pools and kitchens, so the need to leave the premises is minimal. From here, you are about a 15 minute drive to downtown.

So, that pretty much sums it up, from San José to Cabo, the ins and outs. I hope that this was helpful!

- Noelle M

Villa Estrella Mar in Destination Weddings & Honeymoons Magazine

For an unrivaled visit to Puerto Vallarta, Villa Estrella Mar is the obvious choice. Located in the upscale neighborhood of Conchas Chinas, Villa Estrella Mar is the most luxurious place to rest your head. Besides being the epitome of Mexican style and architecture, the hillside villa overlooks the ocean and white sand of Olas Altas beach. The open, no-glass windows allow the ocean breeze to warm and refresh the entire villa. Also, getting to downtown is only a short stroll away. The villa has six suites, nine bathrooms, a workout room, elevator, fireplace, heated pool, and private terraces.

The experience is comparable to having a hotel and its staff all focused on you. The friendly and professional staff of fourteen --including an English speaking houseman, maid, chef, security, and gardener-- ensures your stay is absolute perfection. The staff is attentive but works without drawing too much attention.

The villa is featured or mentioned regularly in travel magazines, most recently in the Nov-Dec 2011 issue of Destination Weddings & Honeymoons magazine. Its size and space makes it perfect for a wedding, family getaway, or other special occasion.

Some people have made Estrella Mar their yearly winter vacation spot and it’s not hard to understand why. Estrella Mar is one of the most unique places you’ll ever stay in the world. Mexican Destinations creates unforgettable vacation experiences with the romance and magic of Mexico. This starts with providing the finest professionally managed vacation rentals. Our travel experts have an in-depth knowledge of the rental options and , local restaurants, shopping, tours, and other recreation.

Luxury in Colonial Mexico: San Miguel de Allende

A quick flight from Mexico City to Leon or Queretaro, followed by a 1.5 hour drive through small towns and beautiful countryside, you know that you’ve arrived in heaven when you hit the cobblestone streets of San Miguel de Allende.

It’s been a little over a year and I’m itching to be back in the mountains of Mexico. At 90+ degrees, it’s no wonder that I’m craving an escape from Salt Lake City to the temperate climate of San Miguel. When you think of Mexico, you probably think of a wintertime escape to the beach. But, that’s not nearly all that this diverse country has to offer. San Miguel, widely known as a refuge for American expats, is a small town in the middle of Mexico, boasting an expansive population of artists and thinkers from around the world. The colonial and peaceful charm of San Miguel proves an ideal environment for inspiration and relaxation alike. It’s for this reason that so many people have chosen to build beautiful homes and retreats within its borders.

Most of my time in town is spent out and about, admiring the enchanting villas that I’m lucky enough to represent as a part of Mexican Destinations. If you get the opportunity, be sure to participate in the Home and Garden tour offered by the historical society. It’s the most curious thing: these cobblestone roads, you will see, are interspersed with quaint antique shops, restaurants, churches. But, between them all, walls with doors: some ordinary doors, some ornate. It’s anyone’s guess what lies beyond. Trust me, it’s worth further exploration. The Home and Garden tours will provide entrance to these otherwise inaccessible properties. Behind these walls, you will find the most unexpected elegance. Often, the doors open to extravagant gardens and some of the most original, luxurious homes that you have ever seen. Though the culture and history of colonial Mexico are preserved, each home has its own unique style and appeal. Additionally, you can actually rent these homes through Mexican Destinations and experience what it’s like to live the fairytale life that lies “behind the walls.”

Other “must do” activities: take an art class- everything from pottery to painting is available. Hit the links- San Miguel offers some of the best golf in Mexico. Go Antiquing and bring some extra luggage for the trip home- you can thank me later. Eat delicious, authentic cuisine at La Posadita. Or, just relax in your own private garden with a good book and a margarita, taking in the peace that is San Miguel de Allende.

2011 Pan American Games

Need another reason to visit Puerto Vallarta this October? Do you just want something else to add to your activity list while you’re already there? How about the watching part of the 16th Pan American Games live?

The Pan American games are second only in size and stature to the Summer Olympic Games. They are only held every four years and the year prior to the Olympic games. The 46-sport alphabet of events goes from archery to wrestling.

Puerto Vallarta will host the sailing, open water swimming, triathlon, and beach volleyball events. The events are spread across dates from October 16th to the 23rd.

Contact a Destination Expert at Mexican Destinations to book a villa close to the action. Check out Puerto Vallarta's destination information page.

I LOVE Rainy Season!

You heard me…I love it! Since we moved to Puerto Vallarta almost a year ago, we have heard nothing but how horrible rainy season can be. Of course, this mostly comes from locals who have been here a long time and who thrive on the warm, much less humid, winters here. Don’t get me wrong, the winters here are truly superb. But rainy season may be my favorite time of year. Here’s why:

SUNNY DURING THE DAY, RAINY AT NIGHT- That’s how it happens 99% of the time. It is extremely rare for it to rain all day every day, especially for a few days at a time. Instead, it’s actually blue skies and sunshine during the day. You would never even know that it’s rainy season until late afternoon. That’s when the clouds roll in. Which leads me to…

SUNSETS- In the summer, the sunsets are stunning. The clouds roll in just in time to create a heavenly tropical sky. Picture your favorite sunset postcard photo and that’s what it looks like every day. You are also more likely to see the infamous ‘green flash’ during the rainy season, or so they say.

THUNDERSTORMS- If you like thunderstorms, there is no better place. Once the sun sets and you’re settling in for your evening cocktail, you can catch a spectacular thunderstorm almost every night. You know how you see the lightning, then count the seconds until the thunder? Well, it’s not uncommon for the lightning and thunder to occur simultaneously here. The sound is almost deafening!

SLEEPING IN THE RAIN- When I was a kid, we used to sit in the screened porch at my grandmother’s house, listening to the raindrops hit the tin roof. Maybe I’m just nostalgic, but there’s something about the sound of rain at night. Now, there are a lot of times when the thunderstorms go on into the wee hours, but usually it’s just the rain that continues on through the night. And, MAN, can it rain here!

IT’S SO GREEN- Puerto Vallarta is beautiful all year round, but during rainy season, the colors from the mountainside and the flowers are so vibrant they just pop! The colors are so brilliant that they almost seem fake.

WARM WATER- If you’re like me, and most women are, the ocean is there just to cool off after lying in the sun too long. The only time I go further than just sticking my toes in the water is when I’m hot. In the winter, I don’t get very far because the water is so cold! In the summer, the water is so warm I never want to get out. I could float around and play in the waves for hours.

HAVING THE TOWN TO YOURSELF- Rainy season tends to discourage tourists from visiting this time of year. Clearly, the businesses would love to see the streets full 365 days a year. The truth is it isn’t very busy in the summer, so the beaches, the shops, the restaurants, and the bars are pretty quiet. If you think you like Vallarta during the height of tourist season, just imagine having it all to yourself.

So, the next time you’re considering a trip to a tropical destination like Puerto Vallarta, don’t let the words rainy season dampen your spirits (pun intended). You will be pleasantly surprised.

Posted by Stephanie Watts, Destinations Expert.

Luxury in Colonial Mexico: San Miguel de Allende

A quick flight from Mexico City to Leon or Queretaro, followed by a 1.5 hour drive through small towns and beautiful countryside, you know that you’ve arrived in heaven when you hit the cobblestone streets of San Miguel de Allende.

It’s been a little over a year and I’m itching to be back in the mountains of Mexico. At 90+ degrees, it’s no wonder that I’m craving an escape from Salt Lake City to the temperate climate of San Miguel. When you think of Mexico, you probably think of a wintertime escape to the beach. But, that’s not nearly all that this diverse country has to offer. San Miguel, widely known as a refuge for American expats, is a small town in the middle of Mexico, boasting an expansive population of artists and thinkers from around the world. The colonial and peaceful charm of San Miguel proves an ideal environment for inspiration and relaxation alike. It’s for this reason that so many people have chosen to build beautiful homes and retreats within its borders.

Most of my time in town is spent out and about, admiring the enchanting villas that I’m lucky enough to represent as a part of Mexican Destinations. If you get the opportunity, be sure to participate in the Home and Garden tour offered by the historical society. It’s the most curious thing: these cobblestone roads, you will see, are interspersed with quaint antique shops, restaurants, churches. But, between them all, walls with doors: some ordinary doors, some ornate. It’s anyone’s guess what lies beyond. Trust me, it’s worth further exploration. The Home and Garden tours will provide entrance to these otherwise inaccessible properties. Behind these walls, you will find the most unexpected elegance. Often, the doors open to extravagant gardens and some of the most original, luxurious homes that you have ever seen. Though the culture and history of colonial Mexico are preserved, each home has its own unique style and appeal. Additionally, you can actually rent these homes through Mexican Destinations and experience what it’s like to live the fairytale life that lies “behind the walls.”

Other “must do” activities: take an art class- everything from pottery to painting is available. Hit the links- San Miguel offers some of the best golf in Mexico. Go Antiquing and bring some extra luggage for the trip home- you can thank me later. Eat delicious, authentic cuisine at La Posadita. Or, just relax in your own private garden with a good book and a margarita, taking in the peace that is San Miguel de Allende.