Susie Albin-Najera is a travel marketing professional and creator of two travel blogs, The Mexico Report and Los Cabos Travel & Lifestyle, showcasing news and resources for the modern traveler. Najera is a writer, author, producer, travel blogger, and marketing and public relations specialist. Najera serves on the host committee for Maestro Cares, founded by singer Marc Anthony and producer Henry Cardenas and on the advisory board for Corazon de Vida, providing aid to children in Mexico. She is also the creator of 'The Real Heroes of Mexico' showcasing community heroes in Mexico and producer of Latino Thought Makers. Najera has been recognized by the Mexican Consulate and Mexico Tourism Board for fostering positive relations between countries and her dedication to showcasing Mexico as a premiere destination. She can be reached at info [at] themexicoreport.com
Los Cabos has been named a top destination for 2020 travel.
Solaz, a Luxury Collection Resort – Los Cabos
The destination has long been a favorite for travelers because of its laid back vibe, breezy lifestyle, desert landscapes, fresh seafood and unlimited beach coastline. The art and culture scene in nearby San Jose del Cabo remains a big draw for visitors as well as the many organic farms, fishing and yachting. And now, the East Cape is capturing the attention of chic travelers with the development of the exclusive new Costa Palmas area.
The pool at the fitness center at Four Seasons Los Cabos at Costa Palmas
Los Cabos has elevated its offerings by attracting the world’s top luxury hotel brands sprinkled throughout the destination (from Todos Santos up to the East Cape), as well as Michelin star chefs, celebrity-designed golf courses and offers refined wellness programs, curated land and sea activities, exciting annual events and festivals, magic towns and cosmopolitan nightlife. With its iconic arch at Land’s End, (strikingly similar to the dramatic Faraglioni rock formations in Capri off the coast of Naples, Italy,) and convenient location at the tip of the Baja California Peninsula pronged by the shimmering blue hues of the Sea of Cortez and the Pacific Ocean, Los Cabos is considered one of the most desirable destinations in the world.
Major publications and media outlets including Travel + Leisure, Forbes, Cosmopolitan, Vogue, The Points Guy, among many others have named Los Cabos as a top travel destinations to visit in 2020. Scroll down to see the lists.
Chileno Bay Resort & Residences, Los Cabos
Travel+Leisure: T+L’s A-List travel advisors reveal what places they have their eyes on for 2020. Best Places to Travel in 2020
Beachfront Fitness, Glow Yoga, Sound Therapy, YogaNidra, Plant-Based Nutrition, Skin Care Workshops & More
Complement Luxury Wellness Suites with Water Menu, Exercise Equipment & More
The AAA Five Diamond Grand Velas Los Cabos announces it will host its annual Wellnessing Getaway in 2020 from February 19 – 21st. Hosted by experts in health, nutrition, and wellness, the 3-day lineup of wellness-focused activities includes a number of yoga and fitness classes, healthy cooking and nutrition workshops, session on skin care, sonotherapy, ancestral dinner, traditional Mexican rituals, and much more. All Wellnessing Getaway activities are included in the nightly rate.
Beachfront fitness, glow yoga, sound therapy, yoganidra, plant-based nutrition, skin care workshops & more on tap at Grand Velas Los Cabos annual Wellnessing Getaway from February 19 – 21, 2020.
Mexican spiritual guide Tonatiuh Garcia will kick off the retreat with an opening ritual calling on the elements. Then it’s high impact with a workout from wellness influencer and certified personal trainer Rachel DeVaux. DeVaux’s GOOD SWEAT program combines HIIT and circuit training with strength and compound movement. Additional activities the first day include a masterclass in skin care from Adriana Azuara, CEO and founder of All4Spas; vigorous vinyasa complemented with guided yogic sleep and glowing body paint, let by international yoga teacher Danica Johnson; and an ancestral dinner on the beach. Day 2 is another day of all-encompassing wellness complete with active stretching, plant-based culinary class led by nutritionist and wellness expert Sabra Seligman, and sound therapy from pioneer Roberto Gopar. The final day of the getaway offers a mindful yoga practice with pranayama, where guests can learn about breathing practices that help calm and balance both the mind and body; an interactive healthy cooking class; and a closing ritual on life in harmony. Healthy meals throughout the getaway will be prepared by Grand Velas Los Cabos’ executive chef Gabriel Kolofon. For more about the 2020 hosts, visit https://wellnessing.velasresorts.com/en/wellness-getaway/grand-velas-los-cabos.
Travelers seeking an all-encompassing wellness retreat can opt to stay in one of the resort’s duplex wellness suites that offer a variety of fitness and wellness amenities.
Rates start at $695 USD in an Ambassador Suite and $787 in a Wellness Suite per person per night based on double occupancy. Luxury accommodations, gourmet meals at a variety of specialty restaurants, premium branded beverages, 24-hour in-suite service, taxes, gratuity and more are included in the rate. Spa treatments are an additional cost. For reservations or more information, call 1-888-407-4869 or visit https://velasresorts.com/wellnessing-getaway-los-cabos/.
The first Ritz-Carlton Reserve in Mexico offers an authentic and immersive experience, showcasing the best of modern Mexican design and featuring artisans from across the country
Zadún, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, the latest resort in the prestigious Ritz-Carlton Reserve portfolio, is delighted to open its doors, welcoming guests to enjoy an unparalleled experience. The name Zadún is inspired by the Spanish word “dunas” and the dunes the resort is nestled amidst. Set along the dramatic coastline of San José del Cabo, Mexico, in the coastal haven of Puerto Los Cabos, Zadún offers panoramic views of the Sea of Cortez. This much-anticipated new resort marks the fourth extraordinary property in the Ritz-Carlton Reserve portfolio.
“Zadún, like each Ritz-Carlton Reserve, is a rare estate that allows guests to feel completely immersed in the stunning fabric of the destination,” said Lisa Holladay, Global Brand Leader for The Ritz-Carlton and Ritz-Carlton Reserve. “Through bespoke design, thoughtful amenities and innovative culinary offerings, guests of Zadún will enjoy a highly personalized, transformative experience completely unique to the destination.”
Created to offer the ultimate in luxury, the striking design of Zadún, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, celebrates both the desert and the sea with 115 elegantly appointed guest rooms and suites.
Created to offer the ultimate in luxury, the striking design of Zadún celebrates both the desert and the sea with 115 elegantly appointed guest rooms and suites, many of which offer an individual pool and terrace, within 42 two-story villas placed gently along the natural slopes of the land. All guests will enjoy the genuine care of atosoani, or private attendant.Among Zadún’s 15 stunning room categories is the property’s signature villa, the Grand Reserve Villa, which offers 5,930 square feet of living space, two large bedrooms, five lounges, a pool, one Jacuzzi, a private kitchen, a gym, a living room, two full bathrooms and two half-bathrooms.
“Zadún has been designed to celebrate the rich simplicity of living both indoors and outdoors, while showcasing the country’s incredible artisans,” said Sandra Estornell, General Manager of Zadún, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve. “We wanted to create a wholly immersive, culturally authentic experience for visitors and every element of a stay at Zadún is designed to encourage our guests to enjoy, explore and engage with their environment.”
The guest rooms offer a modern expression of Mexican design that showcases the talent of handcrafters from culture-rich areas throughout Mexico, such as Oaxaca, Yucatán, Campeche, Mexico City, Jalisco, and Puebla. The rooms, conceived by uribekrayer, feature a careful curation and combination of materials, enhancing the natural veins of solid wood and stone throughout. For the furnishings, also imagined by uribekrayer, communities of weavers in Oaxaca were engaged to design and produce handwoven textiles for the pillows, while a unique framed textile serves as one of the primary works of art in every room. On the guest room terraces, a sculptural art piece made by artists Monica Bizzarri and Raquel Charabatti, lights up to emit a soft glow at night. The resulting design is a sense of place that is singular and unique to Zadún.
As a true oasis of relaxation and wellbeing, Zadún presents the region’s most innovative wellness experience: the one-of-a-kind, 29,535-square-foot Spa Alkemia, complete with a variety of customized, locally inspired treatments for solo spa guests, couples and small groups. Designed by the renowned TLee Spas – the team that also created the award-winning Spa Botánico at sister property Dorado Beach, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve – Spa Alkemia’s name is a modern adaptation of the Spanish wordalquimia, or alchemy, underscoring a focus on positive transformation.
Spa Alkemia will be home to a range of singular spaces of rejuvenation. “Casita para Dos” is a free-standing couples’ suite nestled in a private outdoor setting with steam shower, outdoor soaking tub, changing area and private multipurpose treatment room. “Casa Privada” – a fully self-contained spa within the Spa – is designed to be enjoyed by couples or small groups, and includes a private plunge pool, massage studio, steam room, beauty annex, and lounge. “Savasana Sound Room” is a unique space for rest and recovery, where sound therapy will help create a state of deep meditation. A “Mindful Movement Studio” will also offer group fitness and mind/body classes. Spa Alkemia additionally features “Templo de Calor,” a modern interpretation of the traditional Mexican temazcal healing hut; an outdoor renewal garden called “Alkemia al Fresco,” where body scrubs are pre-selected and hand-blended based on local and seasonal ingredients; a hydrotherapy pool called Agua Grande; hot and cool contrast bathing circuits designed to stimulate the circulatory system and stabilize the nervous system; a central outdoor relaxation lounge called ”Zócalo”; and a high technology fitness center that includes a lap pool. A large leisure pool with expansive sea views is located near the beach.
Zadún delivers distinct culinary experiences at four food and beverage venues on property.Humo, open for dinner, is set in the heart of the property with an open kitchen and breathtaking views of the Sea of Cortez. Fire and firewood will be present in every dish at this warm, rustic, and refined restaurant, complemented by fresh, exquisite ingredients, and a wide global selection of wines in the Sotano wine cellar.El Barrio, open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, is a gathering place that presents Mexican-street-food-inspired dishes by day, and an innovative celebration of Mexican cuisine by night. Evocative of the classic colorful vibe of many Mexican towns, El Barrio offers bright seating both indoors and outdoors.X, celebrating a map’s notation of a special spot, in this case, where the desert meets the sea, will be open daily from lunch to sunset, beckoning guests to unwind while enjoying an exotic selection of ceviches, catch-of-the day fare, and handcrafted cocktails. The breathtaking location ofCandil Agave Bar, nestled into the hillside with panoramic views of the sea, offers an almost mystical intimacy despite the wide spaces around it. Exquisitely handcrafted cocktails, specially focused on spirits with an agave origin, can be enjoyed beneath a luminous “sky” of handblown lanterns.
Meeting space at Zadún has been designed for group guests to celebrate connection to one another and to the land. Perched at the very top of the property, “Nido,” which means “nest,” is a shared space offering areas for private gatherings, business engagements, and celebrations of life’s very special moments. Multiple configurations inside Nido’s meeting spaces and its terrace, combined with ample open-air spaces in the property’s cactus gardens and beach areas, are meant to inspire creative, unique setups.
A deeper understanding of the natural habitats in Baja California, and the protected marine sanctuaries of the Sea of Cortez will be the focus of Jean-Michel Cousteau’s Ambassadors of the Environment program at Zadún. Offering activities for children, families, and adults, Zadún’s Ambassadors of the Environment will also pioneer a new environmental stewardship component.
Guests of Zadún have direct access to the sprawling Puerto Los Cabos Golf Course, adjacent to the hotel. The 27-hole golf resort features three distinct courses designed by Greg Norman and Jack Nicklaus. The courses are championship layouts, perched above the Sea of Cortez and etched into rolling desert foothills, backdropped by the Sierra de la Laguna Mountains.
More information about Zadún, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve and online reservations are available atwww.zadunreserve.com.
About Zadún, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve
Zadún is a haven of serenity and wonder, set amidst the dunes along the dramatic coastline of Puerto Los Cabos, Mexico, with panoramic views of the Sea of Cortez. Zadún, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, is the fourth extraordinary property in the Ritz-Carlton Reserve portfolio. Its striking design celebrates the desert and the sea with 115 elegantly appointed suites and villas placed gently along the natural slopes of the land, creating an enchanting retreat delivering rare and unexpected experiences. An intimate oasis where travelers are invited to relax in barefoot luxury, Zadún offers numerous ways for guests to reconnect with each other, with themselves, and with nature. Whether exploring the vibrant ecosystems of the destination through Jean-Michel Cousteau’s Ambassadors of the Environment, enjoying rejuvenating treatments at Spa Alkemia, savoring Mexico’s rich culinary heritage, or taking a journey through agave-based spirits while gazing up at the night sky, guests at Zadún are invited to transform, renew and discover.https://www.ritzcarlton.com/en/hotels/mexico/los-cabos
With an 8 percent growth in arrivals year-to-date and over 2,420 new hotel rooms added in 2019, the destination has become a preferred travel destination for North American travelers.
Ahead of the winter travel season, Los Cabos Tourism Board is projecting to close 2019 with over 3.2 million travelers to the destination, a remarkable performance of 8 percent year over year growth. With upgraded hotel infrastructure, newly opened luxury properties, and curated natural and cultural experiences,Los Cabosis set to continue momentum in 2020 as more international travelers look for a fresh and unique hot spot inMexico.
Los Cabos
Located in the southern tip of theBaja California Surpeninsula,Los Cabosoffers over 345 weekly flights fromthe United States,making it an easy destination to visit all year round. Two new routes fromDallasandPhoenixhave already been announced for 2020, adding to the growing connectivity available from all major markets in the U.S.
“2019 marksan important milestone forLos Cabosas we have strengthened our position as the fastest growing destination inMexico,” saidRodrigo Esponda, Managing Director on the Los Cabos Tourism Board. “Over the last three years, I’ve had the privilege to witnessLos Cabos’growth and evolution, the arrival of world-renowned hotel brands, and the upgrade of hotel infrastructure ensuringLos Caboscontinues to thrive asMexico’stop luxury destination.”
For 2020,Los Cabosis projecting to add over 1,350 new hotel rooms increasing the growing inventory of luxury brands in the destination including Aman, Caesars Palace,Park Hyatt, St Regis, Soho House, S/O, and 1 Hotel & Homes Cabo, among many others. Whether travelers are looking for a unique natural and cultural experience or simply a sophisticated place to relax,Los Cabosoffers a personalized experience for all type of travelers.
Below are few of the reasons whyLos Cabosneeds to be on your travel list for 2020:
Unique travel experiences –Los Cabos’inspiring desert in front of the Sea of Cortez showcases a stunning landscape to be enjoyed any time of the year. Outdoors travelers can venture to enjoy a day of “glamping,” the perfect experience for extreme sports and nature lovers. Travelers will get to experience the thrill of mountain biking and stay in glamping-style accommodations that will allow you to enjoy theSouthern Baja Californianights at their fullest.
Natural encounters –Winter season is the perfect reason for a getaway toLos Cabos. The destination is one of the biggesthot spotsfor whale watchingbecause itsbreeding waters attract humpback whales. From December to April, visitors are set to experience a unique andlife-changingexperience.
A wellness retreat –Disconnect and recharge inLos Cabos, a preferred wellness spot due to its ideal location, sunny climate throughout the year, rich sea-water directly from the Pacific Ocean and Sea of Cortez, and internationally-renowned spas focused on providing premier service to all travelers.
Sustainable approach –Traveling is no longer about the experiences but also about the ways we can give back. Furthering its commitment with the environment,Los Cabosjust announced a ban to limit the use of all plastic in the destination. With the new measure, many hotels are making travelers accountable for their environmental impact and some are gifting visitors with insulated water bottles that can be easily refilled at the properties to avoid the use of plastic elements.
Gastronomic offering –When visitingLos Cabos, travelers are set for a treat to enjoy the incredible cuisine of the destination. Organic farms throughoutBaja California Surare creating holistic dining experiences that are transforming the cuisine of the destination. With authentic techniques and ingredients that can only be found inLos Cabos, travelers can connect with the region and feel the exquisite flavors of its culture.
AboutLos Cabos Los Cabos, located at the tip of the 1,000-mile longBaja Peninsula, is one of the world’s most diverse tourism destinations. Boasting a dramatic desert backdrop nestled by coastlines of the Pacific Ocean and Sea of Cortez,Los Cabosis home to award-winning resorts and culinary offerings considered some of the finest available anywhere. A growing list of championship golf courses, rejuvenating spas, world-renowned sport fishing tournaments, and state-of-the-art convention facilities add to the destination’s unmatched appeal. For more information, images and videos fromLos Cabos, please visit visitloscabos.travel, follow us on Twitter @LOSCABOSTOURISM and visit us on Facebook, YouTube, and Instagram
A fresh D.I.Y. margarita welcome amenity is now served up on arrival in Grand Class Suites at Grand Velas Los Cabos. Ingredients to make a traditional lime, habanero cucumber, blackberry basil or mango margarita are provided insuite for one to make themselves while enjoying unobstructed views of the Sea of Cortez.
Another option for guests is to request their 24-hour personal concierge be mixologist while they slip into the spacious plunge pool on each suite’s private terrace. The preferred flavor for the DIY Margarita Welcome Amenity can be selected in advance. The D.I.Y. margarita welcome amenity is a complement to the artisanal mezcal, wine and beers also stocked insuite. Additional amenities of the 1,608 sq. ft. Grand Class Suites include ultra-luxe bathroom with 2-person jacuzzi and separate full body shower system, separate sleeping and living areas, Nespresso Coffee Maker, Tea Forté tea set, Pillow Menu, 65″ flat-screen TV with interactive system, and walk-in closet. Nightly rates in a Grand Class Suite at Grand Velas Los Cabos start at $1,137 per adult and include luxury suite accommodations, a la carte gourmet meals at a variety of specialty restaurants, premium branded beverages, 24-hour in-suite service, nightly entertainment, taxes, gratuity, and more. https://loscabos.grandvelas.com/.
About Grand Velas Los Cabos: The AAA Five Diamond Grand Velas Los Cabos on Mexico’s Baja Peninsula is the fifth property of Velas Resorts. Located between Cabo San Lucas and San Jose del Cabo, the $150 million beachfront property offers the next generation of all-inclusive amenities and facilities with dramatic ocean views and unique spaces infusing every area of the resort. All 307 ocean view suites are over 1,180 sq. ft. with private terraces and some personal plunge pools while duplex wellness suites have designated wellness amenities and insuite juice bars. Grand Velas Los Cabos features five gourmet restaurants with an extensive beverage program and wine-based features inspired by the proximity to the region producing Mexico’s fine wines. A staff ratio of 3 to 1; 16,370 sq. ft. convention center with the capability for 20 breakout rooms; 35,000 sq. ft. Se Spa with 16 treatment rooms and hydrotherapy facility; three pools; and pool and beach concierges are available. Rounding out the list of amenities and services are a Technogym Fitness Center with personal trainers, exercise programs, yoga, Pilates and meditation; recreational activities program; separate teens’ and kids’ club facilities and activities program; 24-hour personalized butler concierge service; and 24-hour in-suite service. A gallery of contemporary art continues the company’s commitment to bringing the art, fashion and culture of Mexico to guests. The curved, half-moon design of the hotel catches eyes along the corridor with an iconic grand entrance that’s open air, three stories high and over 300 ft. above sea level. This beachfront is just 35 minutes from the Los Cabos International Airport, which directly services over 40 destinations in the United States, Canada and Latin America. Eduardo Vela Ruiz, founder and president of Velas Resorts, operates Velas Resorts, with brother Juan Vela by his side, vice president of Velas Resorts.
“Virtuoso has revealed the winners of its 2019 Best of the Best Awards at a ceremony with more than 1,800 attendees at Virtuoso Travel Week, held in Las Vegas at the Bellagio Resort & Casino, Aria Resort & Casino and Vdara Hotel & Spa. The ceremony recognized the year’s top 10 hotels and hoteliers.” Montage Los Cabos was named ‘Best Virtuoso Newcomer’.
Montage Los Cabos is an idyllic sanctuary perched upon the premier beachfront in Cabo. Spanning 39 acres along the gentle azure waters of Santa Maria Bay, the resort features walk-in access to the finest swimming, snorkeling and diving in the region.
Montage Los Cabos was also recently named one of Travel & Leisure’s World’s Best Resorts in Mexico. Congratulations to Montage Los Cabos for these honorable awards.
In a Travel Weekly article posted this week, writer Meagan Drillinger examines how the luxury market is driving Los Cabos’ growth.
“As Los Cabos continues to grow as a luxury destination, its tourism offerings are expanding beyond the traditional locales of Cabo San Lucas and San Jose del Cabo. From the coasts of the Pacific to the beaches of East Cape, the Baja Peninsula is in rapid development mode to support the increase in luxury arrivals.”
A visit to Los Cabos these days includes luxury resorts, award-winning cuisine, state-of-the-art spas, spectacular sunsets and dreamy landscapes. Thank you for joining me on this next adventure in Los Cabos.
