One of the hot topics of conversation over the past year has been “how do we travel in the midst of COVID?” It’s a valid question: has travel changed, and will it be forever will be different? While we do not have a crystal ball, life continues, and therefore, travel is still at the top of the list for many. We share our very own Melanie Panther’s recent trip to Cabo San Lucus, Mexico (in her own words), with information about COVID precautions and the exploration of some premier locations!
My first step was to register for the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program, which is through the U.S. Department of State. Once I was enrolled, I received essential information about safety conditions from the Embassy within Mexico. This is an important MUST DO for any/all international destinations. Please be sure to allow yourself enough time between traveling to get all those pre-trip to do’s completed.
Next, I filled out the newly required “Risk Factor Questionnaire” from the Mexican Government. Traveler’s do receive one on the plane, but it is recommended that filling it out ahead of time is easiest. If you do complete the questionnaire online prior to traveling, be sure to print it out or provide a screenshot so that immigration can scan the unique QR Code. We will send you the necessary links to these online forms, as well as a link to the Mexico Tourist Card, which should also be filled out prior to departure. Often the airlines do not have large quantities of the forms on hand, which can make the immigrations process slower if you are not prepared in advance.
Note-it is required by the TSA that all travelers wear a mask during the duration of their trip. Mexico’s State Committee for Health and Safety does also require patrons to wear a mask in all open and closed public spaces.
Upon arrival in Mexico, I transitioned through customs where I was met with a thermal fever detection camera. It is not a big deal really. It’s just like mom scanning your head with the old thermometer. I would like to point out that at the time of my travel, Mexico was not requiring pre-arrival COVID testing. This could change so be aware of that and check prior. There are some destinations that require proof of a negative test three days before checking in for your first flight. Also, if you have received the COVID vaccine, be sure to carry your vaccination card with you. The vaccine currently does not negate the pre-testing requirement.
At last! We finally arrived at the stunning beach destination on the southern tip of Baja, California- Cabo San Lucas. With an average of 360 days of sunshine, Cabo is a wonderful destination for Honeymoons, Romantic Getaways, Wellness & Foodies, golfing, and even a quick Girls Trip. During our weeklong stay, we explored and experienced first-hand some of the best 4- and 5-star resort options. Let’s discuss a few of the highlights and resort options I propose anyone considers when traveling to Cabo. My favorite of all the resorts is always the fabulous 5-start Nobu Hotel Resort-Los Cabos. With magnificent views of the Pacific Ocean, this resort is a mixture of sophisticated Japanese and Cabo vibes.
The tranquil Zen and meticulous attention to detail brought an overwhelming sense of relaxation the second I walked through the doors. One of my favorite details of their suites is that they offer a traditional Onsen Teak soaking tub that provides a spa-like experience right in the room.
Nobu also offers a variety of restaurant options. The world-famous cuisine at Nobu Los Cabos is always a favorite. Farm to table creations at Malibu Farms; fine dining Mexican food to trendy Steakhouse, and delicious quick bites poolside from the bar or coffee shop. Anything that you are in the mood for is here!
Their spa and fitness centers are both open by appointment (at the time of this post). The Esencia Wellness Spa offers Asian-inspired treatments and both Indoor hydrotherapy/outdoor hydrotherapy garden with co-ed lounges inside and outside, water circuit, experiential shower, cabana jacuzzi, outdoor shower, steam and sauna areas, and hydrotherapy pool all included with your paid spa appointment. This resort also offers four different pools, each with VIP service. Some offer swim-up cabanas (we can book in advance!), and each has its own distinct vibe. There really is something for everyone!
Our next stay was at the highly recommended 5-Star Le Blanc Spa Resort, which is located between Cabo San Lucas and San Jose del Cabo on the Sea of Cortez. If you’re looking for a truly luxurious adult-only all-inclusive experience this was one of our favorites! This resort is a tranquil oasis, with minimalist chic and contemporary décor, and some amazing views from the moment you set out of your luxury transfer vehicle.
Their plush, spacious, and luxurious suites offer a balcony with seating area, one of the most comfortable beds I’ve ever slept in, pedestal bathtubs, BVLGARI bath amenities, Comfort menu (includes specialty pillows, bath salts and aromatherapy and artisanal soaps), and a CHI hairdryer and straightener (saving you precious space in your luggage!). They also include personalized butler service from unpacking and packing your luggage, to drawing you a relaxing bath or providing you with the perfect pillow, your personal butler is on hand to respond to your every whim. My butler on this stay was the always happy and smiling, Karla, she was the absolute best!!
Le Blanc offers several signature restaurants including French, Asian, International, Lebanese, Seafood and even a Wood-Fired pizza option – an abundance of options for foodies. They also have a delectable café that has fresh-baked goods and unique French pastries, hand-made chocolate sweets and a variety of coffees, teas & juices (which I visited every morning). They even offer cute little food carts in the pool area with options from tacos, guacamole, churro’s and more!
Blanc spa is not to be missed and their hydrotherapy area is a complimentary service included as part of your stay. We couldn’t get enough of the circuit with sauna and steam rooms, ice rooms, heated stone beds, and both warm and cold pools. Their state-of-the-art fitness center, with Life Fitness exercise equipment, offers a wide variety of classes (depending on the day) ranging from Yoga, Pilates, Zumba, aqua spinning to cross-training to pool volleyball. The spa and fitness center are currently requiring appointments to keep with social distancing and their Purely Le Blanc cleanliness standards. Don’t miss out on their outdoor pool complex; it’s one of the prettiest we’ve seen in all of Cabo. It has four pools and two large hot tubs (both hot and cold options).
Our third review was the 4-Star Sandos Finisterra, one of the most well-known, family-friendly, all-inclusive resorts in Cabo San Lucas located on the Pacific Ocean with just a short walk to downtown. This resort offers exceptional Ocean and Marina Views due to the exquisite location atop a cliffside. Half of this resort is built into the rugged cliff, and the other is situated along a huge sandy beach. The two areas are connected via a walking bridge (elevator accessible), or if you’re looking for some exercise you can hike up a steep set of stairs. At the clifftop, you are greeted with a building that looks like a lighthouse with flagstone walkways that lead to the buffet & Italian restaurants, the spa & gym, two bars, and a coffee shop.
Lastly, our favorite accommodations were located at the Finisterra Suites. These modern suites are in the original historic section and also set atop of a famous cliff-face in a secluded part of the hotel. Renovated upgrades include a pillow menu, luxury linens, and bathrobes, plus a jacuzzi in all master bedrooms. Guests in this section have access to an exclusive VIP pool area on the clifftop deck. On the beach side you will find the main lobby, most of the rooms (not as modern as the suites but with traditional Mexican touches), three pools with drink service, a swim-up bar, and two restaurants. You will also find some beach palapas with loungers we enjoyed while gazing at the beautiful ocean view.
The Entertainment Team organizes games, activities and other surprises in the main pool and beach area every day, ranging from tequila tasting to Tiki and pool parties; dance and painting classes; you can even try your luck with the trivia games. They also offer weekly nighttime activities such as a beach party where all the guests wear white, casino night, Latin party, and live musical options.
This resort also has an incredibly unique experience at Spa del Mar. The spa is integrated into the mountainside with Baja California style décor, and they have kept the limestone in its organic and natural state. Soothing lighting and healing aromas set the ambiance, as you head down the staircase. Its unique location definitely made an impression on us! The spa also features a hydrotherapy circuit. In this same area you fill find their fully equipped fitness center featuring panoramic views of downtown and the marina.
We enjoyed these resorts and many others on our trip. If you have any questions about planning your next exploration or the fabulous resorts mentioned above, we’d love to help! If you’re ready to get pricing and learn about our exclusive upgrades and amenities, please request a quote today.
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