Tag Archives: Cabo Five Star Luxury Hotels

Esperanza, an Auberge Resort

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Our Journeys are designed in the style of a three-act play. I believe my love of theater and rituals stem from my Catholic upbringing, and in particular, the ancient rites of Latin Mass – which took place in the dark ages. Ceremonies that included overpowering incense, flickering candles, chiming bells, and lace mantillas worn, oh so dramatically. High Latin Mass, a powerful and unforgettable procedure. My recent visit to Esperanza didn’t disappoint and included a full high drama, third act closer, we survived Hurricane Newton here without a single hiccup.

As I have probably previously prattled, the initial welcome at a property sets the tone and stage of a visit. We purposely work with on-property management, the GM’s and our off site representatives expecting them to personally welcome our clients. There are numerous clients who reach out to me on arrival sharing their enthusiasm: We are being spoiled. I LOVE this hotel. Amazing! Honestly, people take a minute from their Journeys and send me messages. Amenities arrive and we receive photos of the gifts, love the welcome and love hearing from our clients. Seems simple – but not every hotel practices the welcome – setting the stage in delighting the guest.

My recent visit to the Auberge property in Cabo, Esperanza Resort reaffirmed my belief. The moment you arrive, the charming rituals begin. Served an indigenous frothy and refreshing chilled pick-me-up; just enough to make you pause and be captivated by the surroundings. No rushing to a lobby, you have arrived. Chill!

Meander amid the fragrant paths to reach your room, enjoy a brief overview of your suite; a knock at the door and an authentic liquid refreshment, a refreshing Margarita arrives with a barman! A barman dressed in white linen snapping a cocktail shaker for full effect. Oh, did I mention the traditional molcajete brimming with fresh chopped guacamole, assorted salsas and fresh chips?

Now this is a Statement Arrival!

Set at the very tip of the Baja Peninsula, between two massive bluffs, and only a few miles from Cabo San Lucas, Esperanza provides stunning views of both the Sea of Cortez and Punta Ballena – Whale Point – lounge in winter and tally the humpback’s passing and breaching.

Something for everyone here – bungalow accommodations with deck top infinity edge Jacuzzi’s – are my favorite. The after Odile hurricane changes are subtle, the private patio’s have a woven panel assuring intimate privacy in your Jacuzzi. The same soothing color palate remains in the very comfortable luxurious rooms, why compete with the incomparable views of the pounding sea? A strong sense of place is achieved with handcrafted furniture and accessories created by Mexican artisans.

Relax in one of the 56 air-conditioned Casitas or secluded suites featuring free minibar items and espresso makers. All the rooms have private furnished balconies. Private bathrooms with separate bathtubs and showers feature deep soaking bathtubs and designer toiletries.The drop dead view is amazing from the shower for two! Yoga on your terrace, go no further than the closet for your mat, essentials at your fingertips!

We reserve for families here as well, as the Resort has a cluster of private Villas which can accommodate large groups with full kitchens, usually a patio Jacuzzi or small plunge pool. Need a butler or chef to prepare meals? Si!

Do visit the full-service spa, where you can enjoy body treatments, massages and facials. One key element here is an assortment of five outdoor swimming pools; plus you can  spend time at the private beach, often not swim able, but with the stunning pools, who needs sand in your toes?  

Enjoy a meal at one of the resort’s dining establishments, which include 6 restaurants. Roam here for a few days and dine at a different location several times a day – poolside, cliff side, elegant evening dining.The resort has a full schedule of culinary events, consider the choices: beach asados (Argentine-style barbecues) to Mexicanisimo Thursdays, where live music and fireworks accompany meals from various regions of the country. We were invited to a special post Hurricane Cocktail party – a delightful way to meet guests and sample exquisite passed nibbles and cocktails.

The new “Sunrise Yoga” program offers an early-morning stretch at one of the hotel’s two private coves.Oh, did I mention championship golf courses? Endless options, a testament to the discerning Auberge brand. Whale watching soon in winter – no place better, Esperanza, an Auberge Resort!

 

One & Only Palmilla, San Jose del Cabo

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So a few years ago, I enjoyed a luscious lunch on the beautiful Pelican Bay at the One & Only Palmilla; I had not spent the night. On my initial visit, I didn’t quite get it, the overly lush and exquisitely manicured tropical gardens in the middle of a desert environment, although the stone buildings and lively Mexican art filled interiors exude a strong sense of place. Just a few short weeks ago, I stayed here…actually, I stayed twice in a week! Hurricane Newton interrupted my schedule, so I moseyed back to enjoy kayaking for a few days.

My Birthday was well celebrated with a refreshing arrival thirst-quencher, a special blended tequila plate, a cheese and fruit array, and eventually a yummy chocolate birthday cake and even later, balloons floating across my suite. I felt like one of my spoiled clients!

I love my suite location far from dining and pools and in this case, it allowed me to enjoy leisurely walks through the meandering tropical jungle …iguanas skittering across my pathway pursuing shade and liquid at the numerous fountains, pools and streams that enhance the grounds. Staying convinced me of the finery; dedicated butlers, massive rooms with terraces and some with pools or smaller plunge pools, almost all have direct ocean views or vistas. Authentic bleached white stucco architecture, topped by traditional red tile roofs pop from the lush jungle green gardens; the hacienda style buildings are well decorated with local painted tiles and a small corridor with sofas and resting spots front each building. Very very civilized here in the palm-studded Palmilla property.

The enormous gym has training staff on hand to assist, also offers yoga and Pilates by appointment. Newly added after the pounding Hurricane Odile knocked down the area, is Barber & Blade grooming/shave studio and Mani:Pedi:Cure Salon, as well as a blow-out menu at the new OBO Salon by Jonathan & George – full service abounds at One & Only Palmilla!

I explore on my own and was delighted to be greeted by a staff member near the spa – he asked if I would like a tour – I was very impressed by each and every member of the staff – this gentleman was an expert on the spa and it’s services – it seems everyone is well versed on the amenities – which is a marvelous benefit- all experts on their well loved hotel. Very little turn over here and that tells me much about management.

Don’t miss the gigantic tortoise named Priscilla who has her own private enclave and palapa…daily feeding of what looks like Caesar Salad after her stroll/jog around her enclosed green park…she pops her head up to gaze if you are lucky!

Dining includes a steak house, Seared, by Michelin starred chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten and Suviche featuring sushi and ceviche. The Agua by Larbie restaurant is located on an elegant ocean front terrace and serves sophisticated traditional Mexican dining, it also serves up sensational sunset views. Plop at Breeze overlooking the adult infinity pool and swim up bar for breakfast, lunch or all day snacks.

If you are an ocean swimmer, this property is the only property with a swimmable beach in Cabo. The protected warm water bay usually has a few small wavelets rolling onto the white pebbly beach. Perfect for snorkeling and hotel supplied kayaks. The beach adjoins a public beach, however the freestanding thatched roof palapas and umbrella shaded loungers on the sand are exclusive guest amenities. Despite the smoldering September heat, the industrious overhead fan provided a very soothing breeze in my comfy palapa – perfect for snoozing or flicking pages of your favorite beach read. Quietly stake your blue flag in front of your palapa and a waiter scurries to refresh drinks, suggest a nosh, or order up your kayak! If that isn’t enough, a bracing spritz bottle is nestled in your ice bucket for a quick splash. I suggest early morning kayak paddling, far into the ocean, as far as the white channel marker bobs, the marker can’t be seen from the beach – so definitely a work out worthy of guacamole, chips and cerveza on your triumphant return. Even the kayak team stands on the beach and beckons you in through any potential waves.

Two private villas on property – one directly on the beach, Villla Cortez and a new modern Villa One overlooking the sea high on a hill within the resort grounds. Supremely located on the resort’s idyllic southern shore, Villa Cortez is exquisitely designed in the authentic style of a traditional Mexican hacienda, yet fashioned with every conceivable modern-day amenity. This exceptional four bedroom villa is designed for those seeking intense privacy and exquisite luxury.

Villa One pictured above is perched above the property, a short walk down the hill to the resort – golf car attendant included if you prefer. Spectacular new villa for those seeking absolute privacy.

 

Located on the highest point of the resort, this four-bedroom Villa, with an additional Butler Suite, offers dramatic sweeping views of the property and the Sea of Cortez. Both Villas are Over The Top – each exceptionally unique.

Oh, did I mention the teeny kiddy loungers and water park at the kiddo pool, or the dedicated Kiddy Club for all day play and activities?

Or the on the spot foot massage at the adult Vista pool?

This is impeccable service!