EXCLUSIVE - Gwen Books

Our Journeys are designed in the style of a three-act play. I believe my love of theatre 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.

As I have probably hitherto prattled, the initial welcome at a property sets the tone and stage of a visit. We purposely work with on property management expecting them to graciously 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! Really, 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 an 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 arrives with a barman! A barman dressed in white linen snapping a cocktail shaker for full effect.

Margaritas shaken, the barman literally establishes a memorable sense of place. Your personal butler lays out freshly prepared guacamole in an ancient mortar on the terrace, flips on the jets to your rooftop infinity pool– and disappears.

The Esperanza magic begins.

First act complete.

Gracias Esperanza team!

Common misconception, swimming with dolphins is only for children! I have to admit, I was a bit apprehensive when Frida, a dainty 8 foot, 785 pound dolphin nosed close for an introductory kiss. She reeked of mackerel; however, her playful nature quickly won me over. My dolphin encounter left me transfixed and craving another hour in the tank.

Knowledgeable trainers introduce you to a gentle, friendly dolphin in a shallow water pool. The encounter begins with a soft touch to her smooth skin, reward her with a fish and continue the amazing interaction of play and swimming. Frida clicked her approval and nuzzled me for more fish! Beautiful and intelligent creatures, an up close personal interaction is beyond thrilling. A learning experience in a well-managed park introduces the general public to these bright creatures.

Most people don’t have an opportunity to witness Bottlenose dolphins in the wild. The unique opportunity to observe and learn in the protected sanctuary of these centers, directly with live animals increases public awareness and adds appreciation of wildlife.

Several deep dives to the bottommost of the tank holding onto Frida’s dorsal and pectoral fin was exhilarating. A swim mask allows you to enjoy the amazingly fast swim through the water, her flukes just grazing your toes. Despite her obvious strength, she was playful and gentle. Showing off, splashing, nudging and displaying high leaps and twists for fish treats. I had no idea the size and sharpness of their teeth, Frida patiently let me check her teeth and marvel at the length of her tongue, in trade for a fish, of course.

In the secure environment of dolphin and marine mammal educational facilities experts can examine aspects of dolphin biology that are difficult or impossible to study in the wild; people can observe, up close, these remarkable brilliant creatures.

Not only do we interview the brightest guides, inspect five star hotels and meet management, we go to extreme measures to assure your enjoyment in a dolphin tank!

Journey to the best centers in Cabo and Punta Mita, exclusive encounters of course!