LOS CABOS YOU HAD ME AT HOLA

Los Cabos. The words alone conjure up images of cool, crystal clear waters, luxurious resorts, glorious relaxation, and for some, the perfect nightlife. But don’t be fooled, there’s much more to Los Cabos than meets the eye. Next time you visit, I suggest you venture out beyond The Tourist Corridor. You’ll be glad you did!

My three-day adventure…

DIA UNO CHECK-IN AT VILLA DEL ARCO BEACH RESORT AND DESERT SPA

After a scenic drive I finally arrive at Villa del Arco Beach Resort and Grand Spa, a five-star, upscale resort located on the world-famous Médano Beach in Cabo San Lucas. The property is gorgeous and very budget-friendly. A luxurious suite awaits with a private balcony, marble floors and large, spa-like bathroom. The location is prime, only minutes away from all the action. Don’t forget to book an appointment at the Desert Spa; it’s amazing!

TRIP TO SAN JOSE DEL CABO

After a quick touch-up, Aldo, my super-friendly driver, picks me up to take me to San José del Cabo, located approximately eighteen miles to the east of Cabo San Lucas or “Cabo” as the locals call it. This quaint small town exhibits the best of traditional Mexico with its blocks of unhurried streets and graceful tree-covered sidewalks. With its scores of shops, galleries, fine restaurants, boutiques – and total absence of popular franchises – it still captures the essence of old Mexico. Every Thursday evening from November to June you can enjoy the famous Art Walk – a collaborative weekly event held by the galleries in San José del Cabo’s Art District. The equivalent to a sip and stroll here in Houston. Totally recommend!

For dinner I try out La Panga Antigua Restaurant and Bar, considered by many to be one of Cabo’s best restaurants. You can’t miss it: An ancient wooden panga (small skiff) hangs above the door. Tastefully decorated, La Panga has tables on a series of patios. Its atmosphere is cozy and very romantic, and the food is absolutely delicious. I recommend you try the assorted appetizer sampler.          So good!

DIA DOS WHALE WATCHING TOUR WITH CABO EXPEDITIONS

Few other places, if any, in the world provide the ability to see firsthand mother whales and their calves surfacing on the water in such abundant numbers as you can in this area of Mexico. When I find out our boat captain is Jose Luis a.k.a “The Whale Whisperer,” I am more than thrilled. We board our Zodiac and head out to the Sea of Cortez in search of the gentle giants.

My first encounter is with a gray whale and her calf – quite life changing to say the least. They are huge! Some even larger than our boat, but yet so gentle and majestic. It is an awe-inspiring sight to see them breach, which is when the whales leap from the water almost completely above the surface and slam their bodies creating a huge splash. Simply amazing!

DIA TRES

OUTBACK DESERT & CAMEL SAFARI WITH CABO ADVENTURES

After a quick, fun ride aboard a 4×4 Mercedes-Benz Unimog (acronym for the German “UNIversal-MOtor-Gerät, Gerät meaning machine or device) we arrive at a private, secluded and unspoiled ranch in the desert for a hike through Baja’s outback. Our guide, “Chicas” as he prefers to be called, is professional, knowledgeable and a real kick in the rear. He has us laughing the whole time. Chicas introduces us to the local flora and fauna as we descend through some narrow trails down the canyon. At the bottom we see what seems to be a dry riverbed where our Unimog awaited to take us to a deserted, private beach to partake on a camel ride even Lawrence of Arabia would be envious of. For lunch, we head up the hill to an enramada (a palm tree-roofed, open-sided shelter) where a true Mexican lunch waited. We learned to make corn tortillas and got a lesson on the art of tequila making…and sipping! Need I say more?

CABO DOLPHINS SIGNATURE SWIM

Nothing is more appetizing after a hike in the desert than a plunge into ice-cold water to frolic around with some of my favorite mammals in the world, dolphins. If you’ve never done it, you must! The Dolphin Signature Swim is perfect for those seeking close interaction with these divine creatures. It’s a smaller group setup and you get more time to play. So much fun!

BOCA RATON RESORT & CLUB in BOCA RATON, FLORIDA

Bruce didn’t mean to decapitate the groom, ­­­­but then thought, why not?

After all, beyond saying “I do,” grooms are bottom-feeders in Bridezilla Land, including the candied one perched atop a cupcake placed in his and Michele’s room at the Boca Raton Resort & Club. They were visiting the large, lavish property on their 19th anniversary to explore renewing their vows on their 20th, and a hungry Bruce mangled his likeness in cupcake lust

Bruce didn’t mean to decapitate the groom, ­­­­but then thought, why not?

After all, beyond saying “I do,” grooms are bottom-feeders in Bridezilla Land, including the candied one perched atop a cupcake placed in his and Michele’s room at the Boca Raton Resort & Club. They were visiting the large, lavish property on their 19th anniversary to explore renewing their vows on their 20th, and a hungry Bruce mangled his likeness in cupcake lust.

­­Bruce: Then it hit me: This cupcake is yummy, and the resort’s Beach Club Hotel is awesomely comfy – sleek but informal. Maybe I’ll enjoy the pomp of our ceremony without losing the romp of a good time.

Michele: You ought to. They don’t host 60 to 80 weddings a year here to repel a girl’s better half. Remember the couple we saw after their wedding? The groom glowed as much as the bride.

And while even I admit winking oranges on the Dunes ballroom carpet were tacky, our bed’s white leather headboard and royal blue, striped chaise longue were downright sexy. That’s what you get after a $126 million, 20-month renovation.

Besides, we had spa treatments, cake tastings, your catamaran ride on the Atlantic and even a stretch limo from Fort Lauderdale’s airport after our two-hour flight from Houston.

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Bruce: I don’t blame you for skipping the boat. For you, it would’ve been barf. For me, it was bar – as in open, while Jimmy Buffett tunes played and we glided the waves. But as for those treatments back at Spa Palazzo . . .

Michele: Oh yes! Its salmon stucco arches and navy tiles are palatial – as in Spain’s Alhambra – and didn’t you love the lime sorbet and cranberry pomegranate body scrub as you soaked in a bubble bath flanked by candles? You can’t get that at Days Inn.

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Bruce: Yeah, well, how about the car wash they put me in, with dozens of jets spraying water in strange places? Was I that dirty? And after they roasted me in a 150-degree room and dunked me in “oh, that’s hot!” water, I thought I was in a fraternity hazing.

Michele: No way! The Vichy shower is all about pre-wedding relaxation. And besides, you got a massage.

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Bruce: Now you’re talking! I got to be an inert slab of beef while my massage therapist made my muscles go sleepy-time. Spa director George Lopez told us most grooms feel that way, though some also dip their toes into – the horror! – pedicures.

Michele: Don’t knock it. They had SpaRitual polish – my fave brand – in hot-off-the-runway charcoal, and chardonnay to sip while bonding with bridesmaids – er, groomsmen. And don’t forget the resort’s wedding cakes! My favorite was the five-tier with pink-tinged folds and crystal beading to match the bride’s gown.

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Bruce: Right – like I want to eat what looks like frilly fabric. No way a wedding dress cake is appetizing to me. I was afraid I’d bite down on a zipper, when all I wanted was a sugar rush. And the Ferrari-shaped cakes they offered grooms – ditto. Give me a cake that looks like a cake. After all, cake is the most important part of a wedding, right?

Michele: Well, along with flowers, as when we returned from dinner to find calla lilies wrapped in pearl- and rhinestone-studded white lace. And that was nothing, floral supervisor Carlos Marquez told us. He’s dying to rain peach rose petals from a helicopter on a just-married couple – though think what the wind would do to her veil!

Need to be more manly? He offered to create sand sculptures of our courtship highlights, should we renew our vows on the shore. He’d even have gondoliers serenade us.

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Bruce: You’re kidding … aren’t you?

Michele: I’ll ignore that. I wouldn’t want us to have our first post-honeymoon fight.

After all, I’m still blissed out after our “casual” clambake on the beach, with two guitarists strumming Marvin Gaye and white top-hatted chefs serving Texas-sized lobsters and ’Smores.

I couldn’t believe the hydrangea- and seashell-strewn table set with turquoise runner beneath shimmering glass tea lanterns. But I was most taken by the white orchid, curling willow and glass-beaded wedding arch.

Overcome by its beauty, I proposed to YOU – that we not wait to renew our vows! And so we did, as the sun set and waves crashed on the white sands.

With no one there, I didn’t even worry if my mother-in-law would blanch when our kiss lingered and I wrapped my leg around my handsome hubby.

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Bruce: Oh, yeah! Frills are fine, but that’s a happily-ever-after I can live with!

Travel writers Michele Meyer

and Bruce Westbrook are

registered … voters.

SHANGRI-LA Resort & Spa | Boracay, Philippines

It takes a few plane rides, two short car trips, one speedboat transfer and about 30 hours to get from the U.S. to Boracay  – but it’s worth it. Located a 45-minute flight from Manila, the island of Boracay was for decades primarily a weekend getaway spot for city-based Filipinos, until word of its beauty started spreading. Now, you’ll find visitors from all over the globe, including an increasing number of Americans, coming for the top-notch diving and kite boarding, the lively nightlife or just the chance to hang out on the super-wide, white-powder beaches, which have ranked among the best in the world. Just seven miles long, Boracay also embodies the best of what an island vacation should be: a friendly, safe spot that offers plenty of distractions for those who want it, but also countless places to get away from it all. (And unlike, say, much of the Caribbean, it’s pretty affordable, too.)

On an island already full of beauty and charm, the Shangri-La Boracay Resort & Spa manages to take things to a whole other level. Opened in 2009, the property sits about 15 minutes away from the main island drag, alongside two pristine (and often secluded) beaches. The 219 suites and villas all face the crystal-clear waters of the Sibuyan Sea, and are decorated with native Filipino materials and furnishings, like tribal drums, fossil stone and glittery capiz shell handicrafts. (Villas also come with deluxe touches like pools or, in the case of the two-level hilltop Treehouse Villas, outdoor Jacuzzis.) There are hammocks and beach beds to lounge on, restaurants specializing in Italian cuisine or seafood, a cliff-top bar where you can watch the sunset over a pitcher of sangria, and an on-site Dive Center to help arrange diving or snorkeling trips.

Along with all the five-star touches and classic Shangri-La service, the resort distinguishes itself and honors its location with its strong commitment to being eco-friendly. Because potable water is a valuable commodity on the island, the hotel boasts its own desalination plant to treat and convert salt water into usable H20; water is also recycled and re-used for maintaining the lush grounds, and storm water is collected to feed the sewer system. Energy conservation comes courtesy of high-tech electrical efficiency monitors, plus solar panels on the roofs of all villas. Located next to a nature reserve, the resort is also committed to providing a safe haven for the native flora, fauna and animal life, which include the endangered Flying Fox, the largest fruit bat in the world. Guests can learn about all the indigenous creatures, and the Marine Restoration Project, at the on-site Eco Center.

Spa

Local elements are also featured at the resort’s CHI Spa, a lovely cluster of private spa villas set around a serene pool. The Sense of Place section of the menu includes The Traveler’s Retreat, a three-hour spa sampler that begins with a scrub using local sand and virgin coconut oil, followed by a soak in a tub laced with fresh flowers and coconut milk. To finish, there’s a 90-minute traditional hilot massage, in which therapists apply strips of banana leaves to the body to check for blockages, then pound away the tension using scented oils and heated herbal pouches.

www.shangri-la.com.

Etc.

For a break from all the relaxation, take the resort’s complimentary shuttle to White Beach, a nearly two-mile stretch of powder-fine sand lined with bars, restaurants and cafes. During the day, pop into the boutiques along D’Mall, then grab a fresh fruit shake at Jonah’s or a homemade Calamansi lime muffin from Real Coffee & Tea Café (an American-owned local institution). Along the beach, vendors peddle typical island flair like henna tattoos and hair braiding, as well as massages (one-hour sessions can cost as little as $8) and sails on traditional outrigger boats (depending on the duration, sails can run from $20-$40). Come evening, you’ll find restaurants showcasing a surprising number of world cuisines – from German and Greek to Mexican – plus several traditional Filipino beachside barbecues, complete with roast pig and live entertainment from a rock band or fire dancers. Later in the night, bars like Summer Place and Juice are where to go for flaming shots, danceable beats and lots of (scantily-clad) people watching.

ACAPULCO’S REVIVAL

This year I once again embarked upon my annual pilgrimage to my hometown of Acapulco (in spite of all of the negative press). I stumbled upon an unexpected and lovely surprise: after years of stagnation, the once crown jewel of the Pacific Coast is as vibrant as ever and showing promising signs of a revival.

While it no longer evokes the star-studded image of its heyday, the rich and famous continue to drop in on a regular basis. Acapulco still possesses a magic that is nearly indescribable. In spite of all the newfangled resorts that pop up throughout Mexico, visitors always come to the same conclusion…there is no place like Acapulco. It possesses the perfect elements for a laid-back, yet classic experience…in short, if you want the “real” Mexico, visit Acapulco.

Investors are once again recognizing Acapulco’s true potential. Their belief in this town’s future has been manifested in the form of two new ultra-luxurious hotels in Punta Diamante and a nostalgic restoration that would even make Elvis shimmy. This along with the existing collection of ultra-deluxe resorts, très chic restaurants and legendary nightlife makes Acapulco a prime tourist destination.

GETTING THERE:

Continental Airlines offers two non-stop flights to Acapulco from Houston’s George Bush Intercontinental Airport. If you book early you can find airfares as low as  $300 approximately. www.continental.com

WHERE TO STAY:

VILLA AT BANYAN TREE

BANYAN TREE CABO MARQUÉS

This resort is located amidst the jungle, strategically perched on one of the most scenic cliffs of Acapulco. The architecture and décor are primarily Asian-inspired but incorporate indigenous local design like local textiles and Mexican artisans. The villas are magnificent, each with its own pool, outstanding views and super luxurious amenities. This cliff top resort is the only five-star, internationally branded, private all-pool villa resort in Acapulco. It offers the quintessential Banyan Tree service standards and the rejuvenating Banyan Tree Spa experience for which the award-winning Asian brand is recognized. The resort possesses a Zen-like vibe; it is the perfect sanctuary for those longing for a break. The service is by far among the best. They implement various traditional Thai customs and the attention to detail is impeccable. The property offers two dining options. Saffron is the hotel’s signature restaurant with modern Thai food. The views are breathtaking; thousands of simmering lights cover the mountains that surround the bay of Santa Lucia giving it a soft glow. Perfect for a romantic evening. www.banyantree.com

HOTEL ENCANTO

Perched atop Brisas Marqués, Hotel Encanto will wow you with its all-white minimalistic architecture and its spectacular views. If you arrive at night, you’ll be driving down the winding road surrounded by lush vegetation, and all of the sudden you’ll be struck by this large white structure that glows with a vibrant blue light. It’s like nothing you’ve ever seen before. The hotel was built by Mexican architect Miguel Angel Aragones as a tribute to the sea. Its exceptional design allows you to encounter the ocean in every corner. The hotel is intimate, featuring only 44 rooms, 22 of which include private pools. The open spaces and unique architecture provide a sense of peace and serenity. The design is very modern: You won’t find any light fixtures here. All the lighting is projected onto the walls by a groove lighting system that emits specific colors to trigger different moods. The pool area is chic, with lounge beds, decked floors and trees that seem to come out from under the pool. The vibe here is relaxation (no kids allowed). The service has such a personal touch, that you’ll feel more like a guest at a friend’s house. The culinary experience here is authentic with Mexican Chef Mónica Patiño’s custom menu – every single item is delicious. You must try the tostada de ceviche verde; it is out of this world! www.hotelencanto.com.mx

HOTEL BOCA CHICA

One of Acapulco’s most beloved properties, Hotel Boca Chica, is once again considered one of the best hideaways, thanks to its latest retro revival. The hotel re-opened its doors back in March 2010 thanks to Group Habita, the trend-setting Mexican hotelier group, and architect Fernando Romero who fully renovated and restored the property’s 36 guest rooms back to the original 1950’s glamour. This retro beach hotel embodies Acapulco’s golden days, when luminaries such as Elvis Presley, Frank Sinatra, John Wayne and, much later, Elton John were regulars. The rooms are charming with cool-white décor, splashes of aqua greens and latticed brickwork. The private terraces overlook the bay and Roqueta Island (a protected nature reserve). Hammocks provide guests with their own little haven. There are also organic and fair-trade Dr. Bronner Magic Soaps, free wireless WiFi and 24-hour room service for all-round indulgence. The hotel’s famous poolside terrace is the heart of the hotel; it is quiet, quaint and very relaxing. You can choose to socialize or simply enjoy a good read while you doze into a traditional Mexican siesta. There is no beach here, but the natural inlet pools are the perfect place to snorkel and kayak. I was pleasantly surprised to see that in the siesta area the mural my parents created in 1966 remains intact! Under the huge thatched palapa, you will find one of the most popular restaurants in town. The menu consists of first-class sushi led by head chef Keisuke Harada. It is so good in fact, that locals have made it a Sunday brunch tradition. Love it!

www.hotel-bocachica.com

By Pixie Ibañez

Bal Harbour Village, Miami, Florida

The St. Regis Monarch Beach

If your perfect summer dream vacation includes an exclusive private beach, you  might consider putting The St. Regis Monarch Beach on the top of your list. Located between Los Angeles and San Diego, in Dana Point, Orange County, this Tuscan-styled resort overlooks the Pacific Ocean with its majestic beauty. Swirling golf course paths surrounded by an impeccable, diverse botanical landscape leading to that aforementioned beach – Monarch Beach.

Surfer Butler: How sweet is it to get your own 1-on-1 surf lesson? Get all the attention you need from a pro surfer. And the best part? No embarrassment of people watchers while you try to stand on that board!

Yoga on the Beach: Practicing yoga at sunrise on the white sanded beach can put a lot of things in perspective. You can’t beat divine inspiration while in downward dog with the cool ocean breeze pushing you forward. Namaste.

Spa Gaucin: Spa treatments with a Mediterranean Sazón! Rejuvenate body and soul with some of their signature treatments inspired by Napa Valley Vineyards in the St. Regis’ beautiful Zen-inspired facilities. I experienced the amazing OSEA facial, with natural extracts derived from seaweed, plus a relaxing head massage. Very soothing, non-intrusive and relaxing like a facial should be – and the hint of ocean and algae scent transported me to under the sea.

Golf:  St. Regis offers a pristine manicured golf course. I’m not a golfer by any means but I can’t image anyone complaining about the impeccable conditions of this 18-hole course complete with bunkers, lakes and, yup, that stunning oceanfront view.

Nothing: Just chillax by their poolside, soaking up the sun, or enjoy a cabana with surround sound. And don’t forget to order a Pomegranate Margarita.

Where To Eat

Motif: Try their Sunday Champagne Brunch, compliments of Executive Chef Frederic Castan. Just an amazing experience!

Wine Cellar: Exploring the very exclusive stone walled, dungeon-like wine cellar, I couldn’t help but feel taken back to a medieval time while tasting my glass of wine. The inventory carries 17,000 plus bottles and is available for receptions and private dinners.

Stonehill Tavern: Sleek, hyper-cool and stylish are a few words that come to mind entering the Stonehill Tavern. Dimmed lights paired with a translucent state-of-the-art wine wall and an array of beautiful and hip people set the mood perfectly for Chef Michael Mina’s original fine American influenced modern cuisine menu. The caviar parfait and Honey-glazed Chilean Sea Bass is perfection. Pair that with a bottle of Napa Valley’s Pahlmeyer Merlot and you are in heaven!

Either letting it loose fun or just kicking it back relaxing time, this romantic, family-friendly coastline property will guarantee an unforgettable Southern California experience.

ONE MONARCH BEACH RESORT

DANA POINT, CA 92629 | 949.234.3200 www.stregismb.com

By Alex Rosa