Weddings in Los Cabos

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Everything you need to know about Baja Sur

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Everything you need to know about Baja Sur

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BAJA 101 Destinations Useful Information Activities CABO WEDDING VENUES CABO WEDDING CHECKLIST DISCOVER Maps Expat Chronicles: Into the Temazcal Top Beaches Riding Cabo Los Cabos Wildlife ART & CULTURE Pueblo Mágico: Jardin de Alquimia Giving Back: Education in Mexico Baja Voices: Neysa Quintana The San José del Cabo Art Walk OUT & ABOUT Social Cabo Events Destino Directory Spanish Lesson COUPONS

letter from the EDITOR

With our beautiful beaches and incredibly romantic settings, there is no surprise that the number of destination weddings that take place in Los Cabos keeps growing every year. Having your wedding in Cabo not only entitles the romanticism of the ceremony itself, but you will also provide your friends and family with an experience that will create memories for a lifetime. In this month's issue our local wedding experts share their tips on having a destination wedding in Los Cabos. The beaches and the weather, the mariachis and the colors, the flavors and the margaritas, the sunsets and the moons. Los Cabos really is an ideal place for a dream destination wedding, for every taste and every budget. Fall in love in Baja, fall in love with Cabo.

Within the pages of Destino Los Cabos you can find useful information to make the most of your vacation. Our goal is for you to have the best possible experience in Los Cabos. Don't forget that you can find all of our useful information online at: www.DestinoLosCabos.com. Enjoy!

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Cover photo by EpicStockMedia

IN THIS ISSUE

Publisher Owen Perry Editor in Chief Michelle Monroy Art Michelle Monroy Writers / Contributors / Photographers Alex Navarro Anna Gomes Bonnie Chase Gary Graham Giovanna Denning Julieta Amezcua Justin Porter Biel Justine Schock Marilia Olio Michelle Monroy Stefanie Vinsel PR and Marketing Manager Justine Schock - justine@destinoloscabos.com Advertising Account Executives Ali Lohrman - ali@destinoloscabos.com Justine Schock - justine@destinoloscabos.com Editor's Contact: michelle@destinoloscabos.com

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ISSUE 111 APRIL 2018 Printed in USA. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form without the written consent of the publisher. © 2018 Destino Group SA de CV NÚMERO 1111 ABRIL 2018 Todos los derechos reservados por Destino Group.

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Everything you need to know about Baja Sur

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Los Cabos

(the capes) is located in the southernmost tip of the State of Baja California Sur and consists of four main areas: Cabo San Lucas, San José del Cabo, Todos Santos and the East Cape. La Paz is the Capital of the state. If you take a look at the Baja Sur map you can see that the highways and towns form a loop. The Pacific Ocean and the Sea of Cortez meet at the very tip of the peninsula. It's very clear when you're on the Pacific side; the waves are much larger and powerful and the winds are stronger. If you go further north along the Pacific side the climate and beaches are very different than on the Sea of Cortez. It's usually a few degrees cooler, which is very pleasant during the warm summer months. The mountains meet the desert and the desert meets the ocean. The Sierra de la Laguna is a mountain range that lies at the southern end of the peninsula. Above 800 meters in elevation dry forests transition to pineoak forests. The main climate of the region is arid to semi-arid; however, there are farming areas where the soil is wet, especially on the Pacific side of the Peninsula.

"The aquarium of the world"

is how Jacques Cousteau described the Sea of Cortez.

It is said that eons ago, back when the Earth and Continents were still taking their shape, the edge of Mexico split from the mainland to form the Gulf of California and the Baja Peninsula. This allowed the Pacific Ocean to rush into the gap and create the Sea of Cortez, or as some call it, Mother Nature’s own fish trap. Hundreds of varieties of fish and mammals found their way into this "trap" and either stayed in the warm shallow waters or ventured down into the cool two mile-deep San Andreas Fault. For millenniums, the Colorado River has been dragging its rich minerals and nutrients into the Sea of Cortez, aiding the living species to thrive in these waters. In the months of January through March, Gray whales make their yearly migration from Alaska to give birth to their young in the shallow and warm waters of the Sea of Cortez. Ready to explore?

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destinations Cabo San Lucas

This tourist friendly town, also just known as “Cabo,” is located on the tip of the Baja California peninsula and is full of entertainment for every age and liking. The Sea of Cortez and the Pacific Ocean meet at Land’s End, where you can observe the beautiful rock formations and the famous Cabo arch. In Cabo San Lucas you can find Medano Beach, the liveliest beach in the Los Cabos area, an impressive marina and countless restaurants and bars that keep the town alive day and night.

San José del Cabo

Walking around downtown San José will allow you to experience a traditional Mexican town. You will find yourself surrounded by colorful buildings and quaint cobblestone streets that lead to the town’s picturesque zócalo (main plaza). Over the years, San José has become an artistic and cultural centre with numerous fine art galleries in its downtown art district as well as world-class restaurants. San José has a beautiful beach where you can take a horseback ride to explore the estuary that is home to many different bird species.

The Corridor

The corridor is the 40 km highway that connects Cabo San Lucas and San José del Cabo (about a 20 minute drive). Along this road you can find various hotels, luxury ocean front homes, championship golf courses and beautiful views. Have your camera ready and make a roadside stop at the Costa Azul view-point for photo opportunities and a refreshing coco frío (cold coconut).

Todos Santos

Located on the Pacific Ocean side of the peninsula, Todos Santos is an oasis where artists and surfers flock to enjoy the culture and excellent surf. Home to the famous Hotel California, this charming town offers great restaurants and a cooler climate than Cabo San Lucas and San José due to the breezes coming from the Pacific.

East Cape

People often call it “the old Cabo” because of its pristine beaches and small fishing towns such as Buena Vista and Los Barriles. The East Cape begins just east of San José and extends about 100 miles up the Sea of Cortez coast. Sixty miles outside of San José is the Cabo Pulmo National Marine Park, Nationally Protected coral reef that offers outstanding snorkelling and scuba diving. Very popular for fishing and surfing, the East Cape also attracts kite surfers, campers and those who just want to get away from it all.

La Paz

La Paz is the capital of the state of Baja California Sur and is known for its warm people and beautiful beaches. This authentic Mexican city (as well as the general south Baja region) has been rated as one of the safest in Mexico and still maintains the small town feel that is very welcoming for tourists. La Paz is a departure point for tours and charters to the stunning Espiritu Santo Island as well as whale watching excursions. Stroll down the colorful malecón (boardwalk), walk hundreds of feet in waist high water at Balandra beach or have a fine dining experience; La Paz has a lot to offer.

Loreto

Loreto offers the best of both worlds for tourists who long to escape to an 'authentic-Mexico' with settings that take you back-in-time along with ocean activities that rival that of any other modern coastal city. In Loreto you'll find historic buildings such as the enchanting Mision de Loreto - a mission-style church that was built in 1697 as well as The Islands of Loreto which boasts Mexico's largest marine preserve where dolphins, seals, turtles and sea lions all play in the sea. For those who are partial to adventures on land; there is hiking, biking, and nature-tours that fill up a camera with pictures of radiant natural settings.

Loreto is the perfect place for everyone from honeymooners to large families.

BAJA 101

useful information ATMs The easiest way to get pesos is to simply withdraw money from an ATM in Los Cabos. Bank ATMs give the daily exchange rate (best possible rate). Examples include Banorte, Bancomer, Santander, Banamex, and HSBC. Non-bank ATMs located in the street will charge higher fees. Some ATMs only give you dollars, some only pesos and some give you the option to withdraw both.

Pay close attention to what currency you’re withdrawing and try to get as much cash as possible in one transaction to avoid paying high fees.

CURRENCY EXCHANGE Dollars are accepted almost everywhere and you will get your change in pesos. The exchange rate varies every day, but some places have a set rate.

CASH OR CARD? Visa, Mastercard and American Express credit cards are generally accepted, but you often run into cash only places. Always ask beforehand and carry cash. Your bank will most likely charge you international transaction fees if you pay with your card.

GROCERIES In Cabo San Lucas, Walmart and Costco are good options and easy to get to. You can always find a taxi outside of these stores. San José has a Walmart and Mega. If you need to grab something quickly, OXXO stores are reasonably priced convenient stores located all over town.

HOW DO I DIAL? Local area codes: Los Cabos: (624), Todos Santos and La Paz: (612) - Loreto: (613) To dial to other countries: 00 + country code (1, 2 or 3 digits) + number From a Mexican land line or cell phone: To a Mexican long distance number: 01 + 3 digit area code + 7 digit number To a Mexican cell phone number: 3 digit area code + 7 digit number To a U.S. phone number: 00 + 1 + 3 digit area code + 7 digit number From your U.S. cell phone: To a Mexican land line or cell phone: 011 52 + 3 digit area code + number To a U.S. phone number: 00 + 1 + 3 digit area code + number Some U.S. cell phone carriers have arrangements with Mexican carriers and when you travel here your cell phone uses their towers. If this is your case, you will have to dial as if you had a Mexican phone.

U.S. TOLL FREE NUMBERS (International rates will apply): To a 1 (800): 00 + 1 + 880 + phone number To a 1 (888): 00 + 1 + 881 + phone number To a 1 (877): 00 + 1 + 882 + phone number To a 1 (866): 00 + 1 + 883 + phone number DRIVING Renting a car will allow you to enjoy the freedom of exploring Los Cabos. Driving in Mexico might be intimidating, but if you just go with the muddled flow, you will realize that there is some organization within the chaos. If you are pulled over by local police for committing a driving infraction, the standard procedure is for them to take your Driver’s License. You will then have to go to the Police Station to pay your ticket and pick-up your license. There are two types of gasoline: Magna, which is regular, and Premium. Lleno (pronounced ye-no) means full. Major credit cards are accepted. Tipping the gas station attendant around $10.00 pesos is customary. There is a toll road that takes you from the airport to Cabo San Lucas or to the Todos Santos highway. By taking this road you avoid the taxi and shuttle traffic on the main highway. The cost varies from $63.00 to $75.00 pesos, depending on your destination.

ALTO STOP

CUATRO ALTOS FOUR WAY STOP

4 ALTOS

NO ESTACIONARSE NO PARKING

ESTACIONAMIENTO PARKING

IMPORTANT PHONE NUMBERS EMERGENCIES: 066 from a local number ROADSIDE ASSISTANCE: 074 from a local number POLICE DEPARTMENT: - Cabo San Lucas 143-3977 - San José del Cabo 142-0361 FIRE DEPARTMENT: Dial 116 or: - Cabo San Lucas 143-3577 - San José del Cabo 142-2466 HIGHWAY PATROL: 146-0573 TOURIST POLICE: 143-3977 HOSPITALS: Amerimed: - Cabo San Lucas 105-8500 - San José del Cabo 105-8550 Baja Medical Response: 144-3434 Blue Medical Net: - Cabo San Lucas Hospital 104 3911 - San José del Cabo Clinic 142-3511 Cabo Surgical Center: 172-6030 Hospital H+ Los Cabos: 104-9300 North American Hospitals and Clinics: 142-2770 One World Hospital: - Cabo San Lucas 143-4911 - San José del Cabo 142-5911 - Todos Santos (612) 145-0600 Saint Luke's Hospital: - Cabo San Lucas 143-4911 - San José del Cabo 142-5911 Walk-in Medi Clinic: 130-7011 * For a complete directory of Doctors, hospitals and clinics in Los Cabos, visit: www.loscabosdoctor.com AIR AMBULANCES: SkyMed International Air Ambulance: (624) 154-4919 Air One Ambulance: (800) 236-8080 U.S. CONSULATE: 143-3566 CANADIAN CONSULATE: 142-4333 TAXI CABO SAN LUCAS: 143-2221 TAXI SAN JOSÉ DE CABO: 142-0401 IMMIGRATION: 143-0135 AIRLINES: Aero Calafia: 130-7822 Aeromexico: 146-5097 Air Canada: 01 (800) 719-2827 (Toll free within Mexico) Alaska Airlines: 146-5166 American Airlines: 146-5302/5303 Continental Airlines: 146-5050 Delta Airlines: 146-5005/146-5217 Interjet: 01 (800)-011-2345 (Toll free within Mexico) Southwest: 01 (800) 435-9792 Spirit Airlines: 1 (800) 772-7117 Sun Wing: 1 (800) 668-4224 Volaris: 01 (800) 7VOLARIS (Toll free within Mexico) US Airways: 146-5380 West Jet: 1 (800) 538-5696

Everything you need to know about Baja Sur

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BAJA 101

BOATING & FISHING

With calm waters, extraordinary fishing and perfect weather, some may argue that boating is the most popular attraction in Los Cabos. Whether you want to take a cruise to Santa María Bay on a luxury yacht or wake up at the crack of dawn for a fishing adventure, there are endless options to fit your needs.

SEASONAL FISHING CHART

Photo courtesy www.WildCanyon.com

BOAT RENTALS Private yachts and sailboats There are several charter companies that can accommodate your needs.

What you do on your trip is really up to you, but it will typically consist of a tour of the landmark arch, a few hours of fishing, and a cruise to one of our beautiful bays for a swim.

Most boats have fishing equipment and a knowledgeable crew, but the biggest difference between a yacht and a fishing boat rental is the cost.

Fishing Boat Rentals You can always fish on a yacht, but cruisers, pangas and super-pangas are a more affordable option. Cruisers accommodate larger groups and are more comfortable when the sea is rough on a windy day.

THE MARINAS Marina Cabo San Lucas The area’s largest commercial marina features 380 slips and accommodates vessels of up to 375 feet.

Amenities include 24-hour security, electricity and potable water, a fuel dock, and convenient laundry and shower facilities.

Puerto Los Cabos Located in La Playita just north of San José del Cabo is the newest marina in the area with 200 available slips 12

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for boats up to 400 feet. Amenities are similar to Marina Cabo San Lucas, though the boatyard’s 150-ton travel lift can accommodate larger vessels.

FISHING There’s a reason why the world’s richest fishing tournament - the Bisbee’s Black & Blue - has taken place in Los Cabos for over thirty years. This part of the world offers abundant sea life and an exceptionally high catch success rate, no matter what your level of fishing experience is.

What to Expect Most charters include a fishing license, bait, tackle and equipment. Some also include food and drink or these amenities can be added at an additional cost.

It is better to leave early; trips usually begin at 6:00 and 7:00 am and last around 6 hours. Cost will depend on the number of people in your party and the size of the boat you choose to rent. It is customary to leave the crew a gratuity of 15% to 20%.

Bait and Tackle Most likely, the boat you charter will include your bait and tackle. If you need your own fresh bait, you may buy it along the Cabo San Lucas Marina or the crew you hire may also stop to buy it from the local fishermen on your way out.

SPORT FISHING FLAGS COMMONLY SEEN IN LOS CABOS

BOATING AND FISHING TERMS IN SPANISH Captain - Capitán Aboard - Abordo To fish - Pescar To float - Flotar Wind - Viento Tide - Marea Fish - Pescado Bait - Carnada Fishing rod - Caña de pescar Hook - Anzuelo Life preservers - Salvavidas Throttle - Acelerador Anchor - Ancla Bow - Proa Stern - Popa

BAJA 101

SNORKELING

Prepare yourself for an incredible show of nature as you swim side by side with colourful schools of fish, eels, rays, octopus, sea turtles and more. The Sea of Cortez or the “Aquarium of the World” offers many opportunities to experience incredible underwater wildlife.

ACTIVITIES FOR FAMILIES Photo courtesy Wild Canyon

Adventure Parks There are several adventure parks in Los Cabos where you and your kids can experience zip-lining, backcountry ATV tours, a camel safari, and more. Zip-lines are appropriate for kids of 8 years and up and be prepared to hike from 5 to 15 minutes from line to line. Most companies include transportation.

Parasailing If heights over land are not right for you, try a parasailing trip and gain some altitude to enjoy beautiful views of Cabo while tethered firmly to a speedboat!

SNORKELING SPOTS Cabo offers several methods for snorkelling. You may drive to a local beach and swim out, book a tour with one of the many popular companies, or charter a private boat.

Tours are typically two or three hours. Stay away from the Pacific side of the peninsula; its strong currents make it very dangerous for any kind of water sports.

Pelican Rock

Buggy, Atv, Or Bike Rentals There are several local companies which offer ATVs, buggies, and other off-road vehicles for trail and beach cruising. Strap on some goggles and hop behind the wheel of one of these off-road racers for an afternoon of fast-paced fun! Vehicles include typical ATVs or enclosed rail buggies or RZR ATVs. Tours are typically three hours, and drivers must be 16 years of age with a valid drivers’ license. If pedal-powered rides are more your speed, look into renting a mountain bike, beach cruiser, or joining a guided bicycle tour of town. Just make sure to wear a helmet!

Lover’s Beach This popular and uniquely-named beach is accessible only by boat.

Be on the look-out, however, as the water is not roped off for swimmers.

Santa Maria Bay Snorkel tours regularly visit Santa Maria Bay. If you choose to drive there, it’s an easy swim from the shore to the reef on the right side of the cove.

Chileno Bay Snorkelers will find a safe, ropedoff area for swimming at this common tour destination.

Cabo Pulmo A Natural Marine Reserve in the East Cape, and may offer the best snorkelling in the area. This eightfingered coral reef is about a 1.5hour drive from San José del Cabo, but it is well worth it!

Horseback Rides, Nature Walks, and Bird Watching Los Cabos (particularly San José del Cabo) offers a number of horseback excursions for all ages. Saddle up for a sunset guided beach ride, venture up a hidden canyon trail, or just sit back in the shade while experienced horse trainers give the kids lessons in horsemanship – there’s something for everyone! San José also boasts a natural estuary and nature preserve.

Enjoy a peaceful, self-guided nature walk to observe some of the lushest landscape in the area. Species of flora and fauna are abundant: dozens of species of cactus, lizards, and birds can be spotted on this solitary walk, just a few minutes from downtown.

Cactus-lovers may also want to check out the nearby cactus gardens Wirikuta, offering a large variety of cacti laid out in an artful outdoor setting.

A quick five-minute ride from the Cabo San Lucas marina or Medano Beach is all it takes to get to this fish-attracting rock.

Wet Fun Water Park Located about 20 minutes from San José, this water park has shallow pools and small slides for young children, water mushrooms, a pirate ship and a giant bucket that dumps water on the bystanders bellow. For the adrenaline seekers, several fast and large slides stand tall and mighty and offer a great view of the beautiful surrounding mountains. To get there take HWY 1 north from the San José International Airport towards La Paz and East Cape.

After about 15 miles, the exit for Caudaño and the water park will be at km 66. Follow this road for a few minutes and you will find the park on your right.

Turtle Release Every year, several species of endangered sea turtles nest in the warm sands of Los Cabos. Your family will have the opportunity to help these fragile and tiny creatures make it safely into the sea. Children will learn about the importance of conservation and they will surely enjoy the experience of helping these little friends.

Sol de Mayo Waterfall Cascade Located about an hour and a half away from Los Cabos, the Sol de Mayo Oasis is yet another natural beauty of the Southern Baja California region. The hike leads the adventurous to a majestically beautiful oasis where everyone can swim and even dive into the cool, serene waters. Be sure to pack a lunch, and take plenty of water. There are plenty of signs to guide everyone to this wonderful piece of paradise. After arriving in Santiago, turn right up the little hill towards the town square. The cost is $6 US per person to access the easy hike to the clear-water falls.

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BAJA 101

FLYBOARDING

SURFING

Baja Sur has been a popular surfing destination since the ‘50s.

The East Cape is popular for kite surfing and the Pacific coast has several surf breaks where you will find less crowds. See our Baja Sur map and look for this symbol to locate the surf spots mentioned bellow.

SAN PEDRITO Level: Advanced. Direction: Right, left.

Location: Pacific side right before arriving to Todos Santos.

Have you ever had a dream about flying like Superman or maybe swimming like a dolphin? Dreams can come true in Cabo! The FlyBoard is a device connected and powered by a personal watercraft, which allows propulsion underwater and in the air.

Users are connected to the board by wakeboard boots, under which, water pressure provides thrust. A certified trainer controls the power and height and you control all the movement. Available at Medano beach or in the Puerto Los Cabos Marina in San José del Cabo.

STAND UP PADDLING

There is something special about paddling out and finding yourself floating in the ocean with just a paddle and a board. Stand up paddling is a great way to see marine life and to get a great workout and while enjoying nature. At Medano beach you can rent boards in several locations. Certain companies offer paddling lessons and some have yoga classes on the board.

KITE SURFING

This sport is most popular in the East Cape due to the El Norte winds. Playa Norte (the north-east side of the beach) in Los Barriles is said to be the most popular destination and is also the location for a professional kite-boarding school. La Ventana is also a popular spot and is closer to La Paz. There is less wind in Los Barriles than in La Ventana, but the surf is bigger. The best months are January, February, March, October, November, December. Every January, the Lord of the Wind tournament takes place in Los Barriles.

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CERRITOS Level: Beginners. Direction: Right, left.

Location: Pacific side at Km 65 of the Cabo San Lucas- Todos Santos road.

MONUMENTS Level: Advanced . Direction: Left.

Location: at Km 6.5 of the Corridor, closer to Cabo San Lucas.

EL TULE Level: Advanced . Direction: Right, left.

Location: Exit at Km 16.2 at El Tule bridge COSTA AZUL consists of three breaks: The Rock or La Roca Level: Advanced. Direction: Right.

Zippers Level: All level. Direction: Right.

Acapulquito Level: All levels. Direction: Right.

Location: at Km 28.5. Access is below the Costa Azul bridge.

LA BOCANA AT THE ESTUARY Level: All levels. Direction: Right, left.

Location: San José del Cabo’s main beach, close to the Holiday Inn. SHIPWRECKS Level: Advanced. Direction: Right.

Location: East Cape, about 25 Km from San José del Cabo.

NINE PALMS Level: All levels. Direction: Long rights.

Location: East Cape, about 30 Km from San José del Cabo.

SEASONS June through November The summer months are known to be the best as the Southern Hemisphere’s swells send great waves to the Pacific, Cabo San Lucas, San José and the East Cape.

December through February East Cape and Costa Azul are on the flatter side. The Pacific can be good this time of year because it’s exposed to the west swell.

March through May This is the windy season. Swells are consistent and you’ll run into fewer crowds.

Everything you need to know about Baja Sur

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Cabo

venues

by Bonnie Chase, Bliss Events

Bliss Events is a full-service event planning and design firm - www.eventsbybliss.com - bonnie@eventsbybliss.com Tourism in Los Cabos has sustained a nearly 20% year over year growth since 2015, and remains one of the most returned to destinations on the world. Among the more than two million tourists who visit the area are thousands of couples who choose Los Cabos for their wedding destination. The growing number of weddings each year has wedding and event planners like myself busier than ever. Sure, this massive volume of destination weddings can easily be attributed to the ease of access (more and more airlines are adding direct routes to Los Cabos from major cities across the US and around the world), the beautiful landscape, the 340+ days of sunshine each year, the local flavors and culture, and the endless options for fun things to do. But a major reason that Los Cabos is host to so many weddings each year is because it offers so many options for venues, making it an ideal location for every wedding personality.

The hundreds of venue options in Los Cabos can be narrowed into a handful of categories that include resorts, beaches, private villas, restaurants, and farms. Join me, and I’ll take you on a little tour of each.

Resorts

The most obvious place to get married is on a resort property. Just about every hotel in Cabo offers wedding venues (some of the larger properties offer up to 8 possible venues) and wedding packages. And while some couples prefer to plan and design their event from start to finish with a professional planner, others are relieved to choose a preplanned package and call it a day. Whatever the approach, resort weddings are extremely popular. Los Cabos offers beautiful hacienda style all-inclusive resorts like Pueblo Bonito Sunset and Hacienda Encantada (among many others!), as well as endless European Hotels at any budget. Some of our favorites are The Cape, The Resort at Pedregal, Esperanza, and One & Only Palmilla.

Getting married on a resort can eliminate a lot of logistical planning because the couple and their guests are already right there on the property. Many Los Cabos hotels are also host to world class chefs, so the banquet menu offerings are just as impressive as those at premier restaurants and farms. There are so many resorts in Los Cabos, that couples can choose between endless architectural and design styles and have the luxury of options in both San Lucas and San Jose.

Private Villas

While many couples love the idea of spending the long wedding weekend together with their guests at a resort, others prefer the privacy and flexibility of a private villa.

Cabo offers thousands of private villas, some of which were designed and built to be ideal wedding and event venues. Couples can book the villa for 3 or more nights, invite their closest friends and family to join them for the duration of the stay, and set up the rest of

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Resort Wedding

Photography: Anna Gomes Photo Planning and Design: Bliss Events by Bonnie Chase Flowers: Flowers and Events by Sergio Venue: Sunset Beach

their guests at a nearby hotel. We love the wow-factor that a villa offers because guests at the hotel will not see any of the setup happening on the wedding day, and will experience the surprise when they walk in for the first time at the start of the event. The other major advantage of the villa wedding is the flexibility of being able to plan and design every detail from start to finish, and to contract any vendors. There is also the added advantage of a less expensive bar tab, but be careful; villas owners also typically charge a location fee if you are hosting a private event on their property, and they can range from $1500 - $10,000!

Private villas span from the rural East Cape, through San Jose and San Lucas, and all the way up the Pacific coast to Cerritos and Todos Santos. They also range is price and design to accommodate any budget and style. The possibilities are endless.

Farms

A fast-growing trend in Los Cabos is the Farm Wedding. The farm wedding is one way to achieve the wow-factor by transporting guests away from the beach resort to an entirely new and unexpected location. Farms are surprisingly versatile venues, and work well with simple rustic and whimsical designs, as well as elegant luxurious, and even modern event designs. Southern Baja offers three key options for your homespun farm wedding, all of which are located in the estuary of San Jose del Cabo, and all of which are jaw-dropping in their own unique way.

The first is Huerto Los Tamarindos, a 17-acre property that produces an abundance of organic vegetables, primarily tomatoes, with beautiful rustic event space for up to 400 guests. The kitchen at Los Tamarindos is housed in an original farm house that was built in 1888, and adds to the charm and old-world experience. The farm gets its name from the Tamarind trees that grow wild in the fertile soil. Everything grows so beautifully here, that one of the event spaces is completely covered with lush greenery, forming a private canopy of green farm goodness. This property is 100% organic, and the food is 100% fantastic.

The second farm, and newest wedding venue to crop up in Cabo is Acre. This trendy new 25-acre farm restaurant embraces a strong “Baja” energy (think Palm Springs meets Tulum).

This property was designed and developed sustainably with the environment in mind. It currently offers a farm-to-table restaurant and bar, roof-top and mango grove event spaces, and a beautiful pool deck that screams ‘Sunday afternoon pool party’. The entire property is crawling with palm trees and other plant life, and makes a picture-perfect backdrop for a dream wedding, The latest draw to this tropical paradise are their open air treehouses. Yes, you read me right; tree houses! These adorable little bungalows are a luxury version of Swiss Family Robinson, and are available for the visitors who love the fresh air.

The final, and most famed of the farm wedding venues is Flora Farms. This gorgeous piece of paradise is a ten-acre organic farm that produces over 100 varieties of vegetables and herbs. They bake fresh artisan breads daily. The pizzas are produced with home-made dough and fresh-made mozzarella, and are cooked in the wood-fire oven. I could continue,

but to understand the true quality of the food, you should experience it for yourself; it’s nothing less than extraordinary. And don’t even get me started on the bar, which serves fruit and vegetable infused specialty cocktails. While this explanation of their culinary prowess probably has your mouth watering, the real reason that so many couples love Flora Farms for their wedding are the picture-perfect event spaces, which offer a variety of backdrops and accommodate up to 400 guests. From mango groves and herb gardens to a fairytale farmhouse, Flora Farms is exquisite.

Restaurants

Los Cabos has been evolving in recent years to the kind of destination that has foodies flocking. In both San Lucas and San Jose, new restaurants are cropping up all the time (not to mention the famed eateries that have been open since Cabo became a destination). With so many culinary options, it’s hard to try them all in one vacation (a possible reason for why we have so many repeat visitors year after year). It’s especially hard to narrow the options when considering a restaurant for a wedding venue.

The many local and exotic cuisines, world-class award-winning chefs, and meticulously designed atmospheres offer engaged couples a lot of possibilities for wedding venues. Some of the more known restaurant venues include Hacienda Cocina y Cantina, Sunset da Mona Lisa, Pitahayas and of course the farm restaurants. These restaurants offer venues for ceremony and reception, extraordinary banquet menus, and gorgeous views.

In addition to these well-known places, Cabo also offers some less main stream, but perfectly charming restaurants, which are nestled into unexpected little pockets of town. More than that, there is no shortage of restaurants that are equipped to accommodate a large group for dinner, and work well for rehearsal dinners and welcome parties. Some of our favorites are Don Sanchez, La Lupita, and Sur Beach Club, but there are so many incredible options that I could go on and on with the list. Your wedding planner will have recommendations for the best restaurants to fit your style, your budget, and the size of your group.

Private Villa Wedding Photography: Sarah Richardson Photography Planning and Design: Bliss Events by Bonnie Chase Venue: Private Villa

Beach Wedding

Photography: Julieta Amezcua Planning: Bliss Events by Bonnie Chase Design: Marianna Idirin Flowers: Pina Cate Venue: Hotel El Ganzo Lighting: Dj Alex Cabo Events

Beaches

No matter your choice for accommodations, the beach is always a possibility for your wedding venue. The Baja peninsula is sandwiched between the Pacific Ocean and the Sea of Cortez, which essentially means hundreds of miles of beaches. There is something magical about the beaches of Los Cabos because they exist in a desert eco-system, and the joining of sea and dessert offers its own unique beauty.

A beach wedding is certainly one way to offer your guests a toes-inthe-sand experience, but be sure to consider factors like bathrooms and a power source. The remote beaches do not offer public restrooms, and portable ones will need to be brought in. Local vendors have portable restrooms that are extremely comfortable, and provide piped-in music and air conditioning, as well as running water. You’ll probably need to rent a generator to power your fancy portable bathroom, as well as your event lighting and music.

The coastline in Los Cabos is quickly filling in with new resorts and private homes, which will all offer their own beaches for private events.

But sprinkled between hotels and houses are still a few public beaches, and with the proper permits are available for weddings and events. If you prefer the tranquility of a more untouched location, take a 40-minute drive in either direction and you’ll find yourself on a sprawling beach that has yet to be developed. Whatever you prefer, you can’t go wrong with the beach. It’s the vision that most often comes to mind when you hear the words “Los Cabos”.

The wide-range of venue possibilities in Baja truly has something for everyone. Couples who are planning more than one event on their wedding weekend will have the opportunity show their guests more of this beautiful place. And what better way to thank your guests for being a part of your big day than by taking them on a beautiful adventure of food and fun? I consider myself fortunate to have the opportunity to live and work in a place that offers so many possibilities. i

Farm Wedding

Photography: Stefanie Vinsel Photography Planning and Design: Bliss Events by Bonnie Chase Flowers: Flowers and Events by Sergio Venue: Acre

Restaurant Wedding Photography: Anna Gomes Photo Planning and Design: Bliss Events by Bonnie Chase Venue: Sunset da Monalisa Everything you need to know about Baja Sur

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Cabo Wedding

CHECKLIST

by Bonnie Chase, Bliss Events

Packing before a destination wedding is a big task. You’ll probably find yourself in the struggle between not wanting to carry any more than you have to, and not wanting to forget anything important. The best way to prepare for packing is to make a checklist. Here are some recommendations of things you might not have thought to pack.

WARDROBE

If the groom or anyone else is planning to wear a jacket for the ceremony, it’s a good idea to pack an extra dress shirt (especially in the warmer months). If things are just a little sweaty, you can change into a fresh shirt before the reception. You definitely won’t want to have to keep that jacket on all night to hide the wet under arms. Just remember to give the extra shirt to your wedding planner to hang in a safe place during the ceremony and photos so you don’t have to go all the way back to your room.

EmergencyC

Weddings are stressful, and it’s easy to get warn-out. Don’t take a chance on getting sick; load up on Vitamin C! EmergenC packets also make an excellent addition to welcome bags for guests. Try to mix and drink one every morning to keep your skin looking good, and your energy up. Getting full nights of sleep and having a green salad and some fresh fruit will help, too!

SUNBLOCK

Once you’re sunburned, it’s impossible to undo. Take care of your skin in the sun with plenty of sunblock, and even a hat. This checklist item is not just for the bride. Sunburned grooms and bridal party members stick out in photos just as badly as the bride. Keep everyone protected, and don’t forget to reapply!

INVITATIONS

If you sent beautiful invitations to your guests, you probably spent a lot of designing them to perfectly reflect upcoming wedding. Bring one along you to the wedding destination so photographer can photograph it with other wedding details.

time your with your your

A CAMERA

You’re most likely going to have a professional photographer present on the big day, but don’t forget about the fun being had on the days before and after you tie the knot. Don’t rely on your phone for this, because the battery won’t hold up as long when you’re using the camera a lot.

Most digital cameras can take better photos

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than most cell phones, too. You can also take many more photos, and they are safer on a sim card than on your phone. Plus, most cameras are more water resistant than cell phones, and your phone will be safer in your beach bag or hotel room if you’re going out to the beach or pool.

TRAVEL STEAMER

This small, and light-weight tool is an inexpensive way to ensure that everyone is wrinkle-free for the big day. Many hotels will offer pressing services, but every time you move your wedding dress, you’re taking a chance on snags, dirt, stains, burns, and more. With a travel steamer, you can give it a quick once-over right from the room, and share it with others as well. You can order one on Amazon for under $30, and it will come straight to your house. Be sure to give yourself plenty of time for delivery before you depart.

NAIL POLISH

Don’t take a chance on walking down the aisle with a chipped nail. Bring a bottle of your color of choice so that you can do touch-ups if necessary. If you’re having your nails done in your wedding destination you can still bring your own polish for the manicurist to use. It also ensures you end up with the right color in case your nail salon has limited selections.

VOWS

People often save this for last, and often arrive in Los Cabos planning to write them once they get checked in. Then one thing leads to another, it’s suddenly the night before the wedding, and still no vows.

Nothing is more stressful than having such an important part of the wedding ceremony hanging over your head. Don’t put yourself through the stress of procrastinating. Write them ahead of time and email yourself and your wedding planner backup copy.

Once you arrive in Cabo, the only thing that should be left on your check list … Have fun! Don’t get so caught-up in the tasks and planning that you forget this is a celebration of love, family, and friends. Get your checklist checked, and then put your toes in the sand for some fun and relaxation before the big day.

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Cabo Fitness San Jose Frank Arnold Gallery OMNIA Day Club The Velvet Box Jewerly Tienda 17 Wirikuta / La Kermés

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Cabo Fitness San Lucas Beach Blu I.O. Domani Simply Divine Wild Canyon Windermere Real Estate

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E X - PA T C H R O N I C L E S

Into the Temazcal

BY JUST I N PORTER B I EL

I've arrived at Pachamama, a yoga retreat and boutique hotel located just outside of Todos Santos.

I walk down the driveway towards the main entrance and pass half a dozen white, adobe tepees.

Between each of the rooms lay palm trees and rock gardens, and at the end of the driveway, sits a pastel-colored, VW bus. Past guest check-in I enter a dining room with art on the walls and a bookshelf in one corner. I browse the reading material and select a dusty copy of National Geographic before heading outside.

I lay down in a hammock, the woven fabric wrapping around me like a cocoon. I swing smoothly and rhythmically, flipping through the magazine, my body weightless and supported. Calmness settles in my mind, and I breathe deep, glad for a few moments alone before the ceremony officially begins.

Beside the pool four women are chatting, their feet dangling in the cold water. Their manner is tranquil; a silent appreciation is noticeable in the way they look outward and smile at the dunes near the sea. Two of them are photographers, and within minutes they are exploring the space, finding inspiration in the angles, colors, and textures. The other two remain by the pool, talking, relaxing, and waiting.

Just then Rose comes into view, her body smooth and balanced as she walks up the steps to my right. A healer trained in the Laika and Q’ero traditions, she is dark skinned and clothed in white. In one hand she holds a large Eagle’s feather, and in the other, a bundle of sage.

“Its time,” says Rose. “Please, come with me.”

We follow Rose down a staircase towards the Temazcal. The beige, concrete dome sits on a lower patio overlooking an arroyo, and to our west, a large sun casts an orange glow over the Pacific.

Once the group is gathered, Rose opens sacred space. She prays in the four directions, then to mother earth, and then to father sky. She blesses us and covers our bodies in smoke from a burning bundle of sage.

With the ritual completed, she invites us inside the temazcal. I crawl through the door first, move around the outer edge and take the seat closest to the scalding pile of rocks. The other participant’s file in behind me, and then sit cross-legged, backs against the wall. Our shaman Rose is the last inside.

Rose speaks a few words as the group gets settled and then drops a cloth over the exit – a small, angled doorway – and the entire dome goes black.

For the first few moments, there is only silence and darkness, but then a familiar crackling, a bubbling noise, the sound of water turning to steam. A wave of heat pours outward and over everything.

Warmth hits my face and chest, and air burns the rim of each nostril.

Immediately I’m uncomfortable, struggling to adjust to the intense heat as our shaman starts to speak. I fight to calm my breathing, forcing myself to listen carefully to her instructions and words. Rose is telling us about the four gates, and how we will travel through each during the hour-long ceremony ahead. She talks about concepts I genuinely want to understand – shedding misconceptions, relieving the pain of the past, exploring pure love, and learning to alchemize life. Her words help to engage and focus my mind, but the physical discomfort inside the temazcal remains.

By now, my body is now dripping with sweat. My core temperature is rising, and even with the comfort of Rose’s voice, there is no denying the urge – I want to get out of this oven. But just then I remember our shaman’s words from earlier in the day, “Sometimes discomfort in part of the process.”

Our shaman begins to sing and beat a drum, the noise reverberating through the thick, enclosed dome. Her musical vibrations are bold and loud pushing heat and noise around the space. The song is 24

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calm and proud, in a language I don’t understand, and yet the melody mixed with the consistent pounding of percussion, catapults my mind into a heightened, meditative state. In the musical blackness of the room, and the smell of essential oils drifting over me, an abnormal, yet pleasing, out of body experience occurs.

The heat is no longer drowning in the same way. The shaman’s chanting has somehow altered my awareness.

The here and now is gone, impossible to grasp, and the panic from before subsides. I float forward disembodied, passing through the remaining hour in a state of mental transmutation. i A temazcal is a type of sweat lodge originating with the pre-Hispanic indigenous cultures of Mesoamerica. Temazcals have a particularly rich in history in Mexico. Warriors used temazcals after battles, the sick went inside in search of improved health, and sometimes, they were even used in childbirth. Temazcals are a permanent structure, usually built from concrete and volcanic rock in the shape of a dome. To heat a temazcal, volcanic rocks are heated and then placed in a pit in the center of the temazcal, or against a wall. Within the intense heat of a temazcal, the body undergoes feverlike symptoms, allowing participants to shed layers of toxicity, including physical, emotional and spiritual pain.

Ex-Pat Chronicle – Lesson's Learned From The Temazcal Ceremony 1. Real change requires a bit of discomfort.

2. Even in darkness we still have vision.

3. To grow, you must leave your comfort zone.

4. Mind, body, and spirit are separate, and yet deeply connected.

5. Take time to look inside – you never know what you’ll find.

Article Location: Pachamama Mexico - pachamamamexico.com Shaman: The Shaman Rose - theshamanrose.com

About the Author: Leaving his home state of Colorado behind, Justin now calls the beaches of Baja California home. A writer and new expat, he is a resident of Todos Santos, Mexico.

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i n t he SP OT LI G HT:

T H E V E LV E T B O X

JEWELS AND GEMS BOUTIQUE

The Treasure of the Sea of Cortez

The Guaycuras, Pericues and Cochimies, native cultures of Baja California Sur did not practice goldsmithing and therefor showed now interest in pearls. They ate mollusks, but cooked them first, resulting in smoked pearls, blackened objects lacking attractiveness. Unlike the Europeans, who made long and dangerous expeditions searching for the greatly valued gem. One of the main motives that brought Hernan Cortez to the Gulf of California was to discover the wealth of pearls this sea possessed as it had never been looted before.

The pearl embedded in the Royal Crown of England is called The Great Lemon, due to its resemblance with the fruit. Divers from the Ruffo & Gonzalez S. Company found this extraordinary piece in 1883 on a site near the island of San José. The Ruffo family gave the pearl to King Edward VII, successor to the legendary Queen Victoria. The king astonished the best jewelers of the time with the colossal pearl and they all agreed that they had never before seen a similar jewel in all of Europe.

All the European nobility wanted pearls of Mexican origin that were already know as “The Queen among Gems.” Baja California Sur became the World's main pearl producer. Queen Elizabeth I of England, Catherine the Great of Russia, Marie Antoinette (wife of Napoleon Bonaparte) and Princess Eugenie of France (wife of Napoleon III) wore pearls exclusively from Mexico.

Pearls have been the object of desire, ambition and envy of the most powerful people of all times. Cultures have left the testimony of their beauty in books, tombs, sarcophagi and safes. Pearls are a symbol of power, sensuality, beauty and success. Mexican pearls have been the most appreciated throughout history to our present. The pearls of the Sea of Cortez are famous mainly for their colors and the great fame they got with the European nobility. These pearls are preferred as their process is closet to the traditional method, extracting them from the bottom of the sea in a natural way has been a millenary tradition.

This tradition is carried in the veins of South-Californian culture.

It has allowed us to become experts in the process of sea farming and to produce the best pearls in the world. Today you can wear a beautiful Pearl from the Sea of Cortez and enjoy its amazing colors and unparalleled quality. Its fame will make you feel as if you are discovering a treasure of royalty. You can get the most beautiful and special pearls in the world without the need to make long, dangerous expeditions across oceans, you just have to have to courage to visit one of THE VELVET BOX locations.

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Medano Beach

If you’re looking for the action, this is where it is. El Médano (as the locals call it) is a 2-mile stretch of hotels, restaurants and bars, right on the sand. It’s a swimmable and familyfriendly beach with endless options for souvenir shopping. Numerous activities and water sports are available. If you want to take a water taxi to Lover’s Beach, this is the best spot to do it. Its stunning view of Land’s End and the vast entertainment options make this beach a must-see.

Location: In the heart of downtown Cabo San Lucas. The beach is accessible by foot through the east side of the marina or via Avenida del Pescador.

Tips: Be prepared to be approached by souvenir vendors. If you’re not there for the shopping, just respond with “No gracias.” Water sports are available such as jet skis, parasailing, flyboarding, stand-up paddle boarding, kayaking, and more. Visit Lover’s Beach while you’re there.

LOVERS B EAC H

Lover's Beach

Imagine floating in a turquoise bay with pink sand, snorkelling with colorful fish or walking for hundreds of yards in waist-high water, every beach in South Baja offers something unique. Here is a list of the must-see beaches to help you decide which is the one for you or just visit them all!

M E DANO

Getting there is an adventure in itself, due to the fact that it is reachable only by boat, kayak or stand up paddle board. The easiest way is to take a water taxi from the Cabo San Lucas Marina or Medano Beach. Your captain will cruise by the arch and the sea lion rock for some great photo opportunities. Once you arrive, you’ll notice the striking rock formations and caves. Walk to the other side of the rocks and you’ll find yourself looking at the Pacific Ocean; the locals call this Divorce Beach. This side is very dangerous for swimming because of the powerful undertow, so swim on Lover’s Beach only.

Location: Land’s End beside the famous arch. This beach is accessible only by boat.

Tips: There are a couple of vendors who offer beer and water, but you won’t find any other services. An hour or two should be enough time to explore this natural wonderland.

Santa Maria

Santa Maria is a stunning horseshoe cove with coarse coral-colored sand and abundant marine life. Boat excursions and private charters often stop here to enjoy the snorkelling and scuba diving that this National Marine Preserve offers. This familyfriendly beach is relatively secluded; therefore, you rarely run into beach vendors. However, the beach does have brand new bathrooms and palapas.

26 www.DestinoLosCabos.com SANTA M ARI A

Location:

Travelling west from Cabo San Lucas towards San José, follow the sign which reads “Santa María” and exit the highway at Km. 13. Follow the dirt road until you reach the parking area.

Tips: Swim from the shore towards the rocks on the right side of the beach for a great snorkeling experience.

Chileno

Chileno is a very popular location for snorkelling, swimming or just spending the day under the newly-installed palapas. You’ll find tide pools at the east end of the beach and beautiful reefs offering excellent snorkelling and scuba diving. Public restrooms are available and there are plenty of palapas for shade.

Location: Going from Cabo San Lucas towards San José, follow the signs for Chileno Beach Club near Km. 14 of the main highway.

Tips: If you visit Chileno on a weekend, make an effort to arrive early; snorkelling visibility is often better in the mornings, you’ll avoid the mid-day snorkel tours and, if you beat the crowds, you’ll be guaranteed a palapa to yourself for some much-needed shade. Bring snorkelling gear!

Palmilla

Palmilla beach is known for its family-friendly calm waters and a mile-long stretch of beach.

Located within the resort community of Palmilla, you will find yourself surrounded by oceanfront luxury homes, the One&Only Hotel and the world renowned Jack Nicklaus Ocean Nine golf course. Pangas and fishing cruisers are available for charter, but you won’t find water sport rentals such as kayaks or jet skis.

Location: Take the Palmilla ramp exit at Km. 27. Follow the signs and turn into the main beach parking area before the entrance to the One&Only Hotel.

Tips: Palmilla is popular among local families on the weekends, so arrive early if you want a palapa, or bring your own umbrella. No services are available here.

Costa Azul

If what you’re looking for is a good surf spot you can find it here without driving out of town. Head over to Zipper’s for a surf session and lunch and beers at the

DISCOVER restaurant. To the west of Zippers is Acapulquito beach where the Cabo Surf Hotel and Mike Doyle Surf School are located. You can find surf shops in the area where you can rent surf and stand-up paddle boards and set up lessons. The surf is bigger during the summer, and in the winter this is a good spot for snorkelling and swimming.

Location: Exit into the arroyo at Km. 28 via the Costa Azul Bridge.

Tips: Swimming with caution is possible in this area but keep an eye out for surfers.

Cerritos

Cerritos beach is a popular surf spot and swimming here is relatively safe. The scenic 45 minute drive from Cabo San Lucas is well worth the trip as you drive along the pristine Pacific coast. If you want to be active, you can rent a boogie board or surf board or even take a surf lesson with one of the surf schools located on the beach.

Location: Exit at Km. 66 of the Cabo San Lucas to Todos Santos Highway. Watch the markers and look for the signs. Drive about 1.7 miles to the beach area.

Tips: Since there is no public restaurant or other facilities on the beach come prepared for a with food, drinks and beach gear The ocean currents are strong and the waves can be quite powerful on a big day, so swim with caution.

Balandra

A stunning bay that will take your breath away. You can walk back and forth in the bay in waist high water that is crystal clear with shades of blue turquoise. Follow the shore towards the north-east side and you will find the famous “mushroom rock” as well as other interesting rock formations. Pictures just don’t do it justice. You won’t regret visiting Playa Balandra!

Location: About 30 minutes from the boardwalk in La Paz. Simply follow the main drag along the boardwalk, then through Costa Baja Golf Course and continue to wind around the coast and through the mountains until you see the signs for the beach.

Tips: No bathroom facilities. There is a truck where you can buy water and snacks, but it is recommended to bring your own in case they are closed. There are palapas, but not a lot. You can rent kayaks and snorkel gear. i

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Photo courtesy Wild Canyon Adventures

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by Alex Navarro, Adventure Expert

Let’s do some riding this vacation! Go home with a great memory and tell your friends you did some riding while in Cabo. The options are wonderful and boundless here in Baja Sur to do some riding. Anything from riding a wave on a surfboard, to riding a mountain bike in the hills, here are some fun ideas to make your visit a very special one.

Riding the Baja Sur on a rented Harley Davidson motorcycle: See most of the tip of the southern Baja in one day by taking the highway loop composed by Transpeninsular Highway #1 and #19. With DESTINO MAGAZINE you can clearly mark your route by using the nice maps within the publication. Maybe start in Cabo San Lucas and head towards San Jose del Cabo and on to Miraflores and Santiago.

Enjoy a nice stop somewhere for a nurturing breakfast and energizing coffee. Then keep heading to Los Barriles and then pass San Bartolo and San Antonio and arrive at El Triunfo, which is a very nice little town with a lot of history. Then head back south to Todos Santos and ride back to Cabo San Lucas while having the sunset on your right-hand side as the Pacific Ocean enchants you with its beauty. This ride has amazing scenery! You go next to the coast sometimes, then through the desert as the Sierra La Laguna mountain range flanks you and at other points you fully cross these majestic mountains. Maybe rent a BMW dual purpose motorcycle instead if you prefer that type of bike.

Riding a wakeboard in Medano bay: Go for a fun ski boat ride early morning at Medano beach and have some fun wakeboarding in smooth waters. Later in the morning have some delicious breakfast and enjoy one of Cabo’s most iconic beaches.

Riding inflatable beach toys like the famous banana or donut behind a ski boat: Also at Medano beach, have a blast with all your family and friends in this classic activity.

Riding a wave runner: One of the top activities to enjoy and admire Land’s End and the famous arch. There are many companies to choose from right on Medano beach, or also you can book through your hotel concierge.

Riding a skim board at Land’s End: Only for expert skim boarders, this is the place to go. But skim boarding is also great and more tranquil at most other Cabo beaches. You can buy skim boards at many stores throughout Cabo San Lucas.

Riding a motocross or Enduro motorcycle in the Baja desert trails: Hire an outfitter and do one of their tours that will take you literally to the middle of nowhere where you will see the most incredible landscapes.

Riding shotgun in a Baja buggy as one of your adventurous family member drives: Feel the rush of Baja 1000 style buggy racing in the perfect place with the most professional operators. This activity is a fully packed adrenaline rush that you will always remember.

Riding mountain bikes in the trails: Get out there and ride through the beautiful paths Cabo has to offer. If you love to exercise, mountain biking will be the perfect choice to get a great workout before that big party weekend ahead.

Riding a road bike in the beautiful airport toll roads: Also a great experience 28

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to have, as these new roads pass through the amazing outdoors and have many spectacular bridges.

Riding a skateboard at Baja skate parks: We have many cool skate bowls and parks to get some ride time anytime. A couple of the most popular ones are in Pescadero town in the Pacific Side, and the other one is on the main highway in San Jose del Cabo near downtown.

Riding a cruiser skateboard in downtown San Jose: We have a brand-new plaza in downtown San Jose and there are also some great sidewalks to cruise around. Here you can also ride around in roller skates.

Riding a cruiser rental bicycle in the new “ciclovia”: We also have a brand new designated bike path in San Jose del Cabo. It is fantastic and passes through beautiful spots.

Riding on a downhill skateboard: For the most adrenaline seeking person, there are many hills around Cabo to do some downhill. Some cool spots are the road that leads to the electric plant near Cabo Real and also the new paved road that leads out to the East Cape.

Riding on a surfboard: The all-time classic activity here in the Baja! It is the perfect thing to do to go home rejuvenated and with a great story to tell of great waves ridden or maybe even of having learned to surf. Here within the magazine you will find a list and information regarding top surf breaks around.

Riding a kite board and windsurfing: Two very rewarding and challenging experiences and best of all is that we have world class spots for them. Head out and make a full day trip to Los Barriles or make a few days adventure to La Ventana. Both have the best instructors and facilities.

Riding on a horse: The beaches and trails in this paradise destination are idyllic for a magical experience horseback riding along with your loved ones.

Riding a camel: Imagine how much fun this will be! For sure a very different adventure that will leave lasting memories.

Riding on an ATV/UTV: Another one of the all-time favorite activities here.

There are so many different off-road adventures you can do, for example some go on the sand dunes and others go into mountain trails and dry river beds. This is guaranteed fun in nature!

Riding on an ultra-light delta wing: Take off from the beach and get a bird’s eye view of the gorgeous coastline. For sure you will spot many sea animals and maybe even some whales. This is the ultimate way to observe the astounding contrast between the bright blue waters of the Sea of Cortez and the sandy tones of the desert landscape.

Riding high on life: Well, after doing any of these exhilarating adventures and activities you will be feeling great and ready for your next challenge in life.

So, have a great time riding Cabo and hope you come back soon for more fun in the sun! Thanks as always for choosing Los Cabos for your unforgettable vacation and please take care.

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the

GUARDIANS of the

OCEAN

by Mar i l i a Ol i o, Mar ine Biolog ist and guid e at C ab o Trek Humpback whales have became famous to be the superheroes of the ocean and the reason remains unclear. There have been at least 115 documented sightings of rescues made by humpback whales since 1951 and recent reports suggest that humpbacks have intervened to save their own calves, as well as California sea lions, ocean sunfish, harbor seals, and gray whales. In nearly 90 percent of cases, the humpbacks seemed to show up after the orcas had already begun to hunt, suggesting that humpbacks are not defending themselves but actively choosing to interact with hungry orcas.

One of this cases happened in Antarctic in 2009. Several killer whales were trying to catch a Weddell seal that had taken refuge atop a drifting patch of Antarctic ice when a pair of humpback whales turned up. As the panicked seal swam toward them, a lucky wave tossed it onto the chest of the closer, upturned whale. The whale arched its chest out of the water, which kept the seal away from the charging killer whales. And when the seal started to fall off, the whale carefully pushed it back onto its chest with a flipper. Soon after that, the seal scrambled to safety on another ice floe.

In 2012, researchers observed a pod of killer whales attacking a gray whale and its calf in Monterey Bay, California. Two humpback whales were already on the scene as the killer whales, or orcas, attacked the grays. After a struggle, the calf was killed. But after the calf had been killed, around 14 more humpbacks arrived—seemingly to prevent the orcas from eating the calf. One of those humpbacks was sighted in Cabo in March of 2017.

And the most recently case happened last year when a marine biologist was saved by a humpback whale in Cook islands. She was shocked when, on this dive, one of the animals swam up to her and began to nudge her with its head and cover her with its pectoral fin.

Unsure why the humpback was acting this way and easily overpowered by the creature, the marine biologist decided to stay still and let the whale call the shots. After 10 minutes of carefully dancing with the whale, when she climbed on board, she understood what the graceful giant was trying to tell her: a large tiger shark. The whale’s proximity saved her from a potential attack.

So are humpbacks compassionate? To fully understand the complexities of these interactions, a lot more research is needed. Meanwhile, you can Be a Cabo Trek guest and witness these gentle animals in their environment here. i

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DISCOVER

ALL THAT'S FISHY From Land's End to La Paz

M O N T H LY F I SH I N G R E P O RT by Gar y Gra ham

Welcome to Los Cabos! The sportfishing, along with our spring-like weather, are world famous and this month allows them both to show strut their “stuff”. While late winter storms raged throughout the U. S., our daytime temperatures averaged somewhere in the mid- to high-70s.

There are numerous catches to pursue this month – whether trophy, personal best or bucket list – the desired species can often be located just a few miles outside of the IGY Marina. Whether one favors quantity or quality, many days the goal can be achieved close enough for the luxury hotels dotting Land’s End to be clearly visible.

The variety is stunning. Roosterfish are often spotted on the surface following their next meal and when successful, joining in the feeding frenzy are several different species in the jack family including pompano, yellowfin tuna, skipjack, bonito, as well as the toothy sierra mackerel and other fish that travel in packs.

When fishing for these predators, live bait – caballito, mackerel or sardina – all work as well as do the many different lures trolled or even cast-and-retrieved rapidly when the fish are gorging on the surface. The sierra is an essential ingredient for the fresh ceviche that most restaurants are willing to prepare.

Another early-April option is bottom fishing around some of the pinnacles that jut up toward the surface, many several hundred feet from the bottom below. Just a handful of miles to the north, on the Pacific side below Cabo Falso, the pinnacles are easy to spot in the waters below the famous lighthouse.

This is where a host of species can be found, tough as the terrain they call home. Assorted rockfish, snapper, grouper, yellowtail, and amberjack are just some of the fish you can expect to catch. Just understand, they are all big and tough competitors that won’t come to the boat without an epic fight.

Farther offshore are many different banks where billfish, larger tuna, wahoo and dorado can be found. However, so far this month, the conditions haven’t been quite right and unless an angler is into long boat rides, the inshore fishery offers more variety and volume.

If you’re looking for a “big, bad, rough and tough” challenge, heading left out of the marina up towards the Gordo Banks is the best choice; this is where the larger yellowfin tuna lurk. Recent reports are of 20- to 50-pounders, as well as an occasional 100-pounder being caught. Plus, there is always a chance for a wahoo, one of the fastest swimming fish in the ocean and a popular favorite at the table. Although it’s a 20-mile boat ride, there are almost always a few whales, porpoise schools and other marine wildlife to view along the way.

Farther up into the Sea of Cortez near East Cape and La Paz, seasonal north winds can be a nuisance this time of year. Many days they prevent the local fleet from being able to leave the dock; however, when the winds back off, boats have been returning with flags fluttering from their outriggers, signifying catches and in some cases, catch and releases of billfish, tuna, and wahoo as well as a few dorado.

One other option available at both East Cape and Cabo San Lucas is a guided trip fishing from shore with spin or fly tackle.

Catches can be impressive, as demonstrated

by Stephen Jansen, local tackle shop owner and guide, who caught a chunky African pompano from the shore. i

Everything you need to know about Baja Sur

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ART & CULTURE

P U E BLO MÁG I CO

A “Pueblo Mágico” is a designation appointed by the Mexican Government to a region of Mexico known for its natural beauty, cultural riches, and historical relevance.

JARDIN ALQUIMIA is the newest bar to join the Todos Santos nightlife scene.

Located beside Casa Tota Hotel on Calle Obregón, you enter the bar by walking through two wooden doors and down a dimly lit hallway. Past the curated photo exhibit, you’ll find an open-air courtyard, and this is where the space really comes alive. Jardin Alquimia is a carefully constructed bar, a balanced merger of natural materials and clean aesthetic design. Inside is a plethora of vegetation and plant life, exposed stone and brick walls, wood tables, and an L-shaped, concrete bar. In one corner orange embers flicker from within a brick oven, and on the other side of the courtyard, soft lighting hangs over a raised stage.

While Todos Santos is a town full of nightlife and culinary delights, the team at Jardin Alquimia has created something distinctive and new. They offer some of the best cocktails in town alongside an authentic passion for food. The laid-back vibe of Jardin Alquimia is a perfect compliment to the Baja lifestyle.

After his initial visit, Destino writer Justin Biel caught up with Jorge Ochoa Acuña to learn more Jardin Alquimia.

I love what you have created with Jardin Alquimia, Jorge. Tell me a little about the team behind Todos Santo’s newest bar.

There are 4 of us, and we ́re all partners. Carlos Ramón Puerto is the master mixologist, Juan David Orozco is the exotic Colombian Chef, and Miguel Angel Ochoa is the main owner & designer.

Opening a new location in Todos Santos, how important was it to create a good vibe for your guests?

We like to think that everything spins around good vibes. Jardin Alquimia is a relaxed and friendly place. The patio itself is beautiful, and it has different vibes for guests to enjoy. You can have a fun night with lots of friends and funky cocktails, or a private chat with your loved one paired with a couple of glasses of our beautiful Spanish Grenache.

What do you specialize in at Jardin Alquimia?

We specialize in mixology. We took months developing the menu to be sure we were 100% happy with it. Our cocktail menu is inspired by the four basic elements of alchemy: earth, water, fire & wind. Every single cocktail we serve has a particular inspiration, and the ingredients are all carefully chosen. For example, fire cocktails have spices and intensely flavorful ingredients, earth concoctions utilize nutritious greens, water cocktails highlight seaweed and balancing flavors, and for wind cocktails, we use rose petal inspired by how air influences the pollination of flowers.

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Whoa? I had no idea the thought process behind the cocktail menu was that in depth?

Yes, we take our cocktails pretty seriously.

What about the food menu?

At first, we tried to keep the food simple. For the first month, we only had three different tapas every day. But after a while, people came back requesting dishes from the nights before. Now we have a menu of seven bar food favorites.

Do you have any favorite dishes?

I enjoy the Barley Risotto made with Grana Padano cheese. There’s also a perfectly cooked, brick oven Cochinita Pibil Slider and a daily Fresh Catch Ceviche.

I noticed the stage in the corner of the courtyard. Do you have plans to host musicians on certain nights?

We have Latin Jazz music every Monday night. We also have a few performance dates scheduled for February & March that we ĺ l be soon.

There is a lot of attention to detail and artistic flair – both in the mixology, interior design, food, and especially the photography exhibit. Why is art such a significant influence at Jardin Alquimia?

Our slogan is "Art & Cocktails." One of our partners, Miguel Ochoa, is a fantastic outdoors designer, but also a musician and admirer of art. Juan, Carlos, and I also appreciate art in different ways. At the most fundamental level, each one of us has a lot of passion for what we do: cooking, mixing cocktails, music, and serving people. The influence of art is an essential part of who we are. It was only natural that art would be an inspiration in the development process of Jardin Alquimia.

You have undoubtedly succeeded at integrating art in the overall ethos of your location, which is really great. What else makes Jardin Alquimia stand out?

We created the food and drinks with a lot of forethought, which makes them unique. We also provide space for artists to show their work, regardless of the style, which is a great way to tie back into the community of artists in Todos Santos. However, above all, the people that come to Jardin Alquimia are what really make it special. The majority of our guests are locals, and they come here two or three times a week to share in the good vibes. We also have a lot of curious tourists who walk through the gallery to find us and mingle. So, it's the people, and we love it. i Jardin Alquimia is located in Todos Santos, adjacent to Casa Tota Hotel on Calle Álvaro Obregón. Follow them on Facebook @JardinAlquimia.

Public Education in Mexico: guaranteed, but not free of cost

by International Community Foundation

In the United States, Mexico and many countries in the world, access to education is considered an inherent right of every child. In many of these countries the government funds and operates public schools to offer a free education to every child, regardless of race, socioeconomic status, or any other demographic. Under the provisions of the 1993 General Education Law in Mexico, the Federal Government continues to oversee the general implementation of education, but the states are given complete responsibility for administrating basic education. While there is no tuition in primary or junior high school (kindergarten through the U.S. equivalent of 9th grade) at a stateadministered public school, students’ families are required to provide uniforms, school supplies, transportation, and occasionally textbooks for their children to attend school. For a low-income family, these costs can become prohibitively expensive, particularly if they have more than one school-age child.

Meanwhile, in many states in Mexico, federally-certified but independently operated high schools (preparatorias) are often the only option for continuing an education beyond junior high school. While the federal government eventually intends to roll-out public high schools across the country, in states like Baja California Sur, independent general education and technical schools are currently the only option. These schools are overseen and certified by the Secretariat of Public Education (SEP), but charge a nominal tuition in addition to requiring students to cover the costs of their school supplies and relevant resources. For example, in a technical hospitality school, students might be expected to bring the ingredients that will be used in their cooking classes.

Again, for a low-income family, these expenses can be prohibitive and require a strong conviction that continuing their

education will help to advance their future opportunities in life. This connection between education and employability is another challenge, and can be a tough sell when there is a financial investment required, not to mention the opportunity cost to the family of their young adult not working to help provide for the family.

Meanwhile, a 2013 study comparing the education rankings of 34 members of the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) and 10 other non-OECD states reported that Mexico ranked first in high school dropouts for youth aged 15 to 18 and last in expected graduation of university students pursuing bachelor’s degrees; it also ranked third in minors who neither study nor work, at 28% of all youth between 17-28 years of age.

As a result of these abysmal statistics, hundreds of nonprofit organizations and generous individuals have stepped in to help meet the needs of thousands of young adults in Mexico who wished to continue their education. In Baja California Sur, organizations such as Liga MAC in Los Cabos, the East Cape Guild in Los Barriles, the Palapa Society of Todos Santos, and FANLAP in La Paz offer scholarships to students whose families do not have the economic means to provide the relatively low-cost of school tuition, uniforms, school supplies and transportation (which often amounts to more than the tuition) for their children. Each of these organizations works directly with the local schools to carefully vet their students and families and offer other programs and resources to ensure their success. They are all committed to one common goal: that no child is denied the right to education simply because they can’t afford pencils and notebooks or the proper uniform shirt. i To learn more about the local organizations working to improve educational outcomes in Baja California Sur, look for the BCS Giving Guide at www.donate.icfdn.org or contact Eliza Brennan at: eliza@icfdn.org.

LOS CABOS

Giving Guide Cabo San Lucas / San José del Cabo

Amigos de Los Niños (Friends of the Children) www.adlncabo.org - 624 144 3195 Baja SAFE, Salud de los Animales y Familias con Educación A.C. www.bajasafe.com The Bomberos Voluntarios (Volunteer Fire Department) Cabo San Lucas: 624 143 3577 - San José del Cabo: 624 142 2466.

Building Baja's Future www.buildingbajasfuture.org - 624 355 4314 Casa Hogar de Cabo San Lucas, A.C. www.casahogarcabo.com - 624 123 1285 Gala de Danza A.C. www.galadedanza.com Gente Joven Por Un Cambio, A.C. www.gentejovenac.org H+ Foundation Fund www.donatricfdn.org Liga M.A.C., A.C. (Mexican American Canadian League) www.ligamac.org - 624 120 1060 Los Cabos Children's Foundation, A.C. www.loscaboschildren.org - 624 157 3851 Los Cabos Humane Society www.loscaboshumanesociety.com - 624 129 8346 Los Niños del Capitán, A.C. www.losninosdelcapitan.com - 624 173 3807 Mobilize Mankind www.mobilizemankind.org - 624 129 8223 Red Autismo www.redautismo.org - 624 166 8186 Sarahuaro www.sarahuaro.org - 624 122 4955 Solmar Foundation Fund www.solmarfoundation.com Vifac BCS www.vifac.org - 624 688 5062, 01 800 362 2207

East Cape

Amigos para la Conservacion de Cabo Pulmo, A.C. (ACCP) www.cabopulmoamigos.com East Cape Community Urgent Care Clinic, A.C. www.eastcapemedical.com East Cape Guild www.eastcapeguild.com

Todos Santos

The Palapa Society Todos Santos, A.C. www.palapasociety.org Todos Santos Community Fund www.donate.icfdn.org

La Paz

Centro Mujeres, A.C. www.centromujeres.org Como Vamos La Paz, A.C. www.comovamoslapaz.com Fundación Ayuda Niños La Paz, A.C. (FANLAP) www.lapazninos.org Fundación Cántaro Azul, A.C. www.cantaroazul.com - Water and environmental solutions.

La Paz Community fund www.donateicfdn.org Pelagios Kakunjá www.Pelagioskakunja.org Raíz de Fondo Jardines y Educación, A.C. www.raizdefondo.org

Magdalena Bay

Vigilantes de Bahía Magdalena, A.C. Facebook: @vigilantes.bahiamagdalena

Loreto

Eco-Alianza de Loreto, A.C. www.ecoalianzaloreto.org

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ART & CULTURE Neysa Quintana is a professionally trained educator, hairstylist and make-up artist living and working in Los Cabos. She started Blanc On-location Bridal Salon & Training Academy in 2007. When she first arrived in Cabo, Neysa worked with celebrity clients such as LeAnn Rimes, The Kardashian Sisters, Cindy Crawford and Cameron Diaz. Today, Neysa is focused on her bridal business and her new salon location, which offers color, cuts, hairstyling, blowouts, professional makeup and spray tans. In the future, Neysa plans on bringing more education to Cabo for beauty industry professionals. An active member of the Los Cabos community, Neysa is passionate about supporting the sustainability of the beautiful and unique ecosystem in Cabo. To follow Neysa’s work, visit her on Instagram (@BlancbridalsalonCabo) and Facebook (@Blancsaloncabo).

BY JUSTIN PORTER BIEL

NEYSA QUINTANA

I believe I was put on this planet to connect with people. Whether it’s a client sitting in my chair, or someone I meet on the street, I love getting to know people on a deeper level. Over the years I’ve built my business on making women look beautiful, but I truly believe that real beauty begins with a pretty mind and a pretty heart.

How long have you lived in Los Cabos? I moved to Cabo from Colorado in 2006.

What do you love most about your life in the Baja? I love that we have sunshine and beautiful weather almost year round. I grew up in the mountains, so I never knew what it was like to feel so connected to the ocean. Now that I know – I don't think I could ever leave. There's nothing like camping on the East Cape surrounded by stars and the sound of crashing waves. Cabo truly is a magical place!!

What do you do for fun? EVERYTHING! I’m really active; in fact, it's hard for me to sit still. I like to run with my dogs and go to the gym in the mornings. I love being creative, doing yoga, listing to music, hiking, playing volleyball and surfing. I also like to cook and entertain friends.

What do you do to decompress? I work out, get a massage or practice yoga. I also like doing spa days at the Desert Spa at Villa Del Arco with my girlfriends.

What is your favorite beach and why? I have different beaches that I love for different things. I go to Cabo Bello to walk my dogs, La Fortuna or 9 Palms for surfing, and Cerritos for spending time with friends.

What do you do for a living? I own Blanc Bridal Salon. We specialize in onlocation luxury salon services for brides and bridal parties. Recently we opened a new hair salon that focuses on beauty services for locals too.

Our team of American and Canadian trained stylists specializes in the latest trends and techniques for hair color and precision haircutting. We offer color, men and women’s cuts, professional makeup, blowouts, hairstyling and spray tanning.

What are you most proud of? I am most proud of my styling team. All of our stylists have completed an extensive training program, and they approach each project with enthusiasm, commitment, integrity, and quality. I’m passionate about empowering my team - not just at work, but in everything they do. One of the most rewarding things is seeing our team evolve, not only as stylists but also as human beings. I love being able to support and promote their success.

Why did you choose to start your business here? Cabo is one of the most sought-after wedding destinations in the world - it only made sense. The services we provide are very specialized, and Cabo’s booming wedding market is the perfect location.

Why do so many couples get married in Los Cabos? I think people enjoy destination weddings because it allows couples to have a more intimate wedding. It also gives guests time to get to know each other over the course of a few days, as opposed to a few hours. Add to that our white sand beaches, perfect weather, and the question becomes - why wouldn’t you get married in Cabo?

What advice would you give a couple considering a destination wedding?

Hire a good wedding coordinator and make sure you secure your date for the hotel, photographer, and hair and makeup right away.

What has your time in Los Cabos taught you about life? In addition to teaching me patience, it’s taught me how to think outside of the box. I’ve learned to trust life and trust my instincts. It’s also taught me how to be resilient, not give up, and how to evolve in a constantly changing market.

Also, after experiencing Hurricane Odile, I realize now how fragile life is, and how everything can change in a moment. Money and business come in waves, people come and go, life changes. I've learned to be present with the people you love because nothing lasts forever, and that’s what makes each moment so precious.

the

ART WALK

in the Gallery District www.artcabo.com

Enjoy complimentary wine and art every Thursday from 5 pm to 9 pm from November to June.

View art as you stroll the enchanting streets of the Gallery District in downtown San José del Cabo. Later, end your evening with a dining experience at one of the many exquisite restaurants in the area.

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OUT & ABOUT

by Just i ne Sch o c k , y o u r g u i d e t o t h e Cabo Social Scene CALVIN HARRIS. Photo by Conor Mcdonnell.

OMNIA OPENING WEEKEND. Photo by Joe Janet.

Thursday, February 22 kicked off the weekend with an exclusive invitation only party.

Guests enjoyed complimentary appetizers and cocktails while exploring the property and enjoying all that Vidanta has to offer. Immediately upon entering the resort, I was in awe of the stunning architecture and design. It is truly an experience Los Cabos has not seen before! Though the evening was chilly, the atmosphere was alive with excited guests, moody pink and purple lighting and heart-pounding music.

Friday, February 23 brought the Orange Carpet to Cabo with appearances by world-class DJ’s Steve Aoki and Zedd, Chefs Bryan Malarkey, Alex Branch, and Geno Bernardo, and the girls from OMNIA Las Vegas. Later in the evening, Hakkasan Group resident Steve Aoki gave an energy packed show during which he jumped into the crowd and debuted his new song with Carnage called “Plur Genocide”. Saturday personified OMNIA’s dayto-night concept with an afternoon performance by Zedd, complete with champagne showers and gorgeous girls in bikinis, followed by a sold-out show by Grammy Awardwinning artist Calvin Harris that had people dancing into the early hours of the morning.

OMNIA LOS CABOS DAYCLUB Mexico’s first OMNIA Dayclub opened last month inside the Vidanta Los Cabos Resort (previously known as the Grand Mayan) in San Jose del Cabo.

The Hakkasan Group and Grupo Vidanta have successfully created the ultimate new entertainment district in Los Cabos, which includes OMNIA Dayclub along with Casa Calavera (an authentic Mexican beachside restaurant with a trendy sugar skull theme), Herringbone (a “Fish Meats Field” California coastal cuisine concept), and SHOREbar Los Cabos (serving hand-crafted cocktails and tasty bites from a signature vintage van). The three-day grand opening extravaganza included performances by big names in the DJ world including Steve Aoki, Zedd, and Calvin Harris.

For those not familiar with the name, the Hakkasan Group is well known for their unparalleled luxury nightlife offerings and unique dining experiences throughout the world. OMNIA is part of the Hakkasan International brand with popular day and nightclubs in Las Vegas, San Diego, Jakarta, Bali and now Los Cabos. This new OMNIA location boasts a central pool, large center bar with palapa roof, pool side daybeds, private cabanas, and two 2-story VIP bungalows with private infinity plunge pools and incredible views of the Sea of Cortez. Upon entering the impressive, sophisticated and recently remodeled Vidanta property, guests pass through the architectural OMNIA skywalk and down a grand staircase to the Dayclub, as well as Casa Calavera, Herringbone and SHOREbar.

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OMNIA successfully packed the house all three nights of their opening weekend and ended each evening with a spectacular fireworks show. OMNIA is open to the public daily from 11:00am to close. Look for my article about Herringbone next month! For more information regarding OMNIA Dayclub, please visit omniaclubs.com/los-cabos @OmniaLosCabos

CALVIN HARRIS. Photo by Conor Mcdonnell.

Vidanta Los Cabos Ribbon Cutting Ceremony.

Michel Beuffe-Vidanta President of Operations (Left), Nick McCabe-Hakkasan Group CEO (Right). Photo by Joe Janet.

ZEDD and STEVE AOKI Orange Carpet.

Photo by Joe Janet.

STEVE AOKI. Photo by Joe Janet.

OUT & ABOUT

6TH LOS CABOS CHEESE & WINE FESTIVAL The 6th Los Cabos Cheese and Wine Festival was held on Saturday March 10 in the Hacienda Ballroom at the Sheraton Los Cabos Hacienda Del Mar. This well attended (and sold out) event benefited the Los Cabos Children’s Foundation. The night was a wine and cheese lover’s dream with more than 100 wine labels for tasting (with very generous pours) and over 100 varieties of national and international cheese. For only $999 pesos (about $55 USD) guests enjoyed unlimited wine, cheese, cured meats, pizza, breads, passed desserts, ice cream and more while listening to a live band who played popular hits all night long. This was my first time attending the event and it was one of the most enjoyable nights I’ve had all year! The ballroom was set up strategically with food and drink stations spread throughout the room, which allowed guests to wander about and mingle with friends and the wine and cheese experts. Participating wine producers and distributers included Baja Wines, Casa Madero, El Cielo, Enomancia, The Wine Co, Vinoteca, Viña de Frannes, Viparmex and Wine Planet. Aside from all the delicious wine, my favorite bite of the night was the mouthwatering goat cheese ice cream. If anyone knows where I can purchase it locally, you will have a new customer for life. Needless to say, this event has been added to my Cabo “must do” list for many years to come! @SheratonLosCabos

@harveychometsky

@visitcabomexico

DESTINO SOCIAL: Do you know a business that should be featured?

Contact: Justine@DestinoLosCabos.com

@DestinoMagazine @DestinoLosCabos #DestinoLosCabos

@amigosdelmarcabo

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OUT & ABOUT

APRIL2018 EVENTS 1

FAMILY EASTER BRUNCH AND EGG HUNT AT FLORA FARMS

Enjoy a special Easter Brunch at Flora's Field Kitchen from 10:00am-2:00pm while your little ones partake in a farm style egg hunt! Tickets cost $85usd per person plus tax (children up to 12 years old are only $35usd plus tax) and includes a variety of eggs, pastries, potatoes, casseroles, pancakes, desserts and more! Reservations are required. Please email reservations@flora-farms.com.

5-12

EQUESTRIAN MEXICAN BALLET

Experience a traditional Mexican “Charreria,” a competitive event similar to a rodeo. This kid friendly event includes charros, contests, folk dances, and lots of fun! Tickets cost $80usd per person for the show only, $130usd for show and Mexican buffet, and $170usd for the all-inclusive package. All packages include transportation. For more information visit www.facebook. com/dunebuggycabo.

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THE ROOFTOP PRESENTS: BELANOVA

On the 6th edition of The Rooftop Presents, The Cape, a Thompson Hotel brings you the popular Mexican pop band Belanova for the first time in Cabo san Lucas, where you can enjoy with a rooftop view accompanied by dinner and open bar. For more information call (624) 163-0000, 01 (800) 508-4322 or from the US: 1 (844) 778-4322 or email thecapeevents@thompsonhotels.com.

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13TH ANNUNAL PAWS 'N CLAWS OPEN GOLF TOURNAMENT

The Los Cabos Humane Society brings you the 13th Annual Open Golf Tournament and BBQ, an event with a great cause since this is a non-profit organization whose sole purpose is to help and protect all of the homeless animals in Los Cabos. This event will once again take place in the 18-hole golf course of Palmilla followed by a BBQ by Acre Restaurant at the Outdoor Event Center in La Playita. For more information call 172-6349 or email tropimargarita@prodigy.net.mx.

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chefs of the area are getting together to cook to help support surgeries for kids of limited resources with Strabismus, also known as crossed eyes. The cost of the dinner is $850 pesos. To purchase your ticket, visit Cabo Hats or GYMBOREE Tezal.

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LOS CABOS OPEN WATER CHALLENGE 2018

Watch kayak and swimming contestants compete in one of three individual distance challenges: 14.2 kilometers starting at 7:00am at Palmilla Beach, 7.2 kilometers departing at 8am at El Ganzo Beach Club in Puerto Los Cabos, and 2 kilometers starting at 9:00am at Palmilla Beach. For more information visit www.masnatacion.com.

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LOS CABOS FIREHILL TRAIL RACE COSTA AZUL

Cabo Sport invites you to experience an amazing trail race of 10k or 15k in some of the most breathtaking landscapes that Cabo San Lucas has to offer. For more information and tickets visit www.cabosport.ticketbud.com.

MATOMA AT OMNIA DAYCLUB LOS CABOS

Don't miss the beats of this Norwegian DJ and record producer at the exclusive Omnia Dayclub Los Cabos.

TACO FEST 2018

El Rincón Culinario at Casa Dorada Hotel presents Taco Fest 2018. Enjoy the tastiest tacos in Los Cabos, while participating chefs compete for first place. Tickets cost $399 pesos which includes tacos and unlimited wine until it’s gone! For more information visit www.facebook.com/ElRinconCulinario or call (624) 163-5764.

ONGOING EVENTS MONDAYS: Stargazing /Astronomy programs.

Reservation in advance is required. bajastargazing@gmail.com (624)129-8701 WEDNESDAYS: The Wirikuta Show www.thewirikuta.com THURSDAYS: Stargazing /Astronomy programs Reservation in advance is required. bajastargazing@gmail.com (624)129-8701 San Jose del Cabo Art Walk 5:00 pm FRIDAYS: Art Expo on the Cabo San Lucas Marina 5:00 pm - 10:00 pm Farmer’s Market at the Shoppes at Palmilla 9:00 am - 1:00 pm www.facebook.com/TheShoppesPalmilla SATURDAYS: San José del Cabo Organic Market 9:00 am - 3:00 pm - sanjomo.org La Kermés at Wirikuta 1:00 pm to 8:00 pm The Los Cabos Organic Market at Pedregal 7:30 am - 12:00 pm - www.facebook.com/ caboorganicmarket Bird walks at San Jose Estuary Reservation in advance is required. birdingloscabos@gmail.com (624)151-1565 SUNDAYS: Ciclovia Recreativa Cabo From 7:00 - 11:00 am a section of the main street in Cabo San Lucas closes for bikers and skaters. Great for kids!

EVERY DAY: Omnia Dayclub Los Cabos Starting at 11:00 am.

CHEFS X LOS CABOS 2018

Cachet Beach Club presents Chefs X Los Cabos 2018 in conjunction with Vatel Club Baja California Sur and the Cabo San Lucas Rotario Club. Some of the most well-known Everything you need to know about Baja Sur

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OUT & ABOUT

ADVENTURE

GOLF

MEDICAL

Arco Charters +52 (624) 240 1168 arcocharters@gmail.com arcocharters.com Buccaneer Queen +52 (624) 144 4217/18 Cabo Flyboard caboflyboard.com +52 (624) 143-0146 Pez Gato Cruises MX +52 (624) 143 3797 pezgato.com Running Tours Los Cabos +52 (624) 122 4553 hello@runningtours.com runningtoursloscabos.com Sea Cabo Activities OFFICE +52 (624) 143 2227 CELL +52 (624) 1598517 info@seacaboactivities.com Sun Rider Tours sunridertours.com +52 (624) 143-2252 Wild Canyon wildcanyon.com.mx.destinomagazine

Danzante Bay at the Islands of Loreto danzantebay.com US (844) 622 0799

Farmacia Dermatologica (Dermatology Pharmacy) +52 (624) 143 5111 farmaciaenloscabos@hotmail. com The Drip Spa +52 (624) 144 3460 connect@thedripspa.com.mx thedripspa.com.mx

ART GALLERIES Frank Arnold Art +52 (624) 142 4422 US (559) 301 1148 FrankArnoldArt.com

ENTERTAINMENT Cabo Wabo cabowabocantina.com Destino Magazine Los Cabos +52 (624) 105 9700/142 4949 advertising@destinoloscabos.com contact@destinoloscabos.com destinoloscabos.com Omnia Day Club omnialoscabos.com Wirikuta thewirikuta.com +52 (624) 131-3131 XPat Radio xpatradio.mx

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HOME Columbia Export Group Cabo San Lucas (624) 173 0033/1730015 La Paz (612) 123 2324/123 2325 US (619) 710 1863 Ext. 302/306 Simply Divine +52 (624) 131 3553 simplydivinecabo.com Tienda 17 +52 (624) 105 2323/142 2121 tienda17@hotmail.com

HOTELS Cachet Beach Hotel +52 (624) 105 1794 Villa del Palmar Beach Resort & Spa a the Islands of Loreto US (800) 838 2662 reservaciones.vdpl@vgloreto.com villadelpalmrloreto.com

SHOPPING Beach Blu +52 (624) 688-6729 Cabo Wabo cabowabocantina.com Columbia Export Group Cabo San Lucas (624) 173 0033/1730015 La Paz (612) 123 2324/123 2325 US (619) 710 1863 Ext. 302/306 Frank Arnold Art +52 (624) 142 4422 US (559) 301 1148 FrankArnoldArt.com I.O. Domani +52 (624) 688-6720 iodomani.com The Velvet Box Jewels and Gems Boutique +52 (624) 105-1315

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RESTAURANTS

Cabo Wabo - Mexican cabowabocantina.com Desperados - Tex Mex/Mexican +52 (624) 165 7770/143 4331 desperadoscabos@hotmail.com desperdoscabo.letseast.at La Dolce - Italian Cabo San Lucas (624) 143 4122 San Jose del Cabo (624) 142 6621 restaurantladolce.com

REAL ESTATE Danzante Bay at the Islands of Loreto US (844) 622 0799 danzantbay.com REmexico Real Estate US 1-619-600-5559 info@caborealestate.com caborealestate.com The Paraiso Residences MX +52 (624) 144-3231 US/Canada (650) 761-2226

SPAS/FITNESS Cabo Fitness Club +52 (624) 105 9600/105 2009 cabofitnessclub.com The Drip Spa +52 (624) 144 3460 connect@thedripspa.com.mx thedripspa.com.mx

TRANSPORTATION Impala Cabo Transportation +52 (624) 173 1476 info@impalacabo.com impalacabo.com

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