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COVER ART: BILLY AL BENGSTON, RIDERS OF DESTINY, 1966
ART OF INSIDE “MADE IN L.A.” AT THE HAMMER STELLA MCCARTNEY MISTY COPELAND DOES DOROTHY CHANDLER MEET L.A.’S ART “IT BOY” JESSICA BIEL’S NEW CLUB FOR KIDS CABO IS BACK, BABY!
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BRAVO, CABO CABO IS BACK, BABY! FOR YOUR NEXT WEEKEND GETAWAY, HEAD SOUTH OF THE BORDER FOR A DIFFERENT KIND OF ADVENTURE...
¡Sí se puede! Just a quick two-hour hop from LA, Los Cabos has gotten in touch with its natural (read: beautiful) side to attract a more sophisticated, activity-mad clientele.
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Known for its wild party scene (Señor Frogs, Cabo Wabo), the city that sits between the Sea of Cortez and the Pacific Ocean is no longer just a Spring Break destination. With luxury amenities and sporty activities galore, rediscover a healthobsessed Mexico via the new (and improved!) Cabo. Whether you’re staying on the San José del Cabo or Cabo San Lucas side of the peninsula, stay active at one of the many luxury resorts dotting the white sand beaches. Head to the One and Only Palmilla (oneandonlyresorts .com/one-and-only-palmilla-loscabos) for sun-and-fun-soaked activities such as watersports (kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, snorkeling) and deep-sea fishing—Los Cabos is known as the “Marlin Capital of the World” and offers more than 800 species of game fish. This summer, the city also plays host to the 20th annual Stars & Stripes Tournament (June 23–26), a four-day golf, fishing, and music festival. If you’re looking to up the sports ante, get your engines revved with Esperanza Resort’s (esperanza.aubergeresorts.com) off-roading activities such as the Baja 1000 Desert Racing, a day of auto careening like a pro. Or swim with whale sharks alongside guides who will whisk you on an eight-hour day trip to La Paz, where these gentle giants—up to 40 feet long!—feed on plankton.
PHOTOGRAPHY BY JENNI SHAI/EYEEM/GETTY IMAGES. OPPOSITE PAGE: NICKOLAS SARGENT (YOGA); TOM SERVAIS (CURRAN); SOFT LIGHT (SWIMMING)
BY RAMONA SAVISS
Hit the waves—or watch professionals, like Tim Curran (ƩƢƜƭƮƫƞƝ)—at surf-ready Monuments Beach at The Cape hotel. ƥƞƟƭ: In addition to all manner of watersports and activities, find your om at the One and Only Palmilla.
Forget jet skis and golf—daily activities at the Esperanza Resort include desert racing adventures and swimming with whale sharks off the coast of La Paz (ƥƞƟƭ).
For more day-tripping, take a dip in the Sea of Cortez with Las Ventanas al Paraiso’s (rosewoodhotels .com/en/las-ventanas-loscabos) Surf in Paradise summer excursion. The outing takes you on a 4x4 Jeep expedition to explore the East Cape coast via Nine Palms, Shipwrecks, and La Fortuna (the three popular surf breaks in the region) for lessons by expert instructors followed by a picnic lunch with a desert backdrop—perfect for those #SundayFunday selfies. If riding waves is more your forte, The Cape (thompsonhotels.com/hotels/ The-Cape-Los-Cabos) offers mucho serene surf retreats, where you can catch waves alongside surfing pros such as Tim Curran and Damien Hobgood. Turf more your style? Gear up for the The Los Cabos Tennis Open (August 8–13) with activities at The Resort at Pedregal, such as private tennis clinics at the property’s two Laykold-surfaced courts (the hard court surface on the ATP Tour) that overlook the Cabo San Lucas Marina and Sea of Cortez. And with a slate of new hotels popping up soon, including the Montage Hotel (montagehotels.com/ destinations/loscabos) in 2017 and the Four Seasons Resort Los Cabos at Costa Palmas (costa palmas.com) along with a Robert Trent Jones II 18-hole golf course, in 2018, there are plenty of primo sporty things to do until the Mexican sun sets. Olé!
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Concierge LOS ANGELES
FALL/WINTER 2016/17
WHISKEY
Renaissance
LOCAL LOUNGES DEDICATED TO THE SPIRIT
+
GUIDE TO THE ARTS DISTRICT TOP-RATED TACOS HIGH-END ACTIVEWEAR
DESTINATIONS
The New
CABO
Luxury resorts and world-class restaurants are changing the landscape of Los Cabos, Mexico. BY STEVE ZEPEZAUER
I
was met seamlessly just outside the final sliding door of the airport. It had been more than a decade since my last trip to Cabo San Lucas, Mexico, and I was looking forward to seeing “the new Cabo.” After hearing and reading so much about the new developments, the recent arrivals of numerous luxury hotel brands and the growing culinary scene, it seemed to me that the once go-to destination for fishing and partying was all grown up. We begin the 35-minute drive toward our final destination and my glaringly courteous driver adjusts the volume of the music playing in our immaculate Cadillac Escalade. I immediately recognize the one-of-a-kind harmonies spilling out of the speakers and read the name of the album playing on the stereo: “Bee Gees - Their Greatest Hits (Disc 1).” I smile and hum “Jive Talkin’ ” and think to myself, “Yes, this is a different Cabo …”
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COURTESY OF ESPERANZA
Esperanza, an Auberge Resort
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“El Arco” (The Arch) in Cabo San Lucas
The once exclusive refuge for those wanting to get off the grid came to tourism prominence shortly after Fonatur, Mexico’s national trust for the promotion of
tourism, helped put the area on the global map. With an airport built in 1984 and the formidable Mexican tourism-marketing machine developing the area and selling the destination, it
wasn’t long before the Cabo that many came to know as a year-round spring break destination was born. In recent years, however, the area has been going through a rapid
metamorphosis, and now Cabo San Lucas (and the whole Los Cabos area) is showing every sign of becoming one of the world’s new luxury travel spots. Make no mistake; there are still plenty of places to party in Cabo. For many years that was its calling card, with epitomical places such as Cabo Wabo Cantina, The Giggling Marlin and El Squid Roe, to name a few. But this Cabo has matured from its adolescent days of upside-down tequila shots and two-for-one Jell-O shots, though you can still get those if you want. This magical place at the southern tip of Baja California has not only rebounded from a devastating hurricane in 2014 and years of negative publicity about Mexico being unsafe for travelers— previous travel warnings about Mexico have hampered tourism
Esperanza: One-of-a-kind Luxury on the Coast
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all the comforts of home, assuming you have a really, really nice home, Esperanza finds a way of combining elegance and refinement with a relaxed atmosphere in an oceanfront setting. Boasting a private beach, gracious, yet unobtrusive service and culinary options that tempt you to never leave for a meal, Esperanza is sophisticated Cabo.
Known as being one of the most private and intimate resorts around, Esperanza has hosted numerous world leaders and celebrities including President Barack Obama and the U.S. Delegation during the G20 Mexico Summit in 2012. The property recently underwent a comprehensive revitalization that completely transformed much of the
57-room beachfront resort. The fresh, contemporary design complements the beauty of the surrounding landscape and dramatic coastline. Each of the spacious rooms offers sweeping views of the Sea of Cortez and showers built for two. A large private terrace creates an indoor/outdoor living room experience
BOTTOM PHOTOS COURTESY OF ESPERANZA
There are many amazing places to stay in Los Cabos offering various interpretations of luxury hospitality. A favorite since opening its doors in 2002 is Esperanza, an Auberge Resort. Located at the tip of Punta Ballena (“Whale Point”) overlooking the Sea of Cortez, Esperanza offers barefoot luxury at its best. With
destinations despite the fact that these areas remained largely safe—it is thriving and growing at an unprecedented pace.
TOP: THOMAS HART SHELBY; BOTTOM PHOTOS COURTESY OF ESPERANZA
YOUR ROOM IS READY There are many ways to define luxury, but there’s no denying that the quality and sheer number of swanky developments either already in existence or coming soon in the Los Cabos region is world-class. It’s easy to see what attracts them to the area. From the quaint cobblestone streets of the authentic Mexican town of San Jose del Cabo to the much more high-spirited Cabo San Lucas, travelers can choose their pace. Then there’s the natural beauty and geography of the southern tip of the Baja Peninsula. With the desert and mountains melting into the waters where the Pacific Ocean and the Sea of
and your very own private infinity hot tub completes the perfect place to relax at the end of a perfect day. In the tradition of Auberge Resorts, Esperanza offers an elevated culinary program inspired by the local culture and the geographic setting. Executive Chef Guillermo Gomez is at the helm of the resort’s sea-to-table dining philosophy. Gomez, a native of Argentina, infuses his international culinary experience to create the seasonal menus for the six dining venues featuring local Baja produce and purveyors. Esperanza’s signature restaurant, Cocina del Mar, is known for fresh, seasonal Baja seafood in a stunning, open-air seaside location. The
The Cape, a Thompson Hotel
Cortez converge at Land’s End, it’s truly a unique and magical setting. Add in an updated and efficient international airport no more than 40 minutes away from any of the resorts lining
the 20-mile shoreline from San Jose del Cabo to Cabo San Lucas, known as the Corridor, and the stage is set for a new chapter of incredible growth. Some of the resorts leading
the way include The Cape, a Thompson Hotel. This luxury beachfront boutique property combines a relaxed 1960s California vibe with modern Baja. All of its 140 rooms
property’s newest dining experience is Pesca Ceviche bar, which offers made-toorder citrus-cured seafood dishes inspired by Latin and Asian flavors including fresh octopus, clams and oysters. For guests renting poolside cabanas, Esperanza provides a dedicated margarita butler who will demonstrate and serve you amazing margaritas created from six different flavors including ginger-grapefruit, mango-jalapeno and hibiscus-rosemary.
Culinary Events Esperanza also offers a number of culinary events throughout the year, including the Taste of Cabo, an annual gourmet food and wine festival. Earlier this year, notable guest chefs Kent and Kevin Rathbun, both veterans of Food Network’s “Iron Chef America,” joined chef Gomez for three nights of epicurean indulgences. Kent is behind restaurants including Abacus and Jasper’s with locations
throughout Texas, and Kevin is well-known for his Atlanta-based restaurants KR SteakBar, Krog Bar and Kevin Rathbun Steak. From cooking demonstrations and barbeque beach parties to fine wines, tequila tastings and a fivecourse gala dinner, the decadent event is a must for foodies. For more on Esperanza and upcoming events, go to esperanza.auberge resorts.com.
Top culinary talent comes to the Taste of Cabo.
Taste of Cabo features fresh, gourmet food.
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The Resort at Pedregal
provides stunning views of the iconic “El Arco” (The Arch). Nearby, Mar Adentro by Encanto is a unique, high-tech, highly thoughtful resort designed by renowned
Mexican architect Miguel Angel Aragonés. The resort features all-white structures that transform with the changing light, and custom-made, hyper-customizable computer
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TOP PHOTO: ROBERT RECK; BOTTOM: JOE FLETCHER PHOTOGRAPHY©
Mar Adentro by Encanto offers modern luxury.
tablets in every room. On the other end of the spectrum, Breathless Cabo San Lucas is vivacious, hip and steps away from all the Cabo San Lucas nightlife. This resort also
offers a more upscale version of the all-inclusive experience with unlimited top-shelf spirits and gourmet dining. Set upon an 820-foot white sand beach on the Sea of Cortez, the JW Marriott Los Cabos Beach Resort & Spa offers an ultra-luxurious 45-room boutique hotel within the resort featuring exclusive amenities such as a movie theater, private beach and pool. Many of the well-known Los Cabos-area luxury resorts also implemented extensive face-lifts following the 2014 hurricane, including the One&Only Palmilla, Esperanza, The Resort at Pedregal and Las Ventanas al Paraíso, a Rosewood Resort. New developments coming to the Corridor include Chileno Bay Resort & Residences, an
JW Marriott Los Cabos Beach Resort & Spa
TOP: COURTESY OF JW MARRIOTT LOS CABOS BEACH RESORT & SPA; BOTTOM: © 2015 NICKOLAS SARGENT ALL RIGHTS RESERVED; SIDEBAR PHOTO COURTESY OF FLORA FARM
Auberge Resort; Solaz, part of Starwood’s Luxury Collection; Le Blanc Spa Resort, an adultsonly, luxury all-inclusive resort; Four Seasons Resort Los Cabos at Costa Palmas, which will include a Robert Trent Jones II-designed 18-hole golf course and private yacht marina; Nobu Hotel Los Cabos; Ritz Carlton
Reserve Residences; and the highly anticipated Montage Los Cabos. THE CULINARY LANDSCAPE Cabo has numerous old-school favorites that veteran travelers to the area know and love, such as The Office, where you dine with your feet on the sand;
Seared at One&Only Palmilla features the highest quailty beef.
Edith’s, featuring a regional fusion of steaks and seafood with local ingredients; Mi Casa, a restaurant offering traditional Mexican fare for more than 20 years; and Nick-San, a fusion of Mexican ingredients and traditional Japanese cuisine in downtown Cabo (and a new location within the Palmilla). Cigar aficionados will also know J&J Habanos, which features Cuban cigars, premium tequila and Cuban rum, which they use to make Big Papa Mojitos, Ernest Hemingway’s signature drink. However, with many new places opening and more culinary talent entering the scene, diners looking for a memorable meal have scores of options. Many of these can be found in some of the newer luxury resorts such as Manta, the signature restaurant at The Cape, a Thompson Hotel. Manta features contemporary Mexican cuisine with stunning views of the famous Monuments surf beach and “El Arco.” El Farallon, at The Resort at Pedregal, is considered one of the top dining spots in Cabo and features a great selection of local catch. And Seared at One&Only Palmilla, conceived in partnership with culinary master Jean-Georges Vongerichten, has been wowing guests with 15 different cuts of the highest quality beef. Other favorites include Los Tres Gallos, an unpretentious downtown Cabo spot with tables set about in a romantic courtyard, and Sunset da Mona Lisa, an iconic restaurant serving gourmet Italian food carved into a cliff overlooking the Bay of Cabo San Lucas and Land’s End. For a more relaxed experience, try the rooftop of Sunset da Mona Lisa and enjoy wood-fired pizzas and tapas at Sunset Point wine and pizza lounge. C
Flora Farm: A Los Cabos Must
Flora Farm, a 10-acre organic farm in the foothills near San Jose del Cabo, Mexico, (about a 45-minute drive from downtown Cabo San Lucas) is at the forefront of the local culinary scene. Home to what’s become one of the
toughest places on the planet to get a table, Flora’s Field Kitchen, where it’s not uncommon to have a waiting list of more than a couple months for dinner. Flora’s Field Kitchen boasts an unforgettable farmto-table experience and is the centerpiece of the self-sustaining farm. The grounds also include the Farm Bar, Flora Grocery and the luxury culinary cottages, which are available to rent. Flora Farm is a destination for world-class foodies, chefs and celebrities and has even hosted its share of celebrity special occasions, such as the wedding of Adam Levine and Behati Prinsloo. (flora-farms.com)
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GRINGO
s s e l ir ce P
VOL. 22 ED. 25 • AUGUST 7TH, 2017 • NO BAD NEWS
.com
Yes, we have camels in Baja! And no, contrary to popular belief, they don t spit at you. Read our story about riding camels on the beach on page 6.
Four Seasons Coming To La Ribera No, not climate change, the hotel chain
BY LACEY STORER The big development in La Ribera, about an hour and a half north of San Jose on the East Cape, has died and then snapped back to life several times over the years it's been in development. It has been known as Cabo Blue and Cabo Dorado, and most recently
it was Cabo Ribera. Now, this star crossed development is back and rebranded once again, this time with a major hotel chain attached. The latest incarnation is called Costa Palmas, and is still a 1000acre private beachfront community but now featuring a Four
Seasons resort and Four Seasonsbranded private residences and villas. Costa Palmas will now include a beach and yacht club, 18hole golf course, spa and a private marina that can accommodate yachts as large as 250 feet. It also boasts 18 acres of orchards and farmland, handy if you need that CONTINUED ON PAGE 8
INDEX Directory of Services..................13 Real Estate Section...............15-19 Fish Report.........24 Subscriptions......29 Classifieds............27 Calendar................32
Cabo Critters Needs Your Help
Shelter is looking for building supplies, money BY STEPHANIE MCGLASHAN Just as humans need shelter from the summer heat and the upcoming rainy season, so do animals, and one local animal rescue is looking for supplies so it can keep its animals covered. Cabo Critters is a shelter located just outside of Cabo. This volunteer driven rescue group is run out of the home of the organizer, Carlea Staehnke, and it’s a labor of love. When Carlea moved to Cabo, she quickly saw the dire need for animal rescue in the area. From there, Cabo Critters became her passion project, and has since saved the lives of many animals. At the shelter they vaccinate, feed,
nurture, walk and play with the animals until they find someone to adopt the lucky ones. Cabo Critters started off small and has rapidly grown, due to the many abandoned animals in Cabo. With the increasing number of animals they are taking in, Cabo Critters is looking to expand and improve their shelter. They are in immediate need of tarps and building materials, like panels for roofing, posts and 2x4s to help protect the animals from the upcoming storms, not to mention giving them some much needed shade during the summer. Other donations needed inCONTINUED ON PAGE 11
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Jim!Dobson! January!2,!2017! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! !
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Landing by private jet into the sparkling clean and updated Cabo San Lucas airport is a breeze. A private VIP area is set apart from the crowds of tourists and outside the lounge awaits the SUV with cold towels, water and comfort for the easy 45-minute drive to paradise. My idea of paradise is a beach that is tranquil, secluded, private and away from the throngs of drunk tourists. A place where you can truly relax and enjoy the simple pleasures of life and marvel at the beauty of nature. I found this place, and I am truly reluctant to share it with anyone for fear I will lose the chance to return and experience this hidden gem again. But it is so special, that I hope you will someday get to experience it. The new Four Seasons Hotel and Residences in Costa Palmas is a property that will take your breath away. ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! !
Costa Palmas is a brand new, 1000-acre private beachfront resort community on two miles of quiet beach on the Sea of CortĂŠs, located just outside of Cabo San Lucas. Surrounded by organic orchards and farms and including a stunning 250 slip deep-water marina, the area will be home to an all-new Four Seasons Resort and Private Residences Los Cabos, a Robert Trent Jones II 18-hole golf course, and the Costa Palmas Beach & Yacht Club with space for superyachts up to 250 feet. This will ultimately become one of the more exclusive
billionaire retreats, considering the current popularity of neighboring La Paz, which hosted a dozen of the wealthiest families and their superyachts over New Year's Eve. ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! !
In 2018, Four Seasons in conjunction with Los Angeles-based Irongate development, headed by Jason Grosfeld, will open its very first property in Los Cabos, Mexico. Grosfeld is involved in the acquisition, financing and development of high-end commercial properties in Los Angeles and elsewhere. Among his high profile properties in Hawaii are the Watermark and The Ritz-Carlton Residences, Waikiki Beach. ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! !
I spoke with Jason Grosfeld in a long-range interview about his plans for the new Costa Palmas property and his thoughts for the future of the area. What first attracted you to the Costa Palmas property? “I first saw the property 10 years ago, a friend of mine owned it and I never got it out of mind. The combination of three key factors when you're a resort developer are; proximity to a major international airport, deep white sand beach with swimmable and safe water for kids, and is it unique for the area. Most areas have miles and miles of resorts stacked up, so what’s particularly unique about this part of Baja is that our beach faces north up into the Sea of Cortes, so it’s incredibly protected. What that affords us is still water like a lake for most of the time. It’s kind of Caribbean style, magical clear water with a sand bottom. There is no algae, no coral, and its pure sand on the bottom of a shallow, easy sand bar shelf for 50 meters."
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“This property is what I had been searching for with my own family to go on vacation and it doesn't exist. Where could you go within four hours of San Francisco, Los Angeles, Texas, Denver and the entire West Coast and get that kind of weather and oceanography and topography? We approached the Four Seasons and they fell in love with the site as well and they realized how unique it was and different than everything else on the Cabo San Lucas hotel corridor.” ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! !
What makes this property different than the numerous hotels on the Cabo corridor? “We just recently opened up for public sales and the response has been incredible. People come down and they spend a couple nights in the cabanas and they fall in love with the area. A big attraction to buyers is the marina and the fact that we have 1,000 mostly flat acres. What that affords us, is tons of activities and certainly more than the Cabo corridor, which has sloped properties to the ocean. Not only do we have the water activities with the calm water but you also have great land activities from ATV's to horseback riding. Most of the people I know don't just want to go on vacation and sit by a pool and drink cocktails, they really want activities, and we do three times more activities than any other property in Cabo. When you add in the marina, you would never have dreamed of having the amenities of a club, a Four Seasons, and also an adjacent world class private yacht marina.”
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With neighboring La Paz becoming the new destination for superyachts, this sounds like a dream destination for luxury boating. "We are actually getting a lot of the superyacht owners inquiring when we will be ready for them, and in a few months the marina will be ready for the big yachts and actually can accommodate 250-foot superyachts.” ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! !
How does this property fit in with your other properties, (Watermark and The Ritz-Carlton Residences, Waikiki Beach)? “We take our design aesthetic pretty seriously, we try to look at something that is very site specific and what we are trying to accomplish is to give people a very light and elemental feeling that is contemporary but also relaxed, using natural materials that feel fresh and clean without being stark. We wanted to create something that was very different, but also very comfortable, and people liked our cabanas so much that they have asked to have their home in the aesthetic and vernacular of the cabana. We have a great team of architects and interior designers and we hope that we will attract and educate buyers who want something different and fresh.” ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! !
How does it work flying into Cabo San Lucas airport for high-end travelers on private jets? “The clearance when you arrive into Cabo on a private jet is faster than you could experience anywhere in the world. You are usually out of there within five minutes. The jets pull right up to the private terminal, you walk 20 feet, you pass customs quickly and you are at your car. There is an airstrip 5-10 miles away from our property that may be renovated. It currently takes prop planes but there is talk about improving it for jets.”
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What are your future dreams for Costa Palmas? “Since we have arrived, and announced Four Seasons, people are definitely taking much more notice of the area. We heard about new hotels wanting to develop around us. We have a second hotel planned and not announced yet for our property and it is an ultra-luxury property. We are establishing Costa Palmas as the high-end, ultra-luxury master plan in all of Cabo. I don't think anything else will compare.” I took a hard hat ATV tour of the entire property and was shown the layout for a wide selection of residences available. The planned community includes; Marina Residences with two, three and four-bedroom layouts from 2,523 to 4,978 square feet; Beachfront residences with single-level three and four-bedroom residences on the Sea and ranging from 3,806 to 4,598 square feet; two-level townhomes are offered in four- and fivebedroom configurations from 6,528 to 6,792 square feet; Ocean view residences near the Beach Club include one, two, three or four bedroom floor plans and range from 2,523 to 4,598 square feet and Golf course residences are available in one- to four-bedroom configurations and range from 1,150 to 4,598 square feet. Expect to pay over $15 million for one of the very limited beachfront residences. ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! !
Although my visit was brief, I was the first journalist to officially spend an overnight in one of the spectacular beachfront Cabanas that are used only for VIP guests and potential property owners. These are not available to the general public, and I am hoping they keep them once the resort is finished. Upon arrival I was greeted by the charming staff including; Sales Manager Pete Hardie & GM Ricardo Medina. After checking into my cabana, I was met by the resorts amazing massage therapist Carolina BaĂąuelos, who indulged me in a blended coffee, organic coconut oil and cinnamon body scrub followed by a blissful deep tissue massage. With the sound of the lapping surf in front of my balcony, this was the perfect way to welcome me to paradise.
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That evening we were treated to a sit-down dinner in the small and very private beach club pavilion directly on the sand. Dinner was catered by the amazing executive chef Gonzalo Cerda, while a local musician played in the background. With bartenders that knew exactly what you wanted to drink before even asking, this is service to write home about, and considering you are the only guest for miles, it is something I will never forget. After sleeping like a baby under an amazing super moon, I spent the morning alongside the resorts Aventura team member Jose Manriquez, and we helped release baby sea turtles back into the ocean on the Bahia las Palmas. The resorts conservation team does a great job at protecting the eggs from predators until they are ready to be gently coaxed into the surf. From there it was a fabulous hike to the nearby Santiago Waterfalls for a jump off the cliff into the crystal blue and cold water. An extra added attraction for guests is that Costa Palmas provides guides, coaches and mentors to take you and your family on rare excursions through their Aventura program. This was the perfect way to end the day and head back to the airport. I will truly miss Costa Palmas and can’t wait for my return, in fact, my bags are already packed. !
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After the excitement of reeling in a new year fades, many of us find ourselves caught in a severe case of the winter blues. The fresh start we'd been craving is numbed with dreary gray skies and a piercing cold. Perhaps the best way to kick off January's new chapter is with a sunny getaway.
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Before hotels like the Four Seasons—coming in 2018—bring a wave of new travelers, you can still have Baja’s East Cape to yourself. Whale-watchers, surfers, and kayakers are landing at VidaSoul, a 16-room, solarpowered hotel 50 miles east of Cabo San Lucas. It’s a stone’s throw from Punta Perfecta, one of the best surf breaks in Baja, and steps south of Parque Nacional Cabo Pulmo, 27 square miles of beach and reef habitat. Offshore, the sanctuary shelters all manner of thriving sea life—whale sharks, gray whales, jellyfish. Fuel up on wood-oven-roasted pork at Flora’s Field Kitchen, a local organic restaurant, then rent a board, kayak, or cruiser bike from the hotel and explore. From $139
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! Los Cabos, already one of the most luxurious pinpoints on Mexico's map, has raised the bar on itself this past year and has shown no signs of slowing down. Earlier this year the destination welcomed a new Four Seasons property; the Montage Los Cabos and Zadun, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, are slated to open in 2018. The Four Seasons Resort Los Cabos, part of the Costa Palmas East Cape community, is a pocket of luxury tucked away from the rest of the peninsula. The private and underdeveloped East Cape is a rare corner in Mexico, where dramatic mountains give way to rugged, dark blue sea and not much else. The Costa Palmas master plan has its own beach club, golf courses, marina, Four Seasons Residences, yacht club, marina village and, of course, the resort itself. The Four Seasons is a 145-room property overlooking the Sea of Cortes. There are five concept restaurants, ranging from ocean-side restaurants to ceviche bars and organic juice stations. A comprehensive sports complex includes fitness equipment, a ropes course, tennis and basketball courts and a field for lacrosse, soccer and more. The resort is rounded out with 10 free-standing spa treatment rooms, a golf course with a clubhouse and a 250slip marina that can accommodate yachts and sailboats up to 250 feet.
The Beach Club is a family gathering place, complete with dining, full-service pools, a beach bar, kids club and a fleet of outdoor toys like stand-up paddleboards, snorkels and more. Still to come is Montage Los Cabos, which is scheduled to open in early 2018. The resort will be part of the Twin Dolphin master community and will have 122 guestrooms and suites, along with 52 residences. The interior design swings earthy with a sand- and clay-colored palette with pops of color like bright greens, yellows and blues. Along the 39-acre property will be beachfront on Santa Maria Bay, a Spa Montage, fitness offerings, two pools and multiple restaurants and bars. A master tequilero is on staff, as well, to help pair tequilas with meals. Montage Los Cabos is emphasizing its experiences, which will include diving and snorkeling as well as desert excursions, fishing, surfing, sailing, golfing and horseback riding. The resort will also be a dramatic backdrop for weddings, with multiple outdoor, beachside areas as well as 6,100 square feet of indoor event space. Also in the works for early next year is Zadun, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve. This will be just the fourth Ritz-Carlton Reserve in the world, with 115 villas, many of which will be outfitted with private pools. Other amenities to look forward to will be two championship golf courses and a desert botanical park. Outdoor showers; terraces with fire pits; and private butlers are additional touches that will put this resort over the top.
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! ! ! Costa!Palmas!Beach!&!Yacht!Club:!A!Rethink!On!Cabo! Suzanne!Koch! May!27,!2016! !
A"short"drive"away"from"the"bustling,"resort"scene"of"the"Corridor"is"a"quiet,"isolated"stretch"of"uninhabited"beach"and"tranquil" waters."Though"not"yet"on"the"radar"of"many"Cabo"visitors,"the"East"Cape"may"soon"be"in"for"a"change"as"the"upscale"Costa"Palmas" Beach"&"Yacht"Club"will"soon"make"its"home"here"along"with"the"brand"new"Four"Seasons"Resort"Los"Cabos,"Mexico’s"third"property" of"the"ritzy"brand."With"a"level"of"amenities"and"offerings"not"found"anywhere"else"in"Cabo,"Costa"Palmas"is"preparing"to"set"the" luxury"bar"at"a"new"height,"on"a"whole"new"chart."We"had"the"opportunity"to"talk"to"Michael"Radovan,"Vice"President"of"Sales"for" Costa"Palmas"to"get"the"details"on"what"we"can"expect"from"the"community"and"the"vital"role"it"will"play"in"helping"to"reshape"the" idea"of"Cabo"by"drawing"attention"to"the"diverse"environment"and"oneMofMaMkind"experiences"only"found"in"the"East"Cape." ! InMexico:"Costa"Palmas"seems"quite"separated"from"the"other"large"resorts"in"Cabo."What"was"the"thought"process"that"went"into" choosing"the"East"Cape"as"the"location"for"this"development?" Michael!Radovan:"In"the"East"Cape"the"first"thing"you’ll"notice"is"the"beach"is"completely"different."It"is"more"like"the"Caribbean:"calm" water,"white"sand,"no"shore"break"or"riptide"of"any"significance."Immediately"you"feel"like"you’re"in"a"different"spot"and"that"is" attractive"for"obvious"reasons."It"is"still"close"though;"it’s"only"45"minutes"from"the"airport"to"the"sand."For"example,"if"you"went"to" the"tip"of"Cabo,"give"or"take"a"couple"of"minutes,"it’s"equal"distance."You"really"feel"like"you’re"in"a"different"part"of"the"world,"which" is"kind"of"fun."The"second"major"component"to"this"is"that"we"have"our"own"marina."When"you"have"your"own"marina"you’re"able"to" control"what’s"happening"on"the"water"far"more"significantly."You"can"have"your"own"boats"and"your"own"stuff—and"a"lot"of"it— without"it"being"difficult."It"keeps"you"really"connected."From"that"perspective,"the"families"that"are"coming"to"visit"your"resort"and" the"members"of"the"club"can"have"a"completely"different"experience"on"the"water"and"for"us,"that’s"the"reason"you’re"there"is"to"be" on"the"water." ! IM:"In"respect"to"the"calm"atmosphere"and"some"of"the"photos"I’ve"seen,"the"property"seems"somewhat"minimalistic"and"modern."Is" that"a"good"representation"of"what"the"whole"community—both"land"and"architecture—is"going"to"be"like?" MR:"It"feels"a"little"bit"more"like"you’re"in"old"Mexico;"it’s"a"little"bit"more"authentic"in"comparison"to"the"Corridor,"which"has"become" pretty"busy."You"feel"like"you’re"driving"around"San"Diego"a"little"bit"in"the"Corridor."So"if"you’re"trying"to"get"back"to"a"place"that’s"a" little"more"relaxing"and"less"hectic"than"you’re"normal"life"at"home,"this"seems"to"be"checking"the"box"with"respect"to"that."Even" from"the"drive"all"the"way"out"there,"the"optics"of"the"whole"experience"are"really"completely"different."It’s"like"a"rethink"on"Cabo" and"the"architecture"was"meant"to"complement"that"experience"in"that"we"wanted"the"environment"to"be"the"star"of"the"show"and" we"thought"the"best"way"to"do"that"was"to"keep"it"simple,"a"bit"more"contemporary"and"to"use"timeless"materials."We"use"types"of" stones"and"wood"that"you"would"find"in"this"environment."
" " ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! IM:"What"is"going"to"set"the"Four"Seasons"Resort"Los"Cabos"and"Costa"Palmas"community"apart"from"the"rest"of"Cabo?" MR:"I"think"the"activity"level"that"our"families"will"be"able"to"experience"will"be"very"different"and"far"deeper"than"anything"in"the" Corridor."I"would"emphasize"different"because"there"are"some"fantastic"places"in"the"Corridor"but"you"have"a"menu"of"things"that"are" completely"different"here"that"are"integrated"into"the"resort"and"club."It’s"not"that"you"can’t"go"sport"fishing"at"a"great"development" in"the"Corridor"but"you"can’t"take"a"golf"cart"three"minutes"to"your"club"boat"or"your"own"boat"in"your"own"marina."And"your"11M yearMold"son"can’t"get"on"his"bike"with"his"buddies"and"ride"over"to"the"yacht"club"and"go"diving"for"the"day"with"his"own"club"guides." That’s"life"in"Costa"Palmas;"our"families,"in"a"quick"second,"being"able"to"get"with"their"own"guide"that"they"know"and"be"on"the" water"doing"whatever"they"choose"to"do."Whether"it’s"sailing,"snorkeling,"diving,"or"sport"fishing"one"mile"off"the"coast,"or"turning" around"and"going"the"other"way"on"a"hike"where"you’re"at"a"waterfall"in"half"an"hour." ! IM:"Is"the"Four"Seasons"Resort"going"to"offer"a"lot"of"these"amenities"for"visitors"that"you"have"mentioned?" MR:"Absolutely,"most"definitely."The"owner"gets"sort"of"a"“oneMup”"because"there’s"more"amenity"built"in,"but"the"resort"will"be" deep"in"the"program." ! IM:"Can"you"tell"me"a"little"about"the"private"residences?" MR:"We’ll"have"a"wide"variety"of"everything,"from"oneMbedroom"condos"to"fiveM"bedroom"townhouses,"to"fourM"and"fiveMbedroom" cottageMtype"products,"to"villas"on"more"than"an"acre"of"land."All"the"residences"will"be"on"the"beach,"marina,"or"golf"course"and"all" with"a"beach"view,"mountainMview,"marina"view,"or"golf"course"view."There"is"not"a"type"of"real"estate"that"doesn’t"exist"here."It’s" very"diverse"and"with"the"marina"on"top"of"it"we"will"also"offer"lots"of"boathouses"with"your"own"dock."Having"a"home"on"the"beach" with"a"100Mfoot"dock"out"your"front"door"is"pretty"rare"in"Cabo."Actually,"it’s"not"pretty"rare—it"doesn’t"exist." ! IM:"What"are"the"expected"prices"for"the"residences?" MR:"The"prices"you’re"looking"at"are"in"the"midMtoMhigh"$1’s"up"to"$20"million"and"everywhere"in"between."Some"will"be"Four" SeasonsMbranded,"which"offer"anything"in"your"home"that"you"would"be"able"to"receive"in"a"hotel"and"there"will"also"be"some"nonM branded"residences." ! IM:"When"are"they"expected"to"open"up"for"preMsale?" MR:"We’re"doing"tours"now"so"we’re"pretty"close."I"just"spent"four"days"there"touring"clients." ! IM:"What’s"the"reception"been"like"from"people?" MR:"It’s"been"unbelievable."People"are"so"delighted"and"surprised"by"the"environment"that"it’s"almost"like"sensory"overload"at"first." They"don’t"quite"know"what"to"think"because"they’re"so"used"to"Cabo"as"they"know"it."It’s"a"very"emotional"response."We’ve"had"a" number"of"tours"where"we’ve"picked"up"families"on"vacation"and"the"kids"haven’t"been"in"the"water"for"four"days"and"they"get"to"our" place"and"within"three"minutes"they’re"on"the"water"with"our"guys." " " " " " " " " " " !
IM:"Can"you"tell"me"about"the"dining"options"that"will"be"available"in"the"community?" MR:"We’ll"have"a"number"of"different"themed"restaurants"which"are"to"be"determined."We’ll"have"restaurants"on"the"ocean,"marina" and"farmland"and"all"with"different"concepts,"from"traditional"seafood,"to"sushi"to"different"types"of"casual"fare."It"will"be"fairly" diverse"but"there"will"be"a"number"of"different"outlets."This"is"not"a"oneM"or"twoMrestaurantMresort;"this"is"more"like"five"or"six." ! IM:"Can"you"tell"me"a"little"about"the"other"features"of"the"resort"like"the"golf"course"and"spa?" MR:"The"golf"course"is"going"to"be"fun."It’s"going"to"be"a"Robert"Trench"Jones"II"golf"course."Mr."Jones"was"actually"just"there"and"I" walked"the"course"with"him"and"his"team"over"a"couple"of"days."It"will"be"a"course"that"will"be"completely"diverse."It"will"be"a"seaM dunes"type"of"style,"which"some"people"might"mistake"as"a"lengths"course"but"you’ll"play"to"the"ocean."You’ll"have"more"holes"on"the" ocean"side"of"the"development"and"you’ll"play"up"into"the"farmland"through"orchids"and"crops,"and"then"back"down"into"the"marina" where"you’ll"have"a"couple"of"negativeMedge"greens"up"against"some"of"the"large"boats"and"the"marina"activity."There’s"a"lot"of"fun" golf"with"all"of"these"different"types"of"views"and"topography"and"different"wind"conditions."It’s"a"course"that"will"really"challenge" the"strategy"of"the"player,"which"is"fun;"you’ll"have"to"use"every"stick"in"the"bag." I"think"the"spa"will"be"right"up"there"too."It’s"going"to"be"the"latest"and"greatest"Four"Seasons"spa"in"the"world."It"will"be"a"bit" oversized"to"accommodate"friends"and"family,"and"owners"will"have"their"own"private"beach"club"and"yacht"club"to"use"up"against" the"hotel."You’ll"have"a"beach"club,"pool,"spa,"restaurant"and"likewise"with"the"yacht"club."The"hotel"will"also"have"sport"courts," tennis"courts,"a"playground,"and"the"beach"club"will"have"it’s"own"ball"field"and"sport"court." ! IM:"What"in"your"opinion"is"the"most"attractive"aspect"of"this"entire"development?" MR:"I"think"the"ability"to"have"all"of"the"environment’s"natural"gifts"offered"through"the"Aventura"program"of"Costa"Palmas—which"is" our"adventure"guide—at"the"tip"of"your"finger,"any"time"you"want."There"are"only"a"couple"places"that"I’ve"been"to"in"the"world"that" will"offer"programming"as"diverse"as"this."It’s"not"a"development"that"will"compete"from"an"offering"standpoint"with"Cabo;"this"is" more"of"an"international"destination"offering."When"you"can"bring"in"a"250Mfoot"motor"yacht"and"offer"kid’s"sailing"programs"out"of" the"same"place,"you"have"a"really"cool,"special"diverse"spot."It’s"going"to"be"very"highMend"and"extremely"luxurious."I"know"our"clients" are"going"to"enjoy"it." " ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! IM:"The"resort"is"set"for"a"2018"opening."Any"idea"when"in"2018?" MR:"I"would"say"the"end"of"the"first"quarter,"or"the"first"of"quarter"two."It’s"not"a"terribly"difficult"build."The"hotel"is"modular"so"a"lot" of"different"pods."It’s"not"one"big"vertical"tower,"which"makes"it"a"little"bit"easier"to"build."The"golf"course"is"also"easy"to"build."It’s"a" simple"construction"because"the"ground"is"good"and"you"can"move"it"around"fast"because"it’s"flat." ! IM:"Since"there"are"not"a"whole"lot"of"resorts"in"the"East"Cape"area"do"you"think"this"is"going"to"set"off"a"wave"of"a"new"area"of"Cabo?" MR:"Obviously"I"hope"so."I"think"at"the"very"least"people"are"going"to"have"a"much"deeper"appreciation"for"the"East"Cape"and" understand"quickly,"within"35M45"minutes,"a"difference"the"environment"is"up"there."I"think"the"Secretary"of"Tourism"for"Mexico" believes"that"this"is"going"to"open"up"the"East"Cape."They"are"big"Four"Seasons"fans"because"of"Punta"Mita"and"the"success"they’ve" had"there"and"this"is"a"similar"situation"to"that."I"think"the"East"Cape"is"going"to"definitely"become"a"destination"to"go"see"that"is" different"from"Cabo." " For"more"information,"visit:"costapalmas.com"Photos:"Courtesy"of"Four"Seasons"and"Costa"Palmas"
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Scheduled to open in 2018, Four Seasons Resort Los Cabos at Costa Palmas will be the legendary luxury brand’s first foray into Baja. But this isn’t the Baja you know—this is the peninsula’s east cape, with its irresistible allure of discovery. We are the Sea of Cortés and not the Pacific, near Cabo but not Cabo, two lanes and not four. When you turn left from the airport instead of right, you consciously, happily, turn away from familiarity and toward possibility. And the possibilities are bountiful—on the Costa Palmas property and beyond.
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On our 1,000 acres: the world-class amenities you expect at a Four Seasons resort—multiple pools, a full-service spa, five restaurants and a Robert Trent Jones II signature 18-hole golf course with some of the best views in the game.
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You will never be more intrepid, more curious, more open than here. That’s what we call spirited adventure, and you’ll never want it to end. The good news? It doesn’t have to. Four Seasons Private Residences and Villas give you the opportunity to make a home on this sea of dreams.
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At Costa Palmas, Four Seasons Private Residences take many forms—from 1,500 to 3,100 square feet, two bedrooms to four, and in a range of spectacular settings within the resort. All Residences are a contemporary take on our timeless landscape, each option is its own experience, and all bring elemental luxury to life. Golf Residences are set amidst the serene greens of the Robert Trent Jones II course and the vibrant greens of our organic farms, with the Sierra De La Laguna Mountains in the backdrop.
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With Beachfront Residences, our two-mile stretch of calm, sandy beach and swimmable waters of the Sea of Cortés are steps from your door—an extension of your home. Set on a slight rise, Oceanview Private Residences offer panoramic views of the Sea of Cortés from sunrise to sunset. And Marina Private Residences give you the opportunity to live at the heart of Baja’s cosmopolitan marina, overlooking some of the world’s most sophisticated sailboats, sportfishers, and yachts (including your own).
Four Seasons Private Residences start at $1.6 million.
Four Seasons Private Villas If you need a bit more privacy—and lots more space—Four Seasons Villas are a home and a haven. Nestled into the dunes and steps from the Sea of Cortés, each villa is a one-of-a-kind escape—perfect, private luxury and seamless indoor-outdoor living. This exquisite collection of just 16 villas offers complete privacy, with 5,000 to 10,000 square feet of space. Though these villas feel like they’re worlds from anything and anyone else, the Beach Club and Four Seasons services and resort amenities are still effortlessly accessible.
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Whichever home you choose, as Four Seasons Los Cabos owner, you will receive exclusive privileges: priority access to our Robert Trent Jones II golf course, and the enviable opportunity to join the Costa Palmas Beach and Yacht Club—your new favorite place in your new favorite home.
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And perhaps the greatest privilege of Private Residence & Villa ownership: the service that has made Four Seasons a hospitality legend. You, your loved ones and your home will benefit from the always intuitive, never intrusive level of personal care proudly offered by each staff member at every Four Seasons property. Learn more about ownership opportunities.
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New Four Seasons Resort and Private Residences to open along the crystalclear waters of Baja’s undiscovered East Cape... Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts, the world’s leading luxury hospitality company, and Irongate, a full-service real estate development firm, announce plans today for a luxury resort and private residences on the pristine beaches of Baja’s eastern shore. With planning in place for a 2018 opening, Four Seasons Resort Los Cabos at Costa Palmas will be part of the exclusive Costa Palmas resort community, which will also feature a private marina and members-only beach and yacht club, all set along a two-mile (3.2 kilometre) stretch of immaculate white-sand beach and the warm, swimmable waters of the Sea of Cortez. “Irongate has a tremendous vision for the Costa Palmas community and we are excited to work in partnership to create the region’s premier luxury destination,” says J. Allen Smith, President and CEO, Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts. “Los Cabos has long been a favourite destination for luxury travellers and is a natural fit for Four Seasons as we extend our presence in Mexico. We look forward to inviting our guests from around the world to experience Four Seasons legendary quality and service as they discover the richness and beauty of Baja’s East Cape.” The 145-key Resort will feature a low-density layout spread across multiple buildings, and a collection of whole-ownership oceanfront, marina-side and golf-side private residences, as well as an intimate collection of custom single-family beachfront private residence villas. Alongside multiple pools, extensive indoor and outdoor event and wedding facilities, and five unique dining outlets, the Resort will also feature a Robert Trent Jones II signature 18-hole golf course, full-service spa and progressive fitness facilities. The extensive grounds of the Resort will be connected to an adjacent yachting marina that will feature up to two hundred slips to accommodate yachts up to 250 feet (76 metres) and its own ocean-side marina village, complete with artisanal boutiques, additional dining options and locally-curated music and art. “We created Four Seasons Resort Los Cabos for families and groups of friends who appreciate a fresh and mindful approach to resort design and lifestyle. The Resort is a place for those of all ages who seek both a spirited adventure and impeccable service,” says Jason Grosfeld, founder of Irongate. “Positioned on Costa Palmas’ unprecedented two-mile stretch of coastline with a safe, swimmable beach and an international marina, Four Seasons Resort Los Cabos is set to become the preeminent place for family and friends to reconnect year after year.” The East Cape’s location on the warm, crystal-clear waters of the Sea of Cortez makes for excellent snorkelling and diving, some of the world’s best light tackle and sport fishing, and world-class windsurfing and kite boarding. The idyllic setting at the base of the Sierra de la Laguna Mountains also offers endless opportunities for land adventure, from hiking, biking, and horseback riding to exploring waterfalls, spring-fed freshwater pools and hot springs. With fresh water coming off the mountains throughout the year, the East Cape also provides ideal conditions for organic farming. Four Seasons Resort Los Cabos at Costa Palmas marks the third addition to the company’s growing Mexican collection, which currently includes properties in Punta Mita and Mexico City. The Resort will join an exclusive collection of Four Seasons resorts in destinations including the Maldives, Seychelles, Bora Bora, Koh Samui, and Hawaii. The Costa Palmas master plan is a collaboration of Vita Inc. (San Rafael, California), Guerin Glass Architects (Brooklyn, New
York) and Humberto Artigas Architects (Aguascalientes, Mexico) with interior design by TAL Studio (Las Vegas, Nevada). Costa Palmas is a 1000-acre (400 hectare) private beachfront resort community located 45 minutes from Los Cabos International Airport on the East Cape of the Baja Peninsula. Thoughtfully and sensitively designed and situated along a two-mile (3.2 kilometre) stretch of swimmable beach, Costa Palmas introduces an elemental form of luxury hospitality set among organic farms on an international marina. The community is home to Four Seasons Resort Los Cabos at Costa Palmas, a Robert Trent Jones II 18-hole golf course, 18 acres (7.3 hectares) of orchards and farms, and its own beach and yacht club. Founded in 1960, Four Seasons continues to define the future of luxury hospitality with extraordinary imagination, unwavering commitment to the highest standards of quality, and the most genuine and customised service. Currently operating 97 hotels, resorts and residences in major city centres and resort destinations in 41 countries, and with more than 50 projects in development, Four Seasons consistently ranks among the world’s best hotels and most prestigious brands in reader polls, traveller reviews and industry awards. For more information and reservations, visit www.fourseasons.com
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As#we#get#ready#to#kick#off#another#year,#we’ve#rounded#up#some#upcoming#hotel#openings#for#2017.# # Four%Seasons%Private%Residences%Anguilla%(British%West%Indies,%October%2016)#is#a#residential#community# of#authentic#CaribbeanAinspired#homes#ranging#from#oneAbedroom#Deluxe#Studios#to#fiveAbedroom#Beachfront# Villas,#all#with#unobstructed#views#of#the#ocean#or#direct#access#to#beach#and#water.#The#property#has#elevated# seaside#luxury,#combining#sleek,#modern#design#and#stunning#natural#surroundings#with#legendary#Four# Seasons#service.#Encircled#by#sugarAsand#beaches#and#clear#turquoise#sea,#the#Four#Seasons#Residences#are# located#along#the#northwestern#shore#offering#3,200#feet#of#pristine#beachfront#and#sweeping#views#of#the# breaking#surf.#Residents#enjoy#access#to#all#resort#amenities#such#as#bars,#outdoor#lounges#and#restaurants,# spa,#pool#and#watersport#activities.# # Andaz%Scottsdale%Resort%&%Spa%(Scottsdale,%December%2016)# # Andaz#Scottsdale#Resort#&#Spa#features#201#bungalowAstyle#guest#rooms#and#suites#that#draw#inspiration#from# the#1950sAdesert#art#movement.#Local#art#is#woven#throughout,#with#a#rotating#collection#in#the#Guest#House#–# a#central#gathering#place#for#guests.#Through#the#Artist#in#Residence#program,#guests#learn#and#create# alongside#painters,#potters,#and#photographers#from#the#nearby#Cattle#Track#community.#Additional#amenities# include#the#Turquoise#Pool#with#13#cabanas,#Palo#Verde#Spa#&#Apothecary#with#seven#treatment#rooms,#a# salon#and#private#pool,#and#Weft#&#Warp#Art#Bar#+#Kitchen#specializing#in#contemporary#Sonoran#cuisine#and# craft#cocktails.# # Andaz%Mayakoba%(Riviera%Maya,%MX,%December%2016)# # Andaz#Mayakoba#Resort’s#breathtaking#design#reflects#the#native#Mayan#culture#and#features#214#guestrooms,# including#41#luxury#suites.#Stimulating#upscale#experiences#entertain#guests,#whether#immersing#in#a#lushly# preserved#mangrove#environment,#sunbathing#in#one#of#three#outdoor#pools,#relaxing#in#the#10,000AsquareAfoot# Naum#spa#or#unwinding#on#the#pristine#white#sanded#Caribbean#beach.#Additionally,#four#restaurants#and#bars# will#offer#the#distinguished#culinary#experiences#for#which#Andaz#hotels#are#known,#and#all#with#stunning#views# of#the#pools,#lagoon,#and#ocean.# # Chileno%Bay%Resort%&%Residences%(Los%Cabos,%February%2017)#
# This#new#beachfront#hotel#and#residential#villa#community#from#Auberge#Resorts#is#nestled#in#the#protective# cove#of#Chileno#Bay#and#will#feature#a#60Aroom,#boutique#luxury#hotel#and#32#contemporary#twoA#threeA#and# fourAbedroom#beach#villas.#Amenities#include#a#centerpiece#138Ameter#swimming#pool,#a#second#pool#for# families,#an#oceanfront#hot#tub,#fire#pits,#a#new#Tom#FazioA#designed#golf#course,#extensive#spa,#fitness#center# and#movement#studio#with#a#series#of#classes,#a#kid’s#club,#owners#lounge,#and#h2O#Cave,#the#resort’s# waterfront#sports#center.# # The%Scott%Resort%&%Spa%(Scottsdale,%Fall%2017)# # The#Scott,#formerly#Firesky#Resort#&#Spa,#is#being#reAbranded#in#January#2017#and#will#undergo#$15M#in# renovations,#set#to#bring#in#Spring#2017.#The#204Aroom#resort#is#located#in#the#heart#of#Old#Town#Scottsdale# and#embodies#a#vibrant,#Sonoran#style.#The#property#will#soon#benefit#from#an#upgraded#SpanishAstyle#lobby,# new#signature#restaurant#and#bar,#two#lagoonAlike#pools,#pool#bar#and#all#event#spaces,#to#be#complete#in#Fall# 2017,#just#in#time#for#peak#season#travel#to#Scottsdale.#(Guest#rooms#and#suites#renovation#to#follow#in# Summer#2018.)#Formerly#a#Kimpton#Hotel,#the#property#is#now#owned#and#operated#by#Classic#Hotels#&# Resorts,#based#in#Phoenix.# # Above%the%Penthouses%(Los%Angeles,%Q1%2017)# # Above#the#Penthouses#is#an#exclusive#collection#of#thoughtfully#crafted,#ultraAluxury#residential#offerings#on#the# 15th#floor#of#the#Residences#at#W#Hollywood#on#Hollywood#&#Vine.#Each#boasting#a#unique#personality#and# expansive#views#of#Hollywood’s#landmarks#(Griffith#Park#Observatory,#Hollywood#Sign,#DTLA,#Capitol# Records),#residences#feature#sleek#interior#spaces#with#upscale#industrial#aesthetic,#grand#living#and# entertaining#areas,#spacious#private#terraces,#full#inAresidence#tech#packages#by#BAM#Luxury#and#more.# Owners#enjoy#access#to#W’s#‘Whatever,#Whenever’#residential#program,#24Ahour#concierge,#private#rooftop# pool#deck#equipped#with#kitchens,#fire#pits#and#outdoor#seating,#24Ahour#stateAofAtheAart#rooftop#fitness#center# and#dog#park,#private#screening#room#and#Starwood#Access.# # Kokomo%Island%Resort%(Fiji,%March%2017)# # Kokomo#will#open#in#Fiji#with#21#spacious#beachside#pool#villas,#as#well#as#a#limited#collection#of#fiveAbedroom# hilltop#private#residences.#Kokomo#is#set#on#a#135Aacre#private#island#–#one#of#10#small#tropical#islands#set#in# Kadavu’s#incomparable#Astrolabe#Reef.#Guests#arrive#via#the#island’s#private#floatplane#or#helicopter#and#enjoy# allAinclusive#stays#with#luxury#accommodations#in#traditional#Fijian#bures,#gourmet#cuisine,#spa#experience#and# a#variety#of#activities#and#water#sports,#including#scuba#diving,#snorkeling,#swimming#with#manta#rays#and# more.# # Costa%Palmas%(Los%Cabos,%Early%2018)# # Costa#Palmas#is#a#1000Aacre#private#beachfront#resort#community#located#45#minutes#from#Los#Cabos# International#Airport#on#the#East#Cape#of#the#Baja#Peninsula.#Home#to#Four#Seasons#Resort#Los#Cabos#A#the# luxury#brand's#first#in#Cabo#A#Costa#Palmas#introduces#an#elemental#form#of#luxury#hospitality#set#among# organic#farms#on#an#international#marina.#Thoughtfully#and#sensitively#designed#and#situated#along#a#twoAmile# stretch#of#swimmable#beach,#the#community#features#a#Robert#Trent#Jones#II#18Ahole#golf#course,#18#acres#of# orchards#and#farms,#and#its#own#beach#and#yacht#club.# # Banyan%Tree%Hotels%&%Resorts%has%several%openings%in%China%in%2017:# # Banyan%Tree%Jiuzhaigou%(Tentative:%January%1,%2017)# # Located#in#Sichuan#province#in#southwest#of#China,#Banyan#Tree#Jiuzhaigou#is#nestled#on#a#spectacular# mountain#setting.#A#2.5Ahour#drive#from#Jiuzhaigou#Huanglong#Airport,#the#picturesque#retreat#is#45#minutes# away#from#the#Jiuzhaigou#National#Park.#Banyan#Tree#Jiuzhaigou#offers#209#rooms#and#suites,#all#with#unique# views,#and#facilities#including#five#restaurants#and#bar,#an#awardAwinning#spa,#indoor#and#outdoor#swimming# pools,#gym#and#entertainment#center#with#private#karaoke#rooms#and#a#Kids#Club.# # Banyan%Tree%Anji%(Tentative:%July%2017)#
# The#hotel#will#open#with#161#rooms#and#scenic#mountain#views#with#utmost#privacy.#It#will#focus#on#local# organic#cuisine.#Facilities#include#all#the#typical#things#you’d#expct#from#Banyan#Tree#(great#spa,#pools,#dining,# etc.),#plus#karaoke#and#a#Kids#Club.#It#is#located#in#city#of#Huzhou#in#Zhejiang#province,#an#area#famous#for#its# bamboo#and#hometown#of#the#white#tea.#It#is#also#an#upcoming#ecoAtourism#hub#of#the#country#with#lots#of#local# attractions#like#the#Bamboo#Museum#Garden,#Mountain#Longwangshan,#Tianhuangping#Hydropower#Station# (the#biggest#in#Asia),#Chinese#Bamboo#Sea,#Lingfeng#Scenic#Spot,#South#China#Paraquat#Garden,#Feiyi# Pagoda#and#Mountain#Moganshan.# # Angsana%Zhuhai%Phoenix%Bay%(Tentative:%September%2017)# # 202#keys,#bordering#Hong#Kong#by#sea#and#Macua#by#land,#140km#from#Guangzhou.#The#hotel#will#be#located# at#the#Dalang#Bay#Peninsula,#with#amazing#sea#views.#Local#attractions#include#Zhuhai#Fisher#Girl#Statue,# Qinglv#Road,#New#Yuanmingyuan#Garden,#Pearl#Land#Amusement#Park,#Jiuzhou#City,#Meixi#Royal#Stone# Archways,#Huangyang#Mountain,#Baiteng#Lake,#Qi’ao#Mangrove,#Chime#Long#Resort#and#Ocean#World,#and# Cruise#tour#around#Macau.# # Angsana%Xishuangbanna%(Tentative:%Late%2017)# # This#region#of#China#is#home#of#the#Dai#people.#The#380Aroom#property#will#be#located#in#Menghai#County,#with# beautiful#tropical#scenery#and#ethnic#cultural#heritage.#Local#attractions#include#Manjinglan#Tourist#Villahe,# Mange#Buddhist#temple,#Jinghong#Forest#Park,#Langcang#River#Bank,#and#Ethnic#Customs#Park.!