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Los Cabos Getaways - Elite Traveler
Los Cabos Getaways - Elite Traveler
Top Suites
Mexicos chicest getaway is also home to some of the countrys most unforgettable luxury accommodations. Select from one of these enviable suites for the ultimate
VILLA CORTEZ / ONE&ONLY PALMILLA
BY SCOTT GOETZ
CAPELLA PEDREGALI
PRESIDENTIAL BEACH VILLA Key selling points | This Mediterranean-style villa offers direct access to the beach and boasts a private terrace overlooking the Pacific, an infinity-edge plunge pool and a fire pit. Standout service | A traditional Mexican major-
10 suites, three casitas and one villa Whos slept here? | Zoe Saldana, John Legend Nightly rate | $4,600 Location | Camino Del Mar - 1, Cabo San Lucas Contact | General Manager Peter Bowling, 52-624-163-4314; pbowling@capellahotels.com; www.capellapedregal.com
complete with butler service. Style | Mexican contemporary dcor, by Adriana Hoyos, 2008 Special amenities | Bulgari toiletries, four flatscreen satellite TVs (three 32-inch, one 42-inch) Square footage | 4,500 Number of rooms in suite | Seven Number of bathrooms | Four
Number of rooms and suites in hotel | 150 suites, 13 penthouses Whos slept here? | Tommy Lee, Matt Sorum, Audrina Patridge, Demi Lovato, Andrew Bynum, Natasha Henstridge, Mena Suvari, Lisa Rinna, Harry Hamlin Nightly rate | From $900 to $3,500 Location | Avenida Pescador S/N, Colonia El Mdano, Cabo San Lucas Contact | General Manager Victor Gomez, 52-624-163-5757; victor.gomez@casadorada.com; www.casadorada.com
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Square footage | 3,600 Number of rooms in suite | Six Number of bathrooms | Four Number of rooms and suites in hotel | 71 suites Whos slept here? | Jennifer Aniston, Sandra Bullock, LeAnn Rimes, John Travolta, Simon Cowell, Brad Pitt, Jennifer Lopez, Jessica Simpson, Kelly Clarkson, Nicole Richie, Christina Aguilera, Eva Longoria and Tony Parker Nightly rate | From $4,935 Location | Carretera Transpeninsular Km 19.5, San Jos del Cabo Contact | Managing Director Lionel lvarez, 52-624-144-2800; lionel.alvarez@rosewoodhotels.com; www.lasventanas.com
ONE&ONLY PALMILLAI
VILLA CORTEZ Key selling points | This sprawling 13-room suite features four bedrooms, its own 12-person private screening theater with Genelec surround sound system, an editing/production media studio, full kinesis gym and spa facilities and comes with 24-hour, live-in dedicated household and culinary staff. Standout service | When staff found out a guest would be celebrating a milestone birthday at the resort, the Celebrations Concierge surprised her with a traditional mariachi band peformance. Style | Traditional hacienda, by Paul Duesing Partners, 2009 Special amenities | Lady Primrose bath products, Bose audio system, flat-screen TV with DVD/CD player, high-speed Internet, telescope, private ocean infinity-edge pool with whirlpool
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Number of bathrooms | Five and one half-bath Number of rooms and suites in hotel | 61, including one villa Whos slept here? | Jennifer Aniston, Sienna Miller, Kate Beckinsale, Courteney Cox, Sheryl Crow, Mario Lopez Nightly rate | From $7,000 Location | Carretera Transpeninsular Km 7.5, San Jos del Cabo Contact | Managing Director and Regional Vice President Edward Steiner, 52-624-146-7000; edward.steiner@oneandonlypalmilla.com; www.oneandonlypalmilla.com
Number of rooms and suites in hotel | 57 casitas and suites Whos slept here? | Chelsea Handler, Debra Messing, Josh Duhamel and Fergie, Katherine Heigl, Leonardo DiCaprio, Hilary Swank, Gwyneth Paltrow and Chris Martin Nightly rate | From $1,800 Location | Carretera Transpeninsular Km 7, Manzana 10, Punta Ballena, Cabo San Lucas Contact | General Manager Severino Gomez, 52-624-145-6454; sgomez@esperanzaresort.com.mx; www.esperanzaresort.com
to the members-only Club Ninety Six, a private catamaran and Club Espiritu, the propertys cutting-edge private fitness club Square footage | 12,000 Number of rooms in suite | 12 Number of bathrooms | Five and two half-baths Number of rooms and suites in hotel | 38 villas Whos slept here? | The Jonas Brothers, George Clooney, Brad Pitt, Steven Spielberg, Robert De Niro, Meryl Streep, Ron Howard, John Mayer, Oprah Winfrey, Kobe Bryant, Derek Jeter, Michael Caine Nightly rate | $6,000 to $8,000
Location | Carretera Transpeninsular 27.5, Palmilla, San Jos del Cabo Contact | Vacation Director Sean Emmerton, (949) 388-8590; emmerton@ix.netcom.com; www.villasdelmar.com
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LOS CABOS
Elite Activities
and
Los Cabos is a playground not only for the jet set, but also for travelers looking to become revelers. Combine a Euro-chic vibe with a tequilero-meets-surfer attitude, and you have the perfect mix for elite fun in the sun.
lar ME Cabo hotel, Nikki Beach is known for its signature white teepees and plush lounge beds, which adorn this luxurious utopia wedged between the Pacific and the Sea of Cortez. Celebs like Enrique Iglesias, Eva Longoria and Pink can be spotted here sipping cocktails or mojitos.
lit bar. Move outside to lounge on daybeds by a re pit where DJs spin for both visitors and locals, who come for the sophisticated atmosphere of one of Cabo San Lucas few clubs.
Contact: Reservations Manager Marlen Ahumada, (866) 625-9669; resmanager@mebymeliacabo.com; www.me-cabo.com
LAS VENTANAS TEQUILA EXPERIENCE Try one of the tequila classes offered to guests at Las Ventanas al Paraso, where tequileros pour shots of Chinaco
Cabo Wabo Cantina: Since its opening 20 years ago, Sammy Hagars Cabo Wabo Cantina has remained a local institution. It features music, entertainment and a typical beach menubut its the potent margaritas and rock n roll connection that keeps it going strong.
Contact: Managers Carlos Ortega and Betto Nuez Renovatto, 52-624-143-1188; carlos@cabowabocantina.com
EXTERIOR / CABO WABO CANTINA
Negro and Don Tacho Gran Reserva, as well as other extra aejos in the $100plus range.
Panchos Restaurant & Tequila Bar: This venue stocks an astonishing array
of tequilas, including many labels that are no longer available on the market. Book a tasting with John Bragg or Jose de Jesus Anguiano, considered to be two of Mexicos maestro tequileros, or tequila ambassadors. Learn about the history and complexities of this often misunderstood liquor.
Contact: Owners John and Mary Bragg, 52-624-143-2891; bragg@panchos.com; www.panchos.com
or beto@cabowabocantina.com; www.cabowabocantina.com
PINK KITTY: A true VIP nightclub, Pink Kitty features internationally renowned DJs, superior sound and lighting, exceptional bottle service and a scantily clad female staff. With a sexy, ultra-plush atmosphere and impeccable service, the club plays host to several VIP events, including the annual Pink Kitty Love & Lust Lingerie Ball on the Saturday night of Valentines Day weekend (this year its happening on February 12th).
Contact: Owner Timothy Sheldon, 52-1-624-157-9423; vip@pinkkittycabo.com; www.pinkkittycabo.com
LUXE NIGHTLIFE / PINK KITTY
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With access to both the Pacific Ocean and the Sea of Cortez, many of Los Cabos outdoor activities are focused on the water. Top golf and unmatched natural beauty round out the areas family-friendly appeal.
CABO ADVENTURES: A 4x4 Desert Safari takes small groups aboard a Mercedes-Benz Unimog in an offroad voyage through remote areas and some of the most challenging terrain on the planet. As the ultimate go-anywhere, four-wheel drive vehicle, the Unimog was originally built in Germany under NATO contract for military use. While fit for the military bigwigs, guests use them to enjoy breathtaking views and spectacular photo opportunities while kicking back with some well deserved tequila. Or, hit the waves on an authentic Americas Cup racing yacht for an exhilarating once-in-a-lifetime sailing adventure where guests become working crewmembers. Dive into the blue and swim through a series of PADI Scuba Certification courses, then interact closely with marine life by joining a dolphin swimparticipants not only receive kisses and a thrilling ride but gain insight from trainers into the anatomy and history of these fascinating creatures.
4X4 DESERT SAFARI / CABO ADVENTURES
Contact: Sales Director Mark Watson, 52-624-173-9500 ext. 220; mwatson@cabodolphins.com; www.cabo-adventures.com
Flying Tortuga Ziplines: Thrill-seeking families should head to Flying Tortuga Ziplines at Wild Canyon Adventures for three-anda-half hours of guaranteed adrenaline, where from 295 feet in the air they will soar through canyons and adjacent rock faces, down lines almost nine football elds in length. Theres a 33-foot-tall training line for the kids, as well.
Contact: Manager Cristina Ortiz, 52-624-144-4433;
FLYING FAMILY / FLYING TORTUGA ZIPLINES
Cabo Real Golng: Host of two PGA Senior Slams and other prestigious golf tournaments, Cabo Real is also home to a private Jack Nicklaus signature golf course at its El Dorado development. In and around the development, nongolfers can enjoy other options such as helicopter rides, bungee jumping, horseback riding and ocean activities.
Contact: Sales Manager Nubia Sarabia, 52-624-173-9400; nsarabia@questrogolf.com; www.questrogolf.com or www.caboreal.com
cristy@wildcanyon.com.mx; www.wildcanyon.com.mx
Pisces Sportfishings fleet of 28- to 111-foot luxury yachts, from brands like Viking, Mikelson, Hatteras and Ocean Alexander, are on hand to aid each family member in the fight to reel in their ultimate catch. Marlin, dorado, sailfish, wahoo and tuna thrive thanks to nutrient-rich waters and catch-and-release programs like this one. Anglers on charters from December through March can also expect whale sightings, so book the yacht all day and include a gourmet beach lunch that can also feature snorkeling and a leisurely cruise to watch the gentle giants frolic in the warm Baja waters.
TROPHY FISHING / PISCES SPORTFISHING
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LOS CABOS
Elite Activities
and
Not all of once-remote Baja has been turned into a bustling tourism center. Explore the rest of the peninsula for a taste of authentic culture as well as modern art.
Todos Santos: A well kept secret until recent years, Todos Santos has earned acclaim as an artists enclave: Its remote setting, remarkable serenity and dramatic natural beauty are now catching on with vacationers. Highlights of this little town include numerous art galleries, museums, a mission church, interesting boutiques and several excellent restaurants. The famed Hotel California, rumored to be the site where the Eagles penned their iconic song, adds interest to this great escape. For the ultimate in boutique luxury lodging, stay at Rancho Pescadero in an upstairs suite with private rooftop patio overlooking the ocean (from $295 per night).
Contact: Rancho Pescadero Owner Lisa Harper, (910) 330-8891; rancho1@ranchopescadero.com; www.ranchopescadero.com
SUITE / RANCHO PESCADERO
CALENDAR
DECEMBER 2010
December 11 December 12
CARNIVAL
This pre-Lent extravaganza fills the streets with music, carnival rides, floats and dancers in extravagant costumes. www.visitloscabos.travel
February 12 to 19
December 16 to 24
CHRISTMAS POSADAS
Candle-lit processions that end in house parties take place over the nine days leading up to Christmas, enhancing the excitement of the
FEBRUARY 2011
February
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LOS CABOS
Guide
Traditional Mexican influences meet international style in Los Cabos top restaurants and shops.
Designer Adam D. Tihanys sexy follow-up to DANIEL, Le Cirque and Per Se sets the mood, but its the confluence of flavors that make these tables the hottest in town.
Pitahayas: Located within the luxe Sheraton Hacienda del Mar, chef Volker Romeikes Asian fusion dishes earned Pitahayas the Five Star Diamond
FINE DINING / MARKET
award from the American Academy of Hospitality Sciences for 11 years running. His menu literally
DINING
Market and Suviche:
Michelin-starred chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten collaborated with One&Only Palmilla to develop a unique menu for Market, his first outpost south of the border. The result is a tantalizing collision of Jean-Georges signature style and traditional Mexican flavors. Standouts include cubes of Chilean salmon toro with lemon, horseradish and dill and veal with chipotle glaze, asparagus and porcini mushrooms. Adjacent to Market is Suviche Restaurant & Lounge, which offers sushi and ceviches that incorporate both local and Asian ingredients.
travels the entire Pacific Rim from Japan to Mexico with celebrated specialties like stir-fried pork tacos and salmon with lobster risotto and pineapple soy juice.
MAIN PATIO / MI CASA
Mi Casa:
seat 600 guests, but its also consistently rated the best Mexican food in town. Request a table in the back courtyard filled with enchanting folk art, hanging lanterns and old world Mexican charm.
Casianos: Theres no menu, just a list of ingredients. Choose your main dish from the catch of the day, chicken, shrimp, scallops or beef, then chef Casiano Reyes waits to be inspired for the rest. Guests are welcome to join in by suggesting dishes in this VIP-for-everyone culinary experience.
From the music to the mole, this restaurant delivers all the clichs weve come to expect from a Mexican eatery, but here they serve the whole enchilada with an extra helping of sophistication. Standouts include mole poblano and chile en
Tequila Restaurant:
fers a fusion of Mediterranean, Asian and Mexican flavors. Fresh, quality ingredients, a smoking hot grill and a wood-burning oven are the stars of this kitchen. Try the beef tenderloin with cabernet sauce, baked rosemary potatoes and baby organic vegetables or the local tequila-doused shrimp with plantains and black beans. Dont miss out on the
SUSHI SCENE / SUVICHE
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fine art galleries to exclusive timepieces. Youll score great finds from local clothing designers as well as internationally recognizable brand names like Chopard, Harry Winston, Montblanc, Pineda Covalin, Tiki Lounge featuring Tommy Bahama and Ralph Lauren.
Contact: General Manager Alan Baron, 52-624144-6999 ext. 205; abaron@lastiendas.com.mx; www.lastiendasdepalmilla.com
J&J Habanos: This premium Cuban cigar and teMEXICAN ELEGANCE / LA PANGA ANTIGUA
quila boutique offers more than just an impressive selection of merchandise. The knowledgeable staff
offers personalized service and is happy to impart an education, should you wish to learn more about the best ways to clip, light and smoke habanos, or how to properly sip and appreciate tequila. In addition to being able to taste-test tequilas, youll find a walk-in humidor, exclusive cigars and luxurious
Contact: Los Cabos CVB Managing Director Rubn Snchez Lizrraga, 52-624-143-4777; rubensanchez@visitloscabos.org; www.visitloscabos.travel
La Panga Antigua:
should head to San Jos del Cabos La Panga Antigua, where award-winning owner and chef Jacobo Turquie shares his love of seafood through contemporary Mexican cuisine, with star plates like tuna lacquered with honey and guajillo pepper, shrimp pozole and whole red snapper with tomatillo salsa. The outdoor courtyard exudes colonial ambience, and the service is excellent.
The Shoppes at Palmilla: This is the only property within the Palmilla Development thats open to the general public, offering upscale shopping from
SHOPPING
Art Walk, San Jos del Cabo:
Thursday
evenings, from November through May, art lovers stroll through the streets of San Jos del Cabo behind the old mission church sipping wine and chatting with gallery owners who have united to create a several-block-long art walk. A collector can find everything from Huichol beadwork to masterpieces
DOWNTOWN / SAN JOS DEL CABO
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LOS CABOS
Guide
Contact: Assistant Marketing Manager Cecy Merino, 52-624-163-4280 ext. 3015; contact@luxuryavenue.com; www.luxuryavenue.com/ing
hand-blown glass factory just outside San Jos del Cabo, this is a must-see for visitors seeking decorative items with an authentically Mexican feel.
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