This year I turned 27. I honestly don’t know how I feel seeing those two numbers together. I definitely do not feel almost thirty, nor do I feel like I should be 22. Age is weird, isn’t it? My parents would say, “Oh, you’re still young” but my peers understand the unfamiliarity in approaching our late twenties. 

I’m proud of a lot of my accomplishments, and I still have some goals I would like to hit before I’m the big 3-0. But this piece isn’t going to be about self-reflection – we’ll save that for another time  

Unofficially for my birthday and my 5 year anniversary with K, we decided to plan a trip to Cabo San Lucas, Mexico. As my dad asked, “Why Cabo?” My response, “Why Not?!” I no longer live in Southern California where I can get my beach fix everyday. And as much as I’d love to adventurer further, I honestly was looking for a quick escape where I could truly disconnect, relax and get some vitamin d. Cabo was just what I needed.

ACCOMODATIONS

In Cabo, the accommodation options are endless. As I planned our trip, I must have looked at every “all inclusive” deal out there. Massive resorts with 4+ restaurants, pools, swim up bars, entertainment centers, and so on. I’m all for having my food and drinks paid for with unlimited quantities and options. But I wanted something more authentic, personable and chic.

When I ran the numbers, in both scenarios for two of us to travel for 5 days, we would be spending almost the same (even a little less!). My dream is to stay at The Cape. But this was way out of our budget this time around. After searching social media (Instagram is a great tool on so many levels) and following up on Google, I came across Bahia Hotel & Beach Club. Like any traveller, I read through all the good and bad reviews (always read the bad too), looked at pictures, observed their comments on their social media feeds and read through their website, rooms, and so on.

I was beyond happy with what I saw. Bahia is a boutique hotel in the center of it all – walking distance to great restaurants, bars and beautiful Medano Beach. Whenever you book something in a new place, you are slightly taking a chance that it may not live up to the expectation you’ve created in your mind.

My experience when booking with Bahia was much more than I expected…

Prior to arriving at Bahia, one of their Guest Ambassadors emailed me with confirmations. From day 1, this hotel exceeded my expectations. I cannot say enough wonderful things about their staff, food and accommodations. In fact, I could write an entire post about their wonderful customer service, but to save you from my rambling, here are some of my favorite highlights from staying with Bahia Hotel & Beach Club:

• They were organized and confirmed everything prior to our visit.
• They kindly answered all my 100+ questions prior to arriving. (I’m on a first name basis now with their guest ambassador?)
  
• They upgraded our room to a pool view with a kitchen for my birthday and our anniversary.
• Upon arrival they greeted us with cervezas.
• Within the first 5 minutes of our arrival, I got us locked out on our balcony whoops! They graciously ran someone up immediately to help and assured me it happens all the time, again friendly beyond belief. 
• On our 4th night, we came back to our room from dinner with a surprise! They left us with a beautiful chocolate plate, fresh berries and special note from their General Manager to wish us happy anniversary.
• They have a great restaurant and coffee shop right in the hotel, a chic swim up bar and pool area where they always play great music.
• The decor is fun with a beach/bohemian vibe.
• You are close to everything you need: bars, restaurants, vendors, beach, activities.
• AHHHMAZING service! Everyone is gracious, friendly, and goes above and beyond to make sure your stay is wonderful.

To learn more about Bahia Hotel & Beach Club, and to book your next vacation ;), click here.

THE FOOD

Mexican food is by far my favorite. For days prior to leaving, all K and I could talk about was fresh guacamole and fish tacos. We may have been more excited about eating than anything else. Here are 5 places we recommend: 

$: 3-6.00       $$: 10-12.00          $$$: 15-30.00

1. Tacos Gardenias ($) Right down the street from Bahia Hotel, there lies this amazing taco restaurant. Its casual walk up manner and friendly service won us over from the start. They have a large selection of tacos from chicken to fish, and serve each in a DIY manner with taco toppings of guacamole, roasted jalapeños, cabbage and carrots, pico de gallo, salsa and more. 
2. Mango Deck ($$) If you’re looking for some entertainment, cheap drinks and delicious food, Mango Deck is a must. Mango Deck is right one the beach and one of the most popular spots for spring breakers to let loose. Although, don’t let that scare you away. For lunch try their bucket of beers and massive guacamole. Dinner does mellow down before the partiers make their way back to the sand. I suggest trying their shrimp fajitas. All will done overlooking the ocean, playing games directed by their house MC and listening to upbeat music.
3. The Office ($$) Another beach favorite, The Office is a great place for breakfast, lunch or dinner. Personally, I favor their breakfast over any other meal. It was wonderful sitting on the sand watching the calm ocean before all the play began. Their chilaquilas, fresh mimosas and coffee were a few of our favorites.
4. Bar Esquina ($$-$$$) The beautiful Bar Esquina is within Bahia Hotel. Serving breakfast, lunch and dinner. They are known for their artisan dishes and craft cocktails. Each dish has a Mexican flair but is more modern than the others I had. With items like shrimp risotto, roasted brussel sprouts, and sushi rolls; you will find something perfect (and delicious).
5. Edith’s ($$$)  A magical haven tucked away between the hustle and bustle of lively Cabo. Blown glass and lanterns fill the open aired restaurant. Bright linens, fresh hibiscus, candles and fountains surround you. A 5 string mariachi band plays as waiters cater to your every need and some performing food delicacies right at your table. You won’t walk away with spending less than $100, but every penny (or peso) is worth it. The food and drinks are amazing, the service is personable, and the atmosphere is romantic, yet charming. 

ACTITIVITES

As you walk along any beach in Cabo, you will be bombarded with vendors offering kayaks, glass bottom boat rides, ATV adventures, and more. Through Bahia we learned about Cabo SUP (Stand Up Paddle-board). We decided to book an hour paddle-boarding on our second full day in Cabo. The team at SUP was professional and fun. One recommendation though, go in the morning. As the day goes on, the waters get a little rough with all the activities. The morning is smooth and calm.  

Our trip only lasted 5 days, but it was just what we needed to reenergize our batteries. Its so important to work hard but to also take the time to relax and enjoy.

I think 27 is going to be a great year.