In the last couple of years Mexico has suffered an enormous loss in tourism because of an incredible triple whammy…
* A devastating global economic crisis,
* A brutal drug war between powerful cartels,
* The H1N1 virus that originated there.
For very good reason, Americans stayed away from Mexico, choosing instead to vacation closer to home.
The result has been a huge drop in tourism that has practically crippled Mexico’s economy that relies heavily on the American dollar.
Fast forward to today…I just got off of a plane from Cabo San Lucas and can promise you that if you can swing a vacation now, Mexico is the place to go.
First of all, the flights are cheap, easy and wide open. Scott and I traveled on a Friday with our two small dogs ( Mexico is dog friendly- Just bring travel papers from your vet), the flight from LA to Cabo took under two hours and once in Mexico, customs was a breeze!
We quickly checked into a brand new resort, Capella, that was one of the best places I’ve ever stayed! At the base of Pedregal and right on the beach, the joint was practically empty. We felt that we had the whole place to ourselves. Each room has it’s own private infinity dipping pool (!) and the service was better than at a Four Seasons. I’m not kidding. Not only did the entire staff have our names memorized within hours, they also memorized the names of our dogs! It was hilarious going to breakfast and having the waiter say, “Good morning Ms. Erickson…How did Cupcake and Twinkie sleep?” Speaking of breakfast, they have the best Huevos Rancheros I’ve ever had!
Scott was excited to check out a new golf resort called Diamante Cabo San Lucas. It’s a Davis Love III designed course right on the ocean sand bluffs that had players comparing it to Ireland- but 80 degrees! Davis was there to introduce the facility to the media and the local community. From what I hear, don’t be surprised if it debuts as one of the top 100 courses in the world! Scott loved it.
As far as the nightlife, Cabo is less crowded that ever but just as fun. Shops, restaurants and bars are practically begging for your business so you can get a great deal on anything from jewelry to glassware to cervezas! Along the marina most bars were offering a bucket of beer (6) for 10 dollars! The lobster, steak and shrimp are as cheap as I’ve ever seen. Both of the NFL playoff games were on bigscreens at just about every bar and restaurant.
Of course everyone takes the U.S. dollar in Mexico’s tourist destinations and most people speak petty good english.
Better yet, we didn’t see hide nor hair of a drug lord during our entire 4 day visit. No Montezumas Revenge. No swine flu, either.
The coast is clear, gringos!