Destinations

Discovering Amazing Los Cabos

The fastest-growing tourism destination in Mexico is on a roll, having gained thousands of hotel rooms in recent years and a new airport terminal to boot.

Monica Garcia told a Thursday Toronto gathering that the Baja California destination – comprised of the communities of San Jose del Cabo and Cabo San Lucas – has gained 6,000 rooms in the past seven years, with numerous upscale properties making it “the most high-end” destination in Mexico.

A new airport terminal for international arrivals further underscores Cabo’s growth, she added.

Los Cabos has 11 Canadian gateways.

San Jose del Cabo is promoted as a traditional Mexican community, while Cabo San Lucas is a “hip” part of the world that has seen its share of the rich and famous, Garcia continued.

Los Cabos is found in the state of Baja California Sur, 42% of which is a “natural protected area,” Garcia reported. It’s Sea of Cortez wowed oceanographer Jacques Cousteau, who viewed it as “his favourite place to be and see and explore,” she said.

Los Cabos has committed itself to sustainable development, among other things limiting hotel heights and having cruise ship passengers come ashore by tenders, rather than having their vessels dock in a port.

“When you got there you don’t feel like it’s overrun and they want to keep it that way,” Garcia said.

Tourism authorities have created 10 Experiences that await visitors, including hearing the “Amazing Tenors,” which has tourists listen to whales found off area shores.

Another experience is “Blamping,” a combination of glamping and mountain biking. Those opting for blamping can overnight in a “beautiful tent under the stars away from everything,” Garcia reported.

Meanwhile, Cessie Cerrato of Palace Resorts said the upscale Le Blanc Spa Resort in Cabo is an all-inclusive, meaning you can “leave your wallet at home.”

The property provides “ultimate luxury” and “every single room has a view of the ocean,” she continued.

The differing nature of resort restaurants “takes away the misconception” that all-inclusive guests will be eating similar food throughout their stays, she added.

In the photo

Seen here are Cerrato; Dave Cecco of WestJet Vacations; and Garcia.