As Americans try to get back on their feet and begin to venture out beyond borders, one of the only countries welcoming American visitors without requiring the two-week quarantine and a battery of paperwork is Mexico. Travel-Intel asked an avid traveler who sells mostly travel to Mexico about his recent travel experience. Like most things these days, the travel seller (anonymous for the purpose of candid commentary) found some sweet surprises to report:
Having just returned from a four day trip to Los Cabos, I thought I would share a few thoughts on our experience given the ongoing COVID-19 situation.
We departed from LAX on Sunday, August 2 and flew on Alaska Airlines. The flight was “full” based on the new limitations and “social distancing” policies by the airlines.
Surprisingly, the airport experience was fantastic — something one does not often say when referring to LAX. However, this comment was primarily based on the fact that the airport was pretty much deserted.
Check-in and security were a breeze and the Alaska lounge was open, which was nice touch as we had several hours to wait. The staff in the lounge could not have been nicer. Of course, the wearing of masks was enforced at all times.
The flight itself was at capacity, given the fact that all middle rows were blocked and only one seat on each side was available in the upper cabin, unless flying with a companion. I found the social distancing policy amusing, however, as I cannot remember ever being in Coach with a seat that is six feet wide, or six feet in distance between my row and the row immediately in front and immediately behind. The blocking of the middle seat does not keep you six feet away from anyone.
I was also very disappointed with the attitude of one flight attendant in particular. You would think given the state of the industry and the number of people out of work in the industry, they would bend over backwards to be friendly. Not so on the outbound, but better on the return.
Arrival at the Los Cabos International Airport was quick and easy. Again, due to the reduced number of flights. The line for immigration was short and we passed through quickly. All passengers did have temperatures taken at immigration.
The vehicle that picked us up was a Suburban with a private driver. He wore a mask and gloves and the vehicle was spotless and “smelled” clean. It is obvious they are working hard to maintain a very high standard for the vehicles. The driver was good enough to take us to the grocery store on the way to The Cape Hotel so we could avoid the $10 waters and $50 bottles of wine that are the norm in many resorts these days. At the grocery store, we had our temperatures taken and used hand sanitizer before being allowed to go in. Everyone in the store was wearing a mask and the space was spotless.
When we arrived at The Cape Hotel, we were greeted by some very happy and cheerful employees that were grateful, I am sure, to be working and welcoming guests back to the beautiful destination. We passed through a sanitation station which sprays a disinfectant. It did not have any odor and did not cling to our clothing.
Check-in was simple and quick and our amazing concierge, Rocio, was on hand to welcome us. She was in constant contact prior to our arrival and did an amazing job.
Our room, well actually our residence, was not quite ready as we were early, so we were escorted to the restaurant at the pool for lunch. There were quite a few guests at the pool, and everyone seemed in great spirits.
Our lunch was ridiculously good …went for the shrimp tacos and pork tacos. The view was breathtaking, and we happily watched the surfers catch waves at Monument Beach, which is directly in front of the hotel.
We enjoyed this spot daily and it provided a sense of freedom — something seems to have been lost during the course of the COVID pandemic. For the first time in months, we felt like we didn’t have a worry in the world.
After our lunch we were taken to our residence, which was stunning! Amazing views, full living room, dining area and kitchen as well as a huge master bedroom, bathroom with separate sinks and closets. I also discovered buying water at the grocery store was a bit rash as there was plenty of complimentary water in the room that was replenished constantly. Good to remember for the next trip.
After we settled in, we donned our masks and headed to the pool. Of course, as soon as arriving at the pool, masks can be removed — helping us to avoid some interesting tan lines. We hung out, had some drinks and enjoyed the beautiful weather, amazing views and relaxing pool. Simply amazing.
The evening included doing absolutely nothing, feeling no stress and actually an early night. Too much sun and a few cocktails can be pretty exhausting. I managed to answer my emails as well, and soon felt better than I have for the past 4 ½ months.
I woke up early as usual on Monday morning and felt a little irritated at being on “vacation” but still waking before sunrise. I made a cup of coffee, opened the drapes and my mood immediately changed. The view was beyond beautiful!!!!
I was now fully awake and ready for another day at the pool, interspersed with meetings and work. The pool was not too crowded, and we met two couples from Missouri and spent the day with them, or I should say I spent part of the day with them. While my wife was able to enjoy their company as these days work never stops
That evening, we went to The Rooftop at The Cape for incredible views of Cabo San Lucas and The Arch (as the Gringos call it). The service was impeccable, food delicious and cocktails superb. I forgot to add that we did wear masks to and from the pool and to and from The Rooftop as required.
After a few days, the mask was not too annoying as we knew as soon as we arrived at our destination it would be gone.
Tuesday, I toured some of the new villas in the Elegant Mexico collection and met with several owners and vacationers who have chosen to stay in Cabo during the pandemic rather than LA, Dallas, etc. Los Cabos is taking the COVID situation very seriously.
The final night, we had dinner at Toro, Richard Sandoval restaurant, with our new friends. It’s a beautiful restaurant with delicious food. Upon arrival, the staff will take your temperature and ask you to sanitize your hands to make sure the health and safety regulations are followed. We then ended the evening at The Rooftop at The Cape with a few drinks listening to a local musician… just a wonderful final evening.
Our departure day came far too quickly. The staff at The Cape were kind and obliging and we could sense their appreciation for our visit. I was still feeling more relaxed and freer from stress than I had felt in months. Los Cabos was welcoming, the weather, while warm, was beautiful and we never felt like we were enduring a restrictive style of vacationing.
I am constantly asked about the situation in Los Cabos during this pandemic and how much one can really enjoy themselves at this time. It is true that the clubs in Cabo San Lucas are closed still and capacities at the resorts and restaurants remains limited, however, I would go back again tomorrow without any hesitation. Los Cabos remains one of the most beautiful places on earth and the Mexican people are some of the warmest and most welcoming.
Other than one irascible flight attendant, our trip was near perfect …even with a mask!
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