Tag Archives: Baja California

Looking for a Unique Vacation? Los Cabos, Mexico is a Great Destination.

It’s time to mix up your travel plans with a unique vacation to Los Cabos, Mexico, one of the fastest growing tourist destinations in the country.

Los Cabos is a beautiful, thriving municipality located at the tip of the Baja peninsula and divided into the areas of Cabo San Lucas and San Jose del Cabo, two towns surrounded by stunning coastal waters. The warm tropical climate and sandy beaches set the scene for an exciting stay in a natural oasis, but Los Cabos has many other hidden wonders to offer daring travelers with a taste for luxury and adventure.

What Makes Los Cabos a Unique Travel Destination?

Los Cabos WhalesNo matter where you stay in Los Cabos, travelers can relax amidst a landscape of carefully preserved natural treasures and exotic wildlife. This eternal summer land averages over 300 sunny days annually and maintains a comfortable temperature of approximately 86F. An intriguing contrast of sparkling beaches and desert plains littered with cactus plants provides miles of thrilling land to explore.

The mountains, deserts and canyons offer the perfect environment for unique and bold eco-tours, allowing you to traverse massive rocks, see cascading waterfalls and vibrant flora up close, and enjoy horseback rides through the hills. Los Cabos is unlimited in the opportunities it presents and every type of traveler will find memorable attractions that bring them back to Mexico again and again.

Los Cabos Attractions

Los Cabos has developed one of the most safe and inviting tourist infrastructures in the world, attracting visitors with Mexico’s rich cultural heritage and dedication to protecting its beautiful scenery. Los Cabos is home to some of the finest resorts and hotels, many of which are right on the oceanfront and offer convenient access to popular water sports. Los Cabos is a paradise for swimming, diving, surfing, sport fishing, sailing, snorkeling, kayaking and countless other marine activities. And of course, if you want to bathe under the sun for a natural golden tan, there are plenty of quiet beaches to enjoy.

Beneath the crystal waves, you can view a wealth of different species in the natural habitats where they make their homes, such as sea turtles, dolphins, starfish, eels and tropical fish. Whale migration is one of the most exciting annual attractions in Los Cabos, and each year from December to February you can see these majestic creatures as they glide through the water.

What you may not know is that Los Cabos is a premier destination for golfing. The breathtaking greenery, open desert lands and unforgettable coastal views provide one of the most unique golfing experiences in the world. Many of the golfing clubs are located along the Sea of Cortes, so you can perfect your game against the backdrop of jutting jetties, distant mountain ranges, swaying palm trees and dazzling ocean waters.

Los Cabos Offers Vibrant City Life

Get ready for a dynamic trip with diverse fining dining, exhilarating nightlife, artisan shops and chic boutiques all around. If you enjoy seeing local monuments and landmarks, El Arco in Cabo San Lucas is a popular natural rock formation at the southernmost tip of Baja, where the surrounding waves are ideal for diving, snorkeling, admiring the sea lions and whale-gazing. And don’t miss a day at the Estero de San Jose del Cabo, a protected estuary where over 250 species of birds can be spotted.

Depending on how you like to spend your time, Los Cabos has fun attractions ranging from winery tours to rugged buggy rides through local terrain. Los Cabos may be located at the tip of a peninsula, but its incredible vacation spots top the list of unique tourist destinations.

 

G20 Summit Los Cabos, Recognizes Tourism as a Major Vehicle for Job Creation, Economic Growth.

Official White House Photo by Pete Souza

Less than a week ago, a powerful group of financial and political leaders representing approximately 80% of global trade convened in Baja California Sur in Los Cabos, Mexico to discuss the future of international economic stability. President Barack Obama is just one example of the high-profile attendees that gathered at the annual G20 Leader’s Summit amidst the fitting backdrop of a cultural oasis stimulated by a thriving tourist market.

Mexico: First Latin American country to chair the annual Presidency of the G20 Group

The Group of Twenty, better known as G20, brings together members from 19 countries and the European Union for much needed talks about international cooperation, accelerating employment and financial preparedness with structural reforms, and promoting sustainable development across the globe. This year marks the first time that a Latin American country has held the rotating Presidency of the G20 group, and only the second emerging economy to take the reins, following the Presidency of the Republic of Korea hosted in Seoul in 2010.

The G20 originated in December 1999 as a conference of international finance ministers and central bank governors concerned about the overwhelming financial crisis overtaking the world economy, as well as the imbalanced representation of developing countries in international dialogue dedicated to these issues. In November 2008, the current financial crisis spurred former President George W. Bush to leverage the G20 group as a strategic platform to organize a global coordinated response to the economic decline. Since 2008, seven Leader’s Summits have been held in Washington, D.C., London, Pittsburgh, Toronto, Seoul, Cannes and now, Los Cabos, Mexico.

Tourism – A Major Vehicle for Growth

Mexico’s G20 Presidency signals an essential shift in the group’s initiatives, which in the past have centered largely on strengthening financial institutions, implementing better standards for fiscal supervision and pumping more resources into international trade as the best means of jumpstarting the economy. Inspired by a recent meeting of the G20 Tourism Ministers, Mexico’s president Felipe Calderon Hinojosa proposed world tourism as a significant force for driving economic improvement across the globe.
Not only did this issue force the summit’s recognition of tourism as a major “vehicle for job creation, economic growth, and development,” but also led the G20 Leaders to introduce plans to rethink current travel and immigration regulations to better promote job creation and poverty reduction on an international scale.

Los Cabos, Mexico as an Example of Economic Development

As Mexico joins the exclusive list of destinations where the world’s most influential figures have dared to tackle the hurdles of nourishing a global economy, Los Cabos stands out as a shining example of how marketing a country’s inherent cultural qualities can create new opportunities for economic growth. Not to mention, the pleasant climate, a consistent reputation for security and a world class tourism infrastructure provided the means to support an event of this magnitude.
We congratulate Los Cabos for hosting a memorable summit.

 

Top Adventure Travel Trips in Mexico

Adventure travel trips and tours in Mexico are one of our specialties at Journey Mexico. For those of you planning adventure vacations this summer, we’ve put together a list of our favorite adventure tours.

From pristine beaches and remote jungles to spectacular mountains, lakes and rivers – these travel adventures get to the heart of this grand destination: Mexico.

 

1)      Baja Multisport: Sea Kayaking and Hiking Trip

On this adventure trip you’ll visit both the Pacific Ocean and Sea of Cortez coastlines of Baja California, Mexico. Perfect for active travelers, it combines remote hiking and paddling in intact wilderness settings, plenty of wildlife viewing opportunities and visits to local villages.

This trip includes a full day Sea-Kayaking expedition in the Sea of Cortez. Experience the turquoise waters of the protected beaches of the Island of Espiritu Santo.  We will also visit the resident sea lion colony where you can opt to swim and snorkel with these marine mammals.

During our day hike, you will indulge in the seascapes of the rugged Pacific Coast of Southern Baja California. In this hike into the Sierra de la Laguna Biosphere reserve you will also experience the beauty of cascading waterfalls in the stunning cactus forests.  A visit to the fishing village of Todos Santos and a day of surfing provides a taste of the old Baja.

2)      Chiapas Adventure Trip – Ziplines, Waterfalls, and Ruins

On this fabulous adventure trip to Chiapas, Mexico, you will zip line through the tree-tops of the jungles and mountains of the region. Take in the magnificent beauty of one of the area’s waterfalls, measuring over 100 feet in height, and swim in the refreshing water from the falls. This journey also includes a visit to the archaeological site of Palenque, an ancient Mayan city known as one of the greatest achievements of ancient man, and to San Cristobal de las Casas, a charming colonial city where you can converse with the indigenous people of San Juan Chamula and Zinacatan, and learn about their colorful ceramics and textiles.

 

3)      Swim With Whale Sharks and Visit Ancient Ruins Trip

This adventure trip to the Riviera Maya in Mexico, is perfect for wildlife lovers. One of the highlights of this adventure includes swimming and snorkeling with docile whale sharks (ranging from 10 to 65 feet in length) on a secluded island. After a few days of nature immersion, explore the ancient Mayan ruins at the world renowned Chichen Itza. Your private guide will explain the significance of this archeological site and the achievements of the Maya civilization. You will also have the chance to cool off in a beautiful sinkhole before enjoying a picturesque lunch nearby. Accommodations at the Isla Holbox (a tranquil island 3 hours from Cancun) are in a quaint eco-friendly hotel.

 

 

4)      Copper Canyon Hiking Trip – Lower Rio Urique Wilderness

The Copper Canyon hiking trip is an expedition style adventure where hikers follow the Urique River as it winds through the Mexican canyon. This tour offers stunning views, trails through narrow slot canyons and a crossing of the magnificent suspension bridge at Vado de la Cueva. You will also visit the native communities and the historic settlements of El Fuerte, Cerocahui, Creel, Chihuahua, and Batopilas.

A train journey on the world famous Chihuahua al Pacifico Mexican railroad offers a panoramic view of the amazing transition between the Sea of Cortez and the canyons of the Sierra Tarahumara.

 

5)      Mainland Mexico Surf Trip

This surfing adventure trip is 10 days of non-stop surfing combined with luxury accommodations to relax and recharge in the evening. On this trip you will stay in 2 magnificent villas right on the water. You will also go on exciting road trips on private SUVs and take a private fight to some of the region’s best kept secret surfing spots.

An expert guide will be with you providing insider access and a professional photographer will shoot video and photos of the adventure.

 

6)      Oaxaca Cycling Excursion

This exciting tour lets you experience a bike tour like you never have before. During this cycling excursion you will not only see great bike routes but you will also discover Oaxaca’s amazing culture, food, and natural beauty.

You will visit Teotitlan del Valle, where the world-famous, traditional, woven, wool blankets and rugs come from, as well as other remote villages with XVI century churches, old plazas and vibrant markets and galleries.  On this tour, you will also see Monte Alban – an archeological site from around 500BC.

 

7)      The Volcano Mountain Climbing Expedition

This adventure tour is 10 days of amazing mountain climbing. Explore two Mexican volcanoes: The Malinche volcano, named after the Indian lover and interpreter for Cortez , and the Iztaccihuatl, the 3rd largest in Mexico famous for its shape of a sleeping woman.

In addition to exploring the mountaintops, caves, and glaciers of central Mexico, you will also visit the charming towns of Puebla and Cholula outside of Mexico City.

This trip also includes a visit to Teotihucan, a world-famous archeological site, and the Basilica de Guadalupe. This Basilica is the 3rd most important religious center worldwide.

8)      Yucatan  Adventure

This adventure trip on the Riviera Maya takes you through the jungles of the Yucatan Peninsula and brings you to incredible archeological sites designated as World Heritage Sites by UNESCO. Visit the Mayan ruins of Uxmal, Chichen Itza, Celestun, Ex-balam and Sian Ka’an.

This ecotourism tour includes a visit to a local Maya family where age old traditions are still maintained. It also takes you to Tixkokob where locals still practice the age old tradition of Hammock weaving.

The Riviera Maya, with its turquoise waters and soft powder sand beaches awaits you.

 

We hope you embark soon on your adventure travel tour and discover the wonders that Mexico has to offer.

 

August 2011 Journey Mexico Newsletter

AUGUST 2011 NEWSLETTER
(View the full newsletter >>)

Jacques Cousteau once called Mexico’s Sea of Cortés “the Aquarium of the world,” and for good reason as 39% of the Earth’s marine mammals either live in or visit the Sea of Cortes during their lifetime. Nearly all of the World’s Gray Whales are born just off the coast of Baja, Mexico and each winter, thousands of Gray Whales migrate back down to Mexican waters to breed – offering travelers unforgettable up-close-and-personal encounters.

Traditionally, exploring the Sea of Cortés and its wildlife has meant camping in the rugged terrain of Baja California, which is great for adventure lovers but can be discouraging for others. Now, however, Journey Mexico is excited to offer a fabulous alternative: an eight-day, seven-night cruise aboard a 120-foot, 22-guest yacht.

On The Sea Quest Explorer, you’ll tour the Sea of Cortés, a World Heritage biosphere reserve that harbors more than 900 islands (many uncharted), flora, fauna, and animals found nowhere else in the world. In addition to whale watching and site-seeing, travelers will enjoy a burro ride through the arroyos, swimming with baby sea lions, and a visit to Isla Coyote, a tiny island populated by only two families! Included in the experience are two-person sea kayaks, paddle boards, snorkeling and water-skiing equipment, a sailboat, and motorized shore boat for close-up wildlife viewing.

As a kick off promotion, we are pleased to offer travel credits of $200 dollars per person (and $400 dollars for teenagers) for select travel dates booked by September 30th, 2011.

Journey Mexico Leading an ATTA Pre-Summit Adventure

The Adventure Travel Trade Association (ATTA), the largest international network of adventure travel companies and organizations, is holding their their annual World Summit in Chiapas, Mexico this upcoming October. Together with the State of Chihuahua, Journey Mexico will be operating a pre-summit adventure to the Copper Canyon. The Pre-Summit Adventures provide Mexico the opportunity to showcase the beauty of their area and their talented tour operators. To find more information on how to join the Copper Canyon tour, click here.

Journey Mexico News

Mexico Safety The Journey Mexico blog has quickly established itself as a leading resource for all up-to-date (and from-the-ground) information about Mexico. Our posts on the latest in the safety of Mexico have been getting hundred of shares throughout our social media networks. For the latest safety updates, click here .

Hotel Updates

Demetria: This new and innovative boutique hotel is in one of the most exclusive zones of Guadalajara. The cultural and artistic aspects of this hotel is mixed to create a full urban environment of life and we are delighted to share it in our exclusive portfolio.

 

Four Seasons Punta Mita: Back by popular demand, their “1-2-3-4 Reasons to Vista Punta Mita” promotion is back, including a $1,234 resort credit.

 

 

Journey Mexico: On The Road

August 12-19: Zach wil be traveling to Las Vegas for Virtuoso Travel Mart

August 20-26: Zach will traveling to New York for client visits

August 24-29: Matteo will be traveling to New York for client visits

September: Journey Yucatan will be launched with a new line of product 6* transfers, tours, excursions, yachts, villas, incentives & more!


Photos from a Recent Whale-Watching Trip in Baja California

Each winter, the Gray Whales of the Pacific migrate from the cold waters of Alaska to the tropical waters of Mexico to breed from December through April. As we near the end of March, we prepare to say goodbye to the Gray Whales, thank them for the up close and personal encounters they shared with us, and wish them safe travels on their long journey back to Alaska.

This year’s whale watching season was, like always, magnificent. Below are some photos from one of our recent whale-watching trips in Baja California.

 

New Mexico TV Ad

Mexico Vacation TV AdJourney Mexico is excited about the release of the tourism board’s newest television ad promoting Mexico Vacations to Baja California and Mexico’s Pacific Coast.

To create a trip to Mexico to experience the activities and visit the places in this video, contact one of our expert trip planners today!

*Update 7/21/10 – This TV ad is a part of Mexico’s Minister of Tourism’s new ad campaign designed to reach 50% of North Americans. More information about this new campaign can be found at Travel Weekly.

Journey Mexico: Rough Guides Recommendation

Lisa Grossman wrote an excellent article, “Mexico: Baja’s Blue Frontier,” for Rough Guides in which she illustrates the incredible beauty, the wide variety of marine life, and the rich culture that Baja California has to offer. Journey Mexico is sited at the conclusion of the article as the go to outfitter for excursions to Baja. To read the article, click here.