As Cinco de Mayo approaches and party-goers in the D.C. area enjoy cheap tequila and mariachi music, this author reminisces of the stay at Las Ventanas al Paraíso in Los Cabos, Mexico — an experience that was anything but cheap, and everything to do with world-class service, exquisite accommodations and facilities, and unswerving attention to detail.
Just 45 hours at the acclaimed resort after Día de Muertos, a lively holiday celebrated throughout Latin America, and the Zen thought bubble in my head on the flight back to Reagan National was “if this plane goes down, I’m OK ending on a happy and relaxed note.”
As the holiday itself is an explosion of color and life-affirming joy (versus Cinco de Mayo, an anniversary of the Battle of Puebla), Las Ventanas, a Rosewood Resort, is in itself a feast for the senses. Panoramic views over the Sea of Cortez. Finely crafted private villas with original, regional artwork.
Breezy 84-degree temperatures lapped up from the infinity-edge pool. Savory dishes that blend fresh delicacies with the flavors of Mexico.
Restorative massages that combine aromatherapy with a light but vigorous touch. Oh, and that personalized pillowcase sewn with my initials.
After the last two years, it was time to drink the luxury in.
The resort has become one of the top celeb destinations on the planet, and for good reason. In keeping with Rosewood’s Sense of Place philosophy, Las Ventanas works to reflect the local culture and spirit of the Baja region—from plants and cuisine to handmade art to entertainment.
Beyond this, the masterfulness of the resort is in the pampering and customization.
Upon contact-less arrival, a smiling personal butler greets you with a frothy margarita in hand and the indulgence builds from there.
Personal touches are plentiful: an elaborate breakfast coconut bowl carved with my name, a bespoke sewing kit with threads customized to the colors in my wardrobe, a one-on-one “boot camp” on the beach at sunrise with a personal trainer and a private tasting to determine my personal tequila preferences (oh my God, that smoky Mezcal!).
There is no sound reason to leave this magical retreat. But when you must, you can end on a happy and relaxed note.
And put your head on that personalized pillowcase once you get back home.
INSTAGRAM IT
• Sip the rich oak and smooth spice in an exclusive tasting program with the resort’s tequila masters
• Flaunt your floaty maxi dress at Arbol, an elevated Asian-style culinary experience
• Enter the clandestine apothecary-themed speakeasy, La Botica, and stay for the Afro Cuban musical performance of Rosalia de Cuba, Las Ventanas’ artist in residence