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CLOSE IN ESCAPES CHARLESTON
Aw, Shucks! Oysters and More in Charleston
Visit Charleston at any time of the year, and you will be treated to a bounty of unforgettable dishes. Countless new restaurants are helmed by a generation of innovative chefs, while families are keeping local institutions going strong through the generations. Travelers serious about experiencing a destination through its foods and flavors, however, should consider timing their visit to coincide with the annual Lowcountry Oyster Festival at the end of January.
We designed an itinerary with the oyster festival as its focus, but it includes other opportunities to explore the city’s exciting food scene. During your stay you’ll meet local suppliers, artisanal producers, and leading chefs—and taste their creations.
Trip HighlightLowcountry Oyster Festival
Each year, in Late January, the annual Lowcountry Oyster Festival takes place at Boone Hall Plantation. It features shucking contests and oyster-eating competitions, as well as live musical performances and a food court where leading Charleston restaurants serve samples of their signature dishes.
Day 1Arrive in Charleston
Hand picked HavensYour base in Charleston will be one of two new hotels, the Grand Bohemian Hotel or The Spectator Hotel.
The Grand Bohemian Hotel, part of Marriott’s Autograph Collection, is on Wentworth, just off of King Street. The 50-room hotel eschews the four-poster beds and vintage furniture found at many Charleston properties in favor of a bright, colorful, and dramatic decor. It has its own art gallery, and Eleve, a restaurant serving contemporary American cuisine with views of the skyline.
Two blocks away, the Spectator Hotel is another notable newcomer. The interiors are inspired by 1920s style, and rooms have private patios with views of the French Quarter—one of Charleston’s oldest neighborhoods—or the steeple of the historic St Philip’s Church.
Your first taste of Charleston comes courtesy of Poogan’s Porch, the city's oldest independent restaurant. While it is located in a Victorian house, the interpretations of classic Southern dishes are decidedly contemporary. It’s only a 10-minute walk down Meeting Street from the Grand Bohemian to Poogan’s Porch, yet we recommend dropping into some of the stores along the way.
After your meal, set out to explore historic Charleston. It’s about a mile and a half from White Point Garden, at the tip of the peninsula, to Marion Square, near the northern end of historic Charleston, making the area ideal for leisurely strolling. But if you would prefer a carriage or rickshaw tour or a bicycle rental, we can arrange it. (Also, if you are staying at the Spectator, the hotel provides complimentary use of their bicycles.)
Return to the Grand Bohemian for a personal wine-blending seminar. Even serious oenophiles will learn some new aspects of wine appreciation from the hotel’s sommeliers and you will end the 90-minute session with a bottle containing your own personal blend.
Tonight you will dine at Hall’s Chophouse on King Street. The restaurant has all you would hope for from an old-school steakhouse, starting with the clubby feel, paneled walls hung with vintage prints, and comfortable leather seats. The steaks are flown in from Chicago, while the she-crab soup and shrimp & grits on the menu are reminders you are in Charleston.
Day 2A Chef's Tour of Charleston
Start your day with the Chefs’ Kitchen Tour with Culinary Tours Of Charleston. You’ll go behind the scenes, and into the kitchens, with some of the chefs who have led the city’s culinary renaissance. On this three-hour tour, you’ll walk and dine—learning from top chefs as you eat your way through town, ending with artisanal pastries and coffee.
After a morning of grazing, you’ll be able to wait till later in the day to eat again. Head over to the Charleston City Market after your tour, where you can shop for both gourmet and craft gifts, including sweetgrass baskets. You can also stop into some of Charleston’s many historic churches as you explore the neighborhood.
In the late afternoon, head to Virginia’s on King for a southern supper. You’ll eat your fill of popular South Carolina dishes: boiled peanuts, tomato pie, chicken and dumplings, and crab cakes.
Day 3Lowcountry Oyster Festival
Today you’ll head out to Boone Hall Plantation in Mount Pleasant, roughly 20 minutes by car from your hotel, for the highlight of your trip, the annual Lowcountry Oyster Festival. This estate counts 738 acres and was founded in 1681 as a cotton plantation. You’ll have a chance to explore the house and grounds before joining the festival fun, showcasing oysters from South Carolina and Virginia along with live musical performances all day. Gloves and shucking knives are given away at the event, and you’ll soon get the hang of shucking oysters with the help of friendly, knowledgeable locals. Vendors sell local and imported beers and wines, and there are also a number of food trucks serving dishes besides oysters.
Day 4Depart from Charleston
Have breakfast at your hotel or fit in a stop at Hominy Grill, one of Charleston’s go-to breakfast spots, before heading to the airport for your flight back home.
Visit Charleston at any time of the year, and you will be treated to a bounty of unforgettable dishes. Countless new restaurants are helmed by a generation of innovative chefs, while families are keeping local institutions going strong through the generations. Travelers serious about experiencing a destination through its foods and flavors, however, should consider timing their visit to coincide with the annual Lowcountry Oyster Festival at the end of January.
We designed an itinerary with the oyster festival as its focus, but it includes other opportunities to explore the city’s exciting food scene. During your stay you’ll meet local suppliers, artisanal producers, and leading chefs—and taste their creations.
Trip HighlightLowcountry Oyster Festival
Each year, in Late January, the annual Lowcountry Oyster Festival takes place at Boone Hall Plantation. It features shucking contests and oyster-eating competitions, as well as live musical performances and a food court where leading Charleston restaurants serve samples of their signature dishes.
Day 1Arrive in Charleston
Hand picked HavensYour base in Charleston will be one of two new hotels, the Grand Bohemian Hotel or The Spectator Hotel.
The Grand Bohemian Hotel, part of Marriott’s Autograph Collection, is on Wentworth, just off of King Street. The 50-room hotel eschews the four-poster beds and vintage furniture found at many Charleston properties in favor of a bright, colorful, and dramatic decor. It has its own art gallery, and Eleve, a restaurant serving contemporary American cuisine with views of the skyline.
Two blocks away, the Spectator Hotel is another notable newcomer. The interiors are inspired by 1920s style, and rooms have private patios with views of the French Quarter—one of Charleston’s oldest neighborhoods—or the steeple of the historic St Philip’s Church.
Your first taste of Charleston comes courtesy of Poogan’s Porch, the city's oldest independent restaurant. While it is located in a Victorian house, the interpretations of classic Southern dishes are decidedly contemporary. It’s only a 10-minute walk down Meeting Street from the Grand Bohemian to Poogan’s Porch, yet we recommend dropping into some of the stores along the way.
After your meal, set out to explore historic Charleston. It’s about a mile and a half from White Point Garden, at the tip of the peninsula, to Marion Square, near the northern end of historic Charleston, making the area ideal for leisurely strolling. But if you would prefer a carriage or rickshaw tour or a bicycle rental, we can arrange it. (Also, if you are staying at the Spectator, the hotel provides complimentary use of their bicycles.)
Return to the Grand Bohemian for a personal wine-blending seminar. Even serious oenophiles will learn some new aspects of wine appreciation from the hotel’s sommeliers and you will end the 90-minute session with a bottle containing your own personal blend.
Tonight you will dine at Hall’s Chophouse on King Street. The restaurant has all you would hope for from an old-school steakhouse, starting with the clubby feel, paneled walls hung with vintage prints, and comfortable leather seats. The steaks are flown in from Chicago, while the she-crab soup and shrimp & grits on the menu are reminders you are in Charleston.
Day 2A Chef's Tour of Charleston
Start your day with the Chefs’ Kitchen Tour with Culinary Tours Of Charleston. You’ll go behind the scenes, and into the kitchens, with some of the chefs who have led the city’s culinary renaissance. On this three-hour tour, you’ll walk and dine—learning from top chefs as you eat your way through town, ending with artisanal pastries and coffee.
After a morning of grazing, you’ll be able to wait till later in the day to eat again. Head over to the Charleston City Market after your tour, where you can shop for both gourmet and craft gifts, including sweetgrass baskets. You can also stop into some of Charleston’s many historic churches as you explore the neighborhood.
In the late afternoon, head to Virginia’s on King for a southern supper. You’ll eat your fill of popular South Carolina dishes: boiled peanuts, tomato pie, chicken and dumplings, and crab cakes.
Day 3Lowcountry Oyster Festival
Today you’ll head out to Boone Hall Plantation in Mount Pleasant, roughly 20 minutes by car from your hotel, for the highlight of your trip, the annual Lowcountry Oyster Festival. This estate counts 738 acres and was founded in 1681 as a cotton plantation. You’ll have a chance to explore the house and grounds before joining the festival fun, showcasing oysters from South Carolina and Virginia along with live musical performances all day. Gloves and shucking knives are given away at the event, and you’ll soon get the hang of shucking oysters with the help of friendly, knowledgeable locals. Vendors sell local and imported beers and wines, and there are also a number of food trucks serving dishes besides oysters.
Day 4Depart from Charleston
Have breakfast at your hotel or fit in a stop at Hominy Grill, one of Charleston’s go-to breakfast spots, before heading to the airport for your flight back home.
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SAN MIGUEL DE ALLENDE
San Miguel de Allende is the most well known of Mexico’s Colonial, Silver Cities, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site as well whose allure entices visitors with a heady mix of Mexican Baroque architecture and cobblestone streets coupled with a cosmopolitan, year round festival, arts & dining scene.
We crafted this week long getaway around the infamous Dia de los Muertos celebration.
The Colonial Era city center is filled with historic buildings and 19th century structures making a striking backdrop to the mountains surrounding the region. Day 1 We confirmed, for architecture buffs The House and Garden Tour is a must do which is sponsored by the Biblioteca Pública which takes you into the city’s most intriguing contemporary and colonial homes. Day 2 An hour away in Guanajuato, we secured transport and VIP entry to the must-do, Festival Cervantino -- a multicultural festival replete with Spanish arts, contemporary dance, theater, opera, literature, film and much more. Day 3 The Day Of The Dead Celebrations in nearby Pátzcuaro are the best in the region. We've connected you with a local family to give you an insider's participation in the festivities. Day 4 The drive to Guanajuato alone is one of the most scenic in The Heartland and the Cervantes Museum a with a local docent/guide is unique with its central theme of Don Quixote represented by a large collection of art in various media: sculpture, print, oil & arcylic. Day 5
A private tour of the nearby, pre-Columbian archaeological site of Cañada de la Virgen featuring temples, monuments and pyramids just a short, scenic drive from town. Day 6 While you’re here we've arranged opportunities to immerse yourself in the language by taking Spanish lessons and art classes offered in town in every medium one can imagine.
A stay right in the historic downtown near the main El Jardin square at the city's finest property Rosewood San Miguel de Allende is a treat.
The 67 rooms are awash in handmade, local art and feature traditional wood-beamed ceilings, the smallest of which boast a massive 570 sq ft along with modern amenities, fireplaces and balconies with spectacular views not found elsewhere.
Their on site Art Concierge can connect guests with local artists, art workshops, hard to secure gallery openings and much more. The hotel's 67 rooms and suites are filled with local, handmade items, without sacrificing modern amenities.
Vinophiles love the on site, 800 bottle wine cellar La Cava where wine pairings are individually tailored by Executive Chef Victor Palma and special tastings can be arranged.
The Colonial Era city center is filled with historic buildings and 19th century structures making a striking backdrop to the mountains surrounding the region. Day 1 We confirmed, for architecture buffs The House and Garden Tour is a must do which is sponsored by the Biblioteca Pública which takes you into the city’s most intriguing contemporary and colonial homes. Day 2 An hour away in Guanajuato, we secured transport and VIP entry to the must-do, Festival Cervantino -- a multicultural festival replete with Spanish arts, contemporary dance, theater, opera, literature, film and much more. Day 3 The Day Of The Dead Celebrations in nearby Pátzcuaro are the best in the region. We've connected you with a local family to give you an insider's participation in the festivities. Day 4 The drive to Guanajuato alone is one of the most scenic in The Heartland and the Cervantes Museum a with a local docent/guide is unique with its central theme of Don Quixote represented by a large collection of art in various media: sculpture, print, oil & arcylic. Day 5
A private tour of the nearby, pre-Columbian archaeological site of Cañada de la Virgen featuring temples, monuments and pyramids just a short, scenic drive from town. Day 6 While you’re here we've arranged opportunities to immerse yourself in the language by taking Spanish lessons and art classes offered in town in every medium one can imagine.
A stay right in the historic downtown near the main El Jardin square at the city's finest property Rosewood San Miguel de Allende is a treat.
The 67 rooms are awash in handmade, local art and feature traditional wood-beamed ceilings, the smallest of which boast a massive 570 sq ft along with modern amenities, fireplaces and balconies with spectacular views not found elsewhere.
Their on site Art Concierge can connect guests with local artists, art workshops, hard to secure gallery openings and much more. The hotel's 67 rooms and suites are filled with local, handmade items, without sacrificing modern amenities.
Vinophiles love the on site, 800 bottle wine cellar La Cava where wine pairings are individually tailored by Executive Chef Victor Palma and special tastings can be arranged.
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THE BEST OF LOS CABOS
The Best of Los Cabos
At the southernmost tip of the Baja California peninsula, Los Cabos is a dramatic desert destination that offers a double dose of Mexico’s biggest draws. Los Cabos is actually two very different towns with a stretch of beautiful coastline connecting them. San José del Cabo, at the area’s eastern end, retains its colonial charm and sleepy atmosphere while 20 miles to the southwest is the lively port of Cabo San Lucas, its harbor filled with yachts and fishing boats and lined with bustling bars and restaurants.
The sharp contrast between them makes this an ideal destination with something to appeal to every traveler, or even the same traveler on different days. We’ve designed an itinerary that will introduce travelers to the best of the many aspects of Los Cabos. Our journey includes not just the area’s two principal towns, but also the artists’ colony of Todos Santos, the desert island of Espiritu Santo, and Cabo Pulmo National Park. You’ll have opportunities to swim with whale sharks, or spot some of the many whale species that gather here: California gray, humpback, and blue whales—the world’s largest, measuring almost 100 feet. On dry land, the desert landscape includes some of the world’s tallest cacti and, on the other end of the spectrum, Xantus’s hummingbirds, measuring just 3 inches. At the end of a day, you can taste the flavors of Baja at restaurants serving dishes created with produce grown on organic farms just feet from your table, or learn from a local chef how to create typical Mexican dishes. From natural wonders to local culture, we’ll lead you to all the highlights.
Day 1Arrive in Los Cabos
After you land at the Los Cabos airport, served by direct flights from a number of US cities, pick up a rental car and head to your hotel. Depending on your preferences, we suggest two different resorts for your stay.
Waldorf Astoria Los Cabos Pedregal is a luxury option that manages to be at once at the center of the action and yet also removed from the crowds. A kilometer-long (0.6-mile) tunnel connects the resort at its cliff-top and oceanfront location to the heart of Cabo San Lucas. Rooms are a mix of rich finishes and minimalist design with the smallest starting at an impressive 900 square feet; all have private terraces and plunge pools.
Those seeking a modern, vibrant, “Millennial-Minded” getaway, should consider the brand new, The Cape, A Thompson Hotel, an edgy resort that has become a favorite of younger travelers. A mix of New York chic and Malibu swagger, this design darling attracts a youthful clientele with its high-end, urban edge. All 161 rooms have expansive water views and with options as large as three-room villas, it is a great place for a group celebration, albeit if you are traveling with a young crew. At just 15 minutes from downtown Cabo San Lucas and 25 minutes from San José, its location makes it a convenient base to explore the area.
After you have checked in at your hotel, start your visit with a walk along the beach or a massage—both hotels have impressive spa facilities. Or you can spend the afternoon snorkeling, windsurfing or enjoying time on one of the region’s many beaches, like Playa Medano near downtown Cabo San Lucas.
In the evening you’ll try your hand at creating some of Mexico’s signature dishes—ceviches, tamales, or moles—at a cooking class with the chefs at the Resort at Pedregal. After dinner at the resort, head into town for a post-dinner cocktail at one of the local watering holes like Common Table or Barometro.
Day 2Todos Santos
Today you'll drive an hour north from Cabo San Lucas to the artists' colony of Todos Santos. The town has a long history, dating back to the establishment of a mission here in 1724, though it was abandoned in the 1840s. The city's second act as a center of sugar cultivation came to an end once the local aquifers were depleted. Today, however, Todos Santos is enjoying yet another renaissance with its artists' studios and as a surfing mecca.
Enjoy lunch at La Santena, a café and cantina at the Hotel Casa Tota with sidewalk seating so you can take in the Todos Santos scene while sipping a tequila. Afterwards explore the town's dozen or so art galleries. Make sure to stop by the Centro Cultural Nestor Agundez Martinez, a small museum that covers the history of town and also has some noteworthy murals from the 1930s. (It's also located just two blocks from the Hotel California, immortalized in the Eagles song.)
Before the arrival of the Spanish, the southern tip of Baja California was home to two indigenous people, the Guaycura and Pericú. Disease devastated both peoples and by the 19th century, they were culturally extinct. One of the last Guaycura communities was in Todos Santos and ancient petroglyphs can be found near the town. Most of these are on private ranches, but we've arranged for a guide who is an expert on the Guaycura people-and who can lead you to these millennia-old drawings of deer, fish, and rabbits.
Return to Cabos, where you will have dinner at Huerta Los Tamarindos, a restaurant and organic farm located across a small estuary from San José del Cabo. Whether you choose the fish of the day, chiles rellenos, or roasted goat, you'll know that the produce you are served is grown literally steps from your table.
Day 3A Day on the Water
Today is all about the sea. We've arranged for an excursion out to El Arco, the iconic rock formation that sits at the land’s end of the Baja Peninsula. Over the course of the day, you’ll have chances to snorkel and try your hand at deep-sea fishing, returning to town before sunset.
From October through March, there are also opportunities to swim with whale sharks that gather in the waters off of La Paz and around the island of Espíritu Santo. These “gentle giants” are the world’s largest fish—measuring more than 40 feet in length—and while they are sharks, they are filter feeders subsisting on plankton and are harmless to humans. From December through March, you’ll also have opportunities to spot whales in the waters off of Los Cabos. Just as travelers from the United States head to Baja when temperatures drop at home, hundreds of whales winter in the waters around Los Cabos and in the Sea of Cortez. Eight of the world’s 11 whale species, including blue, fin, and humpback whales, can be spotted on excursions. Pelagic Life is a notable nonprofit offering these types of immersive aquatic excursions off La Paz and helping preserve the biodiversity of Mexico’s open ocean.
After your day on the water, you’ll return for a dinner with a spectacular setting and ocean views. El Farallon sits beneath the cliffs at the Resort at Pedregal with a large patio overlooking the sea. Chef Gustavo Pinet’s Ocean to Table menu features the best of the fish pulled from the sea each day, with a choice of ceviches, shrimp, octopus, and grilled fish.
Day 4Explore the Aquarium of the World
Jacques Cousteau once call the Sea of Cortez the “aquarium of the world” given its remarkable biodiversity. Your excursion today to the Cabo Pulmo National Park on the Eastern Cape will make it clear what he meant. Just 60 miles north of San José del Cabo, the park is rife with home marine animals—dolphins, sea lions, several species of sea turtles, as well as important, if less photogenic, algae and mollusks. More than 200 different species of fish have been recorded on the park’s reefs.
You’ll explore Cabo Pulmo on a small boat, with your guide taking you to the best snorkeling and dive sites.
After your day beneath the water, you’ll return to your hotel and have time to relax and get ready for a final farewell dinner to Los Cabos. Acre sits on 25 acres of farm just outside San José del Cabo. The contemporary restaurant makes sustainability stylish, with impressive earth walls and furnishings and tableware sourced locally. Salads here are literally farm fresh, while mains include charred octopus, fish tacos, and the catch of the day, as well as burgers and other options for carnivores.
Day 5San José del Cabo
Spend the morning of your last day exploring the charming town of San José del Cabo. After a scenic drive along the stunning Eastern Cape Road take a stroll around Plaza Mijares. The town’s church presides over the main square, which is shaded by jacaranda trees and lined with boutiques and cafes. There are also a dozen galleries in town, representing artists from Mexico and around the world. Peruse the works by some of the country’s top contemporary artists at Patricia Mendoza Art Gallery and pottery inspired by the Paquime archaeological site in northern Mexico at the Mata Ortiz Pottery Gallery.
Enjoy your last meal in Mexico, at least until your next visit, at Mi Cocina. Chef Loic Tenoux prepares excellent ceviches, tacos and tostadas, though his European-Mexican menu also includes pastas and grilled steaks.
After lunch, head to the airport, a 20-minute drive north, for your flight back home.
At the southernmost tip of the Baja California peninsula, Los Cabos is a dramatic desert destination that offers a double dose of Mexico’s biggest draws. Los Cabos is actually two very different towns with a stretch of beautiful coastline connecting them. San José del Cabo, at the area’s eastern end, retains its colonial charm and sleepy atmosphere while 20 miles to the southwest is the lively port of Cabo San Lucas, its harbor filled with yachts and fishing boats and lined with bustling bars and restaurants.
The sharp contrast between them makes this an ideal destination with something to appeal to every traveler, or even the same traveler on different days. We’ve designed an itinerary that will introduce travelers to the best of the many aspects of Los Cabos. Our journey includes not just the area’s two principal towns, but also the artists’ colony of Todos Santos, the desert island of Espiritu Santo, and Cabo Pulmo National Park. You’ll have opportunities to swim with whale sharks, or spot some of the many whale species that gather here: California gray, humpback, and blue whales—the world’s largest, measuring almost 100 feet. On dry land, the desert landscape includes some of the world’s tallest cacti and, on the other end of the spectrum, Xantus’s hummingbirds, measuring just 3 inches. At the end of a day, you can taste the flavors of Baja at restaurants serving dishes created with produce grown on organic farms just feet from your table, or learn from a local chef how to create typical Mexican dishes. From natural wonders to local culture, we’ll lead you to all the highlights.
Day 1Arrive in Los Cabos
After you land at the Los Cabos airport, served by direct flights from a number of US cities, pick up a rental car and head to your hotel. Depending on your preferences, we suggest two different resorts for your stay.
Waldorf Astoria Los Cabos Pedregal is a luxury option that manages to be at once at the center of the action and yet also removed from the crowds. A kilometer-long (0.6-mile) tunnel connects the resort at its cliff-top and oceanfront location to the heart of Cabo San Lucas. Rooms are a mix of rich finishes and minimalist design with the smallest starting at an impressive 900 square feet; all have private terraces and plunge pools.
Those seeking a modern, vibrant, “Millennial-Minded” getaway, should consider the brand new, The Cape, A Thompson Hotel, an edgy resort that has become a favorite of younger travelers. A mix of New York chic and Malibu swagger, this design darling attracts a youthful clientele with its high-end, urban edge. All 161 rooms have expansive water views and with options as large as three-room villas, it is a great place for a group celebration, albeit if you are traveling with a young crew. At just 15 minutes from downtown Cabo San Lucas and 25 minutes from San José, its location makes it a convenient base to explore the area.
After you have checked in at your hotel, start your visit with a walk along the beach or a massage—both hotels have impressive spa facilities. Or you can spend the afternoon snorkeling, windsurfing or enjoying time on one of the region’s many beaches, like Playa Medano near downtown Cabo San Lucas.
In the evening you’ll try your hand at creating some of Mexico’s signature dishes—ceviches, tamales, or moles—at a cooking class with the chefs at the Resort at Pedregal. After dinner at the resort, head into town for a post-dinner cocktail at one of the local watering holes like Common Table or Barometro.
Day 2Todos Santos
Today you'll drive an hour north from Cabo San Lucas to the artists' colony of Todos Santos. The town has a long history, dating back to the establishment of a mission here in 1724, though it was abandoned in the 1840s. The city's second act as a center of sugar cultivation came to an end once the local aquifers were depleted. Today, however, Todos Santos is enjoying yet another renaissance with its artists' studios and as a surfing mecca.
Enjoy lunch at La Santena, a café and cantina at the Hotel Casa Tota with sidewalk seating so you can take in the Todos Santos scene while sipping a tequila. Afterwards explore the town's dozen or so art galleries. Make sure to stop by the Centro Cultural Nestor Agundez Martinez, a small museum that covers the history of town and also has some noteworthy murals from the 1930s. (It's also located just two blocks from the Hotel California, immortalized in the Eagles song.)
Before the arrival of the Spanish, the southern tip of Baja California was home to two indigenous people, the Guaycura and Pericú. Disease devastated both peoples and by the 19th century, they were culturally extinct. One of the last Guaycura communities was in Todos Santos and ancient petroglyphs can be found near the town. Most of these are on private ranches, but we've arranged for a guide who is an expert on the Guaycura people-and who can lead you to these millennia-old drawings of deer, fish, and rabbits.
Return to Cabos, where you will have dinner at Huerta Los Tamarindos, a restaurant and organic farm located across a small estuary from San José del Cabo. Whether you choose the fish of the day, chiles rellenos, or roasted goat, you'll know that the produce you are served is grown literally steps from your table.
Day 3A Day on the Water
Today is all about the sea. We've arranged for an excursion out to El Arco, the iconic rock formation that sits at the land’s end of the Baja Peninsula. Over the course of the day, you’ll have chances to snorkel and try your hand at deep-sea fishing, returning to town before sunset.
From October through March, there are also opportunities to swim with whale sharks that gather in the waters off of La Paz and around the island of Espíritu Santo. These “gentle giants” are the world’s largest fish—measuring more than 40 feet in length—and while they are sharks, they are filter feeders subsisting on plankton and are harmless to humans. From December through March, you’ll also have opportunities to spot whales in the waters off of Los Cabos. Just as travelers from the United States head to Baja when temperatures drop at home, hundreds of whales winter in the waters around Los Cabos and in the Sea of Cortez. Eight of the world’s 11 whale species, including blue, fin, and humpback whales, can be spotted on excursions. Pelagic Life is a notable nonprofit offering these types of immersive aquatic excursions off La Paz and helping preserve the biodiversity of Mexico’s open ocean.
After your day on the water, you’ll return for a dinner with a spectacular setting and ocean views. El Farallon sits beneath the cliffs at the Resort at Pedregal with a large patio overlooking the sea. Chef Gustavo Pinet’s Ocean to Table menu features the best of the fish pulled from the sea each day, with a choice of ceviches, shrimp, octopus, and grilled fish.
Day 4Explore the Aquarium of the World
Jacques Cousteau once call the Sea of Cortez the “aquarium of the world” given its remarkable biodiversity. Your excursion today to the Cabo Pulmo National Park on the Eastern Cape will make it clear what he meant. Just 60 miles north of San José del Cabo, the park is rife with home marine animals—dolphins, sea lions, several species of sea turtles, as well as important, if less photogenic, algae and mollusks. More than 200 different species of fish have been recorded on the park’s reefs.
You’ll explore Cabo Pulmo on a small boat, with your guide taking you to the best snorkeling and dive sites.
After your day beneath the water, you’ll return to your hotel and have time to relax and get ready for a final farewell dinner to Los Cabos. Acre sits on 25 acres of farm just outside San José del Cabo. The contemporary restaurant makes sustainability stylish, with impressive earth walls and furnishings and tableware sourced locally. Salads here are literally farm fresh, while mains include charred octopus, fish tacos, and the catch of the day, as well as burgers and other options for carnivores.
Day 5San José del Cabo
Spend the morning of your last day exploring the charming town of San José del Cabo. After a scenic drive along the stunning Eastern Cape Road take a stroll around Plaza Mijares. The town’s church presides over the main square, which is shaded by jacaranda trees and lined with boutiques and cafes. There are also a dozen galleries in town, representing artists from Mexico and around the world. Peruse the works by some of the country’s top contemporary artists at Patricia Mendoza Art Gallery and pottery inspired by the Paquime archaeological site in northern Mexico at the Mata Ortiz Pottery Gallery.
Enjoy your last meal in Mexico, at least until your next visit, at Mi Cocina. Chef Loic Tenoux prepares excellent ceviches, tacos and tostadas, though his European-Mexican menu also includes pastas and grilled steaks.
After lunch, head to the airport, a 20-minute drive north, for your flight back home.
NORTHERN BAJA+GUADALUPE VALLEY, MEXICO
Baja California Dreaming
The northern part of Baja California has a unique combination of appeals: stunning desert landscapes, an emerging wine region producing award-winning cabernet sauvignons and shirazes, and pristine beaches both on the Pacific Ocean and the Gulf of California. Add in opportunities to explore the area’s exciting restaurant scene and learn about the indigenous peoples of the region, and the result is a fascinating destination for a Mexican vacation that’s just over the border from San Diego and yet feels worlds apart.
We’ve created an itinerary that covers all the highlights of Ensenada and the Valle de Guadalupe. It’s perfect for the travelling gourmet who also wants to explore the natural beauty of this part of Mexico.
Hand picked Haven El Cielo Winery & Resort. The expansive winery boasts 56 suites, 20 villas and two 2,800 sq ft Presidential Villas with wraparound terraces, wine refrigerators and private fire pits. Their restaurant Latitud 32 pairs local wines paired by their on-site oenologist with Baja Yucatan fusion plates like grilled octopus, truffle potatoes, pork belly tacos with mole negro.
Trip HighlightA Master Class in Wine
We’ve arranged for a private wine tour of the Valle de Guadalupe, where you’ll begin at the wine museum and then have opportunities to meet some of the winemakers who have made the valley famous for its distinctive varieties. It’s a spirited tour of one of the world’s most surprising wine regions.
Day 1Travel to Ensenada and Valle de Guadalupe
Fly to Tijuana where you will pick up a rental car and drive to the nearby Valle de Guadalupe. (Alternatively, the drive from San Diego takes about two hours.) If you take the coastal route, you'll pass through the seaside town of Ensenada. Long a popular port for visitors to Mexico, the waterfront is lined with hotels and cantinas that have been operating for more than a century. Fuel up at the most acclaimed of the city’s ceviche stands, La Guerrense, with fish pulled straight from the sea.
Afterwards continue on to the Valle de Guadalupe, roughly 45 minutes to the north of Ensenada. A celebrated destination for wine and olive oil, it entrances visitors with a desert landscape, rolling hills, and blue skies. Your base for the next two nights will be the six-room Villa de Valle Hotel, which has its own vineyard. Next door, at one of the area’s best restaurants, Corazon de Tierra, Chef Diego Hernandez Baquedano creates dishes that take advantage of ingredients at their peak of ripeness. From perfectly balanced vegetable broths with local seafood to fennel ice cream, the restaurant’s menu is full of inspired surprises.
Day 2Surfing and Microbrews
You’ll spend the morning surfing on some of the best beaches in what has been called "the birthplace of surfing in Mexico," namely, San Miguel or Punta San Jose, 29 miles south of Ensenada. After facing off against the waves, return to Ensenada for lunch at Cocedora de Langosta, Here, the owner/chef David González Nishikawa serves fish dishes using the freshest fish and shellfish sold at the city’s and region’s markets.
In the afternoon, we've arranged a tour of craft breweries, like the Old Mission Brewery and Wendlandt Cervecería. Pale ales, heavier stouts, and fruitier Belgian-style brews are created at the state’s 80-some microbreweries but only a few of them export to the United States—you have to come to Baja to try them.
At the end of the day, you’ll return to the Valle de Guadalupe for a dinner with a vineyard view at Finca Altozano or Deckman’s.
Day 3A Private Wine Tour
Today you’ll delve into the valley’s wine scene starting with a private tour of the Museo de la Vid y el Vino (the Museum of the Vine and Wine). The exhibits at the museum cover the history of winemaking in the region, beginning with the first vines planted by Spanish missionaries here. The distinct features of this area’s terroir are explained, as well as the varieties of wines and blends that are characteristic of the Valle de Guadalupe.
After you have a background on the area’s wines, you’ll continue on to Mogor Badán and tour their farm market, gardens, and cellars. The winery has the distinction of being one of the few in Mexico to produce chasselas, wine made using a rare sparkling variety from Switzerland. Your next stop on your wine tour will be the Viñas de Garza, where the owner Armando Garza will lead you on a private tour followed by a wine tasting. You’ll end your excursion with a long multi-course lunch at Laja in a rustic barn and owned by Chef Jair Téllez, one of Mexico’s most acclaimed chefs.
After your meal, a short drive will bring you to Adobe Guadalupe, a six-room bed and breakfast located in a hacienda surrounded by 60 acres of vines. If you’re interested in sampling some more wines, the owners will be happy to pour you samples from their bottles—or pour a glass, and head to the Jacuzzi to savor the sunset.
Day 4A Hike in the Hills
On your fourth day, a guide will meet at your hotel in the morning for a hiking excursion in the mountains around the Valley of Guadalupe. You’ll soon learn that the desert here is surprisingly fertile—if you stop to take a closer look at native species like the chaparral broom bush and the yucca plants that are abundant here.
Your guide will also provide an introduction to the culture of the Kumeyaay Indians, who have lived in northern Baja California and the area around San Diego in the United States for thousands of years. You will return to the Adobe Guadalupe late in the day, and then we'll provide recommendations for dinner at one of Guadalupe’s restaurants based on your tastes.
Day Saddle Up
After a hearty breakfast of huevos rancheros, you’ll head out today on a horseback ride through the desert. Arrangements will be made based on your skill level. Even if you have never ridden a horse before our outfitter will provide a horse happy to trot along at a leisurely pace. Your ride will end at a food truck in the middle of the desert, where you meal will be paired with local wine.
In the afternoon you will continue on to your hotel for the night, El Cielo Winery & Resort. You may recognize this hotel from its many appearances in design, fashion, and travel magazines. It consists of a number of freestanding “eco-lofts” and “eco-villas” overlooking the valley below. Enjoy dinner at the hotel’s restaurant, Origen, before returning to your room under a sky blazing with stars.
Day 6Depart for Home, or Your Next Adventure
It’s time, unfortunately, to depart from Ensenada and the Valle de Guadalupe, and this morning you will head back to Tijuana to return your car and fly home. Unless we've convinced you to continue exploring Mexico and you are headed on to Cabos, La Paz, or any of the other cities near the Baja Peninsula.
The northern part of Baja California has a unique combination of appeals: stunning desert landscapes, an emerging wine region producing award-winning cabernet sauvignons and shirazes, and pristine beaches both on the Pacific Ocean and the Gulf of California. Add in opportunities to explore the area’s exciting restaurant scene and learn about the indigenous peoples of the region, and the result is a fascinating destination for a Mexican vacation that’s just over the border from San Diego and yet feels worlds apart.
We’ve created an itinerary that covers all the highlights of Ensenada and the Valle de Guadalupe. It’s perfect for the travelling gourmet who also wants to explore the natural beauty of this part of Mexico.
Hand picked Haven El Cielo Winery & Resort. The expansive winery boasts 56 suites, 20 villas and two 2,800 sq ft Presidential Villas with wraparound terraces, wine refrigerators and private fire pits. Their restaurant Latitud 32 pairs local wines paired by their on-site oenologist with Baja Yucatan fusion plates like grilled octopus, truffle potatoes, pork belly tacos with mole negro.
Trip HighlightA Master Class in Wine
We’ve arranged for a private wine tour of the Valle de Guadalupe, where you’ll begin at the wine museum and then have opportunities to meet some of the winemakers who have made the valley famous for its distinctive varieties. It’s a spirited tour of one of the world’s most surprising wine regions.
Day 1Travel to Ensenada and Valle de Guadalupe
Fly to Tijuana where you will pick up a rental car and drive to the nearby Valle de Guadalupe. (Alternatively, the drive from San Diego takes about two hours.) If you take the coastal route, you'll pass through the seaside town of Ensenada. Long a popular port for visitors to Mexico, the waterfront is lined with hotels and cantinas that have been operating for more than a century. Fuel up at the most acclaimed of the city’s ceviche stands, La Guerrense, with fish pulled straight from the sea.
Afterwards continue on to the Valle de Guadalupe, roughly 45 minutes to the north of Ensenada. A celebrated destination for wine and olive oil, it entrances visitors with a desert landscape, rolling hills, and blue skies. Your base for the next two nights will be the six-room Villa de Valle Hotel, which has its own vineyard. Next door, at one of the area’s best restaurants, Corazon de Tierra, Chef Diego Hernandez Baquedano creates dishes that take advantage of ingredients at their peak of ripeness. From perfectly balanced vegetable broths with local seafood to fennel ice cream, the restaurant’s menu is full of inspired surprises.
Day 2Surfing and Microbrews
You’ll spend the morning surfing on some of the best beaches in what has been called "the birthplace of surfing in Mexico," namely, San Miguel or Punta San Jose, 29 miles south of Ensenada. After facing off against the waves, return to Ensenada for lunch at Cocedora de Langosta, Here, the owner/chef David González Nishikawa serves fish dishes using the freshest fish and shellfish sold at the city’s and region’s markets.
In the afternoon, we've arranged a tour of craft breweries, like the Old Mission Brewery and Wendlandt Cervecería. Pale ales, heavier stouts, and fruitier Belgian-style brews are created at the state’s 80-some microbreweries but only a few of them export to the United States—you have to come to Baja to try them.
At the end of the day, you’ll return to the Valle de Guadalupe for a dinner with a vineyard view at Finca Altozano or Deckman’s.
Day 3A Private Wine Tour
Today you’ll delve into the valley’s wine scene starting with a private tour of the Museo de la Vid y el Vino (the Museum of the Vine and Wine). The exhibits at the museum cover the history of winemaking in the region, beginning with the first vines planted by Spanish missionaries here. The distinct features of this area’s terroir are explained, as well as the varieties of wines and blends that are characteristic of the Valle de Guadalupe.
After you have a background on the area’s wines, you’ll continue on to Mogor Badán and tour their farm market, gardens, and cellars. The winery has the distinction of being one of the few in Mexico to produce chasselas, wine made using a rare sparkling variety from Switzerland. Your next stop on your wine tour will be the Viñas de Garza, where the owner Armando Garza will lead you on a private tour followed by a wine tasting. You’ll end your excursion with a long multi-course lunch at Laja in a rustic barn and owned by Chef Jair Téllez, one of Mexico’s most acclaimed chefs.
After your meal, a short drive will bring you to Adobe Guadalupe, a six-room bed and breakfast located in a hacienda surrounded by 60 acres of vines. If you’re interested in sampling some more wines, the owners will be happy to pour you samples from their bottles—or pour a glass, and head to the Jacuzzi to savor the sunset.
Day 4A Hike in the Hills
On your fourth day, a guide will meet at your hotel in the morning for a hiking excursion in the mountains around the Valley of Guadalupe. You’ll soon learn that the desert here is surprisingly fertile—if you stop to take a closer look at native species like the chaparral broom bush and the yucca plants that are abundant here.
Your guide will also provide an introduction to the culture of the Kumeyaay Indians, who have lived in northern Baja California and the area around San Diego in the United States for thousands of years. You will return to the Adobe Guadalupe late in the day, and then we'll provide recommendations for dinner at one of Guadalupe’s restaurants based on your tastes.
Day Saddle Up
After a hearty breakfast of huevos rancheros, you’ll head out today on a horseback ride through the desert. Arrangements will be made based on your skill level. Even if you have never ridden a horse before our outfitter will provide a horse happy to trot along at a leisurely pace. Your ride will end at a food truck in the middle of the desert, where you meal will be paired with local wine.
In the afternoon you will continue on to your hotel for the night, El Cielo Winery & Resort. You may recognize this hotel from its many appearances in design, fashion, and travel magazines. It consists of a number of freestanding “eco-lofts” and “eco-villas” overlooking the valley below. Enjoy dinner at the hotel’s restaurant, Origen, before returning to your room under a sky blazing with stars.
Day 6Depart for Home, or Your Next Adventure
It’s time, unfortunately, to depart from Ensenada and the Valle de Guadalupe, and this morning you will head back to Tijuana to return your car and fly home. Unless we've convinced you to continue exploring Mexico and you are headed on to Cabos, La Paz, or any of the other cities near the Baja Peninsula.
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BERMUDA
A Culinary Adventure in Bermuda
Bermuda is a tropical island paradise known for its decidedly British flair, island spirit and divine pink sand beaches. However, what many people don’t realize is that Bermuda offers an impressive food culture, and share in this culinary custom trip, exactly where you should dine. This itinerary is specially designed to whet your appetite. By day you explore the island, perusing museums and art galleries, hiking secluded shores and calling “fore” on famous golf courses. And afterwards, you sample the finest meals Bermuda has to offer, from local specialties like spiny lobster and mussel pie to chefs who are masters at preparing dishes from around the world.
Hand Picked Haven: Rosewood Bermuda
A 240 acre waterfront gem overlooking Castle Harbour, Harrington Sound and the Atlantic Ocean. Only 88 renovated rooms show their cottage style architecture, plantation shutters and modern interiors. Dining options about here at steakhouse Island Brasserie, Suv Verde Italian outpost, Tucker’s Bar, Conservatory Bar & Lounge, Spa & Poolside dining and the alfresco Beach Club Restaurant.
Trip Highlight
Gibb's Hill Lighthouse. Climb the 185 steps in the Gibb's Hill Lighthouse to building up an appetite before a meal at the recently renovated Dining Room, featuring dishes from around the world.
Day 1Island Views and Bermudian Flavors
You fly into Bermuda and get whisked away to the elegant Rosewood Tucker's Point. Relish the scene from your veranda before heading to Hamilton for your first culinary experience in Bermuda at Tribe Road Kitchen. This popular gastropub has a long menu of tasty burgers and sandwiches—fuel to explore the island, including a climb up the 185 steps to the top of Gibb's Hill Lighthouse. One of the world's first cast-iron lighthouses, it has panoramic views of all of Bermuda. After returning to your hotel for a rest, leave time to explore more of Hamilton before heading to dinner at Ascot's Restaurant, noted for its award-winning continental cuisine, such as the signature Barbary duck.
Day 218-Hole Courses and 10-Course Meals
Start the day with your preferred tee-time at Tucker's Point Golf Club. The Charles Bank-designed course boasts 18 holes with spectacular sea views. After you have finished your round, spend the afternoon by the Rosewood Tucker's Point pool, resting up for the exquisite Point 360: The Murals Experience at the hotel's The Point restaurant. Inspired by the Pan Am Sky Club murals on display at the restaurant, Chef Gerry Adams will take you on a 10-course culinary journey around the world, from cumin-spiced lamb evoking the bazaars of Beirut, to five-spice scallops that transport you to the street markets of Hong Kong. Bermuda is represented, of course, by rockfish with peas and rice.
Day 3Museums and Maki Rolls
The culture of Bermuda is on display at the island's myriad museums. At The Bermuda National Gallery, you can explore exhibits that include art and artifacts spanning more than three centuries of Bermuda's history. At The Keep, the imposing fortress adjacent to the Royal Navy Dockyard, The National Museum of Bermuda showcases Bermuda's history as a British military outpost, while The Verdmont Historic House Museum offers the chance to explore one of the island's best preserved 17th-century mansions. For dinner, you dine al fresco on the terrace at Harley's Restaurant, overlooking Hamilton Harbour as you enjoy indulgent fare like sushi rolls featuring fresh-caught fish and truffle-crusted filet mignon.
Day 4Bird Watching and Spa Pampering
Spend the morning hiking the cliffside trail of South Shore Park, with picturesque views and fantastic birdwatching as longtails ride the updrafts. We can also arrange a unique Bermuda experience—catch and cook with a local fisherman, who will teach you how to prepare your catch and cook it on the spot. Reward yourself with an afternoon at Rosewood Tucker Point’s Sense Spa. The 12,000 square foot retreat’s The Bermuda Triangle is a trio of treatments: restorative rain-splash therapy, a massage with locally sourced aloe, and a citrus facial. Revitalized, celebrate your last night at the historic Tom Moore’s Tavern, with local specialties like fish chowder with black rum and sherry pepper.
Bermuda is a tropical island paradise known for its decidedly British flair, island spirit and divine pink sand beaches. However, what many people don’t realize is that Bermuda offers an impressive food culture, and share in this culinary custom trip, exactly where you should dine. This itinerary is specially designed to whet your appetite. By day you explore the island, perusing museums and art galleries, hiking secluded shores and calling “fore” on famous golf courses. And afterwards, you sample the finest meals Bermuda has to offer, from local specialties like spiny lobster and mussel pie to chefs who are masters at preparing dishes from around the world.
Hand Picked Haven: Rosewood Bermuda
A 240 acre waterfront gem overlooking Castle Harbour, Harrington Sound and the Atlantic Ocean. Only 88 renovated rooms show their cottage style architecture, plantation shutters and modern interiors. Dining options about here at steakhouse Island Brasserie, Suv Verde Italian outpost, Tucker’s Bar, Conservatory Bar & Lounge, Spa & Poolside dining and the alfresco Beach Club Restaurant.
Trip Highlight
Gibb's Hill Lighthouse. Climb the 185 steps in the Gibb's Hill Lighthouse to building up an appetite before a meal at the recently renovated Dining Room, featuring dishes from around the world.
Day 1Island Views and Bermudian Flavors
You fly into Bermuda and get whisked away to the elegant Rosewood Tucker's Point. Relish the scene from your veranda before heading to Hamilton for your first culinary experience in Bermuda at Tribe Road Kitchen. This popular gastropub has a long menu of tasty burgers and sandwiches—fuel to explore the island, including a climb up the 185 steps to the top of Gibb's Hill Lighthouse. One of the world's first cast-iron lighthouses, it has panoramic views of all of Bermuda. After returning to your hotel for a rest, leave time to explore more of Hamilton before heading to dinner at Ascot's Restaurant, noted for its award-winning continental cuisine, such as the signature Barbary duck.
Day 218-Hole Courses and 10-Course Meals
Start the day with your preferred tee-time at Tucker's Point Golf Club. The Charles Bank-designed course boasts 18 holes with spectacular sea views. After you have finished your round, spend the afternoon by the Rosewood Tucker's Point pool, resting up for the exquisite Point 360: The Murals Experience at the hotel's The Point restaurant. Inspired by the Pan Am Sky Club murals on display at the restaurant, Chef Gerry Adams will take you on a 10-course culinary journey around the world, from cumin-spiced lamb evoking the bazaars of Beirut, to five-spice scallops that transport you to the street markets of Hong Kong. Bermuda is represented, of course, by rockfish with peas and rice.
Day 3Museums and Maki Rolls
The culture of Bermuda is on display at the island's myriad museums. At The Bermuda National Gallery, you can explore exhibits that include art and artifacts spanning more than three centuries of Bermuda's history. At The Keep, the imposing fortress adjacent to the Royal Navy Dockyard, The National Museum of Bermuda showcases Bermuda's history as a British military outpost, while The Verdmont Historic House Museum offers the chance to explore one of the island's best preserved 17th-century mansions. For dinner, you dine al fresco on the terrace at Harley's Restaurant, overlooking Hamilton Harbour as you enjoy indulgent fare like sushi rolls featuring fresh-caught fish and truffle-crusted filet mignon.
Day 4Bird Watching and Spa Pampering
Spend the morning hiking the cliffside trail of South Shore Park, with picturesque views and fantastic birdwatching as longtails ride the updrafts. We can also arrange a unique Bermuda experience—catch and cook with a local fisherman, who will teach you how to prepare your catch and cook it on the spot. Reward yourself with an afternoon at Rosewood Tucker Point’s Sense Spa. The 12,000 square foot retreat’s The Bermuda Triangle is a trio of treatments: restorative rain-splash therapy, a massage with locally sourced aloe, and a citrus facial. Revitalized, celebrate your last night at the historic Tom Moore’s Tavern, with local specialties like fish chowder with black rum and sherry pepper.