CC

My wife and I just returned from Cabo San Lucas last Monday and I must say, it wasn't what I expected. My goal here is not to knock Cabo (although it was the worst vacation we've ever had), but to provide my impressions of what I found favorable and unfavorable: <BR> <BR>Favorable: <BR> <BR>-Goods: you can score some good deals on blankets, pottery, art and the like, but mostly in the little shops on the side streets off the main drag. <BR> <BR>-Beaches: nice beaches, but look for something secluded. <BR> <BR>-Locals: we met some wonderful locals in both the restaurants and on the beach. Generally, most of the locals (not necessarily involved in the tourism trade), were nice and down to earth. <BR> <BR>Unfavorable: <BR> <BR>-The vendors on the beach: my wife and I were continually annoyed by the beach vendors. You can only say "no gracias" so many times. I understand why the vendors are so aggressive, but if you're planning on just sitting out on the main beaches to have a margarita and watch the ocean, be prepared for the annoyance, unless of course you like the stuff they're selling! <BR> <BR>-The constant ripping off: from the second we stepped off the plane, we felt like everyone just wanted to rip us off. Example: when we came off the plane, we were told that a cab ride to our hotel would cost $75. Interesting considering the cab ride we took at the end of the vacation from our hotel back to the airport only cost $40. My advice: watch your wallet! I constantly felt like everyone in Cabo wanted a piece of my wallet and would tell me whatever I wanted to hear just to get the $$. I realize it's not much different than most resort type areas, but there is a fine line between an aggressive sales job and begging. In Cabo, begging is cleverly disguised as providing a good or a service. <BR> <BR>-The water: be careful! My impression is that in most of the Cabo resort areas, the water is relatively safe to drink and hotels will advertise this up front. The ice is what you need to be careful of since it tends to be shipped into Cabo in bags, which does not guarantee that it's purified and safe. <BR> <BR>You'd probably do better to stay in San Jose del Cabo and come to Cabo San Lucas for a day trip. My overall opinion of Cabo is not very high, but everyone sees things differently. Either way, I think there is something to be said for all the negative impressions people have of Cabo on this board. Don't believe the hype! Go to Tahiti instead. <BR>

ar

Dear CC: I feared the worst by staying close to town, so we opted for the Sheraton Hacienda del Mar (hate to give this secret out). Just got back 8/17. It is 8 miles from town and vendors not allowed. The food, water, everything was fabulous. Infinity pools, long white beaches, 5 restaurant choices, beautiful rooms, and pretty good service. Shuttle to town for $4. We did that once and only lasted about an hour--rushed back to paradise. You might give Cabo a second chance if you want to just relax at a beautiful resort. They are building a Ritz and Four Seasons on either side, so very nice gated area.

La

My husband and I went to Cabo last Summer and had a wonderful time. We stayed at the Palmilla Resort. It was beautiful. The service was excellent. Our only downfall was the weather. It rained a couple of days, but it wasn't so bad. Overall, I would definitely give the Palmilla a try next time you visit.

Wendy

We stayed at La Palmilla, too, a few years ago, and it was heavenly. No vendors on the beach, incredible service and rooms. I highly recommend it! One of our best vacations, ever. Have the hotel arrange a cab for you from the airport. That way, you won't get ripped off.

Anony

CC good trip report in that you provided balance and both positive and favourable. <BR> <BR>I agree cc there is nothing worse than going on Vacation and the prices you are paying leave you feeling like you are being robbed. <BR> <BR>Yes CC I agree with to go to somewhere else. We like to come home from our vacations feeling relaxed and fresh not harrassed and harranged by people pushing their sales pitch on us or whatever else they have to sell. <BR> <BR>My suggestion is CC is try an all inclusive where golf, food and drinks are all part of the deal. The ideal Paying $180 for a round of golf , forget it. <BR>Now the Grand Bay Hotel down there in Barra has one of the best golf courses in Mexico, 18 holes @ $50 offered in a tour package I picked up. Located on its own private island this is a Five Star Hotel. In the package there was a great meal deal and free breakfast and free cocktail hour. There is a water taxi to Barra de Navidad the little town and the best part CC no mention of hookers, strippers and drugs.

mylesfire

rental car and places to go? <BR> <BR>we are staying in a timeshare in the town of cabo san lucas for 5 days in late september. <BR> <BR>as we are four people, we may rent a car the whole time to get around and take various trips, like up to Todos Santos or even La Paz. anyone been somewhere of interest in the area? <BR> <BR>can anyone offer advice on rental cars, which companies, models that available, petrol, etc? thanks. <BR> <BR>mylesfire

ar

Mylesfire--my friends use AAA to rent cars in Mexico as they have the Mexico insurance forms, also. Noticed that there were long lines for gas at the few gas stations we saw--don't know why though, sorry.