Hi, my husband and I are planning a week-long vacation to Cabo in February 2009. I think picking an all-inclusive hotel will give us better value since food is included and we won't have to leave the resort when we don't feel like it! We are 30 with no kids and looking for a fun and relaxing vacation instead of partying. I've narrowed down to three choices based on reviews and prices and need some advice.

1) Melia Cabo Real - In a nice area next to luxury resorts but read reviews that it's a bit outdated. Since it's in between the two towns we would have to spend more on cabs when we visit the towns.

2) Intercontinental Los Cabos - Walkable to Cabo San Jose and reviews are better than Crowne Plaza. Cheapest.

3) Forget all-inclusive and stay at the Westin Los Cabos.

Thanks!

I think you can still walk out to one of the bus stops along the main road and get the bus into Cabo. That used to be a very common practice along that stretch but the buses didn't run very late and cabs for a ride back tend to be pretty expensive. The two-lane road between the two towns is known for being dangerous at night with so many people partying.

February is a nice time to go. It isn't too hot and the rains are letting up.

I'm not familar with the places you mention, but have you looked on Trip Advisor or one of those type of websites? Sometimes if you read consistent downfalls of a place, you can rule it out. Maybe you want to lean towards a place that isn't kid friendly?

flygirl:

We have never stayed AI since there are plenty of choice for meals, particularly if you stay closer to CSL or SJdC. Have you checked out the Riu Palace or Santa fe? They get good reviews on Tripadvisor.

We stay at the Pueblo Bonito properties and think they are great.

MY

Thank you for your responses. I have checked out the reviews on Trip Advisor and this is what I've narrowed down to. I will check out the ones you suggested MY.

Comments from anyone with experience at these properties would be greatly appreciated.

I know a couple of people who have stayed at the Intercontinental and they really didn't enjoy it at all. You said "Walkable to Cabo San Jose" ... it's sorta walkable to San Jose del Cabo, a mid-sized town with no marina, little nightlife and a small downtown that you can cover in about 10 minutes. It is a LONG ways from Cabo though, maybe 18-20 miles. The beach is very mediocre here as well.

I would think the Melia is a better bet. I only stopped there once, maybe 8-10 years ago, and it was much, much nicer than the Intercontinenatl. Dunno if it is 'outdated', maybe compared to the new resorts, but I'd guess still much better than the Intercontinental.

Option 3, the Westin, is far superior if you are OK with the prices (have stayed here three times and love the place). A rental car is a great idea if staying here since the meals are expensive, but it is a beautiful hotel. Staying here vs Intercontinental is like staying at a Four Seasons vs staying at a Best Western.

Hi,

We just returned three days ago from a week at the Melia Cabo Real. It was just fine. The grounds are lovely and the food was good for an all inclusive. There is no disco and the resort is quiet (in a good way). It had a major renovation in 2006. If you are in the gardenview category, try to get a view over the pool area. Though we had a gardenview we also enjoyed a partial oceanview from our 4th floor room. We were there during a busy week and the only issue of concern was guests reserving sun loungers very early in the day and not showing up until the late afternoon. There were a number of complaints. This may not be a problem if the resort is not so busy. No food or water problems and bobbing in the ocean (the beach is a semi-sheltered cove) was very nice.