Cabo: A Decade of Love, Laughter, and Unforgettable Getaways
There are some places that just capture your heart, and for us, Cabo San Lucas is unequivocally that destination. It’s more than just a vacation spot; it’s woven into the very fabric of our relationship. From our very first trip together in 2012, to the breathtaking proposal last year, the inspiring wellness retreat I co-hosted, and our eagerly anticipated wedding (delayed, like so many others, by the global pandemic but now planned for April 2021), Cabo has been the backdrop to countless cherished memories. The vibrant culture, the incredible cuisine, the warmth of the Mexican sun, and the genuinely kind people – it’s an intoxicating mix that keeps us returning time and again.
After a challenging year for everyone, especially with the uncertainties and postponements brought by the pandemic, we felt a deep need to celebrate a significant milestone: a decade of being together. Our anniversary in October seemed like the perfect occasion for a much-needed escape. This year, it was my turn to orchestrate the anniversary plans, and I knew just the trick to make it truly special for my partner, Bridger. We have a fun tradition where we alternate planning our anniversary each year; it takes the pressure off and ensures a unique celebration every time. A simple game of rock, paper, scissors decides who takes the lead. Trust me, it’s a brilliant system if you’re looking to inject some fun and ease into your own relationship traditions!
A Decade in the Making: From High School Sweethearts to Homeowners
Our story began back in high school when fate, or perhaps a thoughtful teacher, paired Bridger and me for a Homecoming dance. Little did we know, that dance would spark a journey that has now spanned a remarkable ten years. We navigated the complexities of separate colleges, feeling the distance even with just 45 minutes separating us – a testament to how deeply we valued our connection. Upon my graduation, I embarked on a year-long dietetic internship, while Bridger completed his degree around the same time. Both of us moved back home, saving diligently, driven by a shared dream. We eventually pooled our resources and moved into our first apartment in the city, where we built a life for two years. Our saving journey continued, fueled by dedication and a clear vision for the future. You can even watch the video we made about our home-saving journey here. Ultimately, our efforts paid off, and we proudly bought our first house.
Celebrating ten years together is a monumental occasion, and after the emotional rollercoaster of postponing our wedding, we absolutely deserved a moment of respite. I knew the best way to honor our journey was a surprise trip back to our favorite slice of paradise. The planning was meticulous, shrouded in secrecy, and every detail was designed to delight.
The Grand Surprise: An Anniversary Unveiling
The element of surprise was paramount. Bridger had absolutely no inkling of our destination until the day before our flight. I crafted a note, a seemingly innocuous piece of paper, and tucked it carefully inside a pair of shorts, which itself was part of what he thought was his main anniversary present. As he pulled the shorts from the gift bag, the note fluttered to the floor. Its message was simple yet thrilling: “Pack your bag, we have a T-time @ 8 am Monday morning.” Alongside the mystery note, I included several travel-appropriate gifts: stylish golf shirts, comfortable golf socks, and a versatile linen shirt, all subtly hinting at our upcoming adventure without giving everything away. The next morning, we embarked on our journey. Even with the heightened COVID-19 precautions, our travel experience was remarkably smooth and stress-free. We felt incredibly safe, largely thanks to airlines like Alaska Airlines, which at the time, kept middle seats unavailable, providing an added layer of comfort and space.
Luxurious Retreat: Our Cabo Accommodation Guide
Having visited Cabo approximately six times over the years, we’ve had the pleasure of experiencing a variety of luxurious accommodations. Each hotel offers its own unique charm and set of amenities, catering to different preferences. Our past stays include the opulent Grand Velas, the chic and sophisticated The Cape (which also happens to be our chosen wedding venue), the serene Chileno Bay, and the family-friendly Villa del Palmar. For this very special anniversary trip, I deliberately chose a place that holds immense sentimental value for us: Grand Velas, the very same resort where Bridger proposed last year. Returning to such a meaningful location only amplified the romance and joy of our celebration. If you’re curious about our engagement, you can read my recap post from that unforgettable trip.
Grand Velas: An All-Inclusive Haven in San Jose del Cabo
Grand Velas Los Cabos, an exquisite all-inclusive resort nestled in San Jose del Cabo, truly stands out. Its convenient location, just a 30-minute drive from the airport, makes for a seamless arrival. What consistently impresses us is the impeccable service; the staff go above and beyond to ensure every guest feels pampered and cared for. During our stay, the resort was operating at a reduced capacity of about 20%, which contributed to a serene and exclusive atmosphere. Guests were respectfully asked to wear masks in all public and common areas, though these could be removed once seated at one of the gourmet restaurants or by the inviting pool areas. These thoughtful measures instilled a strong sense of safety and allowed us to relax fully.
Every single room at Grand Velas boasts a spectacular ocean view, offering a constant reminder of the stunning Baja coastline. While the Pacific waves off this particular stretch of beach can be quite aggressive and generally not suitable for swimming, this was hardly a drawback for us. The resort’s expansive pools offer an entire “vibe” of their own – a lively yet relaxing sanctuary, perfectly complemented by the all-inclusive amenities. One of the many reasons we adore Grand Velas is their exceptional ability to accommodate dietary preferences. As someone with gluten-free and dairy-free requirements, I’m always met with understanding and an impressive array of delicious options, making dining a worry-free delight.
Tee Time in Paradise: Golfing at Cabo Real Golf Club
Bridger’s passion for golf has only intensified during the quarantine period, so naturally, I made sure to incorporate a tee time into our anniversary agenda. We booked a slot at the magnificent Cabo Real Golf Club, conveniently located just a five-minute drive from our hotel. You might be thinking I’m the best wife ever – and perhaps I am, at least when it comes to golf! However, I must confess, my commitment to the sport extends only to nine holes. Any more than that, and it becomes a bit of an emotional roller coaster for me! I’m more of the “I’ll hit a few balls for practice, but I’d much rather be lounging by the pool with a good book” kind of gal.
Outfit Details: GOLF SKIRT | BLACK T-SHIRT | SHOES
We arrived, we played, and we conquered (at least Bridger did!). I strategically booked the earliest tee time possible – 8:00 AM – with the clear objective of maximizing our post-golf relaxation. Our mission was to be back at the hotel by mid-morning, ready to spend the rest of the day unwinding by the pool, soaking up the sun, and fully embracing the vacation mode. It’s all about balance, after all!
Culinary Delights & Unique Experiences: Discovering Acre Baja
Initially, our plan for an exquisite dinner involved making reservations at Flora Farms, a renowned farm-to-table restaurant and, incidentally, our chosen venue for our wedding rehearsal dinner. However, since they were closed on Monday during our visit, we pivoted to a fantastic alternative: Acre Baja. Conveniently, these two culinary gems are only about five minutes apart, and a pleasant 35-minute drive from our hotel, making for an easy excursion.
Acre Baja surpassed all our expectations. The moment you step onto the property, you’re transported. A narrow concrete pathway winds through an oasis of towering palm trees, unique cacti, and vibrant greenery, creating an immediate sense of wonder. The property itself is a marvel, featuring not just an exceptional restaurant and bar, but also a charming treehouse hotel, a sprawling mango orchard, and, most endearingly, a dog rescue organization known as Acre Dogs, along with other delightful animals roaming the grounds. It’s truly a gorgeous and thoughtfully designed space.
We had our dinner reservation set for 5:45 PM, but wisely decided to arrive around 5:15 PM. This gave us ample time to wander the property, soak in its unique ambiance, and, of course, play with the adorable puppies at the dog rescue – a truly heart-melting experience! The Acre Dogs organization, founded by a wonderful woman named Rachael (whose work I deeply admire), does incredible work, helping countless animals find loving homes. You can contribute to their cause and support their efforts by donating here. I wholeheartedly recommend arriving early to explore Acre Baja during daylight hours, allowing you to fully appreciate its beauty before settling in for dinner as the sun sets. Another fantastic tip: they honor your reservation for two hours, so there’s absolutely no need to rush your exploration or your meal. You’ll definitely want to take photos at every turn!
During our visit, the restaurant was quite empty, likely due to the ongoing pandemic, so I can’t speak to its usual level of busyness. Reservations were conveniently made through OpenTable, making the booking process effortless.
Outfit Details: DRESS: PETAL & PUP | SANDALS: WHITEFOXBOUTIQUE | BAG: GRAND VELAS HOTEL BORROWED
For those who follow my travels, you know that our itineraries are often meticulously scheduled around culinary experiences, and Acre Baja absolutely did not disappoint. The food was nothing short of incredible, a true farm-to-table feast bursting with fresh, local flavors. The service was equally amazing, with attentive staff making us feel incredibly welcome. Their gluten-free bread/biscuit was truly outstanding – a rare and delightful find – and the menu offered a plethora of options that could be easily modified to be gluten-free and dairy-free, making it a dream for those with dietary restrictions. Just a friendly SOS: don’t forget your bug spray, especially if you plan to enjoy the beautiful outdoor setting during sunset!
Our experience at Acre Baja was so captivating that it led to a quick, albeit significant, change of plans for our upcoming wedding. We were so smitten with the unique atmosphere, the delicious food, and the overall charm of the place that we immediately contacted our wedding planner, Bonnie from Events By Bliss, to inquire about switching our rehearsal dinner venue. Thankfully, Acre had availability, and we enthusiastically made the change! The new space we’re renting at Acre is also much larger, which means we can now invite our entire guest list to the rehearsal dinner, rather than just our wedding party as we had originally planned for Flora Farms. We simply cannot wait to celebrate this special pre-wedding event in such a magical setting!
Final Thoughts & Why Cabo Calls Us Back
This anniversary trip to Cabo was less a comprehensive travel guide and more a deeply personal recap of a much-needed escape. We intentionally kept our adventures limited to the resort and a select few excursions, prioritizing relaxation and reconnection above all else. However, I wholeheartedly recommend every experience we indulged in! Three nights proved to be the perfect duration for a rejuvenating getaway, allowing us to celebrate our milestone anniversary in style and comfort.
Cabo continues to hold a profound significance in our lives, a place where joy, love, and new chapters unfold. Whether you’re seeking a romantic retreat, an adventurous escape, or simply a place to unwind and savor exquisite cuisine, Cabo offers an unparalleled experience. Its vibrant spirit, warm hospitality, and breathtaking landscapes ensure that once you visit, you’ll find yourself yearning to return, just as we always do.
xx Rachael