San Jose del Cabo has several boutique hotels and one of my favorites is the El Encanto Inn. The El Encanto is located in the heart of the art district with beautiful lush tropical grounds, hacienda style architecture, and soft Latin music.
There is a wedding chapel on the grounds that is perfect for a destination wedding. Close to everything in San Jose del Cabo the El Encanto Inn is a great retreat.
Call me for your reservation.
In the 12 years we have been in Cabo I have met an array of interesting people who have packed up, left their home country and moved to Cabo to enjoy all it has to offer.
The other day I stopped by the Happy Ending Cantina in hopes of learning more about this popular bar in Cabo and how it came to be. I repeatedly noticed reviews on Trip Advisor and wanted to know more. It was mid day and Regine the owner was sitting at a table chatting with a local friend. I was happy to have the opportunity to meet her and to hear about her story and her life in Cabo. She was kind enough to share this story with me so I can share it with you.
| The owners of Happy Ending Cantina, Gene, El Jefe, and Regine, La Jefa, began living in Cabo San Lucas in December 1986 with their five-year-old daughter, Rena, and their one-year-old son, Rex. Shortly after moving to Cabo, Regine learned she was pregnant with twins and Rio and Regine were born in August 1987.
Since 1982, Gene has been a California licensed private detective who has traveled the world conducting international investigations. He specializes in conducting Complex Litigation Investigations and Covert Intelligence Gathering & Analysis. Gene and Regine visited Cabo San Lucas for the first time in the summer of 1986 and almost immediately fell in love with the lifestyle, weather, people, etc., and seriously considered moving there. Because Rena was beginning kindergarten they began inquiring about the availability of private schools and learned that Cabo’s first private school, “El Camino,” had opened two years earlier. After personally checking out and approving El Camino, they decided to purchase a beach home that was under construction on the best beach in Mexico. According to Gene and Regine, this was long before Cabo had golf courses, fancy hotels and time share resorts. There were only three flights per week from the USA to Cabo San Lucas. There was only one Pemex Gas Station in Cabo San Lucas and one in San Jose del Cabo. There were only a couple paved streets in Cabo. There were no divided highways, no supermarkets, no shopping centers, no traffic lights and virtually nothing to do but fish or lay on the beach or by the pool. All the beaches were accessible and virtually empty. Everything was inexpensive. Bottles of Corona were only 12 cents each when purchased by the case after paying the bottle deposit. It was a different world back then. It was incredible! In 1986, the only “nightclub” in town was the Giggling Marlin that had been opened by a couple of young American guys in 1985. Gene and Regine owned three ATVs and three scooters which they brought with them to Cabo. Everyday they would be flagged down by tourists asking them where they had rented it. There were no such rental businesses in Cabo at the time. Although Gene and Regine hadn’t planned on opening a business in Mexico they realized a business opportunity when they saw it. Gene returned to southern California and purchased 60 scooters and 25 ATVs. They purchased the property where Happy Ending is now located and opened “Chubasco’s,” the first scooter, motorcycle and ATV tour company in Mexico. Business was terrific! A couple years later Squid Roe was built, followed by the Melia Hotel on Medano Beach, Pueblo Bonito (Blanco)……and the rest is history. Rena attended El Camino school through the fifth grade and Rex through the second grade. In 1991, Gene and Regine decided to return to southern Cal so their kids could get an American education. They closed up Chubasco’s, built and rented three stores on the property and moved back to the states. Rena is now a Deputy District Attorney in Los Angeles County, Rex and Rio are Police Officers for the City of Los Angeles and Regine works for one of the world’s largest advertising agencies in Los Angeles. After moving to California in 1991, Gene, Regine and their kids vacationed almost every summer in Cabo San Lucas. They watched, year-after-year, as the prices of almost everything skyrocketed. It was as though Cabo was no longer part of Mexico and had become a beach resort town somewhere in Kauai, Hawaii. They could understand when many tourists told them the prices, from beers to tacos to activities, had become outrageously expensive in many Cabo establishments. In 2008 Gene and Regine reacquired two of the stores on their property. They decided the property was too valuable to keep as a location for retail stores and decided to build a bar and restaurant. This would be their first endeavor in the bar/restaurant business. They describe the property as being on the “50-yard line” in Cabo’s nightclub zone. One “end zone” has Cabo Wabo and the Giggling Marlin and the other has Squid Roe, the Hard Rock Cafe, Mandala’s and the Pink Kitty. Happy Ending Cantina opened on October 29, 2008. It’s motto has always been “Bringing Mexican Prices Back to Cabo.” It quickly became one of the most popular bars in Cabo. In August 2010, www.TripAdvisor.com rated it the Number One bar/restaurant among the 169 in Cabo San Lucas. Gene and Regine attribute their “Best Bar in Cabo” status to a variety of factors: They have the most affordable prices in Cabo; Ice cold bottles of Corona and Pacifico are always only $5; A double shot of their super-smooth tequila is always only $1; Or, you can get their “Promo” of 2 beers AND 2 shots for only $5. Everything else is similarly priced. For example, large freshly made margaritas made with Jimidor tequila are always only $5. Gene and Regine proudly proclaim their “No B.S. Pricing Policy” by never offering 2X1, Happy Hour or Ladies Night like so many others. Happy Ending is the only bar in Cabo that offers Beer Pong and Flip Cup. They actually have 18 regulation size Beer Pong tables as well as pool tables. When the second story is finished, smoking will be permitted upstairs and hookahs will be available. A professional Shuffle Board table, at least 20 feet-long will also be available upstairs. Other fun activities are in the works. Happy Ending’s bar and four bathrooms are kept spotlessly clean by the cleaning crew from 10:00 am until 3:00 am. Most nights will find a four women cleaning crew hard at work keeping everything immaculate. Unlike some bars, Happy Ending will never charge a customer for any drink that wasn’t ordered and consumed. You’ll only pay for what you drink and not a peso more. Gene and Regine only hire the best bartenders and servers in the business and require that all employees follow strict written rules of conduct. A day never passes without customers complimenting the way they’re treated by the employees. Happy Ending Cantina has become so popular that it’s constantly expanding. A 25 foot-long “Cowgirl Bar” was recently constructed to supplement the original 30 foot- long “Bikini Girl Bar” in order to provide more efficient customer service. The largest open air palapa roof in Cabo was just completed over the entire property. In a few months construction of Happy Ending’s new 45 foot-long Sky Bar on the second floor, as well as additional bathrooms, will be complete. Cabo’s only professional Shuffle Board table, at least 20 feet in length, as well as hookahs will be available upstairs. Other amenities are in the planning stage. Regular customers come from practically everywhere: Local Mexicans, Americans and tourists from around the globe. Many well known athletes and celebrities party at Happy Ending every time they visit Cabo. Almost every night bartenders and waiters from other clubs in Cabo come to party at Happy Ending during their free time. Gene and Regine hope they will be able to personally welcome you to Happy Ending Cantina the next time you visit Cabo San Lucas. Happy Ending always welcomes suggestions and ideas. Please send your comments directly to Gene, “El Jefe,” at HappyEndingGene@gmail.com, or to Regine, “La Jefa,” at HappyEndingRegine@gmail.com. |
This year Mexico will be celebrating 200 years of independence and a dramatic re-enactment of the revolutionary Father Hidalgo’s call to his fellow Mexicans to join the uprising takes place on the night before. This re-enactment takes place in city halls throughout the country. Mexican flags are displayed everywhere you go and celebrations continue throughout the night. On the 16th military parades are held in most cities. This is a time of great national pride and a celebration of Mexico’s cultural identity. If you happen to be in Mexico during this time be sure to take part in the celebrations!
Reading and learning have always been a big part of my life. I recently met Meg Graham the author of Ahora Hablo! Travel Edition, Seven Simple Steps to Authentic Spanish. Her book is designed for the native English speaker who would like to gain Spanish communication skills quickly and easily. This compact book offers readers a way to combine basic verbs and vocabulary to communicate in everyday situations. All words have a phonetic key, based on English pronunciation. I particularly like the phonetic key. After living in Cabo I discovered there are a number of words that look the same but are pronounced a bit differently with very different meanings. This book with its user-friendly approach is perfect for travelers who want to learn conversational Spanish. In addition to the Traveler Edition there is an Educator Edition and a Medical Edition
If you would like to review or purchase this book I have provided a link below.
Go away and enjoy your vacation…….Hot suggestions
Going on Vacation?? Leave your Blackberry behind. Experts say that people who are connected to the office, even while lounging on the beach are less likely to receive the full benefits of a vacation.
Stay healthy on vacation……
Before you go, start adjusting your sleep schedule to your destination’s time zone. If you are heading overseas or your itinerary includes outdoorsy type activities, check to make sure all of your vaccinations are up to date. You do not want any nasty diseases for a souvenir.
During your stay seek out sightseeing activities that incorporate fitness like a hiking or walking that will burn about 300 calories an hour. Start you lunch and dinner with a salad or broth based soup. You will consume approximately 12 percent fewer calories during your stay.
After you vacation, schedule a post massage with a really good masseuse. Even a short massage will ease your travel aches and boost your mood.
While on the plane, turn off the air nozzle above your sat as it can circulate airborne germs…….
Cabo San Lucas Fun is where it all begins
Now more than ever it is time to soak up the sun and enjoy the outdoor activities offered in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico. With its near perfect climate, spectacular beaches & romantic sunsets, Cabo San Lucas fun is the ideal year round getaway offering a vacation experience like no other.
Whether you are planning a quick weekend getaway or a long leisurely stay, Cabo San Lucas offers everything you can imagine and you are invited to come along and enjoy our paradise….
Incomparable Destination:
With numerous water & land activities offered in one place, you will run out of time before you run out of things to do! Whether it is playing golf on one of the many World Class Golf Courses in Los Cabos or fishing the blue open seas in the Marlin Capital of the World, you will create vacation memories of a lifetime.
Outdoor Activities:
Championship Golf, World Class Deep Sea Fishing, ATV’s, Sunset Cruises, Water Activities, Horseback Riding, Dolphin Adventure, Snorkeling and Scuba Tours, City & Local Tours plus plenty more can be booked by Baja Sur Vacation Rental Company during your stay.
The Beach, of Course:
With miles of pristine beaches, there are 3 recommended swimming beaches in Los Cabos. Medano, Santa Maria & Chileno Bay are perfect for swimming, snorkeling and scuba or just relaxing and taking in the spectacular pristine beach, rock outcroppings and beautiful water.
Still Looking for More:
For your perfect vacation to Cabo San Lucas, contact Baja Sur Vacation Rental Company and we will make all of your arrangements for you during your stay. We offer spectacular vacation rentals so you can enjoy your vacation in the privacy of your own home, villa or condo. In addition we can make all of your transportation, provisioning and local activity reservations during your stay.
Need help? Our friendly team of specialists is available to help you find the perfect property for your vacation needs or answer any questions you have!
Phone: +1 (888) 332-8477
Email: reservations@bajasurvacationrentals.com
This is something exciting to do while you are in Cabo. With over 40 years of offering tours in Mexico, the Caborey has firmly established its reputation for quality, safety and fun. Whether you prefer to see the spectacular sites of Cabo San Lucas from the upper deck of a 144 ft. catamaran or from 600′ in the air suspended from a parasail or from the window of a helicopter the Caborey has a special tour for you.
A bilingual staff is there to assist you 364 days a year as they work hard to make your experience a great one whether you are an individual, family or with a private or corporate group.
Reservations can be made in advance for the gourmet Dinner Cruise with sit a down dinner or the Margarita Tour. Enjoy the professional Argentinean Tango and Mexican Folklore Las Vegas style show that is truly enjoyable and a must see.
Come and enjoy your time in Cabo and spend a relaxing day or evening on the water with the Caborey.
Let Us Find You The Perfect Place To Stay
Contact: (888) 332-8477
To fully enjoy the activities offered by Cabo San Lucas, it is highly advisable that vacationers partner with a tried and tested vacation rental company with an unmatched experience of the area. In this case, Baja Sur Vacation Rentals is here for you. We match vacationers to the ideal Cabo vacation rentals for their trip. Our services which are tailored to meet our guests needs from concierge services, home provision before travel, in-house gourmet and spa services, car rentals and private airport transfers. Our Cabo vacation rentals range from studio apartments to ten bedroom luxury vacation villas with prices that match every guests needs. Begin your dream Cabo vacation today: begin by searching for through our vacation rental homes, condos and villas and contact us with any questions. We also have Luxury Cabo Villas available to rent.
Villa Buena Vida is a spectacular 17,000 square foot luxury home that offers you 10,700 sq. ft. livable under roof living and approx. 6,500 sq. ft. of outdoors patios and decks. This home offers plenty of spacious living, privacy and some of the most wonderful and spectacular views of the Pacific Ocean and Finisterra Beach. Located in the private and exclusive Pedregal Development, you will enjoy one the finest homes in all of Cabo.
This beautiful 10 bedroom, 10 bathroom luxury home can accommodate up to 22 guests on vacation or a smaller professional business group. Villa Buena Vida, offers many special features and amenities found only in a few of the homes here in all of Los Cabo. That makes Villa Buena Vida the place to relax and enjoy your vacation in Cabo!
Villa Buena Vida welcomes you with open doors to come and enjoy your vacation or conduct your business meeting in its beauty and elegance.
Testimonials:
Everyone had a GREAT time and believe me our executive guests attend many “special” events and were impressed with how organized everything was.
Thank you!
– Mark
If you want to “Live the Experience” book a special tour with High Tide Los Cabos. Listed below are scheduled tours, however High Tide Los Cabos will custom design any tour to your desire.
Surf Lessons at Cerritos Beach in the Winter
This world renowned surf spot with a beach break is exposed to west swells that can light up for days on end with super clean conditions. It’s a great spot seasoned surfers and beginners alike.
2 Bay Kayak and Snorkel Tours
Chileno Bay and Santa Maria Bay are the best bays in Cabo for swimming and snorkeling. Santa Maria is surrounded by craggy cliffs and you might see many species of tropical fish and gorgonians lining the rock walls. East of Santa Maria is Chileno Bay. Tidal pools towards the eastern bluff are great to explore. You will take a Kayak from Santa Maria to Chileno Bay and enjoy a protected finger reef, teeming with tropical fish, eels, starfish and urchins in calm shallow water.
Kayak and Snorkeling to the Arch
The famous arch is an ideal habitat for marine birds and multicolored fish. This landmark has overwhelming beauty and an amazing rocky formation. It brings together the crystal blue Sea of Cortez and sparkling Pacific Ocean. The emerald waters hid a cascade of sand with a spectacular, never-ending drop. Enjoy the sunset, the sea lions’ colony and enjoy a walk at Lover’s Beach.
Surf Lessons at Costa Azul in the summer
Summer and fall are the best seasons to catch waves in Cabo as the water temperature is perfect for surfers.
Surf Lessons Todos Santos
Another popular place where the surfers hang!
Jeep/ Hummer Expeditions
Explore the back roads of southern Baja and enjoy views of the Sierra de la Laguna mountains while following the river bed into the sunset over the Pacific Ocean. Each expedition includes a bilingual guide, driver, sunset drinks and snacks and dinner on the beach.
Art Walk in old San Jose del Cabo
Enjoy a night’s stroll through the beautiful streets of San Jose. Walkers may choose to purchase or just appreciate the quality of the works shown while savoring a glass of wine. This tour includes round trip van ride, bilingual guide, glass of wine, bottled water and sodas.
Hiking Tour to Fox Canyon
This hiking tour will take you to a river across the mountains to a beautiful oasis in the middle of the desert. The hike starts down hill with a swim in the natural pool nested next to a great waterfall.
Organic Market and Estuary Tour in San Jose del Cabo
The Organic Market downtown has become a popular place for the locals. Join this tour of the market, estuary and Cacti Mundo (Cactus World) for a glimpse of los Cabos in its natural and cultural essence.
Custom Tours are crafted to meet each person’s wishes. Recently a group requested a bird watching tour which was arranged by Hightide. A photographer visiting Cabo asked for a “photo shoot” tour to capture the best of Los Cabos and it was truly a success.
For any of these tours or to request your custom tour contact:
Karen
624-142-0424
****Be sure to tell them Baja Sur Vacation Rentals and 2 Cabo Tours sent you!