Farm-to-Table Cooking Class

Do your culinary skills need work? This interactive cooking class in the foothills of San Jose del Cabo can take your kitchen prowess to new heights. You’ll learn to whip up delights like tamales, ricotta gnocchi, or Tatemada (regional salsa) while sipping on craft cocktails in a sun-dappled courtyard. The class also includes a tour of the 25-acre working farm and a tasty lunch — made with the dishes you prepared, of course!

Know Before You Go:

• Have dietary restrictions? Let the tour operator know at least 48 hours in advance.
• You’ll be walking and standing for the majority of this experience, so wear comfortable shoes.
• Traveling in a large group? You can book a private class with a minimum of 10 guests.

Surfing Lesson

If you’ve ever thought about surfing but didn’t know where to begin, the mellow breaks around San Jose del Cabo are the perfect place to get started. This SJDC surf lesson is headed by professional instructors who are experts at coaching beginners. Unlike other surf lessons, you’ll also learn about surfing etiquette, how to assess conditions, and safety in and out of the water. You’ll be ripping in no time!

Know Before You Go:

• Lessons start with 15 minutes of instruction on the beach, so you can get your pop-up technique down before you hit the water.
• Your lesson also includes water, snacks, and a beach umbrella.
• Surf lessons run between 1.5 to two hours. Trust us — that’s plenty of time for a beginning surfer.

San Jose del Cabo City Tour

Take your exploration of San Jose del Cabo further with an immersive tour. You’ll wander through Cabo’s colorful, papel picado-lined streets, explore the town’s many art galleries, and learn about the historic Mission San Jose del Cabo church—which dates back to 1730. The experience culminates with a fantastic meal at a local restaurant.

Know Before You Go:

• This tour runs daily, so you can easily fit it into your vacation schedule.
• Wear comfortable shoes and don’t forget your camera! You’ll want to snap photos left and right.

Private Luxury Dhow Boat Tour

Skip the crowded tour boats and opt for a one-of-a-kind adventure aboard a dhow — a handcrafted wooden vessel with ancient Middle Eastern origins. This unique boat tour offers luxe private charters for up to six guests. You’ll explore Los Cabo’s pristine coastline while snorkeling, whale watching, and soaking in the sights.

Know Before You Go:

• Private charters usually run for three hours, but you can book additional hours for a fee.
• You’ll be provided with all the goods: Chips and salsa, non-alcoholic beverages, and snorkeling equipment.
• Don’t forget to pack sunscreen, a towel, and a bathing suit.

Food Tasting Tour

If there’s one thing Mexico is known for, it’s food. Take a deep dive into the nuanced flavors and culinary traditions of San Jose del Cabo on this guided food tour. You’ll learn the lore behind some of the best taco carts and restaurants, dig into the local specialties, and enjoy bites from small family-owned eateries. You can choose between a morning or an evening tour, which guides you through local produce markets and eateries in the arts district — respectively.

Know Before You Go:

• This is a small group tour. Share your love of food with new friends, or opt for a private, customized tour.
• Wear comfortable shoes – you’ll be doing plenty of walking on SJDC’s cobbled streets. If you select a morning tour, sun protection is a must, too!
• Attention foodies: Bring your camera. You’ll want to document all the amazing dishes you try.

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Still building your Tulum itinerary? We’ve got you covered. Here are the top 5 things to do in Tulum.

Scuba Cenotes

Whether you’ve been to Tulum before or are just starting to plan your trip, you’re probably familiar with the cenotes that dot the Yucatán Peninsula. With crystal clear water and otherworldly scenery, these underground limestone pools inspire awe in Tulum visitors and residents alike. However, to truly explore the wonder and scope of the cenotes, opt for a guided cenote dive. Certified open-water divers can take a two-dive guided tour of some of Tulum’s most awe-inspiring cenotes. As you cruise through underwater caves with towering speleothems, clouds of hydrogen sulfur, and over 500 feet of visibility, you’ll understand why the Mayans regarded the cenotes as sacred.

Know Before You Go:

• Due to safety reasons, divers must possess an open-water diver or advanced open-water diver certificate.
• Cenote diving is an independent style of diving, so you’ll be expected to assemble and carry your own tank to the water.
• The use of sunscreen and mosquito repellent is strictly forbidden in the cenote. Help keep the water clean and clear!

Rent a Beach Cruiser

The best way to explore Tulum is on two wheels. Tulum might be a growing tourist destination, but it’s still a relatively small, relaxed town — and most easily navigated by bicycle! Get your stylish beach cruiser delivered to your hotel and set off on a sightseeing adventure. Tulum’s incredible attractions are at your fingertips — from nearby cenotes and beaches to the ancient ruins at Tulum National Park. Bike Tulum Today!

Know Before You Go:

• Bike rentals start at 24 hours, but you can rent your bike for up to a week.
• Rentals include a basket, padlock, and key so you can safely lock your bike wherever you stop.
• Flat tire? No biggie. Rescue service is included in the rental price.

Cenote Hopping Adventure

This exhilarating adventure is just that — an adventure! You’ll trek deep into the virgin jungle to explore the world’s third-largest system of underground wet caves. Prepare to wiggle through caves army-style to get from cenote to cenote and explore the legends and secrets of these ancestral waters. On this Tulum cenote tour, you’ll visit three remote cenotes in total and walk through swathes of jungle that few Tulum visitors get to see.

Know Before You Go:

• Claustrophobic? This adventure might not be for you as it requires crawling through tight spaces.
• Regular and underwater photos will be taken during the tour and will be available for purchase for a fee.
• Plan for a full day — this excursion runs seven hours.

Kitesurfing Lesson

On Mexico’s Pacific side, surf lessons are all the rage. But in the Caribbean? Kitesurfing is the star attraction. Tulum’s soft white sand beaches, calm seas, and mellow breezes are perfect for a kitesurfing lesson. Keep in mind that kitesurfing takes slightly longer to pick up than regular surfing. But if you spend a few days learning the ins and outs with top-rated kiting instructors, you’ll be flying across the water in no time.

Know Before You Go:

• This kitesurfing academy is based in Tulum and Isla Blanca.
• No gear? No problem. You’ll be provided with the essentials to get started.

Yoga Retreat

Connect to your spiritual side and spend several yoga-filled days at Tulum’s top yoga retreat. This retreat balances unforgettable activities like cenote diving and snorkeling with time spent on your mat. Start the day your way — whether it be with morning beach meditation or a bike ride through town — before beginning your flow and practice in the retreat’s beautiful hardwood floor studio.

Know Before You Go:

• Retreats include lodging, welcome breakfast, twice-daily yoga practice, and bike rentals for exploring Tulum.
• Not interested in a retreat but want to spend some time on the mat? Daily drop-in yoga classes are available.
• Offerings include vinyasa, hatha, yin, and more.

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The vibrant little village of Sayulita in Nayarit is a hotspot for Mexico travelers. Located just north of Puerto Vallarta, Sayulita is a hip surfer town full of boutique hotels, great restaurants, and sandy beaches. Explore the best of what this beach town has to offer with these top five things to do in Sayulita.

Go Surfing!

Sayulita is a surfer’s paradise. There are a number of quality breaks in town and several more just a short drive up or down the coast. Just starting out? No worries! The waves in Sayulita are perfectly tailored for beginners— and surf schools abound.

Hit the sand at Playa Sayulita for a 1.5-hour group lesson, or kickstart your surfing journey with a private lesson. This surf school’s fun and informative instructors will have you up and riding in no time.

Explore On an Electric Bike

It’s easy to get around Sayulita on foot or by golf cart. But if you want to explore beyond Sayulita’s colorful streets and hit the bumpy country roads, you’ll need a car— or better yet, an electric bike.

This eco-conscious method of transportation is capable of handling the unkempt roads and jungle paths just outside of town, and they’re much easier to park than Sayulita’s ubiquitous golf carts. With an electric bike, the secluded beaches and surf breaks outside of town are at your fingertips.

Go Shopping!

As you wander along Sayulita’s papel picado strung streets, you’ll find shops of all kinds— from swimwear stores to curated boutiques and colorful textile shops. While the center of Sayulita definitely demands attention from prospective shoppers, the ‘Hippie Market’ is a must-visit.

Located along the river, the Hippie Market features a collection of vendors showcasing their colorful products. Here, you’ll find an unmatched selection of handmade gifts and goods, like pompoms, clothing, and Huichol art.

Whale Watch in Punta Mita

From December to March, you can spot majestic humpback whales in the waters off the Riviera Nayarit. Want to get a closer look? Head a few minutes south of Sayulita to Punta Mita for a whale watch.

Climb aboard a panga boat for an exciting two-hour whale-watching tour led by passionate local guides. You’ll want to bring along a swimsuit and a towel— getting wet is common on this excursion. And don’t forget reef-safe sunscreen and a waterproof camera to document your up-close whale sightings.

Take a Taco Hopping Tour in Puerto Vallarta

What would a trip to Mexico be without trying the local cuisine? Take a break from Sayulita’s delicious street food and head to Puerto Vallarta for a comprehensive taco tour.

This small group tasting tour hits Puerto Vallarta’s off-the-beaten-path taco stands and neighborhood eateries. Along the way, you’ll also learn about the history of the food and what life is like in Puerto Vallarta. You’ll gain a new appreciation for Mexico’s storied cuisine and Puerto Vallarta’s vibrant people.

For more Mexico fun, check out our visit to Cabo San Lucas.

Gracias por leer— thanks for reading! What are your favorite things to do in Sayulita? Let us know in the comments.

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With stunning beaches, a vibrant nightlife scene, and endless water-based activities, it’s no wonder that Cabo San Lucas is one of Mexico’s most popular beach getaways. Whether you’re escaping to the seaside city on a family vacation or solo retreat, we’ve rooted out some of the best activities in Cabo San Lucas— from exciting ocean adventures to flavorful taco tours. Here are the top five things to do in Cabo San Lucas.

Food Walking Tour

It’s not hard to track down a restaurant with memorable meals and excellent views in Cabo San Lucas. From the steakhouses and sushi joints overlooking Cabo’s bustling marina to upscale beachside cantinas, Cabo San Lucas’ dining scene is alive and well.

But for those searching for auténtico sabor de Cabo (the authentic taste of Cabo), set your sights on a taco-tasting tour.

Eat your way through Cabo’s backstreets, sampling the area’s best tacos, tamales, tequilas, and more. This walking tour also covers the area’s rich history and connects you with Cabo’s hard-working local people— eager to share their stories and sabor.

Go Parasailing

Looking for a place to soak in Cabo San Lucas’ breathtaking views? Veteran visitors might point you in the direction of Mt. Solmar or their favorite rooftop bar. But for a true out-of-this-world view, take to the skies via parasail.

As you soar hundreds of feet above cobalt seas, striking panoramas unfurl in every direction, stretching from Lands End to Cabo San Lucas’ eastern point. You’ll be afforded sensational views of Cabo’s bustling streets and El Medano’s eggshell-colored sands. And from December to April, you might catch a glimpse of migrating humpback or gray whales.

Traveling with adventure-loving niños? Parasailing is a great family-friendly activity, sure to create terrific memories.

Take A Glass Bottom Boat To The Arch

Boat tours to Cabo’s iconic rock formations— Lands End and The Arch— are one of the most popular things to do in Cabo San Lucas. Tours like this are abundant, to say the least.

But some tours put a unique spin on this ultra-popular activity by using glass-bottom boats. This allows you to see above and below the surface, giving you a peek into the Sea of Cortez’s underwater world. Watch as tropical fish swarm beneath your boat, and keep your eyes peeled for the occasional sea lion.

Above the surface, these tours visit some of Cabo’s most famed coastal sites, like Lover’s Beach, Pelican Rock, and the local sea lion colony.

Go On A Whale Watch

The Sea of Cortez is brimming with marine life. In fact, it houses over 35 percent of the planet’s marine mammals. What’s more, migrating humpback whales appear off Cabo’s coast in droves from December to April— making Cabo San Lucas one of the world’s best whale-watching destinations.

Hop aboard a two-hour whale watch to learn more about Cabo’s impressive array of aquatic life from expert marine naturalists. You’ll listen to resonant humpback whale songs via a hydrophone, and if you’re extra lucky, maybe even spot another of Cabo’s resident marine mammals.

Sportfishing Adventure

Cabo is a world-class sportfishing destination. Just take a walk around the marina, and you’ll spot countless sleek fishing boats with towering flybridges— and maybe a fisherman or two yielding a fresh catch.

If you’re ready to finally reel in the Big One, book a private, all-inclusive Cabo sportfishing charter. You’ll be set up with everything you need for an epic day of fishing, from equipment to an open bar and onboard chef. Whether you go home with a catch or not, you’re in for a sensational day on the sea.

Thanks for reading! What are your favorite things to do in Cabo San Lucas? Let us know in the comments below.

The post Top 5 Things To Do In Cabo San Lucas appeared first on Activity Authority.

Mexico City Bike Tour

Want to see and learn more about Mexico City in a shorter amount of time? This Mexico City Bike Tour offers a fun, immersive look at the city. You’ll peddle your way through 500 years of CDMX history while learning about architecture, culture, and food from a knowledgeable and professional local. This unique local perspective is invaluable, and you’ll come to better understand and appreciate Mexico City as you explore its storied streets.

Know Before You Go:

• Everything you need to enjoy the day is provided for you, including bikes, lunch, and security.
• Have niños in tow? Kids ages six and up are welcome to join.
• Clear your schedule: This tour typically runs about 3.5 hours.

Teotihuacan and The Basilica Of Guadalupe Tour

Want to take a deep dive into Mexico City’s archeological, architectural, and spiritual history? This whirlwind tour explores some of the area’s most awe-inspiring sights, from the remains of an ancient city at Plaza de las Tres Culturas to the Guadalupe Basilica complex — the world’s second most visited Catholic attraction. The experience caps with a tour of the ancient and mysterious city of Teotihuacan, where you’ll gawk at towering pyramids and taste one of the oldest drinks in Mexico, Pulque.

Know Before You Go:

• Staying in Mexico City? Good news! This tour can pick you up from your Airbnb or hotel. Just make sure you’re staying in one of the specified pick-up areas.
• Lunch is not included in the price of the tour, but you’ll have plenty of opportunities in Teotihuacan to try the local cuisine.
• Plan for a full day — this tour runs eight hours.

Coyoacan Food Tour

Coyoacan is one of the most vibrant neighborhoods in Mexico City, known for its colorful houses, cobblestone streets, and old-time Mexico feel. Frida Kahlo also lived in this neighborhood for many years, and visitors can tour her old house, La Casa Azul — also known as the Frida Kahlo Museum. But for all Coyoacán has to offer, what stands out is the abundance of unique eats in this area. To truly get to know all the fares of Coyoacan, take a food tour. You’ll walk the neighborhood’s streets as you try Coyoacán’s best churros, tacos, paletas, and more.

Know Before You Go:

• Wear comfortable shoes and be prepared to do some walking on Coyoacan’s cobbled streets.
• Don’t forget the sun protection if you choose a daytime tour.
• Come hungry! You’re going to want to try everything in sight — and then some.

Hot Air Balloon Ride

Seeing the Teotihuacan Pyramids from the ground level is inspiring as it is. But seeing this ancient site from above — in a hot air balloon, no less — is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Not only will you soak in the unforgettable views of Teotihuacan from above, but your local guide will also share the legends of these mysterious temples with you.

Know Before You Go:

• Most hot air balloon rides last between 30 minutes to an hour and include a guided tour of Teotihuacan.
• This experience is 100% worth it!

Shop at Ciudadela Market

The Ciudadela Market is the most colorful market in Mexico City. This mercado is the go-to place for travelers to buy traditional Mexican handicrafts like textiles, ceramics, and art. Artisans from around Mexico travel here to sell their handcrafted goods. Whether your budget is big or small, Ciudadela Market is the place for authentic shopping in Mexico.

Know Before You Go:

• Ciudadela Market is open daily from 10 am to 6 pm.
• There are about 350 vendors in the market, so take your time exploring.

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Hotels

Whenever you decide to take a trip, before booking a flight it is always best to book your hotel first, no point in paying for a ticket if you have nowhere to go when you land.

1 • Sign Up:

Whether or not you have a preferred hotel to stay at when traveling to your destination, it is always a good idea to sign up for the hotel newsletters. It’s a great source of information and they will send you the dates of events happening in the area, group deals, or when they are having specials on rooms, such as honeymoon sweets outside of wedding season.

2 • What Do You Really Need:

We all want to splurge on our vacations, after all; it is a time to cut back and relax, no need to worry about work or stress out about the morning traffic to work. When you’re booking your hotel room, take a moment to consider what you will really need out of your room. Do you need a king-sized bed? Do you need the best view of the ocean? Chances are that you’ll sleep in and then head out for some sun and fun most of the day. Smaller rooms on lower floors usually cost less than larger rooms on higher floors.

3 • Wi-Fi:

In today’s world, we don’t seem to be able to function without Wi-Fi. Although vacations are meant to be an escape from work and family drama, they tend to be unavoidable and follow us all over the world, no matter the time of day or if we are on a completely different continent, even hemisphere! A lot of hotels will say “free Wi-Fi”, what they tend not to tell you is that it is free… in the lobby, only. To cut costs with this, check at the front desk before live streaming that movie you didn’t have time for at home.

4 • Mini-Bars And Hotel Shops:

So convenient, you don’t even need to leave the hotel! The only thing is that it will cost you at least double. When it comes to convenience items such as soap, shampoo, sunblock and so on, if not free in each room, there’s usually a little shop in the hotel that will have these readily available but you can cut the costs of these by heading off to the nearest drug store.  As for the mini-bar in your room, the items found there also tend to charge an unreasonable amount. We suggest bringing your own water bottles and filling them up as well as snacks and whatever else you desire to sip on during your stay. Make use of the mini-bar to keep it all cool and fresh.  Warning:  some mini-fridges automatically charge you when you remove items.

5 • Book Direct:

Ever heard the phrase: “cut out the middle man?” Live by it when booking your hotel room. Travel agents may save us time when booking for us but they need to make money for themselves somewhere. By booking directly with the hotel you wish to stay at, you save money on the travel agent’s fees.  The only exception is cross-checking booking sites like Orbitz and Priceline for good last-minute deals.  Even better is finding a vacation rental where you book directly with the individual owner.  Check out Maui Accommodations where they list hundreds of condos and homes that are available for your vacation.  You’ll click straight through to the owner and save beaucoup bucks!

6• Timing:

Some of the best places to travel hold festivals, conventions, and other events. Hotels around such things raise their prices during these times and why wouldn’t they? Plan your vacation so that it won’t be around the time of such events.

Airports

Flying above the clouds is the safest and usually, the fastest way to travel. Long-distance travel is usually cheaper by plane and there aren’t many alternatives if you’re traveling overseas.  Below are some tips for saving when flying.

7 • One Way Vs. Round Trips:

Two tickets booked in five minutes of being online is awesome, especially since they usually cost less than a round trip. That’s what we usually think and airlines know it. It’s not always the case but sometimes taking that extra minute or two to look at the cost of two one-ways is worth it and leaves your purse or wallet just a little thicker.

8 • Time To Fly:

It’s true, we don’t want to wake up at 2 am and head to the airport, however, these early morning and midnight flights are not only cheaper but easier as well. As no one actually wants these flights, the airport is quieter and easier to get through. As for the time of the week to travel, Tuesday to Thursday look the best because there is normally high air traffic on the weekends and Mondays.

9 • Souvenirs:

Whenever we go on a trip, our loved ones always seem to want us to bring something back in order to share our experiences. Buying these gifts from hotel gift shops and airports is the worst case for your wallet as these are two of the most expensive places to buy from. Have a look at nearby marketplaces for something truly unique to the State; these items are usually common and inexpensive as well.  And don’t bring back rocks or shells, as you may upset Madam Pele.

10 • Look For Smaller Airports:

Many big cities with international airports are big enough to have one or more smaller airports as well. These “alternative airports” are usually a lot smaller and are occasionally cheaper than their larger, more commercial competitors.  You may have odd connections, but saving money can be worth an hour or 2 of waiting.

11 • To And From The Airport:

Taxi cabs tend to add up and when you’re in a foreign country, it’s difficult to tell what the usual or going rate for a taxi is. More often than not, the cheaper or more affordable taxis will be in town while people just hopping off the plane have fewer options. Most hotels will collect you from the airport and take you back at the end of your trip, and you may find their courtesy shuttles.  Though Uber is a good option, some airports don’t allow them to pick up/drop off.  Is that a Union thing?

Price Cutting Tricks Outside Of The Airport and Hotel:

It’s well known among travelers that two of the biggest expenses are airfare and hotels, but there are other costs that add up without us knowing. Here are ways to avoid that.

12 • Packages:

As said before, cutting out the travel agent can cut the cost of your hotel,  but if you are looking for a pre-planned, all-inclusive vacation then look for package deals. These will include airfare, hotel costs, tours, and other entertainment while the only thing you will pay for out of pocket are souvenirs and other splurges you want to indulge in on your vacation.

13 • Check For Discounts:

Always keep an eye out for discounted expenses. Cancellations in airline tickets and hotel rooms happen a lot of the time, but their loss is your gain. Keeping an eye out can get you huge discounts but it is also a last-minute thing, so this will be most beneficial to those who have a pick-up-and-go lifestyle.

14 • Passport/Visa/Documents:

Traveling abroad can be a difficult thing, one document isn’t to someone’s liking, and the whole vacation is over before it began. Research your destination’s passport regulations as some require it to be valid for a few months longer than you plan on visiting. Make sure there are a couple of blank pages open for stamps and visas as well.

15 • Activities:

Many businesses around the world offer special deals via 3rd party sites. A great way to get the best experiences on your vacation for the least amount of cost is to pre-book activities.  Right now we specialize in discount Maui activities, but we’re branching out to other islands and soon to the mainland.  Keep us bookmarked!

16 • Add-Ons:

Add-on expenses have a way of sneaking up as we swipe our credit cards without much thought. Silly things that we forget about while we travel include: forgetting to turn off cell phone data and roaming, tipping restaurants and tour guides, currency exchange costs, and extra luggage weight. Set some extra cash aside for such things after doing some research into how much you will need.  Add it to the budget.

17 • Budget:

Vacations without concern for the total cost aren’t a reality for many travelers. The best way to cut costs in traveling is to create a budget and stick to it. Figure out what you can afford to spend on a hotel, airfare, activities, souvenirs, and add-ons. In theory, this is an easy method of staying on track, but it takes practice and discipline to stick to your guns.

Have a wonderful, frugal vacation!

The post 17 Tips To Cut Travel Costs In Hawaii appeared first on Activity Authority.

I LOVE traveling!

It’s the thing I look forward to every year: the anticipation of exploring new cultures, eating new foods, expanding my kids and my own mindset, and sitting by a gorgeous beach with a cold drink in hand. Yes, please!!!

It also means getting away from the normal everyday grind! Everyone likes to get away sometimes.

Travel has become one of the most popular hobbies nowadays. Millions of people pack their bags and travel every year like never before in human history. The ability to explore almost every square inch of this beautiful Earth is accessible to the masses. And masses they are.

Not all traveling is created equal of course. The back of the bus doesn’t compare to first class. The hostel with a dude snoring on the bunk above you is on a different level than the Four Seasons.

And not all traveling has the same impact. We’ve been hearing more and more about trash islands twice the size of Texas and the slow degradation of naturally beautiful areas. Remote paradises quickly turn into overcrowded tourist traps when a gorgeous image trends on Instagram. Coral reefs are dying from toxic sunscreens and indigenous communities are being marginalized when hotel and cruise-ship corporations take all the benefits of a location being popular.

Yes, this is a negative way to look at it, but it’s a balance of course, as is life. The fun of travel along with its economic benefits have to be accompanied by a realization that every outing we take has an impact.

I’m happy to say, responsible travel has become a thing. There are easy things we can do to think outside of the box with the decisions we make regarding our travel choices.

Here’s a list of easy, quick solutions that we can be conscious of while booking our next adventure:

• Switch to reef-safe sunscreen. Here are a few options.
• Bring a reusable non-plastic water bottle and use refilling stations around the world. Most airports around the world have filtered water refilling stations.
• Travel with a small reusable bag that folds up nice and small in your purse or backpack. Don’t contribute another plastic bag to the landfill every time you buy something.
• Another way to cut down on plastic usage while traveling is to carry a water filter with you!! Steripen or Life Straw are two great options.
• Buy locally made goods, not imported ones.
• Consider Eco-Hotels or Boutique Hotels instead of corporate hotels, cruise ships, or even urban Airbnbs (who take away from local long-term rentals). Even doing this for a small portion of your vacation experience could benefit your life and the local families. If you persist in staying at an AirBnB or VRBO, make sure to stay at a permitted property.
• Choose locally sourced food from locally owned restaurants. Get out of the resort or cruise ship and find some yummy small local restaurants. Ask the locals where to go and support the actual families that live in that gorgeous town.
• Only frequent animal attractions that are actual sanctuaries instead of activities that train animals for entertainment.
• Fully research “voluntourism” opportunities before signing up. Look up if they actually have any negative side effects first. For more details on this, I recommend watching “The Last Tourist” documentary.
• Do book a “voluntourism” activity that gives back to the community AND gives you an amazing experience. See Suggestions
• Book activities with local guides and if you can, tip them. Here are some great local Maui companies you can support:
  • Hiking Tour
  • Rafting & Snorkeling Tour
  • Road To Hana Tour

• Only leave footprints! Pack it in, pack it out.
• And of course, don’t litter.
• There are plenty more. Please add them to the comments below!

Mahalo for reading Responsible Travel Tips!  For more great Hawaii activities, knowledge, and advice please check out our activities page.

Safe Travels!

Natalie Norberg
Media Director – Activity Authority

Please share your responsible travel tips in the comments below!

The post Responsible Travel Tips appeared first on Activity Authority.

We’ve visited many spots in Mexico over the decades (both popular as well as obscure spots), and we finally made it to one of the more popular Mexican vacation destinations: Cabo San Lucas!  We grew up going to inexpensive spots like Tijuana and Rosarito, and this is definitely very different.

RESORT REVIEW • CABO ACTIVITIES • RESTAURANTS • RECAP

PLAYA GRANDE RESORT REVIEW

After many blog posts and Youtube videos, we landed on Playa Grande Resort as our best option with kids.  Many factors were at play, so we’ve laid out the pros and cons after staying here for a week.

PROS:

Rooms – we upgraded to a suite with a kitchenette.  It’s perfect for having kids, as there’s a pull-out couch bed and another small twin that pops out of a cabinet.  So both kids shared a room separate from ours.  We had the ground floor, which doesn’t have amazing views, but I’ll take it over anything else, especially with kids.  We can walk straight from our rooms to the pool in less than 30 seconds.  The kitchenette is worth mentioning again.  Half of one suitcase was filled with breakfast items, lunch items, snacks, etc…  It made life much easier not having to rush to each meal at various restaurants.

Fun Vibe – Though I’d be a little disappointed if I were still single and 20 years old (since more than 1/2 of the guests are older or kids), the pool activities and events are really fun.

Pool – The pools are great. 3 large pools along with an adult area pool.  The Jacuzzi up top is massive and perfect temp.  For such a big place, you need a huge jacuzzi.  The adult area has its own jacuzzi.

Fireworks during Fiesta –  They didn’t last long, but we also got fireworks from a few other resorts on other nights.  The events are a lot of fun, and worth doing too.

Close enough to town –  You can walk, but in July, it’s HOT.  We walked a bit, but usually just because we didn’t have enough cash on hand.   It’s oppressive walking around in this heat, so definitely bring enough cash for taxis.  Uber isn’t recommended here yet, so look for the big white vans with green stripes.  Easy and not terribly expensive.  Have Cash!!!

Games – ping pong, kids area, corn hole, bracelet making, painting stations, and more.  We did the mini golf course, which was fun despite it being in disrepair and HOT as all hell.

No bugs – I don’t know if this is because we’re in the desert, or if they just spray heavily.  Let’s hope it’s a desert thing.

Room Amenities – comfy beds, good A/C, Blow dryer, good mirrors for the ladies

CONS:

No ocean access –  The beach here is massive and up against the Pacific Ocean.  With no break in raw energy, this beach gets slammed with shore break waves.  Granted, we did visit during one of the biggest south swells to hit in decades, this area is known to always have shore break that doesn’t suit normal vacation swimmers.

Black mold in showers and heavy smell – It smelled like a mix of mustiness and nasty chemical fragrances from cleaning supplies.  Even the toilet paper had the fragrance.  Some people would love that, but we don’t.  Also, we didn’t notice till later in the stay how much mold was in the showers.

Food – We knew from reviews ahead of time that the food wasn’t stellar.  That being said, Calima had some nice meals (the fried red snapper was delicious, but the short rib was the worst we’ve ever had).  We opted to not be tied to the meal plan, and we were so grateful.  The food we ordered at the pool was pretty terrible.  The worst quesadilla I’ve ever had.  But the worst meal we had here on the property was at the most expensive restaurant.  Brigantine has a nice view and decent service (despite being understaffed), but the food was subpar.  My 14oz medium ribeye was well-well done and flavorless.  Each meal was underwhelming and we walked away $240 poorer wishing we’d gone back to one of the taco stands we learned about while on Juan More Taco Food Tours. (read about them below.)

Pool chemicals – Each night they shut down the pools fairly early for chemicals.  I don’t know if they put these signs out just to keep people from swimming late and making noise or if it’s legit.  Regardless, it was a bummer to have them close after sunset.

Music could be more varied – I mean, they play everything under the sun, but it’s looped daily. Same playlist from morning to night.

Drink Mixers – We love seeing fresh housemade mixes, but they’re hard to find.  Definitely not here.  Best to stick to straight tequila and beer.

THINGS TO DO IN CABO SAN LUCAS

We share some of the Cabo San Lucas activities we did during our week stay. The video shows much of what we did.

Juan More Taco Food Tour

I’ve never been on a food tour and never thought it’d be something worth doing.  But wow, it turned out to be a crucial intro to Cabo.  The importance of great food is paramount for us when traveling.  We want the best (not necessarily the fanciest or most expensive).  We want the freshest local ingredients put together by masters in their cuisine.  We would never have known these places existed if we’d asked other tourists, the concierge, or just shot in the dark.  Much like when visiting Vietnam, we found the best spots at hole-in-the-wall spots.  Spots where they obviously didn’t care about dining aesthetics.  It was all about the food with our amazing guide Miguel, who was enthusiastic and full of Mexican history. This guy loves food and loves his country.

We enjoyed sopes, tacos, tequila, tacos, quesadillas, tacos, ice cream, tacos, churros, and more tacos.  The amount of food we were given the opportunity to eat paid for the tours in themselves.

The Marina

At the heart of Cabo San Lucas is the Marina.  It’s worth spending time here, even if you’re not planning on a boat ride.  The kids loved the feet-eating fish, shopping for little knick-knacks, and eating at spots along the water.  We also taught some good lessons in haggling.  If they wanted it, they had to haggle the price down a bit.

Arch

We took a glass bottom boat to see the arch and Land’s End.  It was beautiful.  Again, we went during a massive south swell, so we couldn’t go very close, but the wave action made for a pretty dramatic view of this area.  We wanted to go out on the boats completely made of glass, but they said they weren’t running due to the swell.  Still worth the quick trip.

Parasail

Flying high above Cabo was a major highlight.  You get a real understanding of how things are laid out, while enjoying the peace and quiet of being incredibly high!

Medano Beach

We loved this area. The beaches are spectacular!  It’s worth renting an umbrella and spending the day here.  The only cons are all of the vendors constantly hammering you.  They literally will come back again and again.  But, it was still worth it.  Find a spot far away from the boats, as the exhaust is nasty.  We especially loved this area because of the epic restaurants on the sand.

CABO SAN LUCAS RESTAURANTS

Though we found even more incredible food options when staying in San Jose Del Cabo, later in the trip, we had some of the best Mexican food of our lives!  (We’ll share San Jose del Cabo in a future blog post.  For now, you can watch our San Jose del Cabo video.)

The Office

This place is pretty legendary, and was PACKED!  We loved the food, ambiance, and tables in the sand.

Sur

This was one of the best restaurants we’ve ever eaten at.  Seriously, everything was perfect.  Expect to drop some coin, and try lots of different things.

Cabo Wabo

So, we did it because we felt obligated.  The food was ok, ambiance not super great.  If there had been a show, I could see how it would be amazing.

CABO REVIEW RECAP

PROS

• Quick flight from California.  Airport isn’t very far either.
• Great food in town.
• Water temp and color at the beach is Perfect!
• Everyone takes the US dollar.  Also, credit cards are accepted at most spots.

CONS

• HOT.  If you’re going in the summer, expect it to be sweltering. Pools and beaches will be your best friends.
• Street merchants.  They’re pretty relentless.
• Everyone at the local stores were really nice.  The only exception was the gal at the Billabong store.
• Resort food.  Be VERY wary about any food plans for all inclusive.  You don’t want to be stuck with terrible food.

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Earlier this year, we took our families to Mexico to explore, listen to some live music, and enjoy some delicious Mexican food (something we don’t have a lot of on Maui.)  Our trip did not disappoint!  An unexpected surprise came as we learned of the many cenotes (freshwater underground pools) dotting the Yucatan Peninsula.  Below are some highlights from our Mexico trip!

We visited 6-7 different cenotes around Tulum and Maya Riviera (I wish I’d have written down all their names, but we just cruised from one to the next without much direction.)  It was AMAZING!  Most require a small fee per person to enter, then you climb down stairs onto man-made decks.  You can then snorkel or scuba dive among stalactites (coming from the ceiling), stalagmites (coming from the floor), flying bats, swimming fish and turtles.

Some of the cenotes we visited were labrynths with multiple pools (watch the video and you’ll see scuba divers going from one cavern to the next).  Other cenotes were jungle pools with diving towers and even massive lakes of bright turquoise water and great swimming.

We had a blast in Cancun, Maya Riviera and in Tulum, but the real stand out from the trip was visiting all the amazing cenotes.

Cenote Formation

While the majority of the Yucatan Peninsula – excluding Puuc Hills – is flat, the cenotes likely would not have formed without the aid of the asteroid that created a massive crater some 65,000 years ago in what is now known as the town of Chicxulub, located north of Merida. The Yucatan Peninsula itself was once all under water, as its many limestone foundations are actually coral beds and sea floor that’s been fossilized over time.

With an estimated 4,000 to 6,000 in the Yucatan peninsula alone, cenotes are defined as sinkholes or natural pits formed as the result of collapsing limestone bedrock. Over centuries, a natural pool is created from rain water as it filters through layers of perforated rock and collects underground. Eventually, it collapses to unveil a cave underneath, as well as clear water that’s been filtered through the ground.

Differentiated by their layout and structure, the three primary forms of cenotes include cave cenotes, in which the water is typically crystal clear as it is naturally protected from the sky, as well as semi open with one side dotted with stalactites and stalagmites, and open cenotes which open directly to the sky. While those along the Caribbean coast tend to open up in a more horizontal structure, others in northwest Yucatan are deeper and more vertically aligned.

Local & Historical Significance

Translating to ‘dzonot,’ meaning ‘sacred well,’ and also ‘ts’onot,’ meaning ‘hole in the earth,’ cenotes were once the primary source of freshwater for the ancient Maya civilization, who migrated to the area between 500BC and 250AD. Believed to act as portals and gateways to Xibalba, or the underworld, it was also believed that the God of Rain, Chaac, resided at the bottom of these sacred formations.

Highly revered by the Maya, cenotes were often utilized in religious ceremonies, and were used for providing certain offerings to the Gods: namely jewelry, jade, pottery and even human sacrifices, as skeletons were found much, much later in some of the most accessible of the area’s cenotes.

Though no one knows an exact number of cenotes in the Yucatan, it’s believed that less than half of them have yet to be studied and/or officially registered.

How to Visit the Cenotes: Tips & Tricks

Well known for their exceptional swimming, snorkeling and diving conditions, it’s recommended that you bring swimwear, natural sunscreen, water, a towel, slippahs and a small amount of cash with you to cover the small entrance fees, as the majority are equipped with bathroom facilities, snorkeling equipment rentals, life vests and flashlights, if needed. It’s recommended to hire a driver or take a camiones, an inexpensive local minivan. For those who plan to dive, an open water certification is typically required.

Two of the five longest cave systems in the world are located in Quintana Roo, and the most popular cenote of all – Grand Cenote – gives way to the second longest cave system in the world, Sistema Sac Actun, at 208 miles.

Some of the most popular cenotes include the following:

• Closest to Cancun & Riviera Maya: Tajma Ha
• Closest to Tulum & Chichen Itza: Cenote Azul, Grand Cenote, Dos Ojos, Grutas de Loltun, Ik-Kil, Yokdzonot
• Closest to Playa del Carmen: Cenote Ponderosa, also known as ‘Jardin del Eden’
• Closest to Valladolid: Ek Balam, Suytun, Oxmal, Samula, Zaci

Home to Red Bull’s Cliff Diving Championships, Ik-Kil is obviously an exceptional choice for diving, as is Calavera, while those looking to snorkel should head to Tak Be Ha, and those looking to work on their rope swinging skills should explore Yaxbacaltun. Chihuan offers beautiful underground scenery, while the Miguel Colorado cenote is ideal for getting off the beaten path.

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Crowds and Prices – advantage

True many shops and restaurants are closed, but you can breathe! Mostly locals and some tourists frequent the streets and beaches. It feels like it ought to feel: like a sleepy little Mexican beach town. We love it! And though prices are still higher than most spots we’ve visited in Mexico, you can take advantage of off-season accommodations. Prices are drastically lower to stay. We rented a big house on the south side of town. It would’ve cost us an extra $250/night during the busy season.

Surfing – disadvantage

I brought 2 shortboards on the off chance swell would hit. If it had, off-season could be an advantage, since you’d be surfing with a less crowded lineup. But, alas, it was tiny. Still, we watched anywhere from 4 to 20 longboarders out at any one time (at the main break in town.) we might’ve found something bigger at Burros or other out-of-town spots, but we enjoyed our lazy days in the heat.

Warm Water and Hotter Sand – advantage

In the winter, the ocean is pretty cold. We wore 3’2 wetsuits with an occasional vest. In the summer, the water is WARM! I mean really warm. Like bath water warm. For some, this is a disadvantage. We love barely feeling a change in temp when getting in the ocean. Our pool was the same. We actually froze some bottles to throw in the pool during the day. At night, the pool was perfect!!! Tip: When at the beach, find a shady spot and run to the water. The sand is on fire.

Marietas Islands – disadvantage

We really wanted to visit the islands. I’m not sure if it’s an off-season thing or an ecological preservation thing, but it was closed.  Having already planned a day trip there, we decided to explore Puerto Vallarta and their local zoo instead.

Rain & Run Off – disadvantage

Normally, it rains in the rainy season constantly, making for less than ideal vacationing.  The rain feeds the rivers and you get some murky, very dirty water at Sayulita.  That’s why you get fewer crowds and cheaper prices.  BUT, during our stay, it was gorgeous every day.  Yes, it rained here and there for a little bit (similar to Hawaii), but it never got bad.  We loved the lightning and storms at night and enjoyed perfectly sunny days.  Below is a photo of a river running off into the beach area at Sayulita.  This was after a long night of rain.  As you can see, there are areas further down unaffected.

A few tips:

Avoid All-Inclusive Resorts

The first time we came, we stayed at an all-inclusive resort in Punta Mita. It served its purpose, but the food wasn’t very good, and we felt obligated to stay there the whole time. It’s well worth staying right in town and finding the best spots to eat on your own.

Golf Carts!

If staying in town, rent a golf cart. We got ours for $170 for the week. Not sure if that’s good or bad, but originally they wanted $350 USD. Parking in town can be a challenge even off-season. With a golf cart, we parked all over the damned place.

Haggle, haggle, haggle!

Sayulita and Puerto Vallarta are expensive! Far more expensive than any other spots in Mexico we’ve visited. Almost everything is negotiable. We found some vendors throwing out absurd numbers, where they later dropped their prices by 1/6!

Explore beaches around town

The beach just past Villa Amor is gorgeous! Don’t get suckered into paying for parking. Find a spot along the road, out of the way. We loved how mellow the ocean was, and a guy comes by with freshly baked doughnuts. Seriously, it doesn’t get better than that!  We also explored beaches in Puerto Vallarta and the beaches at Sayulita.

Puerto Vallarta Activities

We found Puerto Vallarta and Sayulita activities very similar to our home on Maui. There are many things to do in Puerto Vallarta including snorkeling, scuba, swimming with dolphins, surf lessons, bungee jumping, horseback riding, waterfall tours, a very wild zoo, botanical gardens, their Mexican version of a luau, and even partying on a fully operational pirate ship (with nightly fireworks.)

Once we get to know the area better, and we get to experience the best of it, we’ll likely offer these activities here.  But for now, please enjoy what we do best:  Maui Activities!

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