Elite Traveler HRS 2017-2018

SPONSORED

elite traveler HOTELS, RESORTS & SPAS 2017/2018 49

CONTACT Andreas Schmidt, general director, aschmidt@velasresorts.com, +52 624 104 9800,

Say “I do” in paradise

STAY Imperial Suite Size 6,481 sq ft Nightly rate $10,400

A luxurious Los Cabos retreat with great ambiance, the marvelous Imperial Suite features imported furniture and exquisite Mexican artwork. The terrace, furnished in minimalist style, offers a gorgeous private pool with breathtaking views of the Gulf of California. Entertainment features include iPod docks and 65in TVs, and there is a spacious living room, a dining room for eight and a stocked bar with a customizable selection of premium wines and liquors. The spa-like bathroom has double rain and handheld showers, with marble walls and local woodwork. Enjoy 24-hour in-suite and poolside butler service, VIP transportation to and from the airport and a 50-minute massage per person per day. Luxury and privacy beckon from the 21 decadent Grand Class Suites. Experience endless views of the magical Sea of Cortez from your private terrace. Relax in your own plunge pool as you watch another spectacular sunset. Unwind in your Jacuzzi or under the soothing rain shower in your bath. Schedule an in-room massage or one of the many other spa treatments. With 24-hour concierge and room service, guests transcend the ordinary and experience the ultimate couples’ retreat. A minibar stocked daily with premium refreshments and snacks, red and white wines from Baja’s Valle de Guadalupe, artisanal tequila, high-definition TV with digital cable, L’Occitane bath products, goose-down pillows and comforters, and a pillow menu are also available in-suite. Grand Class Suites Size 1,949 sq ft Nightly rate $1,020 per person Transform yourself in the serenity of the latest SE Spa by Grand Velas, Mexico’s most luxurious wellness retreat. You’ll feel renewed the moment you enter this new sanctuary, which incorporates the desert landscape and local healing elements found in nature. Experience restorative ceremonies and rituals that combine natural ingredients with tradition. Lose yourself in the seven-step Water Journey, including an ice room, clay room and experience pool. Revive with a signature Blue Agave massage, and replenish with sophisticated facials and body treatments. Reconnect with rituals for two in the spa treatment rooms for couples. A unique “spa atelier” concept complements the treatments and philosophy of the spa via a series of specifically designed educational workshops for guests to participate in. Tailored to aid a variety of ailments and needs, these custom-made workshops are inspired by local Mexican culture and RELAX SE Spa by Grand Velas

years in Asia shaped his palate and inspired him to present different taste sensations in a single meal. The stylish, casually elegant decor was designed by Ernesto Vela. The tasting menu with wine pairing is available to all resort guests at no additional charge as part of the luxury all-inclusive rate. Contact Chef Juan Licerio, jlicerioa@velasresorts.com Velas 10 Enjoy seafood and steak at this oceanfront bar and restaurant

Frida Contemporary Mexican cuisine Lucca Italian-Mediterranean cuisine Piaf Classic French fare Cabrilla Ceviche bar

ENJOY Koi Bar

Sip premium spirits, beer and wine or dance the night away in the impressive double-height bar off the lobby. Enjoy sporting events broadcast with the latest technology on a large high-definition screen. Miramar Oceanfront Bar Located below Velas 10, this bar is perched on rocks that adjoin the beach at the edge of the sea. Relax with a drink on the terrace touching the sand with a lounging space and bonfires. Sky Sports Bar Ocean-view terrace bar Enjoy a stunning open terrace and endless views at Sky Bar, upstairs from the Azul restaurant. Sip handcrafted cocktails, beer, wine and margaritas as you bask in the relaxing ambiance and gentle sea breezes. WEDDINGS For a classic destination wedding in Los Cabos, nothing compares to a wedding at Grand Velas Los Cabos. The resort’s beauty, luxury and artful details are unmatched, creating a celebration as unique and unforgettable as your love. Stunning venues, lavish suites, endless views, gourmet cuisine and sophisticated services make it easy to say “I do” in paradise. An incomparable spa and salon prepares you for the biggest day of your life. Your personal wedding coordinator ensures no detail is overlooked. The Terraza del Mar is the largest, most spectacular oceanfront terrace available along the Los Cabos coast, with panoramic views of the Sea of Cortez and capacity for up to 600 guests.

based on the principles of ancient Ayurvedic medicine. Contact Ledia Cámara, lcamarac@velasresorts.com

DINE Cocina de Autor

GOLF COURSE PARTNERS Cabo Real, Puerto Los Cabos, Club Campestre San José Par Cabo Real, 71; Puerto Los Cabos, 73; Club Campestre San José, 71 Contact smartin@questrogolf.com, +52 01 800 543 2044

Cocina de Autor at the new Grand Velas Los Cabos has been named one of the best new restaurants for 2017 by CNN. Two-Michelin- starred chef Sidney Schutte heads up the fine-dining restaurant working with Netherlands’ rising star Vincent Colauto as chef de cuisine. Chef Schutte’s Dutch heritage, passion for traveling and four

Photos Dennis Berti, Victor Elias, Gaston Galicia