Baja is open! After more than a year of COVID-19 canceling travel plans, it’s time to dust off the suitcase, dig out the bathing suit, and remember what it’s like to jet-set to exotic locations like Baja’s East Cape.
Like many destinations, Baja, particularly Los Cabos and East Cape, is taking additional health and safety precautions to safeguard visitors and residents. However, these protocols won’t interfere with your ability to stay and play along the coast of Baja’s southernmost point.
A snapshot of safety protocols in place in East Cape
All of Los Cabos, including East Cape, thrives on tourism. Visitors fuel an estimated 90% of the area’s economy, so everyone from shop owners to restaurateurs are ready to welcome travelers back. Here are specific protocols in place that you should know about:
● Masks are required
To provide as much protection as possible, there is a mask requirement for everyone when in public. Of course, masks can come off when you’re eating, drinking, or swimming, but other than that, the Los Cabos Tourism Board asks that all visitors stay covered.
● Vaccinations are encouraged
Los Cabos is encouraging everyone – visitors and residents – to get a COVID-19 vaccine. However, to enter Los Cabos you do not need to be vaccinated or show proof of vaccination. That said, to return to certain countries, including the U.S., you will need to present a negative COVID test to the airline to board your return flight.
● Testing is available for return destinations
Depending on where you’re returning to, you may need to test negative for COVID before going home. If your home country or state requires a test, they’re easy to get. All hotels, villas, and timeshares have antigen tests available to make your return as hassle-free as possible.
● Quarantine is not necessary
Visitors do not need to quarantine once they arrive in Los Cabos. You’re encouraged to monitor your own health during your trip and 14 days following it. If you experience any COVID-19 symptoms, you should seek treatment. Should you become ill while visiting the area, there are medical facilities available for treatment.
● Flights are not restricted
The Los Cabos Board of Tourism says the U.S./Mexico border remains closed to anyone crossing by car, commuter rail, or ferry. However, air travel is not restricted. The airport is open with all of the major carriers, including American, Alaska, Delta, Southwest, and United, running frequent flights to the area.
● Expect capped capacities
Businesses, restaurants, and tours are all open, but they are running at capped capacities. While this might seem like an inconvenience, most travelers seem to prefer it. By limiting the number of people inside a restaurant or on a tour boat, it provides a more intimate experience and feels less crowded.
● Los Cabos has a health security verification
Los Cabos obtained a Sharecare Health Security Certification, becoming the world’s first VERIFIED travel destination. What exactly does that mean? The majority of hotels and resorts continue to ensure that 360 expert-guided safety protocols are met daily.
● Expect temperature checks
Airports and hotels are taking temperatures and encouraging social distancing. These practices shouldn’t interfere with your trip, but they’re something to be aware of. You’ll need some extra patience, but it’s a small price to pay to lounge in the sun, swim in the sea, and enjoy decadent Mexican cuisine.
● Stay up-to-date on safety protocols
While international travel is making a strong comeback, it’s a good idea to check the Los Cabos Tourism Board website for updated information. The site has links to updated COVID cases and real-time travel updates. As the virus continues to morph and new variants emerge, procedures may change.
A luxurious stay in East Cape awaits
With safety protocols in place, it’s time to book your trip to East Cape. This newly-developed area east of Cabo San Lucas is a quiet mecca of elegance and luxury. The Four Seasons Resort that sits on the 1,000-acre Costa Palmas property, is an ideal destination for your inaugural post-pandemic trip. Here’s why:
● Luxury meets seclusion
The Four Seasons Resort is a showpiece of contemporary design with luxurious accommodations. Stay in a three-bedroom ocean-front villa with easy access to resort amenities, like three plunge pools, and skip the restaurant scene by utilizing a private chef.
Simply put, you can stay in the lap of luxury all while social distancing. If you choose, the only company you’ll have are the lapping waves.
● Try dozens of different activities
If you’d rather be a bit more active, Baja’s East Cape has you covered. The area is full of jaw-dropping experiences. From sport fishing and jet skiing to kiteboarding and golfing, there’s no shortage of activities – many of which are available right from the resort.
If you like to snorkel or scuba dive, put a trip to Cabo Pulmo on your list. This national marine park is home to one of oldest coral reefs in North America, estimated at 20,000 years old. Visitors come from all over just to swim in the sapphire water with exotic fish, turtles, and other sea creatures.
Rather stay on land? Costa Palmas has East Cape’s newest golf course. The 18-hole course, dubbed an “emerald symphony” by legendary designer Robert Trent Jones II, is as enjoyable to play as it is to sightsee with rocky cliff views of the Sea of Cortez.
● Taste exquisite cuisine without leaving the resort
From a beachside bar to an elegant restaurant for special occasions, you’ll find tempting treats throughout the resort. Estiatorio Milos, a sophisticated Meditteranean seafood restaurant, is perfect for an anniversary, birthday, or to simply celebrate your first trip since the pandemic hit. If you don’t want to stray too far from the pool, Casa de Brasa has small dishes and cocktails, and Limon has beachside dining too.
Ready to pack your bags and head to Baja’s East Cape? Click the link below to book your getaway now.