I just returned from my 10th trip to Baja since pandemic and had the same feelings as when I wrote this letter over a year ago. I had been meaning to post it but never did so now is as good as ever. Originally published in ASTA Travel Advisor magazine Aug 2021) – link here […]
Author: Joni Wu
Palmaïa, The House of AïA Review – Transformations
You could fully enjoy Palmaïa like another luxury all-inclusive beach resort and have a grand time simply eating delicious locally-sourced food and drinking craft cocktails while being mesmerized by the turquoise Caribbean Sea. Or you could do that and some self-discovery if you go in with an open mind and let a shaman light you […]
A Day in Upcountry Maui – Itinerary and Route
I had difficulty finding a sample itinerary for a self-drive day trip to Upcountry Maui that takes into account logistical efficiency, which tells me a couple of things: 1) it’s a road less traveled 2) I should write one As a luxury travel specialist in SoCal, Maui is a top requested destination due to ease […]
Haleakala Sunrise vs. Sunset and How To See Them
So you’re going to Maui and heard that you just HAVE to see the sunrise at Haleakalā because everyone raves about it and did you even go to Maui if you didn’t (or the Road to Hana? 🙄) I mean, it does translate to “House of the Sun” and TBH, it’s pretty spectacular, but it’s […]
A Non-Hiker’s Guide to Half Dome
Less than a year ago, I hated hiking. Last week, I hiked 23 miles and climbed to the top of Half Dome in Yosemite National Park. I think I can officially call myself a hiker now, although I am far from an authority in the matter. Prior to Yosemite, I was a non-hiker, best case […]
Flora Farms – California Lifestyle in Cabo
Flora Farms – a popular farm-to-table dining concept for American tourists to visit while in Cabo. Like I don’t think a single patron is from Mexico. It’s located up in the hills near San Jose del Cabo – close for those staying in that area but is a good 45 mins from San Lucas. In […]
Hard Rock – Los Cabos’ Newest Crowd Pleaser
There’s something for everyone at Hard Rock Los Cabos. As a brand new build in the Diamante development of Los Cabos, opened June 2019, the hoteliers had the opportunity to consider how to redefine upscale all-inclusive to better accommodate a larger array of clientele. Who I would recommend it for – to reel it back […]
Nobu Hotel Los Cabos – Japanese Hollywood Chic in Mexico
Not sure if Japanese/Hollywood/Mexico is a thing but it is now with the entrance of Nobu to the Los Cabos hotel scene. Examples of what I mean by that: The design of the 200 rooms and suites is Japanese minimalist with wood elements and a coastal feel, which really doesn’t make sense but it works. […]
Nobu Hotel Los Cabos – Dining Options Overview
Malibu Farms My Oregonian mom’s favorite restaurant after a week in Cabo. It’s very California-esque, light and bright. Prices are extremely reasonable for an upscale resort establishment (drinks are not). I can certainly see the appeal but for us from SoCal, the farm-to-tables are a dime a dozen (but in a good way still – […]
Tham Lod Cave – Wonderment in Northern Thailand
There’s something about the darkness and the unknown of caves that just does it for me – Tham Lod did it and some. People think it’s bizarre how much I love caves and I’m not sure I can properly explain it either. I don’t like scary movies or Knott’s Scary Farm and caves are a […]