Just back from…Mexico with Kathryn Rhodes

What country did you visit?

Baja California in Mexico

When did you visit? March 2022

How did you get there? We flew direct to Mexico City with Aeromexico on its Dreamliner route – a really comfortable overnight flight! The connection from Mexico City on to Baja was really easy and the best part was, we arrived at our hotel in time for a late breakfast!

Whereabouts did you go?

We started in San José del Cabo before heading north through Todos Santos and finishing up in La Paz.

Had you been before?

This was my first time in this part of the country so it was great to visit somewhere new and distinct from other areas of Mexico.

Which was your favourite:

Place: San José del Cabo was a lovely surprise – a quaint and very arty town with lots to be discovered just under the surface. It’s a great place to mix with the locals in what is often perceived as a very touristy part of the country.

Excursion: Humpback whale-watching from Cabo San Lucas – we were lucky enough to find and sail alongside a group of three adult whales for a good hour or so before seeing a juvenile whale take 5 or 6 full jumps out of the water as we were heading back into port. Absolutely incredible!

What was your most memorable moment?

Swimming alongside a whale shark in La Paz. The moment when you see something at least 5 times the size of you come out of the blue and glide past is just breath-taking.

Were there any surprises along the way?

There was a lot more to Baja California than I had expected. Beyond the big resorts on the Cabo tourist corridor, there’s an underlying local scene of art and music, as well as beautiful beaches and ocean views at nearly every turn.

What tips do you have for travellers wanting to visit the same destinations?

While San José and Todos Santos have lovely semi-pedestrianised centres, and La Paz has its attractive malecón (seafront promenade) to walk along, a hire car is more or less indispensable in Baja and the freedom it brings to explore will really open up the destination to you.

Is there anything indispensible to pack or prepare for?

It can get surprisingly chilly in the evenings, even in the peak of summer so be sure to pack a jumper or light jacket.

Any local snacks, dishes or drinks that should be sampled?

This place is heaven for anyone who, like me, loves seafood. Baja fish tacos, fresh clams, ceviche and oysters – you name it!

Any restaurant or bar recommendations?

Tamarindos in San José del Cabo is a must visit – local farm to table fare in a beautiful outdoor setting. Don’t miss the chocolata clams! https://www.lostamarindos.mx/

Sum up your trip in a sentence?

Baja ticks all the boxes: marine wildlife, water sports, beaches, great food and plenty of culture.

Expert Tip: San José del Cabo’s Thursday night Art Walk is not to be missed! Every week the town comes to life with art galleries open until late, live music in the streets and a fantastic atmosphere. It’s the perfect place to mingle with the locals while enjoying a michelada or two.