Curt Cassels

The Waldorf Astoria Los Cabos Pedregal wins for the most dramatic and mystical arrival. The moment you arrive at this hidden gem in Los Cabos, you’re already on the brink of a memorable stay. As you approach the resort, you’ll encounter a tall metal gate where the staff engages in a friendly conversation with the guard. After the gate opens, you’ll be greeted by a dark tunnel bathed in flickering light. As you drive through the dark tunnel and your eyes acclimate, you realize it’s lined with gas torches along both sides and gas chandeliers down the middle. At the end of the tunnel, you’ll emerge onto a circular drive, where the uniformed staff awaits your arrival with open arms, overlooking the breathtaking Pacific Ocean. The entire stay ahead of you beckons, and you realize it’s time to slow down, savor the beauty, and immerse yourself in the moment. This is going to be a stay of a life-time.

Carneros Resort and Spa left a deep impression on me—it manages to feel luxurious without ever trying too hard. From the private cottages tucked among gardens and fruit trees to the warmth of the fire pits that dot the property, the resort invites you to slow down and savor every moment. I loved the blend of relaxed California charm and elevated touches—it truly felt like a Napa-Sonoma hideaway that knew how to host both serenity and celebration. For me, it struck that rare balance: refined but unpretentious, restorative yet social.

One&Only Mandarina holds a special place in my heart for its rare balance of untamed nature and refined luxury. Nestled between the jungle and the Pacific, it offers a transformative experience where time slows down and every detail feels intentional. It’s more than a destination—it’s a reminder of how powerful and peaceful true connection to place can be. The energy there stays with you long after you leave. This is how you celebrate a milestone birthday right.