If you live in bordering states, then a trip to Mexico is even more cost effective due to the lack of traveling costs, but even if you have to fly Mexico can be a financially friendly getaway.
As a Southern Californian, Baja California is only a hop, skip and a jump away. I’m not huge on the party aspect of a Mexican escape, although I do enjoy the abundance of drink specials! I go to Baja to relax on the beach, while sipping a cool beverage and enjoying an authentic carnitas taco. Yummy.
Tiajuana is the first city one hits if crossing through San Diego, CA. This is the city that most youths and college students go to party. For those who are looking for a more refined experience I suggest driving a little further past Rosarito Beach to Las Gaviotas, a quaint little beach resort.
Here you have the option to rent a variety of home rentals within the community. Prices range depending on the number of bedrooms requested, but since the homes are owned by private owners, you are likely to find a pretty sweet deal. For example a four bedroom home can go from as low as $125 a night! If you split that among friends that is practically nothing! Las Gaviotas offers anywhere from one to six bedroom homes, so you can make it a tranquil trip for two or bring the whole crew for some group fun. If you are so inclined, you may also purchase your own home and really save money if you are looking to make Las Gaviotas a regular vacation spot for you and your friends and family.
What I love about Las Gaviotas is that you don’t even have to leave the resort if you don’t want. For those who aren’t as comfortable in Mexico or just don’t want to deal the hustle and bustle of going into the city, Las Gaviotas has a private beach, pool and spa, tennis courts and 24 hour security. You can spend the day surfing, fishing or laying poolside. My niece likes to bring her own food and prepare meals at home. Not only is she saving money by not going out, but saving energy by not have to leave the resort community.
If you are a little bit more restless and enjoy time spent shopping or just want to go out to dinner, Las Gaviotas is not too far from the action. Slightly north is Rosarito Beach, which is loaded with hotels, restaurants and shopping. Everything is so reasonably priced that you can feel free to partake in most activities offered by the locals. Take a horseback ride down the beach, spend the morning golfing, purchase some souvenirs or stop by a restaurant for some refreshments.
Rosarito Beach also makes for a great destination wedding. Rosarito Beach Hotel offers great wedding packages, delicious food and a beautiful location. Get married on the pier and spend the night dancing under the stars. What a great way to start a life together all while saving money.
Rosarito is where the nightlife happens as well, with places like Senor Frogs, Club Iggy’s and Papas and Beer stirring up the fun every night. The drink specials amazing! It’s like a perpetual happy hour down in Mexico.
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| Singing Karaoke |
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| 2 for 1 drinks |
If you are in the mood for some AMAZING lobster, but you still want have enough money to get home, I recommend going a few minutes south of Las Gaviotas to Puerto Nuevo. There you will find more shops and dining options, but for the best food and best deal go to Chelas. The lobster is buttery and plump, but the price is low. Every meal comes with all you can eat homemade guacamole, chips, salsa, and tortillas. To wash this feast down I strongly urge you have a chilada (beer based drink with lime juice and salt) and Chelas knows how to make them right.
For the more adventurous check out Agua Caliente Racetrack or go see a bull fight at Jai Alai.
If all you want is fun without dropping some major dough, then Baja is the place for you!!
WARNING: Due to recent activities I suggest holding off on any trips to Mexico until things calm down
