I always find that Jan/Feb is always a great time to go away. Besides the fact that it’s usually cheaper, the end of the month marks the lovely day when I was born (Jan 29 to be exact).

This year, I spent it at the lovely million star resort in Loreto, Baja California Sur called Villa del Palmar at the islands of Loreto.

Two hours away from Los Angeles, the secluded beachfront getaway lies on the Sea of Cortez. While waters are rough on the Pacific Coast, the calm waters of the UNESCO protected sea lend itself well to water sports (kayaking, snorkeling, whale/dolphin watching).

At first walk around, the massive property seems vacant. But in fact, it’s just the nature of the resort. Peaceful. No people harassing you to buy a time share. No vendors on the beach wanting to sell you overpriced goods. Not only is the resort peaceful, it’s flexible depending upon if you want an all inclusive get away or something less structured.

Bear in mind, I do not frequent resorts often. I prefer the navigation of a crowded city, where some of the best eats are found on the side of the road. Yet, I found myself enjoying quiet serenity of the resort and waking up to hearing the birds chirping delightfully.

On arrival, I walked into the palatial one bedroom suite with full sized jucuzzi, full kitchen, 2 bathrooms and a washer and dryer. A whole family could comfortably stay for their entire length of their vacation.

The first day we were treated to a lunch where we first got a sampling of the wonderful fish tacos and yummy guacamole. I was hooked. Later for dinner we feasted on BBQ and watched a fun variety show.

The next day, I turned 35! At breakfast, I was greeted by staff who sang happy birthday en espanol and English. Very sweet.

After a quick tour of the resort we headed out on the water. The plan was to go whale watching – except we ended up playing with a pod of over 100 dolphins instead. We also saw sea lions and two lucky people saw the back of a humpback whale. Being on the boat built up an appetite for some, and more chips and guacamole did just the trick.

When we arrived back at the hotel, I devoured my cake from the morning which was thankfully, saved in my fridge. Little did I know there would be another piece of cake and another round of Happy Birthday’s sung to me at dinner!

Needing to work off the rich meal, we headed for a club in the hills to dance it off. And just when I thought the celebration was over – the turn down service had delightfully decorated my room.

PS: Want to stay at the Villa del Palmar at the Islands of Loreto at a discounted rate and check it out for yourself? You can book now and travel until April 30, 2016.

Deluxe Studio suite: $146 USD per night, plus taxes and gratuities

One Bedroom Suite: $228 USD per night, plus taxes and gratuities

Two Bedroom Suite: $370 USD per night, plus taxes and gratuities

Reference the code FAMJAN16 when you book a reservation through [email protected]

Terms and conditions apply, blackout dates apply.

ELENA:)