3 Powerful Lessons I Learned During My (Surprisingly Relaxing) Stay in Los Cabos, Mexico

Last year, in April 2021, I’d booked a last-minute trip with my college friend, Kati, and had the best time of my life. We traveled to San Juan, Puerto Rico and, although this vacation was when COVID-19 was still at its peak, we were still able to create crazy-fun memories that we still laugh about.

Before that, I tried to make a conscious effort to travel at least once per year as an attempt to establish the habit of exploring different places.

At 19, I went to Miami.

At 20, I went to ATL.

At 21, I went to Vegas.

At 22, COVID-19 shut down the world.

This year, especially since I’m turning 25, I was determined to continue my tradition– but this time I’d choose an international destination. I’d never traveled outside of the country and just received my first passport earlier this year. As I reflect upon my previous travel experiences, I can typically sum them all up in three simple words: wild, busy, and unforgettable. I was prepared (and hoping) for this trip to be the same; I even went with the same college friend!

The destination was Los Cabos, Mexico.

Kati and I booked our trip to Los Cabos for four days. When heading to Mexico, I had every intention to have that same wild, busy and unforgettable experience. However, during my time there, I realized that this vacation was different — mainly because (despite my planning) we instead found ourselves relaxing, reflecting, and releasing.

According to TikTok, it seemed we had selected the perfect area for letting loose. We were psyched to party! On top of that, as I’d mentioned earlier, this was my first time leaving the country, and I’d always been eager to experience other cultures in their native setting.

But beyond the cultural exposure and much-needed quality time with my friend, I learned important life lessons that helped me approach life differently when I came back.

Nevertheless, here are 3 powerful lessons I’ve learned during my stay in Los Cabos, MX:

You don’t have to film or document every single moment.

Unfortunately, I had to learn this the hard way — and on my first day in Cabos at that. Prior to this trip, I had every intention to vlog the entirety of the vacation. I’d prepared a shot list, bought a hand-held tripod, and even asked all of my friends for permission to film them. I was SO excited to create memories and document all of our adventures to rearrange, edit and upload onto YouTube once we come back. Let me tell you: It did NOT work that way at all. I’d ended up losing the memory card the FIRST night in Cabos (don’t ask me how—still don’t know how I’d managed to do that). The next morning, with a massive hangover, I grabbed my camera to view Day 1’s footage and was greeted with a “Card Not Available.” I’d tore through our hotel room, checked all of the places we were at and it was NOWHERE to be found. I was so sick but, as I continued on with my trip, I’d realized that it was for the best. I was able to completely enjoy this adventure WITHOUT having to worry about documenting everything. Without the responsibility to film, I was able to fully enjoy the moment and it made my trip *THAT* much better.

Always book excursions, even when you’re staying at an all-inclusive resort.

I’d truly thought that all-inclusive resorts provided their guests with a plethora of activities and parties to keep us busy, but apparently—I was wrong. Out of the five nights I’d stayed at the Riu Baja California hotel, for instance, there was only one pool party and a cultural show. There was supposed to be a second pool party, but it was canceled last minute due to renovations. Do not expect the resort to entertain you, otherwise, you’re going to spend a lot of time at the pool. If you don’t want that, I would recommend that you book excursions and visit local attractions.

It’s not particularly the travel destination itself that makes your vacation magical — it’s YOU.

This is definitely one of the most powerful lessons I've learned so far. I don’t know about you, but I am all for traveling as a means to escape reality. Sometimes, life sucks and you need time away to forget all about the B.S. I totally get it. That’s exactly why I’d booked my trip to Los Cabos: Because I hated my reality. Although escapism can be fun and thrilling, I had to remember one thing: No matter where I go, I’m still bringing myself. I’ve not only packed my clothes, but I brought my bad attitude, anxiety, negative thoughts, and grim outlook as well. The travel destination isn’t what will make my vacation incredible — it’s MY conscious decision to let go, have fun and open my heart that allows me to have a magical experience. When arriving in Los Cabos, I wasn’t feeling my best, however, once I’d centered myself and allowed myself to immerse in joy, I felt amazing.