Mexico Expedition Cruise: Baja California and the Sea of Cortez

US-owned and operated Safari Endeavour is a relatively small expedition ship, with just 42 double and twin cabins accommodating 84 guests. The atmosphere is ultra-informal and friendly, with an accent on getting the most fun possible out of the gentle activities and experiences, making her a great choice for families and solo travellers. The aspect and décor are cheerful and workaday, with a no-fuss nautical ambiance featuring natural wood. All cabins are fully furnished and have private facilities.  Staff are accommodating and put the emphasis on flexibility.

What’s more there is an impressive range of equipment for use off the ship. You have a choice of kayaks, paddle boards, inflatable skiffs, hiking poles and snorkelling gear including wetsuits to enhance the action on Baja’s rugged coast, the glittering sea and the trails on uninhabited islands. You’ll go back to the ship knowing you can wallow in a hot tub, tone your bodies on the outdoor fitness equipment relax in the lounge or curl up with a DVD. Not to forget the wine bar...

This intimate and most attractive ochre-washed property is situated on the La Paz's coastal promenade, the Malecón, close to the centre of the capital of Baja California. Refurbished and refreshed in 2016, it's one of the most genuinely Mexican properties in town: the sofa-crammed lounge and handful of guest rooms and suites are tastefully furnished with Mexican artwork and rich locally woven textiles.  Each guest room has an individual iconic feature, such as antique wooden furniture, Mexican pottery, a marbled wall or a palm tree growing through the ceiling.

The hotel’s second floor restaurant, overlooking the promenade, has unparalleled views over the ocean. Potted plants are liberally scattered over the grounds of property which features a stone fountain while other facilities include a sun deck with loungers and a patio where breakfast is served.

Unlike the large US-style resorts which fringe the beach a short taxi-ride away, Casa Natalia sits on the main square in the colonial centre of hilltop San Jose del Cabo. Again in contrast to the chain hotels, this unique property is still managed by its approachable proprietor Natalie, and the service is very friendly and professional.

The 19 rooms are located over three floors overlooking a relaxing courtyard with a crescent-shaped pool surrounded by loungers and tall palm trees. Most of the individually-themed rooms have a small private terrace, where you can take breakfast. They are decorated with hand-picked Mexican objets d’art and, alongside the fresh flowers which appear every day, bear witness to the feminine touch. The main attraction is Mi Cocina, the hotel’s renowned restaurant. 

The hotel can arrange excursions for you such as diving, kayaking and visits to the local `cactus world’ which apparently boasts the world’s most diverse collection of cacti.