Rancho La Puerta — Hotel in Baja California

This was my very first time at the Ranch and I have to say, the ranch and the staff themselves are absolutely outstanding and (most) of the presenters were wonderful which is why I give the ranch 5 stars. My only complaints were with some of the guests and the photography presenter specifically. If you're reading this review, I genuinely want you to know that this message applies to you.

To those who were so entitled that they thought they were above the mask mandate, constantly complained about having to wear a mask, and not covering your nose while wearing your mask, DO BETTER! To go into someone else's place of business and into THEIR country and not follow their rules, guidelines, etc. is absolutely disgusting and the very definition of white privelege. How DARE you think it's okay to put other people's lives at risk all because you're too selfish to do something as simple as putting a piece of cloth on your face while in the presence of others. It doesn't matter how much money you paid or how long you have been going to the ranch. The rules are there for a reason and to have the audacity not to follow said rules on their property makes you the worst type of person. The photography presenter in particular was the worst. She complained about wearing a mask CONSTANTLY and went as far as trying to convince others not to wear their mask in classes and enclosed spaces. She clearly didn't care about other people's well being or anyone else but herself. It doesn't matter how much money you have or how great you think you are. You are NOT above the rules. You are in another country and on someone else's property so you follow their rules whether you agree with them or not. PERIOD. The staff are people too who have lives outside of their job. They have children and at risk people they need to go home to and for you to have the AUDACITY to put them at risk due to a slight inconvenience makes you a disgusting person. Even if you are vaccinated, some of the staff are not. You wouldn't walk into someone's home and refuse to abide by their rules so why do you think it's okay to do so at someone's place of business? The staff clearly works so hard to give you the best experience possible and to keep you safe so you can get your manicures, massages, facials, etc. To not return the favor by simply putting their health and wellbeing into consideration makes you the worst kind of person and you desperately need to check your privilege.

If you refuse to wear a mask and share the same self-entitelement as mentioned above. STAY HOME. You don't deserve their kindness and hospitality. If they can wear a mask while working in the kitchen, carrying your luggage, and landscaping in the hot sun all day, you can wear a mask while getting a massage, getting your hair done, and while inside enclosed spaces. It's really not that difficult of a concept and only takes a little empathy and compassion. I saw way too many people from the US treat the staff like they were beneath them which absolutely made my blood boil to the core. Check your entitlement at the border...

Rancho La Puerto is magical. It’s SO much more than a health spa. While recommended by a few friends, they were unable to describe how special this experience is in every way. Rancho La Puerto is a health spa and a fitness retreat and healthy eating and a very spiritual experience (if that’s what you want).||1. Beautiful surroundings, attention to details in every building, an ambiance that can’t be described, but from the moment you get off the bus it’s clear this place is very, very special. Dozens of staff constantly working on the grounds - look one way for the mountains, to cactus, to trees, to flowers. I especially loved the beautiful Mexican tile in practically every building, including the bathrooms!||2. Activities from 6 am to 9 pm. Absolutely something for everyone. I think I listed about 30+ different choices during the week. Whether you want to be really active, just relax, or do both, it’s all up to you - no pressure from anyone. The instructors are the best of the best.||2A. Try something new like arial silks or exercise focused on a specific part of the body, sound healing, swim stroke clinic, and the most comfortable meditation I’ve ever done (lay down, sit up - whatever works for you). Hikes from 1 mile to 6+ miles. Next time I know I’ll need real hiking shoes because I quickly learned that mountain hiking is very different than city hiking.||3. 3 beautiful pools (not including the watsu. Another attention to detail is the sun screen available at each pool.||4. Loved my casita, so much more than a hotel or resort experience. Did I mention that it was spotless! The bedding was very comfortable and the shower was great. Also loved the big towels. My first evening I did something wrong with the air conditioner and in minutes someone was at my door to help. It was so easy and inexpensive to have laundry done once.||5. The food is plenty and the staff is there to help in every way. Breakfast and lunch are buffets and dinner is served. Dietary needs are honored. Now I’ll note that the food isn’t for everyone, people who believe they require meat or chicken, but for me, almost all of the food met or surpassed my expectations as I lean vegan.||6. Massages were outstanding, although more expensive than I expected. ||7. Special extras including cooking class, cake for birthdays, silent dinner, and a band at 2 of the dinners. I also had to go to see the doctor twice and she was very helpful.||8. Because almost everyone arrives and leaves on Saturdays and because of the culture, there is a very strong culture of community building. Most people are exceptionally friendly and it’s easy to make a few new friends.||I learned…|—bring more cash for tips|—different hats for the sun, including a visor for the pool |—extra shoes, but less clothes|—I don’t need to check my phone every few hours (Wi-Fi locations limited and rules about phones off in most public areas).|—if you need something, ask||Reservation made to come back! Appeared that about 85% of the...

It's heaven on earth! I've been twice and already booked next year! Most guests have been 10+ times which speaks to the loyalty of the guests and the positive experience. I go with a group of friends but there was an uptick in couples this past time. Lots of solo too. It's the ONLY all-inclusive I'll do! The vegetarian food will satisfy foodies and even the carnivores! Breakfast & lunch options abound and dinner is always a satisfying four course meal that is beautifully presented. Much of the food they serve is grown in their own organic garden which you can tour and eat at on the "Breakfast Hike". They can accommodate gluten free too if you notify them when making your reservation. Landscaping is the best of any resort I've been to as it's spaced out with meandering paths with different sculptures, flowers, plants and trees at every turn. There are 3-4 morning hike options each day for different levels--foothills or mountains. Exercise classes are every hour on the hour from 9-4 with top notch permanent and visiting instructors. They offer cardio, HIT, various yoga styles, various dance, water strength and cardio. They offer health seminars as well as balance, meditation, chant (my favorite), and sound therapy. All classes are included! Classes are for all age groups and the average age is 55 with some in their 80's and some in their 20's. Spa treatments are at an additional charge. They have three spas--men's, women's, and co-ed. All sorts of nontraditional treatments are offered. They do have a bar that serves wine every afternoon if you choose. The accommodations are wonderfully private due to the lush landscaping and many have mountain views. Reverse osmosis water is available in room for drinking and toothbrushing. Groups can reserve a large casita and can go their own way during the day and meet up for lunch and dinner. Dining seating is either private with your party only OR with a group which is fun to visit with people from all over. There were Canadians and Brits there on my last visit. Security is good--armed guards at entrance and entire ranch is gated. Small Mercedes sprinter vans transport you from the boarder crossing with U.S.A. to the ranch about 15 minutes away. Communal washing machines on site. No reason to leave the...