Dia de los Muertos: Day of the Dead

Dia de los Muertos, or Day of the Dead, is celebrated on November 1. It is believe that the spirits of the dead visit their families on October 31 and leave on November 2. Although celebrated all throughout Latin America, the holiday is most strongly associated with Mexico where it originated. Dia de los Muertos honors the dead with festivals and lively celebrations.

The Dia de los Muertos Celebration

Assured that the dead would be insulted by mourning or sadness, Dia de los Muertos celebrates the lives of the deceased with food, drink, parties, and activities the dead enjoyed throughout their lives. The holiday recognizes death as a natural part of the human experience, a continuum with birth, childhood, and growing up to become a contributing member of the community. On Dia de los Muertos, the dead are also a part of the community, awakened from their eternal sleep to share in the celebration with their loved ones. While death is looked at with the same fear as many other cultures, the Mexican culture reflects that fear by mocking and living alongside the death.

Dia de Los Muertos Traditions

The most familiar symbol of Dia de los Muertos may be the calacas and calaveras (skeletons and skulls), which appear everywhere during the holiday, from candied sweets to parade masks and dolls. They are almost always portrayed as enjoying life, often in fancy clothes and entertaining situations. The calaveras (skulls) are decorated with bright colors and the name of the depared inscribed on the head. Dia de los Muertos festivities often feature breads, candies and other foods in the shape of skeletons and skulls. Candles and incense are burned to help the deceased find the way home. Many families construct an altar to the dead in their homes to honor deceased relatives, decorating it with candy, flowers, photographs, samples of the deceased's favorite foods and drinks, and fresh water. Often times, a wash basin and towel are also left out so that the spirit can wash up before indulging in the feast.

Feliz Dia de los Muertos from Lifestyle Villas! If you're looking to take part in any of our Mexican traditions and celebrations throughout the year, why not plan a vacation to Los Cabos and experience it in person. We offer luxury condos and beachfront homes in Los Cabos. A Lifestyle concierge can also help you plan the perfect itinerary for your visit so you don't miss out on any of the fun! Give us a call at 1-888-655-9589 to start planning your vacation today!

LIFESYLE Villas Los Cabos: BEST Luxury Villa Rentals in Mexico! 

LIFESTYLE Villas Los Cabos
Phone: 1-888-655-9589
Mexico: 624-144-4954

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The Ultimate Vacation Rental Getaway

Win FREE Air Fare and 3 Nights Accommodations in the Destination of Your Choice!

Lifestyle has teamed up with VacationRentalGetaway.com to bring you a chance at winning the ultimate vacation rental getaway. Imagine yourself basking in the sun on the deck of your own private luxury villa in Los Cabos, or choose from one of the other great destinations: Seattle, Naples, Southern California or Bald Head Island. Read on for the contest details: 

Vacation Prize Terms

One winner will receive $500 for domestic airfare to the destination, plus 3 nights accommodation at a vacation rental property managed by one of the sponsor companies. (Approximate retail value is $2,500.) The contest ends on October 24, 2015 and the winner will be notified via email. Availability is subject to terms and conditions per each sponsor company, dates will be arranged with your villa specialist at the chosen company. Blackout dates may include Major Holidays and peak season. 

For complete terms and conditions, please visit: http://vacationrentalgetaway.com/terms/.

ENTER HERE: www.VacationRentalGetaway.com

About Lifestyle Villas

Lifestyle Villas is a concierge villa rental company in Los Cabos. Created to offer personalized luxury experiences, Lifestyle ensures that you live the lifestyle you deserve while in Cabo. When you choose Lifestyle, all of your individual travel, property, hospitality and in destination management services can be taken care of by one trusted company. We offer a carefully handpicked selection of stunning beachfront villas in Los Cabos, as well as ocean & golf view villas and condominiums. On the contrary to other rental companies, we manage every home we rent and therefore are able to maintain superb quality standards in every property. Visit our website to learn more: www.LifestyleVillas.net. 

LIFESYLE Villas Los Cabos: BEST Luxury Villa Rentals in Mexico! 

LIFESTYLE Villas Los Cabos
Phone: 1-888-655-9589
Mexico: 624-144-4954

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Mexican Traditions: Tequila and Mariachi

When you think of Mexican culture, what's the first thing that pops into your mind? Maybe it's the thought warmth associated with your favorite tequila or the sounds of mariachi band marching through the streets. When you take a trip to Los Cabos, you'll be able to experience both! Let's take a look at how both Tequila and Mariachi are a huge part of Mexican culture:  

Origins of Tequila 

In order to truly appreciate tequila, you must first understand some of the history of Mexico and of the drink itself.  The history of tequila reaches back into pre-Hispanic times when the natives fermented sap from the local maguey plants into a drink called pulgue. There are no records as to when exactly humans learned to ferment sap into alcohol, but it was already ancient when the Spaniard Conquistadors arrived, and by 1520 they had exported it into the Old World. Eager to maintain the market for Spanish products, in 1595 Phillip II banned the planting of new vineyards in Mexico.

The Father of Tequila

By 1600, Don Pedro Sances de Tagle, the father of tequila, established the first tequila factory, cultivating local agave for distillation. In 1785, the production of all spirits, including mezcal wines and pulque, were banned by the government of Charles III to favor and promote the importation of Spanish wines and liqueurs. While production was officially halted, it has actually gone underground. In 1792, King Ferdinand IV lifted the ban and authorities soon realized taxation, rather than prohibition, was the better means of control. During the War of Independence, tequila declined in importance and did not regain its prominence until after 1821 when Mexico attained independence, and Spanish products were harder to get.

Tequila Manufacturing

While many others produced tequila, the first licensed manufacturer was Jose Antonio Cuervo who got the rights to cultivate land in 1758. By mid-century, Cuervo's fields had more than 3 million agave plants. After Cuervo's death, Jesus Flores took over the distillery and pioneered the bottling of tequila. The first bottled tequila was sold in 1906. After Flores died, his widow married Jose Cuervo Labastida and soon the product became known as "Jose Cuervo." Today, Cuervo is the largest manufacturer of tequila, with a huge export market. Modern production techniques were introduced in the late 1920's. After the Depression, the industry again expanded. Prohibition in the US later that decade boosted tequila's popularity when it was smuggled across the border. The 1986 Olympic Games in Mexico City helped worldwide exposure.   

The Tradition of Mariachi

Mariachi is just as intricately woven into the fabric of Mexican culture and history as is tequila. Musicians, clad in stunning charro suits and hats, playing guitars, violins, visuals, basses and trumpets are what make up the proud tradition which is mariachi. To see them strolling down the street or serenading on a moonlit night, provides the true insight as to why this music has endured for generations. Their songs tell a million different stories, widely varied from romance to death. They hold the secrets of an entire nation's history, from tales of wartime heroes to political revolutions. All the legend of the machismo of Mexico is held up in their soaring trumpets and proud stance. Mariachi continues to define both the Mexico of today and tomorrow with it's spirited sound and telling lyrics.

We invite you to come experience these Mexican traditions with us here in Los Cabos! Lifestyle Villas can help you find the perfect Los Cabos villa for your stay.  In addition, take advantage of our concierge services. With our help, you'll have a Los Cabos vacation you'll never forget! Contact us today at 1-888-655-9589 to make your reservations.

LIFESYLE Villas Los Cabos: BEST Luxury Villa Rentals in Mexico! 

LIFESTYLE Villas Los Cabos
Phone: 1-888-655-9589
Mexico: 624-144-4954

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Experience Mexican Cuisine in Los Cabos

When you travel to a new country, it's all about the experience. Aside from the sightseeing and relaxing on the beach, you'll want to experience the traditional Mexican cuisine while you're on vacation in Los Cabos. Let's take a little deeper look into Mexican food around the country and in Los Cabos in particular.

Mexican Cuisine 

Mexican food is one of the most versatile and varied cuisines in the world. It has a history of incorporating fresh fruits and vegetables with local wild game. White corn, beans, squash, tomatoes and chiles are staple ingredients in the foundation of authentic Mexican cuisine. Lovers of Mexican food enjoy its flavorful kick. Fresh aromatic ingredients and colorful presentation make for added enjoyment.

Dishes Across the Region

Each region in Mexico has its own take on Mexican cuisine. While meat dishes are more popular in the north, vegetable and chicken dishes are common in the south. Communities along the sea, like Los Cabos, enjoy a lot of seafood dishes. Fish like grouper, red snapper, mojarra and snook, as well as lobster, crab and oysters are abundant. Common dishes, such as tacos and tamales, will taste different all over the country, as each region gives the meal a special touch.

Fine Dining in Los Cabos

Whether under the stars with a full view of one of the most beautiful bays in the world or right on the beach, dining in Los Cabos is one of the most memorable experiences you will encounter. There are hundreds of dining options, with all styles of food, vistas and venues. However, if you're looking for authentic Mexican cuisine, Lifestyle Villas has the perfect recommendations for you!

Restaurant Edith's - Edith's is a vivid combination of the cuisine of Baja California with a Guerrero flair, featuring a regional fusion of steaks and seafood with local ingredients. The restaurant also offers a privileged view of Medano Beach and the world famous Arch of Cabo San Lucas.

The Office - The Office on the beach is, as always, the place for breakfast, lunch or dinner Cabo-style. Here you can enjoy classical toes-in-the-sand elegance year-round. The 16-ounce Office Margaritas are almost as famous as its traditional Mexican kitchen and fresh local fish and seafood. 

La Golondrina - Dine under the stars at Cabo's premier restaurant featuring fresh local seafood, steaks and authentic Mexican cuisine. La Golondrina Restaurant is famous for huge portioning of perfectly grilled fresh lobster, decadent preparations of fresh grilled fish, jumbo prawns and fresh sea scallops.

For more Mexican cuisine recommendations, check out our website:
http://lifestylevillas.net/blog/category/restaurants/mexican/

When you choose Lifestyle Villas, we'll help with everything from places to eat to the perfect Los Cabos house to stay in during your vacation. If you're looking for something a little less formal, why not hire one of our cooks to prepare authentic Mexican food right in the comfort of your luxury villa rental in Los Cabos. If you're mouth is watering just thinking about all this delicious food, give us a call at 1-888-655-9589 to start planning your trip to Los Cabos!

¡Buen provecho!

LIFESYLE Villas Los Cabos: BEST Luxury Villa Rentals in Mexico! 

LIFESTYLE Villas Los Cabos
Phone: 1-888-655-9589
Mexico: 624-144-4954

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Vacationing in Los Cabos FAQs

Envision yourself in a stunning luxury villa, basking in the sun and sipping margaritas! All of this is possible when you choose to stay in one of Lifestyle's vacation rentals in Los Cabos. When traveling out of the country, you probably have quite a few questions about the area. Here are a few of our most frequently asked questions and the answers to help you prepare:

1. Is it safe to travel to Los Cabos? 

A: Absolutely! All of our villas are located in gated communities and the area of Los Cabos is tranquil and safe.

2. When is the high season in Los Cabos?  

A: Our high season is November 1 through May 31.

3. What are the taxes in Los Cabos? 

A: The taxes in Los Cabos are: 11% Tax and 3% Hospitality Tax.

4. What are the customary tips in Los Cabos? 

A: While a general tipping rule is 15-20%, you will find a detailed tipping guide in our house book.

5. What airlines fly from the United States to Los Cabos? 

A: The following airlines provide flights to Los Cabos: Aeromexico, Continental Airlines, Mexicana, United Airlines, Air Canada, Delta Airlines, Northwest Airlines, Volaris, Alaska Airlines, Fronteir, US Airways, WestJet, American Airlines, Interjet, and USA 3000.

6. What type of transportation do you recommend while in Los Cabos? 

A: Take advantage of our private transportation services in Los Cabos where you can enjoy late model luxury suburban SUV's with bilingual drivers, cool facial towels and ice-cold bottled water.

7. Do you recommend taking a taxi or renting a car while in Los Cabos? 

A: Renting a car is a better alternative.

8. Is tap water safe to drink? 

A: All of our villas have purified water, meaning that yes you can drink from the tap. The water supply comes from our area mountains and filters through natural sand beds before entering the modern aqueduct for distribution. We still recommend drinking bottled water as the taste is more familiar to you.

9. Can I use my cell phone in Los Cabos? 

A: Most mobile phone providers offer coverage in Los Cabos, typically for an additional fee. We recommend checking with your carrier before you travel to verify both coverage and fees.

10. Are American dollars accepted in Los Cabos or do I need pesos? 

A: American dollars are widely accepted in the Los Cabos area. You can also easily exchange currency at the airport, hotel or any bank. We recommend keeping your money in dollars and exchanging it only as needed. At Lifestyle Villas, we are able to cash your US checks with a 4% cashing fee & are also available to exchange money for you while you are here.  

For any other questions you might have about the Los Cabos area, Lifestyle Villas is here to help! We are all about giving you superior service, unbeatable value and an experience that you and your loved ones will never forget. With Lifestyle Villas, all your individual travel, property, hospitality and in destination management services can be taken care of by one trusted company! Contact us today at 1-888-655-9589 to book your Los Cabos villa rental and start planning your vacation today!

LIFESYLE Villas Los Cabos: BEST Luxury Villa Rentals in Mexico! 

LIFESTYLE Villas Los Cabos
Phone: 1-888-655-9589
Mexico: 624-144-4954

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