The Bungalows Breakfast Inn Hotel

This small property is somewhat hidden from view in a residential neighborhood where there is self-parking on the street. A sidewalk leads to a cute garden with a tinkling fountain, and neighborhood dogs and roosters (and sometimes Spanish conversations) can be heard in the distance. Inside the wooden-arched doorway is a peaceful courtyard with a pool and comfy lounge chairs that is surrounded by all 16 units, some that are up two or three flights of stairs with no elevator access (not that anyone will have to lug their own bags). The small lobby and front desk is manned 24 hours a day, and during our visit staff members got to know everyone on a first-name basis. Though the hotel is owned by an American woman, local siblings Eric and Ali (the owner's extended family) typically run the show, and during our stay were known to greet guests with warm hugs, kisses on cheeks, and perhaps a “Welcome home, baby.”

Next to the front desk is a kitchen where coffee and refreshments are served, such as fresh watermelon juice on arrival. The adjacent dining patio is furnished with mosaic dining tables and weaved "Equipale" (pig skin) chairs, while vases loaded with bougainvillea and Mexican blue glassware add to the charm. This shady spot can be enjoyed throughout the day, and Eric and Ali often make their rounds offering area recommendations. The hotel attracts a mixed bag of guests from Canada, the U.S., Europe, and Australia, and guests may find themselves trading travel stories over beers by the pool before heading off to neighborhood restaurants. Others might stay back and enjoy a quiet night at home using the kitchenettes and relaxing with a book or DVD. 

Cabo San Lucas is a beach town on the stretch of coastline collectively known as Los Cabos (The Capes) at the southern tip of Mexico's Baja Peninsula. This has long been a popular vacation spot for sun-worshipping partiers. While there are several big-name resorts along the shore, this unique small hotel is in a residential neighborhood within walking distance to downtown. There are plenty of authentic, non-touristy restaurants nearby (ask the staff for great recommendations) as well as basic grocery stores a few blocks down the road. Guests can walk to the marina in about 20 minutes, and Medano Beach in about 25 minutes. 

Most visitors arrive to Los Cabos International Airport, a 40-minute drive away, and either take a taxi or rent a car to get to the property. The hotel is reached by the Transpeninsular Highway that connects San Jose del Cabo to Cabo San Lucas. For those who choose to drive, free parking is along the street next to the hotel. The hotel can also arrange car rentals after arrival.

The Bungalows Hotel has 16 suites and two-bedroom bungalows that are slightly rustic and entirely charming. Bright furnishings and pretty bedspreads mix with authentic Mexican ceramic tiles and thoughtful decorative touches such as colorful painted pottery (these details vary by room). Suites are located in a three-story building (there is no elevator), while two-bedroom units are on the opposite side of the pool. All units have AC, pillow-top mattresses, and kitchenettes with mini-fridges and microwaves, purified drinking water, organic coffee, and French presses. Bedrooms have TVs (there are limited channels) and DVD players. Ceramic tile bathrooms have walk-in showers and natural bath products. 

The entry-level category is the Cozy Suite, which has a queen-size bed and a dining table for two. The two-bedroom bungalows are suited for families and groups seeking extra space, but most couples tend to choose the Honeymoon Suite, which also has bathrobes (as does the King Suite). Some units have great private patios with hammocks. 

The hotel's inland location does not afford a beach or sea views, but the small outdoor pool offers guest a chance to cool down. There are cushioned lounge chairs around the perimeter for sunbathing, and a few tables for enjoying food and drink. This is not an area where one should expect alone time, necessarily, as it sits smack in the center of the property and gets traffic from staff and guests making their way back and forth to the rooms. Also, people tend to naturally meet and converse here, so it's easy to get to know the neighbors. 

Also next to the pool is the breakfast patio for gourmet, homemade breakfasts served by staff each morning. The menu changes daily and options may include fresh fruit, veggie omelets, waffles, French toast, and pancakes. Smoothies, fresh juices, and coffee are also available through the day. 

The small lobby has a 24-hour front desk. Guests can borrow DVDs from the extensive library, or arrange excursions and car rentals. Free Wi-Fi is offered throughout.