Thursday, January 20, 2011

San Jose as it was, as it is, and as it will be.

By Robert Nickel


San Jose Del Cabo is recorded as being founded as a Jesuit mission in 1730. However the Spanish conquistador, Hernando Cortes first arrived in the region in 1518. After a tumultuous colonization he returned to Spain. Cortes received little praise for his role in establishing the New Spain, and some even feared King Charles I would have him executed. Instead he returned humiliated and defeated, to San Jose Del Cabo in 1530 but with limited power. What he found was a colony in a state of anarchy. The populace, as well as members of the court believed Cortes to have murdered his first wife. An investigation ensued, the processes of which were kept secret. There was no exoneration or condemnation for him, as political views saw grave consequences to both scenarios. Finally, Hernando Cortes was able to reassert his authority and regain order once again.

The Mision Estero de las Palmas de San Jose del Cabo Anuiti was established by Nicola Tamaral in 1730. It was first located near the beach, but since has been moved inland. In 1734 the Pericu Revolt broke out, destroying the mission and killing its founder. A year later the mission was moved closer to the coast on the site of a Spanish presidio and as an addition to Mission Santiago. Once again, in 1753 San Jose del Cabo was moved inland. Eventually the Santiago mission was moved to San Jose del Cabo and both were finally closed in 1840.

Despite the historic Spanish conflicts and violent Indian uprisings of its history, the peninsula of Baja California Sur still possesses a lot of charm. Speaking with locals at your resort will produce exciting stories of pirate invasions that have been passed down through the generations. The pace is comfortable and much slower than what most of us experience in our daily lives.

The future of the region is in its tourism. Cabo San Lucas all inclusive resorts provide travelers with an opportunity to experience the culture of the area, as well as the beauty of the natural landscape. Deep sea fishing charters are becoming one of the most popular activities for corporate conventions in Cabo. The opportunity to hook a marlin is more than some tourists can resist.

Others looking for a less intense experience may discover the Casa Dorada resort and its saltwater spa. Many who are used to living a luxurious lifestyle will attest to the long lasting benefits of a saltwater treatment. They swear saltwater is the only full body healing treatment available, especially in an environmentally conscious society. The anti-oxidants clear harmful toxins from our skin, sinuses and hair leaving one feeling refreshed and energetic.

Cabo San Lucas will always have the ability to draw from its striking landscapes for its future opportunities. Travelers will have the opportunity to experience a cactus desert that is sharply contrasted by its close proximity to the striking beaches and blue azure waters. The town itself has a colonial feel to it, the architecture, the slow pace, even the cuisine.

The San Jose region of Baja California Sur has a conflicted past, but the natural beauty of the land has endured. As it is now, Cabo San Lucas and San Jose are relatively unknown to the global travel community. Perhaps in part because of the emphasis put on destinations like Jamaica and Cuba. As a place to visit, it is quiet and laid back but with enough amenities so the traveler does not feel restricted.




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