Blueberry Salsa Recipe

Blueberry Salsa Ingredients:

 

3 cups fresh blueberries. cut in half

1 bunch fresh cilantro, stems removed, chopped

3 jalapeños, minced, seeds removed

1 red onion, minced

2 red bell peppers, diced small, seeds removed

½ tsp. salt

1 lemon, juiced

 

Blueberry Salsa Directions:

Wash and pat dry your blueberries.

Cut the blueberries in half.

Set to the side.

Dice your onion, cilantro, red onion, red bell peppers, and jalapeno.

Add in your salt, and lemon juice.

Stir until combined.

 

NOTE: To add heat leave the seeds in the jalapeños

More Blueberry Recipes:

Lemon Blueberry Poke Cake Recipe

Blueberry Moscow Mule Rita

Blueberry Cinnamon Roll Crumble Recipe

Yield: 10

Blueberry Salsa

Print

Blueberry salsa is sweet, tangy, and brightens up any dish it’s added to.

Prep Time 10 minutes

Total Time 10 minutes

Ingredients

• 3 cups fresh blueberries. cut in half
• 1 bunch fresh cilantro, stems removed, chopped
• 3 jalapeños, minced, seeds removed
• 1 red onion, minced
• 2 red bell peppers, diced small, seeds removed
• ½ tsp. salt
• 1 lemon, juiced

Instructions

Wash and pat dry your blueberries.Cut the blueberries in half.Set to the side.Dice your onion, cilantro, red onion, red bell peppers, and jalapeno.Add in your salt, and lemon juice.Stir until combined.

Notes

To add heat leave the seeds in the jalapeños.

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Nutrition Information:

Yield:

10

Serving Size:

1
Amount Per Serving: Calories: 39Total Fat: 0gSaturated Fat: 0gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 0gCholesterol: 0mgSodium: 119mgCarbohydrates: 10gFiber: 2gSugar: 6gProtein: 1g

Nutritional info is an estimate.

The post Blueberry Salsa Recipe appeared first on Mommy Travels.

A FAMILY APARTMENT HOTEL

On my visit, I was hosted at Mimaru Osaka Shinsaibashi West, an apartment hotel with an East-West sensibility and a clean, contemporary feel. This family-friendly hotel has 27 hotels in Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka, and this branch is in a modern, 10-story building on a charming side street in Shinsaibashi, close to shopping, street food, and attractions. 

I visited with 2 close women friends who were celebrating their 50th birthdays. I was concerned that this stay might be tight quarters for us, and that sleeping on the floor on tatami mats might be a bit rough for women our age. 

My expectations could not have been more off base. We were booked in Mimaru’s Premium One-Bedroom Japanese Apartment, advertised to sleep 7 adults in 2 twin beds, 2 bunk beds, and 3 futons to be rolled out in the tatami room. This airy, 635 square foot combination of Japanese and Western accommodations proved to be perfect for us, for multiple reasons. 

TRADITIONAL BATHROOMS

We immediately noticed the spacious bathroom, complete with a double sink and two separate toilet rooms with doors (equipped with the ubiquitous, multi-function Toto Japanese toilets, of course). Later, we realized the shower room was more traditional Japanese in style, with the shower outside the tub. The tub is meant for soaking only, after you wash and rinse outside the tub. I am not sure how my friends navigated this, but I used the shower in the tub as I could not get used to the fact that you could spray the entire room. I am sure that families with little kids would find this feature novel and convenient. 

KITCHEN AND DINING

We also had a well-equipped kitchenette with an induction stove, a microwave, and a ¾-size fridge and freezer (and a huge grocery store around the corner that offered a discount to Mimaru guests). Although we had no time to cook, it was fun to imagine a longer stay, shopping at the local markets, and eating at the Western-style dining table with bench seating (where we worked our morning emails). The tatami room, furnished with a traditional low table and square seating cushions, would be a fun place to have a Japanese meal. The dark grey textured wallpaper, contemporary and traditional art pieces, and shoji window screens added a cool, elegant atmosphere. Our tenth-floor room offered a terrific view of the streets and alleys below, and the safety windows slid open enough to let in a cool breeze. 

The inviting bedroom had spacious, sturdy, and private built-in bunk beds (with reading lights) and crisp duvets, and two twin beds with deep red silk accent runners, giving an authentic feel. The futons were stored in a closet so a family could roll them out at night as needed. 

FRONT DESK

Reception is just like a regular hotel, with a large, friendly lobby, contemporary technology, and touchscreen check-in. The warm, welcoming staff surprised us–we had become accustomed to soft-spoken Japanese hospitality and enjoyed the attention from the robust and eager-to-please front desk team. 

Along with this personalized service team, we found many sweet, helpful touches in the common areas. The employees put together a collage of tips for their favorite spots to visit, and they posted an excellent map with four running and walking routes, how to access them via public transport, and all the sightseeing highlights along the way, plus a hand-drawn neighborhood map labelled with cute coffee shops, massage spots, and local izakayas to grab an off-the-beaten-path meal. There’s a coin laundry in the basement, a stack of clean pajamas for the taking, and a pod coffee maker in the lobby.

KEY LOCATION

The location of this stay is one of its best advantages. The hotel is just a 2-minute walk from the closest Osaka Metro station, which took us everywhere in town and got us to and from Shin-Osaka, the main train station you’ll use to get the bullet train to Kyoto, Tokyo, and beyond, in a 25-minute straight shot. If you choose to make a family trip to Universal Studios and Super Nintendo World, they’re just 20 minutes away by taxi. 

We easily walked to Shinsaibashisuji, the major arcaded shopping street, which leads directly into Dotonburi, the famous, don’t-miss, neon-lit street packed with restaurants and clubs, Hozenji Temple, and the street food and stand-up bars of Namba in this “the city of kuidaore” – eating until you drop. We loved eating our way through the Kuramon Market, sampling takoyaki (octopus balls) and okonomiyaki, the traditional cabbage pancake, and shopping for housewares and souvenirs.

The hotel is just blocks from Amerika-mura, a youth-oriented, fashion-forward pocket of vintage boutiques, street art, tattoo shops, and cafés surrounding Triangle Park. 

It’s also an easy train ride and walk to the Shogun-era Osaka Castle, Nakanoshima Park with its incredible river views and rose garden, Tenmangu, a Shinto Shrine, and multiple neighborhoods packed with charming restaurants and shopping. 

Mimaru has 5 locations in Osaka, with two more to come in Fall 2026, all in the Namba and Shinsaibashi neighborhoods. Expect the same excellent hospitality, convenient amenities, and seamless connection with the destination. I can’t wait to check out another one on my next visit to Japan. 

The post Mimaru Osaka Shinsaibashi West a Family Apartment Hotel appeared first on Mommy Travels.

My friend Melissa was so kind to send this Baked Wine Chicken Casserole home to us when I was down and out after having major surgery a few months ago. It was so good and perfect for the situation. I just made it again last night, and now I make it for others when they need a meal. So, obviously, I highly recommend it as a go-to recipe when you need to send a meal to someone.

Don’t worry about what kind of white wine to use. I always just use whatever I have on hand, and it always turns out great. You can always use cooking wine as well. There is just something about the combination of wine and Swiss cheese. Hope y’all like it too!

Baked Wine Chicken Recipe

Ingredients:

Chicken

Swiss Cheese

White wine

1 can Cream of Chicken soup

1 Box of Croutons or Stovetop Stuffing

Directions:

Place 4- 9 chicken breasts or thighs in a casserole dish.

Combine 1 can of cream of chicken soup and a 1/4 cup white wine, pour over chicken and top with a slice of swiss cheese.

Top with croutons (one package or stovetop stuffing) and drizzle with about 1/4 cup melted butter.

Cover with foil and bake at 325 for 30-40 mins.

More chicken recipes you might like:

• Fancy Pants Chicken Casserole
• Sheet Pan Spanish Chicken
• Chicken Enchiladas
• Chinese Chicken Salad like the Cheesecake Factory
• Mediterranean Chicken – Slow cooker recipe
• Crockpot Chicken Parmesan 
• Spicy Chicken Spaghetti
• White Chicken Chili
• Tex-Mex Chicken Curry
• Buffalo Chicken Casserole

Yield: 6

Baked Wine Chicken Casserole

Print

The easiest chicken casserole you will every make.

Prep Time 5 minutes

Cook Time 35 minutes

Total Time 5 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 - 1.5 lbs Chicken
• Swiss Cheese
• White wine
• 1 can Cream of Chicken soup
• 1 Box of Croutons or Stovetop Stuffing
• 1/4 cup Butter

Instructions

Place 4- 9 chicken breasts or thighs in a casserole dish.

Combine 1 can of cream of chicken soup and a 1/4 cup white wine, pour over chicken, and top with a slice of swiss cheese.

Top with croutons (one package or stovetop stuffing) and drizzle with about 1/4 cup melted butter.

Cover with foil and bake at 325 for 30-40 mins.

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Nutrition Information:

Yield:

6

Serving Size:

1
Amount Per Serving: Calories: 474Total Fat: 32gSaturated Fat: 13gTrans Fat: 1gUnsaturated Fat: 15gCholesterol: 148mgSodium: 581mgCarbohydrates: 7gFiber: 0gSugar: 1gProtein: 34g

Nutritional info is an estimate.

The post Baked Wine Chicken recipe appeared first on Mommy Travels.

Enjoy!

The post Hawaiian Hammer a Watermelon Cocktail with a Twist appeared first on Mommy Travels.

1. Belize

2. Beaver Creek, Colorado

3. La Paz, Mexico

4. Gatlinburg, Tennessee

5. Turks and Caicos

6. Austin, Texas

7. Dublin

8. Sri Lanka

9. Riviera Maya

10. Costa Rica

11. Thailand

12. Greece

13. Carlsbad

14. Australia

15. Panama

16. Morocco

17. Oahu

Why Family Travel Actually Matters

The post 17 Best Family Vacation Spots Around the World appeared first on Mommy Travels.

Still, family travel does not have to be out of reach. Parents can make trips more affordable with practical planning, flexible choices, and a clear budget. The goal is not to remove all fun from the trip. The goal is to spend with purpose, so the experience feels enjoyable instead of financially stressful.

Start With a Realistic Travel Budget

A family trip should begin with a number, not a destination. Before choosing where to go, decide how much the household can reasonably spend. This helps narrow the options and prevents the trip from growing beyond the budget.

A useful travel budget should include transportation, lodging, meals, snacks, activities, parking, local transportation, souvenirs, and emergency costs. Parents should also add a small cushion for surprises. Kids get hungry at odd times. Weather changes plans. A delayed flight or longer drive can lead to extra meals.

It also helps to keep travel money separate from everyday household money. Some families use a dedicated savings account, a digital budget category, or a free online checking account to track trip funds more clearly. When the money is set aside for travel, it becomes easier to see what is available and avoid dipping into funds meant for bills or regular expenses.

Choose Destinations That Match the Budget

The destination often decides the cost of the whole trip. A popular city during peak season will usually cost more than a nearby town, state park, or off-season beach area. That does not mean the cheaper option is less memorable.

Children often care less about the status of a destination and more about what they get to do there. A hotel pool, a picnic at a lake, an easy hike, a beach day, or a hands-on museum can feel exciting to them. Parents can save money by looking for places with built-in low-cost entertainment.

Nearby cities, regional parks, lakeside cabins, small towns, and places where relatives live can all make strong family trip options. Shorter travel distances also reduce gas, airfare and food costs along the way.

Be Flexible With Travel Dates

Timing has a major effect on family travel costs. Prices often rise during holidays, school breaks, summer weekends, and long weekends. When possible, parents should compare several date options before booking.

Traveling midweek can lower lodging or transportation costs. Visiting during shoulder season can also help. Shoulder season is the period just before or after peak travel dates. The weather may still be good, but crowds and prices are often lower.

Families with strict school schedules may have fewer options, but even small adjustments can help. Leaving one day earlier, staying one night less or planning a shorter trip can make the total cost more manageable.

Compare Transportation Costs Carefully

Transportation costs can surprise families. Flying may seem faster, but tickets, baggage fees, airport food, rides to and from the airport, parking, and rental vehicles can raise the total. Driving may be cheaper, but gas, tolls, meals, and overnight stops should be counted too.

Parents should compare the full cost, not just the main ticket price. They should also think about what is realistic with kids. A cheaper option is not always better if it leads to exhaustion, missed sleep, or a stressful start to the trip.

Bringing snacks, refillable water bottles, entertainment, and comfort items can reduce travel-day spending. It also makes the journey easier for children.

Save Money on Lodging

Lodging is often one of the largest family travel expenses. The nightly rate matters, but it is not the only factor. A slightly higher rate may be worth it if the place includes breakfast, parking, laundry, or a kitchenette.

Families should look for lodging that makes daily life easier. A refrigerator and microwave can help with snacks and simple meals. Extra sleeping space can improve rest. A walkable location may reduce transportation costs. A pool or included activity can provide easy entertainment without another ticket purchase.

Before booking, parents should check all fees. Parking, resort fees, cleaning fees, and cancellation rules can change the real price.

Cut Food Costs Without Removing the Fun

Food can take a large part of the travel budget, especially with kids. Buying every meal, drink and snack while away from home gets expensive fast.

A practical approach is to mix restaurant meals with simple food from a grocery store. Parents can pack snacks for travel days, bring refillable water bottles and choose lodging with breakfast when possible. Simple meals like sandwiches, fruit, yogurt, pasta or prepared salads can reduce the need to eat out three times a day.

It is still fine to enjoy restaurants. Many families choose one main meal out each day and keep the rest simple. This gives the trip a treat without making every meal expensive.

Look for Free and Low-Cost Activities

A memorable trip does not need to be built around expensive attractions. Many kids enjoy parks, beaches, trails, playgrounds, hotel pools, local festivals, and scenic walks as much as ticketed experiences.

Parents can plan one or two paid activities and balance them with free options. Public beaches, nature centers, farmers markets, historic sites, library events, free museum days, and self-guided tours can fill a trip without stretching the budget.

The best activities are often the ones that allow kids to move, explore, and participate. Simple experiences can work well.

Use Discounts and Rewards Wisely

Discounts can lower family trip costs, but they should be used carefully. A deal is only helpful if it supports the trip parents already planned. Spending more just to use a discount is still spending more.

Families can look for family passes, kids-stay-free offers, membership discounts, loyalty points, and local deals. Some museums, parks, and attractions offer reduced rates on certain days. Parents should also check whether children under a certain age can enter for free.

The key is to compare the final price after all fees, not just the advertised discount.

Pack Smart to Avoid Last-Minute Purchases

Forgotten items often cost more when bought during a trip. Sunscreen, medicine, chargers, swimsuits, jackets, diapers, wipes, and basic toiletries can be overpriced in tourist areas.

A simple packing list can prevent this. Parents should check the weather, review planned activities, and pack for common child needs. Small toys, books, coloring supplies or downloaded shows can also help during travel delays.

Packing well does not mean bringing everything. It means bringing the items that would be annoying or costly to replace.

Set Expectations With Kids

Children may ask for treats, souvenirs, and extra activities throughout a trip. Parents can reduce conflict by setting expectations before leaving.

Talk about the number of paid activities planned. Set a souvenir budget. Explain when the family will eat out and when meals will be simple. For older kids, giving a small spending amount can help them make choices.

These conversations teach children that travel involves decisions. They also help parents avoid constant impulse spending.

Plan Shorter Trips More Often

A family trip does not need to be long to matter. Shorter trips can be easier to plan and much more affordable. A weekend getaway, day trip or one-night stay can still give everyone a break from routine.

Camping weekends, nearby beach days, local museums, hiking trips and visits with family can all create strong memories. For many families, several small trips may be more realistic than one large vacation.

Build a Travel Fund

Saving ahead makes travel less stressful. Even small weekly transfers can grow into a useful trip fund over time. Parents can also add cash gifts, tax refunds, rebates or money saved from canceled subscriptions.

A travel fund gives families more choice. It also reduces the chance of relying on debt for a trip.

Final Thoughts

Affordable family travel is not about cutting every corner. It is about planning with care. When parents set a budget, choose the right destination, compare costs, pack well, and focus on simple experiences, trips become easier to manage.

The best family trips do not have to be the most expensive ones. They need time, attention, and a plan that fits real life. Start with one affordable destination and build the trip around what your family can comfortably spend.

Get Travel Insurance

Unfortunately, there are a lot of things that can go wrong on any trip. Be prepared for the worst with travel insurance. We use Travelex or Safety Wing (often cheaper).

Book Flights

I use Skyscanner to find flights. I use it so much, I wrote an entire guide to finding cheap flights with Skyscanner! Another option for finding deals is FlightHub.

Book a Place to Stay

I recommend using Expedia.com or Hotels.com for most hotel bookings. I prefer to book directly with Marriott when I stay there because of their excellent military discount.

If you prefer staying in a vacation rental instead, I recommend VRBO or Whimstay for last-minute deals. If you are looking for a hostel, I use HostelWorld.

Choose Activities and Tours

To find great activities in any area, I use Viator. If we are visiting a city with lots of popular attractions, I always check CityPass, GetOut, and GoCard to see if they have discount cards available. Groupon also tends to have a lot of local travel deals.

When I want to book a full-on multi-day tour, I use TourRadar. They’ve got fantastic weekly deals. If going somewhere in Mexico or the Caribbean, I use Apple Vacations.

Rent a Car or Get a Lyft

Often, Lyft is cheaper than Uber. Use my Lyft link for an $18 credit! For a car rental in any country, I recommend Hertz or Discover Cars. Do not take Uber in 3rd world countries.

Save Money on Gas

Upside a free app gets you cash back on gas! Use promo code RV2Q2 to get an extra 15¢/gal bonus on your first purchase.

Get a Visa

I use iVisa to get all of my Visas.

Travel Printables

If you found this information helpful consider buying me a cup of coffee aka helping me pay to put kids through college! Just scan the QR code or click the link. As always, thank you for your support!

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links, we may receive a commission if you click a link and purchase something we have recommended. this doesn’t cost you any extra. Please check out our disclosure policy for more details. Thank you for your support!

The post How Parents Can Make Family Trips More Affordable appeared first on Mommy Travels.

After years of murdering innocent plants outdoors, I finally waved the white flag and turned to indoor gardening. Enter the glorious, slightly futuristic, and honestly kind of smugly efficient Plantaform.

And friends… this thing might be the answer for people like me who want fresh herbs and lettuce without the emotional burden of traditional gardening.

What Is Plantaform?

Plantaform is a smart indoor garden that uses innovative fog technology (yes, fog, because apparently your lettuce now lives better than you do) instead of traditional soil gardening. Their system is designed to grow fresh herbs, leafy greens, vegetables, and even edible flowers indoors all year long.

No dirt. No bugs. No standing outside sweating while pretending you enjoy yard work.

Just add water, nutrients, and let the system handle things like lighting, water levels, and temperature monitoring. It can grow up to 15 plants at once, which is significantly more productive than my previous system of “buy basil and forget it in the fridge.”

Why Plantaform Actually Works for Frequent Travelers

This is where Plantaform won me over. Traditional gardening requires commitment. Plants are needy. They want sunlight, water, attention, emotional support… honestly they’re basically toddlers.

Plantaform is built for people who have actual lives. Because it’s automated, I don’t have to ask neighbors to water my lettuce while I’m in Mexico pretending to “work.” It monitors the environment and helps keep everything thriving while I’m off reviewing resorts and pretending airport coffee is acceptable.

It also doesn’t require sunlight, which is fantastic because apparently my kitchen was designed by someone who hated natural light.

Fogponics

Unlike standard hydroponics, Plantaform uses fogponics, which delivers nutrients directly to plant roots through nutrient-rich mist. Translation: your plants get fed like tiny spoiled royalty.

This method helps plants grow efficiently while using less mess and less maintenance. It also looks incredibly sleek compared to the chaotic “pots everywhere” aesthetic I previously had going. It’s basically the Tesla of indoor gardens.

What Comes With It

The Smart Indoor Garden includes a surprisingly generous starter kit:

• Lettuce Mix Plant Pack
• Cleaning Kit
• 6-month supply of Plantaform nutrients
• Tinted magnetic windows to contain light
• Reusable germination domes, pod lids, plugs, and gaskets

That starter kit is valued at over $190, which is nice because after spending money on travel and children, I prefer my bonus items to actually be bonuses.

What I Like Most

It’s Actually Pretty

Most indoor gardening systems look like they belong in a middle school science fair. Plantaform looks modern and clean enough to sit in your kitchen without making guests ask if you’ve started cloning vegetables.

Fresh Herbs Without Grocery Store Drama

You know that sad plastic basil from the grocery store that dies before you even make the pasta? Gone. Fresh basil, lettuce, tomatoes, herbs……you can just harvest what you need. Revolutionary, honestly.

One reviewer mentioned picking fresh lettuce daily for two months, which frankly sounds like the kind of domestic excellence I aspire to but have never achieved.

Less Waste

I hate buying herbs for one recipe only to watch them rot while I’m out of town. Now I grow what I need. Suddenly, I’m responsible and sustainable. Someone alert the media. And, what I don’t use I can give to my friends and impress them.

One of My Favorite Things About Plantaform: No Pesticide Anxiety

As a mom, one of the biggest perks of using Plantaform is knowing exactly how my food is being grown. When you’re feeding kids, avoiding unnecessary pesticides suddenly becomes a lot more important than it did in your 20s when “nutrition” meant adding ranch to pizza.

Because Plantaform is an indoor growing system, you eliminate a lot of the pest problems that outdoor gardens face in the first place. That means there’s far less need for chemical pesticides and sprays just to keep your basil from being eaten alive by bugs with main-character energy.

I also love being able to walk over and grab fresh lettuce or herbs knowing they haven’t been trucked across the country, handled by 47 people, and sprayed with who-knows-what to survive the journey. It feels healthier, fresher, and honestly just tastes better.

A Few Things to Know

It’s not the cheapest indoor garden on the market, but it’s also not trying to be the cheap one. This is for people who want a real system, not a sad countertop herb experiment that gives you three leaves of parsley and false hope.

Also, some users mention bright LEDs and a little fan noise, so placement matters. Maybe don’t put it next to your bed unless you enjoy sleeping beside what sounds like a tiny ambitious greenhouse.

My Honest Verdict on Plantaform

If you travel often, kill plants accidentally, or simply enjoy food that tastes like actual food, I genuinely think Plantaform is worth considering. It gives you year-round fresh produce with far less maintenance, and for someone whose schedule involves delayed flights and random hotel breakfasts, that’s a win.

It’s smart, beautiful, practical, and far less judgmental than the dead fern I threw away last year. Honestly, Plantaform may be the first garden I’ve ever had that didn’t end in an apology.

Special Discount for MommyTravels Readers

Because I love my readers and also because full-price adulthood is lame, my readers can get:

$100 OFF the Plantaform Indoor Garden using code: MommyTravels$100

Shop here: Get $100 Off Plantaform

Sadly, it’s not an affiliate link, so I’m not getting a kickback. I just liked the product so much I reached out and ask for a discount code.

The post Plantaform The Indoor Garden Review appeared first on Mommy Travels.

So when UNICO 20°105° invited me to come stay on their newly opened (Fall 2025) adults-only all-inclusive property in Riviera Nayarit, I jumped at the chance, though I was thoroughly frightened as my visit coincided with the Aura Wellness Retreat. In the end, I got to try some excellent wellness activities.

I’m so glad I visited. This small-ish resort has only 140 rooms serviced by four restaurants, three bars, and two pools. Thanks to its small number of rooms, the resort feels more like a community. The hotel, just 20 minutes from the airport, is situated on an easily accessible, broad swath of beach on Banderas Bay in Nuevo Nayarit. I joined the dozens of tourists, dogs, and locals each morning who walk the gorgeous waterfront in search of shells, birds, exercise, and peace in the early cool. 

So Many Activities

Every room gets assigned a “Local Host”, a sort of personalized concierge who helps with dinner reservations, airport transfers, spa appointments, and other guest needs. Each day, he sends out a schedule of the hotel’s events and activities, which run the gamut from beach volleyball to an on-site Mexican craft market. I participated in an agave experience where we learned the basics about (and tasted) tequila, mezcal, and the local fave, peppery raicilla, and an “artisan experience” where we made beaded knick-knacks. 

Thanks to the presence of the Aura Wellness team onsite for the retreat, I also attended a beachfront breathwork class, a yoga class, and a facial “glow up” with a skin-care expert on the giant palapa’d patio. I watched a lot of people do a guided cold plunge, but remember when I said I was not into wellness? No cold plunge for me, thanks. I very much enjoyed a silent floating sound bath, where we all donned wireless headphones, hopped on inflatable rafts, and floated around the rooftop pool while a “gong master” created sounds and vibrations for us to relax to. 

Big Breezy Rooms

I stayed in an Alcoba Ocean View room, which had a large furnished balcony overlooking the Pacific pool and beyond to the Pacific itself, with an outdoor spa soaking tub that my “Local Host” would fill upon request. (I did not request.) Every bed in the resort is a king, and the airy rooms are decorated with local art, natural stone, and wood accents. Gorgeous straw hats and baskets hung on the wall, which became your gift from UNICO to take home.

There’s an artisan painter by the pool who will personalize your hats and bags on certain days. The big bathroom was stocked with Mexico-made soaps and lotions. The minibar snacks that came with the all-inclusive also hailed from Mexico, another small local touch that added a lot to the resort’s engaging sense of place. UNICO, a sister brand to Hard Rock Hotels under the PAM hospitality group, seems to take great pride in the distinctiveness of its environs and roots. (The other, older, and larger UNICO 20°87° is in Riviera Maya and the Montego Bay UNICO is under construction.)

Esencia Spa

A wonderful thing about a new construction hotel is a fresh new spa, and the UNICO folks conveniently built their spacious sanctuary on the third floor, just a short elevator ride away from your guest room. They offer a solid roster of salon, spa, and wedding services. I experienced their hydro-therapy circuit, which was a cut above most I’ve visited. Not only were the sauna and steam room quite expansive, but I had a very professional guide named Abraham who took me through it, from sensations shower to cold plunge (which I turned down once again), plying me with cold towels, cucumber eye pads, and crushed ice along the way. After my circuit, a rest in the serene relaxation room, a lovely massage, and I was off for lunch in a mist of scented steam. 

All-inclusive Dining

Once again, the intimate size of the resort allows for much smaller dining experiences. Breakfast takes place at Lia, on the patio or indoors, and much to many’s chagrin, there is no buffet. I did not mind that one bit, as the service was excellent, accommodating, and the extensive menu left me wanting for nothing. 

At night, Lia becomes an Italian spot (since you cannot, it seems, open a resort sans an Italian spot), which ended up being my favorite dinner venue. I loved the seafood (the fried calamari dusted in chickpea flour was an excellent idea) and, as at all the restaurants, the portions were delightfully mid-sized, so you could order many things to sample. I did not love the wine choices, which stayed the same across all venues. Drinking a full-bodied Cab is not my favorite beach weather quaff, and it seemed like many members of my community were choosing the same thing as the least offensive option. 

AguaMadre became my favorite lunch destination, with its lush circular wood-lined dining room, beachside location, and menu full of seafood tostadas, freshly made salsas, and hearty Mexican fare. Don’t miss the salsa macha, a typical condiment made from dried chiles, nuts, and seeds, that I could not stop eating.  In the evening, the food vibe gets a bit more serious and experimental. In all the restaurants on site, let the servers guide you; they definitely steered me towards the best picks. At dessert, for example, my server gave me his personal rank on the menu items, and he was spot on. 

At Kobo, the pretty Japanese outlet on the second floor of the hotel, you can reserve a teppanyaki table to watch show cooking with a set menu, or order from a large menu of Japanese-style specialties. I did not love the maki and nigiri, but the fried shrimp, dumplings, and the wok-tossed entrees were very satisfying. I also enjoyed drinking chilled sake along with my meal. 

After dinner, folks gather in Coquita, the relaxed lobby lounge and bar, for games and local musical talent performances. Much of the beautifully curated art on every shelf, wall, and nook of the public spaces comes from the Huichol traditions of the indigenous Wixarika people, whose beaded and braided creations are astoundingly colorful and intricate. 

Final Poolside Thoughts

My adopted community gathered most afternoons by the Pacific Pool for drinks and a swim. The swim-up bar and poolside service gave brisk, friendly service, but a few people complained that the single bathroom was a bit far away, all the way across the pool as the crow flies. First world problems, maybe, but that’s what you talk about at the Pacific Pool. I missed the weekly Pool Party as I elected to take a “half-day” Puerto Vallarta CIty Tour that kept me off property for many hours, but all reports gave the party a thumbs up. I’d come back to UNICO 20°105° anytime!

For families who’d like to visit Riviera Nayarit, try these nearby options instead!

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The cost savings are substantial. A breast augmentation that might cost $8,000-$12,000 in the U.S. can be performed in Mexico for $3,500-$5,500. A facelift costing $15,000-$20,000 in America might run $5,000-$7,500 in Mexico. These dramatic differences mean patients can afford the procedures they’ve been dreaming about, sometimes even combining multiple surgeries in one trip.

But lower prices don’t mean lower quality. Many Mexican plastic surgeons are board-certified, trained at prestigious institutions, and maintain state-of-the-art facilities that rival or exceed American standards. The combination of affordability and expertise makes Mexico an increasingly attractive option for cosmetic surgery.

Why Are Prices So Much Lower?

The dramatic cost difference between U.S. and Mexican plastic surgery isn’t about quality. It’s about economics. Operating costs in Mexico, including real estate, staff salaries, and general overhead, are significantly lower than in the United States. Malpractice insurance, which can cost American surgeons tens of thousands of dollars annually, is also much less expensive in Mexico.

Additionally, the Mexican healthcare system operates differently, without the complex insurance bureaucracy that drives up costs in America. These savings are passed directly to patients without compromising the quality of care, facilities, or surgical outcomes.

What Procedures Offer the Best Value?

While virtually all cosmetic procedures are less expensive in Mexico, some offer particularly compelling savings. Dental work combined with cosmetic procedures, body contouring surgeries, and facial rejuvenation treatments provide excellent value. Many patients opt for combination procedures, sometimes called “mommy makeovers,” to maximize their results and minimize overall costs.

What to Expect When Traveling to Mexico for Plastic Surgery

The Consultation Process

Most top Mexican plastic surgeons offer virtual consultations for international patients. You can discuss your goals, review before-and-after photos, and get a detailed quote without leaving home. These video consultations allow you to assess the surgeon’s communication style and ensure you feel comfortable before committing to travel.

Once you decide to proceed, the clinic will coordinate your travel dates, arrange accommodations, and provide detailed pre-operative instructions. Many clinics partner with nearby hotels or recovery houses specifically designed for plastic surgery patients.

The Surgery Day

On the day of surgery, you’ll meet with your surgeon for a final consultation and marking session. The surgical facilities used by reputable Mexican plastic surgeons are modern, clean, and equipped with the same technology found in American operating rooms. Anesthesiologists are board-certified, and nursing staff are experienced in cosmetic surgery care.

Most procedures are outpatient, though some may require an overnight stay in a recovery facility. These recovery houses provide around-the-clock nursing care, meals, and comfortable private rooms where you can begin your healing process.

Recovery and Follow-Up

Recovery protocols in Mexico mirror those in the United States. You’ll receive detailed post-operative instructions, prescriptions for pain medication and antibiotics, and emergency contact information. Most surgeons recommend staying in Mexico for at least a few days after surgery for follow-up appointments and to ensure no complications arise before traveling home.

Long-term follow-up can be conducted via video calls, with local physicians handling any necessary in-person checkups once you’re home. Reputable surgeons stand behind their work and remain available to address concerns even after you’ve returned to the United States.

Safety Considerations and How to Choose the Right Surgeon

Verify Credentials

The most important step in choosing a Mexican plastic surgeon is verifying their credentials. Look for certification by the Mexican Board of Plastic, Aesthetic and Reconstructive Surgery (Consejo Mexicano de Cirugia Plastica, Estetica y Reconstructiva). This certification indicates the surgeon has completed rigorous training and meets high professional standards.

Also check for memberships in international organizations like the International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ISAPS) or the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS), which some Mexican surgeons maintain.

Research the Facility

The surgical facility should be accredited and meet international safety standards. Ask about the accreditation status, what equipment is available for emergencies, and who provides anesthesia services. Reputable surgeons will readily provide this information and may even offer virtual tours of their facilities.

Read Reviews and Testimonials

Patient reviews provide valuable insights into the surgeon’s skill, bedside manner, and the overall experience. Look for reviews on multiple platforms, including Google, RealSelf, and medical tourism forums. Pay attention to how the surgeon and staff respond to negative reviews, as this reveals their commitment to patient satisfaction.

Ask About Complications and Revision Policies

Even the best surgeons occasionally encounter complications or results that don’t meet expectations. Ask directly about complication rates and what the surgeon’s policy is for revisions. A confident, experienced surgeon will discuss these topics openly and explain how they handle issues if they arise.

Planning Your Medical Tourism Trip

Choosing Your Destination

Mexico offers several popular destinations for plastic surgery, each with unique advantages. Tijuana and Mexicali provide easy access for those in California and the southwestern United States. Guadalajara is a major medical hub with numerous highly qualified surgeons and modern facilities. Puerto Vallarta and Cancun combine excellent medical care with resort-style recovery environments. Consider what’s most important to you – convenience, cost, or the opportunity for a relaxing recovery vacation.

Budgeting Beyond the Surgery

When calculating total costs, remember to factor in travel expenses, accommodations, meals, and time off work. Even with these additional expenses, most patients save thousands compared to having surgery in the United States. Some clinics offer all-inclusive packages that bundle the surgery, accommodations, meals, and ground transportation for one flat rate.

Travel Documents and Insurance

U.S. citizens need a valid passport to enter Mexico. Check that yours won’t expire within six months of your travel dates. Standard health insurance typically doesn’t cover elective cosmetic procedures performed internationally, but you can purchase medical tourism insurance that covers complications arising from surgery abroad. This relatively inexpensive coverage provides peace of mind.

Bringing a Companion

Consider bringing a friend or family member along. They can provide emotional support, help with transportation, and assist during the early recovery period when you may have limited mobility. Many hotels and recovery houses offer discounted rates for companions.

Common Procedures and Expected Savings

Breast Augmentation

U.S. cost: $6,000-$12,000 Mexico cost: $3,500-$5,500 Potential savings: $2,500-$6,500

Breast augmentation remains one of the most requested procedures in Mexico. Surgeons have extensive experience with various implant types and placement techniques, ensuring natural-looking results tailored to your body type and aesthetic goals.

Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty)

U.S. cost: $8,000-$15,000 Mexico cost: $4,500-$7,000 Potential savings: $3,500-$8,000

A tummy tuck removes excess skin and tightens abdominal muscles, creating a firmer, flatter midsection. This procedure is particularly popular among women after pregnancy and individuals who’ve lost significant weight.

Liposuction

U.S. cost: $3,500-$8,000 per area Mexico cost: $2,000-$4,000 per area Potential savings: $1,500-$4,000 per area.

Liposuction removes stubborn fat deposits that don’t respond to diet and exercise. Mexican surgeons commonly perform liposuction on the abdomen, thighs, arms, back, and chin, often combining multiple areas in one session for dramatic body contouring results.

Facelift

U.S. cost: $12,000-$25,000 Mexico cost: $5,000-$9,000 Potential savings: $7,000-$16,000

Facelift procedures address sagging skin, deep creases, and loss of muscle tone in the face and neck. The substantial savings on this more complex procedure make Mexico particularly attractive for patients seeking facial rejuvenation.

Brazilian Butt Lift

U.S. cost: $8,000-$15,000 Mexico cost: $4,000-$7,000 Potential savings: $4,000-$8,000

This increasingly popular procedure uses your own fat to enhance buttock shape and size. Mexican plastic surgeons have embraced advanced techniques that maximize fat survival and create natural-looking curves.

Rhinoplasty

U.S. cost: $7,000-$15,000 Mexico cost: $3,500-$6,000 Potential savings: $3,500-$9,000

Nose reshaping requires precision and artistic skill. Top Mexican rhinoplasty surgeons have trained extensively in this complex procedure and can address both aesthetic concerns and functional issues like breathing difficulties.

Addressing Common Concerns

Is It Safe?

When you choose a qualified, board-certified surgeon who operates in an accredited facility, plastic surgery in Mexico is as safe as in the United States. Complications can occur with any surgery, regardless of location, but proper surgeon selection minimizes these risks. The key is doing thorough research and not choosing based solely on price.

What If Something Goes Wrong?

Reputable surgeons stand behind their work and will address complications at no additional charge. Before committing to surgery, understand the surgeon’s revision policy and what support is available if issues arise. Medical tourism insurance can cover unexpected complications that require additional treatment.

Will My Results Look Different?

Surgical techniques are standardized globally. A well-trained Mexican plastic surgeon uses the same methods as American surgeons. Your results depend on the surgeon’s skill and experience, not the country where surgery takes place. Reviewing before-and-after photos helps ensure the surgeon’s aesthetic style matches your goals.

How Do I Handle Follow-Up Care?

Most post-operative care can be managed remotely through video consultations. For in-person follow-ups, many U.S. doctors will see patients for post-operative checks even if they didn’t perform the original surgery. Some Mexican surgeons have partnerships with U.S. physicians who provide local follow-up care. Discuss the follow-up plan before having surgery so you know exactly what to expect.

What About Language Barriers?

Top Mexican plastic surgeons catering to international patients typically speak English fluently or have English-speaking staff members. During your initial consultation, you can assess communication and ensure you feel comfortable discussing your goals and concerns. Clear communication is essential for achieving the results you want.

Making Your Decision

Choosing to have plastic surgery in Mexico can make your aesthetic goals financially achievable while providing access to skilled, experienced surgeons. The cost savings are substantial – often $5,000 to $15,000 or more depending on the procedure – without compromising quality or safety.

Success starts with research. Take time to verify credentials, read reviews, and communicate with surgeons until you find one you trust. Ask questions about their experience, view extensive before-and-after photos, and ensure you understand all costs, policies, and procedures before committing.

For many Americans, medical tourism to Mexico represents an opportunity to finally achieve the appearance they’ve always wanted. The combination of affordability, quality care, and the chance to recover in beautiful surroundings makes Mexico an increasingly popular choice for plastic surgery.

If you’ve been putting off cosmetic surgery due to cost, it’s worth exploring what Mexican plastic surgeons can offer. Your dream appearance may be more affordable and accessible than you thought possible.

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XOXO Dining Room

The Glen

Evlynn

Nuri Steakhouse

El Carlos Elegante

Sixty Vines

Wine on tap is both convenient and slightly dangerous. Sixty Vines makes it easy to try multiple wines without committing to a bottle, which sounds responsible until it is not. Pair your wine with shareable plates like pizza or small bites and settle in. Located at 500 Crescent Ct, Dallas, TX 75201.

Catbird

Paradiso

Mercat Bistro

The Henry

José

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