VACATION HYDRATION

As far as I'm concerned, just about any sunset is an excuse for a cocktail...but it's on vacation where you actually get to indulge in spreading the enjoyment throughout the day...and into evening. But, if you are over-served early on, chances are you won't be feeling so great-- and will miss the chance to experience night time fun. I think the key is definitely moderation, but also in the choices that you make as to what concoctions you select to quench your thirst.

Watermelon frozen mojito and fresh squeezed fruit sangria

First, avoid the sugary stuff and anything with a 'mix' for a base. And, ounce for ounce, match any alcoholic beverage with equal, (I try to aim for close to double) amounts of pure, filtered H2O.

On a recent trip to Las Ventanas on the Baja Peninsula near Los Cabos, Mexico, I wanted to sample everything-- but made smart choices when ordering to avoid headaches, bloating and even worse.... feeling sick. Fortunately, they had multiple options for 'healthy participation' worked into their libation offerings. Just like their food menu, the cocktails were all centered around body-friendly ingredients. No guilt with all those anti-oxidants!

The "Wheatgrass for Life" drink on the Las Ventanas al Paraiso breakfast menu

To start the day, I elected one of their energizing morning beverages to really clear my system. This is one I'm going to keep up at home. A mix of wheatgrass, apple, kiwi and carrot tasted surprisingly refreshing and is a breeze to whip up. (try this mix with varying amounts of the ingredients to suit your tastes). Even healthier with a little fresh fruit on the side. Gives a burst of energy and a clean start to the day!

The ginger-pinapple mojito is an ideal pool-side refresher

If you want to have a drink before lunch-- go for it (you're in vacation mode!). Just make it something that mixes a bit of good with the bad. I loved the resort's take on the mojito. Instead of all that messy mint in the glass, they puree a handful along with chopped pineapple, freshly grated ginger, ice and the finest rum. Smooth... and SOOOO delicious. Served poolside with a bucket of iced water and mini Evian misters for cooling down (another tip I'm going to try by my own pool).

Strawberry frozen margarita and lime margarita with basil

For late afternoon/early evening in Mexico, you almost have to try a margarita. Here, they use equal parts 100% Agave tequila and lime juice. Shaken, on the rocks is my usual choice Here, I had a bit of basil thrown in for added flavor (absolutely wonderful). My partner in crime chose a blended variety with chopped strawberries tossed in with a splash of Agave syrup.

The ultimate swim up bar 

With all of this hydration going on inside the body, you won't feel guilty about staying hydrated on the exterior. There's nothing better than a swim up pool bar, and this resort definitely has one that makes you want to linger.