FAM Trip Proposal — Ensenada, Baja California

Redesigned Ensenada
Itinerary

Johnson & Wales University · Prepared for CETYS University & JWU Study Abroad Leadership

Duration
7 Days
Focus
Hospitality & Tourism
Destination
Ensenada, MX
Dedicated point of contact
Assign one CETYS representative to travel with the group full-time, ensuring consistent coordination and relationship building throughout.
Menus shared 6 weeks in advance
Pre-share all restaurant menus so dietary restrictions are managed safely. Provide Spanish allergy communication worksheets before departure.
Strengthened cross-university communication
Clarify schedules, expectations, and changes between CETYS and JWU before and during the trip to keep all parties aligned.
Elevated group hospitality experience
Enhance service for group dining experiences to better reflect hospitality industry standards and create a more personalized experience.
Streamlined, high-quality activities
Replace underdeveloped experiences (e.g., Polo Club visit) with polished, purposeful activities that directly tie to hospitality and tourism curriculum.
English-proficient tour guides
Ensure all guides communicate effectively in English and are fully briefed on the group schedule to prevent delays and confusion.
1
Day 1
Travel & Arrival Experience
  • MorningArrive San Diego AirportGroup transfer to border with guided immigration process
  • AfternoonPrivate transportation to EnsenadaHotel check-in, welcome orientation, and rest period
  • EveningWelcome dinner — traditional Baja cuisineIntroduction to regional dishes and ingredients by restaurant staff
Recommendations
Light programming given travel fatigueMenus shared in advanceBrief arrival orientation includedIntro to Baja cuisine elevates the welcome
2
Day 2
Cultural Immersion & Destination Orientation
  • MorningHotel breakfast + guided walking tour of downtownVisit Hussong's Cantina for historical and cultural context
  • AfternoonHands-on Mexican cooking class at Cenaduria TlaquepaqueIncludes lunch — focus on traditional techniques and regional ingredients
  • Late AfternoonFree time at Playa Hermosa beachBeach volleyball, coastal exploration, casual seaside eating
Recommendations
Walking tour grounds students in the destinationCooking class increases hands-on engagementBeach time provides organic cultural immersion
3
Day 3
Tourism Industry & Academic Engagement at CETYS
  • MorningCETYS University visitGuest speakers: Baja California Tourism Board + Ensenada Tourism Board
  • MiddayCampus + Wine Institute tour (business-focused)Lunch at CETYS
  • Evening — choose oneLive music + salsa dancing downtown
  • Ensenada Fish Taco Tour
  • Wendlandt Craft BreweryRequest improved punctuality, food pairing, and guest choice of beer
Recommendations
Replace history lecture with destination marketing contentShorter lectures, more discussion-based formatIndustry-relevant guest speakers onlyEvening activity chosen by group preference
4
Day 4
Valle de Guadalupe Wine Immersion
  • MorningHotel breakfast + transfer to Valle de Guadalupe
  • AfternoonProgressive wine experience: history to production to sustainabilityDomecq Museum — L.A. Cetto Winery (large-scale ops) — Bruma Vinicola (boutique, sustainable)
  • EveningDinner at BrumaChef/staff discussion on sourcing, menu design, and wine pairings — return to hotel
Recommendations
Consolidated winery day improves flowLarge-scale vs. boutique contrast is educationalOn-site dinner elevates the full experience
5
Day 5
Ecotourism & Adventure Experience
  • MorningGuided eco-hike (sustainability-focused)
  • MiddayHotel rest + reset
  • AfternoonATV + zip lining at Las CanadasVia Ensenada Excursions and Tours — kayaking and swimming pool available as alternatives
  • Late AfternoonDinner at La CevicheriaLocally sourced seafood — chef introduction on sourcing and Baja coastal cuisine
  • EveningStargazing with local guide (Adrian)Takes advantage of Ensenada's low light pollution and world-renowned skies
Recommendations
Built-in rest prevents fatigueLa Cevicheria was a standout dining experienceStargazing is a unique, memorable differentiatorNon-rider alternatives ensure full inclusion
6
Day 6
Coastal Tourism & Operations
  • Morning Breakfast + hotel operations tour at Estero Beach Hotel & Resort Focus on resort management, guest experience, and on-site museum
  • Late Morning On-site activities at Estero Beach Choose from the resort's full activities menu:
    Bike rentals Outdoor tennis Beachside volleyball Waterskiing
  • Midday Visit La Bufadora Discussion of natural attractions as tourism drivers
  • Afternoon Guided kayaking at La Bufadora
  • Evening Sunset dinner at Punta Morro Restaurant Revised menu: Catch of the Day prioritized — better reflects Ensenada's seafood identity. All dietary menus verified in advance.
Recommendations
Kayaking adds interactive tourism componentHotel tour provides real operational insightSeafood-forward menu better reflects destinationDietary needs verified before arrival
7
Day 7
Departure Day
  • MorningBreakfast at hotelFinal group gathering — time for reflection, goodbyes, and any last-minute exploration
  • Mid-MorningHotel checkout + private group transfer to borderGuided border crossing back into the United States
  • AfternoonArrival in San DiegoTransfer to San Diego International Airport — depart for home
Recommendations
Allow buffer time for border wait variationsConfirm checkout logistics with hotel night beforeStructured farewell moment adds closure to the trip