While on assignment in Baja, Mexico, GranSueño served as both an excellent still shoot location as well as the most comfortable base--camp imaginable. My production team used the adjoining Bahia de los Sueños Golf Course as a magnificent backdrop for an Oakley clothing shoot featuring Ricky Barnes. The project progressed seamlessly from pre-production through to the final ‘adios’ as we reluctantly departed communication with managing director Mark Azoff and on-site guest service coordinator Teddy Aparicio before, during, and while wrapping the project left no questions unanswered, and saw every need attended to. During the shoot we were completely self-contained at the resort in terms of additional staffing, locations, craft services, meals, and quite comfortable lodging.
Teddy, Hugo, and the entire staff understood the time-sensitive nature of production and adeptly fielded the usual curveballs that pop up during a normal shoot day. Of course the centerpiece of the experience is the GranSueño resort itself. A labor of love by founder Steve Games, the beauty of the surrounding desert is reflected in the artistry of construction and the results are instantly apparent as one enters through the giant wood doors into the reception area of the boutique destination. Soon after arrival, my team quickly abandoned all thoughts of work and instead headed straight to one of the multiple swimming pools spread throughout the property. After that, we moved en masse to the wide beachfront and tested the warm waters of the Sea of Cortez. Indeed there was no shortage of spectacular places on the properly to unwind after the workday was done.
The resort’s restaurant provided the crew with delicious working meals in a timely manner during the shoot days, and more leisurely dinner selections after the sun had set. The bar staff shakes up an amazing margarita from the giant collection of tequila in the ‘Train Room’ a comfortable restaurant, bar, and meeting space that feels much like a cross between a giant game room and a Mexican version of a cozy pub. l would highly recommend GranSueño as a production destination for any project. Beautiful desert landscape, white sandy beach and the clear waters of the Sea of Cortez, amazing architecture and manicured cactus gardens, nice pools with slides and waterfalls, not to mention a gracious and helpful staff, the resort provides all possible amenities. ln fact, as my crew pointed out to me, you may want to head down to GranSueño simply for a vacation!
Buenos Viajes!
Steve D.