Man left with ‘traumatic brain injury’ on trip to luxe Mexican spa
A vacation meant to be relaxing instead turned into a frightening ordeal for a New York couple, according to a lawsuit filed in Manhattan federal court.
Adam Stern of Manhattan says he suffered a traumatic brain injury after a tree suddenly fell and struck him while he was resting in a hammock at a luxury resort in Mexico. Stern and his wife, Tracy, had traveled to Rancho La Puerta in May 2025 for what they expected would be a high-end wellness getaway.
The resort, where stays can cost between $5,000 and $8,000, promotes itself as a wellness retreat set on 4,000 acres. Guests are offered access to about 40 miles of hiking trails, along with spa services, fitness and yoga classes, and other mindfulness activities.
Instead of enjoying the retreat, Stern ended up being rushed to a trauma center in San Diego, roughly an hour away from the resort. According to the lawsuit, the falling tree caused serious injuries, including a brain bleed, concussion, head wounds that required staples, and other injuries that could be permanent.
Stern’s attorney, Carlos Carvajal, described the incident as turning what was meant to be a relaxing trip into a nightmare.
The lawsuit alleges the resort failed to maintain safe conditions on the property. It also claims the resort attempted to require guests to resolve any legal disputes under Mexican law, a condition that the Sterns say was only presented after they had already paid for their stay and arrived at the resort.
Stern is seeking damages in the case. Rancho La Puerta has not publicly responded to requests for comment about the allegations.
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