Tanks for the Memories

Spindrift Inn offers everlasting romance rate in Monterey

2010-02-09T17:13:27Z

Recently TripAdvisor picked the Spindrift Inn in Monterey as the top spot on its 2010 Travelers' Choice Awards as 'Best for Romance in the U.S.' Its romantic guest rooms include wood burning fireplaces and many luxurious amenities.

To celebrate, the oceanfront inn is offering its Everlasting Romance rate from Feb. 15 to March 14. From Sunday through Thursday, rooms overlooking Cannery Row are only $139 a night; while oceanfront rooms are $209 per night.

On Friday and Saturday nights, rooms over Cannery Row rise to $179 per night; while oceanfront rooms are $249 a night.

A continental breakfast is included every morning and served on a silver tray. Reservations must be booked by Feb. 12.

Availability is limited and restrictions apply, so book now or call 800-841-1879.

Love or money at Millenium Biltmore

2010-02-08T23:49:13Z

Looking for a romantic weekend escape this Valentine's Day? Check out this package at the Millenium Biltmore in downtown Los Angeles. There's even a love or money option!

With the "Love" option, couples get luxurious lodging in one of the historic hotel's classic rooms, including chocolate truffles, a bottle of pink champagne, and a late checkout.

With the "Money" option, couples receive a complimentary upgrade to your choice of a Junior Suite or the exclusive Club Level. This level offers the Club Lounge - with free breakfast, afternoon hors d'ouevres and beverages, evening turndown and comfortable bathrobes and slippers in-room.

Rates start at $179 per night. Offer is valid for travel throughout the month of February.

To make reservations, please visit the Millennium Hotels & Resorts website at www.millenniumhotels.com or call directly at (213) 624-1011 and use the booking code LOVE! for "love" option, MONEY! for the "money" option

14 things to do for Valentine's Day in Los Angeles

2010-02-06T01:30:53Z

For those looking for new ideas, the Downtown Center Business Improvement District has created "Valentine's Day in LA - 14 Things for the 14^th."

Activities for all kinds and budgets abound in Downtown Los Angeles. For exclusive discounts and full details, please visit www.downtownla.com.

Valentine's Day dinner. A classic, tried and true winner, you can't go wrong with Downtown LA, which prominent food critics have recently touted as one of the hippest dining destinations in the city - all surrounded by the bright lights and big city of Downtown.

· Chaya Downtown: Three-course meal followed by complimentary shuttle service to all theaters.

· Ciudad: Mention DowntownLA.com and get one split of cava with dinner for two, a four-course menu of Spanish and Mediterranean fare.

· Noe: Executive Chef Glen Ishii has created a three- and six-course tasting menu featuring Neo Bistro cuisine.

· Roys: Enjoy a decadent, 4-course meal and receive a $20 bonus card per couple for your next visit.

Downtown hotels. Step it up a notch with a romantic stay. Not feeling the love these days? Take advantage of President's Day and plan a girls-only getaway weekend.

· LA Athletic Club: 1-night V-day package with deluxe room, four-course dinner, champagne breakfast and discounted parking.

· The Standard: 2-night "Huge Love Package" includes breakfast, champagne, parking, access to the rooftop each evening, strolling cupids and other--ahem-- creative amenities.

· Hilton Checkers: 1-night stay, with four-course dinner, rooftop cocktails, an in-room bottle of champagne, an in-room movie with fresh popcorn delivered to the door, breakfast in bed.

· Wilshire Grand: Free 1-night stay (for two in the newly remodeled Junior Suites) after spending $100 on dining in either of its two restaurants.

Liquid courage. Need some help impressing a new date?

· The Must: A concept wine bar and gastropub featuring more than 50 local and global wines.

· The Edison: This bar offers hand-crafted cocktails amid the majestic relics of a long-lost era of glamour. Try the Rosebud Martini and fresh oysters.

· The Conga Room: Sizzling sounds on the 14^th with the Latin jazz infusions of Poncho Sanchez, LA's King of the Congas.

· Play the field with your friends: Visit www.downtownla.com for dozens of bar options.

Crave some drama on the 14^th? The Music Center will host two brilliant performances filled with enough emotion and excitement to last you until next Valentine's. "The Butterfly Lovers" - China's Romeo and Juliet - will be playing at the Ahmanson Theatre at 2pm on February 14, while "The Subject was Roses," with Martin Sheen, is playing at the Mark Taper Forum at 8 pm. Tickets are available at www.musiccenter.org.

Express your love through music at the Los Angeles Philharmonic with Ravel's lushly scored ballet. The afternoon performance with conductor Rafael Fruhbeck de Burgos begins at 2pm at the magnificent Walt Disney Concert Hall. Tickets are available at www.laphil.com.

Whether you are exploring the art of love or just love art, the MOCA's First Thirty Years exhibition is an inspiring way to spend the 14^th. A two-part exhibition that includes the largest-ever installation of MOCA's permanent collection features impressive works added since the museum's founding. They include Mondrian, Rothko, Rauschenberg, Pollock, Kline and others.

For something intriguing and exotic, La Bistecca Presents "A Night in Morocco" at the Millennium Biltmore. Enjoy a Moroccan menu featuring appetizer "mezze" courses, authentic entrée choices and rich desserts. Lavishly decorated, the Rendezvous Court will feature colorful fabrics, romantic lighting, and private cabana tables, with live belly dancing performances at 7:30 pm and 9:30 pm.

Neihule, a sophisticated urban salon, offers plenty of V-day options, whether you want to start the romance early or just get ready. Couples can enjoy the "Bed of Roses" package with a manicure and pedicure for two and champagne in a romantic setting. If you want to get dolled up for your date or need a great gift for your Valentine, go to www.neihule.com for more specials. Visitors who mention DowntownLA.com will receive a free lip balm.

The old adage that diamonds are a girl's best friend still rings true, especially at Valentine's Day. For the most unique assortment of diamonds, gems and other jewelry, the St. Vincent Jewelry Center , the largest jewelry complex in the world, is a sure bet to find special sparkles for that special someone on any budget. For last-minute gift givers, the Broadway side of the jewelry center will be open on February 14.

For first dates, friendship, mom, anniversaries, or just because, flowers never fail. The Los Angeles Flower District, the largest wholesale flower market in the U.S., features virtually every variety of cut flower, potted plant and exotic blossom that is commercially available, with many California grown. A fresh, exquisite bouquet will brighten anyone's Valentine. Valentine's weekend hours: February 13-14, 6:00 am - 2:00 pm.

All the single ladies (and gents) should definitely partake in a free singles mixer party on Saturday, February 13, from 8pm to 2am at Remedy Lounge, who is partnering with theLEK.com, an LA-based website for singles. Come enjoy drink specials, games, entertainment, and, of course, the crowd. RSVP required at www.thelek.com/heartbeat.

Bowl the night away with friends at Lucky Strike, the perfect night out for those who would rather avoid the V-day hype. More than just a bowling alley, Lucky Strike at L.A. LIVE is bowling blended into a sleek atmosphere with plush seating, cozy dining areas, DJs and places for private parties, including the four-lane Luxe suite. Details at http://www.lalive.com/index.php. Bowlers who mention DowntownLA.com can enjoy 2-for1 appetizers and bowling.

Can't find a babysitter on the 14^th? Take the whole family to STAPLES Center to see the Harlem Globetrotters. An entertainment experience like nothing else, enjoy high-flying dunks, fan interaction and laughs by some of the world's greatest athlete-entertainers. www.staplescenter.com.

Your ever-loyal pet will always be your No. 1 Valentine. Dog lovers can find a date for their pooch at the Bark Avenue Valentine's Sweethearts Dance, a free "pawtry" and adoption event on February 13. Corsages and ties for pups will be provided, and the party will feature high school dance décor, music, snacks and desserts (for people and pooches), plenty of wine and a crowning of the Valentine's Day King and Queen. Mention DowntownLA.com for a free Natural Balance treat bag. www.barkavela.com.

Leave your heart in San Francisco this Valentine's Day

2010-02-03T18:55:04Z

Leave your heart in San Francisco this Valentine's Day.

The Red And White Fleet in San Francisco is offering two romantically-inspired cruises, namely the Valentine's Day and California Sunset cruises.

On Valentine's Day, Sunday, Feb. 14 from 2 to 4 p.m. and again from 5 to 7 p.m., romantics will enjoy the "Sweet Valentine Cruise" featuring a lavish appetizer buffet by Boudin and Champagne toast as the cruise sails under the majestic Golden Gate Bridge. The cost is $58 a person.

Visit Visit http://www.redandwhite.com/seasonal_valentines_cruise.asp for more information and reservations.

The California Sunset Cruise is a romantically-inspired journey that singles and families will enjoy. Beginning on April 1 through May 25 and then again from Sept. 7 to Oct. 24, the California Sunset Cruise sails at 6 p.m. on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays. From May 26 to Sept. 6, the cruise will leave at 7 p.m., daily (with the exception of July 4^th.).

On this relaxed 2-hour cruise, guests enjoy spectacular sunset views, live guitar music and hearty appetizers that include a variety of sandwiches, salads, fruit, and dessert.

The tour cruises past the island of Alcatraz, around Angel Island National Park, under the majestic span of the Golden Gate and along the beautiful shorelines of Tiburon and Sausalito, as the sun sets over the Pacific Ocean.

Advance booking is recommended as this event often sells out. The costs are $54 for adults (18+), $36 for youth (5-17) and free for kids under 5 years of age.

Enjoy a virtual cruise at http://www.redandwhite.com/video_csc.asp.

Families enjoy La Jolla Shores

2009-08-22T00:09:49Z

Photos by Joanne DiBona Courtesy of San Diego Convention and Visitors Bureau
La Jolla Shores draws families to its gentle, sandy beaches near Scripps Pier, where kids love to build sand castles.

By Richard Irwin, Staff Writer
La Jolla is an affluent seaside town that features world-class restaurants, luxury homes and upscale shopping. But I like La Jolla for its beaches, which vary dramatically from one end of town to the other.
The northern beaches are shored up by 300-foot-high cliffs. La Jolla Shores is a beautiful mile-long beach that's great for families.
Looking like a Mediterranean beach, The Cove is one of San Diego's most sheltered swimming spots, while the reefs south of there are some of the most exposed.
I like La Jolla Shores. Adjacent to the San Diego La Jolla Underwater Ecological Reserve, this beach usually offers the gentlest waves in the summer.
The north end is marked by the Scripps Institute of Oceanography. While its landmark pier isn't open to the public, the area is a haven for intermediate surfers and bodyboarders.
Families flock to this wide sandy beach. By day, the main beach is a busy swimming area popular among families, who set up elaborate base camps in Kellogg Park behind the main lifeguard tower. This grassy area is perfect for picnics.
A permanent lifeguard station is next to the main parking lot at the foot of Calle Frescota. This station is usually manned from 9 a.m. to dusk daily.
From there, it's only a short walk across the beach to the shallow water, where children love to boogie board. This beach is especially lovely at night, when the glow of bonfires lights the family gatherings.
If you bring your boat, small boats can be launched from the end of Avenida De La Playa. However, four-wheel-drive is recommended for the unimproved boat launch across the sand.
A couple blocks away are shops where you can rent a kayak or fill your scuba tank.
La Jolla Shores serves as the gateway to the San Diego-La Jolla Underwater Park. This marine park is 10 miles longs and three miles wide.
It's a diver's paradise, so dozens of divers can be usually found prepping their gear. The area just offshore is flat and sandy. But farther out are the dark blue depths of the La Jolla Submarine Canyon that drops to 900 feet.
Diving is also very popular in the southern end of the Shores. Protected by La Jolla Bay, this area is used by many beginners learning to scuba dive.
Harmless Leopard Sharks often gather here, offering an exciting adventure for both divers and snorkelers.
The nearby cliffs are dotted with sea caves, which attract adventurous kayakers paddling over from the beach.
The annual La Jolla Rough Water Swim is held off the La Jolla Shores. The largest rough water swim in the United States, this premier event attracts more than 2,000 swimmers. The next swim will be held on Sept. 13.
The La Jolla Beach and Tennis Club occupies the south end of the beach. While this club is private property, the beach is public.
The club is a great place to take the family for a vacation. I like it because it's spread over beautiful landscaped grounds.
The club offers a wide range of accommodations, ranging from hotel-style rooms to spacious one-, two- and three-bedroom suites complete with a living room and full kitchen. It has a total of 98 guest rooms, including 59 oceanfront rooms or suites.
In addition there are 12 lighted championship tennis courts. The tennis club provides a free tennis matching service and unlimited court time.
Guests may also enjoy the heated swimming pool and par-3, nine-hole golf course. The club has a fitness center for adults.
But one of the best features is the private beach area. Families can have beach barbecues right on the sand. Or just lay out in the sun and watch the kids frolic in the gentle surf.
Room rates begin around $200 for a standard room, including breakfast for two. They rise from around $300 for a standard one-bedroom suite to $600 for a two-bedroom suite right on the beach.
La Jolla Beach and Tennis Club is at 2000 Spindrift Drive. For more information, call (858) 454-7126 or check its Web site at www.ljbtc.com.
richard.irwin@sgvn.com
(626)962-8811, Ext. 2801

Evergreen Lodge in Yosemite offering 25 percent discount

2009-08-20T21:29:45Z

Evergreen Lodge, an historic Yosemite resort that completed a major expansion earlier this year, is offering a 25-percent room discount on weeknights now through September. Located on the western border of Yosemite National Park near Hetch Hetchy Valley, the resort offers the opportunity to experience one of America's premier national parks in its most popular season.

The 25-percent discount is available for new bookings in all cabin types Aug. 23 - Sept. 30, Sunday through Thursday. Advance booking is required and restrictions apply. Details of the offer are available at http://evergreenlodge.com/latesummerspecial.html.

The resort's recreation program and guide service offers a featured hike every month, among other seasonal hiking, biking and sightseeing trips. The September featured hike is the High Country Naturalist Hike to Mono Pass, a 9.4-mile trip with spectacular eastern views past the park boundary and an elevation range of 9,700 to 10,600 feet. This five-hour hike is recommended for active guests and costs $110 for adults or $65 for youths 12 to 14.

The Evergreen's experienced recreation staff can also advise guests interested in planning customized adventures. They offer maps and guides and an array of rental equipment such as mountain bikes, mountain strollers, trekking poles and GPS units.

Guests may also enjoy the lodge's many free activities such as s'mores over the campfire, horseshoe tournaments, kids' crafts, naturalist presentations, live music and more. The resort's guided activities offer guests the opportunity to experience both Yosemite's most famous attractions and its hidden gems.

This past spring, the Evergreen completed an expansion and many upgrades. Twenty-four new family and couples cabins were added, bringing the total to 90. The renovated recreation hall now includes a 25-seat movie theater, parlor games and a toddler play area.

Other upgrades include a new outdoor event area, outdoor dining area, plaza sun deck, kids play area, expanded restaurant and open-air massage cabana.

All cabins have forest views and are furnished with beds with feather pillows, heat, fans, private bathrooms, scenic decks, SIRIUS satellite radio.

Room rates for the cabins range from $99 to $299, depending on the season and type of cabin. The Evergreen also offers custom camping, where fully furnished campsites include tents, sleeping bags, mattresses and lanterns. Rates start at $55.

For more information about Evergreen Lodge or to make reservations, visit http://www.evergreenlodge.com/, call (209) 379-2606 or email info@evergreenlodge.com.

Squaw Creek offers Labor Day package

2009-08-18T22:13:08Z

Resort at Squaw Creek at Lake Tahoe has put together a Labor Day Family Bed & Breakfast Package that includes gourmet breakfast for up to two adults and two children (12-and-under) with nightly accommodations. Starting at $199 per night, per room, the package is available from Sept. 4 - 7.

During the holiday weekend, guests will find a wide array of activities planned, from bocce ball and croquet to tie-dye T-shirt making and s'mores roasts at the outdoor fire pits. Movies for children take place daily over the holiday weekend.

Mountain biking, golf, which are offered on-property, and kayaking are popular during this time of year at Lake Tahoe too.

For more reservations visit www.visitsquawcreek.com and utilize promo code LDPRRSC or call 800.401.9501.

Mammoth Festival begins Friday

2009-08-12T22:56:23Z

Mammoth Festival

Aug 14 - 16, 2009

A celebration of wine and live music featuring Gavin DeGraw, Steven Ybarra, Marcus Eaton, Jonathan Kingham and Lao Tizer ... all in a beautiful mountain setting.

Friday at The Village (ticket booth opens at 5pm)

Enjoy live music by Lao Tizer and sip samples from various vintners during the Wine Walk in The Village. 6-9 p.m.

Saturday at the Wood Site (ticket booth opens at noon)

Live Music by Gavin DeGraw, Steven Ybarra, Marcus Eaton and Jonathan Kingham. 2-8 p.m.

Wine Tasting in the mountain air, surrounded by towering Jeffery pines. More than 30 vintners will be pouring. 2-6 p.m.

Picnic in the Pines at the outdoor food court featuring a sampling from Mammoth's best restaurants. 2-6 p.m.

Art Expo featuring crafts and fine art by Sierra artisans. 2-6 p.m.

Sunday at the Yodler

Champagne brunch and live music by Marcus Eaton. 10-2 p.m.

State parks raise day-use and camping fees

2009-08-11T22:42:04Z

California State Parks day-use and camping fees will increase and begin to help offset recent budget reductions and help keep more parks open. Partners in the public and private sectors are still being sought, as the fee increase will help keep some parks open, but not all.

"In these dire economic times, we can no longer afford to keep our fees at their current levels," said State Parks Director Ruth Coleman. "The people of California understand that by charging more, we will be able to keep more parks open and preserved for these and future generations."

Beginning Aug. 17, day-use parking fees will increase by $2 to $5, and camping fees will increase by $10 - $21 a night. Camping reservations made prior to that date will be honored at the lower price.

Annual Passes will go back on sale immediately at the existing price of $125. In future months, additional fee and pass increases are possible as State Parks assesses how the partnership program stretches the reduced budget funding to help keep parks open.

A list of specific parks where fee adjustments will occur will be made available when they go into effect. In deciding which parks will receive a fee increase, and by how much, park managers are evaluating attendance, with higher fees charged where demand is greatest. In that way, the fee increase will have the least effect on attendance, resulting in a revenue gain. Managers will watch revenues closely, and may make adjustments to particular fees throughout the year.

It should be noted that these increases do not raise park revenues to the level of self-sustainment for the system. Doing that would require steep increases that would price people out of their public park system. These increases are another tool in the efforts being taken by California State Parks to keep more parks open during this time of budget cuts and employee furloughs.

The department continues to seek support from cities, counties, corporations and nonprofit organizations who may want to sponsor or operate particular parks to help keep them open. Further, park managers have been reducing services and modifying their operations by closing portions of parks and reducing operating hours.

"We have loyal visitors who truly love our parks," added Coleman. "We will do our best to maximize the use of additional funds so that parks continue to be available for public enjoyment."

Balboa Parks offers lots of fun for families in San Diego

2009-08-07T20:25:43Z

Planes mark the entrance to the San Diego Air and Space Museum in Balboa Park (Photo courtesy of Air and Space Museum)

By Richard Irwin, Staff Writer

Bridal parties were scattered around Spreckels Organ Pavilion posing silently like the little grooms and brides you find atop fancy wedding cakes.
The newlyweds were enjoying the sunny skies and beautiful gardens at Balboa Park for their wedding pictures. They picked the beautiful pavilion in San Diego for its classic architecture.
No one seemed to mind when the giant outdoor organ began to play. Many probably didn't even know they were standing next to the largest outdoor pipe organ in the world. In fact, it has 73 ranks with more than 4,518 pipes.
But then everything about Balboa Park is big. Really big. This 1,200 acre urban park may be the cultural heart of San Diego, home to many wonderful gardens and interesting museums.
There's the Museum of Man, Museum of Art, Museum of Photographic Arts, Natural History Museum -- well, you get the idea.
Most are located along El Prado, a long promenade running through the center of the park. The museums are housed in Spanish Revival style buildings. Be sure to take some time to enjoy the detailed ornamentation on the beautiful facades.
But this time, I was visiting with my two younger brothers and a sister-in-law, so we each picked a museum that we really wanted to see.
With so much to see, we started at the Reuben H. Fleet Science Center and worked our way down El Prado.
Our first stop was the San Diego Model Railroad Museum. Located in the basement of the Casa De Balboa, this is billed as the largest indoor model railroad exhibit in the world.
Having built many model railroads in our home in Pittsburgh, we wanted to see this world-famous layout.
They didn't have just one model railroad, this museum featured huge model layouts in different scales.
One 2,700-square-foot layout represented the rail route from San Diego to Sacramento in the large O scale. My favorite was the 4,500-square-foot HO layout based on the rail line from San Diego Union Station east through spectacular Carriso Gorge to the desert floor at El Centro.
The detail on the moving trains and scenery was amazing. Just watching the freight trains wend their way through the miniature world brought back childhood memories.
Children seemed to enjoy the toy train gallery, where a camera car gives the little visitors an engineer's view of the layout. There's also a coal mine at the kid's level, where children can push buttons to run the trains.
As we walked down the main boulevard, we stopped to visit some of the extensive gardens maintained by the park. These include Alcazar Garden, Cactus Garden, Casa del Rey Moro Garden, Inez Grant Parker Memorial Rose Garden, Japanese Friendship Garden -- well, you get the idea.
My brother wanted to stop at the San Diego Automotive Museum next. He's a car and motorcycle buff.
The car museum had a very nice collection of antique cars and motorcycles. It also some hot rods and one-off vehicles.
We'd never seen a 1924 Ford Model T Speedster before. It was a racing version of the 15 million Model T's that put the world on the road.
Exhibit placards provided many fascinating facts. We learned that Model T's didn't have fuel pumps; gas flowed to the engine by gravity. This worked well unless drivers encountered long, steep hills. Resourceful motorists turned their Fords around and drove up the hills backwards to avoid stalling.
We also enjoyed the 1948 Tucker Torpedo, a car of the future built by Preston Tucker. Tucker cars featured advanced safety elements like a padded dash, pop-out windshields and a "safety chamber" for passengers in case of a crash.
Tucker was immortalized in the 1988 movie "Tucker -- The Man and His Dream."
I wanted to visit the Aviation and Space Museum next door. This museum has a nice range of vintage aircraft.
The different galleries highlight not only the planes, but also the spirit of the time. The brooding World War I exhibit has Sopwith Camels battling German biplanes over sandbagged trenches.
Another exhibit traces Pacific Southwest Airlines, the world's first low-fare airline. PSA was founded in San Diego in 1949.
The World War II section has a German Messerschmitt looping over a colorful American Mustang and British Spitfire.
An interesting carrier exhibit honors San Diego's long history as a naval town. Climb up into the control tower to see how the war was fought in the Pacific.
Jet aircraft in the collection include the Skyhawk, Hornet, Phantom and Mig 15.
Unfortunately, time had run out before we had run out of museums. But everyone had enjoyed their day in the cultural center of San Diego.
Admissions range from $6 for an adult at the Railroad Museum to $8 at the Auto Museum and $15 at the Air and Space Museum. Children are free with an adult admission at the railroad, $4 at the car and $6 at the plane museums.
Or try the Passport to Balboa, a one-day pass good for adult admission to your choice of any 4 of the 13 museums on the same day. The $29 passports may be purchased online at www.balboapark.org or at the Visitors Center.

Santa Catalina offers unlimited activties package

2009-08-06T23:00:37Z

Santa Catalina Island offers a new Unlimited Activities Package - www.VisitCatalinaIsland.com <http://www.VisitCatalinaIsland.com> -- ideal for families.

For the price of a room and boat transportation, families receive admission to tours and activities offered by the Santa Catalina Island Company, free of charge. The offer is effective through Nov. 1.

This package begins at $133 a person per night midweek and $185 a person per night on weekends, with a two night minimum based on double occupancy. Kids aged 2 - 11 stay free in parents' room and get activities free.

Their only cost is the boat ride at $47 round trip - www.CatalinaExpress.com <http://www.CatalinaExpress.com> .

Family friendly activities include miniature golf, Undersea Tour, Flying Fish Tour, Seal Rocks Tour, Avalon Scenic Tour, first run movies in the Avalon Theatre and access to Descanso Beach Club.

The package also includes lodging at Pavilion Lodge or Hotel Atwater and round trip transportation aboard the Catalina Express. The Pavilion Lodge is just 14 steps from the beach and the historic Hotel Atwater is located in the center of town. Boats depart frequently from Long Beach, San Pedro, and Dana Point.

Guests have unlimited free access to the following activities on a space available basis:

All Discovery Tours Offerings. (Each normally priced between $17 and $80!) The Cape Canyon Tour and Sundown Isthmus Cruise are excluded but may be purchased separately.

Behind The Scenes Casino Tour - New! Get an unprecedented look at the off-limits rooms and backstage areas of this history rich building and feel what it was like during Avalon's Golden Age.
Avalon Scenic Tour - The highest customer rated tour takes you through the heart of Avalon and into the surrounding hillsides where our knowledgeable guides tell you the stories of Avalon's past and present.
Skyline Drive - A scenic 2-hour tour into the island's interior along impressive vistas to the Nature Center at Catalina's Airport-in-the-Sky.
Classic Inland Motor Tour - Journey deep into the island's rugged interior to see native plants and wildlife, incredible scenery, and the Wrigley's Rancho Escondido Arabian Horse Ranch.
Flying Fish Boat Trip - Take an unbelievable night-time cruise aboard the "Blanche W" to see Catalina Island's famous flying fish leap and glide above the water.
Glass Bottom Boat - Visit the Lover's Cove Marine Preserve, where colorful fish and marine plants thrive among the kelp forests.
Undersea Tour - Cruise five feet below the surface of the ocean in our spacious semi-submersible to get up close and personal with the aquatic wildlife in Lover's Cove.
Night-time Glass Bottom Boat and Undersea Tours - Experience the ocean world in a new light as nocturnal sea creatures come out from hiding.
Seal Rocks Cruise - Cruise to the east end of the island to get a first-hand look at a California Sea Lion colony and watch them play, feed and sun in their natural habitat.
Casino Tour - Tour the world-famous Casino Ballroom and Theater with its fabulous murals and art-deco elegance.
GPS Ranger Walking Tour - Stroll through the streets of Avalon at your own pace with your own handheld multimedia guide.

Unlimited rounds of golf at the historic 9-hole Catalina Island Golf Course located in Avalon Canyon. (Club and cart rental additional)

Unlimited hourly tennis court rental at the Catalina Country Club.

Unlimited rounds of miniature golf at the newly renovated Golf Gardens miniature golf course in the heart of Avalon.

Unlimited admission to the Descanso Beach Club, Avalon's only beachside restaurant and bar, located just past the Casino Building.

Unlimited admission to nightly showings of first run movies at the beautiful Avalon Theatre located in the Avalon Casino, as well as weekend organ recitals on the antique Page Theater Organ.

Tours or activities are booked space-available, and reservations must be made at the hotel front desk on the same day or no earlier than 6 p.m. of the day prior to the tour or activity. Hotel and transportation reservations are subject to availability. To book this package or for details call 800-322-3434 or visit online http://www.VisitCatalinaIsland.com

Enjoy dog days of summer camping in Dogwood

2009-08-04T19:29:13Z

By Claudia S. Palma, Staff Writer

After taking a six-hour drive to Yosemite last year for some good old-fashioned camping, I itched for another outdoor retreat this summer.
But I wasn't looking forward to another long trek, so instead, my friends and I decided to head back to our old stomping ground -- Dogwood -- a little over an hour's drive away up in the San Bernardino Mountains.
Dogwood is a 93-site campground just past the quaint city of Bluejay and minutes away from Lake Arrowhead. It is operated by the California Land Management Bureau.
At 5,600 feet in elevation, this little piece of the forest is surrounded by tall pine and oak trees. It's inhabited by various forest and mountain creatures -- birds, lizards, squirrels and bears, oh my!
After last year's up-close encounter at Yosemite, (a bear visited in the middle of the night to help himself to the forgotten bag of marshmallows at the bottom of an ice chest), I was not too worried about bears at Dogwood.
The furry beasts aren't as comfortable with people here as in Yosemite, so we didn't see any during our three-day stay. But, it's very important not to give them reason to stop by. Forget the marshmallows!
Each site varies in size. The big ones can hold 16 people with picnic tables, a fire ring and parking spot. Our site, which we called Troop 50, was one of the double-sized spots and sat in a cul-de-sac, secluded from other sites.
We had an entire forest behind us to play around in. We even had our own little hiking trail to explore.
During the day, the sun was bright and warm, with temperatures hovering in the low 80s, though it was cooler in the shade.
A full moon brightened the night sky as we gathered around our campfire to keep warm and share stories. The temperature dropped to about 50 once the sun set.
Fires aren't permitted when the fire danger is high.
"Quiet time" is from 10 p.m. to 6 a.m. We didn't go to bed, but we kept our voices and music low during "quiet time."
We didn't need an alarm in the morning, thanks to a determined woodpecker drilling away at a nearby tree.
Plus once the sun is up, your tent is like a sauna.
The map shows one light trail, The Enchanted Trail, but there are plenty outside the campground. We entertained ourselves by taking a little hike on our private trail, which led to an open area of fallen and chopped down trees.
Here's where we found lots of creatures, such as the lizard that crawled up my sister's leg.
The campground offers special family programs on weekend nights.
Next time, I plan on heading to nearby Lake Gregory where there is boating, fishing and a waterslide park.
Only minutes away, Lake Arrowhead Village offers lots of dining and shopping.
Water sports require a permit because it is a private lake. But boat tours of the lake are offered.
Don't worry about bathrooms, there are restrooms and showers spread throughout the campground. Be sure to bring your own toiletries.
Dump/trash stations are located around the campsite. Trash should be thrown away before calling it a night. Food and any other scented items should be kept locked in the car.
The peak camping season is from early May to late October. Fees range from $28-$58 a night. Early reservations are strongly recommended for weekends and holidays. Holiday weekends have a minimum night requirement. All other reservations should be made at least one day in advance. Same day reservations may be available.
Some sites are handicap accessible, others have recreation vehicle hookups.
The camping fee includes entry for one vehicle and one legally towed vehicle. There may be an extra fee for extra vehicles. There is no ATV/OHV allowed on the campground and no usage of firearms, chainsaws or fireworks. Pets must be leashed at all times.
For more information and reservations, go online to www.recreation.gov or call (877) 444-6777.
We had our site booked for one more day but we couldn't sleep on nature's bed one more night so we packed up early.
If you plan it right you can enjoy plenty of nature in just a few days.

Vote for best video in Escape to the City contest

2009-08-04T00:21:03Z

The San Francisco Convention & Visitors Bureau has announced the eight finalists from the more than 170 "Escape to the City" online videos that capture local San Franciscans sharing their personal "only in San Francisco" experiences.

The eight finalists are: Ian Anderson (South Park), Steven Blum (Westfield Mall), Stannous Flouride (The Haight), Tim Floyd (the Warming Hut), Julie Cummins (Ferry Building Farmer's Market), Brent Podesto (Yerba Buena Garden), Mike Salcido (AT&T Park) and Sabrina Foss and Geena Dabadghiv (SF Pride). Videos can be viewed at onlyinsanfrancisco.com/escape/contest.

Each video was rated on a scale of 1 - 5 (with 5 being the highest) for the following criteria:

Number of views per video

Originality of content

Most unique/creative "Only in San Francisco" experience

On-camera enthusiasm for topic

Entertainment value

From the announced finalists, the SFCVB will select the grand prize *winner based on the number of votes received per video.

Each person who visits the Escape to the City micro-site through Aug. 14, and votes for their favorite video, will also be eligible to win the following 'Only in San Francisco' "Escape to the City" prize package:

· A two-night stay at the Hyatt Regency along the Embarcadero waterfront

· A Champagne cruise on Hornblower Yachts

· Two tickets to Beach Blanket Babylon

· A $100 dining certificate to Sens

· Two San Francisco CityPasses (which includes complimentary Muni and Cable Car passes; admission to the new California Academy of Sciences in Golden Gate Park; the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art; Aquarium of the Bay; the Exploratorium; or the deYoung Museum in Golden Gate Park and the Legion of Honor; and a Blue & Gold Fleet Bay Cruise)

· A gift certificate for a pound of See's Chocolates

*Please note that participants must be 18 or older to win..

The videos may be viewed on http://www.onlyinsanfrancisco.com/escape/ and voting concludes on August 14, 2009. The Grand Prize winner will be announced August 17, 2009 via Facebook www.facebook.com/onlyinsf and Twitter http://twitter.com/onlyinsf

Outrigger Maui Eldorado offering free groceries

2009-07-28T17:45:17Z

From free nights to free groceries, discounted spa treatments and special dining offerings to unlimited golf - guests can find some bargains at the Outrigger Maui Eldorado.

Lookingfor a great rate? Outrigger Maui Eldorado has it with rates starting at just $129 per night -- 60% off discount of regularly published rates.

For a multi-night visit, book the resort's 5^th night free program starting at $205 per night, and receive the fifth night free (that averages out to $164 per night over the five night period), plus receive free groceries.

Visitors that stay a minimum of five consecutive nights receive on arrival a $50 grocery certificate for a studio, a $100 grocery certificate for a one-bedroom, or a $150 grocery certificate for a two-bedroom suite.

Guests that stay for longer periods in increments of five nights will receive additional certificates. For example, guests staying ten nights will receive two grocery certificates - amounting to as much as $300 in savings!

"Guests will definitely want to take advantage of our free grocery program," said Bill Rees, general manager of the Outrigger Maui Eldorado. "With the Foodland gift certificates, guests can stock their condo fridges with free food - leaving more spending money for fun and leisure like a day of unlimited golf or a soothing massage at the brand new Spa at Black Rock."

Golfers staying at Outrigger Maui Eldorado will enjoy the special green fees available to condo guests for unlimited golf on the Kaanapali Beach Resort's North and South Courses (golf cart included). Guests simply purchase a specially-priced coupon ($140 per person) from the front desk and then call the golf course to set up their tee time.

According to Rees, "Unlike some golf packages, Outrigger Maui Eldorado's golf offer is extremely simple and stress free. There are no minimum night requirements or other strings attached. The coupon also allows for one child 12 years or younger to play along at no additional cost."

After a round of golf, a spa treatment is certainly in order. Outrigger Maui Eldorado has joined with the newly opened Spa at Black Rock in the Kaanapali Beach Resort to offer Outrigger Maui Eldorado guests a special 20% discount now through Sept. 7 (coupons available at the Outrigger Maui Eldorado front desk).

A number of nearby restaurants are offering special discounts to Outrigger Maui Eldorado guests.

Looking for a quick snack or an easy lunch? Stop at Round Table Pizza at the Fairway Shops and receive 10 % off the entire bill. Hungry for local Hawaiian dish? Lunch and dinner is offered at the well-known Hula Grill located at Whaler's Village.

Delicious Hawaiian cuisine is available from either the Barefoot Bar menu or the dinner menu, and Outrigger Maui Eldorado guests receive a free appetizer when ordering two entrees.

Restaurant Basil Tomato Italian Grille is offering Outrigger Maui Eldorado guests a similar deal -- a free appetizer sampler with the order of two entrees. Located on the 5th green of the Kaanapali Golf course, Basil Tomato is one of the town's finest Italian dinner houses specializing in Northern Italian cuisine and is a perfect place for an intimate dining experience in a casual and cozy setting.

No coupons are needed for these special dining offers! Outrigger Maui Eldorado guests simply show their Outrigger key card to receive the discount at any of these restaurants.

Located along the fairways of Kaanapali Beach Resort, the Outrigger Maui Eldorado is a short stroll from Whalers Village's shops, restaurants and nightlife, and a five-minute walk across the fairways from the private pristine Kaanapali Beach, where guests can sunbathe or enjoy the privacy of an exclusive beach cabana.

For reservations, travel agent specials and more information, visit www.OutriggerCondos.com or call 800-OUTRIGGER (688-7444).

Midway Museum draws crowds in San Diego

2009-07-24T16:33:22Z

Visitors explore the hangar deck on the USS Midway Museum in San Diego. (Photos courtesy of Midway Museum

By Richard Irwin Staff Writer

My brothers leaned forward in the air boss' seat high up in Pri-Fly tower jutting over the flight deck of the USS Midway in San Diego.

Navy jets spread out below him, giving this Easterner a unique perspective that he would never get in Pittsburgh. But then, San Diego has always been a big Navy town.

It was only appropriate that they sample some naval history during a recent vacation.

We were surprised by the tight, steep ladders we had to climb to reach the Primary Flight control center of the Midway; the longest serving carrier in the 20th century.

But the view, with the beautiful harbor glistening far below, made it worthwhile. Our guide explained that the air boss controls everything from the flight deck up to 25,000 feet.

Another level in the island bristled with navigation equipment used to guide the ship around the world for 47 years. Commissioned one week after the end of World War II, the Midway's odyssey ended as the flagship in the Persian Gulf during Desert Storm.

The pride poured into this museum shows and visitors have responded. The Midway has become the most-visited floating ship museum in the world, with more than four million visitors from 2004 to 2009.

Clambering back down, we toured the large flight deck, which features 26 meticulously restored aircraft. Everything from the huge Skywarrior, the largest aircraft to operate off American carriers, to the tiny Skyhawks used in Vietnam squatted on the deck.

The Midway has aircraft from all the wars, ranging from World War II to Desert Storm.

Be sure to stop at the forward catapult, where a museum docent will explain how the steam-driven system shoots a 45,000-pound plane from 0 to 165 mph in a couple seconds.

These volunteers are often retired Naval officers. The ones who helped us flew Crusader jetfighters off the pitching deck.

Another docent showed us how a tailhook grabs an arresting cable to slow a plane from 150 mph in 315 feet of landing space.

Below is a huge hangar deck, where aircraft was stored and repaired. This large space also has aircraft on display, as well as flight simulators that anyone can enjoy for a additional cost.

Visitors receive digital audio guides to show them around the rest of the ship. The audio tour explains what life in this floating city was like. A cook describes how they prepared 13,500 meals every day in the shiny galleys below.

There's also a barbershop, hospital, post office and brig below. Visitors can also drop down to the engine room to see how the giant boilers produced 212,000 horsepower to drive the warship through the water.

The Midway is open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission is $17 adults, $9 for kids 6-17 and free for kids 5 and under.

If you have any energy or time left, leave the car in the parking lot and walk down North Harbor Drive to the nearby Maritime Museum.

There they can explore the Soviet attack submarine used to stalk American carrier groups. Carrying 24 torpedoes, including some with nuclear warheads, the low-tech Foxtrot hunted U.S. warships for 20 years.

A word of warning, however: If you have trouble climbing, bending and crouching then you don't want to tour this submarine. We still can't figure out how they managed to cram 78 men into this tin can.

The HMS Surprise docked next to her is a replica of a 24-gun Royal Navy frigate from Lord Nelson's era. Russell Crowe commanded this ship in the Academy Award winning film "Master and Commander: The Far Side of the World."

The attention to detail is quite striking. And the many exhibits do a good job of explaining what life was like for sailors in the 18th century.

The flagship has to be the Star of India, the world's oldest active ship according to museum officials. Launched in 1863, she was one of the first iron ships.

The Star's woodwork is very impressive, as is the size of her holds. Visitors can go below to learn the history of this majestic sailing ship.

The museum also has many other exhibits and vessels to explore. It is open every day from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Admission is $14 for adults, $8 for kids 6-17, and free for children 5 and under. For more information, check the Web site www.sdmaritime.org

richard.irwin@sgvn.com

(626) 962-8811, Ext. 2801