Catalina across the Sea, an Island of Romance

May 14, 2014

By Sue Facter It had the feel of Bermuda, but is much closer and more convenient to the O.C. There are few cars and no traffic lights in Avalon, Catalina. You get around by golf carts, bikes, boat or on foot. The Catalina Express picks you up in Dana Point (as well as Long Beach and San Pedro). If you’re fortunate to get a seat in the Commodore Lounge, you’ll get priority boarding with entre to a VIP lounge with snacks and either a great Bloody Mary, a glass of champers or soft drink. There are free rides on your…

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RITZ-CARLTON LIVE!

April 18, 2014

Plan a luxe staycation at our favorite Downtown L.A. hotel, The Ritz-Carlton Los Angeles that literally towers above the city’s fantastic L.A. LIVE entertainment complex. It’s a serene oasis where Staples Center, Nokia Theatre, Club Nokia, The Grammy Museum, Conga Room and Regal Cinemas are within steps from the property. It’s the best place in the city to escape for a luxurious retreat, while still being close to the action. The LEED certified hotel boasts 123 sophisticated and modern guest rooms with high tech and comforting amenities such as concealed and vanishing TV’s in the bathroom mirrors, sumptuous beds, refreshment…

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Exploring Humboldt County

November 07, 2013

At least once in your life, you need to see Humboldt County, arguably the most scenic rural county in the country. It’s a nature lovers’ nirvana where you can explore spectacular parks, forests, preserves and beaches, not to mention it’s home of the “Avenue of the Giants” the famous 31-mile scenic drive, boasting the largest stretch of majestic redwoods in the world. It’s no wonder it made the "1,000 Places To See Before You Die" list.   On a recent trip to Humboldt County, we were fortunate enough to stay at the Carter Cottage in Eureka, part of the Carter…

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Surf With A Legend Retreat at Montage

August 18, 2013

Surf enthusiasts are in for rare weekend experience at the Montage Laguna Beach on Sept. 13-15. It’s your chance to stay the weekend at the Montage and spend time with surf legend and star of The Endless Summer II, Pat O'Connell; pro surfer and founder of Waves for Water, Jon Rose and 2011 Women's World Champion, Carissa Moore. This package includes a two night stay at Montage Laguna Beach; nightly valet parking; daily breakfast credit of $50; transportation from Montage Laguna Beach to Trestles for surf outingwith Pat O’Connell, Hurley; Jon Rose, founder of Waves For Water and surf pro,…

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Style at A Steal in Chicago

July 29, 2013

There’s no denying when it comes to traveling to Chicago, your options on where to stay, eat, shop, take in culture, history and art are seemingly endless. You can easily get lost in food, architecture, museums and discovering the 77 community areas in Chicago, not to mention more than 200 neighborhoods. On a recent trip to Chicago, we chose the trendy River North neighborhood near hot restaurants and the Theatre District and stayed in the brand new LEED certified, Aloft Chicago City Center hotel. Alofts, are popping up everywhere, the stylish and affordable boutique hotels are all over the world.…

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