Greer's OC | The latest in Orange County fashion, dining, and trends.

OJAI REVEALED

By Greer Wylder

June 27, 2010

by Joanne Tucker The picturesque Ojai Valley, which is located just 120 miles from OC, was once known as a tiny, sleepy hamlet for eccentric artists, the health conscious, cattle ranchers and spiritual devotees. But today, Ojai is an artsy, eclectic, organic community with small town traditions like no fast food drive throughs, no big box chain stores, not many traffic lights and a peaceful vibe that reverberates in all of its culture, history, shops and accommodations. With more than 8,000 residents, this thriving upscale town boasts a new generation of inns, hotels, spas, boutiques, art galleries, cafes, restaurants and…

VENTURA ADVENTURE!

By Greer Wylder

June 26, 2010

by Joanne Tucker Located only an hour north of LA along Highway 101, Ventura County boasts miles of pristine beaches, surfing hot spots, rugged islands, groves of citrus trees and avocado orchards, fields of strawberries, wineries and and quaint country towns. Sounds like the OC of days-gone-by, doesn’t it? Ventura may still represent the “real” California of decades past with its abundant local produce and fresh seafood, but it also has all the amenities of urban communities, a Historic Downtown Cultural District with a small town vibe and boundless opportunities to play in the waves, kayak with dolphins or relax…

LAGUNA RIVIERA ROCKS!

By Greer Wylder

June 14, 2010

by Sheryll Alexander One of my favorite places in the entire world is South Laguna Beach. Why South Laguna? Because you can ditch the car and walk to some of OC’s best restaurants, boutiques, nightclubs, markets, surf outfitters, beaches, coves, art galleries, casual eateries and bars. And, Laguna Riviera Hotel is one of my favorite places to stay in South Laguna. This homey family-run hotel features cozy, yet modern rooms and suites, some of which feature full kitchens, free wireless, dining rooms, fireplaces, balconies and even old-fashioned glassed-in porches. Each room is different and the hotel is built on several…

EXTRAORDINARY QUEBEC

By Greer Wylder

June 09, 2010

by Sheryll Alexander Need to really get away, but don’t have the time and money to travel all the way to Europe? Quebec City in Canada’s Quebec province is one of the most European cities in North America. Yes, the Quebecois (Quebec citizens) speak both French and English. Yes, the architecture in Quebec City reminds you of France or England. Yes, the views of the St. Lawrence River, the city lights and the pastoral countryside are spectacular. Yes, the food here is deliciously organic and artisan. Yes, there’s cultural activities galore in Quebec too, especially during the warm summer months.…

DANA POINT DAZZLES!

By Greer Wylder

June 04, 2010

by Sheryll Alexander Before now, Dana Point wasn’t exactly the best place to enjoy Orange County’s scenic coastline. But now that Laguna Cliffs Resort & Spa has completely transformed into a sophisticated seaside getaway, Dana Point is definitely a destination par excellence. Located atop dazzling Dana Point Harbor on a grassy knoll, Laguna Cliffs Resort & Spa sits in old world splendor with its Cape Cod exterior re-imagined in red roofs, slate blue siding and bright white windows and balconies. Before the renovation, I described this property as “where nautical went to die.” NOT anymore. After a years long remodel,…