Day Trippin’ to Julian

November 30, 2011

Day tripping to Julian, a historic gold mining town, is just a two-hour drive, but seems like a world away from Orange County. The charming mountain town is surrounded by apple orchards, and in the fall you pick apples with your kids (September-October), taste famed Julian apple pies or cider, go horseback riding, hiking, or just walk the streets and check out the local art galleries, antique stores, and stay for lunch or dinner.  On a recent trip to Julian we discovered our favorite spots that we think you will love too. (On your way down consider a drive through Escondido, and stop by Peterson's Donut Corner,…

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COLIN COWIE LAUNCHES DESTINATION WEDDINGS!

November 29, 2011

By Sheryll Alexander DestinationWeddings.com has partnered with Oprah’s special events planner Colin Cowie to certify just 175 destination wedding specialists worldwide. Trained to please by planning the most stylish and customized destination weddings, these Cowie-certified planners are now rocking the one-of-a-kind wedding at Mexico’s Le Blanc Spa Resort, Palace Resorts and all-inclusive Hard Rock Hotel and Casino Punta Cana, as well as the Hard Rock Hotel Mexico Collections. Cowie, who has planned extravagant events for Oprah Winfrey, Nicole Kidman, Tom Cruise and Jennifer Lopez, is best known for inspiring, personal and stunning event designs. “These resorts have been favorites of…

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EL DORADO MAROMA FOR ULTRA INCLUSIVE ROMANCE!

November 29, 2011

Review by Sue Facter Some wedding planners say Mexico’s Mayan Riviera is the new hot spot for destination weddings, honeymoons or just some old-fashioned romance. After a visit to Riviera Maya’s El Dorado Maroma Resort, we agree that this tropical slice of The Caribbean seems made for ultra-romantic getaways. Situated 40 minutes from the Cancun airport, El Dorado Maroma sits along a scenic lagoon in Maroma Beach, which was recently named one of the Travel Channel’s Top 10 Beaches in the World. Plus, this Karisma Hotels & Resorts-owned property has a no-children policy and a “gourmet all-inclusive” strategy for maximum…

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Beachside Holiday Parties

November 18, 2011

Looking for an incredible location for this year’s holiday party? Surf & Sand Resort in Laguna Beach offers breathtaking views of the Pacific, luxurious accommodations and award-winning cuisine from Executive Chef Jeff Armstrong, featuring 3-course holiday menus starting at just $49 a person. And this year, they’re adding special perks just for booking your November, December or January party at Surf & Sand! Aside from an exquisite backdrop for a gathering your guests won’t soon forget, booking a holiday party for 30 or more includes one complimentary signature holiday cocktail per guest upon arrival, $250 room rates for your attendees…

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I LOVE L.A. LIVE FOR THE HOLIDAYS!

November 01, 2011

By Sheryll Alexander Get into the holiday spirit this season with a getaway to the JW Marriott Los Angeles L.A. LIVE with the “I Love L.A. LIVE” holiday package offered Nov. 26-Jan. 1. Park your car and experience the myriad of activities at the exciting sports and entertainment district of L.A. LIVE. “I Love L.A. LIVE” holiday package starts at $249. To book the package, visit www.lalivemarriott.com and enter code ZJ5. The package includes: Luxury accommodations at the JW Marriott with views of the LA skyline and L.A. LIVE 10% off restaurants in the hotel, including LA Market Restaurant by…

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