HAPPY HOLIDAYS AT THE RITZ-CARLTON MARINA DEL REY

December 01, 2010

By Sue Facter When towering above a gaggle of yachts in a peaceful harbor, it is hard to believe you are in the hustle and bustle of Los Angeles. But the Ritz-Carlton Marina del Rey is close enough to LA’s excitements and yet this seaside resort makes you feel as if you are ensconced in a private retreat. Plus, The Ritz-Carlton Marina del Rey is both family and pet friendly. Located on the swanky Admiralty Way, The Ritz-Carlton Marina del Rey has 304 guest rooms overlooking a stunning harbor. And where better an oasis to spend the holidays? The hotel…

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ONLY IN OXNARD

November 23, 2010

By Joanne Tucker Seven miles of uncrowded, unspoiled, white sandy beaches and tons of sun and surf activities make Oxnard a fun seaside weekend getaway or an extended family vacation. Plus, Oxnard is a rural getaway par excellence, is close to Santa Barbara wine country and is the perfect spot to be truly adventurous and visit the highly isolated and totally exotic Channel Islands. Located one hour north of LA off Highway 101, this thriving Central Coast California town is not only a haven for sun lovers and surfers, but it also offers visitors a pedestrian-friendly downtown district filled with…

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DECADENT NORTHERN BAJA

November 12, 2010

By Sue Facter Who knew Northern Baja would be quite the hidden gem? It turns out Northern Baja is a sumptuous feast for all the senses. Despite reports of random violence in border towns, this is a luxurious trip worth taking, especially if you are a connoisseur of Baja-Med cuisine, one-of-a-kind B&Bs, an organic way of life and world-renowned spas good enough for several of our nation’s First Ladies (not kidding!). Bordering San Diego due south, Northern Baja is just a hop, skip and a jump by auto from Orange County. Depending on where you’re headed, all of the luxurious…

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The Art of Doing Mexico City

November 01, 2010

By Greer Wylder If you are looking for a vacation that mixes in arts, culture, food and history, then Mexico City will exceed the expectations of even the most seasoned traveler. It boasts more museums than any other city in the world, shopping at famed designer boutiques, incredible restaurants, handicraft stores and art galleries. And it’s no surprise that in one of the world’s greatest cities, there’s a new elegant St. Regis Mexico City in an architecturally spectacular building designed by famed architect Cesar Pelli, who coincidentally also designed the Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert. On a recent trip to…

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An Uncrowded Slice of Paradise

October 26, 2010

By Greer Wylder Not to take anything away from the tranquility and beauty of Hawaii, but on a recent trip to the St. Regis, Punta Mita, an exclusive resort destination just 45 minutes north of Puerto Vallarta, I had to wonder why Hawaii is still the No. 1 vacation spot for Orange County travelers seeking romance, beaches, and luxury. Or maybe that’s a good thing. The crowds have not overtaken Punta Mita. The St. Regis, Punta Mita is a one-stop oceanfront resort that satisfies all types of travelers seeking the finer things in life. You’ll find spectacular grounds, infinity pools,…

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