Temecula Wine Bliss

May 06, 2010

By Sheryll Alexander Only an hour’s drive from Orange County, Temecula Wine Country truly feels like you have been transported to Napa or Paso Robles.  Majestic mountains ring the scenic Temescal Valley, which has a grape-growing microclimate of a 1,500 ft. elevation, well-drained decomposed granite soils, sunny-filled breezy days and cool summer nights. More than 30 wineries grow a variety of grapes here like Zinfandel, Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinot Noir, Merlot, Chardonnay, Riesling and Sauvignon Blanc. Tasting rooms at such well known wineries as South Coast Winery Resort & Spa, Thornton Winery and Ponte Family Estate Winery are open daily…

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Vibrant Victorian Vacation

May 02, 2010

By Joanne Tucker Whether you arrive via high-speed ferry or land in a seaplane, getting to Vancouver Island in Canada’s British Columbia province is just the beginning of a splendid adventure. Victoria Island boasts spectacular scenery, abundant wildlife, the world-renowned Butchart gardens and the capital city of Victoria, which is ranked by many travel publications as one of the world’s top destinations. Located on the southern tip of the island, Victoria is the most British of cities in North America with its turn-of-the-century architecture and timeless beauty that is showcased in the Parliament building and the famous Fairmont Empress Hotel. …

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Mom’s Love La Quinta!

April 27, 2010

By Joanne Tucker For a relaxing Mother’s Day getaway, escape to the desert and take in the beauty of springtime flora and fauna in La Quinta. Located just over two hours from Orange County and 19 miles east of Palm Springs, the city of La Quinta has much to offer stressed-out moms: a quaint village filled with fine dining restaurants and charming boutiques, biking along the Bear Creek Trail or hiking in the Santa Rosa and San Jacinto mountains. If mom is seeking relaxation, head to La Quinta Resort & Club. Built originally in the 1920s as a getaway to…

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Atlanta’s modern charm

March 12, 2010

Atlanta may possess plenty of Old Southern charm, but there’s no denying the city’s ultramodern look and feel, too. After all, Atlanta boasts three different skylines and one of the world’s busiest airports. Atlanta-Midtown, in particular, has emerged as the sprawling city’s trendy district, with tall skyscrapers and a bustling nightlife scene. At the .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address) in Midtown, the 21-story boutique hotel is an ideal stay for visitors. Featuring 304 rooms, the stylish Kimpton hotel is located just a few blocks from Georgia Tech. The rooms are appointed with oversized bathrooms, Fuji soak tubs and the beds are outfitted…

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Explore the Great Barrier Reef

February 07, 2010

For you undersea adventure enthusiasts, head to Australia to explore the wonders of the Great Barrier Reef! Known as one of the seven natural wonders of the world, the Great Barrier Reef is home to the world’s largest coral reef system teeming with abundant sea life. From sea turtles and whales to dolphins and more than 1,000 kinds of fish, travelers can book a wide array of reef tours about chartered yachts or catamarans for spectacular snorkeling and scuba diving adventures. Stay at the Pumpkin Island Eco Retreat. Nestled within the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park, Pumpkin Island boasts five…

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