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

Explore the Great Barrier Reef

By Greer Wylder

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…

Beachy rendezvous

By Greer Wylder

January 21, 2010

Valentine’s Day is right around the corner – it’s not too late to book a quick and romantic rendezvous! Consider The Belamar, a stylish boutique hotel located in sun-kissed Manhattan Beach. The 127-room hotel features seven suites, complimentary WIFI, marble-appointed bathrooms and decadent FeatherBorne beds. Book the “Let’s Get It On” package with your special someone and receive a goodie bag filled with an assortment of adult toy products. Relax and sleep in with a 1 p.m. checkout and also wake up to two Good Morning Manhattan breakfasts delivered to your room. There’s also the “Light My Fire” package –…

The Japan Experience

By Greer Wylder

January 11, 2010

The West Coast meets the Far East at The Miyako Hybrid Hotel in Torrance. The new hotel (sister location in downtown Los Angeles) recently opened in the epicenter of South Bay’s burgeoning Japanese business and tourist market. The Miyako Hybrid is an green eco-friendly hotel with a solar-powered electrical system, environmentally responsible construction materials, and recycled materials. Each of the 208 rooms in the 7-story hotel feature Japanese-style oversized baths, separate showers and heated water bidets. There’s also a hot stone day spa. Enjoy fusion Japanese cuisine from the renowned Gonpachi restaurant, where guests will be treated to a three-course…

Utterly unique: Madonna Inn

By Greer Wylder

January 03, 2010

How to adequately describe the majestic wonder that is The Madonna Inn? Wild and flamboyant. Unexpected and whimsical. Charmingly gaudy? One thing’s certain: the historic landmark is one of California’s most unique hotels. Located in San Luis Obispo, the 110-rooms at the Madonna Inn are all individually decorated with quirky themes like Love Nest, Cave Man (the entire room is encased in solid rock!), Oriental Fantasy, Golfers Room and Swiss Chalet—to name a few. Look for over-the-top and ornate touches such as rock fireplaces, waterfall showers and textured wallpaper. To take a peek at any of the rooms, click here.…

Desert Retreat

By Greer Wylder

December 08, 2009

For a quick getaway, the La Quinta Resort & Club is one of Palm Springs’ original hideaways—since 1926. The lush resort is located on 45-acres with 796 rooms, suites and villas, five championship golf courses, a 23,000 square-foot spa and 41 pools and 53 hot spas. New to the sprawling resort is Morgan’s in the Desert, a hacienda-style restaurant with chef Jimmy Schmidt at the helm. Schmidt is regarded as one of the pioneers of America’s farm-to-table experience. Look for seasonal specialties such as pan-roasted breast of duck & foie gras with caramelized apple salad; porcini-crusted angus filet with grilled…