Story & Photos by Barbara Beckley Timeshares. The concept is arguably one of the most – if not the most – confusing travel experiences on the planet. Created in the early 1970s and ‘80s it’s actually – surprise, surprise – the world’s first “shared economy” product. Where people bought a “share” of time at a …
If your bucket list includes viewing an incredible display of Alaska’s Northern Lights, Gondwana Ecotours might be exactly what you have been seeking with its new eight-day “Alaska Northern Lights Adventure.” The custom crafted tours are designed to gift guests a dose of local culture by day, then photograph the Aurora Borealis under the massive …
By Barbara Beckley We’re talkin’ totally terrific tiki! Don your Hawaiian shirts, leis and Betty Page garb and hightail it to San Diego for Tiki Oasis, the world’s original and largest Tiki event, July 31 – August 4, 2024, at the Town and Country Resort. This year’s theme is “Way Out West” – and you …
Story & Photos by Barbara Beckley No, really. WHO? KNEW? A hip, cozy find. With just the right amount of quirky chic – in the middle of, like, nowhere. And once you experience it. You want to return again and again! “There it is!” The mid-century neon sign had a cheery look. Welcoming me to …
By Kathy Strong Laguna Beach has been an exclusive haven for the arts for nearly a century, as well as the sparkling jewel of Southern California’s own scenic Riviera coastline. A year-round destination, Laguna shines brightest in the summer months. Gentle ocean breezes combine with some of the cleanest beaches, water and air on the …
Story & Photos by Barbara Beckley Looking for health and wellness with your next vacay? Head to the Azure Sky Hotel in Palm Springs! General manager Angie Bettinelli has realized her deep devotion to personal wellbeing paired with ultra-stylish mid-century modern architecture. A true oasis of personal pampering. Designed for relaxing, recharging, improving our mind, …
By Barbara Beckley Ultra chic. With curved architecture and glass walls opening to views of championship greens and beautiful desert mountains. The perfect backdrop for every social occasion. Sip shaken-not-stirred martinis or French champagne, with delicious nibbles and meals at the second floor VUE Grille & Bar. Golfers call it “the 19th Hole.” Arrange …
By Barbara Beckley Ahh… relaxing into what looks like a recliner, I close my eyes, push a button, and let the chair do its work. Giving me a relaxing, re-energizing, head-to-toe massage – sans the masseuse. Like health magic! And easy to enjoy – no appointment needed. My magical chair is one of three innovative …
By Barbara Beckley I recently attended the 2024 Pasadena Showcase House of Design “Empty House Party” – and wow! This year’s manor do-over is going to be a must. As arguably SoCal’s oldest (founded in 1965) and easily, most interesting fundraiser, the Pasadena Showcase House of Design always delights with stylish re-dos of elegant mansions …
Story & Photos by Barbara Beckley Chic. Artistic. Serene. A stay at the Casa Velas boutique hotel is everything that makes Puerto Vallarta the toast of the travel world. A refined hideaway like those built shortly after Liz joined Richard during his filming of the 1964 movie “Night of the Iguana,” and catapulted this coastal …
By Kathy Strong California’s equivalent to the Carlsbad Caverns was closed to the public for several years. The Mitchell Caverns have re-opened for public tours in certain months. As the only limestone caves in the California State Park system (and only one of two you can enter), the natural attraction offers fascinating stalactite and stalagmite …
Monterey County on California’s Central Coast beckons visitors to find their own paths to adventure. With a breadth of different adventures and escapes, no matter the path – wellness, family, outdoor and epicurean – it all leads to the same place—an inspirational and memorable experience. The Wellness Path: Connect Within and Find Your Center Combining …