By Barbara Beckley It’s true. There always seems to be something new at the JW Marriott Desert Springs Resort & Spa in Palm Desert, California. At least, whenever I visit. What’s the Latest? The JW Garden! Described as a “kitchen garden with a twist,” this lush collection of edible native plants and a budding olive …
SoCal’s Oceanside may be straddling more than three miles of northern San Diego’s summer-perfect coastline, but you have to admit that it is the less glitzy counterpart to nearby beach-going communities—a casual, grittier throwback to California’s authentic beach spirit. Oceanside continues to hit its stride as SoCal’s coolest, under-the-radar beach town with a host of …
By Kathy Strong Those who know me aren’t surprised that I have a special affection for bed & breakfasts. I owned one of the first ones on California’s Central Coast and I authored the state’s first bed & breakfast guide book, Recommended Bed & Breakfasts: California. Part of my adoration of this sector of hospitality …
One early winter morning in 2012, in a sleepy train station in Guadalajara, the Jose Cuervo Express redefined the “Tequila Sunrise” experience. Along some 40 miles of restored train tracks and over two hours, travelers were transported back in time with tastings and music before arriving in the heart of Tequila for a full day …
It just wouldn’t be Halloween in SoCal without LEGO® Monsters running wild at LEGOLAND® California Resort. And this year, Brick-or-Treat presents the all-new Monster Party. Every Saturday beginning September 17 through October 29, the Park transforms into the ultimate family Halloween celebration, complete with treat stations, new LEGO® Monster characters, new family-friendly entertainment and the …
There are bucket list trips and then there are bucket list trips! Boutique tour operator Crooked Compass is once again paving the way to experience the Pacific’s last frontiers in its unique style. A maximum of seven guests will be transported by private aircraft through the remote areas of the history- laden Solomon Islands and …
Do you really need five more reasons to visit Mykonos? The answer is probably ‘no’ unless you are looking for an A-list way to experience it—at Kenshō Ornos. Undoubtedly one of the most famous Greek islands, Mykonos is known for its stunning beaches, cosmopolitan vibe and vibrant dining scene. Vacationers flock from all corners of …
Story & photos by Barbara Beckley So. I’m driving through Mission Beach in San Diego… Predictable oceanfront apartments, quirky clapboard beach houses, corner bars. Then I turn right – Oh My Gosh! I’m in Polynesia! Behind the “Bamboo Curtain” Entering the Catamaran Resort Hotel and Spa, I truly am in another world. High-beamed Fiji-style …
Article and photos by Barbara Kerr The Laguna Beach Festival of Arts was created to lift depression. Literally. It was established in 1932 during some of the darkest days of the Great Depression. Ninety years later, this vibrant event has been named one of the top art festivals in the nation, attracting tens of thousands …
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 …
The 2022 Palm Springs International ShortFest has come to a close, but the excitement goes on looking at Oscar season. When Festival winners were announced on the fest’s Closing Night, five Academy Award® qualifying awards were presented to the winners. The winners were selected from the 300 short films that were part of the Official …
If you’ve tuned into the news recently, you’ve probably seen footage of the devastating flooding in and around Yellowstone National Park. As all five entrances to the world’s first national park shut down within a mere matter of hours and all visitors were evacuated to the surrounding communities, the team at Austin Adventures got down …