Graceful, purple-hued rows of sweet-smelling lavender transport us to romantic European destinations—the south of France or the hill-clinging villages of Tuscany. Breathtaking scenery aside, lavender has long been coveted for its pleasurable impact on nearly all the senses—from taste and aroma to its calming qualities. You don’t have to travel all the way to Provence …
After years of careful development and millions of dollars invested in design, engineering, technology, construction and guest experience, Natural Bridge Caverns will open its latest and most ambitious tour: Hidden Wonders. Already the state’s largest and most visited commercial cave, this new multi-million-dollar tour experience features state-of-the-art lighting, a sound and light show and expansion …
Without heading your car from the desert floor to the mountain community of Idyllwild, residents and visitors in Palm Desert have the opportunity to view exciting students’ artwork. It is equally exciting for students to get their work into a professional gallery for the first time and in front of the prestigious desert audience. The …
Just in time for spring getaways, the San Diego Tourism Authority has partnered with Tripadvisor in a first-of-its-kind immersive mural art campaign that captures the SoCal destination’s sunny optimism and positivity. Running now through April 30, “The Sunny Side of Things” mural art campaign will appear in three of the largest U.S. cities: New York, …
A Super Bloom, such as the one that exploded “gold” over the slopes and in the canyons of Death Valley might be rare, however with the rain California has received this winter, there is a good chance you are apt to be rewarded with the dazzling displays of magenta, orange and bright yellow this spring. …
Article and photos by Barbara Kerr Hollywood may be the land of dreams, but it took nearly a century of dreams and dedication to create the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures, the largest museum in the United States devoted to the arts, sciences, and artists of moviemaking. Designed to educate as well as celebrate, the museum …
A Disney cruise is more than a vacation. It’s a magical experience, from the time you board to the very last day. During a high-seas escape, you can catch Broadway-caliber live shows, be a pirate at a deck party, watch first-run movies, play group games, share memorable meals (think all-you-can-eat soft serve), enjoy plenty of …
Article and photos by Barbara Kerr Desert X has returned to the Coachella Valley. From March 4 through May 7, Desert X 2023 is showcasing dynamic work by artists from Europe, North America and South Asia with intriguing installations located across Desert Hot Springs, Palm Springs and Palm Desert. The 2023 exhibition supports the mission …
Story & Photos by Barbara Beckley Sipping margaritas and shaking maracas. A perfect way to celebrate the 150th anniversary of Santa Barbara’s legendary Lobero Theatre. Built by Santa Barbara musician – and rumored playboy – Jose Lobero, the 604-seat venue hit the limelight on February 22, 1873 with an opening night concert of Italian …
By Barbara Beckley Am I dining in Spain? No, it’s Greece. No, France. Yes, Yes and Yes… More than an exquisite meal – and it’s that, too – the “360: An Extraordinary Experience” is a magical trip around the world. Once seated, we’re transported to Princess Cruises’ exotic ports of call, immersed in the sights …
Those who traverse the west are fortunate that they don’t have to fly to Japan or even Washington D.C. to view a spectacular display of cherry blossoms. Just head to the Portland Japanese Garden this spring for an eye-full of joyful pink and white blossoms. The arrival of spring in Portland Japanese Garden is accompanied …
If you haven’t kept your New Year’s resolution to be healthy and fit, here is your solution all wrapped up in a week of splendor. And it is waiting for you just over the San Diego border at Rancho La Puerta, a 3,000-acre healthy-living paradise with flowering meadows, landscaped gardens and breathtaking vistas all nestled …