Story & photos by Barbara Beckley Looking for a stylish – and affordable – new stay in Orange County? Look to the Sonesta Irvine. Newly revamped and renamed following a $20 million “extreme” make-over – this ultra-chic 339-guestroom/suite hotel is ideal for both fun and business stays. I recently overnighted and was impressed. The …
Travel season is here. Time to explore. To check off that bucket list and maybe unearth a few secrets from those who know best. The internet has put a dent in the travel book market, but not for those books that are filled with personal adventures, history and unknown treasures. Consider some of these books …
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 …
Fresh snow from the recent storm means Alpine Slide Big Bear has flourishing snow tubing hills for the 2022-2023 season. The snow-tubing park reported that its snow base is about three to four feet with three full-length snow-tubing runs now open. (Note: check road conditions and weather before planning your trip.) Alpine Slide Big Bear …
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 …
On “Mario Kart™: Bowser’s Challenge” in SUPER NINTENDO WORLD™ at Universal Studios Hollywood guests and fans find themselves immersed in one of the world’s largest, most interactive rides. Inspired by the popular MARIO KART™ video game series, the ride features cutting-edge augmented reality. The highly-anticipated opening of SUPER NINTENDO WORLD at Universal Studios Hollywood this …
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 …
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 …
When Southern California takes on a chill, our fair-weather “bones” aren’t always easy to warm. One sure way to seek both warmth and healing comfort is to submerge your body in the hot mineral water that naturally blesses the area. By the mid-1800s, the world was extolling the virtues of “taking the waters” or soaking …
Story & Photos by Barbara Beckley The winery is in Sonoma. The Tasting Room is in Burbank! Unique concept. And best kept secret for wine and jazz buffs. We get to enjoy curated Sonoma wines – paired with fine cuisine and sophisticated entertainment – just by driving down San Fernando Road! “A small entrance. But …