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 …
Time to Celebrate, Wildflower Watchers!
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. …
Universal Studios Hollywood Debuts Super Nintendo World Land with Mario Cart Ride
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 …
Santa Barbara’s Lobero Theatre Celebrates 150 Years – Celebrities, Playboys, Even Ghosts
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 …
Recharge in these Hot Springs Getaways
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 …
A Taste of Sonoma – In SoCal’s Burbank
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 …
Head to the Mountains of SoCal for Family Holiday Fun at SkyPark
Sparkling snow says holiday magic, but add in elves, treats, ice skating, a forest of lights and more and you have a winter wonderland getaway at Skyforest’s SkyPark at Santa’s Village. Since the park’s opening in 1955, the holidays have always marked a special time for SkyPark at Santa’s Village, which serves as Santa’s year-round …
Explore 13 Hidden Gems in SoCal’s OC
The locals don’t like sharing, but we give you permission to uncover some hidden experiences in SoCal’s Orange County. This bucket list has something for everyone from cruising scenic harbors, hiking to breath-taking vistas and getting sworn in as a pirate to discovering hidden restaurants and splashing around one of the longest water park’s lazy …
Don’t Be ‘Latte’ for SoCal’s PUMPKINS IN THE PINES!
As the leaves turn gold and a brisk chill returns to the to the alpine forest of the San Bernardino Mountains, it can mean just one thing: the return of Pumpkins in the Pines! In fact, colorful leaves, apple cider, cozy sweaters and Pumpkins in the Pines just belong together. To get in the fall …
More to Love in SoCal’s Oceanside
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 …
Halloween Monsters Run Wild at SoCal’s LEGOLAND during Brick-or-Treat
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 …
Fiji? Tahiti? No – It’s the Catamaran Resort Hotel and Spa in SoCal’s Mission Beach!
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 …