Malibu Pier

A gorgeous, 23-mile stretch of beach north of Los Angeles and Santa Monica Beach, Malibu has been an exclusive enclave since the 1920s, when Hollywood celebrities first built homes here to escape the heat in the valley.

In 1957, Frederick Kohner wrote a novel about his teenage daughter, Gidget, and by the time the movie came out in 1959, every kid in the country wanted to go surfing in Malibu. Recognizing the allure, Chevrolet named its new model the Malibu in 1964.

Today, Malibu still attracts mega-stars, beach bums, and surfers. And a walk through the famous Malibu Colony is often rewarded with celebrity sightings.

There are lots of fun Malibu California things to do, but the top Malibu attraction is the beach — or rather beaches. There are at least a dozen to choose from. Toward the northern end of Malibu, Zuma Beach is huge, has tons of parking, lifeguard stands, changing rooms, and concessions. If you’re planning a day at the beach with the whole family, Zuma is your best bet.

For fewer crowds, try the sandy coves known as El Matador, La Piedra, or El Pescador. It’s a hike getting down from the steep cliffs to the beach. But once you’re there, you can explore sea caves, tide pools, and relatively private patches of sand.

At Point Dume State Preserve, you can hike a trail high above the beach with fantastic views. During migration season, you might even spot whales offshore.

If you want to have a meal with your toes in the sand, head for Paradise Cove. The restaurant is a popular spot for lunch, dinner, and mojitos, and the adjacent trailer park is home to celebrities, producers, and high-tech millionaires. Parking is expensive if you don’t have a meal.

If you want to try your hand at surfing, Surfrider Beach next to the Malibu Pier is the place. There are separate areas for surfing and swimming and lifeguards will point you in the right direction.

Malibu Surfing

The top cultural attraction in Malibu is The Getty Villa. Built by J. Paul Getty in 1974 to house his collection of ancient art, the museum is modeled after a Roman villa in Herculaneum. The complex underwent a $275 million renovation in 2006, and today, it’s a beautiful place to spend a morning or afternoon. You’ll need to make reservations in advance to see the world-class collection of Greek and Roman statuary and artifacts.

The other museum worth touring is Adamson House. Built as a private residence in 1930, the house is in the Moorish style and is noted for its exquisite tilework made by Malibu Potteries. There’s a pool and bathhouse, beamed ceilings, original furnishings and carpets, and lovely grounds.

When you’re through touring the house, you can take a stroll out on the 780-ft. Malibu Pier, which reopened in 2008. You can grab a burger at Ruby’s at the end of the pier, or have a leisurely lunch at the Beachcomber.

The climate in Malibu is hospitable to grapes, and there are now several wineries in the area. Rosenthal Estate can only be toured by appointment, but they have a tasting room on the Pacific Coast Highway. With plenty of picnic tables, music on weekends, and pretty grounds, Malibu Wines is a great place for a picnic.

VRBO – Vacation Rentals By Owner

Shoppers won’t want to miss the Malibu Country Mart, where high fashion names like John Varvatos, Ralph Lauren, and 7 for All Mankind keep locals looking stylish.

Read about more of the Top Places to Visit in California.

Malibu Pier Image Flickr Image: cho_kettie
Malibu Surfing Flickr Image: tylerkaraszewski

Train Boston to New York

Even though it only takes an hour and a half to fly from Boston to New York, when you factor in the time it takes to get to the airport, go through security, and wait to board, taking the train from Boston to New York can actually be faster. Especially if you take the Acela Express train which makes the journey in 3 hours and 25 minutes.

But the amount of hassle you’ll save is even more compelling. When you travel by train, there’s no taking off your shoes and taking out your laptop for security, no seatback crammed against your knees, and no scrambling to find overhead space for your carry-on. With 42” seat pitch, you’ll hardly know there’s anyone in front of or behind you.

If you’re traveling on business, you’ll actually be able to get some work done. And if you’re traveling for pleasure, you’ll be able to enjoy the some scenery of the New England coast. Best of all, you’ll be able to stretch your legs whenever you like.

Acela, which was America’s first high-speed train, celebrated its tenth anniversary in December of 2010. On straight stretches of track, it travels at speeds up to 150 MPH. Even so, travel by train is greener than flying or driving.

You can catch the train at either Boston’s South Station in the heart of the Financial District or at Back Bay Station, and you’ll disembark in New York at Penn Station. During peak times, there are express trains from Boston to New York every hour. If you need to be in New York at a specific time, it’s a good idea to purchase your tickets as far in advance as you can. Buying them ahead of time may also save you some money.

Three classes of service are available: coach, business, and first. All seats have electrical outlets so you can plug in your laptop or DVD player. And WiFi Internet access is available. A Café car has beverages, sandwiches, and snacks. And fold-out tables are big enough to work comfortably.

Train Boston to New York

First class passengers have access to ClubAcela, where you can relax, host a meeting, or enjoy a complimentary snack. Onboard, First Class attendants provide food and beverage service to you – on real china – at your seat. The big, comfy seats have adjustable foot rests, lumbar support, and head rests. And there’s plenty of space to stow your luggage.

Fares vary according to departure time and date. But as a rule, they compete favorably with airfares. Discounts are available for seniors, students, and AAA members.

Find more U.S. travel planning information.

Train Boston to New York Image Flickr: Bruce Tuten
Train Boston to New York Image Flickr: cliff1066™

Golden Gate Bridge

San Francisco has some of America’s top Italian restaurants. Acquarello, Quince, and Incanto have been wowing Bay Area diners with authentic Italian cooking, great wine, and attractive ambience for some time now.

But the competition didn’t keep several new Italian restaurants in San Francisco from opening. Although not exactly filling a void, the newcomers are a welcome addition to the dining scene, and they’ve been warmly received.

Michael Tusk, the owner of Quince, has opened Cotogna in an adjoining space on Jackson Square. The name means quince in Italian. Less formal than its sibling, Cotogna has a three-course, prix fixe for just $24. The brick and beam space features an open kitchen, and it’s a casual, cozy place. Diners can enjoy incredibly succulent meats from the rotisserie, inventive pizzas from the wood-fired oven, or perfect pastas like lamb pappardelle or tagliatelle with duck Bolognese. An innovative, fixed-price wine program offers some lovely selections for $10 a glass or $40 a bottle. If you have any room left, try the milk chocolate and almond budino. At Cotogna, you can get a very good Italian meal without spending a lot.

You’ll find casual, inviting ristobars all over Italy. A cross between a tratorria and a bistro, they offer unpretentious food and good wine in a convivial atmosphere. Gary Rulli’s new Ristobar replicates the successful formula in this new Marina-area Italian Restaurant. One of the best-loved Italian restaurants in Los Angeles, Valentino, lost its chef — Angelo Auriana — to Ristobar. And he’s turned his talent to making incredible pizzas and superb pasta dishes. Start with some fabulous salumi and cheese, much of which is imported from Italy. If you want something more than pizza or pasta, duck confit, osso buco, or pan-roasted quail are terrific options. Rulli’s background as a pastry chef makes dessert a must-have. Try warm hazelnut and walnut budino.

Pizza lovers who have been flocking to Pizzeria Picco in Larkspur can satisfy their cravings in SOMO at Zero Zero. Owner Bruce Hill has brought the thin, perfectly charred crust, the inventive toppings — try home-made salumi — and the Zero Zero Neapolitan flour for which the restaurant is named. But he’s also turning out excellent crudo, starters like fried Brussels Sprouts with Asian pear, gnocchi with pork belly, and skillet-fried chicken thighs. Soft-serve ice cream sundaes with ricotta doughnuts and bacon brittle are a yummy way to end your meal.

With an emphasis on farm-to-table provisions, Seven Hills offers a seasonal menu that makes the most of local ingredients. Chef Alexander Alioto worked in Sicily and in Yountville at The French Laundry. He opened Seven Hills on Nob Hill after leaving the Ritz Carlton, San Francisco. Starters might include seared sweetbread, wild mushrooms, or Niman Ranch pork riblets. A variety of fresh pastas are whipped up each evening. Alioto’s father Nunzio created the amazing wine list.

Find more Italian Restaurants in San Francisco.

Legend:
1) Cotogna
2) Ristobar
3) Zero Zero
4) Seven Hills

View New Italian Restaurants in San Francisco Map in a larger map

Golden Gate Bridge Image Flickr: Salim Virji

Magens Bay St. Thomas

If you take a Caribbean cruise, chances are that you’ll spend at least a day in St. Thomas. It’s the busiest cruise ship port in the region. And no wonder. With convenient air service, great shopping, beautiful views, and good beaches, what’s not to like?

But there are lots more things to do in St. Thomas than just shopping and dining. The island has an interesting history, and there are places where you can relive the days when pirates sailed here or when the Danish ruled the islands in the 17th century.

The top attraction on the island is Coral World Ocean Park. If you’ve also wanted to have personal encounters with sea critters, this is your best bet. A series of interactive exhibits lets you feed stingrays, touch sharks and starfish, or swim with sea lions. Those who don’t like to snorkel can don a special helmet and go for a stroll on the sea floor. You can also walk through an aviary with tropical birds and flowers, explore the 80,000-gallon coral reef aquarium, or take a semi-submersible submarine ride.

For views above the water line, the Skyride to Paradise Point is a must-do. The modern gondola speeds you up above the harbor for breathtaking views of Charlotte Amalie and the surrounding Virgin Islands. If you enjoy hiking, a rocky trail leads to a gorgeous panorama that includes St. Croix.

If you’re spending a few days here, make sure to get out on the water. Snorkeling trips to The Baths at Virgin Gorda and Soggy Dollar Bar on Jost Van Dyke leave from Red Hook. You’ll need your passport to visit these British Virgin Islands.

If you have less time, head to Red Hook and take the ferry to Cruz Bay on the island of St. John. There are plenty of good restaurants and shops within walking distance of the ferry dock. There are also a couple of St. John resorts where you can have lunch in a beautiful setting.

These waters are some of the best in the world for sailing, so if you know how to sail, don’t miss the opportunity to test your skills here. Yacht Haven Grande outside the main town of Charlotte Amalie and Red Hook have sailboats you can charter. The marina’s worth a visit even if you’re not looking for a boat. There are half a dozen good restaurants right on the waterfront, and upscale shops when ships are in port.

Kayaking trips are available, and there’s a wildlife sanctuary and marine preserve where you can paddle or snorkel.

On the north side of the island, St. Peter Greathouse & Botanical Gardens has more than 200 kinds of West Indian flora. Set on 11 acres 1,000 feet above sea level, the estate has self-guided hikes, an impressive collection of orchids, and views of more than 20 islands.

Most people who visit the Virgin Islands come for the beaches, and St. Thomas has some fine ones. The most beautiful – and most crowded – is Magens Bay. You’ll have a better experience at this crescent of white sand if you go on a weekday when there are no cruise ships in port. The beach has all the facilities including changing rooms, bathrooms, and a snack bar.

Find more Caribbean travel ideas.

Legend:
1) Coral World Marine Park
2) Paradise Point Skyride
3) Red Hook
4) Yacht Have Grande
5) St Peter Greathouse & Botanical Gardens
6) Magens Bay Beach

View Things to do in St Thomas Virgin Islands Map in a larger map

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Magens Bay St. Thomas Image Flickr: ZacharyTirrell

Ca d’Zan

Ever since John Ringling made it his home in the 1920s, Sarasota Florida has had more than its share of culture. Few towns its size can boast an opera house, a symphony orchestra, and a well-respected theater festival. There’s something going on almost every night during the winter season.

But Sarasota nightlife isn’t all highbrow. There are plenty of other things to do in Sarasota at night, like listen to music, dance, or enjoy a well-made cocktail or a pint of beer in the revitalized downtown area. Main Street especially is packed with bars, restaurants, and clubs – many with entertainment.

When the weather’s nice – and it almost always is – the tiki torch-lit patio at Mattison’s City Grill is a good place to start your evening. There’s live music nightly, and the pizzas from the brick oven make a great appetizer.

Housed in a refurbished building that’s nearly 100 years old, The Gator Club is the most popular dance club in town with live music seven nights a week. Private Reserve, on the second floor, has a nice selection of Scotch whiskeys. Esca is another hip spot downtown for techno and house music. The roof-top dance floor has views of downtown.

For cocktails and music with a view, Mattison’s Riverside at the Twin Dolphin Marina has a big deck overlooking the water.

Five O’Clock Club and Gecko’s Grill and Pub in the Landings Shopping Center are other good bets for live music. And Siesta Key Oyster Bar has a variety of acts. Nightlife on the Key dates back to the 1940s when the Beach Club first opened. Also on Siesta Key, the Blasé Café has designer drinks, great food, and a pretty patio.

The First Friday Art Walks on Palm Avenue offers gallery shows, music, food, and dancing.

The Asolo Theatre Festival presents drama, musicals, and ballet in a 19th-century playhouse that was relocated from Asolo, Italy. A second, turn-of-the-century was moved from Scotland in 1987. And a third, smaller theater was also added to the complex. You can see everything from classics like Twelve Angry Men and Two Gentlemen from Verona to modern play by less well-known playwrights.

Sarasota Opera House

The recently renovated Van Wetzel Performing Arts Hall hosts touring Broadway shows, ballet, and symphony, jazz, and pops concerts. The Opera House, which opened in 1926 as the Edwards Theater presents several operas each season. And the Florida Studio Theater has a new play festival each May.

In April, the Sarasota Film Festival shows independent films and hosts special events with celebrities like Geena Davis and Christopher Plummer and directors. The Sarasota Music Festival in June brings some of the best young musicians from all over the world.

Find more Florida travel information.

Ca d’Zan Image Flickr: roger4336
Sarasota Opera House Image Flickr: roger4336

Broken Bow

Just three hours from Dallas, the Broken Bow Oklahoma offers Southerners a complete change of scenery. The crystal-clear lake is managed by the Corps of Engineers and it’s backed by cool forests and the Ouachita and Kiamichi Mountain Wilderness.

With 180 miles of shoreline and a surface area of 14,220 acres, lots of people can get away from it all without running into each other.

There’s a lot to do in the area, including horseback riding, kayaking and canoeing on the lake, hiking and mountain biking on the trails, and fly fishing on the lake and the Mountain Fork River.

The most popular hikes are the Big Oak Nature Trail, which passes a 300-year-old white oak that’s more than 100 feet tall, and the Beaver Lodge Nature Trail, which winds through deciduous forest to a stream. Depending on the time of year, you may see beaver, deer, birds, and colorful wildflowers. The more ambitious can tackle the 26-mile David Boren trail.

Golfers will enjoy playing Cedar Creek Gold Course, rated 4-1/2 stars by Golf Digest. Fox, wild turkeys, and bald eagles are often spotted in the stands of pine, hickory, and oak.

Both Broken Bow Lake and the Mountain Fork River are located in Beavers Bend State Park. There’s a Forest Heritage Center, and a mansion built in 1884 that’s been turned into a museum. The streams are stocked with trout all year long, and there are two catch-and-release trophy areas available for serious anglers.

Waterskiing is available on the lake, and you can even Scuba dive. Several outfitters offer river rafting trips on the Mountain Fork between spring and fall.

Beavers Bend

There are scores of Broken Bow Lake cabins and Beavers Bend cabins that you can rent in the 3,482-acre park. To maintain the integrity of the lake, the Corps restricts building in the area. So the closest cabins are about nine miles from the lake. On the shores of the lake, Lakeview Lodge has 40 rooms with beautiful views.

A small grocery store near the heritage center makes it easy to buy provisions.

One, two, three, and four-bedroom cabins are available. Most have fully equipped kitchens that have everything you need to prepare an elaborate meal, including seasonings and spices. A barbecue grill is also a must-have.

High-speed Internet access and satellite television is often available. And some have pool tables, hot tubs, home theater systems, and private boat slips.

If you want to travel with your four-legged friends, many Broken Bow cabins accept dogs with a deposit.

Nightly rates range from $150 to $600 depending on the season and the number of guests.

Find more USA getaways.

Broken Bow Image Flickr: FreeWine
Beavers Bend Image Flickr: maduko

Niagara falls

Oscar Wilde once said “Niagara Falls is the American bride’s second great disappointment.”

We beg to disagree. We went to Niagara Falls a few years ago, almost on a whim, and were amazed by the sheer magnificence of the falls. It’s well worth a trip.

There’s plenty to do here in addition to the falls, but a cruise on the Maid of the Mist is a must-do. Bundle up in a slicker and head out on deck as the boat sails to the base of Horseshoe Falls. It’s a thrilling experience you’ll never forget.

For a different perspective, take a helicopter flight over the falls. Or watch Niagara the movie on the six-story tall IMAX screen.

Two new Niagara Falls hotels – one on the Canadian side and one on the American side – offer travelers exactly what they’re looking for when they come here: fantastic views.

Just about 100 yards from the bank, The Embassy Suites Fallsview offers spacious, luxurious accommodations that feature mini bars, refrigerators, wet bars, microwaves, two TVs, and two telephones.

A hot breakfast with made-to-order omelets is included in the rate. And a Keg Steakhouse & Bar is located on site. There’s a fitness center, a swimming pool, a video arcade, and a business center for copying, printing, or faxing.

Rooms on the upper floors of the 42-story hotel have incredible views of the falls. And suites with fireplaces and whirlpool tubs are available. The Embassy Suites is the newest Niagara Falls hotel.

The Sheraton at the Falls recently opened in the old Crowne Plaza at Third and Niagara on the American side of the falls. It’s next to the Seneca Niagara Casino and the Niagara Falls Conference Center.

Niagara Falls

The 391 renovated rooms were outfitted with Sheraton Sweet Sleeper pillow-top beds, work desks with leather chairs, 37” LCD TVs, and walk-in showers. Suites have separate living and dining areas, refrigerators, microwaves, and walk-in closets,

The Sheraton has a heated indoor pool, 24-hour fitness center, business center, and Starbucks coffee shop. Complimentary high-speed Internet access is available in all the rooms and public areas. Guests get a 10% discount on spa services at the casino.

With amazing views from the upper floors, the Sheraton is one of the best hotels in Niagara Falls.

Find more great hotels in Canada.

Legend:
1) Embassy Suites Niagara Fallsview
2) Sheraton at the Falls

View New Niagara Falls Hotels Map in a larger map

Niagara falls Image Flickr: ilkerender
Niagara Falls Canada Image Flickr: Kevin Burkett

Trunk Bay

Most of the St. John Virgin Island Resorts are expensive, and exclusive. You’ll never have trouble finding a lounge by the pool or getting service at the bar.

The oldest and best-known Virgin Island resorts is Caneel Bay. Laurance Rockefeller opened it in 1956, and it was the first eco-resort. Some of the green practices it uses are still innovative today.

The resort is located on one of the most beautiful bays in St. John – which is saying something. And there are seven beaches to choose from on the 170-acre property. Accommodations are scattered around the grounds, and to be honest — some could use a renovation.

But the relaxed ambience is what keeps guests coming back. With no telephones or TVs in the rooms, it’s a great place to get away from it all. And the restaurants are excellent, albeit expensive. There’s a dress code in the evenings.

Caneel Bay has an outdoor pool, a health club, and tennis courts. It’s about a ten-minute drive — or a harrowing cab ride — from Cruz Bay.

Those who want a more conventional Caribbean resort with amenities like whirlpool baths, flat-screen TVs, and private balconies may prefer the Westin St. John Resort & Villas. Located on the southwest side of the island, the 34-acre resort has 21 buildings, housing a variety of accommodations.

The Westin has a good beach, one of the largest pools in the Virgin Islands, four restaurants, tennis, and water sports equipment rentals. The villas have kitchenettes, which helps keep the cost down. Prime serves some of the best steaks on the island.

Gallows Point Resort is within walking distance of Cruz Bay, which is great if you like to try lots of different restaurants and bars. The resort sits on a peninsula that looks back toward St. Thomas. The views are beautiful day and night, when the twinkling lights of the East End compete with the stars.

Caneel Bay

The beach here is pretty rocky, but there’s a pool. And Zozo’s restaurant is your best bet for Italian on St. John. The views from the upstairs bar are smashing.

On our recent visit, we stayed at the Grande Bay Resort and loved it. It’s between Gallows Point and Cruz Bay, so you can walk to everything. We stayed in a one-bedroom penthouse and had beautiful views of Cruz Bay. Two- and three-bedroom units are also available.

The complex has a pretty outdoor pool overlooking the beach, an exercise room, and a concierge who can arrange excursions or activities. It’s walking distance to the Cruz Bay ferry dock.

Read more about St. John Virgin Islands.

Legend:
1) Caneel Bay
2) Westin St. John Resort & Villas
3) Gallows Point Resort
4) Grande Bay Resort

View St John Virgin Islands resorts map in a larger map

Waikiki Aquarium

No trip to Hawaii is complete without spending some time in Honolulu. Its museums and palaces are the best place to learn about the history and culture of the Hawaiian Islands. Its nightclubs and restaurants are the most sophisticated in the state. And you can spend the day at the beach and then see a show in the evening.

If you’re wondering what to do in Honolulu, there are plenty of options. You should start your visit at Waikiki, one of the most famous beaches in the world. Lined with luxury hotels and resorts, it’s always packed. For the best views of Diamond Head and the city skyline, take a surfing lesson. Or go for a catamaran cruise at sunset. Whatever you do, make sure you get out on or in the water at least once during your visit.

Even though it’s part of the United States, Hawaiian culture is unique – and foreign. While you’re here, take the time to discover more and you’ll have a richer, more rewarding trip.

The Bishop Museum is a great place to learn more about the islands. Located in a building that dates from 1889, it recently underwent a $20 million restoration. Not only does the museum have the best historical and cultural artifacts from Hawaiian culture, it also has exhibits about volcanoes, the Pacific Ocean, and the flora and fauna of the islands. There are several buildings on the property, and you’ll see everything from the Hawaiian kings’ ceremonial robes to grass huts.

The best hula performance in Hawaii takes place here at 11AM and 2PM on weekdays. There’s also a planetarium with several shows a day. The Bishop Museum is one of the most informative things to do in Honolulu.

At the Polynesian Cultural Center, you’ll see recreated mini-villages from Tonga, Tahiti, Samoa, Fiji, and New Zealand. Opened in 1963 by members of the LDS church, the center is on a 42-acre site about 30 miles from Waikiki. Demonstrations of hula dancing, tattooing, fire dancing, craft making, and other native arts bring traditions alive for visitors. There’s a show every night with hula and other island entertainment.

Diamond Head is the most recognizable Honolulu attraction. But it also offers some of the best views of the city. If you hike 560 feet to the top of the crater, you’ll have 360-degree views of the island of Oahu. It only takes about half an hour, and it’s suitable for people of average abilities. To beat the crowds, go early or late – but be aware that the park closes at 6PM.

Gardeners will enjoy a visit to the Foster Botanical Garden. It’s close to Chinatown, in the heart of Honolulu. Many of the trees in the 14-acre garden were planted in the 1850s, and today the garden has many rare species that are found only in Hawaii. There’s a large collection of ornamental palms, orchids and other tropical flowers, and 26 rare trees that are protected by law.

Waikiki Beach

Housed in the original 1872 Royal Hawaiian Hotel, the Hawaii State Art Museum showcases the work of more than 200 artists. And the Honolulu Academy of Arts has 32 galleries displaying Hawaiian art, American and European paintings, prehistoric artifacts, and Mayan and Greek objects. The building itself is considered one of the best examples of old Hawaiian architecture, and the grounds are lovely.

Built in 1882, Iolani Palace is the only royal residence in America. Visitors see the jewelry of the royal family, their royal apartments, and the thrones of King Kalakaua and Queen Liliuokalani. When it was built at a cost of $360,000, it was quite lavish and high-tech. In fact, it had electricity before Buckingham Palace or the White House. Tours of the palace add a lot of insight, but you need to make reservations in advance.

The most moving of the Honolulu attractions is the USS Arizona Memorial at Pearl Harbor. When the Japanese bombed Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941, the USS Arizona was struck and sank in nine minutes. 1,777 people perished and the names of the dead are carved into the white marble wall here. The stark memorial flanks the sunken ship which lies six feet below the surface. The experience lasts several hours, and you’ll spend some of your time waiting. Invest in one of the audio players and reflect on the sacrifice of the sailors and marines who died here.

If the USS Arizona marked the beginning of America’s participation in World War II, the USS Missouri marked the end. The last American battleship, “Mighty Mo” is best known as the place where the Japanese signed the Terms of Surrender on September 2, 1945.

With more than 420 species of marine life, the Waikiki Aquarium is a must for those who love the sea. Exhibits here are dedicated to reef environments, jellyfish, and other underwater critters. And you’ll be able to get up close and personal at the touch tanks. You’ll see sharks, monk seals, sea turtles, coral, eels, tropical fish, and the only chambered nautilus born in captivity.

Find more Hawaii travel tips.Legend:
1) Bishop Museum
2) Polynesian Cultural Center
3) Diamond Head
4) Foster Botanic Garden
5) Hawaii State Art Musuem
6) Honolulu Academy of Arts
7) Iolani Palace
8) USS Arizona Memorial
9) USS Missouri
10) Waikiki Aquarium

View Honolulu attractions map in a larger map

Waikiki Aquarium Image Flickr: coconut wireless
Waikiki Beach Image Flickr: Alan Light

Glacier National Park, Montana

Almost a million acres in size, Glacier National Park is one of the most beautiful wilderness areas in the Lower 48. Located along the Canadian border in northern Montana, the park has glacier-capped peaks, gorgeous valleys, clear lakes, waterfalls, and abundant wildlife. Waterton Lakes National Park is on the Canadian side.

It’s a spectacular place for hiking, but you can also enjoy incredible scenery by driving the 50-mile Going-to-the-Sun Road. The road goes up to Logan Pass – the crest of the Continental Divide – and is only open from the middle of June until the middle of September. If you prefer not to drive, you can sign up for a sightseeing tour.

During the summer, you can also take a cruise on Lake McDonald or St. Mary Lake, or better yet, rent a kayak and head out on your own. Fishing and white-water rafting are also popular pursuits.

Many of the Glacier National Park hotels date from 1910, when the park was created. Accommodations range from rustic to refined, and many don’t have television, Internet access, or elevators. But wherever you stay, you’ll be able to enjoy the spectacular natural beauty and serenity of the park.

The first hotel in the western edge of the park, Belton Chalet is across from the train station. The property was recently restored, and although the rooms – and especially the bathrooms – are small, they’re nicely furnished. The historic charm remains and the chalet is a comfortable base for exploring. There’s a grill, a tap room, and guests can enjoy treatments at the local spa.

The Chalet is open during the winter for snowshoeing, and for downhill and cross-country skiers.

At the eastern entrance to the park, Glacier Park Lodge was built by the Great Northern Railroad. With it’s old timbers, huge fir pillars, and stone fireplaces, it’s exactly how you picture a wilderness lodge. There’s a dining room, and outdoor deck where you can enjoy a drink with a view, a heated outdoor pool, and a nine-hole golf course.

Rooms are available in the main lodge and in the Great Northern Wing. They’re on the small side, but the suites are roomy. There’s also a two-bedroom house with a full kitchen near the ninth hole of the golf course.

Lake McDonald Lodge has a variety of accommodations including conventional motel rooms, rooms in the lodge, and cottages in the woods. It’s located right on the lake — making it easy to get out on the water – and it’s on the Going-to-the-Sun Road. It’s similar to Glacier Park Lodge in feel, and with a dining room, coffee shop, and lounge, you can settle in after a full day of hiking.

The most modern hotel in the park is at the Great Bear Lodge St. Mary. Opened in 2001, the resort has 48 rooms and suites with big bathrooms, small refrigerators, wet bars, coffee makers, satellite television, and private decks. It’s the best choice for those who want all the modern conveniences. Suites have gas fireplaces and Jacuzzi tubs.

Located on Swiftcurrent Lake, Many Glacier Hotel was completed in 1915. Today, it’s the largest hotel in the park – and most vistors’ top choice. The rooms are a little larger than in the other historic lodges, and it has some of the best views – especially from the balcony rooms. You can take a boat from the hotel to the trailhead of the Grinnell Glacier or Iceberg Lake hikes. You can pick up box lunches at the snack shop.

The remote location practically ensures that you’ll see lots of wildlife, including bears. And the dining room has huge windows so you can take in the views.

Just across the border in Canada’ Waterton Lakes National Park, the Prince of Wales hotel, was completed in 1927. It’s the most European hotel in the park, and high tea is served from 2PM to 5PM in the soaring lobby. It’s located on a bluff overlooking Waterton Lake, and the lake-side rooms are worth the extra cost.

In addition to the lodges, there are plenty of options for Glacier National Park camping. But since the summer season is relatively short, you should make your plans well in advance.

Those who enjoy Glacier National Park will also love Banff. Find Banff hotels.

Glacier National Park, Montana Image Flickr: Andrew Kalat

Florida Keys

With crystal-clear, turquoise water, colorful coral reefs, and broad stretches of white-sand beach, the Florida Keys are the closest thing to the Caribbean. Literally, and figuratively. Nearly 400 islands stretch 150 miles south of Miami on the Overseas Highway. It’s a one-of-a-kind drive everyone should do at least once.

The scenery isn’t all the Keys share with their neighbors to the south. The attitude here is definitely laid-back, and everything gets done on “island time.”

Key West gets most of the attention, and you should absolutely visit the “Conch Republic” while you’re in the keys. But some of the best Florida Keys resorts are in the upper or middle Keys.

Upper Florida Keys resorts.

We don’t usually recommend places that can be described as “a dive,” but Jules’ Undersea Lodge is an exception. Guests here spend the night 30 feet beneath the surface in a former research lab. There are two rooms — which share a living area and bath – each with large windows for watching the underwater panorama. You’ll have to put on scuba gear to get here, but once you’re ensconced, your meals will be delivered via room service.

Arguably the hippest resort in the Florida Keys, Casa Morada was built in the 1950s and redone by former members of hotelier Ian Schrager’s team. Today, it’s a stylish boutique hotel with 16 suites, a Zen garden, and a grotto pool. The suites have cool, terrazzo floors and either a patio or a private garden. Some have al fresco showers or Jacuzzis. Free use of bikes and kayaks is a nice plus. You can enjoy breakfast – which is included in the rate – on the beach-front terrace.

Golfers should make a bee line for Cheeca Lodge, in the Upper Keys. The 27-acre grounds are beautifully landscaped and there’s a nine-hole golf course with pretty views. Rooms are large and well equipped. But with golf, tennis, water sports, and a full-service spa, no one spends much time there. For the most enjoyable experience, upgrade to a room with an ocean-view balcony. Their children’s program makes this a good choice for families. With two restaurants and two bars, you need never leave.

If you’ve always wanted to swim with dolphins, you can do it in the saltwater lagoon at Hawk’s Cay – if you make arrangements well in advance. If that’s not appealing, there’s also sailing, water skiing, snorkeling, fishing, and tennis. With nearly 500 rooms, it’s the largest Florida Keys hotel. If you’re traveling with friends or family, book one of the two- or three-bedroom villas. These have kitchens and washer/dryers. Hawk’s Cay has five pools, including one for adults, five restaurants, and a 7,000-square-foot spa.

One of the most sophisticated Florida Keys hotels, The Moorings has 18 luxurious one-, two-, and three-bedroom cottages on the best beach around. Decorated in the island style with nice verandas, the cottages have full kitchens and most have washers and dryers. Set on 18 acres, the complex is extremely private, and the beach is huge. There’s a large pool, tennis, a spa, and non-motorized water sports.

Middle Florida Keys resorts.

As the name suggests, Tranquility Bay is a great place to relax and unwind. The two-and three-bedroom suites here all have views of the Gulf of Mexico from the proch. There’s a beachfront bar, excellent restaurant, fitness center, spa, and big heated pool.

Three miles off the coast of Little Torch Key, Little Palm Island is a five-acre sanctuary for the rich and famous. Guests – who arrive by boat or seaplane – are accommodated in beach-front bungalows that have slate indoor/outdoor showers, thatched roofs, and private porches. The Grand Suites have outdoor hot tubs and two bathrooms. To keep things serene, rooms are without TVs, phones, or alarm clocks, and cell phones are banned in public areas.

Watersports equipment is included in the rate, and there’s a top-notch spa. The restaurant is so good that most guests opt for three meals a day.

One of the most affordable Florida Keys resorts, Parmer’s Resort offers recently renovated, waterfront cottages overlooking Pine Channel. The five-acre property has a heated pool, lots of water sports, and very friendly staff. Many of the cottages have decks or balconies, and some have kitchenettes. And Key West restaurants and shopping are just a half an hour away.

Key West resorts.

Those who want to get away from it all — but still be close to the action — will enjoy Sunset Key, a 27-acre private island that’s a ten-minute boat ride from The Westin Key West Resort & Marina. Accommodation range from one- to four-bedroom cottages, and guests have privileges at the sister property.

Find South Beach Miami hotels to visit before or after the Keys.

Legend:
1) Jules Undersea Lodge
2) Casa Morada
3) Cheeca Lodge
4) The Moorings
5) Tranquility Bay
6) Little Palm Island Resort
7) Parmer’s Resort
8) Sunset Key Resort

View Florida Keys Resorts Map in a larger map

Florida Keys Image Flickr: Stig Nygaard

Big Sur -- One of the top places to visit in California

Perhaps no other state offers travelers as many diverse regions and experiences as California. There truly is something for everyone – whether you’re into exploring the great outdoors, tasting world-class wines, or hanging on for dear life on a Universal Studios thrill ride.

From Lake Tahoe to Death Valley, there are so many things to do in California that you’ll never see it all in one trip. Guess you’ll just have to plan several California vacations.

Here’s our highly subjective list of the best places to visit in California:

1) Los Angeles
It’s often said that Los Angeles isn’t a city as much as it is a collection of neighborhoods – but what neighborhoods they are. Pasadena, Beverly Hills, Hollywood, Downtown, and Santa Monica are just the start. Each has its own appeal and attractions. If the weather’s fine – and it nearly always is – head for the J. Paul Getty Museum. Not only will you see a stunning art collection, you’ll also have the best views in town. If you have kids along, don’t miss Universal Studios Hollywood where the major motion pictures are transformed into incredible experiences. The Hollywood Walk of Fame and Farmers Market are other must-see attractions.

2) San Francisco
It may be a cliché, but just about everyone leaves their heart in the City by the Bay. One of the most recognizable places in the world, San Francisco offers great food, sophisticated shopping and beautiful scenery. If you only have a day, take a cruise to Alcatraz Island or take a walk out on the Golden Gate Bridge for views and pictures you’ll always treasure. Ride a cable car, visit Fisherman’s Wharf, and enjoy sourdough bread, Dungesess crab, and Anchor Steam beer.

3) San Diego
California’s biggest beach town, San Diego and nearby Coronado are great fun for the whole family. The top attractions here are Balboa Park, which has a good art museum and tropical gardens, SeaWorld, and San Diego Zoo. With more than 4,000 animals, it’s the top zoo in the world. Take a side trip to the Hotel del Coronado to see where Marilyn Monroe and Tony Curtis frolicked in Some Like It Hot.

4) Disneyland
Located in Anaheim, the original Happiest Place on Earth has been joined by Disney California Adventure Park. Together, they offer a one-two punch that’ll leave the whole family wanting more.

5) Napa and Sonoma Valley
Even if you’re not a wine lover, you’ll love California wine country. With rolling, vineyard-covered hills, incredible architecture, and some of the best restaurants in the country, Napa and Sonoma are the perfect places to relax and unwind.

6) Central California Coast
For sheer natural beauty, the rugged Central California coastline is hard to beat. And since much of the area is state park land, it’s easy to explore. You can hike, kayak, or just enjoy the views from a convertible. Don’t miss the Monterey Bay Aquarium, charming downtown Carmel-by-the-Sea, the drive down Pacific Coast Highway in Big Sur, or Hearst Castle in San Simeon.

Golden Gate Bridge

7) Yosemite
One of the most spectacular National Parks in the country — and the nation’s first — Yosemite has 1,200 square miles of towering peaks, verdant valleys, and plunging waterfalls. Whether you take a day hike, mountain bike, or come in winter to cross-country ski, you’ll be awed by sights like Half Dome, El Capitan, Mirror Lake, and Bridal Veil Falls.

8) Lake Tahoe
Beautiful any time of year, this alpine lake has it all — spectacular scenery, plenty of outdoor activities, glitzy casino with top-class entertainment, and great hotels and restaurants.

Find more things to do in California.

Big Sur — One of the top places to visit in California Image Flickr: meglet127
Golden Gate Bridge Image Flickr: Salim Virji

Red rocks of Sedona

With towering red-rock buttes, cool pine forests, and brilliant blue skies, Sedona Arizona is gorgeous. If it looks familiar perhaps it’s because the stark landscape formed the backdrop for dozens of Hollywood westerns. There’s no more beautiful place to watch the setting sun than here.

Sedona is noted for its mystical vortexes, which New Agers believe enhances creativity and well being. And there’s an active artists’ colony here, drawn by the dramatic scenery and lovely light.

Hiking or biking through the rugged canyons is the main attraction. In fact, you can’t walk more than a few blocks from downtown without hitting a trail head. And Oak Creek and its swimming holes are popular places to cool off after a hike.

Sedona resorts capitalize on the area’s natural beauty and offer a nice balance of activity and relaxation.

With 100 guest rooms, Amara Resort and Spa is one of the smaller Sedona resorts. It’s located adjacent to an Oak Creek swimming hole, and shops and restaurants are a short stroll away. The public areas and rooms are colorful and modern and include amenities like WiFi, pillow- top beds, and refrigerators. Each of the rooms has a private patio or balcony with great views of the red rocks. There’s a heated saltwater swimming pool and a small fitness center, and spa services are available in guest rooms.

Lovers of the Arts and Crafts style will enjoy El Portal Sedona, which has original Tiffany and Roycroft furniture and art objects. The original adobe-block hacienda dates from 1910 but has been extensively renovated. The large rooms have stained-glass windows, rock fireplaces, recycled beams, and French doors that open onto a courtyard or balcony. It’s next to the Tlaquepaque shopping center. Breakfast and afternoon wine and hors d’oeuvres are served. Although it’s not a resort, per se, guests may enjoy the pool and health club at an adjacent resort.

Sedona’s Oak Creek

Mii Amo – the best spa in Sedona – is the main draw at the Enchantment Resort. You can enjoy an outdoor massage at the base of the crimson hills. The gorgeous location at the opening of Boynton Canyon sets the tone for the low-lying, adobe buildings that offer a variety of accommodations. Rooms have gas fireplaces and balconies with breathtaking views, and the private casitas have beautiful living rooms with beamed ceilings. With a six-hole golf course, 7 tennis courts, 3 restaurants, 2 lounges, and a health club, guests need never leave.

Golfers should make a bee line for the Hilton Sedona Resort & Spa, which adjoins one the most spectacular courses in Arizona. Non-golfers can enjoy one of the three swimming pools, tennis, or health and beauty treatments in the spa. The recently renovated rooms have flat-screen TVs, fireplaces, and balconies or patios. There’s a restaurant serving southwestern cuisine and a pool-side bistro during the season.

Junipine Resort has 50 roomy one- and two-bedroom cabins called “creek houses” on the creek in Oak Creek Canyon. The complex is cooled by the juniper and pine forests and the 5,250-feet elevation. The creek houses — which range from 900 to 1,400 square feet — have high ceilings, fully furnished kitchens, wood-burning fireplaces, and wood decks with views of the creek or canyon. There are hiking trailing and fishing on site. And there’s a café with indoor and outdoor dining and there are barbecue grills on the property.

Find more U.S. resorts.

Red rocks of Sedona Image Flickr: heyjohngreen
Sedona’s Oak Creek Image Flickr: bradbrundage

Trunk Bay, St John Virgin Islands

We just got back from St. John, and it was one of the best vacations we’ve had in a long time. If you dream of impossibly beautiful turquoise water lapping at pristine, white-sand beaches, this is the place. It’s so breathtaking, you’ll run out of adjectives on the first day. And the views just keep getting better and better.

Because it’s a U.S. territory, it’s easy to get to from the states, U.S. dollars are the currency, and getting through customs is a snap. What we like best about St. John is that two thirds of the island is National Park, so compared to many Caribbean islands it’s really undeveloped.

Chances are, you’ll fly into St. Thomas. From there, you can take a 45-minute ferry from Charlotte Amalie. Or you can take a taxi to Redhook – it costs about $20 – and then take the 15-minute ferry from there. It’s a lovely ride.

You’ll arrive at Cruz Bay, a bustling little town with dozens of bars and restaurants – some of them quite good – some nice shops, and a couple of grocery and convenience stores.

There are remarkably few St. John hotels – two, in fact. Caneel Bay and The Westin St. John Resort & Villas. Both are expensive and a fair distance from Cruz Bay.

The Cinnamon Bay Campground is another option for the young and/or adventurous. Located on a gorgeous beach, Cinnamon Bay has tents, campsites and a few small cottages.

For our money, St. John vacation rentals are the way to go. You can rent anything from a studio apartment to a five-bedroom home. We opted for a one-bedroom condo overlooking Cruz Bay and loved being walking distance to all the restaurants.

VRBO – Vacation Rentals By Owner

If you like to hike, there are dozens of trails throughout the National Park. When you arrive in Cruz Bay, the National Park Visitors Center is to the left of the ferry dock. They can provide you with more information. The Lind Point trailhead is right behind the visitors center. The trail leads to Caneel Bay, Honeymoon Beach, and Salomon Bay. It takes about 45 minutes and is well worth doing.

Take or wear a swimming suit and keep an eye out for mongooses and bananaquits, a bright yellow bird.

The most popular hike in St. John is the Reef Hike which begins in the mountains and ends at the beach at Genti Bay. The National Park service will take you by van to the trail head and then bring you back to the visitors center by boat. But during the season, you’ll have to make reservations is advance as the trip fills up fast. Along the way, you’ll see old petroglyphs and the ruins of a sugar mill.

Snorkeling at Waterlemon Cay

We especially enjoyed the Leinster Bay and Johnny Horn trails which lead up to the ruins of Windy Hill. From up there, the views of Tortola, Peter Island, Jost Van Dyke, and Waterlemon Cay absolutely take your breath away.

If you don’t feel like making the hike, the views from the Annaberg Plantation, which can be reached by a stairway from the parking lot, are well worth it.

If beaches are your thing, you can visit a different one every day of your stay. Trunk Bay is the best known and perhaps the most photogenic. It has an underwater trail for snorkelers. But there are dozens of beaches and if you arrive by boat or trail, you’ll only share them with a few others.

Every visitor should snorkel at least once while they’re here. You can see fish and coral off virtually any beach, but for the best snorkeling, take the Leinster Bay trail to Waterlemon Cay. You can rent equipment at Low Key Watersports next to the Beach Bar.

Be sure to take your passport along so you can visit the British Virgin Islands. Snorkel trips that go to the Baths in Virgin Gorda and Jost Van Dyke are great fun and a must-do.

Find more Caribbean travel ideas.

Trunk Bay, St John Virgin Islands Image Flickr: Advantage Lendl
Snorkeling at Waterlemon Cay Image Flickr: redagainPatti

Hana, Maui

Maui is a terrific place for a vacation. Blessed with incredible natural beauty, a near-perfect climate, and a laid-back vibe that inevitably leads to relaxation, Maui charms even the most jaded traveler.

There are so many things to do in Maui, that deciding how to spend your time can be a challenge. Although you can always opt to do nothing but sit on the beach and watch the world go by.

But you came here for a reason, so you might as well make the most of it and dive in, literally and figuratively. Because you can have experiences here you’d never have back home, and the memories will stay with you forever.

Maui hotels come in all shapes, sizes, and price ranges. If you can afford it, upgrade to a room with an ocean view. It will be worth it.

The island is small enough that you can reach any place in a few hours – although the trip to Hana takes quite a while. The most popular Maui resorts are Kaanapali, Kapalua, which is a great choice for golfers, Kihea, and Wailea/Makena, where many of the new, luxury hotels are.

You’ll be able to do almost anything no matter where you stay because virtually all of the Maui resorts have activity desks offering a wide range of adventures.

The closest thing to a town on Maui is Lahaina, the center of whaling in the 19th century. It’s the best place to get a sense of the island’s history. And there are plenty of shops and restaurants to enjoy.

Kannapali has a beautiful beach with wonderful views of Lanai and Molokai. But beach lovers shouldn’t stop there. Makena is an undeveloped beauty that’s well worth the hike or drive.

Speaking of drive, the winding road to Hana is a journey to another world and a trip back in time. Along the way, you’ll pass lush tropical jungles, cascading waterfalls, and breathtaking views of the shimmering sea. You can go there and back in a day, but then you won’t have any time to enjoy Hana. Better to go half way, or better yet, to spend the night at the Hotel Hana-Maui (book well in advance).

Snorkeling is one of the most popular Maui activities, and everyone should do it at least once. It can be as simple as renting some gear and heading into the crystal clear water. But once you get your feet wet, you may want to take a full- or half-day snorkel trip to Molokini. The reef there abounds with colorful fish, and delicate coral formations. A variety of trips are available from Lahaina harbor.

Maui marine life

If you can’t swim, you can even take a submarine cruise, see everything, and stay dry as a bone.

Maui vacations in winter – particularly between December and April – have an extra attraction: migrating humpback whales. Whale-watching cruises take you right to them. Or you can see them from shore at spots like McGregor Point near Maalaea.

Those who are willing to rise long before the crack of dawn can go to the summit of Haleakala for the sunrise. The view from this 10,000-foot perch is incredible and when the sun rises, you’ll feel like you’re witnessing the dawn of time. It’s cold up there, so take plenty of warm clothes. The adventurous can arrange a package that also includes biking down the mountain from the 6,000-foot level.

To really enjoy the water, rent a surfboard, kayak, windsurfer, or boogie board. Lessons are available, and rates are reasonable. If you’re on a budget, try body surfing. Just be sure to stay where lifeguards are on duty.

Golfers have their choice of courses. Kapalua Resort in West Maui and the Wailea and Makena resort courses are challenging courses with stunning ocean views.

Most visitors find that there are so many things to do in Maui that they return again and again.

Find more Hawaii travel tips.

Hana, Maui Image Flickr: DirectDish
Maui marine life Image Flickr: wbaiv

South Beach Miami hotels

As someone who grew up in South Florida, I can say that Miami Beach was anything but glamorous in the 1970s. The Art Deco apartment buildings facing the beach were tired and sad. And most of the residents were retirees.

But that’s all changed, and today, South Beach is one of America’s hottest destinations. Celebrities, high-fashion models, sports stars, and international jet setters all party until dawn in the clubs, and South Beach Miami hotels set the bar for cool.

Gianni Versace helped create the South Beach cachet when he bought Casa Casuarina in 1992. The mansion is now known as The Villa by Barton G., and it’s sometimes open to the public.

South Beach hotels go in and out of fashion at lightening speed. And today’s hot spot may be old news in six months. But although the hotels are small, there are lots to choose from. So if you’re not set on one in particular, you should have no trouble finding a place that fits the bills.

Miami South Beach hotels for every travel style.

If stellar service is your hot button, The Angler’s Resort is hard to beat. Located a couple of blocks from the beach off Washington, the resort occupies two buildings that date from the 1930s and two buildings constructed in 2008. Those seeking seclusion will prefer one of the duplex apartments that come with a private garden or roof-top terrace. A high-tech remote device controls almost everything in the room, including the lighting. The gardens and pool here are especially attractive and the Maison d’Azur restaurant is outstanding. Spa services and a designated beach area add to the appeal.

When it opened 15 years ago, the Delano was the place to stay. In fact, it helped to put South Beach on the map. With its white-on-white décor, and sybaritic pool-side cabanas, it’s still a popular venue for photo shoots. And although the A-listers no longer flock here, who else can boast a lounge designed by Lenny Kravitz with a grand piano that he some times plays during his visits. The pool and gardens are as sensational as ever. And service is a bit more cordial than in the past. There are three restaurants, a spa, and a fitness center.

Find the Best Deals at hotels.com!

As the name implies, Gansevoort South is the Miami incarnation of one of New York City’s hippest hotels. Opened in 2008, it features an expansive roof deck with swimming pool and the Plunge bar, a shark-filled aquarium in the lobby, and an ocean-front terrace with infinity pool. The better rooms have balconies with breathtaking views of the Atlantic. The hotel is away from the fray at the northern end of Collins. If you’re looking to see and be seen, this is the spot.

Lovers of Art Deco will enjoy The National Hotel, which has many original furnishings from the 1930s. There are two buildings to choose from here – the original Tower, built in the 1940s, and the Cabana Wing, which is closer to the fabulous swimming pool. At 205 feet, it’s the longest in town. Cabana rooms overlook it. The pool-side Aqua Bar Grill is a great spot for cocktails and a light bite. And the three-level Penthouse Suite is a stunner.

Swedish designer Magnus Ehrland designed the Pelican Hotel for the folks who own Diesel Jeans. No two rooms are alike, but all are eccentric, eclectic, and whimsical, to say the least. They’re also on the small side. The location on Ocean Drive opposite Lummus Beach Park is one of the best in South Beach, and the street-level restaurant is a great place to watch the action.

South Beach

Those looking for a more refined South Beach experience will appreciate the Ritz Carlton. Unlike some of its more bohemian neighbors, the RC is all buttoned up, but not up-tight. Its kids’ program makes it the best choice for families, and the 13,000-square foot spa offers every conceivable treatment. The beach club here comes with a tanning butler, and service is as expected – especially in the club level rooms. With 375 rooms, it’s one of the biggest South Beach hotels, and the location, smack dab on the beach and near the shops and restaurants of Lincoln Road, is great.

Each of The Sagamore’s 93 rooms is a suite, complete with fully tricked-out kitchens, big flat-screen TVs, and Jacuzzi tubs. Public areas double as a modern art gallery, and the hotel’s tag line is “The Art Hotel.” It’s won numerous awards from the travel press, including Travel & Leisure and Conde Nast Traveler. And the two-story, ocean-front bungalows are some of the best accommodations in town. The restaurant and most other public areas have smashing views of the ocean.

When money is not an object, The Setai has a lot to offer. Its Asian aesthetic adds an air of calm to the proceedings, and the ocean-front gardens contain serene ponds and reflecting pools. The beautifully outfitted rooms and suites – which boast niceties like espresso makers and washers and dryers – are larger than most, and some have floor-to-ceiling windows. The better to see all the A-list guests with. But all this luxury comes at a price, so be prepared for sticker shock.

The Standard is all about the spa and the roof bar. Located on the Venetian Causeway, a short walk from South Beach proper, it was built in the 1950s in the Moderne style. In addition to the legendary spa, there’s a sauna, Turkish bath, and waterfront restaurant. You’d have to stay here a long time to enjoy all the various spa treatments.

Fashion designer Todd Oldham took the old (1939) Tiffany Hotel and transformed it into something fun and romantic, called simply The Hotel. The smallish rooms betray the designer’s style and attention to detail. Cool pastels combine with mosaics and mirrored tile to create little jewel box-like spaces. The Wish restaurant is terrific, and up top, Spire is one of the most popular roof bars in Miami. The old Tiffany sign is still there casting its warm neon glow.

The 12-story Tides has some of the best views in South Beach, especially from the upper floor penthouses. The recently renovated Art Deco hotel is now part condo, and rooms are nearly twice as big as average. The old monochromatic color scheme gave way to a more vibrant palette and the large, private pool was updated and given cabanas. Service is better than most and the lobby restaurant La Marea is a great choice for fresh seafood.

Read about the best Miami roof bars and the Top 10 Italian Restaurants in Miami.

Legend:
1) Angler’s Resort
2) Delano
3) Gansevoort South
4) National Hotel
5) Pelican Hotel
6) Ritz Carlton South Beach
7) The Sagamore
8) The Setai
9) The Standard
10) The Hotel
11) The Tides

View South Beach Miami Hotels in a larger map

South Beach Miami hotels Image Flickr: wyntuition
South Beach Image Flickr: baekken

Mississippi River cruises have beautiful views

If you read Mark Twain as a kid – and who didn’t – you probably were captivated by the romance of the Mississippi River. The greatest of American rivers, she winds 2,320 miles from Lake Itasca, Minnesota to New Orleans, where she flows into the Gulf of Mexico. The history of America is writ large on her banks.

In 1811, the steamboat New Orleans was the first to sail the length of the Mississippi and by the middle of the 19th century, steamship travel on the river was booming.

A cruise on the mighty Mississippi is a travel dream of many, and before Katrina, there were many Mississippi River cruises to choose from, notably the Mississippi, American, and Delta Queens. But the one-two punch of Katrina and the recession forced the major Mississippi cruise lines out of business.

For now, Blount Small Ship Adventures is the only company offering Mississippi River cruises. But American Cruise Lines is building a new 140-passenger paddlewheeler that is scheduled to begin cruises on the river in the fall of 2012.

Blount offers three different cruises on the Mississippi River on their vessel, Niagara Prince. Built in 1994 and renovated in 2009, she was especially designed for cruising America’s inland waterways. She has an extremely shallow draft and a collapsible pilot house, and a landing ramp that extends from the bow – letting passengers go ashore where there’s no dock.

Active travelers will appreciate the on-board kayaks and bikes. And guest naturalists, historians, and photographers provide enriching commentary to the voyage.

The first itinerary is a 12-day cruise from New Orleans to Chattanooga or vise versa. Port calls include Mobile and Demopolis Alabama; Columbus and West Point, Mississippi; Decatur and Guntersville, Alabama; the Grand Canyon of the South section of the Tennessee River; and Chattanooga.

Cruisers can also choose to board Niagara Prince in Nashville, Tennessee for an 11-day cruise that visits Clarksville, St. Genevieve, St. Louis, Alton, Havana, Peoria, and Joliet. This voyage includes cruising the Missouri, Tennessee, and Ohio Rivers.

Those with a little more time can sail all the way from Chicago to New Orleans in 15 days.

Mississippi cruises are available during the summer and fares are comparable to ocean cruises.

Find other river cruises.

Mississippi River cruises have beautiful views Image Flickr: y entonces

St. Regis Princeville Resort Kauai

Few places on earth pack as much into such a small space as the island of Kauai. With some of the most ravishing scenery anywhere, friendly locals, and a wide variety of accommodations and activities, Kauai is a great vacation spot.

Less developed than Oahu or Maui, Kauai has a low-key charm that makes it impossible not to relax. And there are excellent Kauai hotels for those who don’t mind spending a lot, as well as those who only want to spend a little.

Luxury Kauai hotels.

The most luxurious hotel in Kauai is the St. Regis Resort Princeville. When money’s no object, this is the place to stay. The former Princeville Resort Kauai underwent a multi-million dollars renovation before reopening in 2009. Views of Hanalei Bay and the mountain known as Bali Hai for the movie South Pacific take your breath away. And butler service ensures that guests in suites want for nothing. If you prefer not to stay here, at least come for an expensive cocktail.

On Kauai’s South Shore, not far from Poipu Beach, the Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort and Spa is one of the biggest Kauai resorts with half a dozen restaurants and bars, a full-service spa, beautifully landscaped gardens, and dramatic ocean views.

Kauai beach resorts.

Those who prefer a resort with lots of facilities and amenities have plenty of choices on Kauai. The Sheraton Kauai Resort is on a beautiful, swimming beach adjacent to Poipu Beach. Sunsets from their lounge called the Point are unforgettable, and they offer the only ocean-front luau on the island.

Nearby, the 121-room Koa Kea Hotel reopened last year after being nearly destroyed by a hurricane in 1992. It has a swimming pool, ocean-front restaurant, and spa. For those who want all the amenities of a big hotel without hundreds of fellow guests, this is a good choice.

Poipu Beach

The Kauai Marriott Resort and Beach Club enjoys a great location on Kalapaki Beach. If you dream of a huge, undulating pool, tennis, fitness center, and lots of activities, you’ll love it here. There are good programs for kids too.
The Hilton Kauai Beach Resort has four pools, water slides, lots of restaurants and bars, and free transfers to the airport, which is nearby.

Kauai vacation rentals.

A condo with a kitchen can save you quite a bit of money, especially if you’re traveling with a group of friends or family. And there are several good ones on Kauai to choose from.

With amenities like granite countertops, Sub Zero refrigerators, and a two-acre, winding swimming pool, Outrigger Waipouli Beach Resort and Spa are the nicest – and most expensive – vacation rentals on the island. If you can afford it, pop for an ocean-view unit. Choose this one if you like to walk to shops and restaurants.

The Westin Princeville Ocean Resort Villas are a close second with private lanais, in-unit washers and dryers, and access to some of the island’s best golf. It has a great program for kids of all ages, and the layout makes it seem smaller than it is.

Marriott Waiohai Beach Club has two-bedroom condos with modern kitchens, ocean views, and private lanais. Although expensive, groups of six will spend less here than they would with two separate condos. It has a pool, and you can walk to many great restaurants and Poipu Beach.

Next door to the Sheraton, Kiahuna Plantation has one, two, and three-bedroom condos in a variety of price ranges. The grounds here are especially attractive – there’s even a cactus garden surrounding their excellent restaurant, which is housed in an old plantation house. The beach is great, but there’s no pool. Although it’s not as glamorous as some of the newer properties, it has a lot of Hawaiian charm.

The most affordable vacation rental is Wailua Bayview, which is located close to the beach in Kapaa. The Coconut Marketplace is nearby for shopping and restaurants.

VRBO – Vacation Rentals By Owner

St. Regis Princeville Resort Kauai Image Flickr: Cedartones
Poipu Beach Image Flickr: rezsox

1) St. Regis Princeville Resort
2) Grand Hyatt Resort and Spa
3) Sheraton Kauai Resort
4) Koa Kea Hotel and Resort
5) Kauai Marriott Resort
6) Hilton Kauai Beach Resort
7) Outrigger Waipouli Beach Resort
8) Hilton Kauai Beach Resort
9) Westin Princeville Ocean Resort Villas
10) Kiahuna Plantation
11) Coral Reef Resort
12) Waimea Plantation Cottages
13) Hanalei Colony Resort

View Kauai Hotels in a larger map

Baltimore Harbor

Cruises can — and should be — extremely relaxing. But sometimes, getting to the cruise ship is anything but. Tight connections, lost luggage, and weather delays can be stressful even if you’ve planned to spend a day or two in port before your departure.

Taking a cruise from a port that’s close to home is really convenient, especially if you can drive. For residents of the mid-Atlantic states, Baltimore is an ideal embarkation port. And it offers quite a few options.

Carnival and Royal Caribbean both offer cruises out of Baltimore, and travelers can visit Bermuda, the Bahamas, or Canada and New England.

Bahamas cruises from Baltimore.

The 2660-passenger Carnival Pride sails from Baltimore on Sundays and spends two days at sea before calling at Port Canaveral, where passengers can visit the Kennedy Space Center, Universal Studios, or Walt Disney World. The next day, she arrives at Nassau in the late morning.

In Nassau, there are plenty of activities to choose from including catamaran trips, swimming with dolphins, relaxing at a private island, or parasailing. And because the ship doesn’t sail until 10:00PM, passengers can spend the evening ashore.

Pride arrives at Freeport the next morning, and cruisers will be able to enjoy more water sports and sightseeing before she sails in the afternoon.

Another sea day leaves time for spa treatments, or lounging by the ship’s pools. Pride returns to Baltimore the following Sunday morning. Discounted fares start around $699 per person.

Royal Caribbean’s Enchantment of the Seas has nine-day cruises that leave from Baltimore. These voyages also call at Key West and Coco Cay, Royal Caribbean’s private island.

Bermuda cruises from Baltimore.

In mid-April, Enchantment of the Seas offers five-night Bermuda cruises. They sail from Baltimore on Saturday, spend Sunday at Sea and arrive in King’s Wharf, Bermuda on Monday morning. During their time in Bermuda, cruisers can snorkel, dive, explore the caves or aquarium, go fishing, bike, hike, or golf.

Because Enchantment is in port overnight, passengers can go ashore for dinner or nightlife.

Baltimore Waterfront

Fans of Carnival can take their seven-night cruise to Bermuda in April, September, October, or November. Their Bermuda cruises include an extra night in King’s Wharf. She sails and returns on Sunday.

Caribbean cruises from Baltimore.

During the early spring, Royal Caribbean offers 12-night Caribbean cruises that call at Labadee, Haiti; Samana in the Dominican Republic; San Juan, Puerto Rico; St. Thomas in the U.S. Virgin Islands; St. Maarten; and Tortola in the British Virgin Islands. These voyages also include five days at sea so there’s plenty of time to enjoy the amenities aboard Enchantment of the Sea.

Later in the season, Enchantment offers nine-night cruises that bypass Haiti and St. Maarten.

Carnival Pride operates one-week cruises that leave Baltimore on Sunday, and call at Turks & Caicos Islands, and Half Moon Bay and Freeport in the Bahamas.

Other cruises from Baltimore.

During the summer and early fall, Enchantment of the Seas calls at Portland and Bar Harbor, Maine; Saint John, New Brunswick; Halifax, Nova Scotia, and Boston. This is a great way to see Canada’s Maritime Provinces, which are noted for their rugged coastal beauty. These cruises generally offer very good value for money.

Read our advice for choosing the right cruise ship.

Baltimore Harbor Image Flickr: kymagirl
Baltimore Waterfront Image Flickr: Jennie Faber

Payard Patisserie

From Alain Ducasse to Joel Robuchon to Pierre Gagnaire, some of the top chefs in France have restaurants in Las Vegas. So Americans can indulge in five-star French dining without having to cross the Atlantic.

But most of the city’s top French restaurants are only open for dinner. So where can a Francophile get a French pastry fix on this side of the world – a crispy, chewy macaron or a dense, rich butter cake? Fortunately, there are several French-style patisseries to choose from.

Chef Jean-Philippe Maury won the Meilleur Ouvrier de France – the country’s highest honor – in 1997 and became the Executive Pastry Chef at Bellagio the following year. His patisserie in the Bellagio Spa Tower, called simply Jean-Philippe Patisserie, offers the kinds of pastries the French do so well – palmiers, coconut macaroons, caramels, nougat, a variety of pound cakes, and sensational chocolates. Guests entering the Bellagio shop are greeted by the world’s largest chocolate fountain.

His patisserie proved so successful, that he opened a larger, second shop recently in the Aria. You can also get a light lunch, individual chocolates and truffles, and hand-made ice creams and sorbets at this location.

Payard Patisserie & Bistro in Caesar’s Palace showcases the pastries and chocolates of Francois Payard. If you’re craving a Croque Monsieur or Madame, the 40-seat bistro is a lovely place for a French brunch or lunch. His gift baskets – filled with jams, confections, chocolates, and cookbooks – make lovely gifts. And his delicious pastries include caramels, macarons in some imaginative flavors, financiers (which are similar to Madeleines), éclairs, tarts, and cakes.

Pastries at Amore

Superstar chef Thomas Keller’s Bouchon is one of the most popular restaurants in Yountville. So it was only natural for Keller to open another branch of his bistro/brasserie in Las Vegas. The Bouchon Bakery next to the restaurant is the place in Yountville for breakfast pastries and baked goods.

The Las Vegas branch is located in the Venetian Resort near the entrance to the theater. Each day, they make a beautiful assortment of Viennoiseries, as pastries like Napoleons and éclairs are known in France, as well as croissants, brioche, tarts, macarons, and bouchon – the addictive little chocolate treats that are shaped like wine corks. Don’t miss the TKO, Keller’s version of an Oreo cookie. You can even pick up goodies for Fido.

Jean-Philippe Patisserie

The newcomer to the Las Vegas pastry scene is Amore Patisserie in the Mandarin Oriental Hotel. In addition to pastries, chocolates, and home-made ice cream in flavors like avocado and green tea, Amore also serves sandwiches made with their freshly baked bread. The window displays are fabulous and the level of artistry here is truly impressive with gorgeous arrangements of spun sugar and Louis Vuitton bags made of fondant.

Their packaging is something special, so consider coming here for gifts to take home to friends and family.

If you’re lucky enough to be headed to Paris, find our list of the best patisseries here.

Payard Patisserie Image Flickr: biskuit
Pastries at Amore Image Flickr: dret
Jean-Philippe Patisserie Image Flickr: kckellner

Roof bar at The Standard Hotel

Southern California is noted for fantastic weather, gorgeous views, and beautiful people. What better way to enjoy all three than by visiting one of the trendy roof bars overlooking the Pacific, the Hollywood Hills, or Downtown.

Most feature designer cocktails and high-end appetizers, and many have rooftop pools and cabanas. At most of them, you’ll need to look sharp, be a guest of the hotel, or sneak in before the bouncer arrives.

1) Standard Hotel
The Standard Hotel located downtown has one of the coolest roof bars in Southern California. Surrounded by the city’s skyscrapers — yes, L.A. has skyscrapers — it’s a dazzling, urban setting with a heated swimming pool, an outdoor fireplace, a lawn with topiary sculpture, and vibrating waterbed pods. It’s not as hard to get into as ABH or Sky Bar, but bring your A game just the same.

2) Shangri-La Hotel
Right across the street from Santa Monica Beach, the Shangri-La was recently redone and today, the 1939 Art Deco palace really shines. Suite 700, designed by Marc Smith, has sweeping view of the beach and Santa Monica Pier, hand-crafted cocktails, small plates, and fire pits. If you get chilly, there’s seating inside the nautical-style bar that opens onto the roof. Suite 700 used to be available only to guests, but now the public is welcome too.

3) Hotel Erwin
South of Santa Monica Beach, High is on the roof of Hotel Erwin, the new Joie de Vivre property in Venice. Formerly the Marina Pacific Hotel, the Erwin is in the perfect location for enjoying everything that Venice has to offer. And High features 360-degree views of everything — Muscle Beach, the boardwalk, Santa Monica Pier, and the endless Pacific. Designer cocktails and a low-key attitude make High an appealing choice. Sunday brunch has bottomless mimosas or bloody Marys.

4) Thompson Beverly Hills
Ultra hip hotelier Jason Pomeranc has brought some Manhattan style to Beverly Hills. ABH (Above Beverly Hills) has a roof-top pool studded with Swarovski crystals, private cabanas, great views, and sushi and nibbles from the hotel‘s Bond Street restaurant. Like the A60 Bar atop the Thompson in Soho, ABH is restricted to hotel guests and “members.” But if you look like you belong and drop by during the afternoon, you might get in.

5) Mondrian Hotel
Located in West Hollywood, The Mondrian has been going strong for decades. The very popular Sky Bar was recently redesigned by Tim Andreas of Banjo. Floating over the city, the lounge has overstuffed sofas, Mexican furniture, and a very exclusive crowd. You’ll either need to be on the guest list or show up before 8PM and hope to not get evicted.

6) The London West Hollywood
You wouldn’t expect to find an English country garden high above West Hollywood, but you’ll find one at the London. Private, pool-side cabanas, inventive cocktails, and food overseen by celebrity chef Gordon Ramsay make the roof garden at the London a great choice for a nice evening out.

7) Huntley Hotel
With 360-degree views taking in the Pacific, the Hollywood Hills, and everything in between, the Penthouse at the Huntley is another excellent choice in Santa Monica. Cozy cabanas, an outdoor fireplace, and an upscale, affluent crowd it’s usually packed. Although the 18th-floor space is technically enclosed, there’s nothing between you and the view but walls of windows.

Santa Monica Beach

8) Elevate Lounge
Located in a 7,000-square-foot penthouse on the 21st-floor, Elevate Lounge is one of the few roof bars in L.A. that’s not in a hotel. The ultra-modern lounge has150 feet of sliding glass doors that open right onto the high rises of the financial district — yes, L.A. has one of those too. High rollers can invest in VIP bottle service, which starts at $255. Elevate is open Thursdays through Saturdays, and valet parking is available.

9) The Peninsula Beverly Hills
Described as a poolside patio garden, The Roof Garden atop the Peninsula recently received a $4 million makeover that included a living wall of jasmine, wisteria, and palms. It serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner, so you can enjoy the views day or night. During the summer, Saturday and Sunday night Ribs on the Roof barbecues are very popular. You can get the three-course prix fixe for $55, or order a la carte. Non-rib eaters can get Alaskan halibut or Maine lobster for a supplement.

10) W Hotel Hollywood
Managed by Las Vegas nightlife impresario Victor Drai, Drai’s and the Wet Deck, atop the W Hotel Hollywood, combine a night club, a restaurant, and a 20,000-square-foot roof terrace with killer views of the Hollywood Hills. Poolside cabanas, Moroccan day beds, and VIP bottle service are available for those who want to impress. And Sunday-afternoon pool parties here are the most popular in town. Drai’s Thursday and Sunday night pool parties are very popular.

Find roof bars in Miami here.

View L.A.’s best roof bar in a larger map

Roof bar at The Standard Hotel Image Flickr: rick
Santa Monica Beach Image Flickr: Joe in DC

Flea market fun

With some of the top flea markets in the country going strong for years now, L.A. needs another flea market like it needs a hole in the head. But Southern Californians are so crazy for flea markets that too much is not enough. In fact, the only thing more popular than flea markets is food trucks. And some brilliant entrepreneur got the idea to combine the two.

The new L.A. Flea Market debuts on July 18 in the parking lot of Dodger Stadium. The grand opening will feature the Hollywood Yard Sale with items donated by George Clooney, Brad Pitt, and other celebrities. Proceeds from sales will benefit the Salvation Army Adult Rehabilitation Center.

More than 500 vendors are scheduled to participate, selling everything from antiques, vintage clothes, furniture, collectibles, fine art, crafts, and just plain junk. The antique and vintage section will be managed by King Richards, which is one of the area’s best established antique centers. There will also be new merchandise and sustainable goods and charity groups.

A kids’ play area with a rock-climbing wall and inflatable play-gyms will keep them occupied.

Typical of Southern California, a VIP pass is available for $25. It includes valet parking, early-bird (7AM) admission, concierge service for schlepping your purchases, and a reserved porta-potty section away from the riff raff – and presumedly behind red, velvet ropes. Doors open at 9AM and general admission is $5.

Komodo food truck

Local bands, including Freddie and Francine, The Broken Numbers Band, and John Paul and the Courtship, will provide entertainment throughout the day.

What really sets the new market apart is the presence of some of L.A.’s top food trucks. Unlike some other cities, L.A’s ethnic neighborhoods aren’t centralized, and you might have to drive 90 minutes to satisfy a craving for Jamaican food. In response, ethnic food trucks have sprung up that bring exotic flavors to a variety of locations. Fans learn their whereabouts by following them on Twitters.

Shoppers at the flea market grand opening can choose from Butter Chicken over Basmati Rice from India Jones, Indonesian Beef Rendang with Cucumber Salad or Singapore-style Shrimp with Sour Cream Salad from Komodo, Jerk Pork with rice and beans from Reggae Chicken, Korean Fried Chicken from Ahn-Joo, Grilled Beef Vietnamese Baguettes from Mandoline Grill, Crispy Baja Fish Tacos from Border Grill, Nutella and Banana Crepes from Crepe’n Around, and more.

Goodies from the Komodo food truck

Two shows are scheduled following the grand opening – one on August 29 and one on September 26.

If you love searching for treasures at the flea market, mingling with the masses, and sampling some delicious and affordable ethnic food, you know where to go.

Read more about Southern California flea markets here. and here.

Flea market fun Image Flickr: dorena-wm
Komodo food truck Image Flickr: ricardodiaz11
Goodies from the Komodo food truck Image Flickr: helkimchee

Flea market bargain or rip off?

Southern California flea markets have something for everyone. Whether you’re a serious collector, or just someone who appreciates one-of-a-kind items, you can find something cool for a great price, if you follow a few simple steps.

If you’re looking for something specific, do some homework in advance. Go online and get an idea of what fair market value is for the item you’re trying to find. Then, figure out which flea market is most likely to have a vendor who carries it.

With 2,500 vendors, the Rose Bowl Flea Market has practically everything anyone could want. Long Beach is good for antiques, furniture, and other collectibles. And Santa Monica has beautiful things for the home.

The best strategy for finding something in particular is to go early. But remember that you’ll need to add the higher admission fee to the price of your treasure. At the Rose Bowl, the 5AM admission runs $20, and many vendors won’t be set up until 9AM.

If you’re open to whatever strikes your fancy, you can probably sleep in. With no admission fee, the Pasadena City College Flea Market offers the best bargain to begin with.

Dress comfortably, especially for Long Beach or the Rose Bowl. And protect yourself from the sun with a hat and some sunscreen. A lightweight backpack makes it easy to carry a bottle of water and it’s a handy place for small purchases.

Bargain hunters are often advised to dress down, so dealers won’t think they’re easy marks. But in L.A., vendors are used to seeing poor-looking rich people – you never who just sold a screen play for seven figures. And half the Louis Vuitton bags are fake anyway, so don’t worry too much about what you wear.

Another satisfied customer

Do bring plenty of cash, in smaller denominations. And if you’re shopping for furniture or bigger items, bring a way to transport it. At the Rose Bowl, the hike back to your car could be a mile, so ask the dealer to hold your purchase until you’re done shopping for the day. A tape measure often comes in handy too.

The more eager you are about your purchase, the more you’ll pay, so try not to act too excited about it – unless the asking price is clearly a bargain. Otherwise, it’s okay to discretely ask if that’s the best the seller can do. Often there’s a little wiggle room built into the price.

If you do find a treasure, ask for a receipt. And if it’s a collectible, ask for a certificate of authenticity or a written appraisal. Get the name and contact information of the dealer. And if you’re always interested in similar items, give him your contact information too so he can let you know if he comes across something you may be interested in.

Find a map to Southern California flea markets here.

Flea market bargain or rip off? Image Flickr: ?ick Harris
Another satisfied customer Image Flickr: pink_fish13

Stearns Wharf

Having just returned from the Cote d’Azur, we can endorse the idea that Santa Barbara is the American Riviera. Located on a gorgeous stretch of coastline where the mountains tumble down to the Pacific Ocean, Santa Barbara is one of the most beautiful cities in the country.

You’ll likely enjoy perfect weather and sensational food and wine during your visit. And many of the hotels in Santa Barbara have ocean-view rooms, so you can enjoy the scenery as soon as you open your eyes.

Start your day at the beautiful ocean-front park and take a stroll along the coastal path that runs for miles. During the summer, there’s an arts and crafts festival here every Sunday. It’s easy to be on or near the water, and if you have a car, there’s plenty of public parking.

There are several restaurants on Stearns Wharf, and several more in the Marina. Brophy Brothers is a great choice for fresh seafood. If you’re in town when the local lobsters are in season, try one.

State Street, the main drag, is lined with stylish shops and bistros. And there’s a Nordstrom in the Paseo Nuevo shopping center.

Hotels in Santa Barbara.

Although Santa Barbara is an expensive destination, there are nice places in a variety of price ranges.

One of the newer Santa Barbara hotels, Canary is convenient to downtown shops and restaurants. It was originally the Andalucia, but it was redone in a sophisticated Moorish style that works well with Santa Barbara’s Spanish architecture. The big bonus here is the roof-top bar and lounge area which also features a swimming pool and Jacuzzi. On clear days, you’ll be able to see the Channel Islands. All 77 rooms have four-poster beds, small refrigerators, flat-screen TVs, and WiFi access. There’s a restaurant called Coast on the ground floor, and pets are welcome.

When you’re looking for luxury, and don’t mind paying for it, the Four Seasons Biltmore is just the ticket. Across the street from Butterfly Beach and the Coral Casino Beach & Cabana Club – which guests can use – it’s technically in Montecito. So it’s not really walking distance to Santa Barbara attractions, but that‘s part of the appeal. The resort first opened in the 1920s, and the graceful arches, Spanish tiles, and 20-acre grounds are very romantic. Many of the rooms have fireplaces and balconies with sweeping ocean views. For families, there are also a dozen cottages with separate entrances. If you love to be pampered, you can indulge in a massage or beauty treatment in the 10,000-square-foot spa. Guests can entertainment themselves with tennis or a variety of lawn games. The restaurant is quite good, and Sunday brunch is very popular.

With 23 nicely decorated rooms, the Inn of the Spanish Garden is a nice boutique hotel for a romantic weekend away. It’s downtown, so the beach is a hike, but shops, restaurants, theaters, and nightlife are at your doorstep. Upgrade to a luxury room and you’ll enjoy a fireplace, a balcony or patio, stocked refrigerator, and soaking tub. There’s an outdoor pool, fitness center, and courtyard with a fire pit.

Hotel Oceana is made up of four individual hotels that were built in the 1940s. As a result, there are many different types of accommodations available. But all feature interior design by Kathryn Ireland in four different color schemes, luxury linens, CD players, flat-screen TVs, and WiFi access. Many have views of the ocean. The lush 2-1/2-acre property is right across the street from the beach and there are two swimming pools and a Jacuzzi. And you can arrange to have a massage in your room. There’s no restaurant on site, but there are many within walking distance. Take advantage of the hotel’s free bicycles to explore the area.

With 360 rooms in seven buildings on 24 acres, Fess Parker’s Doubletree Resort Santa Barbara is the biggest hotel in Santa Barbara by far. Those who knew Parker only as Daniel Boone may not know that he was also a respected California winemaker. The ocean-front property has a fitness center, full-service spa, tennis, several pools, a steakhouse, café, and pool-side barbecue. The helpful staff can arrange water sports activities or trips to the Channel Islands. If you want a hotel with all the bells and whistles, this is your best bet. The location here really can’t be beat. Splurge on a room with a view.

If you don’t mind walking a block to the beach, Casa del Mar offers good value for money in Santa Barbara. Built in the Spanish style, it’s an older motel that was recently refurbished. Although there’s no pool, there’s a Jacuzzi on the sun deck, and the grounds are beautifully landscaped. There are regular rooms, and one- and two-room suites, some of which have a kitchenette or a fireplace.

The pool at Bacara

Not far from Stearns Wharf, about a block from the beach, the Franciscan Inn was also built in the 1920s in the Spanish style. The 48 rooms are bright and cheerful and most of the suites have kitchenettes and mountain views. There’s a pool and whirlpool, and a continental breakfast is included in the rate. It’s another good choice for those looking for an affordable hotel.

Those who want to get away from it all and just enjoy the spectacular coast should head for Bacara Resort, 15 minutes north of Santa Barbara. Set on 78 acres of bluffs overlooking the Pacific, Bacara offers beautiful views from every turn – whether you’re dining in the restaurant or relaxing on your private patio. Designed to resemble a Mediterranean village, the resort has one, three- and four-story villas, three pools with 26 private cabanas, and a nice selection of water sports equipment. With ocean-view rooms starting at over $1,000 a night, it’s a big investment.

Read about Santa Monica beach hotels here.

View Hotels in Santa Barbara in a larger map

1) Canary Hotel
2) Four Seasons Biltmore Santa Barbara
3) Inn of the Spanish Garden
4) Hotel Oceana
5) Fess Parker’s Doubletree Resort
6) Casa del Mar
7) Franciscan Inn
8) Bacara Resort

Stearns Wharf Image Flickr: Ken Lund
The pool at Bacara Image Flickr: papertygre

Shutters on The Beach

Santa Monica Beach is one of the most appealing places in Southern California. The beach itself is terrific with more than three miles of golden sand. You can surf, bike, sun, or ride the Ferris wheel. And there’s great shopping and restaurants along Ocean Avenue and at the popular 3rd Street Promenade.

You’ll find Art Deco hotels that date from the 1920s, bungalows, and luxurious, ocean-front resorts where guests want for nothing.

Two blocks from the beach in a relatively quiet neighborhood, Cal Mar Hotel Suites were built in the 1950s as apartments. Units have living rooms, separate bedrooms, and full kitchens. There’s a pretty courtyard, a heated swimming pool, and an off-site fitness center. It’s very close to the shops and restaurants of the 3rd Street Promenade, or you can save money by eating in. For the location and amenities, it’s a good value.

Across the street from sister property Shutters on the Beach, Casa del Mar is in an old Art Deco hotel from the 1920s. Rooms are very luxurious with period pieces like four-poster beds and big, Italian-marble bathrooms. And most have ocean views. The two-story penthouse suites are some of the nicest – and most expensive – accommodations in Santa Monica. Guest can enjoy the spa, a cabana on the fifth-floor pool deck, or the beach. The ocean-front seafood restaurant, Catch, scores rave reviews, and there’s an inviting lounge on the veranda.

A member of the Four Sisters Inns group, Channel Road Inn will appeal to bed and breakfast fans. The 15 rooms are located in a 1910 house in a residential neighborhood near the beach. The staff will hook you up with a bicycle or a beach chair. The downstairs living room has a beautiful fireplace with Batchelder tiles. Rooms are individually decorated, and some have fireplaces or whirlpool tubs. There’s a hot rub and you can arrange for an in-room massage. A full breakfast and afternoon wine and cheese are included in the rate. Conde Nast Traveler recently named this the top B&B in Los Angeles.

Originally built in 1924, the Fairmont Miramar Hotel & Bungalows offers a variety of accommodations in two towers and 32 bungalows. It’s a short stroll to the beach or the promenade. Rooms in the towers have beautiful views. Those in the ten-story Ocean Tower have balconies. But the bungalows, which were built in the 20s, 30s, and 40s, are the place to stay. Equipped with every conceivable amenity, these min-residences include butler service. There’s a health club, spa, and outdoor pool. Fig, named for the giant tree in front of the entrance, serves expensive French food.

The Georgian first opened in 1933, and it still has a lot of charm. The Aqua and bronze hotel

The Georgian Hotel

would be equally at home on South Beach. It’s located right on Ocean Avenue, and the lobby and veranda have great views of Santa Monica Beach, across the street. The rooms still have Art Deco accents but a 2007 renovation brought flat-screen TVs and docks for MP3 players. Rooms on higher floors have the best views. Guests can have breakfast or lunch at the restaurant on the veranda.

If easy access to a top-notch spa is an essential part of your vacation plans, book a stay at Le Merigot. In addition to services at the 6,500-square-foot spa, the packages available here might include a Porsche Boxster convertible or some surf lessons. The 175 guest rooms have pillow-top beds, big TVs, and ocean views. Many have terraces. There’s also an outdoor pool with cabanas and a state-of-the-art fitness center. Cezanne, the hotel’s French-inspired restaurant, is popular. Le Merigot is less expensive and more laid back than many of it’s neighbors.

Travelers who like a boutique hotel will enjoy the 70-room Oceana. Recently redesigned by Chris Barrett, the rooms are bright, lighter, bigger than most and tricked out with two plasma TVs and work spaces with desks. There’s a hip lounge, a restaurant with a menu created by Jonathan Morr, and a well-equipped fitness center. The pool is on the small side, but there’s WiFi access so you can work out there if duty calls.

Shutters on The Beach looks like an old Cape Cod resort, but the similarity ends there. It’s California, through and through. If you can afford it, the ocean-front location and luxurious rooms with floor-to-ceiling windows, huge bathrooms, and balconies, are best in class. You’re very likely to see celebrities in One Pico, the hotel’s contemporary restaurant. And there’s a heated pool, fitness center, and Jacuzzi, if you can ever tear yourself away from the room. The first time you throw open the shutters on your windows, you’ll say “pinch me.”

Find things to do in Santa Monica Beach here.

1) Cal Mar Hotel Suites
2) Casa del Mar
3) Channel Road Inn
4) Fairmont Miramar Hotel & Bungalows
5) Georgian Hotel
6) Le Merigot
7) Hotel Oceana
8) Shutters on The Beach

View Santa Monica Beach Hotels in a larger map

Shutters on the beach image Flickr: Joe Shlabotnik
Georgian Hotel Image Flickr: Joe Shlabotnik

Spire lounge

With some of the best views in the world, sizzling nightlife, and balmy breezes virtually all year long, Miami is one of the best cities in the world for roof bars. Once the sun sets and the temperature drops, there’s no more appealing place than a sybaritic roof-top terrace high above the city.

Many are open only at night and on weekends, but some are open in the afternoon when the view is completely different. Expect to pay sky-high prices for drinks, and appetizers, if they’re served.

Here’s our list of the best roof bars in Miami:

When it opened in 2008, Gansevoort South stole some South Beach cachet and made Mid Beach the new place to see and be seen. With swaying palm trees, a huge infinity pool, and private cabanas with chandeliers, their roof bar – Plunge – looks out over the Atlantic Ocean from 18 stories up. Thursday nights are the time to go. Oversized beds and chaise lounges are spread out across 24,000 square feet of teak decking. So grab a spot and a perfectly made mojito, and enjoy.

Compared to Plunge, the Rooftop Lounge at the Townhouse Hotel is practically a secret. But locals know it’s a great alternative with less attitude and more reasonable prices. The lounge was recently redone with king-size waterbeds and red canvas umbrellas, and with a maximum capacity of 250, it’s easier to get to know your neighbors. If you hit Plunge on Thursday, come here on the weekend.

When it comes to views, Club 50, on the 50th floor of the Viceroy Hotel, takes the prize. During the day, the club is reserved for hotel guests and residents of Icon Brickell. But Tuesday through Saturday nights, it’s open to the young and beautiful who come to dance to music spun by the area’s top DJs. The Asian-influenced design features natural materials – lots of wood and marble. And there’s a pool near the bar. Club 50 is hard to get into, so look and dress your best.

Todd Oldham designed the Spire Lounge atop The Hotel, and it has some of the best views – and cocktails – in South Beach. It’s open to the public Thursday through Saturday. The lounge is furnished with big white sofas with red pillows, and the floorboards are bright stripes of red, pink, and beige. The whole space is bathed in the cool glow of the original neon Tiffany hotel sign. If you get hungry, interesting tapas are available. The Spire can also be hard to get into.

The roof bars at the Sanctuary Hotel and the Setai Hotel are also quite nice.

Find our list of the best roof bars in Rome here.

1) Plunge at Gansevoort
2) Rooftop Lounge at the Townhouse
3) Club 50 at the Viceroy
4) Spire Lounge at The Hotel
5) Sanctuary Hotel
6) Setai Hotel

View Miami’s best roof bars in a larger map

Spire lounge Image Flickr: dinemag

Mendocino Coastline

One of the most attractive towns on the Northern California coast, Mendocino was settled by New England loggers. The apple didn’t fall far from the tree, and Mendocino looks just like a New England fishing village from the 1800s. If you watched the TV show “Murder, She Wrote,” you may recognize Mendocino as the town of Cabot Cove.

Many Mendocino hotels are actually luxury inns converted from 19th-century private homes.

Today, most of the town is protected due to its listing on the National Register of Historic Places. So development has been tasteful and contained. In addition to the town’s historic charm, the natural surroundings are absolutely spectacular.

There are several old homes worth visiting, including the 1861 Kelley House, and the 1854 Ford House, which is also the Mendocino Headlands State Park Visitor’s Center. The park has several beautiful trails with great views. It’s especially appealing in spring when lupine, California poppies, and other wildflowers cover the headlands. Big River Beach, south of town, is a great spot for a beach walk.

In town, there are lots of cute shops and galleries worth checking out.

Mendocino hotels in old Victorian homes.

There are no better vistas of the Pacific than those from Agate Cove Inn. If your agenda is to relax, lean back, and watch the waves, Agate Cove is the place. The 1860 farmhouse and cottages are set in two acres of gardens above Agate Beach, and the views are the best around. In fact, during migration season, you’ll often see whales from the breakfast room. The majority of the accommodations here are in cottages with private entrances. Most have fireplaces, private decks, refrigerators, and ocean views. Bluff House has two bedrooms, two bathrooms, a tricked-out gourmet kitchen, and a laundry room. Bluff Cottage is a studio with a kitchenette and ocean-view deck with hot tub. A lavish breakfast is included in the rate and Agate Cove Inn has wireless Internet access.

Spread out across 8 acres of woods and gardens, Glendeven has accommodations in an 1867 farmhouse, a four-room annex called Stevenscroft, a carriage house, and the barn loft, which sleeps six. All have ocean views and most have fireplaces. Rooms are Pottery Barn perfect with a blend of antiques and contemporary furnishings. Hiking trails lead you through old-growth forest, across the headlands, and down to the beach. Oenophiles will enjoy the on-site wine bar which also serves cheese plates and charcuterie. Dinner is served on Tuesdays and Saturdays. And three-course breakfasts made with eggs and vegetables grown on the property and delivered to your room are a highlight. Daily yoga classes are held each morning, and you can help feed the llamas.

Mendocino

One of the prettiest Victorian houses in town, the Joshua Grindle Inn was built by a prominent Mendocino banker in 1879. It’s surrounded by two acres of colorful gardens and it’s walking distance to shops and restaurants. The inn is not ocean front, but you can see Mendocino Bay across the meadow. There are ten rooms available — five in the main house, three in the water tower, and another two in the saltbox cottage. They’re decorated in a New England, country style. Tea and sherry are served in the pretty parlor, and breakfast is included each morning. Noted for it’s warm hospitality, Joshua Grindle Inn is a AAA Four Diamond Award winner.

Modern Mendocino hotels.

With a solarium pool, canoe, kayak, and mountain bike rentals, an exercise room, and a hot tub, Stanford Inn by the Sea has the most amenities of any Mendocino hotel. There are 33 units in two shingle-style buildings on 11 acres where the Big River meets the Pacific. The Stanford’s owners are animal lovers — there are horses and llamas in the pastures, and your dog is welcome. Rooms have fireplaces or wood stoves, decks, CD and DVD players, and ocean views. Vegetarians will swoon over the award-winning vegetarian restaurant, one of the few on the coast. Many of the ingredients come from the inn’s certified organic gardens. The Stanford Inn is a great choice for active travelers who want to bike, paddle, and hike, and then return to a completely civilized retreat.

With 22 rooms, the Albion River Inn is the second largest of the Mendocino hotels. As a result, you may be able to find a room here when other places are fully booked. It’s about six miles south of Mendocino on a bluff above the ocean. Luxurious and elegant ocean-view rooms here have fireplaces, spa tubs with ocean views, and private decks. But one the best reasons to stay is the award-winning restaurant that’s right on site. It’s won Wine Spectator’s Award of Excellence 18 years in a row and features unforgettable views of the coast. There’s also an impressive selection of single-malt Scotch. The menu changes nightly and features the freshest local seafood and produce. Sunset Magazine named the Albion River Inn one of the best small inns on the west coast.

With just ten rooms, Brewery Gulch Inn often fills up well in advance. So you’ll need to plan ahead, especially for summer weekends. Overlooking Smuggler’s Cove, the three-story arts and crafts-style inn is constructed of 150-year-old, recycled redwood logs. It’s one of the greenest hotels in Mendocino and a drip irrigation system that was installed by hand waters the plantings on the property. Rooms here are the most luxurious of any Mendocino hotel. In fact, Brewery Gulch Inn is one of only three AAA Four Diamond Award winners in Mendocino. Gas fireplaces, private decks, fresh flowers, cozy leather chairs, and Jacuzzi tubs make relaxing a snap. The hotel organically raises more than 60 heirloom vegetables on a nearby plot. And complimentary wine from the nearby Anderson Valley and hors d’oeuvres in the evening and gourmet breakfasts are included.

Find other California hotels here. Or read our 9-day California coast itinerary.

Mendocino Coastline Image Flickr: Lee Coursey
Mendocino Image Flickr: Clinton Steeds

view from the Ritz Carlton

Just about 40 minutes south of San Francisco, Half Moon Bay is a delightful spot for a weekend getaway. It’s on a beautiful stretch of coastline with wide beaches, rugged cliffs, and forests of windswept cypress. And Half Moon Bay hotels are some of the most romantic on the California central coast.

In town, you’ll find lots of cute galleries, shops, and restaurants in quaint old Victorian houses. Fresh produce is usually sold in stands just outside town, and there’s a flower market on the third Saturday of the month. The area is especially appealing in the early fall, when there are pumpkins everywhere.

The Fitzgerald Marine Reserve in neighboring Moss Beach is a wonderful place for beach combing. You’ll see starfish, urchins, and anemones in the tide pools. And after combing the beach you can hike one of the trails through the cypress forest. You’ll probably see — and hear — harbor seals too.

Half Moon Bay State Beach is a actually three beaches in one. And the Coastside Trail that runs through here is good for beach walks or bike rides. In spring, there are acres of wildflowers.

Art lovers should take Highway 92 to Spanishtown where there are more antique shops and art galleries.

Between December and April, whale watching cruises leave from Pillar Point Harbor. And you can also go sport fishing or sea kayaking. There are a couple of good golf courses here, and you can also go for a horseback ride on the beach.

Fioli Gardens

Gardeners should visit Filoli, which is run by the National Trust for Historic Preservation. The 654-acre estate includes a Georgian-style mansion built in 1915 and 16 acres of French and Italian-style formal gardens. The house was used as the Carrington home in the TV show Dynasty.

Half Moon Bay hotels.

Half Moon Bay has more than its fair share of inviting places to stay. From charming country inns to ocean-front resorts, there’s something for everyone, in every price range.

The Ritz-Carlton, Half Moon Bay changed the lay of the land when it opened in 2001. Prior to that, there were several excellent inns in the area, but nothing on the same scale as this five-star resort with 261 rooms. The hotel looks like a baronial manor house, and the setting, overlooking a broad stretch of pristine coastline, is superb. Guests here want for nothing, and pay for the privilege — valet parking is $45 a day. The best rooms have terraces with outdoor fire pits, and all have LCD TVs, high-speed Internet access, and multi-line phones. There’s golf, tennis, a 16,000-square-foot spa with 16 treatment rooms, and an award-winning restaurant.

Overlooking Pillar Point Harbor, Oceano Hotel and Spa has 95 nicely decorated suites with separate sitting areas, 42” flat-screen TVs, private balconies, fireplaces, and wet bars. Villas have kitchens, dining rooms, and two bedrooms. The spa offers a variety of massages, baths, and treatments. There’s a bar and restaurant on site, and boutiques and cafes at the adjoining Harbor Village.

Designed to recall the clapboard inns of Nantucket, the Beach House Hotel has 54 loft suites with fireplaces, patios or balconies, CD players, refrigerators, and microwaves. Most have views of the ocean or Pillar Point Harbor. There’s a heated pool and spa, a fitness center, and a six-mile coastal path is nearby. Breakfast and weekend wine and cheese receptions are included in the rate.

Half Moon Bay Inns.

Half Moon Bay Sunset

Seal Cove Inn is one of our favorite inns in the area. Built by travel guidebook author Karen Brown, it is now part of the Four Sisters Inn group. Set on a bluff of cypress trees and wildflowers, it’s a short stroll from Moss Beach. The ten guestrooms have fireplaces and DVD players, and some have Juliet balconies and whirlpool tubs. A wonderful breakfast buffet and afternoon tea and hors d’oeuvres are included in the rate. Pets are welcome.

The Old Thyme Inn has seven rooms in an 1898 Victorian House on Half Moon Bay’s Main Street. Each is individually decorated and includes amenities like four-poster beds, antique furniture, stained glass windows, and whirlpool tubs. The inn’s English flower and herb gardens are lovely, and you can walk to shops and restaurants. The Old Thyme Inn is a nice spot for a romantic weekend away.

With its pretty cottage-style gardens and European antiques, Mill Rose Inn is one of the most popular bed and breakfasts in Half Moon Bay. It has six rooms with claw-foot tubs, brass beds, chintz floral fabrics, and refrigerators. The Jacuzzi in the garden gazebo is a pleasant way to unwind after a day of hiking. Breakfast here is a highlight and you can take it in the cozy dining room or have it delivered to your room.

If frilly is not your style, the Inn at Mavericks, which opened last fall, has six modern rooms with private ocean-view verandahs. Located a few minutes from Half Moon Bay in Princeton-by-the-Sea, it’s the only water-front inn in the area. Each of the rooms is 500 square feet and has a separate sitting area with a chaise lounge and overstuffed chair, a fireplace, king-size Temperpedic bed, microwave, and refrigerator. The views here are the best you’ll find, and the three pet-friendly rooms have a small, fenced-in patio.

Find more California hotel recommendation here. Or read our detailed California Central Coast itinerary here.

1) The Ritz Carlton, Half Moon Bay
2) Oceano Hotel & Spa
3) The Beach House Hotel
4) Seal Cove Inn
5) Old Thyme Inn
6) Mill Rose Inn
7) Inn at Mavericks

View Half Moon Bay hotels in a larger map

View from the Ritz Carlton Image Flickr: radzfoto
Fioli Gardens Image Flickr: milesgehm
Half Moon Bay Sunset Image Flickr: Robert Scoble

Flea market finds

There are plenty of the things to do in Southern California, and most visitors run out of time before they run out of attractions. Most travelers don’t know that there are fantastic flea markets in the Los Angeles area every weekend. And in addition to finding the perfect old poster, antique lamp, or vintage handbag, you may also see a celebrity.

L.A.’s flea markets are huge, varied, and fun. Some, such as the Rose Bowl, are all-day affairs, while others are a pleasant way to pass a few hours. Most have a few food trucks, so there’s something to tide you over if you get hungry.

Take cash, wear plenty of sunscreen and/or bring a hat.

On the 3rd Sunday of each month, the Long Beach Outdoor Antique Market is held at the Veterans Stadium. It’s been in business since 1982. With about 800 dealers spread over 20 acres, this is one of the biggest antique markets on the west coast. There’s usually lots of old furniture and other home furnishings, decorator items, and vintage clothing.

The Big Daddy of L.A. flea markets, the Rose Bowl Flea Market in Pasadena is held on the 2nd Sunday of the month. When the weather’s nice, 20,000 people will make a day of it, searching for treasures among the 2,500 vendors. There’s literally something for every one here, whether you’re a serious collector or just looking for something kitschy to take home to a friend.

Admission prices are tiered, based on when you arrive. Fanatics who are willing to pay $20, can show up as early as 5AM, though not all of the vendors will be set up by then. The price descends until 9AM, when general admission runs $8.00. But remember, the early bird definitely gets the worm here. The box office is open until 3PM when things start to wind down.

Many of the vendors here specialize in a specific kind of antique or collectible. It you collect anything, chances are there’s a vendor here who sells it. You’ll see assortments of lunch boxes, vintage hats, clocks, action figures, jewelry, rugs, fine art, crafts, musical instruments, and retro-cool items from the 1960s. There’s even an appraisal service available.

Prices are higher here than at your average swap meet, but you can still find some steals. We found a beautiful Art Deco floor lamp for $35. So be prepared to do a little bargaining.

If you find something exceptional, the seller probably knows exactly what it’s worth. But since the price of a space here is much less than they’d pay for a storefront, you should be able to save quite a bit.

There are several food vendors, and even a place that sells beer – which is very welcome on a hot, summer day. So plan to spend some time.

More treasures

Located on the south side of the Santa Monica Airport, the Santa Monica Outdoor Antique & Collectible Market is held on both the 1st and 4th Sundays of the month. The latter is more popular with about 175 dealers and an early-bird entrance of 6AM. This market has better quality antiques, carpets, furniture, paintings, textiles, jewelry, lighting, and vintage clothes.

Set designers and decorators often come here looking for one-of-a-kind pieces, because there’s always something interesting and out of the ordinary. Santa Monica is not as much of a commitment as the Rose Bowl, and when you’re through, you can visit Santa Monica Beach.

The trendiest of the L.A. flea markets is the Melrose Trading Post in the Fairfax High School parking lot. Plenty of young celebrities have been seen here looking for the latest trend-defying duds. Most of what you’ll find here is pretty hip and of good quality. There are usually some musician providing a sound track, and there are some trucks too.

The favorite flea market of many California bargain hunters is the Pasadena City College Flea Market, held the 1st Sunday of the month. Usually, there are about 500 vendors, selling all sorts of stuff. Admission here is free.

Read more shopping tips here.

1) Long Beach Outdoor Antique & Collectible Market
2) Rose Bowl Flea Market
3) Santa Monica Outdoor Antique & Collectible Market
4) Melrose Trading Post
5) Pasadena City College Flea Market

View Southern California Flea Markets in a larger map

Flea market finds Image Flickr: Tomás Fano
More treasures Image Flickr: Tomás Fano

The American River

When most people think about river rafting trips, Colorado or Idaho immediately spring to mind. But California has some excellent river rafting and most of it’s not far from San Francisco, Lake Tahoe, or Sacramento. So if you’re visiting Northern California, why not add some excitement to your itinerary.

Half-, full-, and two-day trips are available. And you’ll get to experience nature at its spectacular best. Plus, you’ll really get your heart racing.

Rafting season runs from around April until September. And there are several rivers to choose from. Whether you’re a beginner or a veteran whitewater rat, there’s a trip that’s just right for you.

River rafting the South Fork of the American River.

The South Fork of the American River caught the public’s eye in 1848, when gold was discovered in the town of Coloma. Today, the South Fork is the most popular river in California for whitewater rafting trips. With 50 majors rapids in 21 miles, it’s no wonder. There are relaxing stretches of calm water, plenty of Class 3 rapids, and beautiful wilderness scenery too.

The South Fork flows from Chili Bar Reservoir to Folsum Lake through dozens of rapids and extremely varied Sierra terrain. You’ll pass through rocky gorges and the rolling foothills of the Sierra Nevada range. In the springtime, you’ll see fields filled with wildflowers, and there’s plenty of color in the fall.

The put-in spot for these trips is an hour from Sacramento and about four hours from San Francisco. And trips on the South Fork are suitable for everyone. Beginners will have the time of their lives negotiating the rapids known as the Meatgrinder, Satan’s Cesspool, and the Troublemaker.

Class Rapids on the American River

Spring snow-melt run off makes the South Fork especially exciting in April and May, and because fewer people are traveling that time of year, you’ll enjoy lots of personal attention. Mid-week visits are also less crowded.

On full-day trips, a picnic lunch buffet is served on the river bank. And there’s usually time for a swim in the cool, clear water. Prices start at around $125. All Outdoors and American River Rafting offer good programs on the South Fork.

River rafting trips on the Middle Fork of the American River.

Those who are looking for a little more excitement can opt for a trip on the Middle Fork of the American. With Class III and IV rapids, it’s challenging enough for experienced river rafters, but also suitable for adventurous beginners. And there are usually fewer people than on the South Fork.

This section of the river is so beautiful and dramatic that it’s been used in countless films. The river runs through a deep, remote canyon with walls that tower 2,000 feet overhead. It stretches 18 miles past rocky cliffs and forests. Next to the river, there are crystal-clear pools and waterfalls you can explore.

The river roars through Tunnel Chute rapid on its way into a 90-foot rock tunnel created by miners in the 19th century. You’ll also navigate Ruck-A-Chucky Falls – a 25-foot drop with huge granite walls on either side. Unforgettable.

One-, two-, and three-day trips are available. And because the water is controlled by a dam, the water level is consistent all season long. A lunch buffet is served on one-day trips, and all meals are served on overnight trips. Contact American River and American Whitewater for more information.

River rafting trips on the Merced River.

The Yosemite Valley is one of the most beautiful wilderness areas in the country and the Merced River flows right through it. Designated a National Wild and Scenic River, it offers both novice and experienced white-water rafters a thrilling roller coaster ride with huge waves and churning rapids.

The meeting place for rafting trips is only 40 minutes from the entrance to Yosemite National Park and 3-1/2 hours from the Bay Area. To make the most of your time, plan to spend a day rafting the river, and a day exploring the park.

The season here is a short one. During peak snow-melt, this is a Class IV run. As the flow subsides, it becomes a Class III. And by mid-July the flow is usually too low for rafting. One-day trips run a 16-mile section of the Upper Merced. Depending on conditions, you may need to wear a wetsuit.

Since these are paddle-raft trips, you’ll need to help row and navigate the raft, so be prepared to participate. Contact Zephyr Whitewater for more information.

Read about other whitewater river rafting trips here.

The American River Image Flickr: aresauburn™
Class Rapids on the American River Image Flickr: dizznan

Bottega Yountville

Although wine country is best known for its French restaurants, there are also some great Italian restaurants in the valleys.

Napa Valley Italian restaurants

With a more ambitious menu than most Italian restaurants, Bistro Don Giovanni is a popular spot in downtown Napa. Starters include an excellent Pumpkin Ravioli in brown butter sauce with sage, Carpaccio, a cheese plate, and a salad of beets and haricots verts. Pizzas emerge from the wood-fired oven thin and crispy. Try fig, caramelized onion, gorgonzola, arugula, and Balsamic vinegar. Paccheri with a Sonoma duck Bolognese and rabbit cacciatore are just the thing on a cool, fall evening. Or you could opt for grilled California sea bass or steak frites.

If you can, grab a table on the outdoor terrace near the fireplace. Bisto Don Giovanni’s owners run Scala Bistro in San Francisco and they change the menu with the seasons. As you’d expect, the wine list is very good. Reservations are a good idea, especially on weekends.

Uva Trattoria & Bar is usually jumping. In fact, they have jazz five nights a week. So this isn’t the place for a quiet, romantic dinner for two. But it’s a convivial place with good food and a lively bar. The little fried rice balls called arancini are an addictive starter. Weekly specials might include baked gnocchi with burrata cheese and pomodoro sauce, bucatini al’amatriciana, and pan-roasted sea bass. In addition to the specials, there are usually five or six pizzas, ten pasta dishes, and three or four entrees.

Celebrity chef/Food Network TV host Michael Chiarello opened Bottega in the old V Marketplace in Yountville a year ago. Zagat named Bottega the top newcomer of the year and Esquire included it in their list of the Top 20 new restaurants. The design is casual but modern with brick walls, stone fireplaces, and plenty of couches for lounging. Although it’s a huge space, it’s divided into more manageable areas, and the patio is very inviting. This is not the place to watch your figure. The soft boiled egg in the Pecorino cheese flan is deep fried. And green eggs and ham comes swimming in Cambazola crema. The salumi is made in house and the crudo is sensational. All the pastas are made from scratch and sauces made with duck, rabbit, and chanterelles are hearty and filling. Braised lamb shanks, short ribs, duck confit, and whole, wood-oven roasted fish are the stars of the secondi.

Green Eggs and Ham

Ten years ago, Chiarello was the partner/chef at Tra Vigne in St. Helena. One of the most romantic restaurants in the valley, it has a lovely vine-covered patio that seems like it was plucked from a Tuscan hill town. It’s magical at night when the trees are dressed with little white lights. Inside, the stylish dining room has brick walls, high ceilings, and a hand-carved bar. Papperdelle with rabbit ragu and wild mushrooms, carbonara with guanciale and organic eggs, and duck confit risotto pave the way for wood-oven roasted Dungeness crab and pan-seared Quinault River steelhead. The 200-wine list changes frequently.

Just around the corner on Main Street, Pizzeria Tra Vigne serves authentic Neapolitan pizzas in a casual setting. The garlic rolls are perfect for taking the edge off while you wait for your pizza, but they’re hard to stop eating. There are several salads, pasta dishes like spaghetti and meatballs and shrimp fettuccini, and a nice selection of oven-baked flatbread with salad on top. But it would be a shame to come here and not order pizza. Traditional pies like Margherita and Ducati with Italian sausage, mushrooms, and sun-dried tomatoes compete with unconventional pizzas like Positano with gulf shrimp and fried lemons, and Gardiniere with brocolli, cauliflower, and spicy garlic soffrito.

Sonoma Valley Italian restaurants.

Red Grape Pizzeria

Sonoma is one of the most charming towns in California Wine Country. Shops, hotels, and restaurants line its 19th-century plaza and there’s a farmer’s market on Tuesday evenings in summer.

The Della Santina family comes from Lucca, Italy, and they’ve been serving Tuscan-inspired cuisine in Sonoma since 1990. They found a beautiful old stone building to house their restaurant. You’ll find all the usual pastas and entrees — the gnocchi della nonna is especially good — but what’s really special here are the spit-roasted meats. You can choose from chicken, pork, rabbit, or duck. Or if you can’t choose, you can order skewers with three different meats. The 3-course dinner special is a good value at $30 per person. On Tuesdays, they have a prix fixe menu that features Italian wine pairings. If the weather’s nice, opt for a table out on the brick patio. There’s a nice selection of wine for less than $40 a bottle.

It’s hard to visit wine country without enjoying all the world-class restaurants. But sometimes, you just want a pizza and a cold draught beer. If you’re in Sonoma, Red Grape Pizzeria is a great spot. They have dozens of wines by the glass and many bottles for around $30. You can start with an antipasto, one of the tasty flatbreads, or a salad. If you don’t want pizza, there’s a nice selection of wraps and Panini — who doesn’t want pork and brie with caramelized onions and sliced green apple. The imaginative pizza list include clams casino with apple wood-smoked bacon, roasted duck and gorgonzola with a Cabernet reduction, and shrimp scampi.

1) Bistro Don Giovanni
2) Uva Trattoria
3) Bottega
4) Tra Vigne
5) Pizzeria Tra Vigne
6) Della Santina’s
7) Red Grape Pizzeria

View Italian Restaurants in Napa and Sonoma in a larger map

See our list of the best Italian restaurants in San Francisco here.

Carpaccio from Drago Centro

But that doesn’t mean there aren’t terrific Italian restaurants in South California. They’re just not all concentrated in one area. Which means that no matter where you are, there’s probably one that’s not too far away.

An unassuming little place that’s nearly always packed, Angelini Osteria serves some of the best Italian food in Southern California. Start your meal with Pumpkin Tortelli with butter, sage, and asparagus or Bombolotti all’Amatriciana with guanciale, San Marzano tomatoes, and hot pepper. If you love Roman food, there’s even warm tripe. The whole sea bass encrusted in salt and herbs is sensational, and the grilled bistecca here will remind you of your trip to Florence. Lasanga Verde, a homage to the chef’s grandmother, is the most popular dish. Topped with frizzled spinach, it’s a rich, dense block of meat, pasta, and cheese. Specials each day features Italian classics like saltimbocca, oxtail, and porchetta. The wine list has lots of affordable Italian wines.

Celestino Drago has several restaurants in Los Angeles, but Drago Centro is the best Italian restaurant on the Eastside. The sleek, stylish décor and downtown City National Plaza location make this one of the most sophisticated and expensive Italian restaurants in town. No spaghetti and meatballs here. The glass wine cellar displays some of Drago’s rare Italian wines. But don’t worry — there are plenty of reasonable selections and 100 wines available by the glass. The concept here is to take traditional Italian dishes and update them with modern techniques and ingredients. The six-course tasting menu is a good value at $75 per person. Dungeness crab tagliolini with tomatoes and basil and pappardelle with roasted pheasant and morel mushrooms are achingly good. If you can, save room for the little doughnuts called I Bomboloni.

Also owned by the Drago family, Il Pastaio is a popular Beverly Hills trattoria. There are three kinds of carpaccio to start your meal — beef, tuna, and swordfish, but regulars can’t resist the fried rice balls called arancini. Mussels and clams steamed in a garlicky tomato broth taste like you‘re next to the sea. There are more than a dozen salads, including a tasty panzanella made with leftover bread. With so many pastas and risottos to choose from, most diners never make it to the Secondi section of the menu. Their panna cotta provides the perfect ending to a wonderful meal.

Burrata from Drago Centro

No discussion of Italian restaurants in Los Angeles can omit the Mozza trilogy. The brainchild of culinary stars Mario Batali, Nancy Silverton, and Joseph Bastianich, Pizzeria Mozza is actually the casual sibling of the more up-scale Osteria Mozza. But for our money, Pizzeria Mozza is the better choice. The pizzas here — baked at high temperature in a wood-burning oven — are miraculous with a thick, puffy crust that’s lighter than air. But there’s plenty of other great Italian food like fried squash blossoms, baked bone marrow, goat cheese with lentils, and oven-roasted pork ribs. Daily specials include crisp duck leg with lentils, chicken alla cacciatore, and lasagna. Make reservations or plan to wait. And don’t miss the butterscotch budino. It’s one of the most delicious desserts you’ll ever eat.

As the name implies, Trattoria Tre Venezia specializes in the cooking of Northeastern Italy. It’s tucked away in a cute little building in Old Town Pasadena. And from the outside, you’d never guess that it has been awarded a Michelin star. The dishes here are a far cry from what you’d find in Southern Italy, and Austrian influences are apparent in marinated venison and smoked pork chops with gorgonzola sauce and sauerkraut. From the Veneto region, there are seafood specialties like cuttlefish, black-ink ravioli filled with halibut, and chestnut tagliatelle with lobster. For desserts, the custards — such as Crèma del Gondoliere — are especially good.

Valentino has been the leading Italian restaurant in Los Angeles for thirty five years now. Its staying power can be attributed to attention to detail. From the elegant ambience of the four romantic dining rooms to the world-class service to the 140,000-bottle wine cellar, owner Piero Selvaggio provides an exceptional dining experience. Which explains why they have a Michelin star. The menu has delectable items like risotto with squid ink and mixed seafood, lasagna with duck ragu and porcini mushrooms, and ossobuco, but your best bet is to put yourself in the chef’s hands and order the tasting menu. Those looking for something lighter and less expensive can opt for the Vin Wine Bar, which offers an appetizer, entrée, and dessert for just $35. Affordable vertical wine tastings are also available. Dress up.

The heart of Vincenti is the wood-burning oven and rotisserie. You can watch all the action in the exhibition kitchen. Starters include a warm octopus salad, tuna carpaccio, and stuffed zucchini blossoms. Tagliolini with clams and potato gnocchi with shrimp, lobster, and asparagus are delicious. But it’s the roasted meats that steal the show. Try sea bass or Dover sole, quail, leg of lamb, or pork tenderloin. The six-course tasting menu is $60. And excellent pizzas are also available.

1) Angelini Osteria
2) Drago Centro
3) Il Pastaio
4) Pizzeria Mozza
5) Trattoria tre Venezia
6) Valentino
7) Vincenti

View Italian restaurants in Los Angeles in a larger map

Find more Italian restaurants here. And find great Pizza restaurants in Los Angeles here.

Ferris Wheel on Santa Monica Pier

No visit to Southern California is complete without a trip to the beach.

Not only is Santa Monica Beach one of the best, it’s also one of the most fun. In fact, it was named one of the “10 Great Public Spaces in the U.S.” by the American Planning Association.

It’s also easy to reach. If you’re flying into LAX, Santa Monica Beach is less than 10 miles away. And you can get there without getting on a freeway, which is always an advantage in SoCal.

A huge swath of golden sand, Santa Monica Beach stretches for 3-1/2 miles up the coast. With 340 sunny days a year, it’s no wonder that so many movies are shot here. And chances are, it will be gorgeous for you too.

The beach is cleaned and raked every day, and lifeguards are on duty during daylight hours. If all you want to do is relax, bring a beach towel or a folding chair and enjoy watching the people. Or let one of the Perry’s beach butlers set you up with a chair, a table, and an umbrella. Just be sure to use plenty of sunscreen.

And keep your eyes peeled for celebrities. Even if you don’t see one, you’ll see plenty of guys and gals who could pass the physical.

When you get hot, take a dip in the water – it’s always cool, even on hot summer days. You can surf in designated areas, usually between lifeguard stands 18 and 20 and 28 and 29, but check with the guard first. If you don’t have a board, Perry’s rents them, and boogie boards too.

Once the estate of William Randolph Hearst, the Annenberg Community Beach House opened last year on five acres of Santa Monica beachfront. There’s a beach café, rentals, and a beautiful pool that’s open to the public during the summer. It’s very popular, so you’ll need to make reservations in advance.

Lifeguard stand at Santa Monica Beach

Another fun activity is to rent a bike and go for a spin. The coastal trail runs from Torrance to Malibu – 22 miles in all – and it’s one of the longest beach paths in the world. It’s open to anything that’s non-motorized, so you can roller blade, skate, or skateboard, it you prefer.

The Santa Monica pier recently celebrated its 100th anniversary. Today, it’s packed with shops, restaurants, street performers, a ferris wheel, and a 1922 carousel. You can buy bait and rent fishing gear at the end of the pier and try your luck fishing. The truly adventurous can take lessons from the trapeze school on the pier.

If you’re headed to Southern California, even on a brief business trip, Santa Monica beaches are some of the most enjoyable in the world. Plan to spend at least a few hours enjoying the sun, surf, and scene here.

Find more California travel tips here.

Ferris Wheel on Santa Monica Pier image Flickr: prayitno
Lifeguard stand at Santa Monica Beach image Flickr: Faris ?

Pool at Le Parker Meridien

Palm Springs hotels in the mid-century modern style.

Once the favorite of Rat Pack members, the Riviera Resort & Spa recently reopened following a $75 million renovation. The 406 rooms and suites are now decorated in a retro-cool style and outfitted with widescreen plasma TVs, mini bars, high-speed Internet access, and marble bathrooms with rain showerheads. One-, two-, and three-bedroom suites range from 680 to 1,248 square feet. The 11,000-square-foot Noble House spa has 18 rooms for Balinese, Thai, and Indonesian health and beauty treatments, and there’s also a fitness center. The resort has two outdoor swimming pools, and a dozen private cabanas with 32” flat-screen TVs, mini fridges, sectional sofas, and lounge chairs. The Rivera now competes with the Parker for the title of hippest hotel in Palm Springs.

Lobby at Le Parker Meridien

The Ace Hotel and Swim Club is an updated, mid-century motel that’s a fun place for those who want to be where the action is. The two outdoor swimming pools and outdoor fireplace are nearly always packed. On Sunday afternoons, a DJ spins tunes by the pool. And there’s a fitness center and full-service spa. Rooms are modern and include amenities like 42” flat-screen TVs and docks for MP3 players. Some have fireplaces and garden terraces. It’s walking distance to downtown. And you can bring your dog too. The Ace is less expensive than most Palm Springs hotels and it’s a good choice for partiers. Those whose top priority is a good night’s sleep should probably look elsewhere.

Another 1950s motel that’s had a facelift, the Orbit Inn is a retro paradise. Rooms are available in the main building and in the 8-room Hideaway in the back. From the Pepto Bismol pink bathroom tiles to the Fiestaware in the kitchenettes, they’re a step back in time. Several rooms have private patios. The heated salt-water pool is popular day and night. And excellent cocktails are served in the pool-side Boomerang Bar and the Albert Frey Lounge, named for the noted local architect. A Jacuzzi and in-room spa treatments round out the amenities. When it’s time for dinner, you can head into town on one of the Orbit’s cruisers bike rentals.

The Viceroy black-and-white, minimalist décor would be equally at home in South Beach. With its waterfall, koi pond and white whippet statues, the cool lobby sets the tone. Sixty seven guest rooms surround three beautifully landscaped courtyards. Rooms have Italian bedlinens, European toiletries, and luxurious bathrobes, and some have kitchenettes, fireplaces, and balconies. Studio bungalows are especially inviting. There’s a fitness center, full-service spa, three pools, two Jacuzzis, and a popular restaurant that serves California cuisine. And it’s a short stroll of Palm Canyon Drive. Another bonus — the Viceroy is very dog friendly.

Palm Springs hotels that break the mold.

The Indian Canyons

Travelers who really want to get away from it all will enjoy Smoke Tree Ranch, the last of the Palm Springs guest ranches. It first opened in the 1930s, and over the years, many famous names, including Walt Disney, have been guests. Its 55 small cottages are spread out across the 375-acre estate. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are served each day in the dining room of the main ranch house. There’s a dress code at dinner and service is first rate. There’s not much to do here but enjoy the spectacular natural beauty of the desert. And for many Palm Springs visitors, that’s enough.

Find other California hotels here.

Kodak Theater

The heart of the neighborhood is Hollywood & Highland, where you’ll find the Kodak Theater (where the Academy Awards are handed out), Grauman’s Chinese Theater, and lots of restaurants and shopping.

The area is most exciting at night. And there are several Hollywood hotels that will put you right in the heart of the action.

Hollywood Renaissance Hotel

Opened as part of the glitzy Hollywood & Highland shopping and entertainment complex in 2001, the Renaissance Hollywood Hotel has 635 rooms and suites. Its current claim to fame is that it’s Oscar-central on the night of the Academy Awards. Rooms are large, bright, and colorful with retro-modern furnishings. And upper-floor rooms have good views of the Pacific, downtown, or the Hollywood Hills. The hotel has pretty much everything travelers want – a restaurant, several bars, a swimming pool, a spa, fitness center, and WiFi access. And the up-scale shops and restaurants in the adjoining complex are literally steps away. Since parking – and traffic – can be challenging here – the shuttle to the nearby Hollywood Bowl is a big perk.

Roosevelt Hotel

The Hollywood Roosevelt is once more the place to see and be seen.

The Magic Castle is a Los Angeles institution. Housed in a 1908 mansion, it’s a private club for professional magicians and their guests. To attend dinner and a show there, you need to be invited by a member – or be a guest of the Magic Castle Hotel, just down the hill.

There’s nothing especially magical or castle-like about the hotel. It used to be an apartment building, and that’s what it looks like. But the bigger rooms have fully equipped kitchens, and there’s an inviting heated swimming pool surrounded by tropical landscaping. The hotel is a short stroll to Hollywood and Highland. Service is much better than you’d expect. And it’s the best value in the neighborhood. If you do stay there, dress up and go for dinner and a performance at the Magic Castle. You won’t be disappointed.

Read about other California hotels here.

Kodak Theater image Flickr: livingonimpulse
Renaissance Hollywood Hotel image Flickr: MoToMo
Roosevelt Hotel image Flickry: rolando.pujol

Healdsburg Inn on the Plaza

Most Healdsburg hotels are within walking distance of the plaza, which has concerts, and farmers’ markets in summer, and tree-lightings and holiday markets in winter. A building boom in the 1870s produced many charming Victorian mansions, and several have been turned into world-class inns.

Healdsburg hotels on or near the plaza.

The only true luxury hotel in Healdsburg, Les Mars Hotel was opened in 2005 by a family of European hoteliers. As a member of the Relais & Chateaux group, service is extremely professional. When you enter the lobby with its Flemish tapestries, Louis XIV furniture, and wrought-iron balustrade, you may think you stepped into a French chateau. The 16 guest rooms and public areas are furnished with 18th- and 19th-century antiques, four poster beds, and white marble bathrooms. Many of the rooms have fireplaces and double showers or jetted soaking tubs. Third-floor rooms have 20-foot beamed ceilings and are between 425 and 550 square feet. The swimming pool is a welcome feature on warm August days. And the on-site Cyrus restaurant has won numerous awards, including two Michelin stars. Les Mars is one of the most expensive Sonoma Valley hotels.

Hotel Healdsburg

One of the Four Sisters Inns group, Healdsburg Inn on the Plaza is a nice choice for those who want the convenience of staying on the plaza. One of the best things about their inns is the quality of food and how often they feed you. From gourmet breakfasts in the mornings, to afternoon wine and hors d‘oeuvres, to evening sherry and cookies, eating well is part of the Four Sisters experience and it makes their properties a good value too. The inn was built in 1901, and its twelve beautifully restored rooms have high ceilings, fireplaces, bay windows, and other charming architectural touches.

Not far from the plaza, The Honor Mansion is in a restored Italianate Victorian that dates from 1883. Each of the rooms is unique, but all are beautifully decorated with nice fabrics and antiques. Thoughtful amenities like bathrobes, featherbeds, and imported toiletries make guests feel, pampered. There are five rooms in the mansion, several luxurious suites, and a private cottage. Many of the suites have decks, some with spa tubs. Guests can enjoy the lap pool, sun decks, and gardens. A gourmet breakfast in included each morning and sherry and biscuits are laid out in the evening. The Honor Mansion is a AAA Four Diamond Award winner.

Healdsburg hotels outside of town.

Madrona Manor

Also located in an old Victorian mansion, Madrona Manor is surrounded by eight acres of landscaped grounds, gardens, and woods. Because of the lovely setting, it’s a very popular wedding venue. And the excellent restaurant makes the most of the produce from the organic gardens. It’s about a mile from downtown Healdsburg. A variety of accommodations is available — 26 rooms with fireplaces or balconies, and five suites with separate bedrooms and living rooms. The swimming pool is heated during the season. Madrona Manor has won every award imaginable, and the restaurant has a Michelin star. Madrona Manor is one of the most popular hotels in Healdsburg.

The Sonoma Valley countryside is truly beautiful, and the Belle de Jour Inn offers the best of both worlds — a quiet countryside setting with easy access to town. A Victorian farmhouse, and five guest cottages from the 1870s are spread out over six acres that overlook the surrounding vineyards. Some rooms have fireplaces, decks, four-poster beds, or whirlpool tubs. All have wood floors, high ceilings, and luxurious bathrooms. The second-story caretaker’s room is especially nice. A full breakfast is included. Belle de Jour is a great choice for those who like peace and quiet.

Find Yountville hotel recommendations here. Or find Calistoga hotels here.

Hotel Healdsburg Hotel Image Flickr: melissaclark
Madrona Manor Image Flickr: jaybergesen

Bouchon in Yountville California

Uber-chef Thomas Keller’s flagship, The French Laundry, is here.  As are his Bouchon and Ad Hoc.  You’ll need to reserve months in advance to eat at the former, but depending on when you visit, you may be able to nab a table without a reservation and Bouchon or Ad Hoc.  If you’re in town on Monday, don’t miss the fried chicken at Ad Hoc.

Keller’s not the only celebrity chef in town.  Michael Chiarello of Napa Style fame opened Bottega last year.  It features dishes from all over Italy.   Bistro Jeanty and Redd are also great choices.

Learn more about Yountville restaurants here.

The best Yountville wineries. 

Located right off the St. Helena Highway, Domaine Chandon was the first joint venture between a French and California winery.  If you’ve never seen how sparkling wine is made, it’s worth taking the tour.  The grounds here are lovely, so be sure to leave time for a stroll through the gardens.  And there are beautiful views from the restaurant and patio.

Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars gained notoriety in 1976 when their wine bested the French in the 1976 blind taste test reenacted in the movie Bottle Shock.  Some of the tastiest Chardonnays in California come from Stag’s Leap. 

The best hotels in Yountville.

Vintage Inn Yountville

Right on Washington Street, the Vintage Inn is a great choice for a romantic weekend in the Napa Valley.  It‘s one of the most refined hotels in Yountville and it’s mere steps from the best restaurants in town.  The two-story buildings are thoughtfully arranged on two acres of  beautiful gardens and plantings.  Some of the rooms have balconies overlooking the vineyards.   Others have small, private patios.  Bathrooms are big and luxurious, and each room has a fireplace.  The pool is one of the most attractive in Yountville.  And there’s a full-service spa.   A bottle of local wine and a breakfast buffet are included.

Villagio Inn and Spa is a sister property to the Vintage Inn.  Both are AAA Four-Diamond award winners.  The 112 rooms are also in two-story buildings spread out on nicely landscaped grounds.  Rooms have patios or balconies, fireplaces, and flat-screen TVs.  The big draw here is the 13,000-square-foot luxury spa that opened in 2008.  Surrounded by fountains and reflecting pools, the spa has 16 treatment rooms and 5 spa suites with soaking tubs, fireplaces, day beds, and private terraces.   Also on the property is V Marketplace where there are shops, including Napa Style, and restaurants.

Maison Fleurie Yountville

Read our comprehensive itinerary for the Napa and Sonoma Valleys.  Or read our recommended Calistoga hotels.

Chateau Montelena, Calistoga California

Calistoga is a low-key, unpretentious town with a laid-back main street lined with shops and restaurants. There are also several good wineries close to town. Chateau Montelena is one of the most appealing. Housed in a French-style chateau that dates from the 19th century, their 1973 Chardonnay beat the French at their own game in a 1976 blind taste test. The story was told in the movie Bottle Shock. The Chinese gardens surrounding the pond here are a pleasant place for a picnic.

The other must-see winery in Calistoga is Clos Pegase. Michael Graves designed the building in 1986 as a Temple of Wine. The grounds and courtyard are adorned with modern statuary and there’s modern art in the tasting room. The wine is very good, especially the Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Noir.

Lovers of bubbly should include Schramsberg on their itinerary. The tour here is one of the best in Napa Valley, and you’ll see the 19th-century tunnels dug by Chinese laborers. The tour ends with a tasting of some of the best California sparkling wines.

The best hotels in Calistoga.

Calistoga Geyser

Solage Calistoga is the second best hotel in Calistoga. The 89 green rooms here are modern and well equipped with polished concrete floors, fireplaces, and outdoor patios. Solage Calistoga also has a huge heated swimming pool, a fitness center, yoga studio, and a 20,000-square-foot spa that makes the most of the local mineral water and hot springs. The bocce courts are a nice place to while away a beautiful summer afternoon. Other thoughtful touches include the free bicycles and telescopes available for guests to enjoy during their stay. And you can even bring your dog.

Calistoga California

The 16 inviting cottages at Cottage Grove Inn have fireplaces, two-person whirlpool tubs, vaulted ceilings, porches with rockers, and hardwood floors. Curl up by the fire in one of the over-stuffed chairs. The wet bar and mini fridge make it easy to enjoy the local wine in your room. You can walk to Calistoga’s restaurants or take one of the complimentary loaner bicycles. Continental breakfast and late-afternoon wine and cheese are included and are served in the lovely breakfast area. Cottage Grove Inn is a great spot for a romantic weekend away. And with rates starting at $250 a night, its one of the less expensive Calistoga hotels.

Meadowlark Inn is situated on a 20-acre private estate not far from Calistoga. Guests can walk through the meadow and forest and enjoy the country atmosphere. The property is also home to the owners’ European sport horses. There are plenty of places to relax outdoors and take in the beautiful scenery. The large, mineral pool is clothing optional. Many of the rooms here have four-poster beds, French doors that open onto private patios, and marble bathrooms. Several cottages with kitchens are also available. A gourmet breakfast is included in the rate.

Those who prefer a downtown Calistoga hotel will enjoy the Mount View Hotel and Spa. Located in a 1917 building that’s now a National Historic Landmark, Mount View has 20 rooms and 12 suites to choose from. For a romantic getaway, opt for the Artist Cottage with private patio and Jacuzzi. Behind the hotel, there’s a heated outdoor pool with private cabanas. The day spa on the ground floor offers every treatment you could want. There are two restaurants on site — Bar Vino, a wine bar and trattoria, and JoLe, a contemporary restaurant that focuses on organic ingredients.

Find our recommended hotels in Yountville here. And find our Napa and Sonoma Valley itinerary.

Boise River

There’s a large Hewlett-Packard campus on the outskirts of town. And many HP executives who spent a couple of years there, return when they retire, drawn by the great weather and laid-back lifestyle.

It’s especially attractive to people who love the outdoors. It’s easy to enjoy a day of skiing, snowboarding, river rafting, fly-fishing, or hiking, and then spend the evening enjoying drinks and dinner downtown. Or heading south of town for a rollicking performance at the Idaho Shakespeare Festival.

Seeing Boise from the river.

In the summer, temperatures in Boise can reach 100 degrees or more, and locals and visitors alike cool off by heading for the Boise River, which runs right through the center of town. Floating the Boise River is a great way to see the city, and it only takes a couple of hours. It’s not the most memorable river rafting trip you’ll ever take, but it is fun.

Park at Ann Morrison Park, and then take a second car to Barber Park. Or take the $3 shuttle that goes from Ann Morrison Park to Barber Park every hour on the hour.

You can rent a raft, a tube, or a kayak in Barber Park from Epley’s. It opens at 11AM on the weekend and at noon on weekdays. And it closes at 9PM on weekends and at 8PM on weekdays. A tube rents for $12 and a six-person raft is $55 for three hours. Labor day weekend usually signals the end of the season.

There are four rest stops en route. And if you can’t float the river, you should at least walk the greenbelt on either side. You may even see a beaver along the way.

Rafting the Payette River

If you want more excitement, the Main Payette River is fun and easy to get to. The base for rafting trips on the Main Payette River is Banks, which is only about an hour north of Boise. During the eight-mile trip, you’ll experience some Class II rapids, including a bumpy ride through Mike’s Hole. The trip takes about three hours and it’s a good choice for first timers.

The water is not too cold. And there are actually some sandy beaches along the river, so if your guide is so inclined, you may take a break on the riverside.

The South Fork of the Payette is even more exciting. During the spring, the water level is higher, and the highlight is the Staircase, a Class IV, thrill ride. Full and half-day trips are available and you can be back in Boise in time for dinner.

River rafting trips on the Salmon River.

Payette River

Trips start at 6,000 feet above sea level and descend down to 3,000. Along the way, you’ll hike to waterfalls and hot springs, and see plenty of wildlife. Meals, camping accommodations, and transportation are included. And there are even wine-tasting trips featuring Northwest wines. These 6-night river rafting trips cost about $2,000 per person and operate from June until Labor day.

The Main Fork of the Salmon drops 1,200 feet in 89 miles. The blue-green water of the river is flanked by sandy beaches and cool pine forests. These trips are usually 5 nights.

Salmon River Outfitters and Western River are two of the best outfitters.

River rafting trips on the Snake River.

The Snake River carves its way through Hell’s Canyon — the deepest gorge in America — and forms the Idaho/Oregon border. Four, five, and six-day trips are available and you’ll experience some big Class IV rapids on the very first day.

With cliffs towering nearly 8,000 above, this is one of the most scenic river rafting trips in the country. And there’s great fishing for smallmouth bass and sturgeon.

Western River and ROW Adventures both offer top-quality trips on the Snake River.

Read more U.S. travel articles here.

Mayflower Park Hotel

Sadly, everything you’ve heard about the Seattle weather is true.  “Patchy morning fog with partial afternoon clearing” is a great forecast in Seattle.  And even though it gets much less rain than, say, Miami, it’s still grey and misty much of the time.

All that moisture keeps everything lush and green.  But if you’re determined to enjoy the sun, — and catch a glimpse of Mount Rainier — come in July or August.  Otherwise, come prepared with a Goretex coat, a sturdy umbrella, and sensible shoes.  

Happily, the weather here doesn‘t put much of a damper on things.  There’s plenty to enjoy indoors.  And what other city this size could have given the world grunge rock, Nordstrom, Microsoft, Starbucks, and Amazon.com?

Our favorite Seattle spot is the Pike Place Market, the spiritual heart of the city since 1907.  With delicious, fresh food, dozens of great restaurants, lots of interesting shopping, and unforgettable views of Puget Sound, this is where we like to stay when we visit.

The best hotel in this neighborhood is the Inn at the Market.  It’s not inexpensive, but the location is really convenient and you can probably walk to wherever you want to go.  The restaurants — Campagne, Café Campagne, and Bacco — are some of the best in town.  And in summer, the roof deck is fantastic.  Few vistas can compete with watching the ferries gliding across Elliott Bay.

Partial water-view rooms are worth the extra cost.  And complimentary WIFI is available in all 70 rooms.  The suites here, especially the ones with private decks — are worth whatever the cost when the weather’s fine.  

The Inn at the Market is steps from Chez Shea, Matt’s in the Market, The Pink Door, and other top-rated restaurants.  And it’s only a 5-minute walk to downtown dining and shopping.

A few blocks up Stewart Street, The Mayflower Park Hotel is one of the best hotels in Seattle for serious shoppers.  It’s across the street from

Four Seasons Hotel

Because the hotel was built in 1927, the rooms, and especially the bathrooms, can be small.  But if you’re not planning to spend a lot of time in your room, it’s a great place to stay, and a great value.  With its two-story windows and perfect martinis, Oliver’s Lounge is arguably the best hotel bar in town.  And Andaluca Restaurant is great for tapas and Spanish food.  

The Mayflower Park is not a luxury hotel.  But service, location, and style all make it one of the most enjoyable Seattle accommodations.

For true luxury, the Fairmont Olympic Hotel is Seattle’s only grand hotel.  The only AAA Five Diamond Hotel in the Pacific Northwest, The Olympic has 450 well-appointed guest rooms.  Originally opened in 1924, the splendid Italian Renaissance-style property has been tastefully renovated, and today, it’s the poshest address in town.  If you like hotels like the Plaza or the Waldorf Astoria, the Olympic is your best bet.  You’ll like receive the best service in town here.  But standard rooms are on the small side.  

High tea in the Georgian Room is a Seattle institution, and the Spa and Health Club are among the best in town.  Rates are high.  But service is impeccable.  The location is a brief stroll to everything.  And luxury shops line the block.

One of our fondest memories is swimming in the Olympic’s indoor pool on Christmas morning.   

On 4th Street, not far from the Olympic, Hotel Monaco is a quirky, pet-friendly place that’s a member of the Kimpton Group.  If you bring a pet, you’ll find an amenity basket for them in your room.  If you don’t, you can have a goldfish to keep you company.  The décor is bright and colorful.  An on-site fitness center will help you stay in shape when it’s raining out.  And Sazerac restaurant services imaginative Southern food.

The evening wine reception in the lively lobby is a nice extra.  

Another Kimpton Hotel, the Alexis, is a 121-room boutique with a full-service spa.  Located in a building that dates from 1901, the Alexis showcases original art in the rooms and public areas.  And some of the rooms take advantage of the old building’s wood floors and brick walls.  If you can afford it, upgrade to a suite — many have whirlpool tubs.  The location is great for early morning or sunset strolls along the waterfront, a block away.  

One of the newest hotels in Seattle, The Four Seasons Hotel Seattle is best in summer when you can take full advantage of the rooftop terrace, which has an infinity pool, a hot tub, and a fire pit overlooking Elliott Bay.  The hotel is located in the heart of the downtown cultural district.  The Seattle Art Museum is across the street and Benaroya Concert Hall is a long block away.

Hotel 1000

High-tech travelers will appreciate all the amenities at the ultra-modern Hotel 1000.  Since opening in 2007, Hotel 1000 has won many coveted awards and by several gauges, it’s Seattle’s best luxury hotel.  The public areas feature dark woods, deep leather, and natural textures like onyx and the rooms here are some of the most dramatic in town, with floor to ceiling windows and free-standing tubs designed by Philippe Starck that fill from the ceiling.  You can tee off at Pebble Beach or St. Andrews in the virtual golf club.

Many hotel services here are automated. The minibar will even alert housekeeping when you consume all of your favorite beverage.  The two-line, touch-screen VOIP telephones do everything from track your flights to recommend restaurants.  And you can choose which art you want to have displayed on your 40″ LCD TV monitor.  When you need a bite or a cocktail, Studio 1000 or BOKA serve “Urban American Food.”

Find more American hotel reviews here.