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.