July 2009 Archives

From free nights to free groceries, discounted spa treatments and special dining offerings to unlimited golf - guests can find some bargains at the Outrigger Maui Eldorado.

 

Lookingfor a great rate? Outrigger Maui Eldorado has it with rates starting at just $129 per night -- 60% off discount of regularly published rates.

 

For a multi-night visit, book the resort's 5^th night free program starting at $205 per night, and receive the fifth night free (that averages out to $164 per night over the five night period), plus receive free groceries.

Visitors that stay a minimum of five consecutive nights receive on arrival a $50 grocery certificate for a studio, a $100 grocery certificate for a one-bedroom, or a $150 grocery certificate for a two-bedroom suite.

Guests that stay for longer periods in increments of five nights will receive additional certificates. For example, guests staying ten nights will receive two grocery certificates - amounting to as much as $300 in savings!

 

"Guests will definitely want to take advantage of our free grocery program," said Bill Rees, general manager of the Outrigger Maui Eldorado. "With the Foodland gift certificates, guests can stock their condo fridges with free food - leaving more spending money for fun and leisure like a day of unlimited golf or a soothing massage at the brand new Spa at Black Rock."

 

Golfers staying at Outrigger Maui Eldorado will enjoy the special green fees available to condo guests for unlimited golf on the Kaanapali Beach Resort's North and South Courses (golf cart included). Guests simply purchase a specially-priced coupon ($140 per person) from the front desk and then call the golf course to set up their tee time.

 

According to Rees, "Unlike some golf packages, Outrigger Maui Eldorado's golf offer is extremely simple and stress free. There are no minimum night requirements or other strings attached. The coupon also allows for one child 12 years or younger to play along at no additional cost."

 

After a round of golf, a spa treatment is certainly in order. Outrigger Maui Eldorado has joined with the newly opened Spa at Black Rock in the Kaanapali Beach Resort to offer Outrigger Maui Eldorado guests a special 20% discount now through Sept. 7 (coupons available at the Outrigger Maui Eldorado front desk). 

 

A number of nearby restaurants are offering special discounts to Outrigger Maui Eldorado guests.

 

Looking for a quick snack or an easy lunch? Stop at Round Table Pizza at the Fairway Shops and receive 10 % off the entire bill. Hungry for local Hawaiian dish? Lunch and dinner is offered at the well-known Hula Grill located at Whaler's Village.

Delicious Hawaiian cuisine is available from either the Barefoot Bar menu or the dinner menu, and Outrigger Maui Eldorado guests receive a free appetizer when ordering two entrees.

Restaurant Basil Tomato Italian Grille is offering Outrigger Maui Eldorado guests a similar deal -- a free appetizer sampler with the order of two entrees. Located on the 5th green of the Kaanapali Golf course, Basil Tomato is one of the town's finest Italian dinner houses specializing in Northern Italian cuisine and is a perfect place for an intimate dining experience in a casual and cozy setting.

No coupons are needed for these special dining offers! Outrigger Maui Eldorado guests simply show their Outrigger key card to receive the discount at any of these restaurants.

 

Located along the fairways of Kaanapali Beach Resort, the Outrigger Maui Eldorado is a short stroll from Whalers Village's shops, restaurants and nightlife, and a five-minute walk across the fairways from the private pristine Kaanapali Beach, where guests can sunbathe or enjoy the privacy of an exclusive beach cabana. 

 

For reservations, travel agent specials and more information, visit www.OutriggerCondos.com or call 800-OUTRIGGER (688-7444).

Visitors explore the hangar deck on the USS Midway Museum in San Diego. (Photos courtesy of Midway Museum

<p>By Richard Irwin Travel Editor</p>

<p>My brothers leaned forward in the air boss' seat high up in Pri-Fly tower jutting over the flight deck of the USS Midway in San Diego.</p>
<p>Navy jets spread out below him, giving this Easterner a unique perspective that he would never get in Pittsburgh. But then, San Diego has always been a big Navy town.</p>
<p>It was only appropriate that they sample some naval history during a recent vacation.</p>
<p>We were surprised by the tight, steep ladders we had to climb to reach the Primary Flight control center of the Midway; the longest serving carrier in the 20th century.</p>
<p>But the view, with the beautiful harbor glistening far below, made it worthwhile. Our guide explained that the air boss controls everything from the flight deck up to 25,000 feet.</p>
<p>Another level in the island bristled with navigation equipment used to guide the ship around the world for 47 years. Commissioned one week after the end of World War II, the Midway's odyssey ended as the flagship in the Persian Gulf during Desert Storm.</p>
<p>The pride poured into this museum shows and visitors have responded. The Midway has become the most-visited floating ship museum in the world, with more than four million visitors from 2004 to 2009.</p>
<p>Clambering back down, we toured the large flight deck, which features 26 meticulously restored aircraft. Everything from the huge Skywarrior, the largest aircraft to operate off American carriers, to the tiny Skyhawks used in Vietnam squatted on the deck.</p>
<p>The Midway has aircraft from all the wars, ranging from World War II to Desert Storm.</p>
<p>Be sure to stop at the forward catapult, where a museum docent will explain how the steam-driven system shoots a 45,000-pound plane from 0 to 165 mph in a couple seconds.</p>
<p>These volunteers are often retired Naval officers. The ones who helped us flew Crusader jetfighters off the pitching deck.</p>
<p>Another docent showed us how a tailhook grabs an arresting cable to slow a plane from 150 mph in 315 feet of landing space.</p>
<p>Below is a huge hangar deck, where aircraft was stored and repaired. This large space also has aircraft on display, as well as flight simulators that anyone can enjoy for a additional cost.</p>
<p>Visitors receive digital audio guides to show them around the rest of the ship. The audio tour explains what life in this floating city was like. A cook describes how they prepared 13,500 meals every day in the shiny galleys below.</p>
<p>There's also a barbershop, hospital, post office and brig below. Visitors can also drop down to the engine room to see how the giant boilers produced 212,000 horsepower to drive the warship through the water.</p>
<p>The Midway is open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission is $17 adults, $9 for kids 6-17 and free for kids 5 and under.</p>
<p>If you have any energy or time left, leave the car in the parking lot and walk down North Harbor Drive to the nearby Maritime Museum.</p>
<p>There they can explore the Soviet attack submarine used to stalk American carrier groups. Carrying 24 torpedoes, including some with nuclear warheads, the low-tech Foxtrot hunted U.S. warships for 20 years. </p>
<p>A word of warning, however: If you have trouble climbing, bending and crouching then you don't want to tour this submarine. We still can't figure out how they managed to cram 78 men into this tin can.</p>
<p>The HMS Surprise docked next to her is a replica of a 24-gun Royal Navy frigate from Lord Nelson's era. Russell Crowe commanded this ship in the Academy Award winning film "Master and Commander: The Far Side of the World." </p>
<p>The attention to detail is quite striking. And the many exhibits do a good job of explaining what life was like for sailors in the 18th century. </p>
<p>The flagship has to be the Star of India, the world's oldest active ship according to museum officials. Launched in 1863, she was one of the first iron ships. </p>
<p>The Star's woodwork is very impressive, as is the size of her holds. Visitors can go below to learn the history of this majestic sailing ship. </p>
<p>The museum also has many other exhibits and vessels to explore. It is open every day from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Admission is $14 for adults, $8 for kids 6-17, and free for children 5 and under. For more information, check the Web site www.sdmaritime.org</p>
<p>richard.irwin@sgvn.com </p>
<p>(626) 962-8811, Ext. 2801 </p>

The Hyatt at Fisherman's Wharf in San Francisco has introduced passports as a fun way to engage children.  Each child receives a passport upon arrival. When they return to the hotel after their San Francisco excursions, they will be given "colorful" stamps that illustrate their adventures.

   In a passport contest campaign, non-adult guests are encouraged to photograph their way through San Francisco and submit their unique (family or individual) images for submission to the hotel's blogsite at www.hyattatthewharf.blogspot.com. 

Logistics:

1. Contestants will post (San Francisco vacation) photos on the blog with a summary photo caption of their whereabouts (passport must be included in photo submissions).
2. The contest will run from through Labor Day weekend, 2009.
3. Grand Prize (1^st place) = future weekend stay at Hyatt at Fisherman's Wharf for a family of four. Runners up (2^nd and 3^rd places) = Hyatt gift cards in the amount of $??, for use at any Hyatt, world-wide.
4. Winners will be selected, and notified, by mid-September.

The Hyatt at Fisherman's Wharf is now offering the new "Just Ducky" Package, through Aug. 30.  This new family package features four tickets (two children/two adults) aboard Ride The Ducks' amphibious vehicles with a 1½ hour land and water tour of San Francisco.  Starting at only $204, the package includes overnight accommodations for a family of four (two adults/two children); breakfast for the family of four; tickets for Ride The Ducks tour (two adults/two children); four wacky quacker (whistles); and two passports for the children.

  Another affordable option is the Classic Family Vacation Package, which starts at a rate of only $194.  In addition to accommodations for a family of four for one night, the package includes full breakfast, 15% savings on restaurant dining, welcome snack amenity for kids, a 20% shopping discount on NationalGeographic.com, and of course, the Hyatt at Fisherman's Wharf signature San Francisco Passport.  This offer is valid through Sept. 7.

Mimis Cafe is sponsoring a summer partnership with the San Diego Zoo and San Diego Zoo's Wild Animal Park.  Through Aug. 31 guests who dine at any of the 39 participating Mimis Cafe restaurants in Southern California will receive a coupon for one free Child's Best Value Admission Ticket with the purchase of an Adult Best Value Admission Ticket to use toward their next visit to the San Diego Zoo or Wild Animal Park. 

Guests will also receive a Mimis Cafe coupon for the Just Enough menu items good on their next visit.

 "We are always looking for ways to enhance and add value for our guests," said Mimi Somerman, Senior Vice President for Marketing.  "Our partnership with the San Diego Zoo, one of Southern California's most popular attractions, provides another way our guests can enjoy summer."

 In addition to the summer deals, a special fundraising day will occur on Wednesday, Aug. 12, at all 39 participating locations, in which 15 percent of net sales generated with a downloadable flyer will be donated to the San Diego Zoo's conservation efforts.

 "We welcome Mimis Cafe guests to experience what makes the San Diego Zoo and Wild Animal Park such a unique and one-of-a-kind experience for people of all ages," said John Dunlap, San Diego Zoo director.  "The money raised during the fundraising day, will aid the San Diego Zoo's mission of conservation and preservation of animals and their habitats."

 To find participating Mimis Cafe locations, download the special flyer and more, visit mimiscafe.com and click on the San Diego Zoo logo.

Looking for a doggone good time. Here's some California campgrounds that treat pets like people.

The Edgewater Resort in Kelseyville, which not only gives each dog a treat and their own nametag when they arrive, but invites them to swim with their owners at its private beach, which fronts Clear Lake, California's largest natural body of water.

"There aren't many places where they let dogs swim, which is a shame since most dogs love to swim and play catch," said Sandra West, the park's owner.

But Edgewater Resort's dog-friendly approach has made it a top destination for camping enthusiasts who travel with their pets.

"At least half of the people who come here bring dogs," West said, adding, "We probably have 30 to 50 dogs here every weekend."

Debbie Sipe, executive director of the California Association of RV Parks and Campgrounds, said private park owners are becoming more sensitive to the needs of dog owners in response to industry research, which has shown that large numbers of people travel with their pets.

While over 90% of the RV parks and campgrounds listed on Camp-California.com accept dogs, most have relatively limited amenities for pets, aside from a designated dog run. However, a handful of parks are investing in unique pet amenities and activities. They include:

Benbow Valley RV Resort in Garberville: This park, which is part of the Benbow Valley Hotel and Resort, has its own "Salon de Soggy Doggy," an outdoor dog washing area that includes a raised platform and wash basin for easy access with a hose and shower nozzle with warm water. Toni Daily, the director of sales and marketing for resort, said the facility is popular with guests who want to "spruce up their pooch" as they travel or after letting their dog swim in the neighboring Eel River.

Clio's Rivers Edge RV Park in Clio: This 220-site park recently added a 20- by 40-foot dog run, which it plans to equip with exercise and dog play features this summer. The park also allows owners to let their dogs swim the Feather River, which runs alongside the park.

San Francisco North / Petaluma KOA: This park is investing about $200,000 in improvements this year, which include a 4,000-square foot dog park.

San Diego KOA: This park, located in Chula Vista, has just completed construction of a 7,800-square foot dog park, completed with agility obstacles and ball play areas.

Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park in Cobb: This campground has themed weekends and related special activities throughout the summer, including a "Pets Weekend" (August 1-2), with a special activities involving animals, including a best dressed pet contest.

Find a pet friendly campground in other areas by checking www.Camp-California.com. The site includes links to RV parks and campgrounds, which provide their own "activities" or event calendars, which can help you figure out which parks have activities your family will enjoy.

         This summer, families and friends can come together to witness a crime in the streets of Columbia, California, based on a real event that happened in 1856.

After viewing the scuffle, it will be up to the public to decide among themselves whether the crime was self-defense or attempted murder. Participants will be able to subpoena witnesses and a trial will be held to decide the fate of the attacker.

Join the trial on July 25 or Aug.15, at 10 a.m. to participate in this exciting event. Reservations are recommended as space is limited and are $15 for groups of up to six people and can be made by calling (209) 588-9128.

Columbia State Historic Park, located in Tuolumne County, is designated as a National Historic Landmark District, and has been preserved to tell the story of the towns which arose during the California Gold Rush to serve the needs of miners.  California State Parks has restored and continues to preserve over 30 of the original brick buildings along the town's Main Street. 

 

<p>Birch Aquarium</p>
<p>2300 Expedition Way, La Jolla</p>
<p>Hours: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily</p>
<p>Admission: $11 adults, $9</p>
<p>seniors, $7.50 children (3-17), free kids 2 and under</p>
<p>Information: (858) 534-FISH or the Web site at aquariuminfo@ucsd.edu </p>
<p>kicker: Tanks for the Memories</p>
<p>hed: Encounters with 'misunderstood' predators</p>


<p>By Richard Irwin Travel Editor</p>
<p>Hooray! Shark Week begins this Saturday, July 18, at the Birch Aquarium at the Scripps Institution of Oceanography in La Jolla.</p>
<p>We know you all love to watch Shark Week on the Discovery Channel. Now's your chance to get close to these marine predators. It makes it so much more personal.</p>
<p>Kids and families can learn all about these amazing creatures from July 18 to 24. The aquarium has planned many hands-on activities.</p>
<p>If you've never been to the famous ocean institute in San Diego, this is a great chance to throw the family in the van and drive down for a visit.</p>
<p>The Birch Aquarium is a great place for kids to learn about the seas surrounding Southern California. There are many fascinating exhibits, but be careful or you'll end up learning more than you wanted.</p>
<p>Scripps scientists say sharks are misunderstood. They'll discuss recent discoveries, as well as new conservation efforts aimed at reversing the declining shark population.</p>
<p>There will even be hourly presentations featuring live shark encounters. Heed this warning, though: Please do not pet the fish!</p>
<p>And be sure to check out the dive shows that will focus on sharks in the two-story kelp forest tank. Get there early for the shows at 2 p.m. on Saturday, July 18; 10:30 a.m. on Sunday, July 19; and 12:30 p.m. on Tuesday, July 21, and Thursday, July 23. </p>
<p>Personally, we're rooting for the divers, but you decide.</p>
<p>On Wednesday, July 22, there will be a special screening of the award-winning documentary "Requiem" at 6:30 p.m. This film explores the true nature of these "misunderstood" predators of the deep.</p>
<p>Cameras take viewers deep underwater to uncover the stunning beauty, power and skills of sharks. The documentary visits the creatures at home in the Bahamas, Hawaii, Tahiti and Mexico.</p>
<p>Afterward, Scripps scientists who study sharks will answer any questions. </p>
<p>Tickets are only $5. For reservations, call (858) 534-4109.</p>
<p>Throughout Scripps' Shark Week, the aquarium will have more than 10 species of sharks on display. How many can you name? hammerhead, mako, sand, leopard, Great White &mdash;</p>
<p>Speaking of the Great White Shark, families can have their photos taken in the Great White photo booth. There's plenty of room in this monster's mouth if you're brave enough to crawl in. My two brothers and I fit in easily.</p>
<p>Don't miss the Shark Reef exhibit in the courtyard. The 13,000-gallon tank features species that live in tropical reefs. There's whitetip and blacktip reef sharks, brown-banded bamboo sharks, Port Jackson sharks.</p>
<p>Nearby panels explain shark biology and conservation.</p>
<p>Birch Aquarium is family friendly. Families flooded the complex perched on a buff overlooking the Pacific. Everyone seemed to be having a great time learning about the watery world just down the hill.</p>
<p>The Hall of Fishes takes visitors on a trip from the Pacific Northwest along the California coast to the warm waters of Mexico.</p>
<p>Halfway through the exhibit, a 70,000-gallon tank contains a kelp forest two stories high. A towering glass wall makes visitors feel like they're walking across the bottom of the ocean.</p>
<p>Some of the fish will freak you out. The Moray eels look especially evil.</p>
<p>We loved the "Art of Deception" exhibit. At first, they look like empty tanks, but if they look really close, visitors will discover perfectly camouflaged fish.</p>
<p>The rock fish is especially hard to see, blending into the coral formations with nary an outline. The leafy sea dragons looked like kelp floating around the tank.</p>
<p>Outside, the Preuss Tide Pool Plaza overlooks La Jolla. Guests will be stunned by the panoramic view of the Pacific. </p>
<p>Kids will love exploring the tide pools. Windows permit tykes to see brilliant seastars, hermit crabs, sea cucumbers and lobsters up close.</p>
<p>But please remember tide pool etiquette: Watch where you step; if you pick up a rock, put it back as you found it; and try not to touch &mdash; animals with protective mucus layers and delicate tissues are easily damaged by touching.</p>
<p>"Feeling the Heat: The Climate Challenge" explores global warming. This award-winning exhibit presents the science of global climate change, supported by 50 years of ground-breaking research by the institute.</p>
<p>The coral displays were beautiful. Scientists note that 16 percent of the planet's reefs have been destroyed in the past five years, while 25 percent have been severely degraded. </p>
<p>So go for the sharks, but stay for all the other exhibits this fascinating aquarium has to share with families.</p>
<p>richard.irwin@sgvn.com </p>
<p>(626) 962-8811, Ext. 2801</p>

Visitors coming to the Anaheim/Orange County area now have a comprehensive resource when it comes to planning trips and vacations: the 2009 OC Travel Guide. The OC Travel Guide is
the area's primary travel-planning aid, and it is now available for order online.

The 138-page, 2009 OC Travel Guide offers a comprehensive overview of Orange County area accommodations, attractions, arts and culture, beaches, sports and recreation, shopping, dining, entertainment and transportation.

The guide also features updated maps, a calendar of annual events, build-it-yourself itineraries and in-depth information on Southern California theme parks. The compact guide fits easily into
a pocket, purse or backpack to use on the go.

This year's OC Travel Guide pays homage to one of Orange County's legendary artists. The cover art on the 2009 OC Travel Guide features the work of acclaimed SoCal artist John Van Hamersveld.

Hamersveld, whose most recognizable work is the renowned "Endless Summer" sunset and surfer movie poster from 1966, felt compelled to contribute his iconic artwork to the destination that inspired his early works. "I feel the cover reflects Orange County, and pulls the 'Forever Summer' attitude together," says Hamersveld.

A free copy of The OC Travel Guide is now available online at anaheimoc.org or by calling (714) 765-8888.

The Carmel Bach Festival begins July 17. The 16-day celebration is inspired by the historical and ongoing influence of J.S. Bach in the world.

For 72 years the Festival has brought Baroque music to the Monterey Peninsula. Well-known artists join the Festival orchestra and chorale, along with the local chorus, for performances that move the soul and inspire the spirit.

A rich schedule features full orchestral and choral works, individual vocal and chamber ensemble concerts, recitals, master classes, lectures and informal talks, in addition to interactive social and family events.

Patrons will find special restaurant and lodging discounts at www.bachfestival.org

If you've ever wanted to look through Carmel-by-the-Sea's charming cottages and architecturally distinctive homes, the Carmel Heritage Society is presenting just such an opportunity from 1 to 5 p.m. on Saturday, July 25, with the self-guided Carmel House & Garden Tour.

This year, for the first time, the house and garden tour will be held while the Carmel Bach Festival is in full swing, which affords out-of-town festival goers a chance to see a little more of Carmel than they might have planned.

Once again, the Frank Lloyd Wright house on Scenic Road will be the focal point of the tour. Harmony House, the former residence of Carmel Bach Festival founders, Dene Denny and Hazel Watrous, and Forge in the Forest House - original site of Master Blacksmith Francis Whitaker's first forge in Carmel -- will be among the nine craftsman-style and architecturally eclectic homes and gardens included in this annual event.

During the tour, ticket-holders are invited to an informal reception with refreshments in the garden behind First Murphy House.

Tickets for the tour are $25 per person (or $30 the day of the event) and may be purchased online at www.carmelheritage.org, or at First Murphy House on Lincoln Street, just north of Sixth Avenue, Carmel-by-the-Sea. Included with the tickets will be an easy-to-follow map showing the exact location of each of the homes and gardens.   

For inquiries, call the Carmel Heritage Society at (831) 624-4447.

Went to the OC Super Fair this weekend. Pretty hot, both the temperature and the activities. I didn't even get to do everything I wanted to, so I'll have to go back again.

We went on some rides. The big ferris wheel, La Grande Wheel, is my favorite. What a view! The Giant Slide is exciting and you get your exercise hiking to the top. My hat almost blew off on the way down. When I grabbed it I put my hands down and skinned a bit from my wrist. So keep your hands up!

 Food is always fun at the Fair. They have the usual assortment of crazy things -- a zucchini weenie with a hollowed out zucchini stuffed with a hot dog and deep fried like a corn dog. (Yes, Mom, I did eat my vegetables at the Fair. Honest.)  Then there's the chocolate-covered bacon.

I'm looking forward to almost anything from the Greek Gourmet and Jeanne's Artichokes.  My favorite place for steamed and deep fried artichokes has added paninis and vegetable skewers this year. So far I've had a barbecued beef sandwich from the Chuckwagon, a turkey leg from the Outlaw Grill, the world's largest barbecue, a couple of samples of wine from the Wine Courtyard and a mixed berry smoothie from Terry's Berries -- all regular stops for me on my Fair grazing.

 Do you visit the craft exhibits? Look for my blue-ribbon-winning pink place mats or my sister's division-winning collection of patriotic Disney pins. We were pleased with ourselves.

I still need to do some shopping, see the animals, tour Al's Brain and learn about the history of the fairgrounds in the exhibit Air Base to Fair Base. So much to do.

Good thing the Fair runs until Aug. 9. You can learn more details at the OC Fair Web Site, www.ocfair.com.

 

 

 

 

It's summertime, which means it's time for the Fair. Not the LA Fair,
the OC Fair, or, as they're calling it this year, the OC Super Fair.
Though smaller than September's LA County Fair, the Orange County
Fair offers a full range of crafts to admire, carnival rides to
exhilarate and more fried foods than you can gnaw a stick at.
You don't have to avoid the Fair if you're trying to eat healthy. You
can find steamed artichokes, grilled corn, salads, grilled chicken
and more tasty but low fat options. One of my favorite spots is
Terry's Berries where you can get fresh fruit and fresh fruit
smoothies. I swear the only truly ripe peaches I see all summer come
from Terry's Berries.
I also love the steamed artichokes from Jeanne's Artichokes. Of
course, I also love their deep fried artichokes. Maybe I'll try the
mixed platter this year with zucchini, mushrooms and more.
For more substantial food, I'm partial to the barbecue beef
sandwiches at the Chuck Wagon and just about everything at an upscale
Greek place whose name I've sadly forgotten. The gyros and souvlaki
are heavenly. The tri-tip sandwiches at Baja Blues cantina are also
delicious and you can sit indoors in the air conditioning. Always a
plus in July.
I always visit the Wine Courtyard to sample different wines. I
discovered my favorite Robert Mondavi riesling at the Fair and now I
buy it all the time.
Yes, you can tell I mostly eat my way across the Fair. I also enjoy
looking at the exhibits in the Home Arts, Collections, Floral and
Farm and Garden divisions. I have entered all those in the past. I
entered patchwork place mats in Home Arts and a collection of Star
Wars pins this year. And for the first week of the Fair you can look
to see whether my four-pound zucchini won the largest zucchini
contest. (But only for the first week of the Fair. New entries in
fruits, vegetables and fresh flowers are turned in on Tuesdays
throughout the Fair.
Adrenalin junkies can find all sorts of carnival rides and a sky ride
that frankly scares the bejeebers out of me. It's so exposed. I feel
like I could easily fall out. My sister loves it, however.
I also check out the animals. They're going to feature horses for a
week, July 29-Aug. 2. I'd like to see the mustang demonstration and
the jousting, but it'll depend on which day I can go. Pigs are also
featured this year. The theme of the 2009 OC Super Fair is Think.
Big. So they will have a Think. Pig. Exhibit July 22-Aug. 9 with
images, folklore, artifacts, history and more all about pigs.
Another featured exhibit this year is Al's Brain, a 3-D movie of a
journey through the human brain featuring Weird Al Yankovic.
There are different shows and concerts every day. I am intrigued by
the events in the Action Sports Arena. They always have a demolition
derby, this year scheduled for July 25, but this year, in honor of
the theme, they will have a second demolition derby on July 26
featuring Class C motorhomes. The mind boggles.
The OC Super Fair is at 88 Fair Drive in Costa Mesa. Take the 405 or
the 5 south to the 55 Freeway south. Exit at Del Mar/Fair Drive and
turn right on Fair Drive. From the 57, head south to the 5 and follow
above directions.
The Fair runs Wednesday through Sunday, July 10 to Aug. 9. It is
CLOSED Mondays and Tuesdays. It is open 10 a.m. To midnight on
Saturday and Sunday and noon to midnight on weekdays.
Admission is $10 for ages 13-59, $7 for seniors 60 and older, and $5
for children 6-12. Children 5 and younger are admitted free.
Thursdays are Kids Days and all children up to age 12 can get in
free. Fridays are Senior Days when admission for ages 60 and older is
only $4. Fair devotees can get a season pass called a Super Pass for
$30 for ages 13-59, $25 for seniors and $20 for children. Parking is
$5 general and $10 for preferred and for buses and limos. Free
parking on weekends only is available at the Experian parking
structure off the Bristol Street/Avenue of the Arts exit of the 405
Freeway. There's a shuttle from the parking structure.
For more info about the Fair, visit their website at www.ocfair.com.

Hawaiian resorts are noted for their many children's activities that allow their parents some well-deserved rest while knowing their little ones are well supervised. With record low prices, this is the time to consider taking your family to Hawaii.

 

Here are some of Hawaii.com's favorite resorts that cater to children and to their parents. Be sure to check rates carefully as they are constantly changing and new specials are offered every day.

 

1. Turtle Bay Resort, Oahu

This resort on the North Shore boasts some of the best surfing in all of Hawaii, as well as the island's only on-site helipad. For teens looking to "catch a wave," group lessons begin at $75. (For safety reasons, children under 13 require private lessons, starting at $95 for one hour.) For future equestrians, The Stables at Turtle Bay offers a 20-minute pony walk for children under age 7. And don't let your kids miss out on the clear-bottom kayaks, allowing them to see the sea life in an unforgettable way. There's also a "buried treasure" hunt and 12 miles of hiking trails to accommodate any age.

We have seen rates at Hawaii.com around $237/night for an oceanfront king room.

 

2. Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa, Koloa, Kauai

There is something for every child at this resort. He or she can choose from a variety of complimentary activities available in the lobby atrium each day including lei making, hula lessons or ukulele lessons. Or there's a meandering river pool, a thrilling 150-foot waterslide and an active pool for basketball or volleyball. Children love the expansive saltwater lagoon where they can swim, float or kayak together. Non-water options include an easy hike along a sea cliff with spectacular views...they might even see endangered humpback whales, green sea turtles or monk seals.

We have seen rates at Hawaii.com for $300/night for a garden view room.

 

3. The Kahala Hotel & Resort, Honolulu, Oahu

The Kahala Hotel & Resort has a dedicated club (the "Keiki Club" - keiki is the Hawaiian word for child) for children ages 5-12 to enjoy diverse activities and learn about Hawaiian culture.  Among the many activities offered are reef walking, snorkeling, bamboo pole fishing, lei making, hula dancing, crabbing and cavorting with the dolphins.

We have seen rates at Hawaii.com for $395/night for a scenic view room.

 

4. Hilton Waikoloa Village, Kohala Coast, Big Island

Located in the expansive Waikoloa Beach Resort, there's plenty to occupy children's time and interest at the Hilton Waikoloa. The "Dolphin Quest" will be a sure hit (parents are likely to enjoy it as well) and the resort also offers classes in hula dancing and the making of flower, ti leaf or shell-and-bead leis. Also, "Waikoloa Family Golf Days" will take place every day after 3 p.m. through July 31, 2009. Families will have the opportunity to play nine holes on the Kings course for extremely reasonable rates.

We have seen rates on Hawaii.com for $199, one of the best deals in the islands for a major resort.

 

5. Hyatt Regency Maui, Lahaina, Maui

Tots and teens alike will have a field day at the "Camp Hyatt Ka'anapali." Children of all ages will delight in creating photo memories with their own camp-issued cameras.  (Their favorite picture will be turned into a photo t-shirt.) They will also be able to play tennis, try "coconut bowling," fish on the banks of the Hyatt stream and explore Maui's wildlife and volcanoes. By night, children will learn about the Hawaiian night sky with the "Tour of the Stars" astronomy program.

We have seen rates as low as $240/night for a terrace room on Hawaii.com.

 

6-9. Prince Hotels on Maui, Oahu and the Big Island

Each of the four Prince hotels offers a comprehensive children's program. You can request a private nanny for about $18 per hour or have your children participate in the Prince Keiki Club. Half-day and full-day programs are available and many fun activities are included. Prince has certified children counselors to make sure your offspring are well cared for and have fun. Rates usually begin at $415/night at Hawaii.com, however, right now there is a special rate beginning at $269 and you might be able to have a fourth night free.

 

Be sure to check out all of these properties on Hawaii.com and be sure to visit Hawaii.com on Facebook.

 

Want to learn how to get your reggae moves on? The Second Annual Jamaica Night at the Shoppes of Chino Hills will teach you how!

The fun event will be held Saturday from 6 to 8 p.m. Hosted by the Jamaica Tourist Board, it is free and open to the public.

 

The night will feature free reggae dance lessons by local group Island Groovers, live reggae music. Travel experts will be on hand to show why Jamaica is an exciting get-away for Southern Californians.

 "We are delighted to host this entertaining event and promote all that Jamaica has to offer to the visitors and residents of Chino Hills and the surrounding areas.  Jamaica provides so many activities perfect for singles, couples, and families," said John Lynch, Jamaica's Director of Tourism.

 Representatives from Apple Vacations, Pomona Travel and the Jamaica Tourist Board will be available to help you plan your next getaway.

The San Diego Convention and Visitor's Bureau is challenging visitors to spread the joy.

Many have seen their Happy Happens commercial and told them that they loved the song, "Smile On" by Anthems, but they couldn't find it.  People can now download it for FREE.

And the bureau is challenging people to spread the happiness to their friends by sharing the song with them too.  When you send your friends the song you'll be automatically entered into the Spread the Joy Challenge where you'll have a chance to win a trip for two to San Diego.

If you haven't heard Smile On yet, click here to view our Happy Happens video. They guarantee you'll be humming it the rest of the day.

Visit Sandiego.org/SmileOn to download the song and learn more about the Spread the Joy Challenge.

Catalina's Hotel Villa Portofino offers the Villa Venturer Package through Oct. 31, beginning at $161.50/night, double occupancy, plus tax.

The package includes: 

 

• Accommodations at the oceanfront Hotel Villa Portofino
• Continental breakfast
• Welcome gift
• R/T boat transportation aboard Catalina Express from Long Beach, San Pedro, or Dana Point
• R/T taxi transfers between boat dock and hotel
• 1 ¼ hour snorkel trip with Catalina Ocean Rafting

 

Weekend rates are higher, and a two night minimum stay is usually required.

 

Upon arrival at one of the best snorkeling spots on the island, guests will enjoy 45 minutes of water time to explore the undersea gardens. Snorkel gear and instruction is included.

 

Trips start at 8:30 a.m. every day and run every 1 ½ until the last departure at 4 p.m. Guests must meet at Catalina Ocean Rafting 15 minutes prior to departure with bathing suits on and their own towels.

Wetsuits may be rented for an additional $5. Children under 5 and pregnant women cannot participate. In the event of rain or rough seas, the trip may be cancelled or delayed.

 

For more information, call (888)-34-OCEAN, 888-510-0555, or locally, 310-510-0555.  Visit www.hotelvillaportofino.com.  For transportation, call Catalina Express at 800-429-4601, or log on to www.catalinaexpress.com.

Things may look a little different the next time you fly out of Los Angeles International Airport (LAX).

Northwest and Delta Air Lines are joining forces. When you travel out of LAX,  you'll notice that Northwest has moved from Terminal 2 to Terminal 5. The signage has been replaced by the Delta brand.

Delta Sky Club members and BusinessElite passengers can head to the Delta Sky Club in Terminal 5 on the mezzanine level between gates 53 & 55 to enjoy the premium perks you know and expect.

San Francisco offers fireworks, film festivals and jazz this summer. Pier 39 is one of the best places to spend the Fourth of July.

Free concerts by Take 2 and Tainted Love at the pier's entrance welcome you to an Independence Day festival of food, crafts and music.

Of course, the main event is a spectacular over-the-bay fireworks display. The show begins at approximately 9:30.

Be sure to dress warmly, as the breeze off the water can make the pier a bit chilly.

The Fillmore Street Jazz Festival (July 4-5) brings art and soul to three stages. The festival features 300 artists' booths as well as an international food court.

On Saturday and Sunday, July 4, 5, Railtown 1897 State Historic Park invites visitors to celebrate our American heritage by taking a steam train ride, and picnicing on the shaded grounds. 

 

Railtown's excursion trains will depart on Saturday and Sunday from the Railtown Depot, on-the-hour from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. The six-mile, 40-minute roundtrip ride takes passengers through the rolling Gold Country foothills, passing through meadows and along grassy hillsides covered with ancient oak trees.  

 

Families are encouraged to bring a picnic, set up your BBQ on our shaded lawn, or enjoy lunch at the new Carriage Room Café and Snack Bar at the Freight Shed.  On Fourth of July from 11-2, there will be a special offer of 1/3 lb hamburger, fresh coleslaw and beans for $7.50. 

 

During the holiday weekend, visitors will have the opportunity to ride first-class, on Railtown's restored Pullman car, and also see the San Diego & Arizona Eastern's Ford Model AA 1931 Fire Engine in service.  Additional activities throughout the weekend include live music, old-fashioned games and demonstrations in the roundhouse shops.

 

Railtown 1897 State Historic Park's Depot Store, Interpretive Center, and grounds are open daily April-October from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Guided Roundhouse Tours are available daily. On Saturdays and Sundays, Trains depart hourly 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. from the Railtown Depot; regular train tickets are $8 adults, $3 youths ages 6-17, ages 5 and under ride free.

 

Railtown 1897 State Historic Park is located at the corner of Fifth Avenue and Reservoir Road in Jamestown, near Sonora.  For more information, call 209-984-3953.

San Diego has some of the best Fourth of July festivities. Here are some top picks for watching fireworks this Independence Day. 

CENTRAL SAN DIEGO

• Glorietta Bay (Coronado): 9 p.m. Day-long festivities with the annual Coronado Independence Day parade at 10 a.m.  
• La Jolla Cove: 9 p.m. 
• Mira Mesa Recreation Center: Food, rides, games and entertainment in Mira Mesa Community Park during the day.
• Mission Bay Yacht Club: 9 p.m. 
• Ocean Beach Pier: 9 p.m.
• Paradise Point Resort and Spa: 9 p.m.
• PETCO Park: Fireworks follow the evening game 
• San Diego Bay: 9 p.m. 
• SeaWorld (Mission Bay): 9:30 p.m. 

EAST COUNTY

• Town Center Community Park Ballfields (Santee): 9 p.m. 
• Spring Valley Park: 9 p.m. 
• Lake Murray Music Fest and Fireworks (La Mesa): 9:05 p.m. 619-583-5211.

NORTH COUNTY

• Bradley Park (San Marcos): 9 p.m. 
• Brengle Terrace Park (Vista): 9 p.m. 
• Del Mar Beach: 9 p.m. All day activities. 
• Grape Day Park (Escondido): 9 p.m. 
• Julian: No fireworks, but a day full of celebration! 
• LEGOLAND (Carlsbad): 8:30 p.m. 
• Oceanside Pier: 9 p.m. 
• Olive Peirce Middle School (Ramona): 9 p.m. Grounds open at 5 p.m.
• Rancho Bernardo High School: 9 p.m. (619) 889-8505.
• San Diego County Fair (Del Mar Fairgrounds): 9 p.m. 
• Valley Center High School: 9 p.m. (760) 670-7062.

SOUTH BAY

• Kimball Park (National City): 9 p.m.

West Park Inn - Rates from $79 based on availability. The Vagabond Inn Chula Vista - Exclusive Limited Time Offer - 25% off . Rates from $86 based on availability. Hampton Inn San Diego/Kearny Mesa - Rates from $109 based on availability. Lake San Marcos Resort - Summer on Sale! Stay 2 Nights, Save 20%. Rates from $124 based on availability. Inns of America Suites - Stay 2 nights & Save 15%. Rates from $140 based on availability. The Keating - Super Hot Spring Promo! Save 30% + a $30 Dining Credit. Rates from $202 based on availability. The Welk Resort - Stay 2 nights & save 20% on your stay. Rates from $247 based on availability