February 2010 Archives

Sunday may be a day of rest, but it can also be a day of instructive wine tasting if you visit the Montage Laguna Beach.

The resort's Bistro Loft offers an Artistry of Wine series from 2-4 p.m. through July.  The Loft presents a new insider wine tasting and seminar for wine lovers, who get to taste different varietals and vintages from wine regions around the world.

The seminars and tastings are led by Montage sommeliers and focus on wine themes ranging from "New Horizons" to "French Showcase." The cost is only $35 per person, but space is limited.

This Sunday's seminar is on white wines from Burgundy, North to South. March 7 is red wines from Burgundy. Then March 14 is about blends, March 21 is zins and March 28 travels to the Rhone Valley.

For more information visit www.montagelagunabeach.com.

The San Francisco Bay Area will celebrate its long-standing ties to Shanghai with many events in San Francisco, Berkeley and San Jose. Shanghai has been a Sister City of San Francisco since 1979, but ties between the two cities go back 140 years.

More than 30 cultural institutions and civic groups are participating in the California events that corresponds with the World Expo in Shanghai from May 1 to Oct. 31. Exhibitions, performances, film series, lectures, and a symposium have been scheduled.

The cornerstone of the celebration in San Francisco is "Shanghai," a major exhibition at the Asian Art Museum that opened on Feb. 12 and runs through Sept. 5. The exhibition includes 130 artworks including trade oil paintings, Shanghai deco furniture and rugs, revolutionary poster art, fashion, movie clips and contemporary art installations.

For information visit www.shanghaicelebration.com or www.asianart.org or call 415-581-3500.

Travel Guard (http://www.travelguard.com/), the nation's leading provider of travel insurance, has announced its first monthly winner of the "World's Unluckiest Travelers" campaign, awarding traveler Robert W. with a Flip MinoHD camcorder.   Robert is now in the running to win the grand prize, a $10,000 dream vacation, which will be awarded in December, 2010.   

Robert and his wife traveled to Las Vegas for vacation and decided to tour the Grand Canyon by helicopter.  What started as a breath-taking experience ended in a near calamity as the pilot made an emergency landing of the helicopter on a small patch of grass between the Colorado River and the wall of the Canyon.

The helicopter's engine failed completely, but all six passengers and the pilot walked away without a scratch. Robert, his wife and four other passengers were stranded on the floor of the canyon, taking pictures and waiting to be rescued by another helicopter! They were eventually brought back safely to Boulder City, NV.

Throughout 2010, Travel Guard is continuing its search for the "World's Unluckiest Traveler" - the vacationer who has survived an incredible travel mishap or outrageous adventure and has the story to prove it. 

Each month, Travel Guard will give away two Flip MinoHD camcorders - one to the entry that receives the most votes, and one to a randomly selected person who votes for the winning entry.

At the end of the year, each of the monthly winners will be posted for a final round of voting and two $10,000 dream vacations will be given away - one to the entry receiving the most votes, and one to a random lucky voter who voted for the winning entry.

Travelers can tell Travel Guard their stories by logging onto www.travelguard.com and uploading a video - or a series of photos - in which the traveler tells his or her travel tale.

The Furnace Creek Resort in Death Valley National Park now offers self-drive Jeep rentals to its guests and visitors. The new Jeeps give visitors an opportunity to explore some of the park's rugged backcountry areas.

The service is provided by Farabee Jeeps, and the vehicles can be rented for 24-hour periods for $175 for a two-door vehicle and $195 for a four-door model. All of the Jeep Wranglers have been customized with two-inch lifts and highly durable six-ply tires. The vehicles can be reserved by calling toll-free 1-877-970-5337 or locally at 1-760-786-9872.

Death Valley National Park is the largest national park in the continental United States, with more than 3.3 million acres. Only two percent of the park is developed leaving huge areas open for exploration. There are several hundred miles of unimproved roads that can best be accessed by four-wheel-drive, high-clearance vehicles. Vehicles are not permitted to drive off roads within park boundaries.

"Many of our guests arrive at Death Valley National Park in rental vehicles with restrictions or in two-wheel-drive vehicles that are not adequate to drive to some of the park's backcountry attractions, and I know these guests will appreciate having the option of renting a Jeep for the day so they can explore the park's rugged areas," said Rich Jones, regional general manager of Xanterra Parks & Resorts' operations in Death Valley. "We expect the Jeep rental service also to be popular with the many private pilots who arrive on our airstrip but have no means to explore the park beyond the resort. Pilots are transported from the air strip to the resort in courtesy shuttles."

Jones noted several backcountry attractions that can only be accessed by four-wheel-drive vehicles. They include the Racetrack, where rocks mysteriously slide across the dry lake bed leaving behind long tracks; Titus Canyon, featuring a ghost town, ancient petroglyphs, and deep, winding narrows; Geologist's Cabin, a remote stone cabin; and Barker Ranch, a private ranch that was the last holdout of Charles Manson and his followers before his 1969 capture.

In addition to the Jeep rentals, guests have a choice of many other activities at the resort including hiking, golfing, cycling, horseback-riding and relaxing by one of two spring-fed pools. Death Valley is also a favorite among photographers and star-gazers.  The park's famous wildflowers will begin blooming soon, providing a colorful welcome to visitors. 

The Furnace Creek Resort has been welcoming guests since the 1930s. Open from mid-October through mid-May, the Inn at Furnace Creek is an AAA Four Diamond-rated property featuring 66 rooms and two suites with a full array of amenities, fine dining, tennis courts and a spring-fed pool. Open year-round is the Ranch at Furnace Creek. Situated adjacent to the golf course, the Ranch features 224 rooms in a casual setting, general store, spring-fed swimming pool, tennis courts, horseback riding and the Borax Museum.

For more information about facilities in Death Valley National Park or to make room reservations at Furnace Creek Resort, call toll free at 1-800-236-7916 or 1-303-297-2757 or go to www.furnacecreekresort.com.

The San Diego North Convention and Visitors Bureau is looking for San Diego North travel stories from recent visitors to feature in the Bureau's newly launched "Don't Be Left Without a Story - Write Yours in San Diego North" campaign.

Visitors can share their favorite San Diego North memories, experiences and photos with other visitors on the Bureau's website (www.SanDiegoNorth.com/Your-Story) for a chance to win a trip to La Jolla, valued at over $1,700.  The trip includes a three-night stay at the historic Grande Colonial hotel, surfing lessons at the world famous Surf Diva Surf School and tickets to Birch Aquarium. 

The campaign runs through June 30 with the winner being selected at random in early July.  For those who don't yet have a San Diego North story to tell, the Bureau is also offering a variety of special hotel deals and exclusive offers to entice consumers to book a family, golf, adventure, spa or romantic-themed getaway.

Visitors can learn more about these special deals and discover additional opportunities to win a trip to San Diego North by following the Bureau on Twitter (www.twitter.com/VisitSDNorth) or becoming a Facebook fan (www.facebook.com/SanDiegoNorth).

Recently TripAdvisor picked the Spindrift Inn in Monterey as the top spot on its 2010 Travelers' Choice Awards as 'Best for Romance in the U.S.'  Its romantic guest rooms include wood burning fireplaces and many luxurious amenities. 

To celebrate, the oceanfront inn is offering its Everlasting Romance rate from Feb. 15 to March 14. From Sunday through Thursday, rooms overlooking Cannery Row are only $139 a night; while oceanfront rooms are $209 per night.

On Friday and Saturday nights, rooms over Cannery Row rise to $179 per night; while oceanfront rooms are $249 a night.

A continental breakfast is included every morning and served on a silver tray. Reservations must be booked by Feb. 12.

Availability is limited and restrictions apply, so book now or call 800-841-1879.

For those looking for new ideas, the Downtown Center Business Improvement District has created "Valentine's Day in LA - 14 Things for the 14^th." 

Activities for all kinds and budgets abound in Downtown Los Angeles.  For exclusive discounts and full details, please visit www.downtownla.com.

 

1. Valentine's Day dinner.  A classic, tried and true winner, you can't go wrong with Downtown LA, which prominent food critics have recently touted as one of the hippest dining destinations in the city - all surrounded by the bright lights and big city of Downtown. 

·         Chaya Downtown: Three-course meal followed by complimentary shuttle service to all theaters. 

·         Ciudad: Mention DowntownLA.com and get one split of cava with dinner for two, a four-course menu of Spanish and Mediterranean fare. 

·         Noe: Executive Chef Glen Ishii has created a three- and six-course tasting menu featuring Neo Bistro cuisine.

·         Roys: Enjoy a decadent, 4-course meal and receive a $20 bonus card per couple for your next visit.

 

2. Downtown hotels. Step it up a notch with a romantic stay.  Not feeling the love these days? Take advantage of President's Day and plan a girls-only getaway weekend.

·         LA Athletic Club: 1-night V-day package with deluxe room, four-course dinner, champagne breakfast and discounted parking.

·         The Standard: 2-night "Huge Love Package" includes breakfast, champagne, parking, access to the rooftop each evening, strolling cupids and other--ahem-- creative amenities. 

·         Hilton Checkers: 1-night stay, with four-course dinner, rooftop cocktails, an in-room bottle of champagne, an in-room movie with fresh popcorn delivered to the door, breakfast in bed. 

·         Wilshire Grand: Free 1-night stay (for two in the newly remodeled Junior Suites) after spending $100 on dining in either of its two restaurants. 

 

3. Liquid courage. Need some help impressing a new date?

·         The Must: A concept wine bar and gastropub featuring more than 50 local and global wines. 

·         The Edison: This bar offers hand-crafted cocktails amid the majestic relics of a long-lost era of glamour. Try the Rosebud Martini and fresh oysters.

·         The Conga Room: Sizzling sounds on the 14^th with the Latin jazz infusions of Poncho Sanchez, LA's King of the Congas. 

·         Play the field with your friends: Visit www.downtownla.com for dozens of bar options.

 

4. Crave some drama on the 14^th?  The Music Center will host two brilliant performances filled with enough emotion and excitement to last you until next Valentine's.  "The Butterfly Lovers" - China's Romeo and Juliet - will be playing at the Ahmanson Theatre at 2pm on February 14, while "The Subject was Roses," with Martin Sheen, is playing at the Mark Taper Forum at 8 pm.  Tickets are available at www.musiccenter.org.

 

5. Express your love through music at the Los Angeles Philharmonic with Ravel's lushly scored ballet.  The afternoon performance with conductor Rafael Fruhbeck de Burgos begins at 2pm at the magnificent Walt Disney Concert Hall.  Tickets are available at www.laphil.com.

 

6. Whether you are exploring the art of love or just love art, the MOCA's First Thirty Years exhibition is an inspiring way to spend the 14^th.  A two-part exhibition that includes the largest-ever installation of MOCA's permanent collection features impressive works added since the museum's founding.  They include Mondrian, Rothko, Rauschenberg, Pollock, Kline and others.  

 

7. For something intriguing and exotic, La Bistecca Presents "A Night in Morocco" at the Millennium Biltmore.  Enjoy a Moroccan menu featuring appetizer "mezze" courses, authentic entrée choices and rich desserts. Lavishly decorated, the Rendezvous Court will feature colorful fabrics, romantic lighting, and private cabana tables, with live belly dancing performances at 7:30 pm and 9:30 pm. 

 

8. Neihule, a sophisticated urban salon, offers plenty of V-day options, whether you want to start the romance early or just get ready.  Couples can enjoy the "Bed of Roses" package with a manicure and pedicure for two and champagne in a romantic setting.  If you want to get dolled up for your date or need a great gift for your Valentine, go to www.neihule.com for more specials.  Visitors who mention DowntownLA.com will receive a free lip balm.  

 

9. The old adage that diamonds are a girl's best friend still rings true, especially at Valentine's Day.  For the most unique assortment of diamonds, gems and other jewelry, the St. Vincent Jewelry Center , the largest jewelry complex in the world, is a sure bet to find special sparkles for that special someone on any budget.  For last-minute gift givers, the Broadway side of the jewelry center will be open on February 14.

 

10. For first dates, friendship, mom, anniversaries, or just because, flowers never fail.  The Los Angeles Flower District, the largest wholesale flower market in the U.S., features virtually every variety of cut flower, potted plant and exotic blossom that is commercially available, with many California grown.  A fresh, exquisite bouquet will brighten anyone's Valentine. Valentine's weekend hours: February 13-14, 6:00 am - 2:00 pm.

 

11. All the single ladies (and gents) should definitely partake in a free singles mixer party on Saturday, February 13, from 8pm to 2am at Remedy Lounge, who is partnering with theLEK.com, an LA-based website for singles.  Come enjoy drink specials, games, entertainment, and, of course, the crowd. RSVP required at www.thelek.com/heartbeat.

                       

12. Bowl the night away with friends at Lucky Strike, the perfect night out for those who would rather avoid the V-day hype.  More than just a bowling alley, Lucky Strike at L.A. LIVE is bowling blended into a sleek atmosphere with plush seating, cozy dining areas, DJs and places for private parties, including the four-lane Luxe suite.  Details at http://www.lalive.com/index.php. Bowlers who mention DowntownLA.com can enjoy 2-for1 appetizers and bowling.

 

13. Can't find a babysitter on the 14^th? Take the whole family to STAPLES Center to see the Harlem Globetrotters.  An entertainment experience like nothing else, enjoy high-flying dunks, fan interaction and laughs by some of the world's greatest athlete-entertainers. www.staplescenter.com.

 

14. Your ever-loyal pet will always be your No. 1 Valentine.  Dog lovers can find a date for their pooch at the Bark Avenue Valentine's Sweethearts Dance, a free "pawtry" and adoption event on February 13. Corsages and ties for pups will be provided, and the party will feature high school dance décor, music, snacks and desserts (for people and pooches), plenty of wine and a crowning of the Valentine's Day King and Queen.  Mention DowntownLA.com for a free Natural Balance treat bag. www.barkavela.com.  
    

Leave your heart in San Francisco this Valentine's Day.

The Red And White Fleet in San Francisco is offering two romantically-inspired cruises, namely the Valentine's Day and California Sunset cruises.

On Valentine's Day, Sunday, Feb. 14 from 2 to 4 p.m. and again from 5 to 7 p.m., romantics will enjoy the "Sweet Valentine Cruise" featuring a lavish appetizer buffet by Boudin and Champagne toast as the cruise sails under the majestic Golden Gate Bridge.  The cost is $58 a person.

 

Visit Visit http://www.redandwhite.com/seasonal_valentines_cruise.asp for more information and reservations.

 

The California Sunset Cruise is a romantically-inspired journey that singles and families will enjoy.  Beginning on April 1 through May 25 and then again from Sept. 7 to Oct. 24, the California Sunset Cruise sails at 6 p.m. on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays.  From May 26 to Sept. 6, the cruise will leave at 7 p.m., daily (with the exception of July 4^th.).

On this relaxed 2-hour cruise, guests enjoy spectacular sunset views, live guitar music and hearty appetizers that include a variety of sandwiches, salads, fruit, and dessert. 

The tour cruises past the island of Alcatraz, around Angel Island National Park, under the majestic span of the Golden Gate and along the beautiful shorelines of Tiburon and Sausalito, as the sun sets over the Pacific Ocean.

Advance booking is recommended as this event often sells out.  The costs are $54 for adults (18+), $36 for youth (5-17) and free for kids under 5 years of age.

Enjoy a virtual cruise at http://www.redandwhite.com/video_csc.asp.