October 7, 2009
Top 10 Luxury LA Weekend Getaways @ Disarray Magazine
Living in the city of dreams can be overwhelming at times with the hustle and bustle of the fast-paced big-city life. Lucky for us Angelinos, we are just a hop, skip and a jump from amazing weekend destinations. Take your pick at some of the most luxurious weekend escapes to rejuvenate and revitalize.
DRIVE
1.) Santa Barbara
A trip up the coast to the famous Bacara Resort and Spa is a much needed escape for anyone. Enchanted nights and glamorous days by the sparkling pool await you. Bacara Resort and Spa, 8301 Hollister Ave., Santa Barbara, CA 93117 805.968.0100
2.) San Diego
A weekend at the Four Seasons Aviara Resort and Spa includes golf, tennis, world class spa and elegant dining. Four Seasons Aviara, 7100 Four Seasons Point, Carlsbad, CA 92001 760.603.6800
3.) Big Bear
Rent a luxury cabin from bigbearresorts.com and become one with nature. Admire the lake views, cool breezes and four season charm. bigbearresorts.com
4.) Solvang
Mellow, small town feel with big ambiance. Stay at the Hadsten House Inn and Spa for a quaint, European-inspired getaway. Relax and indulge in wine tasting, theater and great dining. Hasdsten House, 1450 Mission Drive, Solvang, CA 93463 800.457.5373
5.) Palm Springs
The longtime escape for Hollywood royalty, Palm Springs still holds the charm of yesterday. Hide out at the newly remodeled Palm Springs Riviera. A modern touch on an old favorite, this desert oasis features Spa Terre, fine dining at Circa 59 and unlimited sunshine. Riviera Resort and Spa, 1600 N. Indian Canyon Dr, Palm Springs, CA 92262 760.327.8311
6.) Coronado
The historic Hotel Del Coronado has embodied luxury, class and elegance since its 1888 opening. Beachside Victoria splendor graces the peaceful shores and is known as one of the top beach vacation destinations in the world. Hotel del Coronado, 1500 Orange Ave., Coronado, CA 92118 1800.468.3533
FLY
7.) Napa Valley
Terraced down a rolling hillside with views of endless vineyards, Auberge du Soleil is a jewel in Napa Valley, CA. California living is showcased at its finest with plush decor, original contemporary art, and world class dining by owner Claude Rouas. Enjoy art galleries, hiking, golf and wine tasting. Auberge du Soleil, 180 Rutherford Hill Rd., Rutherford, CA 707.967.3111
8.) San Francisco
A quick flight to Northern California unleashes a whole new perspective on California. Spend your days wandering the miles of streets, shopping for knick-knacks in Chinatown or the Fisherman’s Wharf, riding cable cars and dining at Taylor’s Automatic Refresher and Ponzu. Rest your head at 1 Knob Hill, at Intercontinental Mark Hopkins San Francisco. onlyinsanfrancisco.com
9.) Las Vegas
The city that never sleeps can keep you in luxury and decadence all day and night long. From drivers, villas, VIP club service and every known chef in world taking up shop in Sin City, your time in Vegas will be well spent. The new Steve Wynn tower at Encore is sure to please, as is the top celebrity chef lineup. From Chef Jet Tila (Wazazu) to Theo Schoenegger (Sinatra) your taste buds will be happy. Encore Las Vegas, 3121 Las Vegas Blvd. South, Las Vegas, NV 89109 702.770.8000
10.) Scottsdale
The picturesque Camelback Arizona Spa and Golf Resort Hotel has quickly made a name for itself as one of the top luxury hotel and spas in the world. Private patios and balconies are standard in the 453 spacious casitas, as is kitchenettes and the occasional private pool. Solitude and peace are imminent. Camelback Arizona Spa and Golf Resort Hotel, 5402 East Lincoln Drive, Scottsdale, AZ 85283 480.596.7040
September 26, 2009
How to Make Packing Quick and Painless @ ehow.com
Does the thought of packing send you in a tizzy? No fear. With these tips, packing will be quick and easy.
Things You’ll Need:
- Luggage, Overnight Bag, Makeup Bag, Packing List.
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Step 1
Have pre-packed toiletry kit. Nothing puts a downer on a trip more than when you are scrambling for product in the middle of nowhere. In my Chanel Toiletry Kit I keep the essentials; travel toothbrush, travel sized toothpaste, dental floss, shampoo, conditioner, facial scrub, body wash, comb, razor, q-tips, deodorant, baby powder, shaving cream, facial moisturizer, band-aids, toenail clippers, tooth whitener, lint brush and misc. pills for different ailments. For loner trips (1 week plus) I also pack wrinkle-free spray, jet-lag pills, spot remover stick, Vaseline and sunscreen. Everything comes in sample size for your convenience!
Pre pack your makeup bag. The grab and go approach will do wonders for your pre-packing stress levels! My essentials include: foundation, cover up, eye shadow, blush, lip glosses and moisturizers, powder, lip and eye liners, eyelash curler, and mascara. Tailor your bag to fit your needs!
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Step 2
Have a clothing packing list. No matter where I am going, it stays pretty much the same. (Mine looks a little something like this: lingerie, jeans, black pants, black skirt, knit wrinkle free dresses, black dress, knit layering tops, sweater or sweatshirt, denim jacket, lightweight trench, pashmina, tennis shoes, flip-flops, ballet slippers, heels, workout clothes, bikini, evening bag, jewelry bag.) It pays to stay with a neutral color palette, so you don’t have to worry about not matching! Make sure all clothes are “easy to wear” and “go anywhere”.
Have a “You Kit” that makes sure you have all the comforts you need while being away. A typical “You Kit” could be scented travel candles, eye masks, a great book, packets of your favorite tea and splenda, and mints, candy or gum. On the plane you could indulge in your favorite healthy snack, your own bottle of water, travel blanket and your ipod.
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Step 3
Never pack the important/expensive stuff (cash, passport, medication, jewelry, and camera) in checked luggage. Make sure it is with you at all times!
For the Obsessive Compulsive Traveler; some other items you my find useful are a compass, a small umbrella, portable rain poncho, travel flashlight, zip lock bags, a power converter or a travel alarm clock.
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I used to work in the Lost Baggage Department of a major airline…and one of the hardest things to do was relocate passengers who had no name on the bag! On of the cheapest and most important things you could do is invest in a Bag Tag! Not only will it identify your bag, but it makes it easier to spot of the carousel! Less is More! With today’s travel fees for extra and overweight baggage, who wants to be over packed? Imagine the ease and simplicity of traveling when you have one well packed and organized bag. Planning ahead can save your stress and pointless airline fees! First, make sure you know the weight and size of your bag…maybe it’s time to toss that hard side bag for a lighter soft side. Second, pack light! Third, make sure you know your airlines baggage regulations.
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Leave at home anything that could be questionable to security. Say adios to matches, lighters, and flammable liquids, household items that contain chemicals or any other flammable or potentially toxic material. Be Prepared. Travel just got easier with the well-prepared travel. Check your flight status and baggage requirements, pack ahead of time, and make sure you have important documents.
September 26, 2009
LA Food Truck Scene @ Disarray Magazine
We would like to think that we started it all here in the “City of Angels,” with the original “Roach Coach”. Taco trucks have long been a staple in L.A., but mostly for day workers at a construction site or wasted club kids at 2am. In recent months, L.A. has been home to gourmet trucks wandering the streets featuring anything from delectable deserts to international delights. Check out our guide to these fine on-the-go feasts here:
Kogi BBQ came on the scene with a bang and started the run-around-L.A.-for-your-food trend. With a creative menu consisting of Korean short rib tacos, Kim-Chi Quesadillas and Kogi Sliders, Koji gave L.A. just what they were looking for. Chef Roy is constantly coming up with daily specials, which keep Angelinos coming back for more. Their three trucks roam L.A., with updates posted to Twitter and their website.
Let’s face it, as Pinkberry inspired frozen yogurt, The Kogi BBQ truck inspired Calbi BBQ. Calbi has two trucks to cover L.A. This truck frequently shows up on the Westside and boasts an assortment of tacos, burritos and quesadillas.
Bool BBQ mixes Korean-Brazilian flavors with the popular menu items of Korean BBQ tacos and Pastels (a Brazilian, fried turnover).
Marked 5 is a new face on the streets featuring Japanese-style burgers. Exotic concoctions of beef/pork/salmon or tofu on a rice bun with special sauces and fresh veggies are the main attraction, brought to you by five friends to enchant your five senses. Japanese specialty snacks and drinks are also available.
Don Chow Tacos adds another spin on tacos, this time with a Chinese flair. The menu has traditional Mexican cuisine, along with fusion Kung Pao Chicken, Soy-Ginger shrimp and Chinese BBQ Pork Tacos.
You can’t miss the bright red truck of Let’s be Frank regularly posted around Silver Lake and Culver City. Offering gourmet grass fed beef hot dogs, sausages and brats, the company works with local artisans and producers, and their food is free of hormones, antibiotics and nitrates.
For those wanting a healthier meal, look for the Green Truck On the Go. This truck only serves local, organic foods such as their signature organic vegan burger, Falafel wrap and fresh melon fresca. Committed to the environment all around, they use solar power, biodegradable packaging, environmentally-friendly cleaning supplies and the trucks run off of recycled vegetable oil.
The famous Barbie’s Q has been serving finger-licking good ole BBQ receipts in Santa Monica for years. They took it mobile to better distribute their mouth-watering BBQ ribs, brisket, pork-pulled sandwiches and sliders.
The Border Grill Truck from famed “Too Hot Tamales” Mary Sue Milliken and Susan Feniger, comes a mobile menu of gourmet tacos, quesadillas and ceviches.
Putting a spot on the map for Indian food is the Dosa Truck. Dubbed “Slumdog Street Food with a California Twist,” the Dosa truck serves up made to order homemade chutneys, dosa, mango lassis and homemade ginger limeade.
Fish Lips Sushi specializes in yummy rolls from everything to the special fish lips roll (Soy sheet, Avocado, Cucumber, Asparagus, Crab meat, Tuna, White Tuna, White fish, Salmon, Tamari-Sauce, Hot-Sauce, Mayonnaise) to the standard California Roll (Avocado, Cucumber, Crab meat, Mayonnaise, Sesame).
Fresh on the scene is the Vietnamese food truck Nom Nom Truck that specializes in Vietnamese banh mi sandwiches. Traditionally served with charcuterie and pickled vegetables on French bread, this meal also can come with a side of spring rolls or lemongrass tacos.
The Sprinkles Cupcake Van took the Beverly Hills hot spot mobile with their brown van to spread the love of sweet butter cream and bittersweet Belgium chocolate.
More sweet stuff comes your way with the Coolhaus Truck. Freya and Natasha are two female architects that came up with the idea for the perfectly constructed organic ice cream sandwiches in tasty “prefab” flavors like oatmeal cinnamoneo and Richard Meyer Lemon Ginger.
For more information:
KogiBBQ.com
CalbiBBQ.com
BoolBBQ.com
Marked5.com
DonChowTacos.com
Letsbefrankdogs.com
Greentruckonthego.com
Barbiesq.com
DosaTruck.com
Fishlips-sushi.com
Eatcoolhaus.com
September 22, 2009
LA Food Truck Scene Shifts Into High Gear @ Ocean View Magazine Sep. 09 issue
Coming Soon.
(see preview here)
September 20, 2009
Family Fun in Redondo Beach @ 52 Perfect Days
Family Fun in Redondo Beach
Viewing photo 1 of 1
Article by Kimberly Fisher
Redondo Beach, a lively little seaside town in Southern California embodies the fantasy of what California living and visiting should be. Offering clear blue oceans for miles, casual restaurants, shops on the pier and several fun-in-the-sun outdoor activities it could be the perfect family vacation location.
Start your picture perfect day at the upscale Portofino Hotel and Yacht Club. This recently renovated, contemporary nautical-themed hideaway is located on a private peninsula between the marina and the ocean.
As the only hotel located directly on the Pacific Ocean, you will start your day with gorgeous views of the water from the floor-to-ceiling windows or private balcony. As your gaze wanders in the water, you will see some other visiting guests of The Portofino; the sea lions. Frolicking and playing off the shore in their natural habitat, you can see the marine mammals up close and personal.
The Portofino does its part in helping save and protect the sea lions by offering a “Save the Sea Lion” Package complete with stuffed sea lion, ocean view room, paddle boat and disposable camera to capture all the fun. And a portion of the package is donated to the Marine Mammal Care Center.
Next stop is the activity bound Redondo Beach Pier. The 70,000 square foot pier was originally built in 1889. It is home to over 50 shops, restaurants and bars, Redondo Fun Factory, Summer Music on the Pier, traveling festivals and art shows. Stop into the Sunshine Kite Factory and say hello to instructor Yoshi Mikimoto, who not only teaches how to fly a kite but also yo-yo classes. He took over the Sunshine Kite Factory in 1999 after working in the store to pay off a kite he dearly wanted.
After browsing other interesting shops and stopping for a coffee or ice cream treat, explore the waters of Redondo. Get some exercise by renting a kayak or paddle boat from Fast Kayak. Cruise around the harbor at a leisurely pace in a four-person paddle boat or a double cobra kayak and enjoy the Californian sunshine and perfect weather.
Next door to Fast Kayak is the “California Looking Glass”, a semi-submarine boat offering 30-40 minute tours with two seven-foot long underwater picture windows. After leaving the harbor, venture down below for perfect undersea viewing. Cruising the harbor you will see sting rays, local fish such as smelt and opal eyes. But, the sea lions are the star of the tour. As your boat glides around their sanctuary, you will be close enough to see water dripping off their glistening bodies as they bark, lounge and play.
For lunch, head over to Joe’s Crab Shack. This fun, entertaining casual eatery is great for the whole family offering plenty of indoor and outdoor seating. Kids will enjoy the live entertainment as the servers break out in song and dance, and parents will appreciate the vast menu and specialty drinks. Choose from a selection of buckets of crab, shrimp, sausage, potatoes and corn. Visit the gift shop to bring home a crabby gift.
After lunch, spend the afternoon at the Redondo Beach Fun Factory. Reconnect with your inner child as you play skeet ball and wedges/ledges, compete in balloon horse races and ride the tilt-a-whirl. With over 300 arcade and redemption games, rack up tickets to get some fun souvenirs. Kiddy rides are plentiful and older kids with enjoy air hockey and foosball.
When you return to the pier, be sure to catch a beautiful sunset over baskets of fresh fish tacos at Lou-e-Luey’s. Specializing in low-key Baja style seafood, you will feel relaxed and comfy at their little, beach bar looking hideaway on the north end of the boardwalk. The owner named the restaurant after a customer in one of his previous establishments, and takes pride in offering high quality food at great prices. Besides delectable seafood, local favorites include the hanger steak and the “Baja Boil” every Wednesday.
Head back to the hotel with the happy yet exhausted family, gaze out over the glistening sea and watch the last rays of California sunshine slip away, and have pleasant dreams of another perfect day in Redondo Beach.
What & Where:
The Portofino Hotel and Yacht Club (260 Portofino Way; 310-379-8481)
Redondo Beach Pier (Fisherman’s Wharf)
Sunshine Kite Factory (110 Fisherman’s Wharf; 310-372-0308)
Fast Kayak (Fisherman’s Wharf; 310-909-3179)
Joe’s Crab Shack (230 Portofino Way; 310-406-1999)
Lou-e-Luey’s (Fisherman’s Wharf; 310-937-7044)
August 11, 2009
Southern California’s Anacapa Island @ 52 Perfect Days
Viewing photo 1 of 1
Article by Kimberly Fisher
One of five islands that make up the Channel Islands off the coast of Central California, Anacapa, is a small volcanic island about 14 miles off the shores of Oxnard. Named by the Chumash Native American Indians, the Channel Islands are five miles long and made up of 3 islets (East, Middle and West) that are not inaccessible to each other except by boat.
Shells not native to the island prove that the Chumash people camped on the island thousand of years ago. Sea cliffs, natural bridges and sea caves make stunningly beautiful Anacapa a quiet escape from the hustle and bustle of city life that is mere miles away.
Island Packer Tours offers daily departures to the islands. After an hour long boat ride, climb up the spiral stairs, and you are free to walk the designated paths around the island or head to one of the designated camp sites.
Leave nothing but footprints, take only photos it the islands’ motto, as they are dedicated to the preservation of the island and its inhabitants. One of the most noticeable landmarks is the now-deserted lighthouse. Built in 1932, the lighthouse was inspired by the wreck of the S.S. Winfield Scott in 1853 on a sullen and foggy night.
What’s left of the wreck is now part of the Channel Islands National Park. Divers can make out some hull planks and what’s left of the paddle wheel. Head to the visitors’ center and learn about the history of the island and its wildlife. A picnic area out front is a perfect meeting spot or rest area. Other ways to see the sights of Anacapa include snorkeling, diving, kayaking and multi-island tours.
Starting around New Years, the Western Gull starts taking over the island. All the islets are home to the largest breeding colony of Western Gulls in the world. West Anacapa is home to the endangered California Brown Pelicans. By May, the cliffs and hillsides are dotted with white feathery puffs. Each dot is an adult gull (parents share the responsibility of nesting) protecting and sheltering two to three eggs. Out of every three hatched, only one little chick will survive. Even with these numbers, the birds thrive and flourish. From when they hatch to six weeks later, the chicks will be the same size as their parents.
The rocky shores are perfect playgrounds for sea lions and harbor seals. As they play, frolic and bark on the coast you feel an intense bond with nature. If you happen to explore the islands during the months from January to March, you can catch the migration of the pacific gray whale. The Channel Islands share similar flora and fauna to the Galapagos Islands off of the coast of Ecuador. Both exist in isolation and evolution proceeds independently.
What & Where:
Island Packers (Channel Islands Harbor, 3600 Harbor Dr; 805-642-1393)
Tips for visiting the island:
1. Call Island Packers in the morning before your tour to make sure everything is running smoothly. Bad weather or unsafe sea conditions may cause cancellations.
2. Dress comfortably in clothes suitable for outdoor activity. Dress in layers, as the boat ride can be a little chilly.
3. Pack a lunch, snacks and beverages. The island does not have snack bars or running water.
August 11, 2009
Exploring Oxnard: Culture, Wines and Great Food @ 52 Perfect Days
Article by Kimberly Fisher
Known as the “Gateway to the Channel Islands” Oxnard offers seven stunning miles of beautiful sandy beaches with views of these islands. Approximately 60 miles northwest of Los Angeles County, Oxnard offers a pleasant year round climate providing constant ocean breezes. Oxnard has plenty to do including hiking, sailing, biking, birding, camping, golfing, tennis, sport fishing, kayaking, surfing, whale watching, ice skating, museums, theaters, shopping as well as the only west coast kosher winery and more than 200 restaurants.
Start the day bright and early and head to the Heritage Square Museum. This entire city block features relocated homes built from 1878-1912 and are now home to local area businesses; La Dolce Vita Restaurant, Rancho Ventavo Wine Cellars, The Elite Theater Company as well as the location for the outdoor summer concert area. Created in 1991 by the City of Oxnard, this central area brings locals and tourists alike, who appreciate the intertwining mix of the old and the new.
Rancho Ventavo Wine Cellars is housed in a former home that was built in 1902. The casual and friendly owners, Faye Hawes and George Gilpatrick started their business as a hobby. In their first year of wine making they produced 2 barrels. Now, they are up to 2,400 cases a year. As you enter the quaint tasting room, you immediately feel at ease. Don’t be surprised if they offer you a generous sampling of their artisan wines. Along with their cream and black label wines, they also offer wine classes and host local mixers.
Downtown Oxnard features California history at its best. In the city center is Plaza Park. The pagoda in the center was built in 1910 as an original bandstand, and has hosted several visitors over the years, including John F. Kennedy Jr.
In 2003 the pagoda was restored and has a prominent role in the annual Salsa Festival held every July. Celebrating all things salsa, (including the food and the dance), thousands of visitors flock to Oxnard to join in the festivities.
Some days, the farmer market is in full swing, offering fresh fruits and vegetables in separate stalls alongside the park. Sample the juicy strawberries, and admired the leafy beets and perfectly green avocados. Bouquets of flowers overflow the walkways, and scents of street foods lure you in.
Also in close vicinity to the park are the Carnegie Art Museum, Gull Wings Children Museum and the Henry T. Oxnard Historic District. This nationally registered district features 144 original craftsman and Spanish colonial homes located on F and G Street. It is the largest historic neighborhood of its kind in the region, with several homes dating back to the early 1900’s. The significance of these homes is recognized every autumn, when area residence holds an annual walking tour of six or more of the houses to visitors. The homes are the pride and joy of the town of Oxnard, representing their history and architecture. The homes are all charming, warm and livable. Several exhibitors come out for the festivities, showing antique and revival furnishings, artwork and decorative pieces for the perfect interiors.
Enjoy lunch in downtown Oxnard at any one of the 40 restaurants. Every type of food choice is available, including gourmet Mexican, Italian, Chinese and American. One town favorite is the Fresh and Fabulous Café. Located in the Woolworth building. The café holds all of the charm and charisma of an old fashioned diner. Choose a salad, gourmet sandwich or soup and finish with a homemade desert in this cozy eatery. After your meal, stop in to see the memorabilia collected over the years on display in the lobby of the Woolworth Building. Hundreds of rare items line the walls along with a detailed photo history of the former mega-store.
After exploring downtown Oxnard, head to Herzog Winery. Known as the only kosher winery on the west coast, Herzog is a major producer of kosher-certified wines in the United States. The winery is opened to the public Sunday-Friday. Walk through of the spacious 77,000 square ft. space and explore the history and intricate art of wine making. The tasting room has a modern yet friendly feel, and helpful staff guides you through a sampling of red, white and rose varietals.
After awaking your taste buds, head to the Tierra Sur Restaurant for an early dinner. Headed by Chef Todd Aarons’ (of Zuni Café in San Francisco and Savoy in New York) the kosher kitchen features simply delectable delights. When I visited I enjoyed a spicy purple haze carrot soup with coconut and mint cream. The palatable soup was the perfect consistency and flavored perfectly. For the entree, a duck confit with tomato rhubarb confitpote, mizuna Japanese mustard greens and fried spring onions. Desert was Magrath farms frozen strawberry custard with Moorpark blueberry beignet. The meal was nothing short of delicious, and stunningly gorgeous.
After Tierra Sur, head to the Channel Islands Harbor for a drink. Watch the kayak enthusiasts and paddle boats cruise by as you sip on a cocktail at The Whale’s Tail. Located on the water, this casual canteen has been open since 1969 and has views stretching from the harbor to the mountains. The Shellfish Bar, located upstairs, features signature drinks such as the Captain Hook(Captain Morgan’s Private Stock, Cruzan coconut Rum, pineapple, orange and cranberry juices) and Shark Attack (Cruzan Coconut Rum, DeKuyper Pineapple Pucker, pineapple juice and orange juice.) The bar also has a good selection of wines from New Zealand, Italy, Oregon, Washington and California.
For a good night’s rest, check in to the newly remodeled Residence Inn by Marriott at River Ridge. The hotel features valet, two pools, Jacuzzi, fitness center, sports court, gazebo and the River Ridge Golf Course. As the name implies, Residence Inn is set up for those scheduled for a longer stay. Upon entering the room, you find you actually can live here with full size kitchen with stainless steel refrigerator and kitchen appliances, dining area, living area, desk with free wireless internet, bedroom area, 2 closets, a vanity area and separate bathroom. The 252 all-suite guestrooms were recently renovated to reflect a new, clean and modern image. As you settle in to your cozy bed, look forward to what tomorrow brings in a city filled with history, diversity and fun.
What & Where:
Heritage Square(715 South A St; 805-483-7960)
Rancho Ventavo Wine Cellars (741 South A St; 805-483-8084)
Fresh and Fabulous Café (212 W. 4th St; 805-486-4547)
Herzog Winery (3201 Camino Del Sol; 805 983-1560)
Tierra Sur Restaurant (3201 Camino Del Sol; 805-983-1560)
The Whale’s Tail (3950 Bluefin Circle; 805-985-4301)
Residence Inn by Marriott at River Ridge (2101 West Vineland Ave; 805-278-2200)
Fun Facts: Once inhabited by the Chumash Indians, Portuguese sailor Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo was the first European to encounter the area and claimed it for Spain in 1542. He docked in Point Mugu Lagoon declaring his discovery “the land of the endless summers”.
The city itself is named after the Oxnard brothers (Henry, James, Benjamin and Robert) who founded the city and started a successful sugar beet factory in 1898.
July 13, 2009
Summer in Sun Valley @ 52 Perfect Days
Article by Kimberly Fisher
Sun Valley, Idaho conjures images of snow capped mountains, lush winter landscapes, and visions of lounging around the fire sipping on steaming hot cocoa for many. Surprise! This winter playground also offers fun and adventure in the peaceful summer months. Hiking, biking, fishing, tennis, exploring nature and rejuvenating in the tranquil untouched wilderness is one of the top reasons to explore Sun Valley in the summertime.
Located in the central part of Idaho, Sun Valley has been most known as a winter getaway. Located adjacent to the small towns of Ketchum and Hailey (of Bruce and Demi Moore fame), the term “Sun Valley” describes the alpine ski area, which is made up of two mountains, Bald Mountain and Dollar Mountain.
Sun Valley boasts a handful of hotel accommodations, from small, cozy little inns to resort like houses on the mountain’s edge. To maximize your stay, check into the Sun Valley Lodge. After your decision of varying accommodations (Sun Valley Lodge, Sun Valley Inn, Condos or Cottages) explore the sprawling grounds and on site facilities.
Designed after a European ski resort, this original chalet and village has been captivating visitors from around the world since 1936. As a full service year round resort, Sun Valley Lodge features top notch service and amenities. Everything you need is located in the Village, a small version of a real life community.
Take a walk on the paved walkways, gaze at the swans on the lake, grab an ice cream or choose from hundreds of favorite sweets from the Chocolate Foundry. Explore the many restaurants, lobby bar, gift shops, art gallery, opera house, pools, golf course, tennis courts, ice rink, spa, fitness center, stables and gun club. The resort truly as something for everyone!
Next, visit Gretchen’s, a local favorite for breakfast. The conventional upscale diner serves up delicious old-fashioned breakfasts such as fluffy omelets, pancakes, French toast and waffles complete with freshly squeezed orange juice and Starbucks coffee. Located on the first floor of the Sun Valley Lodge, take in the stunning views of the nearby ice rink and the outdoor terrace.
One very popular past time is Sun Valley is bike riding. Grab a bike and helmet from Pete Lane’s rental and see the sights of downtown Ketchum. The town is located mere minutes from the resort, and cyclists can opt for a leisurely city tour, challenging mountain terrain or coast along miles of more mellow and relaxing trails from Hailey to Ketchum.
When the need to snack hits, enjoy lunch at The Burger Grill. This casual, cafeteria-style refectory has a cozy feel and yummy, simple foods. Try the burgers, specialty sandwiches and salads with a cold beer or glass of wine.
While in downtown Ketchum, stop into one of several quaint, local shops and see the sights. From art galleries and antiques to boutiques and bookstores, Ketchum covers a rainbow of shopping possibilities.
From fine dining to quick bites, hearty portions to healthy servings, Sun Valley caters to every guest. For dinner head back to Sun Valley Lodge and be swept away by elegant crystal chandeliers, marble floors and dramatic lighting at The Lodge Dining Room. Located on the second floor, the views out of the floor to ceiling windows will remind you of a picture perfect postcard.
Afterwards head to the Sun Valley Pavilion for the ice show. Seating 1500 people with a gorgeous backdrop of the sky and mountains via its free flowing roof, The Sun Valley Pavilion is home to the Sun Valley Summer Symphony as well as many visiting artists. As you relax in the comforting arms of nature, let it embrace you with all of its charms, graces and tranquility…for then you have discovered the heart of Sun Valley, Idaho.
What & Where:
Sun Valley Lodge (1 Sun Valley Rd, Sun Valley; 208-622-2001)
Chocolate Foundry (Sun Valley Mall; 208-622-2147)
Gretchen’s (1 Sun Valley Rd, Sun Valley; 208-622-2144
Pete Lane’s (1 Sun Valley Rd, Sun Valley; 208-622-4111)
The Burger Grill (371 N Main St # 102, Ketchum; 208-726-7733)
The Lodge Dining Room (Sun Valley Village; 1 Sun Valley Rd)
Sun Valley Pavilion (located at the south western end of the soccer field at the Sun Valley Resort; 208-622-2135)
May 21, 2009
Top 10 Week: Luxury LA weekend getaways @ Examiner
Top 10 Luxury LA Weekend Getaways
DRIVE
1.) Santa Barbara
A trip up the coast to the famous Bacara Resort and Spa is a much needed escape for anyone. Enchanted nights and glamorous days by the sparkling pool await you. Bacara Resort and Spa, 8301 Hollister Ave., Santa Barbara, CA 93117 805.968.0100
2.) San Diego
A weekend at the Four Seasons Aviara Resort and Spa includes golf, tennis, world class spa and elegant dining. Four Seasons Aviara, 7100 Four Seasons Point, Carlsbad, CA 92001 760.603.6800
3.) Big Bear
Rent a luxury cabin from bigbearresorts.com and become one with nature. Admire the lake views, cool breezes and four season charm. bigbearresorts.com
4.) Solvang
Mellow, small town feel with big ambiance. Stay at the Hadsten House Inn and Spa for a quaint, European-inspired getaway. Relax and indulge in wine tasting, theater and great dining. Hasdsten House, 1450 Mission Drive, Solvang, CA 93463 800.457.5373
5.) Palm Springs
The longtime escape for Hollywood royalty, Palm Springs still holds the charm of yesterday. Hide out at the newly remodeled Palm Springs Riviera. A modern touch on an old favorite, this desert oasis features Spa Terre, fine dining at Circa 59 and unlimited sunshine. Riviera Resort and Spa, 1600 N. Indian Canyon Dr, Palm Springs, CA 92262 760.327.8311
6.) Coronado
The historic Hotel Del Coronado has embodied luxury, class and elegance since its 1888 opening. Beachside Victoria splendor graces the peaceful shores and is known as one of the top beach vacation destinations in the world. Hotel del Coronado, 1500 Orange Ave., Coronado, CA 92118 1800.468.3533
FLY
7.) Napa Valley
Terraced down a rolling hillside with views of endless vineyards, Auberge du Soleil is a jewel in Napa Valley, CA. California living is showcased at its finest with plush decor, original contemporary art, and world class dining by owner Claude Rouas. Enjoy art galleries, hiking, golf and wine tasting. Auberge du Soleil, 180 Rutherford Hill Rd., Rutherford, CA 707.967.3111
8.) San Francisco
A quick flight to Northern California unleashes a whole new perspective on California. Spend your days wandering the miles of streets, shopping for knick-knacks in Chinatown or the Fisherman’s Wharf, riding cable cars and dining at Taylor’s Automatic Refresher and Ponzu. Rest your head at 1 Knob Hill, at Intercontinental Mark Hopkins San Francisco. onlyinsanfrancisco.com
9.) Las Vegas
The city that never sleeps can keep you in luxury and decadence all day and night long. From drivers, villas, VIP club service and every known chef in world taking up shop in Sin City, your time in Vegas will be well spent. The new Steve Wynn tower at Encore is sure to please, as is the top celebrity chef lineup. From Chef Jet Tila (Wazazu) to Theo Schoenegger (Sinatra) your taste buds will be happy. Encore Las Vegas, 3121 Las Vegas Blvd. South, Las Vegas, NV 89109 702.770.8000
10.) Scottsdale
The picturesque Camelback Arizona Spa and Golf Resort Hotel has quickly made a name for itself as one of the top luxury hotel and spas in the world. Private patios and balconies are standard in the 453 spacious casitas, as is kitchenettes and the occasional private pool. Solitude and peace are imminent. Camelback Arizona Spa and Golf Resort Hotel, 5402 East Lincoln Drive, Scottsdale, AZ 85283 480.596.7040
For more info: k@kimberlyfisher.com
Author: Kimberly Fisher Kimberly Fisher is a National Examiner. You can see Kimberly’s articles on Kimberly’s Home
Find out more about Kimberly: Kimberly Fisher is a model, actress and freelance writer based in Los Angeles,CA. Originally from Alaska, she travels extensively, having visited almost every state and 28 countries, with new ones added every month. Check out more at www.KimberlyFisher.com.
