If your Valentine’s Day weekend wasn’t exactly the whirlwind of romantic wonderment you hoped and dreamed it would be, it’s not too late to take a do-over. Spring is right around the corner and plenty of hotels are offering heavily discounted rates and packages to lure local lovers on a romantic weekend getaway. Of the dozens of deals and events that have come across my desk this week I picked a few of my favorites, all of which are guaranteed sure-things for couples in need of an extension on their Valentine’s Day intentions. Read full article »
Mind, Body & Spirit
Romantic Road Trips
Sunday, February 21st, 2010Garden Getaways
Sunday, February 7th, 2010
I have a confession to make. If I didn’t have to visit Northern California’s botanical gardens and preserves to review them for my travel guides, I probably never would have learned how amazing the places are. Until I actually visited the spectacular Conservatory of Flowers in Golden Gate Park and the mind-blowing Cornerstone Festival of Gardens in Sonoma Valley, I never realized how… entertaining the world of botany can be.
If you’re already a fan of gardens, you won’t need encouraging, but for all you too-cool-for-tulips types, trust me: A getaway to any of these five botanical gardens will turn your thumbs green in no time. Read full article »
Affordable Spa Retreats
Sunday, January 17th, 2010
Just because economic times are tough doesn’t mean you have to forego the simple pleasures in life, such as a good long soak in a naturally carbonated mineral pool followed by a soothing foot massage. Like most other businesses, even the local spa resorts are feeling the pinch, so many have lowered their rates in hopes of enticing you to take a relaxing and rejuvenating getaway that you so deserve. And why not? It’s a great excuse to take a road trip to the coast or Wine Country and give your brain, soul, and body a well-needed mini-vacation. Ergo, this week’s theme covers my favorite-yet-affordable spas in Northern California. Read full article »
Magnificent Museums
Sunday, January 3rd, 2010
Now that winter has officially started, it’s time to plan some indoor (and warm) getaways to get you out of the house. So this week’s travel topic is about my favorite museums in Northern California. As the author of the Frommer’s California guidebook for the past 15 years, I’ve been to just about every museum in Northern California, and below are my top picks for a great winter getaway. Believe me, all of these museums are a must-visit mind-blowing experience, and the perfect excuse for an entertaining, educational, and affordable mini-vacation with friends and family. Read full article »
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