http://www.usresident.com/content/articles/us-travel-guides/california/ Sat, 19 May 2012 19:10:11 +0000 43200 http://www.usresident.com/content/articles/us-travel-guides/california/rv-camping-at-lake-skinner-winchester-california-temecula-r162
The campground itself is split into three arms, all level, ideal for “drive through” set up. Full hook-ups, partial, or dry camping are all available, depending on your preference. (accessible for reservation through the county of Riverside, California web site). Full showers are available between camp sites, as are washers and dryers up at the main camp center.

An aquifer, the lake has no body contact allowed. However, pontoon and skiffs can be rented for cruising the lake or fishing for bass, striper, or trout. Multiple hidden coves and inlets provide private beaches for shore fishing. Picnic tables surround, as do the broad, grassy hills.

Each separate campground borders on a large swath of grass, ideal for kite flying, bocce ball, volley ball, or tossing a Frisbee. The county has also provided an “all ages” jungle gym, with curling twisty-slide, climb-across stepping poles, elaborate enough to keep even pre-teens entertained. If that doesn’t suit, try renting bikes, a “four seater bike car.” Then, there’s always the arcade or karaoke at Sweet Lu’s Barbecue (usually open on weekend nights) will surely please. Nights can be spent under the crystal clear, California sky—fire rings are present in each site, and if you forgot your firewood, you can pick some up at the well stocked camp store.

If you choose to venture out, the city of Temecula is ripe with activities. Old town is filled with restaurants, boutique shops, and antique stores. You’ll dive into that old west feel, as you stroll down plank wood sidewalks and can even see a wild west show on a Saturday afternoon. On Saturday mornings, you’ll find the farmers market abuzz with activity. You can fill your basket with fresh produce and armfuls of growers bunches from area florists. Artisans display their wares, everything from jewelry to fine art.

Temecula is most famous for the plethora of wineries tucked into the rolling hillsides and valleys in between. Temecula is renowned for its similarity to the Piedmont region of northern Italy, and the ability to grow and harvest Italian red grapes. Wineries offer everything from five star dining and spa treatments – such as those you’ll find at South Coast Winery – lunches under a cool patio, like you’ll find at Ponte Vineyard – or outdoor movie experiences you can enjoy at Miramonte. Most weekends offer jazz or blues bands playing on outdoor patios, where you can taste phenomenal area wines and take in excellent music while the sun sets out over the Pacific Ocean.

Close by:

• Pacific Ocean, and the city of San Diego—40 miles southwest
• Disneyland in the city of Anaheim—less than an hour’s drive to the north
• The city of Los Angeles, Hollywood, and Universal Studios—90 miles northwest.

If you time your visit right, book a champagne breakfast ride on a hot air balloon. Early June is the annual Balloon and Wine Festival; hundreds of balloons take to the skies. (Dry RV camping for the event is booked months in advance, however watch for sites such as Craigslist or Ebay for spots for sale).

Main stage bands performing in 2009 include: James Otto, Chuck Wicks, Sugar Ray, Scandal (featuring Patty Smyth), and Starship. Every winery is represented, and for a meager entry fee you can stroll through the fairgrounds. For slightly more, you can enjoy the feasts of food and wine pairings as prepared by award winning chefs.]]> Sun, 27 Feb 2011 12:41:42 +0000 abea47ba24142ed16b7d8fbf2c740e0d http://www.usresident.com/content/articles/us-travel-guides/california/expensive-las-vegas-r142
Hotels
After a day of sightseeing and gambling, you might want to indulge yourself at one of Las Vegas’ most expensive and luxurious hotels. Some of these hotels are considered among the best of the world, according to the Travel Channel. For example, The Bellagio is famous for its outdoor fountains, but it also features a fine art gallery, botanical gardens, fine dining, and world-renowned shopping at chic boutiques. The Wynn Las Vegas is an AAA 5-Diamond hotel and offers several expensive gourmet restaurants and exclusive nightclubs.

Lake Mead
If outdoor recreation is your preference, Lake Mead is only 30 minutes away from Las Vegas. Situated on a 1.5-million acre area with the mountains in the background, this lake is truly an oasis in the desert. According to Scenic Las Vegas, Lake Mead is the largest man-made reservoir in the world. Spend your winnings on expensive activities, such as boat rentals, cruises, fishing or scuba diving.

Golf
You wouldn’t think Las Vegas is in the desert when you see how many golf courses it has to offer. One of the most expensive courses in the U.S. is located there--Shadow Creek. Steve Wynn built this course, and it is only accessible to guests at the MGM Mirage Hotel, Wynn Las Vegas or other Mirage properties. It features more than 200 varieties of trees, and every creek, waterfall, lake and hillside on it was built by hand. It has ranked in the Top 10 in the World lists of both Golf Magazine and Golf Digest since it opened in 1989.

Spas
Nearly every resort hotel in Las Vegas offers a day spa or spa treatments. Some of the most luxurious and expensive spas are at the Red Rock Resort and Mandarin Oriental. The Red Rock Resort spa is an escape from the glitz of the Strip, while the Spa at the Mandarin Oriental features panoramic views of Las Vegas.

Restaurants
Las Vegas features world-class dining and restaurants with all types of international cuisines. In fact, many famous chefs have restaurants there. Some of the most expensive restaurants are Wolfgang Puck’s “CUT” at the Palazzo, Thomas Keller’s “Bouchon” at The Venetian and Alessandro Stratta’s “Alex” at the Wynn Las Vegas.]]> Sun, 09 Jan 2011 12:12:39 +0000 8ce6790cc6a94e65f17f908f462fae85 http://www.usresident.com/content/articles/us-travel-guides/california/the-lobster-santa-monica%e2%80%99s-seafood-star-r141
In 1925, The Lobster opened to rave reviews from locals and tourists alike. The concept was simple: Classic American seafood in a casual, beach setting. There was even a hometown hero to root for. Mateo Castillo, a dishwasher at the restaurant since shortly after its opening, worked his way up throughout the years. In 1950, he bought the place, and business flourished. In the mid 80’s, however, the restaurant closed down. There it sat, an aging diva, robbed of her glory. Until, a decade later, when Warren Roberts and Mike Nathan stepped in to give it a much needed Hollywood makeover. In the summer of 1999, The Lobster reopened its doors and a star was, once again, born.

Today, The Lobster stands as an unofficial historical landmark- almost synonymous with the Santa Monica Pier that it’s nestled against. It’s little wonder the place remains so popular. The floor to ceiling windows overlooking Santa Monica beach give the entire dining room breathtaking ambiance. Dine outside on the terrace, and you’re treated not only to the water out front, but also the pier lights twinkling just below. Or, sidle up to the bar for an innovative cocktail in a lively atmosphere. Here, bartenders mix up treats, like Portuguese Lemonade and Cantaloupe Martinis, whose colors rival those of the setting sun outside.

The bartenders are not the only ones helping you have fun on a visit to The Lobster. The wait staff, hosts… even the managers all seem to be having a wonderful time. That attitude carries over into impeccable service, and a great meal.

The real star of The Lobster is, undoubtedly, the food itself. Seafood doesn’t get any fresher. Crab, shrimp, fish and of course lobster are cooked to tender perfection and served in generous portions. Come hungry, as you do not want to miss out on sampling some appetizers before dinner. Items like the sweet corn pancakes topped with lobster salad are cleverly presented and completely delicious. Headlining the appetizer menu are the seafood cocktails. Three distinctly different, but equally delicious creations. The lobster cocktail is sweet steamed lobster, served with a delicate lemon tarragon aioli. The shrimp cocktail features jumbo wild Mexican shrimp in a traditional cocktail sauce. And the crab “Louis” cocktail has large chunks of perfectly cooked crab, paired with traditional crab Louis accompaniments.

Splitting the appetizers is probably a good idea, since the dinner entrees are feast sized. Though fresh Maine lobster is the highlight of the menu, other choices shine just as brightly. Pan roasted Alaskan halibut is outstanding when paired with a cognac lobster sauce. The crab cakes are another no-fail entrée. From the beginning of October through May, California spiny lobster is in season, and The Lobster is one of the few places you can sample this rare treat.

Looking to beat the crowds? A sure bet is to go for lunch. The dining room is less chaotic, and the entire place takes on a more relaxed feel. Another plus to an afternoon visit is the extensive lunch menu. In addition to many of the same items offered for dinner, lunchtime fare includes some fantastic salads and outrageously good sandwiches. Try the lobster stuffed avocado salad served on baby romaine. Or forgo the seafood altogether with a skirt steak salad. Six ounces of perfectly grilled skirt steak combined with ingredients that include soba noodles, mango chunks, peanuts, Asian greens, and cherry tomatoes. All topped with a spicy sesame vinaigrette. Prefer fowl to red meat? Then go with the grilled chicken salad sandwich. It’s made with apple wood smoked bacon, and served with the best crispy fries you’ve ever had. (They are hands down the best side on the lunch menu) For a more exotic noontime meal, you might want to try the yellow fin tuna salad. If you’ve still got room for dessert, the key lime chiffon pie comes highly recommended.

Through its many incarnations, The Lobster has remained, at its heart, a boxy white seafood shack with killer food and amazing views. Its fun, friendly atmosphere makes it a friendly place for a wonderful meal. It’s loved by locals, and manages to be visitor friendly without seeming like a tourist trap; just what it set out to be in 1925. Man, I love happy endings.

Tagline: Almost synonymous with the Santa Monica pier is The Lobster, a bustling, noisy seafood joint that’s been a favorite with locals since first opening its doors in the 20’s.

The Lobster
1602 Ocean Ave.
Santa Monica, Ca 90401

Phone: 310-458-9294
Hours: Sunday thu Thursday 11:30am-10pm. Friday and Saturday open until 11pm
Reservations: Recommended for dinner
Good for groups: Yes
Good for kids: No children’s menu, but kids are welcome as long as you’re not sitting by the bar
Parking: Street or Valet
Cuisine: Classic American Seafood
Price: $$
Pros: Excellent service, wonderful, fresh food, amazing views, great drinks
Cons: Can be a long wait for dinner without reservations. Can get loud]]> Sat, 08 Jan 2011 14:41:47 +0000 f7f580e11d00a75814d2ded41fe8e8fe http://www.usresident.com/content/articles/us-travel-guides/california/hilton-las-vegas-r140
Benefits
One of the best things about the Las Vegas Hilton is the services and amenities provided for each and every guest acquiring a hotel room. The kind of enjoyment and pleasure that is made available to guests is simply unbeatable. The hotel provides a wonderful casino, nightly world-class entertainment from the best singers and acts from around the world, and of course, the best cuisine from all the global regions.

Features
The Las Vegas Hilton is simply expansive- a prime example of its expanse is the casino, which spans an amazing seventy-four thousand square feet of pure entertainment. And the entertainment isn’t simply for those who would like to gamble, because the electronic entertainment in the casino also provides for the younger crowds.

Identification
This world-class hotel is known for its name- Hilton, which has become synonymous with quality and luxury. The hotel is marked with continuous renovation and improvement on a yearly basis, and the figure invested in the hotel is no joke- the smallest renovation to date reached a whopping one hundred million dollars- no small figure for the true hotel connoisseur.

Size
As was already stated earlier, the Las Vegas Hilton is big, expansive and grand. To give anyone a hint as to how big this place really is, the following are just snippets of the larger space that is the whole hotel:

• Seventy-four thousand square feet for the casino
• One thousand six hundred seats for the theater
• Two hundred thousand feet of space for any kind of event that you wish to take place in the hotel
• Eight acres of space at the very roof of the hotel

Because of the expansive renovations that have just been finished recently, the spaces that have been mentioned here have been of course improved further. Amenities, for one, have been improved further, and the call for jobs means that there are more services to be offered now, more than in any other similar place in the state All in all, the buzzword for the Las Vegas Hilton is grand, or simply majestic.

Significance
The hotel is a symbol of the city itself, and to a certain extent, the state. Nowhere else can you find such majesty of a hotel in such a small and lively city. The hotel stands as a world standard to hotel service, and provides a distinctly Las Vegas touch to any vacation that hits this particular city.]]> Thu, 06 Jan 2011 18:15:50 +0000 8248a99e81e752cb9b41da3fc43fbe7f http://www.usresident.com/content/articles/us-travel-guides/california/california%e2%80%99s-mojave-desert-a-mecca-of-beauty-culture-and-recreation-r133
Its setting displays a rustic picture of long, lonely highways and ghostly homestead ruins. Surreal rock formations jut against a vast blue sky. Joshua trees, ancient and gnarled, prevail the elements and slowly grow. This landscape, recognizable in movies dating back sixty years, is Southern California's Mohave Desert.

The Victor Valley, situated halfway between Los Angeles and Las Vegas, is the fastest growing community in the Mojave desert. The city of Victorville gained fame as a frequent pit-stop for Route 66 travelers in the 40's and 50's. It was also a popular movie backdrop and get-away destination for the Hollywood Rat Pack.

Roy Rogers settled down here with his wife, Dale Evans. Dean Martin, Jerry Lewis and Frank Sinatra were regular guests of resorts and Dude Ranches.

Just a few hours from camping, skiing, gambling or surfing, Victorville offers convenient access to an array of activities. Visitors also are not far from theme parks, professional sporting events, concerts and cultural attractions.

From a historical standpoint, there are many interesting places to visit. Victorville has a Route 66 museum in its Old Town district. Nearby, Apple Valley is home to the Victor Valley museum, which exhibits locally discovered artifacts. Calico Ghost Town, an 1800’s silver mine, lies outside Barstow. Visitors can walk through the old mines and an antiquated village. Special events are held during Halloween and Christmas. The Civil War is reenacted each spring.

The most attractive aspect of the Mojave Desert is the simple harmony between its rugged landscape and infinite dunes of sand. People come from miles around to sleep under the stars and gain a little serenity from the tranquil surroundings. The Mojave is a unique and eerily beautiful desert. It offers a view of California that is transfixed in time.]]> Thu, 30 Dec 2010 12:46:15 +0000 fd06b8ea02fe5b1c2496fe1700e9d16c http://www.usresident.com/content/articles/us-travel-guides/california/review-of-eveleigh-restaurant-r127
In order to enter, you first step up onto the large, woodsy patio shrouded from Sunset Blvd. by a thin veil of foliage. It’s comprised of eclectic iron tables, reclaimed chairs and olive trees - the perfect place to mingle with your date before dinner or talk over drinks with friends.

The front doors leading to the central bar and indoor dining tables are wide open, welcoming all into the airy, romantic space. Directly ahead, the bar is flanked by wood and metal stools and cornered with floor to ceiling wood beams that add to the rustic ambiance. Eveleigh offers a few specialty drinks that you’ll likely be lured to try. For one, the Sazerac served neat with absinthe, rye and other goodness (i.e. bitters) is so smooth and delicious. Their version of the Dark & Stormy also appears more “gulp-able” than a cocktail should.

There is no wall of separation between this central room and the outdoor dining area to the rear, which creates an amazing flow through the entire restaurant. And from the indoor bar, the back patio appeared beautifully lit and warmly inviting – for another night with a reservation booked in advance!

Of course, you are welcome to eat at the bar without a reservation – first come, first served. The French Italian and Californian menu offers an assortment of meats, potatoes and vegetables that will satisfy most and be delivered to your table promptly. The small plates of roast butternut squash, crispy seasoned squid and Brussels sprouts are definitely three to try. The squash, which comes topped with a dollop of St. Agur blue cheese and pine nuts, is perfectly roasted and delicious served with royal trumpet mushrooms. The Brussels sprouts tossed with chopped bacon and cider offer a terrific nutty/smoky flavor and are cooked a bit on the firm side. The tender squid dish is a rather small offering with a side of lemon garlic aioli for dipping…if only the kitchen had been more generous!

While the staff is friendly and knowledgeable about Eveleigh’s food and drink, there is a definite harried-ness amongst the entire crew that may well be attributable to a brand new restaurant working out its kinks. But don’t let that stop you! The place is too interesting, the food too tasty and the players too much fun to pass up. And they played their parts well – not in that old waiter/actor or model/bartender way Los Angeles restaurants have offered up for so long. But more like hipsters working through the summer months in the Adirondacks – only in Los Angeles…and all year long.

Eveleigh is located at 8752 W. Sunset Blvd. West Hollywood, CA 90069.]]> Tue, 21 Dec 2010 22:20:04 +0000 678a1491514b7f1006d605e9161946b1 http://www.usresident.com/content/articles/us-travel-guides/california/exploring-palm-springs-ca-make-the-most-of-this-beautiful-city-r28 Whatever your preconceived notions of Palm Springs may be, they most likely would be changed forever by a visit to the city.

This is certainly the opinion I had when I relocated here recently. But I have discovered that this jewel of the desert has undergone a renaissance of sorts. In the past 50 years, Palm Springs has gone from Hollywood playground, to college student spring break destination, and finally to what it is today: a hotspot of arts and culture.

N. Palm Canyon Drive, the main street of Palm Springs, is a glowing testament to the overhaul Sonny Bono gave the town as mayor from 1988 to 1992. Disgusted with the spring break debauchery and seedy reputation the town had procured, Bono made instrumental changes such as back-lighting the palm trees lining the main street, creating a weekly town bazaar called Village Fest, and abolishing billboards, motels, and yes, even thongs. These efforts set into motion the transformation that made Palm Springs what it is today.

One of the first great attractions you'll encounter upon arriving in town is the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway (One Tramway Rd., 800-515-TRAM). The Tram travels almost 6,000 feet up the beautiful Chino Canyon. The activities at the top range from guided hiking tours, to fine dining and camping.

The best way I've found to experience all of the shopping, galleries, and great restaurants that Palm Springs has to offer is to take stroll down Palm Canyon Dr. Parking is available by meter on the street, but there is also a multi-story parking garage located on Baristo Rd. between Palm Canyon and Indian Canyon Drives. Travel north down Palm Canyon, paying close attention to the sidewalk; Palm Springs has it's very own walk of stars, including such famous names as Marilyn Monroe and Frank Sinatra.

As you browse through the hundreds of stores and eateries at you disposal, be sure to try and hit these, true embodiments of Palm Springs:

J. Behman Gallery and Desert Fine Arts Academy: 1000 N. Palm Canyon Dr., 760-320-6806. Not only does this gallery boast a large array of contemporary art, but due to its pairing with the DFAA, offers children's and adult workshops and art demonstrations.

La Lupe LTD.: 463 N. Palm Canyon Dr., 760-323-5334. La Lupe specializes in collectible Mexican art, ranging from religious to kitsch.

The Palm Springs Follies: 128 S. Palm Canyon Dr., 760-327-0225. Touted as "the most fun you can have in Palm Spring," the Follies (which run from November to May) are truly a Palm Springs institution. The cast is comprised entirely of troupers ranging in age from 56 to 87 years old, giving the Follies a unique and fun spin on the traditional show.

Howard's Hollywood Hangout: 245 S. Palm Canyon Dr. Ste. A5, 760-327-4838. With the only hookah bar in the valley, Howard's is the desert destination when you're in search of a good cigar and better company.

Las Casuelas Terraza: 222 S. Palm Canyon Dr., 760-325-2794. A restaurant consistently chosen as a "Best in the Valley" by locals, Las Casuelas offers casual Mexican dining in a fun, upbeat environment. Mondays through Fridays from 4:30-6:30, is hosts a rocking happy hour complete with an in-house band.

NOW (or Never on Wednesday): 476 N. Palm Canyon Dr., 866-327-0550. Open everyday of the week (except Wednesdays, of course!), NOW is one of the city's trendiest, most talked-about restaurants. Featuring American fusion cuisine, executive chef Heath Millett has been named one of Dining Out Magazine's best chefs in 2003.

Village Fest: every Thursday night from 7-10 p.m., on Palm Canyon Dr. between Amado and Baristo. Village Fest, begun by Sonny Bono, is one of the must-dos when visiting Palm Springs. Vendors sell everything from coffee to incense, from polish dogs to art, as several local musicians and magicians display their talents along the stretch of road. Village Fest acts as a farmer's market, arts and crafts fair, concert, and diner all rolled into one, entertaining night. Plus, this is one of the best places to people watch, as it brings out some of the more colorful locals (including, my personal favorite, a couple who inexplicably dress as though they're in the wild west every week).

Spa Resort and Casino: casino, 401 E. Amado Rd., 888-999-1995; hotel, 100 N. Indian Canyon Dr., 888-999-1995. Built and owned by the Agua Caliente Band of Mission Indians (who were the first settlers of the area), the Spa Resort and Casino offers a respite from the desert heat, with gaming, dining, and one of the best day spas around. The natural mineral pools alone make a trip to this resort worth it.

One caution when planning a visit to Palm Springs: the summers here are unseasonably hot, with average July temperatures well over 105 degrees. Coolers months (such as September through June) are recommended for those sensitive to heat.

All in all, Palm Springs has once again become a fun, classy place to visit, and even a better place to live.]]> Sun, 28 Nov 2010 12:44:23 +0000 76dc611d6ebaafc66cc0879c71b5db5c http://www.usresident.com/content/articles/us-travel-guides/california/a-stroll-through-balboa-park-san-diego-r23
From an artist’s perspective, Balboa Park is filled with color and energy. I sometimes take a walk through the rose garden where bushes of orange, yellow, pink, red roses, and fresh cut grass surrounds me. You can take a romantic stroll through the garden and enjoy the gorgeous San Diego weather. Go to the center of the park and visit the Museum of Art, The Natural History Museum, and the San Diego Art Institute, just to name a few.

I also love to stroll through the Japanese Friendship Garden. A pond full of coy fish greets me as I enter the garden. The garden is a big atrium and is home to all kinds of plants and herbs. The is a cool place to go to get away from the sun on very warm summer days (pun intended!)

If you are an art lover like me, then the Spanish Art Village in Balboa Park is the place for you. The village sits in between the zoo and museums and is home to artist studios ranging from painters to jewelry makers. Each artist showcases their masterpieces in their little studio. Going from studio to studio, I am greeted by smiley happy faces. This is a great place for tourists to purchase unique souvenirs of their stay in San Diego.

These are just a few of the highlights of Balboa Park. There is an attraction for all ages and tastes. Everyone is friendly, but who wouldn’t be? This is heaven on earth!]]> Thu, 11 Nov 2010 14:02:51 +0000 202cb962ac59075b964b07152d234b70 http://www.usresident.com/content/articles/us-travel-guides/california/hotel-nikko-san-francisco-where-customer-service-matches-quality-r24 Floors 22 through 24, known as the Nikko floors, are only accessible to guests. A lounge is also available to the guests of these floors.

We chose a modest-sized deluxe room and were pleasantly surprised. After staying in a variety of rooms during our vacation, we were concerned with what we might find at our last stop: We shouldn’t have been. From the moment we pulled up to the curb outside of the Hotel, flocked by smiling and helpful valets, we felt at home.

Though we had requested a non-smoking room, we were first taken to a room in which the smell of smoke hung heavily in the air. A quick conversation with the front desk staff fixed the problem. We were immediately moved to floor 19, which is a nonsmoking floor.

The room offered a small refrigerator, individually controlled thermostat, a view of the area near Union Square, and, in the bathroom, a deep tub, heat lamps, and special soap: all of the luxuries a girl likes to see after a long day on the road.

We ventured out to the Health Club on floor 5 after relaxing for a while. The complimentary club offers a variety of workout equipment, a heated pool, a hot tub, a deck for sunbathing, and locker rooms. A Shiatsu masseuse is also available by appointment. The area was well maintained and cleaned, and while we were using the facilities, a hotel worker walked through to check on things.

When we woke in the morning, a newspaper awaited by our door.

While the amenities at Hotel Nikko were excellent, the customer service was even better. From the valet workers to the front desk clerks, the staff answered questions, offered advice, and, during checkout, gave us a map that detailed the quickest route back to the Interstate.

The Hotel also has a Starbucks attached on the bottom floor and a restaurant, ANZU, which includes a wide variety of menu items as well as a sushi and cocktail bar.]]> Wed, 10 Nov 2010 13:19:41 +0000 c8ffe9a587b126f152ed3d89a146b445 http://www.usresident.com/content/articles/us-travel-guides/california/stay-at-an-inn-instead-of-a-hotel-lake-ar-r22 Their special furnishings, home cooked breakfast, and creatively decorated guest rooms add the perfect atmosphere for your vacation. Perched on the rim of a mountain, the Storybook Inn transports you to an enchanting setting with each room decorated as a scene from a storybook. Choose the Arabian Nights suite, Captain’s Quarters, King and I suite, Robin Hood, Goldilocks and the Three Bears family rooms, Key Largo, Tom Sawyer, Swiss Family, or Secret Garden suite.

It is the added touches which make their rooms a work of art. The owners Richard and Patty Teachout want to give their guests fun things to do. You will see antiques hanging from the ceiling, along the walls, and on almost every piece of furniture in the house and guest rooms. Richard is an expert antique collector and loves to have everyone guess the use of some of his most unusual pieces. Anyone guessing all 12 objects, wins a free dinner. Richard’s most expensive antique is a student of Rembrandt’s painting hanging over the fireplace. His oldest is a 16th century blanket chest. See a patchwork quilt (1850) made of tobacco pouches, old English tin wash tubs used as night stands, Thomas Edison Gramophone cylindrical disc, a wedding cup designed to drink from both sides, and more!

Imagine a sparkling lake, clear blue skies, with nature all around you. The Storybook Inn is located in Skyforest, California, just 5 minutes from Lake Arrowhead. Relax, hike, water ski, sit on the terrace or in the gazebo, go mountain biking, horseback riding, star watching, take the Arrowhead Queen boat tour across Lake Arrowhead, watch for wildlife, or shop. Ride a jeep/ATV along the forest service roads for hundreds of miles of breathtaking panoramas through canyons, ridges, and meadows. Visit historic mines from California’s gold rush days, and follow a meandering river. Concerts and festivals are scheduled throughout the summer. Lake Gregory (8 miles) offers paddle boats, a water slide, and row boats. Green Valley Lake (8 miles) has great fishing. With so many villages and small communities around Skyforest, try their entertainment, restaurants, cocktail lounges, community/senior centers, social clubs, and events. Skyforest and Lake Arrowhead offer year-round fun.

After spending time around the mountains, you are hungry! The Storybook Inn’s new View Restaurant will satisfy even the most discriminating gourmet. Sit on the glassed terrace for a 100 mile view of Catalina, the mountains, or the night the lights of San Bernardino. A favorite among the locals on the mountain, Patty calls their dinners, “Recognizable meals, recipes with a twist.” The lamb shank ($19) and braised beef short ribs ($18) are slow cooked for 12-15 hours. Each falls apart, and is soo tender and juicy. Entrees: wild salmon filet ($16), chicken stuffed with Portobello mushrooms and brie ($16), pork chops with Maui onions ($18), shrimp scampi over linguini ($18), etc. Her appetizers are original- mariners’ steaming fondue with lobster, crab, scallops and shrimp ($10) served in a fondue pot. The brie is warm with fresh apple slices and water table crackers ($8). The bruschetta ($8) is topped with artichokes and peppers for a tantalizing taste. Dinners come with soup or salad, wild rice or red potatoes, vegetables, and sourdough bread. And the desserts are scrumptious- apple pie, cheese cake, and brownie. Dinner is served Friday and Saturday evenings from 5:30-8:30 P. M., with Sunday champagne brunch from 10:00 A. M.-2:30 P. M. ($12.95). Brunch features 6 to 8 entrees along with breakfast selections. The Teachouts explain, “We serve big portions so our guests get their money’s worth and don’t go away hungry.”

Breakfast is an event at the Storybook Inn! It’s an ALL YOU CAN EAT buffet: 2-3 entrees, baked goods, fresh juices, fruit, cereal, and yogurt. Richard and Patty have over 100 videos, archery, bocce ball, backgammon, cards, chess, checkers, Jenga, puzzles, monopoly, Parcheesi, and other games for their guests. They also have facilities for weddings, rehearsal dinners, receptions, parties, clubs, and groups. Inn Guests receive a FREE glass of wine, beer or soft drink every day. Don’t stay at a regular hotel! Skyforest and Lake Arrowhead are quick getaways only 1-½ hours from Los Angeles and 4-½ hours from Las Vegas. This is where the rich and famous play! See why this area has been the meeting place of Hollywood’s celebrities since the 30’s. For information, call the Storybook Inn, (877)-337-0011.]]> Tue, 09 Nov 2010 18:50:45 +0000 a0a080f42e6f13b3a2df133f073095dd http://www.usresident.com/content/articles/us-travel-guides/california/review-of-the-oakland-zoo-in-california-by-kara-r21
The first area we were anxious to see was the park’s newest attraction, the Valley Children’s Zoo that opened in the summer of 2005. While the petting zoo, or ‘contact yard’ as they call it, and several climbing and play structures are available here, I don’t think this should be considered a kid-only area. All zoo visitors should make a point of visiting.

The otter and alligator exhibits both have underwater viewing windows, which were a little hard for the small members of our group to understand, but they were a big hit with the grown-ups. My favorite of the day, the fruit bat exhibit, was also in the children’s area. Two species are housed together, the Malaysian, and Island flying foxes. All are males, and there are a ton of them.

There are also two indoor displays, a bug house, and reptile building. Strollers aren’t allowed in the buildings. We had our stroller so laden with our belongings it was easier to go in shifts than try to empty and leave it unattended. Whichever way you do it, do make sure to visit the buildings. The reptiles especially impressed me. I’m used to reptile displays being tiny and hard to see. This was wonderfully different. The displays were large, easy to view, and housed several species each.

There is a bit of work left to do. Some finishing touches and landscaping are still being added. I believe the lemur exhibit may need some attention as well, since several (four that I saw) animals escaped during our visit. The keepers efficiently calmed the excited crowd, and the lemurs were quickly herded back home with surprisingly little fuss.

Although certainly not the most exciting aspect, I feel the need to mention the restrooms. Instead of ‘men’ and ‘women’ there are large ‘family’ style restrooms scattered throughout the children’s zoo. With two members of our party currently toilet training, we found this especially helpful.

The remainder of the zoo is generally set up by region, with areas for ‘African Savanna’, ‘Tropical Rainforest’, and ‘Australian Outback’, etc. I’ve always enjoyed how they’ve combined many species into an exhibit. It’s interesting to see different types of animals together. Considering the zoo has been in its current location since 1936, it’s also impressive how updated, spacious and clean the habitats are.

Just outside the main gate is a small ride area. Tickets can be purchased to ride the carousel or other small carnival style rides. There is also a train, which follows along one edge of the zoo, overlooking the sun bear and sika deer exhibits; a must ride in my opinion.

The zoo is open daily from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm, and closed on Thanksgiving and Christmas. They also host several events throughout the year. We have enjoyed the ‘Zoo Lights’ display for years during the holidays. Upcoming events and other information can be found at the website www.oaklandzoo.org or by calling (510) 632-9525.]]> Tue, 09 Nov 2010 18:44:56 +0000 4c56ff4ce4aaf9573aa5dff913df997a http://www.usresident.com/content/articles/us-travel-guides/california/the-santa-monica-pier-reviewed-by-joanne-rawson-r20 save the pier for a day in the middle of your trip when a more sedate and relaxing pace will be a welcome break. Park right on the pier deck or in one two beach lots, and you are there. (Parking prices are set by the City of Santa Monica and vary.) No trams, no long walk across five other parking lots, unload the kids and start enjoying the unique atmosphere of the Santa Monica Pier.

I just love the Santa Monica Pier. It has a carnival like feeling with out being overwhelming. The view alone is worth the visit. From the ocean to the Santa Monica Mountains, it’s breath taking, especially from the top of the Pacific Wheel.

There is something both refreshing and entrancing about the ocean, so take a leisurely walk along the boardwalk or bring a picnic and sit on the beach while you eat.

Pacific Park is tiny compared to the major theme and amusement parks, but that is part of its charm. I find lack of branded commercialism is refreshing. The rides aren’t the biggest or the most thrilling but they are fun. There is no entrance admission, and the rides done on a ticket system, but you can get an “Unlimited ride wristband at the gate.

The Santa Monica Pier is a must when visiting Los Angeles. Play a few arcade games, ride the carousel, sit on a bench with an ice-cream cone and admire the view. If you’ve missed the Santa Monica Pier and the beach you’ve missed everything.]]> Tue, 09 Nov 2010 18:41:15 +0000 da4fb5c6e93e74d3df8527599fa62642