Author Archive
Celebrate the Holiday Season in Branson, MO
Author Alexine
By Janet Sanders
It’s not too early to be making your holiday plans. This year do something different that the whole family will treasure and talk about for years to come. Visit Branson, Missouri for the holidays. Branson, MO, is a one-of-a-kind family destination nestled among the lakes and peaks of the beautiful Ozark Mountains.
Branson is a wonderful place to enjoy any time of year, but come 1 November, the Christmas spirit descends on Branson and the town is transformed from a sleepy mountain retreat to a spectacular winter wonderland. Branson’s popular Ozark Family Christmas lures visitors from all around the world with a dazzling array of Christmas lights, holiday festivities, unforgettable shows and breathtaking sights.
You’ll find something for everyone in Branson, MO and the holiday season offers extra special events. Here are a few of the most popular special holiday activities.
Festival of Lights
This is a holiday light show like no other. Bundle the kids in the car with hot chocolate and candy canes then head out to explore the breathtaking scenery of the Branson Area Festival of Lights drive through. You’ll be amazed at the gorgeous settings of twinkling lights against a black background. Cruise the one-mile path at your own pace to fully take in the brilliantly illuminated scenery created with more than 175 displays including gingerbread houses, toy shops, and the 12 Days of Christmas.
Adoration Parade
Everyone loves a parade. If your family has never experienced the thrill of an old-fashioned Christmas parade, the 62nd Annual Adoration Parade will surpass your expectations. On December 5, 2010, thousands of spectators will enjoy this extravagant and much-loved production. Watch the wonder of the season unfold as 34 floats and 13 bands decked out for the occasion make their way past. The parade finale is something you and your family will cherish as an annual tradition: the reverent lighting of the nativity scene atop Mount Branson.
Silver Dollar City
You can’t truly experience a Branson, MO Christmas without making a stop at Silver Dollar City where holiday sights, smells and sounds greet you at every turn. An Old Time Christmas at Silver Dollar City will delight you with more than four million twinkling lights, grand holiday stage productions, rides and attractions, the Gifts of Christmas Lights Parade, lunch with Santa and an array of unique gifts available for that someone special.
Christmas Shows and Entertainment
For relaxing seasonal entertainment check out Branson’s many live shows. In the evening, come in from the cold and dress your family up in their holiday best as you get ready to enjoy one of the many exhilarating Christmas shows and live entertainment productions. You’ll have a tough time choosing which performance to see as the more than 50 venues and 100 live shows in Branson convert to seasonal holiday shows. Any one of them will wow and delight everyone in your family!
Branson Landing
Haven’t finished your holiday shopping? Cross off everyone on your Christmas shopping list with a visit to the outdoor mall at Branson Landing. Known as Branson’s newest “Winter Wonder Landing,” this waterfront shopper’s paradise features hundreds of boutique, brand name and specialty stores. Your family will enjoy the unexpected treasure of one of the landing’s highlights: a water, fire and light spectacular choreographed to the sounds of the season.
Accommodations Galore
Branson boasts more than 22,000 lodging and hotel accommodations, so there are options for every budget this holiday season. Do you long for the coziness of a bed and breakfast inn? Want the rustic feel of cabin rentals in the mountains? From luxurious lodging of five-star hotels and resorts to budget-friendly motels, Branson is a convenient drive for 50% of the U.S. population. If you prefer to fly, the new Branson airport is located just 10 minutes from town.
Few other places can lift your spirits and remind you of the true meaning of the holidays like Branson, MO. Come enjoy the experience of a Branson family Christmas and create rich memories you’ll cherish for years to come.
Ten Things to Pack for Your Winter Getaway
Author Alexine
By: Alexine
If you plan on taking a little winter getaway with your family or significant other this year you may want to make sure you pack according to your itinerary. For the most part you will be spending time keeping warm or playing in the snow. Here is a packing list of essentials you won’t want to leave behind.
Warm Jacket
There is nothing more important than having a nice warm winter coat in the cold weather. Making sure you have a great layer system jacket or down jacket will allow more options when it comes to winter activities. You can use one of these jackets to ski, snowboard, snowmobile or take a romantic walk in the woods.
Scarf
Whether you are crafty or not having a really nice scarf can make even the coldest days feel warm and toasty. If you have the patients to knit your own scarf then take the time to pick out some fun yarn and knit one for your trip. On the other hand you can find really nice scarves at department stores that will be wonderful as well.
Mittens
Mittens win over gloves when it comes to keeping your hands warm. Mittens keep all your fingers together with the exception of your thumb for gripping. Having the four fingers together helps keep them much warmer. Also if you plan to do winter sports it is nice to have a pair of mittens with waterproof coating.
Hat
Packing a nice warm hat that covers your ears is very important. While earmuffs are great for saving your hairdo they are not so good at keeping your head warm. Make sure you pack a hat even if your jacket has a hood.
Long Underwear
Whether you wear a layer under your clothes or ski gear long underwear come in handy for the cold weather. Make sure you have a couple of pairs in case you sweat a lot while participating in outdoor activities. Then you can wash one pair and wear the other the next day while they dry.
Snow Pants
No matter what you do outside in the snow it is important to have a nice pair of snow pants. They keep you warm and block your legs from getting frost bit in the wind. It is nice to have a good pair of snow pants for any level of activity in the snow.
Wool Socks
There is nothing more comfortable than a gorgeous pair of wool socks in the ice cold winter weather. If you knit then it is wonderful to show them off when skiing or hanging out by the fire at the lodge. On the other hand, if you do not knit then you can find some really nice wool socks at boutique stores.
Boots
While designer frilly boots are great to coordinate with your outfits, a good sturdy pair of outdoor winter boots is important to have for your getaway. Not only are the rated for negative degree weather but they also are easier to keep clean and you do not have to worry about getting them wet or salty.
Bathing Suit
After long days beating yourself up in the cold weather it is nice to have a bathing suit along for the hot tub. Most hotels have either an indoor or outdoor hot tub to help relax your muscles and enjoy a romantic moment.
Flannel Pajamas
Once you have spent the evening relaxing in the hot tub and shower off it is nice to slip into something comfortable. Flannel pajamas are the perfect choice and if you feel like being nice bring a pair along for your sweetie as he is sure to appreciate the comfort.
Pack Your Clothes
In addition to packing all of the necessities above you will want to bring some cute warm outfits along for the dinners out and site seeing or shopping sprees. Heading to ski country does not always mean you have to be outside in the cold so do not forget some cute clothes.
Have fun on your winter getaway and remember to have lots of fun and take pictures for memories.
Posted in Packing Light Tips | 
Tags: winter getaway packing, winter getaway packing list | 
No Comments »
Experience the Rich History of San Francisco
Author Alexine
By Barbara Wade © 2010, All Rights Reserved
If all you’ve ever seen of California are beaches and nightclubs, you owe it to yourself to spend a few days in San Francisco. Luxury hotel accommodations share the waterfront with historic buildings; boutique shops vie for space among the fish stalls of the famous Fisherman’s Wharf; and jutting proudly from the bay is the island prison known simply as The Rock. This wonderfully diverse city offers something for every traveler, but for history lovers, the waterfront is not to be missed.
Board an Historic Ship at San Francisco Maritime National Historic Park
In January of 1887, the newly christened Balclutha set sail from England carrying nearly 3,000 tons of coal bound for San Francisco. In June, after having made the months-long trip around Cape Horn, she sailed into San Francisco harbor, where she would take on a load of California wheat before making the voyage back to England. Balclutha’s long and distinguished career included stops at such exotic ports as New Zealand, Chignik Bay, Alaska, and Catalina Island, where she had a supporting role in the movie, Mutiny on the Bounty. Today, she’s been fully restored and welcomes visitors at the San Francisco Maritime National Historic Park.
As you board Balclutha, you’ll be transported back to a time before trucks and planes, when the movement of goods relied on fickle winds and temperamental seas. You’ll discover how the crew lived for months at sea, often with their families and even their pets along for company. Follow your guide as he shows you – through the many photos and exhibits – what it was really like to earn your living as a sailor. You might just find, as they often did, that adventure isn’t always as romantic as it seems.
Tour the World’s Most Famous Prison
From sailing ships to rocky islands, San Francisco has a great deal to share with history buffs. Alcatraz Island served as a prison from 1859 until 1963, and since the early 1970s has been a favorite tourist destination. Visitors can see the cell that housed Al Capone, view the tools prisoners fashioned for use in the many escape attempts, and hear the story of the inmates who might just have made it out – though no one knows for sure. You can take a self-guided tour of the grounds by renting an Alcatraz Cellhouse Audio Tour, or if you prefer, take part in one of the many special events the National Park Service hosts.
There’s more to this island than an abandoned prison, though. The staff at Alcatraz not only worked here, but they and their families lived on “The Rock” as well. In an effort to make the hostile surroundings more comfortable, they introduced a wide variety of non-native plants and flowers to their gardens. In the decades between the island’s occupancy and the gardens’ restoration in 2003, many of these colorful plants flourished. Brilliant blooms cover the island and make Alcatraz’s gardens nearly as popular a tourist destination as the prison itself.
Since the discovery of gold in the hills surrounding San Francisco, the area has seen tremendous growth. Where once was a tiny village, there now stands a thriving metropolis with a vibrant cultural center. Proud of her heritage, the city of San Francisco encourages diversity while maintaining strong ties to the past through historical exhibits like Alcatraz and the San Francisco Maritime Park. Plan a stay in a luxurious San Francisco Embarcadero hotel and you too can enjoy the best of both worlds.
Author Bio
Barbara Wade writes for the Argonaut Hotel, a San Francisco luxury hotel just steps from the historic waterfront. Visit them online at www.argonauthotel.com.
Discover Culture and History in Downtown Chicago
Author Alexine
Posted in Uncategorized | Tags: Chicago Kimpton hotel, Chicago luxury hotels, downtown Chicago hotels, Palomar Chicago | No Comments »
Big City Class with a Charming Neighborhood Feel in West Manhattan
Author Alexine
By Barbara Wade © 2010, All Rights Reserved
Between the garment district and Greenwich Village lies Chelsea, an inviting neighborhood teeming with art galleries, theaters and one-of-a-kind shops. City slickers will love the proximity to all the culture and entertainment Manhattan has to offer – including the New York theater district – hotels with all the amenities you expect and a vibrant night life. Those who prefer small-town living will appreciate the community spirit for which the neighborhood is famous.
The Epicenter of the Art World
ARTnews declared Chelsea “a vital art district,” and it has since overtaken SoHo in terms of the number of art galleries that call the neighborhood home. Whether you’re on the hunt for the next big thing, in the market for a Renoir, or simply love to immerse yourself in the art scene, you’ll find it in Chelsea.
More than 350 art galleries line the streets of Chelsea, so put on your walking shoes and be prepared to flood your senses with everything from acrylic on canvas to marble sculptures. You’ll have the opportunity to buy stunning artwork from up-and-coming artists and established masters alike. You might even find the perfect piece for that bare wall in the living room, or a Christmas gift your mother will adore.
For those who’d rather admire than own, Chelsea offers an array of museums featuring artwork from around the world. The Rubin Museum of Art is dedicated to the collection of Himalayan art and strives to bring the peace and tranquility of traditional Buddhist crafts to the former Barney’s department store. Once the center of the fashion world, the building is now home to more than 2,000 works of art and is one of the premier collections in the western world.
If you prefer a more modern feel, be sure to visit the Chelsea Art Museum, home of the Miotte Foundation, dedicated to preserving the works of New York’s Jean Miotte, a master of the abstract and famous for his use of bold brush strokes and primary colors. In addition to paintings, exhibits feature a variety of media, from photography to live music and dance performances.
Fine Dining with an Urban Feel
The Chelsea Market, built in a former Nabisco factory – the birthplace of the Oreo cookie – is the place to eat in Chelsea. With office, retail, manufacturing and wholesale markets all under one roof, there’s plenty for everyone. Locals find the best deals on fresh produce, meat and seafood at the shops in Chelsea Market, as do area restaurants.
Of course, if you prefer to let someone else do the cooking, you can’t do better than the upscale establishments you’ll find at Chelsea Market. Health-food lovers will get their fill of raw food made to order, and those with a sweet tooth can enjoy everything from gourmet popsicles to melt-in-your mouth brownies. Top it off with what’s been called the “best espresso in New York,” and your dinner will be one to remember.
Your vacation or business trip can be an exciting adventure filled with art, culture, music and food when you choose to stay in Chelsea, New York. Hotels catering to sophisticated travelers provide plenty of comforts, and the friendly neighborhood of Chelsea makes everyone feel at home.
Author Bio
Barbara Wade writes for Eventi, one of the finest Chelsea New York hotels, located in West Manhattan. Visit them online at www.eventihotel.com.
Posted in Uncategorized | Tags: Chelsea hotels, Chelsea New York hotels, Eventi, Eventi hotel, New York theater district hotels | No Comments »
Winter Survival Kit: Don’t Leave the House Without One
Author Alexine
If you plan on driving in the cold of winter it is important to plan for the worst possible scenario. If your car were to break down in a blizzard or you got into an accident there are certain items you need. Without the engine running and heat blowing you will become cold very fast. While you may not travel too far from home, you still need to be prepared. Here are the items you need to build a winter survival kit for your vehicle.
Large Duffle Bag
This is a really important part of the kit as it holds all of the contents together in one compact place. This keeps all your necessities in one place so there is no searching when the time comes to use it.
Bottled Water
Store about four to six liter bottles of water in the duffle bag to ensure you have plenty of water to drink and cook with. This will come in handy if you get stranded for longer than expected.
First Aid Kit
Buy a complete first aid kit for your survival kit that includes more than just bandages and ointment. Make sure it includes wrapping and wound wash along with rubber gloves to treat others around you.
Road Flares
These are critical for cops and passing vehicles to see you in poor visibility or if your vehicle has slid off the road. Make sure you have a pack of road flares in a sealed plastic bag with a couple of lighters in case they need to be used.
Flashlight
In a separate sealed plastic bag you should pack a couple of flashlights and extra batteries. These are good for finding your way through the duffle bag or first aid kit when it is dark outside.
Warm Blankets
Make sure you store a couple warm blankets in the duffle bag to keep yourself and others warm. It is preferable to have wool or fleece blankets as they take up less space and are very warm.
Food
Make sure you pack a good amount of protein bars, nuts, dried fruits and camping meals in your duffle bag. They are higher in calories and will keep you warm if you are stranded for long periods of time.
Camp Stove
The most compact and convenient camp stove I recommend is the Jet Boil. It is the size of a child’s thermos and is perfect for boiling and measuring water. With all the parts included you don’t have to mess with a large camp stove with screw on gas tanks.
However, if you have a different small camp stove that works as well put it in your kit. Make sure you can use it easily in case the weather is really bad outside.
Dishes and Utensils
Make sure you have camp mugs that can be used to drink and eat food, spoons and forks. These are important for making your camping meals.
Make sure you buy a large enough duffle bag to fit all of the contents in and put this is your car before winter hits. You never know when you might need to use it for yourself or to help a stranded car on the side of the road. Good luck this coming winter and be safe in your travels both close and far.
Ten Items You Don’t Want to Forget for a Road Trip
Author Alexine
By: Alexine
Before you take off on a road trip there are some important things to consider like the weather and driving conditions. While you may be taking a road trip over the holidays or just for a fun family vacation, there is plenty of preparing to do. To make sure you have the essential items in addition to your favorite outfits and tent, I have come up with ten items you don’t want to forget on your road trip.
1. Cooler
This is one of the best things to have along on your road trip to keep beverages cold and food from spoiling. While traveling long distance you will want to have plenty of items on hand in case you break down or run into weather. Having a cooler along ensures you will have good food and drinks to enjoy.
2. Drinks
Making sure you drink plenty of water on long road trips is important, especially if you are changing altitude. Some people experience altitude sickness when traveling over mountain ranges so it is important to have ice cold water on hand to keep you from loosing focus. Ice water is also great when you are experiencing too much heat.
3. Snacks
While you can put perishable items in your cooler it is important to also bring along non-perishable snacks like trail mix, granola bars, dried fruit and nuts. These types of snacks are easy to eat on the road and stay fresh. Make sure you pack enough for the drive to and from your destination.
4. Pillows
Comfortable pillows are a necessity for long road trips across the country. Taking turns driving is a great way to get to your destination sooner and pillows help the person resting sleep better. Pack a few so you have enough for the whole family.
5. Blankets
If you plan on snoozing in the car at a truck stop or pitching a tent at a state park, blankets are defiantly a must. Warm and cozy blankets are a necessity when traveling long distance in your vehicle as they make great support when the seat gets uncomfortable.
6. Flashlights
It is important to keep a flashlight in your glove box or center counsel at all times in case you break down or need to see where you are walking in the dark. Flashlights also come in handy when you need to change a tire or check the directions.
7. Maps
If you have state maps or a road atlas you will be in good shape when it comes to finding your way around. The newest edition of the road atlas will also show you where food, gas and lodging are along your route. Make sure you have the maps in the front seat and easily available.
8. Money
Make sure you have plenty of cash and change available on your road trip for cash only stops and tolls. While it may not seem important because of cash machines available in most places, cash is nice when you run into a small town or truck stop to grab lunch and gas.
9. Music
To keep your mind off of the long journey ahead make sure you pack plenty of enjoyable music. Make sure a good amount of the music is upbeat to keep you awake when you get tired of driving and for driving in the dark. This will help keep your mind wide awake to drive safely for long periods of time.
10. Camera
For memories of the journey along the way don’t forget to pack your camera. It is fun to take pictures at different tourist sites and viewpoints when driving through places you have never been before. Then you can show your friends and family all the cool places you visited on your road trip.
Enjoy your road trip and remember to double check before you leave to make sure you have everything you need. If you are camping then don’t forget your tent and if you are staying at hotels then make sure you check maps for the best place is to stop along the way.
Posted in Uncategorized | Tags: packing for a road trip, road trip essentials, road trip packing list | No Comments »
Tips for Preparing Your Holiday Travel Plans
Author Alexine
By: Alexine
With children going back to school and fall weather beginning to set in there is much to think about. The November and December holidays will be here before you know it. While some people live close to their relatives, many do not. This requires lots of people to travel over the holidays. To ensure you get the best deals and make good traveling decisions I have come up with some tips for planning your holiday travels.
Check Schedules
This has got to be the most important part of making plans as everyone has different schedules and vacation availability. Making sure you check K-12 school schedules and college schedules if you have children and work vacation schedules for yourself and your spouse is very important. Sometimes there is a couple of day variance between high school and college break.
Checking the schedules of the people you are visiting is also equally important. This will ensure you all can make the ski trip or tropical vacation together. On the other hand it is important if the family is meeting up at Grandma’s house for the holidays. Because we all know Grandma likes to plan way in advance.
Choose Dates
Now that you have gathered everyone’s schedules it is time to pull the dates together. This may mean you have to be flexible by about two days on either end if you live far away and travel time is lengthy. Remember to give yourself plenty of time if you are driving to a distant airport in case of slick roads and snow storms.
Search Sites
With your dates finalized you now get to start playing with the different airline ticket search sites. You will notice that most offer a flexible date’s search mode that allows you to see dates before and after the ones you came up with. This will show you the rates around that date you enter. Sometimes leaving a day later or coming home a day earlier can cut your costs in half.
When searching on the different airfare sites you will also want to go to the airlines personal sites as well. Sometimes they offer better deals than the larger sites that offer multiple carriers.
Watch Rates
When planning ahead for holiday vacation it is wonderful if you can get started right away. The advantage of getting a head start is that you will be able to watch rates and check for deals with your local carriers. Sometimes buying too far in advance can be very expensive along with buying too close to your departure date. Somewhere in the middle is where the best deals are so watching the rates will really help save you money.
Book & Get Miles
The last steps to planning your holiday vacation are booking the flights and signing up for air miles if you do not already have an account. Once you see the rates and are comfortable with the price it is a good idea to book your flights. Sometimes people wait until it starts going up again which is good but if you can get the best rate go for it before the prices change.
When it comes to the air miles it is a wonderful thing to start accumulating them. After you accumulate many air miles you can cash them in for an airline ticket. There are also credit cards that the airlines have that offer you double miles when you purchase the ticket through them. Take advantage of specials like this to help save on your future travel plans.
Safe Travels
With your travel plans set I hope you can relax and enjoy the next couple of months before the holidays are in full gear. With shopping and prepping to look forward to it is nice to have the travels plans in order with plenty of time to spare. Good luck on your holiday vacation wherever it may be and have safe and happy travels.
Shows, Shopping and Sports: Find it all in the Chicago Loop
Author Alexine
By Barbara Wade © 2010, All Rights Reserved
Vibrant. Glamorous. Enticing. Chicago has built a long-standing reputation as a city with its finger on the pulse of culture, history and entertainment. At no place does this become more obvious than the Chicago Loop. Hotel and business high-rises, multiple theaters, shopping on State Street and professional sports for all seasons make this town a magnet for business and recreational travelers worldwide.
Whether this is your first visit or a long-awaited return, there are certain must-sees that you’ll want on your to-do list.
The Historic Theater District
Your meetings have concluded. Shopping for your wedding dress is done. Whatever your day held for you, it’s now time to head out on the town. With numerous theaters to choose from in the Loop, one offers special significance. The Cadillac Palace Theater has a lineage filled with vaudeville and Versailles.
Designed to mimic a French palace, this 2,500-seat venue delivers everything you’d find on Broadway and more. Chuckle as animation comes to life before your eyes in shows like The Lion King and Shrek the Musical. Discover the history of the beautiful Glenda and her evil sister, the Wicked Witch of the West, in Wicked.
Located in the same building as the famous Chicago Loop Hotel Allegro, you’ll find convenience and an intriguing legacy as you take in all that downtown has to offer.
Shopping in the Loop or on the Mile
When it’s time for a little retail therapy, the Loop Retail Historic District is but one place within this area to shop till you drop. For over 150 years, State Street (Chicago’s Main Street) has anchored this historic district, boasting stores including Macy’s, Old Navy, Nordstrom Rack and others.
Not in the market for clothing? How about diamonds? With the largest jewelry district in the Midwest, the Loop Retail Historic District also delivers an exceptional selection of engagement rings, wedding rings, gold, silver and precious gems.
Just a short taxi ride away, you’ll also find the Magnificent Mile. With shopping, dining, beauty and more, the Magnificent Mile easily rivals 5th Avenue and Rodeo Drive. You’ll find hundreds of the most popular retailers including Bloomingdale’s, Gucci, Michael Kors, Lululemon Athletica and American Girl Place. Stop for a quick lunch street-side or indulge in a romantic dinner with you and your fiancé.
Year-round Sports
Basketball, football, hockey, baseball… whatever sports attraction you have, you’ll find a team in Chicago. Located just a few miles from the Chicago Loop is Wrigley Field, Soldier Field and other well-known sports venues.
Join in the excitement as the fans go wild over sports heroes that slam, sack and slug with amazement. From Blackhawks to Bears to Bulls, you can cheer your team to victory during your stay in Chicago.
Wedding Receptions and Rehearsal Dinners
Has your trip brought you to the Windy City for more personal reasons? When planning your special day, and all the events that lead up to it, variety is key. Within the district you’ll find a wide selection of places to host your bridal luncheon, rehearsal dinner and wedding reception. Many local hotels offer the convenience of packages designed to provide accommodations for your out-of-town guests as well as reception venues and catering.
Regardless of the reason for your visit to Chicago, the Loop is a district you must explore to find the best this city has to offer in shows, shopping and sports.
Author Bio
Barbara Wade writes articles for Allegro, a luxurious Chicago Loop hotel conveniently located in the historic downtown district. Visit Allegro online at http://www.allegrochicago.com.
Extravagance and Culture Combine for the Perfect Vacation Destination
Author Alexine
By Barbara Wade © 2010, All Rights Reserved
There’s more to Los Angeles than movie premiers and Grauman’s Chinese Theatre. A playground for the rich and famous, LA boasts world-class shopping, art and the finest weather on the West Coast. A vacation to southern California provides entertainment for the whole family, no matter what their individual tastes. Plan your trip around a stay in a Los Angeles luxury hotel for the ultimate in extravagance and you’ll get a first-hand glimpse of the riches this great city has to offer.
Art and Culture
Los Angeles is known as the “creative capital of the world” and with good reason. Artists, writers, dancers, actors and musicians make up a large percentage of the population, and for visitors, that means ample opportunity to experience art and culture.
The city and surrounding areas are home to more than 800 museums, including the world famous J. Paul Getty Museum. The Getty Museum boasts such famous artists as Van Gogh and Rembrandt, while the Museum of Contemporary Art is home to thousands of creations in all media, all produced after 1940. And the Los Angeles County Museum of Art houses more than 100,000 pieces spanning virtually all of art history from around the globe. Whether you fancy the classics, or prefer to interpret art in your own way, you’ll find plenty of famous – and not so famous – works to admire.
On the campus of UCLA is the Armand Hammer Museum, where fine art and free concerts combine to provide a truly varied cultural experience. Impressive art collections, informative lecture series and musical performances are just some of the ways the museum, together with UCLA, enriches the lives of locals and tourists alike.
Music aficionados won’t want to miss seeing the world-renowned Los Angeles Philharmonic. The symphony performs in the Walt Disney Concert Hall, where a wood-paneled main music hall provides stunning acoustical quality. Even if you don’t attend a performance, be sure to stop by for a look at the complex. Dramatically curving stainless steel panels make this venue a work of art both inside and out.
Sun, Sand, and Shopping
For beach lovers, Los Angeles is a true paradise. From the surfing hotspot Manhattan Beach to picture-perfect Paradise Cove to funky and fun-loving Venice Beach, Los Angeles has no shortage of sand and surf. The sub-tropical climate means every season has the potential for beach weather, but the hottest activities take place in the summer months. Volleyball tournaments, fireworks, surfing and live music are just some of the entertainment options available on the many beaches of Los Angeles.
Of course you can’t hang out at the beach without the proper attire. And in Los Angeles, there are plenty of places to buy yourself a new bikini – or whatever else you desire. Perhaps the most famous shopping district in the world, Rodeo Drive sports many high-end boutique shops catering to celebrity clientele. In the three short blocks between Wilshire and South Santa Monica Boulevard, you’ll find designers from Armani to Versace, jewelry by Cartier and Tiffany, and shoes by Jimmy Choo.
Whether you choose to stay on the beach, downtown, or near UCLA, hotel accommodations are as plentiful as the attractions. Beaches, shopping, amusement parks, museums and more await you in Los Angeles, and in true Hollywood fashion, your vacation will be anything you dream it to be.
Author Bio
Barbara Wade writes for Hotel Palomar, a Los Angeles luxury hotel near the UCLA campus. Visit them online at http://www.hotelpalomar-lawestwood.com.
