The terrain of the Santa Ynez Valley is diverse, with its green pastures dappled with horse ranches and vineyards. The landscape is studded with oak trees that signify one has landed in Chumash country. It is an agricultural area surrounded by the Santa Ynez Mountains on the south and the San Raphael Mountains on the
Flowers are all the rage in California this year. Our rainy winter brought a super bloom heralding spring that increased the wildflower population, those in your garden, and the flower fields around Southern California. Let’s look at two great places to visit for super blooms. Super Bloom at Antelope Valley Poppy Reserve For those wildflower
Life is about immersing yourself in extraordinary encounters. For those of you who enjoy cruises, Princess Cruises has one of those memorable experiences. The Van Gogh and Claude Monet Immersive Experience enhanced your sense of sight as you viewed the exceptional works of both artists. Add in your other senses of taste, smell, and touch
Heading east on Interstate 10 from California to Arizona, one passes through Quartzsite, Arizona. At first glance, one thinks Quartzsite is just a place to stop for gas upon entering Arizona or before returning to California. Gas is cheaper in Arizona, so most Californians top the tank before returning to California. There is more to this
In 2022 my travel adventures exploring destinations continued both virtually and in person. Although travel was primarily within California, I also traveled to Florida. Enjoy my travel 2022 year in review as I discovered many places in person and virtually more that I hope to visit soon. Travel 2022 Year in Review – In-Person Travel
Strolling up the rain-soaked Rue de la Bûcheri on the Left Bank of Paris, I attempted to close my umbrella despite the brisk wind challenging me to a duel. I wanted no distractions as I approached the 17th-century building that Shakespeare and Company occupies. Feeling the tingling of a long-wished-for dream, I rested my eyes
A trip to Santa Barbara must include a visit to one of the funk zone wineries. These wineries are part of the Santa Barbara Urban Wine Trail. The Santa Barbara Funk Zone is located within a few blocks between State Street and Garden Street and Montecito Street to Cabrillo Boulevard. This industrial district was known
Just as the Central Coast beckons as one drives north along Highway 101 and the road turns inland from the ocean, ascending into Santa Ynez Valley and Santa Barbara Wine Country, so does the Santa Ynez Bed and Breakfast, ForFriends Inn. The landscape changes to a pastoral setting filled with oak trees, letting us know
Art and wine connect me to the places I travel to; each establishes harmony and balance in its surroundings. Local art, especially murals, defines a city or town. Like art, local wine speaks of a place, especially in terms of terroir. Both inspire our senses and have a social impact whether we share with friends,
Halfway between San Francisco and Los Angeles, along Highway 101, lies the Central Coast town of San Luis Obispo. A city that is increasing in popularity partly due to its agricultural roots giving way to grape growing, expanding the city’s desirability for fine dining and wine tasting. There is more to San Louis Obispo than