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Articles for October, 2011

Pastoral and perfect: Family vacations in Northern California

Thursday, October 27th, 2011

Minutes from Monterey, the Carmel Valley Ranch plays host to all ages with pools, golf, hiking trails & more.

By David Escobar

When it comes to family vacations, Northern California’s wine country may not be the first place you consider. But when I planned a trip to Monterey/Carmel with two of the toughest travel critics I know – my children, ages 8 and 11 – we wound up discovering a family favorite. From a castle in Calistoga to burgers and shakes in Napa Valley, consider these family-friendly spots on your California vacation. (more…)

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Posted in California, Family Vacation, Food and Drink | No Comments »

Beach bars & bike paths: What to do this fall in the O.C.

Tuesday, October 25th, 2011

A shore thing: The laidback charm of artist enclave Laguna Beach. Credit: Lavender Dreamer.

By Stephanie Toller Negrete

Seaside mansions. Tan, buff bodies. Convertibles and high-end boutiques. Sure, they’re all part of the California dream, but only part of the reality. In the O.C., embrace a more laidback lifestyle, especially in the fall when the summer crowds are gone and the weather is just gorgeous. Enticing lodging rates help, too, so that we can all coast to a cheap Orange County hotel during one of the best seasons of the year. (more…)

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Posted in Beach Vacation, California, Tips & Advice, Travel | No Comments »

Life is sweet in NoCal: An indian summer in Santa Cruz

Thursday, October 20th, 2011

See why Santa Cruz consistently earns accolades for its seaside amusement park and boardwalk.

By Stacey Meyer

It wouldn’t be a proper California vacation without the beach, the boardwalk and a magnum of wine. But here’s a local secret: One of the best spots to live out that fantasy – minus the crowds from summer – is Santa Cruz, Calif. (more…)

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Posted in Beach Vacation, California, Tips & Advice | No Comments »

Mountains & mining towns: Things to do in Phoenix this fall

Tuesday, October 18th, 2011

Ain't no mountain high enough: Hike Pinnacle Peak Park for views of the valley and desert. Credit: Friends of Pinnacle Peak Park.

By Janet Bazan

Contrary to popular belief, strolling pumpkin patches and apple orchards aren’t the only things to do this fall. Head 2,700 miles west of New England to find one of the most brilliant color parades around: the trails in Phoenix. (more…)

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Posted in Tips & Advice, Travel | No Comments »

Pumpkins, lederhosen, drag queens: Autumn in L.A.

Friday, October 14th, 2011

Geishas and monsters: Drama at the West Hollywood Halloween Party and Street Carnaval.

By Abby Samler

Originally from the East Coast, I didn’t think that fall existed in Los Angeles, but I quickly learned that even West Coasters can enjoy the changing of the season. Take it from me — a 16-year resident — there are plenty of ways to celebrate the harvest season in L.A. (more…)

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Posted in Big Cities, California, Events | No Comments »

Aloha, autumn: 5 Hawaii events to catch this fall

Friday, October 14th, 2011

Watch in awe as titans shred giant waves during Van's Triple Crown of Surfing. (Credit: Karen Chan 16.)

By Jeff Helminak

Hawaii, known for its aloha spirit, beautiful beaches and Hawaii 5-0, will play host this November to dignitaries and guests from around the world at the 2011 Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation in Honolulu. Don’t worry if you’re not attending –  there’s still plenty of to do during the next few months. Here’s a list of a few favorite events coming up: (more…)

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Posted in Beach Vacation, Events, Hotels | No Comments »

Fall harvest: Budget vacations in Branson

Wednesday, October 12th, 2011

Budget in Branson: Save on villa rentals this fall at the Marriott Willow Ridge Lodge.

By Amy Carey-Dejanovich

The summer may be over, but the harvest is ripe for cheap fall vacations. In the Midwest, now is the best time to savor the fall’s rich colors along with piping-hot ciders and hayrides. Topping the list is Branson, Mo. My family and I vacationed there this summer and had a wonderful time. So much, I want to return this fall. Consider these money-saving tips on Branson hotels and activities. (more…)

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Posted in Fall Foliage, Family Vacation, Tips & Advice | No Comments »

Cheap Chicago hotel vacations ahead of Old Man Winter

Thursday, October 6th, 2011

All about autumn: Plan a cheap Chicago vacation before the Bean gets iced over. Credit: Bosc d'Anjou.

By Valerie Moloney

As if Chicagoans don’t hear it enough already, the forecast just got more frigid for 2012. An AccuWeather.com meteorologist predicted that folks in the Windy City might “want to move after this winter.”

As a 9-year Chicagoan who’s endured cracked hands, high heating bills and a Snowmaggedon that swallowed a jillion cars on Lake Shore Drive, I won’t state the obvious. However I will say that fall is the most glorious time of year (read: it’s in the 70s today) and if you’re at all curious, now is the time to stroll through Millennium Park to snap a photo of Cloud Gate. You know, before it gets too cold. (more…)

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Posted in Big Cities, Fall Foliage, Hotels, Urban Traveler | No Comments »