Nov
16
Walt Disney Family Museum Visit & Photos
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The Walt Disney Family Museum, which opened in San Francisco’s Presidio on October 1, 2009, showcases Mr. Walt Disney’s life story. Ten galleries present the achievements of the man who created famous animation like Mickey Mouse, transformed the film industry with Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs and created the sense of wonder in his vision of theme parks. His contribution to popular culture in America and throughout the world is captured in this newly opened museum.
His daughter, Diane Disney Miller, a local in San Francisco, said, “My father has one of the most well-know names around the world, but as the Disney ‘brand’ has grown, the man has become lost”. The “Family” museum successfully tells the story of the man through his own words and the words of others who know him so well. Gallery one begins with Walt’s early years, born in Chicago in 1901, moved to a Missouri farm where he first learned to draw. The remaining galleries are rich with artifacts, interviews, over 200 video monitors, animation and state of the art exhibits. The final gallery concludes with a tribute to Walt Disney who died in 1966.
After you get your entry ticket, one is amazed at the showcases of awards on the first level. There is the original victorian furniture from Walt’s Disneyland apartment along with his early history. You are then invited to enter an elevator, decorated in a historical train theme, which takes you up to more galleries. The first featuring his arrival in Hollywood. As you move into more recent periods the museums displays reflect that periods technology. You will be impressed with the great high definition video screens and multi media presentations.
The museum consist of walking through galleries, however, there are comfortable benches to rest on. In some exhibits, the audio is a bit hard to hear unless you get very close to a display. Sound from other nearby displays can be annoying. Many of the interactive stations are computerized and there is a ton of archival material to go through–plan on at least 3 to 4 hours to see everything if your a big Disney fan. Others will find 2 hours is enough. There is a large model of Walt’s vision for Disneyland and many of the attractions are in the park today.
The Walt Disney Family Museum is fascinating for anyone interested in Disney, movies, history, art, theater, Americana and so on. For small children under 6, I wouldn’t recommend this museum. When I interview an 11 year old boy, he stated that he enjoyed the museum and his favorite part was learning how cartoons were made. The gift shop has many drawing/art products and I was told that in the future, the facility plans to offer basic sketching classes. The gift shop also has Disney items that are unique to this museum. A small cafe offers snacks the restaurant La Terrasse, is a short walk away. MurrayOnTravel.com was invited to visit the museum, and was provided free entry. Top photo Copyright Bruce Murray. All other images provided by / Copyright Disney, they do not allow photography inside the museum.
Located in The Presidio of San Francisco, part of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area of the National Park Service, is home to the new museum. Housed in a former barrack, the building holds the main exhibit galleries, a café, museum store, learning center and 114-seat screening facility. Parking is ample if you choose to drive. The Walt Disney Museum is only a short walk away from the Parks Transit Center. Presidio Maps
Admission is by timed-entry ticket which can be purchased up to 60 days in advance on line. Tickets are $20 for adults, $15 for seniors and students and $12.50 for children 6 to 17. Museum Website
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Nov
10
Argonaut Hotel of San Francisco Photos
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In the past staying at a hotel like the Argonaut on the San Francisco Fisherman’s Wharf waterfront was not very convenient for my business needs. But for today’s review, and as MurrayOnTravel, I can pick my own destinations and accommodations like the Argonaut. San Francisco is a beautiful city and the Fisherman’s Wharf area is a great spot to settle into for exploring the city. This is a very comfortable boutique hotel for those looking for a great SFO visit. (Argonaut Website – Fisherman’s Wharf Website)
Located at the western most end of Fisherman’s Wharf area on the corner of Hyde and Jefferson Streets the hotel is just across the street from the San Francisco Maritime Nation Historic Park and it’s Hyde Street Pier. Located on the ground floor of the Argonaut is the parks Visitors Center.(Park Website)
This 252-room property is located in what was originally a fruit and vegetable canning plant that later became part of Del Monte and is known as the Cannery. In the early 60’s the building was about to be leveled when it was saved and turned into a shopping area. In 2003 the area was redeveloped again and the Argonaut Hotel was established. Some shops and restaurants still remain, but the hotel now makes up the bulk of the Cannery.
The rooms and public spaces all incorporate some aspect of the Fisherman’s Wharf history. From large mirrors that mimic a ships portholes to the furniture and fabrics. We found our room to be very comfortable. It was huge but due to the historic nature of the building room shapes vary so your accommodation may be different.
The bed was a bit soft for my taste, but other than that it was a great room. The exposed brick walls, beams, and other features displayed the rich history of the building. But the hotel is anything but rustic. Heating and cooling was easily controlled and the bath was fine. Our room looked out on the central courtyard of the Cannery. The courtyard had a restaurant, a bar, an ice cream shop, and a few stores. During the afternoon street performers provided music, some may find that annoying others might enjoy it. Rooms overlooking Hyde and Jefferson streets should have views of the bay, especially upper floors.
Other rooms face streets or a modern central lightwell like area. NOTE: Free WiFi is available after you sign-up for the hotels guest loyalty program. The signal was very strong and fast in our room.
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Here in this Google Map you can see the hotel from above. You can also see the hotel in relation to the rest of the Cannery complex and Fisherman’s Wharf. Hotel has a white roof, shopping area has red roof. To the left of the hotel you can see the cable car turnaround for the Powell-Hyde line. It’s just a quick $5 ride over the hill to Union Square and Market Street shopping areas. Since this is the start of the line it is easier to board. If you zoom the photo out you can see the Hyde Street Pier and the Parks historic ships.
The comfortable lobby has several seating areas, seen here is one around the fireplace. The lobby is staffed with a concierge during the day. The staff at the Argonaut was very helpful.
Have I boarded a cruise ship??? No, deck chairs in the lobby continue the hotels maritime theme. As does the flooring designed to mimic the teak and holly wood floors found on yachts.
Leave your car at home…if you can….parking anywhere in San Francisco is very expensive. My understanding is that high parking rates are SFO’s way of encouraging the locals to use the excellent public transportation system. But for travelers this may be a real pain in the wallet. If you arrive by car I would suggest considering parking it near the airport for 10$ a day, take the BART train into town to the Powell Street station, about 8$ per person, then grabbing a $10 taxi ride to the Argonaut Hotel. Especially if you’re in town for a few days. Parking at the hotel costs $42 per day plus 15.5% tax! I was told a taxi ride from the Wharf area to the airport (SFO) would have been around $50.
Our room rate came with a continental breakfast at the Blue Mermaid Chowder House and Bar located on the ground floor of the hotel. This was a great way to start our day, just enough to get us going, but not enough to limit our looking forward to lunch. The Blue Mermaid offers indoor and seating in the courtyard. Other than here we didn’t have very good dining experiences at Fisherman’s Wharf. (Blue Mermaid Website)
I did notice during breakfast that the Blue Mermaid was promoting their award winning “Dungeness Crab and Corn Chowder”. I made a special point of making sure I tried it for lunch one day. It was tremendous, especially served in the SFO traditional sourdough bread bowl.
I can definitely recommend the Argonaut Hotel as a great San Francisco / Fisherman’s Wharf accommodation. Several chain hotels are nearby, but the Argonaut has real character. We visited the Argonaut without any prior notification. All expenses were paid for by MurrayOnTravel.com.
Oct
12
Palm Springs Riviera Resort & Spa Photographs
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Entrance to the Riviera Resort & Spa in Palm Springs California.
Two and three story buildings radiate from the center pool area.
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This Google Map photo shows you the layout of the resort. You can also see that you are only one block from Palm Canyon Drive the main drag of Palm Springs.
Upon arrival the expansive and colorful lobby at the Riviera leaves a dramatic impression. Front desk was understaffed during our arrival.
The lobby area continues with a retro modern spin on the classic days of Palm Springs when the Rat Pack played pool and relaxed at the Riviera.
Main pool area is beautiful at night. Decorated with glowing lanterns and comfortable conversation areas surrounding flaming firepits.
We had a pool view room with a balcony. Buildings that surround the back / rear pool are three stories. This pool is smaller than the main one but offers a larger area for sun worshipers or those. Furniture isn’t as comfortable as the main pool.
The room was spacious and very comfortable. Was dissapointed to find the floor dirty, missing ammenities and maintenance issues.
Bath was very nice. The sink is very stylish, but the design is useless for anything other than washing your hands. No wash cloths were provided, had to ask for them.
By normal standards you might find the closet small, but the Palm Springs lifestyle doesn’t need more than this.
Various inputs were available for the HDTV. Wireless internet was free and signal was strong but required login.
Bar area served excellent drinks and light snacks.
Dinning area offers a luxurious inside area or outside overlooking the main pool. Our meals were excellent.
Main pool area has comfortable seating and great views of the local Palm Springs mountains.
Cabanas can be rented for an added level of comfort and service. Most have water misters that add a welcome cooling effect.
The pool in the rear of the Riviera is smaller than the main pool and is tightly surrounded by three story buildings. This area also appears to have less staff and services than the primary pool. In the morning we found the area filthy with food and trash from the previous night.
Was dissapointed to see that hallway carpet outside my room was dirty during our two day stay. The resort appeared to be understaffed in every area. Housekeeping never came to clean our room. Staff also seemed uninformed. I had to ask three staffers where the ice machine was located before I found someone who gave me a correct location.
UPDATE: 10/26/09 – Got an email from the Managing Director at the Riviera. He stated that it had been a difficult summer season and as a result they had a reduction in staffing. They began to gear up for the busy season October 1st, just a week after my visit. My feeling is that if a property is going to put out the “vacancy” sign they should offer services they feel represent their mission of being a “beyond first class” property. I think the Riviera Resort has great potential, properly staffed during the high season it should be just fine.
The Riviera is a classic Palm Springs resort. The recent massive renovation has brought it back to it’s former glory. My hope is that the lack of managements attention won’t result in flash in the pan hipster hangout.
We visited the Riviera Resort & Spa of Palm Springs without any prior notification. All expenses were paid for by MurrayOnTravel.com.
Sep
22
Four Day Mexican Cruise on Carnival Paradise
Filed Under Cruises, Mexico, USA - California | Comments Off
Southern California is a great place to live, but sometimes you just have to get out of town. With my busy lifestyle a week or more would cause me to miss too much of my oversaturated and hurried existence. How about a compromise… A 5 day cruise on the Carnival Paradise cruise ship departing out of Long Beach stopping at Catalina Island and Ensenada Mexico. At first I thought that climbing onto a Carnival Fun ship with 2000 other passengers wouldn’t provide much relief from crowded Los Angeles, but I was wrong.
After the porters helped us with the luggage, we entered the large cruise terminal in Long Beach which was once the home of the Spruce Goose. Now, it’s a well run terminal for checking in of Carnival Cruise Line passengers. The process was smooth; took about 40 minutes from curb to ship.
As returning Carnival cruisers, our room key/charge card was gold in color. First time cruisers key cards are blue. I wasn’t aware of any special perks or attention from having the “gold card”. I did notice a special check in area for Platinum Guests, Carnival Concierge Club and Carnival Vacation Club members.
Cabin U78 was a pleasant surprise—roomy with plenty of storage for an inside $169 cabin. The bathroom had a basket full of amenities which were promotional items from Proctor and Gamble and BIC. For example, we had five flavors of tooth paste, 2 packets of razors and shampoo/conditioner. What was missing was body lotion. And that’s what I needed the most, bring your own lotion. I didn’t even miss not having a window. We were never in the cabin very much.
Ports of call on this 4 day Carnival cruise included Catalina Island on Tuesday and Ensenada, Mexico on Wednesday, Thursday would be a day at sea. Before the ship departed we attended the Ports of Call presentation in the main show room and found it to be valuable. The cruise director explained the excursions and a shopping specialist gave a short presentation. We had already reviewed all the excursions before the trip on the web site so the presentation just reinforced what we already knew. The cruise director does not allow time for questions and directs everyone to the excursion desk. And, if you miss the presentation, it’s replayed on the cabin TV. My questions were answered at the excursion desk—I was looking for an air-conditioned motor coach tour in Ensenada.
Tuesday we arrived at Catalina Island and Avalon Harbor. We decided to stay onboard the Paradise and enjoy the sun and fun on this Carnival “fun ship” Cruise Ship. As a Southern California girl Catalina Island was no big deal, I was married at the Inn At Mt Ada overlooking the harbor and know the island well. We found a nice spot at the front of the Paradise near the putt-putt golf course, got comfortable in a lounge chair and let the day slip away as we watched tender boats ferry passengers back and forth.
On Wednesday the Paradise docked in Ensenada Mexico. Off we went first thing in the morning, we easily found our bus and our tour director, a lovely woman with perfect English and Spanish. She grew up in Ensenada and was eager to share her knowledge with us. We toured a historic building call the Civic Center and had time to shop in the courtyard too. I found a purse I liked and after getting a price from the vendor, I asked our tour director what would be a fair price. She said $20. I went back to the vendor to offer $20, half of what she was asking for and she would only come down to $30—so I bought it for $30. Later that day, I perused the shopping area at the ships port and found the exact same purse for $20. I then realized that I should have trusted our lovely Carnival Cruise tour director and realized that the prices at the port were good deals. Rather than haggling with the tourists, the vendors at the port offered % off discounts, a more Americanized way of shopping.
Usually, ships offer only two dinning room time options, early and late seating. We learned of Carnivals “Your Time Dining” on the web site before and selected it. We decided to eat later, but to avoid the crowds of the second seating, we went to dinner about half an hour before their assigned time. Never having to wait more than a few minutes for a table for two was a pleasant surprise. On one occasion, we were given a beeper. The library, next door to the Elation dining room, with its Cunard memorabilia, kept us occupied for the 15 minute wait.
Of all the dining room meal selections, my favorites are the soups. I enjoyed many unique ones like strawberry soup and chilled avocado. A tip for the first time cruiser is that you can order anything on the menu, two steaks, two deserts, they will bring it. One meal we asked for an extra entrée—of lobster! It was wonderful!
The dining room served breakfast every morning and we only made it to one service. The only lunch options were buffets or the 24 hour pizza bar. It was disappointing to learn that we could not dine in the dining room for lunch on Tuesday and Wednesday, which left us with the two buffets on the ship to choose from. I found the buffets to be messy; dirty tables and sticky serving utensils. There was a deli area where the chef made sandwiches to order which was a great alternative. And, we enjoyed the pizza; when it was hot out of the oven. I was looking forward to the “free” sushi from 5 pm to 8 pm every night but was disappointed. At about 7:30 pm the self-serve wasabi and ginger looked messy so I was turned off and didn’t bother trying the sushi.
Air conditioning was prevalent in all public spaces on the Paradise. I could have used a heavier sweater during the evening show room events. During the first 3 days of the cruise, we were surprised to see that the public spaces were so void of people. I kept wondering, where is everybody? The disco was sparse at 10 pm and the casino was moderately full. As the cruise continued, I learned that the karaoke in the Queen Mary lounge was a popular after dinner/show destination. The entertainment in the show room definitely met expectations. The Carnival Paradise Singers and Dancers performed two major productions, Extreme Country and Shout. And we were entertained by two comedians that keep me laughing out loud. The comedians offered “R” rated shows in the lounges later on each night.
Burning some calories in the gym is good decision on a cruise and the work out area met expectations. The cardio equipment overlooks the ocean and there was an area to stretch and lift light weights. We signed up for a Pilates class for an extra $10. The class was not full, in fact, we had just two people. It’s was like having a private class with a trainer. You have to walk through the men’s and women’s spa to get to the gym. The spa offered some excellent deals as the cruise went on. For example, on day 3 at the port of Ensenada from 8 am to 12 noon, one can get a full body massage, boosting facial, soothing scalp, foot and ankle massage and eye collagen treatment, 75 minutes for $109. That seemed like a good deal—however, I’m not sure how many cruisers were booking spa appointments because the staff was very aggressive pushing services at the pool by handing out flyers. It became a bit of a pain.
I loved the slide on the ship. It is the “fun ship” after all. For the first three days, there was no line—just climb the stairs and take the plunge. This was the social area of the ship with music playing and cocktails being served. For a quiet, peaceful alternative, we found some private lounge chairs with a forward view. There were about 12 lounges in a shared area with the putt putt golf and joggers track. The other option in the adult pool which I found crowded, although they had cushions on the lounges.
I spent most of the Thursday “at sea” day at the main pool. Here and playing in the ping pong tournament, eating ice cream, playing video poker, and then dancing the night away after a little karaoke.
After 4 nights on the Carnival Paradise Fun Ship, I was refreshed and absolutely had a great time. There were many first time cruisers on the ship. I met a nice gal on the Ensenada excursion –traveling alone, who was a first time cruiser. She was getting her feet wet for her next cruise, Alaska. By testing out this inexpensive 4 night cruise, she could make a decision on whether or not to book a more expensive longer cruise. We kept running in to her on the ship and she reported that she had a good time and was impressed by most of the offerings on the ship. She was ready to book Alaska, but would travel with a friend to reduce the costs. A single pays the same a double.
Jun
26
Terranea Resort – Los Angeles and Southern California’s Newest Resort
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Is the newly opened Terranea Resort poised on the Palos Verdes Peninsula the only luxury resort destination to grace the Los Angeles coast? YES! The dramatic setting with 270-degree panoramic ocean views; coupled with the impressive selection of resort activities makes the Terranea Resort one of a kind.
A pineapple crowned fountain welcomes visitors to the luxury resort destination that cares deeply for its environment, embraces its natural shoreline setting and promises to deliver a distinctive, classic California lifestyle experience. Terranea Resort (derived from the word Mediterranean pronounced Terr-a-NAY-a) opened its doors just a short two weeks ago and with the exception of some newly planted landscaping; the resort review looks and operates like it’s been nestled on the Palos Verdes Peninsula for years.
The destination resort captures exquisite Mediterranean décor with the ocean as the background in every picture and the abundant list of services will keep guests entertained and involved or opt for a host of California laid back activities. A walk through the resort reveals a spectacular, well appointed property that services exclusive get-a-ways, special events and family fun.
Location: 100 Terranea Way Drive – or – 6610 Palos Verdes S. Dr / Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90275 Contact: phone (310) 265-2800 – fax (310) 265-2700 – web www.Terranea.com
The grandeur of the 120 acre property is not obvious as one drives up to the entrance and looks through the main lobby directly to the sapphire ocean. At first glance, guests will feel like they have arrived at a secluded villa; but after a few short steps through the lavish lobby, views are exposed of the tiered buildings accommodating 400 spacious hotel rooms, suites and bungalows, 50 private casitas and 32 private villas, 135,000 square feet of meeting space, a world class spa and seven dining options.
Architects and designers worked hard to incorporate the natural beauty of the land and magic of the ocean in all elements of the resort. Restaurants and public spaces embrace ocean views, walkways and paths include indigenous plants and mature trees and the two mile Discovery Trail at the perimeter of the property is open to the public, pet friendly and has benches and a snack bar for non-guests.
Terranea Resort offers up the California lifestyle that includes relaxing on the terrace next to a warm fire place or sitting in the well appointed living room having organic cocktails. Each evening at sunset, the sound of ringing crystal bowls signifies the end of day; an ancient ritual known for healing and relaxation.
A sanctuary and retreat, The Spa at Terranea is a 50,000-square-foot, state-of-the art oasis; offering customized wellness treatments. The Spa offers treatments responding to nature’s bio-rhythms. In mornings, treatments and activities are brisk and invigorating while in the afternoon, guests indulge in calming and relaxing options.
The Resorts Spa pool has comfortable lounge chairs and is decorated with tall terracotta pots, capturing the sense of a private Mediterranean ocean villa.
Adults will enjoy the sanctuary of the over 18 pool, adjacent to the ocean and surrounded by a glass wall to protect sun bathers from the wind. Funky tangerine chairs surround the rectangular pool and the cushioned lounge chairs are set on a bed of soft sand, overlooking the ocean. The snack bar serves the guests at the pool so one never has the leave the luxury of this contemporary landing.
For family fun, the property has a large swimming pool with a water slide and an interactive fountain. To the south of the property and down the discovery trial, is a secluded cove offering up lounge chairs and umbrellas on an imported sandy area with kayaking, snorkel and scuba available.
The resort staff is proud of the Children’s Center, a kid program and offering innovative activities such as a chance to create their own Rock Band, re-create their favorite movie scene or participate in a snap and shoot photo scavenger hunt. The Tide Pool Adventure Camps take kids on a journey though Terranea’s history using creative activities, microscopes and science experiments.
It should be noted that the resort does not have a “sandy” beach. Access to the ocean is from the rocky shoreline of the cove. Entering the water could be very risky during high surf. No life guard is on duty.
Seven restaurants populate the Terranea property and the fine dining Mar’sel restaurant is a destination in and of itself. It serves fine modern California cuisine using fresh herbs and product grown on the property with plush seating indoors and dining al fresco available.
The Catalina Kitchen offers up good food at any time, located in the center of the property near the family pool. The Terrace Sea Bean coffee boutique has a selection of snacks.
For a causal beach vibe dining experience, Nelson’s sits overlooking the water and is themed after the Lloyd Bridges character from the late 1950’s TV series Sea Hunt. In an earlier day episodes of Sea Hunt were shot here when the property was a marine park. Terranea Resort guests and LA locals enjoy a simple bar menu that includes shrimp tacos and fish & chips, while peering through the patio glass partition at the large fire pit surrounded by plush chairs.
On the other side of the patio is the Discovery Trail where visitors are welcome with their canine companions and can take a break, enjoy the view and order up a sunset cocktail.
Catalina Point is the place to have a perfect wedding. The outdoor ceremony setting overlooks the ocean and the resorts spacious ballrooms offer a combination of rustic and modern with rows of lamp shades decorating the ceiling.
Adjacent outdoor patio areas are ideal for a cocktails. The staff specializes in accommodating bridal parties at the spa and the gentlemen can enjoy a fun 9 hole, par 3 round of golf at the resort, or visit the Trump National Golf Club, just minutes away.
Ocean front rooms have views of the Pacific and include a sitting lanai with chair and table. The rooms are spacious and include flat screen TV, wireless internet, and IPOD holder. The décor combines rustic beauty with beach color schemes.
A love seat with leather ottoman faces a solid wood desk with an impressive guest directory. And walking into the bathroom, one feels a sense of calm with the sea foam green color scheme with glass tiles, sea shell decorated lamps, separate tub and shower, toilet closet and storage drawers.
All meeting rooms have state of the art flat screens, most with ocean views. The board rooms on the 6th floor have amazing ocean views, plush leather chairs around large wood tables, decorative lamps with ample terrace space for outdoor lunches or breaks. For a larger event, the resort has the areas largest ocean resort ball room, 18,000 square feet, named after the founding father of the Palos Verdes Peninsula, Frank A. Vanderlip. NOTE: All Photos Copyright Bruce Murray.
When one measures the wording carefully Terranea Resort may or may not be LA’s only luxury ocean front resort. The resort is not central to Los Angeles but actually located closer to the city of Long Beach and lacks a true “beach”. But unlike other LA ocean front accommodations Terranea offers multiple pools, a large spa, golf, and a compound like property offering families a secure feeling. But I don’t think the fine print is of any importance. Terranea is definitely one of Southern California’s top destinations and sure to become a favorite get-a-way for locals and area visitors.
May
11
A Visit to Glen Ivy Hot Springs Spa in Corona California
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Corona, California is not the hot spot of luxury spa hotels, but there is an oasis off the freeway that hosts a spa experience that the most discerning spa aficionado will enjoy. Glen Ivy Hot Springs Spa, 25000 Glen Ivy Road, Corona, CA 92883, is close to Los Angels and Orange County, has unique spa attractions and is an experience you won’t want to miss. Photos Provided By Glen Ivy Hot Springs
As you enter the property, you will experience the lush foliage, exotic palms and ferns and abundant flowers. Check in with guest services and obtain a guest information guide to plan your activities. As you walk on to the property, you will release how big the resort is. There is much to explore so plan for a full day. You can also book traditional spa services, massages, body treatments and skin care services to compliment the public spa attractions. Book in advance or take your chances and try for same day treatments at the Glen Ivy Spa.
The first stop is the Bath House which was recently remodeled. Here, you’ll find all the amenities in a hotel spa resort including showers, hot tubs and steam saunas. You should plan to bring an older bathing suit because some of the treatments may cause your swim suit to discolor. And, because most of the spa attractions are out doors and co-ed, you must were a swim suit to experience them.
The resort is famous for their thermal, natural Mineral Baths. There are several out door community baths to soak in, allowing the minerals to absorb into the skin and the warm water to relax the body. Reminder, these are community baths so if you are squeamish about public Jacuzzis, you may not like the Glen Ivy experience. There are 19 pools and spas through out the resort and you can easily find a less crowed area. The mineral baths attract the most people and therefore, are the most crowded.
The next popular outdoor attraction at the Glen Ivy Hot Springs Spa is the Red Clay Mud Bath. Here, you enter a designated area, rub the therapeutic red clay all over your body, relax, bake in the sun; and then rub it off producing an exfoliation affect all over the body. Finally, there are hot, outdoor showers with fragrant shower gel to rinse off the remaining mud. You are left with soft skin and the clay will have drawn out the impurities in your body.
At this point, you may head back to your car and enjoy a pre-packed picnic—tailgate style or go to Café Sole and enjoy a selection of Mediterranean style salads, pizzas and pastas. The lounge pool is perfect for after lunch. There are rafts to lie on and enjoy the tranquility of the resort. And then at 2 pm, when you just can’t take any more relaxation, head over to the lap pool for 45 minutes of water aerobics.
The Glen Ivy Hot Springs Resort is best experienced with a group of friends or family members. The last event of the day should be to experience the body moisturizing treatment call the Grotto. The is a group activity where you are escorted down an elevator, an attendant paints the moisturizing body mask on you and then, your group enters a cave like large room where you rest and let the treatment soak in for at least 10 minutes. Then, your group is escorted to warm showers, followed by crisp apples and warm tea. It’s a beneficial body treatment, fun to experience as a couple or in a group and worth the $25 charge. If someone in you group is elderly or has trouble getting around, I wouldn’t recommend this experience because it’s dark in the cave, the moistening mask could be slippery and the sitting areas in the grotto are rough.
Location: The Glen Ivy Hot Springs is located off the Interstate 15 Freeway, about 1 hour and 20 minutes from Los Angeles and 30 minutes from Orange County. It’s open daily at 9:30 AM and closes at either 5 PM or 6 PM, depending on the hot or cold seasons. The Glen Ivy Hot Springs is full service day resort; so plan to spend the entire day there. It’s best to plan your visit on a weekday to avoid the crowds and save money on admission. Saturday, Sunday and Holidays $48 per person and Monday thru Friday $35 per person.
Must do:
- Mineral Baths
- Red Clay Mud Experience
- Float on a raft
- Water Aerobics
- The Grotto Experience
Special things:
- Free admission on your birthday
- Private Cabanas and Terraces available for rent for 2 people to 100 people—warm season prices are from $175 to $2000—perfect for a celebration.
- 15% off if you are a Corona resident or city employee, senior citizen (over 55) military, police, firefighter, teacher or a nurse.
Dec
15
Hilton San Diego Bayfront Hotel Opens
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Hilton Hotels has opened their 1,190 room Hilton San Diego Bayfront Hotel. Hilton Hotels has opened their 1,190 room Hilton San Diego Bayfront Hotel just at the edge of San Diego bay. Not only is this 40 story hotel adjacent to the Convention Center, but it is just across the street from PETCO Park, home of the San Diego Padres.
It is walking distance from downtown San Diego’s Gaslamp Quarter, and its many entertainment and recreational amenities as well as excellent shopping and dining. It’s also not far from the Amtrak station, allowing anyone along the Pacific Surfliner train route easy access to a fun baseball getaway.
TIP: Walk over to the harbor area. Catch the ferry over to Coronado Island. Walk south to the Coronado Island Marriott Resort & Spa. Have lunch outside overlooking the bay and the City Of San Diego. I especially enjoy the crab cakes at the Marriott. Photo By Murray.
Nov
14
Future of Disney’s California Adventure
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Spent the day at Disneyland and Disney’s California Adventure. Disneyland is great, the fireworks were canceled due to highwinds, but nothing can beat a day at D’land.
But I wanted to head over to Disney’s California Adventure, a “sister” park to Disneyland. It is a separate park that requires a separate ticket, or a “park-hopper” pass that allows you to enter both Disneyland and California Adventure.
California Adventure has never been a big hit… read more… People give lots of reasons, but I have my own opinion. I’ll tell you, if I was going to build a tourist operation I WOULD NOT build it next to the most recognizable tourist attraction in the world!!! But they did. Now they are trying to fix it.
I had read the press releases and seen the stories in the travel media, but I was interested to see for myself the Walt Disney Imagineering Blue Sky Cellar presentation. A display of models and information about the renovations going on within California Adventure. It also includes a well done video on a the project.
The new improved park will have some great additions. But I’m not sure it will stimulate Disneyland guests to pay an extra fee to attend the park.
I think the new design has several problems…. First, and I’m going by the video I saw at the Blue Sky Cellar and the design concepts, it appears that the parks new theme was created by a bunch of 40 something white guys. Nothing really “hip” or “phat” about Los Angeles of the 1920’s….
Second they are building a major section of the park around the movie CARS. Unless they are able to create a CARS TWO movie that is a big hit, this section of the park will be out of date before it is opened. I think themed rides like they have in Disneyland are a good brand extension, but a complete section of the park based on one movie? I suspect it will become a bit like Tune Town, ready for a re-hab.
Sep
10
Winter in Yosemite @ The Ahwahnee Hotel
Filed Under Hotels / Resorts, National Parks, USA - California | Comments Off
In my early years, I visited Yosemite as a camper and while hiking and experiencing all that Yosemite Valley has to offer from a nature perspective, I would often pass The Ahwahnee Hotel. I thought, “some day I will be a guest at that magnificent hotel”, but how?
Maybe I’ll win the lottery becoming an instant millionaire or invent something cool. I’d heard it take years to get a reservation at the property and who plans years in advance these days. So earlier this year, I decided to take the plunge and investigate a visit to the Ahwahnee. And to my surprise, I got reservations for Valentines day booking only a few weeks in advance.
So why have I waited so long to write about my February trip to the Ahwahnee Hotel? Well the seasons of the Yosemite Valley will have a dramatic effect on your visit, and I figured you should read this story now, as summer is coming to an end, so that you can plan a spectacular/romantic winter trip of your own.
And hey! I need to mention that it didn’t break the bank, our room rate was $325 per night. A reasonable rate knowing that chain hotels sometimes charge as much during peak seasons in a resort town. And although it was cold and snowy, the weather only made the experience at The Ahwahnee Hotel better!
Not only did my dream of being a guest in The Ahwahnee Hotel came to fruition, I was not let down. The historical aspect was interesting, the property itself was amazing and the park had many winter or indoor activities to compliment our stay.
The Ahwahnee was opened in 1927 and was designated as a National Historic Landmark on June 2, 1987. The property evolved from dream of Stephen T. Mather, the first director of the National Park Service. Yosemite became Mather’s favorite national park and his love inspired him to create a first class hotel that would be open year round to attract people of influence and money.
Mather ordered the new parks concessionaire, Yosemite Park and Curry Company to initiate the coordination of the project. In July of 1925, Gilbert Stanley Underwood would be chosen as the chief architect. His credentials were impressive, a graduate of Harvard and he had just designed lodges at Zion and Bryce Canyon National Park. A contractor was chosen to build the project and the first stone was laid on August 1, 1926. The primitive roads, weather and difficult access to the park were obstacles in getting the building materials. Trucks were hauling 1,000 tons of steel, 5,000 tons of stone, timber and equipment. The project was remarkable considering the times and challenges to over come.
After set backs and overcoming hurdles, the grand opening commenced on July 16, 1927. Ten days before the opening, workers noticed strong fumes coming from delivery truck near the main entrance. As a result, the main entrance was moved to another location and the old, undesirable entrance is now the Ahwahnee Bar. Stephen T. Mather must have been impressed with the speed of the construction, the beauty of the resort and success of attracting the wealthy to vacation in his favorite National Park.
In 1943, the Navy converted the resort into a relaxation hospital for Navy personnel. This must have been amazing for the World War II men in uniform. I’m sure the stays at the resort were superior to Zoloft for post-traumatic stress disorder!
On our recent trip, so many items stood out as spectacular. As you turn from the lobby, one enters the Great Room with fire places towering over your head. Plenty of seating areas with exterior vistas of the towering granite edifices—and I enjoyed scouting out small sitting rooms and libraries; each one with impressive antiquities and views of the outside. I loved the high tea service served each afternoon in the Great Room.
The resort has an amazing grand dinning room serving breakfast, lunch and dinner. Make reservations early as dinner seems to book up fast. The menu has a variety of selections and each towering window showcases the magic of Yosemite. Food was very good, but not great.
The hotel has 123 guest rooms and 4 parlor rooms. As we entered our sleeping room, we found the Native American design to be attractive and the bed and sofa to be very comfortable. We had a sitting area and we could look out our window at the cascading Yosemite Falls. There are a variety of rooms to select from, in the main resort and or the bungalows a short walk away. The resort offers room service and turn down service. If you need your morning cardio machine fix, take a walk outside instead. There is no spa or workout facility; but there is a swimming pool.
No spa but some lovely shopping opportunities. The hotel has a unique gift shop for sundries and a retail store for clothing, pottery and jewelry. During the evening, activities include slides presentations and one can take a free historic tour of the public areas every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday afternoon.
While we loved just lounging in the great hotel public spaces and enjoying our sleeping room, we did manage to get out and enjoy some winter actives. We ice skated one evening at the Curry Village ice rink, we enjoyed a hike to Mirror Lake in the snow. We experienced a relaxing bus tour, attended lectures in the visitor center during the evenings and visited the Ansel Adams Gallery one morning.
If you always wanted to stay at The Ahwahnee Hotel, do it. I just checked for the same time we visited. For February 9 – 13, 2009, there are rooms availabe at $380 per night.
See Additional Photos of mine CLICK HERE
Links: Yosemite National Park / Ahwahnee Hotel
Sep
5
The Hearst Castle of San Simeon
Filed Under USA - California | Comments Off
Pacific Coast Highway is one of the most scenic routes in the the United States. And seeing zebras grazing along the side of the road may seem a bit unusual, but it is a sign that I am approaching one of California’s most visited historic sites, Hearst San Simenon State Historical Monument home of the Hearst Castle.
This grand San Simeon estate and Hearst Castle were once the palatial home and expansive ranch owned by William Randolph Hearst. And today’s zebras are offsprings of the ones that roamed the ranch when Mr Hearst keep a zoo. One can say the magnificent show place is a lavish memorial of his great wealth and style. Hearst’s dream began in 1919 when construction started on the Santa Lucia Mountains overlooking the Pacific Ocean. Today, the property is a California historical monument and is one of the most visited attractions in the state. To describe Hearst Castle, or San Simeon as some call it, requires a look back at the man behind the dream.
Hearst ca. 1935, photo from Cal Heritage
Hearst, born in San Francisco in 1863, was the son of wealthy parents. His father was a self made man who made his fortune in sliver mines and converted the revenues into land purchases in the West. Hearst’s life style included a diverse up bringing. His mother took him on an educational 18 month trip to Europe at the age of 10 where his passion for collecting began. Throughout the years, Hearst collected price antiques which are housed in the estate today. Hearst went to Harvard College in 1882 where he developed a passion for journalism and the arts. He dropped out of Harvard in his third year and dove into publishing and owning newspaper and magazines. His passion for art and theater was thriving and he formed a production company that would eventually take him to California in an alliance with Louis B. Mayor of Metro-Goldwyn Mayor. Click Here for more about Mr. Hearst.
Hearst inherited 250,000 acres of ranchland that would become home of the “Hearst Castle”. He first developed it as a camp land for his family and close friends; while he contemplated the master piece which would unfold during the next 30 years. He married at a late age; however his wife spent more time at their New York residence. With Hearst’s connections to Hollywood, vast fortune and visionary attitude, he set out to create a show place for his collections and an incredible setting to entertain the elite of the time.
Hearst sought out renowned San Francisco architect Julia Morgan to assist him on the design and construction of the mansion that would house and incorporate his priceless art collection. During the years of engineering, construction and design, Heart and his architect worked shoulder to shoulder on many aspects of the project. Because he was such at active client, Morgan had to endear many changes throughout the process. Sometimes he would make changes that would require complete modifications to completed projects. The results of the active client involvement are truly amazing. Hearst Caste isa true manifestation of his dream; a private retreat he called The Enchanted Hill.
Hearst and Morgan finally agreed on three guest houses and a main house. Each structure was designed to take in the magnificent views of the Pacific Ocean, house his extensive collections and be a showplace for entertaining. During the time of construction, Hollywood glamour was prolific and with Hearst connections to Hollywood, the most popular and famous people of the time were invited to weekend at the “ranch” as Hearst called it.
Upon entrance to the estate, visitors of the day arrived to find a breathtaking European Mediterranean mansion filled with luxurious interiors and magnificent grounds. In the main house, there are 115 rooms and 45,000 square feet. The guest houses have 26 bedrooms and the property has ample space designed for staff quarters and storage. Each room has incredible interiors and superior attention to detail. Some of the most impressive antiquities housed on the estate are a Greek jar dating from the 5th century and a 3rd century Roman marble sarcophagus. Tapestries and other textiles punctuate the high ceilings of many rooms; added to the dramatic design effects. And, at every corner one can spot prices less pieces of art work such as Giulio Campi’s Portrait of a Woman.
One of the most jaw dropping features of Hearst Castle in the Neptune Pool. The project took almost 12 years to complete and has a Greek motif; including white columns and Greek sculptures. Even though the outdoor pool is magnificent, the indoor pool, named the Roman Pool is equally impressive with its blue tiled bottom. In addition to the lavish pool areas, the property had a zoo, acres property to explore and beautiful gardens.
Today, the property is officially known as the Hearst San Simeon State Historical Monument. There are a variety of tours offered to the public which gives visitors a chance to take a walk back in time and experience Hollywood glamour, priceless art work and see William Randolph Hearsts dream come alive.
To see additional photos of Hearst Castle CLICK HERE.
Visit the castles website: www.hearstcastle.com
Tour reservations are highly recommended: Call or book on line. 800-444-4445
All Color Photos Copyright Bruce Murray.
