I hadn’t been to Lake Arrowhead in years prior to being invited to this beautiful mountain lakeside resort. And because it had been so long since our last visit, we were surprised at the brief time it took to get there — only an hour and twenty minutes from our home in Altadena.

Sophisticated Mountain Ambience
Upon arrival, we were immediately impressed with the décor, a pleasing blend of urban sophistication and mountain ambience. The beauty extended beyond the common areas as well. Guest rooms are equipped with plasma TVs, pillow-top beds and luxurious bathrooms with glass-enclosed showers. We had a stunning view of the lake from our room, and the sun dancing on the lake was a treat to wake up to in the morning.

In a past life, Lake Arrowhead Resort & Spa was a Hilton Hotel. However, the property has undergone a multi-million-dollar renovation in 2007 under new ownership, and it shows. Boasting an innovative spa, exercise facility and gourmet restaurant, it’s become an all-inclusive resort for vacationers and business travelers alike. A section of the resort is even pet friendly.

The resort is adjacent to Lake Arrowhead Village, which offers great shopping and dining. As a guest of the resort, you can park at the hotel and easily walk to the many boutiques, gift shops, factory outlet stores, restaurants and children’s attractions at the village. We enjoyed shopping at the Coach store and Three Dog Bakery, in addition to Pendleton and G.H. Bass outlets.

Affordable Gourmet Dining
A meal at BIN 189 is not to be missed. (The restaurant’s name is a take on the extensive wine list as well as the highway on which the resort is located.) Executive Chef Jim Lindfors is committed to bringing a great dining experience to a wide range of tastes and budgets.

Prior to coming on board, Lindfors admitted that he hadn’t been to the resort during his 16 years of living in the area, and was initially hesitant to prepare such high-end menu items on a regular basis. The company accepted his philosophy. “We changed the menu, and not only do we offer those higher-end specials that resort visitors want to have, but the locals also support us because we offer a good steak and some comfort food that’s been tweaked a little bit,” he stated.

Another unique aspect of the menu is the children’s allergy selections. This idea began when Lindfors took his family out to dinner—including a son with allergies—and felt he had to “dissect the menu.” Now he meets with visitors who have a child with an allergy and develops special menu items specifically for that child.

The restaurant’s fare is described as “California Cuisine,” but Lindfors says that it’s actually more far-reaching, with menu items ranging from spa cuisine to comfort food. Many of these dishes are much pricier elsewhere. “Our goal is not to stick you,” he stated, “But to give you a great meal so that you’ll want to come back.” He’s even been known to buy ingredients from a nearby grocery store to meet a customer’s needs. The wait staff is trained to suggest fine wine pairings with meals, and BIN 189 offers wine flights for a selection of wines with any given dish. My husband and I enjoyed delicious salmon on a cedar plank and an interesting vegetable “stack,” along with a wine flight one evening during our visit—great food that we’re not likely to find “down the hill.”

Spa of the Pines
The resort also offers a wonderful spa with a wide variety of body, facial and salon treatments in an 11,000 sq. ft. facility. This includes a complete fitness center with cardiovascular conditioning equipment, weights, a eucalyptus steam shower, and outdoor pool and whirlpools. I took Pilates and ball, bands & weights classes in the exercise studio, which offers fitness classes ranging from vinyasa yoga to zumba.

Under the direction of Monique Michaud, the Spa of the Pines offers a range of massages including Swedish, Therapeutic, Deep Tissue, Shiatsu — or a combination of these techniques — and even a mother-to-be massage. According to Michaud, the spa believes in the healing power of aromatherapy. “Guests choose their own aromatherapy oil to suit their own personal needs during their massage,” she said.

My husband and I indulged in a Couple’s Massage at the spa, which is designed to allow a couple to spend time together while being pampered from head to toe. We got an hour-long aromatherapy Signature Massage from expert massage therapists in the VIP Journey Suite, which overlooks the lake. As one therapist pointed out, this treatment is not only for husbands and wives. “We sometimes perform this relaxing massage on two friends or a mother and daughter,” she informed us.

Other packages include Mountain Retreat, which begins with an hour-long personalized facial followed by another hour of a massage of one’s choice, while Indulge offers a half-hour aromatherapy massage and a spa manicure/pedicure. Personal facials, eye treatments, and microdermabrasion treatments are also available. Visitors can even consult with a cosmetic surgeon about Botox and facial rejuvenation techniques.

Michaud underscored the spa philosophy, which encompasses good nutrition, regular exercise, peace of mind, and facial and body care. “I’d like to see this resort become a wellness destination,” she commented.

Hollywood & Lake Arrowhead
Besides being a getaway for the rich and famous throughout the years, Lake Arrowhead has been a location for over 120 movies. Recent productions include The American President, Space Jam, the remake of The Parent Trap, and Next. A room off the resort’s lobby features a gallery of vintage photos of celebrities who have vacationed at the lake, as well as some of the movies in which they’ve appeared.

Although it’s a private lake and public boating is not permitted, visitors can utilize a pontoon boat at the resort, take a class at one of the country’s oldest water-skiing schools, or take a very informative 50-minute cruise on the Arrowhead Queen. As our final activity at Lake Arrowhead, we did the latter and were awed by some of the fabulous homes on the lake, which are inhibited by some very notable names and wealthy people.

So what do Liberace, Simon Cowell, Doris Day and Bugsy Seigel have in common? The serene beauty of Lake Arrowhead drew them all in. And if you choose to stay at the Lake Arrowhead Resort & Spa, you too will experience star treatment.

Lake Arrowhead Resort and Spa is located at 27984 Hwy. 189, Lake Arrowhead, CA 92352. Call the Resort toll-free 800 800-6792 or visit www.laresort.com

Priester has traveled throughout the South Pacific, Europe, Canada, Asia, and extensively in the United States. She has been in the travel business since 1985 and has owned and operated Titan Travel since 1989. She is active in Rotary Club and the San Marino Chamber of Commerce.

Adult Connections is a new program at the Crowell Public Library, offered on the third Thursday of the month. Enjoy coffee, donuts and a different topic of interest each meeting. Upcoming “explorations” may include genealogy, gardening, digital cameras, de-cluttering, or a topic of interest suggested by attendees.

Make your next trip a truly stress-free and joyful vacation. Crowell Public Library is located at 1890 Huntington Drive, San Marino. The lecture will take place on Thursday, January 21 at 10:00 a.m. Admission is free. For more information call (626) 300-0777 or log onto www.crowellpubliclibrary.org.

A similar emotion swept over me as I glimpsed the Pala Casino Spa & Resort looming up from the untamed reservation back hills in San Diego County. GPS had directed us down a windy country backroad through rock-strewn canyons, and then suddenly a luxurious, gorgeous oasis spread before us. Fantastic!

At one with its surroundings, Pala stands in the Temecula wine country, a sentry to luxury and understated elegance. Although a casino, Pala is not adorned with any of the tawdry trappings of its brethren. No flashing neon lights mar the skyline, no glittering faux golden pillars rise up, but instead is a unique stone building that speaks of serenity and relaxation.

The Pala band of Mission Indians have just completed a $100 million renovation adding new electronics, upgrading the bedding in the guest rooms with Simmons Felicity II mattresses and extra-special touches to the suites like in-room Jacuzzis and Keurig coffee makers. All rooms have high speed internet and new 42-inch flat-screen televisions.

“The upgrades to our hotel rooms and suites not only complete our renovation but also provide our hotel guests the ultimate experience in comfort and luxury,” Bill Bembenek, Pala’s chief executive officer, recently said. “We have been selected a AAA Four Diamond Award winner for six consecutive years by the American Automobile Association and one of our goals is to maintain that status.”

One of the things that impressed me about Pala is the separate entrances to the Casino and the Hotel. Most casinos want to make sure you have to walk through the gaming area to get anywhere in the hotel. Not Pala, its separate parking area and entrance mean you can avoid the casino crowd until you’re ready to go exploring.

My companion and I were booked into a luxury suite complete with, sofa, desk, wet bar, dining table, Jacuzzi bathtub and separate shower – all the comforts of home (well somebody’s home anyway.) I was really impressed with the art on the walls, which was beautiful photography of the surrounding area. Images of rushing streams, the Carlsbad flower fields and groves of oaks were all mounted and framed. It was a thoughtful touch and pleasant change from the usual mass-produced hotel artwork.

The resort boasts a full service spa, pool, cabanas, Jacuzzi and ten restaurants along with nightly music at their Center Bar plus entertainment Friday and Saturday night in The Grand Cabaret, a cocktail-style lounge with free admission. During the summer months the Palomar Starlight Theater is also opened for outdoor concerts and shows.

My companion and I had a busy first day and hadn’t eaten anything so we were starving and ready to eat dinner; with ten restaurants to choose from Pala has something for everybody.

Boasting the largest buffet in Southern California, “Choices” was our choice. It was seafood night and there was every type of shellfish and fish one could imagine. King crab legs, lobster claws, fried shrimp, steamed shrimp, shrimp scampi along with oysters on the half shell, fresh clams, mussels and fried clams. That of course was alongside all the other goodies from Asia, Italy, Mexico, as well as American favorites.

I generally hold a very low opinion of buffets (most serve up vast amounts of mediocre food), but not this buffet. Everything is freshly made (you can watch the chefs as they prepare it) and the food is of high quality. Be sure to save room for a made-to-order crêpe filled with your choice of Bananas Foster or cherries jubilee garnished with ice cream and whipped cream. Yum!

After a delicious meal and restful night’s sleep we were ready to hit the spa – did I mention they also have a spa? I was booked for a massage and pedicure and my companion a massage and manicure.

The massage was a pure delight of gentle pressure and stretching. After having a yummy yogurt parfait by the pool I had my little piggies oh so gently soaked, the soles of my feet massaged with oils and my tired calves massaged. Now this is my idea of a vacation! Pala’s spa boasts full service, anything you might want from facials to body scrubs, couples massages to prenatal facials and hair treatments, cut, color and make up.

Not wanting to “harsh my mellow,” I grabbed my book and headed poolside to imbibe in a margarita and enjoy the late-autumn sunshine. The air was warm, the sky blue and the surroundings beautiful, it was all very Zen.

I had an appointment to meet with Chef Luciano Cibelli of Mama’s Cucina Italiana to watch him make his fresh pasta, something his restaurant does every day. This day we watched fresh fettuccini make its way through the large pasta machine and witnessed the creation of the ravioli of the day, stuffed with fresh roasted vegetables. We also got to taste test it fresh off the stove, topped with simple delicious marinara and provolone cheese – spectacular! (To read a complete review of Mama’s Cucina Italiana click here).

Other restaurants to tempt your palate are:

The Oak Room, a romantic spot with a fireplace offering prime steaks and chops as well as fresh fish, veal and chicken;
Noodles, traditional Asian dishes from China, Vietnam, Thailand and Japan;
Amigos, an authentic Mexican restaurant with traditional dishes from south of the border;
Sushi Sake, a sushi-bar style restaurant offering a variety of fresh and baked sushi and hot and cold sake;
Pala Café, serving California cuisine in a bistro setting;
Promenade Deli, over-stuffed sandwiches loaded with hot pastrami, turkey, roast beef, and salami all on breads made from Pala’s own onsite bakery;
Poolside Café & Bar, breakfast and lunch overlooking the surrounding mountains; and
Coffee Amore, serving a variety of coffees, espressos, cappuccinos and iced coffee along with Panini sandwiches and freshly baked pastries, cakes, and cookies.

Don’t forget the casino! Pala is after all a Casino, Spa & Resort. They have a full gaming area with a poker parlor, slot machines, black jack, craps and roulette. Pala has slot machines that take from one cent to one hundred dollars if you’re a high roller (the penny slots are more my speed).

The hotel also books some great acts; a couple of popular ones coming to the resort next year are comedian Tim Allen on January 30 and Tony Bennett on April 18. Tickets are reasonably priced (Tim Allen tickets start at $45.00 and prices for Tony Bennett tickets begin at $70.00).

The hotel can also book you a trip to the Temecula wine country on the Grapeline wine shuttle or golfing in one of the area’s golf courses. There is also a place to pan for gold, and don’t miss the buffalo herd and wild horses on Highway 76.

Pala Casino Spa & Resort is located at 11154 Highway 76, Pala. For reservations and more information call (877) 946-7252 or log onto www.palacasino.com.

Located in Rancho Palos Verdes on the site of what used to be Marineland of the Pacific, the Terranea Resort makes full use of the 102 acre-property with winding walking paths, three pools, an oceanfront spa, three signature restaurants, a 9-hole par 3 golf course and 360 hotel rooms, 30 suites, 20 bungalows, 50 ocean view Casitas and 32 Villas.

The architecture fits the setting with Mediterranean influences and incredible ocean views from most of its rooms. Like Marineland, Terranea is terraced and we were surprised to find that the resort’s lobby is actually on the fourth floor.

Our room included a king size bed, flat screen HD TV, a refrigerator instead of a mini-bar (nice touch) and a balcony with a table and chairs that overlooked the ocean. I slept with the balcony doors open so I could hear the ocean. All was quiet and still except for the sound of the waves that lulled me to sleep.

If you’re timing is right, in the mornings you can watch pods of dolphins at play and seabirds on the search for a meal.

Speaking of meals, on the first night of our stay we ate dinner at Catalina Kitchen, one of the many restaurants on site. A casual dining restaurant, Catalina Kitchen serves breakfast, lunch and dinner and on Friday nights it offers a seafood buffet that is outstanding.

Freshly steamed crab legs are brought to your table if you want them (and who wouldn’t!) while an array of fresh fish and shellfish prepared in various dishes await at the buffet. Sushi chefs busily prepare sushi and sashimi if you’re so inclined (and I was).

My only complaint is that I can’t eat that much! Everything was delicious; from the assortment of salads, breads and cheeses to the wide range of main dishes and of course, dessert! We sat on the outdoor patio overlooking one of the pools and the ocean beyond.
The beamed, Mediterranean style arcade dotted with colorful glass and wrought iron lanterns was beautiful. What a wonderful beginning to a relaxing weekend.

The next morning we were scheduled for a couple’s massage at the oceanfront spa. Gentle rocking, acupressure and passive stretching relieved the tension from the work-a-day world.

The Spa at Terranea is a wonderfully-designed (and spacious) building which also houses a salon, gift shop and café. It is situated on a point close to a clifftop with unobstructed ocean views, and is a holistic oasis.

After a blissful 60 minutes, my companion and I stood on a large, wind-whipped balcony outside the Spa’s co-ed relaxation lounge overlooking the ocean. We felt serene, relaxed and refreshed.

We decided to have lunch in the spa restaurant overlooking yet another pool with the ocean just beyond. Not wanting to “harsh our mellow” we took our time relaxing in the sun and just enjoying the gorgeous day.

If you are into an active life-style the resort offers yoga, exercise classes and a fitness center along with kayaking, kayorkling (a combination of kayaking and snorkeling) and nature walks. For those wishing to embrace the beach lifestyle, Terranea Resort provides one-on-one and group volleyball and paddle board lessons. Even if you are not all that active the way the resort is laid out will keep you walking in spite of yourself.

Chef Jean Pierre Vincent

With a new chef, Jean Pierre Vincent, and his new menu, I was looking forward to an exciting dining experience at Trump, and I was not disappointed. Overlooking the green golf course and blue ocean the Café Pacific offers breathtaking views of the ocean and Catalina Island. The restaurant consists of a cozy room with brocade covered chairs, a hand-painted ceiling, a roaring fire and understated elegance. Newcomer Maitre D’ Georgio Silva has changed the dining room around to offer views of the ocean from most tables and a more intimate atmosphere.

Marinated Tempura of Lobster, Coconut Curry Sauce

Warm artichoke and hearts of palm were combined with pears, avocado, shaved Pecorino and citrus dressing to make a delicious starter.

My companion ordered the tender beef Carpaccio served à la Nicoise with Peruvian potatoes, capers, haricot verts and Nicoise olives. Each bite rewarded the diner with a complex taste sensation.

Our next course is frankly one I will never forget. It will go on my list of dishes I will crave, think about and order again. A lobster tail coated in tempura batter and fried to a crispy golden brown was accompanied by the most sinfully delicious coconut curry sauce. It was sweet, savory and complex and melded with the buttery lobster in a favor ecstasy. I told Chef Jean Pierre that I would love to try the curry sauce on ice cream and he admitted that he had and it was wonderful.

Maitre D' Georgio Silva

I’ve never eaten Skate but I’ve always wanted to try it, and I got my opportunity that night. How fortunate for me that Chef Jean Pierre prepared it for me. Looking like a delicate fan, the Skate was touched with just a hint of orange and vanilla and served over a creamy soft polenta with a bit of bitter braised endive for contrast.

My companion selected the grilled hanger steak topped with a bright Chimichuri sauce. The Argentinean sauce of minced parsley, olive oil, garlic and wine vinegar was sadly wasted on the stringy hanger steak. This less than enjoyable piece of meat was really the only discordant note in an otherwise symphonic meal.

Fresh Peach and Almond Cheesecake

I should add that the prices for these dishes are quite reasonable, beginning at $12.00 and going up to $40.00 for the ‘surf and turf.’ (Even if we weren’t staying a few minutes down the cliffs, this restaurant is worth the hour’s drive to Palos Verdes just to enjoy a dinner created by Chef Jean Pierre.)

Back at the ranch (or should I say, resort) my companion and I enjoyed a leisurely walk along one of the many lighted paths to a moonlit cove before retiring to our room for a restful sleep.

The next morning (our last, we were leaving that afternoon) I delighted in exploring the many walking paths weaving through the property. One way took us to the cliffs overlooking Abalone Cove, along the other we could walk to one of the few lighthouses still left along the Pacific coast. Native grasses, flowers and cactus dot the grounds while indigenous birds and insects take advantage of the open spaces. I could wax poetic about the views of cliff, sea and sky, but they are best experienced in person.

For Sunday brunch, I chose The Admiral Risty, a local hangout. I grew up in the South Bay so I know that some of the best food to be had is served in local restaurants with community roots. Opened in 1966, The Admiral Risty fit the bill.

Decorated in 60’s nautical kitsch this charming restaurant is situated only a few minutes from Terranea in a small shopping center with easy parking and a great view. They specialize in fresh seafood but do offer steaks, lamb and chicken if you are a land lubber.

Admiral Risty’s Sunday brunch is a mixture of breakfast-type dishes and fresh fish. Your meal is started with fresh banana and lemon-poppy seed bread accompanied with plenty of soft butter. Fresh fruit and a Mimosa completed the beginning to a great meal.

I ordered the Dungeness Crab Cake Benedict; I didn’t think crab cakes could get any better but top them with a poached egg and excellent Hollandaise and you’ve got a Grand Prize winner. Plenty of crabmeat studded the cakes, with just enough spice to make them interesting. They were accompanied by browned potatoes served with plenty of onions and bell pepper.

Dungeness Crab Cake Benedict

The Admiral Risty is a great place to come and watch the sunset while sipping a margarita (that only costs $8.00 instead of $13.00 at the resort) or for a change of pace while staying at Terranea. If you have kids, the Admiral Risty has a great, time-tested kids menu. It’s obviously a favorite of the locals; almost every seat in the restaurant was full when we ate there. The restaurant also offers take-out if you’d like to eat on the beach.

My weekend on the Palos Verdes Peninsula is one I will long remember. Terranea is one of the most beautiful spots I’ve visited anywhere on any continent, and since it just opened in June, 2009 it is a real original destination which should be on your short list of places to visit.

The Terranea Resort is located at 100 Terranea Way Drive, Rancho Palos Verdes. For reservations and more information call (310) 265-2800. They are offering special packages for the holidays, go to www.terranea.com for more information.

The Pacific Café at Trump National Golf Club is locate at One Ocean Trails Drive, Rancho Palos Verdes. For reservations and more information call (310) 303-3265 or log onto www.trumpnational.com.

The Admiral Risty is located at 31250 Palos Verdes Drive West, Rancho Palos Verdes. For reservations and more information call (310) 377-0050 or log onto www.admiral-risty.com.

So when you go to Vegas you’ve got to gamble some, right? Of course, but there’s so much more to do! At Caesars Palace, the new swimming pools and the Qua Baths and Spa were high on my list. (We can all use a day by the pool and a trip to the spa once in a while.)

I must say, Caesars’ is an impressive sight, “eighth wonder of the world” sort of material, almost. It’s huge and continues to grow; it’s an awesome combination of Romanesque architecture on modern buildings. Work continues on the Octavius Tower and the Forum Tower has recently been redesigned.

We were booked in Augustus, one of the newer towers. Our suite sported a king sized bed, two flat screen TVs, a large whirlpool bath, couch and all the extras needed to make a person feel comfortable after a day of gambling, partying and dining.

Topping our short list at Caesars’ was an appointment to experience Qua, the ultra-luxurious baths and spa and to see their Garden of the Gods pool complex. (Say “spa” to me and I’m there.)

When Caesars’ say “pool complex” they mean complex. The Garden of the Gods has expanded to 5 acres and features 5 all-new swimming pools with an 18-foot waterfall, a group of 5 swim-up blackjack tables, forty-five luxury cabanas, 6 private shallow, sun chaise pools, and an expanded outdoor whirlpool spa retreat.

Talk about delightful “decadence”! I felt as if I were on the set of some period movie – all we needed were Roman Centurions and slave girls. When you view the pool complex from the balcony of yet another pool (this one for private parties) the grandeur is really impressive.

After my great pool experience, I decided to head over to Qua. A quick ride in the elevator took me to the spa level in the Augustus Tower. Rock walls and cascading waterfalls created a soothing entrance to the Roman baths. There are private men’s and women’s areas, so there is no need to feel self-conscious. A large area with three temperatures of water beckons while the waterfalls encourage relaxation. There’s an overhead rain shower where one can rinse off the cares of the day and warmed chaise lounges that invite rest.

A tea room offers up fresh fruit, chilled juices and water and a Tea Sommelier to create tasteful tea pairings. After sitting in the bubbling waters it was relaxing to have a refreshing glass of iced tea while reading a magazine.

I later visited the cedar wood sauna with its enticing, wonderful aroma. After baking myself for a bit, I hopped over to the Artic Ice Room to cool down. The really cool part of the Artic Ice Room (pun intended) is the machine in the ceiling which creates something that looks and acts like snow flakes. I tried to catch them — they dissolved. I never could figure out what magical alchemy created those flakes, but they floated around the room creating a sheer winter fantasy.

Once back in my room, it was time for dinner and we were lucky enough to have a table booked at the whimsical Serendipity 3, whose wide, fanned balcony sits above and over the Strip. This is one of the best stops in Vegas to watch the crowds swirl by and put in some people watching. The balcony shielded, open-aired, up just above head-height – you can see everything but you feel protected.

I started with an “RBF,” an alcoholic version of a root beer float. It was cool and creamy and really packed a punch – and the barkeep didn’t skimp on the whipped cream and chocolate shavings.

My companion and I decided to share an order of Pop corn Rock Shrimp. The shrimp were coated in a flavorful batter that was slightly spicy but allowed the shrimp taste to shine through. They were served with cocktail sauce and a creamy remoulade-type sauce that was tangy and went well with the shrimp. The portions are large so this is plenty for two or even three people.

For the entrée I chose an ABC Burger which is avocado, brie, and caramelized onions with sweet potato fries. The burger was huge with a large amount of the toppings, the avocado, brie and caramelized onions created a decadent combination. The sweet potato fries where crispy and tender all at the same time.

My companion chose the much talked about One-N-Only Las Vegas Buffet Steak Sandwich. The sandwich is advertised as five varieties of Steak Sandwich in one: Parma ham: Italian, Fried tofu: Japanese, Brie: French, Salsa: Mexican and Onion ring: the USA. A miniature flag from each country was added to the top bun adding a touch of whimsy. My companion declared the sandwich “a hit,” but it was far too much for one person to eat.

I was told that I must have a Frrrozen Hot Chocolate and a dessert, since I couldn’t do both (I was far too full) I ordered the Frrrozen Hot Chocolate for dessert. This icy cold concoction is a mixture of more than 20 varieties of chocolate served spilling out of its goblet and topped with mounds of fresh whipped cream. Cool, creamy and delicious it is a chocolate lovers dream and will make a convert out of anyone on the fence about chocolate.

All-in-all our stay at Caesars Palace was a relaxing and enjoyable retreat from the work-a-day worries and stress. Beautiful grounds and everything you could possible want are only a walk or a phone call away. If you’re an empty-nester like me it takes some adjusting to being “just the two of you.” And while we miss our children remember you can finally take off for the weekend with just a change of clothes and no thought as to how to entertain the kids. Take some time for yourselves. Get to know one another again, head over to Caesars Palace. Pamper yourself-you deserve it!

Caesars Palace is located on the Las Vegas strip at 3570 Las Vegas Boulevard South (on the corner of Las Vegas Boulevard and Flamingo Road). For reservations and more information call (877) 634-6001 or log onto www.caesarspalace.com.

Serendipity 3 is located on the grounds of Caesars Palace overlooking the Strip. They are open Sunday-Thursday 11a.m. to 11p.m. and Friday & Saturday 11a.m. to 12 midnight. For reservations call (702) 731-7266.

Croque Madame from Bouchon

Yes, you can still get cheap hot dogs (they’re $2.00 now) and low priced shrimp cocktails but now you can also find world-class dining. I’m talking outstanding food with fantastic chefs. It’s a foodie’s paradise in the middle of the desert.

Let’s start with breakfast (it is the most important meal of the day). Bouchon, named as one of the 10 best restaurants for breakfast on the strip, is located in the Venezia tower of the Venetian Resort. Its elegant décor is in keeping with the grandeur of the setting. The menu includes fresh pastries as well as a tantalizing array of breakfast specialties like French Toast, Sourdough Waffles, Corned Beef Hash and Ham Steak and Eggs.

To start our meal we were served a variety of pastries all hand-crafted by pastry chef Chris Herrin. A luscious toasty croissant topped with almond paste, strawberry jam (made on premises) and a crumb topping, toasted brioche topped with almond paste and sliced almonds, a chocolate croissant and a lighter-than-air cheese Danish that resembled a popover filled with a sweet cheesy filling and topped with cream cheese frosting. Seriously need I say more?

Brunch dishes at Bouchon

While we snacked on crispy sourdough waffles with fresh strawberries, real maple syrup and Tahitian vanilla bean butter (did I say “snacked” I meant devoured) I was able to look more closely at my surroundings. The restaurant has a patio that looks out onto a green landscaped courtyard, no sounds of slot machines here.

As our entrees I had the Bouchon French Toast and my companion had the Corned Beef Hash. Now you may recoil at the mention of Corned Beef Hash most of it does look unpalatable, however not Bouchon’s. Large diced corned beef brisket is cooked with cubed Yukon gold potatoes and fresh onions all of this is topped with an egg done to your liking (it is suggested you get it sunny-side up) I will never eat standard corned beef hash again.

The French Toast more resembles bread pudding in its presentation and taste. Brioche is layered with custard, apples and spices and topped with a bit of maple syrup all served up in a neat round. No extras are needed for this French Toast its smooth texture and delicate flavors are best experience au natural.

After we finished our breakfast we were taken on a tour of the most spacious kitchen I’ve ever seen by pastry chef Chris Herrin. I had to shake his hand because his pastries were some of the best I’ve outside of France. From prep to proofing, cake decorating to homemade jam any cook would be envious of the equipment and sparkling surfaces.

Bouchon Las Vegas serves breakfast Monday – Friday, 7:00 a.m. – 10:30 a.m., brunch Saturday and Sunday, 8:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m., dinner Monday – Sunday 5:00 – 10:00 p.m. and the visit the oyster bar daily from 3:00 – 10:00 p.m. For more information or reservations call (702) 414-6200 or log onto www.bouchonbistro.com. They are located in The Venetian Resort, 3355 Las Vegas Blvd. South.

For those of you not planning to visit Las Vegas anytime soon (but I encourage you to do so) Bouchon is also opening a restaurant in Beverly Hills in November.

Zeffirino overlooks the grand canal

Speaking with Executive Chef Francesco Schintu I learned a bit about the history of Zeffirino. It began as a family restaurant in 1939 in Genova, Italy the family has now expanded to Spain, China and the USA.

If you must, you will find veal parmesan and chicken cacciatore but step out of your comfort zone and open your taste buds to truly incredible food.

Our meal started with tuna carpaccio, thin slices of tuna topped with raw tomato sauce, capers and buffalo mozzarella foam. Shaped like a flower the taste bloomed in my mouth.

Executive Chef Francesco Schintu and Managing Director Giuliano Berto

Fresh green Taglierini in a delicate wine sauce with a bit of spice and tomato and a whole lot of crab tickled my senses. It’s amazing how different and good fresh pasta tastes. It doesn’t need to be drowned in sauce the flavor is delicate and the perfect vehicle for other ingredients like crab.

Agnolotti Verdi in salsa rosa, pillows of tender green pasta filled with imported fontina cheese sautéed in a butter, cream, parmesan mixture. Oh my goodness this was so WOW! Stand-out ingredients and a talented chef combine to create the sublime.

Scallops from Zeffirino

The meal was finished off with a dish of gelato made from raisins marinated in Marsala. The chef poured a bit of whiskey over the top and decorated the dish with sugar strands; a bit of sweetness to finish off a stellar meal.

Zeffirino is located in the Grand Canal Shoppes at the The Venetian, 3355 Las Vegas Blvd. South. They are open daily for lunch from 11:30 a.m. – 4:00 p.m., dinner, 4:00 p.m. to midnight and Sunday brunch from 10:00 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. Call (702) 414-3500 or log onto www.zeffirinolasvegas.com for reservations and more information.

Chef Percy Oani of Roy's Las Vegas

Since our Pasadena readers are familiar with Roy’s we thought you should know about the Las Vegas Roy’s; it’s the same but different. It has the same quality ingredients, same level of service but a different chef and a different slant on the menu.

Chef Percy Oani brings his unique fusion of classical training with an Asian influence to the restaurant in Las Vegas. Dishes like Shanghai Style Chicken and Shrimp Lumpia shaped like chopsticks and a Fuji Apple and Grilled Endive Salad combine sweet, savory and spicy to create a new taste category. I call it the yum category.

Shanghai Style Shrimp and Chicken Lumpia

We began our meal with Roy’s Signature Lakanilau Roll which is seared Kobe beef wrapped around dynamite crab, tempura asparagus and avocado. No wasabi was needed for this sushi roll; the flavors were best savored unadorned.

Chef Percy’s Shanghai Style chicken and shrimp lumpia came next and was served with a Japanese citrus crème. I really liked these, the chopstick shape made them easier to eat (the filling didn’t fall out). The dipping sauce was sweet and spicy.

Mixed greens and Fuji apple were tossed with bleu cheese, candied walnuts, pomegranate seeds, grilled endive and pomegranate soy emulsion. This was a deliciously crisp and refreshing salad to accompany ones meal.

Herb Crusted Halibut

When you visit Roy’s in Las Vegas I encourage you to try the Hawaiian Style Misoyaki Butterfish. With its caramelized topping of sweet miso and the tart Chinese sizzling soy vinaigrette this is a stand out. Butterfish lives up to its name it melts like butter in your mouth.

For dessert we had to have melting hot chocolate soufflé with vanilla bean ice cream. See, Roy’s in Las Vegas is the same but different. As always this dessert was the bomb with its intense hit of chocolate mellowed by the bright vanilla ice cream.

Roy’s Las Vegas is located at 620 E. Flamingo Road about two miles east of the strip in a quieter part of town. They are open for dinner, Sunday – Thursday, 5:30 – 9:30 p.m. and Friday and Saturday, 5:30 – 10:00 p.m. For reservations and more information call (702) 691-2053 or log onto www.roysrestaurant.com.

These are slightly different “staycations;” they’re plan-ahead, special occasion trips to nearby locations that will transport you far from San Rafael or Orange Grove. Affordable? Well, that’s relative. If you opt for a vacation closer to home with just you and your significant, as opposed to something more elaborate, then you’re on the right track.

I visited three Southern California inns recently, all within half a tank of gas from home, and reveled in style and comfort with a trio of decidedly different approaches to the bed and breakfast idea.

While the initial agenda was to visit three inns in a row as part of a tour of local B&Bs—the Avalon Hotel on Catalina Island, the Casa Laguna Inn in Laguna Beach, and the B&B inn in La Jolla—rain and deadlines pushed plans to visit Avalon two weeks in a row.

So I headed down the 5 South for Laguna Beach, with a plan for Avalon in our back pocket. Expecting a waterfront hotel plopped down on the sands with waves lapping at our room door, I found the subtle and stylish Casa Laguna located on the street side of PCH, nestled into the hillside on several levels, so that its beach side rooms and walkways are bathed in afternoon light.

Innkeeper Paul Blank and partner Francois Le Blanc bought the fading 1920s-era residence turned worn-out motor hotel in 2000, and have created a nearly perfect example of a California bed and breakfast.

The facility was originally built as a private residence and used by local artists throughout the 20th Century as unique studios.

Most of the 22 rooms have double-jetted tubs along with fireplaces. Spa and massage services are also available indoors in the hotel’s library or under canopies in the Ocean View Garden. It’s clear why the hotel has been selected for membership in the Select Registry and Unique Inns groups, which feature top quality, small luxury hotels.

The current restoration leaves no detail to chance. Historic photos along with California plein air paintings line the walls of the main house and an assortment of coffee table books dot the tables and shelves. Pristine landscaping illuminates the terraces and the hacienda-style design seems to allow in only the nearby sound of waves breaking at Victoria Beach, just across the highway. Blank’s yellow labrador retriever, Emory, strolls the property like she owns it. Hmm, I guess she does.

Just up the street and down a flight of stairs is a beach straight out of a Beach Boys album cover. Should you care to spend your day on the sand under an iPod and the California sun, management is only too happy to provide a beach bag with everything you’ll need.

For the evening, there is a heated pool and secluded jacuzzi, along with a smart collection of DVDs. The Inn also provides shuttle service to local restaurants. (They’ll also come get you if you enjoy yourself a little too much.) We dined at Mocambo just a few blocks north on PCH, where both the steaks and the service were sublime. (I skipped the open mic night. Perhaps on my next visit.)

With so much to like about Casa Laguna, breakfast was almost startling in its quiet perfection.

Chef Cale Falk serves a full, exquisite gourmet breakfast on the shaded terrace each morning. A sharper correspondent than I would have brought his notebook with him to breakfast, but it’s unlikely that I would have glanced in its direction with the small feast put before me. If I’m not mistaken, it all involved a dish too delectable to be labeled simply a “waffle,” along with a potato comfit, fresh fruit and orange juice, and sinfully good coffee.

You may only ever visit the Casa Laguna once (It’s not cheap, dearest readers), but it will linger in your head and heart for far more springs and summers.

Moving south on the 5, here’s a tip, fellow travelers: every road, street, boulevard and/or destination in La Jolla is called either La Jolla Village, Village La Jolla, Jolla La Village; well, you get the idea.

I circled UCSD for a while until we found The Bed & Breakfast Inn at La Jolla, on a side street slightly perpendicular to the town’s main drag. This B&B is a traditional bed and breakfast, so traditional, in fact, that not every room has a television set. Just so you know.

The rooms are decorated in a traditional colonial style with that theme echoed throughout the property. Breakfast is served in a quaint dining room by the talented innkeeper who also provides fresh cookies and coffee all day long. The Inn’s proximity to the beach at La Jolla, with its teeming seal life and postcard Pacific view adds to the inn’s appeal. If a homey, comfy and traditional B&B is your style, there is a lot to enjoy at this one.

After two weather and work delays, I finally boarded the Catalina Express ferry for the dash from Long Beach to Avalon, Catalina.

Catalina, which is actually located in LA county, is one of those places you visited a long time ago, or one of those places you keep telling yourself you’ll visit.

I spent two days and nights under the Catalina sky, stylishly escounsed in the luxurious Avalon Hotel, a memorable stop, worthy of its 2008 Trip Advisors “Best for Romance” award.

Climb the stairs to the rooftop deck and you’ll be rewarded with a view that will take your breath away.

Avalon offers a groaning buffet table of pleasures for the day visitor from diving to dining (Steve’s Steakhouse. Say no more.), as well as miles and miles of hiking and biking trails. The ocean views from the hilltops seem to stretch out long past the Orange County mainland. We grabbed a golf cart (the preferred mode of transport here), and traversed the hills and canyons that surround the beachfront. We also enjoyed a rejuvenating massage from Grace Miller at the sleek, swank Aurora Hotel’s spa. Speaking of great inns, each of the hotels we visited are members of Unique Inns, a nation-wide collection of top-level B&Bs, boutique hotels and country inns. Visit just one and you’ll yearn to return again.

The 411:
• The Bed & Breakfast Inn at La Jolla 7753 Draper Ave, La Jolla, CA
858.456.2066
• Casa Laguna Inn & Spa, 2510 S Coast Hwy., Laguna Beach, CA 92651
949.494.2996
• The Avalon Hotel, 124 Whittley Ave. Avalon CA 90704
310. 510.7070
• Steve’s Steakhouse, 417 Crescent # 2. Avalon, CA 90704
310.510.0333
• Catalina Express, 320 Golden Shore, Long Beach, CA
800.481.3470

From the quaint harbor to the evocative, yet somehow trendy Main Street, Ventura is a lot to like in a small and stylish package.

And frankly, Ventura, with its mission-style architecture and proximity to the water, just looks like California, ironically more so than the urban environs of Los Angeles, which can sometimes be construed as just so much North Hollywood or Houston or Toronto, but with palm trees. (Actually, roads north to Burgos from Madrid, in Spain, look a lot like the geography of the 5 North, just between Buttonwillow and Firebaugh. But I digress.)

I’ll be the first to admit that the slow motion crawl known as the 101 Freeway North can be enervating, but once you crest the grade at Conejo, the roads seem to widen, the landscape pulls its curtains back, and Ventura is mere minutes away.

You could travel the additional 25 miles on to Santa Barbara, but it’s been done. Everything you need and more, frankly, is in Ventura. The easy pace and proximity to all your needs will make you a fan quickly. Stroll the strand from the Holiday Inn to the wharf, or stand atop the peak of Grant Park for an inspiring of the city and its coastline, and you’ll wondering why you were home doing nothing last weekend. I spent a recent weekend sampling an array of wares in town from restaurants to shopping to my new favorite activity—Kayaking.

We’d begin there, but first let’s eat.

After drinks at the rooftop bar of the stylish and newly renovated Watermark on Main Street, I moved on to The Greek at the Harbor, a popular restaurant tucked into a knot of restaurants and shops in the harbor.

As servers brought plates of delicious salads, an assortment of grilled meat and some of the best calamari I’ve enjoyed in a long time, I watched the unique entertainment.

A traditional belly dancer sidled up to the table and managed, with some friendly crowd persuasion, to convince me to join her on the floor, to my everlasting shame and delight. Then, Aris Mikelatos, son of owners Lynn and Makis, danced on to the floor, where he proceeded to carefully stack dining tables. And then lift them. With his teeth. He is one of the few dancers in America, his mother told us, to continue to perform the dance, which the Cal Poly SLO kiniesiology graduate learned in Greece. And his dentist says he’s doing just fine.

I joined Island Packers early the next morning for a trip across the Santa Barbara Channel and the islands of the Channel Islands National Park.

The five islands—Santa Barbara, Santa Rosa, Anacapa and San Miguel—were established as a national park in 1980, with the waters surrounding each island designated as marine sanctuaries. The glassy blue and very chilly waters around the islands are the perfect combination of challenge and opportunity for the novice and seasoned kayaker.

Crossing the choppy waters in the early morning haze, our boat dipped and swayed, much to the consternation of the passengers making the 90-minute voyage. (OK, I came close to hurling only once and opted for sleep the rest of the ride.)

Moving against the wind and the ocean current, the morning ride can be a little bumpy, though the afternoon ride home is like sailing in your bathtub.

The captain cut the engines out in the middle of the channel to give us the opporunity to mingle with and gawk at the scores of seals gathered about the channel’s buoys. Cameras clicked and whirred as the playful animals dipped and dove in and out of the waters. Later, on my ride back, I was treated to a show of humpback whales in full feeding mode, moving along a current line and devouring their late afternoon lunch.

Once on the island, we gathered around our instructor for a brief demonstration on the art of kayaking. “Now,” he explains “when you’re in one of those caves, rocks can easily fall from the walls and the roofs. If you see them fall, don’t look up, since you’re not wearing the helmet on your face.”

Words I would remember.

We rocked the kayaks as we sat in the bay, to get used to the feeling of them wiggling underneath out in the ocean. That fear mastered, it was sea cave time.

I paddled out for what would be a long morning in the saddle. Once properly situated, and once one masters getting in and out of the kayak, the craft is surprisingly nimble and swift.

We moved vaguely perpendicular to the current before approaching the first cave. The tricky thing about the waters in a sea cave is that those are ocean waves in there, just like waves breaking on the shore, but compressed into the small space of the cave, they pick up speed and power, and you can be tossed around a bit, if you’re not careful. You can surf them in, or you can also find yourself paddling against one, as you exit the caves. And the first thing you’ll notice is the noise.

The sheer volume of the water banging hard against the cave shore can be frightening, actually. The cave acts as an echo chamber, and the volume increases as you negotiate the curve of the caves.

As I moved inside one through an even smaller opening to another chamber, a wave coursed through and snuck up behind me, pushing me hard against a cave wall. I used my paddle to push off against the rocks, as the water level rose quickly, raising me up and dropping me. My kayak was sturdy and faithful, stayed pointed in the right direction, and I got the hell out of there.

I traversed several sea caves that afternoon, each one a new challenge. As I entered one of them later, I saw what looked like pebbles and dust falling from the ceiling. Remembering my instructions, I looked forward, not up. Probably a good idea, since a closer inspection of my kayak revealed the identity of the debris—bird business. So, don’t look up.

Kayaking is, of course, only one of a dizzying array of things to do in Ventura, not the least of which, is dining. Sprinkled along Main street, the harbor strip and beyond, are a host of terrific eateries, a number of which may be the finest places you’ll ever dine.

I splurged at Tutti’s, a Montecito transplant specializing in high-end Italian fare. I fared on a host of captivating appetizers, and when my Cioppino arrived, it was a perfect end to a perfect day, cave waves and all.

You’ll most likely do far less in a Ventura weekend than I did, and that sounds just about perfect.

The 411:
• The Watermark on Main, 598 E. Main,St.
805.643.6800
• The Greek at the Harbor , Ventura Harbor Viillage
805.650.5350
• Island Packers
www.islandpackers.com
805.642.1393
Tutti’s Off Main, 34 N. Palm St.
805. 643. 0880

Don’t get me wrong, the funky beach charm still abounds – but now there is a veneer of corporate sophistication to the funk. We checked into the Hilton Waterfront Beach Resort not knowing what to expect – California beach town? Mediterranean resort?

The hotel is sumptuous without being snooty, a place where you can feel indulged while at the same time feel comfortable bringing your kids or dog (we’ll get to that later). In short, a tubular place for a quick weekend stay or a longer vacation.

Speaking of kids, the hotel is across PCH from the beach and offers what I call (seriously) “beach amenities.” The hotel’s beachfront services are run by “Toes on the Nose,” which bills itself as “waterfront adventure.” S’mores on the beach? Why not? A beach cabana and a picnic lunch? Just ask and it will be yours. They offer surf lessons, Beach Cruiser Bicycles, sand toys, boogie boards, and wetsuits. Manager Charlos Bentley will even light up a barbeque pit for you(enthusiastically, too). There’s anything you could want for a beach stay without having to bring home part of the beach with you.

Back at the hotel, practically every nook has a breathtaking ocean panorama – even the pool. Located in the heart of the hotel, the pool is a heated lagoon-type body of water (it’s huge) with a well-trained, cheerful hotel staff to see to your every whim. Bright tropical drinks of every color and flavor are on offer. I tried a couple, a pomegranate margarita (muy bueno) and Sunset on the Beach (totally rad).

When it comes to food have a casual lunch or dinner by the pool or try the Waterfront’s restaurant Shades. Using local, seasonal ingredients Chef Jeff Littlefield has created a menu that focuses on freshness and flavor. The patio of the restaurant overlooks the pool and has a fire pit with seating around it for a casual meal. Tables inside create a more sophisticated atmosphere. As with everything at the Hilton Waterfront Beach Resort, the view of the ocean is spectacular, as is the food.

Crab cakes, shrimp cocktail, scallops, and artisanal cheeses are a few appetizer choices to tempt you. Kobe burgers, salmon, lamb, and pork cutlets add punch to the main course offerings. Breakfast, lunch and dinner are served. I had each meal, and they were all inventive, delicious and eye-catching. Fine wines complete the picture with wine tastings on Thursday nights from 5:30 to 8:00 p.m.; you can enjoy special regional and international wines while listening to live music for only $15.

Room service is always an option and on my last morning at the hotel I indulged myself with a breakfast of eggs benedict and fresh coffee which I enjoyed on my balcony overlooking the ocean. The service was prompt (about 15 minutes from my phone call) and the food was hot and delicious. Good room service is the hallmark of any fine hotel and the Hilton Waterfront passed the test.

All the rooms in the hotel have a balcony with an ocean view. The corner suites include a dining room table with panoramic views of the Pacific, a sitting room, one bedroom and large bathroom with glass-doored luxury shower. There are rooms with king-sized beds and sitting areas and rooms that accommodate Fido. That’s right – you can bring man’s best friend to the hotel for an additional $75.00 a day. There is a maximum weight limit of 75 pounds so no Mastiffs please.

Every room serves up creature comforts and modern-day necessities like high definition flat screen T.V., high speed internet access, coffee makers (an absolute must), and the best feature of them all, the “Serenity Bed”. I have a terrible time sleeping away from home, but the Hilton’s “Serenity Bed” had me sawing logs all night. The bed beckons with a pillow-top mattress with high thread count sheets, down pillows and a down duvet.

The light-up floors are a really neat accessory. In the middle of the night when you are disoriented from being in strange surroundings a discrete blue light comes on as your feet hit the carpet, lighting your way to your destination.

The Hilton Waterfront Beach Resort is close enough for a quick weekend getaway, yet far enough for a relaxing vacation. Whether you’re into beach activities like volleyball or surfing or you just like to sit and watch the waves roll in while the sun sets over the Huntington Beach pier, a trip to the Hilton Waterfront should not be missed.

The Hilton Waterfront Beach Resort is located at 21100 Pacific Coast Highway, Huntington Beach. For reservations and more information call (714) 845-8000 or log onto www.waterfrontresort.hilton.com.

I recently had the pleasure of an overnight stay in the Huntington Suite and was not disappointed. To say my suite was luxurious is an understatement. A nice comfy couch with a flat screen TV, coffee tables and end tables and a computer-ready desk graced the living portion of the suite. A big four poster bed with a down duvet, day bed and flat screen TV made up the sleeping portion of the suite. It was beautifully decorated and roomy.

The real appeal to the Langham (aside from the décor and service) is that you don’t have to leave if you don’t want to. Want a massage? Go to the spa and it’s yours. How about a facial and manicure? No problem. It’s all about indulging your whims. Instant gratification!

There are great restaurants to choose from, too. The Langham offers up two restaurants, a formal bar, a pool bar and a traditional afternoon tea Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. If you like chocolate, a special tea is served on Sundays from 12:00 to 4:00 p.m. As a special treat they are offering 25% off afternoon tea on Thursdays and Fridays through the month of June.

The Dining Room is the more formal of the two restaurants. Recently awarded a Michelin Star, it is elegance personified. It is open for dinner only Tuesday through Saturday with seatings from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m.

The Terrace restaurant offers a less formal atmosphere but equally excellent food. The Terrace is also home to the popular champagne Sunday brunch. Both restaurants have a special “Summer Select” prix fixe menu designed to give locals, visitors and foodies the opportunity to indulge in a variety of selections from each restaurant at a discounted price.

Through the summer months take advantage of the special offers the Langham has on accommodations. If you have kids, “The Summer Splash Package” is the one for you. Lanai accommodations, poolside, family-friendly “Dive in Movies” on Friday nights and a $50.00 food and beverage credit for food at the pool bar for an all-inclusive price.

Also of note is the Summer’s Even Better Package offering one night free with every night booked for rooms starting at $299.00. For this package you need to book by June 30 for stays through August 31. The Langham also has packages that include breakfast, spa visits, jazz concerts or afternoon tea. For more information on special offers go to http://pasadena.langhamhotels.com/en/rooms/special_offers.htm.

So get away this summer without going away! Spend a couple of days in the lap of luxury at the Langham Huntington Hotel and Spa. For reservations and more information call (626) 568-3900 or log onto http://pasadena.langhamhotels.com.