Disney's Grand Californian Hotel & Spa Unveils Magical, Hotel-Wide Renovation

An exciting, hotel-wide refurbishment brings new magic to the deluxe Disney's Grand Californian Hotel & Spa at the Disneyland Resort, with completely redesigned guest rooms plus a refreshed lobby, pool area and concierge-level lounge. The most extensive refurbishment since the hotel's 2001 opening elevates the premium guest experience and brings a contemporary approach to the Arts & Crafts design style.

Named a AAA Four Diamond hotel by the Automobile Club of Southern California for the sixteenth year in a row, the 948-room Disney's Grand Californian Hotel & Spa is the first Disney resort hotel in the world to be located inside a theme park.

"Our renovation brings an even more upscale experience to this iconic Southern California hotel, while staying committed to its signature Arts & Crafts design," said Dan Coleman, General Manager of Disney's Grand Californian Hotel & Spa. "We want our guests to enjoy the unique experience of staying in a Disney hotel that's distinctly situated in beautiful California. The revitalized design helps convey this feeling and allows us to continue exceeding guest expectations."

Guest Rooms

Every single element in the redesigned guest rooms is new—from flooring and walls, to furnishings and bathrooms. Upon entry, guests will notice beautiful hardwood-inspired flooring transitioning into soft, bright-toned carpeting. Linens and pillows are restyled in a bright, white palette and upgraded bathrooms include new fixtures. The room decor features all-new furniture made of quarter-sawn oak, specially designed for each room, as well as California-inspired artwork.

The headboards are made of quarter-sawn oak, a hallmark of Craftsman design, which frame a blossoming orange tree mural overhead—with mischievous Chip n' Dale playing in the branches. When guests open the sleeper bed (available in select rooms), artwork of Bambi, along with other woodland creatures, bid them goodnight.

Countertops of the room's desk, dresser and coffee station incorporate pieces of green glass from wine bottles, creating a beautiful, unique surface. Above the coffee bar, textured copper detailing adds depth to the aesthetic of the room while enforcing the Craftsman story.

Lastly, all rooms are powered with the latest technological features and premium amenities, including 55-inch smart TVs, Keurig coffee makers and built-in USB chargers. In addition, many rooms offer breathtaking views of Disney California Adventure Park and Downtown Disney District, the lively avenue with unique restaurants, interesting shops and dynamic entertainment venues.

Great Hall Lobby

The already stunning six-story Great Hall lobby has been upgraded with new, stylish furnishings and design elements. To complement the existing Arts and Crafts motif, new contemporary designs can be found throughout the furniture pieces, upholstery, woodwork and carpeting.

Custom tete-a-tete chairs provide interesting design and function, while boldly upholstered sofa and chair pairings offer a comfortable, welcoming setting. Coffee tables and lamp fixtures nicely complement the space, and leather-topped stools showcase hidden Mickey details. The redesigned space is perfect for lounging with family, relaxing with a glass of wine from the Hearthstone Lounge, or simply admiring the lobby's focal point—the cavernous fireplace and its roaring fire.

The Veranda

The concierge-level lounge has a new name—The Veranda—and a new design that draws inspiration from the architectural and furniture designs of Charles Rennie Mackintosh, a visionary of the Arts & Crafts movement in Glasgow, United Kingdom. New hardwood flooring, custom-designed rugs, finely-crafted artisanal furniture and specially-commissioned art adds to the sophisticated tone of the lounge. Club-level guests may enjoy complimentary refreshments, as well as views of park fireworks in this exclusive setting.

Pool Deck

Each of the three pools have been redesigned with a variety of natural stones and brick to not only create a warm and welcoming environment, but also define the distinct pool settings. In keeping with the Arts and Crafts style of the hotel, the stone work was hand-laid by master stone masons.

Disney's Grand California Hotel & Spa is located inside Disney California Adventure Park, providing guests with a special entrance to the theme park. Food and beverage options at Disney's Grand Californian Hotel include the award-winning Napa Rose, as well as character dining at Storytellers Cafe and the cozy Hearthstone Lounge. Guests staying at Disneyland Resort hotels also enjoy Extra Magic Hour*, which provides early entry to select Disneyland or Disney California Adventure attractions (valid theme park ticket and active hotel room key required).

*Extra Magic Hour valid for registered Disneyland® Resort Hotel Guests for admission to select attractions at either Disneyland® Park or Disney California Adventure® Park before the applicable Park opens to the general public. Check Disneyland.com for schedule of when each Park offers Extra Magic Hour. Applicable Theme Park, days and times of operation and attraction and service availability may vary and are subject to change without notice. Subject to capacity, cancellation and other restrictions.

About the Disneyland Resort

The Disneyland Resort features two spectacular theme parks – Disneyland (the original Disney theme park) and Disney California Adventure Park – plus three hotels and the Downtown Disney District, comprising unique dining, entertainment and shopping experiences. The Resort's hotels are the luxurious, 948-room Disney's Grand Californian Hotel & Spa, which also features 50 two-bedroom equivalent Disney Vacation Club units; the magical, 973-room Disneyland Hotel – both AAA Four Diamond properties – and the 481-room Disney's Paradise Pier Hotel with its "day-at-the-beach" theme. For information on attractions and vacations at the Disneyland Resort, visit Disneyland.com, call (866) 43-DISNEY or contact local travel agents. Located in Anaheim, Calif., the Disneyland Resort opened July 17, 1955. Open daily, year-round.

Northern California Wine Country Inns Are Open For Business

SACRAMENTO, CA [October 27, 2017] -- Despite the television images of fires raging across swaths of California’s wine country and the reports of catastrophic damage, the vast majority of the region’s wine and tourism industry escaped unscathed. But they’re suffering now that the smoke has cleared.

“Many boutique hotels and bed and breakfast inns in the region are receiving cancellations because travelers don’t realize that they are open for business,” said Jenn Iliff, Program Manager for the California Association of Boutique and Breakfast Inns (CABBI).

Of the 46 CABBI-member inns in Napa, Sonoma and Mendocino Counties, none were damaged by the fires and all but one are open for business.  The one inn that remains closed—Kenwood Inn & Spa—expects to re-open shortly. 

The Beazley House Bed & Breakfast Inn in Napa has been hosting guests and PG&E workers without interruption since fires began just over two weeks ago.  Owner Jim Beazley said the City of Napa was never evacuated; nor did anyone in the city lose phones, power or services. 

Beazley and his wife Carol toured Napa Valley from Napa to Calistoga this week along the two the major wine tasting routes: Highway 29 and Silverado Trail.  Though some fire damage is visible along Silverado Trail, Beazley said that none of the most famous wineries along Highway 29 were damaged. “Of the 450-plus wineries in Napa Valley, only seven wineries were severely damaged or lost,” said Beazley. “Over 99% of Napa’s wineries remain open.”

It’s a similar story in Sonoma County, where Farmhouse Inn owner Joe Bartolomei said that of the hundreds of wineries in the region, only a handful were damaged or destroyed. 

Bartolomei has been fielding reservation calls from guests who wanted to cancel because they thought the inn had burned down or wanted to postpone because they were uncomfortable visiting while the region is recovering.  Bartolomei tells them, “The best thing you can do right now is come and support the tourism businesses.”

CABBI has set up quick links on its website for visitors to search for inns in Napa, Sonoma and Mendocino Counties.

• Napa County: www.cabbi.com/region/Napa-Valley
• Sonoma County: www.cabbi.com/region/Sonoma
• Mendocino County: www.cabbi.com/region/Mendocino

For more information about CABBI and its member inns, visit www.cabbi.com.

Miramonte Indian Wells Resort & Spa Joins Curio Collection by Hilton

DESERT OASIS: CURIO – A COLLECTION BY HILTON

ADDS MIRAMONTE INDIAN WELLS RESORT & SPA

Four-diamond resort near Palm Springs offers tranquil, unique hotel experience

INDIAN WELLS, Calif.   An historic, tranquil four-diamond resort in the Southern California desert is the newest addition to Curio – A Collection by Hilton, a global portfolio of distinctive upper upscale hotels. 

Miramonte Indian Wells Resort & Spa, Curio Collection by Hilton, is an 11-acre oasis nestled at the base of the Santa Rosa Mountains. With 215 guest rooms, suites and villas – many offering inspiring views of the resort’s manicured gardens – Miramonte Indian Wells Resort blends classic sophistication with the relaxing comforts of its award-winning spa.

“The natural beauty and desert climate draw travelers from all over the world to Indian Wells, and the beautiful Miramonte property perfectly complements that aura with its world-class spa, relaxing accommodations, access to several golf courses and more,” said Mark Nogal, global head, Curio – A Collection by Hilton. “This hotel enriches our growing collection and will delight guests seeking a remarkable resort experience.”

Relaxation Required

Opened in 1960 as the Erawan Garden, the resort operates one of the nation’s most acclaimed spas and treatment facilities. Approaching an extensive multi-million dollar renovation, the 12,000-square-foot Well Spa will offer award-winning services in an intimate environment, and features 13 treatment rooms, seasonal offerings and a courtyard with two private salt water pools.

Guests seeking other soothing experiences in the desert sunshine may enjoy staff-led yoga classes and wellness walks among the grounds, or revel in the Miramonte Pool, which also features chaise lounges, umbrellas and food and beverages all day. Poolside cabanas are available for rent, offering refuge from the sun with a soothing ceiling fan and personal water misters. For even more serenity, the Piedmont Pool includes access to a heated whirlpool, sun decks and food and beverage service.

The 24-hour fitness center includes free weights and the latest exercise equipment.

Delectable Dining Options, Inside and Out

Guests may select from a bevy of culinary choices at Miramonte Indian Wells. Dining is divine at the Grove Artisan Kitchen, which specializes in fresh, seasonal California cuisine simply prepared with time honored techniques. From Huevos Rancheros for breakfast to Zarzuela de Mariscos for dinner, the diverse menu features organic produce, fresh herbs, local ranch-raised meats, fresh Pacific seafood, house-made pastas and innovative vegetarian dishes.

For an afternoon or evening respite, guests may unwind from a long day of activities by indulging in hand-crafted cocktails or delicious bites, from either the outdoor patio or from the comfortable interior of the Vineyard Lounge. Those wishing to enjoy a light meal or cocktails without leaving their lounge chair can choose to indulge poolside, at any of the resort’s three pools.

Glorious Guest Rooms, Suites and Villas

Each of the Miramonte’s 215 guest rooms, suites and villas mixes traditional with rustic design, and many feature sweeping views of the Santa Rosa Mountains or the plush resort. Bougainvillea-covered suites and villas come with private balconies or semi-private patios. A highlight is the one-bedroom, apartment style Presidential Suite; its separate dining area can seat eight guests who may dine while overlooking the resort’s signature pool.

Pet-friendly rooms, in-room dining and complimentary Wi-Fi are also provided.

Inspiring Meetings and Weddings, Indoors or Outside

With over 35,000 square feet of stunning flexible event and meeting space, and the availability of numerous outdoor garden venues on its 11-acre property, Miramonte Indian Wells Resort & Spa can accommodate up to 500 guests – making it one of the area’s most popular destinations for weddings, conferences, business meetings and social gatherings. Many facilities feature natural light with dramatic views of the Santa Rosa Mountain range.

“From our romantic architecture to our renowned spa and wellness program, Miramonte offers everything a traveler can desire for a relaxing stay amidst the natural beauty of the desert,” said Mark Jeffrey, general manager, Miramonte Indian Wells Resort & Spa, Curio Collection by Hilton. “We are thrilled to now be part of Curio to leverage the power of the Hilton name while maintaining our distinct identity and spirit.”

Located 15 miles from Palm Springs International Airport, the resort and spa is centrally located in Indian Wells Valley, just a two-hour drive from Los Angeles, San Diego and Orange County.

Miramonte Indian Wells Resort & Spa, Curio Collection by Hilton is part of Hilton HHonors®, the award-winning guest-loyalty program for Hilton’s 13 distinct hotel brands. Hilton HHonors members who book directly with Hilton save time and money and gain instant access to the benefits they care about most, such as an exclusive member discount, free Wi-Fi and the ability to earn and redeem Points for free nights.

To celebrate Miramonte Indian Wells Resort & Spa’s addition to Curio Collection, Hilton HHonors members can earn 1,000 points per night on eligible stays from December 20, 2016 through June 20, 2017. Miramonte Indian Wells Resort & Spa is owned by Rockpoint Group and managed by Two Roads Hospitality. It is located at 45000 Indian Wells Lane, Indian Wells, California 92210. For more information, or to make a reservation, travelers can call +1 760-341-2200 or visit curio.com.

For more information, visit curio.com. 

About Curio – A Collection by Hilton

Curio – A Collection by Hilton™ (curio.com), launched in 2014, is a global set of hand-picked upscale hotels that meet independent-minded travelers’ desire for local discovery and authentic experiences, all while providing the quiet reassurance and support of the Hilton name and its award-winning Hilton HHonors program. Discover the collection’s latest stories at news.curio.com, connect with us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter or inquire about development opportunities at hiltonworldwide.com/development. 

About Hilton

Hilton (NYSE: HLT) is a leading global hospitality company, comprising more than 4,800 managed, franchised, owned and leased hotels and timeshare properties with nearly 789,000 rooms in 104 countries and territories. For 97 years, Hilton has been dedicated to continuing its tradition of providing exceptional guest experiences. The company's portfolio of 13 world-class global brands includes Hilton Hotels & Resorts, Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts, Conrad Hotels & Resorts, Canopy by Hilton, Curio - A Collection by Hilton, DoubleTree by Hilton, Embassy Suites by Hilton, Hilton Garden Inn, Hampton by Hilton, Tru by Hilton, Homewood Suites by Hilton, Home2 Suites by Hilton and Hilton Grand Vacations. The company also manages an award-winning customer loyalty program, Hilton HHonors®. Hilton HHonors members who book directly through preferred Hilton channels have access to benefits including an exclusive member discount, free standard Wi-Fi, as well as digital amenities that are available exclusively through the industry-leading Hilton HHonors app, where Hilton HHonors members can check-in, choose their room, and access their room using a Digital Key. Visit news.hiltonworldwide.com for more information and connect with Hilton on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, Flickr, LinkedIn and Instagram.

About Miramonte Indian Wells Resort & SpaMiramonte Indian Wells Resort & Spa is an intimate desert oasis created for the independent-minded traveler. The 215-room resort provides an easy escape to a world of approachable sophistication. Miramonte features the award-winning Well Spa, the acclaimed Grove Artisan Kitchen and Vineyard Lounge, three resort pools, a 24-hour fitness center, access to premier golf and tennis and much more. For more information on Miramonte Indian Wells Resort & Spa, visit www.miramonteresort.com Follow us on Twitter, Instagram or like us on Facebook.

About Two Roads Hospitality
Created in September 2016, Two Roads Hospitality is an international lifestyle company encompassing an unrivaled collection of distinctive properties, passionate people, and remarkable experiences around the globe. The company is named for the newly-merged Commune and Destination Hotels, bringing together over 40 years of combined expertise exclusively dedicated to the boutique and lifestyle space. Comprised of Joie de Vivre Hotels, Thompson Hotels, Destination Hotels, tommie and Alila Hotels & Resorts, the company is the leading operator of independent and lifestyle hotels with more than 95 properties in eight countries and growing, also boasting an extensive roster of award-winning restaurants and bars, stunning vacation residences, world-class golf courses, and indigenous spa and wellness offerings. For more information on Two Roads Hospitality, visit www.tworoadshotels.com, follow us on Twitter (@TwoRoadsHotels), or like us on Facebook.

Disneyland Resort Celebrates The Holidays With New Fun And Entertainment

Festival of Holidays invites guests to enjoy heartwarming festivities from many cultures with music, dance, food and more

It’s the season for celebrations as Holidays at the Disneyland Resort launches November 10, inviting family and friends to make magical memories together.

This year, guests will have even more to celebrate as they discover the new Festival of Holidays, with music, dance, food and heartwarming holiday festivities inspired by cultural traditions from around the world.

Also new for the season is the holiday-themed “World of Color—Season of Light,” a nighttime water spectacular that will inspire guests with cherished holiday music and treasured Disney animation. This fourth all-new production of “World of Color” creates a sparkling winter fantasy with magical storytelling, brilliant lights, lasers and high-definition projectors, along with fountains that shoot as high as 200 feet to create the giant screens of water.  Princess Elena of Avalor also makes her debut at the Disneyland Resort during Festival of Holidays, performing in a colorful cavalcade.

Holidays at the Disneyland Resort is a time many guests celebrate as an annual tradition, visiting the parks for Disney-themed treats, snowfall on Main Street U.S.A., the glistening décor and holiday entertainment. This year, guests will find Santa Claus in a fun, new location at Disney California Adventure Park, at Redwood Creek Challenge Trail, and guests at Disneyland Park will enjoy the one-of-a-kind transformations that create “it’s a small world” Holiday, Jingle Cruise and Haunted Mansion Holiday. Now celebrating its 20th holiday season, “it’s a small world” Holiday has added some “Hidden 20s” for guests to discover on their voyage.

At Disney California Adventure Park

• The new Festival of Holidays celebrates holiday festivities of diverse cultures with music, dance and craft-making, plus food at the Festive Foods Marketplace. The daily lineup of entertainment includes nearly 50 performances of nine unique shows, with special Disney characters, street parties, cavalcades, musical ensembles and dance performances. The celebrations include Diwali, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, Christmas/Navidad and Three Kings Day. Guests can look for performances of traditional Indian dance that builds to a Bollywood party, a Klezmer band with a new global sound, the Mariachi Divas and an a cappella vocal group that puts an R&B spin on holiday songs.

• Princess Elena, the first Disney Princess inspired by diverse Latin American cultures, will make her Disneyland Resort debut as part of the Festival of Holidays. She will perform a song in “Princess Elena’s Musical Grand Arrival,” and she will appear at a character greeting location. Guests will recognize this brave and adventurous teenager from the Disney Channel series “Elena of Avalor.”

• The popular Disney ¡Viva Navidad! also returns as part of the fun at Festival of Holidays, with a wonderful finale to celebrate Three Kings Day (Dia de los Reyes). The special festivities for Three Kings Day will run Jan. 5-8, 2017, including music and storytelling in Paradise Garden. Treats for this holiday will include traditional Rosca de Reyes bread.

• “World of Color – Season of Light” brings the warmth and heartfelt spirit of the holidays to this stunning, nighttime water spectacular, with its 1,200 powerful fountains shooting water as high as 200 feet to help tell the story. The show’s musical soundtrack features some well-known musical artists performing popular holiday tunes, including “Let it Snow” by Dean Martin and “Baby, It’s Cold Outside” by Michael Buble and Idina Menzel. With classic holiday music, humor and memorable moments from Disney animated films, this becomes an ideal way for guests to conclude their holiday visit.

• Jolly old St. Nick arrives at Redwood Creek Challenge Trail for Santa’s Holiday Visit. His joyful elves have transformed the trail into a magical playground of holiday fun and games, including opportunities for guests to join the ranks of Santa’s elves.

• The residents of Cars Land decorate for the holidays, beginning with a whimsical “snowcar” that greets guests on the road to Radiator Springs. Each address along Route 66–from Flo’s V-8 Café to Luigi’s Casa della Tires–features holiday décor that reflects the personality of the “Cars” character who lives there.

• “a bug’s land” transforms for the holidays, too, as Flik and his bug friends deck their land with oversized lights and ornaments.

• A dazzling, 50-foot Christmas tree adorns Carthay Circle, drawing guests into the holiday magic along Buena Vista Street. The tree and surrounding buildings, inspired by Los Angeles as it appeared when Walt Disney arrived in the 1920s, create scenes of another era with vintage-style décor.

At Disneyland Park

• Disney characters celebrate the season in “A Christmas Fantasy” parade, a daily procession with floats, music, marching “tin soldiers” and holiday cheer. Santa, who makes a jolly appearance in the parade, also will be found welcoming guests at his special location in Critter Country while he visits Disneyland.

• The classic Sleeping Beauty’s Winter Castle brightens the park nightly with magical snowfall moments along Main Street, U.S.A., concluding with “Believe … in Holiday Magic” fireworks and its stirring snowfall finale.

• Twinkling lights, festive holiday garland and nearly 1,800 ornaments decorate the soaring Christmas tree in Town Square, Main Street, U.S.A., an ideal place for guests to begin their holiday traditions. The Christmas tree becomes an enchanting place for guests to take their holiday photos, up close or with all 60 feet of the shimmering tree.

• On Friday, Nov. 18, guests and cast members in Disneyland will celebrate the birthday of Mickey Mouse, applauding him as he appears in a special birthday cavalcade preceding “A Christmas Fantasy” parade.

• Disneyland guests definitely will want to experience the popular seasonal transformations of these park attractions:

o “it’s a small world” becomes “it’s a small world” Holiday for the 20th time, celebrating children around the world and the distinctive holiday traditions of their nations. (The Holiday theme debuted in 1997.)

o Haunted Mansion becomes Haunted Mansion Holiday, with Jack Skellington and his friends from Tim Burton’s “The Nightmare Before Christmas” causing a collision between Christmas and Halloween.

o Jungle Cruise is transformed into Jingle Cruise, as the jungle skippers gather jettisoned holiday gifts and decorations to brighten the rugged landscapes surrounding their riverboats.

The Downtown Disney shopping, dining and entertainment district and the Hotels of the Disneyland Resort join in the holiday festivities with twinkling lights and ornaments, holiday displays, special entertainment and holiday dining with themed menus. One highlight is the gingerbread house in the lobby of Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa. Designed to resemble the exterior of the hotel itself, the gingerbread house stands 7 feet six inches tall and 12 feet wide. Holiday snacks, cider and hot chocolate are sold from a window in the gingerbread house.

Haunted Mansion Holiday inspired by “Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas.”

OUE Skyspace LA, California's Tallest Open-Air Observation Deck Is Now Open

New Attraction Will Transform Your View of Los Angeles

 OUE today announced plans for the official grand opening of OUE Skyspace LA. From nearly 1,000 feet

 above the city in the iconic U.S. Bank Tower, OUE Skyspace LA will honor the culture, community and 

people that make Los Angeles unlike any city in the world. In addition to panoramic views of Southern

 California, the observation deck will boast a breathtaking thrill factor: the Skyslide, a 45-foot, outdoor, glass slide. 

"We are certain that OUE Skyspace LA will grow to become an integral part of the booming downtown

 LA culture," said OUE's Lucy Rumantir, president and chief executive officer, the Americas.

 "This is a momentous occasion not only for OUE, but for the whole city of Los Angeles."

On Friday, June 24, the grand opening commenced with a ribbon-cutting ceremony and a 

special evening of performances at OUE Skyspace LA for local and international VIPs who helped

 make this occasion a reality.

"Los Angeles is beloved for its incredible architecture and natural beauty, and now everyone has the

 opportunity to be a part of it in a whole new way," said Mayor Eric Garcetti. "OUE Skyspace LA

 will give millions of Angelenos and visitors from everywhere an unforgettable experience — taking in

 our entire cityscape from a breathtaking vantage point."

On Saturday, June 25, OUE Skyspace LA will open its doors to the public. OUE Skyspace LA is

 inviting guests of all ages to join in celebrating this exciting milestone with a grand opening block

 party from 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. The festivities are open for all to enjoy, and purchasing a ticket for

 OUE Skyspace LA is not required for block party entry.

The block party will feature an array of entertainment and activities, including live performances

 from top artists and a building pyrotechnics finale. The festivities will take place on S. Hope Street

 between Hope Place and 3^rd Street. During the event, 4^th Street will remain closed, while 3^rd

 Street, Flower and Grand will remain open and operational.

OUE Skyspace LA will be open year-round. Tickets for OUE Skyspace LA are now available to be

 purchased at the box office, online atwww.skyspace-la.com/tickets or by calling 213-894-9000. The

 box office, which will be open from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m., is located at 633 West 5^th Street, 2^nd Floor,

 Los Angeles, CA 90071.

To book a private event, please email events@oue-skyspace.com.

6 Travel Deals for April and May Starting At $90

Pool/Facebook.com/ArizonaInn

After a winter of record high and low temperatures, we’re looking forward to spring — especially with great deals on travel. Here’s where and how you can save in April and May.

From $90: Hotel Allegro (Chicago, IL)Fresh off a major makeover that channels 1920s glam, this Kimpton property in Chicago’s Theatre District is celebrating the 90th anniversary of Route 66 by offering $90 rates for Sunday night stays through the end of the year. Sunday night rates are usually from $188 — so the savings are at around 50 percent. (Blackout dates for the offer include April 3, May 22, June 5 and 12, September 11, October 16, and November 6 and 27.)

From $129: The Arizona Inn (Tucson, AZ)To celebrate its 85th anniversary, this Tucson mainstay — which has hosted celebrities like Frank Sinatra, the Kennedys and Katherine Hepburn on its 14-acre property — is rolling back rates to as low as $129 per night. While we could only find the $129 rate for standard rooms on May 30 and 31, the $179 rate for the nights of May 15-30 is still a steal when you consider rates in March are from $299.

From $232: JW Marriott El Convento Cusco (Cusco, Peru)If you can manage a spring trip to this luxe property — whose high season starts in June — rates are around $232 if you pay in full in advance. Those can be nabbed for the nights of May 1-3, while the price jumps to $254 May 4-6; later in the month, it spikes to $280-$314. With pre-Inca walls and historical items throughout the property, history buffs will be right at home here.

From $290: Renaissance Tuscany Il Ciocco Resort & Spa (Tuscany, Italy)Here, the Tuscan Wine and Culinary Experience package includes goodies like daily breakfast, wine tasting, a trip to a local market and culinary experience with the resort’s chef, diplomas, and souvenir aprons. Rates are from $290 per night in a classic guestroom.

From $416: Hyatt Ziva Cancun (Cancun, Mexico)Until April 30, this new all-inclusive property is offering 50 percent off rates for stays through December 20. After taking a peek at dates in April and May, we found nightly rates from $416-$436. Even though the price sounds steep, keep in mind that there are 18 restaurants on property, and there’s the bonus of this being a months-old resort.

From $448: Santa Catalina Island Company (Catalina Island, CA)Just off the coast of Long Beach, life slows down on Catalina Island. The Santa Catalina Island Company’s Unlimited Fun package includes unlimited access to activities and tours on the island (such as a glass-bottom boat cruise and a ziplining tour), lodging at one of three hotels, $100 dining credit per person, and round-trip boat transportation. The offer is valid on two-night stays, and runs from $224 per person, per night — or $448 for two guests.

By Kristine Hansen
- See more at: http://blog.shermanstravel.com/2016/from-90-six-travel-deals-for-april-and-may/?utm_source=Sailthru&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=Escapes%20Newsletter:%2004.02.16&utm_term=National:%20Bulletin%20/%20Trip%20Ideas%20/%20ROS#sthash.Xg7c5jfW.dpuf

Luxe Sunset Boulevard Hotel Receives AAA Four Diamond Rating

Luxe Sunset Boulevard Hotel has been selected as a recipient of the esteemed AAA Four Diamond rating. According to AAA, in order to earn a four diamond rating, a property must have a refined and stylish sense of place with upscale physical attributes, extensive amenities, an exceptional degree of hospitality, top quality service and high attention to detail.

This AAA Four Diamond rating for the hotel signifies one of the most well-known and respected trademarks in the travel industry.

“In selecting our hotel for the AAA Four Diamond rating, the organization has given us an impressive accolade and we are honored to be in the company of other such high quality properties,” said Efrem Harkham, CEO and chairman of Luxe Hotels. “This achievement would not be possible without the exceptional personal attention given to our guests by our staff. Every staff member at Luxe Sunset Boulevard Hotel is dedicated to ensuring guests have a pleasant and relaxing stay at our urban retreat.”

Luxe Sunset Boulevard Hotel sits on seven acres of lush, pristine property in the Brentwood neighborhood of Los Angeles. The 162-guestroom hotel features an elegant contemporary design in earthy shades of taupe and chocolate brown, offset with vibrant accents. On Sunset, the property’s signature restaurant, features California cuisine with a splash of French influence. The hotel also boasts an outdoor swimming pool, providing the perfect location for enjoying the California sunshine.

Amy Commans, general manager of the Luxe Sunset Boulevard Hotel, added, “This accomplishment is a milestone for the Luxe Sunset Boulevard Hotel. On behalf of everyone that contributes to making this property so special, we very much look forward to providing to those in the Los Angeles community and travelers from around the globe, the same luxury experience that earned us this special rating today.”

California's Sonoma Valley Wine Route: Top 10 Guide

Valley rally … the Kunde Family Winery, Sonoma, is part of a great viticulture tradition in California

Napa may grab the headlines but the roots of Californian wine are in nearby Sonoma valley, where family-owned vineyards, farm-to-table restaurants and charming hotels make it an area ripe for exploring

About an hour north of San Francisco, Sonoma valley is Sonoma County’s most concentrated wine-growing area with more than 100 wineries and a stunning range of varietals. With five American Viticultural Areas (AVAs) stretching across 20 miles of diverse soils and microclimates, it means it is possible to sip a dry rosé at a picnic table near the winemaker’s home, taste a zinfandel while seated next to the vats in a production warehouse, sample chardonnay from barrels in an ageing cave, or compare library pinots during a private tasting. While Sonoma and the villages of Glen Ellen and Kenwood are sophisticated when it comes to wine and food, they still exude small-town warmth and hospitality. And that’s not just the wine talking: in 2013 Sonoma was voted among the friendliest cities in the US.

TASTING ROOMS AND WINERIES

Roche Family Winery

FacebookTwitterPinterest

Start your explorations at Sonoma’s tree-shaded plaza. Franciscan friars established a mission here in 1823, planting grapes for communion wine. Today, more than 20 tasting rooms are among the plaza’s historic brick and adobe buildings, pouring varietals and styles produced in Sonoma valley, Sonoma County and beyond. At the Roche Family Winery you can people-watch from the patio while enjoying a tasting flight or a glass. The specialities are award-winning chardonnays aged in French and American oak, plus a 90-point chardonnay fermented in stainless steel that just might convert ABC (anything but chardonnay) drinkers.
• Tasting $5, 122 West Spain Street, Sonoma, +1 707 935 7115,rochewinery.com. Open Mon-Sat 11am-7pm, Sun 11am-6pm

Buena Vista Winery

FacebookTwitterPinterest

 Photograph: Rick Gerharter/Getty Images/Lonely Planet Images

To experience the diversity of the valley’s AVAs, leave behind the comforts of the plaza and head for the hills to meet winemaking families. California’s wine industry began in 1857, when “Count” Agoston Haraszthy, a Hungarian, launched Buena Vista Winery. Today it is part of the Boisset wine empire, but its vibe is warm and welcoming, and every detail reflects Jean-Charles Boisset’s enthusiasm for the winery’s colourful history. The tasting room pours several varietals and a red blend (The Count) inspired by Haraszthy but the best way to soak up the old-California atmosphere is to order one of the winery’s picnic hampers ($75, including wine tasting) and relax around the cobblestone courtyard. History buffs can drive or hike to neighbouring Bartholomew Park Winery, once part of Haraszthy’s estate, to learn more about the flamboyant count – including the devastating phylloxera virus that ended his winemaking career … and the alligator that ended him.
• Tasting $15-$40, tours from $25, 18000 Old Winery Road, Sonoma, +1 707 963 6900, buenavistawinery.com. Open daily 10am-5pm

Gundlach Bundschu Winery

Rooted in the past yet fun and free-spirited, Gundlach Bundschu Winery is on a 300-acre farm a couple of miles from Sonoma Plaza. “Gunbun” is California’s oldest continuously owned family winery, producing in small lots, including an annual reserve selection – usually a Bordeaux-style red – that makes reviewers swoon. Jacob Gundlach planted his first vines here – rootstock from the old country – in 1858. Five generations later, Jeff Bundschu has introduced new vines and new traditions, including the Huichica music festival held on the farm’s grassy hillside each June. Sitting here on a summer evening, sipping a chilled gewurztraminer and listening to some of the best indie bands outside of Coachella is a quintessential California experience. Gunbun’s main tasting room is open year-round; on summer weekends, you can reserve a courtyard tasting overlooking the pond and vineyards.
• Tasting $10-$50, tours from $30, 2000 Denmark Street, Sonoma, +1 707 938 5277, gunbun.com. Open daily 11am-4.30pm (June-October till 5.30pm)

Benziger Family Winery

FacebookTwitterPinterest

 Photograph: Alamy

Six miles north of Sonoma, the village of Glen Ellen was once home to author Jack London, who coined the area’s nickname: the Valley of the Moon. In the early 1900s London experimented with sustainable agriculture on his ranch, now preserved as a 50-acre state park. Next door, the Benziger Family Winery has furthered London’s ideals – following biodynamic principles to grow grapes on their farm below Sonoma Mountain. The tasting room pours a refreshing sauvignon blanc and an excellent pinot, but the stars are the rich red blends crafted from estate-grown grapes. The farm, which recently won a green medal for environmental stewardship, is lush and inviting, with sheep, Highlander cattle and an “insect nursery” where natural pestkillers are raised. Tours are popular, so make reservations well in advance or have a plan B, such as visiting the Benzigers’ chic sister winery, Imagery Estate, known for crafting award-winning wines from rarely grown grapes such as barbera, lagrein and teroldego.
• Tasting $15-$40, tours from $25, 1883 London Ranch Road, Glen Ellen, +1 707 935 3000, benziger.com. Open daily 10am-5pm

Kunde Family Winery

 Photograph: Timm Eubanks

As Highway 12 heads north toward Kenwood, it enters some of Sonoma valley’s most heart-tugging scenery. Vineyards sprawl across foothills and ridges, with the highest peaks dedicated to parklands. Stretching two miles along the highway is the Kunde family’s 1,850-acre estate, where fourth- and fifth generations continue tending vines. From the varying terrain, soils and microclimates, 19 varietals are grown for a broad portfolio of estate wines. This landscape begs exploration, and six times yearly, you can hike the vineyards with a Kunde neighbour or family member. Billed as “moderately strenuous” due to an uphill stretch, the four-mile hike is more of a meander, with frequent stops for generous tastes in situ. There will be a chance to sip luscious Century Vines zinfandel while standing next to the thick, twisted trunks of hundred-year-old grapevines and see filming locations for Bottle Shock (which starred Alan Rickman as sommelier Steven Spurrier). Daily van tours take guests to a hilltop tasting area under a bower of oaks, with views down the valley – all the way to the bay. Picnickers are welcome in the gardens outside the main tasting room, and free cave tours are usually available, too.
• Tasting $10-$25, tours from $30, 9825 Sonoma Highway, Kenwood, +1 707 833 5501, kunde.com. Open daily 10.30am-5pm

WHERE TO STAY

Landmark Vineyards, Kenwood

FacebookTwitterPinterest

In Kenwood, 11 miles north of Sonoma Plaza, Landmark Vineyards hosts guests in a cottage or suite overlooking the vines, with the Mayacamas range as a backdrop. The guest suite is unabashedly romantic, with a king-size bed, fireplace, patio, in-room breakfast and a complimentary bottle of Landmark’s Overlook chardonnay. Though this idyllic location is far from the bustle, you’ll find three mountainside parks and more than a dozen wineries, restaurants, and tasting rooms practically on your doorstep.
• Guest suite from $275, cottage from $300, 101 Adobe Canyon Road, Kenwood, +1 707 833 0053, landmarkwine.com

The Swiss Hotel

Advertisement

Expect to spend $200 and up a night for a room near Sonoma Plaza, where you can stroll between tasting rooms or along the town’s bike path. If you’re looking for a bargain, visit midweek when rooms are discounted, or November to January, when rates fall by as much as 50%. The Swiss Hotel has five rooms, all with access to the balcony overlooking the plaza. The hotel was built around 1850 and used as a private residence by General Vallejo’s brother – it’s only steps away from the adobe barracks that housed Mexican, then US troops (now a state park). Rooms are simple but spacious and tidy, with Victorian-inspired decor. If you’re a light sleeper, keep in mind that the open-air bar/restaurant downstairs is lively on summer weekends.
• Doubles from $110, 18 West Spain Street, Sonoma, +1 707 938 2884,swisshotelsonoma.com

Sonoma Chalet

Room prices tend to decrease as distance from the plaza increases. Only five minutes away, Sonoma Chalet offers four guestrooms and three cottages, some with fireplaces or private porches. Two of the guest rooms share a bath and parlour, and can be rented together as a suite. The emphasis here is on comfort: fluffy quilts, Oriental carpets, clawfoot baths and a shady garden deck with a hot tub. Pastoral and quiet, this former farmhouse is near the 152-acre Montini Preserve, where hiking trails climb to give bird’s-eye views. Stray further, and there are motel chains 20-40 minutes away in Petaluma or Santa Rosa. And, 15 miles north, there is camping at Sugarloaf Ridge state park ($35 a night,reserveamerica.com).
• Rooms and cottages $140-$225 B&B, 18935 Fifth Street West, Sonoma, +1 707 938 3129, sonomachalet.com

WHERE TO EAT

The Girl and the Fig

FacebookTwitterPinterest

Restaurants around Sonoma’s downtown plaza are famous for their relaxed ambience and excellent wine selections. At the forefront of Sonoma’s local food movement is Sondra Bernstein, owner of The Girl & the Fig, who has won accolades for her extensive wine list and creative seasonal menus: Provençal cuisine with California flair. The patio is a convivial spot for sitting with friends and trading bites of locally produced cheeses and delectable appetisers (from $10). Mains start at $20 and plats du jour are $38 for three courses. If you can’t land a reservation or walk in, there is a second location in Glen Ellen, as well as Suite D, Bernstein’s crowd-sourced pop-up (open most summer weekends) in a warehouse, east of downtown.
• Open Mon-Thur 11.30am-10pm, Fri-Sat till 11pm, Sunday brunch 10am-3pm, 110 West Spain Street, Sonoma, +1 707 938 3634, thegirldandthefig.com

Park 121

FacebookTwitterPinterest

Chowhounds on the road in search of local flavour should be prepared to brake for delis, farm stands and roadside cafes. Park 121, a few miles south of Sonoma in Cornerstone Gardens, makes a fine choice for lunch or a cup of Blue Bottle coffee while exploring Carneros wineries. The modern farmhouse decor features a blackboard map showing where ingredients are sourced from. During summer, when organic produce stand The Patch’s beefsteak tomatoes are in season, Park 121 serves a classic BLT ($10) and the empanada ($12) is great for a winery picnic. Take a stroll around Cornerstone’s shops and architect-designed gardens, as well as the three tasting rooms that are on site – proving that you’re never far from liquid sunshine in Sonoma valley.
• Open daily 10am-5pm, 23584 Arnold Drive (Highway 121), Sonoma, +1 707 938 8579, park121.com

Contributed by Kathleen Bryant, author of Western National Parks’ Lodges Cookbook. She lives in California’s wine country . www.theguardian.com

Follow us on Twitter: @TraveloreReport