I shot this at the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise in the Canadian Rockies, Banff National Park.

A great travel photograph requires two things: a great subject, and great light.  We were out hiking around Lake Louise, one misty morning, when this view popped into my trusty Nikon’s viewfinder.

Although the light was not popping the colors, like I generally prefer, this magnificent subject, along with the beautiful reflections in the water still made for a beautiful capture.  The low hanging clouds add to the mystery of the setting.

As you can see in the media photograph from Fairmont (right), the setting of this chateau is simply indescribable.

If you’d like a little more information about the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise, take a peek at our feature video.

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The Hotel Valley Ho is offering some really sweet packages for Valentine’s Day.

Hotel Valley Ho is Downtown Scottsdale’s mid-century modern landmark. Originally opened in 1956 and reopened in 2005 after a complete restoration, this 193-room urban retreat blends old with new: vintage design with modern amenities like wireless Internet access throughout, flat screen televisions in each room, and a state-of-the-art fitness center. There’s also ZuZu, VH Spa for Vitality + Health, and OH Pool Bar + Cabanas.

We had the opportunity to have a spectacularly groovy Sunday brunch at ZuZu back a few months ago.  We quickly learned that Hotel Valley Ho knows how to make very special memories.

With this foreknowledge, we can assure you that their Valentine’s Day packages are certain to be just as memorable.

Valentine’s Day Packages at Hotel Valley Ho, Scottsdale

Hotel Valley Ho has some swell offerings this Valentine’s Day — dinner at ZuZu, the Romance Package, splendid spa specials, and a variety of rooms and suites suited to sweethearts.

ZuZu will be featuring drink specials and an a-la-carte, three-course menu created just for the evening, along with its regular dinner menu. For an in-room treat, overnight guests can order amenities like chocolate-covered strawberries, Champagne, and handcrafted truffles.

The hotel also offers the Romance Package. A Red Flower aromatherapy candle is a gift upon arrival. Complimentary turndown service is offered, with delivery of a half-bottle of Veuve Clicquot Champagne and fresh seasonal fruit. Also included is a complimentary in-room movie and breakfast in bed or at ZuZu. *$20 per person maximum for breakfast. All package items exclude tax and gratuity. Meals do not include alcohol.

VH Spa for Vitality + Health is featuring two specials for Valentine’s Day, for both couples and singles. The Romance Package for Two includes two 60-minute Aromatherapy Massages, followed by chocolate-dipped strawberries and two glasses of champagne served on the spa deck ($300, includes service charge). For singles, the Loving the Single Life Package includes a 60-minute Aromatherapy Massage, chocolate-dipped strawberries, and a glass of Champagne ($150, includes service charge). Both packages are available Monday, February 13 and Tuesday, February 14.

Rooms are available from $259 per night; the Romance Package starts at $346 (rates are for February 14) Dinner, spa, and room reservations can be made at 480.248.2000 and at www.hotelvalleyho.com.

Have fun!

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Disclosure: this is a sponsored post brought to you on behalf of Hotel Valley Ho.

Note: click for larger view

Over the past four years, Hawaii, the Big Island has been our annual winter visit to the tropics.

We love Hawaii Island because it’s bigger than all the other Hawaiian islands combined, has one of the world’s most active volcanoes, and has two volcanic peaks that rise from sea level to nearly 14,000 feet.

Of all the islands, Hawaii Island is the most ecologically diverse, with natural environments ranging from the desert plains of Ka‘ü to the rain forests above Hilo, to sometimes snowcapped Mauna Kea. There are said to be 13 climatic regions on earth and Hawaii Island has all but two, the Arctic and the Saharan.

We could sing the praises of Hawaii Island for hours.  However, the thing that we like most about Hawaii Island is that it is somewhat undiscovered by most American travelers.

Think about it, a somewhat undiscovered Hawaiian island that is barron of the massive throngs of people found on some of the neighboring islands.  For decades, smart travelers have quietly visited, built homes, and enjoyed this tropical paradise without the boat loads of tourists found elsewhere.

Shhh.  Don’t tell anyone our secret!

We are soon to make another trek to Hawaii Island, sponsored by our friends at the Big Island Visitors Bureau, and they wanted us to share with you that Hawaii Island is also the land of big adventure.

Here’s a recent release from Hawaii Island:

How long will the eruption last? No one knows but back up near the summit, at the park visitors’ center, rangers can tell explorers all about trails, campgrounds, guided hikes and Hawaiian cultural activities. Respected tour companies also offer interpretative drives and hikes through the park.

And down the road, visitors can explore the Kazumura lava tube system—the deepest, longest, tallest known lava tube system on Earth, on a guided trek.

Ocean Commotion – Hawai‘i Island has 266 miles of coastline—more than double that of any other Hawaiian Island—and there are many ways to explore the warm, clear ocean that surrounds us. Start with charter boats—traditional Hawaiian outriggers for paddling or sailing, cush catamarans for snorkeling and scuba expeditions to tucked- away bays, sturdy craft for close-up views of lava exploding into the sea, even a real submarine with very big windows. And don’t forget the stalwart yachts that cruise Kona’s famous deep-sea fishing grounds, hooking some of the world’s most spectacular fighting fish. Adventurers can also rent kayaks to discover hidden coves on their own for snorkeling and secluded picnics.

But you don’t need a boat to enjoy the ocean around Hawai‘i Island.

Surfing (he‘e nalu) was invented by Hawaiians, and Hawai‘i Island surf breaks are so treasured that songs and chants have been written about them. Surf lessons are a perfect way to learn where to go and what to do. Two local favorites are Honoli‘i Beach Park outside of Hilo, and Kahalu‘u Beach Park just south of Kailua Village.

Scuba guides will lead newbies or old salts out into the sparkling blue right from shore along the Kona and Kohala coasts, swirling through arches and caves, racing green sea turtles and flying weightless underwater. Or just put on your mask and snorkel and float in the shallows at one of the many beaches around the island where families love to gather. Or don’t even get your face wet—tip-toe among the tidepools and see a whole miniature world you never knew existed.

Click for large view

Star Struck – The ocean is pretty deep, but not compared to the heavens. At the 13,796- foot summit of Maunakea stand the planet’s most powerful astronomical observatories. From here, telescopes peer billions of light-years into the universe. Before going to the summit, cosmos-oriented dreamers will want to stop at the 9,300-foot visitors’ center and peer through portable telescopes to the rings of Saturn and beyond. Then they can drive or take a tour to the summit, be dazzled by a sky shimmering with more stars than they’ve probably ever seen, and stand next to the giant observatories that, at that very moment, might be discovering extraordinary new truths about our universe.

Note: click photo for large view

Google’s new Hotel Finder tool just might make life a little easier for luxury boomer travelers.

Let’s say you are planning a trip to New York City and you want to find a 5-Star hotel within 15-minutes walking distance of Times Square.

Google’s new Hotel Finder will help you do exactly that.

When using the Hotel Finder tool, you type in a particular tourist attraction, and the tool will allow you to sort by:

• Price
• Hotel Class
• Price compared to usual
• Travel time (by foot or car)
• Price/night
• User ratings

After setting the particular filters you desire, the Hotel Finder tool will then display a list of hotels.  With a simple click of your mouse, you can view pictures and information about a particular hotel.  If you like a particular hotel, you can then add it to your “short list” for further comparison.

Once you’ve made a decision to stay at a particular hotel, you can then book it through Expedia, Priceline, Hotels.com, or the hotels site.

Give it a try, and let us know what you think!

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I shot this on Hawaii, the Big Island.

These two chairs were perched on a little peninsula of black lava hovering about 25 feet above the ocean.  Each morning, you could witness folks frantically vying for this prime spot on the beach.  It brought a smile to my face as I witnessed this daily display of human behavior.

When I’m out on a photo shoot, I am always looking for ways to bring human emotion into my photographs.  Here, the man is captured by the beautiful scene in a quiet trance, while his wife is busily trying to get the cap off of her bottle of sunscreen.

The temperature was a perfect 80 degrees.  There were no clouds in the skies.  If you closed your eyes, you were immediately transported to a very still place as the gentle ocean breeze caressed your face.

Isn’t this a place where you’d like to spend the day?

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Active baby boomer travelers find it important to be able to maintain their regular daily oral hygiene while on the road.  For those who have come to depend on a Waterpik water flosser in their day-to-day regimen, carrying around the company’s flagship product was not a viable option.

That all changed a few months ago when the Waterpik® Traveler™ Water Flosser was introduced.

The folks at Waterpik recently asked us if we would like to try out a free sample of their new product.  Being regular Waterpik users, we eagerly agreed.

The Waterpik^® Traveler™ Water Flosser (WP-300) is 50% smaller than previous models with a reservoir that inverts for compact travel and has a premium travel case included. It features 4 unique tips, a pressure control system with 3 settings, is energy efficient and quiet; offers global voltage compatibility, and has a 2-year warranty.

We loved the compact styling, the separate slots for the various attachments, and we didn’t notice any reduction in water pressure.  Plus, with the unit only weighing just over a pound, and with dimensions of 5 x 4 x 4.25, it will easily fit into carry-on luggage.

Benefits

• Clinically proven to be 2x as effective as string floss at reducing gingival bleeding and up to 52% more effective at reducing gingival inflammation
• Specially designed Orthodontic Tip with tapered brush is clinically proven to remove three times as much plaque biofilm and significantly reduce bleeding in orthodontic patients versus string floss
• Removes 99.9% of plaque biofilm from treated areas
• With the Classic Jet Tip, a solution will penetrate on average 50% of the depth of a pocket
• The Plaque Seeker Tip™ is designed to access stubborn plaque around implants, crowns, bridges, veneers, and other areas that are especially susceptible to plaque accumulation
• Massages and stimulates gingival tissue

Features

Catalina Island is a sublime place for a romantic interlude, and offers luxury boomer travelers an experience reminiscent of famous mediterranean cliff-side villages.

People have been living on Santa Catalina Island for at least 7,000 years.

At the time of first European contact, it is thought that the people living on Santa Catalina Island called their island Pimu and themselves Pimungans (or Pimuvit). The Pimungans of Santa Catalina Island paddled out in a friendly greeting to the Spanish galleon that bore the explorer Don Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo to their shores on October 7, 1542.

Over the centuries,  Catalina Island has harbored smugglers, became a part of Mexico in 1820 when New Spain revolted from Spanish control, and became part of the United States when California joined in 1850.

Fast forward to 1919, and we find chewing gum magnate William Wrigley Jr. purchasing the majority of the island.  For the next ten years, Wrigley underwent an ambitious development program that ultimately turned the island into a haven for the rich and famous.

Santa Catalina Island has served as the location for the filming of over 500 motion pictures, documentaries, television programs and commercials over the past 90 years. Of those 500, approximately 300 were motion picture productions.

Throughout this history, the Island has been transformed into the coast of North Africa, from Tahiti to the American frontier and back again. It has been mistaken for the lost continent of Atlantis and the home of that famous mechanical shark, Jaws. In short, Santa Catalina Island holds a unique place in the history of motion picture production as Hollywood’s exotic back lot.

Besides films, Catalina Island also served as a playground for the likes of  Charlie Chaplin, Joan Crawford, Clark Gable, Betty Grable, and Johnny Weismuller.  Sadly, Catalina Island is also the location where Natalie Wood met with her mysterious death.

Today, people continue flocking to Catalina Island to enjoy the charming beach-side city of Avalon, the famous Catalina Island Jazz Festival,  and warm weather will find throngs of boaters moored around the island’s rocky shores.

Can you hear Nat King Cole singing, “I found my love in Avalon…along the bay!”

Introduction to Catalina Island

How to get to Catalina Island

Getting to Catalina Island is fast, fun, and easy! Catalina Island, one of the Channel Islands, is located just 22 miles off the coast of Southern California.  You can be on the island in as little as 15 minutes via helicopter or one hour by boat.

Catalina Express provides boat transportation from Long Beach, San Pedro and Dana Point. Travel time to Avalon is about one hour. Call Catalina Express at (310) 519-1212 or www.catalinaexpress.com for reservations.

Catalina Passenger Service departs daily from Newport Beach’s historic Balboa Pavilion. Travel time aboard the Catalina Flyer to Avalon is about 75 minutes. For information and reservations call (949) 673-5245 or www.catalinainfo.com.

The Catalina Marina del Rey Flyer departs from Fisherman’s Village at Marina del Rey. The schedule varies and travel time to Avalon is 1 3-4 hours. For more information contact 310-305-7250 or www.catalinaferries.com.

For a quick trip across the channel you can take Island Express Helicopter Service which departs from both San Pedro and Long Beach Harbors. Travel time to Avalon is about 15 minutes. For reservations or information call (800) 2-AVALON or www.islandexpress.com.

When to Travel to Catalina Island

Catalina Island is a wonderful place to visit any time of year.

Summer is the busiest season, spring and fall are absolutely beautiful, with perfect blue skies and water temperatures warm enough to enjoy all the water activities. Mid-week any time of the year is also a great time to visit Catalina Island, as hotel rates are lower than weekend rates.

It is highly recommended that visitors planning a weekend trip to Catalina Island make cross-channel transportation and hotel reservations in advance, especially in the busy summer season. Many hotels have a two-night (Friday & Saturday) minimum on the weekends.

What to Wear on Catalina Island

With Catalina’s warm weather and laid-back island atmosphere, it’s no surprise that casual attire is the preferred dress code for Catalina Island.

Sandals are popular, but bring a good pair of walking shoes if you are planning to do any hiking or tour the interior. Bring a sweater or light jacket if you will be on the island during the evening, and don’t forget your swimsuit!

Getting Around Catalina Island

Avalon, Catalina Island’s main town, is only one square mile in size and everything is in walking distance. In fact walking is the preferred mode of transportation since there are a limited number of automobiles on the island. Avalon is the only city in California authorized by the state legislature to regulate the number and size of vehicles allowed to drive on city streets. Currently, there is a 12-14 year waiting list to own a car on the island.

But visitors don’t need a car in Avalon; it’s easy to navigate by foot. Walking is a wonderful way to explore this charming town. The picturesque harbor that nestles Avalon provides a good excuse to slow down the pace and enjoy the view.

When you arrive on the island many hotels provide a courtesy shuttle while other hotels provide free baggage service. Be sure to ask when you make reservations. Taxi service is available to all locations in Avalon, and cabs meet each arriving boat. There is also a taxi stand in the center of town that will take you anywhere you want to go. Trolley service operates along two scheduled routes regularly in the summer and on weekends in the off season.

To enjoy the hills above the town, do what the locals do and drive a golf cart. Golf cart rentals are abundant in town and you can easily explore the mountain terrain around Avalon in an hour or so. You can also rent a bicycle to go exploring or take a sightseeing tour in a comfortable motor coach or open- air tram.

If you want to venture beyond Avalon without going on a tour, shuttle bus service is also available from Avalon to the Airport in the Sky, Two Harbors, and the interior campgrounds.

Outdoor enthusiasts are welcome to explore Catalina Island on foot. Hiking and biking permits and trail maps are available at the Catalina Conservancy House at 125 Clarissa Avenue in Avalon.

Where to Stay on Catalina Island

The Inn on Mt. Ada

This 1921 Georgian Colonial (the Wrigley Mansion) is the former home of  chewing gum magnate William Wrigley, Jr. The home sits 350 feet above the town and harbor on Mt. Ada (named after his wife, Ada), and was designed to catch the first sunlight in the morning and the last rays at sunset.

After Mrs. Wrigley’s death, the home eventually became The Inn on Mt. Ada, and for the past successive 18 years has enjoyed a Mobil 4-Star rating as well as a handful of other notable distinctions.  With only six rooms available, the Inn is highly sought after, requiring reservations well in advance of your stay.

When we arrived on Catalina Island, there was a shuttle van waiting for us at the ferry docks, and we were shuttled up the mountain to the mansion.

We learned that we would be staying in “The Queen’s Aviary”, Mrs. Wrigley’s bedroom and sitting room.  As you’ll see in the video below, the room has been impeccably maintained and offered us beautiful views of the harbor and ocean.  Further, we enjoyed a vintage bathroom, a large walk-in closet, and a romantic fireplace.

As our luggage was brought to our room, we enjoyed a brief tour of the mansion.  There is a stunningly beautiful sun porch overlooking the harbor, a large deck wrapping the house; a very large living room with a grand piano and fireplace, a beautiful dining room with stunning chandeliers, and a guest kitchen stocked with goodies, wine, beer, water, and even a freezer stocked with ice cream!

The Inn provides breakfast and lunch each day, and in the evening has an ample offering of hors d’oeuvres and wine.

We loved our stay at The Inn on Mt. Ada, and highly recommend it.

The Aurora Hotel and Spa

Setting high above the bay, a couple blocks from the harbor, the Aurora Hotel and Spa sits in a typical island mixed-use area offering guests wonderful views of the harbor from its roof-deck.

This location has been serving Catalina Island guests for over thirty years.  However, when the Aurora moved in, the hotel was remodeled giving the property the hospitality of a bed and breakfast inn with the ambiance of a metropolitan boutique hotel.

The Aurora offers standard rooms, junior suites, and their opulent Aurora Suite.

We spent a marvelous night in the Aurora Suite.  Billed as one of the most luxurious hotel suites on the island, it featured a massive flat screen television, a beautiful stone fireplace and bar in the living area; a walk-in multi-head shower, a king-size Tempurpedic  mattress, and two of the most comfortable reclining rockers we have ever had the privilege of sitting in.

The room was large, very comfortable, and definitely a cool hideaway for the luxury traveler.

Living Area

Bath

Hotel Setting

Lobby

Breakfast

Roof-top Deck

Note: click photographs for larger view and available slide show.

Hotel Metropole

The Hotel Metropole is set in the Metropole Market Place which resembles the French Quarter with cobblestone walkways and features a unique collection of boutique shops, a fine-dining restaurant, a day spa, a classic arcade, and an espresso bar.

Further adding to the hotel’s appeal is its central location in the heart of Avalon right along the town’s ocean-side boardwalk.

Accommodations at Hotel Metropole vary from  a luxurious 2-bedroom, 2-bathroom 1800 square foot hideaway, to a VIP Wing, Ocean Front Mini-Suites, and family-friendly guest rooms.

We enjoyed one of their newly refurbished ocean front mini-suites.  Our amenities included our own private balcony with panoramic ocean views, a king-size bed, fireplace, jacuzzi bathtub, plush robes, ample closet space, and a large flat-screen television.

With a seating area, and workstation, the room was large enough you could easily make this your home away from home for a long stay.

And, with the sliding peek-a-boo partition between the bed and the jacuzzi, you can even enjoy a conversation while one of you soaks in the tub and the other reads on the comfortable bed.

We greatly enjoyed our stay.

Mini-Suite

Room Views

Peek-a-boo Bath

Note: click photographs for larger view and available slide show.

Where to Eat on Catalina Island

Avalon Grille

Open seven days a week for lunch and dinner with a lively, central bar and open air dining. This new waterfront restaurant features American regional dishes with a seasonal approach, paired with a world class selection of wines, micro-brew beers and cocktails in a casual and fun “al fresco” atmosphere overlooking Avalon Bay.

We stopped into the Avalon Grille for lunch. Ricardo, the General Manager, insisted that we start our lunch out by sharing one of their signature martinis.  Although we generally wouldn’t enjoy a martini for lunch, we can highly recommend it. Delish!

Mr. Roaming Boomer did most of the heavy lifting on the martini, while Chef Paul Hancock sent out a veritable bounty of delights for us to sample.  First came Tuna Tartar, Calamari, and Chef Hancock’s famous Roasted Brussels Sprouts.  All were delightful.  However, we asked for, and received, the recipe for the brussels sprouts.  If you like brussels sprouts, you will go gaga for these!  They’re roasted with cranberries, almonds, pancetta, and a mustard vinaigrette.  Best brussels sprouts ever!

Continuing our gastronomical journey we moved into our entrées.  Carol went for the Ahi Tuna Burger, and while I was tempted to try a famous Catalina Island Buffalo Burger (not local buffalos), I opted instead for the day’s Fresh Catch – Sand Dabs.  Carol’s burger was accompanied by fried green beens, while my Sand Dabs were pan-fried with a beurre blanc sauce.  YUM!

Although we didn’t ask for it, out came our proud and smiling waiter with Deep Fried Oreo Cookies for dessert.  Now, I must confess, deep-fried Oreo cookies does not sound appealing to me.  However, you haven’t lived until you tasted a hot, melty, Oreo cookie with a dash of vanilla ice cream. Holy Fried Delight Batman!  That was good!

Signature Martini

Crispy Calamari & Rock Shrimp

Tuna Tartar

Fresh Catch - Sand Dabs

Ahi Burger w/ Fried Green Beans

Deep-Fried Oreo Cookies

Note: click photographs for larger view and available slide show.

 Steve’s Steakhouse

Steve Bray, owner and operating manager at Steve’s Steakhouse, comes from a long line of pioneers of the small island resort-town of Avalon.

As a fourth-generation islander, Steve’s family heritage traces back to the days before chewing gum magnate William Wrigley, Jr. owned the island.  Steve’s great-grandfather was the first county judge of Avalon; his grandfather was a local sheriff and constable, and his father was a local boat captain for 55 years.

Steve spent his early years working in various local restaurants, and in 2001 opened Steve’s Steakhouse.

Our evening started with Thai Crab Cakes, the best Fried Coconut Shrimp we’ve ever had in our lives, and a beautiful bottle of Silver Oak Cabernet Savignon.  Absolutely, out of this world!  What a stunning first impression!

For our entrées my meat-eating bride went for Steak and Lobster, while I enjoyed a beautiful piece of Sea Bass.  Just take a peek at my photographs below and see if your salivation glands don’t go into overdrive.  We slowly dined while enjoying the candlelight, our Silver Oak, and Steve’s wonderful company as he stopped by each table to make all feel welcome and special.

As our forks finally clinked upon an empty plate, we were treated to Steve’s Signature Key Lime Pie, a cup of decaf for Carol and a pipping-hot double espresso for me.  Wow!

When you visit Catalina Island, make certain that Steve’s Steakhouse is at the top of your dinner reservations.

Martini

Thai Crab Cakes

Fried Coconut Shrimp

Surf and Turf

Sea Bass

Signature Key Lime Pie

Note: click photographs for larger view and available slide show.

Ristorante Villa Portofino

Located opposite the waterfront with a dramatic view of Avalon Harbor, Ristorante Villa Portofino offers its guests a choice of dining on the harbor view patio or in the warm ambiance of their Italian-inspired dining room.

The continental cuisine is complimented by an inspired wine list of Italian and Californian vintages and a full bar as well as hand-crafted desserts and one of the island’s only espresso bars.

During our visit, Carol enjoyed Vitello alla Parmigiana (thin slices of veal, lightly breaded and baked in a marinara sauce with mozzarella and parmesan cheeses), while I opted for Risotto del Mar (fresh mussels, clams, calamari, scallops, salmon, white fish, garlic white wine sauce).  Delightful!

Make certain to also leave room for the Tiramisu prepared by their in-house pastry chef.  YUM!

Vitello alla Parmigiana

Risotto de Mar

Tiramisu

Note: click photographs for larger view and available slide show.

The Lobster Trap

The Lobster Trap is consistently voted one of Catalina Island’s best restaurants, and is a clear favorite of the locals. It is a relaxed, come-as-you-are restaurant during the day, and in the evening morphs into a popular bar with live music.

While the restaurant offers a full menu of fresh, locally caught fish, we made a beeline to try out their famous lobster taco.  In fact, our schedule was so tight that we didn’t even have time to sit down at a table to enjoy a meal.  We were here for one reason, and one reason only: to sample the lobster taco that we kept hearing about all over town.

Recommendation?  Make certain to get your self one, or two, or three!  Wow!

What to do on Catalina Island

Not only is Catalina Island a wonderful romantic hideaway, but it also offers a great deal of adventure for those so inclined.

Top 10 Things to do on Catalina Island

• Tour the world-famous Catalina Island Casino
• Tour Catalina Island’s interior on a Hummer Tour
• Explore Catalina Island on a Segway Tour
• Explore Avalon Bay underwater on a Semi-Submersible Tour
• Explore Avalon with a Golf Cart Rental
• Explore the beautiful Wrigley Memorial and Botanical Garden
• Rent a private cabana and spend the day at Desconso Beach Club
• Get your adrenalin rushing on the Catalina Island Zip Line Eco Tour
• Use your smartphone to play Catalina Island Urban Adventure Quest
• Experience the world’s first Flying Fish Tour

Phew!  There it is, our Catalina Island Travel Guide. If you follow our recommendations, you are certain to build a passel of lifetime memories.

If you would like to explore other options available on Catalina Island, click the link for the Catalina Island Chamber of Commerce.

Enjoy!

And, after you’ve had some fun on Catalina Island, come share some of your photographs with us on our Facebook page.  As of this writing, there are over 10,000 “roaming boomers” sharing and having fun talking about travel.

If you enjoyed this article, please follow us at our website, our Facebook page, and on Twitter.

Disclosure: this wonderful experience was provided in part by the Catalina Island Chamber of Commerce, The Inn on Mt. Ada,  Aurora Hotel and Spa, Hotel Metropole, Avalon Grille, Steve’s Steakhouse, Catalina Express, Santa Catalina Island Company, and Catalina Segways.  Thanks!  We had a blast!

El Malecon Boardwalk in Havana Cuba

Until recently, it has been illegal for U.S. citizens to travel to Cuba since the 1962 trade embargo put into place by President John F. Kennedy

The only travel allowed between the two countries was primarily limited to Cuban-Americans, research trips for professional and academic research, and humanitarian or religious mission trips.

While travel to Cuba is still not legal for the average American tourist, last year President Obama made it possible for limited numbers of people to legally travel to Cuba through “people-to-people” educational travel programs.

In that spirit, professional photographers Tod O’Driscoll and Otto von Munchow invite you to join them on an intimate 8 Day Cuban Photographic Journey on April 16-23, 2012 (travel provided by Insight Cuba).

Join an 8-Day Cuban Photographic Journey!

As part of this people-to-people exchange, group participants will meet and get to know Cubans from all different walks of life.  Participants, through an English speaking Cuban guide,  will learn about Cuban history, culture, and the joys, triumphs, and every day struggles of the Cuban people.

From Tod and Otto:

“Get acquainted with the romantic city of Havana and its people through interactions with the residents, visiting communities, sharing stories and experiences.

After falling in love with Havana, it’s on to Cienfuegos, commonly referred to as “The Pearl of the South”, before settling in to soak up Trinidad’s colonial charm. While here, you’ll walk the cobblestoned streets, mingling with the residents while absorbing the history of this wondrous region. Set amongst the Sierra del Escambray Mountains to the north, where coffee plantations dominate, and the turquoise blue Caribbean Sea to the south, you’ll take in the beauty of the area, and won’t want to leave!

Each day on the tour, you will go out with your camera to meet Cubans from various walks of life, and you will be able to hear their stories about their lives, their customs, and their country. You will also see the beautiful architecture, be seduced by the infectious Cuban music, and take in the stunning landscapes.”

Highlights of the tour include:

• A walking tour of Old Havana’s colonial streets and squares
• Visiting a Cuban cigar factory
• Meeting Cuban photographers
• Touring Cienfuegos (the “Paris of Cuba) and visiting a Cuban artist colony
• Meeting Cuban musicians
• Touring the Miramar neighborhood of Havana
• Meeting Cuban artists
• Exploring colonial Trinidad
• Visiting the Sugar Mills Valley

What’s included:

• 4 or 5-star accommodations in Havana
• All meals (as outlined in the itinerary)
• Days full of guided activities
• U.S. Treasury Department License and Letter of Authorization
• A Cuban host (travel guide)
• All entrance fees to scheduled activities and events
• All in-country ground transportation and transfers
• Travel health insurance, emergency medical evacuation, and trip cancellation coverage (up to $1,000)
• Insight Cuba Travel Handbook
• 24-hour emergency service

What’s not included:

• Flights to and from Miami, and international flights to and from Havana are not included in cost of the program (prices to Havana vary depending on the season, but can range from $400 up to $600+)
• $50 visa charge
• $20 Fed Ex charge
• $50 Administration fee
• This cost also does not include any fees to be paid to Fototecha (the Cuban Photographers group we will be meeting with).
• $25 Cuban departure tax
• Tips for your guide, driver, chambermaids, bell hops and waiters are not included in the program fee.
• Any optional event that requires an admission fee such as museums, night clubs, a baseball game, etc.
• Beverages or snacks which are not part of a meal (i.e., a beverage or snack purchased between meals).
• Individual transportation within Cuba for optional activities.
• All expenses of a personal nature such as room service, phone, mini-bar, laundry, internet access, etc.
• Any excess baggage charges.
• Cost of obtaining a passport.
• Any additional cost(s) not included in the itinerary.

Instructors: Tod O’Driscoll and Otto von Munchow

Tod O’Driscoll is an award winning photographer with twenty two years experience. He has an M.A. in Photography, and his work has taken him all over the U.S., as well as to Mexico, Europe and Africa. His fine art, documentary, and event photography have all been awarded top honors in various regional, national and international competitions over the years, and his work has been published by corporations, universities and print and web publications.

Otto von Munchow is a documentary photographer based in Bergen, Norway. In 1989, he studied at the International Center of Photography in New York City, where he assisted acclaimed documentary photographer Mary Ellen Mark. Since then, he has photographed in Africa, the Ukraine, Thailand, Norway, Cuba, and all over Europe. His work has been published in many print and web publications. He first visited Cuba in 1991, and has returned many times since then, as he loves Cuba and the Cuban people.

Cost of the trip is $3,695 (double occupancy). A single supplement is an additional $300 per each single room request. A deposit of $600 is required to reserve your place on the trip.

For more info. on the trip (including pricing details, etc.), please visit: www.phototourscuba.com.  To reserve your place, please call: (206) 948-9481 or (480) 313-8121, or email: odriscollphoto@msn.com

This program is organized and operated by Insight Cuba. Insight Cuba has been issued a specific license by The Department of the Treasury, Office of Foreign Assets Control, which authorizes registered guests of their programs to visit Cuba legally.

This trip sounds like a once-in-a-lifetime adventure.  As a photographer, and a lover of unique travel experiences, this trip would definitely merit our personal consideration if we weren’t already committed to other travel during the time of this excursion.

Disclosure:  this information is brought to you as a sponsored post paid for by World Photo Tours.

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The AAA Four and Five Diamond lists are one of our “go to” lists when we are deciding which properties to visit and share with you our readers and subscribers.

One of the great missions of our website is to peruse these lists on your behalf, go visit, and bring you back a report filled with lush photography, videos, and more.

Here’s a recent press release that we hope might spark a few travel ideas in your mind.

If so, be certain to head to our Facebook page and share some of your pictures.

ORLANDO, Fla., (Jan. 20, 2012) – AAA announced today the 126 lodgings and 53 restaurants that earned the AAA/CAA Five Diamond Award® designation for 2012. These select establishments represent just 0.3 percent of the total 59,000 AAA/CAA Approved and Diamond Rated lodgings and restaurants.

Of note among the 16 new additions for 2012 are first-ever Five Diamond establishments for Rhode Island and Antigua. In the restaurant category, New York tops the list for growth with three new Five Diamond establishments. California is the only state to grow in both categories, with two additional lodgings and one restaurant.

The Roaming Boomers help you decide which of these properties to visit with our lush video and photographic reports!

During the past year, eight Five Diamond restaurants closed their doors, at least temporarily. “This 15 percent drop illustrates the speed at which the concept of luxury dining is shifting in response to the economy, changing diner preferences and a corporate redefining of acceptable luxury levels for business reimbursement,” said Michael Petrone, director, AAA Tourism Information Development. “Today the service style is more casual, with a greater focus on providing a high-quality, individualized, value-focused experience. The addition of seven Five Diamond restaurants reflects the rebound that began for this segment during the latter half of 2011.”

AAA’s professional inspectors, ideally positioned to observe emerging hospitality trends, noted other changes in store for 2012. For hotels, a prevalent trend is creating a home-away-from-home environment, according to AAA inspectors. Another growth area is “smarter” hotel rooms that learn guests’ habits as they use a central remote to control everything from heating and air to lights, curtains, music and wakeup calls. In the restaurant industry, prevailing themes include more natural ingredients, locally sourced foods and healthier meal options. These include rustic fare — simple dishes with fresh ingredients — made in-house and new twists on comfort foods such as a “dusting” of dried, powdered fruits or vegetables to add texture and flavor, rather than heavy sauces.

“Five Diamond lodgings feature extraordinary physical attributes and meticulous personalized attention, and Five Diamond restaurants feature world-class service and imaginative menu selections using the finest ingredients,” said Petrone. “It is an amazing accomplishment to achieve and maintain this level of quality and service, and AAA is pleased to honor these properties with a Five Diamond Rating.”

New AAA Five Diamond Lodgings:

ARIA Sky Suites, Las Vegas, Nev.

The Inn at Palmetto Bluff, Bluffton, S.C.

Jumby Bay, A Rosewood Resort, Jumby Bay, Antigua (pictured above)

Mandarin Oriental, Miami, Fla.

Montage Beverly Hills, Beverly Hills, Calif.

Ocean House, Watch Hill, R.I.

The Ritz-Carlton, Lake Tahoe, Truckee, Calif.

The Ritz-Carlton, Toronto, Ontario, Canada

The St. Regis Houston, Houston, Texas

New Five Diamond Restaurants:

Blue Hill at Stone Barns, Tarrytown, N.Y.

Del Posto, New York, N.Y.

Herons Restaurant, Cary, N.C. (in the Umstead Hotel & Spa)

The Kitchen Restaurant, Sacramento, Calif.

Marea, New York, N.Y.

Menton, Boston, Mass.

Restaurant Initiale, Québec, Canada

Noteworthy for 2012:

Three lodgings have maintained the Five Diamond Rating for 36 consecutive years – since 1976 when AAA first introduced the Diamond Ratings for accommodations: The Broadmoor in Colorado Springs, Colo., The Greenbrier in White Sulphur Springs, W.Va., and JW Marriott Camelback Inn Resort & Spa in Scottsdale, Ariz.

The restaurant with the longest Five Diamond tenure, 24 consecutive years, since 1988, is The Inn at Little Washington Dining Room in Washington, Va.

Continuing a 75-year tradition, AAA’s professionally trained inspectors use published guidelines to conduct unannounced property evaluations. AAA rates more properties than any other rating entity and is the only rating system that covers the U.S., Canada, Mexico and the Caribbean. It is one of only two that conduct physical, on-site evaluations, assigning AAA/CAA Approved lodgings and restaurants One to Five AAA Diamonds. Travelers can access information about AAA inspections and Diamond Ratings at AAA.com/Diamonds.

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Few travelers find Pfeiffer Beach, but it is well known and loved by the locals.

The beach is unmarked from the highway, and to get there you must keep a sharp eye for Sycamore Canyon Road located just outside Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park.  At the end of Sycamore Canyon Road, you will find a nice parking area, restrooms, and the beach only a quarter-mile down a beautiful path.  As of this writing, entrance was $5/car.

Be certain to bring a camera as the rock formations are stunning, and you won’t want to miss showing your friends photographs of the patches of purple sand that adorn the beach.  With manganese garnet in the hills surrounding the beach, colorful shades of violet, ruby red, pink, or even royal purple gets washed down to the beach.  The farther north you walk, the more colorful the beach becomes.

Although somewhat remote, the beach is family-friendly and well worth a visit.  Don’t forget your beach towels!

The beach is “point A” on the map below.

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