Dreaming of….
Tag: stunning landscape
Terranea Resort
I recently had the opportunity to stay at the Terranea Resort (terra-nay-a) in Rancho Palos Verdes, CA. Terranea has a beautiful setting on the cliffs of the Pacific Ocean in Southern California with a view of Catalina Island across the channel.
Situated on 102 acres, this luxury resort offers over 580 rooms consisting of hotel suites, residential style bungalows, casitas and villas. The resort also offers a 9-hole par 3 golf course, a luxurious spa, three ocean view pools and eight distinctive restaurants, bars, cafes and lounges. 
The property was previously Marineland of the Pacific. Marineland was the world’s largest oceanarium featuring sea life, entertainment, and research facilities. Opening one year before Disneyland, many consider Marineland California’s first major theme park, and it remained a major attraction to the area until it closed in 1987. The property has also been the location of dozens of Hollywood films and television shows over the years.
My first full day there, the weather was stunningly perfect so I spent it lounging at one of the three pools, my choice was the adult pool on a cushy chaise lounge. This pool has a hip, contemporary feel. Pops of orange add some drama and a sleek, orange glass fire pit adds a bit a sass to the patio. Conversation seating and lounge chairs on a make-shift sand beach overlook the stunning cliffs and ocean. The pool offers a full bar and snack shack and tunes are played throughout the day for a really relaxing and pleasurable experience.
The next day I decided to give the resort’s luxury spa a try ~ a little workout in the gym, sat in the steam room, sauna and hot tub for awhile and then had a healthy lunch out by the pool.
I ate at a different restaurant each night and they all offered good food. The most popular by far was Nelson’s ~ a casual hangout with a great patio for having drinks and watching the sunset.
With the gorgeous cliffs and grounds this resort boasts, you can bet I’ll be looking forward to returning soon.
@2013 Susan Edel
Exciting Property Inspection Coming Up!
After my incredible stay at the Amangiri Resort in Utah last year (see post here), I am so excited to have confirmed my stay at Aman Resorts‘ only other U.S. location, Amangani in Jackson Hole, Wyoming for the end of September.
The timing couldn’t be more appropriate as after doing the post on Glacier National Park (here), I am now longing to see some amazing landscapes and wildlife (and hoping I’ll get some images that might rival my friend, Dave’s 🙂) .
It’s a tough job, but I make these sacrifices so I can share this information with you! Can’t wait to report back.
The Grandeur of Glacier National Park
“Glacier connects us to the very core of our nature. It’s a place where stunning summits overlook a million acres of wilderness; where the most rugged rock formations rub against meadows of beargrass blossoms; where grizzly bear, and elk, and bighorn sheep roam free.” Al Gore
I would by no means consider myself an outdoor enthusiast in the sense that I would strap on a backpack, hike for miles to arrive at a destination so that I could set up a tent and sleep on the ground...with no restroom in sight! 🙂 Although, having said that, I am a huge enthusiast for the exquisite beauty and grandeur of all that nature has to offer. I have to admit that the thought of sleeping under the moonlight and twinkling stars, the fresh air and streams, and the quiet whispers of the wilderness are almost appealing enough to make me take on the challenge. How many sherpas do you think it would take to bring all my amenities?
For my friend Dave though, this is exactly what he wants to be doing ~ this is his paradise. Dave lives in the beautiful state of Montana at Glacier National Park’s (GNP) doorstep. Over the years, I have watched Dave post his stunning photographs from his weekend adventures in GNP and I have always been awestruck at the beauty he encounters with each outing (all photographs posted here are his images).
GNP is the outdoor enthusiasts playground. With over 700 miles of trails to hike, rugged peaks to climb, glacial-carved valleys to admire and along with over 130 lakes, my friend will be able to discover new adventures for years to come.
Dave occupies his time with hiking, biking, kayaking, fly-fishing and so much more.
With his permission, I couldn’t resist the urge to share his amazing adventures at GNP with all of you. So strap on your backpack and join the journey as we see Glacier National Park through Dave’s eyes.
The Lakes
Glacial Peaks, Valleys and Waterfalls
My favorites ~ the wildflowers
Along with my other favorite ~ the incredible wildlife
Shelters and Fire Lookouts (some available for overnight rentals)
I can’t help but look at my friend’s hiking boots and wonder how many miles they have traveled, how many peaks they have crested, how many sunrises and sunsets have been witnessed, how much of life has been pondered on a mountain top, and how much gratitude has been expressed over the years…and will be for years to come.
Thank you, Dave for taking us along for the ride and sharing your “happy place” with us.
Glacier National Park
“If you are facing in the right direction, all you need to do is keep on walking.” Buddhist Saying
Enjoy the journey, no matter where it takes you.
Where will life take you?
Coastal Charm with an Air of Sophistication
Half Moon Bay (HMB) is a quaint coastal town in Northern California located between San Jose and San Francisco. It is a local destination for me, so I frequent this area a lot.
I love going to HMB because it has a low key atmosphere, it’s not as crowded as going to Santa Cruz and, although it’s a relatively small town, it has a lot to offer. The quaint downtown, located inland, consists of about a mile long stretch of road, aptly named Main Street, with cafés, furniture, and knick knack shops that offer an air of sophistication trickled in from the larger surrounding cities. HMB also has my favorite nursery and a couple excellent statuary and pottery stores.
HMB is also famous for it’s Annual Pumpkin Festival held each year in October which draws hundreds of thousands of people for the harvest festivities and weigh-in of the largest pumpkin.
Just north of Half Moon Bay is the site of the famous Mavericks Surf Contest. Mavericks draws some of the world’s best big wave surfers where waves can routinely crest at over 25 feet and top out at over 80 feet as depicted in the mural below located in downtown Half Moon Bay.
Another main hub of activity in this town is the waterfront.
Pillar Point Harbor is an active boat harbor along with activity rentals such as kayaks, paddle boards, fishing excursions and more. There are also many seafood restaurants and water-front hotels.
My husband and I enjoy both kayaking and bringing our bicycles here. There is a wonderful seven mile walking/bicycle trail that we catch from the harbor and we enjoy the sights as we ride along the coast.
The coastline is gorgeous along this stretch.
This is one of the few areas where you can ride horses on the beach.
The seven mile trail ends at the Ritz Carlton Hotel. This is where we refuel on lunch before we head the seven miles back to the harbor.
I think this property has one of the most beautiful settings of almost anywhere I’ve been. I’ve never been to Ireland but I feel like this property has a similar feel as the Irish coast.
The have adorned the grounds with Adirondack chairs and a huge fire pit so you can relax and enjoy the view. There are beautiful architectural elements that add a sophisticated ambiance to this seaside resort and gorgeous plantings throughout the property.
It always feels like a mini-vacation every time we come here. Sheer pleasure!
Sun, Surf and Sand Any Day of the Week for Me!
“I love the sea’s sounds and the way it reflects the sky. The colours that shimmer across its surface are unbelievable. This, combined with the colour of the water over white sand, surprises me every time.” John Dyer
Thanks to all of you who have submitted your travel photos to be featured. Please keep them coming ~ Share your beautiful destination photos with us! See here
Luxury in Los Cabos w/o Breaking the Bank
When I visit a destination, I always try to get around to tour as many different resorts as I can so I can witness first hand what the resorts look like in person.
While I was in Cabo San Lucas, I wanted to check out the top resorts ~ so I stayed at Las Ventanas and toured the One & Only Palmilla, Esperanza and Los Cabos Marquis (now Secrets Los Cabos Marquis).
I wasn’t sure what to expect with the Los Cabos Marquis since I didn’t consider it at the same level as the other three resorts but it was close to where I was staying so I stopped by. I was given a tour of the entire property and I have to tell you, I was very impressed with this property.
The open air lobby is a beautiful first impression and then you are guided by a winged angel to view the stunning white sand beach and turquoise blue water below. The pool is gorgeous with comfortable lounge chairs and there are unique art pieces scattered throughout the property. The guest rooms are every bit as charming as their higher-end counterparts with gorgeous ocean views. What I was most impressed with though was the price-point.
In my opinion, this resort offers everything the others do but gives you even more for your money now as it is an adult only, all-inclusive property. So if you are looking for that luxury vacation but can’t afford those celebrity prices at the other resorts, take a good look at the deals below because these are really great prices for a luxury, all-inclusive vacation.
SIZZLING SPECIALS
Secrets Marquis Los Cabos
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Specials:
HOT HOT HOT Promotion: $1042, Five nights Junior suite ocean view, unlimited luxury includes all meals, beverages, daily activities, live performances, taxes and gratuities, $200 resort credit, and private airport transfers., Travel Dates: Now-December 31, 2012
Unlimited Luxury: $960, Four nights Junior suite oceanview, unlimited luxury includes all meals, beverages, daily activities, live performances, taxes and gratuities, private airport transfers, Travel Dates: August 20 – December 20, 2012
Journese land prices are per person, double occupancy, subject to
availability and change, travel for “Travel Dates” shown.
Photo Gallery:
These are my personal images taken from my on-site tour.
| Guest Services: | Each morning guests receive a complimentary Marquis Breakfast which includes coffee, sweet rolls, and fresh fruit. |
| Restaurant: | Vista Ballenas, regional specials, seafood and California cuisine Canto del Mar, dinner only, fine dining, seats 20 Dos Mares Restaurant and Bar, casual poolside specializing in seafood dishes El Suspiro, casual bar |
| Beach: | White-sand beach. Not recommended for swimming. |
| Recreation: | Secrets Marquis Los Cabos is located between the Cabo Real and the Cabo del Sol golf courses. Three large pools, full service holistic spa and fitness center, surfing, fishing, scuba diving, whale watching, shopping. |
| Golf Courses: | Located between the Cabo Real and the Cabo del Sol. Selection of courses are nearby. |
| Bedding: | All guest rooms include one king or two double beds with reversible firm or soft mattress. |
| Spa: | The Spa, a full sevice spa, offers facials, body wraps, massages, fitness center, steam bath, sauna and open air Jacuzzis. Hair and nail salon also available. |
| Room: | Secrets Marquis Los Cabos features 203 junior suites, five suites Marquis, one Presidential Suite and 28 casitas with private pools. All include private balconies or terraces. Every room offers an oceanview. Some units have refrigerator in room. |
| Non-Smoking: | Available on request. |
The above deal is offered by Journese. Other deals available for additional Los Cabos properties.
For more information on this property or to book a stay contact me at skedaddle61@gmail.com.
Guest Post: CoastingNZ ~ Sitting on Top of the World
For a few weeks now, you’ve been seeing my Featured Guest Photos but this week please welcome my first Featured Writer ~ CoastingNz.wordpress.com. Jan submitted this story to me and I really liked the fact that the story is about New Zealand, which I have never been to and don’t see myself getting there any time in the near future so I’m happy I can share this with my followers. Enjoy the story and beautiful images from the top of the world.
Featured Writer: CoastingNZ.wordpress.com / Sitting on Top of the World
Top of Mt George, Punakaiki Coastline, West Coast, NZ
Sitting on Top of the World, Mt George, Punakaiki Coastline, West Coast, NZ
Sitting on Top of the World, Mount George, Paparoa Ranges, Punakaiki Coastline, West Coast, NZ
Sitting on top of the world, watching the time roll away, sitting on top of the world, wasting tii -iii, iii, iiimmme
I left my home in Greymouth and travelled out the Coastal road. Parked up at the 10 mile and hiked up to the top of Mount George ooohhh, sitting on the top of the world…….
Ok, so you have to be with me on the tune here, and yes I’ve changed the words but thanks to Otis Reading and his “sitting on the Dock of the Bay” for the melody cos with these views that was all that was going through my head!
Views to Tasman Sea, climbing Mt George, Punakaiki Coastline, West Coast, NZ
Views to Tasman Sea and Southern Alps, Mt George, Punakaiki Coastline, West Coast, NZ
This is a fantastic hike – must be described as a hike as it is true blue back-country tramping. Not a long hike but a good climb up the mountain, through NZ native bush with some fantastic examples of our wonderful flora and fauna. There was a beautiful NZ Falcon souring above us at the top and a couple of cute little fantail following us on the way back down.
Backcountry Exploring West Coast Style, Mt George, NZ
Wild West Coast, Punakaiki Coastline, NZ
The trail starts out straight into climbing up through the dense native bush before popping out on a ridgeline covered in Keikei, manuka and young beech trees (still climbing!!!). Another section in the native bush (and yes, it is up, up, up) before we have to clamber our way up a crag to reach the rock face and gain the rewards of the top. There is a trig at the top so we know we’ve made it – that and you can only go down again from here!
Southern Alps and Tasman Sea views, Mt George, Paparoa Ranges, West Coast, NZ
Great Coast Road views, Punakaiki Coastline, West Coast, NZ
The views though – WOW! 360 degree – out to the Tasman (we could see at least three fishing boats), all up and down the coast, our house!, out the back to Runanga and you can just make out the outskirts of Greymouth, the towering peaks of the Southern Alps off in the background including fabulous views of Mt Cook and Mt Tasman – did I mention WOW!
Mountain climbing, Mt George, West Coast, NZ
Heading for the tops, Mt George, Paparoa Ranges, West Coast, NZ
Almost at the top, Mt George, West Coast, NZ
Have to admit, it was a grunt to get up here – certainly got the blood pumping and the heart rate up. I felt muscles in places I didn’t know I had muscles! Worth it though. Surprisingly – given the elevation we were climbing, it didn’t actually take that long. All in all, we were only away for a couple of hours – including our snack stop at the top.
Wahoo, at the top, Mt George, Punakaiki coastline, West Coast, NZ
What goes up, must come down…….
Coming down Mt George, you can see the track meandering ahead
Heading back down with views to Tasman Sea, West Coast, NZ
After some careful foot placement we eventually make it back down to the bottom. Very cool looking back from the car up to where we were – wow, we just climbed that. Fantastic!
Sitting on top of the world, watching the time roll away, sitting on top of the world………
Jan and Stephen love to get out exploring so check out their website for other things to see and do in the area – or just follow their blog for their latest adventures.
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If you would like to submit your travel photos or a guest blog, please see my Submission Requirements page for instructions. I hope to hear from you.
Southwest Luxury at Rancho Encantado, Santa Fe
In the fall of 2011, my husband and I decided to take a short vacation to Santa Fe, New Mexico. Since I always like to experience first hand what I recommend to my clients, I searched for the luxury resorts in that area. Several came up for consideration, but for me, the Rancho Encantado stood out above the rest.
At the time that I stayed at this resort, the property was managed by Auberge Resorts, however, it has just recently been turned over to the Four Seasons. The property is now New Mexico’s first AAA Five-Diamond hotel and one of Travel & Leisure’s Top 50 US Destination Resorts.
One of the main reasons this property stood out for me is because it isn’t in downtown Santa Fe. There are times when I enjoy being in a downtown area where I can walk everywhere and not worry about getting into a car, but considering this was my first time in Santa Fe, I really wanted to experience the calmness and true landscape of the area.
As we drove up, I knew right away we had made the right decision. The resort is set against the foothills of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains and the 65 casitas were designed to blend into the landscape.
The rooms tastefully reflect the Southwest flavor and incorporate some local artisans works such as a native drum side table, artwork and beautiful coffee table books.
Small touches like the cowhide light fixtures with leather trim and hammered metal mirror frames add an authentic feel to the casitas.
Each day, I would wake up and make myself a cup of coffee in the Keurig coffee maker (which I eventually had to buy for myself) and sit on the lounge chair soaking up the stillness of the morning.
On a couple of the evenings, we decided that we couldn’t think of a nicer place to enjoy the night sky and have dinner than on our patio by the outdoor fire.
The resort has a large pool, a renowned spa and fine dining on property. The resorts tranquil setting is perfect for rest, relaxation and rejuvenating your spirit.
Others might disagree, but in my opinion, after spending a long day walking around downtown Santa Fe the 10 minute drive back to Rancho Encantado is worth it for the peace and quiet of this enchanting resort. See (here) for my post on what we did while we were in New Mexico.
For more information on this property or to book a stay contact me at skedaddle61@gmail.com.
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