Search results matching tag 'Dining'

Bring on the Grapes: A Guide to Wine in North Tahoe

Jennifer — Tue, 03 Feb 2009 03:00:00 GMT

North Lake Tahoe is an area which offers wonderful cultural events and premier entertainment. Of all the things to do there, however, few things beat the simple joys found in attending a winery tour or one of the local wine festivals. The following events and places are all ones at which you can taste a few (or perhaps more than a few) great wines, relax with friends and family, and generally enjoy yourself.

The Lake Tahoe Autumn Food & Wine Festival

The 2009 Lake Tahoe Autumn Food & Wine Festival will be the 24rd incarnation of this magnificent event, which takes place each year in the Village at Northstar. The event takes place over the course of an entire weekend, beginning on Friday, September 11th and ending that Sunday evening, the 13th. In between, festival-goers are offered wine tastings, a "grape stomp", tours, celebrity chef demonstrations, a wine walk, classes on the pairing of food and wine, a gourmet marketplace, and much, much more. For wine connoisseurs and beginners alike, this is an ideal opportunity to enjoy fine wine and fine culture.

Uncorked in the Village at Squaw

Uncorked, which is located on First Street in the Village at Squaw, is a wine bar and shop which is geared towards those who are serious about their love of wine. This establishment offers wine tasting, wine by the glass, and special weekend events at which customers can meet and interact with local winemakers.

Trio in Truckee

Trio is a beautiful wine bar which is located in Truckee. Along with offering a stunning array of different wine selections from around the globe, this place also features small plate appetizers, delicious champagnes, and is basically just a very cool, chic place to visit.

Time for Wine in Tahoe City

This interesting wine shop, which is touted as a more "common man's" establishment, is a good choice for those who aren't as familiar with wine, or educated about it. The employees at Time for Wine are very willing to explain things and make beginners feel welcome.

The Pour House in Truckee

The Pour House, located in Truckee, is a great wine-tasting bar and wine shop. Unfortunately, however, it has extremely limited hours. The prices here, though, make up for any other element that's lacking.

Grapes and Grounds in the Village at Northstar

Grapes and Grounds, as its name implies, is a wonderful wine and coffee specialty store. A visit to this place is made worthwhile by the smell of the interior all by itself. The prices here, however, are a bit on the higher side.

The Truckee Village Winery

This winery, which offers year-round wine tasting, is of absolutely premier quality. Of especial brilliance are this winery's merlots, which make up some of the best the area has to offer. All in all, this is a great winery to visit for beginners and veteran connoisseurs alike.

This guide to some of the gorgeous grapes in and around North Lake Tahoe was brought to you by Geoff Weed.

Experience Incline Village in North Tahoe

Jennifer — Mon, 26 Jan 2009 23:09:00 GMT

The recent closing of North Lake Tahoe's Ponderosa Ranch may have left some tourists feeling left in the lurch, but Incline Village isn't just a one trick pony when it comes to attractions. How much sarsaparilla can a person really drink anyway? Here's a novel way to spend the day in Incline Village: see what it's like to be a rich guy as well as a regular Joe.

Start your day at the top of the heap. A man known to his friends as "Captain" George Whittell built the Thunderbird Lodge in 1936, but don't let the name of the place fool you. It's not another knotty pine hotel. The house is an architectural beauty, sitting on part of the 40,000 acres the Cap'n acquired with visions of building a million-dollar casino and hotel. Before you start thinking of the man as the Mr. Burns of Tahoe, look around you: he obviously changed his mind. A developing interest in nature and conservation refreshingly outweighed his desire for big bucks, and he held on to the huge estate for the rest of his life. Present-day tourists can now essentially step through a time tunnel into the Tahoe of the past, when only the ultra-elite had property here and built opulent homes worthy of envy.

Guided tours include the stunning main house (plus behind-the-scenes areas such as the cooks' quarters) as well as its unusual additions, such as a lighthouse and a glass-enclosed bridge. Take a gander at the fancily embellished elephant garage, which housed - you guessed it - an Indian elephant that once lived on the estate. The card house is supposedly one of the few remaining examples of its type of building: a spot where men and their best pals supposedly played cards, but just as readily smoked, drank and otherwise caroused. Something about the atmosphere will make you suddenly crave a single malt Scotch.

If you make plans to coincide with one of Thunderbird Lodge's ritzy wine and dinner events, you can have that drink after all. Don't despair if you miss a special event, as there is plenty yet to do, including the simple marvel of trying to imagine this place if Whittell's original vision had panned out. Play the "I'm a developer" game while viewing the pristine landscape and see if you can pick out the best spots for neon signs and diners.(5000 Hwy. 28, 775-832-8750 Tour costs vary from $25 for a bus tour to $110 for boat tours. Tours dates and times are seasonal, so check ahead.)

After seeing how the rich half live, contemplate the pleasures of being an ordinary working class stiff with the best that lowbrow Americana has to offer: bowling. Bowl Incline is a comfortable place to get away from the chi chi tourist restaurants and the ski snobs, with 16 lanes for laid back bowling bliss. Practice your best Fred Flintstone imitation while having a cold beer and mingling with the locals. Try out the golf simulator and redeem yourself for all of your real-life golfing gaffs on the greens. Test the theory that each beer improves your score.(920 Southwood Blvd., 775-831-1900 $3.75 per game with $2.25 shoe rental.)

Afterward, further celebrate the simple life with a big fat burger at Rookies, a popular neighborhood sports bar nearby. Now this is the good life! Savor each bite with thankfulness that you don't live on a mansion on a hill where you have to eat tiny arugula salads and sip wine from a dainty flute. It's good to be Joe.

This guide to the best of both worlds in North Lake Tahoe's Incline Village was brought to you by Elizabeth Kelly.

South Lake Tahoe: The Traveler's Must List

Jennifer — Mon, 19 Jan 2009 02:09:00 GMT

Ready for a vacation? Try South Tahoe, where there is something to do 365-days a year. Never heard of South Lake Tahoe? Well...

South Lake Tahoe has a population of approximately 35,000 and is the lakeside's largest community. This population is not just seasonal, as most of the residents are full-time and call the area home.

South Lake Tahoe is an exceptional recreational area and boasts sunny beaches, fishing, boating, horse-back riding, and miles and miles of the best hiking trails one could hope to find anywhere. A really great example is the Eagle Fall's Hike that boasts spectacular views of Lake Tahoe as the hiking trail winds its way through the majestic forests.

For winter activities, you can find world famous Heavenly Valley and Kirkwood very close by for all types of snowy activities, including cross-country and downhill skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing.

If it's around-the-clock action you prefer, Vegas-style casinos are nearby and often draw top performers and big name entertainment from around the world.

South Lake Tahoe also provides numerous first class restaurants for those who appreciate fine dining. The Swiss Chalet Restaurant located on Lake Tahoe Boulevard has had the same chef owner-operator for almost 50 years. This romantic restaurant gives diners the feeling they are in the French Alps. With a choice of authentic European and American cuisine, this is one gourmet stop that every visitor to the area should have on their list!

For some real Tahoe charm another great culinary choice is the Evans American Gourmet Cafe. It certainly gives one that warm, cozy feeling as the restaurant is actually an authentic mountain cabin. They have an excellent menu of reasonably priced appetizers and main courses and stock superb wines in a wide range of prices.

If you happen to be in the mood for some Asian food, Mandarin Garden can also be found on Lake Tahoe Boulevard. This is a more casual eatery and is the choice of many families after a day at the beach. The menu is full or interesting, moderately-priced menu choices that will appeal to the entire family.

For many years the top choice for breakfast in South Lake Tahoe has been Heidi's Pancake House. Heidi's is very well known and much-loved by the locals. Although skiers often stop by for amazing sandwiches and burgers, Heidi's is best known for it's delicious breakfast menu.

To work up an appetite you might want to join the Tahoe Mountain Milers on their weekly Tuesday and Thursday evening runs. All runners have a standing invitation for the out and back run along Tahoe Keys, which is the largest of Lake Tahoe's many marinas.

For history buffs, a visit to Vikingsholm Castle is not to me missed. Found on Emerald Bay Road, the construction of this estate began in 1928 by Lora Josephine. It's said that 200 people were hired to carve the intricate designs found through-out the estate. Interestingly enough, much of the estate was put together without the use of nails or other fasteners. If one is a fan of fine craftsmanship, antiques, and the very best examples of Scandinavian furnishings, then Vikingholm Castle should be at the top of the list of places to visit in South Lake Tahoe.

For a truly unique and diverse holiday destination, South Lake Tahoe is full of Summer and Winter recreation opportunities, fine food, and numerous other attractions that make it the perfect choice for a fun-filled, relaxing vacation.

This quick guide to South Lake Tahoe was brought to you by Ray Fauteux.

Experience Cascade Lake by Moonlight--on a Sunriver Tour!

Jennifer — Mon, 05 Jan 2009 04:38:00 GMT

Do you want something completely different to do on your vacation this year? How about canoeing in the dark, in Sun River, Oregon, surrounded by all that nature can offer, and then some? You can go canoeing by the light of the full moon in Sun River Oregon, complete with a tour of Cascade Lake by what our forefathers used for directional lights--the stars!

Just how do you get to canoe by the light of the moon? Wanderlust Tours provides everything you will need to enjoy this awe-inspiring activity. It is so much fun, you will find yourself talking about what a great adventure you had for years to come.

How could you not want to go? To spend several hours in a canoe paddling through crystal clear, cool waters, surrounded by the incredible beauty of the mountains--it's incredible! The tours run summer through fall during a full moon cycle. The star light tours run every night from June 15, to October 15, and start at 8 p.m. and end at midnight.

During these nighttime runs you can actually see where you are going and what is around you, probably due to being higher up here in this mountainous world. The moonlight is so bright reflecting off Cascade Lake that you will be able to see. You just have to open your senses to all that is around you, and listen to owls hooting, and animals moving around on the shore. It is so quiet and peaceful, and serene to paddle through the wilderness at night. I thought it was kind of like a spiritual experience and there is nothing else in this world like it!

Don't worry about it being nothing but exercise: We stopped for hot drinks and yummy tasting desserts.( They think of everything here in Sun River, don't they?) Wanderlust Tours even will pick you up at Sun River to come along for the ride of a lifetime. Kids are more than welcome to come, but must be at least 8 years old. The guides are outstanding and won't leave you stranded in the woods somewhere. You'll be so busy gazing at the stars and picking out animals like those busy beavers and deer on the shore, that time will fly.

This first-hand guide to SunRiver's nighttime canoe treks was brought to you by Kate Johns.

Stay at Shipwreck Plantation For an Amazing Hilton Head Getaway

Jennifer — Fri, 02 Jan 2009 02:53:00 GMT

Island resorts are typically luxurious, but Shipwreck Plantation, on Hilton Head Island, still managed to blow my expectations out of the water. My husband and I couldn't have planned a better weekend trip. Not only are we nature junkies, but we also happen to be (not-so-talented) sports fiends.

Golfers unite! The Shipyard Golf Club offers 27 championship-worthy holes. Putt-Putt is also on the menu. For those who would rather compete on the court, there is the Van der Meer Racquet Club, which is ranked among the best worldwide. Watersports such as kayaking, parasailing, and scuba diving are at the fingertips of the adventurous. Miles of bicycle paths are open to avid riders and joggers. These awe-inspiring nature trails are also great for hiking and bird-watching.

Wildlife is plentiful at the Shipwreck Plantation. Crocs may not lurk in the fresh water lagoons, but alligators certainly do. They also nap out in the open quite a bit. Ten pound bass and turtles are also swimming about. Dolphins playing in the Atlantic are visible from the beach, but the sight of them is exponentially better from a boat. The best view from the glimmering white sand is definitely sunset, though Shipwreck Plantation is a lovely setting altogether.

Wherever one wanders, the landscaping is impeccable, which is impressive for an 800 acre resort. Businesses have been built at a distance so the serenity of the resort is maintained. Wherever one chooses to stay overnight, birds will likely be heard chirping outside in the morning. Though the Crown Plaza Hotel and vacation homes are usually available, most guests choose to simply rent a villa. Villas come with kitchens, couches, peace and quiet. Renting one is like having another home for a short while. Besides, if a craving for a home-cooked meal hits, an oven is ready and waiting to help.

Speaking of food, it doesn't hurt to know what restaurants are nearby. A grand selection of hundreds of shops and eateries means plenty of options. With so many different restaurant choices, it's a chance to experiment and take risks. Plantation Cafe has surefire breakfasts and lunches. Dinner is a great opportunity to try somewhere new. Whether it's for dining, shopping, or recreation, Shipwreck Plantation is the place to go!

This guide to a vacation at Shipwreck Plantation in Hilton Head was brought to you by Shannon Beineke

Stay at Sea Pines Resort on Your Next Hilton Head Holiday

Jennifer — Fri, 26 Dec 2008 02:37:00 GMT

Sea Pines is a beautiful oceanfront resort that's located on 5000 acres in Hilton Head, South Carolina. It includes three golf courses, world-class tennis courts, beaches, horse stables, and much much more. I stayed at Sea Pines with my husband and three small children together with my husband's family a few summers ago. It was the perfect place for a relaxing family getaway. We had an amazing trip.

The Accommodations
While we were there, we stayed in a artfully decorated and spacious home with several bedrooms and bathrooms in the Harbor Town area. The property was surrounded by spectacular views and natural beauty, and it felt completely secluded. There was plenty of space for everyone in our extended family, which included 7 adults, 2 teenagers, and 4 little children. The private pool was both beautiful and perfect for our kids, who spent the majority of our vacation in the water. Staying in a private house was really the best arrangement for our group. It was less expensive than booking five or six hotel rooms, and we enjoyed spending time together, barbecuing, and swimming undisturbed.

What to Do
Venturing out with so many people wasn't easy, but we did manage to attempt at least one or two short activities a day. Our favorite was the beach. The Sea Pines Beach Club was a great place for the family, with amenities like comfortable beach chairs, boogie boards, and snacks. The water was relatively calm and fairly shallow, which meant that even the little ones could take a dip. My kids had a great time examining the underwater sea life, like starfish and schools of little fish.

Another great perk at Sea Pines were the beautiful and extensive biking trails. We all had a great time exploring the area for hours at a time on bikes provided by the resort. The trails are flat and lead to lots of pretty areas of Sea Pines, like beaches, golf courses and other quiet spots. It was great to spend so much time outdoors in such a relaxed and peaceful setting.

Dining and Entertainment
Dining at Sea Pines and all over Hilton Head is supposedly pretty spectacular. With so many people, we ended up eating most of our meals at home, but I did notice lots of enticing restaurants in the area. There seemed to be both upscale and family-oriented options with a variety of different cuisines.

Our favorite after-dinner activity (besides walking around and window shopping) was Gregg Russell's show at Harbor Town. Most spring and summer evenings, he sings, performs, and provides laughter and entertainment for Sea Pines visitors. The kids and adults had a great time. We all really enjoyed his family-oriented performance.

Staying at Sea Pines is a great way to experience what Hilton Head Island has to offer. The resort's many amenities, accommodations, friendly service, and incredible natural beauty made our vacation an unforgettable experience.

This up-close and personal travel review of Hilton Head's Sea Pines Resort was brought to you by Susannah Schild.

Spend Your Vacation Toasting Hilton Head

Jennifer — Fri, 12 Dec 2008 02:03:00 GMT

When most people think of wines, the laid back mellow wines of California pop to mind. But, there are other areas of the United States that may not produce barrels upon barrels of the finest wine known to man. Hilton Head, South Carolina has several terrific wineries that create some very sweet tasting wines that you will want to center your next vacation around.

Instead of traveling thousands of miles West, why not travel to the Atlantic Ocean for some fine wine? Called the grape of the South, muscadines, grow along the sandy shores and green fields of South Carolina. These grapes have been traced as far back as the 1600's when farmers realized their wonderful benefits, and created wine out of them.

Located on the Island of Hilton Head is Island Winery at 12 A Cardinal Road. They create unique and delicious high quality wines here on the island. One of their wines is created with different fruits and a touch of honey has been added. They have a wine called Southern Passion that is a blend of local fruits such as red and white grapes, Carolina peaches and Florida oranges. They have a wine and cheese happy hour Monday through Thursday at 4 p.m. They also have wine and cheese flights Monday through Friday from 12; 30 until 2; 30 at $5 a person. Reach them at 843-842-3141.

Located on Wadmalaw Island, South Carolina is the wonderful old southern charm of Irvin-House Vineyards. This winery is located 2 hours and 18 minutes from Island Winery. Irvin-House Vineyards are very accommodating and provide you with a beautiful area overlooking the vineyards to drink their very sweet tasting wine, so bring along some chairs and have a picnic. Take a stroll through the vineyards and the surrounding property and see the majestic oaks, the stocked pond, walking trails and abundant birds and wildlife. They are located at 6775 Bears Bluff Road, and their phone number is 843-559-6867.

Montmorenci Vineyards are located at 2989 Charleston Highway, Aiken, S.C. Their phone number is 843-649-4870. This family owned business was started in a very traditional way. They started making the wine in their very own basement. As the business grew they, of course, took their operations out of the basement and created an entire business of award-winning wines. They have free wine tastings Wednesday through Saturday from 10 to 6. The Montmorenci Winery has white wines names Melody and Seyval, and red wines called Triple Crown and Blush. This winery is located two hours and 45 minutes from Island Winery at Hilton Head Island.

The Carolina Vineyards Winery in Chester South Carolina is located at 4922 Highway 17 South in North Myrtle Beach, S.C. 29582. Their phone number is 842-361-9181. They have tastings of their fine wines everyday. They open at 10 a.m. and close from 6 to 11 depending on the season. Carolina Winery is just 16 miles away from Island Winery on Nags Head Island and they have a sweet tasting variety of wines. They are more of a small operation, right by the water.

Lowcountry Winery is located just 30 miles north of Hilton Head Island. They are located in historic Beaufort, South Carolina, also known as "Queen of the Carolina Sea Islands". They are in the heart of the low country, so you can be sure that their wines are mighty sweet tasting. They have a wide variety of wines such as Merlot, Chardonnay, and sweet tasting wines made from luscious fruits such as peaches and raspberries. Come in and taste their wines for a nominal fee from Monday through Saturday from 10 to 5. Their phone number is 843-379-3010.

For a great daytime escape or an extended getaway, come enjoy Southern hospitality at it's best, in Hilton Head's low country sipping some sweet tasting wines.

This guide to Hilton Head wineries was brought to you by Kate Johns.

With its Gourmet Dining, Keystone Takes the Cake!

Jennifer — Sun, 07 Dec 2008 00:15:00 GMT

It's 5Pm in Keystone, Colorado. Your family has returned to the condo, after a hard day on the slopes. As you sit by the fire sipping cocoa, you hear a grumbling sound. It starts on one side of the room, and continues around the circle. What's that sound? Then, you understand. Like the plant in the Little Shop of Horrors, everyone's stomach is saying, Feed me! I'm hungry!

So where should you eat? Fortunately, you will have many tempting choices. Keystone is home to Colorado Mountain College's Culinary Institute. For three years, the top students apprentice under the strict tutelage of the world's best chefs. This demanding program produces some of the best chefs in Summit County, so you can be assured a good meal wherever you go. Let's start with the place where Keystone history began.

The Ski Tip Lodge

Back in 1941, Max Dercum, for whom Dercum Mountain is named, purchased a place called the Black Ranch, which was once a stagecoach stop. In 1949, the name was changed to the Ski Tip Lodge, and by 1967, Dercum's dream of a full service ski resort were realized. The name "Ski Tip Lodge" is based on the once popular practice of using the tips of vintage skis for door handles. Today, the rotating menu at the Ski Tip Lodge receives the highest accolades form its guests. Written up by Denver's 5280 as Colorado's Most Romantic Getaway, the Ski Tip Lodge tends to attract couples. That said, it's probably not the best place to pick up girls.

The Keystone Ranch

Back in the 1930s, a romantic man by the name of Howard Reynolds built a ranch house for his fiance, Bernadine Smith. Today, this restored log home is called Keystone Ranch Restaurant. It was originally built as a cattle ranch and lettuce farm. Until 1977, it was a working ranch, which delighted locals with its succulent veal, crisp lettuce and fresh dairy products. The Keystone Ranch has been the proud recipient of the AAA Four Diamond Award and the Wine Spectator Award of Excellence. The elaborate sis-course meal continually scores high on the Zagat Survey. Since the Keystone Ranch is located near the Keystone Golf Course, its elk with wild mushrooms and other Rocky Mountain specialties tend to attract the golfing crowd. Interpret this as you will.

Alpenglow Stube

Are you one of those people who get high on good food? If so, you will surely enjoy Alpenglow Stube. At an altitude of 11,444 feet, this keystone North Peak restaurant is the highest in the country. If you thought that the lunches at Aspen of Deer Valley were elegant, you have never been to Alpenglow Stube. Unlike any ski resort restaurant, when you enter Alpenglow Stube, you get to trade in your ski boots for a pair of comfortable slippers. After all, how can you enjoy a great meal if your feet are killing you?

Your feast begins with a choice of two different soups. Then, head to the gourmet buffet, where you'll find a tempting array of salads, homemade breads and gourmet cheeses. Don't eat too much. You'll want to leave room for the main dish and desert. On Sundays, Alpenglow Stube features a delicious brunch. A mimosa is included with your brunch. However, please drink and ski responsibly. Since Alpenglow Stube's prices are as steep as its surrounding slopes, it is not popular with the local duct tape crowd. That said, it is definitely worth a one-time splurge.

Der Fondue Chessel
The elegance of Alpenglow Stube means that it might not be the best place for kids. Fortunately, that does not mean that they have to be deprived of the "take-the-gondola-to-dinner" experience. The Bavarian party atmosphere of Der Fondue Chessel makes it an appropriate dining venue for kids and adults. However, it is not ideal for kids with behavioral problems. It takes two gondolas to get to the restaurant. If you are going for dinner, you will be cold, but no worries. Keystone generously supplies you with some blankets. They might have the same texture as a Brillo pad, but they are blankets just the same. After enduring endless whines of when are we gonna' be there?" or endless choruses of 100 bottles of beer on the wall, you will reach Der Fondue Chessel, where the Bavarian musicians will serenade with choruses of Roll Out the Barrel." Sit by the fire and drink your booze-spiked hot chocolate.

Then, proceed to the banquet hall, where the real fun begins. Each table has what the Denver Post describes as your personal Fon-Dude or Fod-Dudette. With the chirpiness of a ski instructor teaching a wedge turn, these delightful guys and dolls teach you how to grill your choice of two meats and vegetables. Yes, for $50 a person, you get to grill your own food! Once it's done, you can dip it into a scrumptious variety of sauces. It's quite a messy experience, but it's a whole lot of fun!

Keystone Food Festival
In early September, you can sample the best selections of Keystone's restaurants, as well as some sinfully delicious chocolate, at the Taste of Keystone Festival. Call 970-468-1898 for details. Keystone is living proof that resort food need not be awful- As long as you are willing to pay the price!

This guide to the luxurious tastes of Keystone was brought to you by Lisa Marie Mercer.

Bring the Whole Family to Keystone and Make Some Memories

Jennifer — Fri, 31 Oct 2008 15:48:00 GMT

It's time to plan your annual family vacation. In the past, you've made sacrifices. You hugged Mickey at Disney, and lost money at Vegas. This year, the tribe has spoken. You're going to Keystone.

Getting There Is Half The Fun

Keystone is the perfect choice for a family ski vacation. If you're traveling by plane, your flight arrives in Denver International Airport. Kids get a kick out of the inter-terminal train, which plays cowboy music upon its arrival. Then, there's the special ski baggage carousel, which features separate, upright compartments for your skis and snowboards. As you await the arrival of your beloved quiver, you and your family can watch the possible Darwin Award recipients that try to sit in the compartments.

Renting a car? Make sure that it has snow tires. While this might sound like a no-brainer, in heavy snow, you won't be allowed on certain sections of I70 without snow tires or chains. Fortunately, Keystone is closer to Denver Airport than other resorts, so you won't have to spend too much time listening to choruses of "are we there yet?" If weather permits, take the Loveland Pass. This steep mountain road is the highest pass in Colorado. At certain points, you can get out of the car and take in the spectacular view. Now, onward to Keystone!

Sea level visitors might find that they feel a bit light headed upon arrival. Resist the temptation to go directly to the slopes. Keystone has night skiing and night tubing. Once you've acclimated, you can make up for lost time by extending your ski day. Older folks are often more susceptible to altitude sickness, so advise grandma and grandpa to lay off the booze. One drink at altitude equals three at sea level, so if you don't want grandma singing off-key Sinatra songs at Dos Locos Karaoke Bar, restraint is advised!

Hopefully, you decided to rent a multi-bedroom condo, as opposed to a number of separate hotel rooms. What you might sacrifice in privacy, you can make up for in convenience. Extended family members can help take care of the kids, and cooking becomes a family event. If you book a condo in any one of Keystone's villages, you will receive the valuable Adventure Passport, which offers perks such as:

*15% Discount at a variety of Keystone Restaurants
*Free Salad Bar at the Edgewater Cafe with the purchase of an entree
*Free Salsa and Chips at Parrot Eyes, with the purchase of an entre

Keystone Family Adventures

The Adventure Passport also offers free NASTAR family racing. It starts at 10:30 at the Flying Dutchman Race Arena. Advice for parents with teenagers: They will most likely beat you. Get over it! There's more to skiing than speed. Keystone offers 3,148 acres of varied terrain, as well as 3,128 spectacular vertical. Its 121 trails are serviced by 20 lifts including two gondolas, 1 express six-pack and 5 high-speed quads. Mom and dad can take the guided backcountry Keystone Adventure Tour, while Aunt Alice and Uncle Horace can cruise the long green and blue runs such as Schoolmarm. Let your teenage knuckle draggers jib in the new A51 Terrain Park. The key to a successful family ski trip is balancing family time with individual freedom. Stay connected either by cell phone, or one of those portable radios. However, keep in mind that other people can hear your radio conversations, so watch what you say.

Group Hug

Never try to force family members to ski terrain that is inappropriate for their abilities. Sure, ski lessons are expensive, but so are divorce attorneys. If you take your wife on terrain that freaks her out, forget about "getting lucky,' even with the romantic in-room Jacuzzi! Worried that she might fall for the handsome ski instructor? Either find a coach whose "pole swings in a different direction," or enroll your wife in one of Keystone's famous Betty Fests, designed for female skiers and riders. You can have some family time by enrolling in one of Keystone's Mom, Dad and Me sessions. For $95, three family members can get a one-hour lesson with one of Keystone's fantastic coaches. This type of lesson helps family members learn how to accommodate each other's skill and terrain preferences on the slopes.

Family ski lessons are just one way for families and extended families to enjoy their time at Keystone. In addition to downhill skiing, there's cross-country skiing, snowshoe hikes, tubing, skating and sleigh rides. Even new moms can enjoy a family vacation at Keystone. She can purchase a sturdy baby carrier, and head for the Keystone Nordic Center. Cross-country skiing or snowshoeing while carrying the baby adds weight to the activity, and can therefore burn off extra calories. Furthermore, the $9 dollar trail fee at the Nordic Center is considerable less expensive than lift tickets at any downhill resort. Athletic grandma and grandpas can join the family on the downhill or cross-country slopes, or enjoy the various shopping opportunities in the Keystone Village. Reward them for their babysitting services by treating them to a day at the upscale Keystone Lodge and Spa. Let them hold the video camera to film the family members as they come down from the slopes. Memories are made of this.

This guide to your Keystone family vacaton was brought to you by Lisa Marie Mercer.

Luquillo Beach: San Juan's Greatest Locale

Jennifer — Fri, 24 Oct 2008 16:21:00 GMT

The warm summer breeze blows through the tall, elegant palm trees in Luquillo Beach. The aquamarine waters, just a few miles from San Juan, give you a crystal clear view of the ocean life below by your feet. The loose sand allows for kids to dig themselves in it or build elaborate castles.However, what makes Luquillo beach, the best beach in Puerto Rico is the opportunity for a day of fun inexpensive activities.

Even though Luquillo is primarily a tourist town it's not yet tarnished by the big resorts that flare up the cost of dining and entertainment, as in Isla Verde. This beach is about 15 -20 minutes away from Fajardo's Wyndham El Conquistador and Rio Grade's Rio Mar Resort. So what do you do in a tourist place without casinos, dance clubs or fancy restaurants? You experience the local life first hand!

Luquillo beach offers various services such as camping sites, kayak and Jet Ski rentals. Shop at the souvenir shops, eat at two small fast food establishments and refresh yourself at the ice cream parlor. The kids can take a break from the water and play in the playground swings, while adults hide under the shade of cement pavilions. What else can I say? There's never a dull moment.

At a walking distance from the beach you can grab a crunchy bite to eat at Los Kioskos (key-os-kos), a strip of 60 establishments that offer similar menus featuring typical Puerto Rican appetizers. Wash them down with icy coconut water straight from the coconut! Your best bet? Tacos de langosta, lobster tacos, a fritter made out of flour dough filled with savory lobster meat. Yum!

To the east side of Luquillo Beach, surfers enjoy the wild waves of La Pared, a piece of shore surrounded by private vacation condos where the teenagers love to hang out.

"El Flamboyan" is a popular establishment that serves alcohol and local musicians play live music on specific nights. An important FYI: The legal age for alcohol consumption in Puerto Rico is 18. There's a strong police presence in this area ensuring the safety of tourist and locals.

In Luquillo you will experience the laid back lifestyle that characterizes the locals. You will never regret spending one of your days lounging under the eastern Puerto Rican sun. Plus, you will have the tan lines to tell your story. Have fun!

This guide to San Juan's Luquillo Beach was brought to you by T. Matos.