Search results matching tag 'nightlife'

Try the Kingdom of Breckenridge This Summer

Jennifer — Thu, 02 Apr 2009 00:52:00 GMT

Seduced by spectacular sunsets and enticed by exciting entertainment, I came to Breckenridge for the winters but stayed for the summers. In doing so, I discovered a small town with big city conveniences, such as free transportation, pedestrian friendly streets, and a plethora of exciting activities for the body, mind and soul. Some come to Breckenridge for a piece of the action; others, for piece of mind. Winter chills excite, but summer serenity entices. Come visit!

Welcome To My World

The Town of Breckenridge is committed to preserving its history and heritage. Victorian architecture remains Victorian, and ultra modern eyesores are, thankfully, strictly forbidden. Nothing labeled "historic" can be demolished. You see those run down shacks on Ridge Street? No, they're not the habitats of snowboard instructors who have recently broke up with their girlfriends and are now homeless! Each shack has its story, which you can learn by taking the Historic Walking Tour sponsored by the Breckenridge Heritage Alliance, or by taking a horse and buggy tour by Mountain Man Carriage Company. Aside from the shacks, you can explore some stunning Victorian homes on French and Harris Street. You can even arrange for a Victorian tea in one of the stately homes! Information regarding these tours can be found at the Breckenridge Visitor's Center on Main Street. There's an interactive museum in the rear, which features films and photos about Breckenridge's history as a mining that evolved into a popular ski area.

History comes to life in Breckenridge. This can be scary! Male visitors to the Prospector Restaurant on Main Street often report visions of a mysterious woman. Don't be afraid. She will not harm you. It's only the ghost of Sylvia, a former resident of The Prospector Inn. While the 1860s brought many men to Breckenridge is search of gold, Sylvia came prospecting for a husband. Sadly, her prospects were dim. Paraphrasing local writer Beth Jahnigan, "The odds were good, but the goods were odd." Plus que ca change, it's the same mishagosh. (Translation, with apologies to the French and Yiddish languages: The more things change, the more they remain crazy). However, the odds are changing. The male to female ratio is becoming equal, and many residents, while iconoclastic, are exciting, artistic and multi-faceted. Local iconoclasts hang out at the Gold Pan Saloon on Main Street. Built in 1879, the Gold Pan holds the most continuous liquor license west of the Mississippi. The upstairs of the Gold Pan was a "house of ill repute," which was once frequented by judges and lawyers from the nearby courthouse. There are rumors of a tunnel that ran from the courthouse to the Gold Pan, which assured the anonymity of these visits.

In June, we celebrate Breckenridge history at the Kingdom Days Festival. When Breckenridge was founded in 1859, it was inadvertently left off the map. The area became known as the Kingdom of Colorado. Each year, we celebrate this slight with free walking tours, historic reenactments, and, giving whole new meaning to the phrase, "gotta' go," outhouse races!

Drama Kings and Queens

Couldn't make it to the Cannes Film Festival? No worries! Come to the three-day Breckenridge Film Festival in June. Although some of the indie films might be, shall we say, esoteric, the parties are fantastic! Meanwhile, the Backstage Theatre on Ridge Street presents a fantastic repertory of summer performances, and the Riverwalk Center holds its annual music festival. Not the artsy type? Let's go out and play!

Are You Out of Your Mine?

Winter, visitors to Breckenridge ascend 3,000 feet to get to the top of the mountain. Summer, folks descend 1,000 feet to explore the 100 year old Country Boy Mine. If you miss that winter sliding experience, you can slide down the 55 foot ore chute. The Country Boy Mine does have alternatives for the claustrophobic. You can pan for gold at Eureka Creek, or spend time with the baby burros that roam the mining camp. But if you'd rather ride than snuggle, head for the horses!

A Horse is a Horse

Of course, a mountain town like Breckenridge would provide ample opportunities for horseback riding. At the Kingdom of Breckenridge Stables, your horse is your tour guide. He'll take you up a long and winding trail that leads to open mountain meadows and glorious scenery. There is also a sunrise breakfast ride, which features an all you can eat breakfast buffet. But before you over-indulge, keep in mind that Breckenridge subscribes to "leave no trace" rules on our mountain trail--if you get my drift!

By Bike or By Hike

If you're not a horse person, you can explore the mountains of Breckenridge by bicycle. In fact, if you don't want to schlep, the chairlifts are equipped to carry bicycles. Need an adrenaline fix? Consider the Breckenridge 100, an ultra endurance race that takes place in July.

Those who want to explore the mountains unencumbered by bicycles or horses can hike the peaks by foot. Quandary Peak is one of Colorado's 53 Fouteeners, whose elevation exceeds 14,000 feet. The Mail Run follows an old mail route past a ghost town and silver mine. The visitor's center can supply information about hiking and biking trails.

Rafts, Rods and Clubs

Come spring, as the snow melts from the Breckenridge mountaintops, it seeps into the rivers, which pulsate in gratitude. Breckenridge Whitewater, takes advantage of this phenomenon by offering whitewater rafting for all abilities. If you prefer a more serene activity, consider fishing in the unpolluted Blue River.

Fore!

The 27-hole Breckenridge Golf Course was designed by Jack Nicklaus. This award winning course has helped many golfers get their bragging rights. Since thinner air provides less resistance, golf balls hit at higher altitudes go further than a ball hit at a lower elevation. With average summer temperatures ranging between 65 and 80, you can be assured a hot game while staying cool.

Up, Up and Away

If you'd like to fly in a beautiful balloon, Colorado Hot Air Balloon Rides provides complimentary transportation from Breckenridge to their location near Wilkerson Pass. As you ascend into thin air, you will be entertained with classical music. Upon your return to earth, you'll enjoy a champagne toast, followed by a sit down breakfast.

Although Breckenridge summers offer a medley of exciting activities, an evening walk through the town is perhaps the most memorable. Observe the lights that illuminate the town and the mountain. "Behold, the Kingdom of Breckenridge!"

This guide to a Breckenridge summer was brought to you by Lisa Marie Mercer.

Fanny Bridge: North Lake Tahoe's Greatest Gag

Jennifer — Tue, 10 Feb 2009 02:39:00 GMT

In North Lake Tahoe, where the lake spills into the Truckee River, is an unusual feature: Fanny Bridge. Travel guides have often instructed visitors to take advantage of their nature-viewing trip to the bridge and look around, very closely, and see how the bridge gets its name. The famous Mushroom Rock in Kansas may come to mind, if, like some other tourists you start looking around for the giant derriere-shaped land mass. Fanny Bridge must have been named for its surrounding natural resemblance to fannies, right?

Wrong. One of the best photo ops in the city occurs when the sightseers peer down into the Truckee's waters to see the masses of glittering rainbow trout below. Step back a few feet, where you'll see in full view the rounded backsides of the gawkers leaning over the bridge's rails. Aha! Fanny Bridge. UK travelers are somewhat more confused, as they use the word to describe a different part of the anatomy. Be sure and snap a shot if you see a head-scratching Brit.

Fanny Bridge isn't just an elaborate punchline, though. Besides the view and the massive trout - which you can feed - raft rentals are available close by so you can travel downstream yourself along with the fish. The self-guided raft tours allow you to cool off, relax and float the Truckee River for a full five miles, ending at River Ranch Pond. The run takes about two to four hours, and although it's more of a leisurely rafting experience, there are some small rapids. Time your outing just right and you can cap it off with dinner and a drink at the River Ranch's bar and restaurant.

If you want to exert yourself just a tad more, bike rentals are right next to the bridge. The trail is four miles, also ending at river Ranch, and is fairly flat and easy (your whole family can make this ride without complaint). You can return your bikes and pick up your car right at the same spot.

A stop at Fanny Bridge is a no-brainer for travelers who want to spend some time outdoors, but aren't up for backbreaking sports or steep hikes. Plan to spend an afternoon biking or rafting; don't forget to feed the trout, and be sure and make as many jokes as possible about the "view" at Fanny Bridge. Here's one for grandpa: tell him the bridge was designed by Seymour Butts.

This guide to your thirteen-year-old boy's best day in Lake Tahoe was brought to you by Elizabeth Kelly.

North Lake Tahoe: Three Different Experiences in One Vacation Adventure

Jennifer — Tue, 27 Jan 2009 02:41:00 GMT

North Lake Tahoe, located on the California-Nevada border, is one of the most beautiful natural spots in the world. The water here is crystal clear. In fact, a dinner plate lying on the bottom at a depth of 75 feet would be clearly visible. The ultra-clean waters are actually 99.9% pure - amazing in this day and age of pollution and acid rain!

The lake itself is 22 miles long and 11 miles wide, and the surrounding forests and mountain peaks cover a huge area, each with its own personality. Many visitors prefer to visit North Lake Tahoe, in California. According to the locals, this area is more laid back, more refined, and less hectic.

The best towns for lodging on your visit to North Lake Tahoe are Truckee, Kings Beach, and Tahoe City, all located in California. All three are beautiful locations, and each offers a little different adventure, unique in its own way.

Truckee You've probably heard of the tragic Donner Party. Their ordeal took place just a few miles from downtown Truckee. An old logging village, Truckee is now one of the gateways to Tahoe's North Shore. The town is all about skiing, mountain biking, and rock climbing, and it's a favorite haunt of Paul McCartney. You might even catch a glimpse of him performing an impromptu concert! In Truckee, you'll find plenty of shopping, several ski resorts, and lots of restaurants and entertainment. Bring along a jacket: Truckee has some of the coldest summer temperatures in the continental U.S.

Kings Beach Kings Beach has a super laid-back atmosphere, with a dash of hip and trendy style. There's a public beach downtown, if that gives you any indication of the feel of the town. The beach here is in such a geographic position that it enjoys the sun's rays from morning through afternoon. This is a fun-loving town, with street vendors, cool shops, and interesting restaurants. The folks in Kings Beach are warm and friendly, too, happy to share their community with visitors.

Tahoe City This is the place for history buffs and active families. Located at the head of the Truckee River, the town offers an extensive system of paved trails, perfect for walking, jogging, cycling, and skating. Water sports are king here, but families will find all kinds of enjoyable activities like beach-side movies, outdoor concerts, hiking, camping, fishing, haunted houses, and a wide range of winter sports. This is the spot for four-star dining, art galleries, museums, great shopping, and historic sites.

Vacationers will revel in the beauty of Lake Tahoe, no matter which area they choose. But if a laid-back atmosphere with a leisurely pace and a rich heritage is your idea of a great getaway, North Lake Tahoe, California fills the bill!

This guide to the hot spots of North Lake Tahoe was brought to you by Holle Abee.

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.

Take the Family to Park City for Some Holiday Cheer

Jennifer — Tue, 07 Oct 2008 21:08:00 GMT

Has it been too long since you've had a white Christmas? Are you tired of spending an entire holiday season without so much as a small nose nibble from Jack Frost? If so, this might be a great year to spend the holidays in Park City, Utah. Park City has much to offer visiting families during the holidays. The world-class ski and snowboarding slopes of Park City Mountain Resort, Deer Valley Resort, and The Canyons Resort draw snow bunnies to Park City throughout the winter months. Why not start a new holiday tradition of belting out Christmas carols while dashing through the snow on skis?

If sliding down a mountain at breathtaking speed is not your cup of holiday cheer, a variety of other outdoor adventures await. Try walking in a winter wonderland on snowshoes; it's great exercise, and it's easy to enjoy the landscape when it plods past at a reasonable pace. A similarly peaceful experience can be had on cross-country skis. Gear for either of these activities can be rented from a number of shops in Park City, and some companies provide guided tours.

If you want a bit more speed and less chance of the outrageously sore quadriceps that plague most beginning snowshoers, try a dog sledding tour. There is nothing quite like feeling the wind in your face as a yelping pack of dogs gleefully hauls you and a sled through the snowy landscape. Attach some sleigh bells and bring a bag of toys and you might just pass for Santa Claus as the dogs fly across the frozen ground!

Park City can also keep the less-athletically inclined members of your family entertained over the holidays. A stroll up Main Street provides a chance to view the town's quaint Victorian architecture all dolled up for the holidays. Boutiques and fine restaurants cater to winter visitors, allowing for some unique last-minute gift buying opportunities and the chance to put on those extra holiday pounds in style.

Park City features some holiday traditions that can whip the young or the young at heart into a true frenzy of holiday excitement. In mid-December, Santa Claus descends into town via ski lift, complete with sleigh, reindeer, and presents. Visitors are invited to come see the jolly old elf and enjoy some hot cocoa and snacks.

Come Christmas Eve, Santa hits the slopes once again as he leads the torchlight parade down the PayDay ski run. The flowing, sparkling lights of this parade are sure to set visions of sugar plums dancing into the most humbuggy hearts.

However you plan to spend your Park City holiday, be sure to be prepared for sub-freezing temperatures and snowy conditions. Pack plenty of warm clothing, and make sure to wear layers that you can peal off as you work up a sweat on the slopes or in the shops. With its great variety of activities and its glorious natural scenery, Park City can offer holiday cheer to everyone in your family.

This guide to a Park City winter holiday was brought to you by Geraldine Bivens.

Fall Fun, Food, and Festivals in Lake Tahoe

Jennifer — Fri, 03 Oct 2008 16:59:00 GMT

Falling leaves don't have to mean the end of fun and adventure: Drop the rake and get in the car - we're going to Lake Tahoe!   In picturesque Lake Tahoe, changing leaves mark the start of something good; the beginning of many terrific Autumn festivals and events! From fancy-pants wine events to pooch parades there is always something to see and do.

Fast Moving Fun: Feeling boxed in? There is plenty of room to roam at the 13th Annual Lake Tahoe Marathon! Get your fill of open spaces with the 72 Mile Midnight Express Ultra Marathon, 3-Day Tahoe Triple Marathon, Lake Tahoe Triathlon, and Optimist Kids Fun Race! For a whirlwind golfing experience, check out Speed Golf for a golfing good time! Choose only three clubs on this 18 hole event, adding your score to your time to win!

Pampered Pups: Show off your dynamic dog! Bring your lovely Labrador or courageous Collie to the 4th Annual Bark Fest! Let your dog take the plunge in super fun to watch events like dog lake jump competitions, entertaining dog show, superb art auction, yummy wine tasting, and lively local music all set to benefit the Humane Society of Truckee -Tahoe and Squaw Rescue Dogs, you can rest assured that it will be a howling good time!

Tastings and Treats: Want some cheese with that wine? It's all about the grape at the Lake Tahoe Food and Wine Festival! This jam packed annual event is now in its twenty third year and just keeps on growing. Be wined and dined by top celebrity chefs in the industry. Watch exciting Chef cook offs, sample amazing wine, and learn the tricks of the trade from those in the know. Awesome art shows and wine auctions are just a few of the other great events that compose this well rounded weekend!

Festivals for All: It's time for some good old fashioned fun! Tahoe City's Harvest Festival is a week long autumn spectacular! Hay rides, Scarecrows On Parade, where unique scarecrows compete for fabulous city prizes, as well as a Pumpkin Patch Carnival. Pull on your Lederhosen and join in the beer swilling fun of Oktoberfest!   Bratwurst Toss competition, folk dancers, and live music form an uber fun time!

Fall has never had it so good!   Chock full of festive and fun themed events, Lake Tahoe makes the perfect choice for a fabulous fall getaway. Just be sure to keep an eye out for "Tahoe Tessie, " Lake Tahoe's enormous dinosaur like creature said to lurk in the depths of Lake Tahoe for centuries and enjoy the bounty of the season!

This guide to the festivals and fun in Lake Tahoe was brought to you by Jessica Nunemaker.

Sea Pines Resort: The Perfect Way to Vacation in Hilton Head

Jennifer — Fri, 26 Sep 2008 03:36:00 GMT

It was all set! We had a babysitter (my parents) and my husband and I were off for a romantic three day getaway close to our Atlanta home. The destination? The stunning Sea Pines Resort in Hilton Head, South Carolina. Islands Magazine calls Sea Pines "real...timeless...and magnificent." As we drove in, the beautiful, colorful lighthouse was beckoning, the waves of the deep blue Atlantic ocean were rolling and we were enamored from the start.

We relaxed the first day by doing a little crabbing, a favorite island past time. Once I got past the raw chicken bait, I actually enjoyed myself and got into the spirit of catching these blue-green guys in my own, resort provided bucket. I was not used to catching my own dinner but as the competition flared between me and my husband, I was determined to catch dinner for the entire resort. Six crabs later, I was exhausted and hungry but it is only catch and release at Sea Pines (I later learned) so we headed off to the Topside at the Quarterdeck for the freshest and most amazing seafood that I have ever had. My husband had a thick, huge steak and we both were ready for naps.

A horseback ride after dinner exposed us to the magnificent, untouched Low Country that Carolina is famous for. My horse lazily walked through a beautiful canopy provided by the old, moss covered trees and (I swear but my husband says it's not true) past an alligator or two. We passed a few historic sites and several families fishing (also a resort activity). We ended the evening sitting (ok, lazing) in the lounge chairs overlooking the amazing Atlantic Ocean and listening to snippets of live music coming from the Quarterdeck Cafe. What an evening!

We woke up early the next morning with an 8:00 AM tee time at the PGA tournament golf course. What could be better than teeing off overlooking the pristine Atlantic Ocean on the Harbour Town Golf Links? Maybe the service and the hotel provided caddy. These touches made this an unforgettable experience and a true luxury to play one of America's 100 Greatest Golf courses' as named by Golf Digest. After golf, we enjoyed lunch at the Harbour Town Grill overlooking the 9th hole of the course we just played. With an amazing wine list, we could have lingered all afternoon.

Late afternoon had us on the Alligator Boat Tour. This 'jungle safari' exposed us to the plants and animals of the inland freshwater lakes of the Sea Pines Resort Forest Preserve. Although we were a little tempted to tease these reptiles, we quickly learned that they are a forced to be reckoned with. Viewing the American Alligator in all its splendor is a surreal experience. They just stare and we, of course, broke eye contact first.

We dined outside that evening at the Sea Pines Resort Beach Club. We listened to the rolling waves of the ocean in between sets from the musicians. After dinner, my husband and I held hands which is a rare treat for us (with three kids we are always holding children's hands) and just strolled around the resort taking in the surroundings. We ended the evening with a fabulous dessert and luscious coffee drink at the Tartan Room Bar before heading up to the room and dropping into bed, exhausted yet relaxed.

The next morning we dined on savory French Toast at the Harbour Town Bakery and Cafe. We walked off this big breakfast by shopping in the boutiques on the property. With 40 stores to choose from, we found something for everyone and some great things for us as well. Since we were guests of the resort, we were given the Lighthouse Card which granted us an exclusive 10% discount at all of the shops which was an added bonus.

When it was time to depart, I found myself wishing that we had more time. We did not get to ride bikes, take a boat ride, play tennis or even leave the resort. Of course there was no need to leave the resort. We could have spent a week there and still not seen or done everything. Maybe next time we will!

This first-hand account of a Hilton Head Sea Pines vacation was brought to you by Stacie Haight Connerty.

Haunted San Diego--Take a Spine-Tingling Vacation!

Jennifer — Sun, 07 Sep 2008 02:46:00 GMT

San Diego is one damn popular city. So popular, in fact, that you don't even need to be alive to enjoy it in fact, you may find yourself never leaving.

Like, ever.

Okay, so maybe that's taking it a bit far. But the fact is that San Diego is, among other things, a flocking-spot for ghosts, spirits, specters and whatever other supernatural creepy-crawlies you can think of. The air is thick with weird activity, especially once the lights have gone out and the sun is cowering somewhere beyond the horizon. So if you're one of those nutbars who loves being scared beyond belief, San Diego is the place to go.

Naturally when you first arrive you'll need a place to stay. But who needs to sleep these days? Check out one of San Diego's haunted hotels and begin your experience right away.

Thayer's Historic Bed n Breakfast is billed as one of the best in the area: not only does it sport comfortable beds and excellent service, but it's home to all sorts of ghostly activity. Even better, the place offers ghost hunting classes and psychic readings. (Way to cash in on dead people, guys.)

Or if you want something a bit more old-age without the classes, try the Hotel Coronado, which is over 100 years old and is the unearthly home to two women who committed suicide in the late 1900's. The halls are also said to be tread by a boy and a girl, an old caretaker and a Victorian lady who seems to love the hotel's dance floor.

Not everyone wants to sleep with the spirits; luckily for you, there are plenty of non-haunted condos and private homes to serve as your ghost-hunting headquarters. (Even Scooby had a Mystery Mobile, you know!)

Once you've staked out a hotel or condo that will keep you up all night give the sights a going-over. And though you can visit plenty of haunted places on your own, the best thing to do is probably go on a tour and you can do so either in style or in a more conventional vehicle. In the former case you can drive around with San Diego's Ghostly Limo Tour, which has you visiting five or six haunted places a night while being chaperoned in a swanky limo. Or, if you want to save some cash, check out the Haunted San Diego Ghost Tours, which does basically the same thing for less money but with less swagger

But tour groups will only get you information, not actually let you see ghosts. You'll want to go solo eventually. And there's one place you simply must visit if you want a phantom encounter: the Whaley House Museum.

Ever since the place was renovated and opened as a museum in the 1960's the Whaley House Museum has been a home for specters, and is considered the most haunted house in the United States. Ghosts seen at the museum include the Whaley family themselves, a convict named Yankee Jim, a young girl who was a friend of the Whaleys and the Whaley's dog. Try going on an off day when the museum's not too busy and walk around alone maybe you'll get lucky and see a few pieces of San Diego's history floating down a hallway.

San Diego. Ghost town of America. Give the place a shot; at worst you'll learn a lot about the area, and at best you'll be traumatized for life. Yay!

This guide to spooky San Diego was brought to you by Matt Bird.

Experience the Action on Marco Island

Jennifer — Mon, 25 Aug 2008 01:47:00 GMT

As the largest and most northern island in the long chain of islets off the coast of Southwest Florida, Marco Island is renowned for its alluring beaches and its luxurious beach-front residences. With a modest land size of only 11 square miles, one might be forgiven for assuming that there would be a dearth of night-time entertainment options in Marco Island. While the island might not exactly be a bustling hub of activity when the sun sets, there are still enough unique activities to make for a memorable night. The onus is really on the traveler to scour the island and appreciate what Marco Island has to offer.

A unique and upscale shopping experience amidst a coastal Italian atmosphere awaits you when you visit the Esplanade Shoppes on North Collier Boulevard. The plush landscaping and the exquisite waterfront residences facing Smokehouse Bay combine to give every shopper a truly memorable shopping experience. If the 50,000 feet of retail space does not prove sufficient for your shopping needs, there is another shopping haven in the form of Marco Town Center.

Lined with cobble stoned pavements and charming little village-styled shops, Marco Town Center Mall (located on North Collier Boulevard at Bald Eagle Drive) provides a warmer and local shopping experience. Whether you are looking for a bikini for a beach outing or the latest fashion to hit the nightclubs, this place has it all. Besides shopping, Marco Town Center Mall also has an impressive selection of restaurants, sidewalk cafes and outdoor night concerts.

At Captain Brien's (Seafood and Raw Bar plus Off The Hook Comedy Club), the freshest seafood and the latest jokes are served. Everything here is made to order. Fresh seafood is flown in from New England daily and even the sauces are prepared from scratch each morning. Some of the menu favorites include the delectable Ipswich Whole Belly Clams and Snow Crab Cluster. Besides having a taste of the ocean, patrons can look forward to being entertained by a steady stream of notable comedians from the comedic circuit. Ralphie May of "Last Comic Standing" fame and Shawn Wayans are some of the notable acts that have performed here. Avoid seating near the stage though, unless you do not mind getting nailed by the comedians for some jokes. That said, there is really no harm in laughing at ourselves once in a while!

To enjoy a staple nightlife diet of dancing, live music and alcohol, look no further than Sway at Naples. Patrons can party to live mixes by in-demand deejays from Miami or just snuggle up to the cozy couches and engage in some people-watching. Most would swear that the open roof top bar of this nightclub has the most activity per square foot of space on the whole of Marco Island!

Whoever said that night entertainment has to be on land? You can have just as much fun embarking on sunset or night cruises on board the "Big Kahuna", a 37' katamaran which offers public trips and private charters. Operated by Luna Kahuna, this sailing experience into the Gulf would allow you to experience the romantic textures of a sunset and the mystical hues of a moonrise. The excellent food and beverage served by a friendly and jovial crew will certainly add gloss to an already wonderful experience.

This tidbit of Marco Island travel advice was brought to you by W.H. Garcia

South Lake Tahoe: Where the Locals go for Luxury

Jennifer — Mon, 25 Aug 2008 01:26:00 GMT

South Lake Tahoe is often viewed by non-locals as a destination spot for those wanting a pristine summer lake vacation or an opulent winter ski getaway. What they don't know is that South Tahoe is a major status symbol locale among Californians. If you are anybody who is anybody living in Northern California, then you have a home in Tahoe or at least know somebody who knows somebody whose house that you rent for a few weeks during the year. Mention you have a home in Tahoe among Californians and you are sure to have every head turn to inquire just where your house is and when you will be departing next!

The appeal of this opulent, yet down-to-earth area comes with the lavish homes and lakeside lodges that are the creme de la creme of California luxury. Tucked privately into a sea of pine trees, with expansive views of the lake, the top homes here are worth tens of millions of dollars. This area is also an outdoor playground that is suitable for active enthusiasts of all ages. Surrounding this lake are numerous ski resorts at your leisure, and of course in the summer, boating, water-skiing and jet-skiing are all-day activities.

For those who would like to experience being in the in-crowd, without buying a million dollar home, the Tahoe Keys Resort remains one of the most popular destination locations. The Tahoe Keys is a private marina community where you will find top of the line lodging and plenty of amenities to keep you busy all summer long. Stay here and you will get an accurate look at the friendly yet luxurious destination that is South Lake Tahoe.

If you need some time to get away from the flurry of the crowds, visiting the many nearby parks, biking trails or campsites is a great adventure for families or any outdoor enthusiast. The best park for kids continues to be Bijou Park, where you will find the ever-popular disc golf-course. Scoff if you will, but this sport is addictive in a very Harry Potter-like away. Try it once and you will have a hard time returning to the usual attractions of the lake!

Visiting South Lake Tahoe is a sure-fire getaway no matter what your taste. For those who prefer the social scene, I highly recommend visiting around the New Year (when the town begins to resemble a mob scene) and for those who need relaxation, the refreshing lake breezes of summer will calm you in a way that only Lake Tahoe can.

This guide to luxurious South Lake Tahoe was brought to you by Nicole Keller.