Vol. 4, No. 2, February 2008
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Looking for Love
Special getaways for that special someone
Love blooms, the music turns up and the birds sing. And if you want to see fireworks, it’s going to take more than a box of chocolates and a flower from the convenience store. No, my friend, if you really want to pamper and please your mate, there are destinations within a short distance that offer lovebirds their choice of classic or funky, rustic or metropolitan, city streets or mountain peaks.
From daytrips to overnight stays, classic to modern, rustic to contemporary, lovebirds have their choice of destinations within a reasonable driving distance. Once you have decided on when and where to go the next decision may be whether to surprise your sweetie or include him or her in the decision. Whatever you do and wherever you go, this is not the time for stressed out plans and detailed itineraries. Keep it casual and fun and the romance and fireworks are sure to follow.
Cozy Cabins—Big Bear, California
With a reasonable drive you can reach Big Bear, California. And for a reasonable amount of money, you can rent a cabin complete with fireplace and Jacuzzi tub. If that kind of romance tests your skills as a fire starter, then consider one of the local inns or hotels such as the Wishing Well Hotel in the heart of Big Bear Village within a short stroll of the movie theater, restaurants and coffee shops. Or try Pine Knot Guest Ranch, still within walking distance of the village, but tucked away in a wooded area. The scenery and the clean mountain air are known aphrodisiacs, so lovers use caution. Information and links can be found at www.bigbearlake.net
Spa City—St. George, Utah
This small berg nestled in the red rock canyons of southern Utah is fast becoming a bustling center for ultra chic and ultra expensive golf and spa vacations. Of course there are moderate choices for accommodations throughout the area and the stunning scenery is free. If you leave the hotel, heck—it’s Valentine’s! If you leave your room, there are numerous dining and shopping options from one end of town to the other. If you have the bank and your sweetie is an extra special sweetie, the more plush and renowned spa’s in St. George include the Red Mountain Spa where they offer pampering alongside nutrition and fitness programs and the Green Valley Health Resort and Spa which offers distinctive southwest charm with the luxury resort experience. For more information on places to stay and things to do in St. George visit www.utah.com/stgeorge.
Metro Cruising—Los Angeles, California
Downtown Los Angeles offers a very classy and contemporary metropolitan experience for our traveling lovebirds. Once you’re nestled in your accommodations, you have your choice of jazz clubs, world-class theatre and hipster hangouts within a short walking or cab distance. The variety of dining experiences in LA range from the simple and ample portions served at the late night landmark The Pantry to more sophisticated culinary fare in hot spots such as Patina, Café Pinot and Water Grill. For modern cuisine and romantic city views, try the Blue Velvet on Garland Street. Accommodations in downtown L.A. are as diverse as the city itself. For an upscale and thoroughly classic hotel check out the Millenium Biltmore or Wilshire Grand. If modern and funky are more your style then The Standard delivers with the added benefit of roof top bar and views of the city lights. Hint, hint: For extra spoiling of your sweetie, don’t forget the nearby fashion and jewelry districts for a different shopping experience and some truly great deals. Comprehensive restaurant and dining information can be found online at www.losangeles.citysearch.com. For events and little known “hole in the wall” gems also check out www.eyespyla.com.
Peace and Quiet—Prescott, Arizona
Located in the mountainous region of northern Arizona and nestled in the largest stand of ponderosa pine in the world, Prescott offers lovebirds a pastoral “small town” getaway experience. Stroll the shops and galleries in Prescott’s old west style Whiskey Row then relax with a picnic and people watching in the shady town centerpiece, the Courthouse Plaza. If you’re feeling adventurous or you’re the “outdoorsy” kind of couple, hiking, biking and kayaking options abound. In addition to a great variety of restaurants from fine dining to pub food, Prescott also offers a variety of accommodations to suit your taste and budget. One recommendation is to check out the Prescott Quality Inn for their romantic getaway packages. As always, be sure to reserve your accommodations in advance. For more information, go to www.visit-prescott.com.
Daytripper’s Destination—Lake Las Vegas
Lake Las Vegas is close by so you have the option of spending the night in one of the classic and luxurious resort hotels such as the Ritz Carlton, Loews Lake Las Vegas Resort or Montelago Village Resort. Or if you prefer, visit for the day and treat you and your sweetyie to a spa treatment and a romantic stroll through the village, reminiscent of a little Italian town complete with cobblestone streets and unique dining and shopping options. For a fun and romantic experience, try ice skating in Monte Lago Village. There’s nothing like ice skating with your sweetie to bring you closer together with a few laughter laiden spills and falls. Then treat yourself to a variety of dining choices from a wonderful selection of steaks, chops and seafood at Como’s to a casually elegant lakeside experience and Mediteranean flavors at Mira Lago located in Reflection Bay Golf Club. Advance reservations are suggested and usually required. More information can be found online at www.lakelasvegas.com.
