Jetsettersblog

– The newly released California Road Trips 2011 encourages visitors to travel around the Golden State, especially by car, with special two- to three-day driving getaways along with more detailed routes for longer vacations.

“The road trip is an intregal part of the California experience. When visitors travel our roadways, they can experience some of the best our state has to offer, from breathtaking coastal highways to majestic mountain drives and everything in between,” said President and CEO Caroline Beteta of the California Travel and Tourism Commission (CTTC).

“California Road Trips 2011 reinforces the best of the California lifestyle and gives consumers the inside scoop on things to see and do statewide.”

This year, the theme of the guide, produced by CTTC and Sunset Publishing, is “Wine and Food Getaways,” a focus that has special resonance in California, with its abundant wine regions, innovative cuisine, world-class chefs, and increasing emphasis on locally grown and artisanal foods. In addition to worthy culinary stops along designated routes, the itineraries also present a range of other activities for all kinds of travelers, inviting people to stop, explore, learn and have fun.

Inside California Road Trips 2011, readers will find inside scoops on things to see and do and the abundance of activities they’ll find throughout the state of California.

As part of the guide’s “Desert Delights” trip, drivers can fuel up for dune rambles and canyon hikes. In “Down in the Valley,” visitors discover California’s agricultural heartland on a trip through fertile farmland, wine country and friendly rural towns. They can also head for “High Peaks and Haute Cuisine” while sampling outdoor adventures in California’s dramatic High Sierra. California’s snowcapped volcanoes and winding rivers also make the perfect backdrop for recreation and culinary surprises in the Shasta Cascade.

This year’s issue of Road Trips will see one million distribution, with 600,000 guides being distributed in the June 2011 issue of Sunset magazine; the remaining 400,000 will be distributed through domestic and international direct fulfillment and trade shows.

Road Trips 2011 will also be available for free in digital format on www.visitcalifornia.com

Visitors can also get a copy by calling 1-877-TOP-DRIVES.

CTTC is a non-profit organization with a mission to develop and maintain marketing programs – in partnership with the state’s travel industry – that keep California top-of-mind as a premier travel destination. According to CTTC, travel and tourism expenditures total $95.1 billion annually in California, support jobs for 873,000 Californians and generate $6.1 billion in state and local tax revenues. For more information about CTTC and for a free California Visitor’s Guide as well as California Road Trips 2011, go to www.VisitCalifornia.com

Beverly Hills businesses are inviting Getty patrons to savor a bit of Paris in the 90210

Beverly Hills Conference & Visitors Bureau and the J. Paul Getty Museum are partnering to extend the glamour and opulence of life in 18th century Paris to Beverly Hills. Paris: Life & Luxury, on view at the J. Paul Getty Museum at the Getty Center, Los Angeles, through August 7, 2011, allows visitors to envision Paris life in the late 1700’s through the artifacts, paintings and treasures from that period.

After perusing the objects and enjoying the splendor of the Getty Center, Museum-goers are invited to visit participating Beverly Hills attractions to continue their Francophile pursuits. Special activities and packages for Getty-goers include culinary offerings, unique entertainment and exclusive hotel rates all compiled in honor of the exhibition.

The Beverly Hilton – This hotel has combined the excitement and entertainment of Hollywood events like the Golden Globe Awards® for decades. This luxury legendary property is entertaining “dive-in and dine-in” movies poolside on select weeknights through August 3rd to coincide with Paris: Life & Luxury. Accompanying the films will be French-inspired wines and specialty cocktails and menu items for purchase at CIRCA 55 Restaurant at The Beverly Hilton. Visit the hotel website for movie listings and dates.

In addition, the hotel is offering an overnight package called “Joie de Vivre” (Joy of Life). Stay in after the film nights with rates starting at $299.00. Subject to availability (exclusive of tax/gratuity). Learn more at www.beverlyhilton.com  / 9876 Wilshire Boulevard / (310) 274-7777

Bouchon – Ceci n’est pas un bistro typique. Continue your immersion in the luxurious Parisian lifestyle at Chef Thomas Keller’s iconic bistro Bouchon in Beverly Hills. Take part in French caféculture while unwinding on a terrace overlooking the Beverly Cañon Gardens or relax at the bistro’s pewter bar and enjoy wines from both the old world and the new. Inside, marvel at Bouchon’s Magritte-inspired murals by French artist Paulin Paris before indulging in authentic bistro fare crafted with unfailing attention to detail in both ingredients and presentation. Bouchon is offering a set menu created for the Getty Center’s exhibition.

Priced at $50 per person, it includes classic dishes such as escargots à la Bourguignonne and boudinbBlanc, and ends with crème caramel, profiteroles or ile flottante.

Complement the meal with a French wine pairing for an additional $25. http://www.bouchonbistro.com / 235 N Canon Dr / (310) 271-9910

Ingrid’s Café – This French-influenced Mediterranean restaurant in Beverly Hills is offering patrons of the Getty Center, who show proof of their same day visit, 50% off on Ingrid’s Platter (regularly $42). The platter offers a hearty combination of humus, babaganoush, tabouli, labneh, mouhammara, dolma, kibbeh balls and quails. www.ingridscafe.com  / 9861 Santa Monica Boulevard / (310) 277-9377

Maison 140 Beverly Hills – To celebrate its Parisian Art and Lifestyle, Maison 140 Beverly Hills is offering a Getty Package. With rates starting at $185/night, the package includes complimentary European-style continental breakfast for two; overnight parking; and two glasses of champagne. Recently re-imagined by style icon Kelly Wearstler, Maison 140 is a pied-de-terre designed with the Parisian aesthetic in mind. To book the package, visit www.maison140beverlyhills.com  and use the PROMO code, GETTY. 140 Lasky Drive / (310) 281-4000

Nic’s Martini Lounge – Larry Nicola, chef and owner of Nic’s Beverly Hills, opens his doors every Sunday for a special French-themed evening called Salon Dimanche. Salon Dimanche is inspired by Nicola’s true love of French culture and French cuisine.

Nicola introduces a special French-inspired menu every Sunday to include such dishes as steak tartare, French onion soup, escargot en croute, pommery crusted free-range chicken and petite steak & frites. Special guest Maître Écailler, Chef Christophe Happillon who is known as The Oyster Gourmet (www.oystergourmet.com) will join the restaurant on Sunday evenings to offer two to three different types of oysters along with accompaniments (cocktail sauce and shallot and vinegar mignonette).

Oysters are freshly shucked from Happillon’s specially designed Oyster Bar. A votre santé! For details, visit www.nicsbeverlyhills. 453 North Canon Drive / (310) 550-5707

The Paley Center for Media – At 3:00 pm each day during the exhibit’s run, The Paley Center for Media will offer programming themed around its French collections. Visitors can stop by during opening hours to catch programs featuring French entertainers like Maurice Chevalier, Edith Piaf and Yves Montand; classic sitcoms with storylines set in Paris like “I Love Lucy, “The Honeymooners,” and “Jack Benny”; and famous literature made into TV movies and films like “The Hunchback of Notre Dame,” “Phantom of the Opera,” “A Tale of Two Cities,” and “Camille.”

For a complete schedule, visit www.paleycenter.org . 465 North Beverly Drive / (310) 786-1091

Porta Via – Receive a complementary glass of rosé from Porta Via restaurant with proof of same day Getty Center visit. Porta Via is a lively casual bistro featuring, Italian, American and French cuisine. Situated on Beverly Hills’ charming Cañon Drive, Porta Via is a neighborhood favorite. www.portaviabh.com  / 424 North Canon Drive / (310) 274-6534
Offers subject to change. Contact listed businesses for availability.

About Beverly Hills

Beverly Hills is one of the world’s most sought-after locales. Centrally located in greater Los Angeles, Beverly Hills is a premier vacation and business travel destination, boasting beautiful year-round weather, acclaimed full-service and boutique hotel accommodations, sumptuous dining, world-renowned designer boutiques and incomparable shopping. Synonymous with Hollywood glamour, Beverly Hills enjoys an international reputation as the home and playground of A-list movie stars. The city is not only known worldwide for its grand mansions and chic shops along Rodeo Drive, but also for its multitude of art and architecture, spas and salons, and walkable drives. Learn more at www.lovebeverlyhills.com.

The J. Paul Getty Trust is an international cultural and philanthropic institution devoted to the visual arts that includes the J. Paul Getty Museum, the Getty Research Institute, the Getty Conservation Institute, and the Getty Foundation. The J. Paul Getty Trust and Getty programs serve a varied audience from two locations: the Getty Center in Los Angeles and the Getty Villa in Malibu.

Austin will host the Formula 1™ United States Grand Prix from 2012-2021. The F1 complex, which will also host MotoGP championship motorcycle races, is has been named Circuit of the Americas (COTA). The scenic, 3.4-mile COTA racetrack features 20 strategic turns and an elevation change of 133 feet, challenging drivers and thrilling fans. COTA is also home to permanent structures for business, entertainment, education and race use. Design plans call for a banquet hall, luxury suites, a media and conference center, an expansive medical building, and Grand Plaza with an open stage for live music.

Race fans can sign up for ticket information and facility updates at www.circuitoftheamericas.com.

New Sounds, New Stages
Austin City Limits is the longest-running music show on television; it began with a pilot performance by Willie Nelson in 1976. In February 2011, the legendary show got a new home: Austin City Limits Live at the Moody Theater. The new studio serves as a regular show venue most of the time; patrons can purchase tickets to see local bands and major touring acts. In addition, lucky visitors will be able to score tickets to ACL tapings by following the ACL blog and entering the regular ticket lottery. The new venue can accommodate up to 3,000 fans – with no one fan more than 80 feet from the stage. www.acl-live.com

Some of Austin’s newest sounds are coming from its newest people – literally. The Under-21 music scene is taking off on local stages, as the city’s founding music legends’ own children are growing up. Mother Falcon features about a dozen classically-trained high school students creating high-level indie rock. The Daze are youthful rockers who were recently filmed in the mainstream documentary, Bandslam. Austin is home to a myriad of kids rock camps, and even a youth music PR firm – Bold ‘n Zesty PR was founded by an 18-year-old music prodigy.

Hip, Haunted History
Austin’s historic Grande Dame, The Driskill Hotel, celebrates its 125th anniversary in 2011. The luxury property is famous not only for its Texas opulence, but also for being home to several “spirited” residents. Dozens of guests have cited run-ins with the ghosts of founder Jesse Lincoln Driskill, an early 20th century security guard, or a slighted bride. Guests who prefer not to stay overnight can ask the long-time bartenders for ghost stories as they sip a Brazos Brasiliensis Batini, the spicy concoction that was named Austin’s Signature Cocktail in 2010. The cocktail is a perfect fit for the hotel; it’s named in honor of the city’s Mexican Free-tailed Bats, the largest urban bat colony in North America. It’s a natural phenomenon that’s just a little, well, spooky… www.driskillhotel.com

Eat and Go → Go and Eat.

The trailer food movement took off in Austin when the economy hit troubled waters in 2008. Chefs and restaurateurs took advantage of the low overhead, low staffing costs, and limited food costs offered by a mobile restaurant. And some of them were wildly successful. Franklin BBQ (franklinbbq.com), Odd Duck Farm to Trailer (oddduckfarmtotrailer.com), Torchy’s Tacos (torchystacos.com), Lucky J’s Chicken & Waffles (luckyjs.com) and Hey Cupcake (heycupcake.com) have gone from mobile to brick-and-mortar, turning the trailer food movement into a test-the-waters business opportunity. It speaks to Austin’s popularity as a startup hub, and also to the dedicated community of foodies that support adventurous chefs.

My Other Car is a Bicycle

With nearly 20 miles of urban trails and an average daily temperature around 70 degrees, Austin is a cycling town. Lance Armstrong lives in Austin and trained here, and now his bike shop, Mellow Johnny’s, offers bike rentals for visitors as well as an expansive souvenir shop and small café. Serious cyclists can even register for the Downtown Crit or Longhorn IronMan 70.3 Triathlon. Travelers looking for a mellow pedal around Lady Bird Lake can rent a comfy cruiser from Barton Springs Bike Rentals. The city was recently featured as a great biking destination by Bicycling magazine, and editors at Kickstand and Momentum agree. For a bike map of Austin, visit www.cityofaustin.org.

East Side Renaissance

Steampunk cocktail counters. Old-school, swamp-cooler-cooled BBQ joints and beer bars. Historic homes turned into high-end restaurants; and edgy art galleries. These are the businesses on Austin’s East Side. The City poured funds into improving the neighborhood a few years ago, and now it’s the super-friendly, come-as-you-are heart of the Austin “scene.”
The Good Knight offers intimate vintage cool for dinner or drinks (classic cocktails highlight the menu), with curtained booths, dark wood bar and 1950s photo portraits adorning the walls. www.thegoodknight.net

The Liberty bar boasts a super-friendly staff and a great beer garden with a food trailer in the back: East Side King, founded by Paul Qui, sous chef at award-winning Uchi. http://www.yelp.com/biz/the-liberty-austin

The Scoot Inn is the oldest beer bar in Austin. The owners are often barbecuing in the shady beer garden out back (a $2 donation buys burger), and the outdoor stage features hip hop battles and live bands. Inside, guests enjoy movie nights and skee-ball tournaments. www.scoot-inn.com

Justine’s, the new French bistro, is housed in a converted Victorian home. Inside, escargot and steak frites are featured menu items. Outside, guests sip craft cocktails and play pétanque while they wait for a table. www.justines1937.com

The off-the-beaten-path gallery, Okay Mountain, showcases works by up-and-coming local, national and international artists. The artist-run gallery partners with cultural and social institutions in an effort to ensure diversity of exhibitions. www.okaymountain.com

Austin: the Ultimate 19th Hole

Central Texas is home to award-winning municipal and resort courses, but what really separates Austin as a golf destination is that a vibrant downtown – with nearly 200 live music venues, smoky BBQ and tangy margaritas – is just minutes away from most courses. The Austin Golf Trail (http://www.austingolftrail.com ) offers customized golf trips to Austin, with priority access to tee times, great rates at downtown hotels, and even transportation for players.

Or, check out a resort course:
With a world-class golf school on site,
the award-winning Barton Creek Resort & Spa welcomes golfers to courses with verdant hills, lush vegetation and abundant wildlife.

Wolfdancer Golf Club at the Hyatt Regency Lost Pines Resort & Spa offers a 7,205-yard course that incorporates three distinct ecosystems – a sloping prairie, wooded ridgeline and river valley dotted with native pecan trees.

Located in the Hill Country, Lakeway Resort & Spa offers four unique courses in close proximity to Lake Travis.

Named one of America’s Best Golf Resorts by Golf Magazine, Horseshoe Bay Resort is home to three championship courses and features a multi-million dollar, 18-hole, par-72 Bermuda grass putting course complete with waterfalls and grazing flamingos.

Luxe in Texas

Austin has traditionally been known as a laid-back, cowboy-cool destination. But new additions to the skyline and renovated attractions take Austin to the next level as a luxury travel destination.

The W Austin Hotel & Residences opened late in 2010, with four lounge areas featuring turntables and vintage Macintosh equipment. AWAY® Spa integrates total relaxation with holistic, herbal treatments. At TRACE, the new American menu focuses on local, foraged ingredients. www.whotels.com/austin

Hotel Saint Cecilia puts up guests in lavish, rock-and-roll guestrooms in a converted historic home, or in bungalow-style rooms overlooking the Austin skyline and hotel pool. You have to have a reservation to be on property, so the Saint Cecilia is a favorite among celebrities and people looking to truly get away. www.hotelsaintcecilia.com

Named North America’s #1 Destination Spa by the readers of Condé Nast Traveler, Lake Austin Spa Resort offers indulgent massages and body treatments, an expansive menu of facials, and top-notch hair and nail therapy, waxing, men’s treatments and more. “Stealth health” cuisine is served daily, workshops and workout classes round out programming, and impeccable but comfortable design evokes the feel of a friend’s lake house. Book all-inclusive packages at www.lakeaustin.com

Arthouse at the Jones Center reopened in late 2010 after a $6 million renovation to include three galleries, two studios, a screening/community room and a rooftop space with a large cinema screen. www.arthousetexas.org

Congress, David Bull’s new, exquisite restaurant, was recently named the Best New Restaurant in Texas by the New York Times. Bull was lauded for creative applications on traditional dishes like white lobster bisque with tomato jam and rack of lamb with salsify and cardamom yogurt. www.congressaustin.com

High-end diners also delight in the Interior Mexican cuisine at La Condesa, where the menu offers squid tostadas, duck confit molé and house-made ice cream (try the banana brown sugar) for dessert. www.lacondesaaustin.com

New shops in the 2nd Street District bring posh shopping to downtown Austin. Designs from the likes of Doucette Douvall, Nicole Miller and John Varvados adorn the racks at Estilo, and unique gifts and interiors are available at Mercury Design Studio. www.2ndstreetdistrict.com
Lovers of wearable art can buy hand-designed (and commissionable) cowboy boots at Heritage Boot, the shop named by The New York Times and Departures Magazine as the best place to buy your boots in Austin. www.heritageboots.com

Offers Incredible Savings in Bloomington, Minnesota and Mall of America®
The Big Ticket now offers 6 major attractions in the 3 day bundled attraction pass

Bloomington, MN – Families will enjoy all the Twin Cities has to offer when purchasing The Big Ticket. This attraction pass bundles admissions in a three-day pass to the most popular Twin Cities area attractions and provides 30% off regular prices.

Purchasers of The Big Ticket have three days to visit the following six major Twin Cities attractions:

Water Park of America (new to The Big Ticket)
Nickelodeon Universe® in Mall of America
Sea Life™ Minnesota Aquarium in Mall of America
Minnesota Zoo in Apple Valley
Great Clips® IMAX® Theatre at the Minnesota Zoo
Science Museum of Minnesota in St. Paul

As an added value, extra discount offers for many local attractions, restaurants and stores are included to enhance The Big Ticket. Additional savings coupons include Kokomo’s Island Café, Macy’s, Scooops Kid Spa and Cadillac Ranch

The Big Ticket is $79.00 for adults and $69.00 for children (2-12) and at the first attraction The Big Ticket is used, your three days of visiting the attractions begins.

To purchase The Big Ticket, log on to www.bloomingtonmn.org and make your purchase online, or call 800-346-4289. Or, the attraction pass can be purchased in Bloomington at Mall of America North Gift Store (N128) and check with your hotel to see if they sell it.

Visitors can also purchase The Big Ticket Getaway package at www.bloomingtonmn.org. The attraction pass is bundled with discounted hotel stay and many extras for fun and excitement in Bloomington and Mall of America. Book your affordable getaway today!

The Bloomington Convention & Visitors Bureau is the marketing arm for the City of Bloomington and aggressively markets Bloomington, Minnesota, area attractions, and the surrounding communities, to visitors around the world. Bloomington is located adjacent to Minneapolis and St. Paul, just minutes from the International Airport, is the home of Mall of America, and is a premier destination for meetings, conventions, and tourism. For visitor information, special offers and become a fan, visit www.bloomingtonmn.org  or call 800.346.4289.

New Bites & Boutique Hotels

In May, Santa Monica’s nearly 500 restaurants and four weekly farmers markets will welcome a new addition to the dining scene: The Market, offering heirloom coffee, local meats and cheeses, fresh-baked breads, sweet confections and fragrant flowers. The Market will reside on the rooftop dining deck of Santa Monica Place, the beautifully remodeled outdoor shopping center just two blocks from the ocean.

In August, the Shore Hotel will join the beachside contingent, with a sustainable twist. The boutique property will be the first Silver LEED Certified new hotel in Santa Monica, boasting magnificent ocean views, two restaurants, meeting space, expansive pool deck, health club, and plaza garden.

Santa Monica: Where Wellness Trends Start

Perched on the Pacific Ocean, with 325+ sunny days per year, an active, healthy lifestyle is part of the beach city’s DNA. Thus, many health and fitness practices – trendy and endearing – have begun here, and continue to emerge.

The famous Muscle Beach originated here, as did beach volleyball. Today, Santa Monica remains a leader in health and fitness, offering a host of traditional options (Pilates, yoga, hiking, biking, surfing and more), as well as some unexpected ventures into wellness (synchronized swimming classes, Core Fusion combined with Happy Hour, lessons in “Running from the Paparazzi”).

The Anti-Business Trip

Santa Monica is a preferred destination for companies seeking it all for business meetings. Aside from numerous luxury properties offering a wealth of custom options for meeting professionals – take a meeting in a sprawling hall, or perhaps a private poolside cabana – the beachside city also offers vast convenience. Just eight miles from LAX and only 8.3 sqare miles in size, Santa Monica is a walkable city, eliminating endless taxi receipts, and features dozens of restaurants and attractions ideal for built-in entertainment for after-hours team building and dinner meetings. The sea breezes also do wonders for employee morale…

Good news sailed into San Francisco on New Year’s Eve 2010 when the city was chosen to host the next America’s Cup in 2013.

The San Francisco Travel Association will be among many organizations to help welcome the America’s Cup into the Golden Gate as visitors flock to San Francisco Bay to view the events that make up the 34th America’s Cup and enjoy this fascinating port city.

“The 34th America’s Cup will bring the competition for the oldest trophy in international sport back to the United States for the first time in 18 years. This is the third largest international sporting event in terms of economic impact, ranking next to only the Olympics and soccer’s World Cup,” said San Francisco Travel Association CEO and President Joe D’Alessandro. “This is an incredible opportunity to showcase San Francisco Bay, the city’s waterfront and other attractions to the world.”

Ever since majestic clipper ships transported hordes of gold-seeking “49ers” to her shores, San Francisco has been a legendary port-of-call. From rousing sea chanteys to historical walking tours, the tale of San Francisco’s coming-of-age is most eloquently told in the history of its waterfront. Today, visitors have more opportunities than ever before to explore and enjoy its colorful, maritime past.

Colorado is well-known for its 10 scenic and historic trains and railways, which can take visitors everywhere from mountaintop summits and deep river gorges to rolling valleys and lush vineyards. In fact, one can trace Colorado’s vast history through its trains and railroads, from steam engines and luxurious antique passenger cars to 19th century narrow gauge railroads and a famous cog railway, taking passengers to areas where no other conveyance can. Following is a brief description of Colorado’s passenger railroads and trains.

■ The Cripple Creek & Victor Narrow Gauge Railroad packs quite a bit of history into its four-mile route, which traces the path of the now-defunct Midland Terminal Railbed. Beginning at the Cripple Creek railroad depot, which was established in 1894, the railroad takes passengers along majestic Pikes Peak and former mining camps, where prospectors once sought to make their fortunes. The 45-minute trip also runs through Echo Valley, where passengers can hear the train’s whistle echo into the deep valley. 970-689-2640; www.cripplecreekrailroad.com

■ The Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad is one of Colorado’s most storied vintage railroad lines, having been in operation since 1880.This southern Colorado railroad boasts 64 miles of track featuring two tressles. The route takes passengers through two tunnels spanning more than a football field in length and past several of the railway’s original buildings, still in tact. Allow six hours for a one way trek, which runs from Antonito, Colo. to Chama, N.M. 888-286-2737; www.cumbrestoltec.com

■ The Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad debuted in 1892, after a top-secret expansion through the Animas Valley to the mining town of Silverton. The 45-mile railroad boasts vintage steam locomotives pulling a variety of rolling stock, including antique and open train cars, along the cliffs of the Animas River Gorge. The train, which also serves as the lone access route to Soaring Tree Top Adventures, a zip line tour, has been featured in several major motion pictures, including The Prestige, starring Scarlett Johansson. The railroad also houses a museum in Durango, where visitors can view restored vintage rail cars. Allow 3.5 hours for a one-way trip. 877-872-4607; www.durangotrain.com

■ Experience Colorado’s Wine Country aboard a train that takes visitors from Denver to the vineyards of Colorado’s Wine Country. Through a partnership with AAA, train passengers will enjoy spectacular scenery en route to western Colorado, from the Rocky Mountains to The Grand Mesa, the world’s largest flat top mountain. Included in the trip is a day-of-departure continental breakfast, two nights’ accommodations in Grand Junction including daily breakfast, visits to several Grand Valley wineries, and a “Wine 101” seminar and tasting by a sommelier from a participating winery. Guests return to Denver via a luxury motorcoach. 800-962-2547; www.visitgrandjunction.com

■ The Georgetown Loop Railroad originally began operation in 1872, running from Denver to Idaho Springs. In 1938, the line was abandoned and then dismantled. It wasn’t until 1969, following an extensive restoration and modernization project, that the railroad began operation once again. The Georgetown Loop Railroad re-opened for full use in 1984, tracing its original 1872 route. In fact, the railway also benefitted from engineering advances not available when it was first in operation. The result is that the railway can now reach areas that were not possible in 1872, including Devil’s Gate High Bridge. Allow 1.5 hours for a one way ride; an optional 1.5-hour mine tour is also offered. 888-456-6777; www.georgetownlooprr.com

■ The Leadville & Company Southern Railroad follows a 22-mile route along old lines that were originally developed by now-defunct railroads. Beginning in Leadville, the highest incorporated city in the U.S., the route follows dramatic switchbacks along the upper Arkansas River Valley and passes along the Continental Divide. Popular in the summer and fall periods, where wildflowers and foliage are in their respective peak periods, the railroad’s route also passes Mount Elbert and Mount Massive, Colorado’s two tallest peaks. Allow 2.5 hours round-trip. 866-386-3936; www.leadville-train.com

■ The Pikes Peak Cog Railway, the highest train in the U.S., takes passengers 14,115 feet above sea level to the summit of Pikes Peak. It was here that Katharine Lee Bates, inspired by the “purple mountains’ majesty” of Pikes Peak, penned the words to a poem that eventually became the lyrics to the ubiquitous “America the Beautiful.” The cog railway, which combines a historic, nearly nine-mile route and a restored vintage station with modernized cars offering unparalleled views, takes a bit over three hours round-trip. This includes a stop at the Pikes Peak summit, where passengers can be inspired like Bates. 719-685-5401; www.cograilway.com

■ The Rio Grande Scenic Railroad is comprised of two separate railroads—the Toltec Limited and the San Luis Express—which, combined, span more than 100 miles. The two railroads criss-cross each other in the lush San Luis Valley and through the San Isabel National Forest. The railroad started out as a method of transporting supplies to otherwise impassable mining camps. Today, the railroad makes its way past these now-abandoned settlements, which were left intact and remain inaccessible by any other conveyance. Passengers will enjoy the amazing scenery, which also includes the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. Time varies by route and one way/round-trip options. 877-7CO-RAIL (877-726-7245); www.riograndescenicrailroad.com

■ The Royal Gorge Route Railroad partly runs along a historic, 24-mile track in Cañon City, Colorado, which was carved out of rocky riverbed along the roaring Arkansas River. The modern locomotive offers conveniences and comforts while offering amazing scenery via panoramic-view cars that are open to the sheer, massive canyon walls. The high point of the trip—pun not intended—is the ride across the Royal Gorge Bridge, the second-highest suspension bridge in the world. Passengers get an unequaled view of the gorge, while riding nearly 1,000 feet above the churning Arkansas River. Allow 2.5 hours round-trip. An optional visit to the Royal Gorge Bridge and Park, an adventure park in Cañon City, is an excellent addition to the trip. 888-724-5748; www.royalgorgeroute.com

■ The (California) Zephyr operated by Amtrak is described as a spectacular, high-speed tour through the Rocky Mountains. The Zephyr, which boasts Vista Dome cars offering nearly unimpeded views of the landscape, operates on a 321-mile scenic stretch in Colorado making six stops: Fort Morgan, Denver, Fraser, Granby, Glenwood Springs, and Grand Junction. The Colorado portion is part of a 2,500 mile route from San Francisco to Chicago. The Zephyr also has an on-board “Trails & Rails” program operating between Denver and Grand Junction. “Trails and Rails” is an innovative partnership between Amtrak and the National Park Service, providing educational opportunities to passengers for the purpose of fostering appreciation of America’s natural and cultural heritage. 800-USA-RAIL; www.amtrak.com

■ Golden, Colorado is home to the Colorado Railroad Museum (www.coloradorailroadmuseum.org ), which boasts a replica of an 1880s-style railroad depot, antique restored locomotives and rolling stock, rare photographs, artifacts and documents illustrating the colorful history of Colorado’s railroads.

ABOUT COLORADO

Colorado is a four-season destination offering unparalleled adventure and recreational pursuits, a thriving arts scene, a rich cultural heritage, flavorful cuisine, and 26 renowned ski areas and resorts. The state’s breathtaking scenic landscape boasts natural hot springs, the headwaters of seven major rivers, many peaceful lakes and reservoirs, 12 national parks and monuments, and 54 mountain peaks that top 14,000 feet.

For more information or a copy of the 2011 Colorado Official State Vacation Guide, visit www.COLORADO.com  or call 1-800-COLORADO.

. Visitors can also follow Colorado’s social media channels, including Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, Flickr and Foursquare, on the Colorado Connect page at www.COLORADO.com/connect

RALEIGH, N.C. — Gov. Bev Perdue announced today that North Carolina is now home to 100 wineries. The 100th winery in North Carolina to raise a glass is Cauble Creek Vineyard in Salisbury.

“Our wine industry is made up of small business owners, entrepreneurs and farmers. Most importantly it creates jobs in our state,” said Gov. Perdue. “Our wineries and vineyards provide a compelling reason to visit our state and they are a significant economic engine.”

North Carolina ranks seventh in wine production and 10th in grape production nationally. Research funded by the North Carolina Wine & Grape Council reports the wine and grape industry in this state accounts for more than 5,700 jobs with total economic impact as much as $813 million. North Carolina also ranks among the top five states in the country as a destination for culinary tourism according to a 2007 Travel Industry Association (now known as U.S. Travel Association) survey.

A Tale of Two Grapes

The industry here shares two types of grapes: the sweet native muscadines (such as carlos, noble, magnolia, etc.) and the European-style vinifera grapes (such as chardonnay, cabernet sauvignon, merlot, etc.) The 100th winery focuses exclusively on the sweet muscadine grape and also sells jams, jellies and neutraceuticals made from muscadines.

A Growing Industry

The number of wineries in the state has grown dramatically over the last 30 years. In 1972, Westbend Vineyards was the first winery to plant European vinifera grapes in the Yadkin Valley.

In 2005, the state boasted around 50 wineries making both European vinifera and muscadine wines; in five years, that number has tipped to 100. More wineries have already filed with the Council this week.

About Cauble Creek, the 100th Winery

William Yost, owner of Cauble Creek Vineyards, left a job in industrial sales to start his new venture. He grew up on a farm and decided to plant muscadine grapes, although his father worried that the grape business was less stable than the small greens crop around which the family had built their agribusiness.

“When you’re raised on a farm and your heart and soul go in it your whole life, you become part of the dirt,” Yost says. “With the winery start up, my main goals were to support the tourism, heritage and sustainability basics, so I wanted to plant something that would do well on this land in order to make a quality grape product with the opportunity for product line extensions.”

Yost’s first encounter with wine making was in 2000, when one of his great uncles, John Cauble, passed down the responsibility of making the communion wine for the St. Mark’s Lutheran Church in Salisbury. Yost’s wife, Anita, and son Alex, supported his nights in the basement, experimenting and researching. Yost also completed classes in Surry County Community College’s Viticulture and Enology Technology program. Today, winemaker Mark Friszolowski at Childress Vineyards in Lexington makes the wine from Yost’s nine acres of vineyards. www.caublecreekvineyards.com

W Hotels Worldwide has opened the 137-room W St. Petersburg.

The new property, owned by Real Estate Development Ltd., features restaurant miX, a bar and rooftop lounge by three Michelin star chef Alain Ducasse, as well as a signature spa. The hotel was designed by Milan-based Antonio Citterio and Patricia Viel Partners, who were inspired by St. Petersburg’s architectural ancestry of the city and jewel tones of the Fabergé Egg.

Located in the heart of the “Venice of the North,” W St. Petersburg is located near St. Isaac Cathedral, the Winter Palace, which houses the Hermitage Museum, and the Neva River.

Of the hotel’s 137 rooms, there are 10 suites and one extreme WOW Suite, all featuring custom-made furnishings with accents unique to St. Petersburg. The hotel also has a SWEAT Fitness Center with Technogym exercise equipment. W St. Petersburg is located at 6 Voznesensky Prospect, St. Petersburg, 190000, Russia and is now accepting reservations, including group arrivals and event bookings. Rooms start from RUB7200 ($258) per room per night plus VAT. For more information, call W St. Petersburg on 011-7-812-610-6161 or visit www.wstpetersburg.com . For more information on W Hotels, visit www.whotels.com

LOS ANGELES — Several hotels in Los Angeles County are currently under construction or have been recently developed. The following is a summary of some of these new hotel developments.

DOWNTOWN

The Ritz-Carlton, Los Angeles – The Ritz-Carlton, Los Angeles opened in April 2010 as the cornerstone of L.A. LIVE, the $2.5 billion sports and entertainment complex adjacent to STAPLES Center and the Los Angeles Convention Center. The property has 123 well-appointed guest rooms, including 14 suites, in addition to Downtown’s only full-service hotel spa, The Ritz-Carlton Spa, providing a luxurious, 8,000-square-foot sanctuary. The property also features a 3,400-square-foot signature Ritz-Carlton Club Lounge, which will serve as the 23rd floor check-in area for guests. The Gallery Collection offers more than 77,000 square feet of ballroom and meeting room space.

The hotel is home to WP24, the latest restaurant concept by celebrity chef Wolfgang Puck. Another unique feature of The Ritz-Carlton, Los Angeles, is a combined Lobby Lounge and restaurant on the 24th floor with windows offering panoramic views of Downtown and surrounding Southern California. On the 26th floor, an outdoor, rooftop swimming pool and terrace offer guests a relaxing retreat from the city below. The Ritz-Carlton, Los Angeles, shares space with The Ritz-Carlton Residences at L.A. LIVE and the JW Marriott at L.A. LIVE in a one-of-a-kind, distinctive 54-story tower designed by Gensler. 900 W. Olympic Blvd., Los Angeles, 90015; 800.241.3333 www.ritzcarlton.com

JW Marriott Hotel Los Angeles at L.A. LIVE — The JW Marriott Hotel Los Angeles at L.A. LIVE opened in February 2010, as part of the $2.5 billion L.A. LIVE sports and entertainment complex developed by AEG. The hotel has 878 guest rooms, including 52 well-appointed suites, along with a 4,000-square-foot JW Marriott fitness center, located on the second floor, and an outdoor pool and bar. The Gallery Collection features more than 77,000 square feet of indoor meeting space, including three floors of stacked ballrooms.

With its central location in Los Angeles’ burgeoning Downtown district, the hotel provides a deluxe level of comfort and personal service within a unique environment designed to reflect its location. The property shares space with The Ritz-Carlton, Los Angeles, and The Ritz-Carlton Residences at L.A. LIVE in a unique 54-story tower, which was designed by Gensler and is one of the tallest mixed-use buildings in Downtown Los Angeles. 900 W. Olympic Blvd., Los Angeles, 90015; 800.228.9290, www.lalivemarriott.com

Luxe City Center Hotel – The former Holiday Inn Los Angeles City Center has undergone a significant, multi-million-dollar renovation and renamed the Luxe City Center Hotel in fall 2010. Part of an upscale, Los Angeles-based hotel chain, the newly branded property is a four-star, design-driven boutique hotel with 164 elegant and spacious guest rooms and 16 suites in the heart of Downtown’s thriving entertainment district.

The LA interior design firm SanDesign has given the hotel an upscale urban residential atmosphere with a touch of old silver screen, creating guest rooms as “elegant but with an attitude.” Facilities include meeting/banquet space, fitness center and business center. Still under construction are the lobby and restaurant, expected to be completed by fall 2011.1020 S. Figueroa St., Los Angeles, 90015; 213.748.1291, www.luxecitycenter.com

Kyoto Grand Hotel & Gardens (formerly the New Otani Hotel & Gardens) — The Kyoto Grand Hotel & Gardens is a 21-story, full-service hotel, immersing its guests in a serene atmosphere with accents derived from Japanese culture.

The hotel has 434 guest rooms including 20 suites. Flexible meeting spaces can be configured to meet specific needs, accommodating any event from boardroom meetings for 10 attendees to large-scale receptions for 500 guests.

In addition to the Azalea restaurant, the Rendezvous Lounge is open nightly. Kyoto Grand Hotel & Gardens is located in the heart of Little Tokyo. 120 S. Los Angeles St., Los Angeles, 90012; 213.629.1200, www.kyotograndhotel.com

O Hotel Los Angeles — This historic 1920s hotel reopened its glass doors in late 2007. A serene haven for the business traveler, urbanite and out-of-towner, O Hotel offers 68 deluxe rooms with upgraded comforts, modern amenities and the efficient service expected of well-tended boutique establishments.

A six-treatment-room health spa is planned, opening in fall 2011. Located in the heart of the City’s Financial District and part of the ongoing revitalization of Downtown, O Hotel is across the street from shops and dining at Macy’s Plaza, only a few blocks from STAPLES Center, the Nokia Theater, the Walt Disney Concert Hall and the Los Angeles Convention Center. A new dining option at the hotel is Bar & Kitchen, a seasonal American restaurant featuring market-fresh cuisine. 819 S. Flower St., Los Angeles, 90017, 213.623.9904, www.ohotelgroup.com

HOLLYWOOD

Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Hollywood Walk of Fame — Built in 2008, this next generation of new Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites is located near the Hollywood Walk of Fame and centrally located near the Hollywood Bowl and Universal Studios Hollywood. The 94-room hotel features a fitness center, a 1,500-square-foot meeting room, 24-hour business center and wireless data connection, with high-speed Internet access in all rooms and a complimentary hot breakfast and valet parking. 1921 N. Highland Ave., Hollywood, 90068, 323.850.8151, www.hiexpress.com

W Hollywood Hotel & Residences — W Hollywood Hotel & Residences, which opened in January 2010, is the first branded property providing hotel, retail and luxury for-sale residences in Los Angeles. With 305 guest rooms, 143 W-branded residences, a signature restaurant, rooftop bar, branded 6,075-square-foot spa with retail space and a 25-yard lap pool, the $360 million development at Hollywood & Vine offers a world-class lifestyle opportunity boasting W’s signature Whatever/Whenever service.

The cutting-edge design includes luxury finishes, lush landscaping, artistic flair and innovative living spaces complete with dramatic views; premier nightlife and exclusive restaurants. In February 2011 the W Hollywood was awarded LEED Silver certification by the U.S. Green Building Council for blending a modern lifestyle with a sustainable, green footprint. 6250 Hollywood Blvd., Hollywood, 90028; 323.798.1300 www.whotels.com/hollywood

Hollywood Heights Hotel (formerly Holiday Inn Hollywood) — Interstate Hotels & Resorts, a leading hotel real estate investor and the nation’s largest independent operator of full- and select-service hotels, has introduced the latest concept in hospitality, the Hollywood Heights Hotel. The property has been reimaged to reflect the growing need for a more sophisticated mid-range hotel at the gateway to Hollywood.

All of the 160 guest rooms now boast 32-inch LCD HDTVs, Internet access and luxurious bed linens. The guest bathrooms have also been upgraded with Face brand bath amenities. 2005 N. Highland Ave., Hollywood, 90068; 323.876.8600, www.hollywoodheightshotel.com

WESTSIDE

DoubleTree by Hilton Los Angeles-Westside — The 368-room Radisson Los Angeles Westside was rebranded in April 2011 as the DoubleTree by Hilton Los Angeles-Westside. The property is convenient to Sony Pictures Studios, Venice Beach, Beverly Hills and Santa Monica. Amenities include an outdoor heated pool and whirlpool, fitness room, business center, 20,000 square feet of banquet and meeting facilities, airport shuttle service and two on-site restaurants: Share, featuring a selection of 32 wines by the glass, and Culver’s Club Lounge, featuring Live Jazz and Mystery Dinner Theater. 6161 W. Centinela Ave., Culver City, 90230; 310.649.1776; http://doubletree1.hilton.com

Montage Beverly Hills — Located in the heart of Beverly Hills, Montage Beverly Hills has 201 guest rooms, including 55 suites, featuring Signature Montage bedding and linens, LCD televisions and complimentary wireless Internet access.

The hotel, which opened in November 2008, has two restaurants; a 20,000-square-foot, two-story spa; and more than 14,000 square feet of meeting and event space. The rooftop saline pool offers private cabanas, a casual bar and grill and lush landscaping set against panoramic views of the Beverly Hills cityscape and the Hollywood Hills. 225 N. Canon Dr., Beverly Hills, 90210; 310.860.7800; www.montagebeverlyhills.com

SLS Hotel at Beverly Hills (formerly Le Meridien, Beverly Hills) — Located in the heart of Los Angeles’ vibrant landscape, SLS Hotel at Beverly Hills offers a sophisticated hospitality experience. The 297 guest rooms feature Philippe Starck-designed décor with plush bedding, 40-inch flat-screen TVs and 32 guest rooms free of allergens and irritants.

The Bazaar restaurant offers culinary innovations of award-winning chef José Andrés. The hotel also offers a spa, fitness center, rooftop pool, business center and a 24-hour concierge service. The Lobby Terrace and main entrance is currently undergoing renovations. 465 S. La Cienega Blvd., Los Angeles, 90048; 310.247.0400, www.slshotels.com

Hotel Palomar Los Angeles-Westwood (formerly Doubletree Hotel) — The Hotel Palomar Los Angeles-Westwood, under management of San Francisco-based Kimpton Hotels & Restaurants, opened its doors in May 2008. The hotel features many eco-friendly practices as part of its daily operations.

The new 19-story hotel, located two blocks from the UCLA campus, has 264 guest rooms and suites outfitted with high-end amenities and services, including full-service concierge and personal assistant services, state-of-the-art fitness center, in-room spa services and a 24-hour business center. The restaurant, BLVD 16, specializes in California Fresh Cuisine. It is also a pet-friendly hotel. 10740 Wilshire Blvd., Los Angeles, 90024; 310.475.8711, www.hotelpalomar-lawestwood.com

SAN GABRIEL VALLEY

The Langham, Huntington Hotel & Spa, Pasadena (formerly the Ritz-Carlton Huntington Hotel & Spa) — The Langham, Huntington, a legendary Pasadena landmark since 1907, is located just minutes from Downtown Los Angeles.

The hotel recently refurbished all eight cottages and renovated The Huntington Spa, which offers treatments based on traditional Chinese medicine. The dining room has undergone renovations and reopened on Nov. 12, 2010, as The Royce, with a contemporary design created by The Johnson Studio. Chef David Féau, formerly of The Patina Group, is creating a menu of lighter California fare emphasizing fresh seasonal produce. 1401 S. Oak Knoll Ave., Pasadena, 91106; 626.568.3900, www.pasadena.langhamhotels.com

SAN FERNANDO VALLEY

Hotel Amarano Burbank — Formerly The Graciela, the Hotel Amarano is the only luxury boutique hotel in Burbank. Located in the heart of the entertainment district, around the corner from Warner Bros. Studios and only minutes away from Universal Studios and NBC Studios, the hotel has 100 rooms and suites with full kitchenettes, all non-smoking, with 42-inch plasma televisions and iPod docking stations in every guest room, as well as complimentary wireless high-speed Internet access, Italian linens and luxurious down feather duvets. There is more than 2,000 square feet of stylish meeting and event space with high-tech audio-visual equipment and catering services, plus a business center with secretarial services. The garden rooftop sundeck overlooks the Hollywood Hills.

The Library Lounge is now featuring new tapas menu selections from Chef Jose Sanchez, plus a newly revised and extensive wine list. There is complimentary shuttle service to Bob Hope Airport. 322 N. Pass Ave., Burbank, CA 91505; 818.842.8877, www.hotelamarano.com

Four Seasons Westlake Village — The Four Seasons Westlake Village, a one-of-a-kind luxury hotel set amid acres of serene gardens, opened in 2006. In addition to an expansive, full-service spa and salon, a fitness center, indoor and outdoor pools and an array of dining options, also located within the property is the California Health & Longevity Institute, which offers a comprehensive approach to health and well-being in the areas of medicine, nutrition, fitness and life balance.

The hotel has 270 generously proportioned guest rooms, including 27 suites, all with plasma televisions, wired or wireless Internet access and DVD/CD player. Guest rooms feature high ceilings, a magnificent chandelier and floor-to-ceiling windows, many overlooking the hotel’s gardens and waterfall, with views stretching to the Santa Monica Mountains. Two Dole Dr., Westlake Village 91362; 818.575.3000; www.fourseasons.com/westlakevillage

COASTAL

Shore Hotel — A new beachside retreat opens in summer 2011: the Shore Hotel in Santa Monica. On the site of the former Pacific Sands and Travelodge, this all-new boutique hotel stands out with its modern design, eco-friendliness and location across the street from the Santa Monica Pier and beach. The open-air, U-shaped hotel will have a glass-walled lobby looking out at the ocean. The 164 teal and orange rooms will feature teak wood furniture and balconies. The luxury oceanfront hotel is the first and only newly constructed LEED registered hotel in Santa Monica. Amenities include free WiFi throughout the hotel, a 24-hour gym with a personal trainer, sightseeing tours, bike and roller blade rentals, a solar-heated outdoor pool, a state-of-the-art meeting and event room, two restaurants and plentiful underground parking. Pets are welcome. 1515 Ocean Ave., Santa Monica, 90401; 310.451.9895; www.shorehotel.com

Terranea Resort — Terranea Resort, set in the style of a Mediterranean estate and encompassing more than 102 oceanfront acres on the Palos Verdes Peninsula, opened its doors in June 2009. Located just 20 miles south of Los Angeles International Airport, Terranea offers more than 60,000 square feet of state-of-the-art indoor meeting and event space, including an 18,000-square-foot Palos Verdes Grand Ballroom, plus the Marineland Ballroom, 15 breakout rooms and six board rooms, as well as 75,000 square feet of outdoor function spaces offering breathtaking ocean views.

The resort has 380 guest rooms, 32 villas and 50 casitas, and a variety of restaurants. Amenities include a 50,000-square-foot spa and fitness center featuring 25 treatment rooms, three pools and a nine-hole golf course. The oceanfront resort is surrounded on three sides by the Pacific Ocean, with views of Catalina Island across the channel. 100 Terranea Way, Rancho Palos Verdes, 90275; 310.265.2800, www.terranea.com