Jetsettersblog

BUSH, PUBLIC ENEMY, MATT & KIM, ESCAPE THE FATE, THE DIRTY HEADS, COBRA STARSHIP, SHE WANTS REVENGE, BLACK VEIL BRIDES, TRIBAL SEEDS, Ray Manzarek & Robby Krieger of The Doors, BUCKCHERRY, DREDG, VOXHAUL BROADCAST, AND MORE

TICKETS ON SALE NOW

WWW.SUNSETSTRIPMUSICFESTIVAL.COM

Organizers for the fourth annual SUNSET STRIP MUSIC FESTIVAL (SSMF) have announced that 2011 Elmer Valentine Award honoree MÖTLEY CRÜE will return to their roots and close the outdoor street festival on Saturday, Aug. 20. As previously announced, MÖTLEY CRÜE will also launch the three-day fest at an Aug. 18 tribute event celebrating their 30-year career. The Aug. 20 street festival stages will also feature performances by a range of artists, including BUSH, PUBLIC ENEMY, MATT & KIM, ESCAPE THE FATE, THE DIRTY HEADS, COBRA STARSHIP, SHE WANTS REVENGE, BLACK VEIL BRIDES and TRIBAL SEEDS, as The Sunset Strip is closed to traffic to host a full day of music. Additionally, the all-day street festival will feature performances by VOXHAUL BROADCAST, LETLIVE, DELUKA, KILL THE COMPLEX, THE LOST PATROL and 50 more bands in the venues.

This year’s street festival will include unique “after parties” at venues with DJs FELIX CARTAL, HARVARD BASS, DEATHFACE and BONES performing at the Key Club, and SEMI PRECIOUS WEAPONS returning to The Roxy Theatre to present their signature rock-meets-art party EMPIRE, featuring special guests.

Each year, West Hollywood’s world-famous Sunset Strip celebrates its rich musical history and influence with the SUNSET STRIP MUSIC FESTIVAL, a three-day event that features a variety of artists throughout its venues culminating with an open air street festival on its last day. This year’s event takes place Thursday, Aug. 18, Friday, Aug. 19 and Saturday, Aug. 20.

On Saturday, Aug. 20, Sunset Boulevard will be closed to traffic between Doheny Drive and San Vicente Boulevard and will be transformed into a premier concert destination with outdoor stages, beer gardens, a VIP lounge, food trucks, interactive experiences and live performances within the venues during the day until 1-2 a.m.

A wide range of artists will perform in The Sunset Strip’s venues—House of Blues Sunset Strip, Key Club, The Roxy Theatre, Viper Room and Whisky A Go-Go—throughout all three days of the festival. These include iconic acts such as Ray Manzarek and Robby Krieger of The Doors with vocalist David Brock and Uriah Heap, to emerging talents including DREDG.

The full list of the lineup, with more to be added is:

THURSDAY, AUGUST 18

House of Blues

Tribute to Mötley Crüe

(Limited number of three-day passes, which include entrance.)

Key Club

Uriah Heep

Neon Max

Souljourners

Oh So Wild

Viper Room

The Veronicas

The Tender Box

Run Run Run

Whisky A Go-Go

The Faceless

FRIDAY, AUGUST 19

The Roxy

Buckcherry

Key Club

Dredg

Whisky A Go-Go

Ray Manzarek and Robby Krieger of The Doors with vocalist David Brock

Kathryn Gallagher

Zen Rizing

Whisky A Go-Go Girls

Viper Room

Eli James

Taylor Locke & The Roughs

Lady Sinatra

Purple Melon

SATURDAY, AUGUST 20: STREET FESTIVAL

OUTDOOR STAGES

Mötley Crüe

Bush

Public Enemy

Matt & Kim
Escape The Fate
The Dirty Heads

Cobra Starship

Black Veil Brides

She Wants Revenge

Tribal Seeds

INDOOR STAGES

Key Club

Voxhaul Broadcast

Pigeon John

Deluka

Youngblood Hawke

Indians

Vampires Everywhere!

Kozmonaut

Felix Cartal

Harvard Bass

Deathface

BONES

The Roxy Theatre

Kill The Complex

Queen Caveat

Sabrosa Purr

Letlive

Jordan Cook

Chappo

Imagine Dragons

The Limousines

The Expanders

Warner Drive

Semi Precious Weapons’ Empire with Special Guests

Whisky A Go-Go

Motochrist

London

Demolition

Motorcycle Boy

All Hail The Yeti

Soulbleed

Desecrate

DC4

Dylan Nash

Haunted By Heroes

School of Rock

Blowing Up The Moon

Acidic

The Lost Patrol

Romantic Torture

Whiskey Six

Bolt Action Thrill

Key To Chaos

Electra

Divinity Roxx & special celebrity guests

Whisky A Go-Go Girls

Betty Moon

Black Vinyl

Kokopelli

The three-day festival kicks off with a special tribute to Mötley Crüe at the House of Blues on Thursday, Aug. 18 where they will be presented with the Elmer Valentine Award for their contributions to the history of The Sunset Strip. The intimate event will feature special guests and one-of-a-kind performances. In addition to the tribute event, the City of West Hollywood will also recognize Mötley Crüe with a special day in their honor. The festival continues Friday, Aug. 19 with a full night of music in the venues. Again this year, the Viper Room will serve as the official media hub during the day of the street festival, with live remotes from 98.7fm and artist interviews. Select Sunset Strip businesses will also host parties, music showcases and gallery exhibits open to the public throughout the week.

Tickets are currently on sale via TicketWeb (www.ticketweb.com/SSMF). General admission August 20 street festival tickets will be available for $55 (advance, online sales), and $70 at the door the day of the event. A limited number of VIP street festival tickets, which include access to a VIP rooftop lounge and priority access to the venues, will be available for $120 in advance. A very limited number of three-day VIP Passes (which include access to all the venues on Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights, plus the Aug. 18 tribute to MÖTLEY CRÜE and VIP access to the Aug. 20 street festival) will be available for $250. All tickets for the festival are being sold without additional fees, the price you see is the price you pay. Fans can also purchase tickets directly from their iPhones this year with the Sunset Strip Music Festival app available for free download (http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/sunset-strip-music-festival/id432757230?mt=8&ls=1).

Last year’s SSMF took place Aug. 26-28, 2010 and was a spectacular success drawing 30,000 people to The Sunset Strip over three days, with 13,000 attendees flocking to the Street Festival on Saturday. Performances included an array of musical icons including The Smashing Pumpkins, Slash featuring Myles Kennedy and Fergie, and Common. The day also included performances by Kid Cudi, Travie McCoy, as well as Neon Trees, Steel Panther, Semi Precious Weapons, Saint Motel and Big B. Highlights from SSMF 2010 be seen here: http://vimeo.com/15450477.

SSMF 2011’s proud supporting sponsors include Virgin America, Jack Daniel’s, Gibson Guitar, Bud Light, Los Angeles Hornburg Range Rover and Land Rover on The Sunset Strip, Glaceau Vitaminwater, Mondrian, Musician’s Institute, 98.7fm, TicketWeb, City of West Hollywood, West Hollywood Marketing & Visitors Bureau and Clear Channel Outdoor. Street fest/event production provided by Swing House Hollywood. Festival creative provided by Signature Creative.

About 2011 SSMF Honoree Mötley Crüe:

After over 80-million albums sold worldwide, Mötley Crüe returned to the top of the charts in 2008 with Saints of Los Angeles, their first studio album with the original line-up — Nikki Sixx, Mick Mars, Tommy Lee and Vince Neil — in a decade and the ninth studio album in their career. Based on the band’s New York Times bestseller The Dirt, the disc debuted at #1 on the Independent Album chart and was the top debut of the week on the Billboard Top 200 albums at #4. “Saints of Los Angeles,” which was nominated for a Grammy Award for Best Hard Rock Performance was also noted as the #1 Rock Song of the Year in 2008 by iTunes critics. Half a million rock fans old and new celebrated Crüe Fest, the top touring rock festival in the summer of 2008, featuring Mötley Crüe, Buckcherry, Papa Roach, Sixx:A.M. and Trapt. Continuous touring around the world brought the band back to the U.S. for major arena shows and last summer’s Crüe Fest 2, which featured ten bands on two stages as well as treated fans to a show comprised of two separate sets — the complete track listing from the hit album Dr. Feelgood (for the first time ever) followed by the best of the rest. This year, Mötley Crüe set out on a headlining summer tour with support from Poison and special guests New York Dolls. For more information on Mötley Crüe, please visit http://www.motley.com.

www.sunsetstripmusicfestival.com

www.facebook.com/sunsetstripmusicfestival

Twitter: @SSMF / @TheSunsetStrip

Riviera Maya Luxury Resort Offers Complimentary Accommodation to First 10 Respondents of Exclusive Anniversary Offer

Puerto Morales, Riviera Maya, Mexico — To celebrate a decade of sun, surf, and serenity, boutique Ceiba del Mar Beach & Spa Resort is offering three or more nights of complimentary accommodation to the first 10 revelers who respond to its exclusive “Anniversary Offer.”

This lucky set will receive one no-cost evening of award-winning hospitality lodging for every night of their reservation—plus, a half-mile of private, ivory beachfront, calm winds, cool seas, celestial twilights, and marigold skies at dawn and dusk. Amenities include peaceful but plentiful sanctuary in one of 88 deluxe ocean suites (seven penthouses), traditional Mexican dining from two on-site restaurants, and access to the holistic Spa at Ceiba del Mar and facilities (a fully-equipped gym, land/sea sports equipment and sea-facing swimming pools). Included is proximity to the region’s celebrated recreational spots.

Rates for the Anniversary Offer start at US$ 229.00 per room (meals excluded), plus taxes and a service charge. A minimum three-night reservation is required. Offer good only for the first 10 respondents.

Additional savings provided by two optional meal plans: the European Plan (EP) includes a daily a la carte breakfast and the Luxury Gourmet Plan (LP) encompasses all a la carte meals, snacks and top-shelf refreshment.

Quietly hidden amid lush tropics, Ceiba del Mar occupies a half-mile of pristine ivory beachfront on the shores of the shimmering Mexican Caribbean. This picturesque scene sets a utopian backdrop for an indulgent, senses-awakening getaway, complemented by the finest in accommodations, amenities, and aesthetics. Combined, these attributes lend Ceiba del Mar its distinctive Mexican character. Located just 30 miles from the Cancun airport, the resort is a gateway to the area’s top attractions, but rejuvenating respite from these high-traffic areas.

A refreshing Champagne cocktail welcomes each guest, who is then personally escorted to one of the resort’s 88 spacious guest residences, featuring the following amenities:

- A balcony or terrace and hammock;
- Expansive sitting areas;
- A full bathroom with a shower and separate bathtub;
- Organic Bath products;
- Premium linens and textiles;
- Complimentary in-room wireless;
- Twice daily housekeeping and nightly turndown service
- International cable TV and DVD/CD players;
- Complimentary in-room morning coffee and nightly turndown services; and
- Personalized mini-bar service upon request (at an extra cost).

For more information about Ceiba del Mar Beach & Spa Resort—recipient of Conde Nast Traveler’s “Best Rooms” and “Best Service” honors for Mexico—call 1-800-490-0483, or visit www.ceibadelmar.com.

Ceiba del Mar Beach & Spa Resort is an award-winning, oceanfront boutique property with a prime locale in Mexico’s coveted Riviera Maya district. This intimate resort enjoys a half-mile of private, white-sand beachfront; 88 deluxe suites with ocean views (seven penthouses); two restaurants; swimming pools; the aromatherapy Spa at Ceiba del Mar; and indoor/outdoor events spaces for events and weddings.

BILLINGS, MT – Three post-Labor Day escapes offered by award-winning adventure vacations tour operator Austin-Lehman Adventures http://www.austinlehman.com/ focus on America’s still-wild West.

To add a little sizzle to their banquet of late summer, early fall offerings, Austin-Lehman (ALA), the 37-year-old travel company setting adventure tours standards in The Americas, Europe, Africa and beyond, has forwarded the following experiential and factual nuggets on their post-summer trips to Yellowstone Park, the Black Hills of South Dakota and Utah’s Bryce and Zion National Parks. (See http://www.austinlehman.com/factoids  for a full list of fun and curious facts).

Yellowstone National Park: Did You Know?

- There are fewer than 1,000 geysers in the whole world and over 500 of them are located within Yellowstone NP making it the highest concentration of geysers on the planet.

- More than 2,400 miles of streams flow through Yellowstone, providing some of the best fly-fishing in the world.

- September is prime time for photographers as cooler air turns aspens gold while enhancing the thermal features of the park. The elk are in rut, bears are foraging to fatten up and mammals start to sport thick winter coats.

On a six-day ALA vacation guests hike, raft, horseback ride and spa through Yellowstone at $2,298 per person double; adult-only departures are Aug. 28, Sept. 4 and 11. The lodgings used are a roster of favorites: Old Faithful Inn dating to 1904, Lake Yellowstone Hotel hearkening to 1891, Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel, named after nearby steaming limestone terraces; and Chico Hot Springs Resort with mineral hot spring-fed pools and spa services. http://www.austinlehman.com/yellowstone-tours-trips-17.php

“Fall is my favorite time to travel the Yellowstone backcountry. The weather is usually postcard perfect; the bugs have long gone; there are far less people on the trails; the fishing is great and wildlife viewing is at its peak,” Dan Austin, director.

Black Hills of South Dakota: Did You Know?

- The in-progress Crazy Horse mountain carving will be the world’s largest sculpture (563′ high, 641′ long, carved in the round).

- Mount Rushmore’s Thomas Jefferson was originally started on George Washington’s right, but after 18 months Jefferson was dynamited off and carved on the other side.

- September is prime time to bike the George S. Mickelson Trail, a 109-mile abandoned railroad bed with more than 100 converted railroad bridges and four rock tunnels.

Activities in the Black Hills of South Dakota include biking, hiking, caving and spa time at $1,998 per person double; six-day trip departures are Sept. 4, 11 and 18. Accommodations include the century-plus Franklin Hotel in Deadwood, State Game Lodge made of stone and wood in a ponderosa pine forest, and Red Rock River Resort & Spa, with unique sandstone architecture dating back to 1891. See: http://www.austinlehman.com/black-hills-vacations-trips-79.php

Bryce and Zion National Parks: Did You Know?

- At the intersection of three separate ecosystems, Zion has a variety of plants (more than 900 species) not found anywhere else in Utah

- Bryce Canyon National Park has a 7.4 limiting magnitude night sky. In most rural areas of the United States, 2500 stars can be seen on a clear night. At Bryce Canyon, 7500 stars can be seen twinkling in the void.

- # 5 in National Geographic’s ranking of America’s Best 100 Adventures is hiking the Narrows of Zion’s Virgin River, a gorge 16 miles long, up to 2000 feet deep, and at times only 20-30 feet wide. With flash floods a concern, the fall is the best time to experience it.

ALA guests bike and hike through Utah’s Bryce & Zion National Parks at $2,098 per person double; six-day departures are Sept. 18, Sept. 25, Oct. 2 and 9. Overnights are at Seven Wives Inn, Utah’s first bed and breakfast and a restored Victorian (the innkeeper’s ancestor really did have seven wives), Bryce Canyon Lodge, built in the 1920s with replicas of original hickory furniture, and Zion Park Inn with its Great Room fire place and an outdoor heated pool. See: http://www.austinlehman.com/zion-tours-trips-11.php

Austin says that the summer 2011 season bookings for his company’s National Parks programs has “exceeded all projections and will be a record setting year for Austin-Lehman Adventures!”

About Austin-Lehman Adventures

Austin-Lehman Adventures, with a 37-year legacy, provides adventure vacations on five continents, has built an international reputation for small group active travel to destinations in North, Central and South America, Europe, the Pacific Rim and Africa. The company specializes in adult and family multi-sport, hiking, biking vacations that emphasize history, culture and nature’s charms. Trips are limited to 12 guests (18 on family departures) and feature excellent regional dining, distinctive accommodations and all-inclusive rates and services. In addition to scheduled group departures, ALA offers customized trip planning. ALA offers each traveler a money-back satisfaction guarantee.

For free 2011 catalog call toll-free 1.800.575.1540, or e-mail info@austinlehman.com. To review current trips, schedules and itineraries log onto: http://www.austinlehman.com

The classical music production is set to run from July 6th to 20th at the X Space.
The worlds of classical music and Spaghetti Western movies are set to meet in a new production that opens in Adelaide next month.

Entitled Opera Goes West, the show offers a unique take on theatre staples such as Samuel Barber’s A Hand of Bridge, Jacques Offenbach’s Two Blind Beggars and Blue Monday by George Gershwin.

It has been created by emerging South Australian company No Tenors Allowed, which won acclaim for their debut effort The Double Bill: Cox and Box and The Telephone at last year’s Adelaide Festival.

Ian Andrew, a nominee for best emerging performer at the Adelaide Critic Circle awards, will star in Opera Goes West alongside up-and-coming baritone Spencer Day and mezzosoprano Bethany Ide.

The production is due to open at the Adelaide College of the Arts X Space venue on Wednesday July 6th and will run until Wednesday July 20th.

Evening performances will kick off at 19:00 local time, while matinees on Sunday July 10th and Sunday July 17th are due to start at 17:00.

Full-price tickets cost AU$22, while concessions can get in for AU$18.

More information can be found by visiting http://www.tafesa.edu.au / or calling 1800 882 661.

Paris park running open-air cinema throughout the summer.

PARIS, FRANCE, Every year, Parc de la Villette on the outskirts of Paris plays host to a month of film screenings.

However, the difference here is that the cinema is outdoors, meaning you can enjoy lounging on the grass as you enjoy the programme of classic films and modern blockbusters on show on any evening between July 19th and August 21st.

The fact that this has become an annual event gives you some idea of its popularity. The park is a lovely setting, home to the entertaining Cite des Sciences museum and the striking Geode theatre.

“Cinema en plein air” is an extremely family-friendly event, both in the convivial atmosphere and the fact that attendance is free.

Many films are shown in English, while the park is served by two Metro stations, Porte de la Villette and Porte de Pantin.

This would be an ideal way to spend an evening if you are visiting Paris, and Hotels-paris.co.uk offers plenty of cheap hotels to use while you are here, including the pleasant Helvetia.

If you would like to know more about Open Air Cinema at Parc de la Villette, visit http://www.villette.com

Having established a portfolio of outstanding locations in areas of natural beauty in the UK and Ireland, Natural Retreats is delighted to unveil its latest destination on the beautiful island of Lanzarote in the Canary Islands, opening October 2011. As with all Natural Retreats sites, the luxurious accommodation has been designed sensitively in keeping with the natural surroundings, offering guests a truly unique and unforgettable experience.

Offering some of the finest holiday accommodation in the region with spectacular sea views, Natural Retreats Lanzarote is located in the seaside village of Playa Blanca and offers the ultimate experience in luxurious self-catering for families and groups alike. The nine contemporary four-bedroom villas, each with private pool, sleep up to eight people and are equipped to the very highest standards. Whether it’s sightseeing, golf, sailing or pure indulgent relaxation, Natural Retreats Lanzarote makes the perfect base for an exciting and exclusive holiday.

Each residence at Natural Retreats Playa Blanca features a spacious open plan living area leading onto a large shaded terrace overlooking a private, heated outdoor swimming pool. There is a built-in BBQ for al fresco dining and a fully equipped state-of-the-art kitchen with microwave and dishwasher.

The stylish interiors encompass a subtle palate of cream, coffee, brown and white and exude a calm, sophisticated ambience. The villas are air conditioned and come with WiFi Broadband, travel cots, highchairs and sterilisers are available on request.

Natural Retreats Lanzarote (www.naturalretreats.com ; 0844 384 3166) offer 7 nights from £125 per person in a four-bedroom residence (based on 8 sharing, excluding flights.) Bookings can now be made for October 2011 onwards

Natural Retreats’ unique Concierge service will provide invaluable assistance to guests to make the most of their holiday. Lanzarote has so much to offer, from the surreal lunar landscapes of Timafanya National Park in the south to the rugged mountains and green landscapes of the north. Opportunities for exploration and adventure abound. Natural Retreats Lanzarote is ideally situated for guests wishing to explore Papagayo’s stunning beaches and crystal clear waters which are only 15 minutes drive away. But with such luxurious accommodation and a stunning private pool, you may be tempted to while away a happy hour or two in the privacy of your own private residence.

With its captivating coastline, breathtaking beaches and mountains, it’s no surprise that those looking for sports and thrills are well served. Lanzarote has some excellent big game fishing, sailing and scuba diving, as well as boasting fantastic mountain biking, quad biking and horse riding. For the less ‘active’ visitors there are some excellent golf courses and plenty of walks. There really is something for everyone.

Dining out is also a pleasure. Natural Retreats Lanzarote is well served by a wide choice of excellent local restaurants that specialise in outstanding cuisine.

Guests at Natural Retreats Lanzarote are in for a real treat and can enjoy extraordinary experiences and service without ever losing sight of the fact that it is the location that is the real star of the show. A place that stays in the mind forever. Natural Retreats Lanzarote is no exception.

For further information and reservations please visit www.naturalretreats.com

With summer officially in full swing, San Diego hotels are offering a bevy of playful packages that make it the perfect time to book a warm weather getaway for the whole family. Available at hotels throughout San Diego, from family friendly Carlsbad to luxurious La Jolla, these packages offer incredible savings that add up to great value for visitors.

AMAZING VALUE ADDS

Now through Dec. 31, 2011, the San Diego Marriott La Jolla is offering spacious accommodations and access to popular fun attractions, including SeaWorld San Diego, San Diego Zoo Safari Park and LEGOLAND California©. The Marriott La Jolla’s attraction packages include accommodations for two adults; two adult park tickets to SeaWorld San Diego, San Diego Zoo Safari Park or LEGOLAND California© and complimentary parking. Rates start at $199 per night, plus tax; the package requires a minimum two-night stay and is valid Thurs.-Sun. Families looking to stretch a dollar can book a Family Dollar Days package, featuring room add-on options such as a $1 breakfast, $1 parking or $1 in-room movie. Rates start at $159 per night, plus tax, and the package is valid Thurs.-Sun. Book online at www.marriott.com using booking code “EW5″ for an attraction package or “ES7″ for a “Family Dollar Days” package or call 1-800-228-9290.

Now through Sept. 5, 2011, the Hilton Garden Inn Carlsbad Beach located just steps from the beach is offering a Summer LEGOLAND Package that includes deluxe accommodations, two adult and two child tickets to LEGOLAND California©, complimentary transportation to and from the park and a full American breakfast for two adults and two children. Rates start at $411 per night, plus tax. For families looking to experience LEGOLAND’s water park and aquarium, the hotel is also offering a Summer LEGOLAND Resort Hopper Package that includes deluxe accommodations; two adult and two child LEGOLAND California Park Hopper tickets with two-day access to LEGOLAND California, LEGOLAND Water Park and SEA LIFE Carlsbad Aquarium; complimentary transportation to and from the parks and a full American breakfast for two adults and two children. Rates start at $331 per night, plus tax, and a two-night minimum is required. Book online at www.carlsbadbeach.hgi.com or call 760-476-0800.

Available July 1-Sept. 6, 2011, TOWER23 Hotel in Pacific Beach is offering a stylish and contemporary oceanfront retreat with two package options. The Sex on the Beach package includes a two-night stay in a surf pad, two Sex on the Beach welcome cocktails, dinner for two at JRDN Restaurant including cocktails and a couples massage. Rates start at $1,325, including tax. The Surf PB package includes a three-night stay in a surf pad, welcome beer amenity and a 90-minute surf lesson for two. Rates start at $1,525, including tax. Book online at www.tower23hotel.com or call 1-866-TOWER23.

Now through Sept. 29, 2011, the Sé San Diego Hotel in downtown San Diego is offering an Everything You Have EVER Asked for Free package, including luxury accommodations, complimentary wi-fi internet access, a complimentary full American breakfast, complimentary valet parking and two-for-the-price-of-one spa treatments or a 30 percent discount off one service. The package is available Sun.-Thurs., and rates start at $135 per night for a single room, $155 per night for a double room and $205 per night for a suite; plus tax and gratuity. Book online at www.sesandiego.com or call 619-515-3000.

Now through Sept. 30, 2011, the Rancho Bernardo Inn is offering a suds inspired summer package that highlights North San Diego County’s award-winning craft breweries and beers. The resort’s Look What’s Brewing Package includes a one-night stay in a deluxe room, beer tasting at three San Diego breweries, chauffeured transportation (optional) and a gourmet beer munchies box. The brewery tour includes visits to Mother Earth Brew Co., a family owned microbrewery; Lost Abby/Port Brewing, the 2008 Small Brewery World Beer Cup Champion, and the highly acclaimed, multi-award winning Stone Brewing Co. The package is available Thurs.-Sun., and rates start at $309 per night, plus tax, with the chauffeured transportation ($209 per night without transportation). Book online at www.ranchobernardoinn.com or call 877-517-9340.

Now through Dec. 31, 2011, the Westin Gaslamp Quarter, San Diego in downtown is offering a hotel package perfect for shoppers. The Westin Summer & Sun Shopping Spree package includes accommodations in a newly designed guestroom and a $100 Macy’s gift card, which can be used at the adjacent Westin Horton Plaza Shopping Center, for every night booked. Rates start at $199 per night, plus tax. Book online at www.westingaslamp.com or call 866-716-8138.

Now through Sept. 30, 2011, the historic US GRANT Hotel in downtown’s Gaslamp Quarter is offering a Game Time package that includes luxurious accommodations for the night of a San Diego Padres’ home game of one’s choosing, two Padres’ baseball tickets behind home plate at downtown’s PETCO Park and complimentary overnight parking. Rates start at $269 per night, plus tax; a three-day advance purchase is required. Book online at www.usgrant.net or call 866-716-8136.

Now through Sept. 30, 2011, the waterfront Sheraton San Diego Hotel & Marina on Harbor Island is offering a Take a Summer Getaway with the Family package. The package includes accommodations with skyline or marina views, a choice of four Old Town Trolley Tour sightseeing passes or tickets to the San Diego Zoo, one in-room movie, a two-hour bike rental for up to four guests and free meals for children 12 and under. The Sheraton’s Summer Play Program also offers free, daily poolside activities; discounts on boat rentals, paddle boards and jet skis; free dive-in movies, and fitness classes like cardio, tennis and yoga. Rates start at $199 per night, plus tax. Book online at www.sheratonsandiegohotel.com or call 866-716-8134.

COMBAT HIGH GAS PRICES

Now through Dec. 31, 2011, the Bristol Hotel in downtown San Diego is offering the Tanks a Lot for Stayin’ package that includes one night of accommodations in a superior king or double-double room, a daily $25 gas card, complimentary valet parking and complimentary full American breakfast for two. Rates start at $149, plus tax. Book online at www.thebristolsandiego.com or call 800-662-4477 and use promotional code “TANKS.”

Now through Sept. 30, 2011, the San Diego Marriott Gaslamp Quarter is offering a Sun, Fun & Fuel package that includes one night of accommodations, a $25 gas card, daily complimentary hotel valet parking and daily breakfast for two at Soleil @ K Restaurant. Rates start at $219, plus tax. Book online at www.marriott.com or call 1-800-228-9290 and use promotional code “EB5.”

Now through Sept. 5, 2011, the boutique West Inn & Suites in Carlsbad is offering an On the Road Again package that includes one night of accommodations in a double king deluxe room, a $25 gas card and a goodie basket of road games. Rates start at $189, plus tax. Book online at www.westinnandsuites.com or call 866-431-9378.

GAME ON FOR GOLFERS

Now through Sept. 5, 2011, West Inn & Suites in Carlsbad is offering a Swing Away & Stay package for a family of golf lovers. The package includes a one-night stay in a King Suite featuring one king-sized bed and a convertible sleeper sofa, a hot breakfast buffet for two adults and two children, complimentary parking, a round of golf on the property’s West Executive Course for two adults and two juniors including a cart, shuttle transportation to and from the course and a cooler of refreshments. Rates start at $315, plus tax. Book online at www.westinnandsuites.com or call 866-431-9378.

Now through Sept. 5, 2011, the Park Hyatt Aviara Resort, Golf Club & Spa in Carlsbad is offering a Callaway Golf Experience Package custom made for the golf enthusiast. The package includes one night of accommodations, unlimited golf for one guest at the Aviara Golf Club, daily breakfast for two at the California Bistro, private sedan service to and from Callaway Golf’s world headquarters, a 90-minute custom fitting session at Callaway Golf and new Callaway Driver (valued at $300). Rates start at $800 for the first night, plus tax, and $395 for each additional night. Book online at www.parkaviara.hyatt.com or call 760-448-1234.

OFF TO THE RACES

Available July 2-Sept. 7, 2011, the luxurious Grand Del Mar in the rolling hills of North County is offering A Day at the Races package that includes one night of accommodations, two Stretch Run reserved seats at the Del Mar Racetrack, a racing form and racing digest, transportation to and from the race track (based on availability), two mint juleps in the Lobby Lounge and complimentary overnight valet parking. Rates start at $475, plus tax. The package is not available on Opening Day at the racetrack (July 20), and 72-hour advanced reservations are required. Book online at www.thegranddelmar.com or call 888-314-2030.

Available July 21-Sept. 7, 2011, the luxurious Park Hyatt Aviara Resort, Golf Club & Spa in Carlsbad is offering a Del Mar Races Turf Club Package that includes one night of accommodations plus a one-day admission for two into the private Del Mar Turf Club. Rates start at $345 per night, plus tax, and a two-night minimum stay is required. Turf Club passes are not valid for Opening Day at the racetrack (July 20). Book online at www.parkaviara.hyatt.com or call 760-448-1234.

Happy happens in San Diego. For more information on San Diego offerings, including exciting vacation packages and valuable coupons for attractions, restaurants and more, visit the San Diego Convention & Visitors Bureau’s Web site, www.sandiego.org, or call 619-236-1212. In San Diego, visit the International Visitor Information Center, located along the Embarcadero at the corner of West Broadway and Harbor Drive in downtown; the La Jolla Visitor Center, located at the corner of Herschel Avenue and Prospect Street in La Jolla; or the California Welcome Center, located at the Viejas Outlet Center in Alpine.

, WITH CUSTOM WEDDING PACKAGES STARTING AT JUST $999

Local Couples and Destination Wedding Parties Alike Invited to B First

to Tie the Knot at New Upscale Fort Lauderdale Beach Hotel

FORT LAUDERDALE, June 21, 2011 – Orchestrating the perfect wedding day should not be as nerve-wracking as reality television portrays it to be. Newly engaged couples searching for the perfect venue now have the option to B Wed™ at B Ocean Fort Lauderdale making their special moment one to B memorable…and affordable. Ranging from an intimate fete for two to a dazzling soiree, B Wed™ packages at B Hotels & Resorts’® new property start at just $999.

“Since opening our doors at the beginning of this year, we have received extensive interest from brides and grooms-to-be, in part because of our location in a terrific destination, but also because we have quickly become known for our approachability,” said Veronica Miranda, B Experience Manager at B Ocean Fort Lauderdale.

As part of the B Wed™ program, B Ocean Fort Lauderdale offers a variety of customizable packages for weddings of all shapes and sizes. The ideal escape for intimate nuptials, elopements or vow renewals, the ‘B Wed™ for Two’ package offers couples a two-hour ceremony and reception priced at $999, including:

Ceremony Area
Non-denominational Officiant
Bridal Bouquet and Groom’s Boutonnieres
Five-Course Dinner at B’stro on the Beach™
Bottle of French Sparkling Wine (Non-Alcoholic Available)
Wedding Cake
Photographer for Two Hours, Including Keepsake DVD
Additional Guests up to 20, Cost Per Person $89.00*

The perfect place to B Wed™, B Ocean Fort Lauderdale also offers the following options as add-ons to the package for your special day:

Corsages or Boutonnieres – $10 each
Arch or Chupah – $400 (Includes Floral)
Select Officiate – $350
Host Bar – Rates Vary (Based on Number of Consumed Drinks)
B Together Couples Massage, Tea Bath, Champagne and Strawberries – $330

In an even more unique twist, couples booking a stay of six nights or longer in the hotel’s Master Suite will have their wedding B On Us™, with B Ocean Fort Lauderdale picking up the cost of the $999 ‘B Wed™ for Two’ package.

Additionally, B Ocean Fort Lauderdale is including the complimentary services of a personal B Wed™ wedding consultant for all couples tying the knot at B Ocean Fort Lauderdale.

Spanning the hotel’s entire penthouse floor, B On Top™ boasts 8,000 square-feet of flexible function facilities with stunning, floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, Intracoastal Waterway and Fort Lauderdale skyline. Ceremony and reception space at B on Top™ includes:

Infinity Ballroom – an impressive space that accommodates up to 250 people
Horizons Junior Ballroom – perfect for small wedding receptions or cocktail hours, accommodating up to 150 people

Impression – a flexible pre-function and meeting area ideal for rehearsal dinners and small receptions

Other ceremony locations at B Ocean Fort Lauderdale include the white sands of Fort Lauderdale Beach (just steps from the hotel) and the hotel’s private Breeze Terrace.

“Couples are clearly blown away by our spectacular views of Fort Lauderdale’s white sandy beaches and the Atlantic Ocean,” said Miranda. “The views are reminiscent of being on a cruise ship but even better, because this destination has so much to offer within walking distance. Combining the views, our approachable service and our flexibility in pricing, B Ocean Fort Lauderdale truly is the perfect place to B Wed.”

To schedule a private tour and meeting with a B Wed™ consultant, or for more information, visit www.BOceanFortLauderdale.com  or call 888-66BHOTEL.

About B Ocean Fort Lauderdale

The location and offerings at B Ocean Fort Lauderdale are ideally suited for business or pleasure. Conveniently located on Sunrise Boulevard and A1A, guests can B Downtown™ or at the Las Olas art and entertainment district within minutes. Upon entering the hotel’s 240 new hotel rooms and suites, guests will B Mesmerized™ by stunning views of the sandy white beaches and colorful shoreline of the Atlantic Ocean. Guests can tantalize their taste buds with a variety of dining options at B Ocean Fort Lauderdale including SAIA, B’stro on the Beach™ (a unique casual dining concept), the Quench pool bar, or in the privacy of their guest room through in-room dining. B Ocean Fort Lauderdale features several signatures of the B Hotels & Resorts® brand, including a B Indulged™ spa suite, B Active™ fitness center, B Adventurous™ local excursion program and more. Additionally, B Ocean Fort Lauderdale features an infinity pool with private cabanas, meeting and function space on its B on Top™ penthouse floor, and complimentary wireless internet throughout all guestrooms and public areas.

*Prices are inclusive of taxes, fees and gratuities.

New full-service waxing spa offers comfort and affordability

LAS VEGAS – Of all the suits you own, your “birthday suit” might be the hardest to keep up with; however, The Birthday Suit waxing spa has arrived to give that “special” outfit a tailor-made feel. This newcomer to the Las Vegas skin care community is prepared to handle all of their clients’ waxing needs and the full-service spa is open to both women and men.

Just in time for summer and swimsuits, The Birthday Suit has opened its doors, offering first-time clients low rates on already competitively priced services. A Brazilian wax, which normally costs just $35, will cost only $20 for first-time visits. The Birthday Suit offers an abundance of regular specials, such as deals for casino and service industry employees, as well as special birthday rates. With customizable packages, customers are guaranteed a one of a kind waxing experience.

Owners, and Las Vegas locals, Jason and Stacey Laricchia opened the spa to offer a hip place that feels comfortable but is made for those on the go.

“We’ve created a relaxed environment that I’d love to visit as a client and one that also provides a great atmosphere for those working at the spa – when you’re going for a waxing service, you want the entire experience to be inviting,” said Stacey who has more than 14 years of experience in the health and beauty field.

This stylish spa boasts 1200 sq. ft. of lofted ceilings and modern décor, providing a chic atmosphere. Equipped with four private treatment rooms and a separate waiting room for the kids, complete with child-friendly programming and activities, The Birthday Suit caters to a diverse array of clientele.

Walk-ins for waxing services are welcomed. Additional services, such as facials and massage therapy, are available by appointment. VIP packages offer incredible value, including a package which features two years of unlimited waxing for just $1,000. The Birthday Suit staff can help clients customize a package that fits their maintenance needs.

The Birthday Suit carries skin care products from top brands including, Dermalogica, Prince Reigns ingrown hair serum and The Birthday Suit’s custom line of washes and scrubs.

The Birthday Suit is located at 7645 S. Rainbow Boulevard, Ste. 101, Las Vegas, Nev. 89139. Hours of operation are Monday through Friday 8:30 a.m. until 8 p.m., Saturday 8:30 a.m. until 7 p.m. and Sunday 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. The phone number to The Birthday Suit is 702-425-1343.

Just in time to celebrate its 20th anniversary, the Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort and Spa has completed renovations to all 602 guestrooms that include new furniture, décor and bathrooms. The new design incorporates elements of Hawaii’s native plants, people and culture.

Additions to the rooms include a white marble tiled entryway, spacious walk-in showers for most rooms with a king sized bed and new shower bath combinations for rooms with two queen beds, all with luxurious rain style showers. Bathrooms feature marble countertops with double sink vanity and all the amenities of home.

For guests’ convenience, an audio-visual jack pack has been added to charge electronic devices or connect them to the television. More than the refined luxury and comfort the new rooms offer, they have also been furbished with environmentally conscious fixtures including Toto low-flow toilets, low VOC paints, recycled yarn carpet, and energy-saving ceiling fans.

For more information, visit www.GrandHyattKauai.com

Maui’s First Courtyard by Marriott hotel recently broke ground in Kahului. The all new four-story, 138-room Courtyard by Marriott Maui hotel is scheduled to open in spring 2012. Conveniently located within minutes of Kahului Airport, the hotel fills a need for business and leisure travelers wanting to stay near Maui’s central hub while offering amenities that include Courtyard by Marriott’s newest interior design, a business center, meeting rooms, a pool and fitness center, lounge and bar, gazebo, guest laundry room, surfboard storage center, convenience market, and complimentary WiFi and broadband Internet access. For more information, visit www.MarriottHawaii.com