Jetsettersblog

Visitors can be Super Man or Wonder Woman for a day at Comic-Con International, July 23 – 26, at the San Diego Convention Center. Comic-Con has become a signature summertime event for San Diego; it is the largest comics and pop culture event in the United States, attracting thousands of artists, celebrities and fans of comic books, movie memorabilia and all things related to pop culture. For more information, call 619-491-2475, or visit www.comic-con.org .

San Diego’s culinary community joins forces during September 13 – 18 for San Diego Restaurant Week. More than a hundred of the region’s top restaurants offer prix-fixe, three-course dinner menus at just $20, $30 or $40 per person, so visitors can sample the signature cuisine and sophisticated style that make San Diego’s dining scene one of the region’s top attractions.

For more information, call 858-523-9020, or visit www.sandiegorestaurantweek.com .

The “turf meets the surf” at the Del Mar Racetrack where home racing fans flock each summer to wager on their favorite horses during the popular, annual Del Mar Thoroughbred Club racing season, July 22 – September 9.

The races run six days weekly, except Tuesday. Every Friday, guests can catch 4 O’Clock Fridays, a free headliner concert following the day’s last race.

On September 6, the Del Mar Thoroughbred Club’s Grade 1 Pacific Classic treats guests to a prestigious event with a race between the nation’s top thoroughbreds and $1 million purse. For more information, call 858-755-1141, or visit www.dmtc.com

MAJOR ATTRACTIONS

In April 2009, the San Diego Zoo’s Wild Animal Park opened Flightline, a new zip-line adventure that transports guests more than 400 feet across the park at speeds up to 60 mph.

The 1.5-hour experience begins at the top of a mountain in Nairobi Village and features a brief training lesson, behind-the-scenes narration and an aerial adventure that soars across the Asian and African field exhibits, and ends at Kilima Point. Participants must be 10 years of age or older and weigh between 75 and 200 pounds; the cost is $70 in addition to regular park admission.

For more information, call 619-231-1515, or visit www.sandiegozoo.org/wap

On May 23, 2009, the San Diego Zoo unveiled a journey through time with the opening of its newest exhibit, The Harry and Grace Steele Elephant Odyssey. Highlighting animals of the past, present and future, the $44 million, seven-acre habitat features Asian elephants, a California condor, sloths, snakes and rodents, as well as life-sized replicas of animal species that dotted the Southern California landscape more than 10,000 years ago.

A herd of eight elephants roam a 2.5-acre exhibit that includes a 120,000-gallon pool, gentle rolling hills and the Conrad Prebys Elephant Management Facility, where visitors can see keepers and veterinarians at work with the animals.

Additional highlights of Elephant Odyssey include a tar pit replication, fossil dig, children’s play area and much more. For more information, call 619-231-1515, or visit www.sandiegozoo.org

On May 29, 2009, SEA LIFE Aquarium in Carlsbad launched a new exhibit, Sharks Revealed.

The new display will replace the Kelp Forrest exhibit and provide an up-close look at the evolution, development and lifestyles of sharks, including how they eat, breathe and sleep. Several unique shark species will roam through the exhibit like the brown banded bamboo shark, white spotted bamboo shark and coral catshark.

Sharks Revealed will also showcase a number of educational displays and interactive opportunities for guests.

For more information, call 760-918-5346, or visit www.sealifeus.com

NEW HOTEL DEVELOPMENTS

In August 2009, Hotel Indigo San Diego, a new alternative to traditional hotels, will open in the East Village neighborhood of downtown San Diego.

Catering to the style-conscious traveler, the hotel will offer personalized service, affordable luxury and intelligent design to create a one-of-a-kind, welcoming environment.

The 12-story, 210-room property will feature open spaces, bold colors, unique textures, natural imagery and spa-inspired touches throughout the property.

In addition, public spaces and guestrooms will undergo seasonal transformations so that aromas, music, artwork, murals and more correlate to match the four seasons.

Hotel Indigo San Diego will also offer a bistro-style Golden Bean restaurant and Phi bar, each offering seasonal gourmet fare for breakfast and dinner.

A 24-hour “Phi”tness Studio, rooftop terrace with a reflection pool and fire pits, business center, 6,200-sq. ft. of meeting space and free wireless internet will round out the amenities.

Hotel Indigo will be San Diego’s first LEED-certified hotel, and green building practices will be seen throughout the property, including green roofs on its 9th and 12th floors.

For more information, visit www.hotelindigo.com

HOTEL RENOVATIONS AND NAME CHANGES

Renovations and upgrades to the historic 1906 Lodge in Coronado were completed in May 2009.

The building was originally built in 1906 as a boarding house, and now serves as a charming 17-room hotel.

Six of the hotel’s guest rooms are located in the mail lodge and feature queen beds, period furniture and original leaded glass windows that provide gorgeous views of Coronado.

Eleven of the hotel’s guest rooms are located in newly built bungalows and feature king beds, spa tubs, private entrances and private balconies or porches. Additional upgrades to the building include renovated common areas like the parlor, dining room and veranda.

The 1906 Lodge also boasts meeting space that can accommodate up to 40 guests.

For more information, call 866-435-1906, or visit http://1906lodge.com

The Holiday Inn San Diego on the Bay recently unveiled a complete brand re-launch featuring a new look and feel throughout the 14-story property.

The hotel’s 600 rooms now feature comfortable beds with crisp linens and a selection of pillows that range from soft to firm.

Guestroom bathrooms have been enhanced with superior showerheads, a curved shower rod for a more spacious feel and premium bath products. Enhanced lighting and landscaping designs offer a warm arrival experience, while just inside the lobby, new stylish touches, signature sounds, scents and an efficient guest check-in round out the welcome experience.

For more information, call 619-232-3861, or visit www.hisandiegoonthebay.com

In May 2009, Pala Casino Spa and Resort in San Diego’s North County completed a $100 million expansion, which includes major improvements to the dining and gaming areas and a new parking garage.

Pala Casino’s buffet area was expanded to 20,000-sq. ft. and renamed Choices, providing guests a world-class, interactive dining experience featuring eight live-action cooking stations, seating for more than 625 guests, an area for private parties and great views of the neighboring scenic mountains.

Pala Casino also opened two new restaurants — Amigos, an authentic Mexican eatery with quick-style service, and Sushi Sake, a Japanese restaurant. Within Pala’s casino area, a Poker Room with 15 tables, private cage windows and tableside dining was also added. Additionally, the casino’s private High Limit Area features three redesigned, Feng Shui-inspired rooms.

For more information, call 877-946-7252, or visit www.palacasino.com

Continue reading UPCOMING MAJOR EVENTS in San Diego…

James Pribram, local surfers and Surfrider help lift surfing ban

Foundation’s Lake Michigan Chapter Co-Chair Vince Deur in celebrating their victory yesterday as The Chicago Parks District officially announced that surfing is no longer illegal. For decades, Chicago has banned all flotation devices from their beaches since a deadly tragedy occurred with three girls on an inflatable raft.

The CPD agreed to open two city public beaches for the Summer, Montrose & 57th St, and in the Fall two other beaches will be added for off-season surfing: Rainbow & Osterman In early summer of 2008, Pribram, Deur, Surfer & Attorney Todd Haugh and local Kitesurfer Mike Urban had a surf summit with officials at the Chicago Parks District to make their case for surfing in Chicago and tried to reverse a city-wide ban on floatation devices, a law that ultimately put Chicago surfer Jack Flynn behind bars overnight when he attempted surfing a cold and stormy December day.

To further protest the law, Pribram joined local surfers David Vanderveen, Jack Flynn, Vince Deur, Jim Hoop and Ryan Gerard last month for a “paddle out” in front of Chicago’s legendary ‘Miracle Mile’. After almost two hours of stand-up paddling, Chicago police boats arrived, but the surfers were long gone.

“While our little stand up paddle-out was just a small step owards taking a stand for change, I look forward to sharing the importance of keeping surfing clean, legal and a choice for all local surfers and future surfers,” said Pribram. Deur added, ”

We are very pleased with the decision of the Parks istrict to allow surfing in the city of Chicago…it’s a great opportunity to prove ourselves to the CPD and the community that we are respectful stewards of the beaches…”

James Pribram is best known for his philanthropic and environmental endeavors through his Eco-Warrior project. Through the project, Pribram works with developers and government officials to solve a variety of environmental problems that endanger the ocean.

www.surfrider.org

WATER’S EDGE RESORT & SPA CONNECTICUT’S ONLY PRIVATE BEACH RESORT INVITES TRAVELERS TO TAKE THE TRAIN TO THE SOUND’

Luxury resort and spa teams-up with Amtrak to offer two-night package featuring roundtrip transportation from New York’s Penn Station and Boston’s South Station –

WESTBROOK, CONNECTICUT – The 170 room Water’s Edge Resort & Spa, situated on the Long Island Sound along the magnificent Connecticut shoreline, has partnered with Amtrak to offer a two-night package featuring roundtrip tickets for two aboard Amtrak just in time for the summer season.

The value-added package was created specifically for summer revelers from the New York City and Boston areas desiring a reprieve from the crowded beaches of popular summer resort areas such as the Hamptons and Cape Cod.

The private escape features luxury accommodations at the famed turn-of-the-century style New England estate, nestled within 25 acres that include manicured grounds leading to a private white sand beach; making it the only resort in the state to house a private beach.

Most of the spacious guestrooms and suites offer spectacular views of the Long Island Sound along with high-end, in-room amenities and elegant décor.

The resort offers a full-service spa featuring ten tranquil treatment rooms, award-winning restaurants with sea views, lounges, a fitness center, and indoor and outdoor pools. Just a two-hour Train ride from Penn Station or Boston’s South Station, Water’s Edge Resort & Spa provides an elegant, affordable and accessible retreat.

Water’s Edge Resort & Spa ‘Train to the Sound’ – Two night Package

Roundtrip Penn Station
Friday – Sunday
$799.00++
Sunday – Thursday
$659.00++

Roundtrip South Station Boston
Friday – Sunday
$799.00++
Sunday – Thursday
$659.00++

Two roundtrip tickets Amtrak (coach)– Penn Station or Boston’s South Station

A third night can be added to either package for a cost of $99.00++ guestroom only

Ground transportation for two from Old Saybrook Train Station in Old Saybrook, Connecticut to the resort

Two-night accommodations (standard guestroom)

Breakfast Buffet for two days

Three Course Dinner for two on your second night stay

Complimentary activities

Private sandy beach access (includes lounge chairs)

Beach discovery walks

Water aerobics

Kayaking rental available

Fitness Center

Guests may also add a la carte spa services. The Spa at Water’s Edge Resort specializes in marine therapies and treatments.

It is an elegant sanctuary of ten treatment rooms and a relaxation suite.

The extensive menu consists of services ranging from massages to body treatments, facials and products by natural skincare line Pevonia Botanica.

Dining options for package holders include dinner for two at the award-winning Restaurant at Water’s Edge, named the best brunch in Connecticut by Connecticut Magazine.

Guests may also choose from two additional restaurant and lounges offering Italian to Continental cuisine along with an extensive wine list from leading international and local vintners.

A history steeped in tradition and entertainment, Water’s Edge Resort & Spa was built in 1946 as Bill Hahn’s, a quaint and stately New England seaside resort where visitors from the tri-state area were treated to relaxing accommodations, exceptional cuisine and live entertainment. The entertainment roster headlined today’s legendary performers such as: Woody Allen, Barbara Streisand and Art Carney to name a few.

Bill Hahn, known as Bill the innkeeper and Mr. Showman during this period, turned the hotel’s main dining room into a “Broadway” stage establishing the resort as one of the most sought after entertainment venues in the northeast.

In 1981, businessman and local resident, Michael Dattilo purchased Water’s Edge Resort & Spa restoring it to its original grandeur and maintaining the rich tradition of service excellence and extraordinary entertainment in the memory of Mr. Hahn.

Mr. Dattilo renamed the inn The Water’s Edge Resort & Spa.

Over the years the resort and spa has flourished and expanded to include villas and condos for a total of 170 guestrooms and suites, three restaurants, including an award-winning restaurant, 12 spacious meeting and social function rooms, outdoor garden terraces, full-service spa with ten treatment rooms, indoor and outdoor pool and Onsite retail shopping outlets, i.e., Salon Massimo, Southern Exposure, Azul, Medical Esthetics, Michele A Bridal Boutique.

SURF SPECIAL….

AT THE 5 STAR RETALLACK RESORT & SPA, CORNWALL

FREE FAMILY SURF LESSON FOR ALL ONE WEEK AUGUST STAYS

2 bedroom lodges in August cost £1,200 per week (based on 4 sharing)
4 bedroom lodges in August cost £1,800 per week (based on 8 sharing)

Grab your board and head to the Five Star Self Catering Retallack Resort & Spa on Cornwall’s Northern coast this August where you and your family can enjoy a complimentary group surfing lesson on one of the nearby spectacular beaches on Cornwall’s Northern coast. Whether you are an aspiring Kelly Slater or a budding beginner, Retallack Resort can provide you with a teacher to cater for all ages and experience.

When not on, or in, the water - the Cornish countryside surrounding Retallack Resort offers plenty of opportunities for family adventures and old fashioned exploring.

Visit giant greenhouses at the nearby Eden Project or hire bikes and picnic amongst wildflowers whilst enjoying views across the Camel Estuary from the Camel Trail.

Each 2 or 4 bedroom lodge at Retallack has been beautifully crafted in timber and decorated to the highest standards, from decked private terraces with barbecues to contemporary cosy interiors.

Complimentary state of the art leisure facilities at the resort include a modern indoor swimming pool complex with steam room, sauna, gym, ‘Retreat’ spa offering Thalgo and Decleor treatments, crèche and kids club, outdoor tennis courts, 9-hole par 3 golf course and children’s adventure playground.

Summer activities to keep the kids amused range from treasure hunts and nature walks to splash parties in the pool, family quiz nights, and film nights.

For more information please visit

www.retallackresort.com

or call 01637 882 400

**Minimum stay is one week during August and includes one free group surfing lesson your lodge during your stay**

This year Festival Cairns begins a new chapter in its 47 year history.

For the first time in many years it will be managed and directed by its founding organisation, Cairns Regional Council; who have unveiled details of its vision to deliver a reinvigorated, brighter and bolder event program.

Taking its cue from this year’s theme, “Telling Our Stories”, Festival Cairns’ will start with a bang and end on a high – rolling out over 16, action-packed days from Friday 21 August to Sunday 6 September 2009.

Festival Cairns top five highlights will be its Grand Parade and Tropic Wave Festival with special guest headliner, Cairns Indigenous Art Fair (one of the largest regional indigenous art fairs in Australia), Cairns Amateurs Racing Carnival, Reggaetown and Father’s Day favourite, Carnival on Collins.

A stylised sun inspired by the licuala palm of Cairns Regional Council’s logo is the basis for this year’s ‘look’.

A bright palette of colour gives life and movement to this graphic device while relating to the sensory feel of Festival Cairns.

“Our new identity has been chosen to be a fun and fresh representation, symbolising the revitalisation of Festival Cairns and the vibrant new programming our in-house ‘Festival’ team is creating.

While at the same time, being respectful to the city’s event tradition - dating right back to the original grand parade and Fun In the Sun,” said Councillor Schier, Mayor of Cairns Regional Council.

According to Festival Cairns Coordinator, Belinda Griffin this year’s ‘look’ and ‘theme’, have evolved from community engagement undertaken last year as part of Cairns’ new Regional Cultural Plan.

“Over 1000 members of the community gave us a good dose of local perspective on their thoughts about many issues, including Festival Cairns – and this reinvention is our response to that feedback,” said Mrs Griffin.

The opening of a new Green Island jetty on 26 May, 1962 was established as the first annual Cairns Tourist Festival, and renamed ‘Fun In The Sun’ the following year.

Since then Tropical North Queensland’s most significant annual celebration, now in its 47th year/

It has experienced a number of changes including its re-launch in the early nineties as ‘Reef Festival’ before its dynamic incarnation in 2002 as ‘Festival Cairns’.

Variety is the spice of life and the new menu at Shoal Bay Resort & Spa’s iconic Promenade Dining Room will leave you spoilt for choice with four irresistible buffets to choose from every night of the week!

The exciting new menu offers the very best in fresh local produce as well as absolute value for money. There’s something for everyone, choose from over 25 dishes and as many courses as you like including tea and coffee. The new look buffets consist of:-

Seafood & Salads
Home Cooked Favourites
Chefs Theme of the Day
Decadent Desserts

The popular seafood & salads buffet showcases the freshest catch of the day including sumptuous local prawns and complimented with creative salads. Feel like something warm and hearty on a cool night and you don’t feel like cooking? Then sit back and let our renowned Chefs prepare your favourite roast meats, fresh crumbed fish and delicious roast vegetables from the “Home Cooked Favourite” buffet.

Escape in international flavours as Chef prepares his theme buffet of the day – a culinary experience not to be missed:
Monday ~ Arabian Nights
Tuesday ~ Flavours of the World
Wednesday ~ Chinese

Thursday ~ Thai
Friday ~ Deluxe Seafood
Saturday ~ Italian
Sunday ~ Carvery & Grill

Just when you thought you couldn’t fit another thing in your drawn to the decadent desserts buffet and just have to try them all. You’ll find a wonderful selection of individual desserts such as sticky date puddings, strawberry shortcake with mousse, mini lemon meringue pies, crème caramels and also gourmet gateau including baked cheese cake, pecan pies and many more. Believe it or not there’s still the Australian cheese platter to be sampled.

Enjoy this amazing array of local cuisine at affordable prices from just AUD$32 per adult, children at half price and seniors discount is also available. The staff at the Promenade Dining Room pride themselves of quality food, fantastic value for money and their friendly service.

The Promenade Dining Room is the original dining room of the Shoal Bay Country Club since 1934. Rekindle the spirit of this local dining icon and revisit an old favourite with breathtaking views across Shoal Bay to the Tomaree Headlands.

Bookings for The Promenade Dining Room’s exciting new four nightly buffets can be made by calling 1800 18 18 10.

Shoal Bay Resort & Spa, your unique local dining experience.

About Shoal Bay Resort & Spa

Shoal Bay Resort & Spa is the ultimate beachfront resort for couples and families alike. Including 200 luxurious self-contained beachfront, waterview, pool view and executive style apartments, 4 restaurants, 5 bars, the iconic Country Club Hotel and the exclusive Aqua Spa.

Shoal Bay Resort & Spa overlooks the pristine white sandy beaches to Port Stephens volcanic Tomaree headland. Shoal Bay boasts walking and cycling tracks, flat water beaches perfect for families as well as three pristine unspoilt National Park surf beaches.

For the more energetic a paved pathway to the top of Tomaree affords unparalleled views of Port Stephens, all within sight and a 10 minute stroll of the resort. Port Stephens is the largest Marine Park in NSW with over 160 resident dolphins and 7000 Humpback Whales passing within sight on migration each year.

Dining options range from the award winning Catch at Shoal Bay, the casual alfresco dining of Sandyfoot Café, the iconic Promenade Dining Room and the family friendly Mermaids Bar & Grill. The legendary Country Club Hotel still remains one of the most popular watering holes on the East Coast of Australia.

Aqua Spa includes the unique thalassotherapy mineral spa pools, twelve treatments rooms, group room and an extensive menu of treatments from hydrotherapy to massage.

For further information please call T: 1800 18 18 10 or visit www.shoalbayresort.com

The accolades continue for Brisbane’s Emporium Hotel - the boutique property has won the Best Small Luxury Hotel title in the prestigious Gourmet Traveller Awards announced last night.

Emporium Hotel topped the best in the country to take the title including The Lyall and The Adelphi in Melbourne, the Islington and The Henry Jones Art Hotel both in Hobart and The Lake House in Daylesford Victoria.

The award is the latest in the Emporium Hotel’s string of prestigious titles and will take pride of place alongside the recent Queensland Tourism Award for “Best Luxury Accommodation”; the two Queensland Hotels Association Awards for Excellence 2008 for “Best Deluxe Hotel Accommodation Five Star” and “Best Marketed Hotel”; the 2008 HM Award for Hotel & Accommodation Excellence for “Best New Hotel” and of course the prestigious title as one of the world’s best hotels in the International Condé Nast Traveler’s Hot List 2008.

The Gourmet Traveller Travel Awards, now in their third year are a tribute to the finest operators in the country. Gourmet Traveller’s award winners are not decided solely by industry experts or by members of the public. Instead, knowledge of both camps is drawn on to get the broadest perspective possible.

The judging panel includes dozens of travel writers, editors, photographers, TV types and industry heavyweights. They nominate their favourite new and enduring Australian holiday experiences, a high-calibre shortlist is developed and then readers are asked to vote.

Emporium Hotel General Manager, Mr Peter Savoff said the award was a tribute to the staff of the hotel, and to the vision of the owners.

“This award is especially significant for the team of dedicated staff at the Emporium Hotel, many of whom have been with the property since it opened two years ago. Current economic trends have made the hotel industry even more competitive and it is a huge tribute from the readers of Gourmet Traveller, who continue to recognise the outstanding service our entire team aspire to provide.”

The Emporium Hotel was developed by the Anthony John Group, driven by the architect/design team of Tony and Fran John. A second Emporium Hotel is in the planning stages, part of the $650million Southpoint at South Bank. It is scheduled to open in 2011. Brisbane’s only boutique luxury hotel, has made an important mark on the Brisbane and the Australian leisure and corporate travel market over the past 18 months, cementing itself as a benchmark in design and service and launching a number of innovative packages and products.

Emporium Hotel - 1000 Ann Street, Fortitude Valley, Qld 4006

PO BOX 2600, Fortitude Valley, Qld 4006 - Phone: (07) 3253 6999 or 1300 883 611 Fax: (07) 3253 6966

www.emporiumhotel.com.au

Winner: Best Luxury Accommodation, The Australian Travel & Tourism Award 2008

Winner: Best Luxury Accommodation, Queensland Tourism Awards 2008
Winner: Best New Hotel, HM Awards for Hotel and Accommodation Excellence 2008

Winner: Best Marketed Hotel (1-99 employees), Queensland Hotel Association Awards for Excellence 2008

Winner: Best Deluxe Accommodation Five Star, Queensland Hotel Association Awards for Excellence 2008

Finalist: Award for Business Innovation, Lord Mayor’s Business Awards 2008

Finalist: Best Luxury Accommodation (100 rooms and over), The Australian Travel and Tourism Awards

Named one of the world’s best new hotels in the International Condé Nast Traveler’s Hot List 2008

LOS ANGELES – It’s never been a better time to visit Los Angeles than now through the end of summer with the unveiling of LA Inc.

The Los Angeles Convention & Visitors Bureau’s new “Top 100 Vacation Deals.”

The sizzling summer offers are available through August 31, 2009.
For a complete listing of hotel offers, visit this  link

Stay in the middle of the action and save up to 40 percent with a Hollywood Getaway at Sportsmen’s Lodge Hotel or Renaissance Hollywood Hotel & Spa.

Choose from online exclusive getaway packages including two nights of accommodations, a seven-day unlimited ticket to enjoy all the new entertainment at Universal Studios Hollywood, complimentary breakfast for two, complimentary parking and roundtrip transportation between your hotel and Universal Studios Hollywood.

Wind down with a midweek or weekend stay at a choice of 16 Westside hotels.

Escape to The Sofitel Los Angeles, where visitors who book a guestroom by July 5, 2009 get their fourth night free, in addition to a sumptuous picnic basket. If performing arts or a studio tour is on your travel itinerary, visit Inter Continental Los Angeles Century City, where guests who stay a minimum of two nights receive breakfast for two, complimentary parking and a tour of Sony Studios or two tickets to Grauman’s Chinese Theater.

Rates start at $269.

In Beverly Hills, The Residence Inn treats travelers to an American Express gift card valued at $50, complimentary AMC movie tickets for two, free WiFi and complimentary breakfast for two starting at $229. At the Holiday Inn Century City, travelers who book two nights obtain the third night free.

For the ultimate ocean-side retreat, take advantage of beachside getaways at Hotel Casa Del Mar with rates starting at $395 per night based on space availability, Le Margot, A JW Marriott Beach Hotel & Spa highlighting two Swedish massages with guestroom rates starting at $459 based on space availability, or Shutters On the Beach which offers a $50 hotel credit and guestroom rates starting at $525 per night based on space availability.

Discover culture in the heart of downtown Los Angeles with Millennium Biltmore Hotel’s “I Love (Downtown LA)! Package for two which highlights a one night stay priced from $179 per night based on space availability, breakfast and tickets to the Museum of Contemporary Art, tickets to the Grammy Museum and vouchers to visit the ESPN Zone.

Other attractive downtown hotel deals include Wilshire Grand Los Angeles’ “Beat the Heat,” whereby the guestroom rate is based on the high temperature of the day of your stay with a $20 room upgrade and 20 percent off hotel dining.

At the Westin Bonaventure Hotel & Suites, guests relax in a deluxe guestroom, savor a three-course pre-fixe dinner for two at LA Prime Restaurant and obtain complimentary overnight parking.

In addition to these exclusive packages, travelers can obtain up to 50 percent off on LA’s top cultural, dining, entertainment and other top attractions.

Head to Hollywood for a night at the theatre with 35%-50% off theatre tickets to Dirty Dancing at the Pantages Theater, Hollywood. While in the area, enjoy $5 off regular Adult/Child admission to Madame Tussaud’s Hollywood Wax Museum, or treat yourself to a complimentary dessert with the purchase of an entrée when dining at the renowned Geisha House on Hollywood Boulevard.

While in downtown, embark on a larger-than-life feature film adventure with $2 off Adult admission and $1 off Children’s admission to an IMAX movie at the California Science Center IMAX Theater, or enjoy $3 off admission to the Grammy Museum at L.A. Live. Stop for lunch at Zucca Ristorante, an upscale Italian establishment, currently offering a $19 lunch special and $5 parking for guests of the restaurant.

Chill out on the Westside with a complimentary appetizer while dining at Crustacean, one of Beverly Hill’s finest eateries, or experience 2-for-1 general admission to the Skirball Cultural Center.

Soak in the sun at the city’s top seaside eateries with offers including 15% off the total bill at I Cugini’s in Santa Monica, or a complimentary dessert with the purchase of an entrée at Geoffrey’s Malibu.

Take in the sites and sounds of the Santa Monica Pier boardwalk with 15% off an unlimited-ride wristband at the popular weekend beachside destination, Pacific Park.

The Los Angeles Convention and Visitors Bureau is a private, non-profit business association whose primary mission is to market and promote Los Angeles as the premier site for leisure travel, meetings and conventions. Though not part of city Government, LA INC. is recognized as the city’s official tourism marketing organization.

For more information about “Los Angeles Top 100 Vacation Deals,” visit the official visitors information website of Los Angeles at www.discoverLosAngeles.com

Beachcomber Launch Laurence & Jackie Llewelyn-Bowen’s Weddings in Paradise

Beachcomber Hotels is delighted to announce the launch of their fabulous new Laurence & Jackie Llewelyn-Bowen Weddings in Paradise packages, offering couples the chance to plan for a wedding simply exuding elegance and sophistication in their very own tropical paradise!

Each wedding has been glamorously designed in association with the renowned interior designer and his wife Jackie, author of Debrett’s wedding guide and acclaimed spokesperson on the history of weddings.

The couple, who are both exceptionally well-travelled designers and stylists have recently become great friends of Mauritius after experiencing the warm welcome, exceptional service and fantastic facilities the island has to offer, citing it as the perfect place to get married.

Beachcomber offers a host of beautiful settings for weddings in Mauritius and Seychelles. A one wedding a day policy to ensure it is the couples unique special day and to maintain the high standards of privacy, service and hospitality. Each hotel has their own dedicated wedding co-ordinator with fabulous contact books with a host of florists, photographers and musicians to help make the wedding day special.

For many couples an elegant wedding in Mauritius may seem a million miles away; but this need not be so. Beachcomber Hotels are true to their motto “dream is a serious thing”. For those Brides who are looking for something fresh, stylish and not over-priced, the new Beachcomber weddings could be the answer.

Laurence has designed a new wedding gazebo and his wife Jackie, wedding etiquette author, has provided the operational guide for Beachcomber with some fun new tips for weddings.

Laurence and Jackie are firm believers in the institution of marriage - especially in the strength and support it can provide in more trying times, such as the recession today. Laurence said: “Marriage is the greatest tool that we have at our disposal to tackle these difficult times. It is vital that couples are given the opportunity to begin their commitment to each other in the manner that it is sure to continue in, brimming with style and adoration surrounded by the people closest to their hearts.

“The Laurence & Jackie Llewelyn-Bowen Weddings in Paradise at Beachcomber Hotels offer exactly this at a fraction of what it would cost in the UK but with the addition of the outstanding service and beautiful tropical surroundings for which Mauritius and Seychelles are famous.”

For Beachcomber Hotels the exclusive packages mark an exciting partnership with the Llewelyn-Bowens. The weddings will be available at seven of Beachcomber Hotels in Mauritius including Dinarobin Hotel Golf & Spa, Paradis Hotel & Golf Club, Shandrani Resort & Spa, Le Victoria, Le Mauricia and Le Canonnier in Mauritius and Sainte Anne Resort & Spa in the Seychelles.

To cater for all budgets and tastes Beachcomber Hotels offer two styles of Laurence & Jackie Llewelyn-Bowen’s Weddings in Paradise Packages:

Laurence & Jackie Llewelyn-Bowen’s Weddings in Paradise, Classic Wedding from £380
The Laurence & Jackie Llewelyn-Bowen Weddings in Paradise Classic Wedding incorporates everything couples could wish for on their Big Day including a dedicated wedding coordinator, transfers to and from the registrars office, bridal hair and make-up (and trial session to make sure it is just right), celebratory in-room breakfast and a stunning bridal bouquet.

Laurence & Jackie Llewelyn-Bowen’s Weddings in Paradise, Luxury Wedding from £850
Couples wishing for a slightly more extravagant affair can opt for a Laurence & Jackie Llewelyn-Bowen’s Weddings in Paradise, Luxury Wedding and will be whisked to the registrar’s office in a stylish BMW X5 (for guests staying at Dinarobin Hotel Golf & Spa, Paradis Hotel & Golf Club and Shandrani Resort & Spa) and pampered with a selection of spa treatments. The luxury wedding also guarantees that the romance will continue at the end of the Special Day with chilled Champagne, scented candles and petals scattered across the newlywed’s bed.

Both options include use of the exclusive Laurence Llewelyn-Bowen Wedding Gazebo, a luxury gazebo designed by Laurence especially for Beachcomber Hotels which can be easily adapted to accommodate different sized weddings and can be positioned in a selection of wonderful locations.

Laurence & Jackie Llewelyn-Bowen’s Wedding in Paradise, Classic Wedding includes: a dedicated wedding coordinator, decoration and styling of the wedding location, celebratory in-room breakfast, bridal bouquet and Groom’s button hole, bridal hair and make-up including a trial session, a separate room for the bride before the ceremony (subject to availability), wedding cake for 10 people, wedding music, transfers to and from the registrar General Civil Status Office, legal costs (Affidavit & Supreme, Civil Status, Administrative charges), one wedding per day. The Laurence Llewelyn-Bowen Classic Wedding costs from £380 at Le Victoria, Le Canonnier and Le Mauricia and £460 at Dinarobin Hotel Golf & Spa and Paradis Hotel & Golf Club, Shandrani Resort & Spa and Sainte Anne Resort & Spa. Prices include all government taxes.

The Laurence & Jackie Llewelyn-Bowen’s Weddings in Paradise, Luxury Wedding includes: all inclusions from the Classic Wedding, BMW X5 transfers to and from registrar (only at Dinarobin Hotel Golf & Spa, Paradis Hotel & Golf Club and Shandrani Resort & Spa), pressing and framing of bouquet and button hole floral arrangements, bridal spa treatments (luxury manicure, pedicure and massage), Groom’s spa treatments (body polish and massage), champagne and canapés following the service for two people, special four course wedding dinner in a private location, romantic room escapade (champagne, candles, petals on Newlyweds bed and luxury bubble bath), framed congratulatory certificate on behalf of Beachcomber hotels and 50 wedding photographs and album.

The Laurence Llewelyn-Bowen Luxury Wedding costs from £850 at Le Victoria, Le Canonnier and Le Mauricia and £1200 at Dinarobin Hotel Golf & Spa, Paradis Hotel & Golf Club, Shandrani Resort & Spa and Sainte Anne Resort & Spa. Prices include all government taxes.

Make an early escape plan if you book by 31st October 2009 for travel from 4 January to 30 November 2010 and receive a 20% special saving and a 10% honeymoon offer, allowing you to save a total of 30%. With this special offer prices start from:

Le Mauricia – Prices from £1149 per person for 7 nights in a Standard Room on a Half Board basis with Honeymoon lunches, return economy flights with Air Mauritius and transfers.

Le Canonnier – Prices from £1175 per person for 7 nights in a Standard Garden Facing Room on a Half Board basis with Honeymoon lunches, return economy flights with Air Mauritius and transfers.

Le Victoria – Prices from £1265 per person for 7 nights in a Superior Room on a Half Board basis with Honeymoon lunches, return economy flights with Air Mauritius and transfers.

Shandrani Resort & Spa – Prices from £1529 per person for 7 nights in a Superior Room on Serenity Plus, return economy flights with Air Mauritius and transfers.

Paradis Hotel & Golf Club – Prices from £1515 per person for 7 nights in a Deluxe Room on a Half Board basis with Honeymoon lunches, return economy flights with Air Mauritius and private transfers.

Dinarobin Hotel Golf & Spa – Prices from £1709 per person for 7 nights in a Junior Suite on a Half Board basis with Honeymoon lunches, return economy flights with Air Mauritius and private transfers.

Sainte Anne Resort & Spa – Prices from £2479 per person for 7 nights in a Garden Villa on a Half Board basis with Honeymoon lunches, return economy flights with Air Seychelles and private transfers.

To book simply call Beachcomber Tours on 01483 445 685 or visit www.beachcombertours.co.uk

Are you ready for an adventure? Then it’s time to experience the unique Australian Surfing Lifestyle and become a surfer for a day! Imagine visiting the beautiful Gold Coast beaches voted amongst the best in the world and splashing into the waves for a thrilling learn to surf lesson.

The Gold Coast has fantastic weather and crystal clear blue oceans set along 40 kilometers of white sandy beaches and you will be a part of the beach culture and our surfing crew!

Your heart will be racing as we suit up in all the surf gear and grab your surfboard ready for the waves! This is the most fun you can have on holiday!

The surfing & bodyboard program is designed for all fitness levels and conducted in waste deep water. Safe soft surfboards are used for beginners and with instruction from our friendly staff you will progress to standing up and riding waves in your first session.

The tour operates all year round with surf rash-shirts used in summer and wetsuits provided in winter.

After surfing, the local thing to do is chill out and relax in the picturesque beachfront coastal nature with a light lunch included.

Photo’s of your adventure are taken so you can remember the day you were a part of the Australian Surfing lifestyle and surfed the perfect the waves.

Based in Surfers Paradise, the surf school holds an exclusive permit for the Gold Coast Beaches to conduct surfing lessons by professional surfing instructors who are also qualified lifeguards.

Australian Surfer International is the original Gold Coast Surfing School providing learn to surf lessons, surfing half day tours and study abroad programs (NEW 2010.) We cater for tour groups, FIT individuals, conference delegates, sporting teams, schools, universities and study abroad students. Our Company is insured ($20,000,000 Public Liability Cover) and accredited with Surfing Australia and the local City Council. We can provide tour guides in many languages and offer a true Aussie Surfing Lifestyle Experience where you will hang out with local surfers.