End of Year
Cyprus, San Diego and Whistler
What a year it’s been – filled with visiting new destinations, having new adventures, making new friends, recovering from a broken leg, and writing about all the amazing places I’ve been. With the holidays in full swing, December in the coastal town of Laguna Beach, which I call home, is charming and community focused with a tree lighting ceremony and Winter Fantasy art festival. My daughter is home from college for a longer break than usual since she’ll be heading off to London for a spring semester abroad. I’m wishing you and your family a happy holiday season filled with festivities, friends and everything jolly!
Where I’ve Been:
If you’re interested in visiting any of the above mentioned destinations, feel free to reach out to me. I’d be happy to provide details about where to stay, eat and activities to do in the area.
Cyprus
As a media delegate for the Adventure Travel Trade Association, I attended a press trip to the island of Cyprus in October. This Mediterranean island is known as the birthplace of Aphrodite. The destination offers activities such as snorkeling with underwater statues, hiking the Aphrodite Trail, agrotourism, embroidery and silversmithing, and swimming in the Blue Lagoon. It is also a foodie destination, known for its honey, bread made with Cypriot flour, wine country, and halloumi cheese. We stayed in the charming village of Lefkara, in a hotel in Droushia Heights, and at Harmony Bay, in Limassol. The outdoor adventure, friendly Cypriots, amazing food and picturesque Mediterranean Sea were magical.
San Diego
In November, I spent time exploring wellness in San Diego on individual press trips. At the five-star Rancho Valencia Resort & Spa, just inland from Solano Beach, I was spoiled with luxury accommodation in a private, spacious casita with an indoor and outdoor fireplace and a jacuzzi. Activities on the 45-acre property include pickleball, tennis, golf, yoga, pilates, a stroll through the culinary garden, and even a trail to a hidden waterfall. Dining at The Pony Room is elegant and the menu offers sustainable cuisine. The Spa features beautiful indoor and outdoor sitting areas, a co-ed hydrotherapy circuit, a private spa pool, and therapies that include facials, body treatments, wellness therapies and massages.
At the five-star Park Hyatt Aviara Resort, Golf Club & Spa, in Carlsbad, I was able to experience the newly opened Miraval Life in Balance Spa Aviara – the first of its kind in North San Diego. Not only do they offer traditional spa treatments, including massages and facials, but guests can also partake in experiences such as making intention bracelets, creating a flower essence mist, or attending a culinary class. For a unique therapy, try Naga - where the therapist utilized hanging silks for stretching and deep massage. The resort is situated on 200 acres of lush grounds overlooking Batiquitos Lagoon. This family- and pet-friendly resort has spacious rooms and suites with views of the coast, pool, courtyard, garden or foothills. Kids will love the two waterslides, while those over 21 can relax and the adults-only pool. Guests are in for a culinary treat with locally sourced, Baja-inspired cuisine at Ponto Lago.
Whistler
After breaking my leg skiing on the Powder Highway in British Columbia last January, I returned to the slopes this month, to put the tragedy behind me and get back to enjoying the thrill of downhill skiing. This time I was on an individual press trip at beautiful Whistler-Blackcomb, with my husband Jeff. It has been on my bucket list for nearly two decades and did not disappoint. From the luxurious ski-in/ski-out accommodations at the Fairmont Chateau Whistler to the scenic peak-to-peak gondola and fine dining lunch at Christine’s, the mountain was splendid. The fun continued off the mountain with a visit to the enchanting Vallea Lumina, relaxing Scandinave Spa, and educational Squamish Lil'wat Cultural Centre. The dining was top notch also with fondue at The Chalet, exquisite cuisine and service at Wild Blue Restaurant + Bar in the Village, and visiting the Bearfoot Bistro's Ketel One Vodka Ice Room.
Call for Content
I’m not in need of any content at the moment. For my current articles, I’m working directly with DMOs and PR agencies for specific destinations or resorts I’m writing about.
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Where I’m Off to Next
London
In January, I’ll be heading off to explore London for the first time. My husband and daughter will be joining me on an individual press trip to see the sights of the city before saying goodbye to my daughter Katelyn, as she will be doing a semester abroad there through UC Berkeley. I’m so looking forward to experience the quintessential attractions, such as Buckingham Palace, the London Eye and Hyde Park, as well as wandering through Dover Street Market, seeing the Chanel exhibition at V&A Museum, seeing where Harry Potter was filmed, and having afternoon tea at Sketch.
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Have the best time in London! The Harry Potter Studios is amazing. Also really recommend Camden Market if you have time. Sending hugs and happy holidays!