November • 2023
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RESPONSIBLE TRAVELLER ADVERTORIAL
Small-Town Charm and Outdoor Fun in Simi Valley, California The charm of a small town close to Southern California’s most famous attractions, Simi Valley is Southern California’s best-kept secret. Located just minutes from Los Angeles, Simi Valley offers a vibrant city full of cultural diversity, historical landmarks, and beautiful rolling hills. Los Angeles International Airport, Van Nuys Airport, and Hollywood Burbank Airport are all within 65 kilometres of Simi Valley and offer easy access from anywhere in the world. All major domestic airlines serve at least one of the three airports, with many offering services from all three. Generations before protected the beautiful natural resources, the gorgeous hills, and the mountains that surround Simi Valley, California. Each entrance to Simi Valley, California, is through a greenbelt, nature corridor, or cut into a mountain. Simi Valley is home to over 80 kilometres of amazing trails reaching as far as Los Angeles. Trails range from a guided nature tour to a climb for all fitness levels. Not only does Simi Valley offer an array of
hiking trails, but mountain biking is also a popular outdoor sport. With nearly 40 million Americans now mountain biking every year, Simi Valley has become a popular destination for the sport in Southern California. Surrounded by the Santa Susana Mountain range, the towering mountains surrounding the beautiful valley provide some of
Southern California’s most picturesque rides. There are more than 15 mountain biking trails that range from easy to extremely challenging and are perfect for both beginning and experienced riders. After exploring all things outdoors in Simi Valley, stop into a one-of-a-kind museum set on a beautiful hilltop with stunning views of the valley.
The Ronald Reagan Presidential Library & Museum encompasses more than 100 acres of collections and beautiful gardens in a dramatic hilltop setting overlooking the ocean and Southern California. Imagine yourself inside the White House when you walk through an exact replica of President Ronald Reagan’s
Oval Office, complete with his preferred decor and a jar of jelly beans on the desk. You can also board and tour the same Air Force One plane that President Ronald Reagan flew more than one million kilometres in. Learn about the 40th President of the United States through the Museum & Library’s many permanent and visiting exhibitions, and stay for lunch at one of the two on-site restaurants. Simi Valley is Southern California's best-kept secret, full of small-town charm, and is the perfect choice for mountain biking, hiking, or your next getaway. With more than 4,000 acres of parkland in 38 parks, one performing arts centre, and two historical landmarks, visitors and residents enjoy superb amenities throughout the year. Whether you are into hiking, visiting museums, or attending a performance, you’ll find it all and more in Simi Valley. Start your adventure at VisitSimiValley.com
© COURTESY OF SIMI VALLEY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
9 Essential Tips to Plan the Perfect Destination Wedding For many, the allure of exchanging vows in a picturesque location while creating unforgettable memories with loved ones is simply irresistible. But it can add a few challenges to the already stressful and exciting wedding planning process. To help you turn your dream destination wedding into a reality, here are nine invaluable insights from Chelsey Briere, a seasoned wedding planner with HV Luxury Travel. START WITH A FEELING Whether it’s a tropical beach, a romantic European city or serene countryside, the destination sets the tone for the entire celebration. To choose the perfect location for your big day, consider factors like seasonal weather, accessibility and the overall atmosphere. MAKE A FRAMEWORK For a destination wedding, there are often extra expenses for travel and accommodation, and local arrangements that need to be made. Briere advises
early on to help guests plan accordingly. She also advocates for setting up a wedding website or sending out detailed itineraries. These should include travel information, event schedules and contact details to keep guests informed and at ease.
that couples set a realistic budget early on and consider enlisting a professional to help navigate through cost-effective options without compromising on quality. SECURE TRAVEL INSURANCE Consider purchasing travel insurance that covers unexpected disruptions, such as flight cancellations or adverse weather conditions. This can provide peace of mind for both you and your guests, ensuring your wedding plans remain intact.
© COURTESY OF NEWSCANADA
INCLUDE LOCAL LIFE Embracing the local culture and supporting local vendors can add GET YOUR LEGAL a unique touch to your wedding. DUCKS IN A ROW There will be legal rules and Consider partnering with reputapaperwork you have to handle ble providers who understand the for a destination wedding, such destination’s intricacies and can deliver an authentic experience as travel visas and getting the right marriage license. To ensure that resonates with your vision, the day goes off without a hitch, be it a dinner of regional cuisine complete all necessary documen- or bouquets of local flowers. tation well in advance. Working with a wedding planner local to, CAPTURE EVERY or familiar with, your chosen MOMENT location can help make these Hire a skilled photographer and videographer who are familiar legal details easy.
with destination weddings. They can capture the essence of the location and the emotions of your special day, ensuring you have beautiful memories to cherish forever. ANTICIPATE GUEST NEEDS Ensuring guests have a fun, seamless experience is vital for a successful destination wedding. Clear and constant communication with guests is crucial. Briere recommends being transparent about costs and logistics
INJECT ADDED FUN Incorporating pre- or post-wedding activities can foster a stronger sense of community among guests. After all, it’s not just a wedding but a vacation too. Organize group excursions or activities, such as guided tours, beach parties or local experiences, to create cherished memories beyond the wedding day. ENJOY THE PROCESS Briere’s ultimate piece of advice is for couples to embrace the journey and enjoy the entire planning process. Destination weddings may present some hurdles, but every step can become an exciting adventure leading up to a magical wedding day you’ll cherish for years to come. —NC ADVERTORIAL
There’s Nothing Gloomy About Fresno County Winters As the temperature drops and the winter gloom sets in, you may find yourself looking to escape the snow. Your perfect getaway awaits on the West Coast: in Fresno County, California, you can leave your winter worries behind. From sunny outdoor experiences to adventurous sips that celebrate
© DANNY PIERRE
the region, winter fun begins in Spanning 70 miles, the early Fresno County. bloom of almonds and oranges from mid-February to late March SEE US BLOOM is a testament to Fresno County’s Winter looks different in Fresno dominant agricultural influence. County. A delicate shower of This is where the nation’s food is pink and white petals will grace grown, and the Fresno County the landscape in a captivating Blossom Trail is a beautiful floral spectacle known as the reminder of the hard work that Fresno County Blossom Trail. goes into being a top agriculturalproducing county in the country. Take the self-guided tour along the trail through Fresno County’s rural communities to see this incredible blizzard of blossoms and meet the farmers offering winter produce. There is fresh fruit and vegetables here all year long! Numerous festivals and special events are held to celebrate these blossoming orchards. Enjoy family fun at the annual Sanger Blossom Trail Festival. Hop aboard Hillcrest Tree Farm’s Blossom Trail Train. Explore the charm of Kingsburg’s Swedish Village or don your cycling gear for the Kings River Blossom Trail Bike Ride.
even in the winter! With scenic hiking trails, local parks, and easy access to Yosemite, Sequoia, and Kings Canyon National Parks, discover all sorts of natural beauty in Fresno County. If you love snow, head up to the Sierra Nevada Mountains to visit China Peak, where there is skiing and snowboarding, or Huntington Lake for a beautiful view of the snowcapped mountains. For the urban adventurer, art comes to life in Fresno’s Mural District, where local artists have left their mark for all to enjoy. Families can experience behind-thescenes fun at the world-class Fresno Chaffee Zoo or check out adventure parks like No Surrender Adventure (with two locations) and Gateway Ice Center. Stroll through the boutique shops and antique malls in Old Town Clovis or shop big brand retailers in the River Park Shopping Center.
local beer gardens and enjoying live music from local artists. Fresno County’s brewery scene is booming, offering a variety of unique craft beers created using ingredients grown right in the county. Fresno’s Brewery District features several breweries, each with its own distinctive take on craft beer. Find brews named after iconic landmarks in Fresno County and nearby national parks at Tioga Sequoia Brewing Company. Try hops infused with lactose and fruit to create delicious, creamy milkshake IPAs at Full Circle Brewing Company. In Clovis, raise a glass at Crow and Wolf Brewing Company, which offers delicious stouts and seltzers. Most local breweries are family-friendly, with lawn games and live entertainment. Expand your palate with more brews at the 411 Rec Room Tap House in Downtown Fresno or savour handcrafted cocktails at The Howlin’ Wolf, a 1920s-inRAISE A GLASS spired, art deco cocktail bar in NO OFF-SEASONS HERE Locals don’t hibernate during Fresno’s lively Tower District. No visit to Fresno County is winter in Fresno County. The complete without embracing its sun is still shining, perfect for Book your winter visit today at thrilling outdoor adventures— grabbing a pint at one of many visitfresnocounty.org
