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From Phoenix, travelers are visiting these great destinations
San Diego Northern Arizona
Hawaii
London
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Getting Away for Summer
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or more than six years, the local You Are Here publications have informed locals and visitors alike on all that is going on in the Valley. Now, with In Business Magazine, You Are Here goes international. This insertion is one of many that will inform In Business Magazine readers (one of the best local demographics of travelers) on many of the great getaways, deals and travel destinations from our hometown. In this summer edition, we showcase four well-known destinations that travelers have enjoyed going to this time of the year. Dave O. Dodge, our trusty travel writer, highlights the best places to go to, stay at and eat at, and the best ways to get to Northern Arizona, San Diego, Hawaii’s Island of Kauai, and London. Fun and exciting adventures tell the story of what to expect and some of the hidden treasures that these destinations are known for. Northern Arizona is a familiar destination for many in the Valley, but Dave points readers east to the Rim Country where he introduces the towns of Pinetop and Strawberry, where antiquing, dining and enjoying the countryside is what visitors can discover. San Diego is the close and refreshing stomping ground of so many from the Valley. While there is much to do, Dave invites readers to the beaches and reminds us of the great food, culture and recreation that this seaside destination has to offer. Hawaii is a paradise and Kauai is known to be the most exotic and lush of the main inhabited islands. Dave all but offers the fresh sea breezes themselves as he directs readers through the many leisurely activities and amenities that this island has to offer visitors. And finally, London. This ancient city is now home to the world’s finest chefs, the most notable European attractions and the big-city culture that has led popular culture, music, fashion and more for centuries. Dave takes readers through London as only a seasoned traveler could. Have a great summer and look for our winter 2013 You Are Here edition in September.
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Enjoy this issue of You Are Here: Worldwide Travel Guide as we present summer 2013. For the summer and winter seasons, In Business Magazine readers can expect the You Are Here insertions dedicated to upcoming travel in March and September, respectively, each year. Bon Voyage!
Let us know some of your favorite travel destinations or to advertise in our travel guide: editor@inbusinessmag.com advertise@inbusinessmag.com www.inbusinessmag.com
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The Road Less Traveled to Northern Arizona Time to plan your escape from the summer heat by Dave O. Dodge
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Photo courtesy of Dave O. Dodge
Old horse barn in Pine
Sunset from the summit of White Mountains, Arizona
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Photo courtesy of Anthia Cumming (left), Dave O. Dodge (right)
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efore too long, the Valley temperatures will be soaring into the triple digits and everyone who has spent a summer in Phoenix will be thinking about their escape route out of the Valley. Like a mass exodus out of the desert, residents look north to find a more forgiving climate with cooler temperatures. The Valley of the Sun sits at just about 1,100 feet in elevation, which makes for a long and very hot summer, but within a couple of hours’ drive, you can be high on a mountaintop above 6,500 feet with 30-degree cooler temperatures. The obvious choice to most is Flagstaff. Less than three hours away, it’s one of the more popular spots for weekend travel, but consider the road less traveled: the Beeline Highway. Heading east out of the city, you will find a beautiful scenic drive that climbs and descends through the Mazatzal Mountains, making its way to the Mogollon Rim (pronounced MUH-gee-own). Referred to as the backbone of Arizona, “Rim Country,” as it is nicknamed, incorporates small towns and villages all with their own unique vibe and offerings to visitors. The Mogollon Rim stretches almost 200 miles along the Colorado Plateau all the way to the New Mexico border. This escarpment can be seen for miles as you approach the town of Payson less than 100 miles from the Valley. This cool, mountain community is home to the oldest continuous rodeo in the United Sates, and would be a perfect base for a summer getaway. The entire area is surrounded by the Tonto National Forest, which encompasses almost 3 million acres, making it the largest in Arizona. The dramatic geology and the colorful history made it home to Western writer Zane Grey, who built a hunting cabin on the rim in the 1920s. With hundreds of trails to choose from, the best way to see this land is on foot. One of the more popular trails is called the Peach Orchard Trail, which starts in Payson near the Rodeo Grounds and makes a very do-able loop for the avid hiker. Just up the road a piece on the outskirts of Pine, Ariz., is without-doubt the most popular attraction: Tonto Natural Bridge State Park. This natural travertine arch is believed to be the largest in the world. It was first discovered in 1877 when a Scottish pioneer was in search of a hiding spot from marauding Apache Indians. Today, this state recreation area attracts picnickers and walkers that come to cool off under the Ponderosa Pines and dip their feet into Pine Creek, which flows through the rock tunnel. Like most of the state parks in Arizona, Tonto Natural Bridge State Park has had
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Tymeless Antiques and Treasures
DO With so many choices of attractions in the Rim Country, save time and plan your visit ahead of time. Zane Grey Cabin Zane Grey was a prolific writer who helped popularize the Old West. His original cabin, located near Payson, burned in 1990, and this historically accurate replica was built in Payson’s Green Valley Park. www.rimcountrymuseums.com Strawberry Schoolhouse This is the oldest standing schoolhouse in Arizona. www.strawberryschool.org Tonto Natural Bridge In a gem of a state park, the bridge is believed to be the largest natural travertine bridge in the world. www.azstateparks.com/parks/tona DINE From Payson to Strawberry, you will not go hungry, with options from small mom-and-pop cafés to the chain fast-food eateries. Some are gems and some you will pass by not even noticing. Meal time is also an exploration. Fargo’s Steakhouse This is the one choice for lunch or dinner in Payson. Fargo’s is family-owned and run, offering great service, choice cuts of meat and a complete wine selection. After a day of hiking or horseback riding, bring your appetite; there are a lot of selections for every budget. www.fargossteakhouse.com The Randall House This is where to come for an authentic country meal. www.therandallhouse.com That Brewery Take a tour, have a meal and relax with one of the many microbrews on tap. www.thatbrewery.com
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SHOP Shopping can be as much fun as hiking the Arizona Trail. All the shops in Pine are easily hike-able and can offer a variety of treasures, but use the car in-between shops for transporting all your finds. Tymeless Antiques and Treasures This is a multi-dealer emporium located in the heart of Pine that has everything to start your own Antiques Roadshow, from estate jewelry to quilts. This is one of the many establishments to browse while in Pine; pick up an antique trail map of the area here. www.tymelessantiques.com Down the Street Art Gallery Located in one of the oldest houses on Main Street in Payson, this little gallery has a big appeal to locals and tourists alike. Celebrating the works of local artists, without the price tag of other northern AZ locals. www.downthestreetartgallery.com Not on the World Wide Web, if you can believe it?! Some antiques stores and local merchants in Pine and Strawberry have not made it into the 22nd century; without naming them, the fun will be in the hunt. STAY The Rim Country is not without motor inns, motels and bed & breakfasts, and they tend to fill up fast during the heat of the summer. Plan on a required minimum stay of two nights on busy weekends. Majestic Mountain Inn Voted the best hotel in Payson for the past seven years, this quaint mountain retreat in the cool pines offers 50 spacious rooms, many with a spa; a swimming pool; and daily continental breakfast. Inquire about the private meeting rooms and romantic packages offered. www.majesticmountaininn.com Cabins on Strawberry Hill This is your one place to stay in Strawberry. Its cute, A-framed cabins are selfcontained and well maintained, the owners are great, and you will feel at home. www.azcabins.com Airbnb This new and very popular website offers many choices of lodging (worldwide) that are privately owned, from large homes to private rooms to unique mountain cabins — easy to book and at great prices. www.airbnb.com
Mogollon Rim country around Pine, Arizona
Majestic Mountain Inn in Pine
Tonto National Forest
Photos courtesy of Dave O. Dodge
GO Check out one of the many websites for current listing on events, lodging and forest information. Tonto National Forest Find information on the official U.S. Forest Service website, with maps, conditions and fees. www.fs.usda.gov/tonto Rim Country The Rim Country Chamber of Commerce offers maps, business listings and up-to-the-minute weather conditions. www.rimcountrychamber.com
financial challenges; check for opening times and current weather conditions before making the trek. The charming hamlet of Pine is often overlooked and confused with the more developed Pinetop, which is much larger and farther from Phoenix. Pine boasts barely 2,000 full-time residents, but will grow significantly during the summer months with Valley residents escaping the heat. A weekend here in a mountain cabin gets you as close to an authentic pioneer experience as you can get. Combine it with browsing in the many shops, where you will be doing your very own Antiques Roadshow as you search for that undiscovered treasure. Along with antique shops, there are a few small eateries that will tempt your palate. The food here is simple and honest, like the residents. That Brewery, formerly known as the Rim Side Café, is fast becoming known for some of the finest-tasting micro-brewed craft beer in the state. Combine its beer with a homemade bratwurst, and you will be thinking you are in the Bavarian Alps. If a homemade lunch in one of the oldest homes in town is more your style, The Randall House offers fresh-baked items, its own salad dressings and the best cup of coffee in town. Strawberry, a village even smaller and higher in elevation, is located halfway up the steep climb from Pine to the top of the Rim. Named for the abundance of wild berries found growing there at one time, this sleepy little town has the oldest standing schoolhouse in the state, where visits can be arranged by appointment. The place to stay is the Cabins on Strawberry Hill, tiny A-frames that are comfortable with all the amenities of any large home. A weekend stay here doesn’t have to be just during summer; it is open year-round and offers destination packages for events from weddings to corporate retreats. Whatever reasons you may have for heading north this summer, by taking the road less traveled you will discover places under the pines that are not only cooler but quaint.
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California’s Oldest City Is More than Beaches and Surfers Visit San Diego for a well-rounded vacation of history, culture and great weather by Dave O. Dodge
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Fireworks over Coronado Bridge
Balboa Park Lily Pond
Sunset Cliffs, Pacific shoreline
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Photos courtesy of Joanne DiBona, SanDiego.org (top), Hornblower Cruises and Events (left), Joanne DiBona (bottom)
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alifornia is not just a place but a lifestyle, a cultural phenomenon that every American wants to visit at least once in his or her life thanks to iconic images of surfers, beach-blanket parties and golden-hued youth. The coastline was first spotted by Europeans almost 200 years before they actually set up shop there. Prior to the arrival of gold-seeking explorers, this entire area was inhabited by an indigenous people called the San Dieguito; then in 1769 the first mission, along with a presidio, was established, thereby creating the first beach-front community in California. Luckily for us Arizonians, San Diego and the smell of the ocean spray is less than six hours away by car; a world away from the desert heat and dry river beds. The entire area around the bay is frequently voted the best weather in the entire country. A mild Mediterranean climate with 72-degree days in the middle of the summer combined with miles of pristine coastline — what’s not to like? Visitors have been coming to this Southern California city for many years; some staying, never leaving, after discovering the many faces of San Diego. As the second-largest city in the state, it has a diverse lifestyle and offers everyone the opportunity to discover its other side; steeped in history, it offers much to see and do away from the water. Right smack in the center of town is Balboa Park, a 1,400-acre site that was set aside back in 1868 for everyone to enjoy. The calling card to this urban cultural park is along the El Prado, where the Spanish Colonial Revival architecture dates back to the Panama-California Exposition (1915-1917) that celebrated the completion of the Panama Canal. These buildings now house special events and some of the finest works of art. Take in a play at the re-creation of Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre and don’t miss the Museum of Man dedicated to the marvels of our species. Next stop is Downtown, with its own sense of an urban revival; this once-aging section of town called the Gaslamp Quarter is again attracting locals and visitors. Its humble beginnings lie in the 1860s, when a fellow named Horton made a small investment and created a sustainable and viable city. Take time to walk the streets, where Victorian-era buildings stand in contrast to the glass towers that surround them. Considered off the beaten path from the beach circuit, this can be a foodie’s paradise. There are now almost
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STAY Choose a family-style resort with the beach at your feet or an urban escape in the heart of Downtown; you can’t go wrong if you do your research. The Keating Located right in the middle of the action, this boutique hotel offers amenities with flair. www. thekeating.com Hotel del Coronado Considered the “Crown of the Bay,” this iconic Victorian landmark is replete with history. Its website gives some of those stories along with special deals, dining options and romance packages. www. hoteldel.com DO Family attractions and beautiful beaches are the billboards for this beautiful city, but look past the obvious for a visit to San Diego that is both fun and educational. Balboa Park A recreation of The Old Globe theatre, museums and more make the entire area almost overwhelming, with so much to see and experience. www.balboapark.org San Diego Zoo A must-see for everyone, this world-renown zoo offers a more naturalistic sense of environments for its animals and exhibits. www.sandiegozoo.org Sea World Opened in 1968, this is the mother ship to all the others in the country. Love it or hate it, but face it, everyone ends up here. Plan to spend an entire day. www.seaworldparks.com/ seaworld-sandiego
GO For your summer escape from the heat, San Diego is less than a day’s drive away, with miles of beaches and hundreds of attractions that make it a perfect vacation. Moderately priced and very accessible. Check out these sites. San Diego Tourism Authority This is the official site for all things San Diego — hotels, attractions, neighborhoods and events. www.sandiego.org BEACHES With so many miles of coastline, you cannot miss the beaches, each with its own sense of being. From sunbathing to surfing to just walking, there are countless possibilities. Imperial Beach On the south side of Coronado Island, IB is a laid-back beach community that offers a moderate take on a vacation. Beachside taverns, cafés and family-run restaurants are abundant. www.imperialbeachca.gov Ocean Beach North of the downtown area, OB has a Hippie feel with young families, old-time surfers and aging Baby Boomers. It offers an unpretentious vantage point from which to watch the sunset. www.oceanbeach.com Mission Beach With only about two miles of beach, MB is complete with a boardwalk, pastel-painted homes, condos and small hotels. It’s a favorite for people-watching and surfing. www.sandiego.org/what-to-do/ beaches/mission-beach.aspx
DINE With so many choices to eat, some more upscale than others, there is something for every budget. Gaslamp Quarter A Victorian area that invites strolling and offers a global palate of restaurants. www.gaslamp.org Hash House a Go Go Serving all three meals daily, the restaurant bills its dishes as “twisted farm food.” Come early and bring an appetite. The wait here is usually not too bad. www.hashhouseagogo.com Monsoon This Indian-inspired eatery in the heart of the Gaslamp Quarter is easy to find and moderately priced. (Just when you thought you’d escaped the Monsoon season!) www.monsoonrestaurant.com Donovan’s Prime Seafood A close cousin to the steakhouse in Phoenix, this restaurant offers seafood as fresh as you can get. Combine that with the service and atmosphere and you can’t go wrong. www.donovansprimeseafood.com
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Downtown Gaslamp Sign
Coronado Beach Sunset
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Photos courtesy of San Diego Zoo (left top), Joanne DiBona, SanDiego.org (right top and bottom)
Entrance to the San Diego Zoo
200 restaurants here; it is considered the premier destination for entertainment in San Diego. Sleeping Downtown can be as fun as the beach, less the breeze. Take the Keating Hotel, right in the middle of the Gaslamp Quarter, which looks like a throwback to another time. This red brick Victorian building was built in 1890, but step inside for an ultra-modern luxury boutique experience — each room has been totally refurbished with an Italian fashion sense, including an espresso machine in each stanza (Italian for “guestroom”) to keep the vibe alive. Venture off the mainland over the impressive curved bridge and you will be on Coronado Island, considered to be the real reason for visiting San Diego. The iconic Hotel Del Coronado — or The Del as is it is known by locals — was built in 1888, and Thomas Edison himself flipped the switch to electrify it on opening day. At the time, it was the largest building outside of New York City to have power. Everyone should spend at least one night in this Victorian masterpiece. The Del has been attracting celebrities, diplomats and royalty since opening its doors. If you can’t stay here, at least take the historical tour the hotel offers daily. The island of Coronado offers another entire sense of life — laid back, refined and a little more upscale than Downtown. The shopping along Orange Avenue is relaxing and quaint, with small boutiques and cafés that provide a perfect alternative to the more boisterous attractions and family-style fun. There are also almost 15 miles of bike paths along the beach that can take you all the way to Imperial Beach. San Diego this summer can’t be overlooked, for within a short distance you and your family can be transported to another world, one of inspiration. After all, it wasn’t so long ago that children’s author L. Frank Baum, from his cottage at The Del, inspired generations with tales of a wizard in a magical land.
KOALAFORNIA, HERE WE COME
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Come for the Beach, Stay for the Scenery The most beautiful of the Hawaiian Islands is also the most peaceful by Dave O. Dodge
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Riding through a palm grove
Makua Beach
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Photos courtesy of Hawaii Tourism Authority / Tor Johnson
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awaii is one of the most exotic and intriguing places to visit in the world and the best thing about it: You don’t need a passport to get there. Where else in the United States can American citizens go to see lush vegetation, dramatic mountain scenery and beautiful ocean beaches as well as experience a multi-ethnic culture that is a melting pot of many races? Some might say California; but hands down for climate and culture, Hawaii has to be top of mind. The islands once were made up of independent chiefdoms, and for a time unified as the Kingdom of Hawaii, then became a territory before entering statehood in 1959. President Eisenhower knew what he was doing when he signed the proclamation that created a balanced field of stars on our flag — it also made the islands a popular destination for American vacationers. Hawaii is made up of six major islands and is considered to be the most isolated of the populated places on Earth, being thousands of miles from a mainland. It also has the distinction of being the last significant land discovery by western explorers in the 18th century (we all saw Swiss Family Robinson and have been fantasizing about living in a tree house ever since). All the islands are equally popular and all for different reasons. Choose one for all the right reasons and make it the holiday of a lifetime. Kauai is one of the smaller islands — or the 4th largest, depending on how you look at it. But it has a big reputation to live up to, as it is known for the soaring cliffs on the Na’Pali Coast and for Waimea Canyon, which is considered to be Hawaii’s Grand Canyon; this emerald-green oasis is nicknamed the Garden Isle. The attitude here is simple: “Hang loose.” So kick back and take time to smell the hibiscus. From Phoenix, it is possible to take direct non-stop flights into Lihue Airport on the southern side of the island; you can also get there from Honolulu, a short 25-minute flight. Once you are there, a rental car is needed to really see and experience the island. The entire island’s major points can be done by car, and is doable in a day. Unfortunately, trying to make a loop of it is next to impossible, unless a helicopter is involved. On the North Shore, you will find towering cliffs along a 17-mile stretch, the mountains climbing to 3,000 feet. This is where the helicopter comes in to see the Na’Pali coastline.
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GO Kauai has its own personality and charm, but before you arrive do some research and plan your touring to match your expectations. Think The Descendants, not Ocean’s Eleven. Weather should never be an issue, as it is pleasant year-round, but the higher you go into the mountains the more you increase your chances of daily showers. Hawaii The Hawaii Tourism Authority’s website gives a general overview and specific island sights, events and current weather. www.gohawaii.com Flights to Hawaii United Airlines and US Airways offer direct, non-stop flights that take about seven hours from Phoenix. www.united.com, usair.com DO Nature-lovers, history buffs and hopeless romantics are all attracted to the shores of Kauai. Kauai Sea Tours This is the way to see the majestic Na’Pali Coast if helicopters are not your thing. Sail around the rugged mountains in a catamaran and encounter dolphins and whales up close. Sunset dinner cruises, secluded beaches and a tour of the ancient Hawaiian are also offered on these excursions. www.kauaiseatours.com Waimea Plantation Waimea Town, where this resort is located, is on your way back from the Canyon. It calls you to spend some time walking in the rich island history. Captain James Cook first dropped anchor 1788 at what is now this historic seaport. www.waimeaplantation.com/waimea-town.php A Heavenly Hawaiian Wedding This is the spot to check if you are planning to say, “I do.” A one-stop help in planning your paradise wedding, it can help you choose the location, the flowers and even the food. www. aheavenlyhawaiianwedding.com Hawaii State Parks The Department of Land and Natural Resources offers information on all the parks on the island, including Waimea Canyon, which you can reach via a self-drive up to the north side. This breathtaking beauty is 14 miles long and rivals our own Grand Canyon. Start out early before the clouds roll in and it will promise to be a perfect day. www.hawaiistateparks.org
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DINE You won’t go hungry on the island. Choices run the gamut from fast food to fine dining, and when all else fails the local market is perfect for any picnic you can dream up. After all, it’s paradise, so relax and watch the waves. Lappert’s Hawaii Lappert’s is self-proclaimed as the ambassador to Hawaii. This ice cream shop has been scooping out handmade delights in Hanapepe since 1983. Don’t drive past without trying Heavenly Hana. www. lappertshawaii.com The Bull Shed This restaurant, a cozy, ocean-front favorite for families since 1973, is perfect for fresh fish and quality beef, and you won’t break the bank. It’s on the Coconut Coast along the Kuhio Highway in Kappa. www. bullshedrestaurant.com Island Taco This taco stand is an island favorite and has many vacationers returning more than once during their stay. Try the homemade tortillas, which are delightful with anything you put in them, especially the shrimp. Remember laid back; think flip flops and sunsets. www.islandtaco.com
Long view of Na’Pali Coast
STAY Accommodations on the island can be booked online; the price varies as do the amenities. It’s all about what you are looking for, which is another very good reason to take your time and do your homework. Kukui’ula This resort is the ultimate location for exclusive relaxation. Built by DMB Associates, the Silverleaf people, it is second to none on Kauai. It features its own village, private clubhouse and quaint luxury cottages that are available for nightly rentals — or, if you really love them, they can be purchased. www. kukuiula.com Aston Aloha Beach Hotel This is a beachfront property located on the east coast, and is family-friendly and priced accordingly. Choose from suites or cottages with an ocean view as well as a menu plan. www. astonalohabeachhotel.com
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Photos courtesy of Hawaii Tourism Authority / Tor Johnson
Makua Beach
With temperatures that fall between 69 and 84 degrees Fahrenheit every day of the year, it’s no wonder the ocean is an average of 75 degrees — perfect for any activity in the water. The South Shore of Kauai is as sunny as it gets and boasts one of America’s best beaches — Poipu Beach. The waters here are so inviting that, along with the locals, many forms of wildlife come here to play; humpback whales, monk seals and a variety of colorful fish make this the most popular stretch of beach on the island. Picnicking, snorkeling and even some surfing can be done here on Poipu Beach when the summer swells are consistent from the south; it’s a perfect spot before heading back to any of the many accommodations on the island. There are many choices in this area to lay your head down. From luxury cabanas to budget hotels, no resort can be taller than a coconut tree; a perfect rule for a paradise setting. Here, discover a world-class luxury property that has combined the Old and New worlds, covering even the slightest of details. The plantation-style
Photos courtesy of Hawaii Tourism Authority / Tor Johnson
cottages of Kukui’ula is this island’s most exclusive setting for you to kick off your shoes and pull up the drawbridge. Nearby, The Club offers members and guests amenities like gourmet dining that celebrates the island cuisine or a simple fire pit to relax by and watch the setting sun. This island garden is also very appealing to Hollywood, boasting location credits on more than 70 feature movies filmed here. You might not remember the original version of South Pacific, but who could forget The Descendants starring George Clooney, as his character struggled with doing the right thing on Kauai? Visit any of the islands on Hawaii and you will find your own version of paradise. And men, be mindful not to pack your jacket and tie — there is no need for them here. Kauai is a destination best visited when peace and tranquility is your objective. Come for the scenery and stay for the clarity; it’s very contagious.
Views of the Kalalau Valley from Kalalau Lookout
Wailua Falls
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City Break along the Thames After the crowds of last summer, there’s no better time than now to visit London by Dave O. Dodge
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London skyline seen from the River Thames
Big Ben and houses of Parliament
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Photos courtesy of Sergey Borisov (left), Krisztian Miklosy (right)
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ast summer, the world watched in awe as England celebrated the Royal Jubilee of Queen Elizabeth II, as she gave her signature wave from a barge floating down the Thames. It was an auspicious occasion for the United Kingdom and each of its individual countries. But even this was surpassed when, a few weeks later, the Queen appeared to be sky diving with none other than James Bond, into the Olympic Stadium for the opening ceremonies of the Summer Olympic Games held in London. Unique to the Brits, their sense of humor is as well-known as is the capital city of London. With the countless events held in London in 2012, the city has never looked better and felt more alive. London is in play once again; the time to visit is now. Daily flights from Phoenix Sky Harbor will have you strolling along the banks of the Thames in less than 12 hours, barring any delays. Summer is one of the best times to visit, when the days are warmer and the chance of rain reduced. With so much to see here, doing your homework ahead of time will make your visit more meaningful and efficient. London is a global city that has its foundation with the Romans, steeped in medieval history and grown to epic proportions. The capital city of England has had centuries to mold and shape itself into the most diverse urban area in the world. With a population of more than 8 million people who speak upwards of 300 languages, it presents a daunting task to see it all. On the plus side, however, the common tongue is English. Life in the center of London starts along the River Thames and fans out into distinct neighborhoods and enclaves of culture, each with its own vibe that has to be experienced on foot. Use the underground, or “the Tube,� as the best way to get around the city; with a good sense of direction and the map provided, anyone can use this mass transit system to see the ’hoods and their sights. The West End is located in the neighborhood of Charring Cross and is home to the vibrant theater scene that the city is known for as well as high-end shopping along Regent Street and over-the-top hotels. No time in London is complete without exploring on foot the narrow streets, discovering quaint pubs and dusty bookshops and seeing a new play that just opened. There are 40 theaters in this area, each offering the best in live performances
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GO Daily non-stop flights from Sky Harbor to Heathrow with train service into London. No taxi needed. British Airways Check the airline’s site for schedules, fares and daily updates for this non-stop daily service. www.britishairways.com DO With endless things to see and do while in London, choose wisely because your time will be fleeting. A perfect blend of history, fashion and art is a well-rounded visit to this fabulous city. London & Partners The official promotional organization for London, this company offers a site that is easy to navigate and has a lot of information. www.visitlondon.com London Theatre Guide On its online version, find reviews, tickets and schedules of live performances in the West End. www.londontheatre.co.uk Britain’s Finest This is an easy site to navigate for all the art museums and galleries located in the city, with listings of permanent collections, special events and fees. www.britainsfinest.co.uk/museums SHOP There are countless shopping possibilities, so plan your time as well as your budget because you will not have enough of either during your stay here. Harrods This department store is a must-see. Just mention the name and everyone points in one direction. Check out the front windows for the latest fashion icons in the most dramatic of displays. Pick up a signature shopping bag. www.harrods.com Time Out London Time Out offers an online guide to the shopping mecca, with events and even sales. www.timeout.com/london/shopping Topshop Topshop, started back in the ’60s, is on fire with many stores in London and beyond. www.topshop.com
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DINE Don’t believe the rumors; the food in England is not all bad. In fact, many chefs are coming on the scene and fine eateries are popping up everywhere. But if you come all this way, you must eat in a pub and sample as many fish & chips as you can. The Bunch of Grapes In Knightsbridge, this is a great neighborhood pub that serves both locals and tourists in an authentic setting. Come for the fish, but stay for the ale and a good conversation. gkpubs.co.uk/pubs-in-london/bunchof-grapes-pub/ Balans You can’t get any closer to the heart of the West End than Old Compton Street, where you’ll find this restaurant’s Soho location. It’s open to 5 a.m., so, after a show, a disco or a pub crawl, come here to where the fun people hang. www.balans.co.uk/site/ View London, Ltd. This website lets you surf by neighborhood to find a place to eat. Use it to let someone else do the discovering work. www.viewlondon.co.uk
Marching the Queen’s Guards during Changing of the Guards ceremony at Buckingham Palace in London, UK
Photos courtesy of Mike Peel (left), Frank Azon (bottom) Fernando Carniel Machado (right)
The London Eye
from new dramatic works to old stand-by musicals like The Phantom of the Opera, which currently is celebrating its 27th year. Ticket agents are everywhere in Leicester Square. Go the day of the performance to score a discounted seat, but have an open mind on what is available; you may just discover the next big hit. Shopping along Bond Street is another rite of passage; for the gents, the haberdashery is alive and well, and for the ladies, boutiques from Chanel to Burberry all hang a shingle out on the exclusive street. After a day of helping the economy, pop into one of the old grandes dames of hotels for a spot of tea or a glass of sherry. The Ritz London and The Mayfair are iconic and world-class hotels located close by, but hang tight for the opening of the Shangri-La Hotel at The Shard, an elevated property opening this summer that will redefine luxury with an Asian flair that this brand is world-known for. Whatever your fancy, London offers a neighborhood to match it. The iconic Harrods upscale department store is located in Knightsbridge and fills a million
Buckingham Palace and visitors at spring time
STAY There are so many places to stay in London that choosing one is very difficult. Determine your base during your stay, a price range and what amenities you need; narrow your search to make it easier. The Rembrandt A Sarova hotel in Knightsbridge, it is conveniently located near the South Kensington station and comes with a full traditional breakfast buffet, Wi-Fi and a quaint bar. Best of all, for this posh neighborhood it is priced just right. www.sarova-rembrandthotel.com Shangri-La Hotel Located between the 34th and 52nd floors of The Shard, a new glass tower near London Bridge, this soon-to-open luxury hotel will set the bar very high for London. Be ready for views from every suite and an experience second to none. www.shangri-la.com/London Hotels.com L.P. Not kidding, this is the easiest site, with photos, reviews, maps and deals. So easy. www.hotels.com
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square feet of shopping in 330 departments. Don’t be surprised at the number of Ferraris parked out front — after all, it’s Brompton Road, an extremely wealthy residential area. London is not all shopping; for a real history lesson in luxury, a rare visit inside Buckingham Palace just around the corner from Harrods will have your head spinning looking for a crown to wear. It’s a tour de force when visiting London; on every corner is an architectural gem, a familiar landmark or just a spot of green where you can sit and people watch. London is known for its open spaces and green parks. The more famous Hyde Park is easily walk-able from the center of the city, and the small but very fashionable St. James Park is the best place to recharge your batteries for another day of sightseeing and shopping. Check out London this summer and, while you are there, take a moment to feed the birds.
Photos courtesy of S. Greg Panosian (right) Fernando Carniel Machado (left)
The Queen’s Theatre corner in the West End
St. Paul’s cathedral and the Millenium bridge crossing the Thames
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