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Accommodations • Attractions • Events • Destinations • Wellness
A Galveston Paradise
The San Luis Resort
Pass to a Fr iend
Summer 1 Edition - 2016
The San Luis Resort - Galveston, Texas
Visit us FOR MORE thrilling stays!
A NEW WATER PARK EXPANSION FOR MORE SUN SOAKED MEMORIES. The coolest water park in town is getting even cooler. New beach-entry gradual slope pool. 2 new speed slides. 1,100 feet of lazy river. Unlimited opportunities to make a splash in San Antonio sun. Bring the whole family and immerse yourself in everything JW Marriott San Antonio Hill Country Resort & Spa has to offer. For more memorable vacations and the most personalized service, choose the resort where Hill Country stays are more thrilling than ever. Visit www.jwsanantonio.com for more dives and slides at our newly expanded River Bluff Water Experience!
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Table of Contents
Destination:San Antonio
Texas Summer Fun in Arlington, Texas
Cenote Spa 28 8
Sanctuary at Camelback 30
Destination:San Antonio 12
Hawaiian Wellness Retreats
The San Luis Resort - Galveston,TX
Destinations 33
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Family Fun in Texas 18
Palm Coast/Flagler Beaches
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Brackenridge Golf Course - San Antonio
Phoenician Resort - Scottsdale, AZ
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Wellness Travel 23
Cape Rey Carlsbad 38
Medical Travel:101 24
Experiences 44
Viceroy Zihuate単o 26 About the Cover:
Puerta Vallarta Getaway
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An incredible resort on the Gulf of Mexico, the San Luis Resort is definitely a must. Located right along the Texas coast, this property has it all and more for your next vacation experience. www.thehotelguide.com
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Ride the Rio
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elcome to San Antonio! Hop on a Rio San Antonio Cruises barge for a narrated tour of the River Walk. Visit our website to find one of our four convenient locations. For our Rio Taxi service, hail one of the checker-flagged barges for a trip to your River Walk Destination.
www.riosanantonio.com (210) 244-5700 • (800) 417-4139 4 www.thehotelguide.com
The Publisher
A Word From
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ummer is just around the corner and we have you covered. From beaches to family fun getaways, our latest edition is sure to be a keeper. When you start in Texas, you have to talk about San Antonio and the myriad of fun things happening in the Alamo City. Not to be outdone, Arlington, Texas is sure to be a crowd-pleaser this Summer as well. This edition also sees us double the size of our Wellness Section. We are trying to stay ahead of the travel trends which all point to travelers nowadays yearning for an approach to wellness travel. Our partnership with Medical Travel really brings to light the opportunities around the globe for good medical outlets. Additionally, we have featured the Cenote Spa, the Spa at Camelback and several other Summer retreats. These articles offer you an insight into the purposeful travel options we plan on expanding. For many, Summer equals beach time. There certainly is a ton of great beaches to choose from and we have pinpointed a few in this latest edition. Oceanside, California is a fan favorite, along with Palm Coast and the ever-popular, Daytona Beach. For great story ideas or to be a part of our “Experiences” section, send me a personal e-mail by clicking here. Looking for great hotel deals? Remember that you can book all of your travel from our website or by simply clicking here. Happy Traveling!
www.thehotelguide.com
Edward R. Leos Publisher
Jennifer Leos
Associate Publisher
Christa Thompson
Senior Travel Writer
Katherine Belarmino Nicole Connolly Dr. Cacinda Maloney Callie Summerlin Michelle Tijerina Travel Writers
Daniel Leos Illustrator
Deanna Barrett Diann Bayes Lauren Leos Contributors
Contact Information:
The Hotel Guide P.O. Box 592418 San Antonio, TX 78259
Toll-free
(877) HTL-GDE1 phone (210) 857-2003 info@thehotelguide.com www.thehotelguide.com
Special Thanks to:
• Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority • Denver Convention & Visitor’s Bureau • Texas Department of Tourism • Texas Department of Transportation • Texas Hotel and Lodging Association • Texas Travel Industry Association • Las Vegas CVB • Austin CVB • Tyler CVB •GalvestonCVB • Houston CVB • Corpus Christi CVB • New Braunfels CVB • El Paso CVB • Lubbock CVB • Granbury CVB • San Antonio CVB
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Arlington, Texas
Big Thrills & Unexpected Surprises
By: Decima Cooper Mullen & Nikki Stephens
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emember the way you felt the first time you rode a roller coaster at Six Flags Over Texas? Or the time you eagerly anticipated catching a foul ball at a Texas Rangers game or saw the Dallas Cowboys make a gamewinning drive? Today, Arlington is still home to these iconic experiences, and the city continues to provide new, unexpected surprises for visitors of all ages. Home of the Cowboys Take the Dallas Cowboys’ AT&T Stadium. When you step inside the sleek, domed structure, you will discover a surprising yet not so hidden secret: a stunning collection of modern art. Larger-than-life installations and bold murals transform the interior spaces of this sports pantheon into a dynamic and unconventional art museum. German artist Franz Ackermann’s two-part mural is so expansive that it covers three stories. The colorful, abstract painting captures memories of the artist’s trip from Berlin to North Texas, where he walked, biked and drove to fully understand the landscape and capture the excitement of travel through the past and present. Did you know that AT&T Stadium is also home to the National Football League’s only in-house pastry kitchen? The pastry team bakes cupcakes, tarts, cookies and other tempting desserts for game day fans each season as well as for those who attend special events throughout the year. If you visit Arlington during football season, you can enhance your game day experience with a good oldfashioned tailgate at AT&T Stadium. Stadium Parking offers primo tailgating spots with picnic pavilions and
views of the stadium. Food Rocks!! While barbecue is a Lone Star State staple, it isn’t the only thing Arlington restaurants have on the menu these days. The city’s culinary options continue to expand with restaurants providing their own unique interpretations of classic fare. Surf and turf takes an elegant turn at Restaurant 506 at The Sanford House. The beef tenderloin and grilled shrimp entrée highlights a menu of artful dishes that includes lobster ravioli and pistachio-crusted trout. The acclaimed establishment includes an inn and spa, making it a perfect getaway for couples looking to relax and indulge. Enjoy a light spa lunch or cap off a legendary date night with the Chocolate Destruction dessert. Additionally, four of Arlington’s restaurants have been featured on the Food Network’s Diners, Drive-Ins & Dives. The lineup—Jamaica Gates Caribbean Cuisine, Prince Lebanese Grill, Chop House Burgers and Taste of Europe—is a testament to the city’s diverse dining scene. Baseball... Globe Life Park, home of Major League Baseball’s Texas Rangers, is also expanding its dining and live encontinued on page 10
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FOOD IS THE UNiVERsAL Language
Located 15 minutes from Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport, Arlington offers a world of unique flavors from “mom and pop� restaurants. No suit or tie required, because we offer a casual taste of Texas with an international flare. We celebrate our diverse and eclectic mix of food and events, like Texas Christkindl Market, one of the largest open-air holiday markets in the Southwest. Find out more about Texas Christkindl Market and Arlington at arlington.org/ftm.
ARLINGTON.ORG/FTM
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tertainment experiences for fans of all ages. Get to the game early to see how high-tech and tasty the tailgating party has become. Inside the park, you can try to catch that elusive homerun ball while enjoying unlimited ballpark treats in the Upper Home Run Porch. The fun doesn’t end in the off-season, either. Best of all, you have two options for a guided tour of the ballpark: walking or Segway. Thrills and Chills And back to that rollercoaster…you know, the one that made your palms sweat as a kid. Today, the thrill rides are built for height and speed. The Texas SkyScreamer holds the Guinness World Record for the world’s tallest swing carousel. Riders are taken 400 feet straight up before the spinning begins. Those with an unquenchable need for speed will also want to check out the Titan hypercoaster, which reaches speeds of 85 mph!
Classics like the kid-friendly Looney Tunes Adventure Camp are still in operation at Six Flags Over Texas, but the theme park is also preparing to let the villains run wild as Gotham City expands to make room for three new rides! The Riddler Revenge, Catwoman Whip, and Harley Quinn Spinsanity are sure to pack a powerful punch this summer when they open alongside true blue park favorites like MR. FREEZE: Reverse Blast and BATMAN™ The Ride. Whether you are a thrill-seeker, food lover, sports fan or art aficionado, Arlington is the perfect place to relive the nostalgia of childhood and make new memories with family and friends. More Info Ready for a getaway to Arlington? Visit: www.Arlington.org.
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HOP ON HOP OFF: 18 Bus Stops Departures every 20 minutes 9.30am to 5.30pm BUY TICKETS
www.CitySightseeingSanAntonio.com
HG1617
Bus Stop 1 - SA Visitors Center 216 East Crockett St., The Alamo, 78205. Call Us: 210 224 8687
$4 OFF PER ADULT
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$2 OFF PER CHILD
$10 OFF PER FAMILY
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San Antonio, Texas
Summer Fun = Educational Experiences
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o need to put the brakes on learning during the summer months. Keep young minds active with exciting and entertaining activities that provide a bit of education, too. Whether your child is passionate about animals, art, nature or history, you’ll find the perfect blend of leisure and learning to make your San Antonio visit even more memorable! Museums This summer Witte Museum visitors can explore even more thanks to a $100 million expansion. From now-Sept. 5, explore historic culture at the Maya: Hidden Worlds Revealed exhibit, and for kids, the permanent H-E-B Body Adventure exhibit features four floors of fun activities with themes relating to health IQ, empowerment and wellness. For a look at the life of more recent Texans, the new South Texas Heritage Center at the Witte features interactive displays and intriguing stories about the cowboys, settlers, Native Americans and others who shaped our state from 1850-1950. The DoSeum, San Antonio’s Museum for Kids, is an interactive learning laboratory for all young children allowing them to learn through play and helping them become creative problem-solvers through hands-on activities. The DoSeum offers exhibits unlike any other children’s museum in the country, including an interactive robot named Baxter, a spy academy filled with math challenges, an interactive puppet parade, a musical staircase, an ADA-accessible treehouse, a Children’s River, and a significant outdoor exhibit area with plenty of shade and water features. Texans are a diverse group, and the Institute of Texan Cultures is a great place for kids to gain an appreciation of the various cultures that contribute to the makeup of this great state’s population. The Briscoe Western Art Museum is devoted to the art, history, and culture of the American West, with a contextual emphasis on San Antonio, South Texas, and the Southwest. History Close to 300 years ago, five Spanish missions were established in San Antonio. While the Alamo is the most
famous, the other four, Mission San José, Mission Concepción, Mission San Juan and Mission Espada are equally captivating. All five have received UNESCO World Heritage status. To give kids a better understanding of the 1836 battle at the Alamo, don’t miss the 42-minute film, “Alamo: The Price of Freedom” at the Alamo IMAX Theatre in Rivercenter Mall. Outdoor/Eco Learning Chill out with an intriguing underground tour of stalagmites, stalactites, flowstones, chandeliers and soda straws in the stunning Natural Bridge Caverns, where you can choose the level of adventure that is just right for your family. Paved pathways, a lake with ducks and turtles and a popular restaurant are three great reasons to visit San Antonio Botanical Garden. See, smell and touch plants found in regions from South Texas to Japan. Explore and tour cave and attractions at Wonder World Park. See the Earthquake Cave and experience the devastations of a major earthquake close up. Animal Interactions While visiting SeaWorld San Antonio, take the animal lovers in your family on a behind-the-scenes tour for interactive experiences with water-loving residents such as penguins, sea lions, dolphins and beluga whales. Open 365 days a year, the San Antonio Zoo is situated in an old limestone quarry and is home to more than 8,500 animals of 779 species. The San Antonio Aquarium provides an up close chance to learn about jellyfish, sea horses, colorful corals, stingrays, sharks and more. Info? Click San Antonio Convention & Visitor’s Bureau.
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The San Luis Resort
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Paradise in Galveston, Texas r’s
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iscover unparalleled luxury at The San Luis Resort, Spa & Conference Center, a year-round beachfront resort on Galveston Island. Recipient of the AAA Four Diamond Award® since 1999, the 32-acre property offers lavish accommodations, breathtaking Gulf views, and unmatched personalized service. Along with its 250 guestrooms, the 16-story resort recently opened the all-new Villas at The San Luis Resort, elegant suites unlike anything else on the Gulf Coast. Meticulously designed to create a highly personalized experience, the five 800-square-foot suites are nestled in lush surroundings in a quiet corner of the resort. Villas staff are on hand from the moment guests arrive to ensure a perfect stay. Great Amenities In addition, The San Luis has more than 10 dining
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options to satisfy any appetite, including its award-winning restaurant, The Steakhouse. Guests may work out or indulge in a relaxing massage at the full-service spa, salon, and fitness center, or do some retail therapy at Style, a high-end boutique. Two swimming pools and a swim-up pool bar add to the tropical ambience. And just beyond the resort are Galveston’s 32 miles of sun-drenched beaches, opulent historic sites, and famed shopping. Whether for meetings, weddings, a family vacation or a romantic getaway weekend for two, The San Luis Resort can accommodate guests’ needs efficiently, graciously, and completely. More Info For more information on this incredible Texas resort, visit them online at www.SanLuisResort.com.
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250 Guestrooms with views of the Gulf of Mexico H2O Poolside Ultra Lounge with Firepit Award Winning Restaurant, The Steakhouse
• Private Cabana Rentals • Luxurious Spa San Luis • NEW Luxury Villas
Spoil Yourself
Spa San Luis
The Steakhouse
The Villas
5222 Seawall Blvd Galveston, TX 77551 • 800.392.5937 sanluisresort.com • villasatsanluisresort.com www.thehotelguide.com
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Family Fun
Texas is a true Destination
exas has no shortage of natural wonders, exciting attractions and educational experiences for travelers of any age. From sunny beaches and authentic western experiences to theme parks, zoos and museums, Texas is a year-round destination that offers families a world of fun for summer vacation and beyond. There’s so much to offer, families could spend all 365 days of the year in the Lone Star State and continue to find something new each day! WESTERN AND OUTDOOR ADVENTURES Families traveling with little cowboys and cowgirls will find saddles just their size across the state. Texas’ many guest ranches offer diverse attractions, including horseback riding, hiking, swimming and western entertainment. From visiting dude ranches across Texas to touring historic working ranches, such as the King Ranch near Corpus Christi or the George Ranch in Houston, families can experience a true taste of the Old West. For adventure-seeking families, cattle drives are a great way to truly embrace the western lifestyle. Saddle up and ride out with trained professionals to round up herds of cattle across vast open ranges, all while learning about the origins and history of the Texas cowboy. Every spring and fall, the Longhorn Cattle Drive is offered in Big Bend Ranch State Park, one of the state’s most scenic areas. For those who wish to spend quality time in the great outdoors, Texas offers a variety of outdoor recreational activities for every age. Families can enjoy hiking, backpacking, rock climbing and camping adventures everywhere from Palo Duro Canyon in the Texas Panhandle to Enchanted Rock in the Texas Hill Country. Experience the beautiful landscapes and local wildlife that Texans call their own, snapping photos of the incredible vistas awaiting beyond each turn of the trail. SUNNY BEACHES, FRESHWATER LAKES AND LAZY RIVERS Nothing is more enjoyable on a summer day in Texas than diving into one of the many bodies of water the state has to offer. Enjoy a lazy day, floating in an inner tube in the cool waters of one of the 15 major natural rivers such as the Comal, Guadalupe, Frio and San Marcos. Some, being spring fed, remain crystal-clear, refreshing and inviting all year long. In addition to the many rivers, other swimming holes are a main attraction to many locals and visitors alike including Barton Springs in Austin, Krause Springs in Spicewood and San Solomon Spring in Balmorhea State Park located in the Big Bend region. Natural cold springs fill these man-made
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pools, offering invigorating and refreshing swimming opportunities on summer days. Lazy Rivers & More Lazy rivers in family-friendly, full-service resorts are offered state-wide as well. Well-known favorites include the Hyatt Regency Hill Country Resort and Spa, JW Marriott San Antonio Hill Country Resort, Hyatt Lost Pines, Great Wolf Lodge and La Torretta Lake and Spa on Lake Conroe where beautiful pools connect to slowmoving rivers. Parents and kids indulge in fun by lounging on floats and splashing around in the cool waters. For full-day adventures, visit one of the many exclusive waterparks including Schlitterbahn® Waterpark Resorts in New Braunfels, Galveston and South Padre Island. At the park in New Braunfels, families can experience the world’s longest waterpark ride known as “The Falls.” At 3,600 feet, the ride is filled with raging rapids, careening waterfalls and giant waves. Gulf Coast Rocks The warm waters of the Gulf Coast, from Galveston Island to Corpus Christi and South Padre Island, invite families to enjoy scuba diving, parasailing, boating, deep-sea fishing, and dolphin or bird watching in addition to onshore activities like sand castle building and sunbathing. Bask in the sun and enjoy everything the more than 600 miles of coastline has to offer. Kayaking and canoeing remain a popular attraction and Texas offers myriad opportunities for paddling adventures. The Texas Paddling Trails provide wellmapped, accessible day trips in a variety of settings and for all levels of paddling experience. With 48 trails now available, enthusiasts will find just what they are looking for – in an incredibly picturesque setting! THEME PARKS Texas’ world-class theme parks, zoos and aquariums present families with thrilling rides and exotic wildlife. Texas is home to three Six Flags® theme parks: Six Flags Over Texas and Six Flags Hurricane Harbor in Arlington, and Six Flags Fiesta Texas in San Antonio. They feature monster roller coasters, stunt shows, musical productions and land and water rides to entertain excitement-seekers of all ages. Texas is also home to SeaWorld® San Antonio, which features the iconic killer whale Shamu, as well as dolphins, sharks, seals and sea lions. Visitors to the Panhandle Plains can spend the day at Amarillo’s Wonderland Amusement Park, one of Texas’ largest privately-owned theme parks and packed
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full of log rides, water rides and carnival games. Those heading west should not miss El Paso’s Western Playland, with its El Bandito roller coaster and 37-acre Wet n’ Wild Water World. ZOOS AND AQUARIUMS The Lone Star State’s myriad zoos and aquariums offer families both adventure and educational experiences, perfect for children of all ages. From the Dallas, Fort Worth, San Antonio and Houston Zoos, to wildlife centers such as Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch in New Braunfels, from Fossil Rim Wildlife Center in Glen Rose to natural parks such as Cameron Park in Waco, visitors can get an up-close look at their favorite animals from around the globe. Not to be outdone by their land-andair counterparts, underwater creatures also abound in Texas’ many aquariums. The Dallas World Aquarium, the Downtown Aquarium in Houston and the Texas State Aquarium in Corpus Christi all exhibit flora and fauna from even the most remote parts of the world. MUSEUMS Texas is home to a wealth of museums, from fine art and interactive history museums, to innovative museums just for children. The Waco Mammoth Site is open to the public, showcasing remains and fossils of prehistoric mammoths from 68,000 years ago, and featuring a shelter and scenic trailway. The remodeled Fort Worth Museum of Science and History also features a planetarium, cowboy culture, dinosaurs, 3-D films and much more. In Austin, kids of all ages can look into the past at the Bob Bullock Texas State History Museum, or visit the Austin Children’s Museum for plenty of creative activities. A trip to Houston means a chance to discover natural treasures like butterflies, gemstones and dinosaur bones at the Houston Museum of Natural Science. The new Morian Hall of Paleontology is home to Megalodon, the largest shark to ever swim in the ocean. For an out of this world experience in Houston check out the NASA/ Johnson Space Center. Step into a living science lesson at the new Perot Museum of Nature and Science in Dallas. Eleven state of the art exhibits allow parents and kids to explore science in an exciting and hands on way. Visitors to the Panhandle Plains can stop at the must-see Frontier Texas! in Abilene, a 14,000 square-foot facility on 6.4 acres, which brings the Old West to life with the help of state-of-the-art technology, and puts visitors in the www.thehotelguide.com
TEXAS middle of a buffalo stampede, a prairie thunderstorm and even a card game shoot-out. SPORTING EVENTS Just like their loyalty to their state, Texans possess the same pride and loyalty to their sports teams. Home to some of the most famous teams in the nation, Texas boasts athletic talent in all sporting leagues from football and baseball to hockey and soccer. Families can attempt to catch fly balls in Arlington and Houston at the Rangers and Astros baseball games, bang against the glass of a Dallas Stars hockey game or chant “D-E-F-E-N-S-E” for one of three champion basketball teams, the San Antonio Spurs, Dallas Mavericks and Houston Rockets. Additionally, families can enjoy riveting, edge-of-your-seat Houston Texans and Dallas Cowboys football games in some of the most magnificent and largest stadiums in the country. Come early with the kiddos and take a behind the scenes tour of the facilities. Fast paced families can now cheer on their favorite Formula 1 driver at the new Circuit of the Americas Complex in Austin. No matter what your speed, every travelling fan will find something to spark their team spirit! CAVERNS Texas is renowned for its beautiful landscapes of all kinds, even ones underground. Several natural caverns have been discovered across the state. Tours of these natural formations showcase aweinspiring details that have been centuries in the making. Natural Bridge Caverns, located north of San Antonio, is one of the most beautiful caving systems in the state. Descend to 180 feet below ground while listening to an experienced and knowledgeable tour guide. Designated as a Natural Landmark of the United States, the Caverns of Sonora in West Texas preserve natural beauty in its highest form. Take an individual or group tour and observe the surreal passages that will leaves visitors in awe. Go back in history and visit the river-formed Longhorn Cavern State Park, learning how native Comanche Indians and Civil War Confederates occupied the hidden space in Texas’ past. More info... Pack up the family and strike out for the one state where the Wild West was tamed and forged, and take home a lifetime’s worth of memories. For more information about these attractions, visit www.TravelTex.com. 19
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Beauty of Old Brack
18 Reasons to Tee It Up at Brackenridge Golf Course by: Brett Bell hen it comes to golf few W destinations, can match what San
Antonio has to offer. Superb golf courses, world-class accommodations, family-friendly fun on and off the course, exceptional weather all year-round, succulent dining and so on. The only conundrum – how to experience all that the Alamo City has to offer. Thankfully, one golf course in particular – Brackenridge Park or “Old Brack” – allows visitors to easily check off many of their “must-do in San Antonio” boxes, while providing 18 resounding reasons why golfers should tee it up every time they’re in San Antonio:
1. Centennial Celebration – This Sept. 16, Old Brack will celebrate its 100-year anniversary, with events occurring throughout the year and in 2017. A special logo commemorates this anniversary, and is featured on apparel and other items. 2. A Tillinghast Treasure – Noted golf course architect and recent World Golf Hall of Fame inductee A.W. Tillinghast designed Brackenridge Park’s original layout. Old Brack was one of Tillinghast’s few designs in Texas – he’s known more for such noted layouts as Winged Foot, Baltusrol, Bethpage Black and San Antonio’s own Oak Hills. 3. America’s Best – Golfweek ranked Brackenridge Park as one of the top-50 municipal courses in the United States. Other publications have tabbed Brackenridge Park as one of the best public layouts in Texas. 4.
George Washington Was Here – No, not the for-
mer president. Local businessman George Washington Brackenridge donated the land on which the course now sits. Legend has it he once hunted bears here. 5. Walk Where Legends Walked – During its infancy, Brackenridge Park was the site of the Texas Open, now the Valero Texas Open on the PGA TOUR. Among those who played in this event at Old Brack – Walter Hagen, Byron Nelson, Ben Hogan and Sam Snead. 6. A Road Runs Through It – The course changed significantly in 1968 when State Highway 281 was built. That construction eradicated the original back nine, and now vehicles speed through areas where fairways and greens once sat. 7. A River Runs Through It – Course architect John Colligan revamped Old Brack in 2007 and re-routed the back nine so that the famed San Antonio River could come into play. 8.
Mount Rushmore in Texas? – Adjacent to the
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Brackenridge Park clubhouse is the Borglum Studio. Here, sculptor Gutzon Borglum created the heads of the U.S. Presidents on Mount Rushmore. 9. Walk of Fame – Old Brack is also the site of the Texas Golf Hall of Fame. Near the 17th hole is the Texas Golf Walk of Fame, a walkway that connects the Brackenridge clubhouse and Borglum Studio with exhibit monuments dedicated to Hall of Fame members. 10. A Perfect 10? – Noted Texan and Masters champion Ben Crenshaw touted the par-3 10th as his favorite hole in Texas.
TEXAS 14. Center of Attention – Besides the attractions, the golf course is only minutes from downtown San Antonio, the Riverwalk and many hotels. It’s also 10 minutes from the airport and 20 minutes from the posh resorts on the north side of town. 15. Hip to Be Square – Colligan wanted to restore many of the course’s original design elements in his redesign, including Tillinghast’s signature reef bunkers and square greens. The reef bunkers – hazards that cut across the hole – can be found on Nos. 3 and 8, while the most notable of the six square putting surfaces is the Utah-shaped seventh green.
11. Family Fun – If the family doesn’t care for golf, there are many other places around the course for them to enjoy. Within a five-minute drive sits the Witte Museum, the DoSeum, Kiddie Park, the San Antonio Botanical Gardens and the San Antonio Zoo.
16. Hungry? – Golf always works up an appetite, and there are some Alamo City favorite eateries nearby. The barbecue is great at the Smoke Shack and Augie’s Barbed Wire Smokehouse, while the burgers are delicious at Sam’s Burger Joint and Burger Boy.
12. Train Yourself to Ignore the Train – There’s always a buzz around Brackenridge Park, which may or may not be a good thing. On the front nine, it’s easily to get distracted by the joggers or the train that blows its whistle as it transports zoo patrons around the park. On the back nine, it’s the cars that zoom on the highway that grabs golfers’ attention.
17. Pan American Roots – Founded in 1938, the Pan American Golf Association called Brackenridge Park its home course. Just down the street from Old Brack sits the PAGA Clubhouse, where the organization’s archives and museum are housed.
13. Aim at the Tower of the Americas – Next to the Alamo and the Missions, the Tower of the Americas is a landmark of which people recognize San Antonio. It’s also the aiming point for tee shots at the third hole. www.thehotelguide.com
18. A Fabulous Finish – The finishing hole at Brackenridge Park is a dandy, a par-3 over water to a square green. Old Brack is one of a handful of noteworthy U.S. courses that end with a par-3. Others include Oak Hills, East Lake in Atlanta and Congressional in Washington D.C. 21
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Wellness Travel
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Wellness
Medical Travel All Expense-Paid Trip Anywhere in the
U.S. (Complimentary Knee Replacement) by: Laura Carabello t’s hard to remember the times before websites such as Orbitz and Priceline revolutionized the online travel industry. Get ready for the same revolution in healthcare: DoctorGlobe is now offering the same type of technology and online tools that can help you find, compare and reserve your care online. You’ll have a choice of over 3,000 U.S. domestic hospitals to help you discover hospitals that offer better care for less money -anywhere from one mile to 2,500 miles away from your home. Here’s how it works: Ø You must be an employee of a company that gives you access to the DoctorGlobe site. (Just ask your employer to offer the platform – no upfront cost!) Ø You are in need of a medical procedure (such as a joint replacement or heart surgery). Any hospital selected on DoctorGlobe would qualify for full employer coverage of your medical and travel costs (no out-of-pocket) + a cash bonus that represents a share of the savings you created by selecting that hospital. “It’s time for you and your employer to re-think the whole process of choosing a hospital for surgical procedures,” says Tibi Zohar, CEO and Co-Founder, DoctorGlobe. “Naturally, one would consider the shortest drive as the most relevant surgery destination. We do provide many opportunities for lower cost, high quality care that are in close proximity to virtually anywhere in the country. However, this new online search platform opens up a whole new world that also offers an interesting travel opportunity at no cost to you and your travel companion.” Consider Visiting the National Mall, Washington, DC When was the last time you visited our National Mall in Washington D.C.? This might not be at the top of your vacation list and it’s certainly not the most exotic destination on the map. However it is the nation’s capital and an incredibly inspiring city.
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As it turns out, Maryland is the least expensive state for getting a joint replacement, and at some of the highest quality-rated hospitals in the U.S. Hospital examples within an hour drive from the National Mall: University of Maryland - St. Joseph Medical Center, Anne Arundel Medical Center, and Medstar Union Memorial Hospital. U.S. News and World Report ranks these hospitals as “High Performing” in knee replacement. Only 10 percent of U.S. hospitals rated in this procedure were high performing. High-performing hospitals exceeded expected standards of care. When hospitals offer lower pricing, this brings about more patients and results in a greater volume of procedures – which means more experienced surgeons. Depending on where you live, you may also receive a bonus of up to $3,400 for selecting any of these hospitals, which should suffice for any uncovered trip costs. Walking activity is recommended post-surgery, and most mall museums offer wheelchairs. Ask Your Employer Sound good? Check out DoctorGlobe.com, then direct your company’s Human Resources and Benefits department to the site for more information. You and your employer stand to save a bundle – and you and a companion get a free trip. About the Author Laura Carabello has been an entrepreneur and a strategy consultant in both domestic and international businesses related to health care and technology since 1985. She is the publisher/managing editor of Medical Travel Today, the authoritative, online business-to-business international newsletter of the medical tourism industry (www.medicaltraveltoday. com), as well as US Domestic Medical Travel (www. USDomesticMedicalTravel.com), the newsletter dedicated to U.S. intra-state and inbound medical travel. In 2011, Carabello published Medical Travel Today: Opinions and Perspectives on an Industry in the Making.
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The Pulse of Medical Travel
· · · ·
Discover options for higher quality more affordable healthcare in the U.S. or abroad Learn about new options for treatment not yet available in the U.S. Explore destinations for health and wellness programs offering spa vacations and more Understand what employers and health plans are doing to make medical travel a new option for you and your family
For Free www.medicaltraveltoday.com www.thehotelguide.com
| www.usdomesticmedicaltravel.com 25
Wellness
Precedent-Setting Wellness
Viceroy Zihuateño
iceroy Zihuatanejo is the wellness center of this popular destination with its unparalleled, multi-faceted program to create happiness, health and wellness while on vacation. ‘Way to Wellness’ is directed by Edward A. Taub, M.D., a wellness pioneer and leading authority of the discipline, whose Wellness Medical Institute developed “The Wellness Solution” based on Nobel Prize science. “The goal of ‘Way to Wellness’ at Viceroy Zihuatanejo is to help participants manage stress, which is the major problem of our times,” said Dr. Taub. “The program guides guests to happiness, health and wellness by enabling them to enjoy a more active, vibrant and rewarding lifestyle.” Nobel-Prize Winning The components of the precedent-setting program are mindful meditation, healing spa treatments, hatha and aqua yoga, exercise, sports and beach activities, along with cooking classes and healthy cuisine. A key to the success of the program is nitric oxide, an odorless gas molecule found everywhere in our body. Dr. Taub is the co-author of the bestselling book “The Wellness Solution” with Dr. Ferid
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Murad, who won the Nobel Prize in Medicine for discovering that nitric oxide is our body’s “signaling” molecule that determines whether we stay healthy –or not. Perfect Setting Viceroy Zihuatanejo (www.viceroyzihuatanejo. com) is the perfect setting for Dr. Taub’s wellness program with its emphasis on a healthy, vibrant lifestyle and the exceptional skills and training of the staff who conduct, teach and direct the many activities and classes. Dr. Taub coordinates with key staff members to certify them as wellness practitioners, and visits Viceroy Zihuatanejo periodically to personally conduct seminars and lectures. “A health-conscious, wellness lifestyle is being practiced and ever-more actively pursued by a growing number of people,” said General Manager Martin Kipping. “With ‘Way to Wellness’ guests
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Wellness
don’t have to leave their healthy lifestyle and values behind when on vacation. To the contrary, our program is an opportunity to deepen their commitment to good health and mindfulness, and increase positive results.� At Viceroy Zihuatanejo, wellness is a lifestyle: The exquisite cuisine is prepared with fresh, locally produced ingredients, and there are full vegetarian and vegan menus; a full array of water sports is offered; the location is along a pristine coastline with miles of white-sand beach for swimming, long walks or runs; guests can choose from an array of beneficial classes, from yoga and Tai Chi to alternative medicine, work out in the air-conditioned fitness center, play tennis or swim in three pools. www.thehotelguide.com
The Way to Wellness package for two people, available through Oct. 31, 2016, starts at $395 per night with Continental breakfast and a choice of two activities daily. For more information and reservations: 866-905-9560, vz.reservations@viceroyhotelsandresorts.com www.viceroyzihuatanejo.com Nestled on one of the most beautiful and pristine white-sand beaches on Mexico’s Pacific coast, Viceroy Zihuatanejo has 48 luxurious suites and guestrooms, 600 feet of gorgeous coastline, two gourmet restaurants, a bar with sushi and ceviche menus, an intimate spa in a lush tropical setting, a fitness center and an array of activities.
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Wellness
Award-WinningRetreat
Cenote Spa
inner of the ‘Best of Year 2015’ award for its Cenote Spa, Grand Hyatt Playa del Carmen Resort is the ideal relaxing retreat to disconnect and recharge with a wellness getaway this Summer. With a design inspired by cenotes – important geological features found in the Yucatan Peninsula that are believed by the Mayan people to cleanse and purify the soul – the Cenote Spa offers an array of signature services that are inspired by the Mayan culture, including the Mayan Bliss massage, Agave Utstal Repair treatment, and the Gift of the Gods Obsidian Hot Stone massage. The spacious 6,000 sq. ft. spa is equally exclusive with only eight treatment suites and specialty facilities including hydrotherapy stations, a eucalyptus steam room, fiber optic chromotherapy showers, and a rejuvenating fitness center. Perfect Healing Power The healing power of water and the earth’s elements can be absorbed in the Cenote Relaxation Area. Specifically, the ‘In Ha’ package provides a unique and authentic renewal experience by starting off with a Janzu Massage in the Cenote Relaxation Pool to promote a deep state of relaxation and dramatically decrease muscle tension. Meant to resemble a return to the womb, this process can be beneficial in easing insomnia as well as releasing physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual blockages. After the Janzu Massage, the treatment continues with a 90-minute Signature Energy Balance Massage that combines three techniques (Shiatsu, Lomi Lomi, and Swedish). During this part of the experience, guests listen to a playlist of delta waves that further lead to achieving full relaxation. The experience culminates in a healthy lunch menu exclusive to the spa lounge and a lavender essential oil patch as an amenity to take back to their room for continued relaxation. The Lavender Sleep Formula patch is aromatically relaxing, calming and normalizing. In this blend, lavender, chamomile and jasmine act in concert to help clear thoughts and quiet the mind to allow for natural sleep. This refreshing experience costs $385 USD per person.
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Romance Package For a more romantic spa experience, the Romance Package is designed to celebrate love and union with a special couple’s experience that kicks off with an Energy Balance massage that is highlighted by wine-infused essential oils (Pinot Noir, Cabernet, Chardonnay, Merlot, or Champagne) that are used as aphrodisiac enhancers during the massage experience. After the 60-minute massage, the couple is invited to rinse off in the chromotheraphy shower, which serves to activate the body’s seven chakras. Following the spa treatment, the couples will delight their palates with a private, romantic Ixchel dinner in the mystic-enhanced atmosphere of the Cenote Sanctuary, curated by the culinary team from The Grill at 1 26. While seated around the waters of the Cenote with floating candles illuminating the space, guests will have the option of three exclusive menus designed for seafood aficionados, meat lovers, or vegetarians, inspired by Ixchel, the God of Love. The Romance Package costs $575 USD per person. A 72-hour reservation notice is recommended. For more information or to make a reservation, visit: playadelcarmen.grand.hyatt.com.
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Wellness
FREE
HEALT ASSESS H MENT
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Creator of IDLife’s “28-Day Transformation”
www.IDLife2.com TAKE CONTROL OF
YOUR HEALTH
Lose Weight • Increase Energy • Sleep Better • Relieve Stress • Maximize Workouts
Customized Nutrition
We are all unique, shouldn’t your nutrition be too? It’s simple. Go online to www.IDLife2.com and take our FREE, HIPAA-compliant Health Assessment. Then receive YOUR customized nutrition plan.
Official Partner:
• Pharmaceutical-Grade • Organic • Non-GMO • Casein Free • Lactose Free • Soy Free • Gluten Free www.thehotelguide.com
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Wellness
Sanctuary on Camelback Mountain
Spa House
transformation at the legendary Sanctuary on Camelback Mountain resort is complete, revealing Spa House. The private mountain home enclave offers groups of up to 16 a totally unique spa escape in Scottsdale, Arizona’s desert oasis. Ideal for retreats, special occasion getaways and corporate gatherings, Spa House emphasizes the whole mind and body focus of the resort’s award-winning Sanctuary Spa. The 3,500-squarefoot home features a treatment room for massages (spacious enough for couples) and a movement studio for private classes and personal training with yoga mats, Pilates reformers, indoor cycling, free weights, and other equipment. These complement an open-flow home design with a full kitchen and
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dining bar, dining room, and living room that opens to a spacious wrap-around patio, an outdoor pool and expansive lawn. The home’s four bedrooms can host up to eight travelers, and it is neighbored by four newly constructed Terrace Suites that accommodate up to an additional eight guests for a true retreat experience. Notable elements of the 900-square-foot suites include private outdoor showers and 350-square-foot private patios with daybed (in select units), dining table and gas fireplace, framed by 12 foot high glass walls that let the Camelback Mountain views sweep in. Exclusive to Spa House Spa House’s private perch and unique environs on Sanctuary’s 53-acre property make it ideal for specialized programming, from water aerobics in
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the private pool to sunrise yoga or astronomer-guided evening stargazing on the courtyard lawn. A Spa Concierge is at the ready to provide counsel and organize therapies both in-home and at the Sanctuary Spa. And a dedicated Sensei in Residence ensures one of Sanctuary Spa’s most elite healers is on-call to perform a selection of highly specialized treatments that are performed exclusively by Sensei therapists. Bringing wellness to the digital age, an in-home kiosk offers Skin Authority Virtual Coaching to Spa House guests. The complimentary educational chats with certified skin coaches help guests customize a skin health plan and navigate products. Conversations can continue at home thanks to the My Skin Authority mobile app, available for iOS and Android devices. This ensures the holistic impact of Spa House follows guests long after they depart the resort. Designed for the home’s fitness center, a dedicated menu of Spa House classes includes Awake sunrise stretch, Energy cardio drum, Clash indoor cycling, Breathe meditation and more. In-room, there is a special menu of only-for-SpaHouse experiences and deliveries, from a bedtime aromatherapy massage for hands and feet to a meditative coloring book with pens, as examples. Guests will also find a Sanctuary Superpower www.thehotelguide.com
minibar of specialty snacks with healthy delights like raw nuts, organic dark chocolate and coconut water. By the bath, an assortment of aromatherapy bath salts afford a restorative soak, and at the bed, custom journals are offered to jot reflections. Turndown is customized for Spa House guests, including a personal card with a calming sentiment or balancing yoga pose suggestion, as examples. Inspired by Sanctuary Spa’s celebrated Satori Wellness Retreats, a multi-day Spa House Satori program can be customized to meet any group goal, from mental and emotional wellbeing to physical development or restoration. During a Spa House stay, all of Sanctuary’s facilities are at guests’ disposal, including the celebrated Sanctuary Spa, fitness center, championship tennis courts, world-class drinks and dining of elements restaurant and jade bar, and Arizona’s most magnificent infinity-edged pool. Spa House opening rates through May 31, 2016 range from $2,900 (home only) to $5,400 (home and casitas). Summer rates through Sept. 10, 2016 range from $1,900-$3,600, depending on use of the neighboring casitas. There is a two-night minimum stay required. For more information or to reserve Spa House, please visit www.sanctuaryaz.com. 31
Wellness
Hawaii Here We Come
Wellness Retreats
icture yourself taking a break to Hawaii Island’s only five-star beachside resort to renew your commitment to your fitness, nutrition and appearance. Imagine having a paddleboard adventure, hiking in a tropical setting or participating in a goal setting workshop to reset your aspirations as well as your attitude. July 10-14, 2016 - Hawaii Island Boot Camp with Zack Schares In this active lifestyle retreat, you’ll step up your fitness program, embrace healthier eating and sharpen your style with Zack Schares, a high performance fitness instructor, personal trainer and professional triathlete. Zack’s infectious enthusiasm and “No Excuses” philosophy inspires confidence and makes each session—ranging from a rock climbing excursion or beachside obstacle course to a mini marathon—exhilarating. A goal setting workshop, organic cooking demonstration and fashion show are part of this getaway. Take advantage of the Early Bird Promotion until June 10, 2016, priced at $3,578 USD for double occupancy (shared room) and $4,966 for single occupancy. July 17-21, 2016 - Intense Yoga Immersion Retreat with Sean Phelps Whether you want to take your yoga practice to the next level or need to revive your passion for yoga, you’ll accelerate your practice at this Intense Yoga Immersion retreat. Sean Phelps is a dedicated daily Ashtanga practitioner and agility and strength training devotee with an avid following throughout the country. In this five-day session, you’ll learn how to sustain and ignite your inner fire and float peacefully, mindfully, and energetically every second you are on the mat. Alignment techniques and breath work will be covered extensively during all sessions.
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Take advantage of the Early Bird Promotion until June 17, 2016, priced at $3,578 USD for double occupancy (shared room) and $4,966 for single occupancy. August 21-25, 2016 Total Wellness Made Sexy with Fern Langham and Nikki Sharp Abundant living through food, fitness, yoga and empowering knowledge are the themes of this retreat. Fern Langham, founder of ThyroidYoga™, is a wellness expert renowned for her artful approach to self-healing. Nikki Sharp teaches people how to have a healthy relationship with food and their bodies. Together, they will inspire and guide you to adopt simple changes that lead to deeper connections with others, increased serenity and greater happiness. A cooking demonstration, guided meditations and rituals, and workshops on food, relationships and creative visualization are included. Take advantage of the Early Bird Promotion until July 21, 2016, priced at $3,858 USD for double occupancy (shared room) and $5,586 for single occupancy. All Retreats Include: • 5 days and 4 nights at the magnificent Four Seasons Resort Hualālai, Hawaii Island’s only Forbes Five Star and AAA Five Diamond hotel and selected by U.S. News & World Report as the #1 hotel in Hawaii • Full meal plan with breakfast, lunch and dinner • Shuttle service to and from the airport • All taxes, tips and services • Retreats Unlimited daily gift bag These retreats are being offered by Retreats Unlimited and Wild Wellness Travel. To make a reservation, review the detailed itineraries or for additional information visit Retreats Unlimited or call 312-9613280.
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destinations
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FL
Florida Here we Come
Palm Coast/Flagler Beaches
hen considering incredible beach destinations, Palm Coast and the Flagler Beaches, Florida, is a must-see. Hotels here have history and charm, making it easy to set the scene for memorymaking. Breathe in fresh ocean air and bask in the sea breeze at the charming, 1950s A1A Motel or set up camp with the whole family, including Fido, at Si Como No, a Flagler Beach Retreat. Just across the street from the beach and fishing pier, The Tropical Bird and Bee welcomes guests to an ocean oasis. Great Beaches Quality waves make Flagler Beach a surfing mecca for experts and novices, alike. Bring your own board, or rent one to hang ten like a pro. Local surf shops offer lessons and surf camps are held each summer to teach the basics. Flagler Beach is home to the Tommy Tant Memorial Surf Competition each fall. All that seaside fun makes way for lick-your-lips eats, which coupled with hometown service and scenic views, culminates in a winning combination when it comes to satisfying hunger pangs in this beach side town. Brightly-colored restaurants dot the coastline, ready to serve up friendly service alongside good eats. Grab a cup of Joe at the BeachHouse Beanery, the neighborhood coffee joint, or linger over conversation and a scrumptious breakfast at the Funky Pelican before strolling along the beach. Kick off your flip flops and dig your toes into the sand at the Golden Lion, where choice menu options, like the fish tacos, and spectacular mixed
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drinks keep locals and tourists alike coming back for more. Come and See Us Affordable and free options for entertainment have been luring visitors to Flagler for decades yet the peaceful, eco-friendly, Old Florida charm of the area is vastly undisturbed. www.VisitFlagler.com.
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FL.
DISCOVER YOUR
URBAN. There’s always something NEW TO DISCOVER in Downtown Orlando. Be ENTERTAINED with a Broadway show at the new performing arts center. TASTE local flavor while dining outdoor at one of our award winning restaurants. EXPLORE local art at a nearby art gallery. INDULGE in retail therapy with boutique shopping. UNCOVER Orlando’s rooted history with a walking tour.
AND WITH EXCITING NEW DEVELOPMENTS TO DISCOVER,
YOU’LL WANT TO KEEP COMING BACK. downtownorlando.com www.thehotelguide.com
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AZ
Luxury in Scottsdale
The Phoenician Resort
ince it first opened its doors in 1988, The Phoenician has set the standard for luxury and service in the Sonoran Desert. The AAA Five Diamond resort is a visual masterpiece, spanning 250 acres of lush gardens and dramatic desert terrain against the spectacular backdrop of Camelback Mountain in Scottsdale, Arizona. Tons to Offer Everyone But what truly sets The Phoenician apart is the remarkable diversity guests will find here, allowing them to create the travel experience of their dreams. Accommodations range from luxurious guestrooms to residential-style casitas. Dining can be a casually elegant affair, as found at the Italian-inspired Il Terrazzo; as informal as a refreshing salad enjoyed poolside; or as memorable as a romantic feast just for two under the stars. The world-class recreational offerings of The Phoenician’s golf, tennis and spa facilities are balanced by the more unconventional pleasures of touring the resort’s fascinating Cactus Garden or exclusive $25 million art collection; or feeding Koi at Necklace Lake Lagoon. Spacious, Elegant Accommodations The Phoenician offers guests a choice of 643 spacious accommodations from guestrooms and luxury suites to casitas with private entrances. In the main resort building, there are 450 beautifully decorated guest rooms, plus 12 luxury suites and two expansive, 3,000 square-foot presidential suites. The intimate Canyon Suites, nestled against Camelback Mountain, is a boutique resort within the resort offering guests enhanced signature services, such as a personal wake-up call served with a choice of freshbrewed tea or coffee in a sterling silver set, a seasonal amenity presented by Executive Chef Paul Carter and a Canyon Ambassador to take care of the guest’s every desire. The Canyon Suites features 20 guestrooms, 38 luxury suites and two presidential suites, as well as its own secluded “edgeless” pool and cabanas. A short stroll from the main building adjacent to the Necklace Lake Lagoon, the casitas include an additional 119 guestrooms and suites offering doorstep parking and private entrances. Award-Winning Dining The Phoenician offers seemingly endless dining options that are as diverse as they are inspired. Among the nine restaurants is Il Terrazzo, featuring authentic American-Italian cuisine; and J&G Steakhouse, showcasing a bill of fare created by world-renowned Chef
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Jean-Georges Vongerichten. For a more casual experience, the charming Café and Ice Cream Parlor serves tempting treats and light meals in a family friendly atmosphere; and the Oasis and Canyon Grills present a variety of poolside favorites; while a complete lineup of signature burgers, appetizers and desserts await at the Relish Burger Bistro. For a more traditional experience, relax to the rich temptations of Afternoon Tea in the Lobby Tea Court. Another popular gathering spot, the Thirsty Camel Lounge, serves luxury spirits, light fare and rare cigars with live piano or saxophone adding to the ambience. And for private dining, The Praying Monk offers an intimate, Renaissance-inspired setting for small parties. World-Class Leisure Pastimes At The Phoenician, world-class recreational options abound. The golf club offers 27 holes of championship play on three, nine-hole par 70 combinations designed by Homer Flint and Ted Robinson, Sr., while the 11-court Tennis Garden is the only resort facility in the Southwest to offer four playing surfaces. Guests in search of enlightenment can indulge in an array of pampering and rejuvenating spa treatments at the 22,000 square-foot Centre for Well-Being, or learn about the resort’s many treasures – both natural and cultural – with guided and self-guided tours of the two-acre Cactus Garden and The Phoenician’s $25 million art collection. More info? Visit them online at www.thephoenician.com.
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Capture the moment, as well as the imagination. With elegant accommodations, award-winning cuisine, a stunning golf course and a lavish spa, The Phoenician is where your highest expectations are met and always celebrated in style.
LIFE IS A COLLECTION OF EXPERIENCES LET US BE YOUR GUIDE thephoenician.com/offers 800 888 8234
RELISH BURGER BISTRO
IL TERRAZZO J&G STEAKHOUSE
THE CENTRE FOR WELL-BEING
Š2014 Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. All Rights Reserved. The Luxury Collection and its logo are the trademarks of Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc., or its affiliates.
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Summer Adventure Awaits
CA
Cape Rey Carlsbad
an Diego family adventure is easy to find this summer at Cape Rey Carlsbad, A Hilton Resort. The SoCal ocean front property is enticing families with two great getaway packages and fun new programming that allows guests to immerse themselves in local exploration by land, by sea and even by lounge chair. Location Matters With a location just minutes from Carlsbad’s LEGOLAND CALIFORNIA theme park, Cape Rey’s new Legoland Resort Hopper Package sets the stage for the perfect Lego vacation. This package includes two-day resort hopper tickets for two adults and two children good for admission at LEGOLAND, SEA LIFE Aquarium and the LEGOLAND Water Park. Prices start at $575 per night and include complimentary resort shuttle transportation to and from the park. Second day admission tickets can be used at any time, so families can take a beach-day break before heading back to the park. For families who prefer to do it all- beach, theme parks, museums and more- Cape Rey’s new Family Beach Package is a good choice. This package includes
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overnight accommodations, breakfast for four (two adults and two kids), plus 15% off dining, spa, and tickets to local theme parks and attractions. Prices start at $224 per night. Endless Options A Cape Rey summer vacation offers endless options for family fun. The Junior Beach Ranger program is a summertime favorite. Families meet up at the Campfire Center at Carlsbad State Beach campground directly across from the hotel every Tuesday and Friday from March to October. The 45-minute ranger-led program teaches visitors about marine life, ecology and the environment in fun interactive sessions that include nature walks, tide pooling and hands-on activities. Each participant also receives a special ranger logbook with stickers to track their accomplishments and take home as a keepsake. Tons to Do Active families can rent classic beach cruisers from the resort’s concierge and enjoy scenic rides along easy coastal bike routes. Another fun option is kayaking, paddle boarding or sea-biking at the nearby Aqua He-
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dionda Lagoon where calm coastal waters create the perfect environment for beginners and young ones. Families can also plan a stop at the Lagoon’s discovery center to check out fun exhibits and displays, which teach about the area and unique lagoon environment. To make a day of it, Cape Rey offers Beachside Picnics To Go, which are packed in individual cooler bags so guests can stop along the way and fuel up. The picnics include a selection of delicious adult- and kid-friendly sandwiches, sides, house made cookies and drinks. Of course family fun is never more than steps away from the guest rooms. Kids and parents can frolic in the resort’s ocean view pool that includes a zero-entry, kid-friendly design. Summer also means the return of Cape Rey’s family activity center that features a variety of fun games and activities for all ages, plus craft programs to keep youngsters busy while mom and dad relax by the pool or enjoy an ocean
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view cocktail. Just 150 steps away is the beach, which is all the more enjoyable with the addition of Cape Rey’s beach pack that includes chairs, an umbrella and beach towels. More Info For more information on Cape Rey’s family adventures or reservations, visit www.CapeRey.com.
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CA
Top 10 Things to Do
Oceanside, California
isitors looking for something new in San Diego County don’t have to look further than Oceanside, San Diego’s North Shore. From food tours and artisanal dining venues to luxury bike excursions, one-of-a-kind museums, luxury whale watching, and a revamped golf course, this laid-back coastal town is bursting with new experiences for all ages. Here are ten new things travelers won’t want to miss on their next visit:
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1. Big Wave Surfing Exhibit at the California Surf Museum This February, the California Surf Museum debuted “Going Big: A 21-Gun Salute to the History of Big Wave Surfing.” The exhibit celebrates big wave spots, the surfers who challenge them, and the surfboard “guns” they have used. There’s also a special mini-exhibit about legendary surfer Greg Noll. 2. One-of-a-Kind Mural Museum The new Muramid Mural Museum and Art Center located in Oceanside’s Artists Alley is believed to be the first mural museum of its kind. In addition to inspiring mural displays, the museum functions as a classroom, studio and transitional home for thousands of murals. 3. All New Exhibits at Oceanside Museum of Art Following a month-long closure earlier this year, the celebrated Oceanside Museum of Art re-opened its doors with all new galleries full of exhibitions by notable local artists—Robin Bright, Tom Driscoll, Marjorie Nodelman, Laddie John Dill, Deanne Sabeck, and Bill Rastetter. Their work reflects themes including minimalism, abstract composites, reflective dichroic glass, and figurative pop in the form of both two- and three-dimensional works that will thrill art lovers of all interests.
4. Foodie Tours Oceanside’s Coast Highway corridor has rapidly become the “it” destination in North County for dining and craft beer with new restaurants that range from the Asian-inspired Whet Noodle to gastro pubs like Local Tap House and O’side Urge: Gastropub and Whiskey Bank. Visitors can navigate the dining scene via Carla and Linda’s Walking Food Tours, a new, guided tour that provides hungry customers with a “locals” introduction to popular dining venues in coastal Oceanside. 5. Agri-Tourism Flourishes at Cyclops Farms An organic farm located in South Oceanside, Cyclops Farms has rapidly become a popular destination for visitors in search of locally sourced produce. New for this summer, Cyclops has created an ocean view event space and will be hosting a rotating schedule of chef pop ups where local chefs create meals featuring vegetables picked fresh from the farm. 6. Luxury Beach Cabanas This summer, beach goers can take advantage of a new luxury chair cabana service at Oceanside Pier beach. Oceanside Cabanas rents luxury cabana chairs that include shade covers and a lock box to secure valu-
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ables. Visitors can even reserve online so that chairs are all set up and ready for beach relaxation on arrival. 7. Redefined Golf Experience at New Goat Hill Park Following an extensive $2.5 million renovation, Oceanside’s Goat Hill Park has reopened for locals and visitors seeking to experience what Golf Channel recently called “one of the top five short courses in the country.” Saved from redevelopment by golf apparel designer John Ashworth and his team, the historic, coastal course includes a new pro shop, new greens, native landscaping, new golf carts, a drought-friendly recycled irrigation system and the addition of disc golf. It is also home to the North County Junior Golf Association geared to making golf fun, affordable and educational for children. 8. Train Like a Local: Run, Bike and Ocean Swim Oceanside is a training ground for some of the world’s top triathletes and is host to prestigious athletic events each year such as Ironman 70.3 and Race Across America. Visitors can now train like a local with Oceanside Multi-Sport Group, which offers coached workouts led by experienced local athletes. Workouts cater to all levels and include weekly bike rides, runs and ocean swims around Oceanside’s iconic pier. 9. Luxury Bike Cruises Oceanside’s new Dynamite Bike shop specializes in high-end electric bikes and provides customers, including families with small children, with all they need for a day exploring the coast. The shop’s popular self-guided coastal tour allows customers to ride their electric bikes 23 miles down Coast Highway, while enjoying the beauwww.thehotelguide.com
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tiful vistas, shopping and restaurants, and, of course the beach along the way. At the end of the day, riders drop their bikes in Solana Beach and ride the Coaster train back to Oceanside. Other fun bike tours include the Mission San Luis Rey bike tour and Scripps Aquarium and Kayak Eco-Tour. www.dynamiteelectricbikes.com 10. Year-Round Whale Watching Adventures Visitors can explore Oceanside’s beautiful, coastal waters with Oceanside Adventures Luxury Cruises, a new, year-round whale watching company located in front of the picturesque lighthouse at the Oceanside Harbor. Passengers cruise on a brand new, state-of-the-art, 50-foot catamaran for two-hour excursions that explore the local waters flourishing with sea life including whales, dolphins, seals and sea lions. Each trip is narrated by a certified naturalist, who offers expert and experienced commentary along the journey. www.OceansideWhaleWatching.com Staying in Oceanside Oceanside offers a wide variety of accommodation options for any getaway from luxury 10-bedroom homes on the beach to LEED certified hotel rooms. Many properties offer travelers convenient amenities including complimentary Wi-Fi, continental breakfast and pools. Popular options include SpringHill Suites Marriott Oceanside, Wyndham Oceanside Pier Resort, Holiday Inn Oceanside Marina, Residence Inn by Marriott Oceanside, Courtyard by Marriott Oceanside, Beach Front Only Vacation Rentals and Best Western Oceanside Palms. For more information on where to stay, things to do and places to see, visit www.visitoceanside.org.
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Summer Surprises Abound
Daytona Beach
FL
o you think you know about Daytona Beach? There’s more to the story, and delightful surprises await. This summer, The Original American Beach has plenty that’s new for visitors of all ages. Here are Top 10 reasons to start planning now:
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1) Hear the Beach Beckon! Twenty-three miles of sparkling, white sand – perfect for hiking, biking, making sandcastles, or just lounging with a cold drink – provides the perfect backdrop for a vacation filled with surprises. Choose a beachfront park for BBQ grills, showers, restrooms and pavilions – or opt to park on specially designated beach areas. The choice is yours, and the diversity of beach vibes will certainly surprise. Will the family dog be joining the vacation fun this summer? Check out the ‘salty dog hangouts’ listed here for specially-designated dog beaches and dog parks as well. 2) See the World’s First Motorsports Stadium Daytona International Speedway has been iconic since its 1959 opening, when it hosted the Daytona 500. If you haven’t seen it recently, though, the term “surprised” won’t quite cover it. A $400 million expansion was just completed in January, with fan amenities taking the major focus. Embark on a 30-minute Speedway Tour or an expanded 90-minute VIP Tour and get the inside scoop on this most amazing facility. The Speedway has some exciting events coming right up: The Memorial Day Weekend Country 500 Music Festival kicks off the summer fun and features Willie Nel-
son, (locals) Florida Georgia Line, Luke Bryan, Kid Rock and dozens more. The Red Bull Global Rallycross returns in June, and the Coke Zero 400 Powered by Coca Cola NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race offers exciting racing paired with the nation’s largest fireworks show – and with $10 tickets for the kids, it’s the perfect way to spend a summer night with the family. Summer at the Speedway will also feature select dates for the Richard Petty Driving Experience, and the unveiling of the exciting new home of the Motorsports Hall of Fame. 3) Enjoy a Lighthouse Moonrise Talk about memorable: on select summer dates, you can climb to the moon at Florida’s tallest lighthouse! Join the lighthouse keeper at Ponce de Leon Inlet Lighthouse as he leads you on your journey into the past and discover the unique history of this National Historic Landmark. Ascend the 203 steps to the top to witness the sun setting and the moon rising. Be sure to reserve your spot early, as the photo ops are truly breathtaking.
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Saturday night’s popular tribute bands (think: Fleetwood Mac, Elton John, Journey, Bob Seger and more,) are followed by spectacular fireworks from the famous Main Street Pier. Bring your beach chairs or rent one there, and enjoy food and drink concessions with a kick-back summer vibe.
4) Take in some Daunting Dinosaur Discoveries Who doesn’t love some prehistoric fun? Connect with life-size dinosaur statues at the Sugar Mill Botanical Gardens. This rich, botanical garden is surprisingly tucked into a neighborhood and houses dinosaur statues from the 1950s Bongoland theme park. Oh, and admission is free – surprise! Perhaps more surprising is the 13-foot Giant Ground Sloth that “lives” at the Smithsonian-affiliated Museum of Arts & Sciences (MOAS.) Unearthed right here in Daytona Beach, its hamster-like fuzziness belies its gigantic presence. 5) Learn to Surf If you’re thinking you’re too (old/young/unbalanced/smart?) to try surfing for the first time, let us help you to check one more family outing off the Bucket List! The area has lots of safetyconscious surf instructors and floaty foam boards, perfect for getting even the most unlikely Kelly Slater Wannabe standing and riding fun little waves, the first day out. Once you’ve tackled that, be sure to try paddle-boarding, canoeing, kayaking and other watersports fun. 6) Channel Your Inner Hippie Psychedelic fun! Break out the tie dye and head to this popular street and music festival that highlights the best of the memorable Hippies-era with a concert at the Peabody Auditorium. Zero in on your summer travel dates to Daytona Beach right here and check out all the summer fun in store! 7) Sing Your Heart Out Come on, you know the words! If your family enjoys its music in the great outdoors, don’t miss the FREE summer concert series at the historic beachfront Daytona Beach Bandshell. Every Friday night features an eclectic line-up, and www.thehotelguide.com
8) Set Sail for some Family Bonding Eagle Yachts provides an all-hands-on-deck family experience in which every member of the family plays an important role. With Capt. Eric leading the excursion on a 36-foot sloop, you’re sure to come away with an appreciation of the fine art of sailing, and a sense of adventure. Find your next boating and sailing adventure in Daytona Beach! 9) Enjoy some Playtime Love to golf? The Daytona Beach area boasts more than 20 great golf courses, including worldrenowned LPGA International. Baseball lovers will enjoy Cincinnati Reds affiliate home games at historic Jackie Robinson Ballpark, where they can cheer on the Daytona Tortugas with spectacular views of City Island and the Intracoastal Waterway. After the game, sit back and take in the fireworks show. Visit DaytonaTortugas.com for more information. There are also ziplines high above the scenic Tuscawilla Preserve, paddleboarding galore, and starting in late summer, two trampoline parks are expected to open. Yep, that’s a reason to jump for joy! 10) Plan For These Events Daytona Beach has earned its reputation as the Festival Capital of Florida. With more than 50 events and festivals annually, there’s always something to see. This year’s summer surprises include the DeLand Ice Cream Walk, Summer Saturday laser rock concerts at MOAS’ planetarium, and the Granada Grand Festival of the Arts, as well as jazz concerts, improv comedy nights, wine walks, historic tours and more. Want to learn more about your summer surprises? Visit DaytonaBeach.com to book your stay and find more sum43
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A Perfect Girl ’s Getaway
Puerta Vallarta, Mexico e just spent a spectacular 5 days and 4 nights in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico! Upon arriving at the airport we were greeted with margaritas and tequila shots. ¡Salud! Suite Hotel We then made our way to our glorious all inclusive hotel, The Buenaventura Grand Hotel and Spa. The staff was amazing, the drinks were cold and the food was delicious! We loved sitting in the lounge chairs submerged in water that over looked the beach. Let’s Relax... This was a perfect way to spend a relaxing vacation. There was a restaurant onsite and an incredible buffet that quickly became our favorite; the chilaquiles at breakfast and the tostadas at dinner were incredible. We mostly wanted a relaxing vacation but we did want one adventure. After talking to a tour guide we decided to sign up for the Vallarta-Adventures Las Marietas Island tour. We had heard that the beautiful uninhabited Las Marietas Island was going to be closing soon and wanted to make sure we were able to see it. The seven hour tour consisted of breakfast, lunch, open bar, a swim to the Las Marietas Island, snorkeling, kayaking and a very entertaining lip sync concert by the staff. The island was beyond beautiful and the staff was amazing. Dining Excursions Although we were staying at an all-inclusive hotel we wanted to try some of the local flavor. While
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shopping in town we were recommended to try Casa Traditional Cocina Mexicana, we can say those were some of the best margaritas! The restaurant was around the corner from the glorious and historical Our Lady of Guadalupe Parish. The Church can be seen in the Puerto Vallarta skyline and is a beautiful landmark for this magnificent city. That evening we went to Senora Grill for dinner where we were treated with martinis, enormous and tender steaks and a superb atmosphere. Memorable Experiences Our trip to Puerto Vallarta was by far one of our favorites and we cannot wait to return. The city is marvelous, the beach is beautiful, the people are friendly, and the food and drinks are excellent. - Kimberly, Mari and Kristy 45
Perspective from the Open Road
Experiences
Road Less Traveled
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s a new fulltime RV’er and someone who has worked in the travel and tourism industry for more than 20 years, I understand the importance of the interstate. I appreciated the ease in which our truck and fifth wheel roll down the highway. That said, as someone born and raised in the country, I’m always called back to the backroads and the beauty and intrigue they offer. Unfortunately, people seem to be in such a hurry to get from A to Z, they choose not to go off the beaten path to experience the road less traveled. Oh, what they are missing. Traveling... Over the past few weeks, my husband, our two dogs, and I have been enjoying the beautiful state of Arizona. We’ve visited the Grand Canyon State a few times as we have family here, but we haven’t truly seen it the way this Native Texan likes to learn about a state, by jumping off the highway and taking the farm roads, dirt roads, and back roads to the communities that didn’t benefit from the interstate being built, because traffic was diverted. Those towns either made it or didn’t, based on sheer grit and determination, and they have a great story to tell. Currently, we’re camped at an RV resort overlooking a portion of the Tonto National Forest. In the past few weeks, we’ve taken many day trips. My favorite so far was to the small community of Congress, Arizona, a former gold mining community in the late 1800’s with a population of just under 2,000. According to the locals, not much remains of the original town site but those who still live there are making every effort to offer something unique to the visitor. As we drove down the road trying to locate any remains of the former ghost town, we came across several
old buildings that looked like they’d been there forever. Turns out, they were brought in by wood design artist, Mike Yacos, to display his incredible artistry and serve as his gallery and a place to work on his craft. The buildings reminded me of the old westerns I grew up watching and still enjoy today. It was like I stepped back in time to a place I have always wanted to journey. From the stucco church to the wood-framed gallery, I took a step back in time to a simpler but challenging lifestyle. For a brief moment, I envisioned what the determined pioneers might have felt as they chose to make their home in this desert land. The buildings may not be original to the town, but I appreciate the effort made by this amazing artist to provide visitors with a reason to stop in a community still identified as a ghost town. Do yourself a favor the next time you’re in Arizona and check out Congress. Look for the old cemetery to see some of the history of the gold mining days, but don’t forget to check out the rest of the town located off the beaten path. While it may not have been Robert Frost’s meaning in The Road Not Taken, choosing the backroads for me truly has made all the difference. Written by: Diann Bayes, www.EccentricNomads.com
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Zephyr Cove Resort Incredible Lake Tahoe Getaway
Experiences
ake Tahoe lies high in the Sierra mountain range on the border of California and Nevada. Prized for its brilliant, clear waters, it is the highest alpine lake and second deepest lake in the nation. A yearround destination, Lake Tahoe offers numerous outdoor and entertainment activities, including skiing, boating, hiking, dining, and casinos. Great Location Located three miles north of Stateline, Nevada Zephyr Cove Resort is nestled under a canopy of pine trees on the banks of one of Lake Tahoe’s most coveted beaches. Zephyr Cove Resort has long been a haven for families and individuals looking to get away from it all, while being close to the action at the same time. Zephyr Cove Resort offers lake view cabins, lodge rooms or a luxury suite and is open year round. If guests prefer to be closer to nature and the surroundings, Zephyr Cove Resort’s RV Park and Campground is always a great option. Shaded by pine trees, on the slopes of the Sierras, the campground offers easy access to Zephyr Cove’s beach and restaurants. Beach Time Zephyr Cove Resort’s beach offers the best of lakeside fun, including ten sand volleyball courts adjacent to the Sunset Bar & Grill, a popular local gathering spot open from late spring through early fall. Beach chairs and umbrellas along with a variety of water toys are available for rent at Zephyr Cove Marina. Powerboats, waverunners, peddle boats, paddle boards, wake boards, canoes, inner tubes and kayaks are among the rental options. Beach goers can also see the beauty
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of the lake via parasail, soaring 1000 feet above the majestic lake. Dining... In addition to Sunset Bar & Grill right on the beach, Zephyr Cove Restaurant, reminiscent of its original design from the early 1900s, is also a fantastic option for breakfast, lunch or dinner. Adorned with a large, stone fireplace, situated between windows lining three sides of the dining room, views of the lake and the mountains through nestled pine trees create a stunning dining atmosphere. Specializing in local and sustainable cuisine, the menu offers a large selection of American favorites. Cruising Lake Tahoe A summer visit to Lake Tahoe is not complete without a cruise around its clear blue waters aboard the M.S. Dixie II, the largest boat on Lake Tahoe, or Tahoe Queen, an authentic Mississippi River-style paddlewheeler. The daytime and sunset cruises provide a one-of-akind perspective of the beach and lake. Both the Tahoe Queen and M.S. Dixie II are Lake Tahoe icons and represent a significant part of the Lake Tahoe culture. More Info For more information or to make reservations visit www.zephyrcove.com. 47
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