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Last Updated: Jun 30, 2008 05:00PM • Subscribe via RSSATOM

The Great American Road Trip

Jun 30, 2008 05:00PM ● By Super Admin

I would hate to see something so simple as blind corporate greed cripple a tradition as grand as the Great American Road Trip. But according to a survey by Mapquest, 72 percent say they’re scaling back summer road trip plans or ditching them altogether because of the unprecedented price of fuel. And that’s a shame, especially now. With housing prices in the tank (it’s not a gas tank, is it?), the presidential campaign love-fest in full swing, and the slim chance of the Giants making the playoffs...well, if ever we needed a road trip, it’s now. This piece wasn’t even going to be about the newly endangered road trip. It was going to discuss one of the most critical components of said trip…the tunes. But writing about rolling down the window and cranking up “Runnin’ down a Dream” seemed kind of, er, petty compared to what we’re facing now.   But wait. Don’t start planning that “stay-cation” just yet. Maybe we just need a little inspiration. Maybe we just need a little Tao of Griswold. Think back to National Lampoon’s Vacation. Despite all the obstacles, Clark Griswold never slowed down (as, sadly, Aunt Edna’s dog could attest). Unscrupulous mechanics, Cousin Eddie, Christy Brinkley in that convertible – none of them stopped him from delivering his family to the glorious gates of Wally World. And when they got there and found it closed? He still found a way inside. Granted it took a pellet gun and an incompetent security guard (God bless John Candy!) but still, the point is, nothing deterred Clark. Do you think a little thing like gas prices would have? Not on your 1983 Ford LTD Country Squire station wagon it wouldn’t. We need that same kind of blind determination now. Folks, it’s not a road trip anymore. It’s more than that. It’s a necessary act of defiance. Who cares if the final fuel bill rivals one year’s college tuition…at Stanford. The road trip is an American birthright. What were 19th century immigrants if not the first tourists? The Oregon Trail was the first interstate. Calistoga wagons were the first SUVs. A more insensitive type might even suggest that the Donners were the first Griswolds…but I would never do that.  Fact is, the road trip is our heritage and “are we there yet?” is the chorus of our anthem. Are we going to let some cigar smoking, pinky-ring wearing, triple-chinned oil executive take that away? It’s time that we look into our collective rear-view mirrors and in our most intimidating mom and dad voices, tell them all, “DON’T MAKE US TURN THIS CAR AROUND!”   OK, sure, it may seem counter-intuitive to protest by, um, traveling long distances and paying exactly what those oil(y) men are charging us, but something as sensible as logic never deterred Clark. Why should it stop us?   So let us summon our inner-Griswolds; get out the maps, stock up on snacks, load the kids in the car and hit the open road. And as we stop by the first gas station to fill up, find the right words to explain to the youngest why college might have to wait. Then save the Tom Petty, slip Jackson Browne’s “Runnin’ on Empty” into the CD player and hit the highway. Because somewhere beyond that horizon, our own personal Wally Worlds await, and it’s our duty to go. Just make sure you undo the dog’s leash from the back bumper first. Catch Tom on the Pat and Tom Morning Show on New Country 105.1 KNCI.

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All-Inclusives

Jun 30, 2008 05:00PM ● By Super Admin

For years all-inclusive vacations have been saddled with a bad rap – some of the reputation is warranted, some of it exaggerated. The negatives of these one-stop hotspots are well documented: over-crowding, semi-obnoxious spectacles accompanied by a sketchy degree of hedonism, loud poolside DJs, flavorless food wilted under the rays of 24-hour heating lamps, and just a general cheesiness that, unless you’re in Vegas, isn’t a substitute for acceptable rest and retreat. Well, the wrongs have been righted, friends; rectified to a far more appealing level. Retreating to an all-inclusive resort these days is to step into affordable luxury for families, couples, friends and adventure travelers. There is literally no reason (at least not one good enough), not to pack your bags. But before you check in, check out a few of Style’s recommended all-inclusive locales. Whether you crave a low-key vacation or a darn good party, there’s a perfect place waiting just for you. FAMILIESBeaches Sandy BayWhere: Negril, JamaicaSignature amenities: Family fun on the shores of gorgeous 7-Mile Beach, private access and great proximity to it; legitimately gorgeous accommodations and ambiance; water sports and land recreation; kid-friendly menus and entertainment, “Ultra-Nannies” (yeah, really); Caribbean Adventures with Sesame Street, including Sundays at the Movies and Story time with Elmo; a kids’ swim up soda bar, pirate’s island, and XBOX Game Garage; a fully-equipped onsite spa for mom and dad; gourmet dining at three restaurants and unlimited cocktailing; roundtrip airport transfers; tips and taxes, and much more.Spend: Depends on arrival dates and number of guests. Discounts available. Visit the hotel online for more information.Reservations: beaches.com.Tyler Place Family ResortWhere: Highgate Springs, VermontSignature amenities: Award-winning programs for kids, teens, infants, toddlers and their parents; a variety of sports and activities; quaint cottage and suite accommodations in the great outdoors; a “Family Splash Pad,” cocktails and private dining for adults; heated indoor and outdoor pools; family reunions and adult nights out; onsite sitters; lakeshore bonfires; healthy food, casual entertainment, and a generally informal atmosphere.Spend: The all-inclusive family package includes all lodging, activities, entertainment and programs. Rates vary depending on dates and accommodations, but expect to spend $94-$333 per night for a seven-day week for adults, $75-$112 for children.Reservations: tylerplace.com.COUPLESGrand Velas All Suites & Spa ResortWhere: Nuevo Vallarta, MexicoSignature amenities: Lots of space (though usually fully booked, the resort seems remarkably empty); modern accommodations and attentive service; salsa lessons; recognized restaurants (Piaf is not to be missed) and an outdoor/indoor lobby bar; live entertainment, gorgeous open-air areas; spa concierge and top-of-the-line treatments that include a relaxing hydrotherapy circuit; beach recreation, tennis courts and infinity pools, and only 20 minutes from downtown Puerto Vallarta, among other attractive lures. Spend: The hotel’s “Romantic Vacation” package, which includes a private lobster dinner for two, an 80-minute couple’s massage, suite accommodations, airport transfers, taxes and gratuities, ranges from $596-$635 for a minimum four-night stay.Reservations: vallarta.grandvelas.com.Peter Island ResortWhere: British Virgin Islands Signature amenities: Located on a private island; an informal vibe; pristine white beaches and private access to them; an inviting day spa and a wide range of activities; personal but unobtrusive service; unrivaled peace, relaxation and romance; indigenous cuisine and a wine room; concierge service, ocean views from every room; access to an extensive and protected waterway system that includes islands, cays and reefs; hiking trails and a variety of aquatic recreation.Spend: Depends on packages and room rates. The “Romance and Honeymoon” package includes all of the aforementioned amenities; a seven night stay ranges from $3,025-$4,855 not including airfare.Reservations: peterisland.com. FRIENDS & SINGLESClub MedWhere: Turkoise, Turks & CaicosSignature amenities: Supreme networking opportunities and socializing; water sports galore including excellent scuba diving; diverse recreation opportunities such as horseback riding, Club Med’s trademark fitness programs, golf, tennis and hiking; an abundance of restaurants, bars and refreshing tropical concoctions; well-appointed rooms and suites; special packages and party adventures for pals, and a good-time-atmosphere like no other. Spend: Club Med offers great deals on “short stays” and holiday vacations. Pricing is extremely competitive. Reservations: clubmed.com. ADVENTURISTSOccidental Grand PapagayoWhere: Costa RicaSignature amenities: Boutique-style lodging (there are only 169 guestrooms, outfitted with contemporary conveniences); eco-adventures, water sports, scuba, deep-sea fishing, sea kayaking, snorkeling, freshwater pools and a fitness center; quick and easy access to the Pacific shores of Costa Rico; lush tropical surroundings with gorgeous flora and fauna; five different culinary options including Italian and Asian restaurants, and bars that serve creative refreshments all day and most of the night; views and access to a white-sand coastline; concierge service at the Royal Club level; a world-class spa (treatments at an additional cost), and a lively disco.Spend: Hotel and air packages are available but vary. Visit the hotel online for current rates, discounts and availability.Reservations:occidentalgrandpapagayo.com.Red Mountain SpaWhere: St. George, UtahSignature amenities: Location, location, location (the surroundings are unsurpassed, truly); contemporary accommodations designed to make you relax between “a rock and a soft place;” proximity to, and activities centered around, Utah’s Grand Circle of National Parks; Red Rock adventuring; gourmet healthy meals; award-winning workshops and classes; health education and specialized fitness programs, and unlimited creative outdoor recreation. Plus, you’re guaranteed to drop a few pounds.Spend: Depends on program and weekly schedule, but rates are unexpectedly reasonable for a destination spa of its caliber (which is sky-high, by the way).Reservations: redmountainspa.com.

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All-Inclusives

Jun 30, 2008 05:00PM ● By Super Admin

For years all-inclusive vacations have been saddled with a bad rap – some of the reputation is warranted, some of it exaggerated. The negatives of these one-stop hotspots are well documented: over-crowding, semi-obnoxious spectacles accompanied by a sketchy degree of hedonism, loud poolside DJs, flavorless food wilted under the rays of 24-hour heating lamps, and just a general cheesiness that, unless you’re in Vegas, isn’t a substitute for acceptable rest and retreat. Well, the wrongs have been righted, friends; rectified to a far more appealing level. Retreating to an all-inclusive resort these days is to step into affordable luxury for families, couples, friends and adventure travelers. There is literally no reason (at least not one good enough), not to pack your bags. But before you check in, check out a few of Style’s recommended all-inclusive locales. Whether you crave a low-key vacation or a darn good party, there’s a perfect place waiting just for you. FAMILIESBeaches Sandy BayWhere: Negril, JamaicaSignature amenities: Family fun on the shores of gorgeous 7-Mile Beach, private access and great proximity to it; legitimately gorgeous accommodations and ambiance; water sports and land recreation; kid-friendly menus and entertainment, “Ultra-Nannies” (yeah, really); Caribbean Adventures with Sesame Street, including Sundays at the Movies and Story time with Elmo; a kids’ swim up soda bar, pirate’s island, and XBOX Game Garage; a fully-equipped onsite spa for mom and dad; gourmet dining at three restaurants and unlimited cocktailing; roundtrip airport transfers; tips and taxes, and much more.Spend: Depends on arrival dates and number of guests. Discounts available. Visit the hotel online for more information.Reservations: beaches.com.Tyler Place Family ResortWhere: Highgate Springs, VermontSignature amenities: Award-winning programs for kids, teens, infants, toddlers and their parents; a variety of sports and activities; quaint cottage and suite accommodations in the great outdoors; a “Family Splash Pad,” cocktails and private dining for adults; heated indoor and outdoor pools; family reunions and adult nights out; onsite sitters; lakeshore bonfires; healthy food, casual entertainment, and a generally informal atmosphere.Spend: The all-inclusive family package includes all lodging, activities, entertainment and programs. Rates vary depending on dates and accommodations, but expect to spend $94-$333 per night for a seven-day week for adults, $75-$112 for children.Reservations: tylerplace.com.COUPLESGrand Velas All Suites & Spa ResortWhere: Nuevo Vallarta, MexicoSignature amenities: Lots of space (though usually fully booked, the resort seems remarkably empty); modern accommodations and attentive service; salsa lessons; recognized restaurants (Piaf is not to be missed) and an outdoor/indoor lobby bar; live entertainment, gorgeous open-air areas; spa concierge and top-of-the-line treatments that include a relaxing hydrotherapy circuit; beach recreation, tennis courts and infinity pools, and only 20 minutes from downtown Puerto Vallarta, among other attractive lures. Spend: The hotel’s “Romantic Vacation” package, which includes a private lobster dinner for two, an 80-minute couple’s massage, suite accommodations, airport transfers, taxes and gratuities, ranges from $596-$635 for a minimum four-night stay.Reservations: vallarta.grandvelas.com.Peter Island ResortWhere: British Virgin Islands Signature amenities: Located on a private island; an informal vibe; pristine white beaches and private access to them; an inviting day spa and a wide range of activities; personal but unobtrusive service; unrivaled peace, relaxation and romance; indigenous cuisine and a wine room; concierge service, ocean views from every room; access to an extensive and protected waterway system that includes islands, cays and reefs; hiking trails and a variety of aquatic recreation.Spend: Depends on packages and room rates. The “Romance and Honeymoon” package includes all of the aforementioned amenities; a seven night stay ranges from $3,025-$4,855 not including airfare.Reservations: peterisland.com. FRIENDS & SINGLESClub MedWhere: Turkoise, Turks & CaicosSignature amenities: Supreme networking opportunities and socializing; water sports galore including excellent scuba diving; diverse recreation opportunities such as horseback riding, Club Med’s trademark fitness programs, golf, tennis and hiking; an abundance of restaurants, bars and refreshing tropical concoctions; well-appointed rooms and suites; special packages and party adventures for pals, and a good-time-atmosphere like no other. Spend: Club Med offers great deals on “short stays” and holiday vacations. Pricing is extremely competitive. Reservations: clubmed.com. ADVENTURISTSOccidental Grand PapagayoWhere: Costa RicaSignature amenities: Boutique-style lodging (there are only 169 guestrooms, outfitted with contemporary conveniences); eco-adventures, water sports, scuba, deep-sea fishing, sea kayaking, snorkeling, freshwater pools and a fitness center; quick and easy access to the Pacific shores of Costa Rico; lush tropical surroundings with gorgeous flora and fauna; five different culinary options including Italian and Asian restaurants, and bars that serve creative refreshments all day and most of the night; views and access to a white-sand coastline; concierge service at the Royal Club level; a world-class spa (treatments at an additional cost), and a lively disco.Spend: Hotel and air packages are available but vary. Visit the hotel online for current rates, discounts and availability.Reservations:occidentalgrandpapagayo.com.Red Mountain SpaWhere: St. George, UtahSignature amenities: Location, location, location (the surroundings are unsurpassed, truly); contemporary accommodations designed to make you relax between “a rock and a soft place;” proximity to, and activities centered around, Utah’s Grand Circle of National Parks; Red Rock adventuring; gourmet healthy meals; award-winning workshops and classes; health education and specialized fitness programs, and unlimited creative outdoor recreation. Plus, you’re guaranteed to drop a few pounds.Spend: Depends on program and weekly schedule, but rates are unexpectedly reasonable for a destination spa of its caliber (which is sky-high, by the way).Reservations: redmountainspa.com.

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Bodega Bay

Jun 30, 2008 05:00PM ● By Super Admin

On the coast of California, approximately 60 miles north of San Francisco, lies Bodega Bay; a charming, windy inlet that hugs the Pacific Coast shoreline and marks the boundary between Marin and Sonoma counties. Most famous as the setting of Alfred Hitchcock’s classic thriller, The Birds, Bodega Bay offers far more than cinematic allure. Among the many reasons to visit the breezy, coastal enclave are quick daytrips to area hotspots, charter sportfishing and stunt kite-flys, but there are several more. Here’s a look at five Style faves.Comb the BeachesJust north of Bodega Bay on California’s Highway 1 are three pristine beaches – vantage points from which to watch local surfers and skim-boarders ride restless waves, stargaze after sunset, and walk hand-in-hand with your sweetie, kicking sand and pocketing seashells. Salmon Creek is great for families as it intersects with the ocean, making it a safe spot for little ones to play and explore; Goat Rock is a well-known landmark that yields exceptional views, and Portuguese Beach offers a lengthy stretch of sand, surf and cliffs. Visit bodegabaytravel.com.For more about Bodega Bay, be sure to pick up this month's copy of Style-Folsom El Dorado Hills edition. Click on the "Get Your Copy" link on the bottom of this page for some of our newsstand locations. Or, to order a copy of this issue, please email Gloria Schroeder at [email protected], or call her at 916-988-9888 x116.

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Staying Active

Jun 30, 2008 05:00PM ● By Super Admin

OK, I need to provide full disclosure here. Most, if not all of the "seniors" I know, in particular my parents and in-laws, have more energy and a more vibrant social life than those of us of a younger generation. They travel around the world, attend countless social events, and can traipse off to Hawaii at the drop of a hat. Let's face it, today's 70 is the new 40. Those "experienced in life" are taking better care of themselves and living longer, more fulfilling lives. I'd like to think it's partly because there are so many wonderful opportunities for involvement and enrichment in their lives.The El Dorado Hills Senior Center (916-358-3575) provides a wealth of phenomenal classes and activities, with something for everyone at every fitness level. Yoga, book clubs, dancing, movie nights and more, provide connections and entertainment for anyone seeking to stay active. However, for some seniors we talked to, they weren't simply looking to be entertained. Rather, they sought opportunities for community involvement and a chance to make a difference. And in the midst of their busy lives, they wanted what little "down time" they had to really count. As we explored the staggering need for volunteers and mentors right here in our community, we pulled out just some of the openings available to those with life experience, compassion and hopefully a little spare time.Become a Mentor to Small Businesses Seniors with a business background can serve as professional mentors for organizations like SCORE - Counselors to America's Small Business (sacscore.org, 916-635-9085), which utilizes retired executives to assist small businesses and start-ups. As Jeff Hendy, chapter president for Greater Sacramento, says, "We are always looking for new volunteer counselors – it is a good opportunity to give back to the existing and emerging businesses in our community."Support Our TroopsThere are amazing local support groups throughout our area that invite and coordinate an outpouring of support to our men and women in the armed services. Volunteers are continually needed to help stuff care packages, coordinate fundraisers and donations, and keep the effort strong. Toys for the Troops Kids is one such local organization (toysforthetroopskids.org).Make Blankets for ChildrenProject Linus (projectlinus.org, 916-965-8955) provides new, handmade blankets to seriously ill and traumatized children in our community. If you love to quilt, crochet or sew, they can use your talents.Help Care for AnimalsOur county-run and non-profit shelters are desperate for help caring for, and giving a voice to, animals. Local animal rescue operations would love to get your call offering administrative or in-field assistance. The Grace Foundation of El Dorado Hills (thegracefoundationofnorcal.org) and Folsom Feline Rescue (folsomfelines.org, 916-484-4099) are two organizations that could use your help.Become a Foster GrandparentThrough the vital Senior Corps Program, seniors can make a difference in the life of a child by mentoring troubled kids, caring for premature newborns and helping abused children. Visit seniorcorps.gov for more information. Participate in Focus Groups Get paid for your life-formed opinions and input. Focus group research is vital in today's market-based economy, and it pays an average of $75-$150 for an hour-long focus group. To find a focus group near you, visit Senior Corps online at seniorcorps.gov, or Opinions of Sacramento Focus Groups at opinionsofsac.comVolunteer on a Political CampaignA unique opportunity this summer is the chance to volunteer on a political campaign, or for a party-affiliated organization. There are several races at the local, state and federal levels, and the campaigns or parties themselves welcome volunteers in all capacities. Find out how you can get involved by calling your local party representatives: El Dorado County Republican Party, edcgop.com, 530-676-4757; El Dorado County Democratic Party, edcdemocrats.org, 530-626-8270.Serve as a Museum DocentPut your love and appreciation for history or art to good use by serving as a volunteer tour guide at any of our regional museums.The Folsom History Museum is always looking for volunteers. Visit folsomhistorymuseum.org, or call 916-985-2707 to find out how you can help.Volunteer at Thrift Stores These non-profits directly support causes like hospice and the cancer society, and are always in need of volunteers as well as donations. As Nancy Symons, of the new Partners in Care Thrift Store in Placerville, says, "We love volunteers and can always use more!" The Snowline Hospice Thrift Store (snowlinehospice.org, 916-984-5853) and the Mercy Hospital of Folsom Auxiliary (916-984-7371) are always in need of volunteers and donations.For the senior who can't stand to sit still, volunteering just might be the solution. And where better to volunteer than in your own community?

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