Considered as one of the most modern cities of California, San Diego has beaches and lots of parks to explore such as the SeaWorld theme park, the San Diego Zoo and Safari Park. San Diego is the nearest gateway to those who wish to stay away from the frantic frenzy of the city of Los Angeles. With plenty of cheap flights to San Diego, arriving here could be quite easy and hassle free.

Well, before arriving, do check out for the weather conditions in order to experience a pleasant stay in San Diego.  Since San Diego is a coastal city, the weather most of the times is quite cool but, in case you travel eastwards or towards the valley, the weather might get slightly cooler especially during the evening times.

The Kuumba Fest is a three day festival highlighting the African-American existence through workshops, African marketplace, health fair, community leadership awards, Hip Hop Showcase and much more.  This event is one of the longest running and premier celebration which has been taking place in San Diego for almost 2 decades and is usually held during the first quarter of each year.

Coinciding with the Christian season of Lent, Mardi Gras is held on Fat Tuesday in downtown San Diego at the Gaslamp Quarter.

The annual Lakeside Rodeo event is held every April which comprises of multiple events such as Miss Rodeo Lakeside Pageant, BMX bicycle races, Lakeside Chili Cook off, barrel racing exhibitions, weddings and many more events.

San Diego offers lots of things to do and enjoy especially if you are traveling along with your family.

Popular beaches include Central beach, Ocean Beach, La Jolla Shores, Moonlight Beach and many more, each of them are ideal to be visited by families. The Moonlight Beach is an extremely friendly beach for there are lifeguards, playgrounds, picnic tables, firepits and much more for families to enjoy.

The San Diego Zoo is a must visit for it is a well developed zoo with numerous animals, exhibit areas and animal themed events. The children can pet animals, feed them and lots more. With a couple of options of exploring the zoo, you could do it by foot or through a double-decker guided tour buses, or the Skyfari Aerial Tram, you could simply take choose your preferred way out.

If you wish to take your family out on an all entertaining and exciting trip, simply plan your trip to San Diego. With cheap tickets to San Diego available online, you can book them while you schedule your trip by referring to the travel portals online.

Plenty! And you’ll find it all right here,  plus new February events.   Welcome to Travelin’ Local’s round up of  Music, Arts, Sports, Children’s Programs, Community Events and more.

Lonesome Traveler at Laguna Playhouse   Playing now thru Feb. 5

The Rubicon Theatre  Premiere Concert  is sparked with  “Tom Dooley,” “Goodnight Irene,” “Puff, the Magic Dragon” “Blowin’ in the Wind” and “This Land is Your Land.” .Lonesome Traveler  traces our roots   from the backwoods of Appalachia to the nightclubs of New York and San Francisco; from the mid 1920s to the mid 1960s. Among forty classics you will find your favorites. From “Michael Row the Boat Ashore,” to “Mr. Tamborine Man” to “Barbara Allen,”  come to enjoy.  Laguna Playhouse, 606 Laguna Canyon Rd., Laguna Beach

Bill Maher, Irvine Improv, Sunday, January 22

Known for his political satire, Bill Maher is an American stand-up comedian, TV host, social critic an author. He targets religion, politics, bureaucracies, mass media, greed and people in positions of power.  Don’t miss  this evening with Maher.  Irvine Improv, 71 Fortune Drive, #841, Irvine.

LaLaLa Human Steps Irvine Barclay, Thursday Jan. 26

The U.S. premiere of a new work from Montreal, Canada. Edouard Lock’s latest major work, The New Work, is inspired by classic love stories, Dido and Agneas, and Orfeo and Eurydice, re-envisioned with lightning fast spins in hyper dynamic choreography. The Irvine Barclay Theater, 4242 Campus Drive, Irvine, CA

Bowers  Museum’s  Warriors, Tombs and Temples, China’s Enduring Legacy, runs now through March 4. 

Following the extraordinary 2008 Exhibition, Terra Cotta Warriors: Guardians of China’s First Emperor, the Bowers Museum in Santa Ana partners with Houston Museum of Natural Science to show 200 newly discovered treasures from ancient Chinese tombs.   Debuting now in the U.S.,  these  ancient works of art come from  three dynasties of Chinese civilization. A priceless collection from  tombs that were built like homes for the daily rituals of the royal family and secrets of the silk road.   Bowers Museum,   2002 North Main Street, Santa Ana, CA

Top Dog Underdog at the South Coast Repertory, runs through  Jan. 29.

This Pulitzer Prize drama  is an electrifying view of the gritty lives of two street savvy hustlers, Lincoln and Booth.  The New York Times calls it, “a thrilling comic drama….dazzlingly written!”  Bearing names of white men given to them by their father as a joke before he walked away,  the brothers never stop conning  suckers on the street and, ultimately, each other in this darkly funny drama of family grief and recovery.  South Coast Repertory, 655 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa,CA

Tokyo String Quartet at Sokia Performing Arts Center, Aliso Viejo,  Feb. 9.

Known as one of the supreme chamber ensembles of the world, the Tokyo Strong Quartet was founded 40 years ago and has an international following.  They perform over a 100 concerts per season and are known for their critically acclaimed recordings and teaching record. Sokia Performing Arts Theater, University Drive, Aliso Viejo.

Newport Beach Jazz Party at the Newport Mariott, Feb. 16-19

President’s Day Weekend  is a four-day festival of “Right Down the Middle and Straight Ahead” jazz  with  big bands and duos, playing everything from Ellington to Sinatra. Stars include John Pizzarelli (Thursday) and Frank Sinatra, Jr. (Sunday). The Newport Mariott Hotel and Spa, 900 Newport Center Drive, Newport, CA

Star Wars, Where Science Meets Imagination, Discovery Science Center, Santa Ana,  Runs through April 15

Imagine humanoid robots translating languages, land speeders zooming down highways, and X-wing Starfighters guarding  the skies. Could these  Star Wars™ technologies  become  reality?  Find out in Discovery Science Center’s out-of-this-world exhibit, by Bose Corporation.

Discovery Science Center, 2500 N. Main, Santa Ana, CA

Surfcity USA Marathon, Huntington Beach, Feb. 5

California’s Classic Oceanfront Marathon runs on Pacific Coast Highway past the Huntington Beach pier and through  legendary surfing beaches. The Surf City USA® Marathon includes the Free Wheelchair Mission 7th annual Run for Mobility as runners raise funds to send wheelchairs to people in need around the world.. Retro surf bands entertain with a Finish Line Festival  beach side beer garden.

Crystal Cove State Park’s January Tours.  Explore tide pools, learn about geology and gray whales and visit the 12 acre historic district of famed cottages.  The whole month is full of special guided tours. Crystal Cove State Park, 8471  N. Coast Highway, Laguna Beach.

Cinderella Les Ballets De  Monte Carlo at Segerstrom Hall, Feb. 9 – 12

Sophisticated interpretation of this classic  fairy tale romance , choreographed by Jean-Christopher Maillot.  Exclusive West Coast engagement and Center premiere.  Segerstrom Hall, 715 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa.

Laguna Art  Museum Annual  Auction 2012  – Feb. 4

From 6 to 9 p.m., a fast paced live auction will offer over 100 premier California artists’ works in an exciting silent auction. Sampling of cuisine from known local restaurants such as French 75 and Pelican Hill, select wines,  a live DJ with live art performances and an afterparty of desserts and cocktails will complete this major museum fundraiser.

That’s the way dinner serves the locals in Newport Beach. From the newest to the oldest, the most casual to very formal, Newport does it all for Suppertime and prepares it right every time.

So pick your menu to fit your mood, make reservations, and be ready to indulge here in Newport Beach–Your Table is Waiting!

Newport is just right for an early dinner before the theatre, a leisurely feast with a walk by the water, or a late night supper after the show.

One of the newest restaurants on the block, sets the bar high. When it’s not just pizza, but PIZZA at the graduate level, then let Pizzeria Mozza serve you the most savory choices imaginable. This is their third restaurant – the other two are in Los Angeles and Singapore.

Life is good at the hearthside bar near the wood burning ovens. And don’t miss the edible window facing the water as you enter the restaurant.

All of the freshest ingredients for the pizzas are growing right there as a window frame. (Be sure to make a reservation. It’s new, space is limited and the word is out on this one.)

When life needs to be celebrated, nothing will do but the Ritz. As one of my friends said, “It’s hard to say anything bad about the Ritz.”

For thirty two years, the Ritz has set the pace for fine dining in Orange County. Recently, the financial plaza where the Ritz has reigned, changed hands, and after much discussion over leases, the owner of the Ritz said they will be moving in a year and a half.

But don’t worry, their following is immense, and the word in the next chapter for the Ritz in Orange County, is that it will be located somewhere on the water in Newport Beach.

Villa Nova, is an excellent choice for a late night supper. Villa Nova first opened its doors in 1933 on Hollywood’s Sunset Strip. According to historians, Joe DiMaggio took Marilyn Monroe there on a blind date.

As the Hollywood strip changed, Villa Nova then moved to Newport Harbor and quickly became a treasured hangout for locals. Many a sailing party has finished the day with a rousing dinner here. Handmade pastas and fine wines abound.

The Bayside is a marvelous place for Bloody Mary’s or champagne and brunch on Sunday mornings. The Bluewater Grill has the freshest seafood and a wonderful version of my personal favorite, cioppino.

First Cabin in the Balboa Bay Club is another choice when the occasion is major, and downstairs is where Duke’s bar is ready to cap the evening with live music and always an interesting crowd.

Just down the road on Pacific Coast Highway, the award winning Five Crowns, continues to amaze and provide the best prime rib in Southern California. They have just remodeled, much to the delight of locals and visitors.

Roys, Flemings Steak House, and Pascals are also prime choices for fine dining here.

There’s also Harborside in the historic Balboa Pavilion, which puts you on the water and still leaves something in your wallet if you opt for the earlybird dinner menu.

Afterwards you’re able to stroll the streets along the water. And finally if you want to make food your first, and skip the formalities, the Crab Cooker is a legend that delivers a wonderful seafood picnic style, and some of the best clam chowder ever.

These are just a few of the many choices for Dinner in Newport, enjoy!

Many of Venice’s streets used to be canals, but are now home to murals, historic homes, and art galleries of all types.

The Venice (Canals included) Walking Tour – The Completed Edition–takes a distinctive look at both the Venice of today and of yesterdays.

Spanning just over 4 miles, this walking tour highlights Venice’ history, architecture, beach, shopping, and much, much more.

Each of the Venice (Canals included) Walking Tour – The Completed Edition’s 68 postcard size pages–tells many stories of a city on the precipice of both its revolution and evolution.

Complete with maps, a detailed history, and photos this walking tour starts and ends one block from the beach; but spans a city with a rich past and a energetic future.

Priced at only $4.99, the price of a couple of coups of coffee, you’ll bring a bit of paradise to you – for you to always enjoy.

Located on the border between Silver Lake and Los Feliz, Rowena Reservoir is a park right out of a fairy tale; palm tree lined pathways, freshly mulched shrubs, and posted signs warning to not feed the ducks.

Originally part of the extensive reservoir system in Silver Lake, which includes both Silver Lake and Ivanhoe Reservoirs, Rowena was a 31 million gallon reservoir, which at one time, supplied the city with water.

After months of negotiation, in December 1991, LADWP and local residents agreed on a plan to replace the reservoir with a camouflaged tank after it was initially drained, rather than to refill it.

10 years later, as of July 19, 2001, LADWP opened the new Rowena Reservoir pond for a brief tour of facilities which featured a new 10 million-gallon underground storage tank that cost $14 Million.

Thanks to Take Sunset, for this great aerial shot of how the Rowena Reservoir used to look like:

Today, unfortunately the Rowena Reservoir looks different:

In August 2011, LADWP drained the lake, much like they did at the Echo Park Lake.

And, according to the posted signs encircling the reservoir:

Rowena Reservoir Lake is undergoing maintenance to address algae growth and sediment buildup. The pond is a water feature and does not contain potable water. These repairs will not impact LADWP water service or water quality.

LADWP crews will drain the pond to remove the algae and sediment from the bottom of the pond. While the pond is drained, LADWP will also repair cracks in the concrete liner and make improvements to the pond’s filtration system. The pond will be refilled once repairs are completed in September 2011.

Well, they’ve missed deadline because it’s now October 20^th 2011, and the water is yet to be restored.

Another troublesome issue which remains is that even though the pathways are pristine and well kept up; LADWP in its wisdom finally finishes the refill the pond–to be restored to its original beauty.

But now there’s a large green fence that currently surrounds the entire pond, along with no public access.

To state the facts, the LADWP spent all of the original $14 million, plus up-keep, including its draining — and people still aren’t able to enjoy the Rowena Reservoir.

Why?

From my research, it appears that the problem is two-fold:

First, according to Curbed LA, said there is some high voltage electrical equipment around the site that will have to be removed, and second, there’s the legitimate worry–about keeping out bathers.

So until a solution is found, the public has no choice but to wait for the completion of the Rowena Reservoir restoration — until then, it doesn’t look to to be a pressing matter for the LADWP; but it’s one for the people who would like to frequent Rowena Reservoir pond.

Lastly it is indeed a tending matter and needs immediate attention — it’s a crying shame that the water around it is still missing.

However, from Santa Monica to the Hollywood Hills to Downtown LA–free and affordable–means that there remains ways and means for many people here to do thing they find appealing. Especially during these tough times.

As an ode to our City of the Angels and for both our residents, and visiting guests, let’s get started:

1. Hike to the Hollywood Sign

Since arriving here a few years ago, I have had an ongoing love affair with the Hollywood Sign and environs.

Indeed, on clear days, I look for it where ever I am in the city, and you’d be surprised how often I see it! You can’t touch the sign, but you sure can get pretty close. And if you traverse its hills on a clear day, your views of the city from the Hollywood Sign are gorgeous and amazing.

2. The Getty Center

If you love art, you can’t miss the opportunity to get to The Getty. World renowned in its collections, The Getty’s ever changing artist landscape keeps visitors coming back for more. Entrance to The Getty is free; but there is a parking fee of $15.00. However, if you park after 5:00pm, parking is free. Better yet, if you take public transit, you don’t have to worry about parking.

3. Santa Monica Pier/3^rd Street Promenade

If enjoying the sun, people watching, and shopping on your list of things to do in LA, then you’ve come to the right place. Between the Santa Monica Pier and the 3^rd Street Promenade, you’ll find all that and more. Paid public parking is available, and if you walk a bit, you can find free side street parking. Or better yet, bike there.

4. The Venice Boardwalk/Venice Canals

There is no place in the world like Venice. Its uniqueness stands out in so many one-of-a-kind and interesting ways. Between enjoying the sites, pursuing the public murals, watching the street performers, and listening to the surf, shopping and people watching--you’ll never be at a loss for things to do in Venice.

In all of LA, the Venice Canals are one of my favorite spots. With its Quiet walkways surrounded by beautiful architecture in an untraditional setting. (Keep an eye pealed for Travelin' Local's complete Walking Tour!

5. Griffith Park

For hikers, train enthusiasts, also children of all ages, combined with visiting the Griffith Observatory, at Griffith Park, you're bound to have tons of fun.

It's 1,134 feet above sea level, and provides the best views of Los Angeles bar none. So, pack a picnic and spend the day. And parking is free, too.

6. Olvera Street/ El Pueblo de Los Angeles

As one of the oldest parts of Downtown Los Angeles and part of the El Pueblo de Los Angeles Historic Monument, history is alive and vibrant here.

Directly across the street from Union Station, you can walk its cobble and brick streets and absorb our city's history, how the city was first settled, and see the oldest residence in town.

7. Downtown LA Walking Tour

To be sure, we still have a walking tour of Downtown LA for free, and it’s Travelin’ Local's. One of the first tours we did was walk the streets of downtown discover many of her treasures. Just follow along and you’ll discover a side to Los Angeles you probably were not aware of or ever knew existed.

View Walking in LA in a larger map

8. Hollywood Walk of Fame

You won’t find it anywhere else but here! We have sidewalks lined with movie and television stars to current motion picture heroes, pioneers of film technology and lore--to yesterday’s radio actors. Plus, with other attractions including the Capital Record's building, Grauman's Chinese Theater, and the Hollywood/Highland Center, there's plenty to do and find here.

9. Miracle Mile/La Brea Tar Pits/The Grove Shopping Center

Within this 3 mile radius, we provide Walking Tour, of the area where you get to experience history, shopping, architecture. It's even fun for the whole family.

View Mid-Wilshire Walk in a larger map

The La Brea Tar Pits are part of LA’s unique history, and LACMA is right next door. Although they do charge admission, you can still find free days every month, and of course, shopping at The Grove, remains one of LA premiere shopping destination.

10. Universal City Walk

With their many concerts and DJ events (a few free), dining or watching the latest movie, Universal City Walk has to be on your must-go list. And, quite frankly the place is a blast!

Including more than 30 great restaurants and places to eat; a 19-screen movie theatre featuring an eight-story-high IMAX®, seven hot night spots including the new Jon Lovitz Comedy Club and the new Samba Brazilian Steakhouse & there's a lounge and believe it or not an indoor sky-diving and more than 30 stores to peruse. And general parking rates start at $10.

What do you think? Did we miss anything?

Frankly, walking is really the best option to enjoy downtown Carlsbad and its sundry shops, restaurants, and architecture, and historic buildings and other points of interest.

When I stopped by the Shipley-Magee House, my tour guide handed me a brochure of the many historic sites in Carlsbad.

Therefore, based on this, I took the tour and then created a self-guided walking tour, using the brochure as a reference guide.

Keep in mind that most of these houses are now private residences, so please respect the owner’s property.

View Downtown Carlsbad Historic Walking Tour in a larger map

I’m also featuring a few of my own original photographs of Downtown Carlsbad during the tour; and if you click the map’s icons, you’ll be able to see more photos and historic information:

St. Michael’s Episcopal Church

Frazier’s Well/Alt Karlsbad

Twin Inns/Ocean House

Cohn House/Norte

Gage House/Monterey Condominiums

I hope you enjoy walking the Downtown Carlsbad Historic Walking Tour, as much as I did, and for more on Carlsbad’s rich history, here’s a great video:

And, during my stay at the Hilton Garden Inn Carlsbad Beach, my room faced the aquatint of this magnificent stretch of beach; so I was blessed with both the Pacific’s view; as well as its breeze and crashing of waves which lulled me to sleep.

Here, being near the ocean surfing, is but one option one may have here at Carlsbad State beach–which is literally across the street from the Hilton Garden Inn.

With its nearly seven miles of unspoiled, uncrowded, and sun-drenched beaches, including Carlsbad State Beach aka Tamarack Beach and South Carlsbad State Beach, visitors can swim, fish, surf, or just soak in the sun as you walk along the water’s edge.

Carlsbad has an extensive 30 mile trail system of both paved and unpaved trails, one of which follows the coast highway.

Most of Carlsbad trails are dog-friendly–with leash restrictions–and many of the trails are open to bikes.

Speaking of bikes, many of the roads here, including Carlsbad Boulevard, have a bike lane. So when you plan your visit definitely pack your bike, if you have one. Of course, there are places to rent a bike here as well. One of my favorite sights during my pampered stay here, was being able to watch a family of 6, all riding bikes, including a preschooler who rode a bike extension with her father.

In addition to the beach, Carlsbad has over 1,000 acres of protected lagoons and nature preserves. Obviously, popular spots for fishing and hiking–this open space provides everyone a chance to enjoy nature, exercise, relax and take in its fantastic views.

And of course, Tamarack, has some of the best surfing in all of Southern California.

It appears to me as one of those win-win-win-win-win-win situations.

And you know what? I ain’t gonna complain cause I know that every time I make my sojourn to the the Hilton Garden Inn, I get to enjoy both the gorgeous hotel and all of its amenities and all else that wonderful Carlsbad has to offer. I’m just not one to turn down a great thing.
]]> http://www.travelinlocal.com/surfing-swimming-and-hiking-at-carlsbad-state-beach/feed/ 0 http://www.travelinlocal.com/a-weekend-getaway-to-the-gorgeous-and-tres-chic-carlsbads-hilton-garden-inn/ http://www.travelinlocal.com/a-weekend-getaway-to-the-gorgeous-and-tres-chic-carlsbads-hilton-garden-inn/#comments Wed, 21 Sep 2011 14:18:25 +0000 D. J. Schwartz http://www.travelinlocal.com/?p=30428 Living in LA is work, more work, and more work; which of course induces major stress. To be sure, on the weekends here, often enough, a new event, adventure, or just the choice to stay at home become our options.

But, often times along with those options comes traffic, crowds, and if one decides to spend time around the house–again more stress–work, cleaning, et. al.

But all we really want is to get the heck out of dodge for some real down time.

Not too far from Los Angeles, a relaxing and perfectly relaxing getaway weekend awaits you at the beautiful and stunning Carlsbad, California.

Just 90 minutes south of Los Angeles, Carlsbad is a small beach town that’s home to a little over 100,000 people. A tony beach enclave, it’s also one of the wealthiest communities in both CA and the USA.

Carlsbad welcomes tourists, shoppers, and beach lovers alike.

Located right across the street from world the famous Carlsbad State beach, the Hilton Garden Inn Carlsbad Beach, just happens to be but a stone’s throw from the Carlsbad Premium Outlets, and only three miles from the very popular Legoland®.

From the welcoming smiles that greet you as you enter, to the plush pillows on the bed, to the professional Herman Miller chair that adorns your private office space, the Hilton Garden Inn can is the perfect location for your next business meeting, or family vacation, or perhaps a lovers retreat.

Its features include:

Hilton Garden Inn Carlsbad Beach also includes:

• Carlsbad Beach Bistro open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner
• Evening room service
• On-site catering with over 5,000 square feet of meeting space
• 24-Hour Pavilion Pantry® convenience mart
• Pavilion Lounge
• Complimentary shuttle service within five miles
• Complimentary self parking
• Complimentary 24-Hour Business Center
• Complimentary wireless Internet access in the lobby, pool, and restaurant

And a

• Wonderful outdoor heated pool and whirlpool

, and a

• Complimentary workout facility

Sounds like a place you never want to leave and that’s exactly how I felt.

Upon your arrival what’s in store for you?

From the indoors:

And outdoors:

No want or need becomes necessary after you enter the Carlsbad Hilton Garden Inn, plus some.

There’s much more to do, see and experience here, so this is just a brief introduction to paradise. More stories are on their way!

Or how about doing some window shopping?

Or maybe you need to find a cool gift?

Have you walked along Abbott Kinney Boulevard yet?

Home to both home-grown artists and nationally recognized designs, Abbott Kinney is a mix of modern style and old world charm. Stretching one mile between Main Street and Venice Boulevard, Abbott Kinney Boulevard, as KCET puts it, is “a new Rodeo Drive with attitude.”

And that attitude is going to get much bigger this weekend.

On Sunday, September 25^th, from 10:00am until 6:00pm, the 27th Annual Abbott Kinney Festival is taking place.

With music, food, and over 100 participating shops, this year’s Abbott Kinney Festival purpose is “promote the vibrant creativity that makes the beachside community of Venice, California so unique.”

And this year’s Festival may be its biggest and best yet.

In addition, the Abbot Kinney Festival seeks to be an environmentally and socially responsible event. Following are just a few examples of what they are currently doing to reduce their ecological footprint:

1. We encourage food vendors to provide biodegradable utensils and attendees to bring reusable utensils, shopping bags, and beverage containers to avoid excessive waste.

2. We strive to be paperless as much as possible. Our registration is online and publicity materials are distributed electronically. Other items are designed with reuse in mind such as our festival program guides, which are printed using recycled newsprint and soy-based ink.

3. Everything that can be recycled is done so to the best of our ability. Bins are placed throughout the festival for use by attendees and vendors. Banners are either constructed using recycled materials or designated for recycling or repurposing.

4. We urge attendees to use greener modes of transportation. Use our bike valet stations, carpool with friends, walk from nearby parking lots, or take the bus.

5. Our music stages are powered with biodiesel generators.

The Festival sounds great, but don’t just visit Abbott Kinney one day a year. It’s meant to be savored on a regular basis.

Here are a few things you might see on any given morning:

However, if you don’t, you’ll definitely want to view Linnie Canal Park.

Here, you’ll find a small area that has been set aside as a resting and gathering place for the flying fowl.

The park, which is very small—when compared to others here— it has a fantastic gym set, a small walking bridge, and a few places to sit.

For toddlers–and others, it’s a perfect corner.

And after a day of touring the Canals, it remains a welcome spot to let loose a wee bit or energy.

Ergo, Santa Monica isn’t cheap.

But, who can resist the beaches, walking on the Pier, or strolling in Palisades Park.

Averaging over 310 days of sunshine, it’s easy to see why people flock here.

However, because living on a budget, eating out can be tough stuff in this part of Los Angeles, in order to eat at a reasonable cost.

Well, no look farther than Travelin’ Local’s list of the top 12 cheap eats in Santa Monica.

It varies from vegetarian to burgers to breakfast; to be su, this list has a wide variety to choose from. So, without further ado, here is the list:

1. Bagel Nosh Deli
1629 Wilshire Boulevard
(310) 451-8771

2. Bay Cities Italian Deli & Bakery
1517 Lincoln Boulevard
(310) 395-8279

3. Big Jo’s
1955 Broadway Street
(310) 828-3191

4. California Chicken Cafe
2401 Wilshire Boulevard
(310) 453-0477

5. Flying Saucers Caffeine and Art
306 Pico Boulevard
(415) 533-5185

6. Greens Up! Salads
703 Montana Avenue
(310) 394-1111

7. Hungry Pocket
1715 Pico Boulevard
(310) 450-5335

8. La Playita
3306 Lincoln Boulevard
(310) 452-0090

9. Tacos Por Favor
1406 Olympic Boulevard
(310) 392-5768

10. Tada
1814 Berkeley Street
(310) 586-7419

11. Thai Vegan
2400 Main Street
(310) 581-4255

12. The Cutting Board
3330 Ocean Park Boulevard
(310) 450-9595

What other restaurants would you add to the list?

Iif you need a map to find all of these eating venues–here ya go:

View Top 12 Cheap Eats in Santa Monica in a larger map

If you’ve ever felt like Los Angeles was just too big and long for that small town feel, well, Culver City is the place to be.

Fiesta La Ballona, which started Friday night, will still be in full swing today, Sunday, August 28^th from 11:00am-5:00pm for the booths, but the rides and food will still be open until 8:00pm.

There are also two music/entertainment stages featuring a wide variety of local talent.

Originally started as a week-long celebration back in 1951 as "Fiesta La Ballona Days," people went to events – and even to work! – dressed up as Native American Indians, rancheros, señoritas, cowboys and cowgirls. It was a great way for people to learn their history, plus show pride in where they came from.

Then In 1985, the fiesta was reinvented as a "Festival of the People" and the one-day event took on an international flavor. Five or six years later it became a weekend fair in May.

In 2003, the Fiesta was once again revived by offering events during the entire week with a culminating festival in Veteran’s Park. In 2004 amusement rides were added to attract families to the event. In 2005 the Culver City Lion’s Club opened the first Beer and Wine Garden. The Fiesta La Ballona continues to be a celebration of the past, present and future of Culver City showcasing both its warmth and its sophistication. It continues to offer people a place for food and fun and sharing. Source: Fiesta La Ballona

All I know is that it was fun and here are a few photos showing I’m not the only one who had a wonderful time:

It doesn’t get any better!!

The idea is two-fold:

First, teams of prominent Los Angeles architects, engineers, and designers create exciting structures made entirely of cans of food to be put on public display and awarded prizes by a panel of judges.

Second, after the event, cans are donated to the Los Angeles Regional Foodbank.

What’s not to love!

This year’s Canstuction LA is taking place on October 7^th -18^th at the Westfield Culver City Shopping Mall located at 6000 Sepulveda Boulevard.

Canstruction — produced under the auspices of the Society for Design Administration — has been held in over 100 cities across the United States and Canada. Over the last five years Canstruction LA has raised over 197,525 cans of food for the Los Angeles Regional Foodbank.

Wow, that’s a lot of food.

So, why not enjoy some art while you shop.

What can you expect?

Here are a few photos from last year’s Canstruction:

Although chocolate chips can be used for a variety of recipes and foods, (Chocolate Chip Ice Cream, for example); my favorite–as most other people would concur-is the chocolate chip cookie.

So, to properly honor National Chocolate Chip Day, let’s celebrate it as it should be–by eating a chocolate chip cookie or cookies.

I’ll bet that most of you are not aware of the fact the first chocolate chip cookie was made by accident.

The story is as follows:

It all started in the 1930s, at the Toll House Inn, which was owned by Ruth and Kenneth Wakefield.

Here, Ruth would prepare delicious, home-cooked meals that would be served for her guests.

One day, while preparing a batch of Butter Drop Do cookies, a favorite recipe dating back to Colonial days, Ruth cut a bar of our NESTLÉ® Semi-Sweet Chocolate into tiny bits and added them to her dough, expecting them to melt.

Instead, the chocolate held its shape and softened to a delicately creamy texture. Source: Very Best Baking

Of course, as they say, the rest is history. Soon, the chocolate chip cookie garnered vast popularity; and now the name Toll House is synonymous with chocolate chip cookies.

But, where can you find the best chocolate chip cookies in Los Angeles?

Here’s our Top 10 list for the best Los Angeles Eateries for Chocolote Chip Cookies :

1. Cafe Dulce – 134 Japanese Village Plaza, Building E, Los Angeles, CA 90012, (213) 346-9910
2. DeLuscious Cookies & Milk – 829 North Highland Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90038, (323) 460-2370
3. Diddy Riese Cookies – 926 Broxton Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90024, (310) 208-0448
4. Dutch Oven Bakery – 2281 Lake Avenue, Altadena, CA 91001, (626) 794-3555
5. Froma – 7960 Melrose Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90046, (323) 653-3700
6. Ice Cream Plus – 8158 West Sunset Boulevard, West Hollywood, CA 90046, (323) 656-8332
7. Lido Bakery – 3001 North Sepulveda Boulevard, Manhattan Beach, CA 90266, (310) 545-8955
8. Porto’s Bakery – 3614 West Magnolia Boulevard, Burbank, CA 91504, (818) 846-9100
9. Proof Bakery – 3156 Glendale Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA 90039, (323) 664-8633
10. Snookies Cookies & More – 1609 Victory Boulevard, Glendale, CA 91201, (818) 502-2013

All of the establishments listed also serve a variety of other food besides chocolate chip cookies–so be sure to take your time and peruse their menus.

If you want to take matters into your own hands and want to make your own chocolate chip cookies, here’s an excellent recipe:

Toll House Cookie

• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup (2 sticks) butter, softened
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 3/4 cup packed brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 large eggs
• 2 cups (12-oz. pkg.) Semi-Sweet Chocolate Morsels
• 1 cup chopped nuts

PREHEAT oven to 375° F.
COMBINE flour, baking soda and salt in small bowl. Beat butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar and vanilla extract in large mixer bowl until creamy. Add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Gradually beat in flour mixture. Stir in morsels and nuts. Drop by rounded tablespoon onto ungreased baking sheets.
BAKE for 9 to 11 minutes or until golden brown. Cool on baking sheets for 2 minutes; remove to wire racks to cool completely.

Sweet Eats for a Sweet Holiday – And who doesn’t like Chocolate?

Photo courtesy of College Lifestyles

But, if you didn’t know there is a series of local interconnected mass transit trains that service much of Southern California.

It’s called Metrolink, and it serves 6 SoCal counties:

Los Angeles County
Orange County
Riverside County
San Bernardino County
San Diego County
Ventura County

Here’s a map to give you a better picture of all its various stops:

If you haven’t tried Metrolink yet, now’s a great time. As of July 1^st, you can now purchase a Metrolink Weekend Pass for a $10 bargain price–which in these tough times is a pretty good deal.

So, now for a sawbuck, from Friday night at 7:00pm until midnight Sunday, you can ride as many Metrolink trains as you wish. Plus, the $10 Weekend Pass includes free transfers to connect to rail or bus.

And what better weekend to try Metrolink than during this weekend’s upcoming ‘Carmaggedon“

Metrolink is adding service to its regularly-scheduled weekend service on its Antelope Valley Line, plus 9 additional trains will be added to serve those traveling from the San Fernando and Antelope Valleys.

In addition, Metrolink’s website, with interactive mapping and schedule times, is a great resource to plan your trip.

What a great and affordable way to discover all of the different sides of SoCal!!

Well, one of my reasons for going yesterday was because it was the 4^th of July, I assumed that the drive would not be bumper-to-bumper.

And my unscientific hunch was correct!

Via Google Maps, I discovered

0

traffic.

That’s right, zip, zero, nada.

A totally unique and unusual phenomenon here in Los Angeles

So, to take full advantage of the lack of traffic, and to drive the dreaded route of the upcoming Carmageddon, I drove to the oft scorned route to the Valley.

My goal?

To get my favorite pizza sauce; Don Pepino!.

I’ve looked for this sauce all over my neighborhood supermarkets, but it was nowhere to be found; but a quick search on Google brought up the name of Cambridge Farms in Valley Village.

Billed as the “Largest Kosher Supermarket in California,” this grocery store has so many, products packed neatly on each shelf.

From olives to beans to spices, plus a full deli and wine section, you can find everything you need for your breakfast, lunch, or dinner.

Now, I’m not one to talk too much about grocery stores, but if you’re in the area of North Hollywood and haven’t tried this market, you should.

I bought 6 cans of my FAV pizza sauce, plus several other items, but when the sauce runs out; I’ll be back for more, even though I don’t get to the Valley very often.

But, Cabrillo Beach isn’t just about relaxing on the sand or swimming in the Pacific. It’s also about:

A leisurely stroll along the pier

“Going, Going Gone Fishing”

Windsurfing at Warp Speed

Bird Watching or Bird Watching you

With all the fun and relaxing activities to do at Cabrillo Beach, it’s hard to leave.

Although I had to leave and get back home, I’m going back. If you’d like to “Meet the Grunion,” come to Cabrillo Beach this upcoming Thursday evening. It’s sponsored by the Cabrillo Marine Aquarium and will make for both a fun and educational evening.

By Travelin’ Local, Life’s a Beach!

Although some venues haven’t announced their complete schedule and line-up yet, many have so Travelin’ Local is pleased to announce the Free Los Angeles 2011 movies that are available now, and as the itinerary changes, we will include each and every one a time they become available.

So let’s break a leg and get right to it:

For starters, the W Hotel in Westwood is hosting the following Free 2011 Summertime Movies.

On Fridays at sunset, from today through September 3^rd, you can experience movie magic under the stars at the W Los Angeles WET pool, where they’re hosting several films on multiple 50" plasmas, along with a totally cool 8′ x 8′ projection screen, providing everybody with an excellent viewing experience from any location by the pool. (In case you’ve never been to the W, it’s a cool, chic and laid-back hotel that you just might want to stay and and enjoy this great venue).

Here’s this year’s line-up:

June 10 – Twilight Saga: Eclipse
June 17 – Despicable Me
June 24 – Life as We Know It
July 1 – The Kids are All Right
July 8 – Shrek Forever After
July 15 – Going the Distance
July 22 – Eat Pray Love
July 29 – Due Date
August 5 – Charlie St. Cloud
August 12 – Little Fockers
August 19 – The King’s Speech
August 26 – No Strings Attached
September 2 – The Social Network

If you live in Long Beach, at the Moonlight Movies on the Beach, you have choose three free films at three different venues:

On Tuesday nights, it’s Granada Beach, located at 5101 E Ocean Blvd Long Beach, CA 90803; Wednesday nights means it’s Cherry Beach at Junipero Ave at E Ocean Blvd.; and Thursday nights brings the free summertime movies continue at the Marina Green Park, located at 500 E Shoreline Dr at Linden Ave:

Tuesday, July 5 – Despicable Me
Wednesday, July 6 – Incredible Hulk
Thursday, July 7 – Iron Man 2
Tuesday, July 12 – Rango
Wednesday, July 13 – ET
Thursday, July 14 – Close Encounters
Tuesday, July 19 – Megamind
Wednesday, July 20 – Yogi Bear
Thursday, July 21 – Tale of Desperaux
Tuesday, July 26 – Footloose
Wednesday, July 27 – Alice in Wonderland
Thursday, July 28 – Indiana Jones
Tuesday, August 2 – How to Train Your Dragon
Wednesday, August 3 – Legends of the Guardian
Thursday, August 4 – Back to the Future
Tuesday, August 9 – Toy Story
Wednesday, August 10 – Toy Story 2
Thursday, August 11 – Toy Story 3
Tuesday, August 16 – Little Fockers
Wednesday, August 17 – Tremors
Thursday, August 18 – Grease
Tuesday, August 23 – Jaws
Wednesday, August 24 – Jaws

Wait, there’s more:

The Westwood Shopping Center is hosting Movies on the Terrace every Wednesday at sunset:

June 15 – TBD Sing-Along
June 22 – How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days
June 29 – Big Daddy
July 6 – Star Trek
July 13 – Zoolander
July 20 – Happy Gilmore
July 27 – Ferris Beuller’s Day Off
August 3 – TBD
August 10 – TBD
August 17 – Footloose

Remember this free movie schedule doesn’t include the entire series which have yet to be announced, but as soon as they are, we’’ll add them to the calendar.

So do you know which places and what movies you’ll want to see for this year’s Free LA 2011 Summertime movies?

So get ready as pretty soon it will be time to have fun under the stars in LA!

If you’ve even driven on the close to LAX, you’ve probably passed by the Centinela Adobe and not even known it. It’s located on a sleepy street within a few blocks of La Cienega. This 177 year old adobe was the headquarters for the Rancho Aguaje de la Centinela, a spread of over 25,000 acres of ranch land.

After a succession of owners, which included a man shot by his father-in-law, another man who herded 24,000 head of sheep, another who was a Brigadier General in the Confederate Army, and still one more that was a Scottish Baron, in 1873, the immense acreage was purchased by David Freeman, a Canadian born lawyer.

First leasing the land for $7,500 per year with an option to buy, Freeman, initially tried sheep ranching, which was profitable only for a few years, until the drought arrived. Afterward, he then tried to grow wheat and barley. At one time, Freeman had over 22,000 acres of land under cultivation.

By 1885, Freeman amassed enough wealth to purchase the entire 25,000 acres of Rancho La Cienega, and it was just in time to capitalize on the Los Angeles land boom of the 1880s–which is how a property located in present day Westchester became the “Birthplace of Inglewood.”

Soon, Freeman started selling some of his land.

In 1887, the Centinela-Inglewood Land Company was formed and began surveying the two ranches belonging to Daniel Freeman in August of that year. Freeman, interested in the long-term plans of the organization, sold 11,000 acres of his prime orchard land to the company at $1.25 an acre. This tract was to become the city of Inglewood. Source: Historic Adobes of Los Angeles County

By 1888, the Inglewood would be able to boast a population of 300, and even though the real estate boom soon crashed, the City of Inglewood survived, and by 1908 it incorporated as a city with a population of 1,200. Surprisingly, from 1920 to 1925, Inglewood was the fastest growing city in the United States.

Also in 1888, Freeman moved out of the Centinela Adobe and into a three story mansion he had built. However, the Adobe was still being used as a residence for Freeman’s ranch manager until 1912, when it was converted into a riding academy.

Eventually, all the land adjacent to the Adobe was subdivided and sold, except for the one acre surrounding it.

By the 1940s, the Adobe was being threatened with demolition. But, a group of concerned preservationists and raised enough money to purchase the property, and then deeded it to the City of Inglewood.

In 1988, the LATimes wrote:

The long, low, white stucco adobe with its porch and shingle roof looks as if it is sitting right in the middle of the 19th Century.

But it’s not, as the nearby San Diego Freeway visibly demonstrates.

It’s really a kind of time warp: the telltale sign of a modern metropolis on one side and the oldest home in the Centinela Valley on the other–still serene, still peaceful amid lawns, shrubs and shade trees.

To see a part of our wonderful historical and cultural iconic structures, the Centinela Adobe, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1974, is open from 2:00-4:00pm every Sunday, and it’s located at 7634 Midfield Avenue, in Westchester. The tours are free, but donations are always welcome.