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.

View from Torrey Pines Cliff

The coastal strip of San Diego is more than a hundred miles long, and with its Mediterranean climate of mild wet winters, and warm dry summers, results in a long growing season, and probably the best weather anywhere in the world.

San Diego’s average temperatures, range from a January minimum of 45F, to an August maximum of 80F, with a yearly average of 62F!

Hey, Life’s a Beach.

The majority of rainfall comes during the winter and early spring, with a seasonal average of less than 10 inches.

Located to the south are Blacks beach and the Scripps Institution of Oceanography pier.

San Diego Skyline

As we celebrate the start of 2012,here is the top ten reasons  you should visit San Diego in 2012.

1. The Best: In Travel + Leisure’s recent America’s Favorite Cities Reader Poll, San Diego was voted the #1 Destination for Best Weather and Best Spring Break. We also scored #2 for Best Summer Vacation, Family Vacation, 4th of July Destination and Most Attractive People.

2. Fabulous Food: A slew of restaurants are slated to open or have recently opened to offer visitors amazing culinary choices. Hot on the radar is UnderBelly which recently opened in Little Italy, Saltbox inside thePalomar San Diego hotel, and Brian Malarkey’s latest venture, Gingham.

3. A Whale of a Time: Majestic California gray whales make their annual migration from the Arctic waters to the warm lagoons in the Gulf of California for breeding. These “peaceful giants of the sea” come within miles of San Diego’s coastline.

4. Worth the Money: Budget Travel Magazine came out with it’s Top 10 Budget Travel Destinations for 2012, and named San Diego among them. Be sure to check out our 25 free things to do in San Diego. One of my favorites…Mission Bay Park.

5. The Great Outdoors: San Diego’s temperate weather allows for outdoor activities all year round. Go hiking along the water in Torrey Pines State Reserve or mountain biking through the natural landscapes of Mission Trails Regional Park. Here are a few more ideas to get outdoors. There is no reason you should stay inside while in San Diego!

6. Craft Brew: San Diego is home to the nation’s best brew pubs including Pizza Port which just recently won Small Brewpub of the Year at the 2011 Great American Beer Festival.

7. The Beach…enough said: With over 100 miles of beaches, it’s no wonder that in June 2011, The Travel Channel’s famed “Dr. Beach” announced his annual picks for the Best Beaches in America and Coronado Beach was named No. 2.

8. San Diego Nightlife: San Diego’s nightlife scene has never been hotter. San Diego was among the top 10 hottest New Year’s Eve destinations according to a hotwire.com survey. Visitors can celebrate all year long in the Gaslamp Quarter with over 100 restaurants and clubs, it is the place to be any time of year.

9. Get Your Culture On: Be sure to visit Balboa Park and its 85 cultural and recreational organizations. My favorites are the San Diego Model Railroad Museum and The San Diego Museum of Art. Not to be missed this year is the new exhibit at the Reuben H. Fleet Science Center, Black Holes: Space Warps & Time Twists.

10. Surf Culture: San Diego is widely known for its laid back vibe with some of the best surfing spots in Southern California. To top it off, we are also home to the world’s first Center for Surf Research at San Diego State University (not a bad way to spend your college years!)

As they say, in San Diego, “Life’s a Beach”.

Explore the Globe’s most Iconic Recipes from Around the World in 80 Dishes

Now, I know your mouth will water, and you’ll be salivating as you savor these mouth watering pictorial delights of meals and all you have to do is pick your favorite meal/s and perhaps book a trip-or find a restaurant close to you, or not, and find one that makes one just like you see below.

 

1. A full English Breakfast – it must have beans, sausages, bacon, eggs, mushrooms, hash browns and toast. Needless to say, it should all be finished off with a cup of tea.

2. Breakfast in Iran – usually features  naan bread with butter and jam. When a light breakfast isn’t desired, then Iranians eat halim. Halim is a mixture of wheat, cinnamon, butter and sugar cooked with shredded meat in huge pots. You can eat it hot or cold. Below Halim is in an omelet.

3. A Cuban wake up meal – is comprised of sweetened coffee with milk along with a pinch of salt thrown in. Cuban bread is toasted and buttered and cut into lengths to dunk in the coffee.

4. Polish Breakfast – known as Jajecznica, is a traditional Polish breakfast. It’s scrambled eggs covered with custom-made kielbasa along with potato pancakes.

5. Quick Spanish breakfast – Pan a la Catalana, or Pan con Tomate, in Spain is plain but really delicious. Just mix your bread with fresh garlic and plenty of ripe tomato, then soak it with olive oil and salt. Then put cheese, ham or sausage on top.

6. A yummy Moroccan breakfast - typically consists of different breads with some chutney, jam, cheese or butter. They have a really delicious crumpet-style bread which is made in large portions to tear a bit off. Also, be sure to enjoy their semolina pancake bread called Baghir – both are delicious.

7. A healthy Hawaiian breakfast – In Hawaii they’re fruit is long known for its tastiness. Indeed, eating fruit and then having a large meal later in the day is typical for the natives. Then there’s always plenty of bagels to enjoy but by then when most are in the water surfing, they’ll be hungry after their sessions.

8. Swedish breakfast – often includes a Swedish pancake, referred to  as a Pannkakor. It’s a thin flat cake that consists of batter and fried on both sides – much like a crepe. It’s usually served with a sweet, fruity filling. Oh, yummy!

9. Icelandic breakfast cuisine – is a hearty and hot breakfast to fight off the dark, icy mornings here. Hafragrautur, or oatmeal, is served with a sprinkle of brown sugar with some raisins or nuts on top,

10. Breakfast in Portugal –  is croissants served with lots of coffee served outdoors.

11. Breakfast in Australia – remember–Vegemite. When abroad, Aussies are often found with a stash for when they want some food from back home. It’s sticky and salty brown.  Be sure not to argue about the Vegemite vs Marmite war – everybody knows Marmite is better, but let those from Down Under have their say.

12. A Brazilian breakfast - consists of a selection of meats, cheeses and bread. It’s typically the regular breakfast fare here.

13. An Italian breakfast – Think Italy and immediately you think of heavy meals. But for breakfast they tend to go light probably to save their appetites for pasta, noche, seafood and a pesto pasta dinner? For breakfast though, the locals tend to have both a cappuccino e cornetto’ aka a cappuccino and a croissant.

14. A Welsh breakfast – Welsh Rarebit aka cheese on toast is a scrumptious breakfast.

15. Breakfast in Denmark - In Denmark, typically, you’ll often find rye bread, cheeses, salami, ham, pâté, honey, jam and sometimes even thin ‘plates’ of chocolate for their early morning meal.

16. A Philippines breakfast – Like Hawaii, in the Phillippines the local fruits are always enjoyed by its countrymen, especially for breakfast. Mangoes are popular and to keep up your energy  rice is the top choice, as are little sausages, known as longganisa. Fry it with  salt and garlic cloves it’s known as sinangag–it’s then combined with eggs, meats and beans and you’ve got a breakfast for a king (or a queen).

17. An Alaskan breakfast –  contains reindeer meat and an egg nestled on a pancake.

18. A traditional German breakfast –  has wursts, local cheeses and freshly baked bread. It’s typical fare for breakfast here and it’s topped off with their wonderful coffee.

19. The famous American breakfast - home made thick pancakes with syrup and blueberries, topped off with a few rashers of bacon.

20. The French breakfast – of course is the croissant, Combine them with just about anything.

21. Breakfast in India – above are rosemary roasted potatoes, Indian tofu scramble, lentils, veggie sausage and banana pepper toast.

22. A hearty Scottish breakfast - consists of  the delicious chunk of haggis served alongside every fat-fried egg. Haggis is sheep’s heart, liver and lungs minced with onion, oatmeal, suet, spices, salt and stock.

23. Thailand’s breakfast  – you’ll find this dish at shops all throughout Thailand. It’s a minty spicy fish with a sweet & spicy pork, served with rice.

24. An Argentinian breakfast -consists of “mate” (an infusion drink made with leaves of “yerba”) or dulce de leche with “facturas,” a croissant type pastry.

25. An Irish breakfast - is typically white pudding and soda bread.

26. A Canadian breakfast – those are not eggs but are known as perogies. Perogies are boiled, baked or fried dumplings made from unleavened dough and traditionally stuffed with potato filling, sauerkraut, ground meat, cheese, or fruit. To go with that, then sausages and toast top it off.

27. Breakfast in Mexico – has beef tips, chilequiles and other assorted foods consumed in Manzanillo. Nachos, cheese and beans for breakfast, also, are the norm.

28. A Russian breakfast - oladi is the breakfast of  most in Russia. They’re kind of like like pancakes and Yorkshire puddings–hot, just fried and with a soft inside and served with soured cream, honey, jam or fresh berries. 

29. Breakfast in Vietnam – resembles a bit like Pho but consists of  meat along with a semolina/porridge mixture. The dish above is a  pork porridge. It consists of Chinese doughnuts, beansprouts, pork intestine stuffed with peppery pork mince, sliced pork heart, stomach slivers and blood pudding. Sounds interesting and delicious!

30. Breakfast in Peru – ceviche is always a sure bet here any time. Of course, for those who don’t know, ceviche  is a seafood dish made from fresh raw fish marinated in citrus juices such as lemon or lime and spiced with chilli peppers. It’s delicious.

31. Breakfast in Bolivia – saltenas are a bit like empanadas crossed with Cornish pasties. It’s the normal Bolivian breakfast and it’s usually filled with meat and vegetables, and slightly sweetened with sugar.

32. An Egyptian breakfast - of course are Foul Madamas. It’s made from fava beans, chickpeas, garlic and lemon.

33. Breakfast in Japan - is tofu served with fish and rice. Soaked with soya sauce and there you have it.  

34. Breakfast in China – typically consists of  noodles, rice, sticky coated chicken and fried veggies. 

35. Malaysian breakfast –  is Mee – noodles mixed with egg, vegetable and aromatic spices.

36. Breakfast in Mongolia – will typically have boiled mutton with lots of fat and flour and maybe some dairy products or rice.

37. Breakfast in Belize - fry jacks are a Belize typical breakfast cuisine. They’re deep-fried pieces of dough that are often accompanied by beans and eggs, or jam and honey.

38. A Hungarian breakfast – always consists of Pogácsa.

39. A Korean breakfast – is mostly like their lunch and dinner in Korea. You’ll get a small plate of kimchi, a bowl of rice and a bowl of clear vegetable soup.

40. Breakfast in Pakistan - is Aloo Paratha–it’ s an Indian unleavened flatbread made by pan frying, wholewheat dough on a tava. Its dough contains ghee and the bread is usually stuffed with vegetables. It’s usually combined with butter, chutney or some other spicy sauce.

41. An Estonian breakfast – is curd cheese on a wheat bloomer – known locally as ‘cheese on toast’. The topping can be mixed with ricotta or fromage fraiche instead, if you prefer.

42. Breakfast in Jordan –Labneh, hummous and falafel are all popular choices typically served alongside olive oil, lamb sausage, jam and butter, turkey or beef mortadella.

43. Breakfast in Venezuela - mostly consist of empenadas. They’re filled with pastries, fresh cheese, minced meat and any combination of veggies and beans.

44. Breakfast in Colombia - Here, this changua dish is always and it’s made from milk, scallions and cheese.

45. Breakfast in Ghana - is waakye. It’s rice cooked in beans and is always at street stalls throughout Ghana. 

46. Breakfast in Uganda - here a popular dish across the country is katogo – it’s a combination of green cooking bananas mixed in a stew from beef or in a sauce from vegetables.

47. A Bahamas breakfast – a Bahamian breakfast it must contain grits. Grits are dried ground hominy, or corn. It’s mixed with boiling water and the grits becomes a porridge.  Now many people add prawns and meat to liven it up.

48. Breakfast in Costa Rica – Gallo Pinto is typical for breakfast in Costa Rica. It’s made from black beans, rice, sour cream, salsa and a corn tortilla. To top it off many Costa Ricans will then top it off with avocado, fried ripe plantain or cold meat on the side.

49. Breakfast in the Dominican Republic – is mangu. Mangu is made from mashing boiled plantains with butter and either salami, cheese or eggs.

50. A Turkish breakfast – the full Turkish breakfast consists of many varieties of cheese, butter, olives, eggs, tomatoes, cucumbers, jam, honey, and spicy meat.

Explore the Globe’s most Iconic Recipes from Around the World in 80 Dishes

Bon Appéti

 

 

 

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!

Its located two blocks from the beach and is directly tangential to the famous 3^rd Street Promenade.

The open air and breezy at Santa Monica Place which features many stores including its anchor tenant Nordstrom Department Store.

Included here are such famous and beloved band name stores as Michael Kors; as well as they hyper hip brand of Joe’s Jeans.

This place is for “fashinistas,” and the bottom line is this is where the rubber hits the road, and you’ll be able to meet your exact, chic and special shopping needs here year round; because whatever your desire, need or want, you’ll find it here–at “>Santa Monica Place

.

Just a little over a year ago, Santa Monica Place’s grand opening was front page news and now it’s another place in town to find that special something; or to spend an idle afternoon or day here relaxing over a leisurely lunch or a to mellow out and to kick back after a hard days work.

It’s just another day in paradise to be sure; but also a place for walking around to celebrate your surroundings in beautiful Santa Monica–window shopping, people watching or just having fun with a friend.

With its approximately 80 stores and restaurants on three separate levels, it’s really an amazing place for everyone to come here and have fun–leave your troubles behind for awhile.

Although parking in Santa Monica is a never ending battle, until 12/31/11, you’ll receive three free hours of valet parking included with your meal at Blue Stove in Nordstrom, The Curious Palate, Forty Carrots at Bloomingdale’s, La Sandia, Ozumo, Pizza Antica, Primi al Mercato, Sonoma Wine Garden, True Food Kitchen, Xino or Zengo.

Since I live close by, my best option for coming here is taking Santa Monica’s Big Blue Bus, to walk around the area and beach, while doing some window shopping as well.

Lord knows, I’ve got enough shoes, handbags, and clothes; but as the saying goes, a woman can never have too much for her fashion needs, and Santa Monica Place is that perfect place to find that extra “something” for your wardrobe or for a gift for anyone you know.
]]> http://www.travelinlocal.com/santa-monica-place-a-shopping-mecca/feed/ 0 http://www.travelinlocal.com/south-coast-plaza-orange-countys-premier-shopping-destination/ http://www.travelinlocal.com/south-coast-plaza-orange-countys-premier-shopping-destination/#comments Mon, 24 Oct 2011 14:17:44 +0000 Sandy Schroeder http://www.travelinlocal.com/?p=31063 The South Coast Plaza Shopping Center in Orange County is one of the largest shopping centers in the world, attracting 20 million global customers annually.

Like fine wine tasting, this is fashion tasting at its very best.

Come to browse your favorite boutiques, people watch, window gaze or restaurant graze. South Coast offers the premier luxury shopping experience with Bloomingdales, Macy’s, Saks Fifth Avenue, and Nordstroms as anchors for Gucci, Versace, Tiffany, Hermes, Jimmy Choo, Donna Karan, Cartier, Georgio Armani, Christian Dior, Yves Saint Laurent, Montblanc, Rolex, Prada, Luis Vuitton, Chloe, Piaget, Bvlgari, and many more of the world’s most famous names. Click on the Fall Portfolio for more.

South Coast Plaza Shopping Mall leads the nation in retail sales of approximately 1.5 billion dollars annually–as shoppers from around the world stream across its marble floors and fill its 250 stores.

Backed up with 30 restaurants including Charlie Palmer at Bloomingdales, the Rainforest Café, and Vie De France.

The Plaza occupies three levels and 128 acres. Enclosed malls are linked by the Bridge of Gardens walking bridge and its Grand Terrace that’s surrounded by a web of sleek hotels, theatres, and restaurants.

Segerstrom Center for the Arts is just across the street, adding to the Plaza’s attractions with the 3,000-seat Segerstrom Hall, the new 2,000-seat Renee and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall, the 500-seat multi-functional Samueli Theater, the 250-seat Founders Hall and the 46,000-square-foot Arts Plaza.

If you dine at Scott’s Seafood nearby, they ring a bell to let you know when it’s curtain time.

From its inception in 1967–in the lima bean fields of Henry Segerstrom’s Orange County real estate empire–South Coast Plaza has spiraled into a Federally Trademarked moniker–as its “The Ultimate Shopping Resort.”

Designed by Victor Gruen, South Coast Plaza was built in the same year as was the development of Fashion Island Shopping Center in Newport Beach.

For many years at Christmas time, I have zipped down the San Diego Freeway, exiting at Fairview Avenue and scooting into the back entrance of South Coast Plaza.

Then hours later, I happily loaded my car’s trunk with bags of gifts, as my holiday shopping was complete. Long before it became an international symbol, South Coast Plaz always had the most thoughtful gifts for friends and family, the best stores for kids’ games, puzzles and toys, and the newest look or the smartest bag.

It is by far the ultimate shopping experience.

South Coast Plaza is located at 3333 Bristol St., in Costa Mesa, CA – Directions: The Plaza can be reached from the San Diego Freeway, the 405, the Corona Del Mar Freeway, the 73 and the Costa Mesa Freeway, 55. From Los Angeles take the 405 Freeway south, exiting on North Bristol Street, then proceed to the front entrance or Fairview St., and make a right turn onto South Coast Drive to the Plaza’s rear entrance.

However, in addition to all of the great components of my stay at and around the Hotel, another fantastic part of staying at the Hilton Garden Inn in Carlsbad, is the creative, delicious, and on-spot meals they serve, and which I greatly enjoyed eating.

After checking in, I immediately went out to investigate the city.

Upon returning, I was exhausted, so I turned on the TV, laid down on the big, comfy bed and relaxed a little.

And knowing I was going to eat dinner at the hotel’s Carlsbad Beach Bistro just off the front lobby, was going to satiate my hunger and thirst, added to the pleasure of my relaxation.

I was fortunate to be joined by two family friends who drove up from La Jolla, which is only a short drive to the hotel.

So, as soon as they arrived, we sat down to dinner.

I had already looked over the menu in my room, so I knew exactly what I was going to order, but my friends took their time perusing their choices.

For starters, I ordered the Crunchy Shrimp with a subtle Chipotle Lime Aioli sauce:

One of my friends ordered the Papas & Pollo Quesadilla:

I get my love of steak from my Father, so the 12oz. New York Strip with Garlic Mashed Potatoes it is:

For dessert, the three of us shared two different desserts, the Strawberry Cheesecake:

And the Apple Crisp ala Mode:

I can tell you, none of us were disappointed in the quality and quantity of the food cooked and served to us. The food was all melt-in-your mouth savory, and my juicy steak was cooked perfectly.

The addition of the Lemon Chive Butter added to the aroma and its lovely mixture of flavors.

After some quiet conversation, I had to bid adieu to my friends and went to bed.

Upon awaking, and knowing I had to drive back to Los Angeles shortly; I stopped by the restaurant for Their breakfast.

The breakfast menu was divine and included many marvelous and delicious choices:

From cereal to fresh fruit; and omelets cooked to order with a myriad of potently delicious toppings of your choice, breakfast has a new meaning at the Carlsbad Beach Bistro:

Divine and Sublime.
]]> http://www.travelinlocal.com/delicious-food-from-the-hilton-garden-inn-in-carlsbad/feed/ 0 http://www.travelinlocal.com/foodies-from-southern-california-come-in-droves-to-olde-town-orange-circle-new-eateries/ http://www.travelinlocal.com/foodies-from-southern-california-come-in-droves-to-olde-town-orange-circle-new-eateries/#comments Mon, 26 Sep 2011 15:00:18 +0000 Sandy Schroeder http://www.travelinlocal.com/?p=30550 Welcome to Main Street, U.S.A/Olde Towne Plaza in the city of Orange, the latest path for foodies with a wave of new night spots and “let’s do lunch” ideas.

Olde Towne Plaza in the traffic circle at the intersection of Glassell and Chapman Streets in Orange has been a welcome gathering place for over a century. A year ago we spotlighted this popular area and now we are back with Part II, the latest foodie updates. We are also planning another visit to do Part III, a close up of this antique/collectible haven, one of the best in Orange County.

Gabbi’s may really have started the trend with gourmet Mexican that puts a delectable new spin on everybody’s favorites. Haven Gastropub followed with first cabin gourmet pub grub and superior craft brew selections. Francolis moved from Fashion Island in Newport to a hundred year old building in downtown Orange, bringing authentic Italian food, great wines, and loads of atmosphere.

Next, the Daily Treet became Bruxie Gourmet Waffles, with lines of eager eaters stretching out to the curb. A new take on the Belgian waffle, “bold folds” become street food for breakfast, lunch, snacks or desserts!

Then on Friday nights Orange County Wine Trolley began touring nearby historic neighborhoods offering choice restaurant sampling’s; and then gourmet food trucks started offering hungry palettes in the Orange Cycles bike shop parking lot. Bruery Provisions checked in with brews, cheeses and gourmet take-out sandwiches.

Kimmie’s Coffee Cup, known for their “made from scratch” creations, began offering even more choices and the Filling Station, under new ownership, launched a new dinner menu.

Meanwhile, Ruby’s Streamliner Diner came to town in the historic Santa Fe train depot and Manhattan Steak and Seafood, began hosting a jazz band in the bar and blue cheese stuffed olives in their martinis. Avila’s El Ranchito replaced PJ Abbeys in that historic former church and longtime favorites, Felix’s Continental Café, Watson’s Drugstore and Soda Fountain and Paris in a Cup, continue to excel in offerings of fine cuisine.

You may find it hard to make a choice, but after you dine, you have another fun decision to make.

Within easy walking distance, you’ll find historic neighborhoods, leading art galleries, and one of the best collections in Orange County of prime antique shops plus collector corners with rare collectibles, vintage clothing, records, books and periodicals.

Olde Towne has been repeatedly voted Orange County’s favorite downtown. Located at the north end of central Orange County, Orange was established in 1886. The plaza was the original social and commercial hub of Orange. The Plaza Historical District attained significance throughout the state as a historical landmark in 1981, and was placed on the National Registry of Historical Places in March, 1982.

Added note, the seventy-four year old Plaza Park Fountain at the center of the circle is being refurbished and will be reinstalled around the first of October.

Lunch, Dinner, Coffee, Tea or Chocolate…

Restaurants:

• Bagel Me, 60 Plaza Square
• Blue Frog Dessert House, 136 S. Glassell
• Cafe Lucca, 106 N. Glassell
• Cherry on Top, 117 N. Glassell
• Citrus City Grill, 122 N. Glassell
• Courtyard Deli, 162 N. Glassell
• Bruery Provisions, 143 N. Glassell
• Bruxie Waffles, 292 N. Glassell
• Byeblos, 129 W.Chapman
• El Ranchito, 182 S. Orange
• Felix’s Continental Cafe, 36 Plaza Square
• Francoli’s Gourmet, 100-104 S. Glassell
• Gabbi’s Mexican Kitchen, 141 S. Glassell
• Haven Gastropub, 190 S. Glassell
• Jalapenos, 154 N. Glassell
• Kimmies Coffee Cup, 190 S. Glassell
• Manhattan Steak and Seafood, 202 S. Main St.
• O’Hara’s Pub, 150 N. Glassell
• Old Town Grinder & Ice Cream Parlor, 177 N. Glassell
• Omega Burger, 309 W. Chapman
• Paul’s Cocktails, 207 W. Chapman
• Pizza Hut, 396 W. Chapman
• Plaza 149, 149 Glassell
• Renata’s Cafe, 227 E. Chapman, Suite F
• Rutabegorz, 264 N. Glassell
• Ruby’s Streamliner Lounge, 186 N. Atchison
• Taco Adobe, 121 N. Lemon
• The Beach Pit BBQ, 128 N. Glassell
• The District Lounge, 223 W. Chapman
• The Filling Station, 201 North Glassell
• The Perfect Circle, 165 N. Glassell
• Tokyo Cafe, 161 N. Glassell
• Two’s Company, 22 Plaza Square
• Watson’s Drug Store & Soda Fountain, 116 E Chapman
• Wahoos Fish Tacos, 226 W. Chapman
• Zito’s Pizza, 156 N. Chapman

Tea Rooms and Coffee Houses:

• Paris in a Cup, 119 S. Glassell
• Starbucks. 44 Plaza Square & 101 E. Chapman
• The Ugly Mug, 261 N. Glassell

Parking in Olde Towne:

There is no charge for parking in Olde Towne, but most public parking areas have time limits. There is a two hour parking limit for parking along Chapman and Glassell, unless otherwise posted. The public parking lots have three hour limits. Parking on Palm between Glassell & Olive is 30-Minute parking and there are two lots with no limits: Lemon St. Parking Lot, northeast corner W. Chapman and Lemon; Metrolink Parking Lot, north side of W. Chapman, just west of the railroad tracks. Also, many residential streets are permit parking only.

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:

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

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:

Just 125 miles north of Los Angeles, it’s a quick ride up the 101 freeway just past Santa Barbara. Turn onto Route 246 and you’ll discover yourself in a delightful village of international shops and gourmet treats. Solvang means “Sunny Field” in Danish.

One hundred years old this year, this remarkable Danish community is celebrating their success with a series of events and festivals.

Nestled in the Santa Ynez Valley, the surrounding wine country offers an inviting tour of 60 wineries looping from Solvang through Los Alamos, Los Olivos, Ballard, and Buellton. The movie Sideways was made here, and you can spot “The Hitching Post,” their favored hangout, on your way into Solvang.

With over 10 wine tasting rooms, numerous European and American restaurants, a Restival Theater and the numerous Danish bakeries also fill the village.

As you explore the area, you’re sure to hear Danes chatting in their native language. Their families have been here for a hundred years.

Flower lined streets with towering windmills offer an international mix of some 200 shops with linens, handicrafts, leather, ironwork and porcelains. You can roll around town in a bicycle built for two, four or six, or take the colorful horse drawn trolleys.

Several hotels and inns line the entrance to Solvang, letting you pick a place to stay and then park for the duration of your trip. No driving needed.

Hand dipped Chocolates, handmade Fudge, European and American menus, the famed aebelskiver (round pancakes) and authentic Danish smorgasbords are all first rate. Hotels like the four star Petersen Village Inn , provide elegant rooms with gourmet European dinners in Café Provence, that overlooks the Village’s Square.

And, there’s more. On the way back, you can make a quick side trip headed South from Solvang on Route 154 to visit the original stagecoach stop, the Cold Springs Tavern, located at 5995 Stagecoach Road, in Santa Barbara.

Further down the canyon, amidst towering trees is a bit of California history–which is well preserved and continues to thrive today, attracting locals and tourists alike.

Established in 1865, the Cold Springs Tavern was built by Chinese laborers as an official relay station over the San Marcos pass. Today it stands just as it was then, with the roadhouse gang bunkhouse and jail, and original tavern. As the halfway point from Los Olivos, stagecoaches with dusty travelers stopped here to change horses and enjoy an old west meal.

That tradition continues today with buffalo burgers, homemade veggie quiches, wines and brews, plus a popular tri-tip barbecue on Sundays, for you to enjoy.

After you’ve returned to LA; be sure to put this on your calendar for a return trip to picturesque Solvang.

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

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.

For sure, Tapatío is a wonderful ingredient that’s used to spice up most ordinary foods that need a little spark–e.g. scrambled eggs or that extra piece of chicken which is left on your dinner plate, etc. BTW it’s also great as a standard ingredient for most households, especially here in Los Angeles!

As the way of a disclosure–I’m not an expert chef, but I will say I’m an expert cook; although my partner might argue otherwise. But, what I do know is that at the end of each meal, he cleans his plate all the way to the shiny parts. My specialty lies in the art of taking basic ingredients that I have in my cupboard/pantry and making them into something that adds that extra “it fact for my meals a little extra “zing” for my kitchen table.

So, in that vein, here’s my tasty version of a Mexican classic,

Huevos Rancheros

4 tortillas
1 T. Canola oil
½ C. refried beans
2 tsp. Tapatío
3 eggs
½ C. pico de gallo
½ tsp. salt
¼ tsp. black pepper
Fresh cilantro for garnish

Serves 2

1. If you have a non-stick pan, just heat the tortillas. If not, put a small amount of canola oil in and heat them. Put them on the plate.

2. In a small pan, or using the microwave, take the refried beans and add the Tapatío. Stir and heat.

3. While the refried beans are heating up, put the canola oil in a pan, heat, then add the eggs and pico de gallo. Cook until the eggs are done.

4. Put 2 tortillas on a plate; spread a layer ½ of the refried beans, then a layer of half of the egg mixture, top with fresh cilantro.

That’s it.

Oh, of course, if you’d like the dish a bit spicier, add more Tapatío to it.

Another variation to this recipe is to spice up the refried beans a bit. Use garlic, onion, cumin, or chili powder. All of these will give a little more flavor.

What’s my recipe for Pico de Gallo?

I’m so glad you asked.

3 small tomatoes, diced
1 onion, finely chopped
1 fresh jalapeno pepper, finely chopped (If you don’t want too much heat, take out the seeds.)
¼ C. fresh cilantro, finely chopped
½ tsp. garlic powder
⅛ tsp. salt
⅛ tsp. pepper
Juice from one lime

1. After you cut the tomatoes, drain the juice in a colander.

2. Mix all the ingredients together and gently stir.

Oh, so good.

I’m a East Coast transplant having moved here about four years ago–and to my delight—there’s not one day that goes by that I don’t discover a new intriguing sight, sound, person, place and exciting story to share about Los Angeles and Southern California.

From the Hollywood Walk of Fame; to walking the Hollywood Hills; or visiting our world famous beaches; the beauty of the the new hip renasaince of Venice; and to the art and bohemian gentrification of Boyle Heights, there’s so much to do and go–the list never stops.

But, as far as food goes, one of my favorite local discoveries has been Tapatío.

Exciting news:

This year, Tapatío is celebrating its 40^th Anniversary!

Starting in 1971, by Mr. Jose-Luis Saavedra–while still working his day job peddled his hot sauce at local markets. Having confidence in his recipe, he often left his hot sauce at the markets on consignment, so if it didn’t sell, Mr. Saavedra wouldn’t get paid.

Although the first five years were difficult, the risk paid off and the company grew.

Its first manufacturing plant, which was located in Maywood, was only 750 square feet, but in 1985, they moved to a 8,500 square foot plant.

However Jose-Luis Saavedra didn’t stop there:

Still growing, and now with three of his children also working for the company, in 1996, Mr. Saavedra, who was unable to find the perfect fit for his company boldly purchased his own parcel of land, and custom built a state-of-the-art 30,000 square foot facility.

Over the years, the size of the containers Tapatío is available in has also increased. Having starting with only a 5oz. container–today, you can purchase Tapatío in individual packets, or up to gallon sizes!

My personal choice is the 32oz. bottle, which right now sits in my pantry closet, half empty.

So, if you haven’t tried Tapatío yet, I suggest that you go to your favorite local grocery store and purchase a bottle–you won’t regret it.

And if you don’t live in the area, or if your local store doesn’t carry Tapatío, you can purchase it right off their website.

So in honor of Tapatío’s 40th Anniversary, and with the 4^th of July arriving soon–be sure to have some to spice up your food as we celebrate our nation’s Declaration of Independence!
]]> http://www.travelinlocal.com/tapatios-40th-anniversary/feed/ 1 http://www.travelinlocal.com/nohos-rockin-food-truck-fest-is-this-saturday/ http://www.travelinlocal.com/nohos-rockin-food-truck-fest-is-this-saturday/#comments Wed, 22 Jun 2011 14:00:21 +0000 Lisa Newton http://www.travelinlocal.com/?p=29119 If you’ve never had a chance to check out and experience the local food truck scene; rocking-low and high–now’s the time.

On Saturday, June 25^th, North Hollywood is hosting the NoHo Rockin’ Food Truck Fest:

From 11:00am until 7:00pm you can:

Come out to the best party in NoHo and help support "Hope for Paws" animal rescue

That’s right.

For only an admission price of $4.00, which supports the cause of rescuing dogs from shelters and streets, you get to peruse the wares of at least 15 food trucks.

Plus, each ticket purchased gives you a chance to win some great raffle prizes.

Also showing will be some great local crafter’s selling their unique art work.

So head to 11458 Burbank Boulevard, and buy local and think global–and be sure to bring an empty stomach!

What better way to cap off a day of walking and sightseeing then enjoying a juicy burger.

So off I went to Dino’s Burgers.

Dino’s doesn’t just serve burgers. In fact, their chicken and breakfast items are superb as well–but since I’m in pursuit of Los Angeles’ best burgers, when given the opportunity, I can–and eat–a good burger anytime, so that’s what I had.

At Dino’s Burgers, their home-made hamburgers are delicious, very filling and satisfying. They add their own brand of “secret sauce,” in lieu of ketchup, which I thoroughly enjoyed. The fries were hot and crisp, just the way I like them. Add a little salt–and you’re in a bit of heaven.

At Dino’s, they cook their burgers for you right on the grill. When I arrived the inside was full; and when I left, the indoor and outdoor dining area was full.

Dino’s Burgers
2817 N Main St
Los Angeles, CA 90031

To try their locally famous serving of Chili Cheese Fries.

Believe it or not, to date I’ve never eaten chili cheese fries, so as I became more and more aware of them naturally my curiosity was piqued.

Well, after eating my Chili Cheese Fries at Fabulous Charbroiled Burgers, my verdict is in–if you’re hungry for French fries loaded with cheddar cheese, with a layer of rich chili underneath, then you’ve got to come here.

From the outside, this small local restaurant, located in at the corner of Rosecrans Boulevard and Lemonoli Avenue, looks like a dive, and if truth be told, but once inside the employees were gracious and the patrons were coming in non-stop.

Classic booths line the walls, old fashioned vending machines can be found in the corner, along with a long counter where you pick up your food reminds you of days long past.

As soon as you take a bit of their extremely generous portions, your attention is solely focused down on your plate as you eat your meal and savor and enjoy it.

Next time I return, I’m going to try the rest of their menu, especially their charbroiled hamburgers–plus, they also serve breakfast, Mexican fare, and sandwiches!
]]> http://www.travelinlocal.com/some-of-las-best-chili-cheese-fries-ever/feed/ 1 http://www.travelinlocal.com/plastic-bag-ban-starts-in-la-on-july-1st/ http://www.travelinlocal.com/plastic-bag-ban-starts-in-la-on-july-1st/#comments Thu, 16 Jun 2011 14:15:55 +0000 Lisa Newton http://www.travelinlocal.com/?p=28958 Starting on July 1^st, 2011, for anyone who shops in the unincorporated section of Los Angeles County, if you don’t have a reusable bag with you to put your groceries in, you’ll be charged $.10 for a paper one because plastic bags will no longer be available.

It’s all part of the new law that was recently adopted by the the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors on Tuesday, November 16^th, 2010:

This ordinance amends Title 12 – Environmental Protection of the Los Angeles County Code, by adding a Chapter regulating the use of plastic carryout bags and recyclable paper carryout bags, in promote both the habit and use of reusable bags within the County’s unincorporated areas.

Pursuant to the new Law, plastic carryout bags, as defined, may no longer be distributed by affected stores and a 10 cent ($0.10) charge for each recyclable paper carryout bag distributed by those stores will apply.

On July 1^st, only “large” stores or stores with a pharmacy are affected; but as usual, it comes with a caveat that come January 1^st, 2012, “small” stores will have to follow the same policy.

If you’d like to see if a store near you will be affected the new law, here’s a map of the 82 large stores (click here for a larger view (PDF):

In case you have a few questions, “About the Bag”, which is sponsored by County of Los Angeles Department of Public Works has answered them for you:

Are reusable bags recyclable? Where can I bring them to be recycled? Depending on the material, it may be recyclable. Visit Earth911.com for more information on recycling locations.

Can I use my own carryout bag? Yes

What can I use as a carryout bag? Anything you can safely carry your groceries with, including: reusable bags, backpacks, baskets, buckets, and boxes, for example.

What if I don’t want to buy/bring a reusable bag or purchase a paper bag? If you can comfortably carry your paid purchases out by hand or in your purse/backpack, that is one option; or you can repackage your goods into a shopping cart or basket and unload them directly into your vehicle (and then return the cart or basket).

Is there a place where low income people can buy discounted reusable bags? Public Works distributes free reusable bags in limited quantities at various community events throughout the County. Please visit the Events table periodically for the latest events info. In addition, please see response to "Does the 10-cent charge per paper bag apply to everyone? Who is exempt?

Won’t buying all these paper and reusable bags be a burden on me and my family during these hard economic times? Based on the Socio Economic Study [PDF, 271KB] done as a part of the Environmental Impact Report [PDF, 49MB], the estimated increase in overall cost due to this ordinance is $5.72 per capita annually. This includes stores switching from plastic bags to paper bags (the cost of "free bags" are normally hidden and passed on to consumers); customers buying more trash bin liners; and increased sales tax incurred from the new purchases. However, potential savings or added value to customers, in the form of reduced taxes for litter abatement, increased property values, and the value of other environmental benefits associated with the proposed ordinance were not calculated in this study.

Are reusable bags recyclable? Where can I bring them to be recycled? Depending on the material, it may be recyclable. Visit Earth911.com for more information on recycling locations.

What is the 10-cent charge used for? All monies collected by a store from this Ordinance will be retained by the store and may be used for compliance with the Ordinance.

Does the 10-cent charge per paper bag apply to everyone? Who is exempt? All affected stores authorized to accept WIC or SNAP purchase payments must provide at the point of sale, free of charge, either reusable bags or recyclable paper carryout bags or both, at the store’s option, to any customer participating either in the Special Supplemental Food Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) or in the CalFresh/Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP).

Is the 10-cent charge per paper bag taxable? Yes, initial discussions with the Board of Equalization indicate that the 10-cent charge on paper bags would be subject to State sales tax.

Plus, if you don’t own any reusable bags, several events are planned where you can get one, for FREE:

Date & Time	Event	Location
Thursday, June 16, 2011 10am – 3pm	Ralphs	24975 Pico Canyon Rd Stevenson Ranch, CA 91381
Friday, June 17, 2011 10am – 3pm	Ralphs	520 Workman Mill Rd Avocado Heights, CA 91746
Friday, June 17, 2011 10am – 3pm	Ralphs	5245 W Centinela Ave Ladera Heights, CA 90045
Friday, June 17, 2011 10am – 3pm	99 Ranch Market	1015 S Nogales St Rowland Heights, CA 91748
Monday, June 20, 2011 10am – 3pm	Howie’s Ranch Market	6580 N San Gabriel Blvd East San Gabriel, CA 91775
Monday, June 20, 2011 10am – 3pm	Rite Aid	1534 E. Florence Ave Florence-Firestone, CA 90001
Tuesday, June 21, 2011 10am – 3pm	Ralphs	4700 Admiralty Way Marina del Rey, CA 90292
Tuesday, June 21, 2011 10am – 3pm	Top Valu Market	10819 S Hawthorne Blvd Lennox, CA 90304
Tuesday, June 21, 2011 10am – 3pm	Top Valu Market	970 W 1st St La Rambla, CA 90731
Wednesday, June 22, 2011 10am – 3pm	Ralphs	2270 N Lake Ave Altadena, CA 91001
Wednesday, June 22, 2011 10am – 3pm	Super King Market	2260 N Lincoln Ave Altadena, CA 91001
Wednesday, June 22, 2011 10am – 3pm	Rite Aid	11750 Willmington Ave Los Angeles, CA 90059
Thursday, June 23, 2011 10am – 3pm	El Super	1301 E. Gage Ave Florence-Firestone, CA 90001
Thursday, June 23, 2011 10am – 3pm	Valu Plus Warehouse	15055 Mulberry Dr South Whittier, CA 90604
Friday, June 24, 2011 10am – 3pm	Galleria Market	18317 Colima Rd Rowland Heights, CA 91748
Friday, June 24, 2011 10am – 3pm	99 Ranch Market	1625 S Azusa Ave Hacienda Heights, CA 91745
Friday, June 24, 2011 10am – 3pm	Albertsons	26850 The Old Road Stevenson Ranch, CA 91381
Friday, June 24, 2011 10am – 3pm	Albertsons	23850 Copper Hill Dr Valencia, CA 91355
Monday, June 27, 2011 10am – 3pm	T.S. Emporium	1457 S Nogales St Rowland Heights, CA 91748
Tuesday, June 28, 2011 10am – 3pm	Food 4 Less	851 Sepulveda Blvd Torrance, CA 90502
Tuesday, June 28, 2011 10am – 3pm	Ralphs	29675 The Old Rd Castaic, CA 91384
Tuesday, June 28, 2011 10am – 3pm	Ralphs	31970 Castaic Rd Castaic, CA 91384
Wednesday, June 29, 2011 10am – 3pm	Albertsons	19725 Colima Rd Rowland Heights, CA 91748
Wednesday, June 29, 2011 10am – 3pm	Albertsons	17120 Colima Rd Hacienda Heights, CA 91745
Wednesday, June 29, 2011 10am – 3pm	Food 4 Less	11407 S Western Ave Los Angeles, CA 90047
Thursday, June 30, 2011 10am – 3pm	Food 4 Less	11840 Wilmington Ave Los Angeles, CA 90059
Thursday, June 30, 2011 10am – 3pm	Ralphs	2675 Foothill Blvd La Crescenta, CA 90059

This is a bold move by a body that’s traditionally known for its timidity, therefore its sustainability factor shouldn’t be underestimated, and in due time, the City of LA will no doubt do the same.

I’m really looking forward to finding out the environmental impact of the ban–if it does prove to reduce the amount of un-recyclable trash, which its should, we’ll see this trend be nature’s friend in and around LA.