Category
Must Do highlights day trips, fun activities, and entertainment and recreation options every tourist and local of Southern California should check out. SoCal’s hidden gems, local secrets, unique finds and off-the beaten path venues will also be uncovered and explored.
Ponte, a picturesque and fun SoCal winery, along with its more sophisticated sister winery, Bottaia, offers something for everybody. by Jenni Keast Once upon a time, Temecula wineries were scoffed at by their sun-kissed cousins to the north—becoming a subject of derision by wine sophisticates who considered “Southern California wine” an oxymoron.
Continue reading
Southern Californians are known for living healthy lifestyles, and emotional wellness is an important component of overall health. Meditation and mindfulness promote physical and psychological benefits and Southern California leads the way in both mindfulness training and ways to enhance mental fitness. From tranquil, contemplative gardens to comfortable studios, from traditional meditation practices to cutting edge techniques, SoCal offers a variety of opportunities and venues to nourish emotional wellness. Here are five facilities to consider:
Continue reading
Highlighted by the beauty of the Pacific coast, Long Beach is a relaxing getaway destination, ideal to visit any time of the year. Discover some of the hidden locations that have become favorites for both locals and visitors alike.
Continue reading
By Jessi Soporito Despite what you may believe, good cheesecake does extend the Cheesecake Factory in your local mall. Don’t play it safe and instead hit up one of your local bakeries for some of the best slices of heaven you can find. Here are some of the best cheesecake spots to settle your sweet tooth in SoCal. Hidden in Inglewood, Harriet’s Cheesecakes Unlimited offers over 60 different flavors of cheesecake, like Kahlua, Citrus Cooler and Pumpkin Praline. The handcrafted, gourmet cakes is a family business, so you know you’re not only getting freshly baked cheesecakes, but state-of-the-art service along with it. Stop by, before a long line keeps you in the heat, and enjoy the wide variety of flavors Harriet’s has to offer. Rocco’s Cheesecake, in Santa Monica, has more of a messy, home-like vibe to it. The pink walls, matched with plaid black and white table cloths, pair well with a 50’s theme of home cooking. Mr. Rocco may even be there to greet you himself, and offer some gluten free and vegan options as well as gourmet, exotic and black label cakes. Based in San Diego, Extraordinary Desserts also offers vegan and gluten…
Continue reading
Tips to Make Air Travel Tolerable The ability to afford air travel is a privilege. Although you may not consider a plane ticket as luxurious as a Louis Vuitton handbag, it is still a luxury that many cannot afford. For those of you that are lucky enough to afford air travel, there are a few issues that need to be addressed: 1. Don’t Forget the Headphones: Etiquette on Personal Electronic Devices With rules appointed by the FAA, you now have the ability to listen to your personal electronic device (PED) throughout the entire flight. While that is great for you, the rest of the plane may not share your enthusiasm for the latest episode of “Orange is the New Black”, or hit song from Jay-Z, while they are trying to sleep. Please be courteous and wear headphones while using your PEDs or if you do not have any headphones, you must turn your volume off. Keep in mind that not all airlines provide headphones, so please come prepared. 2. Don’t Be a Space Invader: Who Gets the Armrest? Picture this scenario: The last passenger to board is a small woman and the last seat on the plane is nestled between…
Continue reading
It’s hard to believe that we are already in the middle of November. I love this time of year for many reasons, not the least of which are the smells that surround us and the flavors that consume our palate. So, naturally I’m thinking about all my favorite holiday dishes. This holiday creation is a family favorite and it’s too easy and healthy not to share. Caramelized Butternut Squash with Red Onions Ingredients: 1 large butternut squash, peeled, seeded, and cubed or cut in moons 2 large red onions, halved lengthwise and thinly sliced Sprigs of fresh rosemary 2 Tbsp extra-virgin olive oil Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper (bruschetta seasoning is a great compliment) Directions: Position a rack in upper third of oven and preheat to 450°F. Combine squash and onion on a parchment-lined baking sheet or piece of foil. Drizzle with olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and toss evenly to coat. Spread in an even layer and scatter rosemary on top. Put baking sheet on top rack and reduce heat to 375°F. Roast, flipping vegetables once, until browned in spots, about 45 minutes. Serve warm or chilled – either way is delicious. This makes a beautiful…
Continue reading
Weekend Escapes Weekly Newsletter (50 Weeks)
$9.99 for 12 months
12 Month SoCal Life Print AND Digital Subscription (4 issues)
$24.99 for 12 months
12 Month SoCal Life Digital-Only Subscription (4 issues)
$9.99 for 12 months
