My Dreamy Day in Giverny and Versailles with City Wonders Tours

My Dreamy Day in Giverny and Versailles with City Wonders Tours

Paris has my heart, there’s no question about it. But after spending a few days soaking in the buzz and beauty of the city, I found myself craving a different kind of magic. I wanted a breath of fresh air, a slower pace, and maybe a little countryside charm. That’s exactly what I got (and so much more) on the Giverny and Versailles Day Trip with City Wonders Tours.

Honestly, it was one of the most memorable days of my trip. Let me take you along!

First Stop: A Dream in Giverny

We started the morning bright and early in central Paris, where our small group met up with our (cheerful and seriously knowledgeable) Sofia, English-speaking guide. Our ride, a comfy, air-conditioned bus made it so easy to sit back, relax, and listen to the little stories and bits of history our guide shared as we made our way out of the city.

In just about an hour, we were pulling into Giverny the charming village where Claude Monet lived and created some of his most famous masterpieces. It honestly felt like we had stepped into one of his paintings.

With skip-the-line access (bless it!), we were free to roam Monet’s house and gardens after a short introduction. And wow, the gardens! I wandered among vibrant blooms, stood on the iconic Japanese bridge, and even saw the very lily ponds that inspired those famous paintings.

Inside his cozy, ivy-covered home, every colorful room felt like a piece of living art. I could almost picture Monet walking through the kitchen or sitting by the window with his paints. It was so personal, so moving and definitely a pinch-me moment.

After exploring, I found a cute little café in town, ordered a simple but delicious French lunch, and just soaked it all in. Giverny is pure magic, peaceful, quaint, and somehow untouched by time.

Next Up: Royal Splendor at Versailles

After lunch, we all hopped back on the coach and made our way to the Palace of Versailles. I knew it was going to be impressive, but honestly? I wasn’t prepared for just how jaw-dropping it would be.

Thanks again to skip-the-line access, we breezed right past the crowds and into pure royal opulence. Our official guide walked us through the palace, sharing juicy stories about Louis XIV (aka the Sun King), Marie Antoinette, and all the drama that unfolded in these golden halls.

The Hall of Mirrors literally took my breath away. The chandeliers, the endless reflections, the sheer scale of it all. It’s impossible not to be swept up in the grandeur. I loved hearing about the real lives behind the glitter, too — the triumphs, the scandals, the heartbreak.

We explored the King’s and Queen’s Apartments, the stunning Chapel, and more… every room felt richer and more detailed than the last. I couldn’t stop snapping photos (and mentally decorating my dream château, of course).

Finishing the Day in the Gardens of Versailles

Just when I thought the day couldn’t possibly get any better, we stepped outside into the Gardens of Versailles , and oh my goodness, they are next-level stunning. Stretching out as far as the eye could see, every hedge, fountain, and pathway was straight out of a fairy tale

After wandering through the gardens, I boarded the coach back to Paris with a heart full of memories (and a camera roll full of beauty).

Why I’d 1000% Recommend City Wonders Tours

This whole day felt effortless and so thoughtfully organized. Here’s why I loved it:

Friendly, passionate guides who made history come alive
Comfy coach bus rides (with A/C — essential!)
Skip-the-line access that saved so much time
Plenty of free time to explore and soak it all in
Small group size — no feeling like herded tourists

If you’re heading to Paris and want to experience a day packed with art, history, beauty, and a little bit of magic, this tour is it. Trust me — escaping the city never felt so good.

Quick Tips Before You Go:

Book early — these tours fill up fast (especially in spring and summer)!
Wear comfy shoes — you’ll thank yourself later.
Bring a fully charged phone or camera — there’s beauty around every corner.
Pack a little snack or water for the ride!

✨ If you’re dreaming of the perfect Paris day trip, let City Wonders Tours show you a side of France you’ll never forget. Giverny and Versailles are waiting for you! ✨

A Family Legacy in Every Drop: My Journey with García de la Cruz Olive Oil

A Family Legacy in Every Drop: My Journey with García de la Cruz Olive Oil

Picture this: rolling olive groves that stretch beyond the horizon, the golden Spanish sun warming the land, and the hum of a family working together to craft something extraordinary. This was my experience with García de la Cruz, a family-owned olive oil company that has been a beacon of quality and tradition for 150 years.

From the moment I arrived in La Mancha, I felt like I had been welcomed into the García family, where every olive tree carries stories of resilience, innovation, and love for the land.

Day 1: A Warm Welcome to the Heart of Spain

My journey began with a magical introduction to La Mancha’s iconic windmills, a symbol of tradition and timeless beauty. The García de la Cruz team greeted us with open arms, embodying the warmth and hospitality of their brand.

As the sun dipped below the horizon, we visited the De La Muela Castle, a place where history seemed to come alive. Standing there, I felt the deep connection this family has to their roots. It wasn’t just about olive oil—it was about preserving a legacy.

On the night of Garcia de la Cruz’s Early Harvest celebration at the historic De La Muela Castle, I experienced something unforgettable. As the sun set over the ancient stone walls, surrounded by the warmth of good company and the artistry of beautifully crafted dishes—salmorejo shots, Iberian ham croquettes with truffle, tenderloin medallions, and more—the evening felt like a tribute to tradition, passion, and family.

This exquisite and traditional dinner was curated by Antonio Romero from El Alfar.

Day 2: The Heart of the Family Business

The next morning, we stepped into the world of García de la Cruz at their headquarters. It was clear that this was more than a business—it was a labor of love passed down through five generations.

150 Years of Family Tradition

Knowledge Passed Down Through Generations: Every García family member learns by doing, from harvesting olives to caring for the trees. It’s hands-on, heartfelt, and deeply personal.
A Celebration of Community: The Early Harvest Festival is more than just an event—it’s a gathering of family, friends, and neighbors who come together to honor the land and its fruits.

Crafting Excellence

During the tour, I witnessed how their olive oil is made with an unmatched dedication to quality.

Organic Cultivation: Every olive is grown with care, using sustainable methods and partnerships with farmers who share their values.
Attention to Detail: From tree to bottle, every step is carefully documented to ensure consistency and excellence.

The day ended with a tasting of their exquisite olive oils, each variety telling its own story. From the bold Cornicabra to the smooth Arbequina, it was a feast for the senses.

Day 3: Sustainability and Tradition Hand in Hand

Exploring the family’s olive groves was an unforgettable experience. Each tree stood as a testament to their commitment to sustainability and respect for nature.

Eco-Friendly Practices

The García family takes pride in farming methods that are not only organic but also regenerative.

Natural composting nurtures the trees.
Traditional trimming techniques keep the groves healthy.
The trees themselves regenerate, making olive oil production inherently sustainable.

What Makes García de la Cruz Special?

A Family Legacy in Every Bottle

The García family’s hands-on approach ensures their olive oil carries the heart of their heritage. Whether it’s harvesting olives or blending oils for the perfect flavor profile, they put family and tradition first.

Global Reach with Authentic Roots

Even as their oils reach international markets, the García family stays true to their origins. Every blend is a reflection of their story, their values, and their dedication to excellence.

Looking Ahead: A Bright Future for García de la Cruz

As they celebrate 150 years, the García family has their sights set on the future. From expanding their product line to continuing their tradition of excellence, they’re poised to remain a leader in the world of extra virgin olive oil.

Why García de la Cruz Belongs in Your Kitchen

This isn’t just olive oil—it’s a love letter to tradition, sustainability, and family values. Here’s why you’ll fall in love with García de la Cruz EVOO:

100% organic and sustainably crafted.
Rich, versatile flavors perfect for any dish.
A legacy of trust and quality that spans five generations.

Join the Family

By choosing García de la Cruz, you’re not just buying olive oil—you’re becoming part of a story that started 150 years ago in the heart of Spain.

Ready to elevate your cooking with a touch of tradition? Discover the extraordinary taste of García de la Cruz today. It’s a family tradition you’ll want to pass down.

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Hidden Travel Gem- Marival Distinct Luxury Resort in Riviera Nayarit

Last month I embarked on an adventure to the Riviera Nayarit, Mexico to explore Marival Distinct Luxury Resort in Nuevo Vallarta. I also toured their new sister property Marival Armony in Punta De Mita.

This mini paradise is an easy three hour flight out of Los Angeles, California. This all-inclusive luxury resort is located on the beach of Nuevo Vallarta, in the Riviera Nayarit. It is just a 15 minute car ride from the Puerto Vallarta International Airport.

I have visited Nuevo Vallarta a few times before, but every time I go I discover something new. There is just so much to see and do!

Disclosure: Thank you ConnectHer Media for curating this amazing trip, and Marival Distinct for hosting me at your incredible resort. All opinions are my own.

There is a very special place in my heart for Mexico. My parents immigrated to the United States over 5o years ago from Zacatecas Mexico. I feel a deep connection with this beautiful country, and the people. It saddens me that my parents had to leave.

The gracious staff immediately greeted me with a wet towel and a delicious craft drink. The lobby was both sophisticated and comfortable.

This chic and unique resort is secluded and is in its own little paradise.

Video tour of the 2 bedroom residence at Marival Distinct in Riviera Nayarit. Full of luxury and comfort, the 1 to 4 bedrooms residences range from 1,410 sq. ft. to 2,798 sq. ft.

Check out my suite in this video!

The incredible staff ensured that I felt welcomed and right at home. They greeted me with this little spread when I checked into my room. SWEET!

I felt so relaxed and maybe even a little mom guilt for leaving the kids behind. But I have realized that sometimes I need a little me time to disconnect and recharge…

The room was spacious and very elegant. It was the perfect home away from home.

The two bedroom residence is ideal for a family. The suite is modern and elegant. It had two bathrooms, fully-equipped kitchen, dining room, entertainment room, large balcony and terrace.

Marival Distinct Luxury Residences has many type of accommodations including luxurious residences, penthouses and villas.

Gourmet Food in a Luxury Resort

The dinning options at Marival Distinct are five star restaurants and are part of the all inclusive program. You can enjoy another 6 restaurants and 7 bars at Marival Emotions Resort & Suites, another resort. It is only two minutes away!

At Lemmon Grass (photo above), Chef Alfredo prepares something different every night for his guests, and he only uses fresh local ingredients. This is the perfect place if you have and adventurous palate…

The sunset from Insú Sky Rooftop Bar was just spectacular. It offers a minimalist global gourmet cuisine, craft drinks, and an unbelievable infinity pool. Ahhh take me back!

Marival Armony Resorts and Suites

On day three, we headed to Marival Armony Luxury Resort in Punta De Mita. This sister resort is a harmonious blend between the amenities and the kindness of nature…

It has comfortable rooms and suites, 281 meters (922 feet long) beachfront, five pools (one of them is an infinity pool), and five Jacuzzis, specialty restaurants, beautiful gardens, privileged views of the mountains and the bay, unique spa experiences, and of course, the personalized service is exceptional.

This gorgeous new resort is now taking reservations.

The suites are very different from Marival Distinct, but also just as lovely.

Photo Credit To Photographer Amanda San Martin

I loved exploring this property and I found many breathless views. I often stopped on my path to just take it all in.

At Marival Armony’s Teens Club, teenagers will find a pool table, Ping-Pong table and video games. Age 13 years of age and up have fun spot and interact with other teens. The facilities are open daily from 10:00 am to 10:30 pm.

I kept thinking about my kids, and how much I knew they would enjoy this resort.

It was so nice to sip on a Piña Colada, and look at the ocean from this private cabana…

These incredible resorts are one of a kind. Both resorts surpassed my overall expectations and I will definitely return to this magical place with my family.

Where’s your next travel destination? Marival Luxury Resorts are a MUST on your bucket-list!

If you are looking for a fun day trip from Puerto Vallarta, you should head over to my friend’s amazing blog below!

MyTravellingCircus.com and check out her article 6 Reasons Sayulita, Mexico, Makes a Great Family Vacation

Beaches Resort’s Incredible Accommodations for Children With Special Needs

As a mother of a severely handicapped child, it can be extremely difficult for me to find resorts that accommodate to her disabilities.

Many resorts, hotels and restaurants don’t offer wheelchair accessible options. To my pleasant surprise, I learned Turks and Caicos Beaches Resort provides full wheelchair accessibility. As a matter of fact, they make it one of their commitments as a resort. I have spent countless hours schlepping my daughters wheelchair through sand and dirt, in hopes that she too could enjoy beautiful views, and exciting experiences with us. At Beaches Resorts, wheelchair users are accommodated with ramps and lifts situated throughout the grounds.

Disclosure: Thank you Beaches Resort for hosting my family. All opinions are my own.

Accommodations for guests with mobility restrictions include wider clearance on doorways, bathroom rails, lowered light switches & faucets, bathroom benches and more. These little luxuries make my world as a mother, so much easier. I regret now not taking my daughter with us, as I know she would’ve had the time of her life. It’s often risky to take my daughter anywhere we don’t know well, as we feel staff etc. can be very anxious in situations they aren’t too familiar with. The staff at Beaches Resorts however, are highly experienced and are always willing to let out a helping hand.

Sadly, my son ran a fever on the first day we arrived at the Turks and Caicos Beaches Resort. He couldn’t hold anything down, and laid sluggishly on his bed.

After being provided medicine by the resort clinic (yes, there is a physician on staff 24 hours), we constantly debated what to give him to eat. Mac and Cheese? Too heavy for his stomach. Steak and Mash? Even heavier! Our waitress approached us with the friendliest smile, offering us the daily (delicious) Indian food options. We told him about our son, and how we feared to give him anything. The cook came out to talk to us and listened empathetically, and assured us that he had the perfect meal for him. We waited a few minutes, as he approached us with most appetizing and healing fresh chicken soup.

My husband and I thanked the cook a million times, while trying to give him a tip for his selfless act. He simply said, “There is no need for tips, I hope your son feels better soon.” Let me repeat, the staff at Beaches Resorts are like no other. They truly make you feel at home, and always greet you with the warmest attitude. Which makes me believe whole- heartedly, my daughter can one day experience the delightful people of Turks and Caicos like we have. One last thing, did I mention my son was better seemingly overnight? That soup was magical; but so is Beaches resort.

Thank you Beaches Resort for your incredible hospitality! This trip will down in our family memory book forever… Book your stay at Beaches Turks and Caicos today!

The Perfect Family “Daycation” in Marina Del Rey California

Seize the day! Sun, sand, and family fun…

Last week, we explored a SoCal travel gem in Marina Del Rey, California. We didn’t have to travel far for this fabulous mini getaway! In fact, it was only an hour drive out of OC for the perfect family “daycation.”

This adorable and colorful beach town combines a picture perfect marina, excellent waterfront restaurants, and numerous summer activities.

It was so nice to just get a away, disconnect, and feel like we are somewhere abroad…

Disclosure : A special thanks to Marina Del Rey CVB for hosting our wonderful family daycation. All opinions are my own.

We started our day at 7:15 a.m. at dock 52, for some sport fishing with Spitfire Sportsfishing! (it was easy to find parking in the early am).

We told the staff we were newbies at fishing, and were extremely patient and helpful with hooking our bait and casting our lines.

Here are some helpful tips if you plan on fishing with Spitfire Sportsfishing:

A California fishing license is required. (it can be purchased on the boat)
You can bring your own ice chest to pack your “catch of the day”
Pack your own food and drinks
Pack jackets- it can get really cold in the marina
Carry cash on hand. No credit cards or debit cards are accepted for the excursion
Delicious & fresh food is available on boat (cash only)
Fishing equipment included in price of excursion
Fish can be cut and cleaned for $1 dollar a fish

About Spitfire Sportfishing

Conveniently located in Marina Del Rey, CA. The 65’ x22 ft. United States Coast Guard inspected Vessel Spitfire runs daily, year round out of Marina Del Rey Sportfishing . Built in the mid 1990’s the Spitfire is a fast ,modern, roomy fishing vessel with state of the art fish finding electronics and large bait capacity. The grade A galley seats 25 comfortably and serves hot and cold meals as well as ice cold beer and soda.

Within minutes of arriving at our ocean destination, we felt our lines tug. My son’s smile was ear to ear when he caught his very first fish. “Look mom, I did it!” ~ Simply priceless.

The ocean breeze and the crisp air was refreshing. Oh and the views were simply stunning!

It was so nice to see my girls disconnect from their devices, laugh, and just spend time as a family.

Check her out! In no time, we were catching 2-3 fish at a time…

By the end of our fishing tour, we caught about 50+ fish! Never in our wildest dreams, did we think we could catch so many. It was a wonderful bonding experience and we can’t wait to do it again!

Next… After our fishing trip, we decided to eat brunch at Beachside.

To our bellies delight, Beachside offers a variety of breakfast and lunch options. It was difficult to decide on breakfast or lunch, because everything on the menu sounded so good. So we ordered both!

We sat in front of the marina, and enjoyed the sensational view. We could see families on the sand playing and laughing. The sea breeze kissed our cheeks. It was sooo nice!

These Crab Cakes Benedict (above) were covered in a rich cream sauce. They sat on garden fresh arugula.

About Beachside

Located on waterfront in Marina del Rey, the newly redesigned Beachside Restaurant & Bar offers fresh California cuisine and innovative creations for a savory menu in an unparalleled beachfront setting. Executive Chef Victor Morales takes Marina del Rey seafood restaurant to the next level by creating decadent and thought-provoking dishes, using only the best seasonal ingredients available, providing a truly unique culinary experience for patrons to dive into.

My Tori daughter devoured her Lobster Pasta within minutes. The al dente pasta was prepared in a rich sauce, and was delectably garnished with lobster tails, and fresh peas.

The crispy chicken and waffles was insane delcious! The bread was toasted to perfection, and melted in my mouth. The fried chicken absorbed the sweet syrup perfectly.

Last, we hit “Mother’s” Beach for a stand-up paddleboard experience with Pro SUP
Shop, located in the rental truck at the far end of the Jamaica Bay Inn parking lot.

Our friendly guide, showed us the beauty of Marina Del Rey, giving us a personal tour of the scenic views. Sea lions greeted us with their presence, and gondolas past us by. A very in love elderly couple held hands and greeted us as we paddled by. It was just beautiful.

About Pro SUP Shop

The calm flat water of Mother’s Beach, Marina Del Rey is the best place in the Los Angeles area to learn the sport of Stand Up Paddle Boarding and kayaking, Pro SUP Shop’s professional ASI & WPA Certified Instructors will help guide you into the fastest growing water sport in the world! Everyone sent out at Pro SUP Shop receives a lesson of instruction and safety procedures.

Pro SUP Shop is located in the Jamaica Bay Inn parking lot right on the enclosed waveless beach for hassle free stand up paddle board and kayak rentals. We’ll have your board or kayak on the beach and ready to go in just minutes.

4175 Admiralty Way, Marina Del Rey, CA 90292
1-310-989-4350; https://www.prosupshop.com

Marina Del Rey is a SoCal hidden gem, and our summer “daycation” was perfect. Our family will forever cherish this day in our hearts.

Marina Del Rey–Where living in the moment means paddleboarding to breakfast. Seizing the day can be a mid-morning sailing lesson, parasailing over the marina, or cycling to Venice Beach. Embracing an evening is toasting the sunset and dancing under the star-kissed sky on a harbor cruise. It’s all here … What will your Marina adventure be?

Review: Orange Coast Auto-Jeep Wrangler Rubicon

Me, “who’s going to drive? Melodi , “Can I drive first?” Me, ” Ok…” (with a sigh and little hesitation) Deep down I wanted to drive the Jeep Wrangler Rubicon first! Lol This Jeep Wrangler was our transportation for our girl trip to Idyllwild, California thanks to Orange Coast Auto. I seriously could not wait to drive this car!

If you are an adventure seeker and outdoor explorer, this car is for you!

About

The All-New Wrangler Rubicon is off-road ready. With rugged 33-inch tires, an 84.1:1 crawl ratio( Disclosure28) and easily accessible switches for engaging 4×4 capabilities, the Rubicon is tailor-made for all kinds of boundary-breaking experiences.The 2-door model has late availability.

Thank you Orange Coast Auto for letting me review the Jeep Wrangler Rubicon on my weekend adventure. All opinions are my own.

We packed our cooler, bags, and we were off. Everything fit perfectly, and we had the option to put the back seat down, if we needed more room.

“Ok my turn!” Midway up, I happily took over the wheel. My legs are short, but it was super easy to adjust my seat. After I lifted my seat, I had a full panoramic view of the road and I LOVED it. On several occasions, we stopped to take pictures. The drive up to Idyllwild was lovely.

Jeep Highlights

2.0L Direct-Injection Turbo Engine with 295 LB-FT of Torque

The available 2.0L Direct-Injection Turbo engine offers 35% improved city fuel efficiency ( Disclosure10) on two-door models and more torque. The powerplant blends performance-enhancing and fuel-saving technologies to optimize powertrain efficiency and effectiveness, particularly in the low rpm range.

This four door car was roomy, comfortable, and sleek. I can easily fit my family in this vehicle.

It was stylish, fun, and easy to drive. For the first time ever, I actually enjoyed driving! This vehicle was SO ME!

Sometimes you have to venture out to find what you want. And sometimes everything you could want—from the available 8.4-inch Uconnect^® touchscreen to available leather-trimmed seating to ample cargo storage options—is right there in the 2019 Jeep_® Wrangler.

This car is perfect for off-roading and exploring. I felt super confident and masterful in this vehicle.

The GINORMOUS snow tires made it so easy to maneuver in the snow, and we didn’t need chains on our tires.

This Jeep Wrangler Rubicon was seriously so much fun to drive! Our weekend adventure was EPIC, and this INCREDIBLE car made it more memorable. This is definitely something I would LOVE to purchase in the near future.

Orange Coast Auto Group is Southern California’s premier new and used car dealer for Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep and Ram! If you are in the market to purchase a new vehicle I HIGHLY recommend them!

Dealer Address: 2929 Harbor Blvd, Costa Mesa, CA 92626

Sales: 877-291-5568

Romantic Getaway at the W Hotel in Punta De Mita

W-Hotel-Punta-De-Mita-Ocean — Photo Credit to Ciaran Blumenfeld

The W Hotel Punta de Mita, is a hidden gem in Nayarit Mexico. For our 21st wedding anniversary, Carlos and I decided to go on a romantic adventure without our kids to celebrate our special day. This secluded oasis was the perfect spot for us to disconnect, rejuvenate, and escape from our hectic lives.

The easy flight was 3 1/2 hours out of LAX. We were thrilled to get in some alone time and catch up.

Thank you W Hotel Punta De Mita and Riviera Nayarit for hosting us at your gorgeous hotel. All opinions are my own.

Our first order of business was to soak up the sun, order ceviche, and a cool drink. We immediately noticed this beach front property was very private and quiet…

We strolled on the sand, and listened to the crashing ocean waves. The sky was painted a bright salmon, pink, gray, and deep blue… It was both surreal and calming.

About W Punta De Mita

Eclectic design as colorful as the lush Mexican coastline, W Punta de Mita’s is a celebration of the region’s rich history. Surf fun waves in crystal clear water then kick back with a cocktail and some ceviche.

This unique hotel offers customized experiences for their guests.

HUICHOL-INSPIRED STYLE MEETS SURF CULTURE

The Hotel Accommodations

The hotel rooms are quirky and decorated with vibrant colors.

At night the jungle comes ALIVE! We could hear the birds chirping, frogs croaking, the Chachalas (exotic birds) loud screeching, and other unusual noises.

The hotel had many unique design and architectural elements. I walked on this elaborate tile tapestry that began at the hotel reception and led me to the the ocean…

There is color and art everywhere at the W Hotel Punta De Mita. Our private patio was the perfect place to hangout and relax with Frida Khalo.

The W Hotel’s passion points are:

The staff was very thoughtful and attentive. A delicious assortment of chocolates was delivered to our hotel room for our anniversary.

The AWAY Spa is perfect for detox, retox, and repeat… Oh and there is a full bar in the spa too!

It was so nice to get in a little me time. I sipped on tea, and enjoyed the hidden spa on the property. My 60 minute Escape facial was sooo incredible and relaxing.

Ahhh… Shift into full vacation mode at AWAY Spa, where a tranquil jungle setting, holistic amenities, customized spa therapies, and beauty treatments will leave your body nourished and looking its best for whatever comes next.

Services, Treatments and Amenities

Body scrub
Body wrap
Couple’s Massage
Facials
Fitness classes available
Hair & scalp treatments
Makeup Services
Manicures/pedicures
Massages
Plunge pools
Separate Men’s & Women’s Lounges
Steam room

The service at the W Punta De Mita was exceptional, and surpassed our overall expectations. I can’t wait to return for another adventure!

Stay tuned for my next post! I will show you the DELICIOUS food options at the hotel…

10 Incredible Reasons To Staycation With Your Family At Pechanga Resort Casino

Are you looking for a family friendly getaway?

If so, Pechanga Resort Casino is a great option!

“WOW, LOOK AT THIS HOTEL!” my son screamed as we drove up to the Pechanga Resort Casino in Temecula for our staycation. He tugged on my arm, “Do they have a pool?” I stood in astonishment in the beautiful lobby. A gorgeous fountain stood before us, while native artifacts were conserved in glass cases.

The Pechanga Band of Luiseño Indians’ officially opened March 3rd in front of the all-glass enclosed lobby, and kicked off a stunning weekend of concerts, firework displays and VIP parties that officially opened the Tribe’s $300 million resort expansion.

Now the largest resort/casino on the West Coast, Pechanga Resort Casino offers guests approachable luxury with subtle elements of the Tribe’s Native heritage woven into architectural and resort experiences. This major expansion added 568 AAA Four Diamond hotel rooms and suites, a 4.5-acre pool complex, two additional restaurants, a two-level luxury spa with fitness and yoga studio, and another 68,000 square feet of meeting and event space including the 40,000 square foot Pechanga Summit.

Here Are 10 Incredible Reasons To Head To Pechanga Resort Casino for a family staycation.

There is something for everyone in the family!

1. New Pechanga Hotel Rooms & Suites

Five new room types have been added to Pechanga’s lineup with the addition of its Resort Tower. The second tower complements the other 522 rooms and suites in the Casino Tower.

Disclosure: Thank you Pechanga Resort Casino for hosting my family at your beautiful resort. All opinions are my own.

We checked into our hotel room. The suite was bright and chic. The luxurious white comforters and beds were comfortable and cozy. An upscale shower greeted my eyes. Ahhh I think to myself, ” I needed this.” I lied on the bed, and ate some chocolate almonds. This place is great to disconnect and relax…

Check out our incredible view from our hotel room!

2. Shows & Entertainment

On Friday night comic Vince Carone was headlined at the Comedy Club. There is a great line up of shows, live performances, and comedians worth making a trip for. For a list of upcoming shows, visit the Pechanga website.

3. Food

On night one we attended a welcome reception, “Taste of Pechanga” featuring foods from among Pechanga’s 13 delicious restaurants. We sampled the local wines, Craft Cocktails and Mocktails. There was a great variety for all foodie palates.

Juicy scallops, perfectly slices meats, and the fresh crisp salads were flavorful and delicious. I turned around to see Andrew try to stuff his pockets with chocolate strawberries and rice krispies. OMG this kid!

My daughter stood by an ice tea jug, “THIS IS BETTER THAN ANY STARBUCKS TEA IVE EVER TRIED!” The food options were wonderful and delicious. We were in a food coma after our sensational feast!

Lobby Bar & Grill

Here are some of our favorite food highlights during our stay…

Breakfast at Blends Coffee & Wine Bar at Pechanga
Breakfast/Brunch at Journey’s End
Lunch at Coveside Grill (inside The Cove pool complex)
Dinner at Lobby Bar & Grill

4. AMAZING Pool & Water Slides

We spent several hours at “The Cove” – Pechanga’s new 4 ½ acre pool complex. The pool and water attractions were a dream.

The waterpark is great for little ones too!

My son ripped of his shirt, and jumped into the pool. Andrew swam up to me, gave me a wet kiss, and thanked me for what he described as the “best trip ever.”

My son yelled, “GUYS THERE”S A WATER SLIDE! LETS GO!” The kids ran in sync towards the slides. They played for hours.

I ordered a cocktail, and worked on my tan. It was really nice…

5. Golf Course

Do you like to golf? If so, the golf course at Pechanga is incredible…

Kid golf lessons are available with a Pechanga PGA Instructor too!

My little guy was thrilled to meet and train with PGA Instructor Randy Chang. He was very patient, and took the time to explain the game to him.

After my son’s lesson, he felt like a pro!

6. Great Location For Private Parties

If you are planning a birthday party, wedding, bachelor or bachelorette party, or need a just cuz getaway. Pechanga is the ideal spot for this…

During our visit, I took a private tour with the staff to see the beautiful wedding sites, bride and groom ready rooms, group meeting breakout rooms and new Pechanga Summit event center.

7. Disconnect, Relax, and Rejuvenate At The New Spa

The new Spa Pechanga encompasses two levels connected with a beautiful spiral staircase. It features 17 treatment rooms, outdoor cabana massage services, a state-of-the-art fitness studio, a dedicated spa pool and two indoor hydrotherapy pools, plus a hair and nail salon. The salon offers hair, nail, make-up and even a full suite of barbering services.

My daughter was thrilled to spend some quality time with her mama at the spa. We both got mani and pedis.

I felt refreshed after spending time at the gorgeous spa. The staff was upbeat, friendly, and professional.

The Spa pass gives guests access to the lounge with sauna, steam room, hydrotherapy pool, and private spa pool and cabanas…

pechanga-resort-casino

“Healing is integral throughout your journey here at Spa Pechanga. Our new menu items are designed to awaken and relieve the five senses after each treatment,” said Whitney Tabor, Spa Pechanga Manager. “The Pechanga tribe used native white sage to cleanse and purify the body, so we made sure that the white sage properties, as well as other native Pechanga plants and flora, are prevalent in the new treatments. They areorganic and fresh since you can find them right outside the door on tribal lands and most importantly, leave our guests refreshed and restored.”

New Spa Pechanga menu items include:

Spicy & Icy Facial: An 80-minute facial designed to restore tired and sagging skin on the face and neck.This signature facial incorporates cinnamon, which reduces inflammation and a cooling ionic mask. Spicy & Icy takes you through warm and cold to induce blood vessels to expel impurities, leaving your skin firmer, glowing and radiant.
Tandem Massage: Two therapists work in concert, mirroring each other’s movements across your back, neck, arms, legs and scalp to induce extreme relaxation and alleviate tension and soreness.
Reflexology Foot Soak: This treatment provides relief to overworked ankles, legs and feet. A copper tub is filled with distilled water and healing stones to lift out impurities. Feet receive a 50 or 80-minute massage and reflexology treatment that can help ailments in other areas of the body. To finish, guests receive a balancing tea made from cleansing white sage leaves and other native plants.

Wakeup Yoga at Spa Pechanga (1 hour mixed levels)

If you need to stretch or get some exercise, Yoga class and a gym is available.

Location: Spa Pechanga Movement Studio inside of the Fitness Center

9. The Casino

For those of you that like to gamble, hit the slots and the tables!

10. Explore Temecula & Local Excursions

During our stay we took a wonderful ballon ride with, ” A Grape Escape.” The views of the vineyards left me breathless.

Other fun things to do in Temecula:

Wine Tasting
Balloon Ride
Hiking
Visit Old Town Temecula
Museums

Our staycation at Pechanga Resort Casino was memorable. I would definitely return with family and friends. There was something for everyone in my family. The staff was incredible, and the hotel accommodations surpassed my overall expectations. We can’t wait to return for another fabulous getaway!

Location:

Pechanga Resort + Casino (45000 Pechanga Parkway, Temecula, CA, 92592)

Social:

FB: @pechanga | Twitter: @pechangacasino | IG: @pechangacasino | #pechangacasino

Pronunciation: Pechanga is pronounced “Pe-CHONG-ah”

Memorable Camping Trip To Thousand Trails: Yosemite Lakes RV Resort And GoRVing

It was the last day of school and my kids were eager for summer break… My son kept on asking, “When are we going camping?” He could barely contain his excitement when I told him we were going on an adventure with our friends to Yosemite National Park. GoRving’s Park Model Cabins have been a wonderful and convenient glamping option for my family in the past, and we were thrilled to explore a new campground with them!

The seven hour scenic drive to Thousand Trails in Yosemite was gorgeous. “Are we there yet?” my son said repeatedly. Our lives are hectic, and we are always on the go. Carlos travels a lot for work, and I it was nice that he could take some time off to spend quality time with the kiddos.

I have included an easy meal plan and tip list in the post to help you plan your next travel adventure!

Disclosure: Thank you Thousand Trails and GoRving for hosting our family at Yosemite Lakes Campground. All opinions are my own.

This was our adorable GoRVing home away from home, at Thousand Trails Yosemite Lakes RV Resort. It was so refreshing and therapeutic to walk outside and breathe fresh clean air, see nature, and hear the trickling sounds of stream close by.

The Park Model RVs are ideal for families who want to get away, but don’t have the time or want to fuss with packing tents, stoves, and other heavy camping gear. These cabins are fully-loaded and equipped. Most have A/C, heat, a full kitchen & bathroom, bedroom, grill, fire pit, porch and more! They are super comfortable and close to all the campground activities.

Each cabin is nice and cozy, and has two bedrooms with two satellite televisions.

The kids loved the bunk beds and fought over who was getting to top bunk. Lol

More Tips On What to bring:
Soap, shampoo, toiletries
Bug spray, sun screen
Music / iPod & amp; speakers
Cell phone & charger
Camera / video recorder
Your own GPS
Spatula or tongs for grill
Paper towels / foil / plastic wrap / paper plates / napkins / plastic ware
Wet wipes
Garbage bags
Matches / lighter for grills
Bottle / wine opener
First aid supplies
Flashlight / battery operated lantern
Folding chairs & picnic blanket
Games / cards
Binoculars
Beach Towels

The kitchen is fully equipped with kitchen utensils, pots and pans, cutting board, microwave, stove, refrigerator, kitchen table and much more!

RV Types And Options:

Trailers

You can pull some trailers with the family car and store it in your garage. Or, try one a little bit bigger that
has a full kitchen and bath. Trailers start $6,000.

Motorhomes

Motorhomes are great for families that want to feel like they’re at home, even when riding down the road.
Passengers often enjoy playing games at the dinette table, watching TV, or relaxing on the couch.
Motorhomes have lots of storage space and come in all sizes and price ranges. Starts at $60,000 and can be
financed up to 15 years OR rent one starting around $150 a day.

Park Model RV

A great way to try camping is to stay in a park model RV, sometimes called Park Model Cabins. These are
fully-loaded cabins built on an RV chassis and located in many campgrounds in the U.S. Most have A/C,
heat, a full kitchen & amp; bathroom, bedroom, grill, fire pit, porch and more – super comfortable and you still
have access to all the campground activities. It’s also a great way for anyone with a disability to go camping.

It was so nice to sit outside and enjoy nature. Each cabin has its own grill too!

Here is a suggested grocery list, to help prepare for your own camping adventure.

Grocery list:

Cereal / Milk
Eggs / bread / bacon
Sandwich meats / chips
Steaks / chicken / hot dogs / hamburgers – anything you want to grill
Ketchup / mustard / butter / salt / pepper / spices
Any veggies or salads you’ll want with your barbecue– or shop at local farm stands for really fresh, local
ingredients
Sodas / beer / wine / bottled water
Snacks
Coffee / tea/ cream / sugar
Charcoal (or you can buy it at the campground store)
Chocolate bars, marshmallows, graham crackers, long skewers for s’mores!
Reusable water bottles

Check out my easy s’more cheesecake! I bought a pre-made cheesecake and just added, graham crackers, marshmallows, and chocolate syrup. Easy breezy!

Meal planning with my blogger friends was lots of fun. Each family took turns on hosting dinner each evening.

1st night- We made tacos, ceviche, rice and beans

2nd night- Penny (On The Go OC) made homemade chili

3rd night- Mary (Let’s Play OC) made pasta

For a easy meal planning list, check out Let’s Play OC’s post here.

Musicians and artists entertained guests around a cozy campfire by the clubhouse.

About Yosemite Lakes Campground

Yosemite Lakes Public RV Camping is an authentic American RV campground located just outside of California’s beautiful Yosemite National Park. Ideally situated just 5 miles from the west gate of the park entrance, this 400-acre preserve is a wonderland of activity during the summer. The South Fork of the Tuolumne River running through the preserve is ideal for swimming, fishing and panning for gold. This RV campground in California is just 35 miles west of Lake Don Pedro where fishing, boating and water skiing are popular pastimes. The state’s largest public cavern, Moaning Cavern, is also a well-known local attraction.

Thousand Trails: Yosemite Lakes Resort Amenities:

Clubhouse
Gameroom
Shuffleboard
Fishing
Creek, Lake, and Canal
Pets Welcome
Store
Nature Trails
Mini Golf
Laundry Facilities
Picnic/ BBQ Area
Volleyball
Basketball
Horseshoes

GoRving-thousand-trails-yosemite — Lower Falls

Thousand Trails Yosemite Lakes Campground is an easy 20 minute drive from Yosemite National Park. We hopped on our vehicle and made our way to the Lower Falls, Bridal Veil, and Glacier. It was magical, and was a unique park to explore…