Postcard from a Southern California Road Trip
A postcard from the road typically means I'm typing out a quick post on my phone as I'm doing just now with a glorious sunrise view from our balcony at the Ojai Valley Inn. Though California is having an early season heatwave we’ve been staying cool poolside.
A postcard from the road typically means I'm typing out a quick post on my phone as I'm doing just now with a glorious sunrise view from our balcony at the Ojai Valley Inn. Though California is having an early season heatwave we’ve been staying cool poolside.
Our first stop on this SoCal road trip was the Belmond El Encanto where we enjoyed a stay a number of years ago. It was a lovely walk down memory lane and then it was off to Ojai and the fabulous Ojai Valley Inn to explore a new area for us. As you can see by the gallery below—we loved it!
Beautiful views at Ojai Valley Inn
I’ll look forward to sharing more about our recent travels in upcoming posts. By the way, a hot tip for your travel is to consider making a few dining reservations ahead. Vacation destinations are getting busy and many establishments are short-staffed creating long wait times without a reservation.
Both hotels we visited have space available for fall and holiday bookings so contact us to learn more and to make your bookings!
Happy Summer!
Ciao! Heather
Until Further Notice, Celebrate Everything!
I don’t know where I first heard this quote but it definitely resonates with me, perhaps now more than ever. After spending over a year mostly at home, socially distanced, and missing family and friends, every step back towards normalcy feels like a celebration. Now that Scott and I are fully vaccinated our world is opening up again and it is exciting!
My Mother ‘s Floral Arrangement
“Until further notice, celebrate everything!”
I don’t know where I first heard this quote but it definitely resonates with me, perhaps now more than ever. After spending over a year mostly at home, socially distanced, and missing family and friends, every step back towards normalcy feels like a celebration. Now that Scott and I are fully vaccinated our world is opening up again and it is exciting!
A few of my favorite recent celebrations:
Hugging my mom, who turned 90 during the pandemic, for the first time in over a year.
Hugging, kissing, and cuddling Charlie and Lily, our grandchildren.
Sitting on the couch and ‘chilling’ at Briana and Shawn’s home, my bonus daughter and family, for the first time since they moved in a year ago.
Lunch with dear friends, a milestone birthday dinner, a baby shower, alfresco dinner date with my hubby.
A spontaneous visit from cousins and a ‘sleep over’.
Mother’s Day lunch “inside” gathered with my family around our table decorated by my mother’s beautiful floral arrangement (all from her garden)
Hugging my bestie since 4th grade at lunch this week.
Even the ‘normal’ things like getting a haircut, pedicure, in-person shopping, and medical appointments feel much more comfortable. Yes, I definitely celebrated that long-awaited pedicure! Feeling truly grateful for this new chapter.
Up next on our itinerary? Our first flights in over a year take off next week! Yes, travel is back and we are slightly anxious yet VERY excited for a beach vacation. I’m so out of practice with packing that it will be an adventure in and of itself. Hope you will follow along on Instagram.
How about you? Are you feeling the celebration vibes too this season?
So I’m sticking with it, “Until further notice, celebrate everything” - large and small- that you have on your horizon.
By the way, our Virtual Luxury + Adventure Travel Show 2021 is Saturday, May 22. Find out more details and register for this fabulous travel event here. I promise it will fuel your wanderlust!
A Springtime Getaway to Sonoma Valley Wine Country and the Idyllic Montage Healdsburg
Earlier this spring Scott and I had the pleasure of returning to Healdsburg, in Sonoma County, the site of our first romantic getaway 22 years ago. We always enjoy a walk down ‘memory lane’ in this classic wine country town and this trip we stayed at a sparkling new destination, the idyllic Montage Healdsburg. The spacious resort, with 130 bungalow-style suites sprinkled throughout, is eco-friendly with a contemporary design style enhanced by native oak trees and vineyards. We thoroughly enjoyed the fire table on our balcony during chilly evenings, golf cart rides around the grounds, tasty cuisine at some old and new Healdsburg favorites, sampled delicious wines and enjoyed springtime drives through the vineyards. Just a friendly reminder that springtime in wine country is not to be missed!
Earlier this spring Scott and I had the pleasure of returning to Healdsburg, in Sonoma County, the site of our first romantic getaway 22 years ago. We always enjoy a walk down ‘memory lane’ in this classic wine country town and this trip we stayed at a sparkling new destination, the idyllic Montage Healdsburg. The spacious resort, with 130 bungalow-style suites sprinkled throughout, is eco-friendly with a contemporary design style enhanced by native oak trees and vineyards. We thoroughly enjoyed the fire table on our balcony during chilly evenings, golf cart rides around the grounds, tasty cuisine at some old and new Healdsburg favorites, sampled delicious wines and enjoyed springtime drives through the vineyards. Just a friendly reminder that springtime in wine country is not to be missed!
“With its captivating blend of wine country charm, rustic natural beauty and impeccable flavors, Healdsburg consistently ranks as one of America’s favorite small towns. Whether sipping your way through world-class tasting rooms or unwinding amid understated luxury, this historic enclave is certain to suit your palate.”
Twilight views of Mount St. Helena
From our Curated Travel Instagram post:
“Let’s face it, one of our favorite things about travel is the food 🍽 (and it’s something we’ve been missing with our year spent mostly at home). In Healdsburg, a well-known foodie haven, we enjoyed old favorites (Bravas de Tapas!🥂) and discovered new delights (Barndiva, Hazel Hill at Montage, Guiso, and Campo Fina). Simply said...travel is delicious!”
P.S. - Isn’t it surprising and fun when your order matches your outfit? ;) Thank you, Barndiva!
A quintessential drive through wine country embellished with vibrant yellow mustard, blue skies, green grasses, and white puffy clouds of spring.
We stopped in at Ferrari Carano, a walk down memory lane from our first visit, for a private wine tasting on their Mediterranean-style terrace overlooking the pool. The gardens, landscape, and rose’ here are extraordinary. We even stopped by the first b & b where we stayed 22 years ago and discovered the old Adirondack chairs still in place on the lawn.
Thank you to Montage Healdsburg for the warm welcome and exceptional experience in wine country.
Montage Healdsburg is a preferred partner and a member of the Virtuoso Luxury Network.
For more information and to book online here or contact us to book for you.
Virtuoso travelers receive:
Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability
Daily Breakfast Credit for two guests per bedroom ($30 per person, daily)
$100 USD equivalent Resort or Hotel credit to be utilized during stay (not combinable, not valid on room rate, no cash value if not redeemed in full)
Early Check-In / Late Check-Out, subject to availability
Complimentary Wi-Fi
Read more posts on visits to wine country:
Our Stay at Classic Timber Cove Resort on the Northern California Coast + Notes on Travel During Covid-19
There was a birthday on the horizon and I wanted to surprise my husband with a destination that would suit our quarantine-induced need for sea air, ocean views, beach walks, foodie cuisine, and most importantly, Covid hygiene protocols. On this trip, no fancy clothes or heels were required but hiking boots, a picnic basket, and his guitar were on the packing list. You get the ultra-relaxed vibe I was looking for with this getaway for my premiere travel client.
There was a birthday on the horizon and I wanted to surprise my husband with a destination that would suit our quarantine-induced cravings for sea air, ocean views, beach walks, foodie cuisine, along with, most importantly, Covid hygiene protocols. On this trip, no fancy clothes or heels were required but hiking boots, a picnic basket, and his guitar were on the packing list. You get the ultra-relaxed vibe I was looking for with this getaway for my premiere travel client.
Just as I hoped, Timber Cove Resort, a classic California Coast seafront lodge was just the place. Not only was Scott surprised by the laidback charm and beach feel, he appreciated the gourmet dining, firepits, wine tasting, and retro record players in each rustic room. Also noteworthy were the private entrances and windswept balconies with cove views equally stunning at sunrise and sunset. And who can resist those outdoor firepits??
“Timber Cove is proud of its rich lineage. Built in 1963 as a place of meditation and tranquility, Timber Cove was designed by famed architect and original owner Richard Clements Jr., who was inspired by Frank Lloyd Wright’s organic architectural style. Envisioned as a dramatic A-Frame structure, the original Timber Cove generously incorporated redwood and stone materials to create a timeless space that complements the local surroundings. ”
Outdoor dining was allowed during our visit to Timber Cove Resort so we made the most of our cool fall evenings with lap blankets we brought from home. The Coast Kitchen restaurant was a welcome relief from months of home-cooking and we enjoyed the fresh fare with indulgent notes. Cheers to the birthday boy!
For our second day, we ordered a picnic from the kitchen and took it to the beach on the bluff. Despite a chilly day, it was warm in the sun and the perfect perch to enjoy tapas and a chilled sauvignon blanc above the sea.
notes on traveling during the Covid-19 chapter:
Scott tells me I am by far the “most cautious person” he knows regarding Covid-19. We have taken 2 short road trip overnighters since the pandemic and only traveled and dined outdoors in our ‘safety bubble’ of two a handful of times. Here are the guidelines I use to prepare to travel safely.
Check case numbers and recommendations in your destination before booking a hotel and check cancellation/postponement policies.
Check hotel/lodging for outdoor living spaces rather than enclosed lounges & lobbies.
Read reviews and ratings on how well the resort implements the hygiene plans and protocols.
Pack all the gear: an assortment of masks, hand-sanitizer, anti-bacterial wipes (for wiping down touchpoints in your room), disinfecting air spray, and blankets/picnic ware for outdoor dining.
Most restaurants use a QR code rather than a paper menu for touchless ordering, but if they don’t you can ask for a new single-use paper menu.
Before you travel plan out comfortable rest stops where you can use the facilities. While I’ve NEVER been a fan of gas station restrooms now is not the time to start. We plan our travel time frame around a stop for lunch at a trusted restaurant or coffee shop.
Take a moment to appreciate your staff and servers who are working harder than ever to make your experience safe and enjoyable. In our experience, they are doing an amazing job!
Thank you to the wonderful staff at Timber Cove Resort who went above and beyond to make sure the birthday boy was celebrated and that we felt comfortable the entire stay. Truly, a road trip in your local region can be the safest way to travel when the time is right for you.
Contact us to learn more and to book your next getaway.
All photos were taken on my iPhone.
Read more on our travels to wine country:
Inspiration for Celebrating Date Night at Home for Valentine's Day
Happy Valentine’s weekend, friends! With days passing slowly, it’s hard to believe it’s already mid-February, isn’t it?
This time last year my husband booked a romantic getaway to the Kenwood Inn & Spa in the Sonoma Valley. We had been keeping an eye on the news and understood it might be our last getaway for awhile with the pandemic on the horizon. In some ways that made the trip all the more special and we savored the little details even more than usual. Little did we know how much ‘home time’ we would all have in the coming year.
Happy Valentine’s weekend, friends! With days passing slowly, it’s hard to believe it’s already mid-February, isn’t it?
This time last year my husband booked a romantic getaway to the Kenwood Inn & Spa in the Sonoma Valley. We had been keeping an eye on the news and understood it might be our last getaway for awhile with the pandemic on the horizon. In some ways that made the trip all the more special and we savored the little details even more than usual. Little did we know how much ‘home time’ we would all have in the coming year. Read about one of our favorite stays in wine country: A Mediterranean Style Getaway to Kenwood Inn & Spa in the Sonoma Valley.
This year, we will be staying home and celebrating with our tradition of ordering a catered dinner from our local favorite in Chico, Bacio Catering. If the weather cooperates we will dine alfresco as we have on previous Valentine’s Days where we lucked out on the weather. A brilliant sunset would be an extra special bonus, especially this year.
A few ideas for Valentine’s Day inspiration:
10 Ideas to Celebrate Valentine’s Day at Home This Year from Town & Country Magazine.
20 of the Best Valentine’s Day Movies Ever Made
Tour Some of the World’s Greatest Landmarks Without Leaving Home
We are looking forward to Stanley Tucci Searching for Italy on CNN (debuting Valentine’s Evening)
Follow Stanley Tucci for mixology inspiration
In whatever way you plan to celebrate this weekend wishing you love, joy, and fun!
Ciao!
Heather
Previous posts on romance travel and date night:
![The Fine Art of a Romantic Date Night at Home [Thanks to Bacio Catering]](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5a66444d017db2e6975e076e/1525654624707-WLNWLS4ULRCCXZSYDEYV/16585443_1848234005389062_5041528621743734784_n.jpg)
A ‘Suite’ Stay at Auberge du Soleil In Napa Valley for our 20th Anniversary
Though our trip to Bora Bora was postponed due to COVID, Scott and I were excited about our reimagined plans to celebrate our 20th wedding anniversary in the Napa Valley. This was our first trip in seven months, and from the moment we arrived at Auberge du Soleil we knew we had found the perfect place to celebrate.
Though our trip to Bora Bora was postponed due to COVID, Scott and I were excited about our reimagined plans to celebrate our 20th wedding anniversary in the Napa Valley. This was our first trip in seven months, and from the moment we arrived at Auberge du Soleil we knew we had found the perfect place to celebrate. We were treated to exceptional service, a tour of the beautiful property, a review of the included amenities, an update on rigorous hygiene protocols, and a glass of sparkling wine. We were graciously upgraded to the Saint Remy deluxe suite (1254 sq. ft.) with a private terrace, living space with a fireplace, soaking tub, and a separate powder room which made our stay even more luxurious and comfortable.
“
Inspired by the south of France. Infused with California soul.”
We enjoyed the beautiful french style grounds at Auberge including the classic swimming pool with yellow striped loungers. It felt like a getaway to Provence with only a three hour drive.
Our suite included a fresh made to order breakfast each day. The menu contained a QR code which, when photographed, displayed a menu on our phones to keep our ordering experience hands-free.
My tour of the Saint Remy suite with a toast by Scott
The first night we enjoyed a delicious fireside dinner on the patio at one of our favorites, Solbar, at Solage Resort (also an Auberge Resort).
On September 10th, our 20th anniversary, the concierge at Auberge set us up with a private tasting at Crocker & Starr Winery in St. Helena. Lauren, our knowledgable wine guide, hosted a fantastic tasting of bold reds, views of the vines, and stories of the history of the winery.
Dressing for dinner, exchanging gifts, a little bubbly by the fire, and dinner on the balcony at Auberge du Soleil.
It turned out to be très romantique, just as we had hoped.
I created a hardcover book of our 20 years together for my husband’s gift. In the second photo below we were goofing around trying to recreate the image from our 5th anniversary on the cover. It was harder than we thought but this one turned out fairly close. US….15 years later.
I use BLURB for my personalized books and I love to use Greeting Card Universe for my personalized greeting cards (owned by my cousins!) like the one I made for Scott above.
Thank you to the team at Auberge du Soleil, especially Carol, Sharon, and Keith, for making our stay so memorable. As it turns out, Auberge du Soleil was the perfect place to celebrate our 20th anniversary in comfort and style. We were reminded how romantic a few days away from all this ‘home time’ can be and can hardly wait to return!
Cheers to my love, Scott, and another 20 years! x
Contact us for more info and to book your stay at Auberge du Soleil in Napa Valley.
To view and/or book other preferred resorts in Napa Valley with Virtuoso amenities.
Coming Soon on the Blog: Our visit to RH in Yountville
Throwback Travel: Our Honeymoon in Zihuatanejo
