Nestled between the Pacific Ocean and the scenic Santa Monica Mountains, Ventura County offers a harmonious blend of natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant communities. From its picturesque coastline to its agricultural heartland, the county is a testament to California's diverse landscapes and cultures.

It's called Fantasy Springs Resort for good reason. It sits in the middle of the Palm Springs desert like a giant oasis, welcoming travelers with flowing fountains, swaying palm trees, a sparkling pool, a luxurious hotel, and an award-winning casino with a world-class entertainment center. 

Rarely is the word funky used to describe an entire town. Welcome to Goodland, Florida — all six blocks of it. Founded in the 1800’s, sitting right outside a tiny harbor, is this almost-as-tiny town. Riding around the neighborhood, large and colorful dolphin, swordfish and flamingo mailboxes entertain enroute. Fun enough to see but what really catches you up are …

When winter hits Southern California, I always find time for a trip to Big Bear Lake, one of my favorite mountain destinations for playing in the snow, relaxing in cabins and boutique hotels, and enjoying incredible lake and alpine views. Last week was no different as the family and I checked into a great hotel room at Home2 Suites by …

Story by Sarah Wyatt. Photographs by Darrell Scattergood. Two unlikely contenders enter the ring: Gaylord Opryland in Nashville and Gaylord Palms in Orlando, Florida. Who will prevail in the smackdown of holiday awesomeness this year? Freezing in Florida Representing the Sunshine State is Gaylord Palms in Orlando. The resort honors its ice artisans every November with a standing ovation and …

"So where are we going," I asked my husband. "You'll see," he slyly replied. So began our surprise road trip adventure sponsored by Guess Where Trips' Tiny Towns Tours. Heading out from Washington, DC I giddily prepared for a day of…well, I had no idea. What I did know was that there were five envelopes. The Before You Go envelope lays out basic trip guidelines, sets the mood - as if my mood needed any more setting.

I am sitting on the beach doing nothing. I did the same thing yesterday. I also did nothing sitting on my hotel balcony. Okay, I was listening to the waves but certain do nothing things are allowed. Reading, for instance. I have a couple of days left to my vacation and I plan to do nothing in them also. It’s …

Story and photographs by Greg Aragon Catalina is not just an island paradise; it’s a very close island paradise, which makes it a perfect day or weekend getaway for Southern California residents. In fact, at only 22 nautical miles across the sea from Long Beach, the island can be reached by boat in one hour. With this in mind, the …

The year is 1954. For the first time in six years, the New York Yankees are not in contention for the world series. But I don’t care – I spent the early school year racing home to watch my heroes on our tiny black-and-white TV. I not only know all the players – Andy Carey on third, Mickey Mantle in …

I was curious to see what life was like in the nation’s capital days before a Presidential Election. I took the Metro which cost less than $3 for a regular pass or $15 for a whole day pass. I remember when they opened the first line in the late 70s and was impressed at the high coffered ceilings and the …