California. edition / 01

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1 California edition / 01

2 Sunny California Smart Tips for Travellers California, gemstone of the USA, is a dream escape for any kind of traveller. With world-class theme parks, the freshest local produce, thrilling natural terrain, impressive entertainment and affordable luxury, Australians are spoilt for choice. The following guide will inspire your California dreams and help plot your next adventure. To avoid the crowds at some of your bucket list attractions, check out the list of US public holidays and try to steer clear of these busy times. Similarly, try to schedule popular attractions mid-week if possible to avoid waiting in lines. Tipping in the USA can be awkward at first; however it s part of the culture and it pays to respect this custom. If you don t know how much to tip then check out the various online guides or simply ask a local, most are very happy to help visitors. Visa waivers for Australian citizens and permanent residents travelling to the US for leisure are fairly easy and cheap to obtain online. Visit Ensure you purchase an appropriate travel insurance policy. If renting a car, pick up a GPS at the rental counter. It will make driving around a foreign country less stressful. 03 Mount Shasta Drive distances Redwood National Park Mendocino Lake Tahoe Wine Country Golden Gate Bridge Average temperatures Season TIME 381mi / 613km 6 hours Yosemite National Park 91mi / 308km 3½ hours Sacramento 85mi / 137km 1½ hours Lake Tahoe 187mi / 300km 3½ hours Redwood National & State Parks 355mi / 571km 6½ hours LOS ANGELES TO: DISTANCE TIME Disneyland (Anaheim) 28mi / 44km ½ hour San Diego 121mi / 194km 2 hours Palm Springs 107mi / 171km 2 hours Death Valley National Park 235mi / 379km 5½ hours Yosemite National Park 315mi / 506km 5 hours Yosemite National Park Los Angeles San Francisco High High High Low Low Summer (21 JUN-21 SEP) Autumn (21 SEP-21 DEC) Winter (21 DEC-21 MAR) Spring (21 MAR-21 JUN ) You can turn right on a red light after stopping and checking for traffic (unless it says otherwise). 3. They have four way stop signs right of way goes to the car, or cars, that were waiting at the intersection before you. Happy driving! Winter Playground Kings Canyon National Park Beach Boardwalk Death Valley National Park Pebble Beach Sequoia National Park Hearst Castle Morro Bay Palm Springs 1. They drive on the right side of the road. Yosemite National park Low DISTANCE Los Angeles CALIFORNIA Cambria Driving in California is easy just remember... SAN FRANCISCO TO: Joshua Tree National Park Santa Monica Newport Beach San Diego Zoo Surf Beaches California Bixby bridge, Monterey, USA

Family fun There is a reason families flock to California in droves.

From Disneyland Resort, the granddaddy of all theme parks, to world-class aquariums, zoos, historical museums, and outdoor activities, California will keep the entire family entertained.

Some cost a little extra but are worth it for the extra fun-time.

While driving on the right hand side of the road can be daunting at first, it s easy to adapt, and hiring a car can be a great way to get the family from A to B.

Check out Lorikeet Landing at San Diego Zoo Safari Park for the surreal experience of these parakeet-like birds hopping on arms, shoulders and even the top of heads.

SeaWorld, San Diego Get wet and wild at SeaWorld, San Diego. Frolic with the dolphins and enjoy the ocean s majestic creatures in this educational and inspiring environment. 2.

3 Family fun There is a reason families flock to California in droves. A fantastic year-round destination, California is chock-full of attractions for travellers from all walks of life, especially the young and young at heart. From Disneyland Resort, the granddaddy of all theme parks, to world-class aquariums, zoos, historical museums, and outdoor activities, California will keep the entire family entertained. Skip the queues at Disneyland Resort with Disney s FASTPASS, which is included in your Park ticket and at Universal Studios Hollywood, with front-of-the-line passes. Some cost a little extra but are worth it for the extra fun-time. Be sure to allow plenty of time to explore California s natural wonders: the beaches and national parks are crowd pleasers for the entire family. California is an easy-driving state. While driving on the right hand side of the road can be daunting at first, it s easy to adapt, and hiring a car can be a great way to get the family from A to B. Visits to the Hollywood sign, Chinese Theatre and Hollywood Walk of Fame are all must-do free activities. Check out Lorikeet Landing at San Diego Zoo Safari Park for the surreal experience of these parakeet-like birds hopping on arms, shoulders and even the top of heads. One of the most popular attractions at Universal Studios Hollywood is the behind-the-scenes Studio Tour, so make sure it is your first stop of the day SeaWorld, San Diego Get wet and wild at SeaWorld, San Diego. Frolic with the dolphins and enjoy the ocean s majestic creatures in this educational and inspiring environment. 2. Disneyland Resort, Anaheim Discover two amazing theme parks, Disney California Adventure Park featuring the 12-acre Cars Land and Disneyland Resort filled with timeless attractions, world-class entertainment and favourite characters. Now more magical than ever! Disney Disney Families with little ones 3. Disneyland s Themed Hotels With three to choose from, you can t go wrong. For the ultimate Disney experience, stay a night or two in the Pirates of the Caribbean Suite, Mickey Mouse Penthouse or Fairytale Suite all located within the Disneyland Resort! Universal Studios 4. Universal Studios, Hollywood Unleash your inner minion at Universal Studios Hollywood, LA. Try out the new Despicable Me: Minion Mayhem ride, complete with a Minion dance party. Families with teens 5. San Diego Zoo, San Diego Visit San Diego Zoo Safari Park, Escondido. Get a taste of the wild outdoors with intimate animal encounters that will wow the whole family. i Spending time in Disneyland? Orange County s beaches provide a seaside haven for those wanting a break from the rides and attractions of Anaheim. California s famous Huntington, Newport and Laguna Beaches are just a short drive away!

Culinary Home to the country s greatest food trends and celebrity chefs, food lovers delight in the abundance of innovative cuisine and fresh produce in California.

Each region is home to beautiful, fresh farmers markets and delicious wines. Discover the joys of country life with a few overnight farm stays.

You can taste to your heart s content without the responsibility of driving and you may be introduced to some world-class winemakers.

With a rich wine history dating back to the 1860s, and a community of farmer-artists devoted to exceptional winemaking, Mendocino embodies the authentic experience.

Find out what the hype is about by dining at one of the many celebrity chef restaurants in and around Los Angeles. 07 Couples 1.

You can travel the world in just three blocks, finding arts and crafts, handmade jewellery, furniture, clothing, international food, organic produce, flowers and pastries. 2.

4 Culinary Home to the country s greatest food trends and celebrity chefs, food lovers delight in the abundance of innovative cuisine and fresh produce in California. Whether you prefer five-star dining, a locally-produced chocolate gelato along the harbour or a platter of handmade cheeses with fine wine, there s something to satisfy a wide array of palates and budgets. Sonoma, California, USA Take a must-do culinary road-trip up the California Coast from LA to San Francisco stopping at Santa Barbara, San Luis Obispo, Carmel, Monterey, Sonoma and the Napa Valley. Each region is home to beautiful, fresh farmers markets and delicious wines. Discover the joys of country life with a few overnight farm stays. Taste peaches you pick yourself, or eggs you collect each morning. Take a guided wine tour through boutique and grand chateau wineries in the Napa Valley and Sonoma. You can taste to your heart s content without the responsibility of driving and you may be introduced to some world-class winemakers. Just north of Sonoma County you ll find one of California s best-kept secrets Mendocino s wine country. With a rich wine history dating back to the 1860s, and a community of farmer-artists devoted to exceptional winemaking, Mendocino embodies the authentic experience. Savour small-production, hand-crafted wines, poured by the winemaker in rustic tasting rooms overlooking sweeping hills and towering redwoods. Find out what the hype is about by dining at one of the many celebrity chef restaurants in and around Los Angeles. 07 Couples 1. Farmers Markets, Monterey Pick up fresh produce at the farmers markets of Monterey. You can travel the world in just three blocks, finding arts and crafts, handmade jewellery, furniture, clothing, international food, organic produce, flowers and pastries. 2. Napa Valley and Sonoma Taste your way through California s wine heritage in Napa Valley and Sonoma. If intimate wine tastings with world renowned winemakers tickle your palate, then Sonoma and Napa Valley are a must. 3. Hearst Castle, Central Coast Stop in at the historic mansion of Hearst Castle. Envisioned by newspaper giant William Randolph Hearst and designed by architect Julia Morgan, Hearst Castle began as a modest hilltop retreat, but ended up one of the world s greatest attractions and showpieces for ancient art. i The food truck revolution started in California! When you re in LA, San Francisco, or anywhere in between, don t forget a quick Google search will tell you where to find some of California s famous food trucks. 4. Mendocino Enjoy delicious food, wine, and beer prepared with local ingredients and an artisan s gentle touch in Mendocino. 5. Celebrity Chef Restaurants Visit a celebrity chef restaurant in Los Angeles. Favourites include Gordon Ramsay at The London West Hollywood, The Bazaar by José Andrés and Maude by Curtis Stone in Beverly Hills.

09 Outdoor recreation 4. Santa Monica Gold was what brought the world to California more than a century and a half ago. Today, nature is the state s most prized commodity.

SAN FRANCISCO Lake Tahoe Yosemite National Park Try a fitness trend like a Hoopnotic Workout in Santa Monica.

Death Valley LOS ANGELES California, USA Experience the driest area in North America, Death Valley.

Despite its morbid name, a great diversity of life survives in Death Valley and its phenomenal landscape is a sight to behold. 1.

Yosemite National Park Families with little ones Wildlife watching at Yosemite National Park will open your eyes to wildlife foreign to Australian soil. Bears included! 3.

Enjoy California s natural playground with a road trip.

Snow lovers should visit during winter to take advantage of world-class skiing and snowboarding.

5 09 Outdoor recreation 4. Santa Monica Gold was what brought the world to California more than a century and a half ago. Today, nature is the state s most prized commodity. From surf to slopes, and all that s in-between, hikers, bikers, skiers and golfers all flock to California to enjoy their passions in one of the most beautiful settings on Earth. SAN FRANCISCO Lake Tahoe Yosemite National Park Try a fitness trend like a Hoopnotic Workout in Santa Monica. Rewind to your childhood years, grab the hoola hoop and work your way to a fabulous waistline. Sequoia National Park 1735 km Joshua Tree National Park 5. Death Valley LOS ANGELES California, USA Experience the driest area in North America, Death Valley. In this below-sea-level basin, steady drought and record summer heat make Death Valley a land of extremes. Despite its morbid name, a great diversity of life survives in Death Valley and its phenomenal landscape is a sight to behold. 1. Ski Safari A ski safari from North Lake Tahoe to Mammoth Mountain, or the reverse, is the best way to experience the varied personalities of the many California ski resorts. 2. Yosemite National Park Families with little ones Wildlife watching at Yosemite National Park will open your eyes to wildlife foreign to Australian soil. Bears included! 3. Lake Tahoe Hike or mountain bike the famous Tahoe Rim Trail, Lake Tahoe, for panoramic views of this spectacular body of water. This is a soul lifting experience. Enjoy California s natural playground with a road trip. Starting in San Francisco, make your way to Lake Tahoe, down to Yosemite, Sequoia, Death Valley and Joshua Tree National Park, culminating in LA. Snow lovers should visit during winter to take advantage of world-class skiing and snowboarding. The snow safari, starting at North Lake Tahoe s Northstar and Squaw Valley, working down to Heavenly and Mammoth Mountain, is a popular choice and easy drive. If wildlife is more your scene, visit Yosemite National Park in summer and spot bears, coyotes and more. To really get in touch with nature, spend a night or two under the stars at one of the many camping spots. Mind, body and soul wellness enthusiasts will love the feel-good fitness trends in Santa Monica. Try a Hoopnotic workout with a hoola hoop, or stand-up paddle boarding yoga followed by an organic lunch at a local raw food specialty cafe. i Want to hug the largest known living single stem tree on Earth? Visit Sequoia National Park south of Yosemite to see General Sherman, an incredible Sequoia tree thought to be almost 3000 years old!

Culture and entertainment Walk the streets of San Francisco to best experience its eclectic and vibrant neighbourhoods.

11 California has a reputation as a haven for people with creative minds, and you can see this in its multifaceted cultural offerings.

The international home of performance art, LA is a bag of treats for any movie buff or music lover.

Sonoma SAN FRANCISCO Carmel Napa Valley Monterey 907 km In San Francisco, the Summer of Love plays on, with multiple outdoor venues spreading the good vibes with free concerts.

Contemplate both Old Masters and contemporary paintings at Los Angeles richly landscaped J. Paul Getty Museum.

This hands-on museum is an inviting place to tinker and explore science.

Relax with a hotdog and soak up the passion and atmosphere. Smart tips 1.

6 Culture and entertainment Walk the streets of San Francisco to best experience its eclectic and vibrant neighbourhoods. Enjoy the perfect combination of harmony and scenery at the Inland Empire Jazz and Blues Festival in Wrightwood s Angeles National Forest or the Mammoth Lakes Jazz Jubilee. 11 California has a reputation as a haven for people with creative minds, and you can see this in its multifaceted cultural offerings. In Los Angeles alone, the different personalities of each neighbourhood Beverly Hills, Hollywood, Santa Monica and more mean visitors have a myriad of exciting areas to explore. The international home of performance art, LA is a bag of treats for any movie buff or music lover. San Francisco offers incredible science museums with the vibrancy of Silicon Valley entrepreneurs on its doorstep. Sonoma SAN FRANCISCO Carmel Napa Valley Monterey 907 km In San Francisco, the Summer of Love plays on, with multiple outdoor venues spreading the good vibes with free concerts. Bring your own harmonica to the San Francisco Free Folk Festival, or stop by Stern Grove any Sunday afternoon. Contemplate both Old Masters and contemporary paintings at Los Angeles richly landscaped J. Paul Getty Museum. San Luis Obispo Santa Barbara LOS ANGELES Take a trip to The Exploratorium, San Francisco s ever-changing, 21stcentury learning laboratory, nestled in the heart of the Embarcadero on Pier 15. This hands-on museum is an inviting place to tinker and explore science. Santa Monica, Los Angeles, USA No trip to the USA is complete for sports lovers without a visit to the baseball, basketball or American football. Relax with a hotdog and soak up the passion and atmosphere. Smart tips 1. Festivals Enjoy rock, indie, hip hop, and electronic dance music, as well as art installations and sculptures at Coachella Valley Music & Arts Festival in Indio, near Palm Springs. 2. Streets of San Francisco Enjoy San Francisco s eclectic neighbourhoods by foot as you stroll through this cultural melting pot. Be sure to visit the famous Lombard Street with its steep twists and turns. 3. Sports Families with teens Head to the Staples Center in LA to catch an NBA game. Enjoy the skillful and fast paced action as you roar with the crowd. 4. LA Like A Local Explore the galleries and differing art scenes of LA s neighbourhoods. The personalities of each one will amaze you. 5. Celebrity Connections Stay in a hotel with a historic celebrity connection. The Hyatt Regency Newport Beach was an old haunt of Marilyn Monroe s and still retains the same elegant legacy in its decor today. i A little known gem is the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library just outside Oxnard. Perched atop a hill with sweeping views of the California Coast, visitors can walk onboard an actual Air Force One aircraft, which flew seven US presidents.

City luxury If there is one place to find the ultimate VIP experience, California is it. Playground of the rich and famous, Los Angeles has many fabulous but affordable luxury spas and hotels.

Wrap up the day with an indulgent spa treatment. For a different side of luxury, head to San Francisco with its ultra-trendy restaurants and art scene.

Relax after a morning stretch over a scone and latte at The Rose Café & Market. Treat yourself to something special at this Venice Beach institution s eclectic (and reasonably priced) gift shop.

With all the new pairs of shoes in your luggage, it s crucial to put your best foot forward.

It s a wine lover s oasis amid sun-baked freeway and rumbling truck traffic. Relax, sample and enjoy.

13 Cable Car, San Francisco, USA i San Diego s famous Hotel del Coronado is a must stay for those who want to soak up the Californian sunshine while staying in one of the country s most adored and

Beverly Hills Hotel The Beverly Hills Hotel has been the favourite breakfast spot and watering hole for generations of stars and Hollywood dealmakers.

7 City luxury If there is one place to find the ultimate VIP experience, California is it. Playground of the rich and famous, Los Angeles has many fabulous but affordable luxury spas and hotels. Shop up a storm at California s outlet shopping malls, gorgeous boutiques and designer stores, then head to the pool for a margarita and some celebrity spotting. Wrap up the day with an indulgent spa treatment. For a different side of luxury, head to San Francisco with its ultra-trendy restaurants and art scene. Greet the day, and start your holiday of indulgence in style with a sun salutation at Santa Monica. Yogis flock to YogaWorks not far from Santa Monica Beach. Relax after a morning stretch over a scone and latte at The Rose Café & Market. Treat yourself to something special at this Venice Beach institution s eclectic (and reasonably priced) gift shop. Soak, exfoliate, wrap and polish. Few things match a priceless pedicure at West Hollywood s l.a. vie l orange, a luxurious hand and foot spa. With all the new pairs of shoes in your luggage, it s crucial to put your best foot forward. The seemingly incongruous San Antonio Winery sits in the heart of Los Angeles, the last of a once flourishing vineyard industry. It s a wine lover s oasis amid sun-baked freeway and rumbling truck traffic. Relax, sample and enjoy. Recreate the glamour of the America s Cup at San Francisco Bay where you can zip across the ocean aboard a super yacht. 13 Cable Car, San Francisco, USA i San Diego s famous Hotel del Coronado is a must stay for those who want to soak up the Californian sunshine while staying in one of the country s most adored and photographed hotels. It has been featured in several films including Marilyn Monroe s Some Like it Hot. Couples 1. Beverly Hills Hotel The Beverly Hills Hotel has been the favourite breakfast spot and watering hole for generations of stars and Hollywood dealmakers. Lunch and dinner are served with piano accompaniment alternating with light jazz on the patio during the long summer nights. 2. Santa Monica Shopping Shop and stop for zen in Santa Monica. Treat yourself to a spot of boutique retail therapy and then stretch out the hamstrings in an indulgent yoga class. 3. San Anotonio Winery Sample local wine at San Antonio Winery, LA. You can even tour behind-the-scenes of the winery to learn about its impressive heritage. 4. Ferry Building Market Place Grab fresh produce and unique gifts at the Ferry Building Marketplace, San Francisco. To learn more about its history, you can join a free tour starting at noon on Saturdays and Tuesdays. 5. Westin St Francis Hotel, Union Square Stay at the Westin St Francis Hotel on Union Square, San Francisco. Marvel at marble columns, ornate balconies and intricate woodwork that transport guests back to the elegance of yesteryear.

Luxury escapes Combine your luxury city stay with a nearby relaxation escape to experience true California bliss. This is how the A-listers spend their weekends!

If you re enjoying the trendy food and eclectic culture in San Francisco, add on a stay in the wine regions of Sonoma and Napa Valley or opt for some coastal relaxation in Carmel or Pebble Beach.

Pack your new swim suit and join the beautiful Californians enjoying the sun and surf. Time your Newport Beach visit in April to experience cinematic magic at the Newport Beach Film Festival.

Bring your appetite with you to Yountville, where Napa Valley s first vineyards are rumoured to have been planted.

15 Santa Barbara LOS ANGELES Santa Monica Palm Springs Newport Beach For a romantic dining option that s in touch with nature, pack a gourmet picnic and head to one of the secluded picnic spots in

California Coastline, USA It s no wonder that picturesque Carmel ranks as one of the most romantic destinations along the California coast.

8 Luxury escapes Combine your luxury city stay with a nearby relaxation escape to experience true California bliss. This is how the A-listers spend their weekends! For those enjoying the shopping and buzz of Los Angeles, pick up a rental convertible for a short drive to Palm Springs, Santa Barbara or Newport Beach. If you re enjoying the trendy food and eclectic culture in San Francisco, add on a stay in the wine regions of Sonoma and Napa Valley or opt for some coastal relaxation in Carmel or Pebble Beach. Napa Valley SAN FRANCISCO Sonoma Pebble Beach Carmel 1085 km Santa Barbara s breathtaking coastline offers everything from rugged cliff sides to expansive sandy beaches. Pack your new swim suit and join the beautiful Californians enjoying the sun and surf. Time your Newport Beach visit in April to experience cinematic magic at the Newport Beach Film Festival. You may even glimpse famous actors and actresses stepping out on the red carpet in their designer gowns. Bring your appetite with you to Yountville, where Napa Valley s first vineyards are rumoured to have been planted. Dine at Thomas Keller s world-famous French Laundry, where master chefs create two nine-course tasting menus daily. 15 Santa Barbara LOS ANGELES Santa Monica Palm Springs Newport Beach For a romantic dining option that s in touch with nature, pack a gourmet picnic and head to one of the secluded picnic spots in the Napa Valley or Sonoma with your favourite bottle of local sparkling. California Coastline, USA It s no wonder that picturesque Carmel ranks as one of the most romantic destinations along the California coast. Explore the charming shops, cafes, art galleries, and a breathtaking beach with your other half for an idyllic escape. i The Post Ranch Inn at Big Sur is truly one of the world s ultimate luxury escapes. Featuring cliff-edge bungalows, tree top cabanas and one of the state s best restaurants, it s no wonder it s a favourite with California s many celebrities. 1. Butterfly Beach Take a sunset stroll on Butterfly Beach, Montecito near Santa Barbara. Nestled in a secluded nook of Montecito, this gem of a beach has it all: sun, sand, surf, people (beautiful people), and the sounds of waves lapping against the shore. 2. Newport Beach Visit the Newport Beach Film Festival which showcases films from around the world including features, short films, documentaries, and animations. 3. French Laundry, Napa Valley Enjoy a nine-course degustation menu at French Laundry, Napa Valley. Located in a turn-of-the-century stone building, surrounded by lush gardens, Thomas Keller crafts masterpieces to delight the most discerning of palates. 4. Sonoma Country Tour famous movie sets off the beaten track in Sonoma County. Classics in American cinematography such as the 1947 film The Farmer s Daughter, Alfred Hitchcock s The Birds and many other more modern classics have used Sonoma County as a filming venue. 5. Napa Valley Wine Train Take a seat on the Wine Train s Pullman Dining Car and enjoy a gourmet lunch on these expertly refurbished Pullman Cars. Meals, crafted by Executive Chef Kelly Macdonald, are freshly prepared on the train using environmentally responsible ingredients.

Life s a breeze with interest free! Don t leave your holiday plans on hold for another second! Planning and paying for your perfect holiday is a breeze with our 6 months interest-free finance.

email or in-store i 24/7 Emergency Assist Your local Escape Travel store 1300 722 079 escapetravel.com.au 6 MONTHS INTEREST FREE: ^Valid on holidays over $999.

9 Life s a breeze with interest free! Don t leave your holiday plans on hold for another second! Planning and paying for your perfect holiday is a breeze with our 6 months interest-free finance. 6 MONTHS INTEREST FREE^ Reasons to book with Escape Travel i Holiday packages with bonuses you won t find anywhere else i Interest-free holiday finance i Travel consultants available now by phone, or in-store i 24/7 Emergency Assist Your local Escape Travel store escapetravel.com.au 6 MONTHS INTEREST FREE: ^Valid on holidays over $999. Six months interest free provided by applying for the Lombard 55 Visa Card and is only available to approved applicants. Subject to further terms and conditions contained in Lombard Visa Card Account Conditions of Use and Lombard Visa Card Product Schedule. An application fee of $60, monthly account fees of $2.90 and other fees and charges are payable. Minimum monthly repayments of 3% or $30 are required monthly, paying only the minimum repayment will not finalise your loan within the interest free period. Interest is payable on expiry of the interest free period. Lombard Visa Card is a credit facility provided by Lombard Finance Pty Limited (ABN ) (Australian Credit License Number ). PRODUCT TERMS AND CONDITIONS: *While all care is taken to ensure accuracy, no responsibility is accepted by Flight Centre Travel Group Limited for accuracy of information contained in the text, illustrations or advertisements. All details are correct as at 7 July 14 and are subject to change without notice. Photos are indicative of geographic location of holiday, they are not necessarily indicative of the holiday. Flight Centre Travel Group Limited (ABN ) trading as Escape Travel. ATAS Travel Accredited No: A Travel Agent Licence No: WA 9TA 589. ETMARK60955

Western Treasures. 14 Nights/15 Days

Western Treasures. 14 Nights/15 Days Western Treasures Explore California, Arizona, and Nevada on this grand Western Treasures tour. Start in San Francisco and travel south to Monterey, with sightseeing and visits to historic Fisherman s