I wish you were here

Waikiki, a world-renowned beachfront neighborhood in Honolulu, is home to some of the most iconic resorts in Hawaii, each offering its unique blend of luxury, comfort, and Hawaiian hospitality.

Here's a brief overview of some of Waikiki's major resorts:

We start with Hilton Hawaiian Village, a sprawling resort known for its wide range of amenities, including multiple swimming pools, exotic wildlife, and over 20 restaurants and bars. It boasts the largest beachfront in Waikiki and offers a variety of accommodations, from standard rooms to luxurious suites.

Nestled above Rancho Cucamonga and within the foothills of the San Gabriel Mountains, the Etiwanda Falls Trail offers a refreshing escape into nature, marked by its rugged beauty and the tranquil sounds of cascading waters. 

This moderately challenging hike is known for its steady incline, leading adventurers through diverse landscapes to the scenic reward of the falls. 

The path extends over a 3.2-mile out-and-back route, typically requiring around 1 hour and 45 minutes to traverse. Our journey spanned three hours as we frequently paused to soak in the breathtaking vistas. 

Here's a detailed guide to help you navigate and enjoy the Etiwanda Falls Trail, complete with hiker tips and interesting facts.

If you're in the mood for an easy hike nearby, Buck Gully in Newport Beach is an excellent option. Located just a few steps from the beach in Orange County and amidst million-dollar homes, this hidden oasis offers lush wilderness and flowing water.

Finding it can be tricky for some, but with today's GPS technology, simply search for the intersection of 5th and Poppy, and you'll be at the trailhead.

Another trailhead is near the Newport Coast Community Center on Joaquin Hills Road.

One of largest performing arts centers in the country is in downtown Los Angeles. 

The Performing Arts Center of Los Angeles County (better known as The Music Center) is home to the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion, Ahmanson Theater, Mark Taper Forum, Roy and Edna Disney / CalArts Theatre, and Walt Disney Concert Hall.  

If you love classical music, ballet, opera, or theater, this is the place. 

The area around this large complex is walkable, with a metro station close by, a beautiful park, restaurants, coffee shops, and the iconic city hall building.

The Botanic Gardens, located north of San Diego, offer a wonderful opportunity for families to spend time exploring an array of plants from various global environments and learning about the ecosystems they inhabit.

Recently, after the gardens reopened post the Covid-19 shutdown, I visited with my family on a Saturday. Although not all exhibits were open, the reduced crowd made our visit more pleasant.