great takes on family travel in the U.S.

So, I have heard the buzz about town. Apparently, as a tax paying citizen, I have a stimulus check coming my way in the next several months. Now, I have not been a taxpayer for very long and this concept is totally new to me–even somewhat suspicious. The government is sending me hundreds of dollars—just so that I will spend more money?

Really?

Well, they won’t find any resistance here! I don’t need much prodding to go out and spend money and if you send me a big fat check, just for that purpose…done!

I have already started planning some great weekend trips to take with this cash and have been wasting countless hours on the internet, looking up airfare to Chicago and things to do in Sonoma, California. UpTake has been a great ally in this mission as has Kayak and BedandBreakfast.com. After extensive research, I have come up with three possible weekend trips that I could take courtesy of our government. Here they are:

Catalina Island: I am fascinated by the notion that there is a remote and rugged island with less than 3000 permanent residents, right off the coast of congested Los Angeles. There is an interesting history to the island, involving casinos, sheep and what not, that I recommend you check out. Avalon, the only city on the island, has a buffet of lodging and restaurant options. Most I have seen are pretty upscale, like the Hotel Metropole . But, there is a great beach that receives plenty of sun and the activities are endless. Some of the more popular pastimes are scuba diving, hiking, taking a glass bottom boat tour, or courting lady luck at the Catalina Casino. Catalina is a chance to have an island escape, away from the hustle and bustle of crowds without having to fly far afield. It is an hour boat ride from Newport Beach.

Healdsburg in the California Wine Country: This is a quaint town in the rolling hills of the wine country. There are upscale boutiques, fine restaurants, cozy bed and breakfasts and plenty of vineyards. Could you ask for more? I have heard that Napa is “done”, Sonoma is nice, but that Healdsburg is a true wine country experience. I don’t know if this statement is true. But, It is located at the meeting of the Russian River Valley, Alexander Valley, and Dry Creek Valley-some of the best wine producing regions of California. I can’t think of a better place to have a romantic and indulgent weekend. Plus it is less than a two hour drive from my home in the Bay Area. What I save on airfare can go towards more wine!

Chicago: A bit further afield. (aka, I will have to spend more than my stimulus check) But, Chicago has been on my list of cities to visit for quite some time. I want to see Lake Michigan and Sears Tower. I also want to visit the famed Art Institute of Chicago and get tickets to Second City–maybe even catch a taping of Oprah! Chicago seems like a beautiful city in Midwest America with more to do than I could possibly accomplish in a weekend–but, I could certainly try! I have been advised by a resident that the best time to visit is during the summer when the city hosts “Taste of Chicago” . This is a large festival supporting local Chicago restaurants. You can sample small portions from all the best restaurants, listen to live music, enjoy the warm summer sun and wash it all down with a beer. Sounds pretty ideal.

I think that I have come up with three spectacular destinations–the only dilemma is which to do! I need your help! Which should I choose?

Photo courtesy of jenn_jenn.