(photo courtesy of Clayton.com- All other photos by Joe Romano)

I recently introduced you to Clayton, CA, a small town in the shadow of Mt. Diablo. 

After many years of political wrangling, Clayton finally managed to move forward with its plans for The Grove Park, which is now a focal point for many of Clayton’s downtown activities. 

Situated between Main St., Center St. and old Marsh Creek Rd, the park is home to what was once a huge orchard of Eucalyptus trees, referred to by locals simply as “the grove.” As a kid I spent many a 4^th of July in the grove. Residents would gather there after the traditional 4^thof July parade to enjoy barbequed corn-on-the-cob, hot dogs and watermelon. There were greased pole climbing contests and other great activities. Nowadays the grove is home to a local farmers market and some fabulous evening concerts. Saturday night Lisa and I took in local act, Mamaluke. 

Billed as one of “the Bay Area’s premier classic rock dance bands,” Mamaluke was also one of two finalists in KFOX radio’s “Last Band Standing” competition. Adding to their local roots, two members, lead singer Kenny Byers and guitarist Chris Rossi, graduated from Clayton Valley High School. And, to drill-down even further on the local slant, I was in Mr. Almond’s 5^thgrade class with Chris Rossi, and worked at Skipolini’s Pizza with Kenny Byars. Did any of this earn me a guest vocal during last night’s show?  Performance fail! 

Nevertheless, take one warm summer night, mix in a pitcher of sangrias and one of Skipolini’s famous pies, and top off with some great rock and roll; result - a guaranteed great time. All of Clayton’s local eateries literally surround The Grove, and all of them offer food to go. Or you can even save a few bucks and bring your own picnic.

There’s also the Clayton Store on the south end of the park for those last minute snack and beverage purchases. I’d suggest arriving a little early to stake out a nice spot on the lawn. Throw out a blank, have a beverage and a snack, read and enjoy the sunshine before show time. 

The Grove Park also has a playground and plenty of room to run, so Concerts in the Grove is definitely a kid-friendly event.

To check out upcoming concerts, click here –>  Concerts in the Grove - 2009  <— there.

The Grove Park
Main St. and Marsh Creek Rd.
Clayton, CA, 94517

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Party like a rock star in Las Vegas

Las Vegas has thrived on witty slogans, such as “What happens in Vegas, stays in Vegas,” “Las Vegas: What you want. When you want,” and “Your Vegas is showing.” Regardless of the vacation Mecca’s strategically contrived marketing campaigns to attract visitors, there’s never been any doubt about the uninhibited fun and exhilaration offered in Sin City.

Truly, where else can vacationers go to eat, drink, gamble, dance and mingle alongside actors (A-list to Z-list), wealthy heiresses and rock stars? 

I still have very vivid memories of playing Blackjack with Jenny McCarthy, having cocktails with Dennis Rodman (when he was still in the NBA), hanging out with Trent Reznor from Nine Inch Nails and getting a drink spilled on me by an extremely inebriated Paulie Shore. Okay, the latter wasn’t fun, but you can see the variety of celeb-types that hang out in Vegas.

If carefully planned – choosing the right place and the right time – you  can “do” Vegas like a rock star and even bump into some real ones during your night out on the town. Here are some tips:

1. First, and most important, leave the kids at home. While it’s fun to plan family vacations, sometimes it’s essential for dads and moms to have some fun “adult” time.
    
2. 

   Dress the part and you'll be ready to party like a rock star.

   Definitely dress to impress. Many vacationers come to Vegas with nothing more than shorts, t-shirts and a pair of flip flops. While these clothes may be acceptable for an afternoon poolside, they’re definitely not for hitting the party scene. Dress codes are strictly enforced at all of the top lounges and clubs, so be sure to pack appropriately or you’ll be turned away.

3. Prepare to spend some money. As you might expect, living the glam life doesn’t come cheap. It takes a little bit of cash to party like a rock star. If you’re planning a vacation, be sure to bring enough of your hard earned money to make the trip worth it, otherwise you‘ll be watching other people have fun instead of having it yourself. For example, when going out to a popular club or ultra lounge, it’s best to call ahead and make a reservation for bottle service, which can cost $1,000 or more. Instead of being cramped on the dance floor, you’ll have a sanctuary to rest your feet, socialize and have some drinks without a long wait at the crowded bar. A reserved table also gets you on the VIP list so you can bypass the long line to get in the door. Reservations can be made through your hotel’s concierge desk.
    
4. Choose your vacation time strategically. Celebrities flock to popular events, such as concerts, big ticket boxing bouts, club, hotel or restaurant openings, holidays, etc. Plan ahead by checking the Las Vegas calendar for upcoming events.
    
5. Stay at a “hot” hotel. Celebrities love the Palms, Hard Rock, Bellagio, Mandalay Bay and Caesar’s Palace and Venetian. If you plan on having a rock star vacation, you’re probably not going want to book the local Motel 6. See tip number two.
    
6. 

   Nothing compares to the nightlife in Las Vegas.

   Ask around for the night’s hot spot. The place to see and be seen varies from night to night. On some nights it may be Lavo at Palazzo and on other nights it might be Tao at the Venetian or XS at Wynn. Sometimes celebrities host parties at nightclubs, so inquiring can direct you to the best place.

Now that you have your tips, remember to let your inhibitions go. You’re on vacation in Vegas, so live a little. It’s time to momentarily forget about the kids, work, etc. and let loose and truly party like a rock star. That also means you should be prepared to stay out all night long. Don’t worry; you can spend the following day resting by the pool.

Photos by Las Vegas News Bureau and Barbara Kraft.

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Is there anything better than girlfriends?

One of my favorite places to get together for a weekend with girlfriends is Orlando, Florida.  The weather is great year round and there is so much to do on a girls’ getaway without having to go too far.

Where To Stay For a Girls’ Getaway in Orlando, Florida:

The Ritz-Carlton Orlando

The Ritz-Carlton Orlando is my first choice for a weekend getaway with the girls.  It’s obviously not cheap, but if you’re splitting the cost with three or four other women, it’s a great opportunity to spoil yourself.  Nobody does luxury like The Ritz and their spa is the perfect place to spend a day pampering yourself with some of your closest friends.

Universal’s Royal Pacific Resort is next on my list of places to stay for a girls weekend in Orlando.  The rooms are beautiful, the staff is amazing, and the location is excellent for access to other things to do in the area.  The best part about staying at a Universal hotel is that you can get to and from Universal’s City Walk at night by water taxi.  It’s a safe way for a group of girls to travel back and forth after a night of drinks and dancing.

Hilton Grand Vacations Club on International Drive is the least expensive hotel on the list.  It still provides a great central location with easy access to shopping and entertainment.  And with rooms at about $98 a night, you’ll have more money to spend shopping!

Speaking of shopping…

Things To Do On A Girls’ Getaway in Orlando:

Outlet Shopping in Orlando

Shopping, of course! What, too cliche?  Whatever.  Girls love to shop together.  And the shopping in Orlando is fantastic!  Oggle things you’d never dream of buying - or splurge on a pair of real Jimmy Choos - at the Mall at Millenia.  Do your power shopping and bargain hunting at one of the two area outlet malls.  Yes, two.  Did I not tell you the shopping in Orlando was wonderful?

Check out the Orlando Shopping Guide for the inside scoop (and details on which outlet mall is better).

Go to the spa! Is there anything more girly than a trip to the spa with your girlfriends?  I can feel my estrogen levels rising at the mere thought.  The best spa in town is at The Ritz-Carlton Orlando.  And the good news is, you don’t have to be a guest to partake in the spa services.

Head to the beach!

I am constantly hounding my girlfriends to go to the spa at The Ritz with me.  My favorite part is that you can spend the entire day there with the purchase of any service.  So once you’ve enjoyed your manicure (or pedicure, or deep tissue massage, or massage where people walk on your back!!), you can spend the rest of the day lounging in the zen like atmosphere.  Soak in the jacuzzi or go for a swim in the pool.  Cleanse your pours in the steam room and then rehydrate with orange water.  The fluffy robes alone will make you feel like a princess.  This place is my own personal nirvana, I swear.

Go to the beach! Sure, your hotel will have a pool.  And you can always head on over to one of the local water parks.  But when I’m hanging out with my girlfriends, I’d much rather lay out on a white sandy beach and watch the ocean.  The closest beach to the Orlando area is Cocoa Beach.  It’s about 40 minutes east of Orlando, but worth the drive if you’re a sun worshiper.

Of course, shopping and the spa and the beach are great things to do during the day.  But when the sun goes down…

Girls Night Out Nightlife in Orlando:

Universal Studio’s City Walk is my favorite place for nightlife in Orlando.  It truly has something for everyone.  Upscale or casual dining, dance clubs, and dueling piano bars can all be found in Universal Studio’s “entertainment complex”.  You absolutely have to stop into The Rising Star, a karaoke bar that features a live band and back up dancers.  The people watching is fantastic and you’re sure to have a great time.

Universal City Walk - Orlando Nightlife for Girls' Getaway

I also think City Walk offers a safe environment for women out on the town.  The entire area is well lit and crawling with Universal staff and security guards.

Downtown Disney is Walt Disney World’s answer to City Walk.  I don’t think it offers quite the same nightlife experience as City Walk and Disney recently closed most of the bars in the Pleasure Island section.  However, Ragland Road - a very popular irish pub with waitresses who river dance on your table - is still open.

The Parliament House is an all gay resort - with a wickedly fun gay bar scene.  Of course, you don’t have to be gay to hit the clubs.  Every Friday, Saturday and Sunday night, there’s a female impersonation show in The Footlight Theater.  You will laugh until it hurts, and laugh some more.  After the show you can dance and drink and not get hit on if you’re a straight married woman.  I guarantee you will have the most fun you’ve ever had with your girlfriends here.

RuPaul at Parliament House in Orlando

Church Street is the bar district in downtown Orlando.  To be an honest, I’m too old and fat to be hanging out on Church Street, except for the occasional girls’ night out.  Women are younger and thinner in packs.  The biggest concern here is going to be safety.  Try to catch a cab back to your hotel about 30 minutes before closing time if possible.  It’s not top on my list of recommendations, but it’s an option.

See why I love a girls’ getaway in Orlando?  There’s so much to do and a million ways to bond with the girlfriends you don’t see often enough.  Relax, gossip, be safe, and have fun!

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Growing up, the Sunday before St. Patrick’s Day meant donning Irish knit sweaters, kid-sized scally caps with a shamrock applique and then piling into the family car to head to South Boston, my father’s ol’ neighborhood, for the annual parade. We would arrive hours before the festivities started and make our way to the Peterson’s or the Golden’s or to the Shea’s, whoever was getting started early. The smell of food was always overwhelming, crock pots filling whatever counter space was available, while the dulcet tones of the Clancy Brothers, Tommy Makem, The Chieftains or The Dubliners filled the air.

Twenty-five plus years later these memories are still fresh in my mind - the parade was as much a part of our lives as a birthday or an anniversary. But, things change - people move, families change - and after a while we stopped going. Maybe someday I’ll go back with my new family so the kids can experience this celebration of their ancestry and how important the Irish are to South Boston. If you are so inclined, this year’s parade is Sunday, March 15 and starts at 1:00 p.m. at the Broadway MBTA (’T') stop and wraps up at Andrew Square. And contrary to what Darren wrote, New York’s parade is not actually the oldest - the first parade in the country was held in Boston in 1737. New York’s, however, has been held for more consecutive years, so I guess they got that going for them.

If you do find yourself in Boston for a spell, there’s really no shortage of places to stay or places to eat. I could start listing them out for you or even start naming some of my favorites, but we’d be here for days and you would never read anything I posted ever again, so I won’t do that to you or to me. But since we are near that holidays of holidays, St. Patrick’s Day, I will share with you some of my favorite Irish pubs in Boston and the surrounding environs. Now, I know a list like this is wholly subjective - there may be some pubs people agree with, there will be some pubs people will disagree with and there will be those who say, “Well, what about…?” and all I can say is, “Okay.” I’m sure there will be something on or off this list that even my own wife will ask what it was that I was thinking. With all those caveats, I give you my favorite Irish pubs in Boston and elsewhere.

The Black Rose (Roisin Dubh), Boston, MA

The Black Rose (Roisin Dubh), 160 State Street, Boston: From the pictures of Michael Collins, Eamonn deValera and other heroes of the Easter Rising hanging on the wall to the menu filled with such favorites as Shepherd’s Pie, Bangers and Mash and the old standby Fish and Chips, The Black Rose epitomizes the Irish pub experience in Boston. Located in the historic Faneuil Hall/Quincy Market area of Boston, The Black Rose offers up a diverse crowd of locals and tourists, all of whom are equally interested in a good time. In addition to properly poured pints (a proper pour takes 60-90 seconds and should never be rushed - this ain’t Bud you’re drinking), patrons are treated to live Irish music seven nights a week.

Mr. Dooley's, Boston, MA

Mr. Dooley’s, 77 Broad Street (Financial District), Boston: I’m partial to pubs in which I can actually carry on a conversation with whomever I’m sharing a pint with. Mr. Dooley’s is one of those pubs. Dooley’s is not like one of the “chain” Irish pubs that pop up in city after city. It has a comfortable, lived-in vibe common with the traditional pubs and patrons are often greeted by a bartender with a lilting brogue. The menu is filled with fish and chips and Irish sausages and bacon, but Mr. Dooley’s is also known for its authentic Irish breakfast - the cure for what ails ya. Friday through Sunday there is entertainment and patrons shouldn’t be surprised by an impromptu “Sessuin” - an informal gathering of musicians who come together to play some music, have a pint or two and socialize.

J.J. Foley's, Boston, MA

J.J. Foley’s, 117 East Berkeley Street, Boston: At one time, it was not for the faint of heart. This was always our “everything else is closing, will Jerry let us in?” late night bar. But, it’s been a while since I’ve been back here. I hear they recently renovated the location - new tin ceiling, newly shellacked wood paneling covering the walls - and are now offering a substantial pub menu. J.J’s, as it’s affectionately known, has been in opertion since 1909 and you can always count on the bartenders to be wearing white shirts and black ties, a nice throwback to a bygone era. And don’t be surprised by who you might run into while you’re there - I recall one night trading pints with a former mayor and his security detail.

Bad Abbot’s, 1546 Hancock Street, Quincy: Ah, my home away from home. Nine

Bad Abbot's, Quincy, MA

times out of 10, if we’re back in the Boston area for a weekend, a visit is not complete without a stop in at Abbot’s. I come here primarily for the Guinness as they have some of the smoothest and best poured pints around. My wife comes not only for the pints, but also for the curry chips (fries with a curry dipping sauce). The menu is filled with typical pub fare and patrons can enjoy live entertainment every weekend, as well as a traditional pub quiz during the week. Abbot’s also shows English Premier League games live as well as Scottish League, particularly when Celtic is playing. Spectators can enjoy a solid Irish breakfast during games. And for those fans of good hot fries and other fried foods, rumor has it that Abbot’s will be opening up a “chipper” soon.

Murphy's Twin Shamrocks, Quincy, MA

Murphy’s Twin Shamrocks, 425 Hancock Street, Quincy: One thing about Quincy, I think they have more Irish pubs and bars than Manhattan has Starbucks. Yeah, I know that’s impossible, but you get my point. The Murphy twins (get it? Twin Shamrocks) opened this neighborhood favorite in a former Chinese restaurant about 10 years ago. When it first opened it was dark and somewhat seedy, a perfectly fine mix, with great bartenders many of whom came over from the much lamented Tin Whistle. When I found myself back in the area a few months back, I was pleasantly surprised by the changes I encountered - it was much brighter, each booth had a small flat screen TV, new plasmas around the bar and on the walls - it had a more refined feel. The menu was still the same pub fare and the pints of Guinness were still refreshing. All in all, I’m never disappointed when I pop in for a pint.

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For me to even write this post is asking for trouble. It might be safer to pick a fight with a 300 pound, 6 foot 4 Scot than to throw out my suggestions for the best Irish bars in New York.  The list, of course, is subject to opinion and everyone has theirs. This is mine. And yes, I know that my list is Manhattan-centric. There are some great Irish bars in places like the Woodlawn and Riverdale sections of the Bronx, and in Woodside, Queens, and the Irish Riviera officially know as Breezy Point, but lovingly called Boozy Point. For all I know, there are probably some good Irish bars upstate too. But I know Manhattan best. It’s where I lived about a quarter of my life. It’s also where I’ve wandered the streets for many a St. Patrick’s Day.

If you’re planning to visit New York for St. Patrick’s Day, you’ll probably want to see the parade. New York’s St. Patrick’s Day Parade is the oldest, biggest and self-proclaimed best St. Patrick’s Day parade in the world. New Yorkers first held the parade on March 17, 1762, in honor of the patron saint of the Archdiocese of New York.  In a city that holds a parade for just about anyone, it’s now the largest and most famous of New York’s parades. And it does that without allowing any floats, cars or commercial advertising—it’s 100% musicians, politicians, civil servants, club and society members, and other marchers on foot who are all Irish, or at least Irish for the day.

There’s a nearly endless number of restaurants in New York, of course, and accommodations for every taste and budget. (Or you could just sleep on the floor in Grand Central Terminal and wake up for a train in the morning. Not that I know anyone who’s done that.) But, if you’re going to New York for the St. Patrick’s Day parade, the day isn’t complete without a stop in an Irish pub.

If you’re uneasy about what you might be walking into in an Irish bar on St. Patrick’s Day, don’t be. One of the things I most love about Irish bars and restaurants in Manhattan every March 17 is that entire families come after the parade to continue celebrating. Not all of them are like that, but you can find quite a few family-friendly establishments where moms, dads, grandparents and kids are all enjoying the day. Of course, if you want a loud, young, come-here-just-for-the-drink type of place, New York has that too.

Paddy Reilly’s, at 519 Second Avenue near East 29th Street, is one of the best bars in the City for live Irish music. Mildly famous bands like Black 47 got their start playing weekly here, when I’d crowd in with scores of other middle and upper-class twenty-somethings to sing along and shake our firsts for the Irish proletariat. The bar has a dark, dingy, needs-to-be-cleaned look, but one that makes the young Irish and Irish-wannabes feel right at home. What’s more—the only beer on tap is Guinness. Who could ask for anything more?

Speaking of dark and dingy, McSorley’s Old Ale House, at 15 East 7th Street, is the original dark and dingy Irish-American bar. Seriously. There’s probably dust in there that’s older than our great-grandparents. It’s been open since 1854 and has the reputation for being no-nonsense and stubborn in its ways. Women weren’t allowed in until 1970, and didn’t get a separate restroom until 1986. The bar also serves only two kinds of beer—light and dark—and you’re expected to buy two at a time. You want something else? Find yourself a bar with a menu. McSorely’s also has the reputation for being overcrowded with college kids, but how many bars can you go to that once welcomed Abraham Lincoln? It’s educational, really.

Molly’s Pub & Restaurant, at 287 Third Avenue near 22nd Street, is one of the more family-friendly establishments among the Irish bars of New York.  It’s been called “the most authentic Irish bar in the City” and “New York’s finest Irish pub.” Like most other Irish bars, Molly’s is dark—but at Molly’s, dark isn’t dingy, but warm and cozy with even a log-burning fireplace to add to the charm. Molly’s also has a full menu and gets great reviews and high ratings for its food as well as its beer.

Originally on West 48th Street, the Pig n’ Whistle now has three midtown locations—Third Avenue, Second Avenue, and the most tourist-friendly of the three in Times Square at 165 West 47th Street between Sixth and Seventh Avenues. Unlike other Irish bars, the Pig n’ Whistle is large, bright and polished.  It also has a full dinner and bar menu and gets some great reviews for its food.  The Pig n’ Whistle still has a lot of Irish left in it though. By calling itself the “Best Irish Pub” in New York, for example, it just sounds like it’s askin’ for a fight.

Finally, there’s Dublin House at 225 West 79th Street near Broadway. Be it ever so humble, there’s no place like home. Dublin House was my Irish bar. There were bars closer to my ‘hood near Columbia University, some that I went to too often and another (now closed) that was also an Irish pub, but Dublin House is the place that I always thought of as the local Irish bar. From the dark narrow room to the Guinness on tap to the authentic brogues on the bartenders, this was St. Patrick’s Day to me. I’m sure that I’d feel old now in an evening crowd of twenty-somethings, but I’d probably still feel young, late in the afternoons, sitting with the old regulars at the bar.  That’s the beauty of an Irish bar—that there’s always a welcome, a fáilte, for everyone. With apologies to Robert Frost, an Irish bar is the place where, when you go there, they have to take you in.

Happy St. Patrick’s Day, everyone.

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Tuesday, March 17th is St. Patrick’s Day and this being the last Thursday Thirteen before the popular holiday we decided to share some of our favorite Irish Pubs- just in case your travels find you in a strange city and you feel the need for a pint.  It happens.

The list isn’t in any particular order and includes the pub, its website, the city and what makes it special.  Sláinte!

WHAT                 WHERE                                     WHY

• Biddy McGraw’s /Portland
• Timmy Nolan’s /Los Angeles
• The Kerry Irish Pub /New Orleans
• Finnigan’s Wake /Pittsburgh
• The Irish Oak /Chicago
• The Blarney Stone /San Diego
• Fadó /Austin
• The Harp /Cleveland
• Molly’s /New York
  
• The Dubliner /San Francisco
  
• The Green Dragon /Boston
  
• Owl N’ Thistle / Seattle
  
• Auld Dubliner /Tucson
  

Should you choose to partake in the festivities please do so responsibly.  Don’t drink and drive!

Photo from Beer Brains

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College (and high school) students all over the country are preparing to spend their spring break in Florida.

If you haven’t made plans yet, it’s not too late.  No, really.  My freshman year of college, my best friend and I decided two days before spring break to cash in our student loan overages in exchange for airplane tickets.  To this day, it’s one of the best damn vacations of my life.

Of course, back then you could go to Mexico on 48 hours notice with nothing more than an ID and US birth certificate.  Now you need a passport - which takes planning - if you want to head south of the border.

In other words, Florida is the perfect Spring Break destination for last minute vacation planners!  (Vacation planners is an official term.  As of right now.)

6 Places To Go For Spring Break In Florida

Where should spring breakers head once they’ve hit the Florida border?

1. Daytona Beach

Daytona Beach, Florida

A lot of people associate Spring Break with Daytona Beach.  MTV helped make the city notorious for party goers with their week long beach party broadcasts.  In recent years, MTV has moved on, but the beaches and bars of Daytona still fill up every year with barely legal tourists.  (In fact, last year saw Girls Gone Wild make an appearance.  Don’t ask me why I know this.)

Nightly spring break hot spots include Razzles and Ocean Deck.  When you’re looking for a hotel in Daytona Beach for spring break, try to book as close to A1A/Atlantic Avenue as possile.  That’s where the magic happens.

(Daytona Beach pictures by Britt Reints)

2. Orlando

Universal Studios in Orlando

Orlando isn’t just for families anymore!  (I actually don’t know if it ever was, but I thought that sounded catchy.  Like The Clap.)  More and more spring break traffic is heading inland to The House of Mouse and the surrounding entertainment.

City Walk in Orlando, Florida

(Photo by Ravin on FlickR)

Orlando offers Disney World, Universal Studios, SeaWorld, a host of waterparks, shopping, dining and a short drive to Coco Beach.  A party can be found any night of the week at Universal Studio’s City Walk as well as up and down Church Street in downtown Orlando.  (Local guide tip: your best chance of seeing a celebrity in town is at the downtown bar, Antigua.)

3. Ft. Lauderdale

Fort Lauderdale Beach, Florida

(Photo by Zach Klein on FlickR)

Made famous by the 1960 movie, “Where The Boys Are”, Fort Lauderdale continues to offer its own brand of Spring Break fun in the sun.  It’s not as well known for upscale clubbing as other South Florida beach towns, but it does offer endless chances for you to enjoy an umbrella drink with your shirt off.

Fort Lauderdale, Florida Spring Break Night Life

(Photo by Dawn Ashley on FlickR)

You can enjoy your own pub crawl along 2nd street (or Himmarshee Village) until last call at 3 am.  But if you’re looking for an authentic beach party bar, you’ll want to step off the sand into the infamous Elbo Room.  The Elbo Room offers two stories of party - including a deck and a patio - and is legendary destination for Florida spring break.

4. Miami’s South Beach

Expensive Spring Break in South Beach, Florida

(Photo by Photog*Phillip on FlickR)

Just a short drive down 1-95 from Ft. Lauderdale, you’ll find another Spring Break safe haven in Miami’s South Beach.  Although, I have to believe that someone besides poor college students is fitting the bill for these mid-semester flings.

South Beach is not a cheap place to visit, whether you’re on Spring Break or not.  An average hotel room in South Beach is going to cost about $300 a night - or more.  Drink prices are notoriously high, especially in tourist hang outs.  So why in the heck are college students flocking to South Beach?

Night Life for Spring Breakers in South Beach, Florida

(Photo by wyntuition on Flickr)

The beautiful people. South Beach finds itself on lists like “Hottest Beaches in The World” over and over again and is a favorite winter destination for the fashion industry - including fashion models.  There is no better eye candy for hormonal spring breakers than South Beach.  Just bring your credit card.

5. Key West

Key West, Florida - Margaritaville for Spring Break

(Photo by Kiril Kolev on Flickr)

The farthest south and therefore hottest of the Florida spring break hot spots, Key West is an up and coming destination in the spring break market.  Key West is known for Ernest Hemingway and a party atmosphere year round, so it seems a natural place for college students looking for the hottest party to spend their vacations.

The place to let loose in Key West is Duval street.  Any time of year you’re likely to find yourself with a night full of stories to tell (or not), but the rowdiness factor does get kicked up a notch or two during Spring Break.

Duval Street in Key West - for Spring Break nightlife

(Photo by Joe Shlabotnik on FlickR)

Of course, there’s more to do on Spring Break than go to the bar.  Key West is surrounded by water and endless beaches.  The weather is practically guaranteed to be warmer than where you’re coming from.  Spring Break in Key West is the perfect time to try surfing or kayaking or any other water sport you’ve considered.

6. Panama City

St. Andrews Pier in Panama City, Florida

(photo by shutterchick on Flickr)

The farthest north of all of Florida’s Spring Break cities, Panama City is also one of the most popular spring break destinations in recent years.  Unlike other more traditional spring break communities (like Daytona), the locals of Panama City have embraced Spring Break tourists and the money they bring with them!

Do you want your picture taken in a bikini?  Have you dreamed of judging a wet t-shirt contest?  Would you love to end up in the background on TV?  Then Panama City Beach is the place to be for Spring Break.

Panama City has become the new home for MTV’s Spring Break shows and concerts and the official reigning King of Spring Break.  Panama City hotels and bars have embraced the Spring Break vibe with their own packages, parties and special events all season long.  You’re sure to feel welcome as part of the crowd anywhere in Panama City.

So, when’s the best time to visit these Florida Spring Break locations?  Ideally, when you’re college gives you a week off from school.  Check out this guide to college spring break dates to see when your school lets out and who you might be sharing your vacation with!

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With its upscale restaurants, landmark buildings, beautiful bridges and breathtaking views, San Francisco always tops the lists of favorite US cities and tourist destinations.  Many people come to visit during the summer months and get disappointed by the cold fog and damp weather. However you would be pleasantly surprised if you made a trip to the city during this time of year.  The winter months often bring cold temperatures but very blue skies during the day and nights full of stars.

San Francisco is almost more beautiful at night during the holidays than any other time of year – and that is saying something.

During the holidays living in the City is such a gift: the bright lights on the Embarcadero Center row of buildings, outlined to look like giant present boxes; the beautiful window displays in high-end stores like Gump’s and multi-colored lights adorning neighborhood parks and homes. Walk through any of these areas of the city and you can’t help but smile and get a little more into the holiday spirit.

If you are visiting the City or planning to in the future and want to experience a uniquely San Francisco evening, I have the perfect recipe for you. The itinerary will need a little planning but should only require one phone call for the dinner reservation.  This evening is a local favorite for a romantic date but it can be adjusted for just a great night out with friends or family.

First thing you want to do is plan on wearing some warm layers of clothing, especially a scarf and gloves.  San Francisco at night, during this time of year, can be very cold. Wear some nice holiday clothes and comfortable shoes and you will be set for the evening.

Begin the evening with a drink at the beautiful Big Four Restaurant on Nob Hill. Located inside the Huntington Hotel, this secret spot doesn’t have the view that you can get from the Top of the Mark, but this is the place locals go. Filled with beautiful dark wood, the bar area is rich and a historic reminder of the robber barons that built San Francisco.

After a glass of wine or cold cocktail, walk slowly across California Street, watching out for the cable cars and taxi drivers heading across town. Criss-cross the street and stroll through Huntington Park, a wonderful small city park situated between Grace Cathedral and The Fairmont Hotel.  It is one of my favorite parks to visit at night during the holidays because the neighborhood association installs beautiful old-fashion lights in the trees.

Walk through the park towards your dinner reservations, at Venticello Ristorante on Taylor Street. This wonderful Italian restaurant has a warm intimate setting that reminds you of San Francisco society pages from the 1920s. I have had dinners where I have watched patrons walk in that could have been related to Grace Kelly or Kim Novak, in their style of dress and manner. The food is classic Italian with homemade pastas, risotto and roasted meats. The fireplace and wood oven add warmth to your dinner setting along with a backdrop of cable cars going up and down California Street.

After your dinner walk down Taylor Street to Jackson Street and catch the Powell-Hyde Cable Car, with its maroon colored sign, to head towards the waterfront and Hyde Street Pier.  The cable car ride will be very chilly but you can cuddle up inside the center of the car or wrap your scarf tighter and hang onto the outer poles like a local.

Your ride will take you up past Nob Hill and across Russian Hill until you head down Hyde Street to the end of the line. Hop off and turning your back to the bay, walk into The Buena Vista Cafe - home of the perfect Irish Coffee!

Irish Coffee

The recipe of this famous drink was created in 1952 when the restaurant owner and a well known travel writer worked to re-create a highly touted “Irish Coffee” served at Shannon Airport in Ireland.

The Irish Coffee served here at the Buena Vista is the perfect night cap any night of the year, but especially in winter.  How and when you decide to end your evening is up to you, but after all the lights, rich foods, fresh air and drinks - I recommend taking a cab home. Enjoy!

Photo credits to bill lim, tinou, shayne kaye and rick

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