My four-legged friend, Marcel, and I tried out the Loews Coronado Bay Resort pet amenities. A goodie bag is given to guests at check-in; even a pet menu is offered to the furry guests. Click here to see what fun things you and your hairy heartthrob can do at Loews. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8epMZeYHY_g

Just in time for holiday travel, Monica Dean welcomed Marcel I on air to share pet travel tips with NBC viewers. My furry friend and I discussed the pet-friendly hotels, restaurants, activities, and shops outlined in my book The Privileged Pooch: Luxury Travel With Your Pet in Southern California. Copies on sale at Barnes & Noble

It’s Here !! The Privileged Pooch; Luxury Travel With Your Pet in Southern California is published! Hitting the road with Rover has gone upscale. Now you can share Southern California’s celebrity lifestyle with your furry friend. The days of staying at substandard hotels and dining at drive-thru’s when traveling with the family pet are over.

One of my “crazy adventure”, as my friends lovingly refer to my trips, was to the top of California’s Mt. Whitney…14,495 feet. After spotting a tour company on the Internet called Sierra Wildness Seminars who offered guided hikes, I wrangled three buddies together, and reserved the July spot immediately. (www.swsmtns.com. Phone: 888-797-6867. Toll free from Canada: 877-797-6867. Address: 210-A East Lake

The last thing many Americans need is more stuff. Contrary to the popular notion that those with the most toys win, it isn’t necessarily so. Experiences, not things, often can be more meaningful.  With the major gift-giving season upon us, perhaps it’s time to rethink the piles of tchotchkes we bestow upon our loved ones

FIVE MOTELS on the Southern California coast recall beach vacations of the past, when stopping at a motor inn was part of the journey. There aren’t many of these old places, but there are a few — lovingly maintained and still welcoming company the old-fashioned way. Outside, a neon sign flickers whether there is a

IT’S THE TIME of year when young and old give rein to their inner and outer child and head to theme parks. California offers those from the whimsical to the wild. There are rides for all ages. The following is a peek into what’s new fun, plus a look at some of the old favorites.

The holidays are fast approaching. Perhaps you haven’t had time to enjoy the special events provided during this time of year. It’s not too late. Following are just a few of the upcoming holiday happenings around Southern California. Read article here:  http://www.sandiegouniontribune.com/sdut-holidays-happening-all-over-southern-california-2006dec17-story.html

“Konichiwa,” the slight, kimono-clad woman behind the hotel lobby counter said softly. In broken English, she added, “Welcome to the Ryokan Shigetsu.” Jet-black hair was coiffed perfectly atop her head; her small feet, in white socks, perched on wooden getas — sandals. She bowed; her simple elegance was an introduction into the Asian culture and

For one evening every year, the small town of West Hollywood with 36,000 residents becomes the sixth largest city in California. On Oct. 31, more than 450,000 revelers descend on the celebrity enclave to participate in “the largest Halloween street party in the world.” A one-mile stretch of Santa Monica Boulevard hosts the West Hollywood