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Great Escapes
Paradise Point Resort & Spa in San Diego's Mission Bay
By Mel and Ronnie Greenberg
Get to enjoy a tropical vacation in "paradise" without ever having to cross an ocean, because of the curiosity of a Portuguese explorer, far-sighted San Diego city fathers and an imaginative Hollywood movie producer.
The 4,600-acre wonderland, now known as the Mission Bay Aquatic Park, was discovered by Port-uguese shipbuilder and navigator Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo in 1542. Disenchanted with the bay because it was not sufficiently deep to accommodate his ships, Cabrillo named the area Bahia Falza, False Bay.
In 1902 George Hall, city horticulture commissioner, suggested the swamp Bahia Falza be developed into an aquatic park. A master plan was approved by the city council in 1958 creating 30 miles of shoreline beaches, grassy knolls, areas for sailing, swimming, picnicking, powerboats, fishing, water skiing, SeaWorld and Paradise Point Resort & Spa. Producer Jack Skirball when introduced to the property saw miraculous possibilities for creating the ultimate movie set. Along with architect Eldridge Spencer and builder Bob Golden they created a beautiful vacation island escape, insulated from the city but not isolated from San Diego's features and attractions.
Today Paradise Point Resort & Spa in San Diego's Mission Bay, is a recreational haven that heats up with endless fun for all ages. The resort is a private 44 acre island tucked away on the shores of the gentle Bay with more than a mile of sandy beach, and surrounded by beautiful tropical landscaping. Hidden away in secluded pockets are 462 California cottage-style guestrooms, that include 99 lanai patio, garden, bayside and studio garden suites. Created with families in mind, amenities include Cable TVS, in-room movies, mini-refrigerators, coffeemakers and kitchen facilities including microwaves, and sinks.
Whether by land or by sea there's plenty to do
If the pastime of choice is lounging by the pool, an exhilarating jet ski adventure or bike ride along the bay, there are many choices. You can swim and splash in any of the five pools, including lagoon and waterfall pools, and a beautiful lagoon pool with a sandy beach area. There's also a pool just for children, and one for adults only. Clean sandy beaches with shallow waters that stretch far into the Bay. Paradise Point is most well-known for its private full service marina. Here aquatic activities such as sailing, sailing lessons, water skiing, jet skiing, motor boating and kayaking can be learned and enjoyed.
There are five hard-surface tennis courts, which mean nearly round the clock availability. Professional instructors are available to provide coaching and tips for any level player. A sand volleyball court inside the resort's perimeter is available, or a court may be arranged beachside. And it's "air paradise" if basketball is the name of the game with the use of its own NBA regulation basketball court. The 18-hole putting golf course is a perfect for practice or just for fun, and Bocce ball, ping pong, horse shoes and lawn croquet round out the list of fun-in-the-sun things to do. Another popular activity is bike rentals. Cruisers and Quads make roaming near and far relaxing and fun. With all the activities available, there's no reason to leave the island.
The resort's unique Indonesia-themed SpaTerre offers custom designed Thai and Javanese-style massages and treatment for the body and face. The Spa is a secret portal where exotic rituals of gentle Eastern cultures and indigenous San Diego influences collide. The result is an intimate and inviting spa sanctuary that imparts secrets for mind and body well-being. Signature body rituals include Volcanic Earth Clay Spa Ritual, Thai Kelapa Spa Ritual, Sam-unprai- Thai Herbal Heat Energizer, and Hot Stone Massage. A blend of herbs and minerals indigenous to Southern California such as the Pacific Seaweed Body Mask or Seaside Salt Glow, are used in many of the treatments.
The Fitness Center features the latest cardio equipment, including treadmills, stationary bicycles and elliptical machines, free weights, steam rooms, dry saunas and locker room. Personal trainers are available.
For onsite dining there' three distinctive restaurants
Island inspired casual fare is served all day at the Barefoot Bar & Grill set alongside a waterfall and overlooking the Bay.
For poolside nibbles it's the Tropics Bar & Grill located at the main pool and spa for snacks and refreshing frosty, tropical drinks.
BALEEN for fine dining is uniquely positioned on Miss-ion Bay with a choice of al fresco or indoor dining. The signature chef's tour of fish and shellfish that includes pan roasted diver scallops with caviar & lobster, steamed Carlsbad mussels & clams with Spanish Chroizo, and herb crusted Chilean sea bass. Selected wine flights are offered. Other entrees include Angus filet mignon and Australian rack of lamb. The "icing on the cake" includes a crème brulee trio, a flourless cake with light and dark chocolate mousses and a Monkey Love banana split for two.
Many celebrities and dignitaries have visited Paradise including: Janet Jackson, Michael McDonald, Paul Newman, Sandra Bernhart, Robert Wagner, Hulk Hogan, Mr. T, and Amanda Pays. Paradise Point Resort & Spa (15 minutes from the San Diego International Airport) is located at 1404 Vacation Road in San Diego, phone (800) 344-2626
www.ParadisePoint.com
Eager to explore the area's major theme parks and museums
It's a short hop to SeaWorld and close by to other major theme parks including the San Diego Wild Animal Park. The famed 100-acre San Diego Zoo's s newest attraction is the six Massai giraffes that have moved into their new home on Elephant Mesa, They're now ready to have guests over for lunch or dinner Thursday through Sunday, from noon to 1 pm and from 5 to 6 pm. Biscuits can be purchased for a nominal fee with proceeds helping conservation efforts in the Northern Rangelands Trust region of Kenya.
Kirkland Washington Wine
By Sheila O'Connor
Did you know that Washington is the second largest wine-producing state in the country? Yes, it's true and wine-making has grown exponentially in the past 25 years. Just ask Larry Springer of the Grape Choice:
"Nobody had any idea how much wine would be made in Washington state", he says. "Twenty five years ago there were 15 wineries in the state and now there are 550".
But it's not always just business when it comes to wine. Even though there is competition, families still have camaraderie, right down to the time families shared fruit with each other when a freeze occurred in 2004. It would have caused families to produce no harvest had there been no help and goodwill from those who did have grapes.
And, as Larry knows, there's no better place to check that fact out than at the Uncorked Wine Festival in Kirkland. Book your place in advance for next year's event. It's super entertainment. Things you'll find at the festival include a wine garden and an artist lane, as well as a grilling demonstration, a competition and a tasting. The festival is only in its 2nd year and has already proven to be a great attraction among locals and visitors alike.
More than 60 wines from Washington wineries along with pairing plates and picnic boxes are on display. Vintners and wine stewards are on hand to share information and tips. The Artist Lane features the best of Northwest artists. Musicians take the stage with live performances of classical and jazz throughout the weekend. And the green scene hasn't been forgotten either--at this year's festival the electric car was on display. Just what we all need in these tight economic times.
A similar festival was started four years ago but was solely for artists. That festival has now been increased to become the Kirkland Uncorked festival of today.
If the kids are too young to go into the festival itself, they can always enjoy the lakeside and head to the water for swimming and water fun.
Hotel
One of the best places to stay while you're at the festival is the Heathman Hotel - a new hotel that is as luxurious as you can get. It's not for nothing their motto is "Where service is still an art".
Should you wish to try something more traditional, check out the Woodmark Hotel. Guests can take advantage of a trip on Lake Washington for a token fee of $10 each. It's well worth doing it. One of the houses you'll get to see is that of Bill Gates, along with his motorboat. You'll also get the unmistakable Seattle skyline and the "Sleepless in Seattle" floating home to check out too. Not surprisingly, the waterfront is a popular place to watch brides and grooms have their wedding photography taken.
The boat that takes you on the lake cruise is one of only 46 of her type built between 1956 and 1959 and is considered a "classic" from her retro design to her mahogany decks.
Food
One of the nicest places to eat, and one that's on the lakefront, is the Yarrow Bay Grill at Carillon Point. Enjoy a peaceful dinner as you look out onto the Lake Washington activities and the Olympic Mountains. There's no better place to spend a summer's evening. There is a Wine Spectator acclaimed wine list here and the food is inspired from the Northwest and around the globe. Chef Vicky McCaffree has received numerous culinary awards for her delicious dishes.
The Trellis restaurant at the Heathman Hotel is also extremely popular and with good reason. The food here is market fresh and features products from local artisan producers. Executive Chef Brian Scheehser, with nearly 30 years of culinary experience, practices sustainable farming on his three-acre nearby garden, growing many of the fresh ingredients featured in his signature "Two Hour Salad" where the ingredients are harvested within 2 hours of being served.
Bridle Trails State Park
Bridle Trails State Park is a 482-acre day-use park, well known for its horse trails and equestrian shows. You might be lucky enough to watch youngsters perform in a horse competition or see the world's smallest horse on display. It's beautiful. Alas these little horses, a mere 2 feet high, only live for 5 years since they often come with health problems that don't allow them a long life. Adorable in any case and even non-horsey people will enjoy a day out at this state park.
Chateau Ste. Michelle Winery
One of the most refined wineries to check out in the neighborhood has to be Chateau St. Michelle which was founded in 1934. It has been producing classic European varietal wines under the Chateau Ste. Michelle label since 1967 and the winery combines an ongoing dedication to research with a commitment to class winemaking traditions. The Chateau Ste. Michelle enjoys winemaking partnerships with two of the world's most distinguished vintners. Col Solare is an alliance with Tuscany's Piero Antinori and Eroica Riesling is a partnership with the Mosel's Ernst Loosen. Take the wine tour - you won't be disappointed. Built in 1912, the estate, which takes up 87 aces, was owned by lumber baron Frederick Stinsen and this was his summer home. Over 1.5 million cases of wine are made here every year.
Kirkland is a town well worth checking out. As we raise a glass to the city, we say "cheers" to that.