The Year Was 1964. Walt Disney was visiting the New York’s Worlds Fair VIP lounge of a corporate sponsor. There, the idea of having his own VIP lounge within Disneyland was born. Upon his return, Walt immediately began work on his private lounge, that special place where he could entertain visiting dignitaries and others in a quiet, serene environment where superb cuisine was served in a beautifully decorated dining rooms. After years of planning, Club 33, a members-only excl

Who would have known that a few dozen participants of the first ever Dapper Day at Disneyland in 2011 would grow into a biannual extravaganza with more than 10,000 Disney fans in attendance. Although this fashion infused event that takes place in Anaheim, Orlando and Paris is all about dressing from the past, the concept blossomed thanks to today’s concept of social media. Thanks to all the social networking and word-of-mouth, Dapper Day typically encompasses many informal me

When you visit Orange County, you will hear the same words describing iconic locations - Disneyland is ‘the happiest place on Earth’ while the beaches are known for its ‘beauty’ and ‘waves.’ There is one word to describe the timeless treasure of Balboa Island - ‘lovely.’ Located in Newport Beach, Balboa Island is less than half an hour drive from Anaheim. It is known for its laid back and relaxing atmosphere with more than manageable crowds. The Fun Zone is one of the most re

You’re walking along Laguna Beach’s beautiful shoreline enjoying your favorite gelato when you notice the sun casting a spectacle over the ocean. Off to the distance, you spot a shadow and as you squint in an attempt at catching a better glimpse, a local whispers to you “It’s Catalina Island." Yes, Southern California does have a local island, Santa Catalina Island. Catalina Island, an hour boat ride off the coast of Southern California has been inhabited for at least 8000 ye

On July 4th, 1776, the Continental approved the Declaration of Independence, setting the 13 colonies on the road to freedom as a sovereign nation. 2.5 million: In July 1776, estimated number of people living in the newly independent nation. 318.4 million: July 2014, estimated number of people living in the USA. There is something written on the back of the Declaration of Independence, but it isn't a secret map or code as portrayed in the movie “National Treasure” starring Ni

Whether you are looking for adventure on the waves, romantic sunsets on the beach or the best spot for watching people, Southern California beaches have it all. Year round, locals and visitors from around the world enjoy beautiful beaches. With so many choices, here are the top 5 to consider when not hanging out with Mickey Mouse at Disneyland. Venice Artists, outdoor bodybuilders, roller skaters, belly-dancers, palm readers, chain-saw jugglers….and the list goes on - this is

We all know that travel with a teenager is much different than travel with a toddler. Teenagers are more difficult to please and have opinions on everything from the best music to the ugliest color and everything in between. So how do you entice someone that “knows everything” to want to go on the annual family vacation? Below are some tips. Ask For Their Input: Asking a teen to help plan the trip will make them feel more involved and in control. When you begin planning your

Stay out all day and night at a summer kick-off celebration as Disneyland and California Adventure stays open for 24 hours 6:00 AM to 6:00 AM, May 23 to May 24, 2014. Disney heroes and villains will entertain the young and old, so come as a princess or pirate; Goofy or Donald, a monster, a mermaid or a Mad Hatter! The celebration will feature events showcasing the good-vs.-evil of classic Disney stories including character meet-and-greets throughout the parks, special entert

Did you know that Universal Studios Hollywood is the only theme park in the world that is also a working movie studio? It's also one of the top three destinations for the Southern California tourist along with Disneyland and California Adventure. On March 15, 1915, Universal Studios founder Carl Laemmle opened his 230-acre Universal City ranch located just north of Los Angeles to visitors. For just ¢25, visitors got the chance to walk around his outdoor movie studio and be wi

What do you look for when choosing a beach vacation rental? The distance from the home/condo to the beach is a top priority to many as they want ocean front or view. But did you know that there are other details to consider when renting a beach house or condo that is directly across the street from the beach? One example is how far from the home/condo is the nearest crosswalk. You may be directly across the beach, but if you have to walk half a mile to reach the nearest cross