The Hawaiian government has asked visitors to stay away from West Maui until October 8 so it can deal with the terrible damage from the Lahaina fire. But it’s encouraging visitors to head to other areas of the island and support businesses that rely on tourist dollars. That’s especially so for smaller, independent shops versus the Costco’s and Starbucks of the world. Besides dining or shopping, there are tons of great nature spots to see and enjoy. West Maui definitely needs time to heal. But the area that’s closed for tourism is a tiny fraction of the island of Maui, Read more
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There’s always something new in San Francisco. This year they’re celebrating some things that are rather old as well. I recently spent a few days in the City by the Bay checking out things both old and new. Okay, and a few things in between. Here’s a look at some of the highlights. SOME THINGS NEW HOTELS Hyatt Regency SoMa The Hyatt Regency San Francisco Downtown SoMa, previously known as the Park Central hotel, reopened last year after a full, $70 million renovation/reimagination. We had a 23rd floor suite in cool shades of grey and black, with brown and Read more
If you land at Sacramento International Airport, you might hear a voice over the public address system making the following statement. “We’re proud to offer a unique blend of big-city amenities and small-town charm that can only be found here.” I’m not above borrowing a good quote when I hear one, and I think it’s an apt description. Air Canada in July began direct, daily flights from Toronto to Sacramento, the capital of California and a city I think is heavily underrated. It’s an attractive city filled with towering, leafy trees, fun neighborhoods and a very good food scene. You’re Read more
A family-run brewery in the countryside. An historic beer-making spot in central Windsor. A fine winery with classic Chardonnay. And a bustling distillery with craft cocktails and fun, casual dining. The Windsor-Essex-Pelee Island tourism region is blessed with a huge variety of beer, wine and distillery spots, which they highlight on their Barrels, Bottles and Brews trail. The trail allows visitors (and locals) to explore 11 craft breweries and two distilleries in the area, and to have a special passport stamped along the way I was fortunate enough to explore a half-dozen or so fine establishments on a recent visit Read more
Jennifer Ollinger of Visit Detroit says she tells people the hardest part of her job is getting people to visit her city. But once they come and see the great food scene, stylish, boutique hotels and sparkling waterfront in this Michigan city, she says her job is done. “The city sells itself.” It wasn’t always this easy. As someone who has worked at Visit Detroit (the city’s tourism bureau) for 25 years, she’s seen her share of low points, including a municipal bankruptcy and far too many headlines about a city gone to seed. “In my second month on the Read more
