15 Commandments of Vacation Travel

Soooo I stole this from Bedandbreakfast.com, but I thought it was a good article. I should definitely keep some of these tips in mind!

Fifteen Commandments of Vacation Travel

We all know people who come back from a vacation feeling on top of the world, and others who seem vaguely disappointed. Here's how to put yourself in the first category, not the second.

Know yourself. A successful vacation is one that works for the person you are, not the person you think you should be. Confirmed couch potatoes who resent having to walk from the far end of the parking lot will not find true fulfillment on a trek through the Himalayas. If privacy is a top priority, a group tour or communal lodge will turn fantasy into frustration. Acknowledge your own comfort levels. Are independence and flexibility top concerns? Or being structured and secure? How essential are the creature comforts when it comes to sleeping, eating, and bathing? Would you rather have one week of luxury travel or two weeks of budget food and accommodation? And remember that while your personality doesn't change, your needs do. The type of vacation you plan for a romantic getaway is totally different from a family reunion.

Know your travel companions. Adjust your plans to accommodate your travel partners. Whether you are traveling with friends, spouse, children, and/or parents, you'll need to take their age, attention span, agility, and interests into account. If you're traveling with the kids, balance a morning at an art museum with an afternoon at the zoo; if you're spending time with elderly parents, make sure that they can stroll a country lane while you go rock-climbing; if your group includes skiers and non-skiers, pick a resort that has appealing shops and off-slopeactivities.

Plan ahead: anticipation is half the fun. Enjoy the planning process. The more you know about an area you're going to visit, the more fun you'll have. Check out destination websites; skim a guidebook; read a novel or watch a movie set in the region; talk to friends who have been there recently.

Don't bite off more than you can chew. Keep your itinerary in line with the amount of time and money available. Focus on seeing a smaller area well, rather than trying to cover too much ground and seeing nothing but interstate highways. Don't over-program; allow yourself the luxury of doing nothing.
Avoid one-night stands. Plan to stay a minimum of two nights everywhere you go. A vacation made up of one-nighters is a prescription for exhaustion. You will sleep poorly, spend most of your time packing/unpacking and in transit, and will get only the smallest glimpse of the place you're visiting.

Travel off-season. Unless your vacation dates are dictated by the school calendar, off-season travel offers many advantages: fewer crowds, greater flexibility, reduced costs, and a more relaxed atmosphere. Learn to pick the best dates for off-season travel; typically these are the weeks just before and after seasonal rates change.
Book well ahead for peak season travel. If you must travel during peak periods to popular destinations, make reservations well in advance for the key sites to avoid aggravation, extra phone calls, and additional driving time.

Take the road less traveled. Get off the beaten path and leave the crowds behind. Instead of booking a room in the heart of the action, find a quiet getaway tucked in the hills or in a neighboring village.

Ditch the car. You’ll need a car to get most destinations, but once you're there, get out and walk. You'll see more, learn more, experience more at every level, while avoiding crowds at even the most popular destinations.

Hang loose. The unexpected is inevitable. When your plans go astray (and they will), relax and let serendipity surprise you. And keep your sense of humor in good working order. If possible, travel without reservations or a set itinerary.

Carpe diem--seize the day. Don't be afraid to follow your impulses. If a special souvenir catches your eye, buy it; don't wait to see if you'll find it again later. If a hiking trail looks too inviting to pass up, don't; that museum or outlet mall will wait for a rainy day.

Don't suffer in silence. When things go wrong--an incompetent guide, car troubles, a noisy room--speak up. Politely but firmly express your concern then and there; get your room changed, ask for a refund or discount, whatever. Most people in the travel business would rather have you go away happy than to leave grumbling.

Remember--being there is more than seeing there. People travel to see the sights--museums and mountains, shops and scenery--but it is making new friends that can make a trip memorable. Leave a door open to the people-to-people experiences that enrich travel immeasurably.

Don't leave home to find home. The quickest way to take the wind out of the sails of your trip is to compare things to the way they are at home. Enjoy different styles and cultures for what they are and avoid comparisons and snap judgments.

Give yourself permission to disregard all of the above. Nothing is immutable. If you find a pattern that works for you, enjoy it!


Read the article here.



Cardiff-by-the-Sea Lodge

Just an FYI

Pencil it in: The Fall Festival will be back this year November 22, 2009, from 9am to 4 am.

"EVERY NOVEMBER, for nearly two decades, downtown Encinitas has played host to a premier street fair – The Fall Festival. This festival, previously known as the Poinsettia Festival, is a readymade bazaar for holiday shoppers and weekend fun seekers. This year, on Sunday, November 22, from 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m., fair-goers will enjoy a day where coastal breezes meet people gathering to shop, eat, be entertained and enjoy the community’s Historical district. The festival will feature over 450 vendor booths showcasing various arts, crafts, gifts, food and more. The 200 shops and 40 restaurants and eateries along the Coast Highway from D to J Streets will be open and ready for business. Live music will be playing at two venues; The Lumberyard Courtyard Stage, located at the Lumberyard Center, Community Stage, close to F Street, which will feature the best in local entertainment."

Read the rest of the article here.

Cardiff-by-the-Sea Lodge

Tour of Cardiff!

Many guests ask about things to do in the area, good restaurants at which to eat, and which beaches to visit. To help answer some of those questions, we've put together a little slide show of Cardiff-by-the-Sea and the Cardiff-by-the-Sea Lodge and all the great things in the area. Enjoy!

Cardiff-by-the-Sea Lodge

The New York Times likes Cardiff :)

Check it out -- straight from the New York Times:

"Cardiff-by-the-Sea is north of San Elijo Lagoon, one of the few remaining coastal wetlands in the county. If you’re looking for sustenance, the colorfully decorated (and moderately priced) Las Olas has delicious Mexican fare and refreshing margaritas.

It’s no surprise that all along this gorgeous coast magnificent private homes sit on some of the best spots. But at San Elijo State Beach in Cardiff, campers can enjoy prime real estate too. Tents, vans and recreational vehicles sit just a few feet away from the edge of the coastal bluffs. A snack bar that opens at 8 a.m. serves coffee and a mean breakfast burrito."

We might be a tiny town, but apparently we're getting noticed. If you want to check out the rest of the article -- all about the tiny coastal towns down here -- click here.


Cardiff-by-the-Sea Lodge

San Elijo Lagoon Ecological Reserve, one of 40 San Diego County Parks

The San Elijo Lagoon is a really cool place for hikers, runners, nature enthusiasts, and the like. It's only a half-mile from the Cardiff-by-the-Sea-Lodge, and totally walkable. Check out this neat article by Bob Gorden about the Lagoon and its RV visitors:

"Multitudes of RVers are searching for cool summer vacation destinations; locations where they can be comfortable in their RVs and enjoy the sights and sounds of different and exciting experiences. After spending about 5 weeks in the heat of southern Utah and northern Arizona a trip to the California coast has offered pleasant relief. RVing from the Phoenix area to San Diego is a relatively easy trip and the rewards to be received along the Pacific coast certainly make the trip a worthwhile venture.

San Diego County supports more than 40 county parks, recreation areas, community parks and centers, many of which offer RV and tent campgrounds. In addition, there are state parks and picnic areas which give access to the ocean, wetlands, lagoons and tide pools.

Few of the southern California coastal wetlands and lagoons have escaped the destructive hand of man, but the San Elijo Lagoon Ecological Reserve has initiated a reconstruction program that is designed to save the lagoon as an important link in the Pacific Flyway. Six ecological communities are represented within the confines of this 1000 acre preserve that is nestled, and almost hidden, in plain view, between Cardiff by the Sea, Encinitas and Solano Beach. Divided by the PCH, Coastal Railway and I-5 the Lagoon is nearly cutoff from the ocean and, in fact, requires an annual cleanup and dredging to allow tidal flow movement into and out of the lagoon.

The various aquatic ecological habitats ranging from the coastal strand, salt marsh and freshwater marsh yield to the terrestrial riparian scrub, sage scrub and mixed chaparral watershed systems. More than 300 species of plants, of which 18 are endangered, an additional 100+ species of fish, reptiles and invertebrates, (several endangered), 26 mammal and an estimated 300 bird species, including the small, endangered Beldings savannah sparrow, make the Lagoon their permanent home or a stopping point while migrating.

A cooling ocean breeze, many trees and shaded rest areas, the fresh aroma of seasonal flowering plants and leaves contribute to a restful, or invigorating, stroll or hike along 5 miles of well marked trails through the Reserve. The recently constructed Visitor Center boasts recycled building materials, solar heating, low moisture landscaping, recycled sewage water for irrigation and toilet usage and similar energy and water conservation features. www.sanelijo.org

For some RVers the crowded freeways, PCH (Pacific Coast Highway) and alternate roadways present challenges to those driving RVs of most any size and confirguation. However, with careful planning and timing of the routes the greatest congestion can be avoided and an astute RVer can drive directly to the beach and park conveniently on the roadside overlooking the ocean. Note that no parking is allowed along most streets between the hours of 2 and 5 am. It is not clear just where the RVers go during that 3 hour time slot, but they seem to return to their selected sites for the other 21 hours.

In an earlier article the advantages of staying in the San Elijo State Park were described. ( See: 20 neat activities near San Elijo State Park RV Campground, March, '09) Similar advantages are offered at Carlsbad State Park. These are two of the California State Parks that have not yet been closed as a part of the economic crunch."



Cardiff-by-the-Sea Lodge

Happy Fourth of July!

Happy 4th of July!! I hope all of you out there are doing something fun -- whether it's with friends, family, pets, or neighbors. It's a BEAUTIFUL day out there! When I was younger one of my favorite parts of the summer was the Fourth of July parade in Dutch Flat, CA. We'd always try to leave early (to no avail) to get a prime viewing spot and where (more importantly to me and my brothers) we could catch the most amount of candy. The parade always commenced with bagpipers and was filled with water balloons, fire engines, dressed up poodles, and all kinds of things. When we got home my brothers and I always had to spread out our candy horde on the floor and compare who had a better stash. My dad would invariably steal some when we werent looking or a fight would break out over who got the blowpop, but it was a tradition we cherished. Ahhh, good memories.

Tonight after leaving this beautiful lodge, I'll go home and sit on my rooftop with some friends to watch the fireworks. You really can't beat fireworks over the bay.
Traditions might change, but the good feelings and general camaraderie do not.

What memories are you making today?

In case you want to watch the fireworks, too, here is a listing of all the locations in the San Diego area. San Diego Fireworks

Cardiff-by-the-Sea Lodge

Union and Secessionist Families Clash in Sacramento, California

In a small tribute to my native Norcal, I decided to post this fourth of July story. You might get a chuckle out of it.

All research is by James R. Heintze and is taken from this website.

Union and Secessionist Families Clash in Sacramento, California

The following story concerns the display of Union and Confederate flags by two families in Sacramento, California, on July 4, 1864, and how those families almost came to blows. The event speaks to the significance of the flag as an important symbol and representation of patriotic sentiments, as well as the need for individual expression of those beliefs. Telling as well is the newspaper editor's decision to report this incident, which seems to us inconsequential if compared to other more noteworthy Fourth of July happenings. Yet, for Sacramentians it was newsworthy--two familes brawl over the flag, Union soldiers arrive, and a retraction by one of the participants occurs. The complete account was printed in two separate newspaper articles that are quoted in full below.
The day began with Sacramento residents waking up to the sounds of cannons firing and bells ringing. A sense of joy and excitement prevailed; everyone anticipated a full day's worth of parties, parades, and pandemonium. This was, after all, the 87th anniversary of the glorious Fourth and Sacramentians did up this holiday in grandier and style. The spectacle of the day was a parade consisting of both military and civilian participants. Among the notable officials processing was California Governor Frederick F. Low.

Coupled with this joy was an undercurrent of concern for the great war going on back East. The city's newspaper provided news about the conflict. Reading headlines as "The Great Contest--Army of the Potomac" and "The Trenches and Sharpshooting" on July 4 caused citizens to ponder just how the war would affect their future. Indeed, Sacramento was pro-Union; however, this story provides evidence that some residents had pro-Confederate leanings.


A Union and secession war on a small scale occurred on Monday afternoon on G Street, near Fourteenth. A double house at that locality is occupied by two families--those of John Drummond, Union, and John Clary, Secesh. Heretofore these familes have lived together in peace and quietness. On Monday morning [4th of July] Mrs. Drummond heard Mrs. Clary order her child, who had gone into the room with a small American flag, to leave, as she would not have the rag about the place. Mrs. Drummond at once called her child home. In the afternoon Mrs. Drummond put up the flag over the door. Mrs. Clary tore it down, stating that that was the only door which she could pass through, and she would not be compelled to walk under the Union flag. Mrs. Drummond put it up again, and procuring a small piece of board, which made a formidable weapon, threatened to strike Mrs. Clary with it if she attempted to tear it down again. Mrs. Clary then repaired to her room and improvised a Confederate flag, although it was not made according to regulation. This she pinned to the Union flag, when Mrs. Drummond again appeared and tore it down, leaving the stars and stripes afloat, of course. Before placing the Confederate flag up, Mrs. Clary was joined by her husband, who justified his wife in her course. Mrs. Drummond informed him that she would as soon strike him as his wife if he acted as she had done. When Mrs. Clary pinned up the flag Mrs. Drummond dealt a heavy blow at her, but Mrs. Clary dodged and escaped its consequences. Soon afterward Mrs. Drummond was joined by her husband, who, after learning what had occurred, went into Clary's room, Clary and two other men being present, took off his coat, said he could whip any Secessionist in the room, and gave them his views on the subject under discussion explicitly and without reserve. Clary defended his wife's course, and looked occasionally at a double-barreled shotgun in the room, but no blows were struck. Clary said his wife should put up a flag if she chose and he would defend it. Drummond responded that she could not put up a traitor flag on that house or any other in this city, and that he for one would shoot down him or any other man who would make the attempt. The Union flag was kept afloat until evening, when Mrs. Drummond took it down. (Sacramento Daily Union, 6 July 1864, 3.)
The second article provides some clarification and additional information. The correct address of Mrs. Drummond is cited and the fact that Union troops were summoned. It seems possible that Mrs. Drummond or her husband, upon reading the first article, contacted the newspaper and provided the following additional information-- in particular, the fact that she was the cousin of General Rosecrans, who was likely well known to readers..


That Flag.--Mrs. Drummond, the lady who persisted in keeping the Stars and Stripes afloat over her door on the Fourth of July is a cousin of General Rosecrans. Her residence is located on H street, above Fourteenth, instead of G street, as stated in a former article. The flag put up on the morning of the 5th still floats over the house, although Clary, on first seeing it, declared that it should come down. Soon after this declaration was made, several soldiers from Camp Union stopped at the house and were anxious to see the man who was going to tear down the flag. Clary, on seeing them, disclaimed being that individual, and declared that he was as good a friend to the Union as any other man. (Sacramento Daily Union, 8 July 1864, 3.)



Cardiff-by-the-Sea Lodge

Happy Father's Day!

A big thank you and a big hug to all of the amazing dads out there. Thank you!


Cardiff-by-the-Sea Lodge

Haunted Bed & Breakfast Stories

I don't actually think I believe in ghosts...but some of these stories certainly make even the most skeptical of skeptics think twice.

Check out these stories of haunted Bed and Breakfasts throughout the United States.

Cardiff-by-the-Sea Lodge

Blessed by Rain

Yesterday was one of those Mondays when it really feels like a Monday. Cranky people, neverending phone calls, and a lot of loose ends I had no motivation to tie up. As I was making the final rounds and closing everything up, it began to sprinkle. Once I got up to the rooftop to turn out the firepit, though, it began to pour! I was drenched! Racing around trying to put away the cushions and hide anything that shouldn't be getting wet, I paused for a moment to glance over the edge of the roof. What I saw made me stop in my tracks, because Cardiff had never looked so beautiful. A soft gray mist of rain and fog blurred all the streetlights, creating a hazy glow as far as I could see. The smell of fresh waterdrops cleared out all the dust and pollen from the air, and the whistle of the train punctuated the growing chorus of silence and rain. All I could think was how lucky and blessed I was...and am...what a beautiful gift on a now-perfect Monday.


Cardiff-by-the-Sea Lodge

10% Discount for Military

Being as we are so close to several military bases, we would like to make a special notice of everyone in the services. We really appreciate all the hard work and sacrifices they've made for us and our country, and we'd like to say thank you by offering a 10% discount off any stay (with valid military ID).

Thank you from the Cardiff-by-the-Sea Lodge


Cardiff-by-the-Sea Lodge

Goings-on (AND 31 CENT ICE CREAM!!!)

What a change it is down here! I've just returned home from a mini visit home to norcal to visit family and friends, and boy is it different! Lots of trees and mountains and rivers...but no beach! I was very happy to see the ocean today from the airplane.

I arrived back at the lodge today to find some interesting goings-on in the area. If you get a change, check em out!

Arts Alive Banner Project
Live Art Auction on May 31


Wine Tasting
Wine Steals Cardiff offers wines from Argentina, 5:30 to 7 p.m. Wednesday, April 29, at 1953 San Elijo Ave., Cardiff. $5. (760) 230-2657


31 Cent Scoop Night!
"Baskin-Robbins hosts its third annual 31 Cent Scoop Night to thank customers, 5 to 10 p.m. Wednesday, April 29, at all locations. During the event, 2.5-ounce ice cream scoops will be 31 cents. As part of the event, Baskin-Robbins will make a $100,000 donation to the National Volunteer Fire Council's National Junior Firefighter Program. Visit baskinrobbins.com"

101 Coast Highway Begins in Cardiff -- Some Interesting Socal Coast History
"Come take a look at one of the scenic stetches of the 101 Coast Highway where it enters Cardiff by the Sea in Encinitas. Historic Highway 101."

Cardiff-by-the-Sea Lodge

Nickel Creek to Play on Wednesday

So this Wednesday: Hump day, the middle of the week, yuck yuck...not any longer! I propose a fabulous way to get past Wednesday -- a fabulous concert and then a quick drive up the coast to a relaxing stay at the Cardiff Lodge!

Take a look:

San Diego's own Nickel Creek is back...albeit briefly. This Wednesday they'll be playing at UCSD's Rimac Arena.

Not familiar with this insanely talented progressive acoustic angelic mandolin fiddle bluegrass band trio? Check em out:
http://www.sandiegoreader.com/bands/nickel-creek

Wanna hear their music? Here you go:
http://www.rhapsody.com/nickel-creek

And of course, you'll wanna pick out a fabulous room to stay in after the fabulous concert: www.cardifflodge.com

It's inexpensive fun that's not too far from home -- so go on, find a babysitter and have a fabulous Wednesday. See you then!

We're getting noticed! Tanks for Traveling!

On bedandbreakfast.com, we are doing a really great promotion: Tanks for Traveling!

Check it out:
Need a break but don't have much time or moolah? Come visit us at the Cardiff-by-the-Sea Lodge, your ultimate getaway that's not too far away! Not only are we easy to get to and lovely to find, but we are paying for you to get here, too! For every stay made between now and April 31, 2009, we'll take $30 off your reservation so you can fill up your tank (and maybe even grab a burger somewhere if you drive a Smart car!). Just mention the TANKS FOR TRAVELING special when booking and we'll be sure to help you fill 'er up!

Even better? Other people are noticing!

http://healthcaretraveler.modernmedicine.com/healthcaretraveler/Online+Only/Bed-and-breakfast-inns-offer-spring-savings/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/590985?ref=25

Get 'er filled before we're all filled up!

With April Showers...

....come May flowers? Hmm. I think the saying may be a bit late for us! All over the lodge flowers are blooming - out of pots, up the sides of buildings, from behind rocks - in wild pinks, exotic reds and yellows, and springy whites. Hibiscuis and daisies and azaleas are all abloom!

At the beginning of each new month I like to research what interesting facts and figures I can discover. As it turns out, April is just chock-full of surprises. It is home to almost 60 monthly observances, about 50 weekly observances, and about 100 daily observances (Did you know today is April Fools, Boomer Bonus, St. Stupid, Sorry Charlie, National Day of Hope, National Fun Day, National Fun Day at Work, Paraprofessional Appreciation, Poetry & the Creative Mind, and US Air Force Academy Day?) Thanks to Brownielocks & the 3 Bears for this unique information! http://www.brownielocks.com/april.html

On a more local basis, I'll be adding a blog every week or so with some fun things to do in San Diego for the week. Here are your 5 Best Bets for the Week of April 2-9:
http://sandiego.about.com/od/familyfun/tp/weekof_april02.htm

Happy April!
-Laurie

Things to Do in San Diego

I just stumbled across this site tonight as I was looking for interesting things to do in San Diego: http://www.randomsandiego.com/

This blog has all kinds of interesting information about things going on in San Diego and the surrounding areas, including movie releases, auditions, the Flower Fields, and other "random" things to do. Might just be worth a look if you're wanting something a bit different to do!

The Grunions are Coming!

Beginning this Saturday at 10:30pm, the La Jolla Birch Aquarium at Scripps (http://aquarium.ucsd.edu/)in La Jolla will host its first grunion-run of the year. Every spring, the silver fish come to the SoCal beaches for their annual spawning ritual.

According to Grunion.org, "California grunion are a species of marine fish found only along the coast of southern California and northern Baja California. They are justifiably famous for their unique spawning behavior. Grunion spawn completely out of the water and lay their eggs on many sandy beaches in California. Shortly after high tide, on specific nights, sections of these beaches sometimes are covered with thousands of grunion dancing about on the sand. The eggs remain buried in the sand throughout incubation, fully out of water for approximately 2 weeks. The larvae hatch when the eggs wash out by high waves during tides before the new and full moons. Grunion spawn at the age of 1 year, and live for 2 to 4 years."

The dates of the grunion runs vary each year depending on the lunar calendar. The Birch Aquarium offers five different grunion runs throughout the season. For $12, participants will be educated about the fish ritual, shown the hatching process, and then led to optimal spawning-viewing beach areas. Call for reservations as the groups are limited to 90.

Of course, adventurous grunion-lovers can always grab their own flashlight and hunt out the silvery fishes by themselves! Happy hunting!

Happy First Day of Spring

The first day of spring is one thing, and the first spring day is another. The difference between them is sometimes as great as a month. ~Henry Van Dyke

This morning, I woke up to gray clouds and a warm breeze. Two hours later, I was rushing around my backyard scooping up radios and couches while the rain soaked through everything in sight, and by the time I got here to the lodge it was blue skies and sunshine everywhere. Looking out the window now we have a mini tornado going on and I think I just saw a person flying down the street. Just kidding! The first day of spring has certainly not disappointed its reputation, and would we really have it any other way?

March 22, 2009 has also ushered in many other new beginnings as well. Kite surfers are beginning to take full advantage of the windy season out on Cardiff Beach, and the Flower Fields in Carlsbad are beginning to bloom in full force. http://www.theflowerfields.com/

Our own rooftop garden is beginning to flower in earnest as well. It's the perfect time to enjoy a warm spring weekend at Cardiff by the Sea Lodge and all the great attractions nearby!

Foggy Day in March

I got a random urge to stir my legs tonight, so I grabbed my camera and snapped a few pictures around the lodge. It's been a strangely foggy day in Cardiff, but it adds a bit of mystery to the air.

We also got a comment today about the super size of our Calla lilies by the fountain, so I thought I'd post a picture of those too!

Meet the Owners!

James & Jeanette Statser
Owners, builders, designers, and dreamers!

Opened in May of 1991, the Cardiff-by-the-Sea Lodge is the creative beauty of James and Jeanette Statser. When the couple first bought the property near the corner of San Elijo and Chesterfield, they had some ideas for a small hotel. Before commencing the building, however, they took a twenty-fifth anniversary trip to Great Britain and stayed at various bed and breakfasts throughout their travels. By the time they returned to Cardiff-by-the-Sea, they had decided that they would turn the property into a lodge based on their wonderful bed and breakfast experiences.

With their combined effort and skills, they created the beautiful lodge that exists today. An award-winning designer and builder, James crafted a unique layout for the lodge, rooms, and rooftop. Jeanette fashioned each room with its own unique theme, ranging from Victorian to Paradise to Southwest.