This amazing oasis in California's torrid San Joaquin Valley is a vacation must-see when visiting west of the Rocky Mountains in the USA.

Apr 25, 2010 - Donna Hinton

Visitors may see this authentic Japanese landscaped garden and indulge in tea ceremonies at Hakone Gardens in Saratoga, CA, on short road trips south of San Francisco.

Sep 29, 2009 - Donna West

Escape on a romantic getaway to Monterey. See its enchanting scenery of trees, blue sky, ocean, and feel its ambiance throughout the downtown streets.

Jun 26, 2010 - Mary Belanger

Visitors young and old to this college town will discover that there's more to Chico than textbooks and red plastic cups.

Jun 18, 2009 - Amanda Drew

California poppies fill the hillsides as the Golden State's native wildflower blooms profusely in March through May and adapts easily in many planned landscapes.

Feb 17, 2010 - Kathryn Hedderig

If you're looking for a relaxing yet educational outing while on vacation, check out some amazing arboretums in Southern California.

Jan 31, 2011 - Sharael Kolberg

Looking to languish a long afternoon celebrating high tea with friends or drinking a quick, casual tea while out shopping, Pasadena has a place for you.

Nov 23, 2008 - Jennifer Blair

Discover what there is to do at Griffith Park in Los Angeles California. Known for its iconic Hollywood sign, the park has much more to offer.

Jan 17, 2011 - Kristin Abraham

Among the best areas in California for golfing, Glendora is just outside of Los Angeles and provides hotels for golfers at the popular Rio Honda and Royal Vista Courses.

Jan 25, 2010 - Matthew Fortuna

Part of the idyllic Santa Ynez Valley, Buellton has the area's only off leash dog park and Botanic Garden, along with several parks ideal for families.

Feb 24, 2011 - Helga George

The town of Locke, California, has a shabby charm. But why is America's only remaining rural Chinatown so rundown?

Mar 3, 2010 - Nicole Potter

This extremely drought-tolerant plant, which can be seen along canyon walls and in coastal scrub while hiking, also makes a great garden plant in dry coastal climates.

Jan 4, 2010 - Ret Talbot

Oktoberfest is an annual German festival in Germany,the U.S.,and Canada. If traveling in California, check out the best places to celebrate the festivities.

May 20, 2010 - Amy Wingfield

Discover a hidden gem while traveling on Highway 58. Tehachapi, the land of four seasons, offers many treasures for visitor to discover two hours away from Los Angeles.

Oct 15, 2009 - Kelly Mendoza

Every year in June, thousands of beach-goers, chili cooks, and free-spirited individuals converge in Ocean Beach, CA for the OB Street Fair & Chili Cook-Off Festival.

Jun 12, 2008 - Kristin Krogh

Building foundations, garden stones, photographs and quotations from internees, plus a documentary film chronicle life of interned Japanese in Owens Valley camp.

Mar 22, 2008 - Connie Emerson

Napa Valley Wine Region in Northern California is a great getaway destination for enjoyment of wine tasting, vineyard tours and pampering spa treatments.

Oct 2, 2007 - Christine Nyholm

There's much more to Sonoma County than touring some of the finest California vineyards. Try free vineyard hikes, bird-watching, honey-tasting and organic hideaways too

May 16, 2007 - Mike Gerrard

Wood-burning fireplaces in every room are but one of the charms that make this historic Cannery Row hotel the ideal jumping-off point to explore Monterey, California.

Sep 13, 2009 - Ret Talbot