We had wanted to try rainbow trout fishing at Big Bear Lake, but we were aware that the picturesque lake, which sits at 7000 feet in the San Bernardino Mountains of Southern California, is both a summer and winter playground for several million people living in the Los Angeles area.  That’s why we decided to drive to the lake during the off-season. 

There’s a special time of year between early September when the kids go back to school, and the middle of November when the snow-bunnies start to appear on the slopes surrounding Big Bear Lake.  During that period, you will find both the lake and the village downright quiet, --and when compared to the summer and winter seasons, the price of lodging is much more appealing. 

On our first morning at the lake, we opted to get our bearings by taking a narrated boat tour.  When we checked into the lakeside Lagonita Lodge, and inquired about tour boats, the front desk clerk assured us that we could depend on the captain of the ‘Big Bear Queen’ to provide us with pertinent information and interesting tidbits about the lake and its history.  The ‘Queen’ turned out to be a Mississippi paddleboat replica that took us around the more than 22 miles of shoreline in complete comfort.

 

We boarded the Queen just before noon and introduced ourselves to the ship’s captain, Chris Bellows.  The weather was excellent, with a pleasant temperature in the mid-70s.  Big Bear boasts sunshine 320 days a year -- a good reason why the location is a favorite of Hollywood filmmakers and TV producers. 

About 15 minutes into our excursion, we were fortunate to see an American bald eagle soaring high above our boat.  The eagles migrate to Big Bear Lake each fall from the colder climates of Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho.  We were surprised to learn from captain Bellows that our national bird has a wingspan up to eight feet, and weights between 10 and 14 pounds.  He also said, “It’s not unusual to see several bald eagles on any given winter day.”

Half way through our tour, we pulled into one of the lake’s many coves, where our captain called out to a waterfront cabin owned by the late Mel Blanc, who you will remember was the voice of Bugs Bunny, Daffy Duck, and other famous cartoon characters.  The captain’s call brought a jolly looking fellow out of the cabin and onto the front porch.  He lifted a waiting megaphone and replied to our captain in a loud voice, “badeep, badeep, badeep, that’s all folks.”  It was Mel Blanc’s son Noel.  He takes great delight in greeting excursion boat tourists with some of his dad’s famous dialogue.  Nice guy -- good impersonator, too.

We took note of a sizeable marina as we passed by another sheltered cove.  We thought it might be a good place to rent a boat for an afternoon of angling.  Captain Bellows suggested that if we planned to fish, we should make inquiries with Big Bear Charter Fishing. 

After disembarking the Queen, we drove the short distance to Holloway's Marina where we found Mike Marzell, the operator of a pontoon boat for Big Bear Charter Fishing.  Among other things, Mike told us “The rainbow trout are hitting well on worms today.”  Mike also seemed to know where the fish were biting, so we decided to hire him and his boat for a few hours.  We brought our own fishing equipment, but didn’t need to fetch it because rods, gear, and bait, were all provided with the charter.

 

Mike’s lovely wife Trish joined our party to help with the deep water trolling rigs the couple preferred for catching trout.  It didn’t take long before we had our first rainbow flopping around on deck.  Five more one and two-pounders quickly followed our first catch.  Mike and Trish seemed to be having as much fun watching us, as we were having catching the fish.  It was a great outing.

 

Our fishing time was up a little after four in the afternoon, and we decided to seek out the Visitors Center in the village to see what attraction might fill the rest of our day.  The center’s affable Manager of Marketing and Public Relations, Dan McKernan, suggested we try a late afternoon off-road tour.  Not the kind of thing that would normally appeal to us, but we thought it would be interesting to write about, so we signed up.  We were glad we did. 

We hooked up with Big Bear Off-Road Adventures.  The off-road vehicle utilized by owner Doug Walton and his crew is really something.  It looks like a khaki painted convertible panel truck without sides, but there the resemblance ends.  This machine has big tires and is awesome in appearance and performance. 

 

Within minutes of departing the parking lot at Big Bear Village, we were dashing along a dirt road and heading for the mountains on the north shore of the lake.  It wasn’t long before the dirt road turned into a bouncy narrow boulder-strewn trail.  It was an exciting ride. 

 

We asked our guide Doug if he knew of any old abandoned gold mines in the area.  He replied, “There are a good number of them in the San Bernardino National Forest wilderness.”  In a short time, we found and investigated three mines, circa 1850.  We were surprised that the openings to the mines were so accessible to the public, but the mines are in remote locations, so we guessed that was the reason for not having safety fences.  Gazing into the seemingly bottomless mineshafts, one could only wonder of the difficulties the miners faced as they worked deeper and deeper into the dark earth.  We were also impressed that these 150+ year old mines had wooden superstructures still in place and relatively intact.

 

The sun was beginning to set as we exited the third mine, so we headed back to the Lagonita Lodge for a well-deserved rest. 

The next morning we packed up and started our drive down the mountain and on to our next destination.  We reminisced about our fun filled day at Big Bear, and talked about how we would be recommending it as a first rate family vacation destination to our readers.  If you haven’t been there, -be sure to give it a try.

St. Kitts has the best hiking places. You can stay at the Rawlin Plantation Hotel and hike the cloud shrouded mountain called Mr. Liamuiga. It is a 3,792 foot volcano that has been dormant. It takes about two to three hours of hike to the summit. You can do this on your own or you have a guide. When you reach the summit, you will be able to see the green carpeted crater. There are also ropes that are available of you dare to go down the caldera wall for about a thousand foot.

Barbados is heaven for those who are into surfing because this place has the best waves in the Caribbean area. Every November, the annual Reef Classic Barbados is held at the Soup bowl in Barbados. There are also waves that are good for intermediate and beginners. You can stay at the Sea-U Guest House in Bathsheba. You can also hike from Bathsheba to Bath Beach along the old rail.

The Seychelles has the best scenic places you can get to with the use of a boat. The SY Sea star is a 138 foot schooner and has eight cabins, teak decks, gears for diving and snorkeling and mountain bikes. They offer and 11 day cruise of island hopping. Included in the island hoppings are the islands of Mahe, Praslin, Cousin and La Digue.

Vieques is located in Puerto Rico. There are mangrove line lagoons and empty beaches in this area. It is also a home for the endangered leather back turtles and brown pelicans. It is also a home for the red footed boobies that is just cruising on the waters and of course lots of giant fish like permits, snooks, tarpons and a lot more. Your activities in the island will include fishing, kayaking, and mountain biking.

Most tourists visiting the Zoo, Sea World, Legoland, Mission Beach, the museums and other spots on the typical ‘What to See in San Diego' list will miss these extraordinary places. They are well worth visiting if you have the time or can forego seeing one of the other spots. If you want directions and further details, you can find them easily on the Net.

Torrey Pines Beach - Magnificent sandstone cliffs rise 300 feet overlooking walking paths along the Torrey Pines State Beach bluffs. Trails from the Torrey Pines Reserve lead down to a 4.5-mile stretch of beach considered one of the finest in the county for swimming, walking, or hanging out. If you're up for a good walk, hiking trails venture through the reserve among the rare Torrey pines rewarding hikers with spectacular views from up top. Or you can park down below by the beach and forego the hike. Torrey Pines State Park and beach present a look back in time to how the natural environment along the southern California coast looked before development changed the county's other beaches. Best of all it is the least crowded beach in the county.

Cabrillo National Monument Bayside Trail - If you like to hike but you're not a fanatic about it this short hike will fit the bill. Alongside and under the Cabrillo National Monument lies the Bayside Trail, an easy 2.25 walk that reveals some of the most spectacular views you will see anywhere of the bay and ocean.

Cabrillo Tidepools - Because of their protected status, you will find several of the finest California tidepools below Cabrillo National Monument. On the western side is a rock-laden inter-tidal zone, a peek into the ocean ecosystem that lies along coastal San Diego. During low tide pools form along this shore, filling the rocky hollows. The depressions brim with ocean life such as star fish, sea cucumbers, urchins, sponges, sea anemones, an occasional octopus, crabs, and countless other creatures. It's best to tidepool during the winter months, when those negative low tides happen during daylight hours when the park is open. During summer the negative low tides occur at night when you can't see anything and the park is closed. You'll need a vehicle to reach the lower area of the park where the tidepools are located. An internet search will provide you with low tide time tables.
Witnessing the Grunion Run - During summer nights in Southern California the infamous grunion begin their runs on local beaches. If this is a new term for you grunions are five -- six inch long, small, slender fish with bluish green backs, silvery sides and bellies. Unlike other fish, during selected times of the summer they emerge completely from the water to lay their eggs on the wet sand during high tide in the wee hours of the night. To watch a grunion run is a pretty remarkable event. It doesn't happen anywhere but Southern California. It's spawning like you've never seen before.

The California Department of Fish and Game keeps a schedule of the "runs"; they say that the grunion make these excursions only on particular nights, but with such regularity that the time of their sandy arrival can be predicted a year in advance.
Many people flock to the beaches to watch the phenom but others come to fish the fish. However it isn't "fishing" like you've ever seen; no pole is necessary. You don't exactly catch them in the tradition sense. It's much easier than that, sort of. The grunion wash up at your feet to lay their eggs and are briefly stranded until the next wave comes to take them back into the water. You can chase them down and grab them barehanded, yep with your hands, and dump them in a bucket. It's pretty hilarious to watch people trying to scoop the slippery fish off the sand. If you want to try this uniquely Southern Californian experience you must have a valid State fishing license. Check the net for times and locations to purchase your "fishing" permit.
Kayak on the Bay or Ocean

There are a number of companies offering kayak tours should you not have your own boat. If you've never kayaked you might want to consider taking a commercial tour. The local kayak tour companies do an admirable job getting you into the mysterious La Jolla Sea Caves and the La Jolla Ecological Reserve where kayakers frequently see seals, sea lions, gentle leopard sharks and an occasional dolphin. Other tours explore the calm waters of Mission Bay, La Jolla Shores, South San Diego Bay, and the Coronado Islands. One of the most popular tours takes you to an area where you can witness California gray whales migrating from Alaska to their birthing grounds in Baja, Mexico and back again. Still other tours guide you during the early morning hours or evening when the water is calm and blissfully quiet. There are also a number of companies that will rent you a kayak, give you a map and steer you towards aquatic nirvana. Check the internet for kayaking companies in San Diego.

It is relatively a new sport in the Philippines and it has becoming a popular sport and it has been advancing rapidly. There are also active climbing places in manila and in other major cities. There are also quality-climbing equipments that is available in outdoor shops and climbing sites outside Manila which are Atimonan in Quezon, Antipolo, Cogeo, Manalmon, Montalban, Mt. Maculot, Palawan and Sagada. Currently there are 3 gyms that have indoor artificial climbing walls, which are the Power up Gym in Quezon City, Planet Rock in Makati, and Gravity Gym in Paranaque.

Sea Kayaking

It is also a new sport in the Philippines. The Philippines has 7,107 islands and offers thousand of kilometers for kayaking on crystal clear water, which can take you to exotic villages, pristine beaches, beautiful coral reefs and mangrove along the way. You can kayak in Caramoan, Palawan, Samar and in Siargao. Kayak is also a good way to explore Philippines delicate ecosystems without disturbing any wildlife.

Surfing

Philippines have some good surf breaks that will be available for you whatever level you are in. there are world class waves between July and November when the winds brings strong waves amid clear skies and low humidity. You can experience this waves in Baler and Infanta in Quezon, Daet in Camarines Norte, Catanduanes, Vigan in Ilocos Sur, La union, Samar, Siargao, Tandag in Surigao del Sur and in Zambales.

This and kayaking are new sports in the Philippines. There are becoming more paddlers that are looking into more action in the Philippine Rivers. If you want to experience the thrills of the gushing rapids of the Philippines Rivers, go to Bubunawan/Cagayan River in Mindanao, Tibiao River, Panay, Calbiga River in Samar, and Tacloban.

Trekking

This is for those people who wanted to go beyond the end of the roads and Philippines has the best treasures. Trekking is the only way you can see these treasures. These are the places which are the falls, tribesmen with beautiful tattoos and the crystal Water Rivers. You will also see jungles, virgin forests, and beautiful mountain ranges. And only the trekkers can witness all these things. If you are that person you can trek in Abra, Albay, Baguio, Batanes, Batangas, Bohol, Bulacan, Cebu, Iriga, Kalinga, Laguna, Leyte, Marinduque, Mt. Province, naga, Olongapo, Occidental Mindoro, Oriental Mindoro, Pampangga, Romblon, Samar and Sorsogon.

One thing that can get lost in all of the glitzy and fun atmosphere of the state's more popular attractions is just how beautiful the natural scenery of California can be. If you're looking for a holiday retreat, but one that's still environment friendly, Laguna is a great destination.

A young woman enjoying sunflowers at a local florist.

While they are each separate cities, we are grouping together Laguna Beach, Laguna Hills, Laguna Niguel, and Laguna Woods into one (Las Lagunas - Spanish: The Lagoons - I like to call them).

Laguna Beach

The Laguna Shore

Laguna has always been one of the best beaches, in my mind. While it can be a little more rocky than other Orange County beaches, it is so beautiful and has many lovely nature reserves and spectacular view points.

Laguna Hills, Niguel, and Woods are mostly residential areas, so the Beach and its surroundings are the real hot spots. Don't forget to check out the amazing tide pool by Heisler Park.

Tour the area surrounding the main beach for a fun, local sort of feel. Those producers at MTV didn't choose this location for their hit show for nothing.

Get That Inspired Feeling: Your Great Escape

Crystal Cove State Park

Laguna Art Museum -

A beautiful way to spend an afternoon... exploring history, culture, and thought expressed visually. The permanent collection of the museum has over 3500 works of art, many a great portrayal of California itself. The museum is in Laguna Beach on Cliff Drive.

Crystal Cove State Park -

Take a hike! That's right, take a hike on one of the lovely wilderness trails in the Crystal Cove State Park. This is a beautiful, natural reserve where you can literally spend the entire day just enjoying the fresh air and outdoors. Pack a lunch and a blanket so you can stop along the trail to sit and enjoy the scenery.

Sea Lion Kayak Tours -

Feel great by getting out there and loosen up a bit while kayaking through lovely coves of Laguna Beach. For those of you that haven't been out in a kayak before, no worries, it's simple to learn and La Vida Laguna will provide lessons before each tour.

A Taste of Laguna

Lunch at Las Brisas

The Gourmet Cheese and Wine Shop -

An extension of Laguna's school for Culinary Arts, the cheese and wine shop is filled with "a fabulous selection of cheeses, delicacies, food-friendly wines and lunchtime fare. Their lunch menu contains a nice selection, and you can either sit in the cafe or take your food to go. My favorite is the traditional fondue, best to share amongst friends/family, although the sandwiches are very reasonably priced and taste wonderful. Map.

Laguna Canyon Winery -

Take a break in the middle of your day and enjoy a few sips of vino. The Laguna Canyon Winery offers wine tasting in their tasting room Tuesday-Sunday, 11a-6p. My pick from this local winery is their sultry Cabernet Sauvignon, although most of my friends love the raspberry sparkling wine. Map.

Las Brisas -

Not only is this place practically a landmark at the north end of the main beach, it is a favorite of my mother's.The Sunday Brunch is legendary and an absolute must if your timing allows for it. If not, try to get a seat on the patio and order the delicious mahi mahi tacos. You won't regret it!

Sweet Dreams: Where to Rest Your Head

Comfort Inn, Laguna Hills -

This is one of only a handful of Orange County hotels participating in the state's Green Lodging Program. The accommodations are quite reasonable for a "Choice Hotel" (not known to necessarily be the best quality of lodgings), and some great features include free wireless internet, well-designed bathrooms, and a comfortable place to relax.

Casa Laguna Inn & Spa -

My expensive taste never fails me when it comes to accommodations, but Casa Laguna does offer rooms at reasonable prices. For instances, they have the tasteful courtyard rooms, with cottage-like decor starting at $150 per night. I personally prefer the Laguna Suite, which was incidentally featured as a "Romantic Stay" in Sunset Magazine and nightly rates start off at a more steep $400 per night. Whichever room you choose, you still have a fabulous spa to go to for a replenishing massage, along with all the other normal resort features.

Getting Around

EV Rental Cars

Because Southern California is the capital of cars, driving, and freeways, you almost can't get around without one. EV Rental Cars are partners with Fox Rent-a-car. They have a selection of three hybrid vehicles: the Honda Civic, Toyota Prius, and the Toyota Highlander. I recommend renting the Highlander, since you may find yourself wandering into an area without fully-paved roads. Pick-up station is available at John Wayne Airport in Santa Ana.

OCTA: Cruisin' on the Bus

The Orange County buses are not known to run late or often, but they do have routes that cover nearly every section of the county. For bus routes/maps/schedules, click here.

The Hundred Islands National Park in Alaminos City, Pangasinan, Philippines is 250 km. away from Manila. This National Park covers a land area of 1,884 hectares with 123 islands.

A trip to Hundred Islands National Park and its home, Alaminos City, is a great diversion from the hustle and bustle of the busy, urban life. Breathe in the refreshing views - rice paddies, azure sea - and the rustic and peaceful lifestyle as you make your way to Alaminos City. And upon arrival, savor the city's unique and dynamic spirit, friendly atmosphere and especially, the beauty and adventure awaiting in the hundred wonders of the Hundred Islands.

This summer, experience and enjoy one of the best tourist attractions of the Philippines. Here's a dozen way to ensure a happy, enjoyable and worth remembering summer vacation in the Hundred Islands National Park.

1. Snorkeling

   
   Slip your body into the Park's inviting water and swim your stress away. Glide with manta rays, groupers and other fabulous sea creatures. The romantic temperature is best for couple bonding. And you can also have fun tagging the kids along for a visual treat.

2. Banana Boat Ride

   This is pure fun all the way. Hold on tight as you dash away in this yummy ride. It's the ultimate bonding water ride for the family and friends.

3. Spelunking

   
   Wend your way into the raw beauty of the Hundred Islands National Park's caves. You can take a floating tour, then, shine your flashlights on limestone formations and watch your head as you lumber inside and greet various species of bats.

4. Parasailing

   
   Be on top of the world, with wind on your face, untouched by the water below and thrill seeping through your veins. You can peer down and feel the rush on your face, as well as marvel at the gorgeous bird's eye view of the Park.

5. Jet Skiing

   
   If it's fresh air you're after, get it fast and exhilarating. You can rent one of the jet skis near the Wharf and take charge as you dash through the azure calmness of the sea. Revel in your free spirit as you sweep through the water.

6. Kayaking

   
   Stretch your adrenaline a little higher. Dip an oar and enhance your kayaking strokes as you paddle away the hours in the Park's graceful curves. You can go for it alone or conduct a small competition with friends who want some thrill.

7. Scuba Diving

   
   Grab some gear and navigate your way, either with a personal guide or a handy map, to the diving holes in the Park. Take the plunge in these marine havens and find your own piece of magical corner beneath the depths, gliding over colorful reefs and other marine wonders which call it home.

8. Birdwatching

   Feast your eyes on more than fifty species of birds in the Hundred Islands National Park. Get to know magpie robins, Philippine ducks, blue-tailed bee eaters, purple night herons, zebra doves, white collared kingfishers, and more. Among the best islands for this activity are the Kamantiles Island, Heron Island, Tern Island and Bat Island. For hikers, you can follow the Alaminos River for more birdwatching.

9. Island Hopping

   
   Grab a slice of island action. Let off some steam as you cross islands dangling from secure ropes, trudging the rugged terrain or just relaxing as your boat glides over water. Embrace the adventure and the thrill and lose yourself in each fresh revelation you encounter.

10. Fun-Fishing

    
    Folks can help you out on the best spots to drop anchor in the Park. Enjoy the challenge and have fun reeling in native fishes. Even if you won't have any luck, you can always enjoy a swim with the refreshing breeze or just be captivated by the stunning views.

11. Sun Bathing

    
    Relish unfettered relaxation and get your perfect tan as you soak up the sun in the Park's firm sanded beaches. Or simply watch its scenic views. Leave the baby sitting to the shallow waters, sandcastles and friendly folks for a while and enjoy their memorable stories later.