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Restaurants Near Barclays Center

Everybody in the Brooklyn area appreciates just how breathtaking the new Barclays Center is and locals are excited to support their Brooklyn Nets play there. However, there is more to the Barclays Center than just exciting basketball and an attractive stadium.

With several restaurants near Barclays Center, it can be difficult to find the best ones to visit following the ball game therefore it is best to plan ahead and know where you will be heading to. The best thing to do is call for a reservation prior to the game to ensure you are guaranteed to know where you will be eating once the game is over. In this article are several of the finest restaurants near Barclays Center.

Restaurants Near Barclays Center

Night Of The Cookers

If you are craving for some good soul food or American dishes, then Night Of The Cookers is the restaurant to be. Located on 767 Fulton between Oxford St & Portland Ave, Night Of The Cookers has become a mainstay for individuals that want great food at an affordable price. It is simply a stylish and casual restaurant that's focused on making locals and tourists feel at home in downtown Brooklyn.

Must Try at Night Of The Cookers - The one dish that everyone must try out at least once is their Mac & Cheese. This is the dish that's helped this restaurant win over so many guests. Night Of The Cookers has plenty of additional meals but this is the best seller so far.

Night Of The Cookers Details - The place is surprising not that loud and is quite the relaxed restaurant despite the active atmosphere in this Brooklyn area. If you come make a reservation on the right day, you can enjoy a good jazz band for some great live music. To make sure you catch a live band, it is best to call ahead of time.

StoneHome Wine Bar & Restaurant

This is a very well known modern American restaurant on 87 Lafayette Ave., and they continue to draw in fans soon after the games. They are famous for their wide variety of wines to select from. Having more than 200 selections, Stonehome is able to provide any wine lover with the perfect glass. The menu is packed with foods that are made from nearby produce and natural meats as well as fish and pasta. This means that all of their food is natural from local sustainable sources.

Must Try at Stone Home Wine Bar & Restaurant - The only thing that you simply cannot overlook at the Stone Home Wine Bar is your favorite glass of bottle of wine. They have so many different options and you will certainly find one that might become your next favorite. The menu is small but packs a punch in taste.

Stone Home Wine Bar & Restaurant Details - The biggest aspect that you should keep in mind when coming to Stone Home Wine Bar is that you might be spending about $ 31 to $ 50 per person. Even though this might seem like a whole lot, this is actually pretty worth it because of the quality of the meals together with the customer service.

Zombie Hut

Zombie Hut is located on 273 Smith St between Degraw St & Sackett St. This is one of the more popular place in the neighborhood if you just want to have drinks after a Nets game. It is a bar that fulfills different needs and this is definitely why there is always a diverse crowd at the Zombie Hut. The Zombie Hut is without a doubt an exciting place to take a date, as there are several tables that will allow you and your date to really focus on each other. The best restaurants near Barclays Center certainly are unique and this is among the best out around.

Must Try at Zombie Hut - The one thing that everyone should try at least once at Zombie Hut is the crazy colored drinks that they have.

Zombie Hut Details - The bar is open till 2 am from Monday to Friday and on the weekends, they are open until 4am. With a full bar and music playing in the background, you will certainly have a different feel inside of the Zombie Hut.

El Viejo Yayo

If you are looking for an a night out with your entire family, then El Viejo Yayo just might be one of the best Brooklyn restaurants near Barclays Center to visit. It is an extremely family friendly restaurant and so if you are taking the whole family to game, then this is the spot to enjoy a meal. Also a warm dining experience for couples. It can be tough to try and find a good Latin restaurant in the area and this is one of the very best out there. This Brooklyn restaurant is located on 36 5th Ave between Bergan St and Dean St.

Must Try at El Viejo Yayo - The best meals to try at El Viejo Yayo is anything that is grilled or sautéed. They are the most popular on the menu and will certainly satisfy your taste buds. From chicken to pork to beef, El Viejo Yayo offers it all and you should consider trying them all.

El Viejo Yayo Details - The restaurant is family friendly and the whole family is definitely welcome. It is a casual restaurant and mainly more suitable for dinner. El Viejo Yayo is also available to cater private parties in their banquet rooms. Free parking is available.

NO. 7

This particular modest restaurant has become a big favorite among Net's fans who are searching for a quick meal at a decent price. NO. 7 is located at 7 Greene Avenue between Oxford St & Fulton St and has become the main restaurant near Barclays Center to grab a burger, sandwiches, appetizers and some great tasting entrees.

Must Try at NO. 7 - The Velveeta double burger made swiss or velveeta, muchim pickles, special sauce is by far the best burger that you can possibly eat near Barclays Center. There are several different burgers to choose from but this one has become a Brooklyn favorite.

NO. 7 Details - NO. 7 is just a short walk from Barclays and the beautiful view outside is what you will be noticing first. They are open on Tue-Sat 5:30 pm - 2 am, Sat 12 pm - 3:30 pm, Sun 11 am - 4 pm and Sun 5:30 pm - 1 am. Make your reservation after 5pm if you have a group of 6 or more.

These are only some of the finest restaurants near Barclays Center area but there are certainly many other that you should consider trying. If you are ever in the area to catch a Nets game, then don't overlook these best Brooklyn restaurants near the Barclays Center. However, some of these restaurants may be very packed, therefore make sure you remember to call for a reservation in advance is the best solution. The trick is to just get there early and try to get to know some of the workers to ensure you can get first dibs on the best seats in the house. If you're lucky, you just might be able to also a get a discount. Barclays Center is without a doubt becoming quite the tourist location and these restaurants are helping the cause. BrooklynRestaurantsDirectory.com/category/american/

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Five Great Guatemalan Desserts

Every country has its own sweets and desserts. Sometimes they are known mainly only in their country of origin, and sometimes they become quite popular through exposure in ethnic restaurants. Some Guatemalan desserts are similar in nature to ones in other countries, as with their Borracho cake. Many cultures have cakes that are soaked with a sugar syrup and alcohol. Other Guatemalan desserts are far more unusual.

The cake mentioned above, the Borracho is a light sponge cake that is literally drenched in sugar syrup laced with a typical Guatemalan rum made from their sugar cane crops. This cake is found in pastry shops around Guatemala City, and is generally sold by the slice. Slices are set into a larger muffin paper to contain the syrup dripping out. The cake is topped with a cornstarch pudding made with milk, and then decorated with raisins. In my early life I had never heard of this kind of cake, and it quickly became a favorite. The sugar syrup is cooked with a true cinnamon stick so the syrup is cinnamon flavored. The cake is simple to make as any sponge cake will do, and any simple cornstarch pudding works for the topping.

Rellenitos de Platano are one of the desserts I have always been enchanted with. Platanos are plantains, and relleno means filled. In this case, these little oval shaped desserts are filled with black beans cooked down to a paste. If this sounds strange, it is nonetheless a delicious flavor combination. Eating plantains and black beans, a common pairing at any meal, are a particularly tasty combination. In this case, the plantains are cooked and pureed, a little sugar and cinnamon are added and this is the outside of the dessert. Pureed black beans are cooked down to a thick paste and a small bit is placed into the center of an oval shaped bit of the plantains. These are fried and rolled in granulated sugar to serve, hot or cold.

Chancletas are another interesting use of a vegetable. These are made with Chayote squash. At times, these squash are plentiful, and using them as a dessert is just another way to use up the excess. The chayotes are cooked whole. Once tender, they are split in half and the insides are scoped out as for a twice baked potato. The inner flesh is mashed or pureed and sugar, cinnamon, raisins and cookie crumbs are added to thicken. The mixture is placed back into the skins of the chayote and set on a baking sheet. These are baked until set, about 20 to 30 minutes. The name chancleta means slipper, as they are supposed to resemble a slipper.

Polvorosas are a type of shortbread cookie. The name comes from the word polvo, meaning powder or dust. The cookies are rolled into powdered sugar when baked, so biting into them gives one the reason why they are thus named. Shortbread of any kind is made without eggs added to bind the batter or dough, and this makes shortbread unusually crumbly. These little cookies are made into small round shapes with a flat top. They are much the same as the cookies known as snowballs, or Mexican Wedding Cakes.

Other typically Guatemalan sweets are found sold by street vendors on many street corners. The Guatemalans make candy out of unlikely things such as squash or sweet potato, along with some fruits like figs, orange peels or guavas. These candied fruits or vegetables can take days to make, because of the long, slow cooking process required to get them down to their dried, crystallized state.

Many other typical candies are also sold alongside these candied fruits or vegetables, and all of them have their particular flavor and shape. All of these desserts are amazing in their variety and in the imagination of those who came up with the recipes. Nothing is wasted. Even leftover cakes are made into a new cake, using the crumbs as a base.

Thank you for taking the time to read my article. I hope it was informative and helped you along your own culinary journey.

My passion is to teach people how to create a harmony of flavors with their cooking and help pass along my love and joy of food. I would love to hear from you! Join my "e-family" and share recipes, stories and good times in the kitchen. Visit my Web site aHarmonyOfFlavors.com my Blog at aHarmonyOfFlavors.Blogspot.com my Marketplace at or join me on Facebook. Let me know, and I will send you a copy of my monthly news letter full of recipes the latest tips.

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The Top 5 Most Sought-After Disney Pins to Collect

Trading pins at Walt Disney World, which began as part of the Millennium Celebration in 1999, has created a subculture all its own. The process is simple, fun, and interactive: you simply buy a Disney pin in the park (they range anywhere for $6 to $50) and then trade with other guests, or even with cast members who carry lanyards full of pins. The twist, of course, is that some pins are more valuable than others, depending on the year of issue and the quantity produced. Some are so rare that they're instant collector's items. For a list of the five most sought-after Disney pins, have a look below.

Dream Jeweled Mickey Mouse

This is probably the rarest and most valuable of all of the Disney World pins - ever! It was released exclusively at the Disney pins event, Expedition: PINS! in 2008. The pin features a waving Mickey Mouse decked out in over 130 jewels. The retail value of the pin is estimated at $1,295.00, but you won't find this one for sale in any Disney shops, which makes its actual price much higher. There were only a grand total of 3 pins produced, so if you simply must have one, check eBay often.

The Mad Hatter's Hat

It's just a small rendition of the Mad Hatter's famous green top hat with the mysterious 10/6 tag, but this is actually one of the rarest Walt Disney World pins in circulation. There isn't an accurate edition number available because this little gem was sold exclusively to cast members in 2003. Now it's a collector's item... that is, if you can get your hands on it. We hear there may be one or two still floating around Disney World somewhere. Good luck in your search.

Figment Collection Framed Set

Disney World only produced 75 of these pins, which are part of a 4-pin set commemorating the 2009 Museum of Pin-tiquities event at Epcot. Figment himself appears on this pin against a black background in a circular frame. This was a completer pin awarded to those who completed the Figment Collection framed set, making this little number an exclusive and extremely rare item. It's not for sale in the park or in Disney World's online pin ship, so your best bet for snagging this one is an online auction.

Donald Duck Wet Paint

Only 1000 of these limited edition pins were produced and sold in the Magic Kingdom in 2001. The pin features Donald against a yellow backdrop shouting as one of his nephews, who happens to be tracking wet paint everywhere. The small number of manufactured pins combined with the humorous design have made this one of the most sought-after Disney World pins. Though it originally debuted at $6.95 in the Magic Kingdom, it now fetches over $150 at online auctions.

Flubber 2000

The original Flubber pin was a surprise hit among collectors. Trading for this pin was wild in the park, and it still remains one of the most coveted pins around.No one is really sure why the Flubber pin is so popular, especially when the ticket sales for the film were unremarkable. That, of course, matters little to a collector. You can still find the Flubber pin floating around Walt Disney World (there were 500 produced, after all) but you have to look carefully. It may end up being quite the search. If you're unable to find one after scouring Disney World, you can find replicas for sale in the online Disney pin shop. Just keep in mind that the replicas' design is different than the original: the newer version's design commemorates 10 years of pin trading.

If Disney pin trading has taught us anything, it's that the value of a once sub-$10 can skyrocket. The surest way find a valuable pin is to purchase those of a lower edition number (check the back of the pins for the precise number created). Then, trade carefully and wisely while at the park. Finally, always be courteous and friendly to cast members with whom you want to trade: they may have the goods you want, but they're busy people with a lot to do. A friendly demeanor goes a long way, and it could even land you a high value pin.

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Historical Landmarks Of Paraguay

With a fascinating landscape iconic for its striking contrasts, Paraguay is a top destination in South America. Steeped in history and beautiful vistas, Paraguay should be top on the list for anyone heading to the continent.

There are a number of iconic landmarks that make the country a major draw. If you are planning a visit, make sure you check some of these top historic attractions during your stay.

Iguazu Falls

Found in a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Iguazu Falls are an absolutely magnificent natural feature bordering on Paraguay, Brazil and Argentina. The falls are surrounded by lush green forest - the falls beauty is well recognised, making it a popular backdrop for many photographers and directors.

Panteon Nacional De Los Heroes

The Panteon Nacional De Los Heroes in Asuncion is a national monument that offers tourists a look back at the lifeline of Paraguay. The Pantheon's plaza fills with vendors each day, all selling traditional Paraguayan items. Find pottery, bows and arrows, artworks and many other cultural items available for purchase. It's a great place to spend the day if you're looking to bring something back with you from your trip, or if you just want to immerse yourself in a thriving hub of the country's culture.

Casa da la Independencia

Casa da la Independencia is a historical monument that celebrates Paraguay's 1774 independence. Translated as "The House of Independence", the building is renowned for its historical significance as well as its architectural supremacy. Paraguayans began their revolt against the Spaniards from this very place almost two hundred and fifty years ago.

Visitors can enjoy the museum inside the building which remains open and free until 6:30pm Monday through Saturday and from 8:00am until noon on Sundays.

La Santísima Trinidad de Paraná

The La Santísima Trinidad de Paraná in Itapúa is the ruins of a Paraguayan Jesuit mission. Built in 1706, the mission featured a beautiful church and other buildings featuring numerous, complex decorations. La Santísima Trinidad de Paraná is just one example of the many Jesuit Reductions - small colonies established by missionaries - throughout South America.

Spend your time in South America exploring Paraguay and the many historical, religious and natural landmarks that the country features. Get a taste for country and immerse yourself in its history - a trip to Paraguay should be a notable part of your itinerary. It's an exciting and vibrant part of South America with plenty to offer travellers seeking out adventure.

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Guide to Car Rental Companies in Costa Rica

My time's limited... how do I choose?"

Car rental is a hot topic for vacationers headed to Costa Rica. Recent research conducted by the Costa Rican Institute of Tourism (ICT) indicates that, after accommodations, renting a car is the largest expense, averaging $702 for an eleven-day vacation.

The Internet is buzzing with negative reviews discussing overcharging, poor customer service and mechanical breakdowns. You might have even written one yourself!

A typical midsize (3 - 4 adults) 4X4 rental runs between $58 and $65 daily with third party insurance and rates can vary as much as 20 percent among car rental companies, so reading a quick review will be time well spent once you calculate the savings.

So the question is; which rental company offers the best balance of fair price, capable customer service and reliable vehicles? I've researched it all for you, so keep reading!

Disclosure: This research was conducted in May - July 2013. The following companies were selected because they are the most widely used in Costa Rica. Some are local companies; others are international franchises of recognized brand names. Comparisons include: customer service, pricing and the reservation process. The companies are listed alphabetically and not based on personal or online preferences. 
Consider this information before renting:

Insurance

One of the biggest causes for complaints is from the stack of unforeseen charges presented to the renter once standing at the rental company's counter. Vacationers are typically tired after a long flight and then are confronted by costs that were not anticipated, explained or budgeted.

Topping the list of grievances is the non-disclosure of fees associated with the mandatory third-party insurance at the time the reservation is made.

According to Costa Rican law, every driver is required to carry liability coverage to insure against injuries to third parties. Car rental companies generally refrain from disclosing the cost of this policy in the quoted rental rate to appear more competitive. Mandatory third-party insurance can sometimes be as much as double the vehicle's rental cost. The only guarantee against insurance confusion is to inquire if your estimate includes the third party insurance and insist on a written quotation.

Cost of Mandatory Insurance (also called Third Party or SLI)

Expect to pay between $12 and $15 daily for this insurance, depending on the make and model of the rented vehicle and the rental car agency. This is a legal condition of your rental agreement and is generally not covered by credit cards and cannot be waived. It's a fact of renting a car in Costa Rica.

Collision Damage Waiver (CDW)

As the name suggests, this isn't insurance, but a waiver, which relieves the renter from any liability for damage to the rental car after the deductible is paid (usually from $750 to $1,500). Some agencies require renters to purchase their CDW policy; thereby negating any credit card program. For an additional fee, many agencies do offer a zero liability option where the renter will be freed from paying for any damage to the car. Some companies may put pressure upon renters to purchase the zero liability coverage; however, it is entirely optional, unless it is in the fine print of their rental agreement.

Credit card insurance programs may cover the CDW for a rental vehicle. Check with your chosen rental car company to find which proof of insurance is needed and then request that from your credit card company prior to arriving. If you use your credit card's CDW policy, expect to pay a higher deposit on the vehicle; around $1,500 to $2000 is common. The higher deposit ensures that the credit card holder has enough financial reserves to cover damages if needed. It is important to consider that if using CDW coverage provided by a credit card (in lieu of the rent a car operator), all damages will be billed to the renter's credit card. The credit card company will then reimburse the card holder for damages.

More Insurance

Tires and windshields are rarely included in insurance policies, although additional policies may be taken out for covering these frequently damaged items. Neither the interior nor the underneath of the vehicle may be covered. Always read the fine print.

Standard Procedure

Your credit card will be charged, or a 'hold' placed, for the rental vehicle during the time of the rental agreement; i.e. from picking up the rental until you return it. Debit cards are generally not acceptable.

Additional Charges

Most companies have surcharges for additional drivers, car seats/boosters, cell phones, coolers, GPS and/or roof racks. The costs vary from company to company, but since these extras are billed at a daily rate, it is worth checking the total cost -- additional options can add up very quickly! A GPS is around $8 to $10 per day; however, some operators may offer discounted units. Expect to pay around $5 daily for a child seat and a few dollars a day for all the other 'niceties'. Vamos is notable for offering most of these options and, during some promotions, even the GPS rental complimentarily. Alamo, Budget, Hertz and National charge the most for such additional options; whereas the other companies listed, charge more reasonable prices.

Surcharges

Most companies add small incremental costs, such as license plate and environmental fees, into the total tally. Be wary of operators who insert these additional charges into the small print of the rental contract. Vehicles rented direct at the airport incur airport taxes, which are a whopping 12% of your rental cost!

The rental vehicle should be returned with the same amount of fuel, unless otherwise indicated. If not, companies may charge above gas station rates for missing fuel.

Vehicles

There is a debate over the vehicles supplied by rental companies: Older cars allow the driver to blend in more than a shiny, new car. Having an older model may have the indirect benefit of being less scrutinized by car rental agencies for recent nicks and scratches, unlike a newer vehicle. However, a newer vehicle may be more roadworthy. This debate carries on into the different vehicle makes and models. Generally, Costa Rican firms are able to rent their vehicles for a lower rate because their cars are typically three to five years old (versus two to three). Online reviews would suggest that the local firms have no more complaints concerning vehicle quality than transnational franchises; research on forums, such as TripAdvisor.com, seems to indicate that customers frequently appreciate driving a less-than-new vehicle through the wilds of Costa Rica. The reasons are plenty, from road conditions to the notion of less-then-new vehicles blending in better -- a newer vehicle may draw more unwanted attention.

The choices of rental cars in Costa Rica are mostly limited to makes and models that maintain a competitive resale value, are a common brand in the country, and are inexpensive to maintain. As such a rent-a-car operator's fleet tend not to be as diverse as the United States. Toyota, Nissan, Mitsubishi and Hyundai constitute the mainstay brands of most rental fleets.

Sometimes, drivers are charged for supposed 'damages' to the vehicle upon return. Once receiving the vehicle, renters should meticulously check for pre-existing flaws and compare it with the vehicle inspection document used by the rental car representative. Some renters suggest photographing or videoing the vehicle from all angles, to avoid any disagreement between pre-existing and recently damaged items.

Pricing

Car rentals in Costa Rica are pricier compared to other countries. Duties on vehicles are high (as much as 50% of their value!), parts are costlier and unforgiving road conditions contribute to higher wear and tear, generating higher maintenance costs.

The rule is you get what you pay for -- there are other options than those rental companies listed here, but they are not listed for a good reason. They simply fail to offer basic customer service and/or a suitable vehicle condition required for a (nearly) trouble-free vacation.

When comparing rental car charges, it is best to go directly to the Costa Rican website of the rental car company, rather than trying to use their international format or an intermediary (Expedia, Travelocity, Orbitz, Kayak, et al.). For the same vehicles and reservation dates, the rates offered by the respective international vs. Costa Rican websites for Alamo, Budget, Hertz and Thrifty differed substantially.

To avoid confusion, print out all correspondence with the car rental company with whom you have reserved a vehicle and bring this to the rental office with the quote given at the time of reservation.

The following top ten chart ranks the companies from highest priced to lowest and it includes the mandatory insurance charge. In the cases of Alamo and Hertz, the figure contains their CDW fee as it is one of their rental requirements. This price comparison is based on a week's rental of a Daihatsu Bego, where available (Dollar offers the Suzuki Vitara) from September 14th - 21st, then again in December to view both Green and High Season rates. The list quickly demonstrates that the price variation depends greatly on the company -- for basically the same service. These prices were obtained in June/July 2013.

Rental Car Companies Ranked According to Price

September

10. Alamo $650.96 
9. Hertz $514.27 
8. Adobe $449 
7. Budget $455 
6. National $428.01 
5. Thrifty $421.05 
4. Service $374.43 
3. Vamos $370.30 
2. Dollar $364 
1. Wild Rider $350

December

10. Alamo $650.96 
9. National $597.51 
8. Hertz $566.52 
7. Budget $555 
6. Dollar $532 
5. Thrifty $506.58 
4. Service $494.43 
3. Vamos $461.30 
2. Adobe $459 
1. Wild Rider $395

Alamo ranks number ten for both seasons, making it the most expensive company. Budget, Hertz and National also rate low on the scale for economical rental options.

Company Summaries

Adobe

Website is clear and easy to use, but pricing and even the vehicles listed are not the same as those given by an office representative over the phone. Mandatory insurance costs are not shown with the list of vehicles and rental charges, but they are clearly displayed on the following page as a customer moves towards booking a reservation. Mixed customer reviews online. Email response is less than 24 hours, but may not provide all requested information.

Toll-free U.S.A and Canada phone number. No Live Chat. 
10 offices nationwide 
Mandatory insurance: $19 daily 
Additional charges: GPS $9/day, child seat $5/day

Alamo

Website is clear and easy to use, but prices differ against quotes received over the phone. Mandatory insurance costs are not given with the list of vehicles and rental charges, but they are clearly displayed on the following page as the customer moves towards making a reservation. Mixed customer reviews online. Email response is less than 24 hours.

No toll-free U.S.A and Canada phone number or Live chat 
14 offices nationwide 
Mandatory insurance: $11.95 daily, but must also take their CDW at $12.95 daily 
Additional charges: GPS $12/day, child seat $6/day

Budget

Website is basic, but easy to use. Prices online differ to the quotations given by a representative over the phone and depending on whether the international or Costa Rican website is used. Mandatory insurance costs are given along with the list of vehicles; however, the other charges are not listed. Mixed customer reviews online. Email response is more than 24 hours.

No toll-free U.S.A and Canada phone number. No Live Chat on Costa Rican website. 
10 offices nationwide 
Mandatory insurance: included in the listed price 
Additional charges: GPS $10.95/day, child seat $12/day (the most expensive of the top ten)

Dollar

Website is clear and easy to use. Prices quoted differ if calling from the U.S. or in Costa Rica. Mandatory insurance costs are not given with the list of vehicles and rental charges, but they are clearly displayed on the following page as a customer moves towards a making a reservation. Mixed reviews online, but generally receives positive feedback. Email inquiries answered within 24 hours.

Toll-free U.S.A and Canada phone number. No Live Chat. 
3 offices nationwide 
Mandatory insurance: $16 daily 
Additional charges: GPS $9/day, child seat $5/day

Hertz

Website is clear and easy to use. Mandatory insurance costs are not given besides the list of vehicles and rental charges, but they are clearly displayed on the following page as the customer moves towards a booking a reservation. Mixed customer reviews online. Email response less than 24 hours.

Toll-free U.S.A and Canada phone number and Live Chat (although it seems to be permanently offline) 
7 offices nationwide 
Mandatory insurance: $17.43 daily, but their CDW is also a requirement 
Additional charges: GPS $12/day, child seat $2/day

National

Website is clear and easy to use. Mandatory insurance costs are not given along with the list of vehicles and rental charges, but they are clearly displayed on the following page as a customer moves towards making a reservation. Mixed customer reviews online, but more positive than negative. Email response less than 24 hours.

Toll-free U.S.A and Canada phone number. Live Chat. 
22 offices nationwide 
Mandatory insurance: $25 daily (the most expensive of the top ten) 
Additional charges: GPS $12/day, child seat $6/day

Service

Website is clear and user friendly with just a slight confusion in that an online quote is obtained by clicking on 'Reserve Now' and not the 'Get a Quote' option. The response to a phone inquiry was to use the website. Mandatory insurance costs are given along with the list of vehicles and rental charges for the low season charges and on the second page of the other quotation page. Remember is a highly recommended sales representative who is mentioned in many online reviews for the high level of his customer service. Generally online reviews are positive for Service. Email response is less than 24 hours, although all information requested may not be received.

U.S.A phone number, but not toll-free. No Live Chat. 
5 offices nationwide 
Mandatory insurance: $15 daily 
Additional charges: GPS $5.99/day, child seat $2.99/day

Thrifty

Costa Rican version of the website is impossible to use and you are asked to register for a user name and password. Mandatory insurance costs are not given along with the list of vehicles and rental charges. A customer has to click on "Protection Options" on the U.S. website and select the mandatory insurance by clicking on it -- implying that it is optional and not a required cost. Thrifty tend to receive mixed reviews online. Email response is more than 24 hours.

Toll-free U.S.A and Canada phone number. No Live Chat. 
4 offices nationwide 
Mandatory insurance: $19.99 daily 
Additional charges: GPS $10/day, child seat $5/day

Vamos

Website is clear and easy to use. Mandatory insurance costs are not given along side the list of vehicles and rental charges, but are clearly displayed on the following page as the customer moves towards booking a reservation. Anibal, a representative, is frequently mentioned in online reviews for his high level of customer service skills. General Manager, George Schwarzenbach is known on Trip Advisor for his upfront and honest responses to customers' posts.

In recent years, Vamos has received very positive reviews online. Email response is less than 24 hours. Live Chat has instant response time to inquiries.

Toll-free U.S.A and Canada phone number. Live Chat. 
3 offices nationwide 
Mandatory insurance: $11.95 daily 
Additional charges: GPS $8/day, child seat free

Wild Rider

Website is clear and easy to use. Mandatory insurance costs are given next to the list of vehicles. Wild Rider is the only car rental firm in Costa Rica with no visible bad reviews online. Owner, Thorsten, is often praised for his efficiency and customer service, despite the very limited resources the company has at hand. Emails receive very prompt and detailed responses in less than 12 hours.

No toll-free phone number or Live Chat 
1 office -- no Liberia airport office 
Mandatory insurance: included 
Additional charges: GPS $8/day, child seat $5/day

Comparison Review

Customer Service

Vamos and Wild Rider respond quickly and efficiently to email or live chat inquiries. Adobe, Alamo, Dollar, Hertz, National, and Service respond to email inquiries in less than 24 hours, but Adobe and Service did not provide all the information requested (possibly a language barrier). Budget offers a free phone service, but it appears to be always busy. Hertz's live chat appears to be constantly offline. During the past year, customers who posted to online review sites expressed a particular satisfaction with the customer service offered by Service, Vamos and Wild Rider.

Clarity

Adobe, Alamo and Budget have different rental prices posted on their websites than those quoted over the phone. Telephone prices were lower than that quoted on the website in the cases of Adobe and Alamo, but yet higher in the case of Budget. Adobe also offers different vehicle models over the phone as compared to their website. International car rental firms with both a Costa Rican and international website appear to have pricing differences between the two sites.

Budget and Wild Rider include the mandatory insurance in their rental prices, but Budget states that 'other charges' which will be presented at the counter in the small print on their website. Rental prices for car seating had to be verified on the phone as they are not listed on the Budget website.

All other companies with the exception of Thrifty (a U.S. website), clearly show the mandatory insurance cost with the quotation given. Thrifty's Costa Rican website is simply unusable.

Pricing

Service, Vamos and Wild Rider consistently offer the best rates for both Green and High seasons, although Dollar has one of the lowest Green season rates available, while Adobe has a cheaper High season rate. Vamos offer the best "all inclusive" rates, given that most options are offered for free.

Adobe, Dollar, Service, Thrifty and Wild Rider remain competitive with their pricing of items such as child seats. Alamo, Hertz and National are the most expensive companies to rent from and their additional option costs are also more expensive.

"So, what's your rental recommendation?"

Overall, the Costa Rican companies seem to trump the multi-nationals with better pricing, service and clarity. 
Service offers a generally high-level of customer service and fairly competitive pricing at both international airports. 
Vamos can offer efficient booking and continued high-level of customer service with competitive pricing, as well as free additional options at both SJO and LIR airports. 
Wild Rider is very highly rated for a rental with clear and economical pricing and excellent customer service, but they are only in San Jose.

"Now you're ready to book your rental car after seeing how the competition compares. Good luck and happy travels!"

Costa Rica provides the traveler with outstanding natural beauty, miles of beaches and a safe environment to relax in, but car rental is a minefield with mandatory insurance, franchising and downright skulduggery in pricing and non-disclosure of costs. Read, research and find the information that will ensure your vacation car rental is a breeze!

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/7923536

15 lesser-known ski resorts to check out this winter

(CNN) -- Whistler, Chamonix, Aspen -- the best known winter sports resorts have become that for a reason.

Not only are the following places worthy of a December-to-February vacation, some are significantly cheaper.

Lech Zürs am Arlberg, Vorarlberg, Austria

The small resort of Lech-Zürs is about to get bigger.

As of this winter, it'll be connected to nearby Warth-Schröcken by a two-kilometer-long ropeway ski lift, meaning visitors can access 190 kilometers of trails and 47 lifts.

The huge range of accommodations runs from five-star Hotel Almhof Schneider, in the shadow of the Schlegelkopf peak, to the quaint and quirky Pension Astoria, a short walk from the town center.

Lech-Zürs am Arlberg, Voralberg, Austria; +43 5583 2245

Hotel Edelweiss, Manni & Seppi Strolz, Familie Strolz, Zürs 79, Austria; +43 5583 2662; from $88 per room per night

More: 10 of the most beautiful ice skating rinks

Sierra Nevada, Andalucia, Spain

The beautiful Sierra Nevada is Spain's most popular ski area -- it has a collection of resorts with more than 104 kilometers of trails and 116 ski runs.

It's located 32 kilometers from the city of Granada.

This is the sunniest ski region in Europe, although being located at 2,100 meters (6,889 feet) and with a top station at 3,300 meters (10,826) feet, it's known for being a snow-sure resort -- last winter it opened from November until mid-May.

Visitors can rent an apartment, such as those at Apartahotel Trevenque (located next to the resort's main gondola), which has kitchenettes and direct access to the slopes.

Sierra Nevada, Andalucia, Spain; +34 902 70 80 90

Meliá Sierra Nevada, Plaza de Pradollano, Sierra Nevada 18196, Spain; +34 958 480400; from $145 per room per night
In terms of size, BC\'s Red Mountain is one of the top 20 ski areas in North America.
In terms of size, BC's Red Mountain is one of the top 20 ski areas in North America.

Red Mountain, British Columbia

Red Mountain resort in British Columbia is another resort about to double in size, thanks to the development of the adjacent Grey Mountain.

Skiers who take the chair lift to the top are rewarded with spectacular views and 360-degree skiing off the peak.

The development of Grey Mountain gives Red Mountain resort a total of 2,682 ski-able acres, putting it in the top 20 North American ski resorts in terms of terrain size.

The Slalom Creek apartments are the resort's newest accommodations, with fireplaces and private Jacuzzi tubs.

Red Mountain, British Columbia; +1 800 663 0105

Rossland Motel, 721 Hwy 22, British Columbia, Canada; 250 362 7218; from $55 per room per night

More: 13 scary-but-awesome viewing platforms
Sunday River has a new terrain park this year.
Sunday River has a new terrain park this year.

Sunday River, Maine

This Maine resort has a number of developments in the pipeline this winter, including a brand new, 15-acre terrain park designed by Sochi-bound free-ski athlete Simon Dumont, and 60 acres of glades that have been opened for tree skiing.

With 820 acres spread across eight interconnected mountain peaks, Sunday River is now the second largest ski resort in New England.

The Grand Summit Resort Hotel and Jordan Grand Resort Hotel are the resort's two most popular hotels.

Grand Summit's new restaurant, Camp, will open this winter.

Sunday River, Maine; +1 207 824 3000

Jordan Grand Hotel, 27 Grand Avenue, Newry, Maine, New England, US; 207 824 5000; from $59 per room per night

Sugar Bowl, Lake Tahoe, California

Sugar Bowl already has some of America's best tree runs, but this winter several developments are set to transform the area.

A new chairlift will provide advanced skiers with easy access to the challenging Crow's Face and Strawberry Fields areas, previously reached only by hiking.

The new lift will also connect Sugar Bowl to the largest cross-country ski resort in North America, Royal Gorge.

Sugar Bowl's Lodge is one of the coziest hotels you'll find in a ski resort and is accessed via gondola.

Sugar Bowl, Lake Tahoe, California; +1 530 426 9000

Truckee Donner Lodge, 10527 Cold Stream Rd, Truckee, California; 530-582-9999; from $99 per room per night

Les Orres, Hautes-Alpes, France

Les Orres is one of the newer French resorts.

Built in 2008 with an extensive network of wide, groomed runs and childcare facilities, it's a destination for families.

It has more than 100 kilometers of ski-able terrain, and its location, in the middle of a forest overlooking the Serre-Ponçon lake, makes it one of the more spectacular places to get a winter snow fix.

There's not a huge range of accommodation in Les Orres, but La Portette has 26 spacious bedrooms, direct access to the piste and stunning mountain views.

Les Orres, Aix-en-Provence, France; +33 4 92 44 01 61

L'Ancolie, Centre Station, Les Orres, France; +33 492 44 19 20; from $107 per room per night

More: 10 best cities for a winter vacation

Baqueira Beret, Lleida, Spain

The Spanish royal family are fans of this ski area in the region of Lleida in western Catalonia.

Although small, the resort has something for snowboarders and skiers of all abilities: there are five green runs, 34 blue slopes, 26 red runs and six black slopes.

Catalonia is one of the few places in Europe where heli-skiing is legal and there are some fantastic back-country areas.

In 2014, the resort will be holding various events to mark its 50th anniversary.

Accommodation includes luxury offerings such as the five-star Val de Neu hotel (a favorite with the Spanish royal family) or more affordable Melia Royal Tanau, a stylish, slope-side hotel.

Baqueira Beret, Lleida, Spain; +34 902 41 54 15

Val de Neu, Calle Perimetrau S/N Baqueira Beret, 25598 Baqueira, Lleida, Spain; +34 973 635 000; from $350 per room per night

Ischgl, Tyrol, Austria

There are a number of reasons to visit this Austrian resort in 2014, but the pièce de résistance is a new, $24-billion cable car that will open up nearly untouched snow fields below the Piz Val Gronda peak -- in the past, skiers and snowboarders have had to be towed to the area by snowmobile.

Ischgl is already the biggest interconnected ski area in Tyrol, with more than 238 kilometers of runs.

Accommodation in Ischgl includes a number of hotels within meters of the centrally located Silvretta cable car.

Smaller hotels on the outskirts of the resort are equally accessible, thanks to an efficient shuttle bus system.

Ischgl, Tyrol, Austria; +43 5099 0100

Alpenhotel Ischglerhof, Dorfstrasse 92, A-6561 Ischgl, Austria, +43 5444 5330; from $163 per room per night
Jay Peak: Manicured for your enjoyment.
Jay Peak: Manicured for your enjoyment.

Jay Peak, Vermont

Jay Peak gets the most snow of any resort in eastern North America, and has a huge range of terrain.

Almost all of the lodging is ski-in, ski-out.

This year, the resort is spending $43 million on improvements, including a new 80,000-square-foot hotel and base lodge.

Accommodations include the Slopeside Condominiums on the edge of the resort.

With a new indoor water park, the Hotel Jay and Conference Center is suitable for families.

Jay Peak, Vermont; +1 802 988 2611

Hotel Jay & Conference Center, 830 Jay Peak Road, Jay Peak Vermont, US; 802 988 2611; from $101 per room per night

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Myoko Kogen, Niigata Prefecture, Japan

This beautiful resort is a great starting point for those who've never skied in Japan.

There are no nightclubs or bars, just lots of snow -- by mid-season there are usually around four meters.

It's a four-hour train ride from Tokyo.

The resort, Japan's oldest, dating to 1911, is surrounded by an astounding 25 ski areas.

Like most Japanese resorts, Myoko Kogen offers traditional and Western accommodation.

Lodge Beetle offers traditional Japanese accommodations high above the main resort -- the owners will personally collect you from the resort on their snowmobiles.

Myoko Kogen, Myoko-shi, Niigata-ken, Japan +81 80 8817 4888

Canadian House Hotel, 949-2106, Taguchi-1394, Myoko, Japan; +81 255 87 2186; from $24 per room per night

Arosa, Graubünden, Switzerland

Davos, St Moritz and Klosters are some of Graubünden's most famous resorts, but they're also the most expensive.

For equally fantastic skiing at half the price, there's nearby Arosa.

At 2,653 meters (8,704 feet) above sea level, it's one of Switzerland's most snow-sure resorts.

This winter a new cable car will connect Arosa with the nearby resort of Lenzerheide.

The hotels here are also some of the prettiest you'll find in a ski resort, whether it's the Alpensonne, with views over surrounding mountains, or the Gspan hotel, a quaint wooden cabin that, its website claims, was built in 1621.

Arosa, Arosa, Switzerland; +41 81 378 70 20;

Gspan Arosa, +41 (81) 377 14 94; from $99 per night

Aletsch Arena, Switzerland

The Aletsch Arena is located on the edge of Swiss Alps Jungfrau-Aletsch, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

It comprises three car-free villages (Riederalp, Bettmeralp, Fiescheralp), all connected by lifts.

There are 11 terrain parks and around 100 kilometers of trails.

In Bettmeralp, Hotel Alpfrieden is a beautiful, stone-clad hotel, loved by return guests for its extensive wine list.

The Art Furrer hotel in Riederalp is centrally located and just a short walk from the ski school.

Switzerland's famous ski train means the resort is equally well connected to Bern, Basel and Zurich.

Aletsch Arena, Valais, Switzerland, +41 27 928 41 31

Slalom Hotel, CH-3992 Bettmeralp, Switzerland; +41 27 927 17 87; from $95 per room per night

More: Europe's best budget ski resorts
Terrain choices feel endless at Schladming.
Terrain choices feel endless at Schladming.

Schladming, Schladming-Dachstein, Austria

Skiers and snowboarders flock to this former mining town for the huge range of terrain, which includes some tough black runs, including the slopes used for the annual World Cup night slalom.

The World Ski Championships were held here last winter, and as a result, the resort now has several new and incredibly fast lifts.

An hour drive from Salzburg, the town dates to medieval times and is packed with small, family-run cafes, shops and après-ski bars.

One of the most beautiful hotels is the Hotel Schütterhof. It's well-connected to the slopes and has one of the resort's largest spas.

Schladming, Styria, Austria; +43 36 87/233 10

Hotel Schütterhof, Wiesenweg 140, 8971 Rohrmoos-Untertal, Austria; +43 3687 61205

Voss, Hordaland, Norway

Norway might not be famous for its alpine skiing, but the northern location of Voss is what makes it the country's most popular ski resort.

Unsurprisingly, cross-country skiing is incredibly popular here and although the resort is on the small side, it's ideal for families.

There are 19 runs, two terrain parks and three large ski areas for children.

There are several hotels to choose from, but the beautiful Myrkdalen Cabins offer great access to the slopes and spectacular views over the entire resort, just a 90-minute train journey from Bergen.

Voss, Hordaland, Norway; +47 406 17 700

Myrkdalen Cabins, Myrkdalen, 5713 Vossestrand, +47 56 52 30 40

Garmisch-Partenkirchen, Bavaria, Germany

This severely underestimated German ski resort, a 90-minute train journey from Munich, was the venue for the FIS Alpine World Ski Championships in 2011.

The resort's ski area covers three mountains and offers world class skiing.

Experienced skiers and snowboarders should head to the high altitude Alpspitze area, which lies above the tree line. This is also the location of one of the world's most spectacular viewing platforms, AlpspiX, which juts out from the mountain and from which visitors can peer a thousand meters into the depths below.

Garmisch-Partenkirchen, Bavaria, Germany; +49 8821 180 700

Hotel Bavaria, Partnachstrasse 51 82467, Garmisch-Partenkirchen; +49 (0)8821 3466; from $93 per night

Source: CNN.com/2013/12/02/travel/15-lesser-known-ski-resorts/index.html

Kombi's last rites: Farewell to a travel icon

(CNN) -- It's been in continuous production since the 1950s but Volkswagen Brazil -- the last country where the vehicles were still being made -- ceases production of the classic Kombi van today, the last day of 2013.

Rolling off the production lines in Hanover, Germany, until 1979 but continuing in Brazil, the VW Transporter, aka the camper van, is the longest-produced model in automotive history, according to Vokswagen.

Around 3.5 million of the affordable, utilitarian vehicles, with their classic cloth window curtains, have been made.

Motley crew of lovable vans.

Attaching themselves to the mini-homes on wheels were equally numerous roof racks, surfboards and travel memories.

On a backpacking trip to Europe back in 1973, a 20-year-old Californian named Gary Garfield shelled out US$700 to set himself up for the months of travel ahead.

He spent a chunk of that money on a 1967 Volkswagen minibus, wanting to combine transportation and accommodation in one slightly rickety but reliable vehicle.

He ripped out the seats, put in a platform bed and installed shelves and cupboards.

Garfield spent the next 10 months in this mobile home with his wife battling desert sands in Algeria, food poisoning in Tunisia and enduring six-week stints with no contact with friends or family.

Similar stories are told by countless other travelers.

VW is calling it quits because the Kombi won't meet new safety standards set to come into force next year in Brazil.

After 63 years of production, the last Kombi will roll out of its Brazilian factory at the end of 2013.

Upgrading the van with dual front airbags and anti-lock brakes was ruled too costly.

Come next year, old Kombis sluggishly powering their way along highways and up mountain passes, being overtaken by virtually all other traffic, will be all that remain -- ageing steel bodies from a time when people were less concerned about getting somewhere fast.

It's worth pausing to reflect on what made the Kombi a travel icon.

Hippies and surfers

The Kombi became synonymous in the 1960s and 1970s with hippies and surfers, its utilitarian features -- capable of carrying surf boards, musical equipment and various loads inside or on its roof -- combining well with its cheap price (secondhand Kombis could be picked up for a couple hundred bucks) and easy maintenance.

Garfield's van required the repair of one flat tire and a new battery in 10 months of travel.

Many people named their Kombis, like iReporter Jason Kauffman, 40, who affectionately called his Kombi "Double D."

"I have no desire to own anything except an old VW," Kauffman insists.

Other iReporters named their vans "Bus Gus," "Homer," "Claire" and "Charlotte."

Vince Moellering, 32, explains, "Cars like the VW van are more than just cars, they're cultural icons."

Those who traveled in one in their youth keep the memories with them. Others own their van (or vans) for decades before passing them to offspring.

Even people without "VW lineage," as iReporter Bryan Scott calls it, can find themselves bitten by the urge to up and travel in a Kombi.

Second life online

Online communities provide space to share stories and trade "ideas that help keep our vans going," says Moellering.

Australia's Kombi Club is an online forum co-founded and sponsored by The Bus Stop, a parts distributor.

"Roy" from The Bus Stop says the business supplies Kombi enthusiasts in Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, South Africa and Canada and other countries.

"Once you've driven a Kombi, you're hooked for life," he says.
The Kombi will be missed by outdoor lovers and camping fans.
The Kombi will be missed by outdoor lovers and camping fans.

But why?

After all, these VW vans, at least in their original form, are underpowered, slow, have dodgy suspension and don't offer much comfort in either heat or cold.

"The Kombi exemplifies the free spirit of peace activists, lovers, world travelers, campers and families moving about together across this planet," says Garfield.

"Few vehicles scream: 'Let's go exploring!' the way a VW van does," says Moellering.

Modern modification

Simplicity has helped the Kombi remain relevant in a new century. It's undergone plenty of modifications, but its outward appearance remains instantly recognizable.

The model produced in Brazil was based on the second phase of the Type 2 (VW's Type 1 was the Beetle), which was produced in Germany from 1967--1979.

It differed from the first phase with a larger engine, greater weight and a bay window, rather than the previous model's split-windscreen.

Numerous iterations have brought speed and body width increases, automatic transmission and an engine switch from air- to water-cooled.

It's not a complicated machine -- handy when something goes wrong.

Kombi owner Bryan Scott says part of the VW's appeal to him was, "We'd always heard [they] could be fixed anywhere and by anyone."
The Kombi does it all: camping, hauling and supplying parts.
The Kombi does it all: camping, hauling and supplying parts.

Jason Kauffman says the Kombi's enduring appeal comes down to versatility: "You can travel in it, sleep in it, it gets decent fuel mileage and it's very compact compared to large motor homes."

Vince Moellering applauds the Kombi as a jack of all trades, saying he's used his "as a camper, a mountain bike hauler, a moving van and a construction supply truck."

German effectiveness

The versatility of a Kombi goes right back to its name, which comes from the German "Kombinationskraftwagen," a combination of passenger and cargo vehicle.

Its ability to carry both passengers and piles of stuff has made the Kombi more than a mode of transport.

"The bus is both our home and a member of our family," says Bryan Scott. "We talk to it as we decide a path for each day, coax it slowly over the next hill and thank it as we arrive at each new destination."

The vehicle is also a great conversation starter. "VWs are [like] a language understood throughout the world," says Jason Kauffman.

"People in each country we visit love the bus -- they stop to tell us their stories and ask to hear ours," says Scott.

There's more road ahead for the Kombi.

Devotion to the Kombi helps loyalists remain upbeat about the end of production.

"As long as enthusiastic owners keep the remaining cars and their spirit alive, the end of active production won't mean the end of the vehicle," says Moellering.

When Gary Garfield completed his 1973 tour in the bus that had served him so reliably, he sold it for a $100 profit.

Then he "watched it drive away to offer its new owner's fond memories."

Even though the factory gates have shut, well-preserved Kombis will keep rumbling along the road and in the recollections of 63 years of travelers.

Source: CNN.com/2013/12/31/travel/kombi-production-ends

An early midlife crisis California road trip

Los Angeles, California (CNN) -- I pitied the other tourists at the car rental lot at the Los Angeles airport: The sight of two Englishmen in their mid-30s sinking uncertainly into a white Mustang convertible is not pleasant.

The car was not a natural fit for us. It was very low to the ground and had a mystifying set of buttons. This meant 20 minutes of painstaking trial and error as we grappled with how to work the roof, as if trying to break the Enigma code.

But as alien as the muscle car was, it was vital to this trip to California, which was essentially to reclaim lost youth in an early midlife crisis. My companion and I had lived in Los Angeles after leaving university and were curious to see how it had changed. We then planned to drive along the coast to San Francisco, taking in some of California's wine-growing regions. This invited unkind comparisons to the movie "Sideways," which sees aging college friends on a road trip drinking wine and navigating disaster.

L.A. has some features that can deter tourists: It lacks a natural focal point, is dominated by roadways and has an abundance of depressing motels and fast-food joints. It also has Venice, a pocket of urban bohemia that has acted as a cultural center for decades.
The chaotic beachfront boardwalk is alive and well in Venice.
The chaotic beachfront boardwalk is alive and well in Venice.

Developed in 1905 by tobacco millionaire Abbot Kinney, the area derives its name from the canals built to drain off the marshland. It was conceived as a family beach resort but fell into neglect. As real estate prices dropped, the area began to attract an eclectic mix of people. This instilled that bohemian DNA into Venice, which served as a rallying point for the Beat generation in the 1950s and remains an important artistic center.

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Much of Venice has hardly changed. The chaotic beachfront boardwalk is alive and well: Tattoo artists, head shops and fortune-tellers hawk their wares to a stream of human traffic, even in winter. We stayed in a free-wheeling art deco style hotel that looked like it had not changed in 40 years.

Elsewhere, there are signs of inevitable gentrification.

The memory of Venice's developer is preserved in Abbot Kinney Boulevard, a mile-long artery and focal point for residents and local businesses. I walked down the palm-lined street every day when I lived in Venice and always enjoyed its offbeat charm.

It was a relief to see the hipsterish local coffee bar Abbot's Habit was still dosing the population and exhibiting local art. But around it, stylish galleries, boutiques and swanky condos now give the road a feeling of imposing wealth, resembling New York's Chelsea district -- certainly the chic end of Boho-chic.

The neighborhood has become safer and cleaner, said Joshua Woollen, owner of Urbanic Paper Boutique. Gang-related activity has dropped, and "what you have now are some of the most influential, creative, progressive and cutting-edge people living within a couple mile radius in one small beach community," Woollen said.

"When my wife and I first moved to Venice over 13 years ago, Abbot Kinney felt like a ghost town," he said.

Perhaps the most dramatic change was seeing the property where I once lived in harder times. Once a teeming human zoo of chancers and borderline personalities, the three houses have been divided and sold. The rough neighborhood is now transformed into a quiet and sunny residential street. I would happily move back.
This Days Inn motel is featured in the movie \
This Days Inn motel is featured in the movie "Sideways."

Feeling considerably older already, we began the "Sideways" leg of the journey.

Channeling the film, the car's top was lowered and we took off along the ravishing Pacific Coast Highway. Hugging California's coastline for 655 miles, the road offers the serenity and endless vastness of the Pacific Ocean as a backdrop. The terrain changes as you head north, taking in plains, craggy headlands and lush green hills that tumble down into the sea. All our heightened expectations were met and rewarded.

An hour after leaving Los Angeles, we reached Santa Barbara County. Long overshadowed by the Napa region farther north, Santa Barbara was put on the wine tourist's map by the release of the Oscar-winning film in 2004. Its influence was immediate.

"Its timing created a tsunami of interest," says Jim Fiolek of the Santa Barbara Vintners Association. "Recognition in not only Santa Barbara County, but wine in general, more specifically, Pinot Noir, which flourishes in Santa Barbara."

With mountain ranges running horizontally across the county, Santa Barbara channels ocean air into its valleys and has a cool climate. This geographical oddity makes it a natural home for Pinot Noir grapes, which can ripen too early in warmer temperatures.

As one "Sideways" character explains in loving tones: "It's not a survivor like Cabernet, which can just grow anywhere and uh, thrive even when it's neglected. No, Pinot needs constant care and attention. You know? And in fact it can only grow in these really specific, little, tucked-away corners of the world."

At first, the region struggled to cope with the surge in interest generated by the film: Tasting rooms were hastily built on vineyards, leading to a jump in sales. By 2008, wine makers were selling directly to customers some eight times as much as they were selling in 2000.

Santa Barbara is a natural target for a day trip from Los Angeles and has the inevitable "Sideways" tour guide for visitors, which generated geekish excitement. We took in a few gems: The Day's Inn motel boasting a looming windmill and mock Tudor facade; Ostrich World, which gives you the bizarre opportunity of feeding hungry flocks; and a vineyard which features in one memorable scene.

I am far from an oracle on wine, but it's not hard to enjoy the distinctly civilized process of tasting.

Visitors to Kalyra Winery gather at a bar featured in the movie and pay $10 to taste eight wines. They can be a mix of red and white and each measure gives the drinker several sips. At the vineyard, we sampled Grenache, Pinot and a blend of Shiraz, Merlot and Cab Franc.

Tastings are also an inducement to buy bottles, which start at around $15 and provide estates with their main source of profit.

Our final destination was on a grander scale altogether: the Napa and Sonoma valleys north of San Francisco. Here, you get the idea of a real industry geared around global exports as much as local sales.

There are some 400 wineries in the region, so the visitor can feel overwhelmed on first arrival. We opted to plan our itinerary on the discerning basis of which vineyards offered two-for-one tasting deals. Most tourists are not averse to sampling wine in the morning, and our first stop took us to Buena Vista, which claims to be the oldest winery in the region. Revealingly, it has been recently taken over by a French brand.

The scenery around the valleys is reliably lovely year-round. In fall, the countryside turns a languid golden color, with neatly ordered rows of vineyards set off by the surrounding hills. Driving slowly in the late autumn sun was almost a religious obligation, despite the ensuing tailbacks.

On my return flight, I resolved to plan a series of similar midlife crises for years to come.

Source: CNN.com/2012/03/13/travel/buddies-california-wine-trip

10 travel wishes for 2014

(CNN) -- Are you preparing to squeeze into your nonrefundable middle seat with no extra legroom and no lunch included for your next flight?

As another busy travel year comes to a close, I wish for a better way to travel in 2014, even if the odds are about as good as winning the lottery. And while you think about your travel wishes for the new year, please turn off your cell phone.
Feds duel over cell phones on planes

Please don't talk on your cell phone. Whatever government agencies decide about the safety and technical feasibility of cell phone conversations in flight, we hope the airlines will keep cell phone chatter out of the friendly skies. Can you imagine the bosses who will demand conference-call communication during flight? Or your spouse asking you to stop by the grocery store on the way home from the airport? Let it wait until you land.

The return of the empty middle seat. I often book aisle and window seats when I travel with another person, hoping that middle seat will go unclaimed. It rarely happens anymore. When the inevitable third traveler joins us, I move into the middle seat to sit next to my traveling companion (usually my child). There is a silver lining to existing conditions: The middle seat holder is often delighted to get my prime aisle seat.

Aircraft seats made for real people's rears. Is it too much to ask that we have seats that fit our bodies? It's not just that our backsides have gotten bigger (and they have). When the U.S. government measured the width of the American backside in the seated position in 1962, officials used the male hip as a seat measuring stick (that women's hips were a tad wider didn't seem to matter). But even that male hip measurement doesn't work because the widest part of your body is your shoulders and arms.

The result is that airline seats were about five inches too narrow for passengers in the 1960s. That's why your rear is squeezed into the seat and your shoulders get sideswiped by drink carts. Want enough room for your knees? That's a whole other story.

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Universal cords and chargers. I dream about standard chargers for the electrical gadgets that run my life. I don't mind bringing my universal adaptor along for my international trips but I'd sure like the same outlet and cord for my phone, computer, tablet and other gadgets. Even Apple, which sells itself on simplicity and modern design, has made things harder by having different cords for different gadgets. I end up carrying all these cords in Ziploc bags in my carry-on luggage and tangling them up in headsets, looking like the disorganized mom that I am.

Worldwide cellular service. I don't mind paying a bit more when I go abroad, but the American cell phone dance of confusion seems unnecessary when I'm jumping on a four-hour flight to Costa Rica for a week. Skype? Adding international calls to my existing plan for the month? On a recent trip I lived in fear of what charges might show up if I didn't read the fine print on page 43 of my existing e-contract. I'd like a clear way to make international calls without needing a business consultation or therapy session.

Mellow car rental insurance. It's the first day of my vacation or work trip, and I love my rental car company encouraging me to think about a possibly terrible traffic accident and whether my existing car insurance and credit cards cover me. Every car I've ever rented offers a barrage of insurance policies for which they charge a hefty daily fee in case of disaster, and they play up the threat of disaster.

Even a Consumer Reports expert told me it's confusing because car rental contracts can vary by state. At his recommendation, I spent about 45 minutes one night calling my car insurance and credit card companies and sorting through my policies to learn that I'm covered enough for me to sleep at night.

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Decent public transportation to the airport. Ever taken public transportation to the airport? Jumping on a train to the airport is a given in many foreign cities and a handful of American ones. In the cities where it works (think San Francisco or London), it's so civilized to get to the airport without fighting big city traffic. Creating rail links takes money, budgeting and long-range planning by politicians and transportation experts who aren't likely to be alive when the fruits of their labor are realized. But a girl can dream, right?

End the punishing fees. Before a highly anticipated trip to New York a couple of months ago, I caught that virus that stopped me in my tracks. I stayed home, for my sake and for yours. But my airline didn't care. They charged me $200 for the privilege of not infecting an entire aircraft, just about the cost of the ticket. And the flight was sold out, so I'm betting they resold my seat for a nice profit. And how about giving me the right to resell the ticket I purchased?

Faster flights. For many people living on the East Coast of the United States, it's a quicker nonstop flight to Costa Rica or Iceland than to California because of the vast size of the United States. Let's wish for faster transcontinental travel so we can all enjoy the benefits of traveling within this enormous country. And while we're at it, I'd love safe and quick travel to the moon. But I'll start with wishing for a quicker flight to California.

A change in attitude. I understand being grumpy trapped in a flying metal tube surrounded by strangers who steal the armrests, chat your ears off and burp throughout a flight. It's grumpiness that inspired this story. I hope you feel validated about your opinions about the sorry state of travel. But I'd also like celebrate what is still wondrous and amazing about travel: Isn't it amazing that humans can fly?

Since I started talking to aviation experts and airline employees over a year ago for CNN's "24 hours at the world's busiest airport" project, I've been impressed by the human effort that goes into getting my flight off the ground. Crews below and above are loading and unloading, cleaning the plane and stocking up snacks. Pilots are checking the weather and inspecting the aircraft after an overnight crew has ensured the runway is clear of debris and the light bulbs are working. An inspector has tested the arrivals runway for rubber left by landing aircraft, which gets scraped off every couple of weeks.

Special report: 24/7 at the world's busiest airport

I know it's physics but it's also magic. Despite the hassles and too-tight seats and packed flights. Here's to the magic continuing in 2014.

Source: CNN.com/2013/12/30/travel/travel-wishes-for-2014

YoungJets Featured In Santa Barbara News Press

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - December 12, 2013 - Santa Barbara, CA: YoungJets, LLC, a boutique jet charter service, recently zoomed into the pages of the Santa Barbara News-Press Ultimate Gift Guide with its high-flying opportunity for the most exotic gift that represents the nature and creativity of the Santa Barbara community. For those gift givers who aren’t sure what to buy for friends who have everything, and don’t know where to find ten lords-a-leaping, YoungJets is offering to seamlessly transport up to 18 people on a $65 million Gulfstream G650 to a private island refuge in the South Pacific.

For the low cost of $610,000, would-be Santas and their guests can sip champagne and eat farm-to-jet fare served by a private air hostess while traveling up to Mach 0.925 in the most technologically advanced private aircraft in the sky. The group will avoid traditional airport hassles and arrived refreshed and relaxed in the tropical paradise of Laucala Island, an exclusive private resort in Fiji, South Pacific.

Holiday revelers will indulge themselves in a land of powder-white beaches, dramatic rain-forests, emerald green lagoons, and glorious views of the Fijian archipelago. They will sleep in an architecturally masterful private hilltop estate residence which is perched at the highest point of the island affording stunning 360-degree views, while luxuriating in a panoramic infinity pool, with their every need met by a private cook, chauffeur, and nanny.

YoungJet’s founder and CEO, David Young, has spent more than 20 years in the private aviation, music, entertainment and VIP travel arena, much of which has been centered on crafting complex jet tours for many of the world’s largest entertainers. “I founded YoungJets out of a desire to deliver a more controlled experience and better overall value to my clients,” stated Young. “We’ve harnessed my decades of knowledge to create a company that listens, intuits and is as capable as one exponentially larger, but is more nimble, responsive and in-tune with the unique needs of each traveler. This gift package is the ultimate expression of our capability to provide the best in private jet charter service”

This South Seas Dream tour was curated by YoungJets and luxury travel planning firm Folden-Diaz Design of Beverly Hills CA. The package includes use of the private hilltop estate residence for seven days and seven nights, and nonstop round-trip travel betweenSanta Barbara Airport and Fiji's Nadi International Airport, with turbo-prop transfer to and from the island's private airstrip. 

ABOUT YOUNGJETS: YoungJets provides hands-on coverage of global jet charter needs from strategy to launch to land. Through a series of innovative strategic alliances, YoungJets blends the benefits of preferred pricing on the nation’s largest executive jet charter fleetswith the flexibility of a broker’s worldwide aviation resources and expertise. Services include aircraft purchase, jet card programs, below-market hourly rates on partnered fleets, and standard ad-hoc charter.  Visit the website and Facebook page or call 1-877-275-9336 for more information on the ultimate Christmas gift.