Not Just Another Travel Blog

Fantasy escapes: 7 private island rentals

(CNN) -- When even the most secluded beach on the mainland is too crowded, there's always the option of renting a private island for your vacation. Really.

Many would require every credit card you've got and more, but others are a little more within reach -- especially if you rent with a group of friends.

Whether you're planning or dreaming, here are a few extraordinary places to get away from it all:

Vomo Island, Fiji

Fijian royal chiefs once liked to head to Vomo in the Mamanuca Islands group for a little R&R. You too can be chief of your kingdom for about $39,000 a night (make that a mere $34,000 or so during low season). The 225-acre island accommodates up to 90 people, and with a staff of 120, you won't lack for assistance in nearly any activity you want to pursue. Snorkeling above coral reefs, paddle boarding, glass bottom kayaking, windsurfing and daily fish feeding are included in the rate.

World's 100 best beaches

Hike up Mount Vomo for another perspective on the aqua waters of the South Pacific. Another memorable event is the Meke and Lovo night. The meal comes from the lovo, a traditional Fijian underground cooking pit, and the high spirits from the meke, an evening of traditional dances and song.

Easier on the wallet:
Garden villas for two run about $1,000 per night; beachfront villas cost about $1,300 per night.

Isola de Li Galli, Italy

Remember the sirens, those beautiful women who lured sailors to their death on craggy shores? Some say they lived at Isola de Li Galli, a private island that now sleeps up to 13 nonsiren types for just shy of $200,000 per week. The island is well-positioned just minutes off the Amalfi Coast, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

You'd expect a private European island to attract celebrities, and you'd be right. Penelope Cruz and Javier Bardem have been among Isola de Li Galli's guests, and the island was once home to the great Russian dancer Rudolf Nureyev. Be forewarned: A pad for landing your helicopter is included, but engaging the 115-foot yacht requires an extra fee. A dramatic stone-and-white chapel is available if matrimony calls you.

The island is only available by the week, so start negotiating with your well-to-do friends.

America's best little beach towns

Guana Island, British Virgin Islands

Richard Branson's Necker Island is currently a steal starting at $42,500 per night while its Great House is being rebuilt -- after that, the price goes up. But if you're looking for other options in the area, Guana Island starts at about half that -- roughly $22,000 nightly for up to 32 guests -- with seven beaches, a tennis court, sailboats and pedal boats, more than a dozen trails and a spa among its amenities. (A massage overlooking the Caribbean sounds pretty good about now.)

Experienced divers gravitate to the North Bay's deep reefs and underwater cave. In August and October, the academically minded appreciate the chance to join visiting scientists in their pursuits, from rebuilding coral reefs to tagging iguanas. Speaking of which, the island draws its name from a rock outcropping that resembles the head of the tropical lizard.

Easier on the wallet:
If a five-digit price tag is not in the budget (and is pretty much permanently out of the question), you can forgo reserving the entire island and share the 850-acre expanse with a few dozen other guests. Rates for a cottage or villa for two start at about $700 and $1,500, respectively.

Rubondo Island, Lake Victoria, Tanzania

In 1966, Dr. Bernhard Grzimek, one of the forces behind the creation of the Serengeti National Park, brought 16 chimps from European zoos to Rubondo Island in Tanzania to give them a safe haven. The chimps thrived on the island, also home to elephants, giraffes and hippos. And it's available to you, for $4,500 a night, along with up to 15 friends.

Guests at Rubondo Island Camp, which opened in late 2012, can get a Jane Goodall-style experience by tracking chimps through the forest and observing their behavior with specialist guides. More traditional game drives are also available. If that's not enough, some 300 species of birds have been spotted here. The lodge and its eight suites feature thatch roofs, curved walls and traditional East African fabrics.

Easier on the wallet:
Can't find 15 takers for this trip? Don't fret, there's a starting per-person nightly rate of $620 for double occupancy that includes meals, drinks and activities.

Madivaru Island, Maldives

Living in tents may not sound like luxury, but the tents at Banyan Tree Madivaru aren't anything like the canopy you hoisted at scout camp. Each villa on this private island in the Maldives includes three tented spaces for living, sleeping and bathing. Think timber flooring and rattan and teak furniture, not sleeping bags and mosquitos. Add a private plunge pool for each villa, a personal chef and waiter, and activities such as water skiing, dolphin cruises, night fishing and a Maldivian cooking school.

Many visitors say it feels like a private island even when there are other guests, but those who want to be sure can spring for the whole island buyout, currently available at a special rate of $9,420 per night for up to 12 people, with a minimum four-night stay.

Easier on the wallet:
Tent villa rates start at $2,355 per night. The special whole-island rate may be the most economical option this summer -- provided you can round up a group, airfare and about $40,000.

Orca Island, Alaska

Orca Island is proof that island adventure doesn't have to be limited to warm-weather climes. From Seward, Alaska, it's just a half-hour water taxi ride to Orca Island Cabins, where Dennis and Susan Swiderski have created an unusual vacation retreat. Guests can view humpback and orca whales, sea lions, harbor seals, porpoises and river otters right from each yurt's private deck or the island's common areas. (Incredibly, humpback whales often visit just feet from the island.) Kayaks, stand-up paddle boards, rowing skiff and fishing gear are included in the full facility rate of $2,150 per night, which covers all five yurts.

Easier on the wallet:
The 2013 per-person rate is $215 per night for a two-night minimum, based on double occupancy. In 2014, that rate will be $225 per person, per night.

Eagle Island, Georgia

With weekday rates of $600 per night for up to 12 guests, you'd be forgiven for assuming Eagle Island is a forlorn rock at the start of nowhere. It's actually a 10-acre isle off the coast of Georgia, surrounded by salt marsh that's a lovely setting for crabbing. Transportation to and from the island is included, and boat rentals are available if you want to explore and fish the surrounding waters of the Darien River and the May Hall Creek. The lodge with huge wraparound porch sleeps 12 and is built largely of recycled materials, such as vintage brick.

Foodies, rejoice: Along with the standard kitchen, an outdoor setup includes seafood steamers, low country boil cook stations, smoker with wood chips and other tools for your blue crab dinner. You can even arrange to get the kitchen stocked before you arrive. Other gathering spots tend to be the outdoor fireplace and hot tub, not to mention the romantic appeal of the outdoor shower.

Source: CNN.com/2013/06/14/travel/private-island-rentals/index.html

Stalking world's biggest planes makes for photos that say 'wow'

(CNN) -- The big stuff moves us.

And for many folks who appreciate the world's biggest airplanes -- that statement is true both figuratively and literally.

For 23 years at Dover Air Force Base in Delaware, aircraft mechanic John Taylor left his sweat and elbow grease on dozens of C-5 Galaxies -- one of the largest military aircraft on Earth.

"Even though I was on the aircraft every night, I just marveled at how the thing got off the ground," Taylor said. His wife didn't quite get it. She would ask him why he worked on C-5s all week, and then chose to spend precious weekends taking pictures of the huge planes.

"It's kind of in your blood," he explained.

The gigantic C-5s make Dover an awe-inspiring destination for aviation enthusiasts -- for sure -- but even among non-enthusiasts, big planes turn heads. The Galaxy and its successor, the Super Galaxy, are among dozens of giant aircraft models that may soar high and loud above your hometown -- prompting comments like, "What is THAT?" or "That's what I call a big plane."

They have names like the Jumbo Jet, the Mriya, the Dreamlifter and the Super Guppy.

Last year, CNN's story detailing some of the world's mind-blowing aviation destinations got a response so strong that we're doing it again. This year, we found out where to stalk and photograph some of the biggest airplanes on the planet.

One of the largest military aircraft

Now retired from the military, Taylor helps run Dover's Air Mobility Command Museum, where he answers questions about the C-5.

A few interesting tidbits:

It can fly eight school buses from Delaware to Turkey nonstop without refueling.

It's six stories tall.

Counting wings, it is wider than the White House.

When it's loaded to maximum weight, it weighs more than two Statues of Liberty.

Get this: On their historic flight, the Wright brothers flew their airplane 120 feet. The cargo hold of the C-5 measures 23 feet longer.

Whenever one of these giant planes sets up for takeoff at the end of a runway, that's the cue for aviation geeks to park their cars along the fence line and whip out their phones or other camera devices. Check out the Galaxy's distinctive whine from its four General Electric TF-39 engines.
Eye-popping plane spotter pix Eye-popping plane spotter pix

"Taking pictures outside Air Force bases can be touchy," says amateur aviation photographer Paul Carter. But it's not against the law, he says. "If you can convince the authorities that you know the rules and understand them," they'll usually let you take photos.

He says it's well worth it. "Just watching something as big as a C-5 move so slowly and gracefully as it takes off still thrills me," says Carter, who's been photographing airplanes since 1982.

Related: #Avgeeks: The new warriors on terror

If Dover is too far away, try spotting C-5s at their other stations: Travis Air Force Base, California; Lackland Air Forc Base, Texas; Martinsburg, West Virginia; Memphis, Tennessee; and Westover Air Reserve Base, near Springfield, Massachusetts.

It's all big in Everett

At its facilities north of Seattle in Everett, Washington, Boeing clearly likes things big. It boasts the world's biggest building, the world's longest passenger airplane and the plane with the largest cargo hold --- all against the backdrop of one of America's highest peaks: Mount Rainier.

If you rank the world's buildings by volume, Boeing's Everett assembly facility is No. 1, says Sandy Ward, who helps run the Future of Flight Museum Aviation Center and Boeing Tour.

The sprawling 98-acre factory serves as a giant birthing room for some of Boeing's most iconic children -- the family of sevens.
Boeing builds two 747-8s each month at the company\'s massive assembly facility outside Seattle.
Boeing builds two 747-8s each month at the company's massive assembly facility outside Seattle.

"You've got 747s, 767s, Triple 7s, and 787s all under one roof -- along with around 42,000 workers," says Ward. Measuring 250 feet, one of these sevens holds the title of world's longest passenger aircraft: -- Boeing's 747-8 Intercontinental.

There's nothing quite like the Everett facility in all of North America, the aircraft maker says. Each year, about 230,000 visitors experience the rare chance to see humongous pieces of aluminum and light-weight carbon composite transformed into speedy, sleek airliners. Watch huge wings join with plane fuselages. See workers attach powerful jet engines that will soon push the wings through the air.

Boeing's factory tour has developed an almost mythical status among aviation geeks. It's a must-see destination, like Disney parks are for many families. Actually, the factory is bigger than Disneyland, says Ward. The theme park could fit inside Boeing's factory -- and there would still be 12 acres available for covered parking.

Surprisingly, touring the titanic structure takes only about 90 minutes.

Adjacent to the factory, visitors can get all touchy feely about aviation at the Future of Flight Museum. Run your hands along the smooth surface of the 747's giant vertical tail. Sit behind the yoke in a cockpit of a classic 727 and play with its full array of instrumentation.

What else is big in Everett? In a word: Dreamlifter.

If the name sounds a lot like Boeing's new light-weight fuel efficient 787 Dreamliner, that's because the Dreamlifter is Dreamliner's Big Daddy.

It's phat. And it's fat. Dreamlifter is a 747 with a cargo hold custom enlarged to carry huge parts for the 787. At 65,000 cubic feet, Boeing says Dreamlifter's cargo hold is -- by volume -- the largest in the world. Compare that to the C-5's cargo hold at 31,000 cubic feet.

So -- in addition to Everett -- where can we track down the Dreamlifter? It's been seen in Nagoya, Japan; Italy and Boeing's other 787 plant in Charleston, South Carolina.

Boeing's testing ground

Everett visitors can find Dreamlifter at the airport right next door to the Boeing factory. Paine Field Airport serves as Boeing's testing ground for its new planes -- offering endless photo opportunities that draw aircraft fans from around the world.
Paine Field is actually set up for the aviation enthusiast.
Paul Carter, aviation enthusiast and photographer

"Boeing gets it," says Carter, who makes the four-hour drive from his Vancouver, Washington, home more than twice a year. Sometimes, he brings his grandkids along, ages 7 and 4. "Paine Field is actually set up for the aviation enthusiast."

On the northwest corner of the airport, Boeing's "Strato Deck" offers a vantage point with the spectacular Cascade Mountains popping up in the background. Audio from airport ground control is piped in so visitors can get real-time information about which planes are about to take off.

For other viewing options, Carter offers this tip: go to the north end of the airport in the afternoon. Generally, shooting from outside the fence line is OK, as long as you don't hang out for too long. Police "just don't like loitering," warns Carter. "They get a little grumpy about that."

The airport welcomes thousands every May for Aviation Day, when new machines take flight along with World War II-era planes and other vintage aircraft.

Paine Field is a plane geek's candy store all year round -- offering sweet photo op treats like airliners with colorful new paint schemes. In addition to Dreamlifter, other big cargo air freighters such as the Antonov An-124 often can be seen rumbling down the runways.

Superjumbo sightings

When these planes take flight or touch the ground they stop conversations. Fingers point upward. Many who never studied aeronautics suddenly remember: This is all a mystery. It looks like magic. How the heck does that thing fly?

Last year, the world's largest passenger airliner -- the Superjumbo Airbus A380 -- marked five years in service. Seating 525 passengers in a three-class configuration -- the A380 exceeds the 747-8 by 58 seats.

The four-engine airliner isn't too difficult to spot, if you're near its six destination airports in the U.S.: Washington's Dulles, New York's JFK, San Francisco, Los Angeles' LAX, Houston Intercontinental and Miami International.

At JFK, NYCAviation.com founder Phil Derner likes nearby Howard Beach for watching A380 departures from runway 31L. From this vantage point, he can see the Superjumbo make a big lumbering turn as it climbs. He can also hear its engines building up power and get a nice profile view while the plane banks 180 degrees.

"A century ago, aircraft were literally not much more than motorized kites," said Derner. "Now this thing comes along weighing in at a staggering 1.2 million pounds? It doesn't take an enthusiast to think that's badass."

Related: Airbus A380 turns five

World's largest airplane

Wanna get an eyeful of airplane? Track down the Antonov An-225 "Mriya," -- the Russian word for Dream.

This six-engine bad boy is a one-of-a-kind cargo jet often described as the world's largest airplane.

Built in the 1980s, Mriya was meant to shoulder a Soviet space shuttle. If you stood it up on its nose, it would be about as tall as a 27-story building.

Somehow, engineers figured out how to outfit it with six giant jet engines and 290-foot wings ... and well, it's kind of a building that flies.

These days, some of its cargo includes huge equipment for oil drilling operations all over the world. It's been spotted in places as widespread as Ireland, Moses Lake, Washington; and Houston, Texas. Take a look at this jaw-dropping video of Mriya coming in for a landing last May at Houston's George Bush Intercontinental Airport. It may leave you speechless.

Sometimes these big planes come outfitted with a little bit of humor. Consider NASA's Super Guppy: a huge cargo aircraft that's just plain funny looking. Instead of jets, this thing relies on four turbo-propeller engines that allow it to reach 230 mph at low altitudes.

The airplane loads and unloads through its nose, which opens up with the help of giant hinges on its left side. The Super Guppy is based near Houston at Ellington Field Joint Reserve Base, but it's been recently spotted at Houston's Hobby Airport and at Seattle's Boeing Field and elsewhere.

We can't ignore the Hercules H-4 Flying Boat (aka "The Spruce Goose") -- described as "the largest airplane ever built" -- which flew just once for about 60 seconds at an altitude of 70 feet traveling a little more than a mile.

The 320-foot wingspan of the all-wooden plane eclipses anything flying today. Could it fly again? It never completed certification test flights. We'll never know if the brainchild of reclusive billionaire Howard Hughes could have become a useful, viable working aircraft. More than 65 years after that famous flight, you can still see it on display at the Evergreen Aviation & Space Museum in McMinnville, Oregon.

Full circle

Back at Dover Air Force Base, Air Mobility Command Museum deputy director John Taylor had big news to share. No museum anywhere has ever obtained a C-5 to put on permanent display. Until now.
It's our obligation to preserve these planes for future generations.
John Taylor, Air Force Air Mobility Command Museum

"We're going to get the first C-5," Taylor said, barely able to contain his excitement. "It will be the crown jewel of the museum when it arrives. We will be only museum in the world to have a C-5 on display."

He wasn't talking about just any C-5. This plane's tail reads 9014, an aircraft Taylor helped keep flying decades ago when he was a mechanic.

The plane is set to arrive some time in October, and Taylor expects it to be on public display about a month later. Eventually -- perhaps as soon as next spring -- visitors will be able to board the C-5 and perhaps sit in the cockpit.

"We want to allow visitors to get on board this aircraft, to touch this aircraft, to experience the size of it," said Taylor. "That's what we're all about. It's our obligation to preserve these planes for future generations."

Although Taylor insisted it wasn't planned, a novelist couldn't have written a better full-circle ending.

After all this time, C-5 No. 9014 will return to the former airman who for years cared for this majestic, gravity-defying giant.

As Taylor put it, "We're awful lucky that it happened that way."

Source: CNN.com/2013/06/21/travel/plane-spotting-big-aircraft

How To Plan The Perfect Santa Barbara Family Vacation

“Santa Barbara bed and breakfast provides family vacation ideas…”

Cheshire Cat Inn is one of the downtown hotels in Santa Barbara that families choose because of its central location to Santa Barbara family activities. Visitors from all over the world come to Santa Barbara for the quintessential California summer vacation. There are so many fun things to do while on a family vacation.

To ensure guests are aware of the many fun Santa Barbara attractions, Cheshire Cat Inn reviewed several fun things to do in Santa Barbara with kids of all ages. The following Santa Barbara kids activities are enjoyable, affordable and entertaining. The selections were chosen based on location, reputation, cost, and entertainment opportunities. These fun kids activities will help you plan the perfect summer vacation in Santa Barbara.

If you are looking for fun family activities that will complement your stay at Cheshire Cat Inn, bed and breakfast in Santa Barbara, consider the following options.

Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History - Planning the Perfect Santa Barbara Family Vacation

The Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History has twelve exhibition halls that feature a life-size 72-foot Blue Whale Skeleton, birds, insects, mammals, marine life, paleontology, and the Chumash Indians. Guests experience the wonder of space exploration in the Gladwin Planetarium. The Museum also owns and operates the Ty Warner Sea Center located on historic Stearns Wharf. Visit the websiteand Facebook page or call 805-682-4711 for more information.

Santa Barbara Zoo - Planning the Perfect Santa Barbara Family Vacation

The Santa Barbara Zoo is celebrating its golden anniversary with plenty of fun family activities. With 30 acres and 500 animals, visitors need a map to be sure they see Condor Country, the pair of realistic high-tech dinosaursin the “Dino Doc” show, the two baby giraffes, and many more animals in naturalistic habitats. Visit the website and Facebook page or call 805-962-5339 for more information.

Santa Barbara Land and Sea Tours - Planning the Perfect Santa Barbara Family Vacation

Santa Barbara Land and Sea Tours is Santa Barbara’s original amphibious tour vehicle. Guests climb aboard the LAND SHARK for a personally narrated 90-minute land and sea tour adventure and enjoy exquisite views of the Santa Barbara coastline, the American Riviera, and the Santa Ynez Mountains as seen only from a boat at sea. Visit the website and Facebook page or call 805-683-600 for more information.

Quinlan Museum - Planning the Perfect Santa Barbara Family Vacation

The Susan Quinlan Doll & Teddy Bear Museum & Library is dedicated to the love of dolls, teddy bears, books and the support of doll and teddy bear artists. Visit the historical and literary galleries, Tea Room, museum store or browse through the library collection. Visit the website or call 805-730-1707 for more information.

Chase Palm Park Antique Carousel - Planning the Perfect Santa Barbara Family Vacation

The Chase Palm Park Antique Carousel in Santa Barbara was made in North Tonawanda, New York, by the Allan Herschell Company in 1917. Herschell was the largest manufacturer of these flights of fancy during the Golden Age of carousels. Old-fashioned calliope music plays as the carousel turns. The carousel was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2000. Visit their Yelp page or call 805-963-9463 for more information.

Planning the perfect Santa Barbara family vacation can be a challenge.

Part of Cheshire Cat Inn’s commitment to excellence includes providing entertainment suggestions for Santa Barbara family activities. With so many Santa Barbara attractions, planning the perfect Santa Barbara family vacation can be a challenge. This review aims to save guests of Cheshire Cat Inn from the effort of researching family vacation ideas on their own. We hope this information helps you make an informed decision.

About Cheshire Cat Inn - Cheshire Cat Inn offers the perfect combination of location, ambiance and family fun for Santa Barbara Inns. After a day of entertaining the kids, parents can reward themselves with the Inn’s quaint Victorian charms and spa treatments. Special pricing makes this ideal as Santa Barbara’s Great Escape. Visit the website and Facebook page or call 805- 569-1610 for more information.

Posted by Cheshire Cat Bed and Breakfast at 11:38 PM 

Labels: anta Barbara family activities, bed & breakfast, bed and breakfast, Cheshire Cat Inn, downtown hotels in Santa Barbara, fun kids activities, summer vacation in Santa Barbara

Location: Santa Barbara, CA 93101, USA

Santa Barbara Inn Reviews 3 Santa Barbara Museums

 Cheshire Cat Inn is an elegant Santa Barbara bed and breakfast that features eighteen elegantly appointed guest rooms, suites and cottages, daily breakfast and early evening wine/hors d’oeuvres,Jacuzzi suites, and attractive hotel package offers. This month the downtown Santa Barbara hotel reviewed and recommended three Santa Barbara museums.

To ensure guests are aware of the many fine museum opportunities available to complement their stay at the Santa Barbara inn, Cheshire Cat Inn reviewed several Santa Barbara museums. The Inn wanted to make sure that any museum it recommends to guests has an interesting and inspirational environment. They named the following museums: Karpeles Manuscript Library, Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History Museum and Santa Barbara Historical Museum.

“Our Santa Barbara Inn recommends a visit to these historical museums. The selections were chosen based on reputation, exhibits, and educational opportunities to increase the enjoyment of the Santa Barbara experience. These Santa Barbara museums all provide an in-depth and interesting look at the world around us." said Andrea Dunstan, Innkeeper.

About Cheshire Cat Inn - Cheshire Cat Inn offers the perfect combination of location, ambiance and enjoyment for Santa Barbara inns. The Inn’s spa treatments, quaint Victorian charm, and hotel pricing make it the perfect Santa Barbara b and b. Follow Cheshire Cat Inn on Facebook or call 805- 569-1610 for more information.

Posted by Cheshire Cat Bed and Breakfast at 10:03 PM 

Labels: b and b, hotels downtown, Santa Barbara Bed and Breakfast Inn, Santa Barbara Hotel Specials, Santa Barbara Museums, Santa Barbara Things To Do

Location: Santa Barbara, CA 93101, USA

Montecito Realtor Highlights Top Central Coast Wealth Advisors

Coldwell Banker’s Barbara Reaume is an experienced Montecito realtor specializing in Montecito homes for sale. Barbara helps home sellers and home buyers navigate the sometimes tricky world of Santa Barbara real estate by providing both home buying tips and house staging tips.

Santa Barbara real estate agent Barbara Reaume often works closely with Central Coast wealth advisors to help clients locate luxury houses for sale or to provide information on using properties as part of a wealth management strategy.

In an effort to ensure home buyers and home sellers have access to current information about asset management strategies, Barbara Reaume reviewed several Central Coast wealth advisors. The Santa Barbara realtor wanted to make sure that financial advisors who work with her clients have the highest degree of professionalism and integrity.

The final selections were chosen based on reputation in the wealth management industry and a proven ability to meet the needs of clients. These Central Coast wealth advisors are dedicated to showing clients how to buy a home as part of a wealth preservation strategy.  

After thorough consideration, Barbara Reaume chose the following Central Coast wealth advisors as her favorites: Daniel Babai, Greg Franklin and Craig Allen. If you are looking for an asset management specialist, consider the following Central Coast wealth advisors.

	Daniel Babai – Morgan Stanley – Top Central Coast Wealth Advisors Daniel Babai is a Financial Advisor at Morgan Stanley Wealth Management. He focuses on assisting with long-term financial planning and developing qualified plans for clients through the use of both traditional and alternative investments. He incorporates frequent contact and performance reviews to assess progress made towards helping clients achieve their financial goals. Visit the Morgan Stanley website and the Daniel Babai LinkedIn page or call 800-874-0282 for more information.
	Greg Franklin – The Wealth Pilot – Top Central Coast Wealth Advisors Greg Franklin, owner of The Wealth Pilot, became a wealth management advisor in 1984 after earning both his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in business management and economics. Under his direction, the company has become one of the highest-rated wealth management firms in Central California. This independent wealth management advisor specializes in asset wealth management and wealth management consulting. Visit the website or call 805-541-8444 for more information.
	Craig Allen – Montecito Private Asset Management – Top Central Coast Wealth Advisors Craig Allen of Montecito Private Asset Management offers investment management, financial planning, and business consulting services. Allen works to develop customized solutions that may include portfolio management, a comprehensive financial plan, a business or marketing plan, company analysis, or a combination of services. Visit the website or call 805-898-1400 for more information.

Finding top Central Coast wealth advisors can be a challenge.

Are you looking to buy a home in Santa Barbara?  Buying a home in Santa Barbara is an integral component of a smart investment strategy.  For most people, buying a home is the largest purchase they will make in their lifetime.  Before you buy that dream home, consider a strategy session with one of these top four wealth management advisors.  This review aims to save clients who are buying a Santa Barbara home the effort of researching wealth advisors. We hope this information helps you make an informed decision.

About Barbara Reaume – Barbara Reaume is a professional Santa Barbara and Montecito realtor with over thirty years of experience. Barbara Reaume offers advice on buying a single family home, finding a condo, or purchasing land as an investment.  For help with your Santa Barbara relocation strategy visit her website and Facebook page or call 805-610-5403 for more information or to request a quick quote.  

 

FILED UNDER: BLOG, FEATURED, PARTNER REVIEWS TAGGED WITH: ASSET MANAGEMENT, FINANCIAL ADVISORS, MANAGING WEALTH ADVISORS, MONTECITO REALTOR, REAL ESTATE SANTA BARBARA, REALTOR SANTA BARBARA, TOP CENTRAL COAST WEALTH ADVISORS, TOP WEALTH ADVISORS, WEALTH MANAGERS, WEALTH PLANNERS

 About Barbara Reaume

Barbara Reaume is a real estate expert working for Coldwell Banker Montecito. She started her career as a real estate agent in 1984 and offers over 3 decades of experience in real estate sales. Specialties include Montecito real estate, Santa Barbara real estate, Santa Barbara homes, real estate financing In Santa Barbara, Montecito relocation, Santa Barbara relocation, short sales and foreclosures. Do you have specific questions about buying or selling real estate in the Santa Barbara area? Ask to be setup on Barbara's email-based home search to get instant alerts on price reductions and new Santa Barbara homes for sale in the area. Contact Barbara Reaume by email ([email protected]), phone (805-610-5403) to find out the value of your home, discuss your options. Connect on Google+ https://plus.google.com/103753350598984606081/about

Top 100 Santa Barbara Realtors / Montecito Realtors Named by SBAOR

                                                                                                                                                                  

Santa Barbara Association of Realtors (SBAOR) released the top producing Santa Barbara Realtors / Montecito Realtors for the first quarter 2013.

SBAOR represents approximately 1,200 Santa Barbara Realtors and Montecito Realtors from all real estate specialties including residential home sales, luxury mansions for sale, commercial sales, short sales, development, property management and appraisals. Each quarter, SBAOR ranks each Realtor by the total dollar volume and number of listings for single-family homes and condominiums. 

One of the Realtors named in the top 100 list, Barbara Reaume, of Coldwell Banker Montecito, remarked;

"The real estate market continues to improve in Santa Barbara County. I've had several unique opportunities this quarter due to the recovering housing market, and I'm grateful to be recognized by SBAOR." said Reaume.

SBAOR Montecito realtors such as Barbara Reaume help home buyers and sellers navigate the complex real estate process by specializing in Santa Barbara relocation, luxury houses for sale,home buying tips, Montecito relocation, Montecito homes for sale, Santa Barbara homes for sale,Carpinteria real estate, house staging tips and short selling a home on a budget.

Barbara Reaume understands the drive to own a home; she draws from 30 years of experience as an established realtor. Home buyers looking for the best places to buy a home in Santa Barbara, consider speaking with a top 100 realtor from SBAOR. Selling your home without a realtor is time consuming and often leads to legal issues.

Barbara offers a free guide entitled "12 Smart Questions To Ask Your Realtor" athttp://www.BarbaraReaume.com. Learn how to find a good real estate agent and how to sell your home fast in Santa Barbara County. Ask to be setup on Barbara's email-based home search to receive instant alerts on price reductions on new homes for sale in Santa Barbara, CA. Connect socially on Barbara Reaume's Google+ page and Facebook fan page.

To learn more about SBAOR and to find a realtor in Santa Barbara, visit http://www.sbaor.com

Tags: buy a home in Santa Barbara, how to find a good real estate agent, Montecito realtors,Montecito homes for sale, Santa Barbara relocation, luxury houses for sale, home buying tips,house staging tips, buy a home in Santa Barbara

LINK TO IMAGE: http://www.barbarareaume.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/Santa-Barbara-Realtors-Montecito-Realtors-Top-100.jpg

Contact:

Barbara Reaume 
Email Contact 
805-610-5403

 

 

Top 100 Santa Barbara Realtors / Montecito Realtors Named by SBAOR

Santa Barbara, CA – May 8th, 2013. SBAOR represents approximately 1,200 Santa Barbara Realtors and Montecito Realtors from all real estate specialties including residential home sales, luxury mansions for sale, commercial sales, short sales, development, property management and appraisals.  Every quarter, SBAOR ranks Realtors by the total dollar volume and number of listings for single-family homes and condominiums.   

One of the Realtors named in the top 100 list, Barbara Reaume, of Coldwell Banker Montecito, remarked;

“The real estate market continues to improve in Santa Barbara County. I’ve had several unique opportunities this quarter due to the recovering housing market, and I’m grateful to be recognized by SBAOR.” said Reaume.

SBAOR Montecito realtors such as Barbara Reaume help home buyers and sellers navigate the complex real estate process by specializing in Santa Barbara relocation, luxury houses for sale, home buying tips, Montecito relocation, Montecito homes for sale, Santa Barbara homes for sale, Carpinteria real estate, house staging tips and short selling a home on a budget.

Barbara Reaume understands the drive to own a home; she draws from 30 years of experience as an established realtor. Home buyers looking for the best places to buy a home in Santa Barbara, consider speaking with a top 100 realtor from SBAOR.  Selling your home without a realtor is time consuming and often leads to legal issues.

Barbara offers a free guide entitled “12 Smart Questions To Ask Your Realtor” at http://www.BarbaraReaume.com. Learn how to find a good real estate agent and how to sell your home fast in Santa Barbara County. 

To learn more about SBAOR, visit http://www.sbaor.com 

FILED UNDER: BLOG, FEATURED, PRESS RELEASES TAGGED WITH: BUY A HOME IN SANTA BARBARA, HOME BUYING TIPS, HOUSE STAGING TIPS, HOW TO FIND A GOOD REAL ESTATE AGENT, LUXURY HOUSES FOR SALE, MONTECITO HOMES FOR SALE, MONTECITO REALTORS, SANTA BARBARA RELOCATION

  About Barbara Reaume

Barbara Reaume is a real estate expert working for Coldwell Banker Montecito. She started her career as a real estate agent in 1984 and offers over 3 decades of experience in real estate sales. Specialties include Montecito real estate, Santa Barbara real estate, Santa Barbara homes, real estate financing In Santa Barbara, Montecito relocation, Santa Barbara relocation, short sales and foreclosures. Do you have specific questions about buying or selling real estate in the Santa Barbara area? Ask to be setup on Barbara's email-based home search to get instant alerts on price reductions and new Santa Barbara homes for sale in the area. Contact Barbara Reaume by email ([email protected]), phone (805-610-5403) to find out the value of your home, discuss your options. Connect on Google+ https://plus.google.com/103753350598984606081/about

 

Announcing Home for Sale in San Roque

SUMMARY: Barbara Reaume, Real Estate Professional with Coldwell Banker, specializing in the Montecito and Santa Barbara real estate, announces 121 Carrizo Dr, Santa Barbara CA, 93105, located in the historic San Roque area, listed for sale. 

 

Santa Barbara, CA June 29, 2013 — 121 Carrizo Dr, Santa Barbara CA, 93105 is a single family home located in the northwestern area of Santa Barbara known as San Roque.  

Admired for its diverse architectural themes such as Spanish Colonial, English Tudor, French Normandy, and American Colonial, it’s no surprise that San Roque property is highly sought after.  This is a desirable area that is located close to Santa Barbara schools, parks, and restaurants. 

The property is being listed for sale for $1,295,000. 

“The homes in this area are highly unique, mostly ranch-style, single-family homes, constructed during the building boom of the ’50s and ’60s,” said listing agent Barbara Reaume, a 30-year Santa Barbara real estate veteran. “121 Carrizo Dr is a charming ranch style home with a beautiful backyard, fireplace and two car garage. Trail heads for mountain hiking are within easy reach.” 

Lovingly cared for over the years, this home is on a 11,761 sq ft lot, has 3 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms, a large living room with a fireplace and a wall of windows to a view of the yard. The dining room and kitchen have clear views to the beautifully landscaped backyard. 

If you are interested in buying or selling a home in Santa Barbara County, contact Barbara Reaume, Coldwell Banker Real Estate Specialist, at (805) 453-9674. 

For more information on 121 Carrizo Dr, visit http://www.californiamoves.com/ID/3179609 

About Barbara Reaume: Barbara Reaume is a real estate professional with Coldwell Banker Real Estate in Montecito, California. She was recently listed in the top 100 Santa Barbara Realtors named by SBAOR. As a CRI Graduate, Barbara offers real estate representation and negotiation services to both home buyers and home sellers. Reaume specializes in the Santa Barbara and Montecito real estate community and offers her services throughout Santa Barbara county. To search all homes in the Santa Barbara MLS for free visit http://www.barbarareaume.com To find out how much your Santa Barbara home is worth visit   http://www.barbarareaume.com/contact

Beachside B&B Recommends 5 Santa Barbara Restaurants

We LOVE these 5 Santa Barbara Restaurants…

At the Eagle Inn, we know that you choose us of all the places to stay in Santa Barbara because of our local ownership and attention to detail.  

Consistent with what you expect from Santa Barbara boutique hotels, we are concerned that you enjoy your whole trip, not just get a good night sleep.  Hotels in Santa Barbara, as well as the restaurants, are attuned to the local ingredients and artisans.  To compliment your stay at our bed and breakfast in Santa Barbara, CA, we would like to recommend some restaurants that represent the different aspects of Santa Barbara’s personality.  

Chuck’s Waterfront Grill
Since you’ve picked one of the hotels in Santa Barbara by the beach; you will likely enjoy eating at a restaurant with an ocean view.  About a 15 minute walk from the Eagle Inn, right on the marina and just off the beach, you’ll find one of the best Santa Barbara seafood restaurants –Chuck’s Waterfront Grill.  They are open for lunch and dinner, closed from 3:00 to 5:00.  They have a versatile kids’ menu, burgers and an extensive seafood selection.  They also offer local beers from Firestone and Telegraph Brewing Company, as well as a huge selection of local wines, following the Santa Barbara Urban Wine Trail and will even give you a map to visit some of the featured wineries.  Like them on Facebook.

The Neighborhood Bar and Grill
About a block away, come find out why the Neighborhood Bar and Grill is reported as being thebest happy hour in Santa Barbara.  They offer ping pong and foosball tables, as well as billiards and bean bag toss.  ”The Hood” is known for having the best Jukebox in town.  Hungry after 11pm? This is the only bar on west beach that serves food up until midnight. The Neighborhood features 15 beers on tap and a full bar – not the fruity kind. A REAL beer and a shot (or stiff drink) kind of place.  The Hood is a friendly, feel good place for all ages 21& over.  After relaxing at your favorite Santa Barbara B&B, stroll down and get lunch or dinner at The Hood; pizza, salad, sandwiches, Nathan’s hot dogs, and burgers with your choice of beef, turkey or veggie patty.  They have 6 kinds of fries!  Now that’s a bar menu!   Like them on Facebook.

Bouchon Santa Barbara
Come check out a top pick by Santa Barbara.com Restaurant Guide, and a Santa Barbara Independent Foodie award winner.  Right up State Street, bouchon follows an “as-fresh-and-as-local-as-possible” approach with their ingredients, including a Tuesday tour of the Santa Barbara Farmer’s Market with Chef Greg Murphy.  If you are enjoying your stay at one of the premier boutique hotels in Santa Barbara, you will enjoy your “foodie stroll” and dinner at bouchon, a local favorite Santa Barbara wine country cuisine.  Like them on Facebook.

 

 

 

 

 

Wine Cask
Affiliated with Bouchon, the Wine Cask provides an extensive menu of wines by the glass and varied food menu, including unique touches like smoked eggs served on the salad Lyonnaise.  But this is only one reason that the Wine Cask received a top 4 rating by Zagat.  This restaurant in Santa Barbara is truly a local gem worthy of The Eagle Inn’s praises.  Ask the staff to recommend one of the many starters or selections for the cheese & charcuterie plate.  They change the menu seasonally and include signature cocktails.  Located close to downtown (walking distance from most local Santa Barbara hotels) this Santa Barbara restaurant is a local hot spot for movies stars like Rob Lowe and Julia Luis Dreyfus.  Presidio State Park is just a block away and is a great option for an after dinner stroll.  The Wine Cask is tucked back off of the main street, so the patio is a quiet extension of the well-appointed main dining room.   Like them on Facebook.   

 Pierre Lafond Wine Bistro
Priorities when the chef is selecting ingredients for the Wine Bistro are “local, organic, then small batch; we want to have fresh and delicious foods”.  The Chef’s Table is one of their most interesting offerings.  Give them 48 hours notice and Chef Jake Reimer will provide you with a personalized 3, 4, or 5 course meal and the Sommelier will suggest complimentary wines all along the way.  This is sure to be a memorablewine bistro experience. They also have daily specials and a kid’s menu with some traditional favorites.  Like them on Facebook.

When out exploring Santa Barbara, California, we hope this review assists your decision on where to eat and visit during your stay.  We hope you enjoy your visit to lovely Santa Barbara and to any of the restaurants we have recommended.  Ask the staff at Eagle Inn about any local events that may be happening on your weekend.  Each staff member will usually have an idea for something fun to do or see, locals usually know best!

ABOUT THE EAGLE INN: The Eagle Inn is a boutique Santa Barbara hotel offering the intimacy of a Bed & Breakfast combined with the amenities of a major hotel.   For more information about The Eagle Inn,  Book Online or call (805) 965-3586 or visit http://www.theeagleinn.com

 

The Eagle Inn Reviews Top 3 Santa Barbara Wineries

By Santa Barbara Vacation

The Eagle Inn selected three must see Santa Barbara wineries to review the finest ports coming out of the city and Santa Ynez Valley area.

As one of the highest quality hotels in Santa Barbara, The Eagle Inn, has been a luxurious boutique hotel for vacationers and business travelers for many years. The family-owned business offers the intimacy of a Bed & Breakfast combined with the amenities of a major hotel.

The Eagle Inn is also a short distance from many of Southern California’s most luxurious spots. This Santa Barbara Hotel is located just a few blocks from the beach, within driving distance  of the mountains, and near Southern California’s most beautiful orchards in the world.

At one time California wine was considered second-rate and inferior to its European counterpart. But after decades of technological advances and agricultural innovation, California wines frequently rank as the best in the world. Alongside Sonoma County, Santa Ynez is one of the main reasons for California’s winery boom.

One of the ways  The Eagle Inn strives to ensure guests have a pleasant experience is by reviewing popular local tourist resources each month.   Each month our staff features a local resource that may be of value to our guests.

For all our wine enthusiast guests, you’ll love our review of the following wineries: Santa Barbara Winery, Oreana Winery and Marketplace, and The Giessenger Winery.

SANTA BARBARA WINERY - Established in 1962, Santa Barbara Winery releases several lines of vintage every year. This year they are rolling out their fourth vintage of Petite Sirah.  The grape has had a rather muddled history ever since it was first cultivated in California circa 1890 shortly after being either propagated or identified as a separate variety in France in the 1880′s. It is not Syrah, and there is nothing “petite” about it in terms of grape size or flavor. Many older Petite Sirah vineyards in California are actually “field blends” containing as many as five grape varieties (including Petite Sirah and Syrah).  DNA fingerprinting has also shown what we know as Petite Sirah could actually be the ancient Rhone variety Peloursin. Or, as the most popular theory goes, this grape is actually Durif, a cross of Peloursin and Syrah created in France in the 1880′s.   Whatever the reason, the name “Petite Sirah” has stuck and the wine became an early favorite in California as the rich, massive wines it produces were a natural favorite when paired with old rancho cuisine featuring grilled meats and vegetables.  Santa Barbara Winery sells large and small bottles, samples, as well as many wine accessories. Santa Barbara gift baskets feature an assortment of wines along with local gourmet items. Visit Santa Barbara Winery on Facebook.

OREANA WINERY - Ten years ago Christian Garvin, came across a vacant tire shop and had an idea.  Now over a decade later that idea has blossomed into the Oreana Winery; a funky and eclectic winery right next to downtown Santa Barbara.  Originally called Cellar 205, Gavin changed the name to Oreana to signify the renegade spirit of the business. Oreana was a term from California’s “Cattle Driving” past and is used for unbranded cattle that become a rancher’s property because they’re on his land.  Located just 2 blocks from the beach, Oreana promotes itself as the alternative and libertine innovators in the Santa Barbara region. The off-beat winery offers over 10,000 cases but also has some brands of pinot grigio that are as small as 20 cases. Visit Oreana Winery on Facebook.

 GIESSINGER WINERY - At Giessinger Winery, you will have the opportunity to experience and enjoy wine tasting and delicious food in one of the most lush regions in the world.  Giessinger Winery was selected for the 2012 Best of Santa Barbara Award in the Wines, Brandy & Brandy Spirits category by the Santa Barbara Award Program.  Their high quality, moderately priced wines bring the art of French wine making to the beautiful California countryside in Ventura County and Santa Barbara Coast. Additionally Giessinger has a wine tasting class in conjunction with University of California -Santa Barbara. The course on the health benefits of wines and the process of winemaking (growing/purchasing of grapes, choosing equipment, fermenting, aging and storing). You will learn how to make 5 gallons of wine. 

In the class, students will taste 3 types of Giessinger wines (white, red, and dessert) in every session. The last session involves food-wine pairing. People are encouraged to bring your favorite dish to share and pair with Giessinger wines. The class ends with a food-wine event at Giessinger Winery in Santa Barbara.  Giessinger Bistro offers a chance for people to enjoy their wine with a variety of appetizers, gourmet sandwiches, and sides. Visit Giessinger Winery on Facebook.

The true artisan practices in mastering the art of winemaking is evident in each and every one of the wineries reviewed.  We hope you enjoyed this review of the top 3 Santa Barbara wineries.  Be sure to stop by one of these first class wineries for a relaxing afternoon of wine tasting.  Tell them  The Eagle Inn sent you!

For more information about The Eagle Inn, visit http://www.theeagleinn.com