In The News

40 PLACES TO CELEBRATE THANKSGIVING
After nearly two years of social distancing, Thanksgiving offers a much-needed opportunity to reconnect with loved ones and share our gratitude for what we still have. A good option for those stuck in their homes recently is to celebrate over a sumptuous spread at a hotel. There, top chefs take on the hard work in the kitchen and give you more of the quality time with friends and family you may have missed.

SEVEN SPACIOUS LODGING OPTIONS IDEAL FOR LARGE GROUP TRAVEL
Traveling on vacation with a large family or group of friends can be a little tricky. After all, booking a block of hotel rooms tends to be on the expensive side while also detracting from spontaneous social interaction. As such, people who travel in larger groups often look for accommodations that have multi bedrooms, full kitchens and lots of space to gather together. The following lavish lodging options are ideal for family reunions, weddings and other special occasions that bring together large gatherings.

HOTEL & RESORT SPA TREATMENTS WE'RE FALL-ING FOR
As we dive deeper into the Fall, resorts and hotels across the world are offering fabulous spa treatments laced with autumnal vibes to celebrate the season. From a facial comprised of yam & pumpkin extracts and vitamin A at Shore Lodge in Idaho that leaves guests glowing, to a luxe body treatment with pumpkin and Fall spice fragrances, a dry exfoliation and full-body massage at La Quinta Resort & Club in the California desert, these properties are delivering incredible, seasonally-inspired spa treatments that help guests transition into the cooler months feeling like their best selves.

BEST OF SANTA BARBARA 2021
Spa Ojai at Ojai Valley Inn - Resort Spa

WINTER WELLNESS RETREATS IN SUNDRENCHED DESTINATIONS
From the rush of serotonin you get from catching some rays, to the ancient practice of sun gazing to connect with nature, clear the mind and promote overall wellness, sunshine had long been seen as healing and energizing.

With the winter months right around the corner, there are a number of hotel and resort destinations located in eternally sunny destinations that are the ultimate Winter wellness retreats.

THE 2021 TOP 25 HISTORIC HOTELS OF AMERICA MOST HISTORIC GOLF COURSES LIST ANNOUNCED
WASHINGTON--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Historic Hotels of America® has a unique collection of the most beautiful, prestigious, and iconic golf courses where many champions have learned to play golf, competed, and made history. Many of these golf courses were designed in the late 19th and early 20th century, often referred to as the “Golden Age” of golf course architecture. These historic golf courses were designed and built by legendary golf course architects ranging from Scottish immigrant Donald Ross to Hall-of-Fame golf architect Pete Dye. Each course has earned its reputation, in part, based on the many famous people who have played including U.S. Presidents, world leaders, golf champions, film and entertainment celebrities, and famous inventors and industrialists. Many amateur and professional golfers can look back to their first lesson or first golf game played with a parent or grandparent on one or more of these legendary golf courses. The golf courses named to the 2021 Top 25 Historic Hotels of America Most Historic Golf Courses list are some of America’s most historic greens. Today, guests can make their own history, stay and play where champions have played.

BEST OF VENTURA COUNTY 2021
Overnight Accommodations - 1st place
Golf Course - Reader Recommended

5 LUXURY GETAWAYS FOR FRIENDS OR FAMILY
This coastal valley hideaway northeast of Los Angeles, Ojai Valley Inn is the perfect base for a weekend of bonding—with a bottle of wine or two. Throw a spa party at one of the resort’s penthouse spa suites accessible via private elevator. Or head to the newly opened Farmhouse for a pasta-making or wine-pairing class. Then invite pals to burn off the calories with a yoga and spin Fusion class, a full-body workout with cardio and flexibility built in. Or just stroll the glorious 220 acres.

8 U.S. HOTELS WITH CBD SPA TREATMENTS WORTH TRAVELING FOR
CBD seems to be popping up everywhere on the luxury wellness circuit. Before we delve into where to find these blissful spa experiences around in the U.S., we thought we'd explore why CBD pairs perfectly with relaxation treatments.

12 SPAS THAT WILL MEET ALL YOUR WEEKEND GETAWAY DREAMS
When you're spending every day juggling your back-to-work schedule, laundry, cooking, and more, taking time for some inner peace and relaxation is of utmost importance — and what better place to do that than a spa? Since there are times that you need to get away from your normal surroundings to truly feel at ease, we found 12 of the best spa getaways around the U.S. for all your solo, romantic, or girls' trip needs.

TOP CALIFORNIA YOGA RETREATS
If your desire is to improve your yoga practice and recharge in a beautiful place, California offers some world-class options any time of year. Here is a half-dozen picks, listed south to north, for luxurious getaways that deliver wellness benefits that linger long after check-out.

9 INCREDIBLE SPAS
Take a blissful setting and add a wealth of healing waters and other natural resources. Throw in a flair for luxury, and you’ve got the makings of a classic California spa getaway. These nine world-class spas, listed north to south, are located at some of the Golden State’s most luxurious resorts; while you don’t need to stay overnight to unwind and recharge in delicious fashion, you’ll probably want to. Note: Before traveling, familiarize yourself with local guidelines and regulations for all of the destinations you visit and check out Visit California’s Responsible Travel Hub, which includes helpful Travel Alerts.

FROM MALIBU TO SEDONA, REVEL IN WELLNESS AT THESE 25 EXTRAORDINARY HOTELS
While each individual celebrates and works toward wellness in their own ways, a weekend escape allowing you to reset, recharge and unplug is something we all could use (okay, I’ll say it: especially after this past year). Whether you’re searching for mornings filled with yoga and green juice or sleeping in and enjoying breakfast in bed, we’ve rounded up the most magical, relaxing and serene hotels where you can finally let out a sigh of relief.

AMERICA'S BEST SWIMMING POOLS
There are swimming pools that are lovely for a few laps or a quick dip. Then there are swimming pools surrounded by trees, perched by the ocean or even suspended above the street. Others are notable for their elegant architecture, or offer swimming with a side of fascinating history. From pools formed naturally in freshwater springs to rooftop swimming spots with epic city views, here are some of America’s best swimming spots. Due to COVID-19, be sure to check state travel advisories as well as individual websites for the latest information.

SOAK IN RESPLENDENT SUNSETS AT THESE RESORTS
One of the most enjoyable ways to end a long day of sightseeing or endless activities is to appreciate a gorgeous view during sunset.

EXPLORE ALHI GOLF RESORTS BY REGION
A funny thing happened on the way to 2022: Golf exploded. Tee sheets were filled from dew time to twilight; equipment--notably carry bags and push-carts--were about as easy to obtain as snow in Scottsdale in August; and lapsed golfers and never-golfers gave it a go in record numbers, be it a dedicated green-grass facility or a "golfertainment" outlet like TopGolf. Call it a collective thumbed nose at you-know-what. As the spigot opens on business and incentive travel, hopefully soon to be a gusher of a flow, golf is there, ready to assist.

WHAT IS TEQUILA? A CRASH COURSE FOR NATIONAL TEQUILA DAY
What is Tequila?

National Tequila Day in the U.S. falls on July 24 each year. If you want an introduction to tequila, this is the perfect time to hustle to a tasting someplace close to home.

Tequila tastings have become increasingly popular at bars, restaurants, hotels and resorts throughout the year, but especially on National Tequila Day.

Here’s a little background so you can hold your own with any tequila master!

RESTAURANT POP-UP STANDOUTS TO TRY IN PASADENA
While the term pop-up applies to everything from a retail launch to a boxing workout, the restaurant industry has fully embraced this temporary mode of operating a business. From a celebratory one-night event to a weekend in Cabo, here are some fun ones to pop into this summer and beyond.

INSIDE SPA OJAI AT OJAI VALLEY INN
Ojai, CA, is a small artsy city situated 90 minutes north of Los Angeles in the Ojai Valley. Residents and visitors alike believe Ojai holds mystical powers and possesses a special energy and a feeling of peaceful sacredness. In fact, it’s been said that Ojai is a spiritual vortex because of its geomagnetic forces, natural land formations, and the positive energy of its inhabitants. Whether hanging at the farmers’ market or enjoying the Pink Moment, when the fading sunset creates a brilliant shade of pink for several minutes on the Topatopa Bluff, people are attracted to Ojai for its good vibrations. Whatever the reason you attribute the magnetic pull of Ojai, one thing is undeniable, there is a peaceful energy permeating throughout the recently renovated Spa Ojai at the iconic Ojai Valley Inn (CA) that can be seen and felt.

2021 SPA MAKEOVERS
With health and wellness at the forefront of the news cycle, spas at hotels and resorts are increasingly becoming a hot commodity.

"A spa that is onsite is something that's becoming more and more important," said John Paladino, owner and founder of Scottsdale-based Milestone Meetings.

Analysts predict the spa market is poised to grow by more than $22 billion during the 2021-2025 period. In response, resorts are ramping up their spa offerings to lure both travelers and meeting groups.

VACATION INSPIRATION: THE BEST PLACES TO GO IN SEPTEMBER
While the summer months often take center stage with their promise of long, sunny days and endless outdoor pursuits, from beaches to alfresco dining, there is a case to be made for September being one of the best months for travel. Post-Labor Day, the crowds are generally thinner while the weather is wonderful, still plenty warm during the day but with hints of that brisk autumnal air on the horizon. This year, we can finally go abroad again—including to Canada, which opens to vaccinated U.S. citizens on August 9, and Ireland, which also just reopened its borders. Prefer a quick domestic jaunt? America is a treasure chest of great destinations, too, and September is the perfect time to experience them. Here are our top picks for an early fall getaway.

6 TRAVEL-SAVVY REASONS TO BOOK A MIDWEEK VACATION
In this post-pandemic summer, everybody seems to be traveling—which makes it a lot tougher to find hotel and airfare deals, score a great table at that hot new restaurant, or savor blissful solitude on a hiking trail. For your next trip, flip your schedule upside down and travel midweek instead of Friday to Sunday. You'll circumvent the crowds, get access to special offers and promotions, and enjoy a slower pace at California's top destinations.

OUR 16 FAVORITE HOTELS IN CALIFORNIA FOR EVERY TYPE OF TRAVELER
Whether you’re headed for California to chill out at the beach, sample the famous vintages of the wine country, do some big city exploration or road trip around the state with your kids in tow, there’s a hotel (or two, o

CHEF NEAL FRASER COMES TO OJAI VALLEY INN
As the rest of California gets used to being open in these hopefully waning days of COVID-19, the Ojai Valley Inn continues to enjoy a comfortable style of outdoor-oriented hospitality that was merely sharpened during the pandemic. The 2019 opening of The Farmhouse, a $20 million, culinary-focused event center, turned out to be epic timing, as the property’s large outdoor spaces and breezy indoors provided the ability to host meals and classes when most everywhere else was locked down.

GREAT AMERICAN ROAD TRIP: DESTINATION WEST COAST
This summer Americans are eager to travel, although many are not quite ready to dust off their passports. According to many estimates more than 50% of Americans plan to take a road trip this year. The West Coast offers eye-popping scenery, farm-to-fork restaurants, adventurous activities and coastal accommodations ranging from five-star resorts to quaint B&Bs. These five destinations (North to South) showcase the best of California.

THE BEST BABYMOON GETAWAYS IN LA
Whether you’re expecting your first baby or your third, there’s no better way to prepare for the incoming chaos than a relaxing babymoon at one of these beautiful SoCal destinations. Things are going to get busy soon enough, so take advantage of some alone time and serious pampering while you can.

THE BEST WEEKEND GETAWAYS IN CALIFORNIA
Even as borders begin to open and international travel becomes ever-more feasible, many travelers would still rather stay closer to home. So it’s an ideal summer for a road trip. And with coronavirus restrictions across California lifted as of June 15, the state’s scenic roadways have never looked more appealing—making it ideal territory for day trips and more. Here are nine California weekend getaways within just a few hours’ drive of San Francisco, Los Angeles, or San Diego.

10 SUMMER COCKTAILS TO HELP YOU BEAT THE HEAT
Summer is here, which means it’s high time for a few of our favorite things: meandering road trips, lazy beach days, hours-long barbecues, and — of course — our favorite summer cocktails. (We’re focusing on the boozy variety, but there are plenty of fun nonalcoholic beverages to enjoy.)

CAN YOU EXPECT PRE-COVID EXPERIENCES AT CALIFORNIA HOTELS?
With summer right around the corner and Covid levels dropping precipitously in the state of California, travelers are gearing up to get out of the house and experience a vacation for the first time in nearly two years.

UPENDED BY THE PANDEMIC, HAUTE CHEFS MOVE INTO HOTELS
Yogis and nature enthusiasts have long flocked to Ojai, a verdant mountain enclave 90 minutes north of Los Angeles - gastronomes, not so much. That changed during the pandemic, when the Ojai Valley Inn turned its sprawling indoor-outdoor farmhouse into a stage for a revolving cast of high-end chefs.

DISCOVER A RENEWED SENSE OF TRAVEL & WELLBEING AT THESE 7 RESORTS ON INTERNATIONAL YOGA DAY
Since June 21, 2015, all around the world, yogis and those aspiring for true asana, have been taking one special day to celebrate the physical, mental and spiritual practice. An invaluable gift of India's ancient tradition, yoga has been practiced for centuries bringing its practitioners in union with reality. While there are broadly four types of yoga - Karma yoga, Kriya Yoga, Bhakti yoga and Jnana yoga - yoga has seen a modern renaissance inviting a full range of people to practice. To celebrate International Yoga Day on June 21, these seven beautiful and energetic resorts are hosting creative yoga classes, unique treatments and special gatherings.

SUMMER WELLNESS AT SPA OJAI
California’s Ojai Valley Inn has introduced new and updated spa treatments with two resident spiritual counselors Nancy Furst and Katie Manzella.

6 UNIQUE PROPERTIES THAT OPENED AROUND THE WORLD
Ojai Valley Inn reopened after completing a $5 million renovation, which included stunning new Spa Penthouse Suites with a modern luxury design. The spa is also opening back up with a renewed outlook on sustainability.

TIME TO HEAL
After months of pandemic-induced strain—emotional, physical, and spiritual—it’s time to heal. To celebrate Global Wellness Day on June 12, Travel+Leisure contributing digital editor Maya Kachroo-Levine immersed herself in new-age wellness to share how wellness is evolving to help travelers recover from the last year.

DESTINATION RELAXATION
After a supremely challenging year, Ojai Valley Inn is back refreshed, renewed, and better than ever.

THE BEST NEWLY COMPLETED HOTEL RENOVATIONS IN THE US
As we narrowed our travel lens to the U.S. this year, we were heartened to find renovations very much in progress across the country. Many hotels, while temporarily shuttering, used the closure as a way to improve themselves. To that end, from Napa Valley to Orlando, Florida, some of our favorite luxury hotels have remade their hotel suites, restaurants, common areas, and more, spending upwards of $30 million to reinvent their spaces before welcoming back guests. For Legend Awards 2021, here are our favorite luxury hotel renovations that wrapped up between April 1, 2020 and April 30, 2021.

PERFECT ZEN - SPA OJAI AT OJAI VALLEY INN
Ojai, CA is a small artsy city situated 90 minutes north of Los Angeles in the Ojai Valley. Residents and visitors alike believe Ojai holds mystical powers and possesses a special energy and a feeling of peaceful sacredness.

NOURISH TO FLOURISH
Ojai Valley Inn

About an 80-mile drive north from Los Angeles, Ojai is a magical escape from city life. Whether you're searching for adventure or a place to relax and unplug, a trip to the stunning Ojai Valley Inn will hit the spot.

DINING OUT
AN EXCLUSIVE DINNER BY AN INDUSTRY ICON
The Farmhouse at Ojai Valley Inn culinary event venue continues its Guest Chef Dinner series with meals created by James Beard award-winning chef-restaurateur Jon Yao on May 2 and renowned Los Angeles chef-restaurateur Neal Fraser on July 4.

8 ACTUALLY FUN THINGS TO DO IN LA THIS WEEKEND
We are entering prime “May Gray” season in Los Angeles en route to “June Gloom,” “No-Sky July, and, potentially “Fogust.” But the real forecast we’re interested in involves what’s happening this weekend. There’s plenty going on around the city, from rooftop comedy shows to art exhibitions, pop-up dinners and a Dodgers homestand with their newly-announced hot dogs supplanted.

PIXIE MARGARITA
This recipe comes from our friends at Ojai Valley Inn. The Pixie tangerine blooms once a year in mid-spring. This drink will leave you feeling fresh like you’re sipping spring from a glass.

ACCLAIMED CHEFS DEBUTING AT THESE RESTAURANTS
Sales in the restaurant and foodservice industry fell by $240 billion in 2020, and more than 110,000 eating and drinking places were closed for business temporarily, or for good, according to a report by the National Restaurant Association. Despite the ominous numbers, many restaurants that have survived the challenges are forging ahead with plans to debut new chefs.

AMERICA'S NEWEST DESTINATION RESTAURANTS AREN'T WHERE YOU'D EXPECT
Some big food-world names have left the major cities to take over the kitchens - and kitchen gardens - of country hotels, just as hungry vactioners are ready to gulp up spring.

11 TRULY OVER-THE-TOP HOTEL SUITES IN THE US
When it comes to sizing up the best new hotels, there is nothing we love more than touring the opulent, multi-room suites. No one does a hotel suite quite like a five-star hotel; They break out all the stops, from private pools to butler service to rare, high-priced furnishings and artwork. And most newly unveiled over-the-top hotel suites have a price tag to match the highly exclusive experience—often in the five-figure range. While, this year, we narrowed our search for the best hotel suites to the U.S. and honed in on brand new accommodations, we’re more blown away than ever by these Legend Award honorees.

EXPLORE CALIFORNIA! HERE’S 7 DISTANCED AND SECLUDED DESTINATIONS TO VISIT THIS YEAR
One thing we can all agree on is this: we can’t wait to travel. Whether it’s hopping on a plane to fly across the world or embarking a road trip to see family, the day we get to explore other towns, have conversations with strangers and indulge in new experiences will be a glorious one. We don’t know what the future holds or when this will exactly happen, so we have to take it step by step. So with that said, let’s plan an escape somewhere secluded, immersed in nature and not too far from home.

As always, please follow all health and safety guidelines in place.

SPA FOOD ELEVATED TO AN ART
THE LUMINOUS GLOW OF THE CUISINE AT THE OJAI VALLEY INN
Artfully placed lettuce leave. Tomatoes carved into the shape of a rose. Chives propped up vertically. Let's facie it, spa food isn't exactly known for being easy on the eyes or the palette. But 80 miles north of Los Angeles, is a spiritual oasis called the Ojai Valley Inn, where reality exists in a slightly altered, and altogether enhanced state.

SERENITY NOW
Two newly renovated Spa Penthouse Suites at the 303-room Ojai Valley Inn offer direct access to Spa Ojai via a private elevator. Guests can also receive treatments in one of the two-bedroom penthouses, featuring fireplaces both indoors and out on expansive terraces – one facing the sunset and the other, the Topatopa Mountains

BEST GOLF RESORTS IN CALIFORNIA
OJAI VALLEY INN
If relaxing golf and a spa treatment aren't enough, there's an artist-in-residence at the Artist Cottage who will assist in anything from watercolors to mixed media, even origami.
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10 OF THE BEST SMALL TOWNS IN CALIFORNIA
California is one state that really does have it all — beaches, vineyards, deserts, delicious food...we could go on and on and we haven't even mentioned the Golden State's warm and sunny weather. But you don't have to go big to have a good time. In fact, we think California's small towns make for some of the most memorable vacations. With that in mind, we've rounded up 10 of the best small towns in California with under 15,000 residents, so you can plan your next getaway.

THE 10 BEST PLACES TO TRAVEL THIS SUMMER
Ah, summer vacation. In a pre-Covid world, those words would have conjured up grand plans: rollicking around the French Riviera, digging into fresh uni at Lo Scoglio on the Amalfi Coast, kayaking on the turquoise lakes of Banff National Park in Canada, basking in 24 hours of daylight in Iceland. One year into the pandemic, a lot is still uncertain, especially in regards to where we will be able to travel—and, more importantly, when. But President Biden has promised that all Americans will be eligible for vaccinations by May 1, instilling a sense of hope and optimism that, among other things, summer vacation 2021 might be possible after all.

14 RELAXING SPRING SPA VACATION IDEAS
Spring is officially here. The weather is warming up, the flowers are blooming, and it could be just the right time for a much-needed socially distanced wellness getaway. After the stressful year we’ve all had, a little relaxation could go a long way in helping us feel refreshed and hopeful. After all, isn’t that what spring is all about?

BEST WEEKEND GETAWAYS FROM LOS ANGELES
Despite dwelling in a densely populated city, Angelenos take pride in our access to the great outdoors. And nearly a year into the COVID-19 pandemic, there’s never been more of a need to escape the city. Though stay at home orders for Southern California may be ongoing right now, when they lift, a respite in the nearby deserts or mountains will definitely be in order. From Western-style guest ranches to modern coastal lodges and hot springs hideaways, here are some of our favorite weekend getaways from Los Angeles.

THESE 23 IDYLLIC DESTINATIONS ARE PERFECT FOR YOUR NEXT WELLNESS-INSPIRED GETAWAY
Because a restorative retreat in your personal slice of paradise is just what 2021 needs.

CELEB CHEFS NANCY SILVERTON, RAY GARCIA LAUNCH NEW RESTAURANT ENDEAVORS
From takeout to socially distanced fine dining, take your pick from three dynamic restaurant collaborations happening in Southern California.

Los Angeles pizza maven Nancy Silverton is bringing her world-renowned pies and California flavors to a Pizzeria Mozza pop-up on the grounds of the Ojai Valley Inn, where Silverton also serves as a culinary ambassador. Choose from Mozza standouts such as Nancy’s Chopped Salad, Meatballs al Forno and Silverton’s signature thin-crust pizzas, as well as an at-home pizza kit for two ($18). Available from Feb. 26 to March 7 (not including March 1-2) for takeout, orders must be placed via tock.com.

In the mood for something more formal? The Ojai Valley Inn is also offering a seasonally driven six-course dinner and wine pairing ($495 per person) in collaboration with The Restaurant at Meadowood. The culinary series is overseen by chef Christopher Kostow, who, along with his team, has taken up a winter residency at the property in the wake of the California wildfires that destroyed his Michelin-starred Napa Valley restaurant late last year.

THE RESTAURANT AT MEADOWOOD RETURNS WITH POP-UP AT OJAI VALLEY INN
After the Restaurant at Meadowood was largely destroyed in the September 2020 California wildfires, the Wine Spectator Grand Award winner is popping up at Ojai Valley Inn for a two-month culinary residency. Chef Christopher Kostow and his team will host a dinner series March 3 through April 28 at the resort in Ojai, Calif., which is home to Best of Award of Excellence winner Olivella.

THE BEST DESTINATION HOTELS TO (SAFELY) ESCAPE TO FOR REST, RELAXATION, AND REJUVENATION
It’s time to put the antiquated “new year, new you” resolution to rest and embody the intention of holistic well-being and sustainable self-care. While this great pause has taught some of us that we have “all the tools within” to heal, it has also taught us the importance of community, connection, and support. Let’s be honest: We’re all eager for an escape that’s physical, not virtual. We all have wellness on the brain, and we are all eager for a reset. Here, our list of the top hotels to travel to for that mind, body, and soul reboot.

A GUIDE TO OJAI: RELAXATION IN AN OLD-FASHIONED HAMLET
Just a short drive from Orange County, Ojai is a place to vacation without logistical headaches. Jump in the car and drive a few hours north to the old-fashioned hamlet that peeks out across beautiful mountains and sits just a dozen miles from the ocean. The small-town vibe and the chance to relax away from crowds, particularly this time of year, will reset your outlook. February is a nice time to visit as you’ll get to use the hotel fireplaces and restaurant fire pits to stay cozy.

JANUARY FOOD & LIFESTYLE NEWS
Ojai Valley Inn Unveils New Renovated Spa Penthouse Suites

The Ojai Valley Inn, just 90 minutes outside of LA, has opened their newly remodeled Spa Penthouse suites. These luxury suites offer sweeping views of the Ojai Valley in a serene spa setting. Choose from the Sunset Penthouse Suite, a 1,500 foot two bedroom space featuring a stone fireplace and custom dry-bar or the Moonlight Penthouse Suite, a 1,500 foot two bedroom penthouse suite with 16-foot vaulted ceilings and grand arched windows.

YOU DON’T WANT TO MISS OUT ON THIS CULINARY RESIDENCY
Fans of chef Christopher Kostow and the three-Michelin-starred The Restaurant at Meadowood are in for a treat this winter. Although the iconic Napa eatery was destroyed in September’s Glass Fire, the chef and his team are heading to Ojai Valley Inn’s The Farmhouse restaurant from February 3 through March 28 for a winter culinary residency.

FAMILY MATTERS
WE COULD ALL USE A BREAK
The pandemic introduced a stubborn wrinkle to family vacation planning - but it's still possible to make it happen. Whether you want to bunker down with your immediate relations or (responsibly) venture out with your travel pod, here are safe landing spots for the whole clan, from modest to mind-blowing.

48 HOURS IN SANTA BARBARA
STAY
Staying at the sprawling Ojai Valley Inn makes distancing easy. Plus they are hosting a special winter culinary series where The Restaurant at Meadowood and Michelin-starred Chef Christopher Kostow will be taking up residency at OVI's Farmhouse event space starting in January/

TASTE
In the wake of the Glass Fire, which ravaged Napa Valley in the fall and devastated The Restaurant at Meadowood, chef Christopher Kostow, who helms the world-renowned culinary mainstay, wrote, "Suffice it to say this year has brought many challenges to our community and industry - the recent wildfires being the most difficult." The beloved establishment will no doubt rise from the ashes one day, but in the meantime, Kostow is reviving The Restaurant at Meadowood at Ojai Valley Inn.