California Visitor's Guide Features Inspiration Section

Take a fresh, new look at the beauty and diversity of the Golden State -- and the California lifestyle -- in the newly redesigned 2008 California Official State Visitor's Guide and Travel Planner. The annual guide includes an expanded "inspiration" section, which incorporates large, compelling photos to illustrate more than a dozen feature articles showcasing the California experience. Produced by the California Travel and Tourism Commission (CTTC), and distributed around the world, the entire guide is designed to connect with visitors on an emotional level, motivating them to plan a trip to California.

Published by Sunset magazine, the publication features a cover shot of culinary entrepreneur, designer and vintner Pat Kuleto at Kuleto Estate, his Napa Valley winery, as well as 47 new maps and itineraries to assist consumers with their planning purposes.

High costs squeezing travel

In Southern California, 5.6 million people are expected to travel, up 0.2%. Considering that the region's population is greater now than last year at this time, that statistical uptick might be misleading, said Marie Montgomery of the Automobile Club of Southern California. "It might be an indicator that [travel] is slowing down a bit."

Some people are adjusting their plans, choosing closer destinations or looking for bargains, Montgomery said. Higher costs affect travel around Christmas and New Year more than Thanksgiving, she added, because the November holiday is much shorter and people tend to take long vacations at the end of the year, not just quick visits to see friends and family.

Creative Holidays announce exclusive USA free car hire deal

Agents looking to get their clients the best possible deal for their American holiday should recommend taking advantage of Creative Holidays’ exclusive deal in conjunction with Air New Zealand and Alamo car hire.

Book your clients return economy airfares with Air New Zealand to Los Angeles, San Francisco or Las Vegas with two nights accommodation through Creative Holidays to receive seven days Alamo car hire with unlimited mileage absolutely free!

The Renaissance Hollywood Hotel Gives Back

Christmas is coming early this year, with Hollywood showing the world it knows just how to celebrate right. And no one’s been more center stage than the Renaissance Hollywood Hotel.

On Sunday, November 25th, the annual Hollywood Santa Parade marched its way down the world-famous Hollywood Boulevard for its 76th consecutive year, delighting the thousands of children (and adults) in attendance.

Rains set to soak Southland

A significant rainstorm is expected to barrel into Southern California late today, dumping up to 3 inches of rain over two days and prompting the National Weather Service to issue flash-flood warnings.

The storm has been whipping up 15-foot waves along the coast, drawing surfers and prompting a National Weather Service surf advisory in parts of Los Angeles and Ventura Counties until 10 a.m. today.