travel

courtesy of Mammoth Mountain

Starting today, Horizon Air will begin its annual winter service to snowy Mammoth Mountain, offering daily flights from Los Angeles, Portland, San Jose, Reno and Seattle. Mammoth Mountain, one of California's ski resort gems, has already reaped the benefits of a winter wonderland with a base of five to eight feet--and even more on the way. The flights mark the beginning of regular air service to Mammoth throughout the snow season.

Art lovers will find delight in the posh Hotel Pacific and Monterey Museum of Art's "Mini-Me" deal. It focuses on the museum's annual exhibit of "small" paintings, photographs, prints, drawings and sculptures, all 7 inches by 9 inches or less and all up for auction, as donated by the artists. The special includes two tickets to the museum, two auction raffle tickets, and a night's stay in a deluxe suite, complete with cozy fireplace to keep the ocean chill at bay.

Flickr user Brock Vicky

Don't know what to get the jetsetter in your life for the holidays? We've got some tips!

For the Documentarian: camera gear

Cottages of Napa Valley

For those who think Yountville dining is reserved for the elite, here's a little holiday treat: The Michelin-starred town is gifting us with its Moveable Feast program, a tour de force of deals on  food, wine and hotels through February 28. The initiative includes 11 food-and-wine hotel packages and 12 restaurant deals (from killer three-course prix fixe offers to $1 oyster specials to 50 percent off VIP wine tastings).

Need an intoxicating way to unwind after an intense day of holiday shopping?

Flickr user F18E777

Hip California-based airline Virgin America has just added a new stop to its ever-expanding repertoire of flights: Fort Lauderdale, Florida. This land of eternal sunshine marks the 10th destination on Virgins list and will have connections to both San Francisco (SFO) and Los Angeles (LAX). Fares start at $99 each way.

courtesy of Larkspur Collection

To celebrate the launch of the brand new Larkspur Collection websites, the luxe hotel group is giving away a trip to each of its eight hotels. Winners will receive deluxe accommodation for two nights in a Larkspur Collection hotel, a $150 Southwest Airlines gift card, dinner for two at the hotel's restaurant, a bottle of sparkling wine, and early check-in and late check-out.

the Hotel Solamar pool

Scott van Velsor

Need a little sun in your life?  Of course you. If it's heat and an all-night party you desire, make your way south to San Diego's Gaslamp Quarter. Here are our recommends for where to stay, play and eat.

Kristin Luna

Usually from the months of June through September, if you're heading to Yosemite and on a budget, camping is the only option. Simply put, park lodging is not cheap.

However, beginning Aug. 23 and running through Sept. 30, the rustic and charming Evergreen Lodge is now offering 25 percent off its cabins on weeknights.

Scott van Velsor

Jaded San Franciscans will turn their noses up at the mere mention of Gold Country and sneer, "why would we want to go there?" However, if you give the rustic and under-the-radar Nevada City--the region's epicenter--the chance, you'll find it offers much-needed R&R with an authentic Western backdrop.