TAKES ON TRAVEL ~ As a travel writer I stay in a wide range of hotels, motels and B&Bs. Some good, some...not so much. Here are some of my top picks from around the globe.
~The Upham Hotel, Santa Barbara is the oldest continuously operating hotel in all of Santa Barbara, having opened their doors under the name the Lincoln House in 1871. A Historic Hotel of America, the property is actually seven buildings, though it feels much more intimate, and is centered around a garden courtyard. There are smaller rooms, ideal for a busy weekend, or larger rooms with fireplaces and more space for the stay-in weekend. The Upham has an attached restaurant, Louie’s, but you are also within walking distance to State Street, though you are a cab ride to the beach and the Mission, but it’s Santa Barbara, so it’s like three miles! There are varying degrees of antiquity with the rooms, some from the late 1800s, and some built in the 1920s. The historic portion is all old creaky wood, worn floors and there is a terrific sense of history here. Come to Santa Barbara and discover the modern wine region, modern foods, but stay at the Upham for a unique old-school coastal experience. http://www.UphamHotel.com(JAN/2012)
Bavaria meets gentile Carmel at the dusty rose colored Hofsas House in Carmel-by-the-Sea, south of Monterey. This is still a third generation family-owned business, a dog-friendly property and a fun place to stay. I’ve stayed here many times and the 4th floor rooms are the best with their views across the Cypress trees to the Pacific Ocean. And I love the Dutch doors, allowing in the fresh ocean air. The rooms are large, a few antiques scattered about and there is an immediate sense of comfortable and casual. They have an outdoor pool (always heated) and a European dry sauna. There is an informal continental breakfast available in the lobby, and most people take a tray full of coffee, yogurt and pastries up to their rooms. But the point of coming to the lobby is for conversation and the staff has great suggestions as to how best to maximize your time while in Carmel. There is wireless access, and it’s an easy walk to the town core, a mere four blocks, or down to the white sands of the city beach. Carmel is known to be pricy but Hofsas House is reasonably priced with seasonal rates averaging $150 to $170. They offer various packages throughout the year, so returning means there will be something new. http://www.HofsasHouse.com(DEC/2011)
~Eden Vale Inn, Placerville, CA I’m a huge fan of the California gold country and Placerville, less than an hour east of Sacramento is pretty much ground zero for the Mother Lode area. There are any number of old-timey B&Bs to stay at. However I’m a fan of the luxurious Eden Vale Inn. Here’s why: once you’re on the property you’re transported to a lush green paradise. There are plenty of footpaths and trails to wander along, or you can swim or row on the little spring fed lake. It’s secluded here on these 10 acres and you won’t hear the rumble of traffic because the Inn isn’t near anything, and that’s part of the allure, though it’s a quick drive to downtown Placerville. You can walk the back property which is verdant green with mini paths and dense foliage. In the distance you can see horses on the hillsides.
This old horse barn has been converted into an upscale, modern rustic retreat using European styling in the bathrooms and sophisticated computerized lighting in your room. There is an elegant functionality to the seven rooms, being equal parts sensibly crafted and calming and energetic. Five of the rooms have soaking tubs outside on private decks, and owners Mark and Gayle Hamlin just might make you pizza from their outdoor brick oven. Breakfasts start with fresh fruit, baked goods and an entrée and most people take their breakfast on the outside deck overlooking the greenery reminiscent of, well, Eden. Rates run $149-$349 depending on season. http://www.EdenValeInn.com
~Blacksmith Inn on the Shore, Bailey’s Harbor, Wisconsin
In Door County, Wisconsin, it seems like every 100 feet you’ll find lodging. This peninsula, flanked by Green Bay and Lake Michigan, is a popular Mid-West tourist location, what with its inherent natural beauty, cherry farms, orchards and outdoor activities. With so many choices of where to stay, you want something way above average. With that in mind, I really like the Blacksmith Inn on the Shore in Bailey’s Harbor. Why? Well, to start, the Inn was originally built in 1905 by, yes, a blacksmith. The main house has its original wide plank floors, chinked walls and though the rooms are new, they have views to the lake, deep and wide Jacuzzi tubs and gas fireplaces.
The room I stayed in was where the cattle used to stay for the winter, pretty cool right there, but every morning I watched the sunrise over Lake Michigan. Their breakfasts have homemade muffins, and there’s fruit, yogurts, cereals and plenty of teas to choose from. They have a small DVD library as well. But added to that are the kayaks and bikes you can use for free to further explore on water or on land. The bay is just steps down a little wood walkway, a perfect place for morning coffee. Prices range from $145 to $295 and there is wireless Internet in all the rooms. The Blacksmith Inn is located on what’s known as the “quiet side” of the peninsula, a little less crowded than the Green Bay side. Regardless, you can drive across the peninsula quickly and easily.
~Villa Columbia B&B, Hood River, Oregon. No matter where you travel, you need a place to rest your head, your body, even your mind. If you’re in Hood River along the Columbia Gorge in Oregon, discovering the wine tasting, checking out the brew pubs, skiing, mountain bike riding, rafting, or any of the numerous activities here, Villa Columbia B&B is a terrific choice. For starters, the house is 100 years old, pretty cool right there, and all the wood, from the coffered ceilings to the floors to the built-ins, are all original. Second, some of the rooms, and your breakfast in the dining room, have views of the Columbia River, Underwood Mountain and Mount Adams in Washington State. Third, you can walk to the very hip small town of Hood River in six blocks.
If you ski, or mountain bike, paddle, raft or kite surf, they have storage for your equipment downstairs. There is wireless throughout the property and best of all, there are killer breakfasts. My visit included organic orange juice, fresh apple juice from local orchards, a fantastic fruit and yogurt parfait (again, local fresh berries), great coffee and a twice baked croissant topped with local pears, and chicken sausages. Seriously, this was terrific food. Plus the benefit of a B&B is meeting new people over breakfast. The rooms are comfortable and homey, not stuffy and industrial, like so many traditional hotels. After all, if you’re cruising the Columbia Gorge, you’re already looking for something different, so check this out. Prices range from $159 to $189. http://www.VillaColumbia.com(Oct/2011)
Point Reyes in Marin County, California is best known for its lighthouse sitting precariously on rugged cliffs above the Pacific Ocean. But there is also Tomales Bay and tons of hiking at the National Seashore. But where to hang your hat? The Point Reyes Vineyard Inn is an ideal choice. First off, it’s a house not a hotel which means you can rent the whole thing, or just a single room. You have reign of the kitchen, a TV room and spacious living room. The second reason is that they make wine on the property and the tasting room allows you to sample a variety of wines, including Pinot Noir grown just steps from the rooms. If you stay there, you get a complimentary tasting and it is the only winery in the area and worth a visit even if you stay someplace else.
The Inn is just three minutes from town and away from the hustle and bustle of Point Reyes which, though it’s a small little town, can get busy on weekends. Sleeping at the Inn you won’t hear a sound. There are views to Tomales Bay, and a hiking trail to the water’s edge is just down the road. Breakfast is provided, an expanded continental which means there are pastries, but also proteins like hard boiled eggs. If you’re a cheese fan, Point Reyes is home to Cowgirl Creamery. http://www.PtReyesVineyardInn.com(Sept/2011)
The Train Station Inn ~ Tatamagouche, Nova Scotia At the Train Station Inn, northeast of Halifax in Nova Scotia, in the little village of Tatamagouche, whimsical meets clever. The inn began in an old brick railroad station from 1887. It’s still intact with a few rooms upstairs as well as a gift shop and breakfast area located downstairs. But the quaint brick building soon became the lesser sibling when owner James LaFresne assembled 12 cabooses, all sitting on their rails, and retrofitted the rail cars into accommodations
The rooms have TVs, coffee makers, a fridge and bathrooms. These aren’t luxury accommodations, but they are fun and if the rails are a source of inspiration, or if the romance of a bygone era is appealing, then you’ll be ideally situated to visit here, and you can dine in a 1904 dining car, sleep in a box car, and wake up feeling like a well-nourished vagabond. http://www.TrainStation.ca
Hotel Coral and Marina ~ Ensenada, Baja California In the northern part of Baja California, specifically Ensenada, the best lodging in order to take advantage of the wineries in the Guadalupe Valley, and/or reasonable access to Tecate or Tijuana, is the Coral Hotel & Marina, located right on the ocean. Not only are the prices fantastic for the large rooms and suites, but every room faces the ocean and marina from your balcony, with average pricing under $200. The rooms are very nicely appointed and you will not find a better bang for the buck.
Food is not included, but their breakfast buffet is killer and includes sushi and carved turkey. The beauty of Coral is the incredible amenities: Indoor and outdoor pools, a whirlpool hot tub, basketball and tennis court and day spa.
As if this isn’t enough they have a shuttle which will get you to downtown Ensenada, OR, if you live in Southern California, they have packages where they will pick you up where you live and drive you to the hotel, thereby having little to do with crossing the border.
Hotel Hof Weissbad~ Appenzell, Switzerland Located in the Appenzell region of Switzerland in the northern part of the country, Hotel Hof Weissbad in the small village of Weissbad, is an excellent place to use as a base to explore the region’s stunning mountains. They offer not only an excellent restaurant and massive breakfast (breakfast is included in the price and has a salivating 20 different kinds of cheese each day) but is close to the Ebenalp mountains where you can hike like a Swiss mountain climber, or take the train a few minutes south to charming Appenzell. This region is one where many Swiss never visit so it retains its charming character.
The hotel has a large pool which runs both indoor and out, a spa, tennis court and the rooms have a clean sophisticated look to them. You’ll hear the cows nearby, their bells clanging in dissonant unison. The hotel provides bikes for lush countryside rides. They are known for their spa and many Swiss come here for medical hydrotherapy. Though the region is traditional, Hotel Hof Weissbad is a modern expression and a nice counterpoint to its surroundings. http://www.hofweissbad.com
The Anderson Inn ~ Morro Bay, California This beautiful eight room property places you squarely in the middle of everything right on the Embarcadero. Three rooms directly face the water with fireplaces and deep hot tubs. The other rooms don’t directly face the water but with their side balconies, you’re not missing anything. I stayed in the room overlooking the street and was a voyeur to the happenings in Morro Bay, all very cool as I drank merlot and people watched.
Plus my side balcony had great views of the Rock. There are large showers, large closets very comfy beds, flat screen TVs, wireless and covered parking. This will most likely be the last hotel to be built at the waterfront and the Galley restaurant is attached. It’s hands down one of the two nicest properties in all of Morro Bay. http://www.AndersonInnMorroBay.com 805/772-3434
Meliá Recoletos ~ Valladolid, Spain Should you find yourself travelling to Valladolid, just north of Madrid in Spain to say, oh, check out the wine region of Rueda and their signature white grape, verdejo, you’d do well to stay at Meliá Recoletos. It’s a five minute walk from the train station in this city of 400,000 people, across from a beautiful park which has albino peacocks (my photos turned out blurry!) and within walking distance to dozens of tapas bars, old historic churches and shopping. The interior courtyard rooms are quieter than those facing the street. The rooms are spacious and comfortable even if a little uninteresting. But that’s not the point. Easy access, a large breakfast and dining room on the second floor for us American’s, wireless Internet, and a phone in the bathroom so you can talk while in the shower (yes it can be handy), all for an incredible price, roughly around $125 depending on the Euro. http://www.es.solmelia.com
The Highlawn Inn ~ Berkeley Springs, West Virginia Most B&B’s never celebrate their 25th anniversary, but the wonderful Highlawn Inn has accomplished this feat in 2010. Owner Sandra Kaufman is that rare breed of innkeeper who is gracious, knowledgeable and an excellent cook. There are 12 rooms in four buildings, all classic B&B; tin pressed ceilings, creaky wood floors, intimate fireplaces, large rooms stuffed with antiques, boatloads of charm and the requisite inn cats, in this case Chico, Peach and Squawky. The breakfasts in the 1880s house are perfect.
This is Berkeley Springs, therefore most guests come here for the waters, the natural springs that flow to the surface at a constant 74 degrees. It was George Washington who formed the town originally calling it Bath. Most visitors are here for the spa and as a romantic weekend or a girl’s getaway, and the Highlawn Inn sees many repeat guests, even a few who have been coming since they first opened! http://www.HighlawnInn.com 888/290-4163
The Olallieberry Inn ~ Cambria, California Built in 1873 it's exactly what you expect in an older house; floors creak in certain spots, the rooms are larger and laid out differently than standard accommodations, and with cool period furniture, and the owners call you by name. The wine reception is each evening from 5-6 p.m. and includes lighter foods. In the front hallway sherry in a glass decanter is available when ever you need it.
The property abuts Santa Rosa Creek and during the summer months you can lounge outside and watch it languidly go by. Home made breakfasts are served at 8 a.m. and 9:15 and include olallieberry jam. Occasionally cooking classes are available in their very large kitchen, and you’re close enough that you can walk to shops in Cambria’s East Village. The service is beyond gracious and you’ll feel like you’re the most important person in the world. http://www.Olallieberry.com805/927-3222
Hotel Hof Bechtermunz ~ Eltville, Germany The historic village of Eltville is an ideal place to use as a base from which to explore the German wine Rhine River region. Hotel Hof Bechtermunz, built in 2003, has ten rooms, all with exposed rock walls, hardwood floors, wood beams and modern amenities, but it’s in keeping with the historic feel of the village. A full breakfast is available and the hotel, while secluded on a side street, is close to everything. A short stroll is the St. Peter and Paul Church constructed in 1350. The church offers concerts and various art exhibits and abuts the old city ruins from 1332 whose narrow defensive windows, small enough to just shoot an arrow through, overlook the languid Rhine. There is also a splendid dirt trail for walking and running that hugs the river as you pass by palatial estates. When you return to your room you’ll plop onto your comfortable bed and not want to leave. http://www.Weingut-Koegler.de
Predator Ridge ~ Kelowna, British Columbia No fewer than 30 golf courses are within Kelowna and surrounding areas. One of the best is Predator Ridge. Encompassing 1,200 acres, the 18-hole course is set in the middle of endless rolling hills and open sky. Predator Ridge also offers exceptional accommodations at great prices. The rooms are large, comfortable with spacious balconies and palatial bathrooms. There are the amenities like the 25 meter pool, full service spa, state of the art fitness room and hiking and walking trails.
But Predator Ridge is also a community, with single family homes, natural lakes and a pristine beauty. The views from the forth floor guest housing, overlooking the driving range are spectacular; the soft rolling hills seem to undulate, one after the other for an eternity. And the drive towards Kelowna along Highway 97 is another scenic route passing by additional lakes, and tree covered hills. http://PredatorRidge.com
My Moon travel book, Santa Barbara & The Central Coast is in bookstores nationwide and at all major Internet bookstore sites. This is the definitive travel book covering Santa Barbara, San Luis Obispo, Paso Robles Morro Bay, Cambria and Ventura, along with the area wineries. http://www.Amazon.com Check out my blog devoted to the stunning Central Coast! http://www.CervinsCentralCoast.blogspot.com
California Wine Country is all about wine country destinations, from Napa and Sonoma, to Santa Barbara and Paso Robles to Monterey, Mendocino and the Sierra Foothills. If you love traveling in wine country, this book is for you! Not only are there great wineries, but things to do and see, places to shop and the prime places to sleep and eat. http://www.amazon.com and you'll have 650 pages packed with valuable information!
My handy 80 page guide, Spotlight: Cambria & San Simeon, including Hearst Castle & Morro Bay provides a quick overview of quaint Cambria, Paso Robles, Morro Bay and the legendary Hearst Castle.
To purchase a signed copy my poetry book, Generous Fiction, and to see my other work please click here: http://www.MichaelCervin.com
~The Upham Hotel, Santa Barbara
~Hofsas House, Carmel California
~Eden Vale Inn, 
This old horse barn has been converted into an upscale, modern rustic retreat using European styling in the bathrooms and sophisticated computerized lighting in your room. There is an elegant functionality to the seven rooms, being equal parts sensibly crafted and calming and energetic. Five of the rooms have soaking tubs outside on private decks, and owners Mark and Gayle Hamlin just might make you pizza from their outdoor brick oven. Breakfasts start with fresh fruit, baked goods and an entrée and most people take their breakfast on the outside deck overlooking the greenery reminiscent of, well, Eden. Rates run $149-$349 depending on season.
~Blacksmith Inn on the Shore, 
~Villa Columbia B&B, Hood River, Oregon. No matter where you travel, you need a place to rest your head, your body, even your mind. If you’re in Hood River along the Columbia Gorge in Oregon, discovering the wine tasting, checking out the brew pubs, skiing, mountain bike riding, rafting, or any of the numerous activities here, Villa Columbia B&B is a terrific choice. For starters, the house is 100 years old, pretty cool right there, and all the wood, from the coffered ceilings to the floors to the built-ins, are all original. Second, some of the rooms, and your breakfast in the dining room, have views of the Columbia River, Underwood Mountain and Mount Adams in Washington State. Third, you can walk to the very hip small town of Hood River in six blocks.
If you ski, or mountain bike, paddle, raft or kite surf, they have storage for your equipment downstairs. There is wireless throughout the property and best of all, there are killer breakfasts. My visit included organic orange juice, fresh apple juice from local orchards, a fantastic fruit and yogurt parfait (again, local fresh berries), great coffee and a twice baked croissant topped with local pears, and chicken sausages. Seriously, this was terrific food. Plus the benefit of a B&B is meeting new people over breakfast. The rooms are comfortable and homey, not stuffy and industrial, like so many traditional hotels. After all, if you’re cruising the Columbia Gorge, you’re already looking for something different, so check this out. Prices range from $159 to $189. 
Point Reyes in Marin County, California is best known for its lighthouse sitting precariously on rugged cliffs above the Pacific Ocean. But there is also Tomales Bay and tons of hiking at the National Seashore. But where to hang your hat? The Point Reyes Vineyard Inn is an ideal choice. First off, it’s a house not a hotel which means you can rent the whole thing, or just a single room. You have reign of the kitchen, a TV room and spacious living room. The second reason is that they make wine on the property and the tasting room allows you to sample a variety of wines, including Pinot Noir grown just steps from the rooms. If you stay there, you get a complimentary tasting and it is the only winery in the area and worth a visit even if you stay someplace else. 
The Inn is just three minutes from town and away from the hustle and bustle of Point Reyes which, though it’s a small little town, can get busy on weekends. Sleeping at the Inn you won’t hear a sound. There are views to Tomales Bay, and a hiking trail to the water’s edge is just down the road. Breakfast is provided, an expanded continental which means there are pastries, but also proteins like hard boiled eggs. If you’re a cheese fan, Point Reyes is home to Cowgirl Creamery. 
The Train Station Inn ~ Tatamagouche, Nova Scotia
The rooms have TVs, coffee makers, a fridge and bathrooms. These aren’t luxury accommodations, but they are fun and if the rails are a source of inspiration, or if the romance of a bygone era is appealing, then you’ll be ideally situated to visit here, and you can dine in a 1904 dining car, sleep in a box car, and wake up feeling like a well-nourished vagabond.
Hotel Coral and Marina ~ Ensenada, Baja California
Hotel Hof Weissbad~ Appenzell, Switzerland
The hotel has a large pool which runs both indoor and out, a spa, tennis court and the rooms have a clean sophisticated look to them. You’ll hear the cows nearby, their bells clanging in dissonant unison. The hotel provides bikes for lush countryside rides. They are known for their spa and many Swiss come here for medical hydrotherapy. Though the region is traditional, Hotel Hof Weissbad is a modern expression and a nice counterpoint to its surroundings. 
The Anderson Inn ~ Morro Bay, California
Plus my side balcony had great views of the Rock. There are large showers, large closets very comfy beds, flat screen TVs, wireless and covered parking. This will most likely be the last hotel to be built at the waterfront and the Galley restaurant is attached. It’s hands down one of the two nicest properties in all of Morro Bay. 
Meliá Recoletos ~ Valladolid, Spain
The Highlawn Inn ~ Berkeley Springs, West Virginia
This is Berkeley Springs, therefore most guests come here for the waters, the natural springs that flow to the surface at a constant 74 degrees. It was George Washington who formed the town originally calling it Bath. Most visitors are here for the spa and as a romantic weekend or a girl’s getaway, and the Highlawn Inn sees many repeat guests, even a few who have been coming since they first opened! 
The Olallieberry Inn ~ Cambria, California
The property abuts Santa Rosa Creek and during the summer months you can lounge outside and watch it languidly go by. Home made breakfasts are served at 8 a.m. and 9:15 and include olallieberry jam. Occasionally cooking classes are available in their very large kitchen, and you’re close enough that you can walk to shops in Cambria’s East Village. The service is beyond gracious and you’ll feel like you’re the most important person in the world. 
Hotel Hof Bechtermunz ~ Eltville, Germany
Predator Ridge ~ Kelowna, British Columbia
But Predator Ridge is also a community, with single family homes, natural lakes and a pristine beauty. The views from the forth floor guest housing, overlooking the driving range are spectacular; the soft rolling hills seem to undulate, one after the other for an eternity. And the drive towards Kelowna along Highway 97 is another scenic route passing by additional lakes, and tree covered hills. 
My Moon travel book, Santa Barbara & The Central Coast is in bookstores nationwide and at all major Internet bookstore sites. This is the definitive travel book covering Santa Barbara, San Luis Obispo, Paso Robles Morro Bay, Cambria and Ventura, along with the area wineries. 
