North Lake Tahoe spans two states (Calif. and Nev.) and boasts two dozen beaches, 11 downhill ski resorts and 10 cross country ski areas, hundreds of miles of biking and hiking trails, and communities filled with local artisans and shopping experiences. North Lake Tahoe is a 45-minute drive from the Reno-Tahoe International Airport, two hours from Sacramento International Airport and just over three hours from San Francisco International Airport. Visitor information centers are located at 100 North Lake Boulevard in Tahoe City and 969 Tahoe Boulevard in Incline Village.
North Lake Tahoe is still experiencing amazing snowpack with some of the best snowfall we have seen in decades. With spring on the horizon, you can soon experience the best of both worlds, hitting the slopes in the morning and exploring the lake in the afternoon.
The Resort at Squaw Creek will now be known as Everline Resort & Spa. The new name is reflective of the mountains and connection to each other and was decided in collaboration with the Washoe Tribe.
Wild Pine opened at Northstar in the heart of the Village. With family-friendly dining complete with hearty meals, shared plates and signature cocktails, the restaurant is open from 11 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. every day.
WinterWonderGrass returns to Palisades Tahoe Mar. 31 to Apr. 2. There will be 25 bluegrass and Americana bands playing across four different stages.
A Wilderness First Aid course is being offered by the Tahoe Rim Trail Association on Apr. 29 and Apr. 30. The two-day course provides first-aid training for a remote backcountry environment.
The UC Davis Tahoe Environmental Research Center has anew augmented reality app called Find Tahoe Tessie where you can look for the mythical Tahoe Tessie. It’s an easy way to start the conversation about climate change and the impact it has on the lake.
Tahoe Star Tours is expanding to include Spooner Lake State Park for stargazing. From June to Labor Day, join the fun Thursday and Sunday evenings.
If your child has a passion for fly fishing, Matt Heron Fly Fishing will host classes and a two-day school for kids of all levels of expertise. Students will learn the fundamentals of fly fishing, from casting and tackle selection to knot tying and fly tying. They’ll also get to explore the waters of our local rivers.
If the mountains are more you child’s speed, they’ll love Alpenglow Expeditions rock climbing camp. The camp offers a safe and fun environment for kids to learn the basics of rock climbing while building strength and confidence. Experienced and certified instructors provide hands-on instruction and teach safety and proper climbing techniques. All the necessary safety equipment is provided. Students will get to explore the great outdoors, while also learning about the environment.
Tahoe Flow Arts & Fitness is offering a unique circus camp to learn and experience the amazing world of circus arts. Students will learn the artistry and athleticism of circus skills such as balance, object manipulation, aerial arts and acrobatics.
The Tahoe Trail Thrashers summer mountain bike camp is back again this year, giving campers the opportunity to explore the beautiful mountains of North Lake Tahoe and learn a variety of mountain biking skills. From navigating trails, understanding gear and practicing basic bike maintenance, students will develop their skills through challenging activities and games.
TART Connect’s spring hours will be from Apr. 10 to June 2 and will feature hourly service across all TART bus routes, though there will be some mid-day breaks. Placer and Washoe County TART Connect service will operate non-peak season hours. Zones one and two will operate from 6 to 10 p.m. daily. Zone three will run from 6 to 10 p.m., Sundays through Thursdays, and from 6 p.m. to midnight on Fridays and Saturdays.
If you are looking for an innovative, clean and relaxing place to enjoy a vacation or just a new place to explore, Michigan is it! To be specific, Ann Arbor is just a few hours away (by automobile) from Chicago, right outside of Detroit and below Windsor (the city in Ontario, Canada). Its endroit parfait induces an avant-garde, invigorating city and nature vibe. We wanted to spice up this press trip, so we tuned select events into a full-on fashion and lifestyle shoot. Upon arrival, we had breakfast at the Holiday Inn Ann Arbor near the University of Michigan. Straightaway we took part in exciting activities in Ypsilanti. We visited Puffer Reds since we are obsessed with cutting-edge fashion, which is a boutique that houses clothing, shoes and accessories. It has been in existence since 1979. Puffer Reds has two locations, one in Ypsilanti city and the other in Wayne county. You can shop online if you don’t live close to those areas. Ypsi Alehouse and Mishigama Craft Brewery serves many appealing beers, but, our favorite is Jimmy Jack’s Normal Beer. If you are into spicy food, you should try their Cherry Peppers and Smoked Wings.
Unity Vibration focuses on a variety of Kombucha beers and teas. The Triple Goddess Bourbon Peach Beer and Pineapple Ginger Tea are simply a delight to your buds. The Chelsea Alehouse Brewery specializes in English and American ales with many different kinds of palates including scotch, sour, cream ales and cream stout with several other varieties. Definitely try Firefly Wheat, from the selection of brews, paired nicely with their Smoked Trout Spread; the restaurant is dipped in elegance and serenity, and their food is to die for.
Eve Aronoff, French-trained chef and owner, greeted us at her restaurant, Eve Restaurant, which is located inside the Bel Tower Hotel in downtown Ann Arbor. TeaHaus is a wonderful and comfortable establishment to sip tea. They have more than 180 different teas to choose from, including classic black teas, Oolong green, white, herbal, Ayurvedic, fruit, aromatic and seasonal teas. Zingerman’s Delicatessen serves sandwiches to pair with every type of personality imaginable. It also doubles as a specialty food store, selling an array of cheeses, meats, olive oils, vinegar, coffees, teas and much more – all of these items are available via mail except the sandwiches, of course. Once you make it to Zingerman’s Deli, walk upstairs and take a look at the quilt artwork, adorable.
Ashley’s is an Irish pub that sits right across from the University of Michigan. It became an instant favorite from the first sip of their Bourbon. Johnnie Walker’s Blue Label Scotch Whisky is really rich in taste, and works well with Ashley’s BLT sandwich, which also comes with Fried Cheese Curds, Pesto Fries and a Bacon Wedge Salad. It’s heaven on earth. Arbor Brewing Company produces 130 different types of beers. A reasonable amount are seasonal and location-specific. A must-try is the Bollywood Blonde and Bliss Wheat. We came across a coffee liqueur which is worth trying, available at Ann Arbor Distilling company. We also sipped on a White Russian, which was as smooth as silk.
When time neared for the brief fashion editorial at Taste Kitchen, our stomachs were still able to work up the butterflies! It was here in Ypsilanti City, where we set up the camera equipment and searched for perfect lighting, which wasn’t that difficult in Taste Kitchen ( they’re well-equipped with massive storefront windows and tons of natural light). A little background on Taste Kitchen: this restaurant doesn’t specialize in exactly one particular category – a global cuisine with local ingredients. During your meal, it tastes as if every bite you take had been meticulously considered. Chef Danny Van treated us to a menu that called us to surrender. The dishes were so succulent, that after a full day of activities, we stuffed our stomachs with Van cuisine, and afterward, all we could do was retreat back to our room .
The University of Michigan Stadium aka “The Big House” is a classically constructed and colossal stadium built in 1927. Now, it is the largest stadium in America, with an official seating capacity of 109,900, though attendance often exceeds 111,000. One of the big perks during this tour was having the privilege of walking into the official locker rooms. The French toast at Fleetwood Diner is scrumptious, and one of their popular items is the Hippie Hash. If you’re into Moroccan food, the Casablanca is tasty, and refresh your palate with a Casablanca Fresh Lemonade with Ginger. The squad ordered a few plates: Casablanca Hummus, B’stilla , Couscous Dish and Casablanca Whole Chicken with yellow long grain rice (very tasty). The Original Gravity specializes in porter, light golden Belgian ale, American pale ale, amber ale, IPA, vanilla java porter and Orange Peel Wheels.
But, the Shinebox Dunkelweizen is recommended. Check out their website to stay abreast on their exciting menu changes. Wolverine State Brewing bar is known for their famous nachos, the 2019 Nachos. We enjoyed a flight of beers that included: Barista, Gulo, WPL, Raucher Smoked Lager and the Barista Coffee Lager (strongly recommended). In addition, they house an exclusive lager, the Wolverine Massacre Imperial Dark Lager, available annually, but only in the month of October. The dark lager is especially unique because of its packaging. Each bottle is dipped in red wax to seal in the delectable flavor. At Grange Kitchen & Bar, we tried their Spring Greens salad, Grilled Asparagus and Grilled Lake Trout. The Farmers Market introduced us to Lovage ice cream, quite a refreshing little treat. We were overjoyed to catch Pride Night at Necto nightclub. Veuve Clicquot and team members made the night! Braun Court is also an LGBTQ safe space that offers a variety of shops and great nightlife venues.
Kerrytown also houses a Farmers Market full of vendors, not to miss out on are: Maitelates Alfajor Artisanal, Mill Pond Bread, Mindo Chocolate and White Lotus Farms – just to name a few. If you’re into gelato, try the Nocciola, Coffee, Stoneground & Salted, Coconut Macaroon or Chocolate Balsamic Strawberry at Zingerman’s Creamery. So, who would’ve thought to transform an old church into a restaurant and brewery? Owners of Salt Springs Brewery, located in Saline, did. I mean, most churches hoard wine and flatbreads anyway, right? The Salt Springs Mac-N-Cheese and Sausage Pizza were faultless. At Jolly Pumpkin Artisan Ales, in Dexter, we tasted more beers and Bourbon. Our servers recommend La Roja, they were right. Down in Grizzly Peak Brewing, we suggest Hop Happy Monk and Bear Paw Porter. It had been a while since we had tequila on our tongues, so we took a recommendation to Isalita, and that did the trick. Mani, an osteria and restaurant, offers small plates featuring seasonal and local ingredients. Their menu includes stone-fired pizza, house-made pasta alongside a small production of Old World wines. Their Pickled Tomatoes were delicious with toasted bread. Our stone-fired pizza recommendations are Cippolini and Puttanesca. We also enjoyed their Linguine and Pappardelle. It seemed we really couldn’t go wrong with anything on their menu.
This metropolis is filled with an array of restaurants and bars, with a tight local network of local farms. Ann Arbor is an innovative, fresh and artistic town, chockful of eclectic culture.
BETTER THAN AN iPhone –THE ULTIMATE ADVENTURE VACATION
Verdad Nicaragua serves up a family summer vacation that beats screen time for kids of any age
Every parent knows that getting your kids to untether from their phones long enough to have a conversation, let alone an experience, is nearly impossible these days. This summer Verdad Nicaragua, on the shores of the Southern Pacific coast of Nicaragua, offers parents the ultimate summer adventure that will convince even teenagers that IRL beats virtual scrolling any day of the week.
This laid-back boutique hotel overlooking Playa Escameca Grande coastline offers up just enough remoteness and just enough luxury to entice the entire family. You can hang out on the beach or poolside, while your kids explore whatever they are into, or the whole family can head out to see the real Nicaragua. Verdad Nicaragua’s custom adventure packages can be designed around getting your kids to connect with reality.
Surf vs. Snapchat: With the resort’s surf school and professional coaches, your kid will soon be riding the waves rather than stroking the keys.
PADI vs. Pintrest: You’ll need no more inspiration than the crystal blue waters and the world that lives below to get your kid interested in becoming PADI-certified at Verdad Nicaragua.
Fishing vs. Facebook: Hook your kid on the excitement of reeling in the big one with a fishing adventure in the waters between Nicaragua and Costa Rica, and Cocina Verdad will prepare your catch for dinner.
Trotting vs.Twitter: Saddle up and explore the undeveloped, untouched, mountainous countryside on horseback with experienced local guides.
Treetop Thrills vs. Tik Tok: Soar through the forest canopy and get a birds-eye view of wildlife and nature with a not to be missed zip line tour.
Waterfalls vs. Wifi: Hike in the tropical rainforest and plunge into the natural swimming pools as part of an adventure near the Costa Rican border.
Families can choose from one of four ocean view single story casitas, or one duplex casita that feature private decks and outdoor showers, or a fifth ocean and valley view casita that sleeps three, plus two poolside rooms. With five casitas and two rooms with full-size beds, Verdad Nicaragua is also perfect for a buy out for families looking for a multi-generational getaway. Resort amenities include open-air yoga/fitness studio (fully stocked with functional fitness and yoga gear) a relaxing pool with lounge chairs and an honor bar, a massage studio, and a laid-back lounge perfect for enjoying a sunset cocktail or a board game after a day of fun exploring the surrounding area.
About Verdad Nicaragua:
Verdad Nicaragua is an eco-friendly boutique resort nestled on the shores of Playa Escameca in Southern Nicaragua. The laid-back luxurious property features modern casitas with private decks and poolside rooms that overlook the gardens and sea. The secluded hillside resort invites guests to explore the stunning landscape, or simply relax on the untouched Southern Pacific coast. The resort offers custom designed adventure packages, a surf school and PADI certification programs.
Known as “The Garden of France,” the Loire Valley flourishes in the summer and fall months with a bounty of events, exhibitions and experiences taking place in and around the region’s many gardens. Below is a selection of some of the many experiences to find in the Loire Valley in the coming months.
Live Music at Château Royal of BloisThrough July 29, 2022
The historic Château Royal of Blois, a favorite residence of seven kings and ten queens of France, will fill its gardens with live music this summer. Occurring every Friday through July 29, concerts will be held in the shade of century-old chestnut trees and cedars from a wide variety of music genres, including jazz, bossa nova, folk, great French standards, classical and Renaissance music. Changing every week, this year’s program will honor women; visitors can also view the Château’s current exhibition, La Renaissance des Femmes, dedicated to three of its famous former residents: Catherine de Medici, Diane de Poitiers and Marguerite de Valois.
Nights of a Thousand Lights & Vegetable Garden Days at Château de VillandryJuly, August & September
The grounds of Château de Villandry are not only home to the beautiful Renaissance-era Château, but also to an expansive network of gardens that are open year-round, including a maze, two ornamental gardens and a water garden. On July 1 and 2, as well as August 5 and 6, the Château de Villandry will host the‘Nights of a Thousand Lights,” illuminating the gardens with more than 2,000 candles at night, making for a dreamlike experience. The evening also features an aerial performance by specially trained eagles and other birds of prey that will conclude with a fireworks finale. September 24 and 25 will be dedicated to the property’s lush vegetable garden, where the on-site gardeners will share exclusive botanical tips and tricks with visitors.
Sculptures in the Garden at Domaine de Poulaines Through November 7, 2022
Spanning 62 acres, Domaine de Poulaines is home to some of the most impressive gardens in the Loire Valley, including an arboretum with more than 1,200 plants. Currently on display on the estate is a new exhibition created in collaboration with prolific French sculptor Olivier Giroud, which explores the ways nature and man-made design can be combined through art. Giroud began his work as an artist in the 1980s and is known for his ability to work with a wide variety of materials, including clay, metal and wood.
New Offerings at Le Jardin de Marie After 30 years of tending to the gardens at Le Jardin de Marie, Marie Marcat is passing on the torch to new owners, who intend to preserve the garden’s legacy and expand its offerings. Located just a few miles from the vineyards of Sancerre, Le Jardin de Marie will offer a new educational garden for children, along with a new vegetable garden and permaculture orchard highlighting the region’s biodiversity and botanical heritage. New guest accommodations, sleeping up to 12 people, will soon open at the gardens, in addition to a new cafe. Le Jardin de Marie will also introduce cooking lessons that approach the art of cooking from a unique angle, such as a course on cooking with old vegetables instead of throwing them away.
Jurassic Quest®, the nation’s largest and most realistic dinosaur experience, invites fans of the prehistoric era to join Jurassic Quest’s dinosaur trainers and loveable baby dinosaurs for a day of virtual family fun on National Fossil Day, October 13, 2021.
Families can save 25% off tickets to Jurassic Quest’s upcoming showings (full schedule below) on October 13th with promo code FOSSIL DAY. Use promo code FOSSIL DAY to purchase tickets at their website. This is a one day promotional offer and restrictions may apply. And, special merchandise discounts will be offered on October 13th during our zoom playdates- stay tuned for additional details!
National Fossil Day Fun with Jurassic Quest!
Join Jurassic Quest baby dinosaurs and trainers for live virtual play sessions throughout the dino holiday, on October 13. To join, fans will need to register for each session they’d like to attend HERE.
Each daytime session will include about 30 minutes of live family-friendly fun, such as dino storytime, show and tell, adorable dino baby appearances and more, led by the Jurassic Quest dinosaur trainer team: Safari Sarah, Dino Dustin, Captain Caleb, Prehistoric Nick and Park Ranger Marty. In the evening, kids can snuggle in for virtual baby dino bedtime stories at 8 p.m. ET.
Other Activities
Jurassic Quest has free activities for families to celebrate at home including coloring and activity sheet, participants will get opportunities for discounts and exclusive merchandise commemorating the occasion in the Jurassic Quest Shop. And watch out for more fun via promotional partner Macaroni Kids.
Fossil fans can “rock” out to the Jurassic Quest song all year long and see highlights from the national event tour HERE. And that’s not all… catch the Jurassic Quest herd of 100+ dinosaurs in person!
Fall and Winter Tour
Loved by millions, Jurassic Quest is kicking off its fall tour by launching a THIRD touring show for the first time ever–meaning more families than ever before can visit the age of the dinosaurs! Watch for upcoming cities and show dates HERE.
Jurassic Quest is touring with its most beloved and unique experiences for the whole family including more than 100 life-like dinosaurs, dinosaur themed rides, live dinosaur shows, interactive science and art activities, a “Triceratops” soft play area for our littlest explorers, bounce houses and inflatable attractions, photo opportunities, and more.
Visitors walk through the Cretaceous, Jurassic and Triassic periods to see the dinos that ruled on land, and “deep dive” into the “Ancient Oceans” exhibit to come face to face with the largest apex predator that ever existed–a moving, life-size, 50-foot-long megalodon! Meet the babies, hatched only at Jurassic Quest: Cammie the Camarasaurus, Tyson the T-Rex and Trixie the Triceratops–and, you may even catch one of our star dino trainers: Safari Sarah, Dino Dustin, Captain Caleb, Prehistoric Nick or Park Ranger Marty!
The Jurassic Quest herd of animatronic dinos–from the largest predators to playful baby dinos–are displayed in realistic scenes with movement and sound, allowing guests to experience them as they were when they roamed the earth billions of years ago. Jurassic Quest works in collaboration with leading paleontologists to ensure each dinosaur is painstakingly replicated in every detail, from coloration to teeth size, to textured skin, fur or feathers, drawing on the latest research about how we understand dinosaurs and ancient giants of the sea looked and moved.
About Jurassic Quest
Since 2013, Jurassic Quest has been touring epic dinosaur experiences treating millions of people across North America to an as-close-as-you-can-get look at the giants that ruled the Earth and sea millions of years ago. Jurassic Quest is the largest and most realistic dinosaur exhibition in North America. Developed with leading paleontologists, each dinosaur has been painstakingly replicated in every detail including the most realistic likenesses, movement and sound. Whether their prehistoric counterpart had skin that was scaly, feathers or fur, Jurassic Quest has spared no expense in bringing the dinosaurs to life. Jurassic Quest produced 96 multi-day events in 34 states and Canada and sold over one million tickets in 2019, and has hosted over 2.5 million fans at its Jurassic Quest Drive Thru® touring throughout the country since June 2020. For more information and tickets, click HERE.
The largest and most realistic dinosaur exhibit in North America is BACK, BIGGER and BETTER than EVER! More than 100 photorealistic dinosaurs are ready to delight families and ring in the New Year whenJurassic Quest® heads indoors at the Los Angeles Convention Center for the holiday weekend December 29 – January 2.
Jurassic Quest is one of the first indoor family edutainment shows to re-launch since March 2020 due to the pandemic, its drive thru iteration sold out two Rose Bowl runs earlier this year, and will return to the SoCal with its most beloved and unique indoor experiences for the whole family including more than 100 life-like dinosaurs, dinosaur themed rides and attractions, live dinosaur shows, interactive science and art activities, a “Triceratots” soft play area for our littlest explorers, photo opportunities, and more.
Walk through the Cretaceous, Jurassic and Triassic periods to see the dinos that ruled on land, and “deep dive” into the “Ancient Oceans” exhibit to come face to face with the largest apex predator that ever existed–a moving, life-size, 50-foot-long megalodon! Meet the babies, hatched only at Jurassic Quest: Cammie the Camarasaurus, Tyson the T-Rex and Trixie the Triceratops–and, you may even catch one of our star dino trainers: Safari Sarah, Dino Dustin, Captain Caleb, Prehistoric Nick or Park Ranger Marty!
Loved by millions, only Jurassic Quest can bring families memories this BIG! The Jurassic Quest herd of animatronic dinos–from the largest predators to playful baby dinos–are displayed in realistic scenes with some that move and roar, allowing guests to experience them as they were when they roamed the earth billions of years ago. Jurassic Quest works in collaboration with leading paleontologists to ensure each dinosaur is painstakingly replicated in every detail, from coloration to teeth size, to textured skin, fur or feathers, drawing on the latest research about how we understand dinosaurs and ancient giants of the sea looked and moved.
Tickets & Logistics
Tickets start at $19 HERE, and include a 100% ticket guarantee that in the event of a show cancellation or postponement for any reason, ticket purchases will be automatically refunded for the full purchase amount. Tickets are for a timed arrival window, and advance ticket purchase is strongly encouraged. Guests can walk through the dinosaur experience at their own pace, and strollers are permitted. Some venues may have wheelchairs for use, but please contact the venue in advance to make arrangements.
General admission tickets include access to the dinosaur and marine exhibits, arts and crafts activities, and dinosaur shows. There are rides and activities that require activity tickets available on site for $5 each, or guests can upgrade to the Kids Unlimited Rides ticket (the best value for children ages 2-12). Green screen photography and animal art tattoos are available at a separate cost. Entry is free for children under age 2.
Featuring Performances from 50 Cent, Fat Joe, Kelly Rowland, Lil’ Kim, Ludacris, Nelly, Sean Paul, Flo Rida, TLC, T-Pain
Four-Day Experience from January 12-16, 2022, Featuring Musical Performances, Pool Parties, Yoga, Snorkeling, and Much More
Leading technology company Pollen Presents has announced their first fully owned production today. Going by the name Golden Sand, the immersive weekend of music, exploration, and relaxation will take place on the luxurious beaches of Riviera Maya on the east coast of Mexico from January 12-16, 2022 for one unforgettable weekend in the sun.
Golden Sand boasts a hip-hop / R&B lineup for the ages with legendary artists taking to the stage throughout four days and four nights of unbeatable performances, pool parties, events on the beach, jungle adventures, yoga, snorkeling, and more. This will all be set across luxury accommodations at the Barcelo Riviera Maya resort with premium food & beverages included in the experience. The unique experience will eschew crowds at large festivals for something far more intimate, perfect for those looking to enjoy their favorite music in an environment with comfort and space.
Golden Sand will be headlined by an array of hip-hop, rap, and R&B icons from various eras including New York hip-hop legend 50 Cent, the iconic group behind the hit songs “Waterfalls” and “Creep” TLC, Grammy-winning singer and songwriter Nelly, Atlanta megastar and rapper Ludacris, prolific Jamaican dancehall artist Sean Paul, Destiny’s Child singer Kelly Rowland, undeniable hitmaker and vocalist T-Pain, Brooklyn rapper and the original queen of hip-hop Lil’ Kim, Bronx hip-hop artist and music industry veteran Fat Joe, hit making maestro Flo Rida, an array of DJs and hosts to keep people moving throughout the experience, and more to be announced.
Beyond the music itself, attendees can also snorkel in the tropic shores of Riviera Maya, soak up the sun at the Barcelo’s eleven swimming pools, catch a wave on a FlowRider surf machine, eat their way through over a dozen restaurants across the resort, get a massage at a 10,000 square feet U-Spa Wellness and Fitness Center, pump some adrenaline through thrilling activities like ziplines, ATVs, and Go-Karts, play basketball or tennis at the Barcelo courts, or relax with meditation and dance classes in a one-of-a-kind destination setting.
Additional activities that can be booked directly through the resort include scuba diving classes, diving trips, jet ski excursions, deep-sea fishing, sunset boat parties, cenote excursions, day trips to Xcaret Park, hiking the ruins of Chichen Itza, and more. The area is also filled with delicious international cuisine, which includes Caribbean and teppanyaki grill, French bistros, buffets, traditional Mexican food, and much more.
Perched on the Caribbean coastline on Mexico’s northeastern Yucatán Peninsula, Riviera Maya is a place to be envied. Known for its abundance of all-inclusive resorts and endless palm tree lined beaches, epic nightlife, and delicious cuisine, it’s a short drive from Cancun International Airport and traveling distance to Tulum. Golden Sand will take place at the Barcelo Riviera Maya resort, spread across the Maya Riviera, Maya Beach, and Maya Caribe.
Golden Sand is Pollen’s first fully owned venture and a product of their ability to identify the wants and needs of their core demographic. Golden Sand will offer attendees an immersive, curated entertainment experience; allowing them to reconnect with their favorite artists in an unparalleled tropical location.
For more information about the event, including payment plans, package upgrades and FAQs, visit the official website to stay up-to-date with the latest in lineup, pricing, and event news.
Artist Lineup (A – Z) 50 Cent
Fat Joe
Flo Rida
Kelly Rowland
Lil’ Kim
Ludacris
Nelly
Sean Paul
TLC
T-Pain
About Pollen Pollen is a technology company building, curating, and delivering the best experiences for members all over the world. Members enjoy these experiences together with the people they love, creating stronger relationships and unforgettable memories. Members immerse themselves in multi-day itineraries that combine live entertainment, parties, and relaxation time in more than 50 popular destinations. Members can discover and book these experiences exclusively on pollen.co and the Pollen app. Pollen has already launched experiences with mega stars like J Balvin, Marshawn Lynch and Ozuna.
A variety of photogenic animal encounters and tours have been added to Camel Safari’s Desert Ranch experience. Operating on 176 acres under wide-open desert skies 80 minutes north of Las Vegas, guests can choose from the “Feed With A Keeper Safari”, “Day Glamp Camp Safari” and “VIP Sunset Safari”. In addition, Camel Safari recently welcomed two Bactrian camel calves born in mid-March, as well as two sand cats and two New Guinea singing dogs.
Each safari experience begins with an educational program on the history of camels and camelids at Camel Safari’s picnic tables. Then, guests roam the property on a safari tram ride to see Dromedary camels, Bactrian camels, llamas, alpacas and a zedonk (hybird between a donkey and a zebra). During several stops on each tour, guests will have opportunities to learn more about the animals, ask questions and come face-to-face with Camel Safari’s ambassador camels.
Guests will also see Camel Safari’s newest exotic animal residents on these tours. Native to the Sahara Desert, Camel Safari’s new sand cats are small, wild cats known for resting in underground dens during the day and roaming the desert at night. Meanwhile, the newly added New Guinea singing dogs are closely related to the Australian dingo and known for their ability to dramatically vary the pitch of their howls.
Throughout the experience, guests can enjoy cold beverages and frozen treats. After each safari tram, guests will return to the property’s picnic area to continue to experience educational encounters with other animals. The three new safari experiences include:
Feed With A Keeper Safari
For guests interested in up-close experiences with dozens of amazing exotic animals, the Feed With A Keeper Safari offers an incredible outdoor adventure for small children and adults alike. Visitors will accompany Camel Safari’s resident zoologist, Allie Singer, alongside owner Guy Seeklus, on their morning animal feeding duties.
Day Glamp Camp Safari
The Day Glamp Camp Safari is an ideal adventure for the whole family. Groups of up to 10 will enjoy access to their own private safari tram rides as they accompany Camel Safari’s keepers on a tour of the property. Visitors will enjoy animal encounters and educational programs from resident zoologist, Allie Singer, alongside owner Guy Seeklus. Guests are also invited to create camel hair friendship bracelets and other crafts with some of the finest Bactrian camel fiber in the world.
VIP Sunset Safari
On this unforgettable VIP experience, guests will witness a breathtaking desert sunset and rare nocturnal animal encounters. Guided by Camel Safari’s resident zoologist, Allie Singer, alongside owner Guy Seeklus, guests will tour the property by a safari tram ride. Visitors will also enjoy up-close encounters with camels and other exotic animal species. For an additional charge, guests can savor a delicious dinner while enjoying the ranch’s distinctive ambiance.
About Camel Safari
Camel Safari offers a distinctive outdoor destination for conservation-focused animal encounters. Situated on 176 acres along the Virgin River 80 minutes north of Las Vegas, the ranch provides the perfect retreat for daytime excursions. Every Camel Safari adventure includes up-close animal encounters with the destination’s ambassador camels and the New Guinea singing dogs. The ranch’s exclusive and unforgettable location offers a picturesque desert landscape perfect for weddings, family reunions, corporate retreats, bachelor and bachelorette parties, birthday parties and more. Camel Safari maintains accreditation as a Disney-approved vendor as well as accreditation from the Zoological Association of America.
Good Vibrations – WonderWorks Orlando New Exhibit on Earthquakes Named by Teachers during Teacher Appreciation Month
WonderWorks Orlando has an array of exhibits that help educate people about science. And it’s latest exhibit on earthquakes called Good Vibrations, opens May 28th. Good Vibrations will spotlight Tuckaleechee Caverns, and how they document seismic activity around the world. The new exhibit was a topic request from educators, so it seemed appropriate that they also name the exhibit. Teachers are invited to see this exhibit for free during WonderWorks Teacher Appreciation Month celebration.
This is a fascinating new exhibit about earthquakes and all types of tectonic movement around the globe, says Brian Wayne, general manager of WonderWorks Orlando. It’s a great time for teachers to stop in and check it out and enjoy some time exploring all we have to offer.
The Tuckaleechee Caverns are located deep under the Smoky Mountains, in Townsend, Tenn. People can visit the caverns, but they also play an important role in the safety of our country. They have the most sensitive seismic station on Earth, accurately and precisely tracking tectonic movement all around the planet. The information collected includes activity from earthquakes and even when nuclear weapons are being tested.
Once the information is collected, it is quickly transmitted directly to the Department of Defense; Geneva, Switzerland; and Vienna, Austria. The information is obtained and shared so quickly that it’s passed on within 300ths of a millisecond. Visitors will learn about the important natural wonder that gathers so much information around the world.
Good Vibrations meets educational standards for learning about earthquakes and seismic activity. As a way to celebrate teachers and support staff during Teacher Appreciation Month, both teachers and support staff will receive free admission during May 2021 by showing a valid school ID. Additionally, up to four of their accompanying guests will receive 50% off admission.
“We are excited to invite teachers, support staff, and their families this month, as well as others, to check out the new Earthquake exhibit,” added Wayne. “This exhibit will surprise you and make you want to plan a trip to the Tuckaleechee Caverns.”
Additional on-site and community programs include the WonderWorks WonderKids event, virtual learning labs, FLO-Art Florida Youth Art Gallery, science fair partnerships, online science information and worksheets and a homeschool program. WonderWorks Orlando also offers various STEM activities, including virtual learning labs, on-site exhibits, activities and more. To learn more about the programs offered at WonderWorks Orlando, visit their website.
To get additional information about Teacher Appreciation Month, visit the site here.
Due to the continued county-wide mask restriction in Orlando, guests will need to bring one with them or buy one upon arrival. WonderWorks has COVID-19 safety protocols, including reduced capacity and hours, enhanced cleaning efforts, social distancing measures, hand sanitizer stations, employee health screenings and employee personal protective equipment (PPE). Guests are encouraged to review all safety rules before their visit on the web page devoted to COVID-19 here.
About WonderWorks
WonderWorks, the upside-down adventure, is a science-focused indoor amusement park for the mind that holds something unique and exciting for visitors of all ages. Guests enter through an upside-down lobby with the ceiling at their feet and the ground above their head and must pass through an inversion tunnel to turn right side up. There are three floors of nonstop edu-tainment, with over 100 hands-on and interactive exhibits that serve a STEM educational purpose to challenge the mind and spark the imagination. WonderWorks Orlando is also home to The Outta Control Magic Comedy Dinner Show. WonderWorks is located in Orlando, Pigeon Forge, Myrtle Beach, Panama City Beach, Syracuse and Branson. For more information, visit their website.
INTRODUCING BEYOND GREEN: A PURPOSE-DRIVEN HOSPITALITY BRAND DEDICATED TO HELPING GLOBAL CITIZENS MAKE TRAVEL A FORCE FOR GOOD
Forward-Thinking Hotel Network Debuts Booking and Storytelling Platforms That Invite Travelers to Explore How to Travel Gently and Travel Well
Committed to building a better and brighter future for people and the planet, Beyond Green officially launches today as a curated guide for travelers seeking a more purposeful way to explore the world, featuring a global portfolio of 27 hotels, resorts, and lodges that exemplify sustainability in action. Debuting at the onset of a new era of travel in which protecting nature, benefitting local communities, and celebrating cultural diversity has taken center stage, this forward-thinking brandinvites travelers to discover, plan, and enjoy adventures that align with their sustainable travel values and aspirations through a variety of intuitive tools and experiences. These include a new brand website; dedicated storytelling via its @StayBeyondGreen social media accounts; exclusive benefits through I Prefer Hotel Rewards; and a celebratory, limited-time Journeyer’s Pick Package.
“At the heart of Beyond Green is a belief that to travel gently and with purpose is to travel well. More than ever, each of our individual travel choices make a difference, and, together with our outstanding member properties, we designed Beyond Green to make it easier for travelers to enjoy incredible luxury vacations that also support significant social and environmental change for the future,” said Lindsey Ueberroth, CEO of both Beyond Green and its parent company, Preferred Hotel Group. “The world has shown an unwavering need to Believe in Travel, and this is our defining moment to inspire a kinder and gentler way to explore the planet together, where good guests meet good hosts.”
“The question is no longer whether we can transform travel based upon sustainable tourism principles and practices to be a powerful force for saving nature, regenerating ecosystems, and providing tangible social and economic benefits to local people, while also celebrating cultural diversity and inclusiveness around the world. This is now happening, as also represented by Beyond Green members. Rather, the most important question is how travelers help can make sustainability the new normal around the world while also having a great vacation. The answer is when we travel the sustainable way – the Beyond Green way – we can have a positive impact right now on the places we visit,” said Costas Christ, Brand Leader of Beyond Green and President of Beyond Green Travel, also an entity of Preferred Hotel Group.
Digital-First Resources for Inspiration and Information
Experiential travelers looking for a more meaningful way to explore the world can now visit Beyond Green’s website for thoughtful, essential resources and tools to book truly sustainable luxury getaways, from Belize to Bora Bora. The new website features highly curated visual content of each member property and the experiences they offer, along with vivid stories about the world of sustainable travel through its Good Stories blog, where novel content, tips and advice will be added on a continuous basis. The brand also invites travelers to engage in daily dialogues about sustainable tourism, inspiring travel experiences, and best practices for being informed global citizens on social media by following its newly launched Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn channels and #StayBeyondGreen and #TravelGently online conversations.
I Prefer Hotel Rewards Member Benefits
As part of the Preferred Hotel Group family of brands, Beyond Green invites travelers to enroll in I Prefer to access meaningful rewards at more than 650 participating properties worldwide. In addition to receiving standard, I Prefer benefits such as points for every eligible stay and early check-in and late check-out privileges, I Prefer members who book stays at participating Beyond Green hotels, resorts, and lodges receive access to exclusive bonus points-earning opportunities that are tied to participation in on-property enrichment activities representative of the three pillars of sustainable tourism. Varying from property to property, these experiences range from an Ecology Tour in San Juan Capistrano at The Ranch at Laguna Beach in California to a specialized lecture on the Gobi Desert at Three Camel Lodge in Mongolia. I Prefer members with Elite-tier status will also receive a welcome amenity or community giving opportunity, in addition to earning 50 percent more bonus points during every eligible stay.
Celebratory Launch Offer
Whether seeking to stay within their own country or satisfy the pent-up desire to dust off their passport and go somewhere new, Beyond Green encourages travelers to seize the moment by taking advantage of a limited-time only Journeyer’s Pick Package, available at 15 participating properties for bookings made by September 30, 2021 for travel through December 31, 2021. Featuring the best available rate plus a unique local experience or meaningful memento exclusively available through this special offer, as well as 5,000 I Prefer bonus points, the Journeyer’s Pick Package include highlights such as, but not limited to:
Traditional sunset Dhow Cruise with snacks and drinks at andBeyond Mnemba Island
Guided walking tour of the Monastery of Panagia Spileotissa at Aristi Mountain Resort & Villas
Body scrub wellness experience using organic ingredients at Borgo Pignano
Polynesian outrigger experience at the InterContinental Bora Bora Resort & Thalasso Spa
Where Good Hosts Meet Good Guests: The Beyond Green Portfolio
With plans for steady, thoughtful growth, Beyond Green celebrates its official launch in collaboration with 27 inspiring member properties that each take a unique and genuine approach to hospitality while representing sustainable tourism leadership through actionable, measurable efforts:
Americas – andBeyond Vira Vira (Pucón, Chile); Arenas Del Mar Beach Front and Rainforest Resort (Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica), Bentwood Inn (Jackson Hole, Wyoming, USA); Blancaneaux Lodge (Mountain Pine Ridge, Belize); Carneros Resort and Spa (Napa Valley, California, USA), Cavallo Point (Sausalito, California, USA); Islas Secas (Gulf of Chiriquí, Panama); Post Ranch Inn (Big Sur, California, USA); Ted Turner Reserves Vermejo (Raton, New Mexico, USA); The Ranch at Laguna Beach (Laguna Beach, California, USA); Turtle Inn (Placencia, Belize)
Africa – andBeyond Bateleur Camp (Masai Mara National Reserve, Kenya); andBeyond Mnemba Island (Zanzibar, Tanzania); andBeyond Sossusvlei Desert Lodge (Namib Desert, Namibia); Bushmans Kloof (Western Cape, South Africa); Wilderness Safaris Bisate Lodge (Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda); Wilderness Safaris DumaTau Camp (Linyanti Wildlife Reserve, Botswana); Wilderness Safaris Hoanib Skeleton Coast Camp (Kaokoveld, Namibia); Wilderness Safaris Linkwasha Camp (Hwange National Park, Zimbabwe); Wilderness Safaris Mombo Camp (Okavango Delta, Botswana); Xigera Safari Lodge (Okavango Delta, Botswana)
Asia – InterContinental Bora Bora Resort & Thalasso Spa (Bora Bora, French Polynesia); The Brando (Tetiaroa, French Polynesia); Three Camel Lodge (Gobi, Mongolia)
Travelers are invited to access more information on Beyond Green, its three key pillars of sustainable tourism, and its member properties, and book authentic, luxury travel experiences around the world by visiting Beyond Green.
About Beyond Green
Guided by a passion to embrace travel as a force for good, Beyond Green is a global portfolio of hotels, resorts, and lodges that exemplify sustainability leadership. To create a more purposeful way to explore the world where good guests meet good hosts, Beyond Green has curated a unique portfolio of properties based on their commitment to deliver on the three pillars of sustainable tourism: environmentally friendly practices that go beyond the basics; protection of natural and cultural heritage; and contribution to the social and economic wellbeing of local communities. To be considered for membership in Beyond Green, a property is vetted according to more than 50 sustainability indicators that align with global sustainable tourism standards and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. Owned and operated by Preferred Hotel Group – the family-owned company that manages and operates other hospitality brands including Preferred Hotels & Resorts, Historic Hotels of America, and Historic Hotels Worldwide – Beyond Green ushers in a new way to experience genuine hospitality by the people for the planet. For more information, visit Beyond Green.
About Preferred Hotel Group
Owned and operated by the Ueberroth Family, Preferred Hotel Group is the parent company of Preferred Hotels & Resorts, Beyond Green, Historic Hotels of America, Historic Hotels Worldwide, PHG Consulting, and Beyond Green Travel, representing more than 1,100 hotels, resorts, and residences across 80 countries, in addition to a global portfolio of destinations such as Suzhou, China; Guadalajara, Mexico; and Uganda. With more than 200 seasoned travel professionals situated across 20 countries, the company connects independent hotels, hospitality companies, destinations, and tourism bureaus to key markets worldwide through a variety of strategic branding, sales, integrated marketing, revenue management, and comprehensive distribution services, along with other consultancy services. Fueled by its brand promise, Believe in Travel, the company champions an unwavering belief in the transformative power of travel and its ability to enrich people’s lives and create greater tolerance. For more information on Preferred Hotel Group’s entities, please visit Preferred Hotels, Beyond Green, Historic Hotels, PHG Consulting, and Beyond Green Travel.
