If you are looking for one of the best places to spend your vacation in luxury each year, Marriott�s timeshare on Barony Beach in Hilton Head is worth your attention. Located at Barony Beach in Hilton Head, South Caroline, Marriott�s luxury accommodation timeshares are the perfect way to enjoy a quality vacation year after year. Here are some tips on why you should choose Marriot�s timeshare on Barony Beach.
If you are looking for the best luxury accommodations at one of the most popular destinations, Marriot�s Barony Beach must be seen. Marriott�s Barony Beach consists of many luxury villas that have their private kitchen, two quality rooms for sleeping or relaxing and enough room for 6 or 8 people. There are even accommodations which consist of 3 bedrooms, a kitchen, dining room and living room along with a private balcony.
Marriot�s Barony Beach is one of the most choice vacation spots in the world with many leisure activities and great weather for most of the year. You will love enjoying the sun and sand as well as the great golf courses and tennis courts.
Marriott�s Barony Beach gives you great choices such as floating timeshare options. You can choose the weeks you would like to vacation each year during a specific season. You can also choose the amount of money you would like to spend, with many choices ranging from about $8,000 to about $85,000 per week.
Marriot�s Barony Beach is not an RTU (right to use timeshare), you actually get a deed, so you can pass on this wonderful timeshare to your heirs. If you are looking to make a great investment, Marriott�s Barony Beach helps you vacation without the fear of inflation. Buying a timeshare property is an excellent way to hedge your investment. For many people, purchasing a timeshare at Marriott�s Barony Beach makes good sense. A timeshare purchase can pay for itself in advance in just 5 to 7 years (taking into consideration inflation and rate increases)
If you are looking for a reputable time share developer, Marriot has excellent credentials and over 300,000 satisfied customers, why take a chance with fly by night timeshare developers, Marriot Barony Beach is just another example of luxury timeshare properties and great amenities for those looking to vacation or retire in style.
If you are looking to purchase a timeshare property in the Hilton Head Beach area, you can�t do much better than Marriot�s Barony Beach.
Costa Rica literally translates into "Rich Coast," so named by Columbus for the gold necklaces worn by the native people when he arrived in the early 16th century. However misleading the name might have been for gold hunters, it appropriately describes Costa Rica's copious coastline, which is an endless paradise for surfers, scuba divers and those in need of tranquil relaxation.
Costa Rica is also a bastion of political tranquility, which has historically marked the country as an attractive destination for Central and South American travelers. Not a single gun-shot was fired when Costa Rica earned its independence from the Spanish Empire in 1821. Democratic development progressed after independence and in 1949 Costa Rica become the first country in the world to abolish its army, setting a historic precedent for other democratic nations in the region.
Spider Monkey Around Without a military budget, Costa Rica has had the luxury of allocating a considerable sum toward systems of wilderness conservation and cultural preservation. Over 25 percent of the nation's territory, rich with biodiversity, is protected by national parks. While basking on the Caribbean shores, visit Tortuguero National Park to witness the most important nesting site of the endangered green turtle. If you are lucky, you may also get to see the giant leatherback turtle (the largest known turtle at an adult weight of 1,500 pounds!) nesting in the park's sand. Gain some elevation and venture through temperate forests until you come to Chirrip� National Park, which protects Costa Rica's tallest peak. Scale the winding trails of mysterious cloud forests while spider monkeys swing from the trees and sloth lurk in the undergrowth as you get closer to the rainforests of Corcovado National Park along the Pacific Ocean. Observe jaguar roaming along the waters' edge while over 360 species of bird rustle overhead. Nature surrounds you when you travel to Costa Rica.
Urban Creatures If you've had your fill of all things wild, Costa Rica's cities and towns will not relent on mesmerizing their visitors either. The capital city of San Jose is a fast-paced cosmopolitan playground and the beating heart of Costa Rican life. The remains of coffee baron mansions have been transformed into a splendid backdrop for boutique hotels and restaurants. The National Museum has a few of the nation's mysterious stone spheres on display, the origin of which is still up for debate today. For an unbeatable resort experience, visit the Gulf of Papagayo along the northwest coast. From intimate hotels and cabanas to luxury resorts, these beautiful beaches are a prize view from any perspective when you travel to Costa Rica.
You should need no other reason to travel to Central America other than the quintessential natural beauty of Costa Rica. The backdrop of peace and all-around serenity make Costa Rica a true gem among the countries of this tropical region. For more information, your source for cheap airfare on the web.
The Surf and Sand in Laguna Beach, California has achieved legendary appeal for those fortunate enough to have stayed there during its 55 years of operation. Located at 1555 South Coast Highway, it was built in 1948 as a beach side motor lodge with 26 rooms. Artists discovered Laguna Beach and over the years made it a premier vacation destination. Art galleries, the famous Sawdust Festival, the Laguna Playhouse, and the Master of the Arts Festival attract visitors from all over the world to this small, charming community nestled between Newport Beach and San Diego.
Driving into the creamy cocoa beige stucco entrance one is greeted by valet parking attendants. They set the tone by providing a warm welcome. The architecture is Mediterranean-style with a stunning DeWain Valentine water sculpture that was donated to owner James Colachis by the City of Laguna Beach. Owing to a recent two million dollar renovation the Surf and Sand looks brand new. The reservation area is light, airy, and open.
In 1992 internationally renowned interior designer James Northcutt refurbished the rooms and suites. Chairman Kathryn Colachis, a brilliant decorator in her own right, recently refreshed the property once more. The decor evokes memories of classic New England summer homes with bleached wood, muted pastels, and charming original seascape watercolors. Even the elevators have been painted with early 20th century seaside scenes that set a whimsical, relaxing tone. The lines are clean, the views, spectacular.
My daughter Lucy and I found our room to be a small slice of heaven. The room itself was beautifully appointed with a bedroom, sitting area, and behind the white plantation shutters and the sliding glass doors, a private balcony overlooking the vast blue Pacific Ocean. Down below, on the sand, Surf and Sand beach attendants catered to guests needs; setting up umbrellas; delivering chairs, and food and beverages while lifeguards watched over swimmers of all ages. Being August, the cool salt water was the perfect compliment to the hot sun. The waves are excellent for body surfing or using a boogie board while still being gentle enough for small children.
The Surf and Sand is situated on 500 feet of beachfront. Flanked by multimillion-dollar private homes, and bordered by rock formations that form natural barriers, the property provides a sense of privacy and security. If walking the coastline is your fancy, scaling the rock abutments at low tide is still easy to do.
It is also very tempting to sit outside on your balcony and relax. There is a fully stocked Honor Bar, and room service. Ben and Jerry's old-fashioned sundaes and ice cream can be scooped at your doorstep between 7 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. Two thick white cotton Frette robes and Surf and Sand slippers were in our closet. In the bathroom, a half clamshell was filled with Aveda products, soaps and bath salts that revitalize, and lotions that soothe. Attached to the travertine marble wall was a hairdryer. The only thing that I did not find was a coffee pot. The Honor Bar has everything from a split of French champagne for $37.50 to a miniature bottle of Ketel One vodka for $6.50. There are more than a dozen tiny bottles of liquor from which to choose. The refrigerator has beer, wine, and goodies.
It is now 6:10 p.m. and from the balcony I watch three teenaged boys fishing in the surf to the left of the hotel. The waning sun casts a wide sheath of shimmer across the blue water. Stories of Pacific Ocen pollution don't seem relevant when I can look down from my sixth floor balcony and see the translucent bluish green below. In the distance, the occasional boat speeds past. In the evening the maid appears to turn the thick white quilted bedspread down. She places a couple of delicious Belgian chocolates near the pillow along with a hanging card that can be marked for breakfast. Cleverly the Surf and Sand makes room service as easy as checking off items, along with the time you wish them to be delivered, and hanging it on the outside of your door. Sometime during the night someone will collect it, and "voila", breakfast arrives at the appointed hour. The king size bed in our room is the ultimate in comfort. In fact, everything in the room lends itself to making us feel at home.
The Surf and Sand is privately owned by James and Kathryn Colachis, a couple dedicated to solidifying the resort's reputation as a first class, casually elegant destination. It is the perfect setting for couples seeking a romantic interlude, families looking for a place that will satisfy young and old; business conferences, and social functions. This year the Surf and Sand partnered with Stepping Stones Child Development Center to offer professionally organized half-day camps for children ages 4 to 12. Drop-in care during selected times is $10 per hour, with evening sessions Tuesday, Friday and Saturday at $35 per session.
John Gates, assistant General Manager, took my daughter and me on a tour of the modernized, expanded hotel. "Each of the 165 rooms and suites," Gates explained, "has a view of the water. There are no bad rooms." He led the way to one of the thirteen suites with a starting rate of $1,100 per day. The suite was a larger version of the regular rooms. There was a balcony with a comfortable living room, a private bedroom, with the addition of a second bathroom. Blushing beige travertine marble makes the bathrooms throughout the property elegant yet comfortable. Custom woven sisal rugs, linen ecru fabrics with pale blue and green stripes, and custom fabricated matchstick lamps with a patina finish are standard features in rooms as well as suites.
Tan Fans Stop HereClimbing a few stairs we arrived at the brick courtyard, a popular setting for weddings, charity events, and private parties. "We do very little advertising," John Gates tells us, explaining that the Surf and Sand has become a yearly visit for many guests. "Some book a year in advance. They make their reservations for next year when they're leaving." He emphasized that it's best to book two to three weeks in advance during the summer months. Special rates are offered occasionally.
Citrus trees line the entryway to the new Aquaterra spa, built, according to our tour guide at the site of the original motorlodge. All four of the Surf and Sand buildings share the same Mediterranean-style architecture, and one would never know that they had been built and rebuilt over the years. Flower-lined walkways lead to the new spa reception area where a signature scent wafts through the pungent sea air. The Aquaterra Spa has specially formulated its own cr�mes, oils, and candles using many locally grown ingredients. Their brochure describes, The healing, therapeutic essences of the ocean and land are blended with indigenous aromatic botanicals to be artistically expressed in the Aquaterra experience. The practitioners of the body and healing arts are longtime employees. They are referred to as artists, and after my deep tissue massage with Anjelica, I would have to agree. Prices are in line with other top-rated spas, but the caliber of service and the quality of products send it to the top of my need to repeat list. Spa hours are from 8:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily, and are offGet Sme Ahhhs For Your Blaahsered to hotel guests as well as the public.
From the spa we walked to the 10,000 square foot freestanding conference and meeting center. John Gates pointed out the spacious ballroom areas, noting high ceilings, with some ocean views. The three ballrooms are perfect for functions that require everything from state-of-the-art audiovisual displays to elegantly decorated weddings.
Upon leaving the center we passed the gift shop, a separate entity run by another charming, longtime employee. Knowing that many staff members have been there for a decade or more is a great indicator. Their feelings for the hotel are sincere, and when they describe the owners as wonderful people, I find my experience even more refreshing. The gift shop sells signature clothing, artwork by the Rodrigo Kane, the wonderful artist credited with many of the charming watercolors throughout the hotel; and sundries, including reasonably priced sunglasses.
We walked past the Olympic-size swimming pool with luxurious chaise lounges and ocean views on our way to Splashes, the award-winning restaurant that serves contemporary California-Mediterranean cuisine inside the dining room or alfresco on the palm shaded patio. "Seventy percent of our (Splashes) business is local," Gates tells us. And, it is easy to see why. Large windows open to the pounding surf 25 feet below, and the expanse of blue creates the illusion of dining on the upper deck of a luxurious yacht. There is a separate bar and tiered outdoor dining. Executive chef Christopher Blobaum prides himself on the use of locally grown produce, and meat and fish flown in daily. The dishes he creates are unique, original, and healthy.
For breakfast there is fresh pressed organic carrot, orange, or grapefruit juice, Irish oatmeal with organic sun dried fruits and brown sugar, or the Three Oyster Mushroom and Brie Omelet. There is a full menu with everything from a toasted bagel to Eggs Benedict. Lunch includes unique offerings such as a Rosemary Marinated Roasted Rare Lamb Salad with sweet onions, roasted peppers, Kalamata olives, goat cheese and aged sherry vinaigrette, or a tree-ripened Peach and Watercress Salad with spiced pistachios and orange blossom honey vinaigrette. Dinner features everything from a daily prix fix dinner to a delicious a la carte menu. In fact, there are so many moutDine At Splasheshwatering choices that it is genuinely challenging to make a decision. There is an extensive drink and wine list.
Alas, ye old hippy ... endless sand, driftwood shacks and long nights passed in a ganga haze are getting harder and harder to source.
Once the defining notion of a life without strings, setting up camp on a beach is no longer a simple matter... it requires planning and effort, and even then, the man may have arrived first.
Said old hippy will recall the days when Long Beach on Vancouver Island was awash in tie-dye, macrame and a come-what-may vibe. Modern day libertarians are faced with a different tune. Long Beach has long been closed to camping, and those beaches that are still open require a kayak or backpack to get to, and a willingness to play by the rules.
Here's a quote from the BC Parks Service admonishing those who plunk themselves down without proper regard for authority
... random campers will be asked to move to one of the designated campsites. Camping in areas other than designated campsites is a violation under various Acts, which are rigidly enforced ...
Ouch; and they want money to boot. Likewise, in the US the National Park Service makes it clear that, while camping may be still be allowed in some of their parks, its not going to be much fun:
Open fires are prohibited; use a backcountry stove for cooking. Campsites must be north of the primary dune, not in sight of the beach, in a sandy area with no vegetation, and at least one mile inside the wilderness boundary. There are limited dune crossings from the wilderness to the beach. Dogs and other pets are not allowed during plover nesting season: March 1 - Labor Day; at other times they are permitted but must be on a 6' leash at all times.
So much for bringing the dog. And, lest the old hippy begins to think such restrictions are a North American phenomena, the same officious government meddlers have applied rules and regulations to beaches in Thailand, Costa Rica, Australia, South Africa and just about anywhere else intrepid freedom lovers may choose to gather.
Restrictions, of course, make sense; peripatetic wanderers have colonized the globe to the degree that there is no place truly untouched. The idea that an individual can "leave no trace" has been largely discounted, and even those who make the attempt must still admit, that as their numbers increase, the ideal becomes only that; an ideal and not a practical reality.
No matter what we may wish, or say, or do, our passing leaves an imprint on the environment, and this is particularly true of the pristine environments nature lovers most covet. Every mountaineer knows the disappointment of having attained a summit only to find bootprints left by the previous party. Likewise, every sailor, kayaker and canoer can relate stories of running into long lost classmates 7 days from put-in. Unbelievably, Mount Rainier National Park plays host to more than 2 million visitors a year.
With that in mind, old gray beard shouldn't be surprised that he's been caught in the corral. So what's he to do?
"Work harder, go further, don't get caught." Such is the advice offered by those who pursue those pristine beaches with a passion.
Isla Espiritu Santo, just off La Paz on the Baja Peninsula proves the point. Designated a global conservation priority by The Nature Conservancy, it has all the qualities a adventure traveler may wish. It, and the surrounding islands are chock-a-block with picturesque beaches, mangrove lagoons, rock formations and sea life. They are also chock-a-block with eco-tour groups, charter boats, and an assortment of independent travelers intent on getting their fix of mother nature.
And therein lies the challenge ... while its possible to find a deserted beach one must be prepared to make more effort than the almost anybody else to get there. In the Sea of Cortez, what this means is finding an Island with no water supply, and just that much further off the beaten path, than the organized tours companies are prepared to push their guests.
Likewise, Playa Naranjo in Costa Rica, a beautiful, kilometers-long, pale gray sand beach that is legendary in surfing lore for its steep, powerful tubular waves and for Witches Rock rising like a sentinel out of the water is on the map ... it is every bit worth the effort, but be forewarned, others have been there before. Off season may just be the best time to go ...
Getting Away With It ...
So that said, it's Thursday afternoon and you've got a deep longing to hop in a woody, drive less than two hours, and set up camp in the sand. To get away with it you're going to need some luck and some planning. Here's what you do --
- arrive after dark
- go solo or in pairs - small groups attract less attention
- keep a low profile - a low tent behind a dune is much less visible than a 6 person department store special
- no fires - damn!
- no light - have you ever seen tent lit from within?
- no noise - the stereo stays at home
- clean up after yourself - no trash, no trail, no evidence
In short, act like that old hippy should have acted 20 years; respect the beach and respect those that follow.
About the author:
In addition to his lifelong interest in the outdoors recreation community, Trevor Paetkau is the proprietor of Moraine Adventure Books, an independent source of Adventure Travel, and Outdoor Recreation articles, advice, books and resources.
When you are planning a vacation to Maui or Rio de Janeiro you may put beaches on the top of you list of things to see. However, when planning a trip to San Francisco, you may have heard of North Beach, but North Beach doesn't have any beaches (though the neighborhood was named after a beach that used to be on its north shoreline). If fact, San Francisco has several beaches that provide diversions for residents and visitors alike.
Make no mistake about it, San Francisco is not Los Angeles. Unless it's an exceptional day, San Francisco beaches tend to be a little chilly, windy and foggy. However, this should not deter you from enjoying a nice afternoon at the beach. Many San Francisco beaches have beautiful panoramic views of the Marin Headlands, Point Bonita Lighthouse and the Golden Gate Bridge. Just be prepared with a sweatshirt or jacket in addition to your shorts or swim suit. Because of the latitude of San Francisco, the waters may be too cold for swimming (unless you brought your wet suit). Bring your beach towels, a sand bucket, a good book, a kite and a Frisbee to make the best of your afternoon at the beach.
San Francisco's most popular beaches are Ocean Beach and Baker Beach. Although East Beach at Crissy Field in the Presidio has become quite popular since the restoration of Crissy Field.
Ocean Beach is San Francisco's largest and longest beach running 5 miles up the entire west side of San Francisco. The northern end of San Francisco Ocean Beach popular among locals, surfers and visitors. The Cliff House towers above Ocean Beach perched on the edge of a coastal bluff that borders the north end of the beach. The beach is perfect for building sand sculptures and hosts a yearly sand sculpture contest. Ocean Beach has a very slight slope, making it ideal for wading in the surf. Surfers wearing wet suits are a common sight along this section of Ocean Beach.
Baker Beach is located in the Presidio just south of the San Francisco Golden Gate Bridge. With its panoramic views of the Golden Gate Bridge and the Marin Headlands, Baker Beach is a popular beach and picnic destination for San Francisco locals, especially on the weekends. Several picnic tables with barbecue pits are located to the east of the north parking lot. The beach has strong rip-tides, so swimming can be hazardous. A few fishermen may dot the shoreline. The north end of the beach is clothing optional, so families typically stay toward the middle and south ends of the beach.
Other beaches in San Francisco include Lands End Beach and China Beach, named for the Chinese fishermen who used to camp nearby. San Francisco Castro Beach is not really a beach at all. It's a park that has garnered the "beach" nickname because of all the Castro sun bathers that blanket its lawns.
Adding a beach to your San Francisco agenda may be a great way to slow down the frenetic pace of sightseeing and enjoy a more relaxed appreciation of San Francisco's natural beauties. Visit San Francisco Beaches for more information. About the Author
Jed Clark is a travel writer, photographer and long-time San Francisco resident. He maintains ZurdoGo.com, which contains travel tips and information about San Francisco destinations, attractions and neighborhoods.
