points of interest Welcome

4 hemet
to the Inland Empire,
as well as to the inaugural issue of Inland Traveler Magazine! Inside,
you will find maps of our versatile cities, as well as suggestions on
6 corona things to do, places to go, and wonderful cuisine to try. If you
are new to our Valleys, you will find that the Inland Empire is a
8 ontario hidden jewel full of dynamic and unique attractions - both natural
and man-made! Take a look, for example, at the beauty of one
10 murrieta of golf ’s best kept secrets - Diamond Valley Golf Club in Hemet
- the scenery from this course is breathtaking and undisturbed
by freeway noise, and unobstructed by tract homes. Definitely a
16 riverside must-see if you like to hit the links.

18 lake elsinore We are very excited to be introducing Inland Traveler to the

visitors of the Inland Empire. We also publish Country Review,
serving southwest Riverside County. Inland Traveler is a new
20 san bernardino venture for us and we are up to the challenge! Published quarterly,
Inland Traveler will be the reference for visitors from around the
21 moreno valley globe. If you are a frequent traveler to the area, watch out for our
next issue, being released in April 2011. Watch us grow!

22 temecula wine country We hope you will enjoy the articles and information found within
these pages. If you visit one of our advertisers during your stay,
24 old town temecula please let them know you saw them in Inland Traveler! We hope
you enjoy your stay in the Inland Empire, and that you are able to
26 north county san diego enjoy some of what this incredible area has to offer.

Happy Travels!

The Jewel Of The

Inland Empire
Page 12

Publisher: Golden Crown Productions, LLC - Gregg Hassler & Don Harbour • Editor: Adria Poindexter • Sales Manager: Judy Contreras
Sales: Adria Poindexter, Audra Merrell, Debbie Sheppeard • Photographer: RK Green Photography; Greg Lucker, The Rock Image
Design: Bob Swartzlander • Legal: Landon Law • Accounting: John Phillips • Printer: Commercial Print & Distribution
The Inland Traveler is published quarterly. Editorial office address: 31915 Rancho California Rd., Suite 200-195, Temecula, CA 92591
(951) 677-8128 • info@inlandtraveler.com • www.inlandtraveler.com
Issue 01.11. Copyright ©2011 Golden Crown Productions, LLC. All rights reserved. Reproduction in full or in part prohibited without written authorization. The Inland Traveler is intended
to provide timely and accurate information on subjects covered. Golden Crown Productions, LLC and its associates are not engaged in rendering accounting or legal advice. Golden Crown
Productions, LLC and its associates assume no liability for errors or the ways in which information is used. The opinions expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of the publishers.
 !

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discover hemet / san jacinto

T here are many things that attract newcomers to the area,

some of which are the family values and integrity of our
residents, the recreational possibilities and mild climate.

Family oriented activities: there is something for every member

of the family regardless of age, from sports and recreation
to shopping, or a leisure dinner at one of our many fine
restaurants. The Country Club at Soboba Springs offers 32,000
sq.ft. of space for casual dining, banquet facilities, outdoor
weddings and much more. In the fall of 2009, the Soboba Golf
Classic offered $1,000,000 dollars in prize money.

The Hemet/San Jacinto area is projected to become a very

desirable tourist attraction, due largely to Diamond Valley
Lake’s completion and its many recreational opportunities.

Sweet Baby Jane’s was voted the area’s best BBQ for 2009. Come
in and visit us and tour our authentic smokehouse. We have
one of the few all wood burning smokers around. Live blues
nightly! New homes are being constructed and businesses
continue to locate within our boundaries. Many of the local
senior communities are renovating in order to provide
desirable accommodations for a newly retired segment of our
population.

As our Community grows, the prospects are outstanding

for a prosperous future. Affordable housing, industrial
and commercial land prices, easy access to San Diego, Los
Angeles and Orange County, and an abundant work force and
recreational opportunities make the area appealing.

ADVERTISE WITH
INLAND TRAVELER
(951) 677-8128
info@inlandtraveler.com • www.inlandtraveler.com

4 | inland TRAVELER ISSUE 01.11 THE BEST TRAVEL MAGAZINE

 California Country
IDYLLWILD
T
hinking of taking a day trip to somewhere close but
different, mellow but fun? Less than two hours away,
Idyllwild is only a few square miles in diameter and is
nestled at the top of a hill and the bottom of a mountain, at
5,500 feet above sea level. For such a small town, there is still
plenty to do, whether you’re looking for a quiet weekend away
or a fun-packed day with the family – it’s all there.
I checked into the Silver Pines Lodge mid-day on Friday and
noticed that the town seemed quiet and still. Our room was a
Based on Jim’s recommendation, we dined at the new
Mountain Restaurant, and even though we were early for our
reservation, we were greeted warmly, seated promptly and
spoiled rotten! From the patè and beet salad, to the organic
filet with self-saucing ravioli and braised beef with crispy
and tender brussel sprouts, every sense was piqued and every
craving indulged. Mountain Restaurant proves that a lack of
can opener and microwave only make Master Chef Bryan
Ayer’s disposition that much more impressive. The only
disappointment after the Crème Brule, apple tart and French

“
second-story, cozy room that looked out over Strawberry Creek, pressed coffee was that I’d have to travel two hours to enjoy
the Lodge’s Koi pond and the such culinary art again.
snow-covered surroundings.
Chris and her two pooches,
...whether you’re looking for a The next morning, I headed back into
Ella and Shelby showed us the quiet weekend away or a town for one last meal before heading
grounds, including a lodge fun-packed day with the family– home. Jim suggested we try Café
that was once frequented by it’s all there.” Aroma, a local café near the snow
General Patton when it was and family-filled Humber Park where
a saloon. Silver Pines is one of several lodges within walking local musicians can play their latest originals, and locals and
distance of the town center, where you can stroll from shop to visitors mingle together in several dining areas. We were led
shop and café to café. to a small table in the “Library,” surrounded by every type of
book, ranging from the Bible to Beowulf. I opted for a glass
After a classic Country breakfast at the Red Kettle, I checked of fresh orange juice and the Breakfast of Frankie Machine, a
into Quiet Creek Inn just a half mile outside of town. Jim and sandwich with two over-easy eggs cooked into cutouts in the
Mike greeted us and led us into the Living Room Gallery, bread, dusted with Parmesan and butter and filled with bacon
aptly named as it can be found between the owner’s kitchen – a unique and delicious change of pace. Contrasted nicely by
and hallway, displaying local artist’s painting, photos and art the peaceful outdoors, the diverse and bustling Café Aroma is
for viewing and purchase. Their passion for art is apparent the place to be on Sunday morning in Idyllwild.
in each of their 15 cabin-style rooms, all very warm and
spacious, immaculately decorated and all settled yards away If you’re looking for wide open spaces and small, cozy shops
from the creek. I loved that Quiet Creek Inn, although only and restaurants, glistening snow and bright, roaring fires,
a short distance from town, was a six acre haven from the kind, welcoming people and peaceful privacy, make your next
ordinary. trip be one to Idyllwild.

THE BEST TRAVEL MAGAZINE ISSUE 01.11 inland TRAVELER | 5

discover corona

C orona is a progressive and business-friendly city

committed to providing a place where residents can enjoy
a high quality of life and an environment where businesses can
thrive.

The City of Corona sets itself apart with its ability to provide
diverse and valuable resources to its residents as well as its
business community. Its neighborhoods range from upscale
executive homes to workforce housing with access to the
Cleveland National Forest. Corona’s location also makes it
one of the first places Orange County companies search when
considering migrating or expanding into the Inland Empire.

Thanks to a strong leadership focus on customer service and an

eye to innovation, Corona continues to develop as a prosperous
family-oriented community, with a solid job base, good schools,
abundant park space, an educated workforce, and low crime.

The foundation for a quality community is its schools, and the

Corona-Norco Unified School District is first class. With more
than 53,000 students in the district, it has a 94% graduation
rate. The average Academic Performance Index for 2010 was
801 compared to 767 for the State of California. Corona’s
residents and businesses are within 90 miles of 35 private and
public colleges and universities with a combined enrollment
of over 220,000. Now, more than ever...

Corona is a city that understands the degree to which its

municipal budget and the lifestyles of its residents depend
upon a robust economic base. As such, companies will find
a city whose procedures are designed to increase the efficiency
of interaction with our business partners. Team Corona, the
city’s economic development engine, works diligently to cater
to the city’s businesses and to expand opportunities. With more
than 31 million square feet of industrial space and more than
3 million square feet of office, the City of Corona continues to
offer quality building inventory for companies to grow.

Looking ahead, the combination of Corona’s enviable location,

exceptional quality of life, and pro-business economic
development policies should see the city slingshot into the
future and remain at the forefront of migratory patterns for
residents and business alike.

6 | inland TRAVELER ISSUE 01.11 THE BEST TRAVEL MAGAZINE

 FRI
MAY

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THE BEST TRAVEL MAGAZINE ISSUE 01.11
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inland TRAVELER | 7
discover ontario

L ike many cities in California, Ontario has a long history

in agriculture. For generations, Ontario has been home
to dairies, orange and olive groves and vineyards. The Greater
Ontario area is home to California’s oldest winery, established
in 1839, with the Cucamonga Valley’s earliest vines being
planted in 1838.

Today, Ontario is a growing city with more than 170,000

residents in one of the largest and fastest growing counties
in the nation. The city is well on its way to being the Global
Gateway in Southern California with 3.8 million square feet of
office space under development, and is home to the 15th largest
cargo airport in North America. The Ontario area is also the
apex of three major freeways making access to other popular
Southern California attractions easy to reach. Positioned
between Los Angeles and Palm Springs, Ontario has over 30
name brand hotels from full-service to economy, and located
just two blocks from the convention center is the traveler-
friendly LA/Ontario International Airport (ONT), which
offers more than 250 daily flights on most major airlines.

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8 | inland TRAVELER ISSUE 01.11 THE BEST TRAVEL MAGAZINE

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discover murrieta

N estled in the mountains

just 60 miles north
of Downtown San Diego,
adjacent Santa Rosa Plateau
Ecological Reserve offers
over 8000 acres of woodlands
Murrieta is located in the midst and riparian wetlands and
of one of California’s fastest maintains the California that
growing regions. Known for the Spanish missionaries first
its natural beauty, Murrieta saw. Murrieta is the home to
offers a very attractive quality some of the finest golf courses
of life for individuals and in the country, including Bear
families. Due to its location Creek Golf Course designed by
at the confluence of I-15 and Jack Nicklaus and the Robert
I-215 and close proximity to Trent Jones Sr.-designed SCGA
San Diego, Orange County and course.
LA/Ontario Airports, it is also
an ideal home for high technology companies who can benefit There are more than 20 wineries in the Murrieta/Temecula
from its outstanding quality of life.. Murrieta’s very safe, family- Valley and Murrieta holds its Tour de Murrieta cycling race each
oriented environment and well educated work force combine to year in March. The Murrieta Repertory Theatre is an ensemble
make Murrieta an ideal place to live, work and play. of seasoned artists, committed to providing award-winning,
creative and professional quality programs that combine classical,
With the Pacific Ocean only 20 miles away, Murrieta’s climate contemporary and new theatrical works. Music lovers will enjoy
benefits from the cool marine air which flows through a gap the Concerts in the Park on Saturday Evenings in July and August
in the mountains. Murrieta has over 36 parks encompassing at the Town Square Amphitheatre next to the new Public Library
hundreds of acres, along with miles of hiking and riding trails. The and City Hall.

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in Historic Downtown Murrieta

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10 | inland TRAVELER ISSUE 01.11 THE BEST TRAVEL MAGAZINE

 ALL DAY PASS! ENJOY UNLIMITED USE OF:
Go-Karts (min 56") Rookie Go-Karts (40"- 58")
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24950 Madison Ave • Murrieta, CA 92562
PH: 951.696.9696 • FAX: 951.696.9666
www.MulliganFun.com

Old Town Murrieta beauty, reasonably priced housing (by California standards) and
equal opportunity to embrace the past and continue to expand.
Murrieta’s population has continued to increase.
by Carly Santiago

D riving around Murrieta today, past the housing tracks and

ranches, the rich history of the once small town’s humble
beginnings is, at times, overlooked by present day residents. From
what began as Juan Murrieta’s $52,000 purchase and a stop on
the southern transcontinental route for the California Southern
Railroad Company back in the 1800s, the city of Murrieta has
successful encapsulated, in present time, the qualities of a thriving
and booming community. It is filled with distinguished schools,
exuberant recreation, accomplished medical facilities with
increasing employment prospects as well as one of the lowest crime
rates in Southern California, welcoming visitors and drawing in
potential residents and businesses.
In 1873, Juan Murrieta, a sheep rancher immigrant from Spain who
had been beckoned by the appeal of the “plentiful” grasses and the
natural beauty of the area, invested money at a dollar an acre in the
hopes of beginning a place in which he could develop his land into
a community. From then, the city itself, has continued to find ways
of positioning itself in order to obtain success. It is now located on
the convergence of Interstates 15 and 215, huddled against the Santa
Rosa Plateau.
On the first of July 1991, with already 24,000 people residing within
Murrieta, it officially became a town. By 2005, approximately 85,000
people had migrated to the community drawn in by the scenic
Downtown Murrieta is a place in which familiar faces and friendly
businesses combine to build a “small town feel”. It is comforting to
run into recognizable friends and neighbors to catch up on the latest
news in local sporting events or promote the most recent sales. The
feelings from this aspect of Downtown Murrieta add to the city’s
appeal for both visitors and residents.
The recently named Murrieta Equestrian Ranch, encompassing 22
acres and located a few blocks south of Historic Downtown, is sure
to draw a larger crowd to the area while simultaneously expanding
the downtown area. The planners of the development imagined
attractive charm with the harmonic combination of shops,
restaurants, and hotels beside Washington Avenue and Ivy Street.
New buildings have already begun to sprout up creating new
opportunities for shoppers on a mission as well as those strolling
by on a pleasant afternoon in order to enjoy the atmosphere and
ambiance of this new part of the community.
Take a drive through Murrieta and you will find a town flourishing
with the excitement of growth and vibrancy of an expanding
population set in motion by the respect of tradition commonly
forgotten in other cities. It is becoming more and more common to
discover and uplift the vision Juan Murrieta and other prominent
contributors towards the city had foreseen long ago.

THE BEST TRAVEL MAGAZINE ISSUE 01.11 inland TRAVELER | 11

 The Jewel Of The
Inland Empire

small waste areas adorned with pampas grass bushes and other
by Audra Merrell native vegetation that enhance the natural beauty and wildlife

T
ake an easy drive into the quiet San Jacinto Valley to the
southern fringe of Hemet and you will find the gem of
the Inland Empire, Diamond Valley Golf. Situated in
West Riverside County, the course is easily accessible from San
Diego, Orange, Los Angeles, and San Bernardino Counties.
Because Hemet is close to Palm Springs, both share a similar
desert climate that makes for great year-round golf. Set amid
450 acres of the San Jacinto Mountains, Diamond Valley is
truly an oasis; there are no homes or developments along its
perimeter. The natural landscape and rolling terrain offer a
stunning backdrop to lush fairways, impeccable greens and
serene waterscapes lined with native plants and grasses.
that abound at Diamond Valley.
This peaceful 18-hole course features six sets of tee markers,
allowing golfers of all skill levels a competitive edge. Expert
golfers will appreciate the length and challenges offered at
Diamond Valley. The Black Tees, at 6801 yards, carry a slope of
138 with a course rating of 73.6. Regular golfers can play from
Blue and White Tees that offer just as much challenge. The Red
Tees are rated both for men and women. Ladies first, the rating is
72.3 with a slope of 128. Green and Gold Tees offer even shorter
tee box options, perfect for seniors. New players may also choose
to play these tees in order to hone their developing skills.
Before or after your round, be sure to save room for a cold
beverage and some great food in the snack bar. On course,
the cart girl offers quality sandwiches, cigars and beverages at

Play… affordable prices.

Designed by Art Magnuson and Bill Martin in 1999, Diamond

Valley offers interesting features allowing for creativity with
Golf Club
your navigation skills to choose your approach off the tees.
Two of the four Par 3 holes are shots over water. Hole #17, with
its picturesque waterfall, is generally considered the signature
hole. Hole #12, at 611 yards from the tips, features a 2-acre
waste area along the left side of the fairway. Several holes have

12 | inland TRAVELER ISSUE 01.11 THE BEST TRAVEL MAGAZINE

 Practice…
Diamond Valley Golf Club has a well rounded practice area
that includes an all-grass driving range, a sizable bunker, and
Golf Club
a large putting green. Players are encouraged to arrive early, so
plan to give yourself time to warm up and leave all your not-
so-great shots behind.
Learning the game of golf and perfecting a swing is a lifelong
journey made easier with professional instruction. Diamond
Valley Golf Club is proud to have lifetime PGA professional,
Doug McDonald on their teaching staff. He has a solid reputation
for teaching valuable techniques that have improved the game for
more than 10,000 players. McDonald and former PGA member
Dave New, provide private instruction by appointment.
THE BEST TRAVEL MAGAZINE
Plan…
Diamond Valley frequently hosts tournament events for local
high schools and a variety of charities. In 2011, Diamond Valley
Golf Club
will be the site of Conference Finals for the NCAA Division
II Colleges of Southern California. In addition to the Ramona
Bowl Charity Classic, the course will also host the first event
for the Disabled Golfers Learning Foundation. This event raises
funds to connect our veterans and other people with physical
limitations to the joy of golf.
If you are considering a golf tournament or social event of any
size, the experienced staff will guide you through the planning,
preparation and execution to ensure it is a success. A large
pavilion at the clubhouse offers sweeping views of the course,
the valley, and surrounding mountains. This comfortable venue
offers a casual ambiance that can easily be dressed up for more
formal affairs.
Weekly events hosted by Diamond Valley Men›s and Women’s
Clubs provide a friendly competitive atmosphere. All club
members receive discounts on green fees and merchandise in
the pro shop.
Book tee times by phoning the pro shop or visit their website
where you may book tee times directly, with discounts applied
at check-in. Other on-line reservation sources exist as well.
Reservations may be made up to seven days in advance.
Come out and enjoy golf with Red-tailed Hawks soaring above
the lush green fairways, all with the background of the snow-
capped San Jacinto and San Bernardino mountains. What a
view! What a course!
Diamond Valley Golf Club
31220 Sage Road • Hemet, CA 92543
(951) 767-0828 • www.diamondvalleygolf.net
ISSUE 01.11 inland TRAVELER | 13
 inland
TRAVELER
AREA MAP
destination riverside
By Natasha Ferguson
R iverside is a progressive city whose economic climate has
achieved tremendous growth over the years and is known
as “The City of Arts and Innovation.” Riverside prides itself on
its rich history and culture with historical landmarks like the
Mission Inn Hotel & Spa. Arts and culture abound with a host
of art galleries and museums, performing art venues, and year
round family events making it a popular travel destination for
many tourists.
A UNIQUE SHOPPING EXPERIENCE
For people who prefer to shy away from the hustle and bustle
of suburban malls, downtown Riverside has many unique
shopping choices. Antiques and fine furnishings, bookstores,
clothing and accessory shops from trendy to conservative,
floral shops and more, are some of the experiences you will find
in downtown Riverside.
BASK IN THE HISTORY
Take a 75 minute tour of the beautiful Spanish-style Mission Inn
Hotel & Spa led by Mission Inn Museum docents and see the
massive collection of bells that founder Frank Miller collected.
The tours are $12 per person and group rates are also available.
The Mission Inn Museum is located at 3696 Main Street in
Riverside. In addition to the Mission Inn tour, visitors can
pick up a copy of the Historical Riverside Downtown Walking
Guide and take a self guided tour of 25 historic landmarks, or
contact the Mission Inn Museum at 951-788-9556, or Riverside
Metropolitan Museum at 951-826-5273 to schedule a docent-
led tour.
PAMPER YOURSELF
Kelly’s Spa located at the Mission Inn Hotel & Spa caters to their
customers with a broad range of treatments from head to toe.
Body wraps, exfoliates, waxing, therapeutic baths, heated stone
16 | inland TRAVELER ISSUE 01.11
therapy, aromatherapy and facials
will appeal to all of your senses in
this pleasant aesthetic atmosphere.
A partial list of other upscale spas
and salons, as well as health and
fitness establishments include:
Bello Salon, Curves, John Michael, LeMongeon, Manhattans of
Riverside, Oscar Capelli, Spiritus Yoga and Spa, Studio DeJon,
and more.
PLAN A ‘STAYCATION’
You can break away from your everyday doldrum with a
weekend getaway close to home. The Mission Inn Hotel &
Spa is a historic hotel with 239 hotel rooms. There are four
restaurants, a Presidential Lounge, a new bar ‘54° at Duanes’,
Casey’s Cupcakes, and Kelly’s Spa. The Marriott Riverside
has regular rooms and suites including standard suites with
jacuzzi tubs, one-bedroom suites with separate living areas,
and a luxurious presidential suite. In addition, the Marriott
has delicious Italian cuisine at Olio Ristoranté, and Martini’s
Lounge has a piano bar and serves over 100 different martinis.
ENJOY THE ARTS WALK
Every first Thursday of the month become a part of the pulse at
Riverside Arts Walk where over 20 participating art galleries,
museums and library showcase art in different mediums (visit
RiversideCulturalConsortium.org).
ENJOY THE RICH CULINARY EXPERIENCE
Visitors can taste flavors from around the world with a wide
choice of restaurants ranging from American, Japanese fusion,
fine Italian, Cajun/Creole, Kosher deli sandwiches, and
THE BEST TRAVEL MAGAZINE
finger-licking barbecue. Libations, nightlife and
live entertainment are also available at various
locations throughout downtown.

SEE A HIT PERFORMANCE

The newly renovated Fox Performing Arts Center
is one of Riverside’s most treasured landmarks.
Broadway comes to Riverside with a series of hit
musicals all year round including the upcoming
Legally Blonde The Musical, March 18-20, 2011
(broadwayinriverside.com). Visit foxriversidelive. treasure hunting in
downtown antique stores.
com for a full list of upcoming shows. Additional
performing arts venues include Performance
with a tour of the
Riverside/Landis Performing Arts Center at gracious Mission Inn.
Riverside City College (performanceriverside.
org) and Riverside Community Players
(RiversideCommunityPlayers.com).

at Pacific Cabin Sushi.

(Try the volcano roll!)

at Crescent Jewell
Restaurant and Lounge.

with an overnight at the

incomparable Mission Inn.

PERUSE THE DOWNTOWN FARMERS MARKET

Vendors selling fresh produce including organic
fruits and vegetables, fresh-cut flowers, specialty
items such as breads, hummus, homemade
honey, and cheeses are at Downtown Farmers
Market every Saturday from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. on
Main between 5th and 6th streets. Riverside
Downtown Partnership, a non-profit organization
that manages and promotes downtown Riverside
produces a comprehensive Pocket and Dining
Guide with a full list of shopping and dining
choices, as well as a Historical Riverside
Downtown Walking Guide. For more information Downtown Riverside is an oasis of authenticity. Spend a
call 951-781-7335 or visit RiversideDowntown. staycation weekend. Stroll, shop, dine, and be pampered.
org. For things to do and see in the Inland Riverside is the urban getaway right next door.
Empire visit InlandArts.com Riverside is an
oasis of authenticity with real places, real history,
real cuisine and real discoveries. It’s the urban
getaway…right next door!
3666 University Ave., Ste. 100 951.781.7335
www.RiversideDowntown.org

THE BEST TRAVEL MAGAZINE ISSUE 01.11 inland TRAVELER | 17

discover lake elsinore
V isitors to Lake Elsinore will discover a perfect climate, blue
sky, clean air, worldfamous thermal winds for aerial sports
and, our crowning jewel, a sparkling 3,300 acre recreational lake
for exciting water sports. All of this is set against the spectacular
Ortega Mountains and Cleveland National Forest, providing
opportunities for hiking, biking, birdwatching or just plain
relaxing in the beauty that abounds in this outdoor recreation
destination. Extreme sports such as skydiving, hang-gliding and
mountain biking are an everyday occurrence in Lake Elsinore.

If shopping is your game, we have that, too! The Lake Elsinore

Outlets provides nearly 100 stores offering top brand-name
merchandise at extraordinary values. Perhaps you would prefer
to stroll the historic downtown district and search for rare finds
in the numerous antique shops or stop and have a bite to eat at
one of the many fine restaurants. Lake Elsinore’s over 100-year-
old, historically refurbished downtown district, with its antique
shops, museum, cozy restaurants and quaint shops framed with
colorful window canopies and vintage street lamps, reflects the
charm reminiscent of the 1920s.

Have a question? Please contact Lake Elsinore Visitors

Bureau, 132 West Graham Avenue, Lake Elsinore, CA 92530.
Call 951-245-8848, fax 951-245-9127 or send an email to
info@lakeelsinorechamber.com.

18 | inland TRAVELER ISSUE 01.11 THE BEST TRAVEL MAGAZINE


Skydive Elsinore is located at
20701 Cereal St in Lake Elsinore.
951-245-9939
or visit them on the web at
www.skydiveelsinore.com
THE BEST TRAVEL MAGAZINE
W e’ve all seen it while driving up or down the 15 freeway
around Lake Elsinore - the tiny blossoms of color
floating gently down to earth, spinning coolly as they reach
the ground. Since 1959, Skydive Elsinore has been a
destination for jumpers of all ages and skill levels. In
fact, it is the longest-running drop zone in North
America.
Recently, I had the opportunity to do an
“observer flight” at Skydive Elsinore. While
being strapped into my emergency parachute,
I was asked if I was sure I didn’t want to jump.
Um, no thanks. But the gentleman tightening the
gear on my chute told me that he’s been jumping
for ten years, and there is nothing quite like it -
once you’ve jumped, nothing else quite lives up
to the experience. The pilot, Donnie, made it clear
jumping is not for him - but it’s obvious he loves his
job, and I enjoyed the ride. Watching the jumpers
fly out the door made me very glad I had a nice
tight seatbelt, although the energy and excitement
aboard the aircraft was palpable.
Melanie Curtis, the Marketing and Event Coordinator,
is also a competitive skydiver and has logged over
7,000 dives. Eighteen years old when she completed
her first jump, Melanie describes the experience as
“pure freedom.” She calls it a literal leap of faith and a
conquering of one’s fears.
So who jumps? There is a broad variety of people that can be
found on the drop zone. You see the first-timers, possibly
doing a tandem jump (strapped to an experienced diver), or
the “fun-jumpers” on the weekends, all the way to professional
and competitive divers. Melissa, a trainer and life coach, jumps
on average 30 times per week. That’s a lot of adrenaline. Those
passionate about skydiving want it known as a sport and not
just a recreational pastime. It is a competitive community full of
participants from many different disciplines - canopy piloting
and formation flying, for example. With so many styles and
techniques, one can become a student again and again.
For those who prefer to go solo on their first jump, Skydive
Elsinore offers a course called Accelerated Freefall. This
program teaches you everything you need to know to jump
safely without going tandem. In any instance, photos and
video of your first jump are a must, and are available to add
to your jump package.
Jumping out of a perfectly good aircraft at 13,000 feet isn’t for
everyone. But the long-term success of Skydive Elsinore and
the committed community of people who regularly jump and
compete show me that the 50-plus seconds of silent freefall must
be worth it.
ISSUE 01.11 inland TRAVELER | 19
discover san bernardino

S an Bernardino is the 18th-largest city in California, and the 99th-largest in the United States. It is also one of the oldest cities
in the State, dating far prior to California’s admission to the Union in 1850. The City’s location is central to air, freeway and rail
transit, making it a hub for transportation of goods around the country. California State University - San Bernardino is located in
the northern portion of the city, and opportunities for cultural enrichment as well as entertainment abound.

CALIFORNIA THEATRE NATIONAL ORANGE SHOW ROBERT V. FULLERTON

FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS EVENTS CENTER ART MUSEUM
562 W. 4th Street www.nosevents.com On the campus of
(909) 885-5152 Swap Meet every Sunday Cal State San Bernardino
7am - 4pm www.museum.csusb.edu
Blues Bros. Revue - 3/25-3/27/11
INLAND EMPIRE 66’ERS ORIGINAL MCDONALD’S
Young Frankenstein - 4/6-4/7/11 Anaheim Angels Affiliate LOCATION / RTE. 66 MUSEUM
Minor League Baseball Site of the original McDonald’s,
www.ie66ers.com now two museums in one.
CATS! 4/26-4/27/11 Rte. 66 as well as extensive
McDonald’s Memorabilia
Blue Man Group 5/19-5/22/11 1398 N. E St.

San Bernardino is also the “gateway” to the San Bernardino Mountains, and is unique like most of the Inland Empire in its
proximity to versatile day excursion. You can be standing up to your ankles in the Pacific Ocean after breakfast, and by that
afternoon be snowboarding at 7,000 feet.

20 | inland TRAVELER ISSUE 01.11 THE BEST TRAVEL MAGAZINE

 discover moreno valley
MORENO VALLEY:
WHERE DREAMS SOAR

I f you want to be in the center of all that Southern California

has to offer, Moreno Valley, CA is the smart place to be, a
growing city of nearly 200,000 people, Moreno Valley is the
fourth largest city in the Inland Empire. The 50 square- mile city
is nestled within rugged foothills with majestic views of the San
Gorgonio, San Bernardino and San Jacinto mountains. Located
at the junction of two of Southern California’s major highways,
Moreno Valley’s visitors can fill their days visiting popular
destinations within the Inland Empire or hitting the highlights
from California’s coast to the desert and mountain areas.

Moreno Valley has plenty to see and do. You won’t want to miss
a visit to March Field Air Museum. A must-see for aviation
enthusiasts, March Field Air Museum serves as home to over
60 historic aircraft and many displays relating to the history of
March Air Reserve Base. Visitors can also view modern military
aircraft landings and take offs. Inside the Museum, visitors find
thousands of artifacts on display covering the years from 1918
to the present. facility offers players a unique and masterful blend of three 18-
hole combinations. Impeccable playing conditions, dramatic
If the great outdoors peak your interest Moreno Valley has elevations and views that are remarkable define this wonderful
cultivated a successful multi-use trail system for hiking, golf facility.
mountain biking, and equestrians. Popular hikes include the
trek to the summit of Box Springs Mountain, which overlooks Moreno Valley provides quality accommodations suitable for
the Inland Empire and the big “M” above the city. Views extend any budget. Dining and shopping options abound, providing
across Southern California and on clear days the panoramic view convenient access to food and fun. Moreno Valley is home to
is sublime. Another popular trail is one that leads to Terri Peak, Chicago Pasta House, voted the #1 Stuffed Pizza in So Cal by
the highest point separating Moreno Valley and Lake Perris. The KABC’s Elmer Dills! For a one-stop shopping trip that the entire
summit is isolated and there are no higher mountains anywhere family will enjoy, check out the Moreno Valley Mall at TownGate
in the vicinity, making the view from the top one of the best. for over one million square feet of shopping options.

Located at the base of Mt. Russell, Moreno Valley Ranch Golf With local fun and attractions and easy access to all that Southern
Club is a natural and rugged setting providing a back drop for California has to offer, Moreno Valley is a great place to start
great golf and great sight seeing. The Ranch golf course was your day.
designed by renowned architect Pete Dye, the 27 hole golf

THE BEST TRAVEL MAGAZINE ISSUE 01.11 inland TRAVELER | 21

discover temecula / wine country

22 | inland TRAVELER ISSUE 01.11 THE BEST TRAVEL MAGAZINE

 Remember...
Revisit...
Rediscover...

tasting room & gift shop lunch daily

open daily 11am - 4pm

special events, dinner

weddings & wine club friday & saturday

10% o f f
Not valid with any other offer
excludes holidays & happy hour. expires 2/28/2011

32720 rancho california road • temecula, ca 92591

Gourmet Designs Photography 951.676.4001 • callawaywinery.com

• Hancrafted Wines
• Exclusive Wine Club
• Weddings & Events
• Picnic Area
• Summer Concert Series

Known for Big Reds

Mention “Country Review” and
receive 2 for 1WineTasting. Limited time offer.
Open Daily 10am-5pm - wienscellars.com - Temecula Valley - 951.694.9892
discover old town temecula

OLD TOWN TEMECULA

discovery around every turn. Here you will find an
amazing array of specialty stores, exclusive boutiques, art
galleries and a myriad of antiques stores, which together
with whimsical and historical features that make Old
Town Temecula what it is.
T his summer, take a vacation in your own back yard
and discover Temecula, known for spectacular beauty,
history, terrific shopping, outstanding restaurants and
Old Town Temecula boasts a variety of quality
entertainment venues, the renowned Old Town Temecula
year-round entertainment and recreation for the entire
Community Theatre provides an intimate yet upbeat
family!
theatrical setting, and many of the local restaurants also
provide informal venues for musical bands, and other
The Old Town district blends historic buildings with over
events.
640 antique dealers, unique shopping, and restaurants. Old
Town Temecula is the site of many special events including
Old Town is also a thriving business community, proud
car shows, semi-annual Rod Runs, Western Days, and
of its history and there are ongoing plans for its continued
summer weekend entertainment. Every Saturday, visit
restoration, development and improvement.
the popular Farmer’s Market which offers fresh produce,
flowers, and crafts. Tour the Temecula Valley Museum
and discover the city’s historical treasures, or enjoy the
Imagination Workshop Children’s Museum.

Old Town Temecula has been around since 1882

when the California Railroad came through the
valley and local investors created the first Bank.
Old Town was the site of the Butterfield Overland
Stagecoach Shop and California’s first inland post
office. From the wooden boardwalks and shops
to the vast amount of antique stores, history buffs
and window shoppers take a step back in time when
visiting Old Town Temecula. The storefronts have
stayed true to the historic golden west period.

In Old Town Temecula you’ll find that elusive piece of

art you’ve been looking for, that unusual and tasteful
gift for the person who has everything. Next, take in a
show and finish a perfect day with a wonderful meal at
one of the many independent restaurants. When it’s time
to dine, an array of dining experiences will fit any taste
or budget.

If it’s shopping you’re looking for Old Town has many

quaint specialty boutiques throughout. Enjoy the sense of
adventure and wonderment as you take time to explore
Old Town Temecula’s many alleyways with a new exciting

24 | inland TRAVELER ISSUE 01.11 THE BEST TRAVEL MAGAZINE

 Temecula
Executive Wine Tours

For more information on things to

do in Temecula, go to:

Call Today For Rates & Reservations:

951-760-9336
(951) 491-6085 www.AVTOTLimo.com
info@temeculacvb.com
TCP 26303-A
www.temeculacvb.com
THE BEST TRAVEL MAGAZINE ISSUE 01.11 inland TRAVELER | 25
discover north county san diego
A GEM TIME
GOOD
There are bucket loads of treasure in them thar’ hills south of Temecula.
That’s treasure with a capital T as in tourmalines.
D
on’t worry about packing in any pickaxes and hard
hats, though. After an easy drive south from Temecula
to Gems of Pala, an outlet of the still-working Stewart
Mine’s operations located on the Pala Reservation, day trippers
and starry-eyed prospectors don’t even have to break a sweat
during their sift-and-screen search of the semiprecious gems.
Not only that, the best treasure of all may be the loads of fun that
the whole family can dig into, too!
Open to the public on weekends, the laid-back and rustic Gems
of Pala outpost, country store and museum contain large piles of
virgin mine “tailings” and material from the maze of miles-long
tunnels that makes up the privately-owned and nearby Stewart
tourmaline mine. For $20 to shovel and fill a bucket, visitors can
purchase buckets of the underground stuff to sift through—via
screens, trays, and coffee cans— in their hunt for green, blue,
black and the highly-coveted pink tourmalines.
It usually takes about two hours to go through a five-gallon
bucket, says Gems of Pala proprietor and mining engineer Blue
Sheppard, but small treasures and nice-sized specimens can be
found in the tailings.
“Everybody usually finds something, and that makes the search
for tourmalines a lot of fun. People really get into it,” said
Sheppard, who himself caught the mining bug when he was eight
years old and has worked in mines all over the world since 1967.
“One of the best stories we have is when a nine-year-old boy found
such a big tourmaline here that he was able to create a college fund
when he sold it, and he’s a civil engineer today,” he said.
According to Sheppard, the Stewart Mine has a rich history
dating back to the days just after the California Gold Rush when
26 | inland TRAVELER ISSUE 01.11
By Sandra Shrader
luckless forty-niners made several expeditions in Riverside and
San Diego Counties. By the late 19th century, the mine employed
128 people, and was known as the largest pegmatite-mining
operation in U.S. history. Pegmatite minerals contain lepidolite,
and, in turn, from that lithium can be extracted. This was in
great demand at that time for its commercial uses in ceramics
and grease.
But it’s the lepidolite that also contains the sprays of and sprinkles
of tourmaline, and, beginning in the 1890s, the Stewart Mine’s
output of the gorgeous gems, rather than lithium, increased
after Tzu Hsi, the dowager empress of China, got the fever for
the pink beauties. The Chinese court subsidized all of the San
Diego County tourmaline mining for 30 years until the death of
the empress in 1908. The Stewart Mine shut down for the next
60 years until it reopened under private ownership in the 1970s.
Created one hundred million years ago, gem quality pink
tourmaline gemstones are five times as rare as gem diamonds
and over ten times more valuable than pure gold, said Sheppard.
But, for him, mining and prospecting and even sifting through
mine tailings is more than being just about the money.
“Yes, of course, it’s great to dream about finding treasure, and it’s
a real thrill when you do,” says the mining aficionado, who also
can enthrall an audience for hours with a trove of wild stories
about his own mining experiences from the Arctic to Zimbabwe.
“But it’s also more spiritual than that. We need to remember that
life is about being attuned to and discovering what’s right under
our feet, too!”
Gems of Pala is located 7.2 miles on Hwy. 76 east of I-15. Space is limited and
telephone reservations are required one week in advance for gem buckets, and
public sifts are available 10:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays
only. Buckets are $20 each, cash only. Call 760-742-1356 or visit www.
mmmgems.com for reservations and information.
THE BEST TRAVEL MAGAZINE
By Judy Contreras
O
Oceanside
nly an hour away from Temecula is just the place to enjoy
perfect cool weather along with great activities. Whether
you want a getaway just to relax and soak up the sun or
are looking for some new adventures, Oceanside has it all for the
whole family.
A good way to start your morning is right on Highway 101 as
you enter into town. 101 Café has a good breakfast and lots
of history. Established in 1928 as a 20-seat diner, it is the West
Coast’s oldest café. If you are really lucky you will run into one
of the owners, John Daley, who has lived in the area all of his life
and is the local historian.
After breakfast, with three and a half miles of wide sandy
beaches, there are plenty of choices to relax in the sun. Known
for its legendary surf conditions, Pier View South beach is
where all of the international and local surf competitions are
held throughout the summer. It has all the amenities including
covered picnic tables, fire rings and barbeques and is within
walking distance to downtown shops and restaurants.
Between Pier View North and South beaches on Pacific Street is
Oceanside Pier with the distinction as the longest wooden pier
in California. It’s perfect for a nice leisurely walk while enjoying
the amazing coastline view.
Oceanside Harbor lies at the northern end of town and offers a
variety of water sports including fishing excursions, kayak and
small boat rentals, and sailing charters. Captain Les George
of Pacific Coast Sail Charters has over 30 years of experience
and offers custom tailored trips for up to six people. His boat,
Obsession, is a beautiful 39-foot ocean going sailing yacht with all
of the comforts and safety equipment. You can sit back and enjoy
the ride or jump in and learn to sail the boat. On the south side
of the harbor is a Cape Cod style village with shops, restaurants
and a lighthouse. It is a good place to pick up a souvenir or sit
and watch the boats go by. At the end of the northern harbor
is Oceanside Marina Suites and if you are planning to stay
THE BEST TRAVEL MAGAZINE
Photo courtesy of Myles McGuinness
overnight, it’s a beautiful property with marina and ocean views.
All the rooms are suites with fully equipped kitchens and private
patios. A shuttle boat runs during the summer taking guests
around the marina and beach area.
Dinner can be a special occasion with a big selection of fantastic
restaurants. One of the top choices is 333 Pacific; an upscale
restaurant with beautiful views of the pier and especially the sunset
at the end of a perfect day. Chef Brian Hyre has put together a
well rounded menu specializing in steak and fresh seafood dishes.
Oceanside has regular events all year long including a Sunset
Market on Thursday nights with music, dining, farm-fresh
produce and shopping. The Historic Sunshine Brooks Theatre
has original productions including the Playwriting Festival
Summer Shorts.
Whether you want one day or a few days to get out of the heat of
the summer to explore a picturesque, relaxed destination close to
home, take the easy drive to beautiful Oceanside and enjoy some
fun in the sun.
Visitors Center Oceanside Marina Suites
928 North Coast Highway 2008 Harbor Drive North
(760) 721-1101 (760) 722-1561
California Surf Museum 333 Pacific
312 Pier View Way 333 North Pacific
(760) 721-6876 (760) 433-3333
Oceanside Museum of Art Sunset Market
704 Pier View Way Tremont & Pier View Way
(760) 435-3720 (760) 967-7915
Pacific Coast Sail Charters Sunshine Brooks Theatre
(760) 212-2963 217 North Coast Highway
www.pacificcoastsail.com (760) 529-9140
ISSUE 01.11 inland TRAVELER | 27
 Come for our wines,
stay for the
experience...

Temecula Valley
Southern California’s
Wine Country

Tour and Taste Temecula Valley Wine Country

Award-winning wines at over 30 wineries
Open daily to serve you

800.801.wine • temeculawines.org
 Now In Livin g Color!

Today’s Lake Arrowhead is just

the way you remembered it,
Gen era tion s of Fun !
but so much more! Come up
for awesome shopping, dining,
events and entertainment all
year round! Check out our
website for upcoming events!

LakeArrowheadVillage.com