valleyscare Also new to this edition is Le Merigot, 1740 Ocean Ave., Santa Monica (& 800/228-9290), a low- key l

Also new to this edition is Le Merigot, 1740 Ocean Ave., Santa Monica (& 800/228-9290), a low- key luxury hotel and spa right on the ocean. Package deals include convertible Porsche Boxster valleyscare or BMW Z4 Roadster rentals, surfing lessons, and full-session Swedish massages if you can drag yourself out of your Cloud Nine bed.

ITALIAN This sleek spot featuring Neapolitan-style pizza and cuisine from the Campania region has been so hot since its 2004 opening that on my first visit tables were filled with chefs and critics. valleyscare Even without the fanfare, it feels exciting to be at A16, which is named after the motorway that traverses the region. The divided space boasts a full bar up front, a larger dining valleyscare area and open kitchen in the back, and a wall of wines in between. But its secret weapon.

These days, traveler s checks are less necessary because most cities have 24hour ATMs that allow you to withdraw small amounts of cash as needed. However, keep in mind that you will likely be charged an ATM withdrawal fee if the bank is not your own, so if you re withdrawing money every day, you might be better off with traveler s checks provided that you don t mind showing identification every time you want to cash one.

In the Gold Country I ve added the Nevada City Inn, 760 Zion St. (& 800/977-8884), a charmer with cabinlike rooms and a park setting valleyscare with barbecues, picnic tables, and a horseshoe pit. If you can t afford the pricey Nevada City B&B experience, the simple, clean Holiday Lodge, 1221 E. Main St. (& 800/742-7125), has a pool, sauna, and even a 9-hole golf course across the street. In Grass Valley is the new 212 Bistro valleyscare at the Holbrooke, 212 W. Main St. (& 530/ 273-1353), the most authentic and nostalgic restaurant in town serving mesquite-smoked prime rib and Cajun-rubbed steaks.