Big Little Vacation
Capitalizing on the popularity of the Emmy-winning HBO series Big Little Lies, Monterey County has compiled a road-trip itinerary of the picturesque seaside region where the show takes place, from Fisherman’s Wharf to Lovers Point Park. Public parental meltdowns and sinister sexual machinations not included. seemonterey.com
Putting the “Art” in Vallarta
Americans love Puerta Vallarta for its colonial flavor and dramatic coastline. For its modern design? Not so much. But the city is taking a step up in the world d’art with Hotel Amapa, a 55-room boutique hotel that will “showcase contemporary Mexican design” inspired by the work of Luis Barragan, according to a hotel spokesperson. Due to open next fall, the Amapa will be located proximity to the city’s Old Town restaurants and galleries and “away from the all-inclusives,” the spokesperson adds. Somewhat snootily. hotelamapa.com
Staycation Alert
After a $8.5 million reno, the Pointe Hilton Squaw Peak has to be considered one of the more intriguing in-town stays this summer. Upgrades include a top-down desert-contemporary redesign of the property’s 224 suites and a gussied-up lobby. And the views? Those hardly need improving. squawpeakhilton.com
Taste… Marana?
Famously home of the Ritz-Carlton Dove Mountain, the Gila County town of Marana is also making a bid for culinary prestige. The city’s Marana Gastronomy Tours promise food tastings, foodway seminars and flavors inspired by “gourmet foragers.” For rezzes, call Gray Line Tours at 520-622-8811 or email at info@graylinearizona.com. discovermarana.org
