Seascape or Ski-scape?

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We both wanted to get away for New Year’s to take a break and recharge our batteries. But as usual, we had a hard time deciding which way to go – ocean or mountains? In the end, we decided to do both!

CHIC (Pearl)

The warmth of the sun was calling my name, so Oahu, Hawai’i was my choice for our New Year's vacation. We enjoyed epic sunrises and sunsets, tropical plants, soothing ocean waters, Mai Tais, chocolate, pineapple, shaved ice, seafood — yes, lots of fresh seafood — and of course, turtles! That’s not to mention some of the friendliest people on the planet. Everyone you meet smiles back at you. It’s like a daily mood boost without meditation!

Geek (Kevin)

I prefer a winter wonderland escape, so after our island getaway, it was off to Jackson Hole, Wyoming, for snowboarding, snowmobiling, and mingling with wildlife (elk, bighorn sheep, bison, eagle, and swans were just a few that we spotted). And of course, we had to take a dip in the famous hot springs. With breathtaking nature like the Grand Tetons and Yellowstone National Park surrounding you, it’s a colorful cultural experience like no other!

Happiest Holidays!

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We want to wish you and your loved ones nothing but joy and happiness in the spirit of the season…

This year for our holiday card photo, we visited the El Capitan Hotel in the quaint and quiet Central Valley city of Merced and posed for some candid shots with their famous oversized nutcrackers. As you can see, we had a lot of fun with the photo shoot. 

We encourage you to stop by the El Capitan when you’re passing through town. And send us photos from your favorite holiday spots!

Chic vs. Geek: What’s on your summertime bucket list?

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It’s less than two weeks until Labor Day, and that means we only have a few fleeting moments left to savor the hot sunny days and abundance of opportunities for summer fun. So what’s on your agenda for this weekend?

CHIC (PEARL)

Since we’ve been stuck at home the past two years, I’ve become obsessed with bringing the great outdoors to our own backyard, and this list of “glamping” essentials from the Skimm really hit home. Maybe the Geek will invest in an insulated blanket if I get him the campfire beer caramelizer!

GEEK (KEVIN)

I’m all for a backyard camping adventure, as long as I can bring my grill. Give me a charbroiled burger, a seared steak, a crispy chicken breast, a blistered bratwurst… But it doesn’t stop with meats. Did you know you can grill dips and salads? Bon Appetit has those and 90 other recipes.

SummerFest returns to Downtown San José!

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One of the most exciting, diverse, and popular music festivals in the country kicks off today in Downtown San José. If you’re craving a heavy dose of live music in a variety of styles, delicious food from around the world, and a fun time outdoors, San José Jazz SummerFest is the place for you to be this weekend!

Learn more and get tickets here.

Happy International Beer Day!

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It’s the first Friday in August, which means it’s International Beer Day! Time to pour a pint of your favorite craft brew and celebrate the end of another week of the Dog Days of Summer.

The Bay Area is home to one of the most vibrant and creative craft brew scenes in the world, and there’s no shortage of taprooms and breweries within a quick road trip of wherever you live.

Here’s a list of local favorites from the SF Chronicle. It’s a little light on the South Bay, so if you need some tips, just ask the Geek!