If your kids are into surfing, any trips to southern Cali between now and March 31, 2008 should include a stop at the Aquarium of the Pacific in Long Beach. Until then the aquarium, which is home to over 500 species native to the Pacific Ocean, is featuring the Catch a Wave exhibition. Showcasing the surf culture is not the only aim of the exhibit; it also focuses on tsunamis, how sea life survives in crashing surf and other aspects of ocean waves.

Where to stay in Long Beach? The Westin Long Beach is one option worth considering. While it’s more of a business hotel than a vacation resort, the proximity to the aquarium - half a mile - make it a perfect spot especially for short stays. Their Aquarium of the Pacific Weekend Package includes:

• accommodations
• 2 adult & 2 child passes to the Aquarium of the Pacific
• American breakfast for 2 adults (kids eat free)

This 2-night package is valid on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays only. For more information or to book, call 866.716.8132 and ask for rate code AQUA1-10.

We’re sure you don’t really need a “package” to ignite a spark of romance; sometimes all that’s required is some alone time and the right setting to feel recharged, refreshed, and romantically renewed.

The Duchamp Hotel offers just such a setting, with a semi-secluded space that lovers of modern design will revel in. This contemporary hotel in Sonoma features only 6 cottage suites, arranged around a heated pool in landscaping that allows for wonderful views of the surrounding countryside. Each cottage offers the luxuries of a king-size bed, an oversized shower in a bathroom stocked with Aveda products, a fireplace, and the gift of a bottle of sparkling wine straight from the Duchamp Estate Winery itself. You’ll find other standards you’ve become accustomed: Hi-definition flat screen TV, CD player, and plush bathrobes and slippers. And not only will you have WiFi access here, but you’ll have it free - as it should be.

Travel + Leisure called it “a minimalist’s dream come true”, and the uncluttered design summons peace. Should you wish to venture out, shops and restaurants are merely minutes away, and the hotel will happily arrange for tasting at the Duchamp Estate Winery where, as you can guess, you’ll be treated with special care as a guest of the hotel. Sixty other wineries also dot the environs, giving you plenty of opportunities to refresh your cellar along with your spirit.

bedroom, copyright Duchamp Hotel

Rates begin at $350 per night per room, single or double occupancy, and include continental breakfast. There is a 2-night minimum for Friday or Saturday night arrivals. For more information on the Duchamp, click here or call the hotel at 800.431.9341

copyright The Cliffs Resort

This week’s luxury babymoon is located midway between Los Angeles and San Francisco at The Cliffs Resort, which sits atop a bluff overlooking the Pacific Ocean. The resort’s 165 rooms and suites offer ocean or mountain views, and guests get to enjoy a private beach in addition to the pool. You can set off from there on a wide variety of ocean activities (kayaking, sailing, etc) but landlubbers can also take in the area’s various sights and attractions, like the Atascadero Zoo or the Morro Bay Natural History Museum.

For parents-in-waiting, the And Baby Makes Three babymoon package offers:

• A massage for both Mom and Dad (1 hour each)
• A $50 dinner voucher
• An in-room movie
• Specially made Doc Burnstein’s Baby Brickle ice cream
• Breakfast in bed
• A welcome basket with diapers and a onesie
• A commemorative bottle of wine

A room at The Cliffs Resort, copyright The Cliffs Resort

This package is available until further notice. Rates are based on availability and start at $359 per night Sunday through Thursday; Friday and Saturday night stays start at $419 a night. To book, call the hotel directly at 800.826.5838 and ask for the And Baby Makes Three package.