Who says vacations have to be expensive? You can have a great time in California on a very limited budget—just by taking advantage of great deals and free attractions.

Free Map, Free View!
Pt Reyes offers over 140 miles of hiking trails, which will take you through one of the United States’ most popular wilderness reserves. You get a free map, and free entrance—and you can stay as long as you want!

You can explore different types of terrain, walk under trees that have stood for centuries, sit in the shade on a hill and see nothing but glorious Nature all around you. Some people spend thousands of dollars to stay in an overpriced retreat. Here, you get the real thing—and the only thing you have to “spend” is your time.

Look for other nature destinations, like Lake Sonoma and Petrified Forest in Calistoga. Like Pt Reyes, you get great scenery, fresh air, and the chance to pack an inexpensive picnic lunch and spend the whole afternoon just having fun with your family. Doesn’t get much sweeter (and cheaper) than this. Go to: http://www.ptreyes.com

Go on a Scenic Air Tour
Aerial tours are one of the most unique and unforgettable ways of seeing hidden California. Fly over the valleys and vineyards of Sonoma and Napa, soar near the Golden Gate Bridge, the famous island of Alcatraz, the Pacific Coast. Visit places accessible only by air on this once in a lifetime adventure.

You can even ask for a special photographic tour, or customized trips. All pilots are FAA certified, and can give an informed and interesting commentary on the region’s history, geography and ecosystems.

Visit http://www.sonomacountytravels.com/scenic-air-tours.php for more information.

Culture at a Fraction of the Cost
One day you’ll be able to go to the Louvre—but if a plane ticket to Paris is out of the question, try discovering local artistic talent, California’s Art Trails let you see the works of some of the state’s most promising artists.

Best of all, most museums don’t charge, and they even give discounts for children or the elderly. Try the Sonoma Country Gallery, near Santa Rosa’s Downtown Area (right on 529 Fifth Street). http://www.arttrails.org

All-In-One Destinations
Some places services like the Sonoma Mission Inn and Spa may seem a little expensive. But to get an accurate idea of the price, calculate the value of each service offered and the convenience of finding it all in one place.

For example, you get lodging, access to pampering services like massages and facials, golf and other recreational facilities, and a Jacuzzi in your room. That can actually be worth the extra cost, especially if you’re tired and not in the mood to go “attraction-hopping”.

Go to: http://www.http://www.fairmont.com/sonoma/

Get Good Prices on Your Airline Tickets
Plane fare is easily one of the biggest expenses in planning a vacation to California. So, it’s important to get a god deal. Try checking the rates and schedules at http://www.sonomacountytravels.com .

You’ll also find information on hotels and tours (don’t be afraid to email customer service with your questions—who knows, they may have a promo or a discount that hasn’t been posted on the site!). Other budget-saving tricks: booking your ticket on weekdays or off-season months.

While most people are aware of its vineyards and wine tours, or even the golden beaches and wilderness reserves that draw millions of visitors a year, there are quite a few facts that even locals miss.

Test your “Sonoma Quotient” with this quiz:

1. “Santa Rosa, Sonoma is the chosen spot of all the earth.” So said this man, who knew land like nobody else—having pioneered dozens of agricultural advances that spearheaded America’s farm industry and led to unique varieties of fruits, vegetables and flowers.

Who is the man that said that quote?

Answer: The man is Luther Burbank, an American botanist and horticulturist who lived from the 1850’s to the 1920’s. He helped developed over 800 plant strains and varieties, including he spineless cactus used to feed cattle, and the hybrid plumcot (plum and apricot).

He also “invented” the (more…)

Interview with founder Gary Starr

What is the most rewarding experience about traveling to Mendocino?
Mendocino is one of the most relaxing places in the USA. The Coast is beautiful and protected, the village is frozen in time.

Its great for anyone that needs a break from their daily routine, or a couple that wants a quick romantic get away.

What one piece of advice to save money would you give someone traveling o the Mendocino Coast?
Look for a place which has a kitchen facility since eating out can be rather pricey.

Book your room by calling (800) 955-MIST (6478)
View photos here: http://www.pacificmistinn.com