Photo, right, Sycuan pow-wow dancer

East County News Service

San Diego’s inland region is home to 19 Native American tribes and 18 reservations—more than any other county in America. Local tribes trace their history here back more than 12,000 years.

Many of our local tribes welcome visitors to enjoy facilities on tribal lands, which are each sovereign nations. Attractions include casinos, hotels, golf courses, spas, concerts and other live entertainment, restaurants, an outlet shopping mall, restaurants, buffets and bars, a speedway, a paintball range, a museum, Native American pow-wows, a brewery, a vineyard, a dispensary, hiking trails, campgrounds, a water park, bike park, and a zip line.

All local tribal lands are in San Diego County’s inland areas, including northeast, southeast, and central east locations. View map here, or scroll to the bottom of this article.

Visas required for other European countries as well 

By Sam DiGiovanna

February 6, 2024 (San Diego) -- It’s always difficult to find that right Valentines Day gift. Chocolate and flowers are outdated. Look no further as this is the smoothest and healthiest gift to give this Valentines Day. 

Did you know smooth jazz has certain heath benefits? Along with it reported to lowering blood pressure, it is reported to stimulate the brain, help with chronic pain and illness and not to mention its great music for the soul.  So why wouldn’t you want to give the gift and love and well-being with a romantic weekend get-away at one of the most beautiful places in the Coachella Valley, at the Westin Rancho Mirage Golf Resort and Spa for you and that special person? Take a well deserved “staycation” with great food, golf, spa, and smooth jazz.

East County News Service

October 19, 2023 (Washington D.C.) – Today, the US State Department issued a worldwide travel advisory. “Due to increased tensions in various locations around the world, the potential for terrorist attacks, demonstrations or violent actions against U.S. citizens and interests, the Department of State advises U.S. citizens overseas to exercise increased caution.”

The State Department advises that U.S. citizens should stay alert in locations frequented by tourists; enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)) to receive security updates and make it easier to locate you in an emergency; and follow the Department of State on Facebook and Twitter.

There is also currently a do not travel advisory for Gaza and Lebanon, and a reconsider travel advisory for Israel and the West Bank.

The U.S. government has authorized the departure of family members of U.S. government personnel and some non-emergency personnel on a case-by-case basis from Mission Israel and Lebanon. 

“The eye never forgets what the heart has seen.” – African proverb

By Miriam Raftery

Photos and videos by Mark and Miriam Raftery; Video editing Jacob Pamus

September 7, 2023 (South Africa) -- Bugling elephants emerge on the trail ahead of our safari vehicle. A white cloud of sacred ibises ascends from shimmering lake to sky. An endangered black rhinoceros raises its horn, a striking sentinel on the savannah as dusk approaches. Silhouettes of thorny acacia trees sway in the breeze against a flaming orange African sunset.

These are memories that I will never forget. My recent journey through South Africa has, indeed, captured a part of my heart.

Source: San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance

Photo by Miriam Raftery: African elephant in South Africa

August 10,2023 (Escondido)-- San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance has announced construction is officially underway on what the organization says is the largest and most transformative project in the San Diego Zoo Safari Park’s 50-year history. The all-new Denny Sanford Elephant Valley will reimagine the heart of the Safari Park, turning the current elephant environment into a “dynamic savanna and a place of exploration,” according to the SDZWA media release.

Elephant Valley will give guests of all ages the opportunity to connect with elephants like never before in hopes of encouraging greater empathy, understanding, and appreciation of this majestic species—and igniting a passion for wildlife. Surrounded by elephants on multiple sides, including from below via an overhead walkway with views of the herd passing through, guests will learn about the crucial role elephants have as ecosystem engineers, and about their intricate social dynamics.

July 10, 2023 (San Diego’s East County) – Walt Meyer snapped these idyllic images at Cedar Creek Falls, perhaps the most beautiful place in San Diego’s East County.  The towering waterfall is situated in Cleveland National Forest near Julian.

“The water was pretty and cold, but refreshing after the hike,” Meyer says. “The falls were beautiful.”

A permit is required from the U.S. Forest Service for this very strenuous hike, where many have suffered heat exhaustion or injuries, requiring rescues, and several have perished.

Hiking on a clear day in winter, or when temperatures are cooler, is recommended--and be sure to carry plenty of water for the steep, mostly shadeless climb out of  this Eden-like oasis.

East County News Service

May 27, 2023 (San Diego) – Rail service resumes today from San Diego to Orange County, after emergency workers stabilized a hillside north of the San Clemente pier that scattered debris onto the rail right-of-way below last month.

Both Metrolink and Amtrak’s Pacific Surfliner are resuming service today,according to the Orange County Transportation Authority.

Find the latest updated train schedules at  metrolinktrains.com/service-update and  pacificsurfliner.com/alerts. 

The rail line is being reopened at the start of the Memorial Day Weekend, the unofficial start to summer and a popular time for travel by all modes, including rail.

East County News Service

March 17, 2023 (Borrego Springs) -- Anza-Borrego Desert State Park is beginning to have pockets of blooming wildflowers as well as cacti blooms. The Anza Borrego Foundation offers these tips for those planning to come view wildflowers:

1. Check the weather forecast before heading to the Park. Make sure to dress in layers and pack plenty of water.
2. Call the Wildflower Hotline at 760-767-4684 for weekly updates on the best viewing locations.
3. Print the most recent wildflower map at home. You can click here to find printable wildflower maps.
4. You can also get printed wildflower maps and viewing tips at the State Park store at 587 Palm Canyon Drive between 11 .am. and 3 p.m. Fridays through Sundays.
5. Check road conditions, including the surrounding mountains for any road closures or chain requirements.
6. Make sure to visit our State Park store, open daily 9 AM - 5 PM for any needed information or to purchase Park maps.
   

By Pennell Paugh

February 9, 2023 (San Diego) - Dr. Mary Travelbest’s guide book is full of tips and on the road recommendations. She helps you to get the best deals, pack light, and ensure your safety. She takes you through stages to develop a level of comfort with less and less structure. I’m still on stage one, but I now have the yen to plan a short trip.

Source: Explore Lompoc

November 16, 2022 (Lompoc, Calif.) -- Just in time for the holidays, step into relaxing, small town holiday charm with a weekend getaway in Lompoc! 

Celebrate the season with an activity calendar of family-friendly activities, specialty retail shopping, or go wine tasting at one of 30+ local wine tasting venues. After the fun, kick back for a relaxing evening at one of our comfy hotels.

Below is the destination's holiday happenings for the entire family:

By Miriam Raftery

Photos by Mark and Miriam Raftery

August 6, 2022 (Temecula) – If you’re looking for a relaxing weekend getaway in Southern California, enjoy an idyllic stay at Europa Village Winery Resort in Temecula. Nestled among rolling foothills and vineyards in Temecula’s wine country, Europa Village evokes the ambience of Old World Europe with elements of Spain, France, and coming soon, Italy.

By Miriam Raftery

May 14, 2022 (Jamul) – Many area residents have fond memories of visits to Jamul Haven, a five-star Victorian-era bed and breakfast inn where William and Marianne Roetzheim hosted overnight guests, as well as an adjacent home where they hosted special events and teas. Now the entire property near Steele Canyon Golf Course is up for sale, including both the historic and new homes, pool and more.