Ecologically diverse and sparsely populated, the Big Island of Hawaii is larger than all the other better-known Hawaiian islands combined. Rental cars allow visitors to discover wonders from snow-capped mountains to rainforests to deserts. Best known for Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, home to the longest volcanic eruption in recorded history, the Big Island caters both to those who crave adventure and to those looking for luxury, with the flotilla of decadent mega-resorts dotted along Kohala Coast.

Where white sand beaches and the glimmering, blue Pacific meet green, lush, volcanic peaks sits Kapalua, Maui. Located on Maui's northwest shore, Kapalua is exclusive, sophisticated and relaxing with activities like golf, tennis, water sports and tropical life that soothe the senses and the soul. Host to the renowned Kapalua Wine & Food Festival, nestled amongst Cook pines and surrounded by acres of pineapple, Kapalua is the perfect getaway. Access to breathtaking nature, outdoor activities and beach-life are why visitors love Kapalua holiday. After a day in the sun, experience an authentic Hawaiian Luau. Feast on traditional foods such as succulent kalua pig cooked in an earthen oven, poi or haupia (coconut pudding). Steep in Hawaiian tradition as you enjoy this long-lived Hawaiian festivity which includes time-honored Hawaiian music, hula dancing and fire dancing. From your accommodations, plan a trip to the Haleakala Volcano; explore the lush vegetation, birds and animals in this protected marine-life conservation district. Follow a walking trail through the paths of ancient lava rivers that have long since cooled And visit the caves, marveling at the stalactites, stalagmites and flowstone. Walking the winding trails of this ancient subterranean river of lava is safe and easy and an enjoyable activity for the entire family. Climb to the peak of the Haleakala volcano and take in the spectacular view of the crater from the rim, or be adventurous and climb down into the crater on foot or on horseback.

Modern myth has it that these days everyone in Los Angeles has written a screenplay, is writing a screenplay or is just visiting. For those in the latter category we offer a road map of ideas to help make a trip to this ultra-hip, ultra-happening haven easy, fun and exciting. While LA will always be associated with movies and movie stars, it is also a culturally vibrant city that boasts a range of interesting attractions from prestigious art museums and galleries to fabulous theatre, both well-known productions and smaller fringe shows. Art enthusiasts will be stunned by the extensive collections at the J. Paul Getty Center and the Los Angeles County Museum of Art. Visit the La Brea Tar Pits on Museum Row, then investigate the trendy shops on Melrose Avenue. Families will not want to miss the zoo or the action at Universal Studios Hollywood. Of course, no trip to LA would be complete without a stop at the Venice Beach Boardwalk or a visit to Mann's Chinese Theater and the Walk of Fame.

On the California-Nevada border, Truckee-Lake Tahoe's scenic mountain beauty is perfect for romantic getaways and outdoor excitement. Lake Tahoe is America's largest alpine lake, with beautiful blue water surrounded by 70 miles of gorgeous shoreline. Donner Lake offers a public beach, and Donner Memorial State Park has campsites and trails for hiking, biking, horseback riding and rock climbing. Boca Dam and Reservoir features magnificent fishing, with rainbow, brook, and brown trout, plus Kokanee salmon.

Nestled along the northern shores of Lake Tahoe, Incline Village is a paradise for adventurers, offering exhilarating activities the whole year through. The surrounding Sierra Nevada thrives in winter, drawing flocks of snow-lovers to Diamond Peak’s groomed runs and glade skiing. The same peaks provide secluded and challenging hikes in the summer months. Tahoe itself is the place to unwind. Although some beaches are open only to residents, there are numerous public beaches to dip your feet in.