Thursday, March 28, 2024
In this episode of the California Now Podcast, host Soterios Johnson delves into why California is hailed as The Ultimate Playground, showcasing the multitude of recreational opportunities it offers. Johnson kicks off the exploration by inviting Andrew Nelson, an acclaimed writer and editor renowned for his work with National Geographic Traveler. Nelson, also known for his book “Here Not There,” sheds light on one of the prevailing travel trends of the year: destination dupes. With a keen focus on California, Nelson elucidates why the state stands out as a prime destination for experiencing these captivating echoes of renowned global locales. “[There are] so many different geographical features, so many different lively and vibrant cities of all sizes,” he says, “it seems only natural that so many of these destinations can be found here.” He highlights various alternatives within California that emulate the allure of Riviera, Tuscany, the Galapagos Islands, and beyond. Drawing from his extensive travel experience, Nelson not only offers substitutes for these renowned destinations but also shares his personal favorites across the diverse landscapes of California, ranging from the vibrant Bay Area to the captivating desert regions.
In the following segment, Johnson engages in conversation with Jordan Kivelstadt, the founder of Bohemian Highway Travel Company and a renowned winemaker. This tour operator specializes in tailoring bespoke wine country adventures in Sonoma County and Napa Valley. Kivelstadt not only elucidates the fascinating history behind the company’s name but also provides insights into the exceptional experiences that await guests on these meticulously curated tours.“I’m going to get you out in a vineyard on an ATV with a winemaker hearing about the process, learning why grapes grow here, what the process of harvest is, all the way to the bottle,” he shares. One remote corner of wine country receives special attention on the show: “The Sonoma coastline is spectacular, and we have some of the best creameries in the world,” he enthuses. In addition to wine recommendations, Kivelstadt offers his top choices for dining, accommodations, and recreational activities in Sonoma and Napa.
Finally, Johnson interviews Martin Cate, the proprietor of Smuggler’s Cove, a renowned tiki bar situated in San Francisco. Cate, a pivotal figure in the revival of tiki culture, delves into the rich history of tiki in California, tracing its roots back to the 1930s. “It was just kind of a wild experiential setting that people weren’t used to, and it became a sensation overnight,” he explains. The expert in tiki culture outlines a selection of essential tiki bars to visit across California, offering insights into their distinctive tropical atmospheres and providing a guide on what to sample once inside. Additionally, Cate highlights the flourishing tiki mocktail scene, illustrating how tiki beverages are uniquely suited for non-alcoholic renditions.
Sunday, April 28, 2024
Sunday, April 28, 2024
Sunday, April 28, 2024
