The Oasis Death Valley is a Classic, True Oasis in America’s Favorite Desert

By Erin

_{*Photo credit Xanterra Travel Collection*}

As the summer heat wanes and before the rush of holiday travel begins, The Oasis at Death Valley offers an ideal autumn escape. Whether you are seeking a quiet weekend getaway, a romantic retreat, or an activity-filled family adventure, this historic resort within Death Valley National Park provides a unique destination for all.

Located in the largest national park in the Lower 48 States, The Oasis at Death Valley is a true American oasis. The resort, encompassing two distinct hotels, features lush gardens, date palms, spring-fed outdoor swimming pools, and an 18-hole USGA, world’s lowest elevation golf course – all set against the backdrop of 3.4 million acres of stunning desert beauty. Adding to its allure, Death Valley is designated as the largest Dark Sky National Park in the country by the International Dark Sky Association, offering unparalleled stargazing opportunities. 

The property caters to every traveler’s autumn aspirations with two distinct accommodation options, set against a backdrop of pleasant temperatures and clear skies that promise an ideal desert getaway for all. The historic Inn at Death Valley, built in 1927 and reopened in 2018 after a $250 million restoration, provides a luxury escape with 66 elegantly updated rooms and 22 private casitas.

Guests can indulge in spa treatments, fine dining, and relax by the spring-fed pool while enjoying sweeping views of Death Valley. For families and golfers, The Ranch at Death Valley offers 195 guest rooms and 80 one-bedroom cottages in a mission-style setting. Recent renovations have transformed it into a lively hub with dining options, including an old-time soda fountain and ice cream parlor, the 1849 Restaurant, The Last Kind Words Saloon, and The Wild Rose Tavern. 

Below are some of the most enticing savings at the properties: 

• Golf package, includes:
  • 15% on overnight accommodations
  • Save 20% off one round of golf
  • Save 20% off cart rental 
  • Complimentary club storage
• Unlimited golf package, includes:
  • Overnight accommodations
  • Unlimited golf for two people
  • Complimentary cart rental
  • Complimentary club storage
• Guests age 50 and above at The Ranch at Death Valley can receive 10% off rack rate for a 1-night stay (code: SENIOR), a 2-night stay is a 20% savings (code: SENIOR20), and a 3-night stay is a 30% discount (code: SENIOR30). 
• Sierra Club members save 15% on rooms (code: SIERRA) 
• AAA members save 10% on rooms (code: AAA) 

For more information or to book your fall getaway, please visit oasisatdeathvalley.com.

Unforgettable October: Fun and Festivities Await at the JW Marriott, Anaheim Resort

By Erin

Join in the fun at JW Marriott, Anaheim Resort this October for a series of exceptional events designed to bring friends, families, and guests together for fall festivities and Halloween fun. Whether guests are raising a stein at the lively Oktoberfest, enjoying a family-friendly Halloween movie night, or indulging in the chic atmosphere of the exclusive Halloween Rooftop Party at Parkestry, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Each event showcases the resort’s commitment to offering curated experiences that blend upscale luxury with engaging entertainment.

The festivities begin on Friday, October 4 with Oktoberfest at Citriculture, where guests can celebrate Bavarian culture in a stylish, upscale atmosphere. Citriculture will offer $5 draft beers all day long, providing the perfect opportunity for beer enthusiasts to enjoy a wide selection of seasonal brews.

On Sunday, October 27, the resort’s rooftop lounge, Parkestry, will host a Halloween Family Movie Night. This all-ages event promises a fun-filled evening for the entire family, complete with a pumpkin painting activity, themed food and beverage specials, and a classic spooky Halloween movie screening under the stars. The evening will also feature a costume contest, with the winner receiving a special goodie bag filled with Halloween surprises.

For those seeking a more sophisticated Halloween experience, the Spooky Iron Smoke Speakeasy will be held in the Executive Lounge on Thursday, October 31. Tickets for this exclusive 21-and-over event include two specially curated spooky cocktails and a three-course food pairing, all set in a chic, intimate environment. Guests can expect an indulgent Halloween celebration designed to surprise and delight the senses.

The October festivities culminate on Thursday, October 31, with the Halloween Rooftop Party at Parkestry, where live music, delicious food, and fantastic views of city lights and Disneyland park attractions come together to create an unforgettable holiday evening. The rooftop party will feature a holiday-specific menu with Halloween-themed dishes and drinks, providing the perfect backdrop for an exciting night of celebration. With a lively atmosphere and tunes to keep the energy high, this adults-only event promises to be a highlight of the season.

There’s more fun to follow in November, including Parkestry’s exclusive Dia De Los Muertos celebration on Friday, November 1. Featuring live music, complimentary face painting, and an a la carte menu of themed food and drink specials, this festive event is sure to entertain.

For more information or to book your stay during these exciting events, please visit JWMarriottAnaheimResort.com or call 1-714-294-7800.

Minnie Mouse Valentine’s Day Parfait

By Erin

If you’re looking to make something magical and sweet for Valentine’s Day or any day you want to make special, then try making this Minnie Mouse Valentine’s Day Parfait! Your standard box of strawberry Jello will magically be transformed into a gorgeous dessert that kids will be so proud to serve and eat! It’s an easy and tasty way to add some Disney Magic into your day.

Minnie Mouse Valentine’s Day Parfait

Makes 6– 8 oz dessert glasses

Strawberry Cool Whip Layers

1 – 6 oz strawberry jello, follow the back of the box to see how the jello is prepped.

2 – 8 oz cool whip.
Ghirardelli melting wafers
Red fondant mini bows

Large piping bag with round tip

Chocolate Cool Whip Layers

1 – 6 oz chocolate jello, follow the back of the box to see how the jello is prepped.

2 – 8 oz cool whip
Large piping bag with round tip

Cookie Crumble

1 package of Valentine’s Day frosted loft house cookies, ground up into sand like texture using a blender or ziplock bag and rolling pin

Valentine’s Day Sprinkles

Directions

Using a small pot, boil 1 cup of water on the stove. Gradually pour the jello powder into the mixing bowl and add 1 cup of water or cold water.

Pour the jello into a shallow dish into the fridge for about 30 minutes, or until its just starting to set.

Remove from the fridge and using a hand mixer or wired whisk, whisk the jello until it is chunky.

Gently fold in the cool whip into the strawberry jello mixture.

Place into the fridge.

Follow the same steps as the strawberry directions above for the chocolate pudding and once finished place into the fridge for 60 minutes.

When ready to decorate, scoop the two puddings into their own piping bags.

Scoop 1⁄4 cup of crushed cookies into each glass.

Take the piping bag with the strawberry pudding in it and pipe a thick layer around the top of the crushed cookies.

Take the chocolate pudding and pipe a thin layer on top of the strawberry pudding Carefully pour another 1⁄4 cup of crushed cookies on top.
Pipe the second layer of strawberry on top of the second cookie layer.
Pipe a thick layer of chocolate pudding on top.

Place into the fridge till ready to serve.

Garnish with homemade whipped cream, sprinkles and make sure to place the bow in the center of the whipped cream and two chocolate wafers for the ears!

Enjoy and Happy Valentine’s Day!