Browsing Tag

Date night

Watch movies in style! New Cinemark Luxury Loungers in Orange have heat, foot rests, and they recline!

Posted on November 27, 2019

Cinemark Orange California New Luxury Loungers

Isn’t it about time movie theaters had comfortable seating?!

Cinemark Orange New Luxury Loungers

You get the big screen, the surround sound, the delicious buttery popcorn… how come you have to sit in a chair that’s way less comfortable than your couch at home?! The Cinemark in Orange, CA decided to fix this problem. Their new Luxury Loungers resemble your favorite recliner at home, only better. They’re plush and comfortable, they recline, they have foot rests, and they even have heat. Each lounger also comes with its own tray and cup holder that swivels in – so you can find optimum placement for your snacks, and swivels out – so you don’t have to put your snacks on the ground if you get up to go to the bathroom.

They’re plush and comfortable, they recline, they have foot rests, and they even have heat.

Cinemark Orange California Cafe Area

We took the kids to see Frozen 2 this week, which they loved! And honestly, I daresay it might even be better than the first one. I would definitely consider seeing it again, even without the kids. The new recliners elevated the viewing experience to an entirely new level. Everyone was comfortable, the kids were able to see the screen, and they were super excited to have their own snack trays.

And honestly, I daresay Frozen 2 might even be better than the first one.

Cinemark Orange California Arcade

Cinemark in Orange has made several other upgrades as well. They have added 2 new Cinemark XD theaters, you can reserve your seats in advance so no more rushing to get a good seat, and they have expanded the seating area in the cafe. They also have a variety of snacks like pizza and nachos, in addition to the popcorn and candy. There’s an arcade with a big assortment of games, and there’s a photobooth. We liked that the beers were reasonably priced – less than $10 for a 24 oz craft beer, and the selection was good, too.

We liked that the beers were reasonably priced – less than $10 for a 24 oz craft beer

We haven’t taken the kids to very many movies because at 2.5 and 4.5, we never know how they’re going to behave. This experience was so much fun for them and it definitely made us more likely to take them again in the future. The addition of the new loungers gave us all a more comfortable and relaxed experience, and the immersive nature of seeing a movie on the big screen was really special and exciting for them!

Dreamscape Los Angeles: The Future of Virtual Reality

Posted on October 23, 2019

Dreamscape Immersive, Virtual Reality, posing with the Frog Cats, Los Angeles

VIRTUAL REALITY. Dreamscape was hands down, one of the coolest things I’ve ever experienced.

I’ve done some of the rides at theme parks that have a virtual reality element, and I’ve always thought VR was pretty cool. At the time, I had no idea that a fully immersive and interactive VR experience was even possible (and actually, it probably wasn’t then… But it is now!) The short synopsis: you put on a headset, hand sensors, foot sensors, and a backpack. Once you’re geared up, you enter the experience of your choice.

I’ve always thought VR was pretty cool.

Dreamscape Immersive, Jason wearing his VR headset, Los Angeles

I highly recommend booking tix in advance because this experience is so amazing that they were basically sold out for the entire rest of the day by the time we arrived for our 2:30 reservation. Another tip – don’t be late! Like, at all. Think of it like a movie where it has a specific start time and if you come when it’s over, you missed it. Leave plenty of extra time to park and to drive (because, LA.) But, it is SO worth the trek. If you’re like me and can only handle the drive to LA a couple times a year, let me tell you that Dreamscape is an experience you don’t want to miss. (FYI – they also have another location in Dallas TX.)

I don’t even have anything to compare it to because it’s so unique and amazing, almost life-changing.

So now onto the story lines: At Dreamscape, there are currently 3 different experiences to choose from, and each one has a different story line. (And a 4th experience is in the works so stay tuned!) My personal favorite was called Alien Zoo, and I can only describe the visuals as comparable to stepping into the movie Avatar – only you could actually “touch” an alien, feel your spaceship shaking as another alien tries to attack you, and throw a real bouncy ball to shoo other cute and tiny aliens away. I liked this one the most because of the bright and exciting visuals, the tactile effects, and the story line.

There are currently 3 different experiences to choose from, and each one has a different story line.

My bf’s fav experience was called The Curse of the Lost Pearl. It had kind of an Indiana Jones vibe, and it was also the most interactive. There were problems to solve as the room started to “collapse” around you, there were “torches” you actually hold to light your way, and at one point the platform “fell” out from under us and we had to step towards the edge to continue our quest. The VR is so real you might feel your fear of heights kick in (I know I did!), even though you never leave the room you first entered.

The VR is so real you might feel your fear of heights kick in (I know I did!), even though you never leave the room you first entered.

The last experience was the most immersive. It was called The Blu, and felt like we actually went on a scuba

Dreamscape Immersive, Virtual Reality, Los Angeles

adventure with whales. The graphics are so next-level that I gasped when I saw the the giant whale next to me and I looked into its eye. It felt so real and so alive that I had to remind myself this was all the result of a headset. Even as you go “down” into the water, the wind and sound effects around you give you the vague sense of being submerged.

The graphics are so next-level that I gasped when I saw the the giant whale next to me and I looked into its eye.

When you are in the Dreamscapes, you also enter as an avatar that you choose before the experience begins

(not to be confused with the movie Avatar, which I know I referenced above, but I felt like I had no other way to describe the visual effects from Alien Zoo!) Anyways, if you put your hands out in front of you, you will see your avatar’s hands. If you look at the people around you, you will see them as the avatars they chose. You can reach out and touch them and they are exactly where their avatar appears to be. Actually, everything is exactly where it appears to be, which brings me to my next point.

Miraculously, I didn’t get motion sickness from this at all.

I get it from almost anything that moves (planes, escalators, elevators) or even things that appear to move (like VR.) Miraculously, I didn’t get motion sickness from this at all. I asked one of the staff members at Dreamscape and he said that lag is what causes motion sickness with VR, even if it’s only a few milliseconds. Basically, with a lot of other VR software, when you reach towards something, your hand is actually moving slightly faster than you see it move in your headset, and the lag causes motion sickness in some people. This software was so good, there was no lag. When you move, you see yourself move. It feels like real life, only you’re “underwater” or on another “planet” or on an adventure in some ancient runes.

So which one should you choose?

I highly recommend doing all 3. They’re all very different and fun in different ways. I didn’t leave any of the experiences feeling like it was just okay. I also think if we only got tix for one or two, we would have wanted to do the whole set (especially after that drive to LA, amirite?). Check out Dreamscape for more information and to be the first to know about their new experience, coming soon!

ExploreLongBeach

The Queen Mary’s Dark Harbor 2019: Everything You Need to Know

Posted on October 4, 2019

Queen Mary Dark Harbor View from the RIP Lounge

Dark Harbor is taking grown-up Halloween to a whole new level!

Queen Mary Dark Harbor: The Captain

We have been attending Dark Harbor for about 7 years now, and somehow each year manages to outdo the previous one. When I hear the words “haunted house”, I typically think of B-movie level acting and predictable pop-outs. Dark Harbor is the complete opposite of cheesy and predictable.

Dark Harbor is the complete opposite of cheesy and predictable.

Imagine movie quality costumes and acting, a completely immersive haunted setting, and scare tactics unlike anything you’ve ever seen (but don’t worry, they can’t touch you.) There are 6 total mazes (including a new maze this year), and each one has a unique story and personality.

The mazes are definitely the bread and butter of Dark Harbor.

Expect some changing terrain (fog machines, stairs, swaying bridges), secret bars to search for within the mazes (don’t forget to collect tokens to get in!), and monsters that will flock to you if they smell fear.

As if the mazes weren’t enough, Dark Harbor also features live entertainment like fire dancers and aerial silk shows. There are food trucks onsite with your fav carnival foods like bacon wrapped hot dogs, popcorn, and funnel cakes. Also, there are several bars with beer, wine, and cocktails. Most of the bars had sitting areas with couches and chairs and some had bonfires to sit in front of. In general, there is a plethora of places to sit and relax if you want a break between mazes.

Dark Harbor also features live entertainment like fire dancers and aerial silk shows.

Queen Mary Dark Harbor Fire Dancing

Which brings me to my next point… Upgrades. If you purchase a general admission ticket, you’re going to have an amazing time. You still get admission to every maze, can watch every show, and can purchase any food and drinks you desire. But… you could get into the mazes more quickly, or you could skip the food trucks and get a taco bar in a more private lounge. These are the upgrades I would recommend:

But… you could get into the mazes more quickly, or you could skip the food trucks and get a taco bar in a more secluded lounge area

Upgrade to a quicker entry ticket.

I have personally never tried the Fast Fright tickets, I know they are quicker but I don’t have experience with how long the average wait is. What I do know is that the Evil Express tickets have almost no wait time.

What I do know is that the Evil Express tickets have almost no wait time.

We did all 6 mazes and did 2 of them a second time – and we basically walked right in. And we had plenty of time to spare that we used to stop at various bars. This year we were #hosted, but we did upgrade to the Evil Express last year and will never look back.

Upgrade to the RIP Lounge.

Queen Mary Dark Harbor Flying Swings from Michael Jackson’s Neverland Ranch

We paid for this upgrade this year and last year. For another $50/ticket, the RIP lounge includes a semi-private lounge overlooking the park, a taco bar, and 2 drink tickets. (Mixed drinks are around $15/apiece so you’re already looking at $30/person for 2 drinks.) It also has a separate portapotty which we went back to every time we needed to use the restroom – and no lines. Basically the RIP lounge was a home base for us that we could retreat to if we wanted a break (or were getting scared!)

Other tips if you are attending

Go early in the season to avoid the crowds. If you can’t do that, go early in the night. Last year we planned to arrive around 7 thinking we were “early” and still encountered a lot of traffic. I would try to get to the area by 6 if you can. You can always walk along the water and enjoy the sites while you wait.

Take the Aqualink or Aquabus to avoid road traffic. This is what we did this year. We took a Lyft to Shoreline Village and hopped on the Aquabus for only $1 each. The Aqualink is $5/each but is larger and has a bar. Both run on weekends only. Be sure the check the LB Transit website for schedules.

DO NOT wear a costume. I know it seems like costumes are usually okay at Halloween events, but remember that Dark Harbor is liable for their actors in costumes and they don’t want to get them confused with customers in costume. They have a couple events where they do allow costumes so check their website for those dates and rules. While you’re at it, check out their FAQ section.

Ask around for tokens to the secret bars! Last year, I think we managed to sneak in one behind the people in front of us who had tokens, but they were not messing around this year! We managed to find a secret bar this year and they asked both Jason and I for our tokens – luckily we each had one! They’re really fun and unique and they have signature cocktails not found at any other bars.

Expect to spend some money. Like I said before, yes you will have a great time no matter what, but your experience will be enhanced if you spring for the bells and whistles. No, they are not paying me to say this and I’m not getting a commission on your upgrades. We definitely spent enough at Dark Harbor that we could have spent the night in a nice hotel for our date night – this was WAY more fun. You won’t regret splurging here

Ask for photos with the actors! Most of them will stop to pose with you.

Have fun and let yourself get scared!

ExploreLongBeach

The Most Romantic Valentine’s Day Events in Long Beach

Posted on February 11, 2019

Valentine's DInner at Cafe Sevilla in Long Beach

Valentine’s Day is right around the corner!

Are you looking for a romantic dinner? A cruise? An overnight stay? How about something for you and your pet? Check out this round up of where to spend Valentine’s Day 2019 in Long Beach!

Fuego at the Maya: A Four-Course Prix Fixe Menu with an Epic View, An Overnight Stay at Hotel Maya, or a Sunday Valentine’s Brunch

Fuego at the Maya in Long Beach

If you have never been to Fuego, it has a romantic vibe year-round. Indoor-outdoor seating, waterside fire pits, and live music. For Valentine’s Day dinner, you can purchase the 4 course-dinner for $105/person with optional wine pairing for an additional $30/person.

The menu boasts dishes such as the Pepper Crusted Waygu Beef with whiskey peppercorn sauce, Baja striped Bass with chipotle black bean sauce, and a Silky Lobster Bisque laced with Hennessey’s cognac. Reservations are required and you can make them at http://www.facebook.com/fuegolongbeach

Indoor-outdoor seating, waterside fire pits, and live music.

If you are looking for more than a dinner, they are offering a Valentine’s Day hotel package as well. The “Be Maya Valentine” package starts at $289/night and includes a complimentary water-view upgrade, a s’mores kit, and complimentary champagne breakfast for 2 in Fuego. You can call (562) 435-7676 to make reservations for Be Maya Valentine.

The “Be Maya Valentine” package includes a complimentary water-view upgrade, a s’mores kit, and complimentary champagne breakfast for 2 in Fuego.

Lastly, if going out on the big day isn’t your style, there will be a Valentine’s Day brunch the Sunday following Valentine’s day. This will include a complimentary glass of house champagne or mimosa, one entree, and an endless feast of the chef’s selection of salads. Fuego ceviche, Fuego taco station, and desserts. This brunch is $45 per adult and $18.50 for children 12 and under (sans entree.). Kids 3 and under are free.

My Vintage Valentine at the Queen Mary: A Four Course Dinner, A Vintage Burlesque Performance, A Tango Duet, and Contortionist Performances

My Vintage Valentine at the Queen Mary in Long Beach

Hop aboard the Queen Mary this Valentine’s Day for romance and classic glamour. Their four course dinner, which will be served in the Grand Salon, includes dishes such as the Asiago Crusted Organic Chicken Breast and Pan-Roasted Sea Bass. There will be a love story interwoven throughout the dinner courses with performances including burlesque dancers, tango duets, and a daring contortionist.

My Vintage Valentine has 2 seating times – one at 5:30 for $125/person, and one at 8:30 for $135/person. Following the dinner and show, guests are welcome to stay aboard and enjoy cocktails and music at the bar in the Windsor Salon. You can purchase tickets for My Vintage Valentine at https://www.queenmary.com/calendar-of-events/valentinesday/home/

There will be a love story interwoven throughout the dinner courses with performances including burlesque dancers, tango duets, and a daring contortionist.

The Chelsea’s Chowder House, which is also onboard the Queen Mary, will offer Valentine’s Day specials as well. Dinner service is from 5-10 p.m. on Sunday through Thursday, and 5-11pm on Friday’s and Saturday’s.

Cafe Sevilla: A Four-Course Dinner, A Flamenco Performance, and Complimentary Nightclub Access – Valentine’s Day AND Valentine’s Eve

Valentine’s DInner at Cafe Sevilla in Long Beach

Take a trip to Spain this Valentine’s Day at Cafe Sevilla. They will be offering a 4-course Valentine’s Day dinner and flamenco show for $69/person at 7 pm. The art of Flamenco expresses emotion and passion through dance, and many describe the experience of watching Flamenco performances as “moving.” You can compliment this diner with a $25 Spanish wine pairing, or select from their variety of specialty Valentine’s Day cocktails. This menu will be offered in their dining room as well for $59/person.

Want to beat the Valentine’s Day crowd? Celebrate Valentine’s Eve on February 13th instead! You can still enjoy their savory 4 course menu and flamenco show for $69/person, and the Valentine’s menu is available in the dining room on the 13th as well for $59/person..

The art of Flamenco expresses emotion and passion through dance, and many describe the experience of watching Flamenco performances as “moving.”

This package includes complimentary nightclub access so if you aren’t ready to call it a night after dinner and the show, get ready to dance! You will be amazed how the romantic atmosphere of the dining room turns a little bit spicy once you head to the nightclub! If you are looking for a way to end your evening on a sexy note, dancing at Sevilla is a sure way to do it.

You can visit the Cafe Sevilla website for more information or to make reservations, call: (562) 495-1111

Saint & Second: A Three Course Prix Fixe Dinner that Includes an Upscale Flair on All the Classics

Saint and Second in Belmont Shore in Long Beach

Saint & Second is known for its locally-sourced cuisine and hundreds of curated whiskeys. If you are looking for classic American entrees with an upscale flair, this is the place for you this Valentine’s Day. Their three course prix fixe menu lets you choose from dishes such as Colorado Rack of Lamb with hazelnut pesto and a Grilled Maine Half Lobster with a truffle beurre blanc.

Saint & Second is known for its locally-sourced cuisine and hundreds of curated whiskeys.

Desserts include options such as their famous Peanut Butter Cinnamon roll and their Brandy and Vanilla Braised Pineapple. The Saint and Second Valentine’s Day dinner is $75/person with optional wine pairing for an additional $30, and reservations can be made on their website.

Spirit Cruises: A Romantic Dinner and a 2.5 Hour Cruise Around the Harbor

Spirit Cruises in the Long Beach Harbor

Celebrate Valentine’s Day on the water! Spirit Cruises is offering a 2.5 hour cruise along with a decadent dinner and table-side champagne pours for $89/person. Dinner includes a Classic Caesar Salad and entrees such as Filet Mignon and Baked Salmon Filet. You can get either white wine or champagne poured at your table and after-dinner well cocktails at the bar.

If you have never taken a Spirit Cruise, get ready to see the harbor as you’ve never seen it before. The views of Shoreline Village, the Queen Mary, and the coastline are beautiful.

The views of Shoreline Village, the Queen Mary, and the coastline are beautiful.

There are 2 seatings on Valentine’s Day – from 6-8:30pm or from 9-11:30pm. There is an additional cruise on Saturday night if you want to avoid the Valentine’s Day crowd or have work the next morning.

You can reserve your spot by calling (310) 548 – 8080

Aquarium of the Pacific: A Three Course Dinner Under the Sea

Valentine’s Day at the Aquarium of the Pacific

Take a trip under the sea this Valentine’s Day at the Aquarium of the Pacific. Their cash-bar will open at 7 pm where you can gaze upon the harbor from the rooftop Veranda. Dinner will be served in the Great Hall at 7:30 pm and will include Cabernet-braised beef short ribs with piquillo pepper cream sauce and a pistachio cake with hibiscus puree for dessert. There is a specialty entree upon request for those who are Vegan, Vegetarian, Gluten-free, or Dairy-free. (Must be requested at time of ticket purchase.)

Their cash-bar will open at 7 pm where you can gaze upon the harbor from the rooftop Veranda

The price for tickets is $79 for members and $89 for non-members (which if you are not a member, I highly suggest joining because there are a ton of cool things to do here.). You can upgrade to VIP tickets for an additional $20 and be seated in one of the galleries where you can be up close to one of their exhibits.

You can find out more or purchase tickets for Valentine’s Day at the Aquarium of the Pacific on their website.

Healthy Spot: Puppy Love Yappy Hour for your Furry Valentine

Puppy Love Yappy Hour at The Healthy Spot in Long Beach

Does your real Valentine have fur? Do you wish there was a way to celebrate with him or her where they could also enjoy other dogs? Check out Puppy Love Yappy hour. This FREE event will be held on February 12th from 6pm-8pm at Healthy Spot in Long Beach. The event includes cocktails and snacks for humans (must be 21+ for cocktails); refreshments, cookies, and treats for pups – provided by The Honest Kitchen; and of course the company of other loving pets and pet parents.

The event includes cocktails and snacks for humans, and refreshments, cookies, and treats for pups

To attend this event, your pet must be current on all vaccines and be on-leash throughout the entire event.

Tickets for Puppy Love Yappy Hour can be reserved online. You can also contact social@healthyspot.com with any additional questions.

If you are busy on February 12th and don’t mind making the drive, there will be additional events on February 13th in both LA and Marina del Rey.

Daily Life

Date night without any kids!

Posted on June 5, 2018

What do you do to keep your relationship strong after having kids? Jason and I were lucky enough to have a wonderful date night on Friday while his parents watched the girls. We did dinner, we went to an adults-only club for the first time in years, we danced, we held hands… It felt so amazing to reconnect as a couple.

We did dinner, we went to an adults-only club for the first time in years, we danced, we held hands…

We have not been having problems, but being reminded of how good it feels to be a couple and not just “mom” and “dad” made me want to feel that more often. So, what are the things you do that help keep your relationship strong? I know it isn’t practical to spend every spare second together after the kids go bed, because we’re exhausted.

I know it isn’t practical to spend every spare second together after the kids go bed

I’d be lying if I said there aren’t some nights where I zone out in front of the tv and he works on his computer, and that’s fine sometimes. Actually… it’s necessary sometimes. After I’m done with the girls’ needs for the day, and he’s done with work, sometimes we need a minute to ourselves. When we do spend time together after the kids are in bed, we’ll watch a show together or have a drink and chat.

What are some little things you do in your relationship that remind you how much you love each other?

But I’m wondering what other couples do that they recommend. Play a card game? Do a puzzle? I’m not looking to spend every night staring into each other’s eyes talking about how much we love each other, because that’s crazy. (And please keep it PG because my parents are on here.) But what are some little things you do in your relationship that remind you how much you love each other?

Daily Life ExploreLongBeach

Date Night at the Long Beach Aquarium Member’s Prom!

Posted on May 4, 2018

We had an amazing childless night at the Long Beach Aquarium Member’s Prom last night. It was Roaring 20s themed and I could not have asked for a better night. We had so much fun drinking and dancing, and actually got to look at the animals without having to chase our kids. And to top if off, we Postmated happy meals and sundaes from Mcdonalds after we got home and ate them on the couch! It’s nice to have some time alone to remind us why we fell in love. I woke up today feeling so lucky to have someone as wonderful as Jason. (And perhaps a tad like I had one too many beers . But mostly lucky.)

Long Beach Aquarium of the Pacific: http://www.aquariumofpacific.org/