Westways | Summer 2024

Bob's Well Bread Bakery
Fill up on these 3 Central Coast foodie road trips

These routes focus on fabulous food, including roadside tacos and fine-dining feasts.

 
Carbonara pasta
The surprising history of carbonara

Untangling the controversial history of carbonara. Can Italians handle the truth?

Mad Campers camper van
Exploring New Zealand by camper van

Remote, rugged, and home to distinctive wildlife, South Island is built for epic adventures.

Bogota Colombia
Bicycling Bogotá

The weekly open-streets Ciclovía event is a caravan of family-friendly festivity every Sunday.

California things to do map
Fun things to do in Southern California

An editor-curated list of the best fairs, festivals, events, and other things to do in Southern California and beyond.

City Farm SLO
Cultivating crops and community

Urban farms such as City Farm SLO are aiming to grow more than fresh produce.

Birria
Why birria is booming in the U.S.

This stewed meat dish has long been popular in Mexico, but it has recently skyrocketed to fame in the U.S.

Fire
What does renters insurance cover?

Relatively cheap, this insurance is so beneficial that many landlords require their tenants to buy it.

Blind Date
My SoCal Life

A woman gains a new perspective on Southern California after falling in love with a blind man.

 

Ask the Traveler

Illustration of woman browsing her phone in an airport.
How can I protect my data while traveling?

Connecting to open Wi-Fi puts your information at risk. Here's how to prepare before your trip.

Illustration of a traveler standing on a giant passport.
Any tips for renewing my passport?

These days, renewing your passport takes time, money, flexibility, and even a little luck.

Illustration of a traveler in a wheelchair on a beach vacation.
Any advice for travelers with disabilities?

If you or someone you’re traveling with has a physical disability, here are tips on planning accordingly.

 

Bon App Restaurant Reviews

Dear Jane's scampi
Dear Jane’s, Marina del Rey

This charmingly retro spot joins the wave of new seafood restaurants in Los Angeles.

Deluxe 1717 pork belly tacos
Deluxe 1717, Pasadena

This venture by chef Onil Chibás feels like an unpretentious neighborhood bistro.

Crudo Cervicheria pork belly tacos
Crudo Cervicheria, Palm Springs

The seafood at here is so fresh, you'd expect to hear breaking waves and seagulls nearby.

Model Citizen rigatoni
Model Citizen, Ventura

Upscale with a friendly ambience, Model Citizen suits Ventura’s chill surf-town vibe.

Butcher's House Brasserie Sweet Gem Salad
Butcher’s House Brasserie, Costa Mesa

This newcomer to Costa Mesa’s SoCo Collection showcases steaks and other meaty offerings.

Heritage Beer Co. Platter
Heritage Beer Co., Oceanside

An offshoot of its Orange County flagship, Heritage Beer Co. features smoked meats and a brewery.

 

Day Trips

Agua Caliente Cultural Center
Palm Springs

The desert is a great backdrop for new beginnings, and these days, Palm Springs is awash in them.

Nightcap Bar
San Luis Obispo

Indulge in shopping, entertainment, and excellent dining in this small city that packs a big punch.

Dog on a surfboard, with the instructor following behind in the water.
5 California beach towns

These destinations offer plenty of reasons to visit. Here’s a guide for what to do and where to eat.

 

Automotive

Car Color Wheel
Could a car's color affect its resale value?

The color of your car may reflect your personality, but it may also affect resale value.

Car Costs
Is it time to downsize?

AAA study shows a noteworthy cost difference between owning a smaller vs. larger vehicle.

High Tech Car Features
Navigating high-tech cars

If you’re a perplexed owner of a newer car, here are tips for figuring out all those high-tech features.

Alfa Romeo Tonale Veloce
Car review: Alfa Romeo Tonale Veloce

Alfa’s first plug-in hybrid can travel about 30 miles on electricity alone, plus it’s a great size for urban driving.

BMW x1 xDrive28i
Car review: BMW X1 xDrive28i

The latest BMW X1 is enjoyable to drive along a winding stretch of asphalt and boasts eye-catching new styling.

 

Digital Extras

Must-try eats in Los Angeles

Sample culinary delights on this urban food safari through iconic LA neighborhoods.

Rooftop restaurants in Southern California

Soak in gorgeous Golden State views while enjoying a meal or drink at these spots.

8 beautiful gardens in L.A. County

These lush, serene spaces offer an escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.

Contact Westways

Email us your questions, story ideas, or information about upcoming events.