The Daily Groupon Â» Los Angeles

$24 for a Two-Hour Trampoline-Park Open Jump Package for Two with Soft Drinks at Sky Zone Covina ($53.50 Value)

Tue, 21 May 2013 07:01:45 +0000

Exercise brings the whole body to life—your heart begins to race, your muscles begin to contract, and your brain begins to split into three exobrains. Nothing will ever be the same after you use this Groupon.

$24 for an Open Jump Package for Two ($53.50 Total Value)

Two hours of open jump time (a $48 value)
Two 24-ounce soft drinks (a $2.75 value each)

Groupon Says

Celebration Afternoon Tea for Two or Four or $20 for $40 Worth of Loose-Leaf Teas and Accessories at Chado Tea Room

Tue, 21 May 2013 07:01:27 +0000

In England, teatime, or afternooningtons, is a tradition as revered as losing Revolutionary Wars. Enjoy a British brew with this Groupon.

Choose from Three Options

$25 for a celebration afternoon tea service for two (a $50 value)
$49 for a celebration afternoon tea service for four (a $100 value)
$20 for $40 worth of loose-leaf teas and accessories online

During celebration afternoon tea services, held at the Downtown Chado Tea Room location inside the Japanese American National Museum, each customer can partake in a pot of tea, a scone with homemade cream and jam, a cookie, a slice of cake, and a celebratory Mauritius tea float. Toasted half-sandwich selections include smoked salmon and dill; English cucumber; marinated egg salad; and smoked chicken cranberry.

The online shop features loose-leaf teas, including amber oolong fancy tea from Taiwan ($16.99/4 oz.) and silver-needle jasmine tea ($26.60/4 oz.), as well as a variety of accessories, including Royal Patrician bone-china tea pots ($50+).

Groupon Says

Membership to Page Museum at the La Brea Tar Pits (Up to 57% Off). Four Options Available.

Mon, 20 May 2013 07:00:55 +0000

Museums bring history alive, like a skeleton found underneath your house. Explore the natural world with this Groupon.

Choose from Four Options

$35 for a one-year Individual Plus+ membership (a $75 value)
$45 for a one-year Dual Plus+ membership for two adults (a $95 value)
$50 for a one-year Family Plus+ membership for two adults and up to four children age 17 or younger (a $110 value)
$90 for a one-year Patron Family membership for two adults and up to four children age 17 or younger (a $210 value)

All four options include the following membership benefits:

Unlimited admission for one year to the Page Museum at the La Brea Tar Pits, the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County, and the William S. Hart Museum
Transferable member card good for any individual at any time; no need to identify them on member account
Complimentary admission to the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County's seasonal butterfly and spider pavilions
Early access to new exhibits
10% discount on merchandise from the museum store and online
Free subscription to The Naturalist and other museum publications
Discounts on classes, camps, and field trips
Invitations to members-only special events

Plus+ memberships include a transferrable Plus+ member card that can be used for any individual not listed on the membership account. The Patron Family membership includes all family membership privileges, plus a reciprocal membership at more than 300 participating museums, four guest passes, and free admission to Scavenger's Safari tours.

Page Museum membership conveys all the benefits of membership to the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County; this Groupon cannot be combined with other recently purchased memberships to the NHM.

Page Museum at the La Brea Tar Pits

The Rancho La Brea Tar Pits are a playground of time. From their sticky, still-bubbling depths rises the past, which scientists at the Page Museum display for the present and preserve for the future. In fact, over the last century, these scholars have excavated more than one million bones, building a catalog of roughly 650 species that stretches back more than 50,000 years. And these animals paint a picture of what Los Angeles and the rest of the US looked like then: mammoths, giant ground sloths, and saber-toothed cats surviving off each other and a dense thicket of vegetation.

The Page Museum brings this time to life while keeping visitors grounded in the present. Even before reaching the museum proper, the Lake Pit presents an image of how the exhibits inside got there: a life-sized, fiberglass mammoth statue sinking into a lake of asphalt. That scene explains both why the skeletons in the exhibits are so impeccably preserved, why they hold a slightly brownish tint, and why many of them have fossilized swimsuits stuck to their torsos. The Pleistocene Garden, meanwhile, recreates the native flora of the Los Angeles Basin as it would have appeared from 10,000 to 40,000 years ago, letting guests better understand the animals' habitats.

Yet to keep guests from believing they're stuck in the past, the Page Museum pulls back the curtain on the fossils' origins. Multiple active excavation pits allow glimpses into their murky depths as crews search for, and regularly find, traces of animals. Then, inside, the paleontological process unfolds at The Fishbowl, a glass-walled laboratory where scientists clean, study, and prepare fossils seven days a week.

Groupon Says

$20 for a No-Chip Gel Manicure or Basic Manicure and Pedicure at Paola Ponce Nails ($40 Value)

Mon, 20 May 2013 07:00:33 +0000

Fingers are essential to body language, from pointing out the person who mugged you to crushing a cupcake to show that what the mugger did was "not sweet." Pamper your pointers with this Groupon.

$20 for a No-Chip Basic Gel Manicure or Basic Manicure and Basic Pedicure ($40 value)

After buffing and shaping fingernails and grooming cuticles, nail technicians dress digits in either a standard polish (a $15 value) or a chip-resistant gel (a $40 value) that can last for up to two weeks. The basic pedicure (a $25 value) revitalizes feet with a warm footbath, callus softening, and massage, followed by diligent nail care and a dollop of traditional polish.

Groupon Says

American Cuisine at The Novel Cafe Pasadena (Up to 52% Off). Three Options Available.

Mon, 20 May 2013 07:00:28 +0000

Dining out leaves you with a full stomach, fond memories, and pockets full of restaurant smell to take home to your kids. Enjoy appetizing aromas with this Groupon.

Choose From Three Options

$12 for $25 worth of dinner
$24 for $50 worth of dinner for a table of four or more
$12 for $25 worth of food and drinks, valid any time

Upscale American-style entrees range from gourmet burgers ($10 and up) and sandwiches ($10 and up) to fresh salads ($9 and up), veggie penne pasta ($10), lamb shank ($15), and other hearty dishes.

Groupon Says

Middle Eastern Dinner for Two, Four, or Six People at Cali Kabob Restaurant (Up to 68% Off)

Sun, 19 May 2013 07:01:15 +0000

People love eating at restaurants because the food is as delicious as a home-cooked meal, but you don't have to eat at a table with your 14 strong, hungry teenage brothers. Get some eating room with this Groupon.

Choose from Three Options

$39 for a Middle Eastern dinner for two people (up to a $102.94 total value)
$72 for a Middle Eastern dinner for four people (up to a $205.88 value)
$99 for a Middle Eastern dinner for six people (up to a $308.82 value)

Each option includes:

One appetizer per person (up to a $7.99 value each)
One soup per person (up to $7.99 value each)
One entrée per person (up to a $24.99 value each)
One soft drink per person (up to a $3 value each)
One dessert per two people (up to a $7.50 value each)

Items from the menu include hummus, Persian soup with pinto beans, parsley, and noodles, Cali Kabob combination with seasoned ground beef, marinated filet mignon, charbroiled veggies, and Persian ice cream.

Groupon Says

$45 for 10 Classes at YogaHop ($150 Value)

Sat, 18 May 2013 07:01:50 +0000

Though holding a mountain pose yields comfort and serenity, holding a mountain goat yields a lifelong friendship. Embrace tranquility with this Groupon.

$45 for 10 YogaHop Classes ($150 Value)

Choose between two locations:

Pasadena
Santa Monica

YogaHop's staff of former athletes, dancers, and musicians lead students through a vigorous workout set to the contagious beats of such artists as Kanye West, Nicki Minaj, and David Guetta. The dynamic sessions of continuously shifting poses aim to help students lose weight, tone limbs, and center their minds.

Groupon Says

$12 for a 24-Hour Spa Day Pass with Sauna, Spa, and Steam-Room Access at Wi Spa ($25 Value)

Fri, 17 May 2013 07:01:24 +0000

Everybody unwinds from a stressful day differently: some people hit the spa, whereas others watch flames engulf a big pile of tires. Let tension melt away with this Groupon.

$12 for One 24-Hour Spa Day Pass ($25 Value)

Over the course of one day in the 24-hour Wi Spa, guests gain access to every spa and sauna held within, including the jimjilbang, a coed family area for simultaneous lounging that contains a restaurant.

The vast spa boasts hardwood floors, multiple heated pools, and an open floor plan to maximize the sense of relaxation and space. Each visitor has unlimited use of the towels and locker rooms before and after their spa visit. Areas are gender specific as well, and parking is included in this Groupon.

Groupon Says

Basic Mani-Pedi, One or Two Gel Manicures, or One Acrylic Nail Set at Nails by Courtney (Up to 55% Off)

Fri, 17 May 2013 07:00:50 +0000

People express their personality different ways, from painting their nails to look like rainbows to installing a rainbow in their living room as modern art piece. Show some flair with this Groupon.

Choose from Four Options

$15 for one gel manicure (a $30 value)
$27 for two gel manicures (a $60 value)
$17 for one full set of designed acrylic nails (a $35 value)
$12 for one basic manicure and pedicure (a $25 value)

Groupon Says

Season Pass or Lift Ticket with Option for Ski or Snowboard Rental to Mt. Baldy (Up to 57% Off)

Sat, 10 Nov 2012 08:00:37 +0000

Often applied to politics, the phrase it’s a slippery slope refers to the way every debate ultimately ends with a downhill ski race at dawn. Settle the score with this Groupon.

Choose from Three Options

$89 for an adult season pass for unlimited skiing or snowboarding for all chair lifts during the 2012–2013 snow season (a $189 value)
$49 for one all-day adult lift ticket with ski or snowboard rental (a $99 value)
$30 for one all-day adult lift ticket to ski or snowboard (a $69 value)

Mt. Baldy's rates vary throughout the season.

One- or Two-Night Stay with Appetizer at The Sofia Hotel in San Diego, CA

Wed, 22 May 2013 07:01:59 +0000

Historical Hotel with Chic Dining and 24-Hour Yoga Studio

The Sofia Hotel in downtown San Diego is the only property in the city listed on the Historic Hotels of America. Though it opened under its current name only five years ago, the property dates back to 1927, when it debuted as the Pickwick Hotel. Originally comprised of two towers, the hotel was a huge success almost overnight—it was the first in the city with en suite bathrooms, and the critics loved its neo-Gothic architecture.

In 2006, almost 80 years after its construction, the Pickwick reopened as The Sofia Hotel. A $16 million renovation managed to preserve many of the building's original architectural elements, including the crenellated roofline and terra cotta embellishments. A stylish restaurant and lounge, along with other amenities, were added during the overhaul.

Located on the first floor, Currant American Brasserie is billed as a "modernized version of a classic French bistro.” The dining room's traditional black-and-white color palette is jazzed up with edgy leather chairs and crystal chandeliers. On the dinner menu, you'll find contemporary takes on classic French dishes such as steamed mussels in a spicy curry sauce, and herb roasted pork loin topped with a fried egg. During nightly happy hours, crowds gather at the bar for $5 martinis or full-price absinthe cocktails infused with real wormwood liquor.

There are plenty of ways to relax at the hotel, ranging from meditation sessions in the 24-hour yoga studio to aromatherapy massages at the spa. Traditional guest rooms and suites reinforce the peaceful vibe with ambient bedside lighting and natural wood furnishings.

San Diego, California: Historical Attractions and Electric Nightlife in Southern California

San Diego's sunny, comfortably warm weather and 70 miles of coastline have long attracted vacationing out-of-towners, but the city's inland scene is no slouch, either. The Gaslamp Quarter is arguably one of the trendiest listings on the National Register of Historic Places. The area forms both the historic center of town and a hub of San Diego nightlife, with nearly 100 Victorian-era buildings now occupied by high-end boutiques, jewelers, and gourmet restaurants.

During the day, a stroll through iconic Balboa Park takes you past 17 separate museums, as well as the world-famous and much beloved San Diego Zoo. There's also the vibrant Spanish Village Art Center, a living gallery where local artists continuously produce pottery, handblown glass, and oil paintings for sale.

Farther north, in Old Town—site of the first European settlement in California—shops in Mission-style stucco buildings sell colorful wrestling masks, woven baskets, and maracas. Nearby stands The Whaley House Museum, dubbed one of the Most Terrifying Places in America by the Travel Channel. Ghosts of former residents are said to inhabit the rooms, which are filled with Victorian furniture, eerie dolls, and squeegees for ectoplasm cleanup.

Read the Fine Print for important info on travel dates and other restrictions.

Groupon Says

$20 for 30 Classes from MetaBody Yoga & Fitness Pass ($350 Value)

Wed, 22 May 2013 07:01:52 +0000

Like tug-of-war tournaments and harmonized singing telegrams, workouts are more effective when done with a group. Join a fitness community with this Groupon.

$20 for 30 Yoga and Fitness Classes ($350 Value)

This Groupon is valid at 16 locations.

The trainers at each MetaBody-approved location lead students in results-oriented workouts several times a week. Sweat sessions utilize a variety of exercises and disciplines to produce full-body results in a supportive environment, ideal for beginners and hard-core core hardeners alike. In addition to the fitness classes, students receive a success guide to help prepare them for imminent pound loss, a nutrition guide, and a $100 gift certificate for individual coaching from MetaBody’s team of certified nutritionists. Because the pass sets a 5- or 10-class cap at any given location, exercisers can further shake up their workout regimens by vetting a series of classes or instructors that work best for them.

Click here for each location's class schedule.

Groupon Says

One-Night Stay at Best Western Plus Palm Desert Resort in Palm Desert, CA

Wed, 22 May 2013 07:01:42 +0000

Desert-Inspired Hotel with Elegant Outdoor Pool

Best Western Plus Palm Desert Resort lies in the heart of the Coachella Valley, an arid landscape peppered with lush fairways and flanked on three sides by mountains. Befitting its Californian desert surroundings, the hotel features Spanish villa architecture replete with stucco walls and terra-cotta roof tiles. Towering palm trees and blooming gardens add bright pops of color to the hotel’s landscaping.

After a dip in the pool, you can sweat it out at the fitness center or engage in a shouting match with the line judge at the tennis courts. In the morning, don’t miss out on a complimentary cooked-to-order breakfast of eggs, pancakes, fresh fruit, danishes, and bacon.

Palm Desert, California: Shopping and Golf in Scenic Coachella Valley

Palm Desert shares the same desert landscape and resort atmosphere as Palm Springs, about 15 miles to the northeast. El Paseo, known as the Rodeo Drive of the Desert, is within walking distance of the hotel. The popular shopping district features art galleries, high-end boutiques, and brand-name retailers such as Gucci, Ralph Lauren, and Saks Fifth Avenue.

Palm Desert is also a gateway town into the north end of the 800,000-acre Joshua Tree National Park, located less than 60 miles away. In addition to being the birthplace of Bono, the desert park is famous for its unusual geologic formations and mountains made of twisted rock, which are ideal for rock climbing. Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife including desert bighorn sheep, golden eagles, and coyotes.

For a guaranteed glimpse of wildlife, check out The Living Desert, a zoo, botanical garden, and animal hospital in Palm Desert. As you stroll throughout the various geographical regions—including North America, Africa, and Village WaTuTu—you will see flora and fauna indigenous to that area, which can include mexican gray wolves, giraffes, and jaguars. The Living Desert also boasts a G-scale model train that winds its way through replicas of historical scenes, including a California logging and mining town and the south rim of the Grand Canyon.

Read the Fine Print for important info on travel dates and other restrictions.

Groupon Says

Two-Hour Standup-Paddleboard Rental or Two-Hour Lesson for One or Two at Windsurfdeal (Up to 60% Off)

Wed, 22 May 2013 07:01:22 +0000

Even though water covers most of the earth's surface, humans spend most of their lives on land and a small portion in the air while they're sleeping. Float on with this Groupon.

Choose from Three Options

$30 for a two-hour standup-paddleboard rental (a $60 value)
$55 for a two-hour standup-paddleboard lesson for one (a $120 value)
$79 for a two-hour standup-paddleboard lesson for two (a $198 value)

During lessons, novices learn how to stand, balance, turn, and paddle . After mastering the basics, they can explore the waters around Redondo Beach.

Groupon Says

$8 for $16 Worth of Ice-Cream Puffs, Cream Puffs, and Mochi Ice Cream at Beard Papa's

Wed, 22 May 2013 07:01:14 +0000

Ice cream can be served any number of ways--in a cone, as a sandwich, or just scooped right into your mouth by some guy in a truck. Have it your way with this Groupon.

$8 for $16 Worth of Ice-Cream Puffs, Cream Puffs, and Mochi

Choose between the following redemption locations:

Pasadena
Downtown Los Angeles

Customers can savor crunchy ice-cream puffs ($2.95+) filled with scoops of chocolate, matcha green tea, cookies and cream, or strawberry cheesecake. The menu also includes éclairs ($2.25), cheesecake sticks ($1.50), mochi ice cream ($1.15), cream puffs filled with all-natural custard ($1.95), and bubble-tea drinks ($2.25–$2.75).

Groupon Says

New American Food and Drinks at The Gaslamp Restaurant & Bar (Up to 51% Off). Two Options Available.

Wed, 22 May 2013 07:01:01 +0000

Fine-dining establishments give you options, such as soup or salad, and silver platter or wax-paper-lined top hat. Celebrate good taste with this Groupon.

Choose Between Two Options

$20 for $40 worth of New American food and drinks for two or more
$39 for $80 worth of New American food and drinks for four or more

The menu includes the Gaslamp burger ($9.50), firecracker shrimp ($18), boneless beef shortribs ($17), and a 10-ounce flatiron steak with truffle-parmesan fries ($20).

Groupon Says

Standup-Paddleboard Rental or Lesson for One, Two, or Four at Malibu Paddle Surf in Santa Monica (Up to 65% Off)

Wed, 22 May 2013 07:00:51 +0000

Wetsuits are the only thing preventing paddleboarders from exposing their skin to chilly waters or revealing their newly sprouted gills to the entire beach. Suit up and ship out with this Groupon.

Choose from Four Options

$30 for a three-hour standup-paddleboard rental package with a standup paddleboard, a paddle, and a wetsuit (a $60 value)
$55 for a two-hour standup-paddleboard lesson for one (a $120 value)
$79 for a two-hour standup-paddleboard lesson for two (a $198 value)
$139 for a two-hour standup-paddleboard lesson for four (a $396 value)

Private or group lessons with paddleboarding expert Matt Rosas take place seven days a week and include equipment rental. Pupils learn how to turn, paddle, catch waves, fall safely, and balance on the board.

Groupon Says

Sunday Wine Tasting for Two or Four with Voucher for Take-Home Bottle at Bellavino Wine Bar (Half Off)

Wed, 22 May 2013 07:00:29 +0000

Like choosing a prom date, choosing a favorite wine necessitates sampling a variety to determine which one will produce the nicest bouquet. Enjoy the fruits of competitive courting with this Groupon.

Choose Between Two Options

$30 for a wine tasting for two and one $30 voucher toward a take-home bottle of wine (a $60 value)
$60 for a wine tasting for four and two $30 vouchers toward a take-home bottle of wine (a $120 value)

More than 15 wines will be available to try during tastings held every Sunday. Between sips, patrons can nibble on cheese and crackers or browse the bar's wide selection of wines by the bottle to take home. Wine tastings end promptly at 5 p.m.; patrons should allow at least an hour for the wine-tasting experience.

Groupon Says

One, Three, or Six Infrared Body-Wrap Sessions at Premiere Skincare Solutions (Up to 67% Off)

Wed, 22 May 2013 07:00:26 +0000

A body wrap is just the first step on a path toward renewal—the next is reenacting your own birth in front of your family. Get a fresh start with this Groupon.

Choose from Three Options

$29 for one infrared body-wrap session (a $79.99 value)
$85 for three infrared body-wrap sessions (a $239.97 value)
$159 for six infrared body-wrap sessions (a $479.94 value)

The primary function of an infrared body wrap is to make people sweat. Along with beads of perspiration, the body releases toxins, calories, and stress.

Groupon Says

Seven-Night Costa Rica Vacation with Round-Trip Airfare and Ground Transfers from Travel by Jen

Tue, 21 May 2013 07:01:52 +0000

Seven-Night Costa Rica Vacation

Included in all options:

Round-trip airfare
Three nights in a standard room at Hotel Magic Mountain with daily breakfast
Three-night, all-inclusive stay in a standard room at Allegro Papagayo including all meals, drinks (both alcoholic and non-alcoholic), snacks, and non-motorized water sports
One night in a standard room at Holiday Inn in San Jose
All transfers (San Jose to Arenal, Arenal to Guanacaste, Guanacaste to San Jose, San Jose to Airport)

Click here to see more details about the all-inclusive plan.

Roam the Rainforest Around Arenal Volcano

Arenal was once Costa Rica’s most active volcano. Though it still smokes and rumbles, it’s been dormant since 2010 so you can easily access the fertile rainforests and whitewater rapids in the volcano’s vicinity. Geothermic activity here has created a number of natural hot springs, many of which are close to Hotel Magic Mountain.

It’s also worth it to join a day tour to the Caño Negro Wildlife Refuge. While walking through the dense jungle here or taking a boat ride, you might see monkeys, sloths, and various tropical birds.

Accommodations: Three nights at Hotel Magic Mountain with daily breakfast.

Snorkel, Surf, or Sunbathe off the Northern Pacific Coast

Old adobe homes and aged structures made of white volcanic rock are located throughout Liberia, the Costa Rican city founded in 1769. The old city jail here is still in use, and you can tour a colonial-era town hall at the plaza.

Liberia is the capital of the large province Guanacaste, which is a destination for bird watching, horseback riding, surfing, snorkeling, and windsurfing on mountain lakes. You’ll want to spend some time in Santa Rosa National Park, just north of the Allegro Papagayo. It has pristine beaches and the country’s largest tropical dry forest.

Accommodations: Three-night, all-inclusive stay at Allegro Papagayo.

Eat Tamales and Walk Through Open-Air Markets in San Jose

Though San Jose is the capital city and cultural center of Costa Rica, travelers often just pass through the airport here so they can get to the coastal beaches and jungles further afield. That’s a shame, as San Jose is one of Costa Rica's best-kept secrets. Take a walking tour of Barrio Amón, one of the city's oldest neighborhoods, and you can sample street food such as tamales and pupusas (stuffed flatbread) and see old colonial architecture. Amid the open-air markets with artisan crafts and cafés, you'll find renowned museums, including the Jade Museum. Jade was one of the most valuable commodities in pre-Columbian cultures of Mexico and South America; the museum showcases an impressive collection of pendants and carvings that illustrate how early peoples carved the hard stone. Accommodations: One night at Holiday Inn in San Jose.

Read the Fine Print for important info on travel dates and other restrictions.

$10 for a One-Hour Hydrobike Ride from Long Beach Hydrobikes ($20 Value)

Tue, 21 May 2013 07:01:34 +0000

Though hydrobikes are like boats in that they provide safe transportation over water, they're most often likened to horses due to their storage consoles for carrots. Climb aboard a water steed with this Groupon.

$10 for a One-Hour Hydrobike Rental ($20 Value)

Long Beach Hydrobikes' professionals teach customers how to ride hydrobikes onto beaches and supply maps detailing scenic locations before customers depart for one-hour jaunts across Alamitos Bay. Free parking is available.

Groupon Says

10-Day China Tour with Airfare from Friendly Planet Travel

Tue, 21 May 2013 07:01:19 +0000

See Shanghai, Xi’an's Terracotta Army, and the Great Wall of China

The tour includes:

Round-trip airfare from Los Angeles (LAX) via Air China
Three nights at the 4-star Broadway Mansions Hotel in Shanghai; two nights at the 4-star Grand Mercure in Xi’an; and three nights at 4-star Beijing International Hotel.
Twelve meals, including eight buffet breakfasts, three lunches, and one dinner
All intra-China flights and ground transportation
Maximum of 24 people in the tour group
Professional English-speaking tour director and local guides

Below, we've outlined some of our favorite trip highlights. You can check out the full itinerary here. Optional excursions are available for an additional fee.

Days 1–4: Shanghai An overnight flight takes you to the megalopolis of Shanghai, which has a population almost three times bigger than New York City’s. Your group of up to 24 fellow guests makes their first stop on the tour at the breathtaking Yu Garden, built four centuries ago during the Ming Dynasty. Waterways meander past the garden's striking rock formations, koi ponds, ornate pavilions, and a massive boulder made entirely of jade. You’ll spend the next two days at leisure, discovering for yourself why Shanghai is known as the "Paris of the East." You can also opt to take a cruise along Suzhou's scenic canals. This optional tour costs $85 per person and includes lunch.

Days 5–6: Xi’an After a brief flight west, you’ll set down in Xi’an, one of China's oldest cities, to visit its primary claim to fame these days—the Terracotta Army, more than 8,000 life-sized stone soldiers dating back to around 250 BC. At night, an optional dumpling dinner and Tang Dynasty dance performance is available for an additional $48 per person.

Days 7–10: Beijing, Great Wall After a morning flight to Beijing, you’ll visit Tiananmen Square and the Forbidden City, an enormous imperial palace built during the 15th century. In addition to two days of leisure time, the last leg of the trip includes a tour of the iconic Great Wall—undoubtedly one of the largest construction projects ever attempted. Stretching across thousands of miles, the wall is made up of many separate sections extending through mountains as well as desert regions. On day 9, an optional tour to visit the Hutongs of Beijing and the Temple of Heaven is available for an additional $65 per person, including a provided lunch.

Read the Fine Print for important info on travel dates and other restrictions.

Nine-Hole Playing Lesson for One or Two with PGA Instructor Gene Hori at Malibu Golf Club (Up to 60% Off)

Tue, 21 May 2013 07:01:17 +0000

Golf is so beloved because it combines two of humankind's favorite things—hitting stuff and driving on someone else's lawn. Play through with this Groupon.

Choose Between Two Options

$99 for a nine-hole playing lesson for one (up to a $215 value)
$139 for a nine-hole playing lesson for two (up to a $350 value)

Class A PGA teaching professional Gene Hori accompanies players through nine holes of golf at Malibu Golf Club, allowing for instruction on not only swing mechanics but also such strategic skills as course management and decision making.

Groupon Says

â€œDiana: Legacy of a Princessâ€ Exhibit for One or Two on â€œThe Queen Maryâ€ (Up to 46% Off)

Tue, 21 May 2013 07:01:13 +0000

Nostalgia bathes everything in shades of gold, which is why many financial advisors suggest investing in discarded love letters and fondly remembered bureaus. Remember a richer past with this Groupon.

Choose Between Two Options

$19 for one ticket to Diana: Legacy of a Princess (up to a $34.95 value)
$38 for two tickets to Diana: Legacy of a Princess (up to a $69.90 value)

The exhibit honors the memory of the late royal with a collection of stunning dresses, photographs, and memorabilia. Purchasers can complete their visit with a self-guided tour of the ship.

Groupon Says

One-Night Stay at Best Western Plus Palm Desert Resort in Palm Desert, CA

Tue, 21 May 2013 07:01:08 +0000

Desert-Inspired Hotel with Elegant Outdoor Pool

Palm Desert, California: Shopping and Golf in Scenic Coachella Valley

Read the Fine Print for important info on travel dates and other restrictions.

Eyelash Extensions at Vida Emanuel European Day Spa (Up to 77% Off). Three Options Available.

Tue, 21 May 2013 07:00:33 +0000

Eyelash extensions are less painful than poking yourself in the eye with a mascara wand or scotch taping porcupine quills to your eyelids. Open your eyes to beauty with this Groupon.

Choose from Three Options

$69 for one full set of eyelash extensions (a $225 value)
$89 for one full set of eyelash extensions and one touchup (a $375 value)
$169 for two full sets of eyelash extensions and two touchups (a $750 value)

Customers can eschew mascara with false lashes.

Groupon Says

5 or 10 Fitness Classes at Fitness For Life (Up to 79% Off)

Tue, 21 May 2013 07:00:30 +0000

Dancing can be mastered quickly if you come to class ready to learn and with your hip joints already smeared with bicycle grease. Move freely with this Groupon.

Choose Between Two Options

$22 for 5 dance-fitness classes (a $100 value)
$39 for 10 dance-fitness classes (a $190 value)

The classes, most of which are 50 minutes long, include an array of dance styles such as Zumba, belly dancing, cardio hip-hop, afro funk, and Bollywood. Proper class attire is form-fitting clothing and comfortable, supportive shoes for dance and exercise; dance shoes are not required. Street and designated parking are available. See the full class schedule.

Groupon Says

$10 for Two Groupons, Each Good for $10 Worth of Frozen Treats at Sno-Biggie ($20 Total Value)

Sun, 19 May 2013 07:01:26 +0000

The cold, creamy texture of a sno-ball feels great until you have to sit in a pile of them. Savor sno-balls inside your body with this Groupon.

$10 for Two Groupons, Each Good for $10 Worth of Frozen Treats ($20 Total Value)

The menu features sno-balls with ice cream ($3.50–$5.50) and without ice cream ($2.75–$4.75) in flavors such as root beer, wedding cake, and chai latte. Groupons must be used over separate visits.

Groupon Says

Cooking Class for One or Two or Knife-Skills Class for Two at Chefs, Inc. (Up to Half Off)

Sun, 19 May 2013 07:01:21 +0000

Cooking is a labor of love, which explains why so many chefs still pine for the meatball that got away. Get involved with your meal with this Groupon.

Choose from Three Options

$39 for a cooking class for one (up to a $75 value)
$78 for a cooking class for two (up to a $150 value)
$70 for a knife-skills class for two (a $140 value)

Regular cooking classes cover such topics as making sausage, preparing pasta, and cooking with fresh herbs—a series of lessons on how to blend the potent flavor of certain plants with cheese, sauce, or even ice cream. In the knife-skills class, chefs teach students to cut, dice, and slice while preparing a grilled chopped vegetable salad in a country vinaigrette, a chicken tortilla soup with avocado and cheese, and grilled pineapple skewers with toasted coconut.

See the calendar for available class times.

Groupon Says

One, Three, or Five 50-Minute Swedish Massages at A2Z Health Certified Massage Therapist (Half Off)

Sun, 19 May 2013 07:01:03 +0000

People like feeling good, which is why they get massages or wear nice, loose pants. Loosen up with this Groupon.

Choose from Three Options

$25 for one 50-minute Swedish massage (a $50 value)
$75 for three 50-minute Swedish massages (a $150 value)
$125 for five 50-minute Swedish massages (a $250 value)

Groupon Says

Visit for Two or Four Adults to Mission San Juan Capistrano (Half Off)

Sat, 18 May 2013 07:01:38 +0000

History museums instill wonder in those who have become bored with their own closets full of skeletons. Discover a body of knowledge with this Groupon.

Choose Between Two Options

$9 for admission for two adults (an $18 value)
$18 for admission for four adults (a $36 value)

Admission enables participation in an audio tour, which includes historical insight and stories that relate to California history in general and the mission in particular. Audio tours are available in English, Spanish, German, French, Italian, and Vietnamese.

Groupon Says

Four- or Six-Hour Limo Experience with a Full Bar for Up to Eight People from G&A Limousine Service (Up to 54% Off)

Sat, 18 May 2013 07:01:22 +0000

Riding in a limo can make you feel like a member of society's elite, like throwing away your toothbrush after a single use. Be king for a day with this Groupon.

Choose Between Two Options

$199 for a four-hour limo ride with a full bar for up to eight people (a $430 value)
$299 for a six-hour limo ride with a full bar for up to eight people (a $620 value)

Groupon Says

Two, Four, or Six Laser Spider Vein Removal Treatments at Hair Free Laser Center (Up to 56% Off)

Sat, 18 May 2013 07:01:17 +0000

Spider veins always show up uninvited like that one neighbor who steals all of the wedding invites in your mail. Get rid of unwanted guests with this Groupon.

Choose from Three Options

$89 for two laser spider vein removal treatments (a $190 value)
$169 for four laser spider vein removal treatments (a $380 value)
$249 for six laser spider vein removal treatments (a $570 value)

Groupon Says

Calabasas Malibu Wine & Food Festival Admission on Friday, June 21 or Saturday, June 22 (Up to 77% Off)

Sat, 18 May 2013 07:00:40 +0000

Wine gets better with age, like cheese and the value of a first-edition copy of Abraham Lincoln's autobiography, Lincoln for Love in All the Wrong Places. Enjoy timeless taste with this Groupon.

Choose Between Two Options

$49.99 for one general admission ticket (a $100 value)
$69.99 for one VIP ticket (a $300 value)

Choose between Friday, June 21 or Saturday, June 22. The event runs 6 p.m.–10 p.m. for VIP ticket holders, and 7 p.m.–10 p.m. for general admission ticket holders. The event takes place at the Roof Top of Mercedes Benz. Click here for a list of participating vendors.

Groupon Says

Permanent Makeup Application at Skin Care by Shoshana (Up to 67% Off)

Fri, 17 May 2013 07:01:45 +0000

Wearing makeup accentuates your best features, much like going on a double date with your evil twin. Look great all the time with this Groupon.

Choose from Three Options

$99 for a permanent makeup application on the upper or lower eyelids or the lip line (a $300 value)
$149 for a permanent makeup application on the upper and lower eyelids or the eyebrows (a $450 value)
$179 for a permanent makeup application on the full lip (a $500 value)

Permanent makeup sessions bestow faces with unfading accents, filling out sparse eyebrows or cutting down on morning prep with perfectly placed eye and lip color.

Mediterranean and Arabic Cuisine at Aladdin Jr. Restaurant & Cafe (Half Off). Two Options Available.

Fri, 17 May 2013 07:01:17 +0000

Few things bring people together like breaking bread, except for gluing broken bread back together in a fit of regret. Learn to accept damaged grains with this Groupon.

Choose Between Two Options

$12 for $24 worth of Mediterranean and Arabic cuisine for parties of two or more
$20 for $40 worth of Mediterranean and Arabic cuisine for parties of four or more

The menu includes a chicken-shawarma sandwich ($6.49), lamb kebabs ($14.99), and a falafel entree ($8.99).

Groupon Says

Paintball Play Package for One, Two, or Four at Paintball Wars (Up to 58% Off)

Fri, 17 May 2013 07:00:49 +0000

Like the night you discover that everyone you know is a werewolf, a game of paintball involves hiding behind trees and running away from your friends. Be prepared with this Groupon.

Choose from Three Options

$22 for a basic paintball package for one (a $45 value)
$40 for a basic paintball package for two (a $90 value)
$76 for a basic paintball package for four (a $180 value)

Each player receives:

All-day field admission from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday or Sunday
Semi-automatic paintball marker rental
Protective goggles or mask rental
Three paintball pouches with belt rental
500 paintballs

Groupon Says

$1,299 for a Two-Day Permanent-Makeup-Tech Course at Organic Permanent Makeup ($2,999 Value). Two Dates Available.

Fri, 17 May 2013 07:00:45 +0000

Permanent makeup stays in place even after crying at a wedding or dunking your face in the punch bowl. Keep it together with this Groupon.

$1,299 for an Express Certified Permanent-Makeup-Technician Master Course ($2,999 Value)

Choose from the following dates:

Sunday, September 1, and Monday, September 2
Sunday, October 6, and Monday, October 7

Students learn core fundamentals of makeup application, including drawing techniques, color theory, using and sterilizing equipment, marketing, and abiding by the law. The course aims to have students immediately ready to begin work as a certified technician; additional classes may be required for those who don't pass certification. Classes take place from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on both days.

Groupon Says

Fries, Chips, and Baked Potatoes at Potato Corner USA (Half Off). Two Options Available.

Fri, 17 May 2013 07:00:31 +0000

Most children won't eat a vegetable unless it is fried, just like they won't walk a dog that isn't wearing a bow tie. Pick your battles with this Groupon.

Choose Between Two Options

$5 for $10 worth of fries, chips, and baked potatoes
$10 for two Groupons, each good for $10 worth of fries, chips, and baked potatoes (a $20 value)

The menu includes original fries ($2.99–$5.99), sweet-potato fries ($3.99–$6.99), and chili-cheese baked potatoes ($4.69).

Groupon Says

Stay at The Meritage Resort and Spa in Napa, CA

Thu, 16 May 2013 07:02:21 +0000

Newly Expanded, 4-Star Wine Resort in the Heart of Napa

Beyond The Meritage Resort and Spa’s iron gates, rows of grapevines stretch across rolling hills. The 4-star, Tuscan-inspired property lies in the heart of Napa and embraces the valley's wine culture. It's not hard to find a good glass of wine at The Meritage—the resort produces its own varietals at Trinitas Cellars and serves them in a tasting room and restaurant that blends Italian and Californian influences. Guest rooms even come with a welcome bottle of wine. But this resort isn’t just about wine—with its newly-completed $40 million expansion, visitors can now sip on a cocktail from an expert mixologist while bowling on one of six luxury lanes in the new Crush Ultra Lounge.

The resort's 22,000-square-foot Estate Wine Cave impresses guests with its sheer size and Old-World Florentine architecture. Housed within the cave is Spa Terra, named one of the world’s top 100 spas by Spas of America. The spa’s body treatments range from romantic couples experiences to the La Dolce Vita, which includes a Dolce body treatment, a Terra massage, and European facial, followed by a spa lunch and a glass of wine. Also tucked away in the cave is the Trinitas Tasting Room, made from natural-stone walls and dark woodwork. Tastings may feature house label wines such as moscato, pinot noir, and cabernet sauvignon.

Chefs at the in-house restaurant, Siena, prepare locally sourced, Tuscan-influenced fare such as the rotisserie Fulton Valley chicken and herb-marinated grilled lamb chops. The recent expansion also includes Blend Café, an Italian-inspired eatery with tempting gelato, strong espresso, and fresh pastries. Back in their rooms, guests may opt to stomp their own grapes in a roomy marble bathtub, or cap off the night with a complimentary bottle of wine.

Napa, California: Sprawling Vineyards and Italian and Californian Dining

Located about a one-hour drive north of San Francisco, Napa Valley—a region that runs from Napa in the south to Calistoga in the north—is California's capital of all things grape. The valley's rolling hills are dotted with more than 400 family-owned vineyards, where oak barrels age vintage nectars and visitors are invited to stop, taste, and sniff private-label wines. Vineyards range from St. Helena’s popular Quintessa estate, a 280-acre property specializing in cabernet sauvignon, to lesser-known wineries such as Heibel Ranch Vineyards, which you can tour on the back of a 1963 Jeep. Although some wineries welcome drop-by tastings, your best bet is to make appointments ahead of time.

The valley's culinary scene has also risen to prominence, with chefs such as Thomas Keller spearheading a haute cuisine movement. The charming main streets of Yountville and St. Helena are studded with gourmet restaurants praised for their sustainable practices and fresh cuisine with Italian and Californian influences. If you’re tired of sipping wine all day, grab a wheat beer or a pale ale at one of the dozens of local breweries.

No-shows will be charged total Groupon rate; no refunds, rescheduling, or rebooking allowed. Read the Fine Print for important info on travel dates and other restrictions.

Groupon Says

Stay at Sycamore Mineral Springs Resort in San Luis Obispo, CA

Thu, 16 May 2013 07:02:18 +0000

Top Reasons to Visit Sycamore Mineral Springs Resort

Voted a top 10 mineral-springs spa by Spa magazine and SpaFinder in 2009, this resort has been in operation for more than 100 years. The naturally hot sulfur mineral water found onsite is said to be healing and soothing.
All of the queen spa rooms and the double-bed rooms have attached private mineral-spring hot tubs.
The Oasis, the onsite mineral-springs hot tub with a waterfall, can hold up to 30 people. There is also a full-service spa, yoga classes, and a meditation labyrinth on the property. Additionally, you'll have access to a hiking trail and a walking path to the beach.
The award-winning onsite eatery, Gardens of Avila Restaurant, serves farm-to-table cuisine made with ingredients from organic farms. Some menu highlights: the grilled albacore tostada and drake duck breast with roasted carrots.

San Luis Obispo, California: Historical Californian City Close to Hiking and the Pacific Coast

Founded in 1772 as a mission community, San Luis Obispo is one of the oldest towns in California. Halfway between San Francisco and Los Angeles, San Luis Obispo—nicknamed “SLO”—has a thriving downtown. Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa is its centerpiece. It was the original mission of the city; it has been completely restored and now houses a museum. Near the mission, you can wander through posh boutique shops and dine at upscale restaurants.

San Luis Obispo is almost perpetually sunny, with more than 300 rain-free days every year. The city is bisected by a string of hills known as the Nine Sisters, and six of these hills are open for climbing, hiking, and mountain biking. And with the Pacific coastline and beaches 10 miles away, people flock here to go windsurfing, kayaking, surfing, and kiteboarding. Also nearby is the resort town of Avila Beach, famous for its hot mineral springs.

The city made international headlines in 1990 when it became the first place in the world to ban smoking in all public buildings, including bars and restaurants. This action sparked worldwide antismoking laws, and today, it’s a citable offense to smoke in public at all in SLO. Considering the city’s famously strict health codes, it’s a delightful surprise that the Bubble Gum Alley exists here. Locals and visitors have been sticking their chewed gum on Bubble Gum Alley’s walls since about 1960, and in turn, the alley is now a massive, mosaic-like public artwork that is at once beautiful and grotesque.

Read the Fine Print for important info on travel dates and other restrictions.

Groupon Says

Stay at Palace Station Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas

Thu, 16 May 2013 07:02:16 +0000

Modern Hotel Tower with Sprawling Casino and Several Onsite Restaurants

Though it’s a less than a mile off the Las Vegas Strip, Palace Station Hotel & Casino supplies plenty of Sin City glitz in its 21-story tower. In the 100,000 square foot casino, more than 1,600 slot and video-poker machines whir and jangle as Texas Hold'em and sit-and-go poker tournaments take place 24 hours a day. The hotel is no slouch when it comes to live entertainment, either. The roster of standup comics who have passed through includes Jerry Seinfeld, Larry the Cable Guy, and Louie Anderson.

A glass elevator brings you to a tower room, which looks out on either the surrounding valley or Vegas Strip. Furnishings are sleek and modern. Simply decorated courtyard rooms—the smallest of the bunch—are housed within a two-story building adjacent to the main tower. After settling in, you can grab a drink at one of the three onsite lounges.

Dining options range from steaks grilled over mesquite charcoal at The Broiler to authentic Chinese cuisine at Food Express. At The Oyster Bar, chefs prepare seafood dishes such as steamed New Zealand mussels and lobster gumbo right in front of diners at a bar-style setup. The popular restaurant can seat only about a dozen people at a time, so be prepared to wait.

Las Vegas: The Strip Past and Present

Mentioning Las Vegas usually conjures up images of spinning roulette wheels and stone-faced poker players. If that’s what you’re looking for, you’ll want to make a beeline for the casinos lining the neon-lit Strip. But for lower-stakes gambling in a throwback Vegas atmosphere, head downtown to Fremont Street. Vintage signs and showgirls crowned with headdresses recall the days of Sinatra and Martin, but this Glitter Gulch burns much brighter today than it did in the Rat Pack era: beginning at dusk, a canopy of more than 12 million LED lights erupts in a psychedelic light and music show every hour.

Educational attractions have never been Sin City's strong suit, but the Mob Museum boasts a winning formula: bank robberies, prostitution, and money laundering. Exhibits profile legendary Mafiosi from Capone to Gotti, and mob artifacts include the bloodstained, bullet-pocked brick wall from the St. Valentine’s Day Massacre. Within the former federal courthouse, you can fire a Tommy gun simulator, participate in a police lineup, or enter witness protection for the rest of your life.

Read the Fine Print for important info on travel dates and other restrictions.

Groupon Says

$10 Donation to Help Fund a Support Camp for Youth

Thu, 16 May 2013 07:01:56 +0000

The Issue: Psychological Effects of Cancer on Youth

Nearly 600,000 Americans are expected to die from cancer in 2013, according to data from the American Cancer Society. Many of these people will have children. When parents face life-threatening illnesses, it can put an indescribable strain on their family—especially their kids, who can face isolation, low self-esteem, and depression that can hurt them academically and socially. But by finding a setting where they don’t need to think about cancer, they can relax some, reducing both stress and emotional suffering.

The Campaign: Hosting a Camp for Kids Affected by Cancer

All donations to this Grassroots campaign will be used by Camp Kesem USC to provide a weeklong summer camp at Pathfinder Ranch for children who have a parent with cancer. For every $500 raised, Camp Kesem USC can sponsor one child in its first camp. Thirty children aged 6–16, along with 15 counselors, will attend the camp, receiving all food, travel, lodging, and equipment for free. At the camp, they have the opportunity to form a lifelong support community and take a break from the thought of cancer while they play, participate in traditional camp activities, sing songs, and talk about whatever's on their mind in "Cabin Chats."

Groupon Says

$10 Donation for Rescued Cats

Thu, 16 May 2013 07:01:39 +0000

The Issue: Animals Being Euthanized Across the Country

Of the estimated six to eight million dogs and cats that enter shelters each year in the United States, about three to four million are euthanized, according to data from The Humane Society of the United States. This is often due to a lack of resources and space at the shelter. The ASPCA estimates that it costs $600 to $900 annually to provide food, medical care, supplies, and training for a rescued dog or cat while they await adoption into permanent homes.

The Campaign: Providing Medical Care for Rescued Cats

All donations to this Grassroots campaign will be used by MeoowResQ to provide food and medical treatments for rescued cats awaiting adoption. For every $65 raised, MeoowResQ can provide spay or neuter treatments, vaccinations, and one week of food for one cat. Angela Little will match donations up to $260.

Groupon Says

$2,799 for a Complete Invisalign Treatment at Ramin Tour DDS (Up to $6,500 Value)

Thu, 16 May 2013 07:01:12 +0000

Wearing braces improves teeth, much like trapping a mime in an actual box improves their performances. Straighten up with this Groupon.

$2,799 for Complete Invisalign Treatment (Up to $6,500 Value)

Invisalign straightens teeth with a series of clear, removable, custom aligners. The process begins at the dentist’s office, where, during an initial exam, the doctor snaps x-rays and takes impressions of the upper and lower teeth. In the Invisalign lab, technicians craft a set of up to 48 transparent aligners made to the patient’s exact specifications. Patients wear the removable aligners for 6–18 months, changing the aligners every two weeks and only removing them while eating, brushing, or modeling a finely clenched jaw.

Throughout the treatment, patients return to the dentist's office for routine checkups to ensure teeth continue to shift into their proper places. Read the Invisalign FAQs here.

Groupon Says

One- or Two-Night Stay with Spa Credit or Massage and Wine at Miracle Springs Resort & Spa in Desert Hot Springs, CA

Wed, 15 May 2013 07:02:07 +0000

Romantic Getaway with Natural Hot Mineral-Water Pools

More than a century ago, in the California town of Desert Hot Springs, both hot and cold natural mineral springs were discovered atop the aptly named Miracle Hill. As a result, resorts and spas populated the town, hoping to take advantage of the springs’ believed holistic healing properties. You can soak in these mineral-rich waters at Miracle Springs Resort & Spa, set on an acre in the foothills of the San Bernardino Mountains.

The Mediterranean-influenced hotel, topped by a terra-cotta stucco roof and surrounded by lush gardens, pumps the 140-degree water straight from the earth before cooling it down to 90–105 degrees. The water then fills eight pools and hot tubs, which are open 24 hours. There, you can bathe in the waters for as long as you’d like—the hotel suggests dipping into the pools and tubs two–three times a day to reach total relaxation.

Near the mineral pools, the onsite Capri restaurant serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Typical entrees include top sirloin ($14) and gnocchi à la romano ($11). At the onsite spa, aestheticians and massage therapists are on hand to perform massages ($65+), facials ($60+), and body wraps ($40+).

Desert Hot Springs, California: Spa-Centric Oasis Minutes from Palm Springs

In 1913, settler Cabot Yerxa was digging a well in the San Bernardino foothills when he unearthed natural hot springs bubbling beneath the Californian desert. These hot springs created a spa-centric culture in Desert Hot Springs—the mineral waters, which reach temperatures of up to 148 degrees, flow directly into several local spas. Yerxa also used material found throughout the desert to handcraft a Hopi-influenced pueblo home that towers four stories high. It’s now immortalized as Cabot's Pueblo Museum, and is open for tours.

Twelve miles south of Desert Hot Springs, you’ll find a retro '50s and '60s vibe in Palm Springs. The ritzy vacation spot features world-class golf courses and shopping centers. Joshua Tree National Park lies 40 miles east, an 800,000-acre swath of land that stretches across parts of the Colorado and Mojave Deserts. The five palm oases scattered throughout the park are the best spots to see native animals, such as snakes, bighorn sheep, and black-tailed jackrabbits.

Read the Fine Print for important info on travel dates and other restrictions.

Groupon Says

$1,750 for a Conventional LASIK Surgery for Both Eyes at Laser Eye Center ($4,200 Value)

Wed, 15 May 2013 07:01:13 +0000

$1,750 for Conventional LASIK for Both Eyes ($4,200 Value)

After an initial consultation, clients relax in a reclining chair as a surgeon-piloted laser system modifies cornea shapes in an effort to increase the eye's ability to absorb light. The approximately 10-minute restructuring reduces or eliminates clients' dependence on spectacles and contact lenses, and most patients can return to work within 24–48 hours. Staff members help clients maintain their sharpened sight with up to one year of follow-up visits. Clients also receive an after-surgery care kit that includes artificial tears to reduce redness, sunglasses to negate strain, and a shield to deflect the jealous stares of monocle-wearing coworkers. Patients can opt to apply their Groupon toward an upgraded service, with costs to be determined during the initial consultation. For more information, please check out Laser Eye Center's frequently asked questions.

Groupon Says

11-Day Thailand Tour with Airfare from Affordable Asia Tours

Tue, 14 May 2013 07:02:35 +0000

Buddhist Temples, Colorful Flower Markets, and Ancient Ruins

The tour includes:

Round-trip airfare from New York (JFK) or Los Angeles (LAX) via Air China
Fuel surcharge and tax
Round-trip airport-hotel transfers
Daily breakfast and some meals (per itinerary)
Three nights at Centara Grand at Central Plaza Ladprao Bangkok, one night at Felix River Kwai Resort, one night at Krungsri River Hotel, and three nights at Holiday Inn Chiang Mai.
English-speaking tour guides

We've outlined a few select trip highlights below. To see a full daily itinerary, click here. An extended stay in Bangkok or a 4-day, 3-night extension tour to Beijing, China (visa free) may be available through AffordableAsia.com. Both are subject to availability and will incur an additional fee.

Days 1–4: Bangkok An overnight flight takes you to the bustling Thai capital, which Frommer's calls "an exhilarating attack on the senses." After a night of leisure, you'll spend the third day of the trip visiting some of Bangkok's most revered sites. At the Temple of the Golden Buddha, you’ll find the world’s largest solid-gold Buddha statue, a masterpiece weighing in at nearly six tons. The tour then winds past fragrant outdoor flower markets en route to the Temple of the Reclining Buddha, the city's oldest temple, dating back to the 7th century.

Your final day in Bangkok is yours to spend however you’d like. An optional tour includes a boat ride along the Chao Phraya River and a visit to the Grand Palace, an extravagant structure crowned with golden spires.

Day 5: River Kwai

Guests begin the day by heading to the War Cemetery and The Bridge over River Kwai before taking a trip on the 415 km long Burma-Thailand railway constructed by Allied prisoners of war during WWII. After lunch, guests can relax in the hotel or take the option Elephant Trekking & Bamboo Rafting tour.

Day 6: Ayutthaya

In the morning, the tour journeys north to Ayutthaya, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that served as the capital of Siam for four centuries. You’ll see the ruins of temples, monasteries, and palaces, including Bang Pa-In Palace, which is surrounded by a massive moat over a thousand feet wide.

Days 7–11: Chiang Mai On day seven, a short flight brings you to Chiang Mai, a hillside village steeped in history and dotted with hundreds of sacred temples. One of them, Wat Chedi Luang, stands nearly 300 ft high and features a lengthy stairway adorned with stone snake sculptures. Also on the agenda is a tour of some local villages, where you can browse handcrafted items. In Bor Sang, the shops and vendor stalls overflow with colorful umbrellas and delicate, handheld fans. Before heading home, you have two free days to explore Chiang Mai on your own. Optional excursions include an elephant ride, river rafting, and a stop at Doi Suthep Temple, built in the 14th century.

Read the Fine Print for important info on travel dates and other restrictions.

One- or Two-Night Stay with Two Glasses of Wine or Two Craft Beers at Hummingbird Inn in Southern California

Tue, 14 May 2013 07:02:28 +0000

Serene Inn near Los Padres National Forest

When director Frank Capra needed a stand-in for Shangri-La for his 1937 film Lost Horizon, he chose Ojai as the setting for the fictional idyllic village in the Himalayas. Located about 80 miles north of Los Angeles, Ojai may not look like it’s in the Himalayas, but it makes for a convincing replica of paradise in every other regard. The small town is located amid the Topatopa Mountains, near the crystal-clear Lake Casitas and the lush Los Padres National Forest. The serene landscape extends to the Hummingbird Inn of Ojai, where the crown of Chief Peak mountain can be seen from various points. True to its name, the property has dozens of colorful hummingbirds fluttering around.

Each guest room features hardwood floors, a flat-screen TV, and soothing colors. In the morning, a free breakfast spread awaits guests, who afterward can take dips in the outdoor pool, sit on the pine-log bench swing in the front yard, or visit massage therapist Laura Hathaway for onsite massages. Explore Ojai by renting one of the inn's complimentary bicycles or by hitching a team of hummingbirds to its low-flying dirigibles. Enjoy two glasses of wine in your room or a craft beer at the nearby Deer Lodge.

Ojai, California: Artsy Small Town in Peaceful Mountain Valley

In Ojai at dusk, the light from the setting sun reflects off of the Topatopa Mountains in such a way that the face of the mountains starts to glow with a distinctive rouge color. Locals call it the "pink moment," and Ojai is one of the few places in the world where this phenomenon occurs. You can get a nice view of this event at Meditation Mount, a New Age center.

Serenity and simplicity seem to be some of the defining characteristics of Ojai, contrasting it with the sprawling Los Angeles, located about 90 minutes southeast. Ojai has just a handful of traffic lights and some well-kept bridle paths. The city also used to be home to the peaceful Chumash tribe, who believed that the land's east-west configuration gave it magical powers. Spiritual traditions still linger; today, the town features a number of sites, spas, and shops dedicated to holistic healing and meditation.

Many restaurants in Ojai rely on local farms to source their food; the produce grown in town is well-regarded enough that residents of neighboring towns have been known to travel to Ojai on Sunday mornings for the weekly farmers' market.

There's also a strong artistic presence in town, due in no small part to former resident Beatrice Wood, a renowned sculptor. She worked until her death at age 105. You’re likely to stumble upon the works of local artists hanging on the walls in the area's restaurants and shops, and many artists open up their studios to outside visitors.

Read the Fine Print for important info on travel dates and other restrictions.

Three-, Four-, or Five-Night All-Inclusive Stay at Krystal Puerto Vallarta Resort in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

Tue, 14 May 2013 07:02:21 +0000

Hacienda-Inspired All-Inclusive Resort with Oceanfront Pools

Although there are many resort towns along Mexico's Pacific coast, Puerto Vallarta has a bit more history than most of them. Old Vallarta is lined with cobblestone streets, bougainvillea-draped villas, and a 1920s cathedral topped with a sculpture of a crown. The romantic setting helped earn the city the top spot among Mexican destinations in TripAdvisor's Travelers' Choice 2012 awards.

Today, the city has expanded to the north, which features a hotel zone lined with luxury high-rises. This is where you'll find the all-inclusive Krystal Puerto Vallarta Resort, whose hacienda-inspired architecture includes stucco façades, rustic archways, and wooden pergolas. More than 40 old-fashioned fountains dot the 25-acre beachfront property. One of them, a re-created aqueduct, trickles through the gardens.

Each day, the resort's entertainment staff leads poolside activities such as bingo and karaoke. Kids can find plenty more to do at Kamp Krystal (open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily), from painting figurines to earning their scuba-diving certification in a ball pit. Meanwhile, adults can visit the Millennium Spa.

Buffets run continuously from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. at Las Velas Restaurant, an international eatery overlooking Banderas Bay, but the dining options don't end there. You can sit down for a formal Mediterranean meal at Cinque Terre Restaurant or sushi at Kamakura Restaurant.

Puerto Vallarta, Mexico: Tropical Paradise with Cosmopolitan Flair

Puerto Vallarta is among Mexico’s most sophisticated cities, with trendy restaurants and bustling beaches such as Playa los Muertos, a popular stretch of golden sand filled with fishermen and beach-volleyball players. Nearby, a 10-block boardwalk known as the malecón offers unobstructed ocean views as it extends from the city center, past fountains and a famous 9-foot-high statue of a boy riding a seahorse.

Called “the most gay-friendly city in Mexico” by Frommer’s, Vallarta draws a diverse crowd of vacationers intent on relaxing during the day and living it up at night, bouncing between the city’s numerous dance clubs and bouncy castles. For a glimpse of the city's history, head to Old Vallarta, where artists peddle shawls and piñatas, and mariachi bands serenade couples dancing on Plaza Principal.

Read the Fine Print for important info on travel dates and other restrictions.

Eight-Day London and Paris Vacation with Airfare, Accommodations, and Sightseeing Bus Tickets from Go-today

Tue, 14 May 2013 07:01:50 +0000

See Europe’s Most Storied Landmarks in London and Paris with Hop-On, Hop-Off Bus Tours

This tour package includes:

Round-trip airfare to London on best available airline
Three nights accommodation in London at the Comfort Inn Vauxhall or similar
Three nights accommodation in Paris at the Villa Eugenie or the Boronali Hotel
The Original London Sightseeing Tour 24-hour hop-on, hop-off ticket
Two-day ticket for City Sightseeing Paris hop-on, hop-off tour
Daily breakfasts
All taxes

Days 1–4: See London’s Bridge, Buckingham Palace, and Westminster Abbey by Trolley and by Foot

During your three-night stint in London, you'll settle in at Comfort Inn Vauxhall. Included in this Getaway, you’ll have a ticket on The Original London Sightseeing Tour that is good for 24 hours. Once the bus stops at a landmark—such as Buckingham Palace, Big Ben, or London Bridge—you’re free to hop off and check the place up close for as long as you’d like. Then, you can hop back on the bus once it makes its way back.

You'll also have plenty of leisure time to check out the city during your stay. Make some time to stop by Westminster Abbey, a thousand-year-old Gothic cathedral decorated with stained glass, paintings, and other artifacts. The Piccadilly Circus rivals New York's Times Square with its giant illuminated billboards, which are offset by some elaborate 19th-century architecture.

Days 5–8: Tour the Eiffel Tower at Night and Walk through the Louvre

A short flight takes you to Paris, where you'll transfer to the Villa Eugenie or the Boronali Hotel, where you’ll stay for the duration. With your two-day pass for City Sightseeing Paris, you’ll see some of Paris's most renowned landmarks, including the Eiffel Tower. The tower doesn't close until midnight, and it's worth it to visit after dark when the tower lights up in brilliant colors. Hop on and hop off to check out landmarks as you please.

A staggering collection of masterpieces make their home at the Louvre, including the Mona Lisa, and works by Titian, Rembrandt, and Vermeer. You could get lost for days in the Louvre and not see all of its works, but leave some time to see the Notre Dame Cathedral or the Arc de Triomphe, an ornate monument that commemorates those who fought for France in the French Revolution and Napoleonic Wars.

Read the Fine Print for important info on travel dates and other restrictions.

Seven-Day Tokyo Vacation with City Tour, Airfare, and Accommodations from Friendly Planet Travel

Tue, 14 May 2013 07:01:23 +0000

Tokyo, Japan: Historic City with a Modern Skyline

Tokyo is home to an almost endless array of neon boulevards lined with ultramodern buildings, shopping centers, and restaurants. But there’s a historic side to the city as well: a number of museums, temples, and centuries-old gardens can be found here. On this seven-day Tokyo vacation from Friendly Planet Travel, you’ll see both sides of the city on guided, self-guided, and optional excursions.

This vacation package includes:

Round-trip airfare from Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) via Singapore Airlines (nonstop jet service)
Five nights superior first-class accommodations at the four-star Keio Plaza Hotel
Buffet breakfast daily
Arrival and departure transfers via airport bus
City tour of Tokyo with local guide

Below, you can check out some of our favorite vacation highlights. Click here to see a full daily itinerary.

Tokyo City Tour

On your first full day in Tokyo, you’ll take a guided city tour that visits some of Tokyo’s most famous sites, including Meiji Shrine and Tokyo Tower, a red-and-white structure that’s modeled after the Eiffel Tower. Next is the Imperial Palace, where the emperor of Japan currently resides. Visitors are not allowed inside, but you can wander through the gardens and see the remains of the 15th-century Edo Castle, once home to samurai warriors. Your tour concludes in Ginza, a popular shopping-and-entertainment district, where you’ll have plenty of time to browse boutiques and grab dinner before making your own way back to the hotel.

The next three days are yours to explore Tokyo at your leisure. The Keio Plaza Hotel is just a few minutes’ walk from the Shinjuku train station, an easier way to get around the city than hiring a sumo wrestler to carry you piggyback. You can also sign up for optional excursions (extra fees) on days 4, 5, and 6 to learn more about Tokyo and its surrounding areas. All excursions begin and end at your hotel.

Optional Excursions

Day 4: Take a guided walking tour of Tokyo’s modern Shinjuku neighborhood, a business district home to many skyscrapers. On this excursion, you’ll stop at a stylish shopping center, a Japanese comic-book store, and a karaoke bar.

Day 5: On a full-day tour of Mount Fuji and Hakone, the group drives part of the way up Japan’s iconic volcano to a lookout station with stunning views of the surrounding countryside. Hakone is your next stop—a town famous for its natural hot springs. Break for a quick lunch (provided) before taking a scenic sky-gondola ride and a cruise on Lake Ashi, with Mount Fuji looming in the background.

Day 6: Today, you can learn more about Japanese history with a tour that visits Hama-Rikyu Garden, a traditional garden from the Edo period. It also includes a boat ride from Hinode Pier to Asakusa and a stop at Asakusa Kannon Temple, which honors the Buddhist deity of mercy and compassion. The group will also stop at a local craft market to pick up souvenirs.

Read the Fine Print for important info on travel dates and other restrictions.

One-Night Stay with Two Drinks and Breakfast for Two at the Grand Vista Hotel in Greater Los Angeles

Tue, 14 May 2013 07:01:18 +0000

Family-Friendly Hotel near Los Angeles Offers Beautiful Outdoor Pool

The Simi Hills separate the city of Simi Valley from Los Angeles 35 miles to the east. The hills effectively shield Simi Valley from the whir of the metropolis, and a serene atmosphere prevails here. Nestled in the foothills of this oasis is the Grand Vista Hotel, a secluded spot surrounded by park preserves. At the heart of the property, a modern pool deck is adorned with cream-colored umbrellas, a bubbling hot tub, and towering palm trees. Guests can soak up the Southern California sunshine here year-round or venture out to explore the local family-friendly attractions.

The hotel is located about 30 minutes from Universal Studios Hollywood and Six Flags Magic Mountain, a 260-acre park filled with thrill rides including the world’s tallest and fastest standup roller coaster. Southern California’s famous state beaches are only 20 miles away, and it’s a straight shot south to Malibu’s stunning coastline.

After a day out, families can come back to Grand Vista Hotel for California-style meals. Settle on a spacious patio that overlooks the valley at Vistas Restaurant to dine on dishes such as tequila-sautéed halibut or braised lamb shank. Arena Sports Grill and Bar offers a livelier scene with pool tables, more than 25 TV screens, and a large dance floor.

Simi Valley, California: Secluded Community Surrounded by Theme Parks

Simi Valley is situated 35 miles east of Los Angeles. One of its landmark attractions is the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library, which holds the Air Force One plane that once carried President Reagan around the globe. From the plane’s cockpit, you can look out to the Simi Hills, which are situated amid the Santa Susana Mountains. For a quiet afternoon, head out to the hiking trails around these mountains.

If you want a taste of Hollywood, though, it's an easy drive to LA. West Hollywood has so many famous landmarks and attractions it almost seems unreal. And plenty of what goes on here is unreal: you can stroll by CBS studios, movie sets, and streets that have been used as filming locations for the silver screen over and over again.

That surreal aura extends miles to the north at Universal Studios. Here, a one-hour tram tour ushers visitors through extensive sets from films such as War of the Worlds and How the Grinch Stole Christmas.

While you're in town, stroll around the Melrose shopping district populated by comedy clubs, funky clothing boutiques, vintage stores, and kitschy themed restaurants. Melrose is designed for pedestrians, and it's a nice change of pace from the traffic and sprawl of the city as a whole.

Read the Fine Print for important info on travel dates and other restrictions.

3- or 5-Night Stay with Breakfast, One Dinner, and Airport Transfers at Bora Bora Pearl Beach Resort & Spa in Bora Bora

Tue, 14 May 2013 07:00:43 +0000

4.5-Star Luxurious Resort on Isolated Islet Facing Bora Bora

Facing the romantic Bora Bora in French Polynesia is a small, isolated islet named Motu Tevairoa. Here you’ll find the Bora Bora Pearl Beach Resort & Spa, a luxurious destination that has won numerous awards from Condé Nast Traveler¬ and Travel + Leisure, solidifying its standing as one of the Pacific’s best resorts. With breathtaking views of Mount Otemanu and overwater bungalows as lodging, the authentic Polynesian-style, 4.5-star resort has a magical atmosphere that makes it seem straight out of a Tahitian postcard. Best yet, you’ll feel secluded in paradise, with a private beach at your feet and no other resorts in sight.

The resort’s overwater bungalows are a network of palapa-style huts set out in the lagoon. The bedside tables and a coffee table are made of glass, allowing you to peer down into the underwater life of the ocean below. The coffee tables even have a top that slides open so you can feed the fish below. The garden pool bungalows welcomes guest with their own private garden and spacious sitting area with plunge pool. The suites also feature outdoor showers.

While you can hop on the free shuttle for a five-minute ride to the main island of Bora Bora, there’s plenty to do at the resort. You can spend your day relaxing at the Manea Spa, swimming in the freshwater pool, or playing bocce ball or volleyball. The resort’s beach has no current, making it ideal for snorkeling, kayaking, stand-up paddling, and swimming.

You can also visit To’A Nui, a marine nursery where a colony of 4,000 coral grows in perfect ecological conditions. More than 70 species of fish have also settled here. Those who take a snorkel trip to see this homegrown coral might also want to take a bigger dive with assistance from the Blue Nui Dive Center, located on-site.

For dinner, head to one of the three onsite restaurants. Don’t miss the dining experience at Tevairoa Restaurant, where the main dining room overlooks the turquoise Bora Bora Lagoon from 20 feet above the sea. On some evenings, the restaurant hosts a Polynesian cultural show.

Bora Bora: French Polynesia’s Most Romantic Island

More than 100 islands comprise French Polynesia, and they each have their own distinct geography, from desert-like atolls carved out by lagoons to mountainous islands covered in verdant vegetation and waterfalls. Although all are worth visiting, Bora Bora is considered by many to be the most beautiful. Captain James Cook called it the “Pearl of the Pacific” when he landed here in the late 1700s. It’s here that you’ll find the iconic palapa-style bungalows set over the emerald water, nestled into the white sand.

Vacationers here make the most of the island’s scenic surroundings. The snorkeling and scuba sites at Anau and Tapu reefs draw divers for their year-round population of lemon sharks and manta rays. Other popular activities include outrigger canoe rides, 4x4 tours through Bora Bora’s lush valleys, and shopping for Tahitian pearls, perfumes, and handicrafts.

Read the Fine Print for important info on travel dates and other restrictions.

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