Have you ever been to a primary care doctor and wondered why they focus on treating symptoms instead of addressing the root cause of your illness? Rather than take a patient-centered approach to address questions like, “Why are you ill?” they prescribe medications that alleviate symptoms but don’t do much to solve the underlying issue that’s causing you to be sick.
When you have a runny nose, you’re handed an antihistamine. When you have high cholesterol or high blood pressure, you’re prescribed a pill that treats the number. The truth is that this approach only tackles your symptoms. When the root cause isn’t fixed, your symptoms can get exponentially worse. Remember - your body’s dysfunction isn’t due to your meds not working.
This begs the question: Wouldn't you rather address the underlying cause of your health concerns so you can experience long-term relief? As a naturopathic doctor in Borrego Springs, CA, Dr. Erica Oberg takes a functional approach to medicine and well-being instead of treating the symptoms her patients endure.
Health is a state of vibrant vitality, abundant energy, and positive affect. It can be learned, cultivated, and practiced by everyone. Dr. Oberg's approach to health and medicine combines the rigors of science with the wisdom of nature and our bodies. She is passionate about helping people experience a higher level of health and vitality. As such, her clinical practice focuses on preventing, reversing, and taming chronic disease, neuro-degeneration, and anti-aging.
Dr. Oberg specializes in nutrition & lifestyle, IV therapy, and identifying the underlying causes of disease using advanced testing and creating customized treatment plans to help individuals dial in their lifestyle, dietary supplements, peptides, bioidentical hormones, anti-aging pharmaceuticals, and more. If you’re looking for individualized, science-based, proactive functional, integrative, or natural medicine, we believe you’ll resonate with Dr. Oberg and work your way through life’s challenges with help from our functional medicine clinic in Borrego Springs, CA.
Dr. Oberg and her team of licensed providers specialize in a range of naturopathic and science-based services, including but not limited to:
If you're ready to reclaim your vitality and learn more about Dr. Oberg's approach to health and medicine, we make it easy to get started. The first step is to have a complimentary 15-minute phone call to ask questions and determine if her approach is a good fit. Once Dr. Oberg understands your health needs and goals, your journey to optimal health and wellness truly begins.
Now that you know more about what makes Dr. Oberg different from other physicians, let's dig a little deeper into some of the most popular programs and clinical services offered at her functional medicine clinic.
As people get older, many things change in life. Often, those changes are good, like having more self-control, financial freedom, and patience. Others are hard to deal with, especially when they're out of our control. Like all things in life, our hormones change when we get older. These fluctuations can cause problems for both men and women, including:
If those symptoms sound familiar, you're not alone. A 2019 American Psychological Association survey found that almost half of women aged 30 to 60 in the US have experienced symptoms of a hormonal imbalance. Of course, as men age, they suffer from imbalanced hormones, too. Research from BodyLogicMD states that nearly 38% of males in America aged 45 and older have a testosterone deficiency.
The good news is that balancing your hormones and addressing the root cause of your symptoms doesn’t have to be hard. It’s a realistic goal with Dr. Oberg by your side. As a functional medicine doctor in Borrego Springs, CA, she can help your body metabolize and detoxify both your own hormones and the endocrine-disrupting chemicals infiltrating your life. When your hormones are in harmony, you experience improved energy, mood, and overall health – and that’s something to be excited about.
Our comprehensive Three-Month Hormone Balancing Program is designed to empower you with the knowledge and tools to take control of your hormonal health. This is no "one-and-done service" - it's a holistic journey that spans three transformative months, offering the support and guidance to become confident, capable, and healthier than ever. Features of our hormone balancing program include:
You will receive support throughout your journey from Dr. Oberg, who will provide healthcare services, and our health coaches, who offers personalized coaching tailored to your specific needs.
Nutrition has a significant impact on hormonal health. A customized hormone-balancing diet plan will be provided to help nourish the body optimally based on individual goals.
We provide a range of practical strategies and tips for regulating hormone balance through your nervous system. These techniques aim to empower you to take control of your well-being.
When appropriate, we’ll prescribe you hormone replacement therapy (HRT), testosterone replacement therapy (TRT), or growth hormone peptide therapy to help balance your hormones.
At our functional medical office, we make it a point to correct the root causes of our patient's problems. We don't treat symptoms - but we do use them to figure out the underlying issues you're facing. If you notice any of the following symptoms, it could be time to consider HRT.
When you mention hormone replacement therapy, most people think the treatment is exclusively for females going through menopause. While that's partially true - HRT can relieve night sweats, hot flashes, and other menopause-related problems - men also deal with imbalanced hormones.
Testosterone plays a crucial role in male sexual health. Low levels can result in decreased sex drive, erectile dysfunction, and other sexual performance issues. Difficulty achieving or maintaining an erection may be a sign of imbalanced hormones or low testosterone levels.
When your sleep patterns change - like when you have trouble falling or staying asleep - it could be a sign of a hormone imbalance. Testosterone is involved in regulating the sleep cycle, and insufficient levels of it can disrupt quality rest.
Imbalances in hormones can affect mental health and mood. If a man shows signs of irritability, mood swings, or depression, it could indicate low testosterone or other hormonal issues. Hormone replacement therapy can help regulate mood by balancing your hormone levels.
Menopause happens when a woman has not had a menstrual cycle for at least 12 consecutive months. It is a result of declining sex hormone levels, causing the ovaries to stop releasing egg cells. During menopause, women face a range of challenges.
Testosterone plays a crucial role in male sexual health. Low levels can result in decreased sex drive, erectile dysfunction, and other sexual performance issues. Difficulty achieving or maintaining an erection may be a sign of imbalanced hormones or low testosterone levels.
Irregular menstrual cycles are a common sign that women are nearing menopause, and their hormone levels may be shifting. The frequency of their periods may increase or decrease, and the amount of bleeding could be more or less than usual, while also lasting for a shorter or longer time.
Hot flashes are perhaps the most well-known symptom of menopause and a frequent sign that a woman's hormones are imbalanced. Hot flashes are sudden feelings of warmth and sweating that are usually most intense on your face, neck, and chest.
Don't let hormone imbalances dictate your life. Take the first step towards reclaiming your balance, energy, and vitality. By working together with Dr. Oberg and her team, you can unlock the path to a healthier, more harmonious you.
When you choose Dr. Oberg as your naturopathic doctor in Borrego Springs, CA, a new world of healthy living and wellness options are at your disposal. One of the most popular and effective ways to give your body the goodness it needs is with custom IV therapy at our functional medicine office.
Customized IV therapy from Dr. Oberg is all about tailoring your treatment to meet your health goals and needs. Unlike one-size-fits-all IV clinics, our team considers factors like nutrient deficiencies, hydration levels, and overall health to create a customized infusion. This personalized approach gives you better and more applicable results, whether you're looking to get a boost of energy, fortify your immune system, or get relief from a specific ailment.
Your custom IV therapy begins with a consultation with Dr. Oberg. During your initial meeting, we’ll get a better sense of what your brain and body needs. From there, we’ll create a custom infusion for you – not just a formula that matches your height, weight, and age.
Our IV drip therapy menu includes infusions such as:
IV therapy is considered one of the best ways to get the nutrients and immune-boosting goodness your body needs because it gives you a more direct, efficient means of delivery. Unlike oral supplement, which often falls short due to digestive limitations, IV therapy ensures swift and comprehensive nutrient absorption. Some of the biggest benefits of IV therapy from a functional medicine doctor in Borrego Springs, CA include the following:
IV fluids and electrolytes rapidly hydrate your body, providing an efficient remedy for dehydration resulting from illness, physical activity, or excessive alcohol intake.
IV treatment is able to increase energy and fight tiredness, which can make you feel re-energized.
IV infusions containing immune-enhancing vitamins and antioxidants can fortify your immune system and assist in recovering from illness.
IV therapy containing growth factors, exosomes, and vitamins is effective in improving the health and appearance of the skin and hair. These components complement hair and facial microneedling treatments exceptionally well.
IV therapy can help reduce the symptoms of toxic exposure, like headaches, nausea, fatigue, and dehydration, whether it's from a basic hangover or prolonged exposure to molds, heavy metals, or other toxins.
Dr. Oberg’s personalized IV infusions can serve as an initial boost for making lifestyle changes and play a role in a sustained plan to control persistent conditions like diabetes, autoimmune disorders, cancer, heart disease, and others.
Support Mitochondria function and Anti-aging
Dr. Oberg offers carefully sourced and research backed regenerative therapies such as exosome and stem cell infusions. These can be powerful options for people recovering from chronic infections such as long COVID or Epstein Barr or Lyme. They are also powerful for neuro-regeneration and we frequently use them in stroke recovery and for traumatic brain injury.
Dr. Oberg offers personalized IV micronutrient therapy tailored to address specific nutritional deficiencies, hydration needs, and overall health. This therapy is based on advanced testing that evaluates your cells' nutrient levels. Whether you need more energy, a stronger immune system, or relief from different health issues, IV drip therapy can be customized to help you rediscover the very best version of yourself.
As we get older, our bodies experience a range of changes that affect our health and appearance. These changes are primarily caused by issues with mitochondria and cellular aging. However, there have been significant developments in regenerative medicine, offering the potential to turn back the hands of time and improve health. Schedule a consultation today with Dr. Oberg to begin your journey with regenerative medicine.
Regenerative medicine is an exciting, innovative field that centers on activating your body's innate regenerative abilities to repair and revitalize tissues, cells, and organs. Its focus is on improving your body's natural healing processes to counteract the impacts of aging and different health issues. If you find that old, nagging injuries won’t go away or that fine lines and wrinkles have become overwhelming, anti-aging medicine from a functional medicine doctor in Borrego Springs, CA may be perfect for you.
At our naturopathic medical office, we use treatments like IV therapy, hormone replacement therapy, and Peptide Therapy to manage a broad array of health and aesthetic concerns. These treatments can aid in tissue repair, inflammation reduction, and enhancement of cellular function.
Anti-aging services offered at our functional medicine clinic include the following:
Peptides are fundamental components of proteins and play a crucial role in various biological processes, such as the aging process. Dr. Oberg offers peptide treatments to help counteract age-related decline, enhance muscle growth and performance, improve skin health, and more.
When you bring your hormones back into balance, you can fight back against issues such as fatigue, mood swings, reduced libido, and even erectile dysfunction.
Replenish vital nutrients, antioxidants, and hydration for improved energy levels, skin health, and immune support.
Exosomes are tiny vesicles generated from mesenchymal stem cells. These vesicles serve as powerful communicators, transmitting signals to various tissues in the body. Their main function is to trigger healing, regeneration, and repair processes, mimicking the actions of younger cells. They are considered to be one of the most effective strategies for combating the aging process.
When nutrition guidance, lifestyle adaptations, and powerful supplements are combined with naturopathic medical therapies from Dr. Oberg, you can reverse chronic diseases in your life and reach your anti-aging goals.
Our goal with regenerative medicine treatments is to rejuvenate deteriorating or aging tissue. Our approach to treatment centers on fixing and reversing damage instead of solely addressing symptoms like pain. Regenerative medicine harnesses the power of healthy cells to renew and restore function by enhancing the body's innate capacity for self-healing.
Dr. Oberg uses regenerative medicine to treat a range of issues, both aesthetic and injury-related, including the following:
Experience the future of anti-aging and regenerative medicine with Dr. Erica Oberg. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and embark on your journey to a healthier, more youthful you.
When you visit our functional medicine clinic, you can rest easy knowing Dr. Erica Oberg uses her unique skills, knowledge, and naturopathic principles for the betterment of your health and well-being. Unlike many traditional primary care providers, our team combines the best aspects of traditional wisdom and modern scientific medicine to diagnose, treat, and prevent chronic diseases.
You don't have to worry about us suggesting addictive pain medications or treatments that simply mask your aesthetic or medical challenges. Instead, our goal is to address the underlying factors holding you back. If you're ready to take the first step toward purposeful progress and healthy living, contact us today.
As of September 2024, the average solar panel system costs $2.37/W including installation in Borrego Springs, CA. For a 5 kW installation, this comes out to about $11,869 before incentives, though prices range from $10,089 to $13,649. After the federal tax credit, the average price drops by 30%.You'll probably pay even less than what we show here. It doesn't include the federal ITC or Borrego Springs, CA stat...
As of September 2024, the average solar panel system costs $2.37/W including installation in Borrego Springs, CA. For a 5 kW installation, this comes out to about $11,869 before incentives, though prices range from $10,089 to $13,649. After the federal tax credit, the average price drops by 30%.
You'll probably pay even less than what we show here. It doesn't include the federal ITC or Borrego Springs, CA state incentives, which will lower this price by at least a few thousand dollars.
It may seem obvious but larger solar panel systems cost more money. We use cost per watt ($/W) so you can easily compare quotes, controlling for slight variations in system size.
While a 5 kW system will only cost you $11,869 in Borrego Springs, CA, doubling the system size effectively doubles the price, so you'll pay about twice that for a 10 kW system. The higher the price tag, though, the more you'll get back as a credit towards your federal tax bill.
If you can't shell out $11,869 in cash to pay for solar, don't sweat it. You can choose to finance your system with a loan instead. Some companies even offer $0-down loans so you can start saving on day one if your loan payments are less than your current electric bills. Just keep in mind that your long-term savings will be lower with a loan due to interest rates.
The numbers we're showing are averages. The price you'll pay for solar depends on many factors unique to you and your home:
If you're looking for solar companies in CA, here are some popular suggestions:
Solar is a major purchase, but you can get the price tag to come down a bit by being an educated shopper. Taking advantage of incentives and rebates and shopping around for quotes can bring down your cost of solar in Borrego Springs, CA.
As long as your federal tax bill is high enough, you can take advantage of the federal tax credit in Borrego Springs, CA. This incentive allows you to apply 30% of your solar installation and equipment costs toward your federal tax bill. If the amount exceeds your tax bill, you can roll over the remaining credit to the following year. Many states also offer great local incentives and rebates.
Comparing multiple solar quotes can save you money through competition and transparency. Each additional quote you receive for solar will help you find the right solar panel system at the right price.
This is where EnergySage can help. With funding from the Department of Energy’s SunShot Prize, EnergySage opened the country’s first (and now the largest) marketplace for home solar panel installations. We gather custom solar quotes from local installers on your behalf and put them in an easy-to-compare format. When you compare quotes for solar panels on the EnergySage Marketplace, you can expect to see prices up to 20% lower than if you work with a single solar company.
California's widely varying terrain, from the Pacific Coast to the Sierra Nevadas, hosts endless options for fresh retirees seeking a new home base. Although big cities like San Francisco and Los Angeles garner attention, the Golden State has its share of idyllic small towns with delightful retirement communities. From Twentynine Pa...
California's widely varying terrain, from the Pacific Coast to the Sierra Nevadas, hosts endless options for fresh retirees seeking a new home base. Although big cities like San Francisco and Los Angeles garner attention, the Golden State has its share of idyllic small towns with delightful retirement communities. From Twentynine Palms' bustling culture to Borrego Springs' breathtaking desert landscapes, these under-the-radar havens cater well to pensioners with engaging atmospheres and healthy lifestyles.
A combination of a small-town atmosphere, budget-friendly living costs, and generous outdoor opportunities make them an easy choice for seniors. They also harbor communities with strong family ties, allowing new entrants to settle into their new environment seamlessly. For those planning to pull the plug on their career soon, these inviting towns to retire in California are worth considering.
Whimsical Southern California TownsVisit seven whimsical towns in Southern California.
This desert oasis in northeastern San Diego County offers a secluded setting where retirees can find solace in their golden years. Surrounded by the Anza-Borrego State Park, it guarantees plenty of outdoor opportunities to keep them active and on the move. Several desert trails, including the Borrego Palm Canyon Trailhead, provide a delightful escape to the great outdoors. While exploring the open spaces, you can admire larger-than-life metal sculptures at Galleta Meadows. There are more opportunities for artsy pensioners inside the Borrego Art Institute.
Those finding it challenging to navigate old age can rely on the Borrego Springs Youth and Seniors Center, which partners with Meals on Wheels to provide meal deliveries to homebound seniors. However, buying a home won't be too great of an expense as the median housing price is $375,000.
Calimesa's modest population of about 11,000 means there is more than enough room in the community to accommodate incoming retirees. Residents take great pride in their close-knit ties, enabled by social hubs like the Calimesa Country Club Event Center. This popular gathering spot brings people together for various social events, helping to foster a sense of camaraderie among townsfolk. Downtown Calimesa has a family-friendly atmosphere, with delightful shopping opportunities at Crown Village. Meanwhile, Revolt Arcade is the perfect venue to spend time with grandkids whenever they visit.
Several health centers in Calimesa, including All Valley Urgent Care, ensure speedy medical attention in case of any emergencies. A median home price of $569,000 also means that pensioners will spend below the state average to acquire an abode in Calimesa.
This tiny village in the San Jacinto Mountains boasts beautiful natural scenery punctuated by picturesque mountain peaks and dense woodlands. It offers a slow pace of life tailored for retirement living and countless outdoor opportunities, including relaxed hikes along Deer Springs Trailhead. The Idyllwild Nature Center is an excellent spot to take it easy outdoors while basking in Mother Nature's bounty. Elsewhere, pensioners who love nostalgic experiences can find exciting exhibits at the Idyllwild Area Historical Society recounting its colorful past.
The Idyllwild Community Center is the glue that keeps townsfolk together, thanks to the different social and cultural activities it organizes. When investing in a home, seniors should expect to spend around $529,000 for a decent home.
The self-proclaimed "Cowboy Capital of the World" is a pleasant retirement base in the San Joaquin Valley where senior citizens can spend their sunset years comfortably. It is rooted in Western heritage, a legacy the town preserves at the Cowboy Museum. However, you will learn much more about Oakdale at the Oakdale Museum and History Center, whose exhibits have a more holistic look into the community's past. Outdoor recreation is readily available at the Valley Oak Recreation Area, where camping, hiking, picnicking, and boating opportunities invite senior citizens to stay active.
The Oakdale Senior Center provides assisted living services for retired people who are no longer independent, offering them a sense of dignity in their later years. Meanwhile, buying a house in Oakdale costs about $640,000, less than the California average.
River towns in Northern California don't get more delightful than this gem in Solano County. Oozing small-wom appeal with laid-back vibes, Rio Vista is an enticing option for those envisioning a healthy lifestyle. Retirees can access recreational activities like hiking and camping at Brannan Island State Recreation Area. But those who prefer to take it easy can opt for a relaxed golf session with peers at the Golf Club at Rio Vista. Indoors, the Rio Vista Museum presents the ideal pursuit, allowing newcomers to explore their new home's past.
Rio Vista has numerous retirement communities, such as the Rio Vista Senior Center, to ensure pensioners don't feel neglected in their vulnerable times. Additionally, the median housing rate is $467,900, making it easy to purchase a home.
Set in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada, this mountain village in Plumas County boasts one of the region's most picturesque natural sceneries, flanked by stunning peaks and dense woodland. It is surrounded by the thick wilderness of the Plumas National Forest, where activities like camping and hiking abound. When not exploring the outdoors, retirees can delve into regional history at the Plumas County Museum or browse beautiful artworks by artists from the locality inside Plumas Arts.
Residents in Quincy can look forward to quality health care at the Plumas District Hospital, so retirees need not search far or wide to find reliable medical attention. Quincy's median real estate price is $362,500, making it one of the cheapest towns to retire in California.
Wrightwood is one of the few towns in Southern California that experiences snowfall, guaranteeing retirees year-round outdoor recreation. Its 6,000-foot elevation allows it to host world-class skiing venues, including Mountain High Resort, which draws scores of enthusiasts in the snowy season. Summer is an opportune moment for daring retirees to experience the thrill of their lives, courtesy of Ziplines at Pacific Crest. Beyond the outdoors, Wrightwood has the perfect indoor pursuit at the Wrightwood Historical Society and Museum, which explores local history through unique exhibits.
The Wrightwood Medical Center is the primary care center in the town and handles all cases requiring medical attention professionally. Homes here cost an average of $525,000, which leaves pensioners with some wriggling room in their budget.
This adorable village in Orange County is known for its pristine golf courses and relaxed personality. With the sprawling Laguna Coast Wilderness Park on the border, it presents remarkable opportunities for pensioners planning to maintain an active way of life. Laguna Woods is only five miles from the Pacific Coast, making it possible for pensioners to seek laid-back recreation on the sandy shores. The Laguna Woods Golf Club provides fine opportunities for them to practice their swing on a lovely course.
Laguna Woods has several retirement living facilities, such as Laguna Woods Village Offices, where senior citizens can access vital support services. Finally, the average housing price is $422,500, under the state average.
This artsy community in San Bernardino County serves as a gateway to Joshua Tree National Park. Upon setting foot in the town, newcomers get a feel for its artistic personality thanks to the Oasis of the Murals, a series of over 20 intimate murals depicting the community's colorful history and love for nature. A bustling art scene means pensioners have visual and performance art opportunities to revel in at 29 Palms Art Gallery and Theatre 29, respectively. The town's past is vividly documented at the Twentynine Palms Historical Society, and neighborly interactions during the Twentynine Palms Certified Farmers Market demonstrate its strong sense of community.
Twentynine Palms has a Senior Center that encourages retirees to develop new interests and establish fresh friendships through various programs focused on their well-being. It also offers a median home cost of $298,000, which is way below the United States average.
Soledad is famous for its rich history and vibrant wine culture, allowing retirees to enjoy a year-round supply of wine as they ponder over their lives with nostalgia. It is home to Mission Soledad, a well-preserved church and museum from 1791 that transports guests back to the community's formative years. Over 20 vineyards and wineries in Soledad invite pensioners to take advantage of remarkable wine tastings at establishments like Wrath Wines and Puma Road Winery. Meanwhile, the Balconies Cliff Trail is a 2.6-mile outback route that retirees can exercise daily to stay in shape.
Several medical institutions, including the Soledad Medical Clinic on Mains Street, provide reliable health services to make it easy for ailing pensioners. Meanwhile, investing in a retirement home in the town will cost you an average of $634,900.
This small town is about 4 miles from El Centro and is home to a charming community of about 22,000. Its easy going demeanor is a significant draw for those considering retirement, allowing them to enjoy lovely indoor pursuits like exploring local history at the Pioneers' Museum. Movies Imperial has a family-friendly environment where residents enjoy classic and new movie screenings at price-friendly rates. Meanwhile, seniors can access many options whenever they feel like eating out, including the trendy Mona Lisa Cocktails & Cuisine.
Multiple fitness clubs and yoga centers in downtown Imperial prove useful for seniors seeking to adopt a wellness program. Taking up membership at the Fitness Oasis Health Club & Spa allows them to stay on top of their physical and mental wellness. The best part is that homes in Imperial are relatively budget-friendly, costing an average of $374,000.
Discovering one of California's hidden gem retirement towns promises a scenic and engaging lifestyle shift. With their perfect balance of amenities, cultural offerings, and easy access to outdoor activities and scenery, these lovely towns to retire in California cultivate health, happiness, and meaningful social connections in beautiful settings. New residents enjoy supportive communities embracing different backgrounds and interests. Overall, these special destinations highlight the vast opportunities the Golden State provides beyond its most popular urban hubs to help anyone transition smoothly into fulfilling retirement years.
California's Unique TraditionsExplore eight towns in California with unique traditions.
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California, also known as the Golden State, is best known for Disneyland, the San Diego Zoo, and the Golden Gate Bridge. Yet this “golden state” is the home of a plethora of small towns that possess a similar amount of excitement without the hustle and bustle of cities like Los Angeles, San Diego, and San Francisco. The state of California has some of the best national and state parks, like the Anza Borrego Desert State Park in ...
California, also known as the Golden State, is best known for Disneyland, the San Diego Zoo, and the Golden Gate Bridge. Yet this “golden state” is the home of a plethora of small towns that possess a similar amount of excitement without the hustle and bustle of cities like Los Angeles, San Diego, and San Francisco. The state of California has some of the best national and state parks, like the Anza Borrego Desert State Park in Borrego Springs, as well as some of the best beaches, like Carmel River Beach in Carmel-by-the-Sea. Here are eleven of the most ideal destinations in California for that perfect 3-day weekend.
The quaint town of Carmel-by-the-Sea, known simply by the locals as Carmel, is the perfect California coastal town for that 3-day weekend retreat. Between the famous 17-mile scenic drive along the coast, Point Lobos State Natural Reserve, and a visit to the Carmel Mission, which was founded in 1770, there is something for everyone in this picturesque coastal town. Carmel-by-the-Sea is also home to several fairytale cottages, the first of which was built in 1924 by Hugh Comstock. There are also a variety of great dining and comfortable lodging choices in Carmel, including Flying Fish Grill, Treehouse Cafe, and the Vagabond’s House, which is only a mile from Carmel Beach City Park.
Another excellent choice in the range of great 3-day weekend escapes, Borrego Springs is home to a variety of outdoor activities. The Anza Borrego Desert State Park, aptly known as the largest state park in California, offers everything from exploring slot canyons, viewing wildlife in their natural habitat, and experiencing desert anomalies like the wind caves. Several unusual attributes also await the avid traveler in and around Borrego Springs, including Ghost Mountain, the Eight-Foot Skeleton, and the Carrizo Wash. The 8-ft Skeleton, aka Peg Leg Smith, is said to have been seen in the Superstition Mountains from time to time. There are several great places to lodge in town as well. Borrego Valley Inn offers breakfast in the morning and cookies in the afternoon.
Located in Napa County, as well as in Napa Valley, St. Helena is best known for its wine. V. Sattui, Merryvale, Pride Mountain, Beringer, and Duckhorn are just a few of the vineyards and wineries that call St. Helena and the surrounding area home. There are also a wide variety of festivals and events in St. Helena, like Street Food Napa Valley, Broadway & Vine, and Taste of Howell Mountain, which includes wine tasting from fifty different specialty wineries. This small town of just over five thousand people has some excellent dining experiences as well. Violetto offers a refined dining experience and Gott’s Roadside serves a tasty hamburger-milkshake combination. There are also several comfy places to spend the night, like Wine Country Inn and Meadowood Napa Valley, both offering a great breakfast the next morning.
The picturesque town of Solvang, located between Santa Ynez and Buellton, is that special Danish treat without having to travel all of the way to Denmark. Home to several cultural, historical, and architectural attributes, including six different windmills, at least four Danish-themed restaurants and bakeries, and several buildings that cater to the Danish style, this tiny taste of Denmark on the West Coast of America is a great destination for a 3-day weekend. A multitude of other activities near Solvang are perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, like the 80-foot waterfall in Nojoqui Falls Park. Even though camping is not available at the park, Solvang does offer several choices downtown, like Mirabelle Inn, which has its own fine dining restaurant.
The town of Ferndale, known for being the gateway to the Lost Coast as well as the gateway to the Redwoods, is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts looking to get away for a long weekend. From taking a scenic drive along the coast to checking out the severe heights of the famous California Redwoods, there is something for everyone in this town of just under two thousand people. Downtown Ferndale also offers visitors several attractions, like the Ferndale Museum and the Historic Cemetery, and a pleasant stroll through the Victorian Village. Dining and lodging are also available in Ferndale. VI Restaurant and Tuyas serve some tasty local treats, while the Shaw House Inn and the Gingerbread Mansion offer both lodging and delicious food.
Situated on the southeastern side of Catalina Island, the coastal town of Avalon is a perfect example of an ideal California destination. Wrigley Memorial & Botanicals offers stunning views of a variety of cacti and other desert plants, and the Green Pleasure Pier is home to the Catalina Island Visitor Center and relatively near to a wide variety of great restaurants and mom-and-pop shops like Earl and Rosie’s Seafood Place, Corsario Ocean Adventures, and Eric’s on the Pier. There are also many architectural and historical sources in Avalon, including the Catalina Museum for Art and History, the Catalina Island Conservancy, and the Catalina Island Casino, which opened in May of 1929.
Sausalito is situated across Richardson Bay from Tiburon and across the Golden Gate from San Francisco. This town of barely seven thousand people is a hidden gem when it comes to being an ideal California destination. Some of the natural attributes are Black Sands Beach and Rodeo Beach, the Sausalito Boardwalk, and Waldo Point Harbor. Its cultural values are more in line with some of the more homestyle lodging choices, like Cavallo Point, which offers a great view of San Francisco’s most famous bridge. There is a vast array of historical aspects in and around Sausalito, including the Ice House Museum, Battery Spencer, and Fort Baker, which was first built at the beginning of the 20th century.
The town of Mammoth Lakes is a hidden gem within the depths of Inyo National Forest. Known best during the winter for its skiing and snowboarding options and during the summer for its hiking, fishing, and camping opportunities, this town of just over seven thousand is a natural beauty. In fact, there is a vast variety of natural attributes in and around Mammoth Lakes, including the Devil’s Postpile, Rainbow Falls, and Convict Lake, which is a perfect place to camp out and cook up some freshly caught Rainbow trout. There are also several choices in town for that perfect lodging and dining experience. Mogul Restaurant is famous for its prime rib, Skadi serves an international flavor, and the Holiday Haus Inn offers a tasty breakfast the next morning.
Hidden amidst a conglomeration of other towns within Ventura County, the town of Ojai is perfect for that 3-day weekend destination. Several hiking trails await the avid adventurer, like Rose Valley Falls, which begins in the Rose Valley Campground. There are also a variety of natural aspects to the town of Ojai, like Taft Gardens & Nature Preserve, Sespe Creek, and Ojai Meadows Preserve. In town, the heritage and culture of Ojai can be seen through museums like the Ojai Valley Museum of History and Art and art studios like the Beatrice Wood Center for the Arts. There are even some great lodging choices in downtown Ojai. Chantico Inn offers free parking, free wifi, and a free breakfast the next morning.
One of the best places in California, not to mention all of America, Solana Beach is the epitome of an ideal weekend destination. From exploring Annie’s Canyon Trail, the Harbaugh Seaside Trails, and the Coastal Rail Trail to checking out the theaters, art galleries, and shopping outlets, there is something for everyone in and around Solana Beach. Several parks also call Solana Beach home, including Fletcher Cove Park, which is also close to some of the best cuisine and most comfortable lodging choices in Solana Beach. The Solana Beach Kitchen serves a tasty Mediterranean fare, while Sand Pebbles Resort, less than a tenth of a mile away, offers a great night’s sleep and a free breakfast the next morning.
Situated 150 miles northeast of San Francisco and the Golden Gate Bridge, Nevada City is a small town with barely three thousand permanent residents. Yet, this town is ideal for getting away from the hustle and bustle for the weekend. Home to a variety of natural attractions, like Malakoff Diggins State Historic Park and the Crystal Hermitage Gardens, as well as being on the edge of Tahoe National Forest, Nevada City is an outdoor enthusiast’s dream. There are also several sources of historical value in Nevada City, including the Firehouse Museum, the Narrow Gauge Railroad Museum, and Bourn House, which is preserved from the gold rush days and is one of the more popular attractions within the Empire Mine State Historic Park.
Though the “golden state” of California is best known for being the home of fabled attractions like Disneyland and iconic locales like the Golden Gate Bridge, the eleven small towns listed above reflect an inner passion for adventuring in ways that cities like Los Angeles and San Francisco seem to miss. Whether it is a national or state park, a restaurant or bed & breakfast inn, or even a museum or historic building, there is something for everyone in these eleven small towns that makes them the ideal California destinations, especially if it is for a 3-day weekend.
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Known for its easy-going party culture, Los Angeles is always among the most visited cities in America. Yet, Southern California hosts many other beautiful towns, some of which are unbelievably underappreciated. If you want to skip the big names in Southern California vacation circles, including Los Angeles, San Diego, and Anaheim, there are many options you can explore — most of which see fewer crowds but are no less stunning. From P...
Known for its easy-going party culture, Los Angeles is always among the most visited cities in America. Yet, Southern California hosts many other beautiful towns, some of which are unbelievably underappreciated. If you want to skip the big names in Southern California vacation circles, including Los Angeles, San Diego, and Anaheim, there are many options you can explore — most of which see fewer crowds but are no less stunning. From Palos Verdes Estates to Palm Springs, discover six underappreciated towns to visit in Southern California.
More in SoCalThese 9 towns in Southern California have beautiful architecture.
It is ironic that one of the most underappreciated towns in Southern California is just 30 minutes from Los Angeles. While close to the City of Angels, Palos Verdes Estates offers that far-away feel most vacationers often find irresistible. You can enjoy ambling through the town’s tree-lined streets and meticulously designed green spaces, sometimes mingling with boastful peacocks and popping into locally owned shops and boutiques. From December through April, a first-time visitor can witness the Pacific gray whales' annual migration, especially from the Point Vicente Interpretive Center. For a filling brunch, dash to Yellow Vase, sit on the patio, order some California omelets, and just marvel at the natural landscape around. For a casual dinner, however, Nelson's has outdoor fire pits and offers unparalleled sunset vistas. Touch and smell the plants at South Coast Botanic Garden while exploring unique troll sculptures and other sensory delights. The best views, however, are to be found along the shoreline, where the cliffs and the lookouts will leave you completely blown away.
Make no mistake: Southern California is not all about breezes and beaches, although that is the image it often conjures up. This part of the state features surreal desert-scapes, especially as one goes a bit inland, leaving the rugged shoreline behind. Borrego Springs, for example, tucked away in the middle of Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, reveals this unusual side of Southern California. Borrego Springs is a certified Dark Sky Community — the only one of its kind in California. Granted, it is not perfectly dark here, but the skies offer views of the heavens unavailable to millions of Californians. Plus, this town is the only one in California surrounded by a state park — and not just any park — but California’s largest state park. First-time visitors are mesmerized by the random sculptures depicting supersized prehistoric beasts, the work of famous metal sculptor Ricardo Breceda. La Casa Del Zorro Desert Resort & Spa is a great place to nest while enjoying the surreal beauty of the desert and exploring the attractions within this dreamy environment.
A round of golf at the heart-ravishing Hunter Ranch, the chance to mingle with turtles at the 40-acre Barney Schwartz Park, and the opportunity to relive the pioneer days at the Pioneer Museum, where an entire floor is dedicated to vintage cars, wagons, and horse-drawn carriages — these are some of Paso Robles' offerings that are not appreciated as they should be. Nestled midway between San Francisco and Los Angeles, this town is a bit isolated and hence, does not get frequent mentions. Hotel Cheval is a stone's throw from the historic town square and can serve as a comfortable hideout. Then there is Sensorio, where the area’s wavy terrain is captured by blooms of ever-changing color. It is among Paso Robles’ most popular draws. In Bloom, a sophisticated eatery smack in the middle of Main Street, is known to tantalize every perceptive taste bud and deserves an hour or two.
Set in the swoon-worthy Ojai Valley, about 33 miles east of Santa Barbara, Ojai is one of California’s most idyllic places. Visitors are often smitten by Ojai for several reasons, including the town’s intimate feel, the chance to reconnect with nature, and its rich Spanish architecture. The walkable Main Street is lined with locally-owned shops, fantastic breweries (like Topa Topa Brewing Company), and inviting restaurants, all encircled by rare Southern California beauty. Also, with over 20 miles of scenic trails, the Ojai Valley is a top-notch hiking destination. Whatever your first port of call, however, you will need to work your way to Ojai Rotie, a famous eatery that provides lovely patio dining and delicious rotisserie chicken. History buffs will want to pass the time at the Ojai Valley Museum, a quaint space that offers visitors a glimpse into the heritage of Ojai Valley. The heart-melting Lake Casitas, known for its largemouth bass, is a short drive from downtown Ojai and must not be missed on a to-do list.
The standard way to kickstart one's adventure to Solana Beach is to grab a table at the Pizza Port, a favorite pizza joint conveniently located along the Pacific Coast Highway, one of the most scenic roads in the world. Work your way to the sidewalk patio, a lovely spot to savor some freshly made root beer as you people-watch and explore a delightful range of flavors. Alternatively, the strangely named Naked Cafe, which provides a slight and seductive view of the ocean, is a nice venue for a hearty breakfast. A first-time visitor can surf in the ocean, rest on the beach, or enjoy a scenic walk at Annie's Canyon Trail, a short but spectacular trail that features narrow channel walls, a lagoon, and awesome views. A well-timed detour to the San Elijo Lagoon Ecological Reserve Center will come in handy. The reserve is a migrating waterfowl habitat and adds a layer of wonder to the scenic hike. For avid shoppers, it is enough that the Cedros Avenue Design District claims to be San Diego’s hippest shopping venue.
This town hosts a museum that houses one of the world's largest collections of static and flyable aircraft — spanning from WWII through the War on Terror. The nice thing about the Palm Springs Air Museum is that its hangars have no ropes, which typically restrict visitors from interacting with exhibits. But it is not just the museum. Moorten Botanical Garden — besides featuring what could be the first cactarium in the world — is home to a wide array of desert tortoises and numerous varieties of succulents. Avid golfers will have several courses to choose from, including the well-maintained Escena Golf Club, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. Stay at Palm Canyon Resort, which is conveniently close to outdoor venues such as Oswit Canyon, Murray Canyon Trail, and Indian Canyons.
In vacation circles, the Golden State is the poster image of paradise. When you think of a pretty beach, palm trees, soft breezes, and a beautiful sliver of soft sand — the image that comes to mind is that of California, especially popular Southern California spots such as Santa Monica, San Diego, and, of course, L.A. Yet Southern California hosts a wide array of vacation-worthy towns, some of which are no less stunning. If seeking a less-crowded adventure, Borrego Springs, Palos Verdes Estates, Paso Robles, and Ojai are among Southern California’s most underappreciated towns.
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How does Topaz Photo AI V2 compare to Lightroom Denoise AI? We decided to try again, this time with a direct RAW-to-RAW comparison.Oooops!Sometimes, we must admit that we don’t know everything about Lightroom, or, quite frankly, everything else in life.In the last comparison article while using Lightroom Classic as a platform, I launched Topaz Photo AI by R-clicking on the RAW ...
How does Topaz Photo AI V2 compare to Lightroom Denoise AI? We decided to try again, this time with a direct RAW-to-RAW comparison.
Sometimes, we must admit that we don’t know everything about Lightroom, or, quite frankly, everything else in life.
In the last comparison article while using Lightroom Classic as a platform, I launched Topaz Photo AI by R-clicking on the RAW image, selecting “Edit in” and selecting “Topaz Photo AI.” The issue, which I noted in my previous article, was that I could not edit as a PSD or TNG file. I ended up selecting a TIFF file instead. While that has value, as a TIFF file is a full-resolution file, it’s not exactly the same as when you denoise RAW files.
Of course, I mentioned in my first article about Photo AI V2 that you could denoise a RAW file in stand-alone mode.
However, it is possible to launch Photo AI from Lightroom and still process the image as a RAW file. Here, I must give a tip of the hat to reader Jack DeMember, who wrote in the comments of my previous article that I could launch from File > Plug-In Extras > Process in Topaz Photo AI. And so I’ve learned one more way to access various apps from Lightroom! I appreciate any corrections and discussion, provided they are respectful.
Photo AI is an image enhancement app that sharpens, reduces noise, and increases the resolution of your photos through machine learning. It works on either Mac or PC, as stand-alone software or in Lightroom Classic or Photoshop CC. It also supports RAW files as well as JPGs, TIFFs, and DNGs. You can refine your selection using masks, apply enhancements in layers, preserve text in photos, recover the detail in faces, and much more. And finally, it supports batch-processing.
The price is currently $199 and is not subscription-based. You will most likely be able to use the app for many years. Why do I say this? I purchased Topaz Star Effects in November 2013, initially using it with Photoshop CS6 using OS 10.7.5. Topaz Labs hasn’t made Star Effects in years. Despite that, it still works in Photoshop CC more than 10 years later. Seriously, how many companies do that?
Topaz also transferred it to my new email when I lost access to my previous email. Topaz, take a bow for creating apps with such longevity and providing solid customer service. This should never be overlooked.
We compared the noise reduction software in Topaz Photo AI v2.4.2 to Lightroom Classic Denoise AI v13.2. For the comparison, I selected a single exposure photo from Borrego Springs, CA in September 2015, using a Nikon D610 DSLR full frame camera at 20 seconds f/2.8 ISO 4000.
Aside from me not knowing that you could edit RAW files while remaining in Lightroom, there are other challenges when making comparisons between denoising programs. Again, one of them is attempting to do any meaningful apples-to-apples comparison. As before, I attempted to “eyeball” more or less the same amount of denoising and the same amount of sharpening, trying to make them both look equally good. I used the same photo as last time to offer similar comparisons. There’s value in comparing the results in this article with the previous article, I hope.
I opened the RAW image in the Develop Module. Then, I selected 21 for denoising, as I tend to go easy on my denoising. I don’t like that plastic sort of look, and it’s easy to overdo it with any noise reduction software. After clicking okay, Lightroom processed the image for thirty seconds, also creating a new DNG file.
Above: RAW on the left side, and Lightroom Classic Denoise AI set to 21 on the right side.
Above: RAW file on the left side, and Topaz Photo AI set at a Strength at 21 and Minor Deblurring at 36 on the right side.
Above: Lightroom Classic Denoise AI set to 21 on the left side, and Topaz Photo AI set at a Strength at 21 and Minor Deblurring at 36 on the right side.
Above: RAW on the left side, and Lightroom Classic Denoise AI set to 21 on the right side.
Above: RAW file on the left side, and Topaz Photo AI set at a Strength at 21 and Minor Deblurring at 36 on the right side.
Above: Lightroom Classic Denoise AI set to 21 on the left side, and Topaz Photo AI set at a Strength at 21 and Minor Deblurring at 36 on the right side.
Comparisons are difficult to see sometimes in these articles. However, we hope that by zooming in at 300% or 400%, you can sufficiently pixel-peep and really see what each program is doing. Let’s have a look at 400% magnification, zoomed in on the galactic core of the Milky Way this time.
After pixel-peeping, what is your opinion?
From this one example, the noise reduction is different from the previous article, where I was comparing Photo AI denoising a TIFF file to Lightroom Denoise AI denoising a RAW file. How much of this is due to now comparing RAW files to RAW files, and how much of this is me dialing in the comparison so they are similar, it’s difficult to say. Because Topaz Photo AI uses a different model and it has different controls, I obviously compare the settings exactly, hence the reason I tried to “eyeball” it and make the settings look similar.
Both programs denoise very well.
From this one comparison, it appears like Photo AI V2 denoises the sculpture a little better than Lightroom Denoise AI. This time, the contrast is about the same as the RAW file, while Lightroom has less contrast.
On the other hand, Lightroom seems to have addressed the color noise more effectively in the sky.
The denoising process in each is very simple to use. Lightroom offers only one slider. That’s it. Photo AI V2 offers the choice of models and a Minor Deblurring slider, offering more control, but it’s still very easy to use.
Photo AI V2 is slightly quicker than Lightroom’s Denoise AI. It took about five seconds on average to examine and determine various settings, then took five seconds to render the noise reduction for you to see. After that, it took another thirteen seconds to save, for a total of 23 seconds. Lightroom typically took about 30 seconds after pressing the Denoise button. And of course, it takes a second or two to instantiate as well.
For this particular photo, I prefer working with Topaz Photo AI V2 a little more. Why? It’s a bit faster and offers a few more parameters to tweak while still being simple. Also, I like the much larger window for seeing what the noise removal looks like. I also like that it’s not adding contrast or sharpening.
Either program allows you to increase or decrease contrast and sharpening easily afterwards, so this is not that large of an issue.
We must bear in mind that we are pixel-peeping. No one is going to look at our photos at 300% or 400% magnification. It’s unlikely, if not impossible, for anyone to determine what noise reduction algorithm you are using when you post these on your website, and much less on Instagram. And it’s quite obvious that you can do really good work using either. Unless you are creating a large print and someone stands very close to it, I’m not sure that the minute differences between two solid kinds of noise reduction will matter as much as we think they do.
Photo AI offers a good amount of denoising, which I love, so I feel like I can tweak the parameters a little more.
Additionally, it also analyzes the photo via Autopilot and automatically offers suggestions, which are often good enough on their own. This is not only for Remove Noise, but also Sharpen, and Subject. This can be especially useful for batch processing, novices, or people in a hurry. That said, I should point out that you may batch-process for noise and various other parameters in Lightroom Classic as well.
Although I often stack my Milky Way photos to reduce noise, I have found that with more modern noise reduction tools such as the very capable one found in Photo AI V2, I feel increasingly comfortable taking single-exposure high-ISO photos. There’s a real immediacy and beauty to being able to take a single exposure photo knowing that with a few simple clicks, you can get rid of most or all of the noise and be able to create large prints. And there’s also the ability to take ten-year old photos taken with an APS-C sensor and revitalize the photos with modern denoising.
It’s great to have these various options. While we might all have our favorite denoising programs, I believe we can all agree that when various companies are in competition to create denoising, we as consumers all win. Each of them pushes the other to greater heights.
Gratuitous gallery of Milky Way photos of the amazing American Southwest, all needing a little TLC with some sort of denoising.
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