Issue link: https://digital.copcomm.com/i/1503289
B M & T ••• July/August ••• www.blackmeetingsandtourism.com 15 W ork with me. Before I prompt you to utter, "Wow," and consider what I am about to disclose just a stone's throw from two major cities, I have disclaimers. First, I am not a professional journalist. This is my first arti- cle. Second, this is an intensely personal observation, from a consulting services professional who has had the good fortune to visit Argentina, Brazil, Canada, England, France, and a few other places, not to mention traveled the United States for conventions and meetings. The three days of bliss (rubbing it in now) were coordinat- ed by Visit Temecula Valley, the region's marketing agency, with Pechanga Resort Casino, one of the largest resort and casino facilities in the nation. It's smack dab right in the mid- dle of Temecula Valley Wine Country, a year-round destina- tion for vacation, recreation, and business in Southern California. The focus was properties offering meeting options. During the trip I coined the notion of "quiet contemplation," far away from the hustle/bustle of the large city, and yet just close enough. The area subtly opens your eyes and is removed enough to allow members of your group to think about future possibilities. It is not your ordinary, traditional meetings option. It's about the future, and for those exhausted by the daily assault of big-city complexities and thousands of tourists. Getting There and Around Despite living in Temecula, only a couple of weeks ago did I discover this hidden gem within walking distance. Few are so lucky; however, it is 90 minutes driving distance of Los Angeles, and 60 minutes of Orange County, Palm Springs, and San Diego. One could not be more centrally located in the Greater Southern California Region. Transportation was pro- vided by Temecula Valley Cable Car Wine Tours, Tour de Vino (providing customized tours), and the Visit Temecula Valley team. Old Town Temecula This historic area, 10 minutes from Pechanga and two miles over six blocks, has small town vibes and wooden buildings filled with art galleries, craft breweries, an evolving culinary scene, and boutique shopping. The country and western feel dates to the mid-1850s and the railroad arrived in 1882. We had colorful, hand-crafted cocktails at Crush & Brew, which features locally produced beer and wine. Small groups will find a visit to its speakeasy, and memorabilia from the Prohibition era, a step back in time. The Central Anchor – Pechanga Resort Casino Pechanga is one of the largest casinos west of the Mississippi and rated Number One by (i)USA Today(ei). Apart from its 5,500 gambling options and weekly top TEMECULA VALLEY: SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA'S HIDDEN JEWEL BY REGINALD GREENE