This week, we released "An Innkeeper's Guide to Napa," our sixth travel guide based solely on tips from local innkeepers. We love the fact that innkeepers serve as local experts, offering guests the inside scoop on the best spots to dine, shop, and explore, plus where to go on day trips.

According to Russ Herschelmann, innkeeper of Napa Old World Inn, “If you want to truly immerse yourself in this region's wine and food culture, stay with a local. Innkeepers will help you discover wine, food, and truly memorable experiences.”

Other participating BedandBreakfast.com Diamond Collection inns in Napa include:

• The Inn on First

• McClelland Prist B&B Inn

• Churchill Manor

If you are planning a trip to Napa anytime soon, be sure to read our travel guide so you can avoid the tourist traps and experience only the best that Napa Valley has to offer.

The Bed & Breakfast Inn At La Jolla in La Jolla, California is offering a great end-of-fall deal!

Now through December 15, stay at the luxurious inn for only $145 per night. The nightly rate is normally $210, giving you a savings of 31%! Your stay includes a full breakfast and a wine and cheese reception each evening (pictured right).

This BedandBreakfast.com Diamond Collection inn is only block from La Jolla Cove's cliffs and beaches, and it's only steps from the Museum of Contemporary Art. This inn is also only minutes from downtown San Diego and the Convention Center.

The 13 individually designed guest rooms and two elegant suites--some providing ocean views and fireplaces--make the perfect getaway.

Please contact the inn directly at +1-858-456-2066 to learn more and redeem this great deal! Restrictions apply.

By Emily Starbuck Crone

The following recipe comes from Martine Inn, a BedandBreakfast.com Diamond Collection member in Pacific Grove, California. This simple but unique recipe serves as an excellent appetizer. The 24-room villa is only steps from Monterey Bay, and many of the rooms feature fireplaces, clawfoot tubs, and views of the water. Enjoy this tasty dish!

Servings: 10
Prep time: 15 minutes

Ingredients:

• 8 oz. soft cream cheese
• 8 oz. grated sharp cheddar cheese
• 3 green onions, chopped
• 1/2 - 1 cups shredded crabmeat
• pinch thyme
• pinch cayenne pepper
• pinch garlic powder
• pinch salt
• lemon juice from 1/2 of lemon
• sliced almonds (optional)

Steps:

1. Combine all ingredients (except for cheddar cheese and almonds) and mix thoroughly.
2. Form into a ball.
3. May be rolled in grated cheese or sliced almonds for finishing affect. (We prefer cheese)
4. Chill several hours or overnight. Serve with crackers.

By Emily Starbuck Crone

Imagine waking up in this luxurious bed overlooking the shimmering Atlantic Ocean. Casa Laguna Inn & Spa, located in Laguna Beach, California, offers this and much more. The romantic Diamond Collection property has a large gourmet breakfast menu, a free wine and appetizer hour in the evenings, and a reservation-only soaking tub in a gazebo. The inn is only a 10-minute walk from Victoria Beach. Come here for a pampered California getaway.

By Emily Starbuck Crone

The following review was left for a stay in May at The J. Patrick House, a Diamond Collection member in Cambria, California. It's an authentic log home with seven guest rooms with private baths.

Amazing weekend
"We stayed at the J. Patrick House for the first time late in April...In the morning we were greeted by our friendly host, an incredible breakfast of fresh fruit (with some delicious home made granola) then baked french toast... the atmosphere during breakfast the atmosphere was vibrant and we ended up having some great conversations with John [the innkeeper] as well as the other guests. After an amazing day at Moro Bay we stopped back to recharge and explore the hors d'oeuvres and some wine before an evening at Hearst Castle. After our visit to the Castle we went to dinner at an amazing restaurant that was recommended by John, who also helped us make a reservation. Our only regret was that we only were able to stay for two nights, our last breakfast was an amazing souffle with some cherry croissants, and during that breakfast John recommended some wineries that we could visit on our drive home... again the atmosphere of the B&B shined as we had a lively conversation with the other guests and John about what were the best wineries to visit. We will definitely return, and hopefully soon!!!"

By Emily Starbuck Crone