Californians, in general, like wine from one extreme to another. Wine bars and bottle shops, with well informed personnel, are common and are available within a 25 mile radius of any major city. In my travels, I have found that there are many rural areas as well as major metropolitan cities in the U.S. where one can simply not obtain a decent bottle of wine

I believe that being on a vacation or on a business trip can include enjoying wine. It's part of enjoying life in general and when good wine is not available it can put a damper on any trip away from home. What should you do when you have the wine bug and don't have access to good wine? May I suggest you take it with you. That's right - take your T-shirts and wrap several bottles of your favorite wines and pack them in your carryon bag. Don't forget the wine opener! You can also purchase wine accessories which are carryon bags specifically designed to accommodate wine and travel. I am one who likes to relax with a glass of good wine in my room or out on the terrace. I choose not to engage in loud, smoky bars or feel obligated to sit in a stuffy restaurant in order to have a decent glass of wine. Yes, your bag is heavy, yet it's well worth the effort when you can arrive at your hotel after a long airplane ride and settle-in to your room with a good glass of wine.

Another suggestion is to order your wine via the Internet. You can have your wine shipped directly to your hotel in time for your arrival (with the exception of certain states, see winelaw.org for more information). Essentially, this is the path of least resistance and is well worth the shipping costs. Imagine arriving at your business or vacation destination, check-in to your room and whine down with a lovely glass of wine while you wait for room service to deliver your dinner.

Remember, whether you're on vacation or on a business trip, with very little effort you can have your Wine and Drink it Too!

By Bev Brock-Alexander