Tuesday Travel Ticker: Fall color already?

Early signs of autumn have been appearing for two weeks in California, says John Poimiroo of CaliforniaFallColor.com, a leaf-peeping website. He says the first spectacular color will happen at the highest elevations of the Eastern Sierra near Sabrina, South and North Lakes, up the Bishop Creek Canyon in Inyo County. For weekly reports, look here and at Poimiroo’s website starting in mid-September . . . .Thirty of California’s best winemakers will take part in Vintners’ Holidays, in Yosemite’s famed Ahwahnee over eight sessions from Nov. 4 to Dec. 6. This year marks the 31st anniversary of the wine fest . . . . Sample wine directly from the barrel at Callaway Vineyards’ ”Taste of Autumn Seminar” on Oct. 20 in Temecula. Click here for ticket info . . . . If American and US Airways merge, passengers with tickets – and members of frequent flier programs – should not fret, says AP airlines writer Scott Mayerowitz. It would be several months — if not years — before passengers see any real impact . . .. Former Las Vegas Mayor Oscar Goodman is weighing in on the presidential race at his Sin City steakhouse. One special cocktail is called the “No-Bama,” with rye whiskey and ginger liqueur. The other political drink served at Goodman’s Beef, Booze & Broads restaurant is called the “Romney.” What’s in a Romney? Tap water. Goodman is among several Nevada political figures who have criticized President Obama for suggesting people not spend a lot of money in Las Vegas . . . . Looking for a place to watch Vegas’ most-famous fountains? Check out Hyde Bellagio, an exclusive nightspot featuring expansive terrace views, in either a laid-back early evening experience or a DJ-driven party spot into the wee hours. For info: (702) 693-8700 . . . . The vampire-themed Bite Las Vegas will close after Halloween night after its long run at the Stratosphere. For tickets, call (702) 380-7777 . . . . Visitors to San Diego can find deals at top restaurants during the annual San Diego Restaurant Week, Sept. 16-21. During the six-day celebration, diners can enjoy special three-course, fixed-price dinner menus for just $20, $30 or $40 per person at more than 180 restaurants. The list: www.sandiegorestaurantweek.com . . . . Starwood’s stylish Aloft brand is opening a 252-room, six-story hotel adjacent to San Francisco International Airport, on the site of the former Clarion . . . . Travel quote of the day: “I’m not afraid of werewolves or vampires or haunted hotels, I’m afraid of what real human beings do to other real human beings.” (Walter Jon Williams)