Harlem Globetrotters show at Valley View Casino Sports Arena Center, Three-hour whale watching cruise, half-off at Isabel’s Cantina, Yosemite discount, Mendocino getaway, Las Vegas Hard Rock deal.

I remember fondly seeing the Harlem Globetrotters at the Sports Arena when I was a kid. Now, you can get discounted Harlem Globetrotters tickets to make memories of your own (and for your kids). The spinning balls, the acrobatic shots and antics. . . . The Harlem Globetrotters put on a fun, entertaining skill show. For a limited time, get your discount Harlem Globetrotter tickets (Groupon)

Get a three-hour San Diego whale watching cruise for 53% off. That’s right, get discounted San Diego whale watching cruise tickets for one or two people. Enjoy one of San Diego’s most spectacular wintertime sights with this discount whale watching deal (Groupon). San Diego whale watching is a well-known tourist attraction. Take advantage of this tourist attraction right in our own backyard — on the cheap!

Maybe Isabel’s Cantina in Pacific Beach is a favorite of yours (understandable!). Whether you go there often or want to try this unique San Diego restaurant as part of a try new stuff philosophy that keeps variety in your life, you can enjoy this tasty Latin-Asian fusion cuisine for just $10 ($20 value). Really hungry? Then opt for the $15 option ($30 value). Either way, you save half at Isabel’s Cantina (Groupon).

Did you know that recent research from American Travel Behavior Survey revealed that traveling makes people happier? Doctors’ research agrees. Travel makes people feel more energized and creative, and actually fosters positive change in the brain that supports these feelings. Can you add a little travel to your upcoming year? With specials and discounts, traveling may be more fun and less expensive than you think. To get you started, here are a few travel getaways that are within driving distance of San Diego, and may be just your ticket to a happier, more energized 2012.

Yosemite View Lodge in El Portal, California is just at the gateway to California’s premier National Park, Yosemite. You’ve seen the pictures, heard other people talk about their trips to Yosemite where the pounding of the falls, the expanse of the meadows, and the up close and personal encounters with deer sound magical. Get your own memories at a discounted price with this Yosemite Lodge deal for four ($199) that gets you a two-night stay for four in a room overlooking the Merced River. Add some specialty chocolates, a free appetizer at the restaurant, and close proximity to Yosemite’s Mariposa Grove and day hikes, and a beautiful Yosemite discount trip (on-the-cheap) awaits. Get this Yosemite View Lodge deal and make memories at one of California’s best parks (it’s famous all over the world). (Groupon)

Talk about romantic. Lovely Mendocino, California offers coastal bluffs, tranquil sounds of the sea, and natural settings that foster relaxation. Ahhh. This Mendocino getaway for two is discounted and has options to combine several nights at the Sandpiper House Inn. Check out this Mendocino Sandpiper House Inn travel deal and see if a Mendocino getaway is in your 2012. (Groupon)

Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas is offering a 55% off deal for two adults and up to two children. Geez, this place is something else. Music even thumps through the pool. After all, this is the Hard Rock! Get this 55% off deal and enjoy a Las Vegas getaway while you can (Groupon).

Pick up one of these travel deals and you may be on your way to increased happiness, energy, and creativity in 2012.

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