The sun-loving girls of Southern California are back on the prowl for steamy suburban drama, all against the dramatic backdrop of changing economic times in the wealthy enclave of Orange County. In this fifth season of the original series behind the hit Real Housewives franchise, the gates have finally swung open and shocking truths are revealed. The series takes an important turn with shifting relationships and the tough economy hitting the ladies and their families hard. The ladies prove their tenacity as they continue to live life unabashedly large and on their own terms as Vicki takes her family on a trip to Italy, and the girls visit San Francisco and Ft. Lauderdale for lavish getaways. The ladies show no signs of slowing down, and shopping, dining, drinking, dancing, plastic surgery, and working out continue to remain at the top of their list of priorities.