A view driving along the winding roads of California State Route 1. Photo: Christopher Musci, August 15, 2010
An impromptu trip to California led Chris and I starting in Santa Barbara, the “American Riviera” to finishing in the lo-fi neighborhoods of Los Angeles. In between we traveled along California State Route 1 and took in the gorgeous views.
Unexpectedly, the lower temperatures in Santa Barbara County was welcome relief from the sweltering East Coast heat wave. Summer evening fires felt more September than August and beautifully lit the landscape.
The day before, we passed through the surfer town, Ventura, and ate breakfast at the great 50s decor Busy Bee Cafe. Downtown Ventura is filled with an abundance of thrift and vintage shops along with its theaters and cafes.
Spending a few days in Los Angeles we decided to rent a guesthouse through HomeAway.com. A cost effective solution considering the expense of hotel parking, but the experience gave Chris and I the feel of living in the neighborhood. Touring the diverse districts from Silver Lake, Echo Park to Los Feliz we discovered Mohawk General Store. The perfect lifestyle boutique featuring clothing, accessories, home decor and furniture.
For 2 non-drivers, we decided to take a break from the crowded roads and use LA mass transportation. The Metro, their subway and bus system was amazingly efficient traveling from North Hollywood to downtown. Created in 1995, the train stations are easy to navigate and decorative using inspiration from the different destinations. While investigating downtown, we stopped for lunch at Bottega Louie demonstrating the stylish renaissance taking place in the LA business district.
Returning the other day to Brooklyn, we were happy to bring the better weather and West Coast attitude with us!
Front lawn of Fess Parker’s Doubletree Resort in Santa Barbara. Photo: Christopher Musci, August 14, 2010
The rainbow arch perfectly frames Santa Barbara’s beauty in front of Fess Parker’s Doubletree Resort, August 14, 2010.
Old Mission Santa Barbara. Photo: Christopher Musci, August 14, 2010
Ventura’s Busy Bee Cafe, August 13, 2010.
Ventura’s Busy Bee Cafe, August 13, 2010.
Ventura’s Main Street, August 13, 2010.
Silver Lake, Los Angeles, August 16, 2010.
Silver Lake, Los Angeles, August 16, 2010.
Silver Lake, Los Angeles, August 16, 2010.
A decorative entry to North Hollywood’s Metro, August 17, 2010. Photo: Christopher Musci
A decorative entry to North Hollywood’s Metro, August 17, 2010.
beautiful – love the color!
The photos are just fantastic! I am so happy you and Chris has this vacation. Thank you for sharing!