California Dreaming

I love California. The minute I step off the plane I feel "alive" (to quote an "Angelino" friend of ours).

The weather is outstanding - clear, crisp, low humidity. The pace just works for me - laid back with some zest. There is one minor bummer - earthquakes. But on this recent trip - none were felt.

Fave spots/shops/etc... in La La Land -

1. Stay: L'Ermitage Beverly Hills knows how to do it. The rooms are decorated in zen style with HUGE bathrooms. It is perfect for any traveler. It felt like a true departure from home. They offer spa services both in-room and in the luxurious gym. Master Concierge Sean met our every need - reservations galore. GO GO GO!

2. Drink: The Beverly Hills Hotel. This is for all the nostalgics out there. A true taste of old hollywood. Drinks on the terrace at sunset (off the Polo Lounge) was Deeevine! A cool guitarist sang all our favorites from Frank to John Mayer. Old-school uniformed waiters served perfect cocktails...and rather than a bowl of nuts, an assortment of dips and home made tortilla chips took the edge off. Oh, and the table next door? The Vanderpumps with none other than Jiggy (@bravoandy would be thrilled!).

3. Eat: The Hungry Cat on PCH in Santa Monica. AMAZING! The seafood was to die for. We really went to check out the place (being Bravo's Million Dollar Decorator fans) and it was beautiful - just like it looked on the show. And the food was outstanding. I could barely fit the fresh cobbler - I had packed in so many other yumminess - but I found room.

4. Hair: The Dry Bar hair salon on Sunset. With a little over 45 minutes to spare, we figured we would give it a go. An awesome choice. This pop in salon only offers hair drying services. Sylvia made me look like a celebrity - bounce, shine and with an effortless look (sadly, I have yet to recreate it at home). There are some in NYC now and I pray they come out to the burbs!

5. Shop: Rodeo and Robertson. Of course the famed Rodeo Drive is worth it. Greeted with friendly smiles at every store (so NOT NYC) I was tempted to make ridiculous purchases. The slew of aggressive tourists was a challenge but with the warm sun shining and every incredible store within feet from one another, it wasn't too bad. As for the quieter, calmer shopper - hit Robertson. There is Paul & Joe (first of the Paris brand to hit the states - and I have an amazing dress to show for it as well as a new friendship with saleswoman extraordinaire Veronique), Splendid, Kitson and a great celeb walk-by The Ivy. Love it!

Hope this is enough to inspire you to take a trip of your own. Four days away and we were rejuvenated and ready to return home to our kids and husbands. Hope you can try this trip for yourself.