CALIFORNIA DREAMIN'--------SANTA BARBARA

As many of you know, I'm the queen of the mini-trips.  When summer approaches, I can't wait to start planning weekends away----preferably to the beach.  Our first trip of the summer took us to a place we return to time and again-------Santa Barbara.

 

This time we went with our friends Paul and Jeannie, and stayed at the West Beach Inn, and had rooms overlooking the fabulous Santa Barbara Harbor.  This is a view from our room.

 

 

We always seem to take the same pictures when we arrive.  The balcony draws us like a magnet.

 

 

Unbeknownst to them, we got a photo of Paul and Jeannie arriving.

 

 

Right before our friends arrived we couldn't resist getting a beer and a glass of wine at the East Beach Grill which is right on the sand, a short distance from our hotel.  That evening, we all went to The Fish House----a local outstanding eatery, and were joined by Adam and Melissa who were actually travelling nearby.  Can't beat the Fish House for-----FISH!

 

 

Jeannie and I don't mind doing a free ad for the Hotel.  If you look above the sign, our rooms are on the top floor near the flag.

 

 

The next morning we couldn't believe our eyes when we saw the original Sambos Restaurant about a block from our hotel.  It was opened in 1957 and is filled with memorable photos.  The food is still delicious and here are Paul and Jeannie enjoying the meal.

 

 

 

You can't go to Santa Barbara without strolling down its wharf, which is a long pier with shops and restaurants.  The wind is fierce and hats are a must.  I had a strange experience this time when I got stung by some sort of bug right on my neck.  Jeannie, a retired teacher, and always good in an emergency, was able to pull out the stinger which we all decided was quite lengthy.  Wonder what it was?????

 

 

Eating is a favorite pastime when you are in Santa Barbara.  We can't go there without having a meal at "Harry's" which is up State Street out of the downtown area.  This place has been frequented by every celebrity you can name, and their pictures fill the walls.  Harry was a very popular guy.  His son now runs the restaurant and actually goes around to each table for a chat.  This time Jeannie, Duane and I shared a couple of fish and chips meals that were the best I'd ever tasted.

 

 

The last morning suited our mood, as we didn't want to leave, but the fog rolled in and it even drizzled a little.  However, it is beautiful rain or shine, and I can't wait to return.