Santa Monica, California – USA
If you’re ever in Los Angeles, and you love warm, dry and sunny days all year long, the beach, shopping, cool ocean breezes, dining out, easy access to major attractions, as well as a place to get away from it all, then Santa Monica is the place for you. Santa Monica is my favorite vacation spot.
Best vacation place
On my first visit there in 1978 to celebrate my 21st birthday, I stayed at the Holiday Inn Santa Monica; the location was fabulous! Just imagine: staying right across the street from the world-famous Santa Monica pier; Palisades Park, where the palm trees stick up so high, the excellent ocean views; Santa Monica Place, a huge shopping mall; a Sears, a McDonald’s and an I-Hop. You will think you’re in Hawaii. My room was above the exit of the Santa Monica Freeway. I had an excellent view of the city, and a partial view of the Pacific Ocean.
A few feet down from the pier is the world-famous Santa Monica Beach. I love lying on this stretch of beach, walking the streets, listening to the oldies I have taped from radio stations in Philadelphia. It makes me feel good.
Within walking distance from where I was staying, is the Santa Monica Civic Auditorium, where the Academy Awards were held during the 60’s. Also numerous rock concerts and awards shows, the Santa Monica Courthouse, where celebrity trials and divorces have taken place, and the renowned Third Street Shopping Promenade.
Who said you need a car to get around Los Angeles? Not true! There is public transportation; bus routes that will take you into Beverly Hills, Westwood, West Los Angeles, the Mid-Wilshire district, UCLA, Venice and downtown. In fact, the Holiday Inn where I stayed is on a bus route that takes you along Wilshire Boulevard into central Los Angeles.
There are restaurants galore from fast food places to five-star gourmet restaurants that serve international cuisine. Enjoy shopping? You’ll find stores of all types from Sears and Robinson’s to small intimate boutiques.
I am looking forward to my next visit. Believe me – I’m going to be lodging right there in Santa Monica! Even though I didn’t in 1981 and 1983, I still managed to get down to Santa Monica. I love it; no other place for a vacation.
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