Traveling in California: The Central Coast – Ojai

In our continuing exploration of the California central coast, we take a short trip into the mountains to visit Ojai. Located about 15 miles from the coast and a 90 minute drive from Los Angeles, Ojai is miles away from the fast paced life of its neighbor to the south and has been a retreat for world travelers for over a 100 years. Ojai is situated in a small east-west valley, north of Ventura and east of Santa Barbara at the base of the Topatopa Mountains.

ANCIENT AND OLD TIME OJAI

The Chumash Indians have inhabited the Ojai valley for more than 10,000 years. Ojai derives its name from the Ventureño Chumash word ʼawhaý meaning “moon”. The Chumash believe “that the valley holds mystical powers and that a magnification of energy exists exuding a peaceful sacredness that can be felt. This energy that first drew the Chumash to the valley has been celebrated through the years and many believe today that Ojai is a ‘vortex’ – an unseen force that concentrates energy. Some equate this vortex to the valley’s unusual positioning in the mountain range that runs east to West and that this helps concentrate geological tremors and atmospheric energy. Others point to geology and that the stratified mountain rocks inlaid with quartz can harness energy, transmitting it along the lines of the vortex.” [1]

The area became part of the Rancho Ojai Mexican land grant made to Fernando Tico in 1837, and he established a cattle ranch. Tico sold it in 1853 without much success to prospectors searching for oil. By 1864, the area was settled. [2]

One of the things that make Ojai so charming is that almost all chain stores are restricted in the city. [3] Signage is also regulated. This provides a look of timelessness and serenity that Ojai residents and visitors appreciate. It drives tourism and creates an atmosphere that is becoming unique in our cookie cutter world. If you compare the image below from 1935 to the recent photo of Ojai above, you can detect very little change. Of course the cars are different but the city itself seems frozen in time.

OJAI AND THE HAWAII CONNECTION

Most people associate the great Hawaiian surfing ambassador Duke Kahanamoku exclusively with the islands. However Duke spent a lot of time in Southern California throughout the 1910’s and 1920’s. The Southland was equally charmed with Duke and he made many friends there and was a particular favorite of the movie colony.

In late October of 1922, the prominent Ojai resident Sherman Day Thacher, hosted Duke Kahanamoku at the school that he founded. He had invited Duke to come up from Los Angeles to give a demonstration and swimming instructions to the assembled student body in the Thacher School’s pool. In reality the pool was a crude concrete structure that was used as a fire reservoir. It was filled by a nearby creek and was rather murky and full of algae. Duke braved the elements and put on what I am sure was an amazing exhibition. In the annals of Ojai, Duke’s visit still holds a place of honor. [4] OJAI FARMERS’ MARKET SALAD CRUDO OF PACIFIC YELLOWTAIL BLACK TRUFFLE RISOTTO CABERNET BRAISED SHORT RIB 49 potato fondue, cipollini onion agrodolce, heirloom carrots, black garlic RICOTTA GNOCCHI 20 drake family farms goat cheese, estate lemon, arugula, seasonal vegetables CRUDO OF PACIFIC YELLOWTAIL 21 orange, fennel, hass avocado, california sea salt, extra virgin olive oil

OJAI FESTIVALS

One of the things that makes Ojai so pleasant are the festivals. The Ojai Music Festival (founded in 1947) is an annual festival of performances by some of the world’s top musicians and composers, and occurs on the first weekend after Memorial Day. Notable appearances include Igor Stravinsky, Aaron Copland, Esa-Pekka Salonen and Pierre Boulez, who was festival director in 2003. “Curious audiences gather at the Ojai Music Festival each year for a transcendent musical communing in the beautiful Ojai Valley. Every Festival follows the lead of a new music director, accommodating wildly different styles and approaches.” In 2017, the festival is being conducted by Grammy-nominated composer-pianist Vijay Iyer (pronounced “VID-jay EYE-yer”). He is “one of the most interesting and vital young pianists in jazz today,” and has been voted DownBeat Magazine‘s Artist of the Year three times. He is a professor of the arts in the Department of Music at Harvard University. This should make this year’s festival lively and modern.

Its official, June is lavender month in Ojai and the Ojai Valley Lavender Festival kicks off on the 26th of the month. “Libbey Park will once again fill with mellow crowds who come for the marvelous sights, sounds and soothing aromas of the many varieties and textures of lavender and lavender products. Living lavender plants and fresh bouquets abound and vendors never fail to surprise and delight visitors with new and unique wares. Growers and producers offer talks on all things lavender. Live music, delicious food and the smell of lavender weaves a magical enchantment that will turn your day into an unforgettable experience.”

OJAI VALLEY INN AND SPA

The Ojai Valley Inn & Spa is “The” place to stay while visiting Ojai. The resort has a long and rich history. “In 1923, Edward Drummond Libbey, a wealthy Ohio glass manufacturer and philanthropist, commissioned California architect Wallace Neff to build the Ojai Country Club in the Spanish Colonial architectural style. From its earliest days, guests felt the Inn was an escape, a sequestered yet sophisticated getaway that gave them the sense of being on their own private country estate. And ever since 1937, when Frank Capra used the sweeping mountain vistas of the valley as Shangri-La in his film Lost Horizon, the valley has become synonymous with mystical beauty and hidden enchantment. A different kind of notoriety distinguished the inn in 1942 when it was transformed into Camp Oak for a military training center for the Army, and later for the U.S. Navy, which used the grounds for a rest and recuperation facility.

“Ever since returning to private ownership in 1947, the Ojai Valley Inn & Spa has played host to countless celebrities from nearby Hollywood and an impressive roster of golf pros who return year after year to play the historic course. In 1999, the acclaimed golf course was restored, which included the return of two “lost” signature holes. In 2004, an extensive renovation was completed which upgraded every corner of the resort while maintaining the historical integrity of the property.”

THE SPA

At the Spa Ojai you can have a very unique healing experience developed at the facility called “Kuyam”. Kuyam is a Chumash Native American Indian word that means “a place to rest together”. This is used to describe a spa treatment that “combines the therapeutic effects of self-applied desert clay infused with essential oils, intense dry heat and inhalation therapy. In a sauna-like environment, the journey is guided by a traditional Chumash narrative. This unique detoxifying experience is concluded with a refreshing rinse and presentation of herbal tea while your body core temperature cools.” The spa uses “freshly-harvested, resort-grown produce and blossoming flowers” in many of “Spa Ojai’s sought-after seasonal treatments”. For a truly relaxing and healing experience spend some time treating yourself to one of their custom packages. And of course lavender will be involved.

GOLF

The Ojai Valley Inn & Spa has one of the best golf courses around. “The world-class Ojai Country Club was one of the first great golf courses in Southern California. Designed and originally built in 1923 under the direction of George C. Thomas, Jr. and Billy Bell, the course was hailed as “a marvel of golfing architecture.” Thomas, who also designed courses at the Riviera, Bel-Air and Los Angeles country clubs, had two initial considerations for the Ojai course: “…that the average golfer could enjoy his round without too great a penalty, and that a test must be afforded requiring the low-handicap man to play fine golf in order to secure pars.”

“In its eight decades, the golf course has been made even more famous by the pros and celebrities who have chosen it for exhibition play and competition. Bing Crosby, Bob Hope, Will Smith, Kevin Costner, Michael Douglas and a host of Hollywood stars have visited over the years to play the course. The Inn has hosted seven Senior PGA TOUR events that brought legendary superstars such as Arnold Palmer, Lee Trevino, Gary Player, Tom Weiskopf, Chi Chi Rodriguez and Ben Crenshaw to the course. Add golf to your activities and experience firsthand one of the world’s championship golf courses. Enjoy a challenging and rewarding golfing experience no matter what your level of play. The Ojai Valley Inn & Spa has been selected for membership in Great Golf Resorts of the World.”

CUISINE

“For more than ninety years, The Ojai Valley Inn & Spa has maintained a connection to locally grown food. Its signature restaurant, Olivella represents the epitome of this sense of place. Olivella’s valley-to-table culinary program is supported by the local Ojai valleys, ranches, orchards, farms and ocean waters. The restaurant embraces the seasonal whims of the region, focusing on the bounty of year-round produce provided by the California Central Coast. Chef Andrea Rodella is proud to present a dining experience featuring the best ingredients of California with dishes and techniques inspired by his Italian heritage.” The menu features such delights as the Ojai Farmers Market Salad; Crudo of Pacific Yellowtail with orange, fennel, Hass avocado, California sea salt and extra virgin olive oil; Cabernet Braised Short Ribs with potato fondue, cipollini onion agrodolce, heirloom carrots and black garlic; Ricotta Gnocchi with Drake Family Farms goat cheese, estate lemon, arugula and seasonal vegetables.  Chef Rodella was born and raised in Guastalla, Italy. He is passionate about cooking with seasonal, market-driven ingredients.Chef Rodella’s interest in cooking started at a young age, when his passion for discovering different cuisines collided with the northern Italian fare he was raised on. He was determined to learn how to cook with fresh ingredients, uniting tradition with innovation.” This provides the traveller with a unique and delicious dining experience.

The Ojai Valley Inn & Spa is a destination resort worth seeing and will make your visit to Ojai something to remember.

THE OJAI SCENE

There are plenty of fun activities around Ojai that make people came back again and again. The Pink Moment, a rare and magical moment that draws thousands of visitors to Ojai every year happens as the fading sunset creates a brilliant shade of pink for several minutes on the Topa Topa bluffs- over 6,000 feet above sea level. Ojai’s culture is heavily focused on ecology, health and organic agriculture, walking/hiking, spirituality, music and local art. Sites to see include the Rose Valley Falls, a magnificent two-tier 300-foot waterfall located on the west end of the Topatopa Mountains in Los Padres National Forest. Rose Valley Falls is the tallest waterfall in the range and while it is an easy hike to the base of the 100-foot tall lower tier of the waterfall (0.8 miles round trip with 150 feet of elevation gain), it is adventure to reach the more impressive upper tier.

Ojai is often seen as a hippie-friendly city, and many New Age shops exist. Whether you believe in this energy or not- there is something about the Ojai Valley that cannot be described – but felt- and the only way to explain it, is to visit for yourself.

U.S. Airlines Throw Comfort Out the Door

Its no surprise to anyone that has ridden on airplane lately, that airlines are packing more and more passengers in tighter spaces. Legroom is being cut and seats have been shrinking. In the 1970s airline seats were 18 inches wide and the reclining pitch was 35 inches. Now the seats are 16 and one half inches wide and the reclining pitch has decreased to 31 inches. This is finally coming to the attention of our legislative representatives. In a recent article on the Huffington Post News Service, the authors blame the lack of competition and the consolidation of the industry as the culprit behind the poor treatment that we are receiving.

“This apparent disregard for customers goes hand in hand with a broader trend in the airline industry toward less competition. In the last decade, the number of big airlines has dropped from nine to four, with the blessing of regulators. If you’re mad about disappearing legroom and want to take your business elsewhere, good luck.”

“The airline industry is hurtling toward monopoly, so there’s not a whole lot of incentive to try to win your business by offering a better product or cheaper prices.”

The following graphic shows exactly what we are facing:

As travelers take advantage of more and more non-stop flight[1] comfort becomes a major factor. On long haul flights over six hours, comfort is the number one concern after flight availability. People are turning to devices like the Kaz Headrest, to rest and relax on their flight.

With the legroom shrinking and the seats getting smaller, passengers are finding it more and more difficult to get comfortable on the flight.

The newly designed Kaz Headrest addresses issues that travelers now face during long flights where it’s hard to get comfortable and seating space is smaller. These improvements include a longer arm for the travel pillow platform so that it extends further for additional resting options. Suction cups have been mounted on the bottom of the headrest plate so that it can be used without the table clamp in tight areas. A swivel arm has replaced the ratchet so that it’s easier to adjust and provides additional positions for resting upright.

Company president, Kaz Jackow stated, “Our goal is to provide business travelers and people using long haul flights with the most comfortable airline travel pillow possible. The latest design innovations make the Kaz Headrest lighter and easier to use. It can now be quickly adjusted to suit each persons resting preferences.”

Kaz Headrest is the world’s first portable, front supporting airline travel pillow. It is fully adjustable, extremely comfortable and can be used in airplanes, hotels, at the office and at home. It comes with an inflatable neck pillow and a handy carrying case. The patented design makes it simple and easy to use.

Check out our video and see how the Kaz Headrest can work for you!

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The Luxurious Kona Coast Part III – Travel First Class

When you travel first class, there are many aspects of the journey that go beyond 600 thread count sheets and Kobe rib eye. Gaining a knowledge of the people and the culture truly sets apart the traveler from the tourist. Thats why we bring you a closer understanding of the local flavor and indigenous roots of the people that you will be visiting.

The “Big Island”of Hawaii is a perfect example of a place where you can explore the vestiges of ancient civilizations and enjoy a five star experience.  In Holualoa, just south of Kona lies the historic Hawaiian village Pu’uhonua or “City of Refuge”.  “Up until the early 19th century, Hawaiians who broke a kapu (one of the ancient laws) could avoid certain death by fleeing to this place of refuge or puʻuhonua. The offender would be absolved by a priest and freed to leave.  Defeated warriors and non-combatants could also find refuge here during times of battle. The grounds just outside the Great Wall that encloses the puʻuhonua were home to several generations of powerful chiefs.”
At Pu’uhonua o Honaunau, a large wall marks the division between the royal grounds or Honaunau and the refuge quarters or Pu’uhonua. The royal grounds of Honaunau descend from the slope of Mauna Loa to the ocean, which provided the 13th century village with optimal land for farming. The location of the royal quarters on Honaunau Bay also gave residents access to fresh drinking water. Servants caught fish from the
royal pond to serve the village ali’i (chiefs). Residents had access to the resources they needed, but travel to and from the island was not possible for villagers who did not belong to the royal court. Chiefs and their attendants were the only inhabitants of Honaunau who could use the canoe landing on the beach. To prevent villagers from using the canoes or leaving Honaunau, Ki’is (wooden images) stood around the temple of Hale o Keawe to caution residents against defying the kapu.” (From the National Parks Site)

Heading back north of Kona we are about to explore a newer “village” with a rich modern history the MaunaKea
resort. In 1960 Hawaii’s Governor William Quinn invited Laurance Rockefeller to visit the Big Island and scout beachfront sites for potential resorts. A noted conservationist and lover of the outdoors, Mr. Rockefeller believed that buildings should conform to, not intrude on, beautiful natural surroundings. As they flew over the white sand crescent of Kauna‘oa Beach, Mr. Rockefeller asked if he could go in for a swim. From the water, he looked upslope at the towering summit of Mauna Kea and was inspired to create a great hotel that reflected the spirit of this special place.”

“The word ‘kauna’oa’ may refer to a few different things, any of which may have been why native Hawaiians named this beach so: the first definition refers to a thin, orange vine with yellow flowers, which is found throughout most Hawai’i (this is the official lei vine of Lanaʻi). However, the second definition refers to a mollusk and a third definition refers to a tough seaweed.”
“When it opened in 1965, The Mauna Kea was the most expensive hotel ever built at the time, at $15 million. Praised by travel writers and critics worldwide, the luxury resort hotel was named one of the “Three greatest hotels in the world” by Esquire magazine, one of “10 best buildings of 1966″ by Fortune, and presented with an honors award by the American Institute of Architects.” “The original concept for The Mauna Kea luxury resort was a cluster of individual cottages along the beach-with no televisions or air-conditioning to interfere with the natural experience. In 1967. The “exorbitant” room rates started at $43, including breakfast and dinner in the Pavilion, which featured rotating menus of international cuisines.”
Times have changed and things are always “improving”. “Following a $150 million renovation, the luxurious Mauna Kea Beach Hotel reopened in December 2008. With a fresh new expression of the unmistakable Mauna Kea style.” Nowhere is the blending of the old and new more visible than when you choose to dine at the Mauna Kea. There are five restaurants ranging from the casual to the fine dining experience. Travel first class and have an amazing grilled bone in, rib eye Paniolo steak with Hamakua Ali`i style mushrooms at the Manta or experience a traditional Hawaiian luau with imu-roasted kālua pig, fresh island fish, laulau pork wrapped in taro leaves, lomi salmon, sashimi and piles of pineapple, papaya, and more. Learn the joy of finger-licking poi, dancing hula to the “Hukilau” or being wowed by the fire dance.”
Of course you will have access to the Mauna Kea Spa which offers a combination of Balinese and Hawaiian-inspired therapies. You can choose from a variety of massage, body treatments, aromatherapy and skincare services. There are  five luxurious treatment rooms including a couples suite with balneotherapy.
You can immerse yourself in traditional Hawaiian activities and learn how to weave lauhala, make a flower lei, dance the hula and fish with hawaiian throw nets. You can also play Paniolo horse shoes and Makahiki games. Paniolo is  the traditional name of the Hawaiian cowboys and Makahiki is the ancient Hawaiian New Year festival, in honor of the god Lono.
Of course Mauna Kea has one of the finest golf courses in the world. “The stunningly beautiful and award-winning Mauna Kea Golf Course, created in 1964 by Robert Trent Jones, Sr. on a previously barren black lava field, remains an all-time favorite in beauty and design. The elevated, undulating greens and prevailing coastal winds demand accuracy. The challenging course offers stellar coastal views as it tumbles across seaside cliffs. Some holes play right alongside the ocean – or across it.”

When you’re visiting the Kona coast you can’t help but travel first class and experience the finest resorts, the most amazing beaches and cultural landmarks that add to your enjoyment and pleasure. Stay tuned for more stories about this wonderful part of the world.

Aloha

 

 

 

 

Brought to you by Kaz Headrest. Travel in comfort with a Kaz Headrest. Available on

The Luxurious Kona Coast Part II – Resorts in Hawaii

_{Continuing our exploration of the  Luxurious Kona Coast, Kaz Headrest presents the second article in the series on resorts in Hawaii. Just north of Kona is the Kohala Coast. So we thought we would feature some of the amazing places in the neighborhood. For thousands of years the Hawaiian people lived and recorded their lives by carving pictures in the rock in the area called Puako.  Ancient Hawaiians called their stone art k’i’i pohaku, or images in stone or as we call them petroglyphs. “The field of petrogylphs can be accessed from the Holoholokai beach park in Mauna Lani Resort to the south of Puako. “The 233-acre Puako Petroglyph Archaeological District. is the largest concentration of petroglyphs in the Pacific .   These Malama Petroglyhs were made thousands of years ago. The field has over 3000 carvings including paddlers, sails, marchers, dancers, and family groups, as well as dogs, chickens, turtles, and deity symbols.” The park can be accessed either by going through the Mauna Lani resort, or via the Puako beachfront southwards from Paniau (utility pole 143) at the south end of Puako road. There are restrooms and shower facilities here. Petroglyphs are very culturally significant to Hawaiian culture. Please visit these with respect.}

Located 23 miles north of the Kona International Airport the Mauna Lani Resort  sits oceanfront on the finest stretch of shoreline on the sunny Kohala Coast and is one of the most amazing resorts in Hawaii. The Mauna Lani features 30 oceanfront acres and three miles of secluded shoreline. The resort has two 18-hole courses, the championship Francis H. I’i Brown North and South. Carved from ancient lava fields, the oceanside golf courses are rated among the most beautiful resort courses in the world. The Mauna Lani also features an amazing spa with nine indoor treatment
rooms, a steam bath and whirlpool, manicure and pedicure facilities, facial rooms, a full-service hair and beauty salon and spa boutique. The land where Mauna Lani Spa sits is known as Kalahuipua’a, a place of spiritual power and energy (mana) where Hawaiian royalty used to escape to rejuvenate their health and spirit. Built among ancient lava, Mauna Lani Spa resembles a peaceful Hawaiian village with outdoor thatched hale (huts) for treatments. A Hawaiian medicinal garden with lemongrass, tea leaves and Kukui nut bring soothing and healing elements to the environment. The elements of Earth, Air, Fire and Water influence the treatments and experiences, such as mud wraps using volcanic ash, hot stone therapies and seaweed wraps and baths. Mauna Lani Spa’s unique open-air Lava Sauna Experience is the perfect way to experience the spiritual powers of the surroundings.” Every month when the full moon rises, Mauna Lani gets ready for an enchanted evening of storytelling and entertainment on the lawn at the oceanfront Eva Parker Woods Cottage. Hotel guests,Hawaii residents, and resort employees and their families are all welcome to join Danny Akaka for “Twilight at Kalahuipua‘a,” a night of storytelling, music and perhaps a little hula.

“Chef Clayton Arakawa’s passion for showcasing local ingredients in bold and innovative ways is evident in each dish he prepares. Born and raised in Hawaii, his personal take on contemporary Hawaii cuisine draws from the Islands’ diverse multicultural population, while emphasizing the distinct flavors that are truly unique to Hawaii. He has held the position of Executive Chef at Mauna Lani since early 2012. He acknowledges great traditions such as roasting Kalua Pig and that being in the center of the Pacific Ocean, you get the freshest fish. Working closely with the farmers and ranchers of Hawaii Island is at the forefront of his culinary creations. Chef Arakawa’s cooking style is simple and unique, creating a harmonious balance of textures and flavors on the plate. In addition to overseeing the entire culinary operations at Mauna Lani Bay, including the famous CanoeHouse restaurant and the popular Bay Terrace restaurant, Chef Arakawa leads signature culinary events for the resort, including the annual Celebrity Chef Tour weekend benefiting the James Beard Foundation each January.”
As one of the premier resorts in Hawaii, the Mauna Lani  features 341 guest rooms and suites each with a tropical ambiance and private lanais. The ocean Bungalows are secluded yet conveniently located within a minute’s walk of the hotel lobby. Each bungalow features 4,000 square feet of living space, including two master bedrooms, three baths, a private swimming pool, whirlpool spa, a spacious lanai and a full kitchen.

Treat yourself to a beautiful experience at the Mauna Lani and satisfy your every whim from the world class golf course, the amazing, relaxing spa and some of the finest cuisine in all the resorts in Hawaii. Get in touch with ancient Hawaii and marvel at the Puako petroglyphs and theTwilight at Kalahuipua‘a, full moon ceremony. Travel in comfort, relax and enjoy life at the Mauna Lani.

Treat yourself to a beautiful experience at the Mauna Lani and satisfy your every whim from the world class golf course, the amazing, relaxing spa and some of the finest cuisine in all the resorts in Hawaii. Get in touch with ancient Hawaii and marvel at the Puako petroglyphs and theTwilight at Kalahuipua‘a, full moon ceremony. Travel in comfort, relax and enjoy life at the Mauna Lani.

Brought to you by Kaz Headrest. Travel in comfort with a Kaz Headrest. Available on

The Luxurious Kona Coast

Traveling in California – The Central Coast Part 1

One of the greatest experiences traveling in California are the wonders of the Central Coast. Stretching from Ventura in the south to Monterrey in the north, the central coast includes famous destinations like Santa Barbara, Carmel, Ojai and San Luis Obispo. Conveniently located a few hours north of Los Angeles, Santa Barbara is packed with things to do, amazing beaches, restaurants, hiking and horseback riding, scenic mountain retreats and the night life of historic State Street and Old Town. 13,000 years ago, the Chumash people lived in five villages in the area. Mispu (site of the present-day Santa Barbara City College) the site of the El Baño pool along west beach, Syukhtun, chief Yanonalit’s large village located between Bath and Chapala streets; Amolomol was at the mouth of Mission Creek; and Swetete, above the bird refuge. Anthropologists say that these villages were inhabited for eight thousand years by the Chumash, one of the few truly ocean-faring cultures in California. Approximately 8,000 Chumash lived in the area in 1542 when Juan Cabrillo landed there. Syukhtun means “it forks“ in Chumash, possibly referring to the “fork“ visible in the Milky Way. The Chumash realm stretched as far north as Big Sur, as far inland as the San Joaquin Valley, and as far south as Malibu. Most of the channel islands were inhabited by the Chumash, and the major town for this vast and ancient realm was Syukhtun. The plaque on the right is located on one of the main streets in downtown Santa Barbara and explains the spiritual significance of the area to the Chumash where prayers for food, good health, protection from bears and rattlesnakes and a host of other human needs and desires were conducted on the summit of such shrines. One of the most interesting places to visit to see pre-Columbian Chumash art is the Chumash Painted Cave State Historic Park a short drive north of Santa Barbara. The smooth and irregularly shaped shallow sandstone cave contains numerous drawings apparently depicting the Chumash cosmology and other subjects created in mineral pigments and other media over a long period ranging from about 200 up to possibly 1000 years or more. [1] [2]

“The first permanent European residents were Spanish missionaries and soldiers under Felipe de Neve, who came in 1782 to build the Presidio. They were sent both to fortify the region against expansion by other powers such as England and Russia, and to convert the natives to Christianity. Many of the Spaniards brought their families with them, and those formed the nucleus of the small town – at first just a cluster of adobes – that surrounded the Presidio. The Santa Barbara Mission was established on the Feast of Saint Barbara, December 4, 1786. It was the tenth of the California Missions to be founded by the Spanish Franciscans. The Mission fathers began the slow work of converting the native Chumash to Christianity, building a village for them on the Mission grounds. During the following decades, many of the Chumash died of diseases such as smallpox, against which they had no natural immunity.” [3]

The Spanish period ended in 1822 with the end of the Mexican War of Independence, which terminated 300 years of colonial rule. The flag of Mexico went up the flagpole at the Presidio, but only for 24 years.

Santa Barbara street names reflect this time period as well. The names de la Guerra and Carrillo come from citizens of the town of this time. They help to build up the town so they were honored by naming not only streets after them, but the dining commons at UCSB are also named after them. Santa Barbara fell bloodlessly to a battalion of American soldiers under John C. Frémont on December 27, 1846, during the Mexican–American War, and after the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo in 1848 it became part of the expanding United States. Santa Barbara is located about 90 miles (145 km) WNW of Los Angeles, along the Pacific coast. This stretch of coast along southern Santa Barbara County is sometimes referred to as “The American Riviera”. In modern time Santa Barbara has become the playground of the rich and famous given its proximity to Los Angeles, mild climate, amazing beaches and beautiful architecture. Famous residents of Santa Barbara include: Tom Cruise, Ellen DeGeneres, Michael Douglas, Jeff Bridges, Kevin Costner, Whoopie Goldberg, Steven Spielberg and from the old days Ronald Reagan, Fess Parker, Carole Burnett and Brian Wilson. What is so special about the area that attracts the rich and famous? [4] First of all there’s everything that you can enjoy for free or affordably.

The amazing beaches:

Horseback riding:

Visiting the Channel Islands:

Or just hanging around downtown:

Now that  you got a taste of the history, scenic beauty and fun activities, you want to know where to stay and eat.

For a truly unique experience, try the Villa Rosa Inn. The Villa Rosa is one of the best boutique hotels in Santa Barbara. Its more like a bed and breakfast with only 18 rooms but it is close to the beach and a short walk to State Street and downtown. Its very affordable and double or single occupancy includes a continental breakfast plus complimentary evening wine and cheese with snacks. All rooms are furnished with king or queen size beds and private bathrooms. “Every room at the Villa Rosa boasts a spectacular view, whether of the ocean, the harbor, the mountains, or the beautiful garden courtyard. There are also deluxe rooms with fireplaces to make romantic evenings that much more special. Only 84 steps away from Santa Barbara’s East Beach and an easy stroll from Stearns Wharf, with its numerous shops, restaurants, and activities. The Villa Rosa Inn was originally called the “Hilton-by-the-sea,” this Spanish Colonial Revival building was designed by George M. Thomas Studios in 1931. Serving as off-campus housing during the winter season for the U.C.S.B. Riviera campus, the rooms were rented to tourists in the summer months. Acquired in 1981 by Mark and Beverly Kirkhart, Robert Young and Lisa Young, the Villa Rosa Inn opened to the public on July 11, 1982. [5]

One of the newest additions to the luxury lineup is the Bacara Resort and Spa. Located a little north of Santa Barbara in Goleta the Bacara is a destination resort. “Bacara’s beautiful hotel rooms are located within one, three, or four-story villas, connected by graceful garden paths, scenic courtyards, and picturesque fountains. Offering relaxed, coastal charm infused with modern amenities and current technology, Bacara offers a luxury Santa Barbara escape unlike any other. Located at the edge of the Pacific, The Bacara offers expansive ocean views and is the perfect retreat for get-togethers with families and friends. Bacara guests can indulge in a range of cuisine and ambiances at the resort’s many restaurants. Their acclaimed culinary team, led by renowned Executive Chef Vincent Lesage, blends locally grown ingredients with innovative techniques to bring you the unique flavors of Santa Barbara County. Escape to the bluffs and beaches of the Santa Barbara coast. While you are here, treat yourself to Bacara’s new oceanfront restaurant, Angel Oak. Bacara also features special events. Join wine pioneer Richard Sanford as the guide for a “Celebration of the Santa Rita Hills.” The evening traces the evolution of this unique Santa Barbara appellation, founded by Sanford, as eight wines from four Santa Rita Hills wineries will be paired with a special four-course menu created by Bacara’s Executive Chef Vincent Lesage. The vineyards include the Alma Rosa Winery Longoria Winery, Brewer Clifton and Diatom Wineries and the Tyler Winery. Bacara is recognized as one of the finest spas in the world, The Spa at Bacara is spectacular in every way, from its beautiful architecture and incredible array of services to its expert staff. With treatments, guests enjoy a wealth of amenities, including an adults-only pool, Jacuzzi, redwood sauna, eucalyptus steam room, fireside lounge areas, wellness classes and a rooftop terrace. The facilities at the fitness resort also include a 3,500 square foot cardiovascular and strength training center, yoga and Pilates studios, and four Har-Tru surface tennis courts. Bacara is ideal for corporate retreats and investor meetings, team-building and social events, any occasion is larger-than-life at Bacara. Bacara offers more than 70,000-square-feet of flexible space designed to promote creativity and exceed business goals, ensuring that your next event will be a true success. For a truly enjoyable experience try the Bacara. Santa Barbara never looked so good.

If you have made it this far here is a nice little secret spot that doesn’t come up on the tourist maps that often and is truly “local”. For that unique dining experience in SB try the El Paseo Mexican Restaurant. This out of the way place is hidden down the El Paseo walkway between Anacapa and State Streets. The restaurant was first built in 1922 as part of an 1826 adobe complex. Architect James Osborne Craig designed and restored many of the existing buildings and added the Spanish village and “Street in Spain” surrounding the restaurant. The El Paseo complex was an inspiration for the revival of Spanish Colonial architecture in Southern California, and is on the National Register of Historic Places. It is the oldest restaurant in Santa Barbara, and has been the host to many of Santa Barbara’s celebrations over the years. Over the years, the restaurant has been the site of many fiesta celebrations and host to numerous luminaries, including Clark Gable, Carol Lombard, Jean Harlow, William Powell, Ginger Rogers, Shirley Temple, Rita Hayworth, Edward G. Robinson, Fred Astaire, Katharine Hepburn, Salvador Dali, Stravinsky, Will Rogers, Howard Hughes, Charles Lindbergh, Herbert Hoover, Quentin Tarantino and Jennifer Lopez. El Paseo is led by Alex Castillo one of Santa Barbara’s most talented chefs. The guacamole is awesome and made right at your table. The restaurant features an open air courtyard with a central fountain and a balcony. There’s a side bar to the right as you walk in that is very cozy especially in winter with a roaring fire in the massive fire place. Here is the get away for an intimate dining experience. The margarita’s are spectacular, the Huachinango delicious, the fajitas are sizzling and their tequila selection is extensive. Treat yourself to a fantastic dining experience and bask in the history of old Santa Barbara. This is really living.

Stay tuned for our next feature when Kaz Headrest brings you part 2 in the central coast series focusing on Ojai.

What to Have in Your Carry-On

Whether you are a seasoned traveler or you only travel once a year, we all have times when we’ve been packing our carry-on luggage and have felt frustrated by either packing too much or packing too little. We forget something, like our air travel pillow, that feels like it can make or break our air travel experience.

The key to packing a carry-on is to pack enough, but not too much. This seems like an obvious point, but really, actually doing just that is very difficult. Things you need to take into consideration are how long your flight is going to be, what potential problems you could encounter along the way, such as delays, and what you need to have the most comfortable trip possible. Along with these things, you must keep in mind airline rules and regulations regarding luggage size and items you can carry with you on the plane; consider how much you actually want to carry through the airport and squeeze into the overhead or under your seat.

Though this is not an exhaustive list, below are some of the main things that you should highly consider having in your carry on:

Comfort Items

When packing and trying to remember to pack items we wouldn’t normally need, it can be easy to forget the basic items that we usually carry with us in our pockets or purses: chapstick, lotion, eye drops, tissues, etc. Each person’s list of comfort items will be different from another’s: simply think about what you carry with you on a daily basis that you use consistently. Don’t forget to take medications you might need during the flight!

Snacks

The amount of snacks that you take with you depends on how long you will be flying, what time of day you are flying, and your general snack needs. No matter when you are flying, you should always have at least one snack to hold you over just in case you are met with an unexpected delay or problematic situation. Also, it can be an overall better traveling experience to have a snack to keep your blood sugar and your spirits up.

Water

Though many airlines do serve complimentary drinks, having a bottle of water is another essential item to have with you while you travel to stay hydrated. Hydration will not only keep your body from drying out, you will also avoid feeling as tired and keep your digestive system moving and yourself free from headaches. Buy a bottle of water after you go through security on your way to your gate, and have a means of staying hydrated no matter if your flight attendants can get up to serve you or they are kept in their seat due to turbulence.

Entertainment

As you pack your carry-on and extra bag, don’t forget to bring entertainment, such as a good book, magazine, music, or even a movie. For many of us, it’s easy to over-plan and bring one of each thing to keep us occupied, because we might not know what we will want to do until we actually board. If you are one of these types, choose one thing to read and one other type of entertainment.

Clothes

If you are going to be on a longer flight or you may have a flight that could possibly be delayed, take an extra set of clothes, and even a set of comfortable clothing just in case you find yourself sleeping at the airport.

Sleeping Comfort

Many pass the time while flying by sleeping. When you are prepared to sleep on a plane, be sure to grab your earplugs. If earplugs are uncomfortable, try baby earplugs: They are smaller and more malleable. You can also bring socks to keep your feet warm, and a blanket. Lastly, you need an air travel pillow with the utmost comfort: You need a Kaz Headrest air travel pillow.

Kaz Headrest Air Travel Pillow

The Kaz Headrest is compact, feather-light, yet sturdy and adjustable for ultimate comfort. It is the only front-facing headrest on the market that truly has all the features that you need in an air travel pillow: It can also function as a laptop and book holder as well, so you can travel in the most comfort possible. Read more about all the possible functions of this versatile air travel pillow and buy your own Kaz Headrest today!