Shelter In Place? Not Me!

Before you get ready to blast me for my lack of concern, my insensitivity, relax. I know that the coronavirus is, hopefully was, by the time you read this blog, serious. Different people are handling the crisis differently. Hunkering down, staying inside, social distancing. Hoarding toilet paper and hand sanitizer. Fine!

But not me! I, cautiously, boarded a United non stop to Santa Barbara, a beautiful coastal California town. Old haciendas, Spanish architecture, pristine beaches, fabulous restaurants. Stayed at the Hotel Milo, an older property that truly reflects the town, on the main drag, ocean view room. Walking distance, or short bike ride, to everything.

Breakfast at Sambo’s, established in 1957, still going strong. Sunday brunch at Tre Lune in the Montecito section of town, a lunch at Backyard Bowl, a heaping bowl of acai. Dinners included Oku Sushi, Brophy’s on the Wharf, and Sante Mezcal, reputed to be one of Kevin Kostner’s favorites when he’s in town (we didn’t see him, although my daughter has, literally, bumped into him at the place).

Cold, local craft beers on a sunset cruise of the harbor. A little overcast and a bit chilly, but anytime on the water, especially with family and friends, is always special.

Exercise is always on my agenda, no matter where I am, but walking, running, riding a bike either on, or along, the beach just seems to make that exercise easier and more enjoyable.

Finally, shopping. Being an old SoCal and Hawaii boy, I never visit those areas without getting some new board shorts. Shopping for swim wear, flip flops, is always better in a sunny environment. Rainbow sandals and Billabong shorts.

So whether it is Santa Barbara or some other spot in the United States, we have a beautiful country. My suggestion? Get out, cautiously, and enjoy it.