Exciting Salsa Night @ El Floridita

Latin-dance devotees and Cuban-food
lovers are frequenting this legendary
hotspot to experience magical moments
on a buzzing dance floor or to savor
exquisite traditional fare while listening
to a life-band playing Cuban sounds at
it's best. This entrancing venue is a
slice of "Buena Vista Social Club" in
the burning heart of Hollywood.

Taking its name from a Havana
landmark once frequented by Ernest
Hemingway and John Wayne, this
popular Salsa club and Cuban
restaurant is hot, hot, hot. Lunch is
the best time to enjoy the authentic
Cuban food but it's the exuberant
nightly entertainment that attracts
crowds and celebs like Enrique
Iglesias, Salma Hayek, Nicole
Kidman and J.Lo.
The hippest nights continue to be
Mondays, when Johnny Polanco and
his swinging salsa band - the sizzling
Orquesta Amistad - get the dance
floor jumpin'. A sultry vibe dominates
this famous Cuban hotspot while sexy
Salsa, Mambo, Tango and Merengue
vibes permeate the slinky atmosphere
and entice patrons spice up the dance
floor.

The ambience is sultry. Comfy black-
upholstered booths serve as an intimate
spot to settle back and savor Cuban
specialties from generously loaded big
plates, while sipping a Mojito - of course,
El Floridita's signature drink and a must!
Red accents, like roses, candles and
tablecloths heat up the scenery, while
strings of little lights create a cozy vibe.
Floor to ceiling golden-framed mirrors
line the walls and reflect the vibrant
crowd on the buzzing dance floor.
Slinky dressed, cleavage showing
dancing queens and classy clad
gentleman swing their bodies
seductively – in pairs or alone – while
creating a flirty show. Obviously, many
regulars were salsa aficionados and
experienced dancers. Consequently El
Floridita also offers dancing lessons.

See an old gentleman hustle the ladies on
the dance floor in his head-to-toe white
outfit. Or a mature beauty queen sporting
a succulent long dress with a high side slit
skirt and sparkling sequins embellishing
her top, sweeping passionately over the
dance floor and shaking "what her mama
gave her" so confidently, and knowing
that all eyes are on her at this mesmerizing
moment.

I was intoxicated and mesmerized
by the enchanting, vibrant and beyond
sexy atmosphere. A sultry air embraced
my slinky dress when crossing the
threshold. Several gentleman requested a
dance and I loved how they made me
swirl around the dance floor, made my
body sweep graciously, guiding me so
professionaly and passionatley, making
me do double turns and back bends –
like there is no tomorrow.

1253 Vine Street  Los Angeles, CA 90038

Romance & Decadence @ The Dresden Room

This Hollywood landmark and unique supper club,
established in 1964, is a swanky-retro hideaway, a
popular haunt of hipsters, cocktail-aficionados and
Hollywood types who love to see and to be seen. The
air is filled with 60ies glamour, a time when women
wore petticoats and seamed stockings.
Jazz, Swing, Martinis and Manhattans dominate the
vibe and ispire and infuse the cheerful crowd. Black-
clad bartenders present a top-notch cocktail expertise.
Sidle up to the bar for a glass of the sweet house classic,
Blood and Sand cocktail.
The grande dining room is arranged in a radiant-kitschy
outfit with high ceilings, white leather booths, bright-
orange and gold-shiny accents. Dining guests can choose
from a Italian-leaning menu. This 60ies style sanktuary
seems only missing the obligatory cigar smoke and illegal
gambling.
This ornate revelry's highlight is the timeless lounge act
of Marty and Elayne. The couple has been performing
here up to 5 nights a week since 1982 and has always
been the center of attraction. Their rendition of "Stayin'
Alive" is a kitschy treat. Their famous performance takes
place around a grande keybord and drumms - of course,
while high arched walls made of rock, gold metal-encased
pendant lamps and elegant leather booths make for a
glorious scenery. The walls tell the long story of this
institution: thousands of photographs of icons and legends
line the walls and represent fame and glory.

I had a fabulous time at the The Dresden Room, savoring
sumptuous cocktails while having a wonderful conversation
amid a Jazz-infused, vibrant atmosphere and glamorous
scenesters.

An "Open Safe Party"

Chapter 16: An "Open Safe Party"

Fashionistas and recessionsitas alike step into the past
and out of recession at this sultry, low lit cocktail
lounge and club. This 9020s location, a former bank
(Crocker Bank), was transformed into a sophisticated
hot spot in historic downtown L.A. "Dress to impress"
is the key to access. One note for the guys: dress classy.
Athletic attire is not welcomed!
Along a marble coated 1930s bar ladies and gens down
their money-themed cocktails amid a noble atmosphere
and a sleek bank-alike setting, while security guys line
the walls. Since this money-themed place is rumored to
be haunted an exclusive cocktail has been named "Ghostini".
The walls seem to "speak money", and inside a big open
safe, behind heavy round doors guests mingle below safety-
deposit-boxes on dollar-printed booths. Little tables topped
with lovely candles provide a cozy vibe all around the place.

Couples looking for some private space are invited to lounge
in one of the separate rooms that are lined with luxuriously
croc-embossed banquettes. These secluded nooks are made
for two people only, and the narrow doors of these romantic
nests can be closed.
Former money counting areas as well as the reception room,
fitted with an ample bar invites scenesters to dance the night
away under a vast disco ball, while latest tunes are being
spinned by an in-demand DJ.
For the little hunger scrumptious bites like truffle fries or
peach remoulade are being served. Waitresses walk around
satisfying guest's whishes and whims.

I had a fabulous time with my friends here. I especially loved
the unique ambience and sophisticated setting. Savored the
delicious drinks and danced the night away. The Crocker
Club is a can't-miss, unique party venue and on top of my list
when discovering downtown L.A.'s historic nightlife. Rent a
space for your private event or bring your date for an intimate
night out. Cheers!

Welcome Back to Paradise

Chapter 15: Welcome Back to Paradise

A valet parking gentleman opens the door while I
step outside - in my 9 Inch sparkling heels - I see
white clad doormans attending a golden illuminated,
crystal door in front of a white building. The little
dark front yard is separated from the buzz on the
Sunset Strip by a high hedge. The magic is in the
air and for a moment I feel all eyes on me. I move
slinkily towards the "golden gates" and while the
doors are being opened for me at this very moment,
my companion holds my back when we enter the
fabulous Sky Bar & Club. White is the color of
everyone's outfit. So is the interior of the venue:
white, highlighted with golden accents. The
stunningly luxurious, but sleek furnishing is
magnificently arranged into a cozy sanctuary.
Gloriously sparkling chandeliers fill the air with
fabulous magic.
I soak up the glamour while inspecting the place:
attractivity, a highly vibrant, positive vibe and
strong confidence permeates this place and seem
to dominate the hearts and souls of these beautiful
party-people. It's all about to see and be seen.

While trying to maintain a conversation I am
distracted by this overwhelming "feast for the eyes".
Then, a drink is being put into my hand - French
champagne - of course. We stroll around to
discover this up-scale venue. A spacious patio -
fitted with a pool, a poolhouse and two bars - opens
up in front of us, and hosts a beautifully dressed,
vividly chatting and laughing crowd. Dimmed lights
create a magical atmosphere. While stepping out
into the crowd we are being invited to pose on the
red carped for a picture. I smile seductively into
the lens while the flashlight goes off. At this
instant I discover our friends hanging out at the
magically illuminated, turquoise blue pool...

More and more people arrive - it's 1 am. I spot two
stunning beauties dressed up in sexy angel costumes.
Their pretty faces all sparkling, their skimpy, lacy
outfits seductively exposing their lovely bodies. All
in white - of course.
As the time passes, the ladies and gentleman of
the night follow the beat of a relaxed sound spinned
by a DJ. A photographer makes his rounds to capture
these beautiful people, celebrating life to the fullest -
always in best style, of course. Appetizing nibbles
are being served to vibrant aficionados sitting around
little tables in the poolhause. Candle-light creates a
romantic atmosphere.
The moon and the stars shine bright in the mysterious
dark blue sky. From the patio I have a perfect view
over Los Angles. The night is young. I relish every
moment amid this buoyant Hollywood crowd at this
luxurious Hollywood venue. Another Tuesday night
passes by.

Some impressions of this magnificent event can be
found here:

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page=photos&gal_id=601&pho_id=102002#
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page=photos&gal_id=601&pho_id=102002#0
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page=photos&gal_id=601&pho_id=102002#0
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page=photos&gal_id=601&pho_id=102002#0
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page=photos&gal_id=601&pho_id=102002#0
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page=photos&gal_id=601&pho_id=102002#0
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page=photos&gal_id=601&pho_id=102002#0
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Yoga on the beach in Marina Del Rey

Chapter 14: Yoga on the beach in Marina Del Rey

A fizzy breeze of salty ocean air enlivens
my senses, I listen to the sound of the sea
while inhaling deeply. My gratitude is
endless for what I see and feel - I appreciate
every single second, every breath I take fills
me with joy.
On this magical morning in beautiful Marina
Del Rey I am going to do Yoga. The sun tries
hard to pierce through the Marine layer that
is quite solid this morning. Yoga is very
popular in fabulous Los Angeles. Saturday
mornings are virtually dedicated to this
fashionable workout, often combined with
Pilates or other types of gymnastics.
This is Los Angeles: a place, where beauty
and attractivity rule. L.A. is litteraly a hot
spot, where good looking people from all
over the world gather to pursue their
dreams of fame and glory.
Yoga - if done right - strengthens muscles,
trains and improves flexibility and relaxes
mind. After a decent Yoga class muscles
are loosened up, mind is free and body feels
much lighter. It's pure relaxation!
Dallas - my Yoga teacher - arrives on a bike,
accompanied by his puppy on a leash. His
Yoga class takes place every Saturday - here,
on the beach. I roll out my mat and sit down
on it. I inhale again the salty air while watching
seagulls gathering over a bunch of seaweed.
The mountains in Santa Monica are not visible
right now, a thick foggy layer covers them up
neatly.
The class starts out with decent stretching.
Dallas' routine is designed to work every single
muscle and burn fat. For one solid hour I entirely
focus on my body and breathing. After the class I
top off my workout with a light jog on the beach.
I savor the lovely morning to the fullest...

Sauna, Jacuzzi and a hot shower: this is how I
pamper my lovely body after a proper workout.
Following up with a protein/fruit shake and a big
organic salad - it's the perfect nourishment:
vitalizing and energizing.
It's Saturday morning, I feel fabulous. My
body is fully invigorated and my senses abuzz,
can't wait to soak up another lovely weekend -
in glorious Hollywood.

The Griffith Park and Observatory

Chapter 13: The Griffith Park and Observatory

High up in the Griffith Park Hills, from the Griffith
Park Observatory's spacious terraces, one has a
stunning view over glorious Los Angeles with it's
various neighborhoods - from this perspective L.A.
seems to be at ones fingertips. From glitzy West
Hollywood to hipster Silverlake to the hot Valley -
the main streets crisscross the city and define it's
perfect grid-pattern. This overwhelming view is
during daytime visibly overshadowed by a foggy
grey layer that covers the city's atmosphere. From
this height, the otherwise so splendidly turquois-
blue sky turns into an olive-greenish blue-grey
that unfolds above the roofs of the city's versatile
architecture and permeates the hot, stuffy air with
dark fumes.
Up here, one is privileged to look down on this
scenario: long streets with busy traffic and buzzing
L.A.-life. The ocean is invisible from here: the marine
layer hugs the coast all summer long, and embraces
the bay with a white foggy coat, providing a natural
air-conditioning to it's inhabitants.
But here, up in the Griffith Park Hills the beauty of
nature dominates the atmosphere: lush green, dense
woods set a sharp contrast to a bright sunny sky above
steep sandy hills. The landscape changes all the sudden
while hiking up to the Observatory. The air: so deliciously
fresh! A lovely breeze gently blows while the sun lovely
kisses skin and brightens up spirits. Eagles and hawks fly
their rounds and make themselves audible. It's peaceful
and quiet - who knew L.A. could be so natural?

Alongside this impressive landscape and stunning
outlooks, there is the educational factor to this venue:
the Griffith Park Observatory, with it's museum,
interactive exhibition and exciting laser shows - it's
entertaining and educating at the same time. Otherwise
the Griffith Park is a popular destination for joggers,
hikers, bikers, picnickers, golfers, bird lovers (there
is an aviary and a baby zoo) and it's where L.A.'s
famous "Greek Theater" is situated. This, tucked
away in the Griffith Park open-air-concert-venue
hosts popular pop, classical, reggae and rock
entertainment and is non-stop crammed - like every
other event and venue in fabulous Los Angeles.
Cheers to this lovely getaway spot!

From Los Angeles with Love

Chapter 13: From Los Angeles with Love

Brilliant sun-rays descend from a turquois blue
sky alluringly bathing the city in shimmering lush
colors creating a radiant atmosphere: In lustrous
Los Angeles sunshine is the cure of souls and the
nurturer of passionate hearts. Strong bright sun-
rays permeate every neighborghood, every heart,
every soul. Sunlight seems to be a vital booster -
inspiring creative minds, energizing, vitalizing,
pervading with love, happiness and lifting spirits.
Warm sunshine lovely kisses the skin, pampering
and cuddling the soul, energizing hearts and
coddling all senses - this is pure celebration of
life and The Place To Be!

One specific accessory Angelenos never leave the
house without is: sunshades. Sunglasses protect
their (highly-sensitive-to-esthetics-)eyes and gorgeous
faces and add a touch of glamor and mysteriousness
to their daily appearance. Another precautionary
measure is sunscreen. It's a must to apply sunscreen
lotion before entering the blazing streets of L.A. - let
alone before visiting the beach. Maintaining a young
impeccable, radiant baby-like skin as long as possible
is a vital factor among Hollywood types.

Angelenos are thankful for the resplendent energy
that comes from above - that's why they love to
linger outdoors, work out on the beach, discover
parks, swim lakes and hike mountains. Passionate
aficionados of L.A. and Orange County love fun in
all respects, love to indulge and celebrate the
delightful part of life to the fullest - under the
non-stop brightly shining sun of course!
Los Angeles and it's area has plenty of delightful
nature sights to present. Spontaneous, adventurous
L.A. peeps, craving to discover every neighborhood,
every beach, every hot spot - whether it's a fashionable
part of town or a gem of a lake high in the mountains -
can't wait to hit the road to indulge in their many-sided
hometown to the fullest - because they love to discover,
they relish and cherish and want to be entertained.

Landscapes are changing, neighborhoods are
differing: every spot is filled with a distinctive vibe.
The color palette of the scenery is endless as is the
diversity of Los Angeles' folks. People of different
nationalities and cultures gather here. They shape
and characterize L.A.'s neighborhoods. Here, art,
food and all kinds of businesses make a clear cultural
statement while freely celebrating it's culture.
Los Angeles is where people from all over the world
gather; this multicultural crowd may differ in all
respects - but one thing they all have in common:
the dream of fulfilling themselves and accomplishing
their "Los Angeles dream". Cheers to Los Angeles!

Groomed & Pampered

Chapter 12: Groomed & Pampered

...here she is strutting down the Sunset strip:
whether in stilettos, sandals, wedges or peep
toes her lovely feet is being exposed in any
case. Since open toe-shoe-season is almost
all year it's crucial to keep feet (and hands)
pampered and groomed non-stop.
Unsurprisingly, the range of beauty salons,
day spas and hair and nail studios is endless.
Luxurious wellness treatments, exclusive
cosmetics and high-end equipment is being
used in every beauty salon in Hollywood and
Beverly Hills. This is the epicenter of vanity
and beauty - big-time!
All-out diva options include hand and foot
"facials," exfoliator, paraffin treatments, callus
removal and relaxing massages of hands and
feet. For little ones many salons offer "kid-i-
cures".
There is a growing trend of using organic
products, which are biodynamic, natural and
eco-friendly. Enjoy an ayurverda tea while
certified experts take care of you making sure
you look fabulous and radiant from head to
toe in the end. It goes without saying that
professional equipment is being sterilized,
service is impeccable and rooms are spotless
clean.
In order to showcase her sexy feet she wears
skimpy shoes that match the polish of her
freshly painted and groomed toes. A mani/
pedi is due every two to three weeks. Angelenas
love to pamper vanity and indulge in all the
wellness and spa havens that fabulous
Los Angeles offers.
Lovely shoes make her day. Those she selects
carefully, collects passionately and sports
alluringly: with a seductive swinging of her
hips she is the center of attraction. As much
as are the names written on her soles - the
most renowned, acclaimed cobblers: Louboutin,
Chimmy Choo, Manolo Blahnik to name but
a few - are beloved shoe-creating-artists among
divas of fabulous Los Angeles. Staggering highs
and eye-catching styles: This is the rule that the
city's carpets dictate.
Divas master their daily lifes and trips to the
beach in lovely flat strap sandals, ballerina-
style peep toes or fancy flip-flop shoes. Adorned
with ribbons, gorgeous stones, flashy gems, lovely
feathers, beads, sequinns, cristals or flowers -
the styles and designs are endless.
Living in a tropical climate and being blessed with
warm weather all year - without traditional seasons -
Angelenas are pretty spoiled and thick woolen
socks and nylons is what they consider as an insult
to their sexy legs and lovely feet.
Cheers to the all-year-summer that cherishes lovely
(expensive) shoes and beautiful feet!

Dress Code: Bikini

Chapter 11: Dress Code: Bikini

Bikini season is 12 months a year in L.A. and Orange County.
Hence Angelenas have at least three different beach outfits
in their wardrobes; among these are tiny adorable bikinis
in all imaginable colors, shapes and designs. Bikini and beach
wear designers make a great business and produce several
collections every year. It's a staple and a must-have item
always kept on hand. Even in December, when the sun goes
down early and the nights are chilly - there are still warm
days perfect to don some hot stuff for a lazy afternoon on the
beach - sunscreen is another must-have and a warm sweater
for the hours after sunset.
The sunshine is energizing, the ocean breeze is refreshing
and cool salty water stimulates body and senses. Cheers to
wonderful mother nature which pampers Angelenos with
long stunning beaches, lots of warm regaling rays coming
from a non-stop baby blue sky, and the most impressive
landscapes.
The beach is a recreational area #1. All one has to do is to
breath the salty air, feel the warm sand under ones feet
and listen to the waves - this is relaxation at it's best.
And this is how Angelenos stay in shape all year: wear
a bathing suit as often as possible - also while jogging or
riding a bike alongside the beautiful beaches of the golden
coast - popular activities among Angelenos where they
can work on their fitness and show off their trimmed
bodies. Angelenos love to surf, swim or sail. Hang out
on a boat, floating on glittery waters and watching the
sunset: this is how Angelenos love to spend time - cozy,
lazy, with a drink in hand celebrating life and being blessed
with the great climate of the West Coast. This is California
Love!
From fabulous Zuma Bech in the north to emerald green
waters of Dana Point - beaches are overwhelming beautiful.
Every single bay is in it's own way magnificent. A surfer's
paradise is Huntington Beach. Malibu and Zuma Beach is
where the glitzy crowd hangs out while Santa Monica is
tourist's or residents first choice. Skaters, artists and quirky
people hang out at Venice Beach while Newport Beach is
where a wealthy community of Orange Country dwells in big
castle-like houses indulging in luxurious lives and sophisticated
hobbies like plastic surgeries, collecting expensive cars,
breeding horses or dogs.
Living a healthy lifestyle, eating healthy, organic, local food
and working out on regular basis (with a personal trainer -of
course) these are the main life principles to which many
Angelenos live up to in order to maintain great looks and
a vibrant, firm body. Everybody strives to look fabulous.
Angelenos do their utmost to maintain youth and attractivity
as long as possible. This is sophisticated L.A.-mentality and
a whole philosophy. It's a glamorous town that attracts beautiful
faces sporting hot bodies and strong, ambitious personalities.

Don a slinky bikini and some huge shades, don't forget the
sunscreen and some lovely sandals, a hat is another noteworthy
accessoiry. Hop into a convertible and dash to the beach - anyone -
everyone is wonderful and a gift from mother nature. Cheers to
the Golden Coast!

Lovely Getaways

Chapter nine: Lovely Getaways

This is a journey that leads to lovely places and
fascinating nature spots of southern California
... from the beaches, to beautiful mountains and
parks, to charming little cities and cozy getaway
spots. It's about time to discover and cherish
the Golden Coast - and it has so much beauty to
offer! Let's get away for a moment from the hustling
and bustling of Hollywood and it's many (exciting)
neighborhoods!
Angelenos have it all! And it's mostly only a car-
drive away. The glorious nature and gem-like
spots are (almost) at hand. Admittedly - the car
drive might turnout stressful especially on weekends
freeways are packed and traffic is nerve-racking.
In this case It's all about patience. Try to avoid
the 405 highway - this is a non-stop traffic-
heavy route. Setting off early in the morning
is definitely a good move. The Car-pool lane
rewards those who travel in groups or more
than one person - here Angelenos are allowed
to drive faster.
Big Bear is a lovely place for time-out craving
folks who want to get away from the city's noise
and spend relaxing moments breathing fresh
air amid mountains and lush forests. The drive
itself is wonderful as soon as you get on the windy
roads leading up the mountains peaks. Stunning
landscapes, thick forests and beautiful valleys
embellish your journey while going higher
and higher. This is an excellent place to find
oneself, regain strength and recharge batteries.
Swim the lake, hike the forests or rent a boat
while enjoying the beauty of the nature. Perfect
for those who want to escape the big city's heat.
High up in the mountains temperatures are
pleasantly cool. Breakfast on the patio overlooking
the mountains is how you start your day here.

Angelenos find retreat in Palm Springs. After
driving through the desert for almost two hours
an illustrious oasis opens up that is host to
couples, families, youngsters and everyone who
is in for some fun and relaxation. From luxurious
spa and wellness resorts, to beauty farms and
lofty hotels - this is what this (notorious!) place
presents. Weddings and other special occasions,
excessive parties of (rich) youngsters, and red
carpet events are being celebrated here. It's hot:
temperature climbs up to even 100°F in summer.
Party at night, hang out at the pool during the day,
treat yourself to some wellness treatments or
enjoy lavish restaurants and yummy cocktails.
This is a famed place where the party never ends!

Here - close to the Mexican border - is where
you experience authentic Mexican flair: San
Diego is surfing, sailing, safari and lots of
Mexican food and culture. Adjacent to this little
town is the island Coronado - a romantic spot
perfect for couples who want to experience
some smoochy moments. For more romantic
hours make a boat trip to Catalina island. It's
another cozy getaway where you are wanting
to be back to civilization after only a couple
of hours - it might get boring although the
landscapes and valleys are adorable. Don't go
if you get sick on a boat!

Not far away from Hollywood - when riding the
"PCH" for an hour or so - is where the famous
and fabulous of L.A. live. Malibu, Zuma beach
and Pacific Palisades are fabulous regions, with
fantastic landscapes, wonderful beaches, gorgeous
parks and hiking trails. Horseback riding in
the Malibu mountains, oceanfront lunching at
the "Hideaway Cafe", lounging at Zuma beach
and letting the day fade out while watching the
sun go down at Sunset Restaurant. Both venues
offer an overwhelming view on the ocean
accompanied by a mouth watering menu! See
food is what it's all about (and more!).
Paradise Cove Cafe presents it's patrons with
a special attraction: Comfy lounge chairs and
wooden tables are situated on the cafe's cozy beach.
By a bottle of red at the bar, ask for glasses and
sit down on a blanket at the beach while listening
to the sound of the ocean. Divine!
Long Beach is a real waterfront oasis and another
gem of a place. Fabulous beaches, romantic piers
and a noble sailboat marina with private landing
stages for snug boats adorn this town's bays. Here,
indulge into fresh, mouth watering and lovely
prepared seafood and fish dishes - many restaurants
offer seafood at it's best. Drive around the little
town in a convertible and score lovely little
things at the diverse boutiques. Go for a drink to
the legendary Queen Mary, the view from the deck
on the ocean is magnificent - when the moon
illuminates the see and the stars twinkle. The
nights are breezy, the air is salty and the
sound and closeness of the rushing waves of ocean
water create a magical vibe.