A Golden Coast (Love-)Story

Chapter 25: A Golden Coast (Love-)Story

FYI: The Pacific Coast Highway, aka Route #1 is
a significant connection between south and north
California. This illustrious path winds graciously
alongside stunning nature sights and the most
beautiful beaches of the wonderful state California,
presenting tourists, locals, visitors and adventure
or retreat-seeking peeps also lovely resorts, great
camping grounds and excellent sea-food eateries.

Driving the longest route of The Golden State many
times up and down, I have always been mesmerized
by the stunning beauty of nature and the endless
recreational possibilities. From San Diego to Santa
Barbara - this is the part I have covered and
discovered - and have fallen in love with. Here is
one Golden Coast story:

"Where are you guys going", the kind saleswoman
asked me at the Nordstrom shoe department ...
This is when I bought a cute pair of brown cowgirl
booties that matched my little Louis Vuitton bag.
Now I was fashionably set for the ultimate Golden
Coast romantic adventure.
... The following day - a beautiful, hot summer noon -
my date (a person I didn't meet before) rang my
doorbell. In this istant I didn't know that this was
the beginning of a the longest, most exciting
rendevouz I ever have experienced: This dashing
gentleman carried me off on a trip I won't forget.

A secluded little horse ranch in the Santa Monica
Mountains was to be the first stop of our journey.
We hit the PCH - excited about our first encounter
and for the adventure that was lying ahead...
While cherishing each others company and
savoring magical moments of romance, we
discovered Santa Monica's mountains on horse's
backs. Aromas of dense shrubs and dry trees
mingled with a fresh ocean breeze, and a cloud of
sand and dust was being swirled up by horse's
hoofs. As the wind stroked my hair I inhaled
deeply; looking down from my white horse, even
deeper down the cliffs, I discovered the dark blue
ocean unfolding before me... what a staggering
height, what a stunning view!

We rode up even higher, galloped lush meadows and
walked up narrow paths and steep hills. From the very
top the horizon, exuberantly framed by the beauty of
nature presented itself to us in it's fullest glory: at
set of sun the sky turned a lush pink-orange mingling
with the brightly glittering sea.

Overwhelmed and loaded with adrenalin we hit the
road again, further riding the PCH looking out for a
spot to celebrate the night with a romantic dinner.
Paradise Cove - a secluded sea-food ocean side eatery -
which serves drinks and food alongside a lovely view
over the pacific - seemed perfect for a candle light
dinner under the stars.
Watching into each others eyes, my date and I indulged
in another magical moment while sitting in the sand
two feet away from the water. The rush of the waves
created a lovely soundtrack and the stars sparkled
bright as we toasted to love with Champagne...

Our next stop was the Santa Monica pier where we
ended up in the famous ferris wheel. The moon
was shining bright and the moment was truly
mesmerizing when the two of us settled back in a
booth and the wheel started moving slowly it's way
up... After going for a few rounds the wheel sudennly
stopped routating and intoxicated by the sweet
romance we found ourselves in a passionate clinch...
Just like in one of those cute romantic-comedy
scenes.

A hidden gem in Santa Barbara

Chapter 24: A hidden gem in Santa Barbara

While listening to the soothing soundtrack of the little
creek that runs alongside the steep hills, we hike up a
trail that leads us to a hidden little gem, a historic lodge
and former way station for mountain-crossing travelers
nestled amid an idyllic setting: The Cold Spring Tavern -
originally constructed in the 1860s -is located on a stretch
of Stagecoach Road right off Highway 154, within the
hills above beautiful Santa Barbara.

The storybook tavern is surrounded by tall, sinuous trees,
mossy paths, and sandstone boulders; it seems there is
always a mountain breeze that ruffles and wafts the
chimney smoke which mingles with the aromas of the
woods and nature that grows rampantly and snuggles up
to the romantic hut. At once, you feel like you are in an
ancient place - a place where history seems to collect and
merge into the present and finally embrace you with it's
magic... wow, what a scene!

The 3,000-square-foot main restaurant and bar is an
idyllic respite and getaway to folks on the road, Santa
Barbara locals, bikers, out-of state-tourists or adventurous
couples and families - providing a snapshot of California
history.
Behind heavy, wooden doors you will discover a cozy,
rustic ambience with a wood-paneled dining room, a bar
and four stone hearth fireplaces that crackle away and
create a cozy background sound. "Through this world I
stroll or ramble I find that life's just a gamble", states an
old wooden beam that supports the all-wood ceiling.
Rugged shelves mounted high up by the ceiling showcase
a collection of ancient porcelain.

Scuffed wooden walls tell wild western stories about
heroes of a bygone era: animal heads, cowboy shotguns,
rugged hats and rusty horseshoes create a perfect setting
for an authenitc western movie. Next to an animal skin
a golden framed photograph adorns the wall, that presents
a proud native inhabitant: an Indian chief. Big wooden
circular chandeliers hang close by the ceiling and add just
a little bit more light to the oil lamps that gorgeously
enlighten the tables while creating a romantic atmosphere
and making the whole idyllic-rustic / rugged-ancient /
wild-western style complete.

It was a warm summer weekend when I visited. Bands
played relaxed tunes and visitors pulled up blankets on
the little yard. Patrons kicked back while savoring thickly
piled up sandwiches, home fries or homemade biscuits.
The in-door menu offered traditional American fare:
burgers, fries and steaks. A long list of omelet options -
coming in many variations - satisfies every vegetarian's
tummy.
The atmosphere: mellow. We chilled the whole afternoon,
taking a break from every day life - far away from the
hustle and bustle of La La Land's shine and glitz. Fresh
intoxicating air, lush green nature and cozy sounds invited
us to dream. When the fist stars in the sky showed we
savored a romantic meal while soaking up the magnificent
moment.

Iconic Hollywood Glam @ Goa

Chapter 23: Iconic Hollywood Glam @ Goa

A long line of ravishingly glammed up and impeccably
groomed Hollywood types embellish Cahuenga Blvd.
on these Thursday nights, radiating an exciting buzz,
while intoxicating aromas of Eau de perfumes and
colognes fill the heady air outside of Tinsel Town's
celeb-hang-out and hipster hot spot: The Goa Club.

If you live in Los Angeles you always have to stay "au
currant", and at that time, there was nothing hipper
or hotter than this exotic playground for those in need
of a late-night rendezvous or experience a feast for
the senses. Come here when you're in the mood to let
loose and flirt with the wild side. Plunge in and soak up
the sexy La La Land swank on 7,000 square feet of
Indian-themed nightlife revelry from the kingpins
Adolfo Suaya and former soap star Michael Sutton.

... The velvet rope was lifted immediately when the
club's interior craftsman and in-demand Hollywood
designer Kris Keith approached the formidable doorman.
We strolled in like super stars - considering that clubbers
come here and wait in lines, unless they are well-
connected and drop the right names, or are exceedingly
well-dressed, meaning: wearing next to nothing.
Aside from being famous for it's elaborate, swank design
with a brilliant interior decoration, this Asia-themed hot
spot is bathing in the fabulous shine of infamous
personalities like Lindsay Lohan, Paris Hilton or Avril
Lavigne. That's why this popular club is permanently
haunted by paparazzis too.

Tonight I was to get my "private tour" through the club's
sanctuaries and VIP nooks: Once we passed the door, we
entered a labyrinth that translated distinctive Indian styles
extremely extravagantly: A great number of noble Persian
rugs covered the walls, miles of golden chains dangled from
the ceiling, and a massive golden chandelier mystically
lightened up the sultry ambience. A big "Shiva"-candle-
holder illuminated the main bar. I felt like entering Taj
Mahal. There was also a sultan's bed beautifully arranged
with plenty of pillows and sparkling sheets. The center
of attraction: Slinky dressed acrobatic belly dancers moving
their delicious bodies smoothly over the little stage.

Mesmerized by all the swank and glitz, I found myself on
the cozy two-level back patio with private circular booths
dimly lit by lovely lanterns. We indulged in the magic of the
night while watching the stars sparkling above us.
Handsome waiters served us with Champagne.

The little sushi bar at the top floor invites patrons to have
a bite - although nobody comes here for the food. Multiple
VIP nooks and crannies create a romantic setting for dates.
Flirting, cozy lounging and dancing amid exotic Indian shapes
and all golden decor - this is so L.A. style and Hollywood
gamour at its best!
My companions and I dined at the romantic sushi bar while
soaking up the glam and hype. Another fabulous night in
LaLa Land that I love to remember: Goa is the quintessential
Hollywood experience. However don't take it too serious but
wear your classiest little dress.

Intoxicating Vibes @ Kane's Was

Chapter 22: Intoxicating Vibes @ Kane's Was

Please welcome everybody Ivan Kane tonight, at
his dazzling, authentic-Hollywood-style complex
of debauchery! Give it up for the infamous nightlife
guru @ Cafe Was...
As a former actor, and now nightlife entrepreneur
Ivan Kane takes pride in staging his venues: the
clubs "Forty Deuce", "Deep" and "Kane" on Melrose
are prominent hot spots and were even featured in
movies and reality shows. Now, his first restaurant-
bar-lounge "Cafe Was" is a sexy styled sanctuary
with bohemian touches combined with opulent,
"Moulin Rouge" features. Beauty queens and flashy
Hollywood-types strut around the red-carpeted,
vintage Mecca and inhale the intoxicating vibe and
life-music sounds.
A brilliantly illuminated bar with a wide staircase
"leading to nowhere", a grande communal room, a
mysterious balcony lit with candles, extensive antique
gold-framed mirrors line the distressed plaster walls,
red and black velvet curtains create a "stage-show"
flair, and a 1924 revolving grand piano completes this
incredibly theatrical setting with a mind-blowing
atmosphere, permeated with emotions and revelry.

Dimly lit, comfy booths invite patrons to extensive
lounging while soaking up the vigorous vibe and rocking
to jazzy tunes played by a (handsome) band (leader).
This also highly romantic hot spot is a perfect venue to
woo your date or flirt - with whoever crosses your red-
carpeted path.
Divas make sure you sport your classiest dress. Shine
and glitz are mandatory as well as staggering high heels
and fluttering lashes. Dress to impress -naturally! Love
to pop out of the crowd but do it with style and grace.
One last thing: pose, pose, pose when the camera flash
goes off...

The Sweet Escape

Chapter 21: The Sweet Escape

Just like in Hollywood's most romantic comedies - the sweetest
moments, the most passionate kisses and caresses, may happen
when the ferris wheel on Santa Monica Pier stops all the sudden,
the stars sparkle above you and the view is fascinating - this is
the special moment to indulge in a kiss. Amidst an enchanting
scenery and a mellow, cozy vibe watching the sun go down - L.A.
is a place where true romance is alive - from corny to sweet to
classy to hot - Angelenos know how to create a sexy vibe.

Especially the seaside, and in particular the infamous Malibu is
home to some most romantic eateries and cute little Inns where
love is being celebrated in high - L.A.- style. So why not wriggle
out from the so absorbing hustle and bustle of Tinseltown and hit
the road, 18 miles up PCH in order to celebrate a feast for heart
and senses.
The steep pathway to the Hideaway Café is charmingly lined
with roses and wildflowers. Tucked away in a heavenly breath
taking atmosphere near the ocean, set atop a hillside and
overlooking Zuma Beach, is this cozy country-style cottage Café
a heaven for couples and a hot spot for dates. The main attraction
is the stunning view from the extensive wrap-around patio with
a gorgeously illuminated pool and warming fire pits, that guarantee
romantic outdoor dining during day and night.
For a romantic evening (wear a cute little dress and some sexy
heels), arrive at sunset and sit under the stars to soak in the warm
breezes and the sweeping view over the dark ocean and palm trees.
Let Champagne flow and toast to this glamorous moment.

What's on the menu? Dining guests order the eatery's culinary
highlights like ahi tartare, macadamia-crusted halibut with mango-
papaya citrus sauce or osso buco served over spinach risotto. The
breakfast/brunch bill of fare includes omelets, French toast, huevos
rancheros and other faves that are served until mid-afternoon. If
you come here during the day don't forget to bring your big-ass
shades.

The staff is extremely discreet and highly professionel. Expertly
trained waiters present impressive manners while always maintaining
a low profile - holding the door for the ladies, greeting and nodding
politely and always letting ladies walk first. Who knew that LaLa Land
can be so romantic and so graceful?

L.A. Confessions

Chapter 20: L.A. Confessions

Ladies and Gentleman, it's time for some confessions:
This is about my passionate love affair with fabulous
La La Land - my sinfully sweet retreat, where the
notorious Hollywood Boulevard is thickly paved with
my deepest dreams and heartfelt fervor. I see my
reflection in the bold shine of Sunset Strip's boutique
windows and in brilliantly polished porcelain at
upscale Beverly Hills' eateries. I am fascinated by
how high hedges can be grown - just like those in Bel
Air - truly formidable!
I sweetly dream to the song of Malibu's ocean waves
while envisioning the perfect outfit for a hot day(te):
a Baywatch-red Pucci bikini - size zero for me please!

Frozen Yogurt is my staple: I dig into a dream of sugar-
free strawberry cream - a heavenly cooling sensation,
just like the Marine Layer that covers some L.A.
mornings so mysteriously.
Fig and Olive - at the famous Melrose Place - is where
I brunch with rich & beautiful. Rodeo Drive is the
ultimate spot to be (and be seen) for a fashionista like
me.

Hipster 3rd Street and Fairfax - across The Grove -
this is where my L.A. dream has began and ever since I
experienced it's mythical allure for the first time, I
couldn't help but fall under Hollywood's glamorous spell.
Breathing in L.A.'s stifling air, filled with traffic emotions
and exhaustion, I could detect beguiling aromas of deep
passion, bold dreams and magnificent vitality - qualities
that I just couldn't resist.

As a go-getter I know Hollywood's nooks and corners
just like I know the latest Spring / Summer collections.
While painting and discovering the town's neighborhoods
and working as a lifestlye editor I was happy to encounter
some fabulous personalities that shaped me ever since.
Loving life in L.A., I am deeply thankful that God sent
these people my way. Unforgettable and deeply rooted
are all the fabulous memories in me.
The love of my life betrayed me only one time - when on
one beautiful morning my desk at the Citysearch office,
on the 4th floor started to shake, and my coworkers
informed me (coming from an earth-quake-free country)
that the earth has just been shaking.

On my very last day in L.A., a beautiful early morning
I coincidentally run into a coworker on Fairfax Boulevard
right in front of "The farmers Daughter Hotel & Restaurant".
This fabulous person seemed to me like an angel (in the
city of Angels), a super-star-like prophet with whom I
grew very close over the last four months while working
on some great projects. Today I know that this encounter
was transcendenetal, a glorious sign coming from god -
meeting her very close to my house on my very last L.A.
day. So I said to her: "I don't want to leave this place."
She countered: "Then, finish school and come back."
Her words hit me like lightning and I followed her advise.

"Hollyweird" is alive @ The Woods ...

Chapter 20: "Hollyweird" is alive @ The Woods...

This unpretentious, though significantly arranged watering
hole is a cozy hangout for laid-back lounging and soaking up
a hipster vibe. It's a perfect joint for a low-key after-work-
drink, and ideal for settling back and washing down a long
day with a Mint Jupel or Road Kill Cosmo, while chatting or
dancing the hours away to cool Juke-box sounds. A must
go for anybody in need for a nightcup or mellow mingling
with friends amid a hipster crowd. On some nights a DJ spins
mixed sounds.
Tourists, hipsters and jiggy Hollywood types rub elbows
along a beautifully illuminated, lengthy birch branch-lined
bar. Aromas of fresh wood linger in the air of this small joint,
where massive tree-trunk tables, cedar walls and other natural
elements warrant the name. High stools serve as the perfect
vantage point for people watching. A narrow strip between
the bar and the booths-lined wall serves as the dance floor.

The romantic and snugly atmosphere is maintained with large
wooden chandeliers that are made out of clustered elk horns,
enriched with small light bulbs that break their lights
magnificently in the entanglement of the spiky horns. Candles
attached to dark wood walls and many tiny lightings - resembling
stars in a dark sky - twinkle down from the ceiling adding to the
snugly setting. Although elaborately decorated with many small
lights, this haunt is in general pretty dark and all the woodsy
elements add a mystical touch to the whole look.

With its one-of-a-kind interior design this haunt is a sight to see.
Located in the La Brea area - where hipsters reign supremely -
this spot is a commandment in the Bible of Hip.
Stopping by on several nights with my friends, I was surprised
to discover a casual, relaxed vibe created by vibrant hipsters and
"Hollyweirds" looking for some time off from the usual Hollywood
chic and its high prices.

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!