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THE TRAVELER By Barbara Singer & Raspin Stuwart OCEANA HOTEL SANTA MONICA Resort Highlights: It's situated along palm lined Ocean Avenue facing Palisades Park and overlooking Santa Monica Beach . Here is an old-fashioned boutique hotel in a quiet residential area, the HOTEL OCEANA. Bright yellow and blue, it's reminiscent of a French getaway on La Croisette in Cannes . Artistically and ornately designed with sun drenched panache and Jean Cocteau full length murals. The seaside-flavored lobby is inviting and appealing with a welcoming staff. Small, yet casually chic, these oceanfront suites have a private and intimate charisma. How Suite It Is: Your comfort is complete, right here in 63 cheerful and spacious suites, where you are sure to relax, entertain or work. Colorful décor with stylish 40's/50's style furnishings and Matisse inspired artwork are unique to the ambiance. There are fully equipped gourmet kitchens with food filled refrigerators, stoves, microwaves and plenty of kitchen supplies, if you prefer to eat in. Unwind on your terrace or poolside deck on the courtyard. Well stocked amenities fill large bathrooms and comfortable bedrooms with quality bedding, room safes, internet access, color TV in bedroom & living rooms. Breakfast in bed is a favorite past time. Relax at the Spa: The perfect spa partner for the Oceana Hotel is Willow Spa. ( 3127 Santa Monica Blvd. (310) 453-9004). Transportation is available upon request. Savor a unique spa experience here, a tropical village, where you can find everything you desire benefiting mind, body and soul. Utilizing Oriental motif and Asian treatments combined with traditional treatments and holistic care, the spa experience is enhances and reinforced. Soothing effects begin with floral reflexology foot massages, while relaxing in the garden sipping herbal tea and fresh fruit. Skin care, wellness and massage therapy are emphasized. Sensitivity and professionalism are reflected in all services performed. Recently introduced is the Japanese Enzyme Bath, a deep heating treatment to increase body system functions, followed by a mini Thai massage. Willow Spa is open to the public. Dining in Style: Consider dining out in Santa Monica , a quick stroll brings you right to The Third Street Promenade and to a champion of Italian cuisine: Bravo Cucina 1379 Third St. Promenade, (310) 458.5316), a family run bistro of Peter and Ernest Lepore. Here's a Santa Monica tradition with constant crowds of new guests and regulars who enjoy well prepared Italian cuisine with generous portions at good prices. Ask for Carlos, the manager, he'll make you feel right at home. Everything is good; however, Chef Ernest recommends: Insalata Molto Bene, Cioppino, Roasted Halibut, Chicken Madeira, Grilled Ribeye and for sure, you'll relish the tasty Bravo Burger. The dessert tasting is a memorable experience - wow, the Tiramisu is great. Once you have dined at Bravo Cucina, you will be back soon. Fun at the Beach: You could relax all day by the Oceana courtyard pool; however, you owe it to yourself to follow the park trail down to the beach over the PCH pedestrian bridge. Santa Monica has one of the most beautiful beaches and renowned pier with vintage carousel. Boating, surfing and fishing are always popular. It is of interest to check out Muscle Beach., which has always been workout spot for enthusiasts. There are paths for biking, skating and seaside cafes. |
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