I literally just landed from an amazing trip in Europe, some of which was spent along the Italian and French Rivieras. Stunning, amazing, gorgeous…these words don’t even begin to do it justice. (More to come on my trip later!) If you want a similar getaway, but can’t quite make it to Europe, don’t worry, we have a “riviera” right here in the USA…the American Riviera, aka Santa Barbara, California.

There are endless things to do in Santa Barbara, but I think the main draw, at least for me, is just taking in the gorgeous views. You have the ocean, the mountains, palm trees…it’s just beautiful! I think the best way to see the city is a bike ride. On my last visit, I stayed at the Hotel Milo, and they have complimentary bikes you can borrow, which was awesome. I rode several miles along the ocean. Biking is so relaxing to me that this was a perfect way to unwind after some work. Although, let’s be honest, being here on business is pretty relaxing anyway.

If you are looking for a place to stay, I do highly recommend Hotel Milo. It was a perfect location, with ocean views, close to State St. (the shopping hub of SB) and within walking distance of many great restaurants. The staff was great, the bikes were a wonderful perk, and the rooms were beautiful.

As for food, Santa Barbara has A LOT of options. My favorites are Santa Barbara Shellfish Company (for shrimp tacos), Moby Dick for chowder, The Lark (a trendy restaurant with AMAZING food – they had the BEST brussel sprouts I have ever eaten) and Santa Barbara FisHouse for dessert (gluten free options with views of the ocean).

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