Date:  Sept 25th

Type: Contrast

RE:  Santa Monica

BY:  Toni

Thanks to United Airlines I had the chance to experience a wonderful weekend getaway....

Arriving at the Santa Monica DoubleTree Guest Suites, 3 blocks from the beach, with the perfect room for the business client; a separate bedroom and sitting area with all the high-tech plug ins, I knew it would be a great time.  Dinner at the Harbor with a full moon was the ultimate complement to this perfect setting.

A lazy morning and lunch at the Hard Rock, "yes this is California".  We had a few hours at Universal Studios where we were able to enjoy the backstage tour and the new Jurassic Park ride; it ends with an 84-foot vertical drop!  The Terminator 2: 3D was great fun as well, you're in the middle of an all-out cyber war.  Though we would have liked to stay longer we had other excitement awaiting us as we headed off to the Rockies game high in the hills at Dodger Stadium.

Up early the next morning for a walk on the beach.  The minute you step on the beach a feeling of relaxation awakens your entire body.  At that point I understood why people put up with the crazy California traffic.  The beach is amazing; it stretches as far as you can see in each direction, and I just couldn't believe how wide is was.  Everyone was out enjoying the day, roller-bladers, bikers and runners on the path.  Children playing in the sand and laughter as they entered into the frigid water.  I walked pass a lovely couple who were getting married, the women in a simple yet beautiful dress, the gentleman in his suite, both with their shoes off standing in the water, talk about a blessed day!  The surfers were out and as I watched I decided it's more than a sport in a form of art! 

And speaking of art we checked out the J. Paul Getty Museum (make sure to call in advance for parking reservations).  Located in the foothills of the Santa Monica Mountains, the views are spectacular from every angle. The architecture in amazing both inside and out and the gardens are a beautiful site. This museum houses a collection of European paintings (including Van Gogh's Irises), drawings, sculpture, illuminated manuscripts, and decorative arts, and European and American photographs.  In the exhibition pavilion we had the chance to view Stained Glass: A Renaissance Art form.  We only had a few hours at the museum; I would suggest a day, several visits or a lifetime.

Traveling business class on United's new 777 for our return was the perfect end to a great weekend and once again confirmed why so many clients choose the luxury of business or first class.  Let the experts at James TravelPOINTS plan a great getaway for you 303 442-2340.