SoCal...SoCool. Part 1.

The US is a country filled with must-see sights and attractions, from the Statue of Liberty to the Grand Canyon; there is so much to visit that I can almost understand why some Americans do not own a passport. But the award to the coolest place in the States has to go to Southern California, or SoCal as it is otherwise known. The laidback surfer/skateboarder atmosphere, alongside the sunny beaches makes it a place you feel you could stay forever - and that was precisely how I felt while I was last there.


My stay included visits to Orange County's relaxed Huntington Beach, the beautiful Santa Barbara, trendy and friendly Santa Monica and the vibrant Los Angeles. Though all encompass that lovely Southern California atmosphere, each place boasts its own personality and attractions to draw you in.

Huntington Beach
Huntington Beach is Surf City USA. Walking along the boardwalk you're guaranteed to bump into a surfer, skateboarder, cyclist, jogger, dog walker - the list goes on - you'll never be bored of people watching here. This is a place bubbling with activity and sport, yet there is also a sense of the mellow, easy-going lifestyle that the residents happily inhabit here and it is this combination that makes Huntington Beach such an enjoyable place to stay. Main and 5th Street comprise all the different style of shops you could ask for. From tons of surfing and skating stores, to the high street chains of Forever 21 and ANGL, to the designer brands of Guess, with even some vintage shops thrown in too, there is something for everyone. You won't go hungry either, with a vast choice of restaurants, cafes and bars to choose from. My pick for a bite would have to be Ruby's Diner. Set at the end of the Huntington Beach Pier, Ruby's brings you back to the swing era of the 1940's American diners. With surfboards, vintage photos, retro clad staff and wonderful views overlooking the Pacific Ocean, Ruby's is a lively spot with huge portions for not so huge prices! The air of pretension that may prevail in other areas of Orange County does not exist here. Though there are plenty of beautiful cars and people to gawk at, the overriding mood is definitely of effortless ease and cool.

Santa Barbara
Out of all the places visited on this trip, I think Santa Barbara impressed me the most. Perhaps that's because this was the place I had done the least homework on and so was merely happily surprised with what I was greeted with when the train pulled into Santa Barbara station. Nevertheless, it is simple one of the most stunning places I have ever been. The three hour Amtrak journey (which really isn't as bad as many American drivers make out - it's just public transport that's all) takes you along the Pacific coast, with Californian Mountains for one view and lovely beaches aside the aqua blue ocean for the other. These views do not end at Santa Barbara either. They become more impressive. Standing on Stearn's Wharf, the picturesque harbour to your side, the palm tree filled beach to your other and the spectacular mountains behind you, it is hard to not simply stand and stare. Other than the gorgeous scenery, what also makes Santa Barbara stand out is its Mediterranean style architecture. Lining the streets are buildings that evoke a Spanish atmosphere; courtyards, white walls and terracotta roofs all serve to accentuate that already established relaxed SoCal attitude. One of such streets is State Street which treats you to miles of shopping, dining and culture - a definite hotspot, just like the city itself! Whether it's the great weather or the lovely surroundings, the people in Santa Barbara just seem incredibly happy (and I don't blame them). While there, that happiness will undoubtedly rub off on you and ensure you have a fantastic stay.

Part two coming soon.