A California Get-Away

My amazing friend Greta lives outside of San Diego, CA in the great area of Encinitas. At least once a year I try to visit her for a little vacation.  Last summer we stayed close to her place (which is a staircase away from a beautiful beach) and had a wonderful time, so this year we decided to head up the coast for a little exploring.  We took the Amtrak train to Santa Barbara then a bus ride to the little Dutch town of Solvang.  It was quite an interesting place surrounded by wineries.  The town is full of wine and beer tasting rooms, quaint shops, Danish treats, and yummy restaurants. We also spent part of a day in Los Olivos which is a funky artist community.  I had a perfect, relaxing trip and really enjoyed all the time I got to spend with Greta.  Now we need to start planning for next year!

We spent LOTS of time on the train!

Wine tasting.

Here we are being typical tourists.

Our view from the train.

Just plain silly.

Downtown Solvang

Beer tasting.

One of many gorgeous properties outside of Solvang.

Oh goodie, one restaurant had martini flights.  They were all yummy!

Bread and Martinis - such guilty pleasures!

We spent the last day of my trip in Encinitas and took a couple of nice walks on the beach.

I love this picture!

Giving the Swami's Beach tiki some love. 

Overall an amazing trip! I loved seeing Greta and spending time in CA.  I'm dreaming of a beach house someday.  A girl can dream, right?