My last viz to Palm Springs was over the summer for Splash House (a music fest) with Eddie, and it was the exact opposite of peaceful and relaxing - ha! Lots of fun (maybe too much fun judging by the headache afterwards, whoops) with dancing, drinking, and running around between hotels to catch our fave acts. When I got to thinking, I realized it’s been years since I drove to Palm Springs for anything other than music festivals or parties - which is funny because it’s the ultimate California destination to slow down and relax! So I decided to take a break from my newly self-employed whirlwind for a peaceful solo getaway to this dreamy town.

I’ve been craving an Ojai getaway for a while now. It’s been too long since my last viz to this magical California town, so I drove up recently for a lil overnight solo trip. Only 90 minutes northwest of Los Angeles but so different in terms of vibe - slower paced with a beautiful artistic small town feel. I always feel relaxed and happy in Ojai and it’s also the perf getaway destination for solo travelers, which I can’t recommend enough! When you take a trip by yourself you get to do, see, and eat whatever you want, whenever you want. I’ve found that I have more conversations with the locals when I’m by myself, and I just love exploring a town at my own pace. I observe more and learn more, about the town and about myself. My last solo trip was in the beginning of the year to Los Alamos, so I have definitely been overdue. When Eddie told me he’d have to work the weekend I had planned, I knew this would be the perf opportunity!

If you’re in the mood for a quaint lil California getaway filled with delish food, gem-filled antique shops, and amaze wines, Los Alamos is for you. A sweet, tiny town in Santa Barbara county with an Old West rancher vibe, the majority of shops and restaurants cover a 3 block stretch on the main road of Bell Street. You could easily explore everything in one day, but I’d recommend taking it slow and soaking in all the goodness - unwind and take your time! I was looking to do just that, and since Eddie had to work this particular weekend, I decided to take a little solo trip and explore the town by myself. Where I stayed, ate, drank, and shopped below!