A Long Weekend in the Luxury of Santa Monica

Scents are powerful things. They whisk you back in time faster than technology ever could. 

Which is why, when walking into the Viceroy Santa Monica, a sophisticated and contemporary chic hotel on the footsteps of an legendary landmark, close your eyes and smell the scent of the ocean close by. A beach hotel and resort, it was gilded in coastal accessories, right from the sand dipped driveway to the blue and white themed interiors. Plus, catch the sunsets in the City of Angels before they sank into the iconic oceans.

The pool at the Viceroy was an ideal location, complete with black and white tiled walls covered in porcelain plates, and horse heads as barricades in a rocky, sandy terrain.

While closed off to the world, hear the motion behind the lush green and shimmering fortress-like fence, and inhale the salt air that kisses the sophisticated ambiance. It was meant for people watching, which is why it is ideal to perch in the bright sunlight. The scent at the time was meaty, owing to a year round season of barbecues. With an appetite for fresh, healthy bites in the scorching sun, start off with a kale juice. With kale, apple, lemon, ginger and celery, this is a tangy, healthy and nutritious sip.

Starting with pita and a mix of gouda and goats cheeses, it is a staple portion of carbs and proteins, ideal for the LA lifestyle.

The dish itself is called shakshouka, an Israeli Tunisian dish made with tomatoes, onions, chilis, and topped with poached eggs. Tangy and very natural tasting, it begged for a dab or rice, which is made up for with the simmering pita.

Lastly, with a tribute to healthy eating, is a staple quinoa salad. This one came in a bowl, with quinoa mixed with chia seeds, cooked kale, and topped very simply with poached eggs and black pepper. Thankfully sans saccharine dressing, the runny egg yolks acted as the fluid to bind it all into a savory bite.

As the sun begins to drench in its heat, make the most of the area. For the Viceroy is located walking distance from Santa Monica Beach, the promenade, the open air shopping area, and the bohemian Main street. Indulge, and enjoy.

And even by night, the shore breezes and scent of salt kissed skin remain. Like an indulgent memory.

For more personalized recommendations, register for free on Dot & Pin.