Page 29 - WINE DINE AND TRAVEL SPRING 2021 REDISCOVERING CALIFORNIA'S CENTRAL COAST

along California’s coastline would pose a minimal onto pristine beaches ringed by dramatic sand-
risk in enchanting settings. Strolling the down- stone cliffs. Daily the fog cloaked the sea in mys-
towns of small cities demanded mask wearing and tery and moods, often lifting just in time for
social distancing - both totally doable without sig- blazing sunsets. During these moments, the coron-
nificant downsides. avirus vanished from our thoughts.
From the start, dramatic scenery was the star of
our trip. Whether walking Santa Barbara’s historic Pandemic Hospitality
pier, biking along Monterey’s rugged coastline in Selecting accommodations with charm, person-
Monterey, or gazing up at towering redwoods ality and strict, thoughtful Covid protocols was a
from the Skunk Train’s open rail car, mother na- top priority. Hotels were our splurge, and every
ture shined. one exceeded expectations, leaving us eager to re-
Near Monterey, magnificent whales breaching turn when the pandemic faded from view. Though,
the bay’s blue waters awed us. In Anderson Valley, pandemic realities affected our hotel stays as
near Mendocino, we savored local wines overlook- friendly mask-clad staff coped with safety guide-
ing vineyards glowing red and gold in the fall sun. lines and management suspended services well-
We delighted when narrow wooded paths opened heeled guests expect.

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