"Santa Monica" a Santa Monica Travel Page by antistar

We stayed in Santa Monica in lieu of Los Angeles. Firstly because it's nicer, and secondly because that's where our recording studio was. It's officially outside of Los Angeles, but exists as a part of an enormous unrelenting suburban area that stretches from the Pacific to the horizon, even when you are several thousand meters above ground.

It's a very affluent area. Chic bars, expensive restaurants, and shiny sports cars everywhere. It's a little expensive too. Despite all the money, the place is still pretty relaxed, and manages to attract a large population of homeless people. In fact, that's probably the memory of Santa Monica I will remember most strongly: the most striking juxtaposition of rich and poor I've ever seen.

Santa Monica isn't the greatest place in the world, but it has a pleasant beach, quality restaurants, a relaxed atmosphere, good shopping, and is not too far from LAX or Los Angeles itself. It makes a good alternative to other places in the city.