CARMEL, CA

I want to rate Carmel one Star in order to keep the crowds away - but that would be selfish. I love Carmel and go as often as possible at least once a year and if I can get away I go 4 or 5 times. I love to plan trips for my friends as I really want people to see \Carmel through my eyes\ as I have fallen completely in love with it. I enjoy it most during the week when it can be a little more quiet and the weekends can get crowded with tourists. The food is fabulous the atmosphere is amazing shopping is plentiful and the hospitality at most every Inn is friendly and helpful - why not they live in a little piece of heaven?! Carmel is a great place to do nothing or to do everything. Venture off to watch for otters in the waves bring your binoculars they can be difficult to spot. Workout with a great walk or run along the ocean and up and down the hilly streets. Explore Point Lobos or drive down south on hwy 1 to Big Sur for fun. Visit the Monterey Aquarium. Catch up on your reading and writing. Enjoy a bread bowl of clam chowder and a glass of chardonnay. Kayak with the otters visit Lovers Point Pacific Grove and of course don't miss the 17 mile drive. If you are willing to do a little exploring get out of your car and peek into the nooks and crannies of Carmel you will not be bored. You can find \night life\ if you want it quiet if you need it and breath taking beauty if your spirit requires it. Just for fun I always start my time with a glass of wine at Hogs Breath and make sure that I hit the beach for my first day in Carmel sunset. I try to dine at Casanova Anton and Michels and Mission Ranch and then a I explore my other options. Sandwiches from Bruno's after dinner Bailey's at the General Store and always always crab and spinach eggs Benedict from Katie's (under the redwood) on my way out of town! If you are headed back to the city and work plan your re entry well. Stop for an overnight in a quaint town between Carmel and home.