A Slice of Heaven....

Californians may not have the greatest of reputations.  Every time I visit I notice how rushed people seem to be, on the go and simply too busy to enjoy the simple pleasures that surround them.

Orange County, or specifically Laguna Nigel is one of the most gorgeous places on earth.  This time of the year, on a curvy stretch of Pacific Coast Highway just North of San Diego the "rush" subsides.  In a relatively desolate area where the street parking is abundant and a valet sits with nothing to do for long moments, the afternoons at the Montage Resort invite people from all walks of life to enjoy nature's gift every 24 hours:  the incredible sunsets

Like clockwork, the Aston Martins and Ferraris pull into the valet.  The street becomes lined in rows of cars.  

Why all the fuss?  This is not a typical sunset as can be seen and appreciated virtually anywhere in the world.  It is the hotel setting that makes it extraordinary.  This is pure California -- as California as California gets!  I could take 1000 photos and yet still never do it any justice what God instilled here.  One must see it for themselves.

The Lobby Lounge has walls of floor-to-ceiling glass and the entire space converts into a splash of crisp orange as the sun begins its descent.  The lucky few on the balconies that have claimed their spots long before get the best view, but with plush seating, elegant piano music, a cozy fireplace.  Keep in mind, there is not a bad spot on this property.

Furthermore, when the sun is completely asleep, just like clockwork the valet clears out, people head for their cars on the street, and the Montage returns to its normal self.  Is the sunset really THAT good?  Definitely!  I am confidant there could be equally as nice of places to take in an incredible sight - but I have experienced none other.