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November Home Sales and Price Report | December 20, 2023

California Association of Realtors November existing-home sales report:

The California Association of Realtors reported that existing home sales totaled 223,940 units on a seasonally adjusted annualized basis in November, down 7.4% from October. November marked the third straight month of the annualized sales rate dropping under 250,000, a level that was thought could never happen, and the 29th straight month of year-over-year declines in sales. Year-to-date, the number of homes sold was down 25.9% in November.

Prior to 2022 home sales have not dropped below 400,000 in decades. High-interest rates have caused many potential home sellers to put off their move. In a normal year about 50% of sales are what we call move-up buyers. Those are people selling a home to purchase another. When your mortgage is at a 3% rate, it’s difficult to sell it and purchase another with a mortgage at a 7% rate. For example, if you own a $2 million dollar home with a $1 million mortgage at 3%, your payment with taxes and insurance is about $4,500. If you put your $1 million in equity down on your new $4 million dollar home and obtained a $3 million loan at 6.5% (down from almost 8% two months ago) your payment with tax and insurance would be around $24,000 a month. That’s a big jump. When people put off their move it reduces the number of homes for sale. This is exactly what is happening now.

The statewide median price paid for a home in November was $822,200, up 6.2% from a revised $774,150 a year ago.

There was a 3-month supply of homes on the market, up from a 2.7-month supply of homes for sale in October, and down from a 3.2-month supply one year ago.

The graph below shows sales data by county in Southern California.

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The Best Places for a Plant-Based Bite | L.A. Eats

Whether you’re vegan or craving a simple healthy meal, our list of the best plant-based bites around town is sure to cure your cravings. Read on for the best vegan spots that are 100% plant-based around town!

LOS ANGELES

CROSSROADS KITCHEN

Location: 8284 Melrose Ave | Los Angeles 

When it comes to the best vegan restaurants in L.A., it’s hard to top Crossroads Kitchen. Open since 2013; the plant-based menu offers stunning creations you would genuinely be surprised are vegan. We recommend the Artichoke Oysters as a starter, with the Spaghetti Carbonera for a main dish worth remembering.

HONEYBEE BURGER

Location: 1820 N Vermont Ave | Los Angeles

Bite into a burger that’s grilled to perfection and 100% meat-free. That’s what you can expect at Honeybee Burger, the vegan fast food stop in Los Feliz. Enjoy your burger with a side of sweet potato fries and a shake for a classic off-the-grill lunch with a healthy twist.

SHOJIN

Location: 333 S Alameda St Suite310 | Los Angeles

If you are in the mood for sushi or ramen, Shojin in Little Tokyo is one of the best vegan restaurants for Japanese food. Get your serving of their baked “crab” hand roll, or enjoy a hearty kabocha squash ramen. 

 

WESTSIDE AND BEACH COMMUNITIES

DE BUENA PLANTA

Location: 1118 Abbot Kinney Blvd | Venice

If you happen to be a fan of Butcher’s Daughter in Venice, the popular spot has a great vegan option for you! De Buena Planta opened in the past year and has quickly risen to be one of the best vegan restaurants on the West Side. From gorgeous cocktails to delicious cauliflower and mushroom tacos, what more do you need? Go ahead and indulge; it’s healthy! 

PLANT POWER FAST FOOD

Location: 5095 Pacific Coast Hwy | Long Beach

With a California coastal menu that’s equal parts pretty and delicious, Plant Power Fast Food in Long Beach has been fast to reach a top spot on our list. Along with the convenience of a drive-through for those on the go, Plant Power offers breakfast and lunch options to help you power through the day. Enjoy house-made burger patties and a horchata milkshake that will have you coming back for more! 

PLANT FOOD + WINE

Location: 1009 Abbot Kinney Blvd | Venice

Abbott Kinney has no shortage of healthy dining options, vegan and otherwise. At the top of that list is Plant Food + Wine. The restaurant offers Vegan fare so good you’ll forget it is all plant-based. Focused on locally sourced ingredients, P.F.W.’s’ menu brings together a rich array of tasty options. 

SAN FERNANDO VALLEY

H.O.P.E.

Location: 11943 Ventura Blvd. | Studio City

Healthy Organix Positive Eating is what you will find at H.O.P.E. and also what their acronym means. It’s both eclectic and enchanting, with a delicious and vast menu offering Asian specialties and even a few Mexican dishes. Enjoy burgers, wraps, and more for a vegan dining spot to suit any appetite.

O’CADO RESTAURANT

Location: 14568 Ventura Blvd | Sherman Oaks

Offering plant-based fusion with sustainable Wine, craft beer, and cocktails, O’cado serves as a perfect choice for an enjoyable evening out. The food offering ranges between Latin, Mediterranean, and American for culture-infused bites to delight your taste buds.

VEGGIE GRILL

Location: 16542 Ventura Blvd., Encino

Open from the early afternoon through the evening, Veggie Grill makes for the perfect stop if you search for a casual lunch or dinner option. When it comes to the best vegan restaurants in the Valley, Veggie Grill has plenty to offer that lads it on our list. While it may be a chain restaurant, the quality remains consistent in everything from the Far East Bowl to the Meatball Sandwich.

CONEJO VALLEY

NATURAL CAFE

Location: Westlake Village

Fresh, quirky, and tasty are just a few of the ways we would describe Natural Cafe. The Westlake Village vegan spot has an almost endless list of plant-based options to enjoy. We recommend the Buddha Burrito or Portobella Mushroom sandwich for a mealing that’s both filling and delicious!

INN OF THE SEVENTH RAY

Location: Topanga Canyon

When searching for a spot that offers both zen and quality food, Inn of the Seventh Ray is just as it sounds. A picture of tranquility in Topanga Canyon, the restaurant is tucked away from the street hustle and bustle and nestled in the canyon alongside a flowing creek. Stop by for lunch, brunch, or dinner for a day at one of Conejo Valley’s best vegan restaurants. And for those seeking a healthy kombucha boost, they have no shortage of in-house specialties to boost the mind, body, and soul.

SAGE PLANT-BASED BISTRO

Location: Agoura Hills

A casual plant-based neighborhood eatery, Sage Plant-Based Bistro offers its best to Conejo Valley and indeed delivers. You’ll find plenty to enjoy at this delicious vegan gem, from the tasty Buffalo Cauliflower Wings to the Jackfruit Stuffed Avocado.

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Out & About | The Best Antique Stores Around Town

Shopping for antiques can be an exciting hobby. Here in LA, we have plenty of great finds and exploring antique stores can open the door to a treasure trove of vintage objects. Below you will find our list of the best antique stores around town. Read on and enjoy exploring them all!

1. JF Chen Antiques

Located on North Highland Avenue in Hollywood, JF Chen Antiques features a wonderful selection of antiques. Items here range from 17th-century limestone figures to Art Deco chairs. If you feel like splurging, this is one of the most amazing places you will find.

2. Olde Good Things Antique Store

Olde Good Things is nestled comfortably on S Grand Avenue in the heart of South LA. This antique store features one of the most wonderful selections of architectural salvage goods. Peruse around finds that range from doorknobs to stained glass and much more. It’s the perfect place to find exquisite vintage items for those who are restoring their homes or simply looking to add an individual personal touch to their new home.

3. The Mart Collective Antique Store

As one of the local favorite antique stores, this 16,000 expansion features the collections of a large number of dealers with individual stands, where you can find a wide range of unexpected treasures at lower prices than at other antique stores. It’s the perfect place to go if you are just starting your hunt for vintage items.

4. Vintageweave Interiors

If the French farmhouse style of antique stores is your thing, this delightful collection of antique and vintage plates, milk bottles, coffee mills and more is the perfect place for you to find the treasures you seek. Conveniently located on West Third Street, the best time to browse through this magnificent place is on weekday afternoons.

5. Pepe’s Thrifty Shop

This delightful little store is one that locals keep to themselves so visitors don’t end up taking all of its gorgeous antique and vintage items. Located on West Sunset Boulevard, its quirky exterior does no justice to the treasures you can find inside. It is a great place to find reasonably priced homier-looking antiques, but finding that special treasure can take time and patience given that the store is packed with merchandise and there’s little space for movement. Even so, it is well worth a try if you are simply looking for something unexpected and not a more specific type of item.

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Economic Update | Week Ending December 16, 2023

! Weekly Economic Update

Stock markets – Dow and Nasdaq near all-time highs – While the CPI (Consumer Price Index) showed that year-over-year inflation remained at 3.1% in November, unchanged from October, Fed Chairman Powel announced that the Fed would leave rates unchanged for the third straight meeting. He also stunned the markets by stating that the Fed’s efforts to reduce inflation had taken hold and that he felt that inflation was now dropping faster than anticipated. He even left the door open for rate drops next year. It was a complete reversal from statements made in October where he was threatening more rate hikes. Retail sales also jumped in November. Investors rushed back to stocks and bond yields and mortgage rates fell significantly. The Dow Jones Industrial Average closed the week at 37,309.22, up 2.8% from 36,247.87 last week. It is up 12.6% year-to-date. The S&P 500 closed the week at 4,719.07, up 2.5% from 4,604.37 last week. It is up 22.9% year-to-date. The Nasdaq closed the week at 14,813.92, up 2.8% from 14,403.97 last week. It is up 41.5% year-to-date.

U.S. Treasury bond yields – The 10-year treasury bond closed the week yielding 3.91%, down from 4.23% last week. The 30-year treasury bond yield ended the week at 4.00%, down from 4.31% last week. We watch bond yields because mortgage rates follow bond yields.

Mortgage rates drop below 7% -Every Thursday Freddie Mac publishes home mortgage interest rates based on a survey of mortgage lenders throughout the week. The Freddie Mac Primary Mortgage Survey reported that mortgage rates for the most popular loan products as of December 14, 2023, were as follows: The 30-year fixed mortgage rate was 6.95%, down from 7.03% last week. The 15-year fixed was 6.38%, up from 6.26% last week. It was 6.56% two weeks ago. Rates were lower at the end of the week. We saw lenders quoting 30-year loans in the mid to low 6% range on Friday.

The graph below shows the trajectory of mortgage rates over the past year.

Freddie Mac was chartered by Congress in 1970 to keep money flowing to mortgage lenders in support of homeownership and rental housing. Their mandate is to provide liquidity, stability, and affordability to the U.S. housing market.

November home sales data for California and the U.S. will be released next week by the California Association of Realtors and the National Association of Realtors. You can get November data now for your city or zip code on our website, RodeoRe.com.

Have a great weekend!
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From The Range Rover EV to H&R Block AI and More! | Tech News

Stay connected in the world of tech and media! This week we’re breaking it all down from The Range Rover EV to H&R Block AI and more. Read on for the latest digital bites from across the web.

YouTube to Reduce Ad Break Frequency on TV, but with Longer Ad Durations

YouTube is updating its advertising approach on TV by reducing the frequency of ad breaks during videos, but making each commercial longer. This change, initially tested in September, is now being implemented on all TVs. Viewers will see a revised countdown timer indicating the total duration of the ad break, instead of the previous system which showed the number of ads and a timer for each. Additionally, YouTube is introducing ads in between Shorts on TVs, similar to the mobile and web experience, which can be skipped using a remote. The update aims to minimize interruptions during longer videos, reflecting YouTube’s increased focus on ad viewership and restrictions on ad blockers.

 

AT&T Becomes Rivian’s Newest Electric Vehicle Client After Amazon Agreement

AT&T has become Rivian’s second major commercial electric vehicle customer, initiating a pilot program to electrify its fleet with Rivian’s vans and trucks, following Rivian’s previous exclusive deal with Amazon. This partnership, marking AT&T’s move towards carbon neutrality by 2035, also includes Rivian adopting AT&T as its exclusive in-car connectivity provider in the US and Canada. AT&T expects to start integrating Rivian EVs into its fleet in early 2024, although specific details on the number of vehicles in the pilot and future orders remain undisclosed. Additionally, Rivian has chosen AT&T as the exclusive provider of in-car connectivity in the US and Canada for all its vehicles.

 

Google’s Nest Renew Merges with Alphabet Offshoot to Create Renew Home

Google’s Nest Renew service is merging with OhmConnect, an energy management platform, to form a new entity called Renew Home. This move was facilitated by a $100 million investment from Sidewalk Infrastructure Partners (SIP). Likewise, it will aim to establish the largest energy transition resource in the U.S. Both Nest Renew and OhmConnect focus on enabling smart home users to utilize connected devices for accessing more affordable and cleaner energy. Nest Renew, launched in 2021, optimizes energy usage for HVAC systems through Google Nest Thermostats, while OhmConnect rewards users for reducing energy consumption during peak times, operating significantly in California, Texas, and New York City. Google confirmed that Nest Renew customers would continue to receive uninterrupted service with improved offerings under Renew Home. TSIP, with Google’s parent company Alphabet as a principal investor, is injecting substantial funding into Renew Home, with Google retaining minority equity in the new company.

 

H&R Block Introduces Artificial Intelligence-Powered Tax Filing Assistant

H&R Block has introduced a new conversational AI chatbot, AI Tax Assist. The paid service is designed to answer various tax-related questions and provide guidance. This AI assistant, was developed using models from OpenAI and Microsoft and trained exclusively on H&R Block’s tax law library. The AI can guide users through their tax filings. In addition, it offers specifics like deductible business expenses for gig workers. The aim is to eventually support AI-driven personalized guidance. H&R Block assures that a team monitors the model’s accuracy and users can always verify information with a human expert. 

Axel Springer, Parent Company of Politico and Business Insider, Secures Agreement with OpenAI

OpenAI has entered into a partnership with Axel Springer, the parent company of Business Insider and Politico. The partnership integrates content from its publications into ChatGPT responses. This agreement allows ChatGPT to use information from articles in Axel Springer’s publications. However, access will be limited to Business Insider’s premium paywalled articles, excluding Politico Pro’s paid subscription content. This collaboration opens new financial avenues for Axel Springer and aligns with the media industry’s exploration of generative AI’s potential. 

Range Rover Initiates a Waiting List for Its Forthcoming Electric Vehicle

Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) has opened a waiting list for its first fully electric Range Rover EV. Slated for debut in 2024, the electric SUV is currently in the physical prototype phase. The company aims for the Range Rover EV to match the performance of its V8 models.  This move is part of JLR’s plan to invest around $19B over five years in EV and autonomous vehicle technology. Likewise, it aligns with their goal to be electric-first by 2030. The choice of starting with a large SUV like the Range Rover aligns with the market trend towards bigger vehicles.

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Mortgage Rate Update | December 14, 2023

Mortgage rates drop below 7% –Every Thursday Freddie Mac publishes interest rates based on a survey of mortgage lenders throughout the week. The Freddie Mac Primary Mortgage Survey reported that mortgage rates for the most popular loan products as of December 14, 2023, were as follows: The 30-year fixed mortgage rate was 6.95%, down from 7.03% last week. The 15-year fixed was 6.38%, up from 6.26% last week. It was 6.56% two weeks ago. Rates were lower at the end of the week.

The graph below shows the trajectory of mortgage rates over the past year.

Freddie Mac was chartered by Congress in 1970 to keep money flowing to mortgage lenders in support of homeownership and rental housing. Their mandate is to provide liquidity, stability, and affordability to the U.S. housing market.

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Weekend Events | December 15 – December 17

Get into the holiday spirit with a bevy of local events happening this December 15 through December 17 all around town! From ice skating to festive pop-ups and more, we have you covered. Check out all the holiday fun happening this weekend!

Los Angeles Weekend Events | December 15 – December 17 

Holiday Ice Rink Pershing Square

When: Until January 7

Where: Pershing Square

What: In Los Angeles, a city not usually associated with winter festivities, an enchanting transformation occurs when an ice skating rink is set up amidst the towering skyscrapers of Downtown. This urban winter wonderland invites you to glide across the ice at Pershing Square’s open-air holiday rink. Imagine soft snow underfoot as you skate, with the convenience of included skate rentals. Additional amenities like lockers and skating aids are available for a nominal fee, enhancing your festive experience.

Squid Game: The Trials

When: Until January 31, 2024

Where: Fairfax District

What: This real-life version of Squid Game is much safer than its on-screen counterpart, offering a chance to participate in six challenges drawn from the popular Netflix show. Over a 70-minute period, participants can accumulate points through various games, overseen by a character resembling the Front Man from the series. These games are adaptations of classic childhood favorites, including unique versions of marbles, Battleship, and Operation, along with direct adaptations from the series like Red Light, Green Light.

L.A. Zoo Lights

When: November 17, 2023 – January 7, 2024 

Where: L.A. Zoo

What: This holiday season, the L.A. Zoo will extend its hours into the evening on most nights through January, presenting a charming twist on its luminous holiday tradition. For its 2023 edition, L.A. Zoo Lights will feature new sculptures and introduce “Winter Wildlands,” an area inspired by animals that thrive in snowy environments.

Westside and Beach Communities Weekend Events | December 15 – December 17  

Long Beach Nutcracker

When: December 16 – December 23 

Where: Long Beach

What: The Nutcracker by the Long Beach Ballet stands out as a unique rendition of the holiday classic in the area, notable for its incorporation of a live full orchestra, along with the addition of a real horse, a flying sleigh, and dazzling pyrotechnics. While the timeless tale remains unchanged, this production consistently goes above and beyond to deliver an enthralling and spectacular experience for its audiences every year.

The Dr. Seuss Experience

When: Until January 31

Where: Santa Monica

What: Immerse yourself in the whimsical universe of Wockets and Truffula Trees at The Dr. Seuss Experience, an interactive adventure inspired by the beloved books of Dr. Seuss. This enchanting experience brings to life the vivid characters and landscapes from classics like The Cat in the Hat and The Lorax. Guests can explore a series of rooms, each offering unique interactions with characters and perfect photo opportunities. At the heart of this pop-up lies a mirror maze, inspired by The Sneetches, providing a captivating challenge. Catch this touring show at Santa Monica Place starting in November 2023 for a magical journey through the world of Dr. Seuss.

For the Record: Love Actually Live

When: Until December 30 

Where: Beverly Hills

What: Between late November and the conclusion of December, the cherished musical series, For the Record, brings forth a stage production inspired by the globally adored holiday film, Love Actually. Transforming the Wallis Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts in Beverly Hills into a festive winter backdrop, the show employs a multimedia set, a live orchestra, and songs from the movie to reenact the intertwining love stories featured in the film.

San Fernando Valley Weekend Events | December 15 – December 17  

Hope for Paws Holiday Adoption Frenzy

When: Sunday, December 17

Where: 3940 Laurel Canyon Boulevard, Studio City

What: Get ready for a festive celebration filled with holiday spirit! Attend this event and stand a chance to win fantastic prizes, a token of our appreciation for joining this celebration of love and compassion. Your donations not only enter you into an exciting raffle but also you help support the mission to improve the lives of our furry friends. Let’s make this holiday season unforgettable for both humans and their future canine companions.

A Very Rocky Horror Holiday Picture Show

When: December 15

Where: Santa Clarita

What: Get ready to unwrap the most exhilarating gift of the season at The Centre in Santa Clarita on December 15th! Don’t miss this sparkling holiday-themed showing of The Rocky Horror Picture Show featuring The Unconventional Conventionalists shadow cast.

VALLEY RELICS MUSEUM EXPERIENCE

When: Every Saturday and Sunday

Where: 16781 Stagg Street Hangar C3 & C4 | Van Nuys

What: Visit the Valley’s beloved Museum of Pop Culture this weekend! The Valley Relics Museum invites you to join them for a day full of nostalgia and fun. Their one-of-a-kind museum.

 

Conejo Valley Weekend Events | December 15 – December 17  

Roaring Twenties Holiday Event

When: December 15, 6:30pm – 8:30pm

Where: Stagecoach Inn Museum

What: Get ready to celebrate the holidays! Wear your boots, jackets & “Roaring 20s” garb while you celebrate the Holiday Season in style. The Stagecoach Inn Museum complex will be “dressed to the nines” for this special time of the year. On Fridays, they’ll celebrate with Hanukkah and Christmas lights, decorations, music, and refreshments. On Saturdays, crafts, music, and decorations will delight. Of course, Santa will be available for photos on all days.

Holiday Road

When: November 24 – December 27

Where: Santa Monica Mountains

What: Wander through King Gillette Ranch as it transforms into a luminous wonderland during Holiday Road, where the Santa Monica Mountains provide a picturesque backdrop. This event, brought to you by the creators of Nights of the Jack, features a nearly mile-long walking trail adorned with holiday charm. Experience a mesmerizing display of festive decorations, including a canopy of icicle lights amidst the treetops, a quaint Christmas village, large standalone ornaments, and archways twinkling with lights. While you’re there, don’t miss the food trucks and a holiday-themed bar for an extra touch of seasonal delight.

Wild Lights and Ocean Nights at America’s Teaching Zoo

When: December 15 through December 17

Where: 7075 Campus Rd, Moorpark

What: This holiday season, America’s Teaching Zoo transforms into a festive wonderland with its WILD LIGHTS & OCEAN NIGHTS event. Guests are invited to a 45-minute self-guided tour through the zoo, adorned with dynamic lights, interactive experiences, and photo opportunities. Highlights include the ‘Under the Sea’ experience at Rajah’s Retreat, the ‘Illuminated Jungle’ with a ‘Glow in the Dark Garden,’ and a grand 12-foot-tall Holiday Tree near Santa’s Workshop. Be sure to see Ira the Lion under the dazzling ‘Canopy of Lights,’ and don’t miss the chance to meet Santa on December 10th and 17th.

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Dining Out for Xmas | LA Eats

Los Angeles transforms into a gastronomic wonderland during the Xmas season, offering a variety of dining experiences that cater to every palate. Whether you’re in the mood for a traditional feast or looking for something more contemporary, these restaurants across the city present unique culinary delights.

Soko

Location: Fairmont Miramar | Santa Monica

Nestled within the Fairmont Miramar Hotel in Santa Monica, Soko is a cozy sushi haven offering an exclusive dining experience on Christmas Eve and Day from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. With only eight seats, diners can enjoy an intimate setting and watch Chef Masa Shimakawa’s masterful sushi preparation up close.

Vicini

Location: West Los Angeles

Located in West LA, Vicini Ristorante & Wine Bar is crafting a sumptuous Feast of the Seven Fishes on Xmas Eve. Your meal comes complete with dishes like bacalao crostini and herb-crusted grilled prawns. This Italian culinary journey at 10645 W Pico Blvd starts at 5 p.m. and 8:30 p.m., priced at $120 per person, promising a night of refined tastes and exquisite wine pairings.

Maple Block Meat Co.

Location: Culver City

Situated in Culver City, Maple Block Meat Co. is a haven for meat lovers. Enjoy a Christmas menu centered around smoky flavors like Berkshire hams and prime rib. Available for pickup on Christmas Eve, these hearty dishes are perfect for a festive celebration at home.

Ardor

Location: West Hollywood

Ardor brings a festive twist to its a la carte menu on Christmas Eve and Day, featuring special dishes like the 14-ounce Kurobata pork chop and braised short rib. Chef John Fraser’s culinary creations offer a blend of traditional flavors and innovative cooking, making it a must-visit spot for a memorable Christmas meal.

The Front Yard

Location: North Hollywood

The Front Yard at the Garland Hotel invites you to indulge in an $85 Christmas Day buffet (or $35 for children under 12). The buffet features a variety of dishes including chipotle pineapple-glazed ham and birria leg of lamb, complemented by a build-your-own apple crumble station.

Jar

Location: Los Angeles

On Xmas Eve, Jar becomes a festive culinary destination. Chef Suzanne Tracht prepares a special menu alongside a la carte options. The restaurant’s ambiance, paired with dishes like char sui pork chop and duck fried rice, makes for a cozy and elegant dining experience.

Genghis Cohen

Location: Fairfax District | Los Angeles

Renowned NY-style Chinese restaurant, Genghis Cohen becomes exceptionally vibrant on Christmas, serving from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. The legendary spot is known for its large portions of classic favorites. Enjoy popular items lik egg rolls and spicy garlic lamb, perfect for a unique and hearty holiday meal.

Little Dom’s

Location: Los Feliz

Little Dom’s offers a charming escape with its Christmas Eve special featuring lasagna and a selection of desserts for pick-up. Each dish is crafted to bring a touch of Italian flair to your holiday table.

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The Perfect Solvang Staycation | Out & About

You won’t need your passport for a staycation in Solvang. “A little slice of Denmark in Southern California,” the city of Solvang, certainly makes for the perfect local getaway. Located in the Santa Ynez Valley, this historic Danish town is ideally situated in Santa Barbara Wine Country. Depending on where you are driving in from and, of course, LA traffic, you’ll be whisked away by the charm of this city within a 1 ½ to 2-hour drive. So what exactly do you do once you arrive? We’re sharing a few of our favorite ways to stay, eat and play in California’s favorite (and only) Danish village.

Stay Awhile
Hotel Ynez

If you would like to add a bit of the French countryside to your Danish excursion, Hotel Ynez serves as an excellent choice. Located on two private acres, Hotel Ynez is the perfect escape from the urban hustle and bustle/ The property features lush gardens, bonfire pits, a pool, and an inviting outdoor pavilion where you can take in a night under the stars. 

Alisal Guest Ranch and Resort

Located on a 10,000-acre private ranch, the Alisal is ideal for those seeking a dose of western culture. Considered a world-class resort, the hotel is considered one of California’s premier guest ranches. During your stay, you can enjoy horseback riding, (2) 18-hole golf courses, tennis, or even fly fishing. 

Wine Valley Inn & Cottages

Located in the quiet downtown neighborhood, Wine Valley Inn & Cottages offers the quintessential ambiance of Solvang. With 56 spacious guestrooms, 6 charming individual cottages surrounding a private garden, and one grand suite, you have a range of options to enjoy your stay. The inn is also within walking distance of wine-tasting rooms and a short drive to Santa Ynez Valley’s best wineries. 

The Landsby

If you prefer accommodations with a modern touch, The Landsby is ideal. This beautiful boutique hotel offers contemporary designs with the ambiance of Scandinavian aesthetics. Moreover, their remodeled guest rooms are bright and open, with comfortable hand-crafted furnishings and breathtaking artwork commissioned by regional artists.

Dine and Sip
Olsen’s Bakery

As one of the two significant bakeries in Solvang, you’ll enjoy delicious kringles, cakes, cookies, and bread at Olsen’s. The bakery has been turning out delicious treats since 1970. Just make sure you arrive early if you want to grab a pastry for breakfast. As one of the town’s main attractions, they are known for having lines that stretch around the corner.

Mortensen’s Bakery

One look at the website for Mortensen’s will have you making a drive to Solvang just for their Bear Claws. The other beloved bakery in town (there are over five authentic bakeries), Mortensen’s, is another must. In short, you can’t go wrong with choices like their Pistachio Square or Danish Butter Cookie. 

Mad & Vin

If you are staying at The Landsby, you won’t have to go far for Danish dining. Mad & Vin is the hotel’s charming, elegant wood-clad food and wine bar serving a seasonal menu of wine-country-inspired farm-to-table fare prepared with regional ingredients.

First & Oak

First & Oak is located inside the charming Mirabelle Inn. They offer a selection of small plates emphasizing flavor and finesse. You are encouraged to create your own tasting menu for a unique dining experience.

Stroll and Play
Shopping

Treat yourself and browse through 150 boutique shops for unique treasures.

Wine Sampling

Enjoy the region’s best and sample wine & beer at 20 downtown tasting rooms offering the products of over 125 area vineyards.

Discover Danish & American Culture

Take in the culture of this quaint Danish town. Explore any of the following local museums: Elverhoj Museum of History & Art, The Wildling Museum of Art & Nature, Hans Christian Andersen, Solvang Vintage Motorcycle Museum, Old Mission Santa Inés, plus Amber Museum & Hall of the Danes.

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Home Tips: Tips for Hosting the Perfect Holiday Soiree

Planning a holiday gathering can be quite overwhelming. You want people to come together for a memorable intimate event in your home. You want everyone to have fun. And, you likely want everything to be on point and perfect. Stylish, elegant, and with a luxurious edge, these tips will help to make your party a success. Read on for our tips on the perfect way to host your holiday soiree and stay safe this season!

Have a Theme

Hosting a themed party gives you plenty of ways to get creative with décor, dress codes, and sometimes even food. It also helps guests to fully embrace the jovial mood of your holiday celebration.

A Winter Wonderland theme can be classy and sleek, with your home decorated in all white and silver and guests dressing in white. Hang paper snowflakes for added effect.

The weather may be warm in Southern California but an Apres Ski theme brings all the fun of the slopes to your home. Guests can dress in cozy casuals and you can add rustic chalet-like touches to your home. Tartan rugs, faux fur throws, flickering candles, wooden accessories, and decorations made from pine sprigs and pinecones all help to set the scene.

These are just two examples; come up with your own fabulous theme based on your and your invitees’ interests.

Offer a Seasonal Drink

As well as your regular selection of party wines, beers, spirits, and soft drinks, include a seasonal talking-point beverage to get everyone in the holiday mood. It could be as simple as a large pot of spiced mulled wine or glasses of eggnog, or you could whip up large pitchers of a delicious festive cocktail. Imagine how well White Christmas Margaritas, Cranberry Mimosas, Santa Clausmopolitans, or similar would go down with dinner. Bonus points if you have a bartender at your holiday soiree to prepare your party’s signature cocktail on request!

Include Some Games

Although (all being well) your guests will be enjoy eating and drinking and the conversation will (hopefully!) be flowing, a couple of planned activities help to keep everyone engaged and amused. Aim for activities that are fairly easy to pick up and that appeal to a wide audience.

Classic card games, such as canasta and gin rummy, can be a good option, as could traditional party games like charades, bingo, or a lively quiz. If your guests are fairly lively, you could even consider more physical activities, like a limbo contest … performed to holiday tunes. A youthful group may love a pinata.

In keeping with the holiday cheer, an easy activity is a guessing game, while blindfolded. Have a selection of holiday-scented candles (think cinnamon, chestnut, pine, and similar) and guests should try to identify each fragrance.

Sweeten the Mood

Whether you’ve planned a formal sit-down meal or a buffet table laden with delicious nibbles, a mouth-watering skillet chocolate chip cookie can be an impressive crowd-pleaser.

Easy to make and even easier to eat, spread chocolate chip cookies (either homemade or store-bought) across the bottom of a skillet and bake for a few minutes. The cookies should merge into one large pan of deliciousness. Drizzle with chocolate or caramel sauce and top with a large blob of vanilla ice cream.

Another chocolatey delight that can be tailored to individual tastes is a chocolate fountain. Prepare trays of strawberries, chopped fruit, marshmallows, and pieces of fudge and let the melted deliciousness flow.

Sing Holiday Karaoke

Inject even more seasonal joy into your holiday soiree with a spot of holiday karaoke. Guests can take turns with the mic, on anything from carols and traditional holiday songs.

Popular choices include “Let it Snow” by Dean Martin, “Last Christmas” by Wham, “Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays” by NSYNC, “Run Rudolph Run” by Chuck Berry, “Hallelujah” by Alexandra Burke, and “Mistletoe” by Justin Bieber.

If karaoke really wouldn’t match your group, how about a holiday name that tunes game instead?

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