Catalina

The most relaxed and at ease I've been in years, truth be told probably for more than a decade, was for the few days I spent on Catalina island last summer. It was absolutely incredible. I felt liked I'd stepped back in time to a place where everything was calmer and quieter. It was the first time in over five years that I didn't check e-mail, voice mail, or even turn on my cell phone for three whole days. No chain restaurants; no box stores; no hustle and bustle. Just quaint shops and restaurants. Everyone was low key, there to enjoy the tranquility. I sat on the beach and did nothing other than enjoy the warmth of the sun. The people were friendly yet unobtrusive.