in lieu of Italia

both the measly state of the dollar and commonsense are preventing me from booking a ticket to Italy right now...  but i must confess to daydreaming about bugging off for a few weeks to some Mediterranean destination.

but, i think i've located the next-best-thing just an hour away:  the Kenwood Inn & Spa.

simply gorgeous grounds, the friendliest staff, and out of this world landscaping make a few hours & pinot grigio(s) poolside here feel like lifetimes - and timezones - away from the real world.   for a totally worthwhile extra "day fee", they allow spa guests to hang awhile post-treatment.  pure bliss.