Driving through California

Written by '74Escape

Traveler: Raphaella Riboud – Fashion Designer & Creative Director

What is your most unforgettable escape? Summer 2013, California road trip with my best friend, Gerald. We went from Santa Monica to Big Sur and then back to LA. I love travelling and I feel very grateful that I have the opportunity to travel as much as I do, but I never see it as an « escape », it is never a way to run away from my life.

What was the purpose of your travel? Big Sur has always been one of my dreams. I grew up spending a lot of time in America and I am in love with their big spaces.

With how many people did you travel? There were two of us. Gerald is my best friend and he is the most wonderful traveling companion that I know.

Where did you stay? The first week was a road trip so we went from one place to another. The second week, we rented a house in Los Angeles on Air bnb.

What did you most like about the trip? Big sur was the highlight and the purpose of the travel. We stayed at the Bis Sur lodge, which I loved. It reminded me of summer camp. It is heaven for people like me with a penchant for esoteric epiphanies and a need for Lucky Charms at breakfast.

Your most surprising find during the trip? The Madonna Inn exceeded my expectations. I found my spiritual home…

Favorite restaurant(s) or food you have tried during your trip? I loved the Malibu Farm.

What are the must tries of the city? A karaoke in Korea Town in LA is always a good idea.

Any hidden gems you could whisper to us? Go visit HEARST CASTLE, for a lesson in over-scaling and then go for lunch at “Sebastian’s General Store » . Its a deli shop 2 minutes away with the best roast beef sandwich on the planet. I still have cravings.

Would you go back? In a heart beat.

Could you list a few of your favorite finds you came back with? We were particularly inspired but all the hocus pocus lucky charms you can buy in all the souvenir shops in Big Sur.