Because I travel for a lot of conferences and tradeshows, I've become rather particular about where I stay. After a busy day teaching and mingling, I want a super deluxe bed and a quiet room to chill out in…one with internet access and coffee in the morning. So it was with some trepidation that I checked into Santa Barbara's low-budget Sandman Inn late-1960's style motel. Normally, I would've upgraded to a higher-end hotel, but it was all pre-arranged by the Santa Barbara Beauty Expo and easy for me. What a pleasant surprise! The room was clean, with windows that actually opened, a 'fridge, microwave, coffee maker…even a DVD player. And since I had planned ahead and brought my iPod speakers, good coffee, and fresh milk--I was set. And wow! If you ever need an inexpensive room in Santa Barbara, it was only $77 a night. And while there is not internet in the rooms, they have wi-fi in the lobby.
Like Sushi? I discovered a fantastic sushi bar in the main shopping/dining district (State Street.) It's called Arigato Sushi Bar, where the crowd is friendly, the wait staff is gorgeous, and the sushi has real style and flair. For example, I tried the Kobe beef nigiri w/ horseradish cream, and the ahi tuna with fresh mango. Be sure to check it out if you're down there.
At your advice I stayed at the Sandman Inn (www.thesandmaninn.com) and I was also very suprised! I have got to say it was a little more than you listed, but they had put in dual pane glass which kept the rooms quite and cozy, new A/c and heaters in ALL rooms, a dvd player in each room (they have a collection of over 300 DVD's that you can check out for free!!) Additionally they have TWO pools (one in a cute tropical setting and the other rather plain) and a pretty LARGE hot tub! Plus they are the only inexpensive budget hotel I have seen where the coffee actually tasts good (try the coffee in the Lobby NOT the breakfast room). Great suggestion!
Posted by: patrick siefe | May 24, 2011 at 12:40 AM