I'm a lucky local forever awed by Carmel's beauty-but don't just take my word for it. Traveler's Choice Awards, Conde Nast Travel readers, USA Today, The Travel Channel, American Style and Dog Fancy Magazines are among the outlets that rate Carmel-by-the-Sea at the tip-top of world travel destinations-like the angel at the top of the tree.

Characterized by its European charm and pristine white sand beaches, Carmel is for lovers. Including lovers of nature and the arts. Lovers of sports, spas or shopping. Foodies and wine aficionados. Carmel is also America's most pet friendly destination. And the place for those who require a complete oasis from the world. Every heart's desire is met in cozy Carmel.

The World's Greatest Meeting of Land & Sea:

Just 6-hours north of Los Angeles, 2-hours south of San Francisco, and with connecting flights into Monterey Airport 15-minutes away, Carmel was the jewel of the nearby old Spanish and Mexican capitals of California, with preserved historic architecture that includes the stunning Carmel Mission and gardens. Originally built as an artist community-the small town boasts over 100 art galleries and world-class performing arts.

Within a short few miles are the magnificent 17-mile drive and it's prestigious luxury golf resorts-and with equally gorgeous ocean-view public courses nearby, too. The 6,000-foot deep Monterey Bay offers sailing, whale watching, diving, kayaking, the Aquarium and Fisherman's Wharf. Big Sur and Carmel Valley provide venues for horseback riding, winery tastings, hiking, and for reveling in epic nature.

Shop-Dine-Stay:

Quaint and unhurried with it's secret passageways and flower and fountain bedecked courtyards-part of Carmel's magic is the realization that landmark eateries, boutique inns, and sophisticated shops seduce and beckon quietly from amid the towering cypress trees as enticingly as a song.

Bring a pocket-sized flashlight for after-dinner strolls to the sea because there are no streetlights in Carmel...just the lulling sounds of the ocean, the stars among the pines, and the sea-salt on the Pacific breeze that wafts in through your open window to kiss you goodnight.

© 2008-2012-Suzanne de Cornelia. For Carmel sites see: http://suzannedecornelia.com  All worldwide rights apply. This article may be reprinted on websites as long as the entire article, including website link and resource box are included and unchanged. Suzanne's novel "French Heart" will be released in December 2009. Friend Suzanne on FaceBook, follow her on Twitter @SuzanneDeC Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Suzanne_De_Cornelia