Do Greek Islands Live Up to the Fantasy?

Like many Americans, when my husband and I were finally able to go abroad, we went to Greece. Athens proved more interesting than it gets credit for, and one of the island resorts was the prettiest hotel I've ever seen. But beauty isn't everything. 1

Where in Santa Barbara…?

Know where this was shot? Prove it in the comments. (Update: We have a winner!) 2

Shooting for the Moon on Ortega Ridge

Noteworthy new listings also include 1970s-meets-Mediterranean; a Hope Ranch fixer flip; turnkey San Roque for $3.2 million; a vacant lot near Padaro Beach; and more.

What the Heck Is Going on With Bellosguardo?

Other recent news: The season's first real rainfall is expected on Monday; more than 70% of eligible county residents are now fully vaccinated; Thousand Steps construction to happen before next summer; Hope Ranch mulls offshore desalination. 2

The City Is Considering Another Pedestrian Bridge Over Highway 101

Plus: Hotel rates continue to climb; checking in on the Plaza Granada renovation; feedback sought about De La Guerra Plaza revamp; Montecito mansion gets $5 million price cut; new exhibits at the Museum of Contemporary Art and Caldwell Snyder.

First Look at Montecito’s New Stone Tower House

When it came time for interior designer Mary Beth Myers to rebuild after the debris flow, architect Jeff Shelton suggested a tower clad in stone. Inspired by castles, mills, and lighthouses, she replied, "Let's do it!" 3

Newsletter: October 20

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This Pepper Hill Seller Hit the Jackpot

Last week's sales also included a midcentury-style house on Beach Club Road; 32-acre oceanfront lot west of More Mesa; a successful flip on Sycamore Canyon; a Riviera fixer; and more.

The New Operator of the Goleta Beach Restaurant

More food news: More on the Montecito Country Mart's decision not to renew Little Alex's lease; indoor dining returns to Bettina; Pali Wine Garden opens in the Funk Zone this Friday; Kelpful and Santa Barbara Meat Company at the Saturday farmers' market. 9

Athleta Is Opening a Shop Downtown

Plus: Jeweler Marisa Mason has a new shop in Arlington Plaza; another worthy new home store in the Victoria Court complex; Beautyhabit at the Montecito Country Mart; big teardown and rebuild on Sycamore Canyon Road. 2