Chez Hyatt

The Hyatt lobby is opulent, but not quite to the point of tackiness (granted, the plastic palm trees are a tad much). My room is unavailable this early, so the competent front desk staff stores my bag as I trace the walking path along the ocean, behind the hotel: the coastline is stunning. Every person I encounter greets me good-naturedly.

The neighborhood surrounding the Hyatt isn't too shabby. I must be in the wealthy part of town. I explore a couple streets: the houses are either white or beige, quite large (3,000 - 4,000 square feet on average, I estimate) and very detailed: turrets, stained glass windows, ornate moldings, etc.

I return and my room is ready, my luggage already delivered. The space is comfortable, but I have no view of the ocean, probably because I paid with points and not cash.

No matter--I feel safe here, at home. Welcome, even.