Serenity Retreat in Santa Monica

My dog and I spent a month in heaven here. I can't think of anything we needed that wasn't within a block or 2 of the 12th Street location. When my watch stopped, I got its battery replaced from a shop around the corner. I wanted a mailbox and found a whole post office half a block away. On the same block, a UPS store, a great meal at Diner Antoinette, See's Candy shop, wine store/gift shop, the best French bakery, a Russian deli, a Subway, a 5-star restaurant (Rustic Canyon). Across the street: Ulta, Dunkin', Citrin (Michelin-starred, I think), Starbucks, Rockin' Pizza, fancy pet supplies, another great bakery, Labels for Less resale, Discovery shop, Santa Monica Seafood, Everytable, On the next block, a large, well-stocked Vons supermarket. Inside, the Nespresso vertuo and plug-in tea kettle made me feel right at home. 2 comfy queen beds in separate bedrooms made my sister's visit from SF enjoyable for both of us. The last week of my stay was the hottest of the year so the building's powerful AC made for constant indoor comfort. Up until then, my dog got 3 walks a day as the temps stayed in the 70s and the plentiful trees kept streets shady. Leisurely morning walks to Montana Avenue with a layover for more great coffee were delightful.Not only was my dog welcome in the apartment, but nearly all the shops and restaurants on Montana, Wilshire, and all over downtown Santa Monica let him in, too. Host Pooya and his wife were great, too!