Here’s to 30 years of wonderful and a bygone era

 

What can I say about Kim’s that hasn’t been said already

Walt Disney called his “Magic Kingdom” aka Disneyland, “The happiest place on earth” and a child growing up in Los Angeles I agreed with him. As an adult however, my perspective shifted with my first steps down the the timber walkway to the reception desk of Kim’s. It has truly become my “happiest place on earth” and I cherish every moment spent there.

This year we had the privilege of introducing new friends to the experience of Kim’s as well as welcoming longtime friends who are familiar with our beloved retreat. The mix of old and new friends exemplifies the state of Kim’s. Long-standing traditions and modern technologies blend beautifully in the well appointed bungalow’s and communal areas. As always, our host’s and staff make our stay the highlight of our year and we are already planning the next visit. Charm, easy elegance, manners and happiness reign supreme here, it’s as if time itself stands still and marches on at the same speed.

Our visit started on Thursday afternoon, met by our hostess Diana Kershaw and the lovely Nicole, who escorted us to our bungalow where champagne on ice, flowers and a pearl anniversary greeting card awaited us upon arrival. It is the attention to personal details that our hosts and their amazing staff are to be commended on, they are truly what makes Kim’s my “happiest place on earth”.

On Friday, after 30 years of visiting, I had a special treat. While laying in bed admiring the sunrise, I saw a whale for the first time. It did a full breach and I feel like it was a special anniversary gift just for me as hubby was still fast asleep and missed it. I think French Toast Friday for breakfast was one of my hubbies highlights, it was delicious, so much so our other wonderful host Peter made him a special order on Saturday!

Saturday morning at breakfast we saw a pair of dolphins playing in the bay and again this was a first for us. The water had so many different hues of blue, due to the current and wind, it sparkled and danced before our eyes, what an amazing site to behold.

Friday afternoon saw the arrival of friends old and new. One couple has been visiting Kim’s for 40 years and the other, first timers who reveled in the splendour that is Kim’s. Red Dragon cocktails (my favourite) in front of a roaring fire in cocktail lounge to get things started.

Cocktail hour in Seashells (our two story bungalow on the beach) on Saturday night saw the arrival of our new friends and kicked off the night of our 30th anniversary party, followed by a sumptuous meal with all of my personal favourite’s including my very first taste of Kim’s… the best split pea and smoked ham soup on the planet! The freshest seafood, paella, sticky pork belly, roast beef with perfect Yorkshire pudding just to name a few. As always the strawberry pavlova (a Saturday night tradition) and homemade ice cream and a decadent cheese selection to finish off a resplendent meal.

Back to the bungalow for a nightcap and finish off what was a spectacular night. This was our 3rd “big” party and I think each one is better than the last. As much as I enjoy spending our anniversary  weekends together; just my gorgeous husband and myself, I do love a party! It is being able to share our special place with special friends old and new makes my heart sing.

To our fabulous hosts, staff and friends, a big thank you to all of you for making our 30th wedding anniversary so incredibly special.