Just as I'm pulled back to the ocean from my desk here in landlocked Western Mass., I've felt myself gravitating back to Santa Monica's Georgian Hotel, one of our original partner hotels.

During our divorce, this Art Deco landmark (which looks to all the world like Miami's South Beach but is really LA's land's end) has undergone a serious makeover with more improvements to come (nip/tucked—very LA!). With charm intact, it is better than ever with upgraded rooms and common areas.

Plus, to lure us back, we’ve been promised ocean view rooms and suites, when available.

This added to a speakeasy where you can eat breakfast, a veranda where you can watch waves break, and a small gym where you can break a sweat, make the Georgian very compelling indeed. If you can turn your back on the surf, the Third Street Promenade is blocks away with its cool cafes, chic shops and multiple movie theaters. Imagine, car-free in LA!

The Geogian's rooms have been offered to Academic Ambassadors at these special rates for 2008*:

Standard Queen: $195
Standard King: $195
Double Queen: $195
Ocean View Queen: $240
Signature Suite: $300
Ocean View Suite: $400

* blackout dates: Nov 5–Nov 12, 2008 and Dec 31, 2008

To book, just call 1-800-538-8147 or, better yet, click here and book online by entering our password ACAD under "group/corporate access" (at the bottom).

You may visit their website at www.georgianhotel.com.