Jaro went from mid November to the end of March . Here is his blog....
I am renting a fairly large apartment (for a single person) but it is completely unfurnished, except for kitchen appliances. The rent is $1425, and does not include utilities, but that is not a lot extra.
Yes, California is expensive! On the other hand, the airfare is a lot cheaper than overseas. This year, the exchange rates for the Eurozone did not look good, so I figured it is time for a return to California.
To help me get started, I left the wheels of my bike at home and instead put an inflatable mattress and sleeping bag into the bike case with the bike frame. 
I bought a new set of wheels here at a bike store I knew from previous years. In fact, I ordered the wheels before departing Montreal, and then just picked them up here in Solana. Still, when flying down, there is a $100 charge for the extra oversize luggage.
About buying furniture, I asked around a bit and got a good tip on a large, second-hand store about 20 km. north of here in Oceanside. I dropped by on the bike last week, and bought a nice sturdy table ($25) and chair ($8). Shipping to Solana was $25.
By contrast, the taxi from the airport to Solana was $70. No TV, but I have high-speed internet, same as at home. My lease is until the end of March (I have not bought my return ticket yet).
Photos belong to Jaro Franta.
