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Los Angeles won my heart about 10 years ago when I visited for a corporate meeting. At the time, I did not have an overwhelmingly big budget and had to settle for a small hotel with the basics. That did not matter, though, because I fell in love with the warm weather, the fast-paced spirit, and the gorgeous beaches of the city. I stayed in downtown LA (DTLA) and was able to walk to many of my destinations, which meant I got to explore and discover new stores and restaurants.
In the mornings, I walked to Bottega Louie, a patisserie with beautifully colored macarons that lined the display counters, for coffee and a sweet pastry. Because I worked in the fashion industry at the time, one of my primary purposes was to visit select denim factories cutting and sewing the items that would eventually land on the selling floor of major department stores. These amazing facilities were not overwhelmingly huge; instead, they were usually small warehouses. It was always so amazing to me that, from the outside, you could not even imagine a world of work was taking place on the inside.
Although that was a long time ago, L.A. remains a vibrant destination with much to do and see. Whether you are traveling for work or leisure, here are some of the most well-regarded hotels for every type of traveler.
For the trendy traveler
InterContinental Los Angeles Downtown
In the heart of downtown, this high-end hotel is centrally located to everything. Housed inside the soaring Wilshire Grand building, it boasts over 800 rooms and suites. The happening nightlife at this hotel means you do not ever have to leave. In fact, people who are not staying at the hotel come to experience the hopping rooftop bar Spire 73, which serves everything from tapas to filet mignon. Reservations are required, so make them before they get booked up. La Boucherie is the hotel’s fine dining restaurant, offering a chef’s table experience and private booths overlooking the skyline. Rooms are chic and comfortable, decorated to showcase modern California living. An outdoor pool with cabanas and a hot tub offer spots to gather and be seen. The fitness center is open 24 hours a day with equipment, sauna and steam room to boot. Rates start at $349.
For the kid-friendly traveler
Magic Castle Hotel
This no-frills, motel-style hotel is situated within a five-minute walk to Hollywood’s Walk of Fame and offers excellent amenities for families traveling with kids. Rooms and suites are spacious, with mini fridges, flat-screen TVs and working areas with desks. Suites come with kitchens for added convenience as well as a pull-out couch to accommodate extra guests. There is a complimentary breakfast and free snack bar. The heated outdoor pool and lounge area can provide hours of fun for the kids. Guests who book directly through the hotel obtain access to the Magic Castle’s private club, which features magicians and performances that will delight the kiddos. Rates start at $279.
For the pet-friendly traveler
Conrad Los Angeles
Just because you go on vacation does not mean you have to leave your furry friend at home. The Conrad, a Hilton property that opened last July, has contemporary rooms that welcome pets for a nonrefundable fee of $100. Designed by world-renowned architect Frank Gehry, this 305-room hotel is centrally located in DTLA and has a beautiful rooftop terrace and pool. The dining highlight here is Michelin-starred chef José Andrés and his two restaurants, San Laurel and Agua Viva. San Laurel serves breakfast and dinner, interweaving the flavors of Spain and California, while Agua Viva sits on the rooftop and serves brilliant cocktails, vibrant salads and small plates. Rates start at $345.
For the budget-friendly traveler
Élan Hotel
Just because you are on a budget does not mean you need to settle for a boring hotel. This property is located near shopping, dining and outdoor activities with the Beverly Center less than a 10-minute walk away. The cozy, 49-room hotel is smartly designed with neutral colors and rooms, offering comfortable down bedding, flat screen TVs, and free WiFi. Suites offer king beds and spacious seating areas. Rates start at $194.
For the luxury traveler
The Ritz-Carlton Los Angeles
For true luxury, you have to stay at the Ritz, an elegant sanctuary in the middle of DTLA. From the moment you step into the lobby, you’ll be swept away by the sleek and sophisticated interior. Rooms are just as chic, starting at 450 square feet, outfitted in luxury linens and soaking tubs. Should guests choose to splurge, they can gain access to the Ritz-Carlton Club Lounge for more privacy, complimentary snacks and personalized service. The hotel has a rooftop pool for guests to relax, an 8,000-square-foot spa and a 24-hour fitness center. Its Savoca restaurant, featuring regional Italian cuisine, serves breakfast, lunch and dinner. Rates start at $1,009.
For the wellness traveler
Four Seasons Hotel Los Angeles at Beverly Hills
There are so many aspects to wellness travel, but for many it means exercise, relaxation and slowing down. Look no further than the Four Seasons. It’s one of the most decadent spaces for focusing on health. Book an aptly named Wellness Suite, which has an air purification system and hypoallergenic wood floors. You also find yoga essentials. Reserve a poolside cabana or book a facial in the spa. Whatever you do, you will leave feeling well-rested and refreshed. Rates start at $761.
For the business traveler
JW Marriott Los Angeles L.A. LIVE
This hotel is situated near restaurants, shopping and theaters galore. Rooms are equipped with free WiFi, plus a spacious desk and workspace. There is a convenient business center along with available meeting rooms to rent. Located in the same building as the Ritz-Carlton, guests also have access to Savoca Italian restaurant and Illy Caffé. In case you want to get a workout in before your business day begins, the fitness center is open 24 hours a day. Rates start at $669.
For the romantic couple
Hotel Per La
Say yes to a date night package at this boutique hotel in the heart of downtown. The romance package includes accommodations, a dining credit in the amount of $125 to the onsite restaurant Per L’Ora, plus chocolates and a bottle of wine. Oh, and late check out as well! The historic building was constructed in 1922 and was the original location for the Bank of Italy. The 241 lovely and spacious rooms are decorated to reflect Italian design and showcase original artwork. Suites have a separate seating area with a couch and marble writing desk. Couples can enjoy a cocktail at Bar Clara on the rooftop deck or take in the views while lounging by the heated pool. In the morning, grab brunch and coffee at Café Ora. Rates start at $239.
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