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Long Weekend On The West Coast

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What To Do

  • When on the west coast make sure you rent a car – even though travel apps make it easier to get around these days, LA is so huge in terms of area and there is so much to see, I love picking up an SUV from Enterprise car rental but make sure you consider LA traffic in your plans!
  • Visit some of the best places to view the greater city of Los Angeles like Runyon Canyon, the Hollywood sign or Griffith Observatory – I usually opt for sneakers, a baseball cap and a camera for these kind of adventures
  • If you like art, check out the Getty Center – it is an amazing museum and a must do – I like to arrive around opening time to avoid the crowds
  • Go shopping on Rodeo Drive of course – I manage to fit this kind of fun ‘adventure’ into my schedule everytime I visit the west coast!
  • Explore Santa Monica, Venice or any of the beaches south of LA – stop for a juice and check out any of the local stores, cafes and beaches of course all the way to San Diego – I really love 1000 Steps Beach

Where To Eat

  • Gracias Madre is a modern yet unconventional Mexican restaurant on Melrose – it is fun take on vegan food and also has great cocktails in a picture perfect setting with rustic decor
  • Delilah and Nice Guy are LA hot spots for late night dining and cocktails
  • Jon & Vinnys for the best pizza on the west coast
  • The Ivy in Beverly Hills for a long, leisurely lunch in a magical setting, with almost guaranteed celeb sightings
  • Nobu Malibu for gorgeous romantic  evenings, date nights and fine Japanese cuisine
  • Bestia in downtown LA has a super cool industrial vibe and a must do if you like modern Italian cuisine – the antipasti selection is second to none and combined with their pastas will ensure you visit more than once

Where To Stay

  • Beverly Wilshire is the best place to stay for shopping and exploring tourist attractions, it also has a great after work bar scene too
  • Petite Ermitage – has a great brunch, craft cocktails and a fun roof top scene both day and night
  • Shutters is a magnificent hotel on Santa Monica beach near the boardwalk – stay in a sea view room, they have beautiful decor, supreme service and a spectacular pool scene, and is great for exploring Santa Monica and Venice Beach
  • The Beverly Hills Hotel is a great place to stay in LA for exploring the city – make sure you check out the iconic pool and The Polo Bar Lounge
  • Hotel Bel Air captures the glamour of Hollywood’s golden age with contemporary design and secluded luxury – great for couples, romance, relaxation and privacy

Would love to hear your thoughts!