Travel Guide: A Guide To Exploring Los Angeles
LA LA LAND
Welcome to LA, the West Coast city that’s anything but tame. Whether you’re head-over-heels or on the fence about it, the Californian dream is alive and kicking. Palm trees and Mexican influence grace every corner, immersing you in a perpetual tropical vibe. From charming streets and chic neighbourhoods to urban hustle and laidback beach vibes, Los Angeles pulsates with eclectic energy from north to south. Our travel guide to exploring Los Angeles unveils local gems and tourist-friendly spots to ensure you make the most of your city adventure.
Stay
For a business trip, look no further than STILE Downtown Los Angeles by Kasa. Situated smack bang in the heart of Downtown LA, it’s just a hop, skip, and jump away from LAX, making it a prime location for business meetings or city exploration. Housed in an iconic gothic building, this hotel boasts a rooftop pool with breathtaking city views. Its minimalist yet cozy rooms, featuring concrete accents and warm furnishings, offer the perfect retreat after a bustling day.
STILE Downtown Los Angeles by Kasa
Experience the epitome of luxury at Proper Hotel, nestled in the coastal haven of Santa Monica. This five-star gem exudes elegance with its mid-century European-inspired décor. From the lobby to the terrace, every inch of Proper Hotel oozes sophistication. Sip on signature cocktails like the Princess Peach—my personal favorite—while soaking in divine sunset views from the rooftop bar and restaurant. Retreat to rooms adorned with crisp Italian linens, hypoallergenic pillows, and custom-designed blankets, ensuring a blissful night’s sleep. Pamper yourself in baths featuring walk-in travertine showers, marble vanities, and luxurious Aēsop bath products. At Proper Hotel, anything less than perfection simply wouldn’t be Proper-worthy.
Proper Hotel, Santa Monica
Eat + Sip
Los Angeles boasts an unrivalled food scene, offering a smorgasbord of flavours and cuisines from around the globe. With its Mexican and health food influence, you’ll find taquerias on every corner alongside trendy matcha bars and acai bowl spots. It’s a foodie’s paradise. Indulge in Mexican delights at Tacos Delta in Silver Lake, sip on a Matcha Einspanner (it’s elite) from Memorylook in Korea Town, or treat yourself to an acai bowl from Oak Berry in various locations.
Mexican feed from Tacos Delta in Silver Lake, Matcha Einspanner from Memorylook in Korea Town, Acai bowl from Oak Berry in various locations.
Shop
While Rodeo Drive is synonymous with luxury fashion, there are numerous other spots throughout the city to uncover unique treasures. Venice is a mecca for vintage shopping, while Abbot Kinney Boulevard boasts an array of boutiques. Melrose Ave offers everything from everyday fashion stores to cool pop-ups and designer boutiques. Santa Monica’s Promenade is ideal for mall shopping, featuring makeup stores, activewear brands, swimwear shops, and jewellery studios.
Cha Cha Matcha at Abbot Kinney Boulevard, Venice Beach, Venice Canals
Hang
The best hangout spots in town include Melrose Ave, where you can leisurely stroll and soak in the sights. Santa Monica Pier and Venice Beach are perfect for people-watching. If hiking is your thing, head to Runyon Canyon to get your endorphins flowing and break a sweat. For breathtaking sunset views, visit the Griffith Observatory nestled in the Hollywood Hills, though be prepared for crowds.
Proper Hotels Santa Monica, Venice Beach, High Rooftop Lounge
Getaway
For the ultimate escape, pack up the car and hit the road for a trip down the California State Route 111. Make a pit stop at Joshua Tree to breathe in the desert air before reaching Palm Springs. Book a stay at The Saguaro to bask in the incredible valley scenes, complete with breathtaking mountain views and swaying palm trees. The pool area is a serene spot to unwind with a good book.
Palm Springs, Coachella, The Saguaro
Hot Tip
While LA’s notorious traffic and sprawling layout can be daunting, renting a car is your best bet to avoid hefty Uber bills. Street parking is relatively easy and convenient. Navigating from one side of town to the other can be time-consuming, so having your own vehicle allows you to connect your phone and enjoy the comfort of your own ride. Public transport isn’t the most reliable compared to other cities. Take in iconic landscapes from Hollywood Hills to Studio City, Bel Air, Topanga State Park, Pacific Palisades, and Calabasas. Trust me, having your own car will make your LA experience a whole lot better.
