Soak Up Hollywood Glamour Inside a Few of LA's Best Hotels

Oct 15, 12 | 12:03 am

Photo Courtesy of The Hotel Bel-Air

The mention of Los Angeles conjures images of the glamour of Hollywood studios, the laid-back attitude of surf-side living, and forward-thinking design and cuisine. All of these qualities sets the trends followed around the world. Our guide to Los Angeles gives you a slice of what we think best captures the essence of the City of Angels.

Photo Courtesy of The Hotel Bel-Air

The Hotel Bel-Air

If your idea of a perfect city hotel is one that instills a sense of peace and tranquility far away from the crowds and congestion, but close enough to dive into the action when you need to, then this is the place for you. The Hotel Bel-Air is nestled in the lush green neighborhood of Bel-Air, spread over 12 acres of stunning foliage and a truly beautiful landscape. Your neighbors at the Hotel Bel-Air are multi-million dollar mansions without a shopping mall, office building or nightclub in sight.

Photo Courtesy of The Hotel Bel-Air

The hotel has recently undergone a total renovation of its interior spaces, which now serve as a stark juxtaposition to its historic exterior. The 58 rooms and 45 suites are decorated in neutral tones and rich fabrics with sleek marble floors, high-end modern furniture and the latest gadgets (Bang & Olufson entertainment centers and a dedicated iPad for each room that between them control the temperature, draw the curtains, order room service and probably much more).

Photo Courtesy of The Hotel Bel-Air

Having visited pre-refurb, The Hotel Bel-Air stuck in my mind as one of the most enchanting hotels I had ever seen, partly because of its exterior and setting. Thankfully, the buildings, the grounds, and the pool remain as they have for years – low lying Spanish missionary style buildings are positioned in a lush landscape of mature plantings that offer shade from the scorching Californian sun. The oval pool remains as the center of the action and serves as a reminder that service is of paramount importance at The Hotel Bel-Air.

Photo Courtesy of The Hotel Bel-Air

Guests are presented with hourly complimentary amenities like frozen fruits and popsicles. It’s true that the little things can make a big difference. As part of the renovations, the restaurant was updated with celebrity chef Wolfgang Puck at the helm, offering a classic Californian menu with a real master’s touch. Seeing the man himself work the room on two separate visits reinforced that this is a serious restaurant destination in itself. The space is part indoors and part under a retractable roof, which maximizes the magical setting in the middle of the hotel.

Photo Courtesy of The Hotel Bel-Air

The hotel is virtually flawless (my only complaint being the addition of a TV in the bar area) and is the perfect way to combine a relaxing retreat with a city visit. The stunning scenery, excellent service and gorgeous design make a truly special hotel.

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