The Weekly Getaway: sea, sun and sand in the City of Los Angeles

Vegan and Kale are probably the two words you will hear the most. From healthy restaurants to fancy parties, L.A. has got you covered. It’s California’s largest city with endless entertainment and dining options. Surfers visit L.A. to experience the more hippie-chic vibe of the city, while others for some window-shopping at Beverly Hills.

A piece of advice that I would give to everyone though, is getting a car – Los Angeles is enormous and public transportation isn’t really advisable.

Venice Beach and Santa Monica          

During the day you will see surfers bouncing the board, tourists posing in front of the street art and skates all around the neighbourhood.

Gjusta in Venice Beach, is probably the best way to start your day with a delicious breakfast and coffee. There are endless options there, but I definitely suggest trying their sandwiches or their everything bagel.

Sunset strolls along the beach and morning bicycle rides are highly recommended! Wander around the Ocean Front Walk and get a feel of local Cali life.

If you happen to be there during dinner time, enjoy the best sushi in the area at Sugarfish, before you head off for some drinks at the Bungalow at Fairmont Hotel.

Beverly Hills

Home to many Hollywood stars, Beverly Hills is known for each high-end shopping and luxurious hotels and restaurants. If you’re looking for sandwiches and coffee, then Ill Tremezzino is one of the best choices.

Even if you are not in the mood for shopping, walk down the Rodeo Drive and get a real vibe of the city. At the end of Rodeo Drive, you will find the Beverly Wilshire Hotel – famous from Pretty Woman. For those who love shopping, The Grove is only a short drive away. This open-air retail complex, features numerous fashions shops as well as dining and entertainment options. It is adjacent to the historic Farmers Market located at Third and Fairfax, featuring ready-to-eat foods and groceries.

Hollywood and West Hollywood

Hollywood Boulevard might sound a bit cheesy, but you can’t leave LA without seeing the Walk of Fame and take a picture in front of the Hollywood sign. Also, have a look at Gamanan’s Chinese Theatre and The Dolby Theatre, where The Oscars are held. You can always hike up to the Hollywood sign and enjoy a great view of Hollywood.

At night, most of the action is around West Hollywood. Here you’ll find anything from trendy lounge bars to rooftop restaurants and clubs. If the weather is nice, E.P & L.P. is a great option for dinner or a cocktail with some of the finest views of Los Angeles.

See

• Warner bros – go behind the scenes at the Hollywood studios and stop by the Central Perk Friends set!
• J. Paul Getty Museum – an admirable architectural building with inspiring art exhibitions – totally worth a visit
• LACMA (Los Angeles County Museum of Art) – the largest art museum of the West Coast
• The Last Bookstore – for the book lovers, this is California’s largest new and secondhand bookstore
• Rodeo drive – for some window (or actual) shopping at Beverly Hill’s most upscale shopping street
• Walk of Fame – find your favourite celebrity’s name at the world’s most famous star-filled sidewalk
• Sunset Boulevard –  in this route between posh neighbourhoods and the Hollywood studios, you can find some of the newest hot spots in town! 
• Hollywood sign – for a picture-perfect view of the city, hike to the Hollywood sign
• Malibu Beach – a long beach with holiday houses and surfers. Enjoy food or drinks with a great view at Nobu

  Stay

  • 60 Beverly Hills – luxury boutique hotel in a central location and close to Beverly Hills if that’s your thing
  • Bel Air Hotel – located in the heart of one of LA’s prime residential districts, situated between Beverly Hills and Brentwood. Part of the Dorchester Group offering impeccable services
  • Ace Hotel Downtown – part of the posh and stylish chain, Ace Hotel Downtown is a great luxury yet hip choice
  • The Standard LA – minimalist modern boutique hotel with a great rooftop bar and swimming pool; youthful staff can be fun but not as experienced as in other hotels

  Eat/Drink

  • Sugarfish – a restaurant chain by chef and restaurateur Kazunori Nozawa, offering simple and delicious menu with high-quality fish. Try their “Trust Me” menu and be ready to face long waiting lines as there is a no reservation policy
  • Via Veneto – fancy Italian restaurant with vibrant atmosphere. Try their signature White Truffle dishes!
  • Gjusta – one of the best breakfast/brunch places around, offering both indoors and outdoors seating
  • Kreation Kafe & Juicery – If you want to experience the healthy Californian lifestyle, Kreation is your best option for brunch (don’t worry, they also serve bacon)
  • Beauty and Essex – American food and upscale cocktails at Hollywood’s newest addition
  • Gjelina – an all-day hotspot in Venice that features American cuisine. Definitely try their pizza!
  • Ill Tremezzino – Delicious and diverse menu of sandwiches and coffee

   

  • Bungalow – cool and relaxed atmosphere at this Oceanside cocktail bar
  • Nobu Los Angeles – beachfront spot that features upscale Japanese cuisine and interesting cocktails
  • Perch – a rooftop lounge that offers stunning views of downtown L.A.
  • E.P & L.P. – E.P. refers to the modern Asian cuisine restaurant and L.P. to one of the best rooftop patios in the city