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Home > Usa > Los Angeles

Los Angeles Luxury Vacations

Is Hollywood beckoning? Or perhaps it’s the wellness-focused LA lifestyle, the cultural diversity or near-constant sunshine? There are many reasons to have Los Angeles on your luxury travel itinerary, not the least of which is its scintillating independent spirit and unabashed openness, things you will begin to discover within yourself the moment you arrive. And truth be told: This glamorous slice of Southern California sure feels good with the top down.

Whether placing your hands in the handprints of your favorite stars at Grauman’s Chinese Theater, touring the movie-star mansions, taking a seat at the Hollywood Bowl, or laughing along at the taping of a TV show, you will have your pick of iconic moments in Los Angeles. Go ahead and indulge in some of these guilty pleasures. Downtown LA thrills with concerts at Walt Disney Concert Hall, the Broad Museum’s vast collection of contemporary art, and

the taste sensations at food emporium Grand Central Market, a gathering place since 1917. Over in West Hollywood, celebrity-owned restaurants, busy diners, boutique hotels, and cool cocktail bars, some of them slinging drinks since the Golden Age, keep visitors hopping along Sunset Boulevard. And in nearby Beverly Hills, the upscale shopping on Rodeo Drive can fill an entire afternoon – and

your suitcase – with stylish treasures. The outdoors in Los Angeles is pretty fantastic, too. Griffith Park – home to renowned Griffith Observatory – is ripe for a morning hike, as is Runyon Canyon Park and the Canyon Drive Trail and its famous Hollywood Sign. A day spent with the Pacific Ocean is always a perfect idea. Try the 20 miles of Malibu Beach, the amusements of Santa Monica Pier, or the antics of Venice Beach on for size. Wherever you do land, we’re convinced you’ll love La La Land.

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What is your approach to planning bespoke luxury travel? Our role can be so important. Whatever we plan will make for lasting memories and can seal or bond families, love and friendly relationships. It is primarily about listening and understanding what a client wants; their needs, moods and family dynamics.

Saloua Rezgui

Senior Travel Designer

What is your approach to planning bespoke luxury travel? Listen - get to know who is traveling and what the desires are for this journey. And the advice – where to spend to minimise travel time, and where to save to maximise experience and enjoyment.

Gavin Crawford

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What is your approach to planning bespoke luxury travel? Every client is looking for something unique. I like to develop a great relationship with our clients so that I am able to customize a trip to their exact preferences. It’s incredibly rewarding to plan and deliver someone's dream trip.

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If you’re considering bespoke private travel to LA, let our expert Travel Designers make your vacation truly customized from start to finish. Having spent the last three decades traveling and experiencing the best luxury offerings first-hand, Tully Luxury Travel has an exceptional understanding of Los Angeles. We have the contacts and the relationships in place to ensure your travel needs are met – milestone celebrations, romantic dinners, private tours, dietary requirements, special room-service requests – all the details curated in step with your every wish. In LA, our Private Travel Designers have the insider information that will elevate your experience that much more. Los Angeles luxury vacation homes range from Mid -Century Modern hillside retreats to palatial oceanfront hideaways. Our team can take you where the action is, be it a table at Wolfgang Puck Bar & Grill, a suite at the Hotel Casa del Mar or a private movie-studio tour. The time to start planning your next luxury vacation is now. Our private luxury travel service also allows us to secure the best amenities and VIP extras at no additional cost. That’s the Tully Difference. Talk with a Private Travel Designer and start planning your bespoke Los Angeles vacation today.

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The First-Timer’s Guide to Los Angeles

Bound for Los Angeles, we packed our car for a week-long trip that started in Malibu and then down to Santa Monica. We had a long list of things to do, places to eat at, and a few neighborhoods to explore. Though my husband and I both spent time living in the area, it had been years since we had been back.

Given how large the area of L.A. is, truly one week is not enough time to see it all. So we picked a few things that caught our attention and adventured through a few different neighborhoods. Our home base was Santa Monica as we wanted to be near the ocean and in a walkable neighborhood.

Each day we chose a pocket of L.A. or daringly two, to go explore. We really loved the area we were in, and especially the Silver Lake and Los Feliz area. For our next trip, I’d love to spend more time in these areas doing a deeper dive. And there’s that long list of restaurants in downtown and West Hollywood which we’ll save for another trip sans baby.

It was our first road trip with our little one ( here is everything we packed ) and tried to make the most of it. Doing three nights in Malibu first worked out well and then ending in Santa Monica felt like a well-balanced trip (see my Malibu guide here).

Here’s a look at what we did with our time, where we ate and loved, and a few things to do that stood out. There is a lot of incredible design, food, and neighborhoods to love here.

Where to Stay

Santa Monica Proper Hotel

For this trip, I did a ton of research to figure out the best place and location to stay. The Santa Monica Proper was my first choice for design and location, the hotel is absolutely stunning. A big part of our experience in L.A. was getting a chance to explore several pockets. So I found that being based in Santa Monica would get us to areas like Venice, West Hollywood, Brentwood, and more in not too long of a time.

The Proper is designed by iconic Kelly Wearstler, a designer known for combining textures, tones, all with an eclectic edge. The hotel is truly one of a kind. Both the lobby and downstairs restaurant, Palma, has such an inviting space and are great for hanging out for a meal or even to get some work done. Upstairs, there is a rooftop pool and their other restaurant, Calabra. You definitely want to reserve in advance for that restaurant.

Overall it was a wonderful experience, the hospitality was great and the room was super cozy.

FIND THE BEST RATES FOR THE SANTA MONICA PROPER HERE

Other Hotel Options We Considered: Palihouse Santa Barbara Shutters The LINE West Hollywood Edition Silverlake Inn & Pool

Things to Do + Restaurants by Neighbhorhood

We covered a lot of ground over the course of four days from Santa Monica. Probably a bit too much, but it gave us a good idea of where we would love to explore more for our next trip down south. Seeing a few different pockets of LA was wonderful and a lot of it was driven by food and design + architecture. I’m breaking out this section by area because it truly is dependent on where you would like to spend time — the traffic is truly no joke.

Santa Monica & Nearby

Since we stayed in Santa Monica, we took advantage of being able to walk around the downtown area and stroll to restaurants. A few highlights from our time:

Donuts at Sidecar . The line is out the door for a reason and you can’t miss trying these donuts while here. Their flavors are always fun and love that they have seasonal options too.

Omakase lunch at Sushi Tsujita . One of the best meals we had during our week was the omakase lunch at Sushi Tsujita. Named one of the best sushi joints in LA, their more affordable lunch omakase is a delight. No reservations needed, just walk up.

Ramen at Tsujita Annex . On one street, you’ll find Tsujita has a few different ramen locations (yes same business as Sushi Tsujita). It was one of our favorite ramens we have had stateside and I highly recommend trying the dipping ramen.

Dinner at Calabra at the Proper . Definitely make a reservation to eat here at least once and I would show up for a sunset drink prior. On a clear day, you can see the Getty all the way down to the ocean for epic views. The Mediterranean-inspired menu serves amazing food, beautifully plated with bold flavors.

Breakfast at Palma at the Proper . Lovely spot for breakfast, their avocado toast was so delicious.

Stroll to the beach . On a clear day, make your way down to the beach and go for a stroll. It’s a great spot to go for a long walk or even set up at the beach for the day.

Other Spots Saved But Not Visited: Little Prince LA, Tartine, goodboybob coffee roasters, Cassia, SUGARFISH, and Birdie G’s.

Breakfast at Great White. One of our early mornings we popped down to Venice to eat at Great White. We showed up just after open and it was already quite full. Their breakfast burrito and overnight oats were so delicious, I would have gone here twice if we had more time.

Stroll the Venice Canals. I know this may be super touristy, but it is truly so beautiful. The homes are quaint and I love how quiet it feels strolling through.

Shop Abbot Kinney. This street is full of shops and restaurants, so if you’re looking to get your shopping fill, come here.

Other Spots Saved But Not Visited: Chulita, Dudley Market, Gran Blanco, Gjusta, and The Butcher’s Daughter.

Los Feliz + Silver Lake

Coffee at Maru. We trekked across the city to go explore Los Feliz and Silver Lake in the same day. Maru was one of our favorite coffee shops on the trip and adored the SANSO LA flower store pop-up next to it.

Lunch at Pine & Crane. This Taiwanese joint was one of the best lunches, I felt like I was right back in Taipei. Their steamed buns are delicious so if they’re available, definitely grab an order.

Tour the Neutra VDL Studio and Residence . LA is full of incredible architecture and a few of the famous homes are available to tour. We love Neutra’s work so we booked a tour of his Silver Lake residence and studio. It’s a short tour but still wonderful.

Other Spots Saved But Not Visited: Ceviche Project, Kismet, Dinosaur Coffee, Botanica Restaurant, and Silverlake Ramen.

Other Things We did

An afternoon at the Getty Center. We blocked off an entire afternoon to spend up at the Getty Center and are so glad we did. The grounds are wildly impressive and with clear views over the city, it was wonderful. Loved seeing the art, strolling the gardens, and a really family-friendly thing to go do.

Stopped by Shoppe Amber Interiors. One of my favorite home stores, Shoppe Amber Interiors, has a few locations to go shop in person. We popped by the Pacific Palisades and picked up a few things for the home. As a partner with them, you can use my discount code “JWRIGHT15” for 15% off your order online or in-store. 

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PS — Are You Booking a Trip Soon? Use My Booking Checklist!

These are the sites I use most to book my own trips. Using the links below is a great way to support Bon Traveler’s travel journalism at no extra cost to you . If you need help organizing your itinerary, get my free travel itinerary template here .

1. Book Your Flights

Use Skyscanner to find the best flights. It searches 100s of airlines and websites across the globe to ensure you’re not missing out on any route options or deals.

2. Book Your Accommodations

Use Booking.com for hotels and guest houses. They have the biggest inventory and consistently offer the best rates.

3. Book Your Tours & Experiences

Use Viator or Get Your Guide to find the best tours and experiences. They are my favorite tour search engines. I always check both as their inventory varies depending on the destination.

4. Book Your Car

Use Discover Cars or Rentalcars.com to find the best car rental deals. I recommend comparing rental agency reviews on Google to ensure you are booking with the best company in that destination, as the reviews are often more accurate than the car rental search engines.

5. Don’t Forget Airport Lounge Access

Get a Priority Pass membership to gain access to 1,400+ VIP lounges and airport experiences worldwide. The Priority Pass app is the first thing I check when I have a layover. I’ve been a member for over a decade, and having a comfortable place to relax before and between flights makes air travel so much more enjoyable.

6. Don’t Forget Travel Insurance

I never leave the country without travel insurance. It provides comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong (ie. illness, injury, theft, and cancelations, etc.). I use it frequently for my travels to stay protected.

My favorite companies that offer the best coverage and rates are:

• World Nomads (best for all-around)
• Safety Wing (best for frequent travelers)

Xx, Jessica

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A Design Lover's Guide to Los Angeles

Discover the most stylish places to shop, eat, stay, and explore.

Whether you're a native or a first-time visitor, you'll definitely want to add all these spots to your hit-list. And for a really classic time in the Southern California city, just read Eve Babitz's essay " My God, Eve, How Can You Live Here ?"—it will definitely get you excited for your upcoming trip.

Where to Stay

Treehouse airbnb.

If you want to take it all in from above, opt for these unconventional digs. "It's definitely what L.A. dreams are made of," Collings says of this modern treehouse, which boasts sweeping views of the city.

Calamigos Guest Ranch

Breegan Jane's favorite local getaway spot is Calamigos Guest Ranch. "Staying there feels like a magical vacation in the Malibu mountains. It’s my home away from home," she says.

Casa Del Mar

Jane also loves the Casa Del Mar for a super comforting stay. It "has an old-world charm that I absolutely adore," she says. "The staff is extremely accommodating and kind. That’s really what you want when you have to be away from home," she says. Plus, the hotel's Wheat Boutique offers enviable gifts and decor.

Hotel Bel-Air

Nestled in the hills of Bel Air, this beloved spot dates back to 1922 and is known for its 12 acres of lush gardens, glamorous suites and bungalows, and, of course, the crowd it draws. It's a short drive away from Westwood and Beverly Hills."I cannot say enough great things about the Hotel Bel-Air. It’s great for families but still feels extremely luxurious. The staff goes out of their way to give amazing customer service. I’ve never had a bad experience here," says Jane.

Not looking to shell out as much? "This hotel in Beverly Hills is an extremely affordable option in Midtown," says Jane. It features a midcentury-inspired aesthetic with wood paneling and iconic furniture pieces. "It also has a Cipriani restaurant, a favorite I love to visit when I travel to Ibiza," Jane says. "Absolutely delicious!"

Hotel Covell

Designed by ETC.etera, Hotel Covell is one of the few Los Angeles boutique hotels that actually makes you feel like you're immersed in a local neighborhood. Each suite is unique, with its own funky but luxe personality and each is inspired by the different stages of the life of a fictional character, George Covell, as he grows from a boy in Oklahoma to a writer in New York.

Santa Monica Proper Hotel

The Santa Monica Proper Hotel by Kelly Wearstler is an earth-toned oasis for anyone who appreciates great design and a beachside retreat with all the perks of being in a major city. Jane describes it as "a trendy hotel that’s fun to visit for a stay or dinner reservations with friends. The rooftop vibes are great, and I love Kelly Wearstler’s design throughout. When I stay here, I never leave the hotel."

Silverlake Pool & Inn

This is Henderson's pick if you're looking for an East Side neighborhood spot. "It's super cute and perfect for a drink by the pool," she says of Pali Societ's newest L.A. hotel venture.

Where to Shop

Kneeland co..

"Joanna Williams of Kneeland Co. sources rarities from all over the world for her charming shop. If you ever wanted to master a vibrant, charming, tablescape, this is the place to visit," suggests Collings.

"If you're looking for special shopping experiences, local ceramicist Raina Lee opened up a petite treehouse showroom to house her wares," says Collings. If crossing a bridge among the treetops to get to a gorgeous handmade keepsake sounds like your ideal retail therapy, make sure to sign up for her newsletter to stay up to date on her latest treehouse sales.

Sonia Boyajian

" Sonia Boyajian 's shop is also a jewel box full of treasures," says Collings. " Studio Shamshiri (one of my favorite design firms to follow) worked with Boyajian on the decor, so you know it's a visual treat."

JF Chen Antiques

"Just don't blame me when you need to figure out how to ship your new vintage couch home," Collings jokes.

The Mart Collective

Another one-stop shop for all things antique? "If you need antique, modern, vintage, or contemporary goods, The Mart Collective has it! With over 120 showcases to shop, I could spend hours there," says Jane.

Tortoise General Shop

"I will never stop visiting this design shop. Their wind chimes selection is my favorite," Cho shares.

Counter Space

This wonderful interiors shop is great for most furniture but Cho says that the chair selection, in particular, makes it a must-visit. You'll find more lamps and smaller interior specialty items int he smaller, affiliated shop Country Space.

...and More

Henderson also suggests Pop Up Home , Pasadena Antique Mall , and Lawson-Fenning .

Where to Eat and Drink

View full post on instagram.

"There are so many excellent new-ish natural wine bars in east L.A," says Collings. " Tilda in Echo Park is my favorite. They have a wine window , where your wine is delivered out of a little portal window. Fun fact: In Italy, this style of wine delivery is called buchette del vino , which dates back to the bubonic Plague-era when minimal contact was preferred. They've had a renaissance in pandemic times, and I love that one popped up in Los Angeles."

"There are tons of great restaurants in L.A., but I have a soft spot for the art of the picnic," Collings says. "My favorite park for this is Greystone Mansion in Beverly Hills, and it just so happens Carla Cafe is on the way. This COVID-era sandwich pop-up is a little hype-y and incredibly delicious. They announce sandwich 'drops' on their IG, and you DM them for a link to order and pay via Venmo. Pick up is out of the window of Bootsy Bellows, a classic Hollywood bottle service type club, and each sandwich is numbered like a work of art. The ordeal to snag one is worth it. Keep an eye out for their tuna sandwich and turkey bliss, my two personal favorites."

Cho says to come here for the "cute minimal design and great sake," and reminds us that "there’s art in a katsu sandwich!"

The Britely

This "is a membership community at the Pendry West Hollywood Hotel. I’ve thoroughly enjoyed dining here! You cannot go wrong with any dish you choose," says Jane.

Bungalow Kitchen

"This is a very nice local restaurant located in Long Beach that overlooks the bay. Highly recommended," says Jane.

Cho recommends this "beautiful French diner in Chinatown" and urges you to "sit at the bar!"

Where to Explore

Eames house.

The home of designer duo Charles and Ray Eames "is an iconic a must for any L.A. visitor," Cho says. Looking for even more design-related tours? " Mak Center is a great resource to discover tours and exhibitions for all things architecture and design-related," Cho adds.

Los Feliz Drive

Sometimes just driving around certain neighborhoods can be as valuable as a guided tour," says Cho. "My favorite place to do this is Los Feliz, where you can see multiple Frank Lloyd Wright-designed homes, the Los Feliz Murder Mansion, The St. George Street Shakespeare Bridge, Griffith Observatory, and more (Neutra VDL House isn't far from here either)."

Art Deco Walking Tour

If you want something a little more structured, sign up for the Art Deco walking tour with Los Angeles Conservancy .

Heritage Square Museum

A favorite of Henderson's, this unconventional museum is comprised of eight Victorian-era structures that were saved from demolition. Now, says the designer, they're the "perfect background to educate the public about the everyday lives of Southern Californians from the close of the 19th Century into the early decades of the 20th Century. From the simplicity of the Longfellow-Hastings Octagon House to the opulence of the William Perry Mansion, the Museum provides a unique look at the lifestyles of the people who contributed so much to the development of modern Los Angeles."

The Getty Center

There's much more than just art at this celebrated museum: "The stonework is an absolute sight to behold," says Jane. "The garden in the middle is one of my favorite places to visit. It houses a stunning Impressionist gallery, and it hosts great events in the summertime. There’s a great restaurant there, too."

Henderson, meanwhile, prefers this museum founded in 2015 by philanthropists Eli and Edythe Broad to hold their impressive collections. Expect work by Andy Warhol, Cindy Sherman, Jeff Koons, and more in a 120,000 square-foot contemporary structure by New York architecture firm Diller Scofidio + Renfro.

Hike Sandstone Peak

"My favorite hike in L.A. is the Mishe Mokwa trail to Sandstone Peak in Malibu," says Collings. "It's in deep Malibu, so it's definitely an all-day type of trip, but it's the trail that many local hikers say made them fall in love with L.A. hiking. It's about 6 miles, so you'll want to make sure you're prepared for a real deal hike, but if you're down for the trek, you'll be rewarded with such a gorgeous buffet of L.A. nature experiences

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15 L.A. Fashion Designers You Should Know

Los Angeles has become a contender in the global fashion market over the last few decades. L.A.’s distinctive west coast style has influenced design across the globe, and local designers have been establishing their brands as something to watch for. We’ve compiled a list of 15 L.A.-based fashion designers that everyone should acquaint themselves with.

3sixteen is a menswear denim company with over a decade under its belt. They specialize in sanforized denim, a process that involves stretching and shrinking denim prior to production. They boast several fits in over 10 fabrics and pride themselves on being artisans and craftsmen, not simply a jeans brand.

Adolfo Sanchez

Adolfo Sanchez creates works of art. His skill expands beyond amazing couture pieces to ready-to wear, and accessories and now he features accessories for the home. Every piece, regardless of how simple, conveys luxury and class.

Apolis is a socially conscience line founded by brothers Raan and Shea Porton. The pair produces a casual menswear line with the aim of creating social change by supporting local manufacturers in LA and abroad.

Armature is a unisex ready-to-wear company that finds inspiration in L.A.’s urban landscape. Their pieces are hip and comfortable, with one of their signature pieces being a classy take on the basic sweatsuit.

Aviator Nation

Aviator Nation was founded by Paige Mycoskie, who wanted to create clothing that had the same 70s vibe of the clothes she’d been collecting for years. What the line has evolved into is a collection of tees, tanks, and sweats that have a retro/surf feeling.

BreeLayne uses deadstock and vintage fabrics to create a super edgy and contemporary silhouette. She says her designs are inspired by Audrey Hepburn and Miroslava Duma.

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Camille MacMillan and Matt Westray have created in Foxbait an edgy, yet feminine, ready-to-wear line. They employ layers and grunge combined with clean white dress shirts to create a comfortable line that is far reaching in its appeal.

Hale Bob is effortlessly feminine and is loved by celebrities like Halle Berry, Eva Longoria and Cameron Diaz. Every piece is unique down to the prints, all of which are designed and developed at the Hale Bob studios in L.A.

Jill Aiko Yee

Every piece that comes out of Jill Aiko Yee ’s studio is made for movement, infused with color, and bound to inspire confidence. She creates garments full of whimsicality and femininity that are sure to bring some light and happiness to any wardrobe.

Joshua Christensen

Joshua Christensen of Project Runway fame, has created a line that takes a whimsical and playful look at men’s and women’s cocktail and formal wear. He uses bold prints and pastels in a way that we haven’t really seen before.

Mario De La Torre

Mario De La Torre was born and raised in South Central Los Angeles and his designs are inspired by his Chicano roots. He uses bright solids and simple lines that compliment any figure.

Twin sisters Alexis and Kym McClay have created a young, fun, flirty, collection of party dresses with their Naven line. They hope to translate their support of female empowerment through their various entrepreneurial endeavors. One thing is for sure, they make a mean cocktail dress.

Re/Done takes vintage denim and reassembles it to create contemporary pieces. They take apart vintage jeans, usually Levi’s, and use the fabric as the basis for new jeans with modern cuts and fits. They can claim stars like Bella Hadid, Elle Fanning, and Alessandra Ambrosio, fiancée of Jamie Mazur (the co-founder of Re/Done) as fans.

Rogue Territory

Rogue Territory , a custom denim turned ready-to-wear men’s line, produces vintage-inspired goods that extend past denim to trousers, shirts and leather goods.

TT Collection, the brainchild of Tiffany Saidnia, was created in 2007. Tiffany wanted to ‘create a line that has the same high quality fabric and construction as designer brands, but sell it at a contemporary price.’ Her line of feminine knits with a designer edge grew in popularity with the everyday woman. She recently launched TT Beach , a collection of swimwear and cover-ups that translate a beach-y ease that personifies the SoCal woman.

Culture Trips launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes places and communities so special.

Our immersive trips , led by Local Insiders, are once-in-a-lifetime experiences and an invitation to travel the world with like-minded explorers. Our Travel Experts are on hand to help you make perfect memories. All our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

All our travel guides are curated by the Culture Trip team working in tandem with local experts. From unique experiences to essential tips on how to make the most of your future travels, we’ve got you covered.

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School's Out: 8 Travel Companies in Los Angeles Making Traveling Easier

Traveling offers a chance to experience something new while decompressing from a hectic, professional schedule. While it's never been easier to book a trip than it is today, that doesn't mean it's entirely seamless. Whether you're looking for help managing logistics or travel advice about a particular area, here are eight LA-based travel tech companies designed with wanderers in mind.

Traveling offers a chance to experience something new while decompressing from a hectic, professional schedule.

While it's never been easier to book a trip than it is today, that doesn't mean it's entirely seamless. Whether you're looking for help managing logistics or travel advice about a particular area, here are eight LA-based travel tech companies designed with wanderers in mind.

Top LA Travel Companies

Fair.com is changing the process of car ownership by enabling users to shop, be approved and pay for a car all on the Fair app. Known for flexibility, Fair allows car buyers to drive their car as long as they want and turn it in any time.

Founded in 2016,  ClubLabs  is the technology and design arm of the Auto Club of Southern California, also known as AAA. The team's main function is to identify AAA members' needs across travel, insurance and emergency roadside assistance and develop solutions. ClubLabs' team consists of engineers, designers, UX researchers and product managers workomg to introduce new technologies aimed at AAA members.

Whether you're looking for a destination off the beaten path or a advice about a particular restaurant in town, it can be hard to get travel tips if you're not speaking directly with someone who knows the lay of the land.  Trippy  is a community of travel enthusiasts who have banded together to help each other travel more efficiently. 

Travo  measures time, distance and cost to give users an itinerary that comes complete with flight, hotel and transportation options. The app is perfect for business travelers with a limited amount of free time and a ton of logistics to manage.

Booking a trip for one person alone can be trying, but organizing and booking a trip abroad for several people can test even the most patient of souls. At some point, it might make more sense to call in the experts.  TripScope  connects users with travel agents via a nifty app that makes managing destinations, hotels, rental cars and restaurants as simple as following a to-do list.

Want to get away? In the age of crippling student loan debt and startup hours, a vacation sounds like it a great idea but isn't always feasible. Unlike many travel booking sites, Wherefor operates under an established budget, allowing users to enter the amount of money they're willing to pay for their vacation. Wherefor takes it from there.

Airmule offers an interesting way of transporting objects overseas. Users can volunteer to deliver (legal) objects to wherever they're headed for a fee, while those looking to get something from point A to point B without the hassle of international delivery services have a new, simpler option in Airmule's users.

travoom.com

Some of the most meaningful travel experiences happen with the help of locals, and that often means booking a tour of the region. The problem is, many local tours don't have a presence beyond their hometown.  Travoom  help tour operators create an online presence — in turn helping travelers have the best vacation experience possible.

Images via Facebook/Shutterstock.

Know of any local startups that deserve coverage? Let us know  here .

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The Ultimate Los Angeles Itinerary, Mountain Hikes, Seaside Bike Rides, and Fresh Seafood Included

Discover the best hotels, restaurants, and things to do in Los Angeles with this highly curated guide to the city.

Best Time to Go

Things to know, how to get around, best hotels, best restaurants, things to do, best shopping, neighborhoods to know, apps to download.

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Los Angeles, at around 500 square miles, is the largest city within Los Angeles County which includes more than 100 cities and communities. Known for its entertainment industry, miles of coastline, mountains, shopping, sports, ethnic diversity, and culture of creativity, L.A.'s vibe ranges from upscale to hip to surf-casual and everything between, defying a label for the city as a whole. Several areas comprise Los Angeles, mainly Downtown (DTLA), the Westside, West Hollywood, Hollywood, the Beach Cities, and the Valley, with other communities within those districts.

Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), served by all major airlines, is about 16 miles from Downtown. Hollywood Burbank Airport (BUR), also known as Bob Hope Airport, is located about 20 minutes north of downtown. Union Station is the main railway station in Los Angeles, and it's the largest railroad passenger terminal in the western United States.

Visitors seeking outdoor activities can choose mountain hikes, seaside bike rides, golf, boating, surfing, or just enjoying the sunshine. Spectator sports abound, and depending on the season, there's basketball, football, baseball, and soccer. Live theater, film complexes, museums, and art galleries provide opportunities for cultural activities.

The Los Angeles dining scene boasts elegant restaurants, casual outdoor cafes, and ethnic foods that include Mexican, Chinese, Japanese, Ethiopian, Korean, Italian, Israeli, and many more. Fresh seafood from local waters and produce from California's farms are always available.

Pacific Standard Time. (Daylight Savings Time is observed seasonally)

Year-round moderate temperatures, low humidity, and cool evenings make any month a good time to visit Los Angeles. Summers are warmer, especially in the Valley, while coastal areas see cooler temperatures and often begin with morning clouds that burn off to sunny afternoons. Rainfall is generally less than 20 inches annually, with December through March considered the wetter months.

Summer is popular with vacationers, and with miles of beaches, there's always room for your blanket and umbrella. The 26-mile bike path along the coast from Torrance Beach to Pacific Palisades gets a bit more traffic in summer, but bikers, joggers, walkers, and skateboarders happily share the scenery and ocean breezes year round. In winter, Los Angeles is the perfect escape from colder climates when visitors can trade their down jacks for sweaters or windbreakers.

Los Angeles is known for its car culture, although public transportation is available in most areas. The city is infamous for its freeway traffic, and visitors are advised to keep this in mind when planning outings around the city.

There's a lot of ground to cover and so much to see. If time allows, book a hotel in the area you want to explore. You'll get to experience different neighborhoods, and you'll save time getting around. Get familiar with the "big picture" of Los Angeles while you make plans to get a better idea of where your destinations are located.

The weather varies from the coastal towns to the inland valley, and the temperature difference can be 20 degrees or more. Check the weather and keep a light jacket handy.

Metro Rail Lines: Six light rail and subway lines connect various locations within Los Angeles. Check the online map , website , or use the GoMetro mobile app for planning.

Metro Bus System: Local, Rapid, Express services are available throughout the Los Angeles area, with nearly 200 different lines. Many connect to Metro Rail stations. Visit the Metro website for details .

DASH Bus Service: Los Angeles Department of Transportation operates frequent bus service in DTLA and in 27 neighborhoods. Visit the DASH website for details.

Driving: Hundreds of miles of freeways connect various sections of Los Angeles and can be efficient for traveling. Plan your route, avoid commuter rush hours, and expect some traffic to get the most out of driving in Los Angeles. GPS apps will be helpful.

Uber, Lyft, taxis: You can let someone else worry about directions, parking, and traffic by using your preferred app.

Union Station: (800 North Alameda Street, Los Angeles, CA 90012) is a major transportation hub for Amtrak, Greyhound Bus, auto rentals, taxis, Metro bus, light rail and subway, Metrolink heavy rail service, Megabus, and Zipcar.

Transportation from Los Angeles International Airport

LAX FlyAway Bus Service provides regularly scheduled non-stop service to several locations. Check the website for current schedules.

Taxi Service : Taxis may drop passengers off at their terminals on the Upper/Departures level. Arriving passengers may get taxis at three locations: next to Terminal 1 (either by walking or taking the free shuttle to LAX-it. ), inside Parking Structure 3 (between Terminals B and 3), or at the far end of Terminal 7, outside of baggage claim.

Ride-sharing Apps : Lyft, Opoli, and Uber are the authorized providers for LAX. They can drop off passengers at terminals on the Upper/Departures level. Arriving passengers may be picked up at the LAX-it lot next to terminal 1. Walk or take the free LAX-it shuttle.

Rental Cars : Offices are located off airport. Shuttles meet arriving passengers under the purple "Rental Car shuttles" sign on the Lower/Arrivals level islands.

Public Transportation: Several public transit providers serve LAX, including L.A. Metro , Santa Monica Big Blue Bus , Torrance Transit , and Beach Cities Transit .

Hotel Shuttles : Many major airport area hotels provide courtesy transportation from LAX terminals. Shuttle stops are located on the Upper/Departures level by Red curbside pylons.

Metro C Line at Aviation Station: Wait at the Pink Shuttle sign on the Lower/Arrivals level and board "Metro C Line (formerly Green Line) Shuttle."

Downtown DTLA

Intercontinental los angeles downtown.

Address: 900 Wilshire Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA 90017 Phone: (800) 424-6835 Book Now

In the center of downtown, this 73-story hotel boasts spectacular views and a convenient location. Its Spire 73 rooftop lounge is the tallest open-air bar in the Western Hemisphere, and a sushi bar, steakhouse, and buffet restaurant offer quality dining and service.

Hotel Figueroa

Address: 939 South Figueroa Street, Los Angeles, CA 90015 Phone: (213) 627-8971 Book Now

This historic hotel opened in 1926 as lodging for professional women and has since seen major renovations that maintained its original Spanish Colonial style. Comfortable rooms, art-filled lobby and corridors, a coffin-shaped outdoor pool, restaurants, and cocktail lounges welcome visitors to its 268 rooms and suites.

The Wayfarer Downtown LA

Address: 813 S. Flower Street, Los Angeles, CA 90017 Phone: (213) 285-4400 Book Now

Convenient, comfortable, and budget-friendly, The Wayfarer features private rooms, shared rooms, a rooftop bar, cocktail lounge, and an entertainment venue. It's a new way to stay in Los Angeles, perfect for solo travelers.

Address: 819 South Flower Street, Los Angeles, CA 90017 Phone: (213) 623-9904 Book Now

Located in the Financial District, this hotel includes a spa, fitness center, restaurant, and bar. Complimentary breakfast, a business center, and free Wi-Fi are among the hotel's amenities. The hotel is conveniently located near the 7th Street Metro Center.

Beverly Hills/Century City

Beverly Wilshire, a Four Seasons Hotel

Address: 9500 Wilshire Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA 90212 Phone: (310) 275-5200 Book Now

Overlooking Rodeo Drive, this elegant hotel is a Los Angeles classic. Accommodations include plush guestrooms, specialty suites, and even a rooftop veranda. Guests dine at Wolfgang Puck's Cut steakhouse, the poolside cafe and bar, or The Blvd, an all-day restaurant and lounge.

Intercontinental Los Angeles Century City at Beverly Hills

Address: 2151 Avenue of the Stars, Los Angeles, CA 90067 Phone: (310) 284-6500 Book Now

Views of downtown, the Pacific, and Beverly Hills from private balconies create a luxurious L.A. experience. Convenient to shopping, entertainment, and business centers, the hotel offers a spa, fitness center, pool, California cuisine at Mari, and Copper Lounge for cocktails.

Fairmont Century Plaza

Address: 2025 Avenue of the Stars, Los Angeles, CA 90067 Phone: (310) 246-4770 Book Now

This completely reimagined mid-century modern hotel is located in the heart of Century City, offering 351 guest rooms and 49 suites, all with private balconies. A guest-only private rooftop pool and bar as well as four dining options make the hotel an ideal destination just blocks from Beverly Hills and Westfield Century City shopping center.

West Hollywood WEHO

West hollywood edition.

Address: 9040 West Sunset Boulevard, West Hollywood, CA 90069 Phone: (310) 953-9899 Book Now

This stunning, modern hotel by Ian Schrager features 190 guest rooms, 48 suites, two penthouses, and 20 luxury residences. Expansive outdoor terraces offer views of Los Angeles and the Hollywood Hills. Amenities include a luxurious spa, fitness center, and a variety of dining spots including the popular Ardor and The Roof, for tropical-inspired cocktails and panoramic vistas.

Pendry West Hollywood

Address: 8430 Sunset Boulevard, West Hollywood, CA 90069 Phone: (310) 928-9000 Book Now

In the heart of the iconic Sunset Strip, the Pendry features 149 luxury guest rooms, 40 Pendry Residences, rooftop pool and bar, fitness center, and multiple food and beverage concepts helmed by famed Chef Wolfgang Puck. Spa Pendry offers signature treatments and customized services in a comfortable, healing environment.

Kimpton La Peer Hotel

Address: 627 N. La Peer Drive, West Hollywood, CA 90069 Phone: (213) 296-3038 Book Now

Set in the walkable Design District neighborhood steps from the intersection of Melrose Avenue and Santa Monica Boulevard, this hotel is stylish, comfortable, and tasteful. A secluded pool, 105 luxury guest rooms and suites, restaurants, and courtyard cocktail lounge make it a local favorite.

Hollywood Area

Dream hollywood hotel.

Address: 6417 Selma Avenue, Hollywood, CA 90028 Phone: (323) 844-6417 Book Now

The hotel's stylish mid-century modern guestrooms and suites are conveniently set near Hollywood's attractions, with panoramic views from its rooftop pool, restaurant, and cabanas. Dine at the rooftop Highlight Room, Tao Asian Bistro, or Beauty & Essex.

Kimpton Everly Hotel

Address: 1800 Argyle Avenue, Hollywood, CA 90028 Phone: (213) 279-3532 Book Now

This hip boutique hotel boasts a ground-floor coffee bar, outdoor pool, hosted evening social hour and morning coffee, yoga mats, and in-room Chromecast streaming devices. Pet-friendly accommodations, room service, and dining at Jane Q complete the picture.

Hollywood Historic Hotel

Address: 5162 Melrose Avenue, Hollywood, CA 90038 Phone: (323) 378-6312 Book Now

Dating to 1927, this newly reopened Hollywood landmark is on the National Register of Historic Places. Located near Paramount Pictures and Raleigh Studios, many of the hotel's rooms offer views of the Hollywood sign. Its walkable neighborhood boasts cafes, restaurants, and shops.

The Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel

Address: 7000 Hollywood Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA 90028 Phone: (323) 856-1970 Book Now

Located on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, this hotel offers luxury and style along with a stunning David Hockney outdoor pool and cafe. Guests enjoy cocktails at the Spare Room, the hotel's prohibition era-style lounge with vintage bowling alley, and dinner at Nancy Silverton's The Barish, an Italian steakhouse.

Address: 1730 N. Western Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90027 Phone: (323) 672-8990 Book Now

A serene oasis off a busy intersection in trendy Los Feliz, Cara Hotel's local craftsmanship and food sourced from nearby farms make it a true California experience. Its 60 rooms, dressed in white with wooden accents, come with balconies overlooking the courtyard tranquility pool lined with palm trees. Under 10 minutes from iconic LA sights such as the Griffith Observatory, the Hollywood Walk of Fame, and the Greek Theater, Cara is an ideal base for first-time LA visitors but will likely be a spot you'll want to return to.

Beach Cities

Shutters on the Beach

Address: 1 Pico Boulevard, Santa Monica, CA 90405 Phone: (310) 458-0030 Book Now

Understated luxury in New England style beachfront rooms and suites defines the hotel, just steps from the sand. Spa, pool deck with cabanas, and excellent dining options make a stay at Shutters memorable. Choose from Coast, 1 Pico, or the Living Room for food and drinks with a Pacific view.

Beach House, Hermosa Beach

Address: 1300 The Strand, Hermosa Beach, CA 90254 Phone: (310) 374-3001 Book Now

As close to the beach as a hotel can get, this oceanfront boutique offers 96 studio suites, most with views of the Pacific. Patios, balconies, fireplaces, fitness center, refrigerators, and outdoor hot tub are among the amenities. Complimentary Wi-Fi and continental breakfast are included.

Hotel Erwin

Address: 1697 Pacific Avenue, Venice, CA 90291 Phone: (310) 452-1111 Book Now

Overlooking the Pacific and the lively Venice boardwalk, the Hotel Erwin's rooms, suites, and balconies provide comfort and a front-row view of the action. The High Rooftop Lounge is the place to be for sunset, with creative cocktails and delicious menu offerings. Erwin's Kitchen + Cocktails serves breakfast and dinner.

Address: 8639 Lincoln Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA 90045 Phone: (888) 435-5070 Book Now

Hotel June is set in a prime location minutes from LAX, Playa Del Rey Beach, Playa Vista, Venice Beach, and Marina Del Rey as well as restaurants, shops, and parks. An expansive pool surrounded by lounges and the Caravan Swim Club offering Baja-inspired dishes and creative cocktails make Hotel June a destination as well as a convenient airport hotel.

Malibu Beach Inn

Address: 22878 Pacific Coast Highway, Malibu, CA 90265 Phone: (310) 651-7777 Book Now

Set along Malibu's coastline with views of the Pacific, this boutique hotel offers 47 guest rooms, a restaurant, and an on-site spa suite. Hike Malibu's nearby trails, spend time at the exclusive beach, or just enjoy watching the waves and relaxing to the sounds of the surf.

Hilton Los Angeles Universal City

Address: 555 Universal Hollywood Drive, Universal City, CA 91608 Phone: (818) 506-2500 Book Now

A block from the entrance to Universal Studios, this hotel offers a complimentary shuttle to make it even more convenient. Outdoor swimming pool, whirlpool, and fitness center are among the amenities included. Poolside dining, Coffee Corner, and Cafe Sierra are dining options, and at the Atrium Lounge, beverages and snacks are served each evening along with live piano music.

The Garland

Address: 4222 Vineland Avenue, North Hollywood, CA 91602 Phone: (818) 980-8000 Book Now

This boutique hotel, created by actress Beverly Garland in 1970, is set on seven acres in the heart of Los Angeles. Now updated, its guestrooms, suites, and kids rooms boast modern decor, and its restaurants offer new menus. Free trolley rides to Universal Studios, CityWalk, and Universal City Metro Station are a favorite amenity.

Downtown L.A.

Address: 521 West Seventh Street, Los Angeles, CA Phone: (213) 225-6285 Website

Q Sushi offers traditional omakase served in a serene atmosphere by talented chef Hiroyuki Naruke. Fresh fish flown in from Japan and presented simply creates a memorable dining experience at his small downtown sushi bar.

Address: 2121 East Seventh Place, Los Angeles, CA 90021 Phone: (213) 514-5724 Website

Delicious and creative Italian dishes served in a lively warehouse-style atmosphere make Bestia a top spot. From pizza to pasta with a tasty selection of antipasti, Bestia's food is memorable and the experience is fun.

Address: 500 Mateo Street, Los Angeles, CA 90013 Phone: (213) 232-4966 Website

Fresh ingredients and a variety of cooking techniques showcase Middle Eastern foods that include flatbreads, spreads, hot and cold small plates, salads, and more. Cuisines of Israel, Morocco, Turkey, and Egypt are represented with style and attention to detail.

Howlin' Rays

Address: 727 North Broadway #128, Los Angeles, CA 90012 Phone: (213) 935-8399 Website

From a successful food truck to a Chinatown location, Howlin' Rays has been serving Nashville hot chicken to his fans in Los Angeles since 2016. Diners choose their favorite level of heat from Country (no heat) to Howlin' (HOT), and side dishes include fries, slaw, pickles, and collard greens.

Beverly Hills/Century City/West Hollywood

Jean-georges beverly hills.

Address: Waldorf Astoria Beverly Hills, 9850 Wilshire Boulevard, Beverly Hills, CA 90210 Phone: (310) 860-6666 Website

This elegant spot is known for exquisite service and cuisine helmed by chef Jean-Georges. His eight-course tasting menu is lovely, and with wine pairings, the experience is sublime. Reservations required.

Address: 176 North Canon Drive, Beverly Hills, CA 90210 Phone: (310) 385-0880 Website

Excellent service, inventive seasonal dishes, and sleek atmosphere define this Wolfgang Puck restaurant. The cuisine and style have consistently earned awards, including two Michelin stars.

Address: 10250 Santa Monica Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA 90067l Phone: (213) 310-8000 Website

In addition to an array of wines, cheeses, meats, seafood, baked goods, and more, Eataly offers several dining spots. Il Pesce Cucina presents fresh seafood by acclaimed team from Michelin-starred Providence, chef Michael Cimarusti and Donato Poto. Terra , on the third floor rooftop, features seasonal ingredients prepared on a wood-burning Italian grill. La Pizza & La Pasta serve the best of those Italian favorites. Reservations suggested.

Address: 3850 Main Street, Suite A, Culver City, CA 90232 Phone: (424) 298-8540 Website

This ultra-creative restaurant successfully combines Cali-Asian flavors with influences of the Lowcountry of the Southeast. Delicious and artistically plated dishes, modern atmosphere, full bar, and outdoor patio make this a popular spot.

E.P. and L.P.

Address: 603 N. La Cienega Boulevard, West Hollywood, CA 90069 Phone: (310) 855-9955 Website

This restaurant features an Asian-fushion menu, rooftop bar with views of the Hollywood Hills, and Las Palmas rooftop with Tulum-inspired dishes and cocktails.

Address: 9010 Melrose Avenue, West Hollywood, CA 90069 Phone: (310) 307-3932 Website

This stylish restaurant on West Hollywood's restaurant row offers coastal European cuisine for fine dining and late-night cocktails. Chef Michael Fiorelli draws inspiration from the classics of Italy, Greece, France, and Spain capturing the spirit of dining on a Mediterranean vacation.

Strings of Life (S.O.L)

Address: 8535 Melrose Avenue, West Hollywood, CA 90069 Phone: (310) 734-7190

This all-day Australia-inspired casual spot serves specialty coffees, fresh baked goods, sandwiches, breakfast dishes, salads, burgers, and more under the direction of Culinary Director Monty Koludrovic with Pastry Chef Jaci Koludrovic.

Address: 9040 West Sunset Boulevard, West Hollywood, CA 90069 Phone: (424) 310-1572 Website

Showcasing vegetable-forward dishes in a beautiful setting, Ardor's menu includes a balance of meat and plant-based dishes. Award-winning Chef John Fraser combines fresh local organic ingredients with international techniques in such dishes as crudo, ceviche, and as an example, Harrison Ranch Chicken with vegetables a la Grecque. The restaurant serves breakfast, lunch, dinner, and weekend brunch.

Address: 904 North Sycamore Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90038 Website

This chic restaurant set in Hollywood's Media District serves California-inspired French bistro cuisine along with an extensive bar program for dinner and late-night dining. The menu includes roast chicken, seafood, steak tartare, and a 32-ounce dry-aged rib-eye steak.

Address: 5955 Melrose Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90038 Phone: (323) 460-4170 Website

Seafood in creative presentations that are both gorgeous and delicious is the focus of this prix-fixe dining experience. Led by James Beard Award-winning chef Michael Cimarusti, this Michelin-starred restaurant is the place for special dinners and superb service.

L' Antiqua Pizzeria da Michele

Address: 1534 North McCadden Place, Los Angeles, Ca 90028 Phone: (323) 366-2408 Website

Pizza, pasta, salads, and a wide variety of appetizers make this more than a pizzeria, although the pizza has a great following. Breakfast and brunch specialties are favorites too, as are the cheese and charcuterie boards.

Beach Cities/West Side

Address: 101 Wilshire Boulevard, Santa Monica, CA 90401 Phone: (310) 319-3111 Website

This lively bistro at the Fairmont Miramar serves fresh, local ingredients in Mediterranean-style preparations. Open all day, they offer happy hour specials and an exceptional selection of international and domestic cheeses.

The Rose Venice

Address: 220 Rose Avenue, Venice, CA 90291 Phone: (310) 399-0711 Website

Modern California cuisine in a casual atmosphere. Great baked goods, indoor/outdoor dining; extensive takeout selection.

Little Sister, Redondo Beach

Address: 247 Avenida del Norte, Redondo Beach, CA 90277 Phone: (424) 398-0237 Website

South Bay locations in Redondo Beach and Manhattan Beach (also DTLA ) serve Southeast Asian cuisine in a seasonally evolving menu. Favorite dishes include green papaya salad, a variety of spring rolls, Vietnamese crepe, and shaky shaky beef.

Address: 13301 Ventura Boulevard, Sherman Oaks, CA 91423 Phone: (818) 788-4868 Website

Operating in the San Fernando Valley for more than 62 years, Casa Vega began on Olvera Street downtown. An extensive menu of Mexican favorites, cocktails, beers, and wines served in a friendly, festive atmosphere.

Address: 11941 Ventura Boulevard, Studio City, CA 91604 Phone: (818) 760-3348

One of L.A.'s top Japanese restaurants, Asanebo has been recognized with Michelin stars. Traditional sushi and sashimi in addition to their signature dishes like halibut truffle, toro tartare, ceviche, and more are served along with a selection of sake, beers, and champagnes.

Address: 800 West Olympic Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA 90015 Website

This entertainment complex features movie theaters, a concert hall, restaurants, convention center, and special events. The Ritz-Carlton Los Angeles, JW Marriott, and Staples Center are adjacent to the complex.

Crypto.com Arena

Address: 1111 South Figueroa Street, Los Angeles, CA 90001 Website

This multi-purpose arena hosts concerts and sports events for the Kings (NHL hockey), Lakers, Clippers (NBA basketball), and Sparks (WNBA basketball).

Music Center

Adrian Rudd/Travel + Leisure

Address: 135 North Grand Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90012 Website

This performing arts center includes the Los Angeles Opera, Ahmanson Theater, Mark Taper Forum, L. A. Master Chorale, L. A. Philharmonic Orchestra, Walt Disney Concert Hall, and Dorothy Chandler Pavilion. Dining venues include Abernethy's, Cocina Roja, cocktail lounges, and casual cafes.

Address: 221 South Grand Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90012 Website

A contemporary art museum with more than 2,000 works, The Broad includes a permanent collection and special exhibits. General admission is free, but reservations are recommended and can be booked online. A standby line is available, and waiting time varies.

Downtown LA Walking Tours

Address: 600 West 9th Street, #603, Los Angeles, CA 90015 Website

Offering both public and private tours, the knowledgeable and engaging guides take visitors through L.A.'s highlights including filming locations, historic sites, and landmarks. Stories and background details on the locales make the tours entertaining and educational.

Grand Central Market

Address: 317 South Broadway, Los Angeles, CA 90013 Website

More than a hundred years old, the market offers a variety of vendors for produce, meats, cheeses, baked goods, coffee, ice cream, prepared foods, and more. It's a popular spot for takeout or for a quick bite at the adjacent outdoor tables.

Beverly Hills/Culver City

The original farmers market.

Address: 6333 West Third Street, Los Angeles, CA 90036 Website

A historic landmark and home to specialty markets, restaurants, prepared foods, produce, and more, the Original Farmers Market is a favorite for both locals and visitors. Baked goods, ice cream, coffee, and ethnic dishes keep the market hopping from breakfast through dinner.

Sony Pictures Studio

Address: 10201 West Washington Boulevard, Culver City, CA 90232 Website

Their two-hour guided walking tour takes guests through a working studio where movies and TV shows are filmed. There's also a three-hour VIP Lunch Tour. Tours are presented on weekdays only, and reservations are required.

Getty Center

Address: 1200 Getty Center Drive, Los Angeles, CA 90049 Website

This striking hilltop white travertine building houses permanent collections, special exhibits, and a magnificent garden as well as an excellent restaurant and casual cafe. Admission is free and there is a charge for parking. Check the website for visiting information.

Melting Pot Food Tours

Address: 8484 Wilshire Boulevard, #515, Beverly Hills, CA 90211 Website

Sampling and tasting along the way, guests learn about the various ethnic foods of Los Angeles neighborhoods including East L.A. Latin Flavors, Thai Town, and Little India. Visit the highlights of Old Pasadena or enjoy tapas and paella on La Espanola VIP Tour.

Griffith Park

Tobiah Lui/Travel + Leisure

Address : 4730 Crystal Springs Drive, Los Angeles, CA 90027 Website

Set in the Santa Monica Mountains on more than 4,210 acres, Griffith Park is one of the country's largest municipal parks. Activities include hiking, bicycling, camping, horseback riding, swimming, golf, picnicking, and tennis. The Greek Theater outdoor concert venue, Travel Town Museum, Griffith Observatory, and Los Angeles Zoo are part of Griffith Park.

Universal Studios Hollywood

Address: 100 Universal City Plaza, Universal City, CA 91608 Website

This theme park and studio includes rides, shows, attractions, and tours of sound stages and movie sets. Adjacent CityWalk offers shopping, restaurants, entertainment, theaters, and iFly, a vertical wind tunnel.

Ovation Hollywood

Address: 6801 Hollywood Boulevard, Hollywood, CA 90028 Website

The Hollywood Walk of Fame, Dolby Theater (home of the Academy Awards), restaurants, shops, entertainment, and views of the Hollywood Sign attract visitors to this famous corner. You'll probably encounter costumed characters from favorite films for Instagrammable selfies.

South Bay Beaches

Manhattan Beach, Hermosa Beach, Redondo Beach Website

White sand shores, cool breezes, and ocean waves welcome swimmers, surfers, and sunbathers to the beaches of the South Bay. Restaurants, outdoor cafes, shops, and fishing piers in each city attract visitors to the beaches during the day and, after sunset, to the nightlife in town.

Santa Monica Pier

Address: 200 Santa Monica Pier, Santa Monica, CA 90401 Website

A classic arcade, amusement park rides, shops, and dining venues line the pier, the official beginning of Route 66. Watch the sunset, visit the aquarium, fly on a trapeze, or just enjoy people watching on the always lively pier at the end of Colorado Boulevard.

Venice Beach

Venice Boulevard and Ocean Front Walk Website

Browse the kitschy shops or street vendors, watch skateboarders at Venice Skatepark or workouts at Muscle Beach Gym, stop for a bite to eat, or just stroll along the Strand to enjoy the unique atmosphere of Venice. A few blocks inland, take a walk along the canals, crossing quaint bridges, and ogling homes that range from tiny cottages to contemporary mansions.

Warner Bros. Studios

Address: 3400 Warner Boulevard, Burbank, CA 91505 Website

Visitors can explore a working studio, backlots, and sound stages on guided tours, including a special Classics Tour that focuses on the Golden Age of film and TV. Casual dining and souvenir shopping are available. Purchase tickets in advance of your visit on the studio website.

Descanso Gardens

Address: 1418 Descanso Drive, La Canada Flintridge, CA 91011 Website

Gardens include the Rose Garden, Japanese Garden, Camellia Collection, Oak Forest, Ancient Forest, and displays of native and edible plants. Ride the Enchanted Railroad through the gardens, stop at the gift shop, or enjoy a casual meal at Cafe Descanso.

NoHo Arts District

Address: Magnolia Boulevard at Lankershim Boulevard, North Hollywood, CA 91601

This small but thriving arts community boasts theaters, cafes, shops, live music, art galleries, dance studios, acting workshops, and a Saturday farmers' market. The Valley location is convenient to a Metro Red Line station, making it easy to visit and probably contributing to the ongoing development of the area.

Address: 7th Street and Figueroa, Los Angeles, CA Phone: (213) 955-7170 Website

Shops include Nordstrom Rack, H & M, Zara, Pink, Sunglass Hut, and MAC Cosmetics. Concerts, kids' activities, films, and special events add entertainment. A variety of casual eateries and free Wi-Fi are available.

Address: 700 South Flower Street, Los Angeles, CA 90017 Phone: (213) 454-4926 Website

Spanning a downtown city block, this center includes Macy's, Nordstrom Local, a 24-hour Fitness Center, and a variety of eateries. The Sheraton Grand Hotel is in the center, and the 7th Street Metro station is conveniently nearby.

DTLA Fashion District

Amanda Blackard/Travel + Leisure

This favorite area for bargain hunters and shopping fans includes the Flower Market, the largest in the United States, the Fabric District, Gallery Row, and Santee Alley's open air shops. The district is open to the public as well as the trade.

DTLA Jewelry District

Nearly 5,000 retail jewelry businesses feature diamonds, gold, silver, beads, watches, pearls, gemstones, and custom jewelry designers. Buyers paying wholesale prices can save about 50% compared to retail.

Citadel Outlets

Address: 100 Citadel Drive, Los Angeles, CA 90040 Phone: (323) 888-1724 Website

Everyone loves a bargain, and there are many to be found among the more than 130 designer and brand name stores at the outlet mall in the City of Commerce. Stores include Armani, Hugo Boss, Carters for Kids, Coach, Disney, Kate Spade, Oakley, and Vans.

Beverly Center

Address: 8500 Beverly Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA 90048 Phone: (310) 854-0070 Website

This pet-friendly center offers valet and self-parking in a newly renovated eight-story building. Designer shops, restaurants, specialty boutiques, and entertainment are featured in this popular shopping destination.

Westfield, Century City

Address: 10250 Santa Monica Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA 90067 Phone: (310) 277-3898 Website

Nordstrom, Macys, Bloomingdales, and a variety of specialty and designer stores along with Eataly, Din Tai Fung, and other eateries attract shoppers to this newly renovated mall. The walkways, furnishings, and inviting plazas make browsing a favorite activity.

Address: 189 The Grove Drive, Los Angeles, CA 90036 Phone: (323) 900-8080 Website

This stylish shopping center is renowned for its retailers that include Barneys New York, Apple, Crate & Barrel, Shinola, and more, along with dining and a 14-screen art deco movie theater. Fountains, an exclusive concierge service, and concerts attract visitors as well as shoppers.

Address: 6801 Hollywood Boulevard, Hollywood, CA 90028 Phone: (323) 817-0200 Website

Restaurants, shops, entertainment in the midst of Hollywood glamour describe Ovation Hollywood. Stores include Skechers, Forever 21, Victoria's Secret, Hot Topic, and more. A variety of restaurants, cafes, and dessert spots are available.

Universal City

Address: (818) 622-9841 Website

Adjoining Universal Studios theme park, this two block stretch of shops, restaurants, souvenirs, and entertainment is a popular date-night and family-friendly destination. Live music, dancing, and movie theaters are part of the fun.

Del Amo Fashion Center

Address: 3525 West Carson Street, Torrance, CA 90503 Phone: (310) 542-8525 Website

This three-level luxury mall in Torrance includes a new Nordstrom, Macys, Anthropologie, AMC movie theater, and dining at Lazy Dog Restaurant & Bar, P.F. Changs, Lemonade, Pink's Hot Dogs, and many more. Natural lighting and open areas make shopping there a pleasure.

Santa Monica Place

Christian Hundley/Travel + Leisure

Address: 395 Santa Monica Place, Santa Monica, CA 90401 Phone: (310) 260-8333 Website

Bloomingdales, Nordstrom, Disney Store, Coach, Free People, and a host of popular retailers attract shoppers to Santa Monica Place. There's dining, concierge service, and a children's museum.

Westfield Topanga & The Village

Address: 6600 Topanga Canyon Boulevard, Woodland Hills, CA 91303 Phone: (818) 594-8732 Website

Located in the Canoga Park area of the San Fernando Valley, the indoor Westfield mall and outdoor Village include luxury stores, boutiques, spa, salons, and a Costco warehouse. Visitors can dine at The Cheesecake Factory, Il Fornaio, Larsen's Steakhouse, and more.

Sherman Oaks Galleria

Address: 15301 Ventura Boulevard, Sherman Oaks, CA 91430 Phone: (818) 382-4100 Website

This open-air business and lifestyle center includes office space as well as retail and entertainment space. The mall has been a shooting location for several films including "Fast Times at Ridgemont High" and "Valley Girl."

Within each major section of Los Angeles are neighborhoods with their own character, style, and dynamics. We describe several here, and with the ever changing nature of the city, you're likely to discover other interesting communities as you explore Los Angeles.

• The Arts District, formerly an industrial area, is becoming home to galleries, studios, media companies, and hip dining spots.
• Chinatown is the place for a variety of restaurants, shops, herbal stores, antiques, and bustling alleys.
• The Fashion District is the center of the apparel industry, with wholesalers, designers, retailers, and bargain shopping.
• Olvera Street at Historic El Pueblo is the birthplace of Los Angeles where visitors finde Mexican food, crafts, music, and cultural events.
• Brentwood/Bel Air - upscale homes, UCLA, shops, restaurants, and Getty Center on a hilltop overlooking the area.
• Beverly Hills is the place for designer shops on Rodeo Drive, top restaurants, and elegant homes.
• Century City's high-rise buildings and Westfield Mall define the neighborhood once dominated by 20th Century Fox Studios.
• Culver City's restaurants, galleries, and Sony Picture Studios make this eclectic neighborhood worth a visit.

Hollywood/West Hollywood

• Hollywood & Vine, the Hollywood Walk of Fame sidewalk stars, Hollywood & Highland complex, Hollywood Bowl, and Chinese Theater define its role in show business.
• West Hollywood's Design District, Pacific Design Center, restaurants, walkable streets, and Sunset Strip nightlife make it a must-visit neighborhood.
• Los Feliz is a blend of hip and historic, with Frank Lloyd Wright homes and eclectic eateries.
• Silver Lake's trendy cafes, street art, music venues, architecture, and walking trails add to the appeal of this residential neighborhood.
• The South Bay area includes Manhattan Beach, Hermosa Beach, and Redondo Beach, all with white sand beaches, shops, restaurants, nightlife, and a relaxed vibe.
• Santa Monica's amusement park on the pier, its walkable streets, stores, restaurants, and hotels make it a popular destination.
• Malibu is known for its exclusive beaches, opulent homes, celebrity sightings, and ocean views as well as its hiking trails and canyons.
• San Pedro offers an aquarium, fresh seafood at waterfront restaurants, the Battleship USS Iowa, and Ports o' Call Village for shopping and browsing.
• North Hollywood (NoHo) is not in Hollywood, but the north end of the Valley, with entertainment, restaurants, and the Great Wall of Los Angeles art mural.
• Studio City is known for movie studios, including CBS Studios, NBC, and Warner Brothers.
• Ventura Boulevard boasts trendy restaurants, boutiques, and vintage shops.
• For hiking and outdoor activities, there's Wilacre Park and Fryman Canyon Park.

Los Angeles weather — temperature, cloud cover, humidity — varies significantly over the large area of the city. Coastal areas are generally cooler, and mornings are often cloudy with clearing by early afternoon, mainly a feature of early summer weather. The valley and inland areas are warm and dry, often as much as twenty degrees warmer than the coast. Most of the annual rainfall occurs in winter.

The following are average Fahrenheit lows and highs by month.

January 46 - 67 February 48 - 69 March 49 - 69 April 51 - 72 May 55 - 74 June 59 - 78 July 62 - 84 August 64 - 85 September 62 - 83 October 57 - 79 November 51 - 72 December 46 - 68

Discover Los Angeles app : Provides information on daily events, accommodations by neighborhood, film locations, and free Wi-Fi locations.

Google Maps : Useful for navigating, directions, and trip planning.

Uber & Lyft : Let someone else do the driving.

Open Table and Resy : Provide restaurant reviews, locations, cuisine, and reservations.

Transit : The official Metro Los Angeles app helps plan your trip with options that include public transportation, bikeshare, scooter, and rideshare.

Universal Studios Hollywood Mobile app : Navigate the park and CityWalk with interactive maps, wait times, show times, and more.

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Throughout your journey, your LANDED travel designer will clear your path and be there for you at every turn.

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La-La Land for less: visiting Los Angeles on a budget

Feb 21, 2024 • 8 min read

Pack your own food and drink and make it a beach day – always a budget-friendly delight in LA © halbergman / Getty Images

Sunny, glitzy  Los Angeles isn’t known as the most budget-friendly travel destination.

Yet with some careful planning, you can find a more economical side to this glamorous town, and get a taste for the magic that defines this world-famous place – for less. With endless options all over LA, there truly is something for everyone and every budget – as long as you know where to look.

From skipping the guided studio tours for a seat in a live studio audience to heading to West Hollywood for happy hour and experiencing the city’s diverse culinary scene through its many food trucks, LA on a budget is not only possible, it’s lots of fun, too.

Here’s our inside tips and tricks to help you save money on your next trip to LA.

Daily Costs

• Hostel room: $20–60 per night
• Basic room for two: $80–290 per night
• Self-catering apartment (including Airbnb): $70–250+ per night
• Public transport ticket: $1.75 (capped at $5 per day and $18 per week)
• Coffee: $3–6 Sandwich: $8–18
• Dinner for two: $50–80+
• Beer/pint at a bar: $6–12
• Average Daily Cost (three meals, accommodation and a small budget for activities) : $260–300+ per day

LAX isn’t the only airport in LA, but it’s likely to be the cheapest

In 2023, Airports Council International  ranked Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) as the sixth-busiest airport in the world. And while the crowds may tempt you to avoid LAX at all costs (I don’t blame you), this heavy traffic is great news for those on a budget. With approximately 700 flights per day, you can find great deals to and from the hub at any time of the year, especially on low-cost carriers.

If you’re staying outside of the city, however, it’s worth seeing if other airports like Burbank and Long Beach are better suited to your destination. The transport costs between LAX and outlying areas could outweigh any money you'd save.

Take free hotel shuttles to get out of LAX

There’s no sugar-coating it: getting out of LAX is painful. After a flight, the last thing you want to do is lug your bags onto a packed communal rideshare zone bus before waiting –  sometimes for up to an hour – for a driver that charges triple the standard price.

If you’re staying relatively close to the airport, check to see if your hotel offers a shuttle service. Not only will the free transport save you a few dollars, it’s the most efficient way to get out, aside from a family member or friend picking you up.

Note that LA’s Metro is planning to open its long-planned expansion to LAX in late 2024. As you plan your trip, consider if mass transit could suit your travel needs.

Capitalize on LA’s love of happy hours

Just because you’re on a budget doesn’t mean you can’t try some of the best and highly raved-about eateries and bars in LA . This all-hours town is known for its love of happy hours, and spots all around the city offer great daily deals.

Some must-try local favorites include Mother Tongue in Hollywood, Gracias Madre in West Hollywood (a great all-vegan spot), The Waterfront in Venice and Everson Royce Bar in DTLA ’s Arts District (get the ERB burger and the $6 mystery shot).

Visit during shoulder seasons

Summer and winter holidays are considered peak seasons in LA, with prices to match. But things tend to settle down in the weeks following Labor Day, making this shoulder season an optimal time to visit. The weather is still pleasant and warm (this is LA, after all), only with fewer crowds and lower prices.

September to early November isn’t a popular travel time, since kids are back in school and it’s just before the peak holiday season. Do note the window for great deals is small, with prices again spiking mid-November ahead of Thanksgiving and staying consistent until after the New Year.

LA is a haven for nature lovers, so go explore

LA County is home to approximately 100 beaches , which are all free. With great weather most of the year, a day at the beach is a wonderful way to avoid unnecessary spending when visiting LA. Bring your own food and drinks and make a day of it.

Beyond sitting on the sand and wading in the water, seaside areas like Santa Monica , Venice, Malibu and Manhattan Beach all have great places to explore just steps from the promenade.

You might be surprised that famously populous LA is home to over 60 hiking trails . Step off the beaten path to check out some of the city’s best sights like the Hollywood Sign and Griffith Observatory on foot.

If you’re from California, bring your library card

If you’re a California resident visiting LA, you’re eligible to  get an LA County Library card – and the perks are much more than just checking out books. Thanks to the Discover & Go program , cardholders can get free and low-cost passes to museums, science centers, zoos, theaters, instrument and hiking gear rentals – even free beach parking. This is an easy and great way for Californians to save some money during their LA visit.

Dine at food trucks and farmers markets

Sure, LA has some of the best celebrity-loved eateries in the country, like Rihanna’s favorite,  Giorgio Baldi in Santa Monica. But if you’re trying to keep your spending in line, food trucks and farmers markets offer a great choice. These no-fuss, budget-friendly options allow you to experience the city’s diverse culinary scene and famous Californian produce while soaking in the vibrant street-food atmosphere.

If you’re looking for some of the best al pastor tacos in the city, pay a visit to Leo’s Taco Truck in Mid City. For a taste of the south, you can’t pass up Dulan’s Soul Food Kitchen in Inglewood (get the Nashville hot fried chicken). And sweet-treat enthusiasts will love artisan donut tuck Hustle N Dough .

Choose public transport over car rentals

Transit users from, say, Chicago and New York City  might find LA’s public-transport lacking. Yet with a bit of planning, it’s a great option for those on a budget. While cars are still king here, once you add in fuel prices and parking costs, they’re far from the most economical transport option.

The LA Metro consists of buses, which cover a wide range of routes, and the Metro Rail, which connects key areas of the city like downtown, Hollywood and Santa Monica. A loadable TAP card is used on both buses and the subway at a very affordable $1.75 per ride. And if you’re taking multiple trips, the city recently introduced caps of $5 per day and $18 for every seven days: once you hit those numbers, the rest of the rides are free. But do plan ahead, as some attractions and popular areas have little to no public-transport options.

Skip the guided tours

Guided tours are great for expert knowledge and in-depth information, yet if you’re on a budget, consider skipping them. Exploring on your own offers added freedom, flexibility and a personalized experience. If you’re a traveler who loves uncovering hidden gems and being able to make spontaneous detours, individual exploration is for you. Even if you prefer something more structured, going online and researching the area before visiting will still allow you to feel like you’re exploring with a plan.

Don’t stay in pricey areas like Beverly Hills and Malibu

Accommodation will take up a big chunk of any travel budget. In LA, you can save money by avoiding fabled areas like Beverly Hills and Malibu, favoring instead districts like Koreatown (located between Hollywood and Downtown), which offer a mix of budget-friendly hotels, hostels and guesthouses within a vibrant neighborhood. Hollywood, Silver Lake, Culver City and the outskirts of West Hollywood are other great options that will still leave you within reach of iconic areas and attractions.

Discount passes can help you save big

Discount passes are a smart and cost-effective way to explore multiple attractions, activities and experiences, allowing you to save money on the sum of individual admission fees. Los Angeles offers a range of passes that cater to different interests, including the Go Los Angeles Card  and the Southern California CityPASS .

Passes also help with planning and deciding which attractions are most suitable for you and your family. Between flexibility, convenience and value, they’re a great way to maximize your budget while seeing the city’s most famous sights.

Attend a TV-show taping

In the global capital of entertainment, attending a TV-show taping is a unique experience that’s completely free. Many popular shows are filmed in studios throughout the city, and being part of the audience will give you a fascinating behind-the-scenes look into how the magic gets made. If the production is taping just one episode, you can expect to spend a half-day in the studio. But many shows – especially game shows like Jeopardy  – will film several episodes back to back, keeping audiences around for a full day (and sometimes even providing a mid-taping meal). Planning is key as dates and spots book out well in advance; count on securing your tickets well before your trip.

Plan your itinerary beforehand

If there’s one thing you should take away from our tips, it’s to plan your itinerary efficiently, for LA’s sprawl and transit headaches often give first-time visitors a shock. Between the vast area and heavy traffic – particularly during peak hours – planning out your trip is a must. Start by determining the non-negotiable sites you’d like to visit and group them into areas. From there, sprinkle in other activities and explore by neighborhood.

More of our expert guidance to budget your trip to Los Angeles:

No pay LA: save these 7 free things to do in LA Wondering if Los Angeles is right for kids? Here’s our advice for families Ready to hit the beach? Here are our 9 favorites It’s not all city - these 8 hikes will show you LA’s natural beauty

This article was first published Sep 17, 2023 and updated Feb 21, 2024.

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La Costa Travel Design alleviates the stress of luxury travel planning to destinations in Florida and beyond. We will provide you with a new and exciting ways to enhance your time away with all inclusive, personalized packages. 

Our goal is to design a custom experience offering exclusive opportunities to create everlasting memories for you and yours. Our team will effortlessly guide you to help us design exactly what you wish and execute it seamlessly.  

Our purpose is providing an elite level of customer service, dedicated to creating bespoke memories.  La Costa partners with hospitality and a myriad of partners to deliver a curated itinerary to fulfill your vision. 

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Working with our designers provides you with a comprehensive stress free planning environment. Our vendor partnerships ensure that at every level the La Costa Experience will allow you to enjoy the moments of relaxation, and the exciting memories. We have handcrafted itineraries for many of Florida's travel destinations and enthralling settings. Learn more about the planning process by reaching out to one of our designers today, and we can begin to craft your next luxury Florida Vacation. 

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You deserve the best for your next family getaway. Our travel planning service offers a personalized and stress-free experience for families looking to create unforgettable memories all along Florida's Coast. From private villa rentals in Naples to customized itineraries in Sarasota and unique activities in Miami, we offer exclusive access to destinations and accommodations that cater to your family's needs and preferences.

Our team of experts takes care of all the details, from arranging transportation to finding the best dining options and activities for your family. With our exceptional service and attention to detail, we ensure that your family getaway is not only enjoyable but unforgettable. Let us help you create the perfect family vacation in Florida, from the sunny beaches of Tampa to the vibrant nightlife of Miami. Book with us and experience a family getaway like no other.

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Gabriela Salazar Unleashes the Transformative Power of the Garden in Her Native Mexico

Through La Musa de las Flores, the floral designer follows a path of enlightenment to an open-air studio where students can find their own voice in floristry.

Every item on this page was chosen by a Veranda editor. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy.

“Flowers are the instruments of inspiration. I am just giving a voice to their secrets,” says Mexican grower and floral designer Gabriela Salazar, who credits nature’s alchemy for a career U-turn that began in the United Kingdom. She was studying architectural interiors in London when she gifted herself an arranging class for her birthday.

Soon after, a friend asked her to create a weekly floral display for her bookshop, a gig that blossomed into not just a growing list of local clients but also a fascination with how plants can impact a room (and the people within it). “I believe flowers guided me into the direction of who I am,” says Salazar, who returned home to Mexico to make floristry—rather than interior design—her livelihood.

But the flower markets she encountered in Mexico City leaned into imported stems like gladiolas and tuberoses and lacked the locally grown, romantic blooms like English roses and sweet peas that had inspired her in London. “If I wanted to design in a way that resonated with my creativity, I realized I needed to grow my own,” she says.

Salazar rented a small countryside home used as a warehouse in the rural mountain village of Valle de Bravo and planted her first garden in its vacant backyard. “I had no relationship with the growing process or the soil,” she admits, adding that the first year’s crop of delicate peonies and tulips withered in the tropical climate. By contrast, Salazar notes, wild Dahlia imperialises were thriving in the surrounding forest, where the florist stumbled upon her muses.

And she, in turn, shares those lessons. In addition to her book, The Artistry of Flowers , which debuted spring, Salazar welcomes enthusiasts and fellow entrepreneurs alike into her garden for intensive workshops. She teaches skills like blending color and texture in centerpieces and shares principles close to her heart, like why florists must understand how their flowers are grown and how to weave intuitive and sustainable practices into wedding design.

The Artistry of Flowers: Floral Design by La Musa de las Flores

Living in her garden year-round, she also urges florists to appreciate the beauty of a plant’s full life cycle. “When you allow for nature’s imperfections to be a part of your designs, the door to creativity opens,” she says. Above all, Salazar leaves enough room for students to nurture their relationships with the plants. “At the end of the day, it’s about finding your own voice with flowers,” she says.

Featured in our March/April 2023; Photography by Ana Laframboise ; Produced by Rachael Burrow; Written by Grace Haynes.

Grace Haynes is the senior home & garden editor at VERANDA, where she the leads the brand’s World’s Most Beautiful Shops and World’s Most Beautiful Gardens franchises. She covers everything from design and decorative arts to gardens and entertaining, writing and developing stories that bring the places we call home to life. 

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Peacocking through the centuries: How menswear in this season’s series gets the sartorial showcase

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Apple TV+ continues to build its library of historical dramas, adding the 18th century-set “ Franklin ” and conspiracy thriller “ Manhunt ” to its spring offerings. With stories occurring nearly 100 years apart, the two titles share an affinity for power dressing. On Starz, “Mary & George” underscores how alluring clothing can help woo a Jacobean king, and Paramount+ With Showtime keeps up the sartorial flourishes with the 30-plus-year-spanning “ A Gentleman in Moscow, ” which opens in 1920s Russia.

Corsets and gorgeous gowns have long dominated the period costume design conversation. But in 2024, turning back the clock showcases how menswear is pulling focus. Here, costume designers Annie Symons (“Mary & George”), Olivier Bériot (“Franklin”), Katie Irish (“ Manhunt ”) and Sam Perry (“A Gentleman in Moscow”) discuss attention-grabbing masculine attire across four separate centuries.

Rather than pushing her daughter toward a wealthy suitor, Mary Villiers (Julianne Moore) wields her son, George (Nicholas Galitzine), like a dazzling weapon to get close to King James I (Tony Curran). First, Mary sends an unrefined George, wearing drab brown, to France in 1612 to learn how to be a gentleman. “When George comes back, he’s haute fashion, beyond fashion. All the other boys are wearing a mishmash of Elizabethan or early Jacobean,” says Symons.

A seductive dance in a see-through embroidered shirt, crimson ruff and gold leather belt allows George to beguile the king. Director Oliver Hermanus “was very keen that we see the masculine form, particularly through these fine fabrics, and there is a great sensuality about that,” adds Symons. “It’s suggestive, not explicit, and I think these fabrics are very beautiful and move well.” King James’ penchant for attractive men and jewels was not a secret, with George welcoming such symbols of “power, money, swag” as lace and pearls. “A single pearl [earring] is synonymous with the age. I think it was a good look. I know Nick rather likes it, and Tony rather likes it, and according to TikTok, they’ve all gone bonkers for it.”

George Villiers is far from alone in getting a wardrobe upgrade in France. Skip to 1776, when 17-year-old Temple Franklin (Noah Jupe) travels with his grandfather, Benjamin Franklin (Michael Douglas), to Paris to secure support against the British. In an act of adolescent rebellion, Temple follows the French aristocratic trends favored by his new friends, like soon-to-be war hero Lafayette (Théodore Pellerin). “Temple embraced the chic of these guys. We buy this fabric, which is a silk with the design in it — very rich type of silk from Lyon — to show how he tried to look different from his grandfather,” Bériot says.

Bériot presented veteran TV director Tim Van Patten with mood boards featuring paintings from the eight years the Franklins spent in France, alongside an image from a contemporary collection. “For the grandson, I looked at a big fashion brand like Balmain for H&M, and I do a parallel between a painting of that period and this look to give a feeling of today,” Bériot says. Although Temple’s closet gets an overhaul, green is an anchoring shade as it matches the only color painting of the young man.

In what’s referred to as the “Pretty Woman” scene, Temple undergoes a classic teen makeover in the first episode. “I push each character a little bit to be more fun because I think it’s a fun moment in the story, and it was fun to do,” Bériot notes. Think gender fluidity is a modern phenomenon? Not so, Symons says. “Jacobean style as menswear was becoming feminized in many ways,” but French fashion in the 1770s turned the gender fluidity dial further.

Unlike George and Temple, actor and assassin John Wilkes Booth (Anthony Boyle) eschews color in “Manhunt.” Set in the lead-up to and aftermath of President Lincoln’s assassination, Booth favors statement pieces such as a black felt slouch hat. “I think it shows Booth’s flair because it’s so different from the everyday kind of hats that we see that he stands out in a crowd,” Irish says. Other affectations such as Booth’s cravat pin, pinkie ring and monogrammed leather boots add to his carefully curated image.

As with “Manhunt,” Count Alexander Ilyich Rostov (Ewan McGregor) in “A Gentleman in Moscow” wears a monogrammed signet ring as part of his style identity. “I’ve had people look at me like I’m crazy when I say that I love menswear because it seems like such a staid and rigid set of rules,” Irish says. “But there are so many little choices within them that you can personalize it that way.”

The 2024 award season showed an uptick in brooches and lapel pins worn by men, harking to the 19th century. “One of the things about this specific period of Victorian menswear is it is a ‘more is more’ period when men had tons of jewelry available to them if you could afford it,” Irish adds.

Look closely at “Manhunt”: Wolf imagery appears in Secretary of War Edwin Stanton’s ( Tobias Menzies ) accessories. Lincoln nicknamed Stanton “Mars,” and the animal associated with the Roman god of war was the wolf. “We made some custom buttons that had wolves on them based on some we had found in research,” Irish says. “My props master came through and had the most beautiful watch fob with the head of a wolf on it. ” Intricately embroidered custom waistcoats signify wealth, highlighting Stanton’s mood and allegiance through shades of blue: “There is a bit of a peacock aspect just in being very proud of what he and Lincoln have accomplished.”

Leadership values change, but being placed under permanent house arrest by the Bolsheviks at the luxury Hotel Metropol in “A Gentleman in Moscow” doesn’t stop Alexander from dressing the aristocratic part. “We started with him being more peacocky, so full of himself and a big contrast to what was going on in the rest of Russia,” Perry says. “We had the most matching socks and handkerchiefs — all the details.”

Given that Alexander no longer has the option (or finances) to venture to London or Paris, it helps that the count’s footwear is of excellent quality. “Dressing up with your shoes became redundant after he’d been there for a while, but they were well-made, good things, and he wouldn’t throw them away,” Perry notes.

Alexander’s romance with movie star Anna Urbanova (Mary Elizabeth Winstead) gives the former count a run for his sartorial money. “They’re both at their most peacocky and glamorous when they fall in love, and they grow together as a couple,” the costume designer adds. “I thought that was lovely to do with knitwear and a softening of fabrics — using different flannels toward the 1940s and ’50s.” Priorities evolve, jacket lengths rise and fall and formalwear is seen less frequently, but attention to detail remains.

Undoubtedly, playful menswear that doesn’t recede into the background is in vogue on TV and the red carpet. “It goes in and out of fashion throughout the decades or centuries,” says Symons. “I think it’s having another renaissance.”

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