LA: City of Angels and The Luxury of Southern California

‘Los Angeles’ literally translates to city of angels. And you will see the angels. They walk up and down the streets of Beverly Hills or lie on the beach in Malibu. They dance at the clubs after the beautiful Los Angeles sunset has unfurled in the sky. You can enjoy a spectacular night out in Los Angeles and just might see a few stars. Beyond the glitz and glamour, Los Angeles is a remarkable city, from the calm and chic vibe of the west side to the organic hipster paradise in Los Feliz, miles of beaches, and a quickly revitalizing downtown. Los Angeles is a city on the up. And the sky is the limit. There is something for everyone in the latest reincarnation of this always-changing city.

Malibu beaches on the Pacific coast.

Malibu is the place to pull up a lounger and pay tribute to the sun and all the other worshippers. Unlike the vast sands of Zuma, the beach at Paradise Cove feels private and small. Like a little slice of the Mediterranean in Malibu, complete with chairs and staff courtesy of the Paradise Cove Café. Check out their sharable plates, the perfect compliment to a day of horizontal activity. After the beauty of Malibu, check out the fascinating freak-watching at Venice Beach.

Villas by the beach in Los Angeles 

This city of diversity is also an incredible melting pot of food options. Go to Andre Jose’s famous Bazaar restaurant for uber-contemporary tasty tapas. The name hints at the pan-fusion cuisine, which comes together artfully in each small tasting plate. If you are looking for fine dining, make a reservation at Melisse. This two-Michelin-starred restaurant offers elevated seasonal French cuisine taken to entirely new ethereal heights.

The palm-lined streets of Los Angeles

High-end shopping on Rodeo Drive is now bordering on a cliché, but don’t forget to explore the streets around the famous drive. Melrose Avenue offers a hip alternative for additional window shopping. After all that effort, make your purchases for an unforgettable night out. Los Angeles has one of the best nightclub scenes in the world.

For those inclined towards more cultural pursuits, LA is filled with modern art museums and hidden galleries. The Getty Center Museum is an architectural masterpiece overlooking the city. Whether or not you are into music, the L.A. Philharmonic can’t be missed. Don’t forget to explore the Disney Concert Hall for the otherworldly sight of metal enigma for modern and contemporary art.

The world-famous Hollywood sign

So you want to act the local in the Hollywood Hills, why not get around like one? Luxury transportation is readily available whether you want to travel by land, sea, or air. Rent your car from Imagine Lifestyles, and zip in and out of freeway traffic like a true Angelino. For a more leisurely pace, head across town to where Captain Alex runs sunset cruises from the Ritz-Carlton Marina del Rey at Paradise Bound Yacht Charters.

Feel the wind on your face and relax in the Pacific waves. Try a private gondola tour of the Venice canals with Gondolas Amore for an even more romantic evening. Finally, if you want to explore natural treats, Blue Star Jets of Beverly Hills runs round-trip private air transportation between L.A., Las Vegas, and San Francisco, allowing you to see the whole West Coast in luxury and style.

The Los Angeles skyline in the orange glow of the sunset

Los Angeles is a surprisingly great place for more adventurous types as well. Mountain biking trails in the Santa Monica Mountains or Griffith Park cater to all skill levels. One should also go for ski & surf if they are in L.A. You can ski in the morning and then catch a sunset break on the same day.

Nothing is like a good spa after a long day on the slopes and waves (or shops). One of the best is Spa Montage, a sprawling 20,000 square feet of luxurious Moorish-themed space with earth-coloured tones, mosaic tiles, and grand arches. The Subterranean gives an exquisite feel with 17 intimate treatment rooms and a sky-lit mineral pool where couples can plunge and lounge.

Exploring Angeles National Forest

Just a short drive from the bustling city streets, the Angeles National Forest offers an escape into nature with its spectacular mountainous landscapes and several recreational activities. Ideal for hiking, camping, and wildlife watching, this vast forest serves as a breath of fresh air for residents and visitors seeking a break from urban life. Whether for a day of picnicking or a challenging trek, the forest’s natural beauty provides a perfect backdrop for outdoor adventures.

 

Rejuvenation at Wi Spa

Wi Spa is a traditional Korean spa in the heart of Koreatown, Jimjilbang. It stands out due to its cultural authenticity and extensive range of services. Reflecting the popularity of spa culture in South Korea, where nearly $1.5 billion is spent annually, Wi Spa promises an experience that might exceed your usual expectations of a spa.

The spa also features multiple saunas, a relaxing sleeping room with soft leather recliners, and a complete gym. Guests are provided with comfortable Wi Spa-branded shorts and t-shirts, ensuring comfort and a lifelong memory spa experience.

Marvin Braude Bike Trail (The Strand)

The Strand is an excellent path along the coast that's mostly flat and easy for your legs. It stretches 22 miles each way, which you can easily cover daily. Riding along, you'll feel the refreshing breeze from the Pacific Ocean, making it a delightful trip with stunning sights. As you pedal, you'll come across Dockweiler Beach in Vista del Mar, famous for its hang gliders, and Manhattan Beach, where you can sit back and watch surfers catch waves. You can start and finish your ride at Santa Monica Pier, which is worth a visit. Afterward, you can treat yourself to a delicious meal at one of the many Santa Monica seafood restaurants.

Los Angeles cityscape at night

Now you know why LA is called the City of Angeles - a bewildering city of mystery, glitz, and glamour. The sun will always shine, the stars will always be dancing, and the city will always bustle and change. Experience LA, California, like a Hollywood star by staying at one of our Los Angeles villas.