Leena & Anthony
Leena & Anthony
LA To-Dos/Info
IMPORTANT TRAVEL INFORMATION: All the many rumors regarding "LA traffic" is not an understatment! We travel here according to minutes not miles. So while something may look close on a map, it may take hours to travel to in traffic. So please be mindful of this when you plan your accommodations and adventures during your time here in Southern California. When in doubt please do not hesitate to reach out to Anthony or Leena to plan your trips!
There’s so much to see and do in LA! We’ve highlighted some of our favorite spots, but even after 10 years, we’re still discovering new hidden gems. This page will offer a few tips to help you navigate each area and make the most of your time here.
Hollywood
Hollywood Walk of Fame- if we're keeping it real this can be a bit underwhelming. We suggest seeing it from the Chinese Theatre area if you do go! You can also take a quick tour of the area where the famous Oscars are held.
Hollywood Sign- unless you plan to take a hike to the sign we recommend Griffith Observatory for your best view of the sign! You get STUNNING views of LA on a clear day, and it is free to enter the observatory which has some amazing things to see for my fellow science and space friends! Parking is $20 for the day if you plan to drive.
Where to hangout!- Beauty and Essex, Highlight room
Yamashiro- Hollywood
A hilltop mansion complete with a 300-seat Asian-inspired restaurant, bar, screening rooms and tiered ornamental gardens, waterfalls and pools at its centre. Would highly recommend booking a time around sunset, walk the grounds with a drink and then enjoy some great food once the sun sets! Sushi boat is to die for!
Santa Monica/Malibu
Things to do/ consider for Santa Monica-
Santa Monica Pier- very crowded but worth seeing if you've never been because it is beautiful, especially sunset time. Plenty of places to eat or grab a quick drink there along and around Ocean Blvd or you can walk up to 3rd Street Promenade or just go for a beautiful stroll!
*SWEET MAPLE- Breakfast/Brunch- I found this place in San Fran that finally opened here in LA. Its open from 8-2:30PM and the food, drinks, gourmet lattes are INCREDIBLE.
*Other places we like- 1212, Chez Jay, Lobster (beautiful views), Penthouse (for the views and a drink), Fairmount Hotel
*High Lounge- I love this rooftop in Venice! The most beautiful views and grab a quick cocktail or mocktail.
Things to do/ consider for Malibu- The Fires have significantly affected this area and the roadways to here are sometimes closed. Please do a little research prior to visiting to see if is is accessible to the public.
DTLA- Home Sweet Home
We are a little partial to DTLA because its home! Heres the places we thing are worth mentioning!
Bottega Louie (DTLA not WEHO)- It’s famous for its colorful macarons, beautifully crafted pastries, and a menu packed with tasty dishes like pizzas, pastas, and brunch favorites. You will leave with a box of these Patisseries!
Biltmore Hotel- for my True Life people, this is the last known place where the Black Dhalia was seen alive.
Kazzan Ramen- The beef suakki is probably one of the best that we've ever tasted!
71 Above- get a stunning 3 course meal with massive views of LA
Spire 73- The Highest open bar in the Western Hemisphere which gives you an amazing view of LA all the way to the LBC!
Other Notable Rooftops in DTLA- Perch, Freehand
Little Tokyo and Arts District are great places to visits with local breweries and a scene thats a bit more relaxed and has a lot of culture.
The Huntington Library, Art Museum and Botanical Gardens
Easily one of our favorite places! We take everyone here when they come to visit and it does not disappoint! While a botanical garden seems basic, this place is anything but! It has 12 themed gardens. One of them make you feel like you've literally transported to Japan for example and its a wonderful way to spend the day!