While the weather in Yardley screams for hot cocoa and fuzzy socks, the gentle breeze Los Angeles had to offer last week is all I can think about.
As I mentioned in my last blog, last week the team headed west to celebrate the 16th annual GT Tested Reader Survey awards in sunny California. This year, my birthday landed two days before our event; the timing couldn’t have been better, as I promised myself I would not spend my birthday bundling up for the cold.
I decided to arrive a few days earlier than the rest of the team for some sightseeing and exploring. My boyfriend and I arrived early on Saturday afternoon and made our way to Thrifty Rent a Car to pick up our rental. While our experience there was horrendous — we waited more than 2.5 hours and had to settle for a different vehicle or else the wait would have been longer — the rest of the trip was lovely!
We finally got to our Airbnb (a chic studio loft Downtown) around 5 p.m. and decided to settle in and go for an evening stroll before we committed to anything. Luckily, the Airbnb had a gorgeous rooftop and we settled in, grabbed some food and enjoyed the city lights on our first night.
The following day we woke up bright and early, ready to make the best of the day in spite of the rain. We ventured to the Institute of Contemporary Art in the morning, took in the amazing views from the Santa Monica Pier and ate delicious food from Lala’s Grill.
Besides it being my birthday, Monday was my absolute favorite day of this trip. We strolled the Walk of Fame, came across the Jumanji premiere set-up process and then went on a three-hour hike in the Hollywood Hills. I have seen a lot of pictures of the Hollywood sign and the views from it, but the view from above is just breathtaking. We hiked with a couple from Portugal who was part of the excursion we found through Airbnb; we shared experiences, laughed and saw a gorgeous sunset together.
Besides the hike, we celebrated the beginning of my 27th trip around the sun with a delicious dinner at Broken Spanish LA. I loved how elevated the dishes I grew up with were presented; with that being said, I had never tasted a rice pudding like the one they have to offer. It was some sort of religious experience!
On Tuesday we made our way to Beverly Hills to meet the team at the stunning The Peninsula Beverly Hills. Some of us grabbed a quick bite and walked around Rodeo Drive before a team dinner. During the latter, I was pleasantly surprised with personalized menus and a great dessert for my birthday.
We wrapped up the trip with an amazing event on The Peninsula’s rooftop Wednesday night. It was great to see our clients and friends in the industry and to celebrate this year’s winners.
— Yasser Ogando, production & advertising coordinator
Read This Next
Introducing
FX Excursions
FX Excursions offers the chance for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in destinations around the world.
#globility
Insta FeedDaily
Nov 4, 2024Have an Autumn Wine Soiree The SLO Way in San Luis Obispo
Yes, it’s harvest time — and that means great fall wine festivals, including the third annual Autumn Soirée The SLO Way Nov. 9 on California’s Central Coast. The event will be held from 5 to 8 p.m. in the Garden Courtyard at luxury boutique Hotel San Luis Obispo, recognized as a MICHELIN Guide One Key property.
Sponsored Content
Royal Air Maroc Relaunches Direct Casablanca–Beijing Route, Debuts Toronto Flight
As part of its international network expansion, Royal Air Maroc will reinstate the direct Casablanca–Beijing route initially launched in January 2020 and suspended just a few weeks later due to the health crisis.
Daily
Nov 4, 20247 Hotel Restaurants Worth the Travel
Book a reservation at one of these hotel restaurants around the country, providing excellent dining experiences you won’t soon forget.
Slideshow
Nov 4, 20247 Reasons to Put Strasbourg, France, on Your Travel List
It’s time to start dreaming of your next trip. Here’s some destination inspiration for you. Take a visual journey through Strasbourg, France, with us.
Sponsored Content
Explore Egypt on the Most Extraordinary Tour Ever
Picture this: You’re standing in front of the Great Pyramid, the last of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, in complete silence, with no crowds in sight. As you step inside, your guide leads you to hidden chambers inaccessible to other tourists. Here, you’re granted a rare chance to delve into the deepest mysteries of ancient Egypt.
Daily
Nov 4, 20248 Must-Have (and Must-Pack) Perfumes for 2025
Still on the search for your next favorite perfume? Whether traveling, heading out to a fancy dinner or simply spending the day at home, finding the scent that works for you and lasts for hours is essential. These are our eight perfume recommendations for 2025:
Embark on Chile’s Lakes & Volcanoes Route
Daily
Nov 1, 2024Make The Londoner Hotel Your West End Base
Daily
Oct 31, 2024Daily
Oct 31, 2024Denver International Airport Completes Concourse Expansion
The expansion and renovation of Concourse A-East Ground Load at Denver International Airport was recently completed as the final phase of a $2.5 billion program to accommodate passenger growth as DEN is currently the third-busiest U.S. airport. The renovation was led by WSP.
Sponsored Content
Experience Next-Level Travel with Condor Airlines’ New A330neo Fleet
Condor Airlines completely renewed its long-haul fleet, featuring its new Airbus A330neo. Designed to elevate your travel experience, the A330neo is equipped with cutting-edge technology and offers unrivaled comfort, ensuring an exceptional journey for every passenger. With its striking signature striped livery, the A330neo not only promises a memorable flight but also enhances the start of your vacation from the moment you step aboard.
Daily
Oct 30, 2024Winnipeg’s Indigenous-Owned and -Led Tour Operators Offer Array of Authentic Cultural Experiences
In Canada, Winnipeg’s indigenous population is the largest in the country, with numerous indigenous-owned and -led tour operators offering a variety of authentic cultural experiences. From dog-sledding adventures through old forests to cultural workshops and culinary treats, Winnipeg, Manitoba, offers a unique opportunity to engage with indigenous traditions firsthand in all four seasons.
ShareThis