July 2013
Los Angeles’ The Orlando Hotel
Arrival/Check-In: Pulling up to The Orlando in West Los Angeles was a surprise, as I had no idea the pedestrian-looking portico we parked under was indeed my destination. Though unassuming, it appeared intimate, and a valet attendant greeted me straight away. Carrying only one roll-aboard bag, I approached the check-in desk just steps from the entrance, where hotel staff offered welcoming smiles. While not immediately shown to my room, I was told they reserved a lovely patio room for me. It was being prepared for my arrival; and since I was checking in a few hours early, they would need 30 minutes. I passed the time at The Churchill, an attached gastropub with a noteworthy craft beer selection.
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Jamaica’s The Caves
Arrival/Check-In: Our flight arrived at the Montego Bay Airport, where we were greeted by The Caves’ driver and offered a beverage before the hour-and-a-half coastline drive to the cliffs of Negril. The private gate was small enough to miss; once inside, we felt an instant tranquility. We were offered a welcome drink and cool towels as we were checked in within minutes of arrival.