Los Angeles is one of the coolest holiday spots in the US and ideal to visit with the family. The city may be expensive but there are ample free things to make the most of, making it suitable for budget-oriented travellers too. With excellent weather all year round, terrific entertainment, great beaches, and a plethora of attractions a trip to the City of Angels is a super experience.

Those looking for a luxury property to stay at an affordable price will find the Miyako Hotel Los Angeles a good choice. Part of the Miyako hotels franchise, it offers the best of facilities and an elegant ambience with 208 rooms in one of the quieter sections of the city.

It is one of the few hotels with a Japanese themed restaurant in Torrance. Those seeking health and wellness treatments will find the Miyako Hotel Torrance Spa – The Relaken Spa a very relaxing place to unwind. Since there are excellent transport links to downtown LA, travelling around the city is never an issue.

Explore the iconic Griffith Observatory: If you want to experience the most beautiful sunsets in Los Angeles, there are quite a few spots but possibly none could exceed Griffith Park. Located high up in the hills the park also houses the Griffith Observatory. There are telescopes at the summit from which to grab panoramic views overlooking downtown Los Angeles. The planetarium has some very exciting shows and there are numerous astronomy-related items on display. One of the key tourist attractions is the James Dean statue that celebrates the classic cult movie ‘Rebel Without a Cause’. Quite a number of the movie scenes were filmed at the observatory.

Tour the Hollywood Walk of Fame: What would a trip to the city of the stars be without a tour of its most famous sites associated with Hollywood legends. One such popular tourist spot is the iconic Hollywood Walk of Fame. It features the prints of some of the most well-known and popular movie, Television, radio, theatre and music stars. The first star was inlaid in 1960 with more than 260 stars immortalised on the Walk of Fame. There are about two new stars added almost on a monthly basis. After exploring the walk make it a point to visit another iconic symbol of Los Angeles, the TCL Chinese Theatre. It has its own unique set of hand and footprints of famous celebrities. One of the best ways to see both is to opt for a guided tour of both spots.

Chill at Santa Monica pier: If you are looking for a cool location to hang out then Santa Monica Pier is the spot! Built in 1909, it is home to the Pacific Park. A family-friendly location Pacific Park is an exciting and happening venue with plenty of exciting rides and great restaurants. One of the most prominent attractions in the area is the Santa Monica Aquarium. Santa Monica Pier is where the legendary Route 66 ends, that makes the location all the more special.

Are you planning to propose to your partner? Although asking to dedicate the rest of your life to this person is significant enough alone, it is often the case that splendid romantic locations are chosen for this momentous occasion. Where and how you decide to propose is a memory that will be re-lived for the rest of your days, so you want to choose the perfect one for your relationship. If you’re lucky enough to be planning your proposal, you will have a plethora of beautiful spots to choose from. If you’re struggling to decide, we have a few suggestions for you. 

A Secluded Location 

If you are a particularly active couple, who love to explore the outdoors together, then a secluded location with stunning surroundings will be the place for you. By booking into the Miyako Hotel Torrance CA, you will be within walking distance of some of the most gorgeous natural spots around the city. If you’re blessed with sunshine, we recommend packing a picnic of both your favourite treats before heading to Redondo Beach. Here, a backdrop of rolling hills and a pristine shore promise a picturesque and memorable location away from crowds. 

Alternatively, a trip to the Madrona Marsh would also present a plethora of stunning areas to propose. Go bird watching and pop the question surrounded by wildflowers, before dining in one of the wonderful restaurants in California to celebrate.  

If you hire a car, you could even head to the magnificent Vasques Rocks National Park. This immense area would make for a stunning and unique backdrop for an engagement. There are plenty of 3-star hotels in California that would help you to hire a car to reach this destination, and it would take less than an hour to do so. 

Public Display of Love

Although many opt for private locations to enjoy this life-changing moment, others prefer to make this romantic gesture in public, to present their commitment openly. The Miyako Hotel is home to one of the finest restaurants in California, that boasts a glorious Japanese menu in a stylish, yet welcoming environment. This would be a lovely place to propose or celebrate following a proposal. 

If your partner is a lover of all things Disney, then you are in luck. The first-ever Disneyland Resort to open in the World is only a 30-minute car journey away from the Miyako Hotel Torrance CA. Have a fairytale proposal in front of the iconic palace, in the happiest place on earth. 

By selecting one of the 3-star hotels California has to offer in Torrance, you will be able to reach all these sites with no stress. For example, the stunning pier of Santa Monica is only half an hour away. Why not spend the day exploring the area and playing vintage arcade games, before walking to the edge of the pier at sunset, for a picturesque scene and public display of your love? 

If you thought Mexico was all about sandy beaches and resort towns, you need to do a recheck!  There is far more to the country than what most people expect or know. One such city that offers the very best of Mexico is Guanajuato, in the heart of the country. Guanajuato is replete with authentic Mexican experiences that include culture. History, festivals, gastronomy and festivals among plenty more. The city is home to two UNESCO World Heritage Sites, which is a testament to the significance of this charming city with its warm and friendly locals. 

Visitors to the city will find the Hotel Castillo De Santa Cecilia, Guanajuato, a luxury property ideal to stay during their visit.

The Santa Cecilia Mexico hotel is a 3-star property with all the amenities and facilities one can expect from any mid-range luxury accommodation.  

A few of the reasons to have Guanajuato on your bucket list of places to visit are:

The cradle of Mexican independence: The city was the starting point of the Mexican War of Independence, where the locals revolted against their Spanish colonisers. This is the city where some of Mexico’s greatest heroes of the war came from. Dolores Hidalgo is the town where the sparks of the revolution were set alight. San Miguel de Allende is where Ignacio Allende, a Spanish Army officer was born and lived. He was sympathetic to the right of self-determination for the Mexicans. Visitors to the location get to learn about the first victory of the Mexicans over the Spanish army.     

Feast on the best Mexican food and drink: The gastronomy heritage of Guanajuato is well-recognised, with the city having won the Gastronomic Culture Capital award in 2015. Expect the most delicious Mexican dishes at the restaurants and eateries in the city. From chilaquiles to escamoles, visitors get to savour the best of authentic Mexican food. The city also organises the annual Guanajuato Si Sabe that is an international food event. It attracts both national and international chefs that share culinary creations, which include a fusion of Mexican and other cuisines from all over the world. The tequila and wine heritage perfectly complement the fantastic food. There are wine tastings to enjoy in Dolores Hidalgo and San Miguel de Allende. For the best Mexican tequila, join a tequila tasting session of Casa Dragones, probably the finest tequila export of Mexico. 

Home to some of the best architectural gems: Guanajuato is home to some of the best examples of baroque architecture in Mexico. Nowhere is this more evident than at Guanajuato City and San Miguel de Allende. From the striking Juarez Theatre to the Sanctuary of Atotonilco, there is a slew of beautiful architectural locations to explore.

A vibrant and exciting social scene: The social calendar of Guanajuato features a line-up of events, festivals and activities all through the year. The Wine Harvest Festival in August, International Cervantino Festival in October, International Film Festival in July and the International Hot Air Balloon Festival in November are just some among the many events held in the city.  

West Hollywood has numerous tourist hotspots and attractions with the iconic Sunset Strip, which stretches 1.5 miles and covers the famous Sunset Boulevard. It lies between Crescent Heights Boulevard and Doheny Drive. During the 1960s, it was popular with the who’s who of Hollywood and in the next decade became a favourite haunt for rock stars and musicians. It still retains its charm and is home to several music venues and upscale eateries.

In terms of accommodation in Hollywood, there are plenty of options that cater to all kinds of travellers, ranging from backpackers to families.

Some of the top reasons to choose to stay at the Hotel 850 SVB, West Hollywood, CA include:

Carney’s: One of the more unique venues to grab a bite in West Hollywood is Carney’s housed in a vibrantly coloured Pacific railroad carriage. They have been in the fast-food business since the 1970s and are popular with locals as well as those visiting in the area. With great food and a warm and cosy ambience, the perfect place to enjoy a meal in WeHo!

The best of comedy acts: The area is well known for its comedic acts with the Comedy Store and Laugh Factory, two of the most famous venues. Sammy Shore and Rudy DeLuca established Comedy Store in 1972, within a former nightclub. Some of the well-known names that have entertained audiences in the past include the legendary Johnny Carson, Witney cummings, Jay Leno, Louis CK and Whoopi Goldberg.

Jamie Masada founded the Laugh Factory in 1979, with the objective of ensuring comedians got their fair share of credit and remunerations for their shows, something which was contentious at the Comedy Store. Famous names that have wowed audiences here include Late Robin Williams, Aubrey Plaza, Aziz Ansari and Jerry Seinfeld, among other talented comedians. Their Christmas and thanksgiving shows are a major draw, with dinner on the house for visitors.  

Experience the Wild West: While it may not figure as being among the more upscale dining spots in town, nevertheless the Saddle Ranch is very popular with visitors to this part of Hollywood. With a Wild West theme, and steakhouse that’s décor reflects the rock music heritage of the area, one of the top attractions is its mechanical bull for those adventurous enough to try and ride it. Diners are welcome to try to harness their inner cowboy skills (although preferably on an empty stomach). Saddle Ranch has numerous branches at different spots with the Sunset Strip branch the most popular even having featured on reality TV.

Famous music spots: There are a wealth of music venues found all along Sunset Boulevard offering live performances. During the swinging 60s, music greats of the likes of David Bowie and Jim Morrison performed at sold-out events in the area. Guns ‘N Roses the heavy metal band got their big break in the area also. There are iconic music venues located all across Sunset Boulevard like the Roxy, Whisky-A-Go-Go and the Viper Room. Another must-visit is the Troubadour, which despite not being part of the venues at Santa Monica boulevard is still well worth the trip.  

Located in the South Bay region of Los Angeles, you will find a charming coastal region boasting a rich history that has both a strong Japanese influence and stunning golden sand beaches served by the Pacific Ocean. Torrance is LA’s best-kept secret and a great escape for people looking to enjoy a coastal vacation away from the tourist crowds of California. There is a lot to in this area including visiting some of the best restaurants in California. 

Torrance has also been a topic of discussion with many Californians, leaving them with unanswered questions.

If you are one of those people that are curious about this coastal region, then one way to find out is to book a stay at the Miyako Hotel and spend time interacting with the locals in the surrounding area. The other way to fulfill your curiosity is to explore these top things you might not know or understand about Torrance.

Why does Torrance have a high Japanese population?

According to studies, Torrance is believed to have the second-highest population of Japanese people in America. Several factors could be the reason for this, to start, the Toyota Headquarters (Japanese car manufacturer), is located in Torrance. This saw several Japanese people making their way to this part of California and forming a base here. The other reason that we see this infusion of Japanese culture is before World War II, Torrance was one of a few places that leased land to NON-US citizens. One of the things that the Japanese brought along with them was their holistic approach to life. This is seen in the cuisine, architecture and self-care establishments. Torrance spa is a simple example of where to go if you would like to experience a day of pampering, holistic spa treatments.

Home to the best-hidden beaches in LA

Located in the South of California you will find a part of the Pacific Ocean that features pristine beaches and several hidden rock beaches in California. One of the most-talked-about secret hideaways is the South-Bay area. It possesses several beaches that are hidden away from the crowds which is something rare when it comes to California beaches.

How has Torrance became a major oil-producing region?

Torrance is rich for being a major oil producer in the United States. In fact, it was once dotted with thousands of oil and oil derricks!

Home to one of the biggest malls in America

It is strange to hear that a hidden gem like Torrance is also home to one of America’s biggest shopping malls. The Del Amo Fashion Center is the ultimate shoppers’ paradise and the second largest mall in California. It opened its doors for business in 1961 and features three levels that have some of the best luxury shopping stores in America. If you are looking to enjoy all the benefits of high-end shopping and bargain-hunting all in one place, then head over to Del Amo Fashion Center. There are also several eateries and cafes which offer the best breakfast places in Torrance. 

Want to know more about Torrance? The best way to get to know this city is to visit it!

With parks that are spread in an area of over twelve hundred acres, 140 annually celebrated festivals and 60 golf courses the city of Rochester exudes and celebrates its history every day of the year. This riverside city has grown from the biggest flour suppliers to the most innovative city of United States.

Visiting such a historical place which unfolds huge amount of literature at every turn of your journey. Travelling to Rochester is pintless without getting yourselves a centrally located hotel.  And Rochester Riverside Hotel is one of the few hotels that you’ll find the heart of Rochester, New York.

This Riverside Hotel is equipped over 450 guestrooms that uniquely crafted with the intention to give guests a comfortable stay. It further has facilities like business center, complementary internet and airport shuttles, 24×7 operational gyms and it also is pet friendly. This is one of the few hotels which believe that your journey starts well prior to the time when you look for your bookings over the internet. Therefore, the hotel keeps updating their deals & packages which are apt for all kinds of guests right from senior citizens to government employees.

Rochester has been a fun experience for billions of travelers over the years. Where places like High Falls, Genesee Riverway Trail and Abandoned Subways are some places that have been part of the journey of guests of this city. 

Few places one can visit while here at Rochester for an unforgettable experience like: –

• High Falls Terrace Park/ High Falls: Lying on the shore of eastern river, High Falls Terrace Park has been a popular picnic spot amongst the localities. It was previously it was also a popular public gathering place. 
• Rochester Food Truck Rodeo: Operating under the ownership of ‘City of Rochester Public Market’ by this food truck is the famous food community providing creative cuisines. This truck serves anything and everything that is prepared in local flavors and local style.
• Party in the Park: During the summers annually, vising Rochester becomes a fun place which one can be a party to. Transformed into a musical mecca for nine weeks long where one can enjoy the cultures of the 3rd largest city of United States.
• Fairport Canal Days: is one of New York’s most famous festivals that serves mouthwatering food dipped in music. With amazing and fun atmosphere that’s even relished by families visiting here. This place like an artists’ summit where you will find countless artists performing and preparing some of the most sensual food you’ve ever had.
• Seneca Park Zoo: Is one place, rather it is one welfare society which works day in and out with the intention to educate and initiate the survival of wildlife. However, this institution serves one of the fines beers you’ll consume in the whole of Rochester. The park hosts various events such as the ‘Drink Beer, Save Elephants!’ where from your tickets a portion of the tickets is reserved for this cause.
• Cobb’s Hill Park: Is close by the Cobb’s Hill reservoir which supplies drinking across the Rochester City. This reservoir gets its water from the Hemlock Lake i.e. thirty Miles south and four hundred higher in elevation than Rochester. The Cobb’s Hill Park is spread in 109 acres and lies along the sports fields, reservoir & a hilltop trail from where you can gaze at the entire City of Rochester.

San Diego is one of the most historic cities in California and with its beautiful tidal marshlands and canyons, there’s always something new to explore in the natural surroundings. What may be most impressive though, are the man-made bays in San Diego, bringing recreation, natural beauty, and entertainment all into one area. For guests at Good Nite Inn Calabasas, this might be one of the most alluring tourist destinations. 

With a history dating back to the 19th century, the Mission Bay area of San Diego is well worth a visit, and not only for its recreational activities and broad variety of services and attractions. If visiting the best hotels in Calabasas, then San Diego’s Mission Bay should undoubtedly be on your to-do list. Here are just some of the reasons why.

What is Mission Bay?

Mission Bay is a 4235-acre bay area on the Pacific coast of San Diego. Created to enhance the opportunities for recreation in the area, the bay has become one of the most popular tourist destinations for hotels in Redlands CA guests and beyond. Created from 2000 acres of wetland, the bay has enhanced the opportunities available in the city by providing watersports, beaches, and entertainment across the coastal stretch.

History of Mission Bay

Mission Bay saw rapid expansion throughout the ’40s, 50’s and 60’s but had a long life before its development as a water park. Dating back to 1542, the then natural bay was known as “False Bay” due to its ever-changing wetland habitat. 

During the 19th century, the bay was improved upon as its river inlets began to empty into the city. Dams were built to ensure the bay did not flood populated areas and with these manmade developments came extra space for hunting and fishing. In the late 19th century, the area was slowly being developed, but it was not for another 50 years that the Mission Bay that stands today began to be built. 

Swimming in Mission Bay

With its 27 miles of shoreline, the Mission Bay area is a hotspot for swimming. With at least 8 swimming spots across the area, the sandy beaches, and warm weather make for prime summer vacation, and with the Good Nite Inn San Diego close by, the warm weather and great value accommodation certainly plays in the favor of beach lovers the country over.

Entertainment in Mission Bay

It’s no surprise that San Diego’s Mission Bay is home to one of the best Sea Worlds on the planet, and promises a range of water-themed rides and animal shows. As the first SeaWorld opened, this 1964 dated theme park is one of the top tourist attractions in the Mission Bay area.

Activities in Mission Bay

Alongside the theme park, Mission Bay visitors can make use of a variety of services along the coastline. From restaurants and bars to beautiful boardwalks, the Mission Bay area promises something for even those who’d rather stay dry and out of the water. Activities on the coastline include skate parks, cycling routes, and nature trails.

Watersports

Whether you’re a beginner or a watersports veteran, you can enjoy a range of water skiing, windsurfing and jet ski activities along the shoreline. With the eastern side of the bay dedicated to many more watersports, Mission Bay is the perfect place to learn and practice your craft.

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Whether you work in Paddington, Marylebone or Mayfair or are just in town visiting and are staying at The Montcalm London Marble Arch, you might find yourself in the area for the afternoon. If so, lucky you!

Especially for those on their lunch break, this is a lovely place to spend an hour or two. With shops, parks, attractions and plenty of places to eat and drink nearby, you’ll have plenty to do. Best of all – you won’t have to walk far to get between some of the best spots in the area.

Here are our top recommendations for an afternoon or lunch break in Marble Arch.

Enjoy!

Have afternoon tea

Ah, Montcalm Marble Arch afternoon tea. One of the best of all the British traditions. 

Whether it’s for a special occasion or just a quick snack to hold you over until dinner. If you’ve never had afternoon tea, expect finger sandwiches with yummy fillings like cucumber and tuna, as well as a variety of baked goods including scones and often tarts.

Relax in Hyde Park

Hyde Park is the crown jewel of London (figuratively, of course).

You could spend days exploring this sprawling green space with hidden gems around every corner. If you’re in town visiting or have the afternoon off, take your time! Make a day of it. If you’re a history buff or fan of politics, don’t miss Speaker’s Corner or the various memorials, fountains and statues in the park. If you fancy a swim, take a dip in the Serpentine.

This doesn’t even scratch the surface of things to do and see in Hyde Park, with children’s playgrounds, gorgeous gardens, and even an art gallery on-site.

Of course, you could also just…..sit. If you’re taking a break from work especially, a relaxed picnic on your own might be exactly what you need to re-charge and re-focus. You’ll find plenty of other people doing the same!

Yum!

Get a facial

If you want to treat yourself (and who doesn’t?), there’s no better way than to book a mid-afternoon facial. Not only is the experience relaxing, but you’ll also be left with glowing skin that’ll carry you through all the way to the weekend.

Our recommendation? Montcalm Marble Arch Spa.

Even if you just have 30 minutes you’ll have time for an Express Facial. After all, we all need a little pampering!  

Go on a photo tour

Whether armed with your phone or a camera, Marble Arch is a great place to explore for some killer snaps. Of course, you have to start at the Marble Arch – the 18th-century arch. It’s one of the most visited sites in London for a reason! From there, wander around Hyde Park (see point number one) for more Instagram-worthy pictures.

If you’ve had a facial, don’t forget to take a selfie!

Shop!

How could we possibly make a list with recommendations for an afternoon in Marble Arch without mentioning shopping? You’ll find vintage, luxury shops, and everything in between. Instead of going to your favourite tried and tested stores, why not explore instead? You’re sure to find boutique shops that will quickly become your new go-to.

How will you spend your lunch break in Marble Arch?

So, you are all set for your European holiday and have decided to treat yourself to a luxury hotel stay at one of the Montcalm properties, what’s next? Luxury travel comes with several perks, however, London is an expensive city and can put a dent in your pocket. Shopping around for bargains will not only allow you to do more with your buck but, you might find some hidden gems along the way.

London’s diverse culture has brought rise to an innovative gastronomy scene – a drawing factor for foodies around the world. Besides having the best fine dining experiences at elegant settings like Montcalm Royal House London, the city is also home to several street markets serving your favourite small plates from around the world. We look at some of the top spots for street food in the city.

Jake’s Vegan Steaks

This all-vegan eatery specializes in bringing you their take on the American favourite – Philly cheesesteaks.

They use only the best plant-based products to create the yummy steaks and all ingredients are sourced locally. All meals are handmade and prepared to order, and visitors get to choose from the variety of toppings available. 

Location: House of Vegan E1, Broadway Market, Victoria Park Market

Average price: £8.50 

Club Mexicana

The streets of Mexico are filled with street vendors bringing you some of the favourite easy to eat dishes. Club Mexican has taken it upon themselves to recreate an authentic Mexican experience at a single spot. They specialize in anything from enchiladas, tacos, and burritos to bringing your flavourful lime-based beverages. All food is 100% vegan.

Location: Dinerama, Netil Market, Spread Eagle E9

Average price: £ 7.50 for a Jackfruit Burrito

Mother Clucker

If you are looking for American-style soul food, then look no further than Mother Clucker. The humble eatery showcases flavours of the south with their authentic family recipes. The buttermilk soaked fried chicken is a favourite with locals, and this can be served in the form of chicken strips on a bun, or in its original form.

Location: Ely’s Yard @ Truman Brewery, Exmouth Market, Flat Iron Square, Hawker House

Average price: £6 for three pieces

Hankies

Indian food has been a favourite choice of cuisine amongst Londoners.

Hankies is a high-end restaurant that brings you authentic Indian dishes served in small plates, street food style. The hidden gem located in the trendy neighbourhood of Marble Arch specializes in food that is full of flavour in a comfortable setting. Try a variety of dishes that from bhatak ki khurchan – Crispy duck, masala cashew nuts, mint, watermelon, and sweet and spicy drizzle to sweet potato bombs – Sprouts, spicy chickpeas, jaggery and chilli jam

Location: 61 Upper Berkeley St, Marylebone, London W1H 7PP, UK

Average price: £6 for bhatak ki khurchan

FAB Thai Street Food

While you may be in the heart of London, FAB Thai Street Food will give you the impression that you are in the streets of Bangkok. As you enter the eatery you are greeted with the oriental flavours of the famous Thai city.

They serve delicious food for a fraction of the price. The restaurant is located within walking distance to M By Montcalm in Shoreditch.

Location: 7 Paul St, Shoreditch, London EC2A 4JJ

Average price: £7

London is one of the major capital cities in the world due to its history and culture; it is also the place to go to enjoy an eclectic nightlife and to do a bit of shopping. If you’re visiting London, make sure you include these areas to really get the full experience.

The Area of Paddington

Paddington is a great place to start your exploration with Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens as they are situated just few minutes from the Hotel Hyde Park. From Sussex Gardens you can head south and enter Kensington Gardens, one of the most beautiful parks in London, which is home to the famous Kensington Palace. For a small fee you can enter the palace and explore the lavish rooms, exhibitions and gardens. The gardens are exquisite with the Italian gardens situated in the North, the Albert memorial in the South and the Serpentine Gallery, named after the Serpentine Lake that runs through Hyde Park, in the East.

After Kensington Gardens you can venture past the Shaftesbury Hotel Paddington into Hyde Park to see the famous Speaker’s Corner, or you can walk a few minutes south out of the gardens to see the Natural History, the Science and the V&A Museums. The Natural History Museum is packed full of amazing specimens such as dinosaur bones and reconstructions, gems and minerals, bugs and interactive exhibitions. The Science museum allows you to be hands on and play, create and experiment while exploring the history behind trains, cars, planes and medicine. The V&A museum holds treasures from all over the British Empire as well as delights from the famous Crystal Palace Exhibition that was held in the 19th century.

The Area of Oxford Street

Shopping is one of the most popular things to do in London and Oxford Street is the best place to start with over a mile of stores. It hasn’t always been as popular as it is today; it was once a spot that attracted many forms of entertainers, such as bear-baiters, and it was full of theatres and taverns. It was a firm favourite with the working classes but not so much with the middle and upper due to it being situated so close to St Giles, one of the most notorious slums in the city. However, today shopping on Oxford Street near the Shaftesbury Hotels London offers a large amount of shops such as a multistory Topshop store, Primark store and the world-famous Selfridges, the world’s first department store.

All Areas of History

This area is where you can find some of the most famous sights in London. Situated amongst the hotels with family rooms in London lies Trafalgar Square where Nelson’s Column and the National Gallery can be found. Head south to find yourself outside 10 Downing Street and, from there, you will see the famous Cenotaph, the impressive structure of Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament. Next to the Houses of Parliament is one of the oldest structures in the city, Westminster Abbey and you can go into the Abbey, which is the burial site of many royals and influential British icons.