I called SoCal home for over 14 years… It wasn’t until moving to NYC that I really grew to appreciate Los Angeles. And of course now having a love affair with the weather after experiencing my first east coast winters.

I went to college on the West Coast and lived in Beverly Hills (adjacent), but found myself too focused on the negative things like the bumper to bumper traffic and superficial people, instead of focusing on all the amazing qualities the city has to offer.

I wanted to highlight one of my favorite neighborhoods of LA: West Hollywood. The sprawling hills, purple trees, cotton candy sunsets, oh and super chic restaurants, bars, and shopping. One minute you can be hiking Runyon Canyon the next grabbing cocktails at the new Edition rooftop bar or retail therapy in the Sunset Plaza.

Accommodations

Petit Ermitage –  is nestled in a quintessential West Hollywood neighborhood street…a hidden Bohemian oasis away from the glitz and hype of Hollywood. This is where artists come to create and play.

The suites are all oversized usually with sunken living rooms, charming fireplaces, and eclectic art. The rooftop is one of the best in town featuring a European-style pool along with fireplaces, a hummingbird garden and always some spectacle taking place. Most recently there was Burning Man inspired DJs, Tarot card readers, and live string band.

There is such a cool vibe about this place and never a dull moment! The rooftop is hotel guests and members only to keep an exclusive vibe. Not just anyone can meander in…and those who do wish they never had to leave! View More

Rae’s Nays: The pretentious attitude and questionable billing was the only buzz kill.

Dining

Zinque – on Melrose features French fare and a beautiful garden to dine. I always discover a new wine I love to accompany some of my usual foodie favorites. The standout dish: Le Bowl which is a generous portion of brown rice (or cauliflower rice for those carb conscious) arugula, Swiss cheese, tomatoes, and your choice of protein. Sounds like nothing special, but I promise you upon first bite these flavors fuse together and you fall in love! Please don’t forget to satisfy your palate with a fresh tuna tartine and if you are feeling ambitious…their burger and fries are to die for!  View More

Activities

Hollywood Improv – I’m all about a good laugh and in West Hollywood you have your pick of the litter from The Comedy Store to The Laugh Factory to my personal favorite, The Hollywood Improv. The space is tight but intimate and the good news is you have tables for your cocktails and pretty decent dining options.

The lineup usually doesn’t disappoint and has local comedians to cameos from the big timers. The only odd new thing being done takes away your chance of a selfie inside- Phones are placed inside a locked bag (still in your possession) until the end of the show. At first this is frustrating, but then it becomes liberating when you are fully present watching the show and the comedians are not disrespected either with annoying recordings or texts during the show. It makes you want to throw your phone out more often and laugh with friends!  View More

TIP: If craving a good sweat sesh checkout Runyon Canyon for a city hike with iconic views of Hollywood or venture to Sunset Plaza for Hot Pilates for an extra hot burn amongst LA’s trendiest models.