La Valencia Hotel and Spa
"How did it strike you on arrival?You can't miss it—just look for the iconic pink stucco exterior of this Mediterranean-style hotel that sits on a cliff above La Jolla Cove. Dubbed "the pink Lady," the boutique hotel is a bit of Old Hollywood mixed with Alhambra mixed with the French Riviera—think, dark wood, Spanish-style roof tiles, and oil paintings. What’s the crowd like?Back in the day, it drew big names like Gregory Peck, Ginger Rogers, and Raymond Chandler. Today, there's a mix of families, couples, and singles of all ages. Now, the most important part: Tell us about the rooms.Rooms are divided into Vintage, Villa, Classic, and Icon categories, ranging from a tight 250 square feet to 1,000-square-foot suites. Depending on your taste you'll either find the decor dated or quaint Old World, with heavy drapes, beige textiles, and satin finishes (though the suites are more modern). We’re craving some deep, restorative sleep. They got us?Beds and linens feel luxurious. How about the little things, like mini bar, or shower goodies. Any of that worth a mention?The mini-bar is stocked with nuts, dried fruit, granola bars, sparkling water, and wine, priced about as you'd expect from $5 mints to $55 Piper–Heidsieck Champagne. A $30 resort fee covers in-room coffee and tea, Wi-Fi, daily newspaper delivery, and a beach tote, among other amenities. Please tell us the bathroom won’t let us down.Bathrooms in lower tier rooms are tiny, but those in the villas and suites have tubs and dual sinks. Room service: What can we get here?Room service is a touch fancy here. Breakfast includes an açaí bowl ($16) and lobster Benedict ($22), and for lunch and dinner, there are plates like Dungeness crab cakes with chili aioli ($18). There's also a kids’ menu with simpler entrées, like chicken tenders ($12) and macaroni and cheese ($9). Anything other features we haven't asked about?La Valencia allows four-legged guests—no weight limit!—for just $50 per night. For bipeds The chic Café La Rue has one of the best outdoor patios in all of La Jolla. It's great for an afternoon drink and people-watching along Prospect Street. Also, make sure to make time for the glamorous palm tree-lined pool, the hotel's centerpiece. What was most memorable about your stay?The decor, lush landscaping, and Riviera vibe means a European-style getaway for Americans without even crossing international waters. Bottom line: Why are we choosing La Valencia?San Diego is already a beautiful vacation spot, so booking a stay here is taking your getaway to the next level. It's one of the most picturesque, iconic hotels in town." - Archana Ram
